FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, January 28, 2008
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290

First Lady Encourages Nominations for Inaugural Award to Honor Missouri Women

JEFFERSON CITY- First Lady Melanie Blunt is encouraging Missourians to recognize the important role of women in our state by nominating deserving women for the inaugural First Lady Awards.  The deadline for nominations is January 31st.

"Missouri women have made significant contributions to our state and society and the First Lady Awards recognizes that role by honoring five outstanding women,” Mrs. Blunt said. “As we prepare to celebrate Women’s History Month, I encourage Missourians to honor women in our state by nominating them for this inaugural award."

To celebrate Missouri women who are making history, five women will be honored with the First Lady Award each year during Women’s History Month in March.  A First Lady Award will be given in each of the following categories:

• Business and Innovation
• Culture and Humanities
• Education
• Health and Wellness
• Volunteerism

The Missouri Women's Council will evaluate completed and qualified nominations, and Mrs. Blunt will recognize honorees on March 4, 2008, at the Missouri Governor's Mansion. Nominations must be submitted by January 31, 2008. For more information and a nomination form, visit http://gov.missouri.gov/firstlady/.

###