Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto recently announced the winners of the seventh annual Town of Oyster Bay Women of Distinction Awards, recognizing the outstanding achievements of eight women who either live or work in the town. Anna Goidel, a Plainview resident for more than 50 years, was recognized as a Woman of Distinction in Community and Civic Affairs.

"A distinguished awards committee, once again, had the difficult task of selecting one exceptional designee as the 'Woman of Distinction' in each of eight categories," Venditto said. "We will honor this year's winners at the Tuesday, March 22, meeting of the town board. Winners will be presented with a town citation and a special pin to commemorate the event.

"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," Venditto stated. "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. I, together with my town board colleagues, am honored to recognize them."

Anna and her husband Gene, have both worked endlessly to promote education, art, books, music, dance and most of all fun for all ages.

Trying to select only one category for Anna was an almost impossible task. Volunteer, Education, Humanitarian can all fit neatly into Anna's portfolio of accomplishments. But it is her community affairs fortitude and never-ending love for children that really exemplify the contributions Anna has made to the POB community.

From 1969 through 1984 Anna was a much loved and respected English teacher in the POB school District. Having two sons she was also vitally involved with the PTA and assumed the role of High School PTA President for two terms. After her children graduated Anna was elected to the POB Board of Education and served for nine years, retiring in 1994.

Anna's love for the written word found new meaning when Gene, who was a library board trustee encouraged her to launch a Friends of the Library organization in Plainview. Co-President Pat Bozza and Anna have initiated the annual book sale, music and dance recitals and photography contests fostering creativity and imagination.

Women's American ORT has long been a passion for Anna and she is the President of the Woodbury Chapter sending much needed aid to Israel's youth. Though the years Anna and Gene have been involved with an array of environmental issues including RAGE, which helped protect the community from potential garbage expansion and a proposed incinerator. They have been active and supportive members of the chamber of commerce and their history and understanding is immeasurable. But their passion is most evident when working at the Community Center of Plainview-Old Bethpage. Many children will remember Saturday afternoons and vacations spent swimming, playing basketball and otherwise goofing around at the center established by Anna, Gene and the beloved Mr. V.

The respect and admiration for Anna Goidell can be felt as soon as she walks into the Plainview Diner, down the sidewalk in Morton Village Plaza or strolling down any aisle in Shoprite.

The POB Chamber of Commerce, the Concerned Citizens of POB Community, Inc, the POB School District Title IX Committee, and the Friends of the Library unanimously nominated Anna because she is an icon in the POB Community and the additions she has made in her selfless way cannot be measured in inches but in love.

"These fine honorees have dedicated themselves to service and achievement, and their remarkable accomplishments are an inspiration to us all. Young women throughout the town do not need to look to Hollywood actresses or pop stars for their role models, they can look right here in the Town of Oyster Bay," Supervisor Venditto said. "I invite everybody to join us on March 22, beginning at 7 p.m., as we honor this year's eight fine designees of the town's 'Women of Distinction' Award. This event has always been one of the most special evenings we enjoy here in the Town of Oyster Bay."