Volunteer Fireman is Rotary’s Unsung Hero at North Haven High School

Cory Cristante, accompanied by his parents, Florie and Al Cristante, stood before the North Haven Rotary Club at their weekly meeting at the Breakfast Nook Restaurant recently and told his audience how proud he was to be nominated by his teacher, Kristine Blauvelt, and to be recognized by the service club. Also in attendance was his Guidance Counselor at North Haven High School, Rebecca Carr.

Two of the three founders of the Unsung Hero program, Guy Casella and Brian Coughlin, reminded the audience that the focus of their selection is a well rounded individual who is a high school student residing in North Haven and a person who best exemplifies the international motto of Rotary which is ‘service above self’.

In nominating Cory, Intervention Teacher Kristine Blauvelt noted that he has been a sworn in volunteer fireman with Company 2 in Montowese for 3 years who has passed the challenging Fire 1 Test. When asked for his opinion, Fire Chief Vincent Landisio stated, "I am proud of Cory, and his recognition as an Unsung Hero. At a young age, Cory has recognized the importance of community service, while also pursuing a path to a great career." 

The youth has also been a member of the Naval Sea Cadet program (Edison Division) since he was 14 years old where he has done countless hours of community service which were not needed to fulfill his school requirement. The nomination sheet points out that this captain of the varsity rifle team who has worked back stage for many years and has spent long hours volunteering at an adult day care center, hopes to enlist in the Navy in August with a focus on the aspects of fire safety. Indicating that Cory is well liked by all, his teacher added, “Cory has worked hard this year and has challenged himself by taking AP courses and level 3 classes.”

Expressing the overwhelming pride that she and her husband have in their son, Florie Cristante said, “This award truly fits my son!  He has volunteered his time and efforts to many. He is a genuine kid with a big heart.” She went on to describe her son’s strong emotional reaction of surprise, pride, and appreciation when he was informed of his selection. She concluded, “It is nice to see awards like this go to kids who don't always excel at school but have many, many other positive accomplishments that go unnoticed.”