Senator Maziarz Honors Marcia Tuohey in Albany as a Woman of Distinction

Senator George Maziarz today announced that Marcia Tuohey of Medina has been recognized as a 2013 New York State Senate “Woman of Distinction.”

“Marcia has been a mainstay in business and government in Orleans County for many years,” Senator Maziarz said.  “More that than though, she’s been a trailblazer for women who want to take an active role in improving their communities.  She has worn many hats--literally and figuratively--but today our hats are off to her.”

Marcia enjoyed an active business career in Medina for thirty years as the co-owner and operator of a nursing home, motel and restaurant, mobile home park, and rental properties. Her success can be attributed to a great aptitude for recognizing and meeting the needs of the community, and possessing a strong work ethic.

Her determination carried over into Marcia’s notable career in public service.  Marcia was elected as a trustee in Medina in 1979, and in 1982 she became the village’s first female mayor.  In 1990, she became Orleans County’s first female county legislator, and served as Chairman of the Legislature from 1996 until 2006.  Many local projects would not have come to fruition without her forceful advocacy and close supervision, including renovations to the historic Courthouse and Legislature buildings, an addition to the County Nursing Home, and the creation of a new Public Safety Center and Fire Training Facility.  During her time in office, Marcia also helped lay the groundwork for the expansion of Genesee Community College in Orleans County and the construction of an ethanol plant in the Town of Shelby.

Marcia’s passion for serving the public has not subsided over the years, and today she takes great pride in serving as Orleans County’s representative on the Board of Directors of the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation.

Marcia Tuohey was honored at a reception in Albany on May 7^th, where her photograph and biography were on display during a special public exhibit at the Legislative Office Building.

The Senate’s “Woman of Distinction” program was created in 1998 to honor women who exemplify personal excellence, or whose professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity, or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers.  One woman from each Senate district is typically recognized.

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