W.H. Person of the Year

The West Hempstead Community Support Association recently nominated Manny Martinez as this year’s West Hempstead Person of the Year and will honor him in an official ceremony on Oct. 23.

Since moving to West Hempstead in 1995, Martinez and his wife, Irene, have been married for 22 years and have two children, Stephanie, 14 and Daniel, 11. Martinez graduated from St. John’s University and soon became a “Certified Cash Manager.”

When describing Martinez, friends have commented on his generosity, his organizational skills, and the energy he puts into any endeavor he undertakes. He actively participates and helps many organizations, especially those involved with children and promoting the betterment of West Hempstead.

At community events, such as the WHCSA’s summer concert series, Martinez takes pictures, records events and posts them on the West Hempstead Community Support & Civic Association’s Facebook page, which he manages for the organization. He was also instrumental in proposing and organizing the WHCSA’s First Annual Outdoor Family Movie Night this past summer.

Martinez’s love of reading has made him a staple in the “Secret Reader” program at the WH Kindergarten. This program invites family and friends to read to the children. He once dressed as a “pirate” and quickly caught the children’s undivided attention. He has also served as an assistant coach for Little League and works closely with the PTA, PTSA and SEPTA.

He has volunteered to help with the Memorial Day Parade and can always be seen driving his red convertible with a veteran at his side. Whether it is a Grand Opening for a business, a community meeting, or a Street Fair, Manny is there helping to make it a success.