This year, our Art & Essays Contests are being funded through a generous donation from Alvin and Rochelle Dunaisky, in honor of the late Rod O'Connell, who is remembered by many as "The Mayor of Douglaston," and in his mint green fin back convertible, as a fixture in the Memorial Day Parade. 

Gerard (Rod) O’Connell lived in the same house in Douglaston for over 40 years. He started his career as a realtor at the Bryce Rea family, and through his panache and passion to sell homes in the area, he rose to be an owner and broker of record with Bryce Rea Associates.

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Rod‘s life encompassed all aspects of our Little Neck-Douglaston community. He was involved with PS 98, St. Anastasia, Holy Cross High School, Community Church of Douglaston Theater, Lions Club, Visiting Nurse Service, Douglaston Civic Association and more. 

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Because Rod so loved Theater and the Arts and felt so strongly that we had to teach youngsters the importance of honoring our Armed Forces, Alvin and Rochelle Dunaisky are proud to make this generous donation in his name.