🎭 PuroClean of The Big Island Honors Sitcom Legend Larry Reitzer as 2025 Superhero Award Recipient

In the middle of hammering boards, adjusting stage lights, and dodging sawdust at the historic Hilo Palace Theater, something very unexpected happened. There were no lines, no rehearsals, no dress rehearsal. Just a real-life superhero getting the surprise of a lifetime.

That’s right—Larry Reitzer, the sitcom mastermind behind some of television’s most iconic hits, was honored as the 2025 PuroClean Cares Superhero Day Award recipient—and he didn’t see it coming.

🎬 From “Friends” to Family

Let’s start with the man himself. If the name Larry Reitzer sounds familiar, it’s probably because his work has been making you laugh, cry, and feel all the feels for decades. His theater journey launched straight out of high school as a production assistant to Broadway legend Arthur Laurents on La Cage Aux Folles. Curtain up—this guy never slows down!

He’s the writing, producing, and directing force behind beloved shows like:

• “Spin City” – turned politics into punchlines — fast, funny, and full of Fox.
• “Ugly Betty” – A dazzling blend of glam, grit, and empowerment.
• “Just Shoot Me!” – Sharp wit meets fashion faux pas.
• “Melissa & Joey” and “Marlon” – Comedies with heart, thanks to Reitzer’s signature touch.

Larry Reitzer is currently the powerhouse behind H.E.A.R.T. (Hilo Education Arts Repertory Theatre).

But here’s the plot twist: Behind the Hollywood credits and Emmy-worthy scripts, Larry Reitzer is also a true community hero.

🦸‍♂️ Surprise! It’s a Superhero Set Reveal

On a seemingly regular build day for the upcoming show, Cabaret, set to dazzle audiences July 18th, 2025, at the Hilo Palace Theater, Larry was in full-on production mode—measuring panels, lifting props, and lending his creative magic to the entire stage team.

Then—cue the dramatic music—the hammers paused. The lights dimmed. And in walked Olga Arianoff, Administrative Services Specialist at PuroClean of The Big Island and none other than Miss Hawaii Island’s Teen 2025, with a surprise that stopped the crew in their tracks.

What followed was a heartfelt tribute that hit harder than any season finale:

“H.E.A.R.T. has helped me and my sister grow in so many ways,” Olga shared. “We’ve learned, we’ve been inspired, and we’ve truly been blessed to be part of this amazing community.”

“Every year, PuroClean — our family-owned and family-run business — chooses someone to recognize for their incredible contributions to our community. This year, the choice was clear.

Our superhero is you.”

“Thank you for your intense commitment, your extreme dedication, and your total selflessness. Your generosity and humility are something we all look up to. Because of you, we’re not just learning — we’re becoming better people.

So thank you, from all of us, for being our superhero.”

🎤 Mic drop.

💡 More Than Just Lights, Camera, Action

The PuroClean Superhero Award isn’t just a trophy or a shout-out—it’s a way of saying “thank you” to the people who lead with heart, lift others up, and give without ever asking for the spotlight.

“Every community has heroes,” says Gregory Arianoff, VP of Operations at PuroClean of The Big Island. “It’s a pleasure for us to recognize and uplift those individuals who quietly make a huge difference in our local community.”

This year, that individual was backstage, sleeves rolled up, building a set—not for fame, but for the love of storytelling and community.

🛠️ About PuroClean of The Big Island

PuroClean of The Big Island is a trusted name in disaster restoration—whether it’s water damage, fire and smoke mitigation, mold removal, biohazard cleanup, trauma and crime scene cleanup, or fentanyl cleanup. We are available across the Big Island of Hawai’i 24/7. Reach out anytime at 808.460.4400. But it doesn’t stop there. At PuroClean of The Big Island, we believe in serving people, not just properties.

And yes, we also know how to throw a surprise party with superhero-level style.

🎉 Curtain Call

So as the curtain rises on the show Cabaret this July 18th, we’ll also be celebrating the real production happening behind the scenes—the quiet leadership, fierce dedication, and community spirit of Larry Reitzer.

From sitcom sets in L.A. to stage builds in Hilo, Larry proves that the greatest stories are the ones you live out, not just write.

Mahalo, Larry. You didn’t just create unforgettable characters—you became one. 🌺🦸‍♂️