By:Nicole Falco
The three honorees were chosen for their ongoing efforts to promote living a life free from drug and alcohol abuse. Nathan L. Serota, whose company Serota Properties developed the King Kullen Shopping Center on Merrick Road, Councilman James Darcy, and Grace Anastasio, past president of the Board of Directors of Friends of Bridge, each received heaps of praise during the annual brunch held April 25 at Bedell-s at West Wind in Freeport.
Serota and Darcy were the recipients of the Bridge Builder of the Year award. Serota was unable to attend the brunch, but he sent a $5,000 donation in his place. Anastasio received a Lifetime Achievement award.
Upon accepting his award, which was presented by Harry Nicolino, president of the Board of Directors of Friends of Bridge, Darcy wondered, What did I do to deserve this award? Used to recognizing others, the former Valley Stream mayor said, This award is not about me. It is an opportunity for all of us to lend our support to this vital, life-saving organization. He added that he would look upon his award as a constant call to action whenever I can serve.
Anastasio, considered by many to be the heart, soul and energy of the organization, said upon accepting her award, I did not find it a job to do. I enjoyed doing it I don-t know why I should get a plaque for that. Maryann Cahill, a past president of the Board of Directors and an Anastasio recruit, presented the plaque to the Lifetime Achievement award-winner.
The award recipients attracted many supporters, including Valley Stream Mayor Edward Cahill, Valley Stream Deputy Mayor Guido Cirenza, Valley Stream Trustee Richard Coffman, Valley Stream Justice Robert Bogle, Town of Hempstead Councilman Ed Ambrosino, Receiver of Taxes Donald X. Clavin and Nassau County Legislator Francis X. Becker, who called Anastasio a human bouquet of flowers. Senator Dean Skelos, Assemblyman Bob Barra, Town Supervisor Kate Murray, and County Executive Tom Suozzi each sent a representative in their place. Each politician or their representative brought with them a citation, certificate of recognition or gift and congratulations for Darcy and Anastasio. Also, present were past Bridge Builder of the Year award recipients and many from the community.
