Local Queens Women Saluted

(R. to l.): Dr. Sharon Cadiz (kneeling) and grandson Mo, Margaret Barnes, Edwin Cadiz, Barbara Jones, Terri Adams, Lucille Hartmann, Toula Tiganitis, Olga Giouroukakis, Doris Norwillo Suda, Carmen Wynder, Rita Lowry, Betsy Pabon, Madeline Robertaccio, Joseph Conley and George Napolitano, representing Carolyn Maloney. Photo Elan Ferguson

The Third Annual 37th Assembly District Awards Night celebrated Women's History Month by honoring local women from the district on March 23. The event honored the contributions of 12 women who make a difference. Honorees were joined by family and friends. Distinguished guests included Community Board 2 Chairperson Joseph Conley, state Senator George Onorato, George Napolitano, representing Congressmember Carolyn Maloney, North Fork Bank representative Elijah Dowling and Ann Bruno from the 114th Police Precinct Community Council.

The event was made possible through the generous support of Edwin Cadiz, Artists Unlimited, Michael Keller, executive director of the Long Island City YMCA, Alice Cardona and Diana Cruz, Connie and George Stamatiades, Assemblymember Cathy Nolan, and Carol Wilkins from Ravenswood Houses.

According to the audience, the event is fast becoming a local favorite. Dr. Sharon Cadiz said: "It draws attention to the strength and resiliency that women bring to our community through their day-to-day acts of kindness, helpfulness and concern that touch other lives in meaningful ways. Historic women speak to the past; yet these women speak to our present and the quality of our future."