Local women honored for community works

Because of their outstanding work in the community of northeastern Queens over the last decade, Judy Limpert and Joan Vogt have a lot in common.
Limpert, the vice president of North Fork Bank, has been the president of the Bayside Business Association since 1997, and Vogt, a College Point resident, is the executive director of the northeast Queens Nature and Historical Preserve dating back to 1992. She was also one of the charter commissioners in 1976.
Now, the two have both received a prestigious accolade. The ladies were recognized by Senator Frank Padavan as this year's &#8220Women of Distinction,” at a gathering in Albany last week. Each honoree's photo and biography became part of a special exhibit at the Capitol proclaiming the special contributions exemplary New York women have made.
The &#8220Women of Distinction” program also displayed the honors of the women from New York's past, including leaders of the 19th Century suffragist movement to pioneers in education, science and the arts. The program started as part of the Senate's celebration of Women's History Month.
&#8220It is my privilege to have honored these two women today. Judy and Joan are both pillars in our community, true representatives of what Queens and New York State stand for. They are accomplished in the community, professionally and personally; on top of that they are two of the most genuine individuals I know with inner strength and solid character that we all should hope to be able to live up to.”
The two women were each surprised they were chosen. As part of the award, they had dinner with Senator Padavan, saw the chamber and walked around the Senate floor while they were in session, &#8220which was actually a thrill,” said Limpert. &#8220It was amazing to see how they operate while they're in session.”
&#8220It was a marvelous thing,” added Vogt. &#8220It was truly enlightening.”
Although neither lady helps out in her local community for anything other than to benefit others, the award was truly a reminder of gratitude.
&#8220I don't do it for recognition,” Limpert said of her work with the Bayside Business Association. &#8220But it's always nice when someone says thank you, that they appreciate your work.”