COUPLE SALUTED BY ARTS GROUP AWARD TO RECOGNIZE LONGTIME SUPPORT.

Byline: Daily News

LANCASTER - Dr. Marvin Frieder and his late wife Leona will be honored by the Lancaster Performing Arts Center Foundation for their support of the performing arts in the Antelope Valley for more than 20 years.

They will be honored as the fourth recipients of the Arts Achievement Award at a reception Wednesday at the theater.

The award was created to recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that have made significant contributions to the development and continuance of performing arts in the Antelope Valley.

Leona Frieder, who died April 17, was a charter member of the Lancaster Performing Arts Center Foundation as well as a member of the Antelope Valley Symphony Board.

``During the past 16 years, Leona played a significant role in the development of LPAC, channeling her energy to those programs that served youth development and families,'' stated Lou Bozigian, the foundation's president. ``It was a pleasure to serve with her. We enjoyed many successes throughout the years and we will all miss her.''

Her husband is a lifelong student of the opera and, with Leona, attended performances throughout the world. He performed the role of the king in ``The King and I'' during the fifth Cedar Street Theater season.

The award will be presented at a reception at 6:30 Wednesday at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W. Lancaster Blvd.

Those interested in attending the reception must call [phone]. Space is limited.

No children will be admitted.

Betty Lou Nash, Cedar Street Theatre and John and Barbara Blancett are previous recipients of the Arts Achievement Award.