Awards honoring restaurant operators and employees

The National Restaurant Association's 2012 Restaurant Industry Awards are open for nominations.

The 14-year-old awards are given in two categories. The Restaurant Neighbor Award, sponsored and cofounded by American Express, recognizes restaurants for outstanding community service. The Faces of Diversity Award, sponsored by PepsiCo Foodservice, celebrates the diversity of the industry honoring three individuals who have realized the American Dream.

Restaurants may apply on their own behalf online at www.restaurant.org/awards before December 5, 2011.