Some local children were recently recognized for their achievements in the Rising Star soccer program in Westbury, operated by the Office of the Nassau County District Attorney.

Receiving awards were the following Westbury residents: William Galindo, Christian Pacheco, Christian Jiminez and Briana Ridley.

"The award was given to young people who best displayed good character through the natural virtues of temperance, justice, prudence, and fortitude," said District Attorney Denis Dillon, in commending the children.

The free soccer program was developed by the District Attorney's Rising Star team with the Long Island Junior Soccer League, the Weed and Seed program, the Nassau County Police, the Westbury Schools, and the North Hempstead Parks Department. Not only do youth in the program learn the finer points of soccer, but the whole program is geared to develop good character. Assistant District Attorney Risco Lewis organized the program last summer based on the model Rising Star successfully developed in Hempstead.

Rising Star is a team of community-oriented assistant district attorneys who work with citizens, schools, faith groups, government and police to combat local public safety problems. They approach persistent crime problems using both legal and social strategies. "The heart of our social strategy includes helping our youth develop good character, and it's in every project we do, whether working with youth or adults," said Assistant District Attorney Rene P. Fiechter, chief of the team.

For more information on the program, one may call (516) 571-2579.