Elected officials seek leaders to honor for annual Women of Distinction event

""We have amongst us so many women who have selflessly devoted themselves to the betterment of the community, often without asking for recognition for their actions," said Colton. "I feel incredibly privileged to get to honor these community powerhouses for what they do, day in and day out, not only for their neighbors, family and friends but for people they have never met. Our neighborhood is a better place because of them, and I am grateful for their contributions.""

"Last year, 90 women were honored, including 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."

Assemblymember William Colton and Councilmember Susan Zhuang will host the annual Women of Distinction event in March to celebrate Women's History Month and honor women who have improved the community. Colton's district covers Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights; Zhuang's district also includes Gravesend, Borough Park and Sunset Park. Nominations are requested from local leaders and residents for achievements in business, education, humanitarian work, military service, community and civic affairs, health care, government, or volunteer work. The awards are intended to represent the area's diversity. Last year 90 women were honored across judicial, civic, law enforcement support, nonprofit, arts and activist roles.

Read at Brooklyn Eagle