The Farmingdale Board of Education chose to honor Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto with its Friend of Education Award at the board meeting on Wednesday, May 28. This award recognizes an individual whose support and collaboration enhances the opportunities available to the children of the community. Venditto joins such honorees as State Senator Charles Fuschillo, community advocate and co-founder of the Farmingdale Community Summit and Tom Sabellico, Yes Community Counseling Center's director. Venditto is recognized for his efforts for the Town's donation and installation of playgrounds at three of the Farmingdale elementary schools. His unflinching determination to enhance the recreation facilities used by the community's youngest citizens makes him a true Friend of Education.

In addition to serving the Farmingdale community, Venditto serves the families of the Town of Oyster Bay. He was first elected as a town councilman in 1981. After serving 10 years as town councilman, he served for six years as the town attorney and since Jan. 1, 1998, he has been holding the position of Supervisor of the Town of Oyster Bay.

Venditto has been long acquainted with the Farmingdale Schools. His three children attended the Albany Avenue Elementary School, Howitt Middle School and Farmingdale High School. He has been an active participant in the PTA organizations and in youth groups throughout the community. Venditto has been particularly instrumental in providing funding for improvements to town facilities in the Farmingdale area, including the refurbishing of Allen Park and its new community center.