HEMPSTEAD TOWN

Town honors North Bellmorite for volunteerism

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Whether Chris Pekoff is at a local charitable fundraiser, on a baseball diamond in North Bellmore or North Merrick, or at one of the community’s many businesses, he finds the time to chat with his neighbors, Town of Hempstead officials say. Through getting to know –– and finding ways to help –– people throughout the Bellmores and beyond, Pekoff has been a catalyst for positive change in the community, they add.

Pekoff was one of 12 Town of Hempstead residents honored at the 18th annual Make a Difference Awards ceremony on April 8. Supervisor Kate Murray and Town Board members highlighted the achievements of residents they described as local heroes who make a difference in the lives of others every day.

Murray opened the ceremony with a tribute to a late 9/11 responder, New York City police officer Francis Pitone of East Meadow, who died in August 2013 from an illness related to his recovery work at ground zero and at the Fresh Kills landfill in Staten Island. Pitone family members were special guests at the event, and Murray told them that the fallen officer is an inspiration for all people who strive to make a positive difference.

“Like officer Pitone, the people who we honored haven’t sought to reap the harvest of their volunteer efforts,” Murray said. “Indeed, they have given of themselves without a thought of recognition or accolades.”

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