46. Lisa & Richard Schary

Whether out in front or behind the scenes, the Scharys have been protecting and shaping the environmental landscape of LI for more than a decade. Civic leaders seek their advice. State and local officials seek their blessing. Developers fear their wrath. The husband-wife team was a driving force behind the creation of Nassau’s Environmental Bond Acts and is relentless in their defense of open space. Their stewardship of the 423-acre Massapequa Preserve has become a model for parks and preserves groups across the Island. Both retired teachers, the Scharys derive their power from their independence. They are beholden to no one.