State Senator Serphin R. Maltese honored Howard Beach resident Patricia Donnelly (r.), a grassroots lobbyist who was the driving force behind New York state’s Patient Health Information and Quality Improvement Act of 2000, and Glendale resident Patricia Linekin (l.), a lifelong health professional who specializes in diabetes management and education, at a special reception and awards ceremony in Albany. The Senate’s Women of Distinction Program was created to give recognition to exemplary women across New York state who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence.