I (Heart) New York

Yesterday was a big day for New Yorkers as two of our own were recognized for outstanding accomplishments. I am not talking about Alex Rodriguez who finally hit his 600th home run--though now Yankee fans around the world can breath a sigh of relief and concentrate on the pennant race--but about two others who have both set tremendous examples.

The first is our very own Mayor--Michael Bloomberg. About six weeks ago, Bill and Melinda Gates, together with Warren Buffet, kicked off what could be the most world changing philanthropic act ever. News of a clandestine dinner hosted by this trio leaked out. Details revealed that in between courses, the guests, selected for their multi-billionaire status, were encouraged to take the “Giving Pledge” --a vow to donate at least half their wealth to charity.

These three philanthropists are rumored to have personally called at least 80 of the Forbes 400 richest Americans. To date, at least 40 have committed and Mayor Bloomberg was one of the first to add his name to the list and publicly declare his intentions. Thank you, sir. You honor our city with your leadership in this field. As an American, I am doubly proud to see the commitment my fellow citizens continue to hold for improving the world.

The Giving Pledge web site contains the names and stories of all who have gone public with their commitments. I encourage you to read them. Their stories are moving and inspirational.

The second New Yorker is someone you probably do not know unless you read today’s Daily News or New York Post--Jorge Muñoz, of Queens. Yesterday, President Obama gave out the 2010 Presidential Citizen Medals to 13 Americans. This award is given to those Americans "who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or fellow citizens"--whose commitments to improving their communities are truly outstanding. This is another list you should read.

Jorge Muñoz, a school bus driver from Queens, created a mobile soup kitchen. Every night, he would drive around and deliver hot meals to homeless people that would otherwise have gone hungry. Here is what President Obama said about him:

"When Jorge Muñoz saw homeless men gathered on a street corner with nothing to eat, he could have rolled up his window and driven away. Instead, he came home from his job as a school bus driver and started cooking hot meals for anyone who was hungry. These days, the 'Angel of Queens' feeds over 100 people every night, rain or shine. And Jorge says, 'You have to see their smile. That’s what I get paid.'"

You don’t need to be a billionaire to change the world.