By RYAN CHRISTNER

rchristner@dailynews.net

Here in the center of the United States, it is reasonable that one might find the heart of America.

Baseball and apple pie are prevalent in Kansas, so it's no surprise that folk in Hays celebrate the American spirit of selflessness and sacrifice.

It is for that reason that every year the Wild West Festival, in conjunction with The Hays Daily News, names one resident an "All-American Citizen."

This year's recipient is Bob Swift, and he's not the first person to claim he does not deserve the recognition.

That's not to say he isn't qualified: He has volunteered for a veritable laundry list of organizations and activities, including the Hays USD 489 school board, Community Assistance Center, Mary Elizabeth Maternity Home and has coached numerous local sports. No, Swift simply believes others to be more deserving of the award.

Obviously, those making the selection disagreed.

Mary Karst, co-president of the WWF committee -- Swift is the other co-president -- said he is "very deserving" of the award.

Swift, who is retired but keeps busy by lending a hand where he can, said the situation has been very moving, adding that the award is "quite an honor."

As for the recognition of his charity in the community, Swift said he was completely surprised that others would think of him.

"I never even thought about being nominated," he said.

"It just never even entered my mind.

"I learned a long, long time ago that if you have a level of passion for something and you do that, if you surround yourself with good people good things happen," he said. "There are so many good people. That's why this isn't really a single award. It represents other people who have done the same thing I did."