Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, together with members of the Town Board, honored nine extraordinary recipients at the 10th annual Town of Oyster Bay Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony, held at Town Hall March 25. The award recognizes the outstanding achievements of women who either live or work in the Town.

"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 said. "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."

Among this year's designees was Josephine Costa of Hicksville who received the Distinguished Woman Humanitarian award. Costa was a co-owner of La Viola Restaurant in Syosset and is an active member of the community. She has worked tirelessly to help those less fortunate and has been involved in numerous charitable organizations within the Town of Oyster Bay. For the past 15 years, she has generously hosted a Thanksgiving dinner for over 400 underprivileged residents at the restaurant and has delivered another 150 meals to residents who are homebound.

Costa is a founding member of the Syosset Chamber of Commerce, and has been honored as Person of the Year. She is also a member of the Syosset Rotary Club, from which she has been the recipient of the Rotary Award for community service. Additionally, she is a recipient of the Veterans of Foreign War award and has received accolades from St. Mary's Children and Family Services for her efforts in helping those less fortunate. Josephine participates in Long Island Cares each year by donating a percentage of proceeds to this worthy Long Island charity.

While many restaurant owners would open their doors for business on Thanksgiving Day to make a profit, Costa continues to open her heart to those in need. Rather than make a profit, Costa chooses to appreciate the true meaning of the holiday and gives back to her community.

Additional designees were: Dr. Laurie Rozakis, Distinguished Woman in the Arts; Evelyn Ain, Distinguished Woman in Business; Susan Martin, Distinguished Woman in Community & Civic Affairs; Sandi Vanderpool, Distinguished Woman in Education; Joy Jorgensen, Distinguished Woman in Education; Dorothy Oxendine, Distinguished Woman in Government; Nancy Leftenent-Colon, Distinguished Woman in Health Services; Alexandra Watkins, Distinguished Woman Volunteer.