Mayor seeking nominations for Toledoan of Year awards

1/21/2007

After trying to instill pride in his community for the past year, Toledo Mayor Carty Finkbeiner is looking to honor those who have heeded his call.

Announcing a Toledoan of the Year program that will recognize character, courage, and commitment to our city, Mr. Finkbeiner is asking residents to nominate those who have made an impact on the lives of Toledo residents.

Awards will be given in nine categories: humanitarian, lifetime achievement, educator, innovation, community investment, sportsperson, leadership, youth, and Toledo Pride.

There are a lot of dedicated, hard-working, and selfless individuals who truly deserve recognition for what they do to impact and improve the lives of others in the community, Mr. Finkbeiner said in a statement.

Although local service organizations honor volunteers annually, this is the fi rst program designed by the city to recognize those who have helped in the betterment of Toledo.

The nominees do not have to be residents of Toledo.

According to the nomination form, criteria for consideration include:

• Evidence that the nominee demonstrates dedication and commitment in improving the quality of life for citizens of Toledo.

• Exemplary achievement and unique contribution that impact the lives of Toledoans.

• Contribution that has made a lasting and positive impact in the community.

• Actions that have inspired others to advance a cause, issue, or community good.

The Toledo Police Department has long recognized residents with Meritorious Public Service awards, which are given annually for heroic acts during emergencies.

Awards for heroism and Good Samaritan also are given annually by the Safety Council of Northwest Ohio.

The deadline for submitting nominations for Toledoan of the Year 2006 is March 20. Nomination forms are available at local libraries, Toledo public elementary schools, and the mayor s offi ce on the 22nd floor of Government Center.

Forms are also available online at www.toledo.oh.gov.

A panel of judges from the city will select the winners, and an awards ceremony will be held in early May.