New York Honors Its Quiet Heroes

Celebrating Extraordinary Service: New York Honors Its Quiet Heroes

In a world often captivated by headlines about conflict, politics, and division, it is easy to forget how much good is quietly taking place in communities across the country. On a crisp November day at Munson in Utica, that goodness took center stage as New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo presented the prestigious New York State Senate Commendation Awards to an exceptional group of residents from the 53rd Senate District.

These honors—among the highest recognitions the Senate can bestow—shine a light on individuals who have strengthened their communities not with fanfare, but through decades of steady service, leadership, courage, and generosity.

Honoring Lives Marked by Service

The ceremony placed a spotlight on the kinds of Americans who represent the best of us.

Two honorees—John DePerno, 101, and Anthony Graziano, 103—served their country during World War II, then returned home to build lives marked by leadership, business success, and deep community engagement. Their stories remind the nation that the Greatest Generation still walks among us, continuing to inspire through character and commitment.

Decorated military member Vincent Scalise was honored for his work on behalf of veterans and their families, proving that service does not end when the uniform comes off. Similarly, retired New York State Trooper James Simpson continues to support community causes, exemplifying what lifelong public service looks like.

And among those remembered was the late Michael Bosak—an architect and preservationist who ensured that history would remain visible for future generations.

Champions for Community, Children, and the Underserved

This year’s commendations also reflect a fundamental truth about America’s communities: they thrive because people invest in others.

Hawa Peters founded Utica Royalties to empower underserved children and teens through mentorship, education, arts, and wellness. Her work speaks to a growing national movement focused on giving young people the tools to succeed emotionally, academically, and creatively.

Civil rights advocate Willie Talmadge was recognized for leadership rooted in dignity and fairness—values that resonate far beyond the borders of upstate New York.

Teacher Monica Bravo was honored for her dedication at Thomas R. Proctor High School, a reminder that educators shape communities one student at a time.

Writer and educator Jennifer Boulanger was acknowledged for empowering women and supporting the LGBTQ and refugee communities, reflecting the district’s rich diversity and the power of inclusive leadership.

And Elizabeth Boise, a steadfast supporter of military members and their families, underscores the profound impact of quiet, compassionate advocacy.

Storytellers, Builders, and Keepers of Local Culture

Communities are held together not only by service but by storytelling, culture, and tradition.

Sports journalist Ron Moshier and WKTV journalist Joleen Ferris were celebrated for their contributions to local media—proof that strong journalism remains a vital thread in America’s civic fabric.

Local businessman and community supporter Carl Trainor, long involved in the Boonville-Oneida County Fair, was recognized for helping sustain the events and traditions that bring communities together.

Paul Buckley, the City of Utica’s Film Commissioner, was honored for elevating arts and culture—an increasingly important economic driver in cities across the nation.

Mark Donovan, president of the renowned Boilermaker Road Race, was recognized for leadership surrounding one of the region’s most iconic events.

Greg and Jill Robinson, owners of the legendary Unadilla MX, were praised for promoting the region on local, national, and international stages—showing how a single institution can become part of a community’s identity.

Business owners and philanthropists Joseph and Tricia Rutkowski were honored for their generous support of the region, while farmer and agriculture advocate Terri DiNitto represented the vital agricultural heart of upstate New York.

A Moment of Gratitude

As Sen. Griffo noted, each honoree has “made a difference” and strengthened the wellbeing of the region in meaningful ways.

In recognizing them, New York offers a reminder to the nation: communities flourish not because of abstract policy debates, but because of people—people who show up, serve others, solve problems, protect traditions, and believe in giving back.

At a time when Americans are yearning for stories of hope and unity, the 53rd District delivered exactly that.