BATH BEACH — NINETY WOMAN LEADERS WERE HONORED last Sunday, March 23 at a Women’s History Month event that Assemblymember William Colton (D-47) and City Councilmember Susan Zhuang (D-43) co-sponsored.
The Women of Distinction Awards, held at the Federation of Italian American Organizations (FIAO)’s Il Centro Community Center, saluted women who represent the area’s diversity and who have made their mark in business, education, humanitarian work, military service, community and civic affairs, health care, government or volunteerism.
Among this year’s 90 Women of Distinction were Civil Court Judge Tehilah Berman, Community Board 11 District Manager Marnee Elias-Pavia, NYPD 62nd Precinct Community Assistant Weiyan Li, Onara Italian Ministry President Anna Maria Messina-Walsh, Club A-Elita President Leonora Bulychova, Regina Opera Director Fran Garber and Boxing Writers Association of America Board Chair Regina Andriolo. Longtime local activist Eileen LaRuffa was honored posthumously.
“As someone who has represented this area for nearly three decades, I have had the privilege of working with and observing the efforts of these extraordinary women,” said Assemblyman Colton. “Rarely do they look for recognition. Rather, they dedicate themselves to improving the lives of their neighbors, because they understand the pivotal role that civic activism plays in strengthening the fabric of the community.”.
Likewise, Councilmember Zhuang commended “the achievements and contributions of all types of women whose leadership, dedication and service strengthen our neighborhoods and families.”
✰✰✰
