Unsung heroes shine beside celebrity idols in youth poll
A high school survey lists heroes beyond Eddie Murphy and Madonna. James Gusella, a 32-year-old Boston molecular geneticist, develops Huntington disease tests and pursues treatments. Carol Hodne, 32, leads Iowa farm group efforts from Ames, lobbying Washington and launching a national farmer legal hotline. Rafael Collado, 31, built Protcomm in the South Bronx, turning high tech into local renewal with projected near 3 million profit. Mike Turpen, 36, crafted Oklahoma victim compensation while guiding rights at crime scenes. The piece argues for recognizing impactful work outside fame.