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Nominate a 'Champion of Health' for 2007

(TULSA, Okla.) – Do you know a Champion?

The Champions of Health awards recognize those individuals and organizations working to improve Oklahoma’s health. Beginning today, the 2007 Champions of Health awards program invites nominations of those who are making a significant difference in the health of Oklahomans. Nominations will be accepted through Aug. 3.

The launch of this year’s program includes the debut of a new Web site, http://www.championsofhealth.org/, allowing nominations to be submitted online. The Web site also includes information on partner organizations, past Champions, health and wellness resources and more.

Champions of Health winners in each of 10 categories will be presented an award and a $1,000 contribution to their organization or program. Winners will be honored Monday, Oct. 8, during an awards banquet at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. The master of ceremonies for this year’s awards banquet will be former Miss America Jennifer Berry. Former U.S. Congressman J.C. Watts will provide the keynote presentation.

The 10 categories for the Champions of Health awards are: Champion of the Uninsured, Education and Awareness Champion, Champion of Children’s Health, Champion of Public Health, Minority Health Champion, Professional Health Care Champion, Public Service Health Champion, Champion of Senior Health, Health and Medical Media Champion and Corporate Health Champion. In addition to these categories, one overall “Champion of Oklahoma Health” award will be presented to the entry judged to be the most unique and effective approach for improving Oklahoma’s health. The Champion of Oklahoma Health award winner will receive a $2,500 contribution to support health improvement efforts in Oklahoma.

Champions of Health is presented by the following partner organizations: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, the Oklahoma State Department of Health, the Oklahoma Hospital Association, the Oklahoma Osteopathic Association and the Oklahoma State Medical Association.

“We are proud to be part of a continuing effort to recognize those who make a difference in the health of our citizens,” said Linda Sponsler, senior director of communications, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma. “We are committed to making an investment in the lives of Oklahomans by partnering with others to improve local communities.”

Nomination forms are also available by calling 1-866-876-4376.