Last year the Herald chose Harris Dinkoff, who retired from the District 13 Board of Education after more than three decades of service. Dinkoff served as president of the board many times, while simultaneously serving on the Central High School District Board of Education during much of the three decades he volunteered. That's right, volunteered. School board members devote long hours for no pay.
In 2002, Sister Margie Kelly, director of Holy Name of Mary's Parish Outreach program, and Judy Miccio, director of Blessed Sacrament's Social Ministry, were the Herald's People of the Year. They were recognized for organizing the collection and distribution of food to those in need year-round, but especially during the holidays, as well as organizing toy and clothing drives. In applauding one, we naturally had to applaud the other.
In 2001, we chose the children of Valley Stream for their resilience after Sept. 11. They worked tirelessly to raise money for the families of victims of the World Trade Center tragedy. They expressed emotions felt by us all through art, music and writing. They proudly wore red, white and blue. Through all the tears, they never stopped being children. In recognizing them, we realized that they were able to achieve what they did because of the nurturing adults at the center of their lives.
So who will be Person of the Year in 2004? I'm not sure, and I should know by now. It's not that there aren't many wonderful people in the community who deserve the recognition, because there are. Maybe that's the problem. There are so many wonderful people that we're having trouble deciding. That's why we could use your help.
Do you know a coach who has inspired his athletes to be winners not just on the field, but off it as well? Or maybe a civic association or community group leader or member who's always doing -- or perhaps the entire group? Is there someone in your life who has faced great obstacles this year and still managed to be there for you and others? What about a senior citizen who hasn't let her age keep her from getting involved in the community?
If so, let us know. You can call me at (516) 569-4000 ext. 208 or e-mail me at NFalco@liherald.com. Don't hesitate. The Herald will give careful thought to every nominee. And the decision will be based on the quality of the suggestion, so don't feel as though your one nomination won't count, because it will. Let's determine the Valley Stream Herald 2004 Person of the Year together.
Also, we do our best to keep the honor a secret from the honoree, so please don't tell your nominee what you're up to. It'll mean that much more when they look through their mail and find their smiling face on our front page.
I look forward to hearing your suggestions!
