"It is a great honor of mine to dedicate and share a day with those who have overcome so many obstacles and challenges in their lives to be here at this moment in time," Assemblyman Tom McKevitt said. "Disability Day has been a tradition in the Republican conference as a day of admiration and celebration for those who have successfully defeated physical and personal boundaries and who have exemplified outstanding commitment and dedication to their communities."

As the ranking member on the Assembly's Committee on Mental Health, Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, McKevitt co-chairs the event with Assembly Republican Leader James Tedisco. Every year a constituent from each district is selected and presented the "Excelsior Award for Excellence" for demonstrating success and triumph over their disability. Holding such an extraordinary event as Disability Day allows others to become more involved and aware of physical and mental ailments that exist. At the same time people become more understanding of the fact that a particular disability does not have to conquer ones life and it is possible to overcome the challenges that are presented to us. Disability Day is a great time to get out and support the ones we love by showing them that we are there for them all the way.

Assemblyman McKevitt is calling for nominations for this year's award. It is open to any individual who has overcome a disability. For further information, call the assemblyman's District Office at 739-5119 or e-mail at mckevit@assembly.state.ny.us.

"I thoroughly enjoy Disability Day each year and hope that others will come out and share in this joyous occasion of bravery and strength. Education is key to success and by learning from others we are able to understand how we can help and honor those who have put their best effort forward and showed us that there is hope and a chance to defeat challenges. The event will be held on June 3, 2008 at the state Capitol in Albany. I look forward to seeing you all there."