March 31, 2003

COLLEGE STATION – From the police officers and firefighters who searched, rescued and died on Sept. 11 to the military personnel who are defending our country, heroes are making a difference in the world today.

In the Brazos Valley, the Maintaining Quality of Life Committee of Texas Cooperative Extension is honoring heroes who are closer to home. Nominations for the annual Caregiver of the Year award are being accepted until April 22. The winner will be announced at the 11th annual Caregivers' Conference, "Circle of Caring: It Starts With You."

The conference is from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. on May 14 at the Brazos Center, said Kay Hinton, publicity chairman of the conference.

"The winner will be presented with a complimentary one-night stay at the 7F Lodge Bed and Breakfast near Bryan," Hinton said. In addition to a free getaway in one of the secluded cabins at the lodge, the award also includes two complimentary massages while at the lodge, she added.

"We wanted to do something a little more special this year," Hinton said. "We wanted to give them a thank-you for the good job they are doing for the community" and for the care recipient.

Each nominee must be:

- Providing care in a non-paid capacity (although they may be professional caregivers);

- Resident of the Brazos Valley area, including Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Leon, Madison, Robertson and Washington counties;

- Impacting the quality of life of the recipient(s) and of the community while obtaining and maintaining self-care.

To nominate a caregiver for this award, describe in 50 words or less why this individual should be named Caregiver of the Year. Mail this description, along with the names, phone numbers and addresses of the nominee and two references for the nominee to: Sheri Allen-Wright, c/o Step Ahead, P.O. Box 1103, Somerville, Texas 77879.

For more information about the award, conference registration, continuing education units available through the conference, exhibits and sponsorships, call Extension at (979) 823-0129.