NORTHFIELD, Minn. Š Is there a woman in Northfield you especially admire and esteem? Lynn Vincent, executive director of the Girl Scout Council of Cannon Valley, is calling for nominations for NorthfieldÕs sixth annual Women of Distinction awards. At the Women of Distinction banquet on November 9, the council will honor three women from Northfield for their outstanding contributions to youth, community, and quality of life in the Northfield area. Nominations are available at the Council office at 1025 North Highway 3; they can also be requested by calling the office at 645-6603. Nominations will be accepted until October 9.

"Study after study suggests that positive adult role models are important factors in the development of healthy youth," said Vincent. "As an advocate for girls, the Girl Scout Council of cannon Valley appreciates the contributions of caring women in our community who set a positive example for all girls." Recipients can be mentors, role models, or women who have worked for gender equality and the development of girls and women.

The council will give awards in three categories: "Women Promoting Diversity" will honor a woman who has significantly contributed to multi-cultural understand, strengthened relations between people of different races or ethnicities and promoted the value of diversity in Northfield. "Women Preparing Women" will honor a woman who has made a significant contribution to preparing girls and women for the future. Recipients can be mentors, role models, or women who have worked for gender equity and the development of girls and women. "Women Strengthening Community" honors a woman who has made a significant impact on the quality of life in Northfield by working to alleviate community problems, supporting a better quality of life, or contributing to the economic growth and stability of Northfield.