Sing out for the unsung civic-minded

People are being asked to sing the praises of the community's unsung heroes by letting their local council know of voluntary deeds worthy of official recognition.

North Shore City Council is calling for nominations for its 2003 Civic Awards, which will be presented in December.

Deputy Mayor Dianne Hale says the annual awards are the city's way of letting its often low-key performers know they are highly valued for the time and commitment they freely give to their community.

"It's a great time of the year to sing the praises of our civic-minded unsung heroes," Councillor Hale says.

Since the celebration was established in 1990, the council has presented 222 civic awards to local residents, community organisations and business people from Devonport in the south to Paremoremo in the north.

Dianne Hale says this year's awards scheme features five categories - community, city-wide, youth, community organisation and business.

"Last year we presented the first ever award in the youth category - to Andrew Treeby," says Councillor Hale, who is the official advocate for the city's Youth Council.

"We're keen to receive nominations in all categories from throughout our increasingly cosmopolitan community, and make this year's event the best ever.

"We have around 200,000 people now living here and the city holds a special place in all our hearts. We know it's special by the amount of time and energy people - young and old, newcomers and lifelong residents alike - devote to its care and creativity.

"The Civic Awards celebrate the city's past, present and potential and at council we want to celebrate the many contributions our people make to this community," says Dianne Hale, a Devonport resident of 36 years.

Nomination forms and information on the awards criteria are available on the council's website www.northshorecity.govt.nz, at city libraries, area offices, head office, visitor information and leisure centres, or by calling Actionline on 486 8600.

Nominations close on October 8 and should be sent to "Civic Awards", c/o Beverley Rogers, civic events co-ordinator, North Shore City Council, Private Bag 93500, Takapuna, North Shore City.

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