Town of Oyster Bay Honors 2006 'Women Of Distinction'

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, together with members of the Town Board, honored 10 extraordinary recipients at the eighth annual Town of Oyster Bay "Women of Distinction" Awards Ceremony, held at Town Hall March 28. The award recognizes the outstanding achievements of women who either live or work in the Town.

Town officials back row: Councilman Angelo A. Delligatti, Councilwoman Rose Marie Walker, Councilman Anthony D. Macagnone, Supervisor John Venditto, Town Clerk Steve Labriola, Councilwoman Beth Faughnan, Councilman Joe Muscarella. Women of Distinction front row: Lorraine Kaplan, Distinguished Woman Volunteer; Jo Ann Miltenberg, Distinguished Woman Education; Ava Favara, Distinguished Woman in the Arts; Donna Appell, RN, Distinguished Woman in Health Services; Valerie Pakaluk, Distinguished Woman in Community & Civic Affairs; Beth Dalton-Costello, Distinguished Woman in Business ; Arlene Piccone, Carolyn Bautista and Diane Nodell, Distinguished Women Humanitarian; and Peggy Donovan, Distinguished Women in Government.

"A distinguished awards committee, once again, had the difficult task of selecting exceptional designees as the 'Women of Distinction' in one of eight categories," Supervisor Venditto said. "This year marked the first that the Town had 10 recipients of this award.

"The 'Women of Distinction' Program has certainly proven to be a memorable tradition, honoring women who stand as role models for the younger generation in the Town of Oyster Bay," Supervisor Venditto continued. "These women are a shining example of the outstanding citizenship that has made the Town of Oyster Bay such a special place to live and raise a family."

Ava Favara was honored as a women of distinction in the arts.

As principal of the BOCES Cultural Arts Center in Syosset, Favara has been a guiding influence to aspiring young artists in a variety of disciplines, ranging from theater and dance to the fine arts and creative writing. Also immediate past president of the Town of Oyster Bay Arts Council, Ava presents an eclectic range of participation and skill sets that benefit and enrich Town residents.

Ava is described as a leader in the artistic community. She exhibits dedication and enthusiasm for many projects. Under her leadership, students put on a professional performance. Throughout the years she has focused on providing the best atmosphere, wonderful teachers and opportunities for creative expression.

She is caring, compassionate and dedicated not only to students, but also to staff. Ava is an educator, a volunteer, a mentor and friend to artists at all levels and phases of their careers. Her entire life encompasses the arts.