MIDDLETOWN- Senator James Skoufis (D, Cornwall) hosted his inaugural Women’s Recognition Night on Friday, March 22, 2024, in Middletown. Held at Tapped Craft Beer and Restaurant, this event was an opportunity to honor and uplift the women of Orange County, and recognize three in particular who have made notable contributions:
Jill Walkins, from Middletown, founded and runs the nonprofit, Wilkins Ministries International. She provides free produce and grocery items to hundreds of people in the Middletown and Wallkill area through her organization. She has hosted back-to-school giveaways and through her work has positively impacted numerous children and families through Orange County.
Niki Halwani, from New Windsor, has spread awareness about a rare genetic condition her daughter was born with, creating a book entitled, Payton’s Magical Hearing Aid, which found its way onto Amazon’s Best Seller list. Niki’s daughter, Peyton Halwani, the subject of the book, also received a certificate to honor her bravery in allowing her story to be shared to benefit the hearing loss community.
Nina Giordani, resides in Monroe and teaches in the Washingtonville Central School District. Nina has taught finance and business for the past several years and has continued to fundraise and spread awareness about cancer through the school’s Spike Out Cancer Fundraiser. She has used the trial of her own cancer to spark her activism and volunteerism, and encourages it amongst her students in Washingtonville.
“I was honored to have the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of three powerful Orange County women, who have worked so hard to benefit their communities,” said Skoufis. “It is through work such as this that a society grows great, and I am grateful for their work and example. Thank you to Jill, Niki, Payton, and Nina for going above and beyond!”
Also present were representatives from Cornerstone Health and Fearless!, providing helpful community and health information for guests. Poet Victoria Cottone from Cornerstone Theatre Arts performed, and DJ Mizz kept the party moving.
