Local women in the spotlight

March marks the beginning of Women’s History Month and there is no better way to start it than by honoring women for their work in the community, according to State Senator Marty Golden.

Golden has a long-running tradition of highlighting women who make a difference and take a position of leadership within the neighborhood. This year’s “Golden Women” were Linda Addinisio, the principal of St. Anselm’s Elementary School; Dr. Lisa Eng of the Kings County Medical Society; Elizabeth Ferraro of St. Finbar’s Church; Community Board 10 member Katherine Khatari; Sara Nespoli, the director of faith formation at St. Frances Cabrini and Sts. Simon & Jude; Camille Loccisano, the founder of the Francesco Loccisano Memorial Foundation; Sister Fran Piccone of the Shore Hill Senior Program; Mary Quiñones of Lutheran Medical Center and Elena Solitario of Pilo Arts Day Spa and Salon.

“It was really a pleasure to be honored by Senator Golden and receive recognition from the community for our work. We gain a lot of support from the Bay Ridge and Brooklyn community. From our corner of the world, we are able to help children with cancer nationwide,” explained Loccisano of the honor she received and the enormous effort her organization undertakes to help families of children suffering from cancer, with the help of the local community.

“I was flabbergasted, I did not expect it at all,” Khatari remarked. “I was quite surprised.”

Piccone also expressed her gratitude for being recognized, adding, “I was honored, humbled and privileged…I love helping people. It was wonderful to be honored by the Bay Ridge community and Senator Golden for the work I do. I am inspired by the older adults I meet and Senator Golden is very supportive of programs for older adults.”

The women were honored on Thursday, March 8th in the Community Room at Shore Hill, 9000 Shore Road.