It is important to help our children choose their heroes with care, for not all personalities and achievements published in the media reflect our values or represent the best qualities our children have to offer society.

Rock stars, professional athletes, politicians and CEO's of big corporations are heralded for admiration and emulation. These images are almost always seductive and yet can be void of truth or merit. Witness the impeachment of President Richard Nixon, and the loss of credibility for Barry Bonds, prosecuted for use of illegal substances.

Parents can help their children sift through the hype and focus on the qualities and circumstances of people who have truly accomplished important deeds, and are inspirational because of their contribution to others.

Rory Donaldson, director of 9Health Fair (www.9healthfair.org) and former middle school and community college instructor, urges parents to make a list of heroes based upon how each accomplished something very difficult, did something for another, and spent little time complaining and blaming others for their circumstances.

Given this qualification of heroes, we don't have to look beyond our own back yard for examples of heroism.

Take the Granite Bay High School Football program as one example of heroism that is simply inspirational. The varsity team leveraged a stunning defeat in their first league game against Rocklin (0-33) at Granite Bay's homecoming no less, into a state section championship victory.

Their response to the Rocklin defeat was to humble themselves with resolve to become a better team for every day of practice and every game. They finished the season seven weeks later on Nov. 30, holding the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section, Division II Title. Something the media declared could not be possible because their opponent was too superior.

What really makes this championship achievement so inspirational is that any young man at Granite Bay High who is willing and able to make his academic grades, follow the rules and be loyal to their team and the program - has a place on the team, are valued and expected to contribute.

"It's not how good you are, it's what kind of person you are," says Head Coach Ernie Cooper.

This football program benefits our society by producing individuals who expect to make a contribution to the greater good.

A more fundamental example of heroism in our own community is the armed forces of our country.

Parents of children in the service are forced to define and contemplate heroism as their children are facing the possibility of making the ultimate sacrifice.

John Fett's son, John Jr., completed two tours in Iraq. Fett Sr. believes that heroism is defined by those who accept challenges under adverse conditions without regard for personal welfare, and then meeting those challenges with honor.

For Maureen Van Hooser, whose son was honorably discharged after active duty in Iraq and Pakistan, respect for others and responsibility for your own actions are core values for our list of heroes.

Deborah Johns' son, William, has served three tours in Iraq.

As a parent, Johns observes, "Heroism is something that is a natural part of a person. Likewise, parents have a duty to teach their children that they too can be of service to others who are less fortunate than themselves."

Beyond the hype, heroes are family members and local folks as well as national or world figures. Heroes take honorable action in response to challenges and opportunities, whether it is to take up arms for our national defense, help your team win the title, fundraise for a worthy cause or help someone in need.