Westy Awards 2012

With apologies to James Brown, Council Member Gale Brewer might be the hardest-working woman in politics. This year's Westsider of the Year is known for her ability to spend lots of time at many community events night after night, but not many people are aware that she has done this while also helping to raise 35 foster children. Brewer, who is planning to run for borough president next year, is one of 16 people being honored this week with a Westy-West Side Spirit Thanks You-our annual salute to neighborhood heroes. This year's group includes several people who draw on their creativity keep important organizations afloat. From the head of a Harlem nursing home who expanded to Long Island to overcome reduced Medicaid payments, to the head of the New-York Historical Society who finds that a good story goes a long way toward raising money, the bottom line is always on the minds of people running nonprofits. We also profile a local police officer who focuses on helping the homeless, a woman who finds that healthy school lunches help children learn better, and a few others who go out of their way to help neighborhood seniors. All 16 are doing something noteworthy, and West Side Spirit thanks them for making the Upper West Side a better place to live. Tom Allon President & CEO Josh Rogers Contributing Editor, West Side Spirit