The Nassau County Legislature's decision to honor the director of St. Kilian's Outreach/Social Ministry this year through the "Women: Trailblazers to the New Millenium Award" is refreshing.

Nassau County politicians are often criticized for making too many award presentations, seemingly in an effort to get in front of the cameras, and ultimately cheapening the award. But, in this case the presentation shed light on important work that is being done quietly in Farmingdale, not only by the highly deserving recipient, Lisa Molluso, but also by her countless volunteers and the community that supports their efforts.

St. Kilian's Outreach is a valued part of the entire Farmingdale community, as evidenced by the many local groups and individuals that contribute time and resources to it. And, its service to the needy of the community transcends religious, racial and other differences, in a time when religious and ethnic tensions are a cause of bloodshed around the world. Further, the ecumenical support for Outreach is a testament of the rare cohesiveness of Farmingdale, and is a model for other communities to follow.

Molluso, for her part, is a testament of the key role that other-centered women will play in raising our social consciousness as we enter the new millennium.

A.M.