The Mid-Island Y Jewish Community Center recognized the outstanding efforts and accomplishments of its volunteers during the past year at the 50th annual meeting of the board of directors held June 13. Volunteer awards were presented to Rose Jimenez of Syosset and Gerri Goldner of Westbury for their active involvement with the Adult Services Department; Cindy Ash and Jeanne Ruvolo, both of Syosset, for their commitment and boundless contributions to the Village Agency Dolphin Swim Team; and Bonnie Goldberg and Michele Weiner, both of Plainview, for their enthusiasm and dedication to the Development Department. Brandon Fieland of Old Bethpage was selected as this year's recipient of the Kerry Sarnow Award for outstanding sportsmanship within the JCC's Youth Hockey League. The Kerry Sarnow Award was created in 1995 by Joel and Linda Sarnow in loving memory of their son who was very involved in the teen hockey program.

Ali Kusinitz of Plainview was selected as this year's recipient of the George Groner Award for outstanding volunteerism. The Mid-Island Y JCC also honored Michael Soroka of Melville for 25 years of dedicated service as a member and past president of the board of directors. Soroka will remain on the board as an honorary member. Rabbi Perry Rank of Midway Jewish Center was the evening's keynote speaker. He spoke about the JCC's wonderful programs and services, specifically its Jewish summer camps and the importance of a Jewish camping experience in shaping one's Jewish values and beliefs. Ruth Jeifa of Woodbury was elected the 20th president of the Mid-Island Y JCC, succeeding Bruce Nuzie of Plainview who served from 2003-06. JCC Executive Director Joyce Ashkenazy praised Nuzie for his tireless efforts and dedicated service to the agency and the community. He will assume the new position of chairman of the board for a one-year term.

The following Mid-Island Y JCC Board members were re-elected for an additional three-year term: Mark Hankin, Bernie Jeifa, Michael Stromberg and Lenny Symons. Milton Sosinsky was re-elected for an additional one-year term. Irwin Tantleff was re-elected as an associate board member. The slate of officers for 2006-07 is as follows: President: Ruth Jeifa; Vice Presidents: Bernie Jeifa and Dr. William Mesibov; Treasurer: Milton Sosinsky; Associate Treasurer: Glen Landow; Secretary: Leonard B. Symons.