On Tuesday evening, the Town of Clarkstown held its 2nd annual “Women of Distinction” award
ceremony at Town Hall. We created this long-overdue program last year, and I was truly moved
by how grateful our inaugural honorees were to receive the recognition. I’m incredibly proud to
have started this tradition in Clarkstown, and I hope that it continues for generations to come.
Our 2026 ceremony celebrated six very deserving Clarkstown women who have volunteered
countless hours of their time in service to others.
Each of our honorees perfectly defines what it means to be a pillar in the community.
They are givers. They are doers. They resolved to accomplish something, got involved and
worked for change. They inspired others to follow their lead and get involved to better the
communities that we live and work in. And each one gave back out of true compassion, without
expectation of thanks or recognition.
The following is a list of our 2026 honorees:
Breda Lyons and Catherine Levins: Supervisor George Hoehmann Honorees
Irish immigrants Breda and Catherine realized their entrepreneurial vision by opening the River
Court On Main restaurant in New City in 2017. Taking the best traits of their homeland with
them, Breda and Catherine turned their successful business into an avenue for community and
charity benefitting a tremendous range of community organizations throughout the Town of
Clarkstown and beyond. They consistently contribute to numerous local charitable and not-for-
profits, including organizing their own clothing and toy drives for children in need, supporting
local soup kitchens, school fundraisers, children’s sports leagues, and the Center for Safety &
Change.
Roberta Bangs: Ward 3 Councilman Don Franchino Honoree
Roberta has been a driving force in transforming the lives of rescue animals and enriching the
lives of residents of Nanuet and Clarkstown. Among her many volunteer roles, Roberta served
as President of the Hi-Tor Animal Shelter, helping to save and find forever homes to rescue
animals. Roberta also served as President of the Nanuet Civic Association for 6 years, fostering
and encouraging civic engagement and better government in our town. She has also
volunteered with People to People, Center for Safety and Change, Nanuet Ambulance Corp,
and was instrumental in building Highview Playground in Nanuet.
Jane Provenzano: Ward 2 Councilman Mike Graziano Honoree
Jane has been a longtime community volunteer and across many organizations, and an
advocate and champion for individuals with developmental disabilities. In 2023, inspired by the
needs of her autistic son, Ms. Provenzano founded PRO U ED, a specialized community class
designed for adults age 21 and older with special needs. The program offers opportunities for
participants to engage in science and math activities, yoga, music, and social experiences that
foster independence and confidence. Jane also currently serves as Vice President of the
Congers Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, where she helps to organize community events,
including blood drives and fundraising efforts that benefit our local first responders.
Roxanne Perrone: Ward 4 Councilman Bob Axelrod Honoree
Roxanne has built a remarkable legacy through her dedication to public service, community
leadership, civic engagement, and tremendous contributions to Clarkstown’s small businesses.
Through her tireless and passionate volunteer work, Roxanne has helped transform and support
countless local businesses in New City, helping to shape the hamlet center into one of
Rockland’s most successful business districts in Rockland County. Roxanne also currently
serves as Chairwoman of the Clarkstown Republican Committee, a trustee of the New City
Library, a member of the Clarkstown Planning Board, and previously as a Girl Scout Leader.
Maura Donoghue: Ward 1 Councilman Jon Valentino Honoree
Maura has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to serving our community through her
career in social work and public health. She has served the community in numerous leadership
roles, which have positively impacted countless individuals in need. Maura currently oversees
and coordinates housing programs for the Rockland County Department of Social Services,
which provide vital basic services to Rockland County residents, including seniors and young
families. In this role, Maura manages critical initiatives that protect our county’s most vulnerable
residents, including Section 8 housing programs and the county’s warming center. Her
extensive volunteer work includes serving on the boards and committees of numerous local
non-profits.
Please join me in thanking this group of remarkable women, who have given so much of
themselves to make Clarkstown a better place for all.
