LUPINACCI HOSTS WOMEN OF DISTINCTION EVENT, HONORING WOMEN FOR THEIR DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY

Assemblyman Chad Lupinacci (R,C,I-South Huntington) recently hosted his annual Women of Distinction Ceremony at the South Huntington Library. Lupinacci honored sixteen women for their many accomplishments and strong commitment to their families, community and careers.

“It was a pleasure to recognize these women for having such a positive impact on their families and communities. Each nominee has made their community stronger by working tirelessly for volunteer groups or religious organizations and helping those in need,” said Lupinacci. “These women are exemplary role models for today’s youth, and I hope their effort and impact will continue to serve as an inspiration for all.”

The 2015 Women of Distinction nominees were:

Christy Gudaitis is the President of the South Huntington Special Education Parent Teacher Association and a coordinator for the South Huntington TopSoccer team, which is made up of children who have various disabilities.

Beatrice Gray Toliver is an active member of the NAACP, and life membership chairperson of the NAACP Huntington Branch and also served as an advisor to the NACCP Huntington Youth Council.

Josephine Geraci is the creator of gLovies, which are disposable gloves for kids, to help parents, teachers and caregivers keep little hands clean in messy situations.

Barbara Festa is an instrumental member for the Haven House in Huntington, providing immediate help and childcare services to customers, and has helped transform many children into avid learners.

Patricia Nardelli is a devoted supporter of the veterans community and led the effort to provide a “Veterans Day Breakfast” to the men and women who protect our great nation, as well as participating in the “Adopt a Platoon” program and “Project Hope.” She also stays very active in the St. Hugh of Lincoln Roman Catholic Church.

Patricia Delaney makes routine calls to people who need assistance; offers rides for those unable to drive and ensures they have adequate food. After all functions within the community, she collects all of the left over food to bring to homeless shelters.

Andrea Golinsky has served the Huntington Community First Aid Squad team for 42 years. She is also involved with the Town of Huntington Recruitment and Retention Committee, the New York State Volunteer Ambulance and Rescue Association, the Suffolk County Recruitment and Retention Committee, and the Unity in the Community Parade.

Solange Rich works tirelessly as a member of the Parent Teacher Association in the South Huntington School District to help students gain a richer learning experience, as well as a proud catechist at St. Hugh of Lincoln Roman Catholic Church, where she teaches children their faith while making it fun and enjoyable.

Marion Heid is active in the Huntington Tri-Village Little League for over 25 years, an organization that has served thousands of youths from the Cold Spring Harbor, Harborfields, Elwood, Huntington, and South Huntington school districts since 1955.

Barbara Cerrone gives back to her community by volunteering at organizations like the Women’s Fund of Long Island and the Long Island Center for Business and Professional Women.

Susan Marci-Reilly is a middle-school English teacher at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School in Farmingdale and earned the Education in Excellence Award and recognition from the New York State English Council.

Ann Johnson has significantly improved the lives of those in need in an entirely altruistic manner; and as a member of St. Vincent DePaul, she helped people of all faiths by providing comfort, compassion and hope with complete confidentiality.

Tania Johnson stays involved in her local school district and served as a member of the School-Based Management team, a NYSUT representative and Fund Administrator for the PTA-STA High School Scholarship and was honored with the PTA Jenkins’ Award.

Darci Morello is a Suffolk County Girl Scout Ambassador, Darci created a project called “Everyone Can Play,” which helps families with financial difficulties afford sporting equipment so their children can participate in sports.

Rev. Rose Marie Gaines and her husband, Rev. James A. Gaines, founded the Helping Hand Rescue Mission Inc., Long Island’s first rescue mission.

Rev. Kimberly Gambino is the Executive Director of Helping Hand Rescue Mission Inc., which provides thousands of Long Islanders with proper clothing and food to feed their families.

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