On Sunday, April 24, almost one hundred people attended the 15th Annual BVCA
Brunch/Auction at Unqua. The special honoree was Tom Howard, recently retired Downtown
Revitalization Committee chairperson.
Tom was awarded a beautiful plaque by Joan Donnison, on behalf of the Bay Village Civic
Association, in recognition of his years of service to the Village, as well as his many
accomplishments.
Residents were joined by many elected officials honoring Tom. Among them were Suffolk
County Legislator Jason Richberg, NYS Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre, Town of Babylon
Supervisor Rich Schaffer, and Babylon Councilman DuWayne Gregory.
Kevin Smith, representing the Village of Amityville, addressed the assemblage and presented
Tom with a certificate of recognition. NYS Senator Brooks was unable to attend but sent a
proclamation to honor Tom, too.
When all the honors had been rendered, Tom spoke eloquently about his history in the Village
and efforts to continue a legacy begun by his late father, former Mayor Lou Howard. It was
under his stewardship that trees were planted along the streets in the Village.
Tom expressed gratitude to former Mayor Jim Wandell for asking him to chair the DRC, and to
Mayor Siry for allowing him to continue in that role. He also gave a call out to founding
members of the committee……Kevin McAndrews, Tracy Cullen, Peter Casserly, and the late
Peter Keller for their expertise and advice.
Many lovely baskets were auctioned. The winners were delighted, as were all the attendees.
Unqua was aglow in sunlight and smiles.
It was so nice being together again on a wonderful occasion. As the BVCA president noted, the
prior year, COVID necessitated negative PCR tests or proof of vaccination to attend. We seem
to be entering a better phase. She wished everyone well during the year.