Look who the Inwood Civic Association picked as its Citizens of the Year

The Inwood Civic Association acknowledges those who go above and beyond for its community each year. This year, two respected elected officials will accept this award on March 10 at the Inwood Country Club.

The association’s board members have named Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Melissa “Missy” Miller and Nassau County Legislator Carriè Solages its honorees for 2024.

Since 1963, the presentation of the first award has been a constant inspiration, motivating individuals to achieve their goals. So, what does it take to earn a Citizens of the Year honor? Board members select a pool of potential candidates they think make a difference.

“Both individuals responded to the community’s needs,” said David Hance, the civic association’s president. “It’s great when the community has a good relationship with our elected officials. It provides an open line of communication; they can either expedite, cut to the chase, or steer us in the right direction.”

Hance said that the goal of the organization is to build a bridge for residents and those who can help.

Appointed to the Hempstead town board two years ago, representing the Third Councilmanic District, Miller, who was previously the area’s assemblywoman, has advocated for the caring of the chronically ill and being the voice for the voiceless.

Miller has proven herself to be not only an influential leader but also a friend and a mother. Her son, Oliver, who is going through a lifetime of medical challenges, assists Miller’s fight in her life’s work.

“My son Oliver has brought so much awareness to issues by showing up and allowing people and legislators to actually see the need for change,” Miller said. “Whenever I speak with a resident who is affected by a chronic illness, I see their eyes light up because I am also living their life.”

Whether a state legislator or a town representative Miller’s knowledge and longtime relationships with the residents provided her the understanding and the changes needed to help the community, she said.

After redistricting, Solages no longer represents Inwood the work he did representing the community cannot be understated as well as advocating ensuring that his constituents have a voice.

“I am all about encouraging participation, and sometimes you have to do that in a fun way, which is why we started the tradition of Inwood Day, back in 2014 and every year that we did it, it grew,” he said. “It is a community event that brought everyone together.”

Solages fought for improvements at Inwood Park, a county facility, that included an overhaul of the boat launch, renovation of the restrooms, the sports areas, including the Nancy Lieberman “Dream Court” and enhancing a portion of the Nassau Expressway, both projects also shepherded by former State Sen. Todd Kaminksy.

To keep the community of Inwood substantial, the Civic Association is committed to providing resources to the residents. Hance concluded.

“If something needs to be talked about, talk about it; let’s fix it and keep improving,” Hance said. “This includes law and order regarding migrants and managing the neighborhood to ensure a good quality of life.”

To attend the event, email inwoodcivic@gmail.com or call (516) 662-1418.

The Inwood Country Club is at 50 Peppe Drive in Inwood.