Hearts of Gold shine for 11
One day an Arlington Heights man helped a stranded motorist.
This is something many people would do.
Then the good Samaritan invited the man to his home for dinner with his family.
This is something a few people would do.
After dinner this man drove the motorist back to his home in Rockford.
This is something practically no one would do -- expect for Brian King.
King was one of 11 people honored at the 10th annual Hearts of Gold dinner in Arlington Heights on Saturday. More than 300 people attended the dinner at the Sheraton Chicago Northwest hotel.
Each winner gave a short speech after accepting their award.
"It truly is impossible to give more than you receive," said Gary Rukin, one of the winners.
The 2007 Hearts of Gold winners are:
• Gary Rukin, Mentor Award: Rukin has dedicated his time in countless areas at The Bridge Youth and Family Services agency, where he mentors at-risk children aged 7 to 15.
• Fena D'Ottavio, Beautification Award: D'Ottavio saw art possibilities in her very own downtown alley where she planted and cared for a variety of flowers.
• Brian King, Best Neighbor Award: During a power outage last summer, King brought a hot meal and flashlights to a woman without power.
• Regina Kross, Diana Kaffka, Educators Award: Kross and Kaffka are part of the Stepping Stones program at Arlington Heights Elementary District 25's early childhood program.
• Edwin Landow, Young at Heart Award: Landow racks up some serious volunteer miles with his work with American Legion Post 208, chaplain for the American Legion Ninth District and crossing guard supervisor for District 25.
• Amanda Geib, Young Champion Award: Geib is a Buffalo Grove High School senior who goes on mission trips with her church to help the less fortunate.
• Alan Eberhardt, Volunteer Award: Eberhardt, a longtime Arlington Heights resident, is actively involved with the Knights of Columbus and volunteers in the PADS program.
• Ted Balcom, City of Good Neighbors Award: Balcom is a discussion leader at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library. He also volunteers at the Arlington Heights Museum.
• Retired Judge Nicholas Pomaro, The Pam Stocking Heart of Gold Award: Pomaro not only served the public as a judge for almost 30 years and before that a Cook County prosecutor, but he is also a strong advocate for the blind. Today, Pomaro works as legal counsel for Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind.
• Charles Adler, Business Leader Award: Each year Adler raises funds to pay for more than 400 Thanksgiving dinners for people in need through the Arlington Heights Spirit Food Drive.