South Queens, NY – Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-South Queens) hosted her annual ‘Women of Distinction’ event on Saturday. The event highlights the remarkable contributions by women who work or reside within the 23rd Assembly District which encompasses the communities of Ozone Park, Howard Beach and Hamilton Beach, to Breezy Point and Rockaway Beach to Far Rockaway. This year's recipients included: Barbara Buffolino, Karen Buffolino-Nevirs, Holly Gendron, Clare Hilger, Kathleen Lawless, and Patricia Raghunandan.

“While Women’s History Month may be in March, I believe that women should be honored every day, of every month all year long,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. The in-person event had an attendance of over 50 people, including past recipients resulting in the program turning into an impromptu networking event. “I believe in women supporting women, celebrating each other for their accomplishments. We have so many amazing women in this community who do so much, and this is a great way to come together and thank them for their work and contributions. It also gives all of these amazing women the chance to connect and develop new partnerships which further helps them in their work to improve the community,” said the Assemblywoman.

The six recipients were chosen from many nominees and each was personally presented with a beautiful orchid and an official citation from Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. “This year's winners devote themselves to their community and exemplify the best of the New York spirit. Their work ranges from spending hours at a food pantry, organizing and advocating for tenants’ rights, to promoting the importance of water safety and helping neighbors resolve problems; and throughout it all, putting the neighborhood and community above themselves. The people of the 23rd Assembly District have greatly benefited from the work of these incredible women, and often without even knowing it. On behalf of the community and the State of New York I thank Barbara, Karen, Holly, Clare, Kathleen and Patricia who have all made this a better place to live,” said Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato.