Thursday, October 1, 2026
There is no shortage of people in Lynbrook who do good on a consistent basis and put others before themselves. But each year, the Village of Lynbrook must choose only two people to hold the distinction of Man and Woman of the Year. For 2013, it’s Kathy Aprile Sci and Walter Fitzer.
The Village Board recognized Sci and Fitzer at its June 17 meeting and presented each when with a plaque to commemorate their achievement.
Sci, 74, has lived in Lynbrook for 46 years and currently serves as vice president of a group of seniors who play cards each week at the Lynbrook Recreation Center. She and her husband Paul never hesitate to help out or contribute to Our Lady of Peace and St. Raymond’s churches to aid those in need. Her friend, Carol Burak, nominated her for the award and read the letter she submitted on Sci’s behalf at Monday’s meeting.
“Not only does Kathy handle people with grace and dignity and respect,” Burak said, “ but her honesty and trustworthiness and approachability have endeared her not only to the seniors but all who have come to know and love her. Kathy’s sincerity and kindness invite all to consider her a friend and confidante.”
Fitzer, 71, who recently celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary to his wife Gayle, is also in his 50th year as a member of Engine Company No. 1. For more than three decades, he has been his firehouse’s chief chauffeur, instructing members how to operate the fire truck. He is still an active member of the department and said he has driven to about 30 fires so far this year.
His daughter Ginger Fuentes nominated him for the award. “Walter is a passionate person,” she said. “He cares about all people as though they were part of his family. When someone is in need, he can’t help but want to pitch in. He is a very generous individual and never hesitates to help or reach into his pocket to support a cause.”
Sci, the mother of two daughters and one step-son, said she was shocked, humbled and proud when she received the news of her honor. “Whatever I do,” she said, “I do from my heart, not for recognition. This was like a shocker to me.”
Fitzer, a father of three, was also surprised when he was notified, but his excitement quickly took over. “It’s a privilege,” he said of the award. “I was very pleased that Ginger put me up. I feel very honored that the village has recognized me.”
Mayor Bill Hendrick, who presented the plaques to Sci and Fitzer, was happy with the village’s selections. “These two individuals exemplify the best of our Lynbrook community,” he said. “Their selfless dedication and commitment to all is why they are this year’s Lynbrook man and woman of the year.”
