1.   Since the prize was first announced, a panel of distinguished people has been involved in the delicate task of choosing the first recipient.

2.   As the first recipient of a self-contained artificial heart enters his fourth week with the device, his surgeons say his recovery continues to exceed their expectations.

3.   At its national awards dinner Monday night at the Westchester Marriott, the first recipient of the bronze sculpture will be Barbara Nicklaus.

4.   At the end of the season, one Cardinal will find his name above the buckle as the first recipient of the Roy Young award, given for toughness.

5.   But the first recipient, a boy, improved and is doing well.

6.   Compton, a redshirt freshman at the University of Georgia, becomes the first heart transplant recipient to play in a PGA Tour event.

7.   Cornerback Eric Allen, a close friend of Turner, was the first recipient.

8.   Ford is the first recipient to be honored for doing something that Ted Kennedy and those close to him once vehemently opposed.

9.   Former North Carolina coach Dean Smith will be the first recipient.

10.   He is the first recipient of a successful hand transplant.