As emcee Regis Philbin put it, “It’s so important in these tough times to remember the positive impact that kindness, generosity, and service can bring to our community.” Winning categories—10 in all—ranged from New York’s Bravest to Lifetime Achievement, based on thousands of Post readers’ nominations. When introducing Seinfeld, Philbin quipped, “This is the first time Jerry’s ever ventured to the East Side!” To which the comic icon replied, “This isn’t really Gracie Mansion. It was originally built for Donna Hanover.”

Seinfeld had high praise for Liberty Medal Freedom Award-winner Antonio “Nino” Vendome, who showed his heroism when he opened his restaurant—Nino’s—doors to Ground Zero workers on September 13, 2001, and served over 500,000 free meals for five months. “Vendome’s restaurant became America’s home and kitchen,” said Seinfeld.

Gov. Pataki handed out New York’s Finest Award to rookie policeman Shaun McGill, who rushed into Tower One and ripped off his shirt to save a woman on fire, then went on to rescue many others. Plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Leinhardt took home the Lifetime Achievement award for treating NYPD officers afflicted with serious injuries for free since 1979. And the youngest winner was 17-year-old Jonathan Stewart, who left the sanctuary of St. Peter’s Church on September 11 to rescue a police sergeant blinded by flying debris—Stewart garnered the Young Heart award, bestowed on youth who display adult resolve and moral character. Cheering on the winners were the Post’s own crew: Page Six’s Richard Johnson, sports columnist extraordinaire Phil Mushnick, and gossip maven Cindy Adams.