Last Monday, twelve of us were honored by being named distinguished women in New Jersey, as part of Women in History Month. Assemblywoman Rose Heck, from Bergen County, nominated me for the honor. Here she is, with my daughter Taylor and me...at the award ceremony.

When Assemblywoman Heck described my accomplishments, she read from my daughter's essay. (My daughter wrote about me in her college application as the person she admires most...and it was here at the site.) My daughter, Taylor, was on the legislative chamber's floor, and both of us were surprised to hear her words repeated by a woman we both admire.

Rose Heck is a dynamo. She's also a staunch child advocate. I'm not sure how my book came to her attention, but she asked me to testify before her regulatory oversight committee. I was honored then, and by her determination to help set up a child internet safety training program for families in Bergen County.

I can't imagine what I have done to warrant being in such a distinguished group of women, but having Assemblywoman Heck read my daughter's essay in the State House made me very proud. (If you want to read it...click here.)I'll accept the honor on behalf of all the women who work to help keep children safe, everywhere.

...and besides...

Now, whenever my mother complains about me...I can read her the resolution! After all, the State of New Jersey thinks I'm distinguished...who am I to argue?<g>