Illinois Senior Hall of Fame candidates sought         

[APRIL 7, 2006]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Department on Aging Director Charles D. Johnson announced Monday that the department is seeking nominations for the 2006 Illinois Senior Hall of Fame, an honor that recognizes contributions made by older people in the state.

"We have no shortage of older adults who have made remarkable accomplishments and who have enriched our state significantly," Johnson said. "The Hall of Fame is one way to honor these exceptional individuals for giving selflessly of their time and talents and serving as role models to younger generations."

The General Assembly established the Illinois Senior Hall of Fame in 1994 to honor adults who excel in four categories: community service, education, performance and graphic arts, and the labor force. Since then, 64 people have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Winners will be inducted into the 2006 Illinois Senior Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at the governor's mansion in Springfield in the fall. Eligibility is based on the nominee's past and present accomplishments in the category of choice. Candidates must be age 65 or older and must be current Illinois residents or former residents who have lived in the state most of their life. Posthumous nominees will be considered.

Nomination forms are available at local Area Agencies on Aging, by calling the Senior HelpLine at [phone] and by visiting www.state.il.us/aging. The Department on Aging will accept nomination forms by fax and mail through Aug. 25.

[Illinois Department on Aging news release]