Connetquot senior, Taylor Cole, wins Team Dawg Sportsmanship Award

In today’s society, it is nearly impossible for our kids not to get caught up in the “me” of everything they do. Their grades, their sports pursuits, their art/music achievements, their social contributions are all planned, pursued and celebrated based on their individual success — with the ultimate goal of them getting into the perfect college, get the perfect job and achieve the perfect life.

That is why it is so refreshing and inspiring when a young athlete like Taylor Cole comes around and demonstrates the desire, willingness and character to put as much passion and effort into lifting those around her up and sharing in their success, as she does to succeed herself. This unselfishness, sportsmanship and commitment to teamwork is the real value of youth sports, and while we will always celebrate the wins and championships, Team Dawg seeks to celebrate the characteristics that Taylor displays in all of her life’s activities.

She has earned the admiration of her coaches, her teammates and her community by displaying a type of leadership and heroism that is all too often overlooked in today’s shock value world. And yet it is character like Taylor’s that continues to form the foundation of great schools, great communities and our great country.

So join us in celebrating the achievements of the newest recipient of the Team Dawg Sportsmanship award, team leader of the NYS State Champion Connetquot T-Birds Varsity Girls Volleyball team, Taylor Cole. Taylor, thank you for setting a new standard for sportsmanship and leadership on Long island and best of luck with your collegiate career.

~ Respect You Give It - You Get It

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Mentor Inspires Student, Student Inspires Mentor

Inspiration. A word that is thrown around too easily and with loose meanings nowadays. But few things are more genuinely inspirational than the story of a mentor/teach that changes the life of her student. Even better when it is the student that changes the life of his mentor/teacher.

Several months back, Team Dawg featured Deer Park’s Johnny Gianotti and his heroic efforts to promote Make-A-Wish at his school despite his personal challenges with cerebral palsy. But it turns out there was another story. One that further touches one’s heart and shows the incredible impact a single person can have in our lives, our futures and our aspirations.

Lorraine Diehl dreamed of coaching swimming and helping children achieve their dreams in the pool. What she didn’t realize was that her position at the Sachem Swim Club would enable a young boy with cerebral palsy to walk without crutches and/or walkers, and to compete in the National Junior Disability Swimming Championships held in Middleton, WI. But as always, this story of achievement is made even more inspirational by the facts underlying it.

For over a year, Lorraine and her partners at Sachem Swim Club held Johnny in the water and made his limbs go through the motions of swimming. After months of Johnny showing no physical signs of swimming on his own, they all started to fear that their efforts were going to be in vain and never achieve any results. But what Johnny did show was an unbelievable determination to not give up, and what his teachers showed in response was a heroic dedication to the dreams and drive of this incredible child.

After months of perseverance and staying true to their collective goals, this team of teachers and one incredible student accomplished the seemingly impossible. After over a year of dedication, Johnny started to not only swim on his own, but the swimming, as designed, helped him cope with the challenges of cerebral palsy and he started to walk without the help of his crutches or his walkers. But what was truly incredible, is how this process and Johnny’s relentless drive helped Lorraine achieve her goals.

"Since I was in third grade I knew I wanted to be a teacher, and nobody could ever steer me in a different direction," said Diehl. "But having someone in my life who reinforced those dreams means more to me than he'll ever know.”

Lorraine inspired Johnny, Johnny inspired Lorraine and in so doing both of these incredible, dedicated people have inspired us all. They are by definition Everyday Heroes and their story needs to replace the endless coverage of hate, crime and malice in our lives today. Thank you Lorraine, and thank you again Johnny for inspiring us to chase our dreams and never give up!

~ Respect You Give It - You Get It

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Unidentified Suffolk County Police Officer representing all Law Enforcement

It's amazing how one single, solitary moment can set the record straight. One simple event that can help bring us back to reality. One unexpected instance can crystalize everything and realign our perspective. One such event happened this last week.

In New York, nothing could be so commonplace as a family grabbing a meal at the local a diner. It's an institution, mainly because you know exactly what to expect -- diner-to-diner across Long Island...let alone NY. Well, as my family and I were eating dinner at our favorite diner last week, a Suffolk County Police Officer entered to pick up his meal — another all too common occurrence. But not for our little guy Robby. As the officer entered the diner, Robby’s eyes lit up bright and a big smile enveloped his face. He quietly turned to me without taking his eyes off the officer, pointed, and softly said, “Dad, look…a police officer.” I’ll never forget that look of admiration in his eyes. It stirred my heart and warmed my soul, both as a father and as a retired cop. I softly encouraged him to say hello…sharing that police officers love when kids say hello...it's what they look forward to every day. The Officer looked and immediately noticed Robby looking and smiling. As Robby said hello, the Officer walked over to our table and smiled, asking Robby how he was doing tonight. They shared a brief, but impactful interaction — clearly one that Robby (and I) will remember forever.

But wait…there’s more. As we finish our dinner and I request the check, our server says, “there is no check for you because the Officer paid for your dinner.” We didn’t know the Officer, in fact, we didn’t even know is name. What was immediately clear, and is still is to this very moment, is that this simple moment between my son and the Officer, followed by the unheralded gesture of picking up the check for a family that had done nothing but appreciate and admire the man for doing his job, represents the integrity and heart of all the everyday heroes in our world.

In a society that so often celebrates every clash between the police and wrong-doers in our community, turning it into some kind of blanket statement that tarnishes the reputation and integrity of every single Officer across the country, here was a simple, non-publicized moment that better represents the heart and soul of our policemen, firemen and men and women of service than any over-hyped news story. It was reminder that until our society starts waking up to the reality that this misguided stance that somehow all Officers walk their beats with evil intent, and that every criminal should stand guard against the inevitable misappropriation of power boiling over in our law enforcement community, we will never truly recapture the Respect that made our society, our communities and our country the greatest the world has ever known. Until we start properly identifying the heroes, and stop using the exception as the rule to tarnish the reputation and character of the law enforcement community, we can never remedy the divisiveness that is poisoning our country.

So the next time you see a public servant, a member of our law enforcement community, or a member of our armed forces, here is a simply thing that you can do to start to restore the Respect and faith in our communities...say “hi” or really go out of your comfort zone and say “thank you.” Do it for yourself and your family, but more importantly do it for all of these everyday heroes that keep our world safe and put their lives on the line for us on a daily basis.

And to that unnamed Suffolk County Officer that touched my son’s life, I would like to say a very special “THANK YOU” for this amazing moment that will touch my family for many years to come. It has reminded us to keep the faith in the "good" in our world. To seek it out...and to celebrate it, over the evil. Everyday heroes are all around us…regardless of what the press and their reckless need for eyeballs and revenues leads us all to believe.

~ Respect You Give It - You Get It

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Lena Riportella & West Islip Girls Class A LAX Champions

"Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." --Vince Lombardi

On June 5, 2015, the West Islip girl's LAX team used a four-goal spurt midway through the second half overcome a one-goal West Genesee lead and went on to a 10-5 victory in the state girls lacrosse semifinal at SUNY-Cortland. Although the glory of being 2015 Class A State Champions will stay with them for years to come, the bond of friendship, teamwork and commitment to a common goal will stay with them forever -- impacting and benefiting those around them for years to come. The lessons of teamwork, mutual respect and camaraderie that one can learn from sports are powerful. The impact these lessons have on our communities can be even greater.

In today's hyper-competitive world of high school sports, it is always refreshing to see a team come together and achieve their dreams. Even more so when there are such incredible players displaying such inspiring leadership. This week Team Dawg was proud to award its First Annual Team Dawg High School Sportsmanship Award to Lena Riportella of the West Islip Class A Championship Girls LAX Team. Lena not only scored four goals in the championship game, but she was the hands down choice of Coach Joe Nicolosi and Team Dawg Founder Bobby "Dawg" Fortier due to her inspiring leadership, her pervasive team spirit and her tireless dedication to her sport, her classwork and her community. Lena is one of those awe-inspiring students that elevates all of those around her and does it with a humble, conscientious and caring demeanor.

For Team Dawg, giving this award to a local MVP and Everyday Hero has been a dream of Team Dawg Founder Bobby "Dawg" Fortier for over 10 years. "We have been celebrating Everyday Heroes and sharing the value of "Respect" with children throughout Long Island for over a decade now", shared Fortier, "and to finally see our vision for an annual High School Sportsmanship Award come true and be awarded to such an inspiring athlete and role model as Lena, has been a really special treat."

Team Dawg congratulates Lena Riportella and her teammates on their incredible victory and Lena on her achievements as a team leader, MVP athlete and Team Dawg Everyday Hero.

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Rick Marz and the 2015 USSSA Hall of Fame Inductees

"Sports have unique ability to create everyday heroes and incredible bonds of friendship."

Last night, March 21, 2015, the USSSA and the New York State sports community celebrated and inducted a elite group of athletes, managers and umpires into the New York State USSSA Hall of Fame. It was a very special night filled with memories, appreciation and most of all friendships. It is because of these incredible bonds of friendship, sportsmanship and ever day heroism of these inductees, that we celebrate the entire group of inductees as Team Dawg MVPs and Everyday Heroes.

What could be more inspiring, heroic and emblematic of the Team Dawg mission than a group of individuals who have dedicated their lives to a sport and have shown tireless loyalty to their teams and teammates, taking the stage due to their individual merits and achievements -- only to direct their tribute to the value and power of the friendships they formed through the sport, and consistently expressing their gratitude to their coaches, families, wives and husbands for doing something so simple, yet so heroic -- supporting their passion.

In a world seemingly built on one-upmanship, grandstanding and individual accomplishment, this night was all about talented individual athletes consistently attributing much, if not all, of their success to their teammates -- both on the field and in their life. Each eloquently stated that it was these vitally important relationships that made their achievements possible, while also consistently echoing a word we hear far too infrequently when it comes to sports -- "fun".

For Team Dawg, it was a very special night in deed. Team Dawg Founder and now four-time NYS USSA Hall of Fame inductee, Bobby "Dawg" Fortier, took the stage to celebrate two of his fellow teammates and his Manager/Coach, each of which were inducted into the Hall of Fame. In addition, Bobby accepted the New York State USSSA Team of Distinction award for the Team Dawg/Worth softball team. Lastly, together with his son Robbie, Bobby presented the first-ever Team Dawg Sportsmanship Award to NYS USSSA Executive Director, Rick Marz. This award was Bobby's brainchild with the goal of recognizing the extraordinary and selfless contributions of individuals, inside of the world of Sports, that epitomize the values of "Respect" and "Sportsmanship" to their community, their sport and their Nation. Rick Marz's steadfast commitment to the local, state, regional, national and world sports communities has been exemplary of the Team Dawg mission, and thus Rick represented the perfect inaugural recipient of the Team Dawg Sportsmanship Award. Congratulations Rick and all of the 2015 NYS USSSA Hall of Fame inductees.

Last night was a special night indeed. Team Dawg was honored to be a part of it and is honored to be considered friends of such extraordinary, talented and gracious individuals. Thank you USSSA for setting the bar so high in class and overall sportsmanship.

Please support the NYS USSSA

Robert Nelson

“…He began to think it wasn’t enough. He wanted to do something to help more people – not just ballplayers”

Robert Nelson’s story can not be summed up by one line. Not by a long shot. But this one line jumped out in his story. It simply captures Nelson’s DNA to not give up nor give in. Instead, he has consistently asked more of himself, so he could in turn provide more of himself to those around. That’s heroic.

Whether facing the violent streets of the Compton, creating a better path for himself to get to college, or finding a way into the game of baseball that he had fallen in love with, Nelson always showed vision and determination that led him in a better direction. His drive got him off the Compton streets, into college, and a career as a speed coach for MLB superstars. That same vision and determination won him the love and devotion of his supportive wife. But what Team Dawg finds most inspiring about Robert Nelson, is captured in the first line -- his ability to buck the cultural anti-cop stigma that he grew up with, to become a Police Officer that would go on to touch and change communities — both in Tustin and on the streets of Compton where he grew up.

Nelson epitomizes why Team Dawg loves to celebrate the Everyday Hero. By giving visibility to the small, selfless acts of everyday people who face the same challenges and life decisions as the rest of us, but consistently choose the “right” path -- both for themselves and their communities -- we reinforce in us all the power of "good" and the impact of "Respect". Folks like Robert may not receive the fanfare and celebrity status so often showered singers, actors, professional athletes or reality show families that offer little more than momentary entertainment and distraction -- and far too often for those things they do wrong. No, stories like Robert's and so many just like him, represent the bedrock of everything that is strong, good and reliable inside our neighbors and communities -- and they need to be held up as a way of inspiring us all to show the same simple, everyday heroism that can touch and change our communities.

It is for those reasons that we honor and pay tribute to Robert Nelson, in hopes that we may all show just a little bit of his vision, determination and selflessness in the face of our own adversity. Thank you Robert for setting the bar just a little bit higher for us all!

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Kristine Fitzpatrick

The power of baseball. The power of love. The power of a “Buddy.”

Some stories are not best told by words, but by the smiles of those that act out the story. Smiles so authentic and so heartfelt that you can quickly differentiate them from those being put on for the camera or simply provided as an expression of appreciation. No, we are talking about smiles so authentic and so pure that they become doorways into the hearts and souls of the participants. Reflections of true passion, true joy and complete bliss.

Five seconds into the video highlighting the Miracle League of Long Island, you see such smiles, and as such, feel in your heart the impact this incredible program has on its participants. And by participants we mean the players, their buddies, the organizers and the parents of these very special athletes.

Started in 1997 in Georgia, the Miracle League was brought to Long Island by Kristine Fitzpatrick in 2010. With support from the Town of Brookhaven, Kristine and a team of dedicated, giving and inspiring volunteers, the Miracle League of Long Island was born. This organization has touched the lives of every athlete that has participated and every spectator that has had the opportunity their incredible baseball games. You don’t have to ask them, you can see it. Their smiles, and there are many, reveal it.

The Miracle League is an organization dedicated to providing children with special needs the opportunity to play baseball. But in some ways, even more importantly, the Miracle League has become an organization that allows us as spectators to watch and feel the impact the game of baseball can have on a child’s life. The organization provides “Buddies” — the volunteers that partner with each athlete — the incredible gift of being a part of this child’s moment, his/her victories and his/her incredible sense of achievement. Its a glimpse back to what sports, especially kids sports, use to mean to us all.

Standing for “Because Unbelievable Dedication Deserves YOU!” —the Buddy program is the backbone of the Miracle League. The Buddies help the players hit the ball and navigate around the bases. While in the outfield, they play and socialize with the players and keep them safe from baseballs. With over 1,000 buddies volunteering each year, clearly the Miracle League’s mission extends far beyond the athletes or even the field itself. It is clear when you watch the video, or better yet attend one of these incredible games live, that the Miracle League is a one of kind organization that gives us ALL the gift of baseball — through the appreciative, loving and heartfelt smiles of some of the most inspiring baseball players of all time.

Kristine, you and your team of Buddies are the epitome of Everyday Heroes by reminding each and every one of us exactly what the term “MVP” was suppose to mean. Your athletes and your buddies are the true MVPs. And your incredible vision, heart and hard work has brought this miracle to Long Island. For that, we are so proud to celebrate you as a Team Dawg MVP. Thank you so much!

Please support the Miracle League

Christian Buck

“Sometimes it’s the really simple ideas that can make the biggest difference.”

A second grader in York, Pennsylvania became inspired by a German school that built a friendship bench on their playground to assist the new or lonely students meet new people. Christian Buck of Roundtown Elementary saw this and immediately took steps to bring this great idea to his school. Just like a viral "pay-it-forward" phenomenon other similar benches have popped up at schools across the country. In fact, more than 200 schools around the world have since installed ‘Buddy Benches’.

While we love the idea for the Buddy Bench, a truly great concept -- more importantly all of us at Team Dawg wanted to celebrate and applaud the heroism of Christian Buck for seeing a great idea, wanting to do something similar and then taking action to make it happen in his school and community. Imagine if we all were to do the same with every great idea, every kind gesture and every good deed we came across. Before you know it, we would all be changing the sometimes cold and callous self-centric world we live in today and turn it into a kinder community-centric community.

So we want to bring attention to action and the community-centric efforts of Christian Buck in hopes that it, like the Buddy Bench concept, can become viral and spread all over the country. Christian you are an Everyday Hero and a Team Dawg MVP. Keep up the great work!

Build a Buddy Bench in Your School

Rachel's Buddies

We have all been touched recently by the out-pouring of support for the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. What an incredible sensation this relatively simple social media phenomenon has caused. One of the reasons this program has been so successful lies in it's ability to personalize the ALS cause and make us vested participants on a day in and day out basis. Let's hope the success of the ALS program works to bring even greater visibility to other similar efforts designed to increase the awareness and participation in other charitable programs like the National Down Syndrome Society's Buddy Walk. If groups like Rachel's Buddies have their way, their inspiring efforts to raise money and participate in events will have the same success and support.

Few things are as inspiring as a young, enthusiastic ambassador driving awareness and working hard to benefit others -- especially when that ambassador herself is a part of the community she is trying to benefit. Rachel and her family have faced the challenges of growing up with Down Syndrome first hand. They have endured the looks, they have overcome the ignorance and they have triumphed in each and every one of Rachel's successes along this challenging path -- and there have been many. But our guess is few have been as inspiring and has created the pride as Rachel's efforts to raise money and participate in the Buddy Walk. A moment where she is able to celebrate herself and those special individuals that have triumphed over Down Syndrome to achieve a universal goal for us all happiness and a sense of community.

In recognition of Rachel's efforts as the leader of Rachel's Buddies and in acknowledgement for all she does to bring Respect to those overcoming the challenges of Down Syndrome, Team Dawg is proud to make Rachel our latest Everyday Hero and Team Dawg MVP. We are inspired and touched by your efforts Rachel, but we are even more moved by your selfless efforts to give back to the NDSS community, assist others in their efforts to become more accepted and actively involved in their community, and discover their unique contribution to those around them. Rachel, you have clearly found yours.

Please Support Rachel's Buddies Please support the CSDSA

West Islip Coach Joe Nicolosi

Ask any exceptional youth coach what drives him/her to put in the long hours, navigate the treacherous pathway of parental micro-management and persevere through the challenges of day-to-day social politics and most will answer with the same simple answer -- "I do it for the kids". Ask any successful athlete who they owe their success to and most will answer "my parents and my coach". Be placed in the same classification as a child's parents, clearly reflects how influential and vitally important today's coaches are as role models for their players.

Part counselor, part friend and part guardian -- being a coach in today's hyper-sensitive, "my son/daughter can do no wrong" society is no small feat at any level. To do it well enough to lead your team to a Championship and be voted the Newsday/ MSG Varsity Suffolk County Coach of the Year, is even more demanding. But to do it in such an exceptional level that each and every player on your team looks up to you with the respect and admiration of a father-figure is the ultimate accomplishment. So goes the coaching career of West Islip's Joe Nicolosi. Best in class by any measurable standard -- but now acknowledged for being so by Newsday and MSG Varsity.

In recognition of his inspirational accomplishments and his extraordinary influence on his players as athletes and as citizens, Team Dawg is honored to salute Coach Joe Nicolosi and celebrate him as this week's Everyday Hero and Team Dawg MVP. Whether leading his girls to a Long Island Championship at West Islip High School or mentoring girls from schools all-across the island on the All-Long Island Girls Lacrosse team, Coach Nicolosi exemplifies leadership, excellence and Respect.

Coach Nicolosi, not a girl that has played for you has gone uninspired by your leadership, untouched by your generosity of time and spirit, nor gone without the benefit of your passion and appreciation for the game of lacrosse. Each and every player has had the rare opportunity to play under one of the country's truly great coaches and learn from you as a teacher, a mentor and an example of excellence. Through your stewardship of their love of the game of lacrosse, you have touched each and every one of your players in ways they may not yet grasp, but will benefit all of us as a community for years and years to come. Thank you Coach!

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Taylan Swift & Student2Student

What is the value of a smile, a handshake or a "hello". To a new student in a strange school its priceless. Taylan Swift and the other members of the Student2Student know this reality all too well. So they set out to create an organization dedicated to welcoming and befriending incoming students and making them feel comfortable in their new school.

Due to its proximity to a local military base, Steilcom High School in WA averages 150 new students each year. Taylan and the other volunteers of Student2Student help transition students from the military community into Steilcom and make their first days at the high school warm and inviting. Taylan's and Student2Student's efforts are nothing short of heroic in the eyes of Team Dawg, but more importantly in the hearts of each and every student that walks into Steilcom High for the first time.

In recognition of his own extraordinary efforts with Student2Student and the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership organization, Taylan was recently chosen to attend a national training seminar in Washington D.C., where he had the honor of presenting to three and four-star general, admirals, the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Defense, and was also selected to be one of 10 students from around the world to attend the prestigious Francis Hesselbein Student Leadership Conference at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Yet we don't hear about Taylan or his peers in the news, in the newspapers or on the radio. What a shame.

Taylan, your efforts to comfort your new classmates as they face the daunting challenge of stepping into a new school is not only heroic, but another unheralded example of the kind of Respect that is so desperately needed in communities across the country. So Team Dawg would like to celebrate and salute you as an Everyday Hero and an inspiring role model for us all. You are an incredible representation of the power of a friendly handshake, a warm hello and a welcoming smile.

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Loudoun County Fire & Rescue, A.J. Coston

Most people agree that being a first responder of any sort is both dangerous and requires a good amount of bravery. It takes something extra special to juggle the challenges and demands of everyday life and career to be a volunteer policeman, fireman and/or first responder. So you can imagine how impressed and inspired we were when we read about an incredible 18 year old high school student from Loudoun County, Virginia who consistently finds time between school, homework, friends and, well, just being a teenager, to donate hours and hours each week to be woken up in the middle of the night to the be a part of the team of Loudoun County Fire and Rescue Station 13.

A.J. handles all of the demands, danger and discipline required to be a firefighter in stride. He spent 160 hours training to become both a firefighter and an Emergency Medical Technician. Wielding tools of the trade like a Halligan bar, axe and flashlight to navigate a burning house, or simply applying his quick thinking and training to save a boy struck by lightening, Coston thrives on helping people and the camaraderie that exists within his unit. Hero seems a bit pale of a description for this teenage first responder.

It takes a special human being to put them self in danger on behalf of others, even more so on a volunteer basis. But A.J. Condon has set the bar extra high for his fellow teenagers. He is both an Everyday Hero in our book and role model for all those looking to push themselves further to help those around them. With all the danger in his hobbies, A.J should have little trouble mustering up the courage to ask that special someone to the Prom. Won't she be lucky! Girls love firemen. ;-)

Thank you A.J. for your service, your time and your heroics. Team Dawg salutes you!

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Denver Police Officer, Tony Lopez

At Team Dawg, we spend a lot of time trying to define "heroism". It's a good process that keeps us aware of the sometime small, yet incredibly heroic acts that occur around us. Perhaps as communities and society as whole we should go through this same process more often. Perhaps by doing so we would more frequently recognize and celebrate the simple heroic actions that are happening all around us that involve nothing more than helping and comforting someone in their time of fear, concern or sadness.

Officer Tony Lopez did exactly this when faced with a typical 911 call. Instead of showing up, performing his duties as expected and simply leaving the scene once resolved, Officer Lopez demonstrated incredible heroism and inspirational compassion for the four year-old daughter of a Mother that had passed out and prompted the 911 call. Officer Lopez not only took the needed steps to revive the Mother and assist the paramedics in treating the her serious medical issues, but also recognized how absolutely terrified the daughter was to watch as her Mother struggle in and out of consciousness and have so many strangers enter her home. She seemed especially fearful of the police officers. So Officer Lopez not only noted the discomfort and fear the girl displayed, but acted heroically to help remedy it. He showed incredible heart, concern and a willingness to go the extra mile to be something so much more than just a great cop -- but a hero to a young girl, and to us all.

Officer Lopez returned later in the week and brought the girl a simple, yet incredibly compassionate gift of a Happy Meal. Then upon learning that the young girl had a birthday coming and recognizing the Mother's medical conditions would prevent the girl from having a birthday party with her friends, Lopez went out of his way to purchase gifts for the little girl and arranged for a local Skate City to donate a skate party for her birthday.

Small gestures that reflect incredible compassion and a willingness to go the extra mile to deliver happiness to those in a time of need requires no contemplation or consideration -- it is simply and definitively an act of heroism -- and one we need a great deal more of in our "me-first" society. Thank you Officer Lopez for setting the bar just a little bit higher for us all and for serving your community with caring, compassion and incredible integrity.

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Rhode Island's Bravest Tyler Seddon

"Bravery in the face of adversity." It's a line we frequently apply to policemen, firemen and first responders. But not so commonly, 7 year olds. But then again, Tyler Seddon is no ordinary 7 year old. After being first diagnosed with leukemia at the age of three, Tyler was recently diagnosed with this dreadful disease for a second time and is currently awaiting a bone marrow transplant. Tyler's heroic battle against this terrible childhood disease alone makes him a hero, but its his ability to inspire and look up to so many other heroes that cements that title.

Tyler turned 7 on March 6, and his Mother wanted this birthday to be extra special. Tyler's a big fan of police officers, firefighters and other first responders, so his mother set up a Facebook page asking them to send him birthday cards. The birthday wish went viral, and now officers from around the country are posting "Happy Birthday Tyler" videos to YouTube and social media. Tyler's Troops quickly has become a movement of heroes sharing their support for one special hero named Tyler and his heroic Mom Rachel.

Its hard to fathom the challenges Tyler and his family have and are facing. But the positivity and and perseverance that they display inside and out day after day is nothing short of awe-inspiring. That is why it is so special that Tyler, who looks up to all of the men and women that define heroism on a daily basis for us all, himself be recognized as Team Dawg's Everyday Hero. But if ever there was an individual that could inspire a group of heroes themselves, it would be Tyler. One brave 7 year old that faces and fights heat greater than those of his beloved firefighters, and challenges scarier than that of his beloved policemen. Tyler and his Mom Rachel are heroic every minute of their day and yet still have time to thank those we all take for granted far too often. That is true heroism.

Feel better Tyler! We're all pulling for you buddy.

Celebrate Tyler's Troops

St. Margaret Grad turned Olympian Josephine Pucci

Nothing is more noble or more inspiring than the story of a young person working hard to achieve their goals...and accomplish their dreams. Well Josephine Pucci has become the poster-child for doing just that. As an eighth-grader at St. Margaret School in Pearl River, Josephine Pucci wrote about her dream of playing hockey for the United States at the Olympics. On Wednesday, her dream became reality.

Pucci found herself among an elite group of 21 players introduced as the 2014 U.S. women’s Olympic team during the second intermission of the Winter Classic in Ann Arbor, Mich. There in front of 105,591 passionate hockey fans, not to mention the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings themselves, Pucci was announced as a member of the US women's Olympic team that will compete in Sochi.

Pucci, a 23-year-old Harvard standout, has been a member of the U.S. women’s national team since 2010. She was one of seven defensemen selected to compete at the Sochi Games.

In a sports world of sometimes over-hyped athletes, arrogant grandstanding, and center-of-the-universe antics, every once in a while the real essence and value of sports comes out. Stories of teamwork, loyalty, hard work and determination re-inspire us and put our faith once again back into the power of athletic competition. More importantly, every once in a while an individual comes along that inspires a new generation of athletes to work harder, shoot higher and and achieve greatness. Thank you Josephine, you have just become one of those beloved inspirations -- an everyday hero turned role model for a country. Go get 'em in Sochi!

Celebrate a local hero turned Olympian

New Hyde Park Memorial's Key Club & Life Skills students

In all the classrooms we present in, one of the most common misconceptions by children nowadays is that they can't possibly be a hero -- heroes are someone famous, somebody special, someone else. Nothing is more gratifying to us as educators and mentors than seeing a child's eyes light up as they realize they have the ability to be an everyday hero and possess the ability to spread Respect in their everyday actions, within their school and within their neighborhood.

That's why we want to celebrate New Hyde Park Memorial High School's Key Club and Life Skills students. This caring and thoughtful group of students that not only embody all that Team Dawg tries to teach in their classroom program, but has taken steps to take their efforts global. Under the direction of teachers Lisa Bocchino, Michele Kenahan, and Sue Martello, these student took a little time out of their own lives to bring holiday cheer to our soldiers abroad, and in so doing have touched the lives of families across the country. Their simple and amazing gesture of sending letters through the Red Cross' Holiday Mail for Heroes program to men and women they don't even know, and may never meet, is the most sincere expression of respect and caring they could possibly show. Their thoughts and gestures are heroic by any definition, but especially meet the standards of Team Dawg's Everyday Heroes.

During this holiday season, it is so easy to fall victim to the hoopla of Black Friday, Cyber-Monday and focus on our own hopes and dreams for what the holiday will bring us. But by taking just an hour of your time and taking part in a program like Holiday Mail for Heroes, we can touch the lives of those that can't be with the ones they love -- but will undoubtedly feel the love of all of us as a Nation who wish to the thank them and their families for their many sacrifices. Great job New Hyde Park Memorial High School. Thank you for being such thoughtful heroes!

Send Your Family's Gratitude to Soldiers Overseas

Long Island Youth Orchestra's Martin Dreiwitz

Have you ever noticed that music and the arts are the first thing threatened to be thrown on the chopping block when the annual school budget debates occur. Music and the arts are treated as unnecessary frills, or insignificant extra-curricular activities. That is why our schools and communities are so lucky there are people like Martin Dreiwitz. Unsung heroes that dedicate themselves, their lives and their spare time to the life affirming value of music.

In a world seemingly obsessed by local youth sports and the individualized performance of a select few superstars, it is unfortunate that we so quickly and so willingly throw the arts in the corner, only to be fully appreciated by the performers, their family and an incredibly talented and dedicated group of teacher, volunteers and patrons. If you and your family have never been to a concert or play at your local high school, you are missing out on quite a treat. The students that perform and those that make up the audience are as passionate as any sports fan you will ever meet. And when one thinks of all of the skills and subjects that are taught, learned and in some ways forgotten following the completion of a student's studies, love of music and appreciation for art are sensibilities that stay with you for a lifetime. And the collaboration and teamwork that is formed in these young artists is in many ways as potent or more than those being taught through sports.

Music and the Arts on Long Island are fueled by an army of passionate, under-appreciated heroes like Martin Dreiwitz. Mr. Dreiwitz has dedicated his life and a substantial portion of his free time to building one of the most respected Youth Orchestras in the country -- the Long Island Youth Orchestra (LIYO). Mr. Dreiwitz heroic efforts have built an institutions that fosters and celebrates the musical achievements of students from all over Long Island and the surrounding area. LIYO is a well-known and widely acclaimed musical organization in the far corners of the globe -- having participated in 40 consecutive tours to every continent and indeed every corner of the globe. Mr. Dreiwitz's caring leadership has touched, inspired and encouraged thousands of students and help protect and foster appreciation for music and the arts throughout our communities.

Team Dawg acknowledges the incredible importance music and the arts play in our children's lives and recognizes the true heroism Mr. Dreiwitz tireless efforts have shown those that have a passion for playing and/or listening to the common world-wide language of music. Thank you Mr. Dreiwitz for all you have given our children and all of the lifelong appreciation you have created in us all.

Please support Mr. Dreiwitz's passion - the Long Island Youth Orchestra

Our incredible guardian angel, Carlie Brucia

Few topics create greater fear in the hearts of parents than child abduction. In 2004, the world watched on video surveillance tape as Carlie Brucia was abducted in broad daylight in Sarasota, FL at a carwash. Carlie was later murdered at the hands of a madman. Its hard, if not impossible, to reconcile the savagery and lack of compassion for human life that it must take to abduct and taking the life of a child. Yet we watch in horror far too frequently as the lines of right and wrong are pushed further and further in our society. Thank God there are heroes willing to work endlessly to stop such heinous savagery.

Matthew J. Barbis and everyone that are supporting the day to day efforts of the Rose Brucia Educational Foundation are such heroes. Founded after the abduction of Carlie, his 11-year-old cousin, Matthew Barbis and the foundation set out on a mission to further educate parents, educators, neighborhoods and most importantly children on the warning signs of abduction and how to identify behavior that can lead to an abduction. The members of this inspiring group of heroes use puppets and a formalized educational curriculum to provide elementary-aged children with the Stranger Safety Awareness Programs, free of charge.

Team Dawg acknowledges the Rose Brucia Educational Foundation for all of its tireless efforts to keep our children safer and rid this world of the insidious plague of child abduction. And to the entire Brucia family, we thank you for providing such an incredible and beautiful guardian angel to touch our lives and look out for our children in this sometimes barbaric world we live in. Her memory lives on in each child that is now safe because of the efforts of your family. God bless.

Support the Rose Brucia Educational Foundation

Massachusetts Honor Student & Volleyball Star, Erin Cox

In today's challenging world we ask our children to make the "right" choices in the face of adversity. Break up the fight, don't cheat, show respect to your classmates, etc. So there could be few things worse than asking them to do the right thing and then punishing them for doing it. That's exactly what happened to honor student athlete Erin Cox. After answering the call of from a friend who was drunk at a party, Erin drove to the party and brought her friend home only to be demoted as team captain of the volleyball team and suspended for 5 games. Her school says Erin violated the district’s zero tolerance policy. What we need is a zero tolerance policy on such heavy-handed administrators that err on the side punishing a Hero, so as to protect themselves and their organization from interpreting the true intent of school district policies.

But in an effort to inject the importance of "respect" into a story filled with disrespect, Team Dawg wants to celebrate and thank Eric Cox for being the type of friend we all hope and wish we have. The kind of conscientious friend that we can call when our back is against the wall. Erin is a true Hero twice over. Once because she came to the need of her friend, and secondly because she paid an unfair price for doing so.

Team Dawg acknowledges that sometimes the world around us doesn't play fair or doesn't make sense when it comes to the basic principles of right and wrong. But it is in these moments most of all that Respect is needed and heroism shines through. Erin you are an Everyday Hero and your friends and neighborhood thank you!

Erin's story on Facebook

Team Dog Founder, Bobby "Dawg" Fortier

Why does it always seems that the most deserving heroes in our lives are the very people that avoid that "tag" and resulting spotlight the most. I think I speak for every person in Bobby "Dawg" Fortier's life when I say that there is no one person more deserving of the title "Hero" than Bobby. His tireless perseverance, steadfast dedication and passionate commitment to value and importance of "Respect" is nothing short of incredible. He inspires everyone around him, shows endless love for his family and friends, and epitomizes the concepts of practicing what one preaches and leading by example.

On September 28, 2013 Bobby was celebrated and awarded the 2013 Children's Hero Award by the Internationally recognized Three Strohm Sisters Law Enforcement Partnership. Surrounded by an international contingent of law enforcement leaders, dignitaries, friends and family, Bobby was awarded Citations of achievement and recognition from the United States Congress, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano, the Town of Hempstead and the Nassau County Clerk. In typical Bobby fashion, he quickly deflected the attention and redirected it toward his 15 year Team Dog partner Ed Clampitt, his beautiful wife, his loving family and his cherished friends -- a group I consider myself incredibly proud to a part of.

It was a glorious night for a truly first class human being. It was honor that was not only absolutely deserved, but honestly way over due. Bobby we are all so very proud of you and will endeavor each and every day to follow in your footsteps to promote the importance of "Respect" to our children, our community and our world at a time we so desperately need it. You continue to be the definitive world-class Everyday Hero!

Congratulations Bobby!

Massapequa's Ray Mohler Jr.

After overcoming his own life-threatening illness at the age of five years-old, Ray Mohler Jr. had an extraordinary and heroic idea. He wanted to give other sick children cheer by donating some of the toys and gifts he had received for his birthday and Christmas back to children in the hospital where he had overcome his own illness. Ray's birthday being on Christmas Eve, Ray was quickly given the name Little St. Nick and his incredible generosity became the impetus for a charity -- appropriately named the Little St. Nick Foundation. All this at the age of five years-old. That was 10 years ago.

Now Ray is 15 years old and spends every possible opportunity scheduling visits from athletes, dropping off gifts to sick kids in local hospitals, and most recently renovating an entire wing of one family's house to accommodate the medical equipment and therapeutical needs of a disabled neighbor. Ray everyone at Team Dawg is inspired by your generosity of spirit, touched by your acts of pure kindness and moved by the respect you show so many children and their families. We are proud to make your this week's Everyday Hero -- with the caveat, that you are anything but an ordinary and everyday 15 year old. You are so much more, and for that we all thank you from the bottom of hearts!

Support the Little St. Nick Foundation

West Islip's Brooke DiPalma

Christopher Bartley had resigned himself to go to West Islip High School Prom solo. Like so many special needs students, Chris had overcome obstacle after obstacle with the simple goal of enjoying the same rights of passage and life experiences that so many teens take for granted. The Prom was one such dream.

Like she has done so many times since the tragic loss of her father in 2010, Brooke DiPalma opened her heart and gave Chris a life-changing gift. A gift he will remember and cherish forever. The gift of being his date to the Prom.

The act of truly changing a life is a designation that is thrown around without merit far too often. But for Brooke, this has become a way of life and one that she uses to celebrate her father and convert heartache into heartfelt empowerment. Brooke has had the courage to consistently turn a tragic one-time event into a pattern of positive life-changing moments for others. What could possibly be more heroic than that?

Thank you Brooke. P.S. We Love You!

Support Brooke's "P.S. I Love You Day"

Sachem High's Alex Volpicello

Have we let our kids down in our constant struggle and debate concerning school budgets? Regardless of your answer, one student has taken it upon himself to fight for the budget and all that it serves. Local Sachem High School East student Alex Volpicello is using his eloquence and leadership to voice his opinion and urge community residents to vote yes on the upcoming Sachem School District's budget. Like Alex, Team Dawg sees the value of smaller classes, gifted/talented programs, music and art, science and extracurricular clubs and activities. In fact, isn't it always the same people that threaten these activities that also wonder why idle kids get into so much trouble? Hats off to Alex for speaking up and airing his opinion in a respectful and intelligent way!

...Read more and/or sign Alex's petition at www.wh.gov/Ssmu

Linda Labriola - Daisy Troop 3333

Thank you Linda and Daisy Troop 3333! Not only have you dedicated yourselves to living by a code of respect, honor and community service, but your generosity in providing us a forum to reach out and share Team Dawg's message of respect is inspiring and appreciated. Linda, your energy is unmatched and your dedication to your troop and the girls that make it up is an example of true leadership and heroism.

...Support the Girl Scouts of America

Jake June - Bayport's Coloring Book Mogul

Thank you Jake! In a week where your story shared headlines with a Long Island Mother who took her two kids and a friend out shooting BB guns at neighbors' cars, windows and mailboxes, we needed someone just like you. And, during a week where the world sat in horror watching two near-teenagers who lived and benefitted from a community hold the entire Boston community hostage by showing heinous disregard for human life, we needed someone just like you Jake. Some one good. Someone pure.

You see Jake, you weren't just giving sick children coloring books; you weren't simply showing how unselfish and thoughtful our society can be -- no Jake, you have given every person who has read of your heroic deeds a reason to believe in the good and kind spirit that still resides in the heart of most of our children and abounds within our communities.

So it is with great pride and eternal gratitude that we name Jake June Team Dawg's Every Day Hero of this crazy and emotional week -- and thank you for reminding us that a simple and seemingly small gesture of kindness has the power to outweigh all of the stupidity and hatred our newscasts and newspaper seemed so enamored by. Thank goodness we have people like you Jake!

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Howell High Dance Inspiration, Caity Radice

At Team Dawg we constantly stress the value and importance of teamwork. Well, nothing represents this concept better than individuals that look beyond themselves, redirecting the glory and accolades to another person perhaps more worthy, or sometimes simply less visible. Last week, when Team Dawg sought to celebrate the generosity and volunteering efforts of Caity Radice and her incredible "Chance 2 Dance" video series, Caity quickly turned the focus on last week's double MVP/Everyday Hero celebrant Amara Riccio.

Now not only was Caity's suggestion a selfless and incredibly noble move, but her maturity and judgement to choose one of the most inspirational Team Dawg celebrities to date is further proof that Caity is an exceptional Team Dawg MVP. In a world of "me-first" immediacy and a seemingly insatiable appetite for the spotlight often shown by today's kids, Caity bucked both trends and showed herself to be a generous and charitable leader whose altruism extends far beyond her passion for dance and volunteerism.

So on behalf of Amara, her parents and the entire Team Dawg community, thank you Caity for all you do for your school, your community, your peers and the meaning of teamwork. You are this week's MVP!

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Thank You Smith Haven Mall Barnes & Noble

Thank you to everyone who came down and made our book signing event at the Barnes & Noble in Smith Haven Mall such an incredible event. In addition to Team Dawg certificates being given to several recent MVPs and Everyday Heroes, close to 100 people showed up to celebrate the value and power of "respect".

For the last 10+ years, Team Dawg has gone into schools and classrooms pursuing a simple, yet increasingly important goal -- to teach and promote the value of “respect.” Last night your participation and support warmed our souls and inspired us to take the Team Dawg message even further. We were humbled by your support and stand in awe of the incredible impact that the simple reinforcement of this principle has had, and can have, on our children and our community. That’s why we continue to try to reach out to more and more children through our seminars, book series and TeamDawg.com website.

Team Dawg is dedicated to amplifying the small, often overlooked acts of respect and heroism that occur each and every day in our community. Our seminars, characters and content seek to celebrate the individuals whose actions inspire and lift up their community on a daily basis, fostering and promoting respect to everyone in their wake. Young, old, rich or poor, all ethnicities and from every walk of life, Team Dawg seeks to celebrate these selfless Everyday Heroes and amplify their actions because respect is contagious. Our children need these “celebrities.”

If you or anyone you know has ideas on how we can reach more kids and spread the power of "respect" please share your ideas with us at info@teamdawg.com. Please continue to help us reach more children, celebrate incredible Everyday Heroes and share the importance of respect?

Support Barnes & Noble

Howell High's Amazing Amara Riccio

Speechless. Inspired. Touched. There are simply no words that do 17-year old Amara Riccio justice. She has quite literally set a new standard for MVP and Everyday Hero.

At the age of 12, Amara (now 17 years) was hit by a car. She suffered traumatic brain injury and as she lied in a coma, one would have thought her life as a competitive dancer and honors student was over. Not for Amara! No, this incredible, inspirational girl would not only recover, not only teach herself to walk and talk all over again, but go on to earn a 3.75 GPA at Howell High School and get accepted to Kean University where she plans to study Recreational Therapy. But that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Following her recovery, Amara turned her road to recovery into a foundation called Riccio-Pick-Me-Ups that provides financial and emotional support to others going through their own health crises. Hurricane relief, gifts and entertainment given to patients at children's hospitals, and organizing fundraisers like "Chance 2 Dance" are all part of Amara's exceptional everyday efforts.

Amara, you are an inspiration to us all and everyone you "touch" is forever blessed for having met you, having shared your incredible energy and having been touched by your gifts and talents. We are truly humbled and proud to call you this week's MVP and Everyday Hero -- our first ever double award!

...support Amara and Riccio PickmeUps

Blackbirds of Long Island University-Brooklyn

In the midst of all of the excitement of the NCAA tournament, some very caring and special college athletes helped make Londell Francis, who suffers from sickle cell anemia, but loves the Blackbirds. When the Blackbirds punched their NCAA ticket by throttling Mount St. Mary's in the Northeast Conference championship game earlier this month, Londell was out at half court, beaming from the top of the burly shoulders of 6-foot-7 senior forward Kenny Onyechi ("my most favorite," Londell says). Then, in time-honored tradition, he joined his teammates in helping to cut down the nets. He wasn't just on top of the ladder; he was on top of the world.

In today's sports world, where it seems like the only focus is on "me" a few special basketball players put the feelings of fan before their own and shared their victory with possibly the only person for which that win meant more than it did to themselves. Team Dawg salutes true sportsmanship and clear MVP behavior on the part of the LIU Blackbirds.

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Mrs. Martin and her 3rd grade class

Sometimes a hero has to do nothing more than open their heart, and in this case her classroom, so our children can be inspired and touched by the words of trusted strangers. In today's politically correct and over-litigious world, it is sometimes easier to avoid opportunity than to embrace or facilitate it. Mrs. Martin and her 3rd grade class epitomize the opposite, going above and beyond to make sure folks like yours truly could share our inspiration for writing the Team Dawg series and share our perspectives on the importance of respect and issue of bullying. Mrs. Martin, if only all the teachers and educators we come across approached their classroom like you do, many more examples of character, respect and integrity could make their way in front of our children and help inspire them to travel the right path toward mutual respect. Thank you for everything you have done for us and your kids. You are definitely an Everyday Hero!

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Students at C.R. Weeks in Windsor, NY

Helping rebuild the School Library(s). As authors of children's books ourselves, Team Dawg applauds the student at C.R. Weeks Elementary in Windsor, NY who ran a fund raiser to help Oceanside Elementary School restock their library's shelves after having lost many of their books to Hurricane Sandy. What makes this so amazing is that C.R. Elementary School is 188 miles away from Oceanside, near Binghamton, NY. Clearly the students of C.R. Weeks are Everyday Heroes. Team Dawg would like to donate one set of books to both Oceanside Elementary School and C.R. Weeks Elementary. If anyone knows a parent of either of these schools, please contact us.

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Brentwood's Nurse Turned Author, Helene Sola-Grieg

Lead by Example. A moral we were all brought up with, but seem to have devalued as parents. TD believes this is the answer to the challenges our kids face each day, so we seek to celebrate the actions of heroes like Helene Sola, whose efforts not only save animals, but act as an example of empathy for our children. Helene is this week's Everyday Hero.

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Deer Park's John Giannotti

It never ceases to amaze us how much caring and compassion can be found in the heart of a child. If you are looking for proof you look no further than John Ginatotti. John's desire and determination to give back, to show some of the very same care and compassion that was afforded to him, is an act of heroism. John not only inspired his classmates, he inspired an entire community. We are proud to recognize his efforts. John is the ultimate role model...and our choice for Team Dawg M.V.P. ! Thank you and congratulations!

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Students at Oldfield Middle School

The true essence of what Team Dawg stands for is the importance of being an everyday hero....of making a positive difference to others....and the power that TEAMWORK can have in helping to accomplish that goal. There is truly power in numbers. The students at Oldfield Middle School, in the Harborfields School District, are proof positive of that. As part of a a Long Island as well as statewide effort, The students at OMS adopted a school affected by recent Hurricane Sandy and not only coordinated relief in the form of material help but equally importantly showed their emotional support as well. As with many of the fabulous stories that have come to light in the wake of the tragic storm the material aspects of theses actions tell only a small part of the story. The true heroism is in educating our children. Helping them reach their potential to make a difference...proving to them that they have the power...is invaluable. Thank you to Harborfields, to Oldfield Middle School and to all associated with this effort!

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The Residents of Long Island

The devastation of Hurricane Sandy broadsided Long Island and left many without homes, power, heat, belongings and gas. Amidst the tragedy and suffering, once again rose the heart and soul of Long Island -- community after community of charity, selflessness and inspiring leadership. Once again, we have never been prouder to be Long Islanders and everyone at Team Dawg salutes all those that gave so much of themselves to all those that had lost so much.

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Eagle Scout Chandler Valone Honors Teacher

You cant help but feel good after reading this story about Eagle Scout Chandler Valone. Proof positive of the effects that teachers and role models can have on our youth. One of the most important projects a scout can ever be involved in is his Eagle Scout Project. Chandler chose to do something that honored one of the heroes in his life, a teacher. It is our continued belief at Team Dawg that we need to continue to act in a way that will show our children the importance of respect and values. Thank you Chandler......you are yourself a hero....and a true role model! -- Coach Ed

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Long Island Teachers

"It is long past the time where we all need to realize that there is no place more important to spend our communities hard earned tax dollars than on educating our children. The future holds greater challenges for them than ever before and it is our responsibility to do everything in our power to prepare them to meet those challenges. Team Dawg fully supports Long Islands' teachers and educators. Thank you all for efforts and your voice. You are all heroes in our eyes!" -- Coach Ed

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Heather McNamara

"For those who need inspiration or struggle to find the time and strength to make a difference just check out the wonderful story of Heather McNamara. A little girl with every reason to give up continues to battle and at the same time inspire others." -- Coach Ed

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Bobby Dawg

"It was a magnificent day. I love the game of baseball and I live my passion playing the game of softball. Playing on Citi Field with Lori and Chrissy with our family cheering us on. What a great day!" - Bobby Dawg

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West Babylon High Graduate Vincent Ficarrotta

"Technology at his Fingertips" - When the West Babylon High School Robotics Club was looking for new members in 2008 who were interested in design and computer programming to build a robot, they discovered a freshman who navigated the school hallways on a daily basis in a joystick-controlled motorized wheelchair. Four years later, Ficarrotta was still a part of the team. Facing the challenge of arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (a condition that results in stiff joints and abnormally developed muscles) head-on, Vincent has become a role model for us all on how to overcome your limitations and get the most out of your God-given talents. Congrats Vincent -- you are an inspiring MVG.

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Syosset Graduate Allison Cohen

"Inspiration" - a word that perfectly describes Team's Dawg's feelings about Syosset High School President "Allie" Cohen. She's a member of Peers as Leaders, Model Congress, the SADD Improvisational Club, the Association of Creative Thespians, Chamber singers, and she plays varsity volleyball. And that is only in school. Outside of school she volunteers at El Centro Comunitario de Educación, a program in a Deer Park church where she creates and presents lessons to help teach English to immigrants. Bravo Allie. You are the ultimate MVG.

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Graduate Nasha Bell

Nasha Bell, 18, has been enrolled at 14 different schools since he started elementary, from the Bronx to Albany, staying with relatives and bouncing back and forth from Manhattan to upstate before settling in Brentwood in May 2010. On June 23, he will become the first male in his family to graduate high school, overcoming a life of instability, cutting school and failing his classes.

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The Power of Music. Teamwork. Friendship.

The video that these two talented and dedicated students created is called "The Power of Music"......the story, however, could be called "The Power of Teamwork". "The Power of Friendship", "The Power of Determination" or any number of "powerful" words. The fact is that these two young students are perfect examples of the great potential in us all to make a difference! Congratulations!

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Philanthropist Brendan Haas

"Great job Brendan Haas! 9 years old and a "real life" everyday hero. Bobby Dawg and Coach Ed would like to send you the Team Dawg Everyday Hero Medal along with the Team Dawg Respect You Give It - You Get It tee shirt in honor of your outstanding character!"

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Anti-bullying Activist Jessica Barba

"Perhaps the method could have been better.....perhaps meeting with an advisor at school before going forward with the project may have prevented some of the negative result. There is something to be said for the determination and willingess to stand up for what you believe in in this story. If the ultimate goal was to bring awareness to the issue of bullying.....no doubt the grade should be A+."

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Gregg Sarra

“Making a difference in the lives of Long Island athletes. Gregg Sarra spotlights student athletes here on Long Island every day. An outstanding athlete himself Gregg has a unique ability not only to recognize young talent but to give them a platform to be seen by collegiate and professional coaches throughout the country. Congratulations on your induction to the Long Island Sports Hall Of Fame!”

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the Neighborhood Mailman or Mailwoman

"The mail carrier.....a community everyday hero.....not just for delivering that important piece of mail. Although the job title you hold can make you a hero in itself, the man, woman or even child that holds that position...the person within...is what defines us as heroes. Thank you to all the postal workers for all you do!"

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5 year-old Golden Retriever, Sophie

"When you think of an example of an everyday hero your first thoughts usually go to a family or community member. As students say many times in our "Respect" Workshops.....your pet can be a hero as well. The unconditional love of a pet or service animal can make all the difference in a persons' life!"

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Volunteer Allie Milberg

"I am Allie Milberg and  I have been dancing since I was seven years old.  Each dance season, myself and my teammates receive anywhere from 5-10 costumes that we wear about six times and then “retire” them for the season.  As the years went by, my collection of “retired” costumes grew larger and larger in my closet.  One day, I thought, couldn’t other children benefit from these beautiful costumes that were in great condition.  As a result, 18 months ago, I along with my dance studio, JAM dance and fitness, started to build an organization that would collect costumes, sort them and distribute them to underprivileged kids in dance programs for their recitals, talent shows and dance programs in Long Island and NYC.  We have collected and distributed over 2000 costumes and shoes to six organizations who are still asking for additional costumes this year.   The organizations who receive the costumes mention how happy and excited the children are when they get to put on costumes and shoes and DANCE.  It is the best feeling to  help others feel as special as I do when I step on the stage and DANCE!"

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Boomer Esiason and Islander Greats

" I am of the impression that there are so many people out there who would love to help in some way. The only thing that stops them is knowing how they can. It can be something as simple as having fun, playing a game, hosting an event. A Team Dawg "shout out" to Boomer Esiason and the Islander Greats for showing that being a hero can not only be rewarding.....but so much fun!"

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Good Sam Cancer Program

"If you have never had cancer effect you, or someone you know and love, consider yourself lucky. We should all consider ourselves lucky to have an amazing and dedicated staff like this one at Good Samaritan Hospital. A total TEAM effort. Champions ALL!"

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Teen Music Teacher, Natalie Gramegna

"For those who sometimes need their faith in today's youth and/or society restored you need look no further than this story. Natalie epitomizes what it is to be a hero in every sense of the word. Congratulations, Natalie, we are in AWE of you!"

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Myrka Gonzalez and husband, David Ochoa

"There are heroes in our society that strive to make a difference.....there are also extraordinary heroes who strive to do it over and over.Thank you to this unbelievably generous couple for all they do!"

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Sayville Academic Centers

"Thank you to Sara Wainright ,Kathy Martin and the entire teaching staff and student body of the Sayville Academic Centers, Sayville and William Floyd. Your effort and enthusiasm was overwhelming. We cant thank you enough for making us feel so welcome. Everyone involved should be proud! You are all truly amazing. We are proud to welcome you as the newest members of Team Dawg!"

Nortport's Andrew Granger

"It amazes us everyday how young students such as Adam accomplish such amazing things. Another example of how all you need is the desire to make a difference!"

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Cherokee Street Elementary School.

To our new Team Dawg members at Cherokee Street Elementary School.

"Each day presents us with many opportunities to make a positive difference and to be an Every Day Hero! Inviting someone new to share time together during "lunch" was so wonderful and very cool! Great Job! No matter how old, or what grade level you are, we can continue looking for the chance to be an everyday hero."

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New York State USSSA/United States Specialty Sports Association

Team Dawg Inducted to USSSA Hall of Fame

"Our sincerest thanks to the New York State USSSA/United States Specialty Sports Association organization for honoring Team Dawg as 2012 Hall of Fame inductees. We are supremely proud and honored to be recognized. There is not a greater organization anywhere, a first class organization made up of the most unbelievably kind, generous and passionate people you could ever meet! Congratulations to all the inductees! Thank you again for a wonderful night and the prestigious honor!"

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Seaford Black Belt Thomas Reid

Seaford teen battles cystic fibrosis, teaches karate

"Truly inspirational young man. Not only did he not let CF stand in the way of his goals but teaches others as well. If they handed out black belts for being a role model this young man would get one!"

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Riverhead Students' Anti-bullying Efforts

Riverhead students take stand against bullying

"There are many types of everyday heroes and many ways to be one. Team Dawg thanks this amazing group of students for recognizing a need to take action."

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Timothy Colvin and Thomas Cilla

KP High School Students Selected For VFW Scholarship Program -- Two students will compete in program called Voice of Democracy.

"The perfect example of "heroes helping heroes". Thank you to the VFW, not only for their heroic service to our country in the past but for recognizing and helping outstanding Kings Park students who will lead us in the future. Congratulations to the students as well.....awesome job!"

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Massapequa Park's Michael Augello

LI boy a winner in UN postal stamp contest

"Congrats to 7 year old Michael Augello. Yet another example of a young man who let nothing stand in his way. Impressive that he understands and wants his work to inspire others. Team Dawg MVP material? You get my vote, Michael!"

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Roslyn violinist Jourdan Urbach

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