State Senator Patty Ritchie is accepting nominations for the New York State Senate’s 2013 “Women of Distinction” program.

The program honors women’s history in the state by recognizing leaders and citizens who are making a difference.

“The central and northern New York regions are home to so many people who work tirelessly to make a positive impact on their communities—and many of those people are women,” said Senator Ritchie.

Women living in the 48th district, including Oswego, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties, are eligible for nomination. All nominees will be invited to a local recognition ceremony, and one individual from each district will be selected to travel to Albany to be honored at a special reception May 17. Her photo and biography will also become part of a display that travels across the state to bring attention to the achievements of New Yorkers.

Family, friends or coworkers can make nominations by visiting www.ritchie.nysenate.gov or calling 782-3418. The deadline for nominations is Apr. 5.