Rita Lydon Lenz was born in Woodside, New York, the oldest of five children born to the late Martin Lydon of Tourmakeady, Co. Mayo and Mary (nee Daly) of Bantry, Co. Cork. Rita was raised in Bellerose, Queens and graduated from St. Gregory the Great elementary school. She attended and graduated from Dominican Commercial High School in Jamaica. In 1983, she started working for Scaccia Concrete Company/City Transit Mix, in Jamaica and has remained employed with them for the past 39-years. Rita has always had a love for all things Irish and has maintained a strong connection to her Irish heritage and culture, as well as the Irish American community. She is a proud member of the Mayo Society of New York, serving the Society at many levels, Vice President, President, Trustee and currently the Treasurer. Rita is also a delegate to the UICANY, where she served as President. She supports many Irish organizations throughout Long Island and the metropolitan area including the Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens where she is on the Board of Directors as well as the Emerald Isle Immigration Center. Most recently, Rita has joined the Drive to Revive Initiative. In the past few years, Rita has been recognized by these associations for her hard work, contributions and Irish spirit … Emerald Isle Immigration Center Fall Fundraiser Honoree (2015), UIC aide to the Grand Marshal of the Brooklyn Irish American Parade (2017), Grand Marshal Irish American Society of Nassau, Suffolk & Queens, St. Patrick’s Day Parade (2019), Mayo Woman of the Year (2020) and Grand Marshal Bayside St. Patrick’s Day Parade (2022). Rita resides in North Bellmore with her two children Erin (28) and Michael (26). She is truly grateful to her children, her family and friends for their love and support.