Newspapers announce 2nd Greater Women Award

Nominations of outstanding women are being sought from Monmouth, Middlesex and northern Ocean counties.

The Greater Women of Central New Jersey Award celebrates women who triumph despite the challenges and make a true difference through their efforts.

Women may be nominated for one of three categories: business, health care or the non-profit sector. Nominees may be paid professionals or volunteers but must have demonstrated excellence, creativity and initiative.

According to Susan Greitz, promotions coordinator for Greater Media Newspapers, 186 nominations were received for the 2005 program, and the sponsors are hoping for a similar response for 2006.

“It’s a great opportunity to let someone know how much their efforts are appreciated, especially those women who work behind the scenes to make sure things get accomplished,” said Greitz.

Nominations are being solicited through the 12 Greater Media Newspapers’ publications and will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges who are prominent in their field. Five finalists will be selected from each of the above categories.

The accomplishments of the finalists will be celebrated at an awards luncheon March 21 at Branches catering facility in West Long Branch, and one woman from each category will be honored as the 2006 Greater Woman of Central Jersey.

Winners for 2005 were Melinda Salzer, vice president and co-owner of Advanced Information Services Inc., in the business category, Sister Janet Christenson, founder of Epiphany House in the nonprofit category, and Mary Ann Christopher, president and chief executive officer of the Visiting Nurse Association for health care.

In addition, this program will support a cause that has touched the lives of many women, the battle against breast cancer.

According to statistics provided by the American Cancer Society, every year more than 200,000 American women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Greater Media Newspapers hopes to reinforce the message of early detection through regular examinations.

A portion of proceeds of the 2006 event will benefit the American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. After the 2005 event, Greater Media Newspapers presented the American Cancer Society with a check for $5,000.

The second annual Greater Women of Central New Jersey award is sponsored by CentraState Medical Center, Freehold Township. Deadline for entries is Jan. 13. For more information see the nomination form in this newspaper or log on to the Web site www.gmnews.com.