Easter Seals Awards State and Municipal Public Officials With 2007 Outstanding Advoc...( WASHINGTON Oct. 15 /- Today Easte...),Health

WASHINGTON, Oct. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Easter Seals awarded members of state and municipal governments its 2007 Outstanding Advocate Awards during Easter Seals annual convention currently being held in Washington, D.C. Easter Seals created its Outstanding Advocate Awards to honor public officials -- elected and appointed -- for their work to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, and for all.

"These public officials are leaders in giving people with disabilities greater opportunities for independence, access and choice," said Elgin Manhard, chairman, Easter Seals National Board of Directors, during the awards luncheon. "Each of them shares our vision of a nation where people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities."

The following officials receiving the Easter Seals 2007 Outstanding Advocate Award have had a significant and positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities:

-- Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle for his work to give people with

disabilities and seniors greater opportunities for independence, access

and choice;

-- Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannerman for being an outspoken advocate for

people facing extraordinary challenges in day-to-day life, specifically

around helping people with autism, cerebral palsy and diabetes;

-- Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Dennis O'Brien for helping to provide

children with disabilities, especially those with autism, appropriate

resources and educational opportunities;

-- New York Lieutenant Governor David A. Patterson for his lifelong

advocacy for people with visual and physical disabilities;

-- California State Senator Darrell Steinberg for his work around autism,

mental health and education;

-- Iowa State Representative Andrew Wenthe for his support of providing

necessary services and supports to Iowa farmers with disabilities and