Monday, June 16, 2003

County Seeks Nominees for Annual Donald J. Sykes Award

The Atlantic County Office of Disability Services is seeking nominees for the 2003 Donald J. Sykes Award, presented annually to an outstanding individual who has a disability, announced County Executive Dennis Levinson. Nominations must be postmarked by September 1, 2003. The award will be presented at a ceremony in October which is recognized as disABILITY Awareness Month.

"Atlantic County is proud to recognize the significant contributions of those with disabilities. These residents are an inspiration to all of us. Their fierce determination and strength of character is exemplary," said Levinson. "I encourage the community to nominate individuals and share their accomplishments."

The award is named in memory of Donald J. Sykes, a longtime community leader and past chairman of the county's Disabled Citizen Advisory Board.

Nominees must be county residents with a disability that effects one or more of life's activities, such as employment, education, transportation, recreation or socialization. Nominees must have contributed to improving the quality of life for themselves or others and have helped dispel the myths that typically surround persons with disabilities. Individuals of all ages may be nominated.

To nominate a candidate, please send a brief biography about the person and include the individual's address and daytime telephone number. In addition, include your mailing address and daytime telephone number. All letters will be reviewed for eligibility. Nominations may be sent to: Atlantic County Office of Disability Services, Attention: Kathy Quish, 101 South Shore Road, Northfield, NJ 08225-2359.

For more information, call Kathy Quish at (609) 645-7700, ext. 4519.

County News