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Register announces Star, Aurora award finalistsBy MELISSA WALKER
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The organizers of a presidential forum to address minority issues and the founders of a camp for diabetic children are among the finalists for The Des Moines Register's annual Iowa Star and Aurora awards:
Wayne Ford and Mary Campos, Dr. Edward and Victoria Hertko, Robert Larsen, Sister Sandra Rodemyer and Ted Townsend are all finalists for the Iowa Star, which recognizes individuals who "promote unity and self-sufficiency for all, without regard to race, gender or age" in central Iowa.
Camp Hertko Hollow, Children & Families of Iowa, Urban Dreams, the United Way and Youth & Shelter Services Inc. are finalists for the Aurora award, given to organizations or institutions in central Iowa that make "a measurable difference in the community without thought to awards or public recognition."
The awards, in their sixth year, will be presented at a private ceremony and dinner Tuesday at the Temple for Performing Arts in downtown Des Moines.
The newspaper does not choose the finalists or the winners. Independent judges, whose names are not disclosed, voted on the 14 people and 15 organizations nominated by Register readers. The finalists are the top vote-getters.
The Iowa Star carries the name of the first newspaper published in Des Moines, which later became the Register. The winner is awarded a Steuben crystal sculpture.
"The accomplishments of our finalists - both the individuals and the organizations - are remarkable examples of what the Register was looking to recognize when the awards were established," the newspaper's publisher, Laura Hollingsworth, said. "We are thrilled to celebrate the time, talent and leadership they have contributed toward impacting the lives of others in central Iowa."
Last year's recipients were Barry Griswell, chief executive of the Principal Financial Group, and his wife, Michele.
The Aurora is named for the celestial northern and southern lights. The winner receives a plaque and $1,000. Last year's recipient was Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, a group that helps low-income families become homeowners.
Reporter Melissa Walker can be reached at (515) 284-8451 or mewalker@dmreg.com
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/
article?AID=/20080203/NEWS/802030345
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