Successful 7th Annual BVCA Luncheon Held at Unqua
An unusual raffle was held by the Bay Village Civic Association recently. About one hundred people were in attendance on Sunday, January 26, at Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club. Rather that a proliferation of baskets, the majority of gifts raffled were gift cards to local businesses. Both the business owners and individuals were very generous in their donations.
This was the vision of Committee Chairperson Ethel MacGill and her committee members…Diane Apgar, Martha Peterson, Midge Lewin, Joanne Fisk and Cathy Reilly. Besides helping to support local businesses in the community, the committee transformed Unqua into a winter wonderland!
A special tribute was made to the Amityville Fire department in recognition of their volunteer efforts during Sandy. While all the first responders were outstanding, the Fire Department was singled out as community volunteers. Chief Scudlo, Ass’t. Chiefs Waegerle and Greey accepted the tribute on behalf of the Fire Department.
Suffolk County Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory reinforced our commendation. He spoke about the sacrifices these volunteers make during crises…leaving their homes and families while personally enduring similar hardships, to help others.
Leg. Gregory also had a special presentation for AUFSD Superintendent Dr. John Williams. Unfortunately, due to complicated health issues, Dr. Williams could not be present. In his stead, Lisa Johnson, president of the Amityville School Board, accepted the recognition for Dr. Williams.
BVCA President, Joan Donnison, noted that this was the first time in six years that Dr. Williams did not attend the event. He had always supported events and activities.
The first community enhancement project the BVCA coordinated was an improvement to the landscaping at the front of the High School several years ago. Dr. Williams was there in overalls…shovel in hand. His active participation in the community will be missed, as well as his leadership in the school system.
Two weeks after our luncheon, we were extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Williams. He will be missed by all, not only for his leadership in the Amityville School System, but also for his active community involvement. He was a very special person. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues and the entire Amityville community.
