The Levittown School District recently held its 12th Annual Recognition Night, which honored several people for their community service.

"Volunteering is the backbone of our community as it is what keeps the community the great place it is," said Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray.

"Our community is a 'who's who' of volunteerism," Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes added. "Those that were recognized this evening represent the tremendous amount of time that our community volunteers spend away from their families, on a regular basis, so that they can help and improve the lives of others."

Members of each individual's organization voted on the honorees. Theresa Bruno of CSEA was recognized for her work on creating knitted items for hospitals in the area as well as lap blankets for soldiers who lost their limbs by fighting the war in Iraq.

"It's nice to be recognized by peers and the community to which I belong," Bruno said.

This sentiment was repeated by almost all those honored.

The second person to be recognized was Louise Cassano of the Levittown Chamber of Commerce. She was recognized for co-chairing the Levittown 60th anniversary celebration, as well her other work within the community.

Gary Fisch was honored for his work on the Levittown Community Council, while Paul Manton was recognized for his work at the Levittown Historical Society.

The Levittown Fire Department honored William Youngs, an active volunteer firefighter for over 45 years. Youngs recently restored a 1951 fire engine, which was used in Levittown.

Eileen Tyler was recognized for her help with the Levittown/Island Trees Youth Council, while the PTA as a whole was also recognized.

The Levittown School District honored Board Member Kenneth E. Auer, Sr. "He does all that could be asked of as a board member," said Superintendent Dr. Herman Sirois.

Eighth Precinct Police Officer Paul Lamonica received an award for his work tracking graffiti, cigarette stings, monitoring school safety, tracking gangs.

Dr. Jacklyn Nogan of the Kiwanis Club was honored for her program, Entitled Educating Children on Health and Nutrition, as well as her other various involvements in the community.

Vincent Mori worked afternoons and Saturday evenings at the Yours, Ours, Mine Community Center. The organizations honored him posthumously and his family was on hand to accept the award on his behalf.

"He would have loved receiving this award. It is a great honor in taking this award for him," said one of his daughters.