In honor of Women’s History Month, Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) is seeking nominations for outstanding women from the towns of Cicero, Clay, Fabius, Manlius, Pompey and Tully that make up the 127th Assembly District to be named 2014 Women of Distinction. Awardees will be recognized at the 2nd annual Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 22.

“The exceptional achievements and personal excellence, as well as the outstanding, courageous or heroic actions of women in our community, should be recognized,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “The Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony gives us a platform to thank these women who have enriched the community.”

Last year, four women were recognized for their contributions to education, civics, health care and volunteerism. Eighth-grade science teacher Hope Pelton, Meals on Wheels volunteer Georgia Sokolowski, State Trooper Sobrina Vazquez and Dr. Ruth Weinstock were named 2013 Women of Distinction.

Assemblyman Stirpe is also holding his 2nd annual Women of Distinction essay writing contest. The contest is open to all students in Clay, Cicero, Manlius, Pompey, Fabius and Tully. Winners will be recognized at the Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony. Samantha Fleming and Chris Wintermute were 2013 essay contest winners.

Essays should be no longer than 500 words and should feature a woman who has made a positive impact on society. Students can email their essays to stirpea@assembly.state.ny.us or send them to 7293 Buckley Road, Suite 201, N. Syracuse, NY 13212.

The awards ceremony will be held on March 22 at 1 p.m. at the Fayetteville Village Offices at 425 E. Genesee St. in Fayetteville. Essays and nominations must be received by March 15. The nomination form and instructions can be found online at tinyurl.com/nominate127AD.