2008 "A Voice for Victims" Awards Honors "Everyday Heroes"

Fulton County District Attorney Paul L. Howard, Jr. Honors "Everyday Heroes" For Selfless Acts of Courage and Sacrifice

In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness month, the Office of the Fulton County District Attorney is holding its annual "A Voice for Victims" awards Ceremony Wednesday, October 29, 2008. The program begins at 9:00 am at the Judge Romae T. Powell Juvenile Justice Center, 395 Pryor Street, SW Atlanta, Georgia 30312. This is the 11th anniversary of the "A Voice for Victims" awards which pays tribute to law enforcement and civilians who go "above and beyond" on behalf of crime victims or people in danger.

This year's program spotlights the heroic actions of citizens from around the metropolitan area who, in the past year, placed themselves in harm's way to save and protect the lives of others:

Zachary Evans- A Cherokee County boy who helped rescue an elderly man from the woods and lead him to safety.
Shirley Herrington- A Fulton County day care owner who saved a toddler trapped in a burning building.
Anthony Brooks- A Dekalb County Carnival worker who faced death while saving two children from a malfunctioning carnival ride.

The Andrea "Nikki" Blanton Good Samaritan Award

Last year, the District Attorney's office introduced the annual "Nikki Blanton Good Samaritan Award" in memory of former "A Voice for Victim" recipient Andrea Nicole Blanton. Blanton and her boyfriend were struck by a car on an interstate ramp in 2006 after stopping to pull a trapped motorist to safety. Nikki suffered numerous injuries from her crash and died of complications a year later. Nikki's determination to overcome her ordeal was such an inspiration that District Attorney Howard dedicated a Good Samaritan Award in her honor. The inaugural award was presented to her family last year. Receiving the first annual "Nikki Blanton" award this year is Dallas resident Nick Therrell, a UPS driver who used his tractor trailer to shield a trapped motorist from on-coming traffic after a crash.

Jean Davis, author of the book "Keep on Keeping On" is the keynote speaker. Davis, who lost her child to murder, shares an inspiring message for every person searching for help, hope, reassurance and healing. Mrs. Davis will be introduced by Chairman John Eaves of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

Officers of the Year for various Fulton County police agencies will also receive special recognition. The program will feature musical selections by the Inman Middle School Chorus and the presentation of colors by the North Atlanta High School Color Guard.

Media Contact: Yvette Brown, 404-224-0560/404-392-8867, yvette.brown@fultoncountyga.gov