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By JOSHUA AMES
Courier Staff Writer

At the Cowley County Commission meeting on Tuesday night, commissioners made two declarations of special months to be observed in Winfield.

County administrator Leroy Alsup did not attend the meeting.

After a unanimous vote, commissioner Gary Wilson announced that April will be observed as Fair Housing Month in Cowley County. The reason for the recognition is to raise awareness of the inadequate dwellings of some county residents and the improvements that could be made to make living easier for those individuals and families.

Commissioners also proclaimed March as Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities month in Cowley County. Representatives from Creative Community Living (CCL), Cowley County Developmental Services (CCDS), Southwind Rest Care and Twin Rivers Developmental Supports Inc. were on hand to bring in the proclamation and to show their appreciation by doling out gift bags to commissioners.

William P. Brooks, executive director of CCDS, said the month will serve as gateway for people to become more informed about how they can help enrich the lives of those with disabilities.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the citizens of our county to show our special people that they are very important in our communities," Brooks said.

"The recognition of this month is a tribute to our MRDD (mental retardation/developmental disabilities) people and a milestone of progress."