The Maryland State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness is now accepting applications for the fifth annual Physical Activity Excellence Awards.  The Awards recognize exemplary efforts to promote physical activity among Maryland youths, adults and older adults. Individuals, organizations, agencies, schools, communities and businesses in Maryland whose dedication, vision, and service have helped increase physical activity among Maryland citizens are eligible to receive the award.

The Council will recognize one individual and one group winner in each of the three age categories: youth (17 and under), adult (18-49 years) and older adult (50 and older). Winners of the award will be honored by the Council in November with a State Proclamation.

The award was created in 2005 as a way to showcase best practices of programs and projects in Maryland that promote physical activity.   Past recipients include the City of Greenbelt, the Worcester County Department of Recreation and Parks, the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, Carroll County Project ACES, McCormick & Co. and Senior Fit of Montgomery County.

Applications are now available at www.marylandfitness.org and are due by September 18, 2009.  Nominations can be made by anyone that knows the nominees accomplishments.  The application is one page and must be accompanied by two references.

For more information please contact Erin Penniston, Staff Person to the Maryland State Advisory Council on Physical Fitness, at 410-767-6783 or epenniston@dhmh.state.md.us

Maryland Department of Health & Mental Hygiene

www.MarylandFitness.org