In his first celebration of Women of Distinction 80th A.D. Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj said that this would be only the first in what will become an annual event. Five women were honored by Assemblyman Gjonaj who were - Edith Blitzer (Of the Pelham Parkway area), Janet DeProspo (of the Morris Park area), Jean Hill (of Tracy Towers), Grace Lovaglio (of the Allerton area), and Ruth Mastro.
The event was Emceed by Staff member Nathalia Fernandez, who also gave a wonderful welcoming speech. The Benediction was given by Pastor Peggy Smalls, and the National Anthem was sung by Carlos Sanchez. Assemblyman Gjonaj then gave opening remarks in which he thanked the women in his life, his Grandmother, his mother, and his wife. The keynote speaker was Judge LLinet Rosado, and then it was on to the five honorees. as each was called up the reason for choosing each woman was given, and each honoree thanked Assemblyman Gjonaj for being honored.
Above and below - Assemblyman Gjonaj welcomes some of those who attended as he works the full house before the event.
Above - Pastor Smalls gives the Benediction with Ms. Fernandez also in the photo.
Below - Judge Rosado gives the Keynote Speech.
Left - during his opening remarks Assemblyman Gjonaj is pointing to the women of his life.
Right - Two of the women are Assemblyman Gjonaj's grandmother and mother. His lovely wife is just out of the photo.
The Honorees - (L-R) Ruth Mastro, Janet DeProspo, Assemblyman Gjonaj, Grace Lovaglio, Edith Blitzer, and Jean Hill.
Above are the four staff members Nathalia Fernandez, Lilyanna Pekic, Renne Montminy, and Aleatha Williams who were the Hosting Committee for the event.
