Seniors Abby Stevens and Sadiel Arias Garcia were among a group of students recently honored by the Town of Wallkill during Black History Month for embodying the qualities of William Price, the former Silver Lake fire chief who served the region for many years.
Chief Price was the first African-American fire chief in New York State and was the fourth African-American to be named fire chief in the United States. He began his service with the Silver Lake Fire Department in 1963 and became chief in 1973.
Chief Price, a World War II veteran, was loved and respected for his personal qualities, and he found success because of his hard work, skills and community activism. He was known outside of the fire house for his work as grievance coordinator at Otisville Correctional Facility and also for his contributions to developing affordable housing for the area’s poor.
At the recent gathering, Town of Wallkill officials recognized area students who exemplify Chief Price’s leadership and community-minded qualities. Students came from all of the schools whose boundaries touch the Town of Wallkill.
About Abby Stevens
Abby is a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) where she’s been involved in many community service projects; is a NHS peer tutor; and is involved in the “Community Service through Travel Volleyball” program, where she is also an instructor/coach. She is a four year member of the Varsity Volleyball team, played on the Junior Varsity team and played volleyball and basketball in middle school.
Abby has a 99.4 GPA and plans to study psychology at SUNY Oneonta; where she’s been recruited to play on its volleyball team.
About Sadiel Arias Garcia
Sadiel came to Minisink Valley this past September as a new student. As a former Bronx resident, his community service work has included volunteering at the Dyckman Community Center where he served as role model to troubled youth. He took part in the center’s food drives and community outreach efforts to help further build and celebrate the community. He was a Student Council member at Marble Hill International School and served as a member of its Black Student Union.
Sadiel has a 92.4 GPA and plans to study business. He has been accepted at CUNY Baruch, but is hopeful to attend New York University.