FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2004
CONTACT: JACOB DIPIETRE
(850) 488-5394
TALLAHASSEE - Lt. Governor Toni Jennings today announced from October 18 through
November 19, the Governor's Points of Light Award program will highlight Florida's
Hurricane Heroes - individuals or organizations that provided exemplary service
to Floridians in need during the recent hurricane season.
"We have been blessed with a tremendous outpouring of support nationwide
for Floridians impacted by the recent hurricanes. I am especially warmed by
the many terrific stories I am hearing about Floridians helping Floridians," said
Lt. Governor Jennings. "Virtually no area of our state was spared, and
Floridians affected by the hurricanes were often the first to help their neighbors
in need. These individuals exemplify the true spirit of this award."
During today's announcement, the Lt. Governor honored Father Francisco Valdovinos
of the Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee and 11-year-old Nicole Golden
of Arcadia. Members of Father Valdovinos' congregation were among the first
to make their way to hurricane ravaged-Pensacola immediately following Ivan's
landfall in that area. Nicole served diligently in her hometown of Arcadia
by guiding law enforcement to Arcadia residents in need in the absence of road
signs and landmarks, following the destruction of Hurricane Charley.
Lt. Governor Jennings was also joined today by volunteers from humanitarian
associations such as the Red Cross, the Salvation Army, United Way and Volunteer
Leon as well as representatives from Citigroup and Home Depot, two of the many
corporations that have deployed employees as volunteers in the hurricane relief
effort.
Nominations for Hurricane Heroes are now open. Floridians are encouraged to
nominate heroes in their communities, particularly those who have given so
much of themselves to help rebuild Florida. The Governor's Points of Light
nomination form can be accessed at <http://www.volunteerfloridafoundation.org/>.
Specify "Hurricane Hero" on the nomination form.
The Governor's Points of Light award, sponsored by Royal Caribbean International
and Celebrity Cruises, recognizes a Florida resident or organization that demonstrates
exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly.
A panel of judges composed of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service
evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. Volunteer
Florida Foundation manages the program.
For more information on the Governor' s Points of Light program or to nominate
an outstanding volunteer or organization, visit www.myflorida.com or
www.volunteerfloridafoundation.org.
To donate to the Florida Hurricane Relief Fund to assist Floridians in need,
visit www.flahurricanefund.org |