Young Leaders Awards Banquet

The Young Leaders Award Banquet was held August 7^th 2012 at 6pm at a private residence in Huntington Station. The remarkable young people from both Walt Whitman and Huntington High School, which numbered about 250 students came together to help give back to the community upon which they live. This organization of Young Leaders is an impressive group of students and is headed by the wonderful and caring staff of Kevin Thorbourne, Kevin Zaharios and Ron Wilson.

Besides reaching out to our local community to do community service they also reach out to other Long Island community’s in the same way. Huntington Schools Superintendent James Polansky sent an email which was read at the event as he was not able to attend the festivities. Superintendent Polansky said “It is amazing that we have a President from Whitman and a Vice President from Huntington and please pass along my congratulations to all on a terrific year.  Keep up the great work”.

The night was filled with Town, County and Federal representatives, certificates, proclamations and accolades for all the Young Leaders. There were many speeches by those who help with the Young Leaders program throughout the year. All touting the good work and spirit that these Young Leaders exemplify and encouraged them to continue these efforts in giving back to the community.

The Young Leaders that received scholarship money to go towards college books included:

Nick Mendez – Sponsored by Mrs. & Mr. Milanes

Shamus Mzotzek – Sponsored by Dave and Busters-Mr. Greg Corbly

Micheal Zaharios – Sponsored by Home Performance Technologies –Mr. Mark Gunther
Bradon Fiordelisi – Sponsored by Huntington Station Bid

Jared Thorbourne – Sponsored by Paul Davis Restoration

Representatives present from the Town of Huntington were Council Members Eugene Cook and Susan Berland, from the Suffolk County Executive’s Office Rebecca Sanin and additionally an aid from Congressman Steve Israel’s office. Some of the other individuals that received awards were Officer Drew from the Suffolk County Police Department. Jamie Isaac a 16 year old author on bullying, her book “In Jamie’s Words” was sold by the Young Leaders to help kids with Bullying issues, also received an award from the group. Guiseppe’s Pizza & Pasta Restaurant owner Joe Biscardi received a plague for his generosity towards the community, along with many others receiving honors this evening.

The Young Leaders also announced next years President – Ian Zakow –from Walt Whitman High School and new Vice President Justin Weigold from Huntington High School. This was an outstanding night for the Young Leaders.  Congratulations for your well deserved awards and for your continued success in the future!