All too often, society tends to look to the entertainment industry or the sports world for its heroes. But heroes can be found in the very communities that make up Long Island. They may be teachers or firemen or police officers or even volunteers. They may be moms, dads, grandparents, sons and daughters. But, it is certain that Long Island has many residents who have had a significant impact on the lives of others. One of those residents is Louis Panacciulli of Franklin Square.

Each year, the Town of Hempstead, under the auspices of Supervisor Kate Murray and the town board, recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the betterment of the lives of others with its "Make a Difference" awards. This year, Panacciulli was one of those recipients.

"We pay homage to the men and women who have touched the lives of so many of our township. These individuals have never looked for recognition or rewards for their hard work and dedication," said Murray. "They simply enjoy the satisfaction that comes from helping others."

A loving husband and father, the Franklin Square resident is a music teacher at the Valley Stream District 13 Schools. Music has played such a big part of his life that Panacciulli was determined to give the gift of music back to others.

In 1984, together with Dan Simmons Manuel, Panacciulli founded the Nassau Pop Symphony Orchestra. Since then, the Nassau Pops, under the direction of maestro Panacciulli, has been bringing beautiful music to various Nassau County parks. Each summer, residents look forward to hearing the Nassau Pops play. Their concerts have become a summer tradition much like fireworks, barbecues and those warm carefree days.

But if entertaining Nassau residents and quenching their thirst for beautiful music ranging from classical compositions to Broadway compilations wasn't enough, the Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra makes its music mean a difference in the lives of others. Each year, the orchestra plays a gala concert in the Tilles Center with proceeds going to charity. Beneficiaries of the concert include the Special Olympics and more recently, United Cerebral Palsy. The Pops have also done fundraisers for One in Nine.

Panacciulli and his wife Elaine are generous and kind. Panacciulli and the Nassau Pops always seems to be there not only to entertain Nassau County, but to help others, whether it's to put a smile on a face when they perform or raise money for a worthy cause. Panacciulli is also a patriot and loves his country. Each of the Nassau Pops' concerts concluded with the singing of God Bless America.

Said Brad Holland of the Town of Hempstead in announcing Panacciulli at the awards ceremony, "Lou has been known to comment on how blessed he is to be able to teach, perform and bring some happiness to those in need. But it is us who are truly blessed to have a person such as Louis Panacciulli, who gives so much of himself to others."