FLEMING #- When Juliette Gordon Low founded the Girl Scouts in 1912, it was with a vision of opportunity for young women to have a place that would help them to establish strong values that they could take and apply throughout their lives, no matter what field they may pursue.

That same spirit and set of ideals is still very much ingrained in the Girl Scouts of America today and was on display Tuesday afternoon as women gathered at the Springside Inn to celebrate the third annual Women of Distinction in Cayuga County Awards.

These awards pay tribute to women that have helped pave the way, serving as examples for young women in the community, standing as role models for the ideals of the scouts, demonstrating courage, confidence and character.

As Fran Maguire, first vice-president board of directors for the Girls Scouts Seven Lakes Council, made the drive from Seneca County for the award ceremony she said she couldn't help but be reminded of the rich history the area has of women that have demonstrated these characteristics.

“Between Seneca County and Auburn there have been so many women of distinction,” Maguire said. “Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Staton. ... they all had the same kind of vision Juliette Gordon Low had when she founded the Girl Scouts.”

This year's group of 11 recipients all represented the ideals set forth by the Girl Scouts, as well as other strong characteristics like leadership and vision for the future of not only women in Cayuga County, but the community as a whole.

Holly Davidson, a recipient of the award in 2008, served as emcee.

“All of these women have worked to make this a better place,” Davidson said. “They have also worked to instill that sense of values and a sense of self in all their relationships and as leaders in their community.”

First to be presented was Patricia (Trish) Dellonte, a legal liaison at Welch Allyn. Dellonte was nominated by students in BOCES New Vision medical professions program. Davidson said that this is just one of the many programs that Dellonte has dedicated her time and focus to.

In this capacity, she works to help students explore options for careers in the medical field.

Jennifer Haines, director of planning and economic development for the City of Auburn, who was nominated by Mayor Michael Quill and city manager Mark Palesh, was recognized for her contributions to human services, including agencies that provide services for low and moderate income families, as well as youth, seniors and people with disabilities.

Dr. Christine Hoskins-Tardibone, a guidance counselor at Auburn High School was nominated by one of the more than 300 students she works with, Kate Dellonte.

Davidson read from Dellonte's nomination letter, stating that Hoskins-Tardibone works tirelessly on the behalf of her students, taking the time to know each of them on a personal basis and working with them and their families to help students find the best possible paths for their future pursuits.

Susan Jones, executive director of Neighborhood House, was honored for her work there since 2000, with a nomination from Wells president, Lisa Marsh Ryerson.

Ryerson pointed out that Jones has worked successfully in creating a strong learning environment for the more than 100 preschool students at Neighborhood House while still finding time to serve as deputy mayor in Skaneateles.

Susan Marteney, executive director of the Cayuga County Chapter of the America Red Cross, was recognized with a nomination from Laura Coburn. Marteney has made incredible contributions to the Red Cross, helping the local chapter to grow year after year, as well as for her work with programs such as Literacy Volunteers, the YMCA and SCORE.

Ruth Probst, who was nominated by Joan Minde Welch, has the distinction of being a Girl Scout for more than 65 years, starting when her daughter was a Brownie and staying with the organization, serving in many capacities ever since.

Lisa Marsh Ryerson, president of Wells College was also recognized, with several nominations being submitted in her name. Ryerson has helped to elevate Wells College since taking over as president in 1995, helping the school grow and leading it through its largest fundraising efforts to date, raising more than $50 million for the school.

Colleen Saxton, also received several nominations, particularly for her work with Girl Scouts, serving as a volunteer and leader for more than 13 years for Troop 1050.

Likewise, Sharon Vitale was nominated by several friends, including the girls of her own Troop 210, for her 17 years of service to the scouts, during which she has helped many of her Scouts earn the Scouts' silver and gold awards.

Wendy Young, residence director of Matthew House, was recognized for her work at Matthew House, receiving a nomination from BOCES New Vision students, for her work as a role model in the medical field.

Terri Bridenbecker, who passed away in January, was recognized with a memorial tribute award for her work in furthering the mission of the Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce.

Gwen Webber-McLeod read a piece she had written about her friend and Bridenbecker's husband and son, Tim and Ryan, accepted the award on her behalf.

Sue Dwyer, Cayuga County Clerk, served as the keynote speaker, presenting a speech titled, “The Best Advice I Ever Got.” Dwyer said that she talked to her colleagues about the best advice they had ever received, touching on such bits of wisdom as to always be nice to people, never forget where you come from and to make family a priority.

In her talk, Dwyer hit on the key points of what the day was all about, showing that through these common maxims it is possible to make a difference in one's own life and the lives of the people in the larger community.