State Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, recognized 30 “Women of Distinction” for their contributions to our region at a special ceremony held Thursday evening at the Riveredge Resort in Alexandria Bay.

St. Lawrence County women honored were: Annette Carlisi Craig, Samantha M. Curtis, Sally White Hartman, Caitlin Hill, LouAnne King, Laurie Marr, Deborah Miller, Patti Pastella and Carrie Tuttle.

The “Women of Distinction” program honors women’s history in the Empire State by recognizing outstanding leaders from the present who are achieving success in their careers, devoting time to volunteer causes in their communities and more.

“From those who are breaking glass ceilings in their careers and others who give countless hours to local volunteer organizations, to women holding elected office and those who have met life’s challenges head on with strength, grace and determination, this year’s honorees represent a wide variety of ages, talents and professions,” said Senator Ritchie.

“While they are all unique, they have one very important thing in common—and that’s that they have made a difference in the lives of so many people in our region.”

In addition to recognizing honorees, Thursday’s ceremony also featured performances by the quartet “For Heaven’s Sake,” as well as Gavin Taylor, a student at Alexandria Central who sang the National Anthem.