The Lawrence-based Kansas Association of Sleep Professionals has chosen to give Russ Briggs, of Briggs Automotive Group, its first public service award.

The award recognizes Kansans who have promoted and supported public awareness of sleep health. Briggs appeared in a series of television ads, urging residents to avoid driving when sleepy or sleep deprived.

The award will be presented Tuesday in Topeka, where Gov. Kathleen Sebelius will sign a proclamation recognizing the day as Sleep Health Awareness in Kansas.

Members of the association are sleep technologists and physicians.