Good students, exceptional neighbours

Anthony Naccarato didn't decide to help Jim Bechtel, 83, clear his driveway of snow
because he wanted recognition. He did it because he recognizes the importance of
community – which is exactly why Bechtel and wife Betty nominated him as an
Exceptional Student Neighbour.

The annual Exceptional Student Neighbour Awards, recognizing those who go above
and beyond neighbourly expectations, were handed out last week in the McMaster
University Student Centre. Betty Bechtel, who lives on Sanders Boulevard, was on-hand
for the ceremony and to offer congratulations to the 25 student winners.

“These awards are a great way to foster good relations between resident homeowners
and students in the community,” she said. “It's been an absolute pleasure knowing
these students and we wish them the best for their futures.”

This year saw the most award nominations in the history of the program, highlighting
students who went out of their way to be good members of the community. Neighbours
living in Westdale and Ainslie Wood nominate students who live on their streets and in
their neighbourhoods. In the nominations, neighbours often cite the small but
impactful things students do to make their community a better place.

A number of students who live next to the Bechtels were winners, including Ryan
Northway and Dustin Catt, who helped the couple by moving a baby grand piano and
pump organ in the house.

The ceremony was also attended by Phil Wood, associate vice-president student affairs
and dean of students, Sergeant Sabrina Feser, Hamilton Police Service's central crime
manager – West Town, John Wigle, president of the Ainslie Wood-Westdale Community
Association and Shelli Eisenberg, the association's student liaison officer. The
University, AWWCA, Hamilton Police and the MSU are sponsors of the awards.