Jackson, NJ – For their service during a Thanksgiving dinner at the Jackson Senior Center this past holiday season, the Jackson Memorial High School band was given proclamations on behalf of Mayor Mike Reina and the Jackson Township Council at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

The mayor also read a commendation from the Jackson Fire Department for the heroic actions of 16 year old Sara Hudak who came home to find her house on fire, but rushed in to rescue the family’s Labrador Retriever and then called 911.   Her quick thinking allowed firefighters to respond promptly and contain the fire to just the kitchen area.

Also receiving honors tonight was Miss Ava Tortorici who was the 2009-10 International Junior Miss Princess in the preteen category this past summer.  Ava also won awards for her talent, ability as a spokesmodel, casualwear modeling, spirit award, academic achievement award, Spirit of America Award, best gown and supermodel with style award.

Mayor Mike Reina and Councilman Mike Kafton applaud Ava Tortorici's accomplishments at last summer's Junior Miss Pageant.

Councilman Mike Kafton and Mayor Mike Reina (off camera left) applaud Sara Hudak's quick thinking in a fire at her home this winter.