Frequently the meda is critized, often justifiably, for exploiting the negative news events in society. However, being involved in our community on a grass roots level, we here at the Leader encounter a tremendous gratifying amount of positive citizen involvement, of a kind that rarely makes the broadcast or daily print media. As a sort of "hometown" newspaper for Northwest Houstonians we strive to give these stories the coverage they deserve.

In 1982, we began The Leader of the Year award to enhance that positive coverage. While only one individual can receive the honor each year, it was our hope that the publicity surrounding the nominations would focus public attention on those many persons in our area that give of their time and resources to make their community a better place in which to live. We're enormously gratified by the number of deserving nominations and the widespread positive feedback we've received over the years. Our 30 recipients have been truly remarkable individuals who have had a profound positive influence on northwest Houston.