Saturday, November 5, 2011

Utah man who was real "Rain Man" inspires disability awareness in media award

From The AP:


SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City man who inspired the film "Rain Man" will be honored with the naming of a new award for increasing awareness of disabilities in society.

Mayor Ralph Becker says the legacy of Kim Peek (pictured) will be recognized during a ceremony Nov. 3.

The Peek Award for Disability in Media will annually honor a person who has helped shape the perception of disabilities.

Peek, who died in 2009, spent 20 years promoting respect for disabled people and improved educational opportunities for children with special needs.

Temple Grandin, the subject of a recent award-winning biopic, will be the first award recipient.

Screenwriter Barry Morrow will present the award and donate the Oscar statuette he won for "Rain Man" to be permanently displayed in the city.