Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, together with Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc. founder Robert AJ Eslick, have announced the initiation of a "Kids of Distinction" program, created to recognize outstanding young people who have been active in exceptional endeavors in their community.

"This program is particularly geared toward recognizing activities done on the nominee's own initiative," Eslick said. "We wanted to recognize kids who participated in activities for the benefit of their community of neighborhood, outside of school-related activities."

Nominees will be placed in two categories, children currently in fifth through eighth grade and children in grades nine through 12. Up to three winners will be selected in each category by a six-member committee. The age groups were established so nominees can be evaluated fairly against their peers.

"There are so many wonderful young people living in the Town of Oyster Bay who not only demonstrate academic or extracurricular skills, but also do a little something extra to help make the world a better place," Venditto said. "We felt it was important to recognize our young residents who involve themselves in voluntary community, charity or civic activities on their own individual initiative. Whether it be helping out a handicapped or elderly neighbor, volunteering at a local hospital, or working with children with special needs or disabilities, these fine youngsters now have the opportunity to be recognized at a special ceremony being planned for the spring."

Anyone who wishes to submit a nomination should fill out a nominating form and submit it to Kids Helping Kids by Kids Way, Inc., prior to the April 1, 2005 deadline. Nominating forms can be obtained at Town Halls North (Oyster Bay) and South (Massapequa), as well as at local libraries throughout the Town. Nominating forms can also be found on the Town's Web site, www.oysterbaytown.com. Winners will be recognized at a May meeting of the Oyster Bay Town Board and will be presented with a plaque and $500 scholarship from Kids Helping Kids.

"There are many young individuals who have contributed to the great quality of life we enjoy here in the Town of Oyster Bay," Venditto said. "They now have the opportunity to be recognized for their outstanding achievements and will surely stand as role models for their peers."