Dear Editor:
On Friday, June 8, 2001, something truly remarkable and extraordinary occurred — my dear friend, Nellie Moyeno, risked her own life to save the life of an individual. Nellie Moyeno, who also serves as our City Council President, is a hero! She is, however, already a hero in so many ways.
It truly is a privilege to call her my friend. I will always hold Nellie in high regard for the inspiring, adoring and self-sacrificing person she has demonstrated she is time and again. Nellie is someone who will literally go the edge of the earth for others, not because it is expedient to do, but because she cares. Nellie is a quiet, thoughtful person who is motivated and always looking for ways to lend a helping hand. Nellie is one of those unique people who does not seek recognition for herself, but rather works for the benefit of society.
Nellie is a rare individual who is willing to volunteer her time, energies and skills to make life better for others. This, I have no doubt, will be the way she will always lead the rest of her life — giving to others. Even when we disagreed politically, she refused to turn her back on me. This is when I knew I had found a true, best friend unlike any other. I would be remiss if I didn’t publicly express my gratitude to her for all that she has done and continues to do.
Nellie, whenever I found myself in a rut, you stood there by me encouraging me and lent me both your warmth and undying friendship. Whenever I achieved success, you stood there to remind me that I always had it in me. You truly are a blessing, and I thank God for you each day. You have earned my unwavering trust and unequivocal respect, and I owe you a great deal. I’ll always be proud of you and thank you, once again, for proving what a truly, loyal friend should be.
In the past eight years, Nellie has earned some friends and critics along the way. Whether you are a fan or a foe, no one can deny Nellie’s integrity, sincerity and genuine concern. There will never, however, be anyone quite like her. Once you are Nellie Moyeno’s friend, you can rest assured knowing there is nothing she won’t do for you. That’s just the type of woman she is, and that is the type of woman she will always be. That’s why I’m so proud of her.
She has come a long way since she first entered public life. Nellie has shed some of the shyness and insecurities that were characteristic of her. But one thing remains true still to this day, the lady I first met on the steps of the Board of Ed is still the same good ole Nellie Moyeno.
George A. Ortiz