Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and the town board recognized 13 extraordinary community members for contributions to their local neighborhoods at the ninth annual "Make A Difference" Awards ceremony, held Nov. 15.

"Tonight we pay homage to men and women who have touched the lives of so many in our township. These individuals have never looked for recognition or rewards for their hard work and dedication," Supervisor Murray said. "They simply enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others. Tonight we honor them and offer our thanks for all that they have done to improve the lives of others and to make our communities better places in which to live."

The honorees, including Eileen Daly of Floral Park, have all dedicated themselves to enriching the lives of others. Hundreds of nominations were received for the prestigious award. Those selected, Supervisor Murray noted, have quietly carried out acts of selfless generosity for many years.

For well over 30 years, Daly has been actively involved in many facets of community service. She has been both selfless and tireless in her work as an active volunteer.

An unconquerable spirit and an unwavering will have enabled Daly to persevere for her family, friends and community, despite a debilitating aneurysm and a battle with breast cancer.

She has accepted and answered all of life's challenges, and she has been an inspiration to many, Supervisor Murray noted.

She has long been a contributor to a local organization that assists the elderly, she worked as a 4-H leader for 30 years and she is a 25-year member of the Pastoral Care segment of Our Lady of Victory.

Daly is also a past president of the Floral Park-Bellerose PTA and a former participant in the SEPTA program at Floral Park Memorial High School. She has contributed valuable service to the MTA Bus Advisory Committee, the Board of Elections and the Floral Park Junior Woman's Club.

Further, Daly has certainly proven herself to be a kind and caring person. She is a woman of great determination and dedication, who despite physical hardships, remains a vibrant contributor to community life, Supervisor Murray added.

A tribute to Daly would not be complete without mention of her late husband, Dave, who was always so supportive of his wife's activities. "Daly is truly one of Floral Park's most prominent residents and tonight that hometown stands as one to salute this special and lovely lady," Murray said. "By bettering lives and supporting worthy causes, Eileen Daly is a fitting and deserving recipient of the Town of Hempstead 'Make A Difference' Award.

"Our Make A Difference Award recipients have made a profoundly positive impact on the lives of others," Supervisor Murray concluded. "While we can never hope to adequately repay these men and women for their efforts on behalf of those in need, we are honored to have this opportunity to thank them."