The 14th Annual Mother of the Year Contest Finalists Announced!

ALBANY, NY— The City of Albany and St. Peter’s Health Partners are proud to recognize compassionate Capital Region moms in the 14th Annual Mother of the Year Contest. The contest celebrates mothers who are committed to their families and communities while serving as positive role models and touching the lives of those around them.

More than 80 mothers were nominated this year, making the judging process difficult. Every nominee deserves congratulations. As some of the Capital Region’s most remarkable women, their love and devotion is appreciated by many.

Here are the five finalists: Stephanie Wallace Cogan of Albany, nominated by Kyle James Cogan; Helen Hagen of Rexford, nominated by Benita Oliver; Diane Nickerson de Feliz, nominated by Treven Santicola; Kathleen Pautler of Albany, nominated by Keli Pautler and Georgianna Pennacchia of Schenectady, nominated by Kara Pennachia.

Albany Mayor Jerry Jennings, the Tulip Queen and her Court will greet the five finalists on the Lake House stage in Washington Park on, Sunday May 13th at Tulip Festival. The ceremony will take place at noon where the Mother of the Year will be crowned.

“Mother of the Year is a remarkable honor that deserves the utmost respect by everyone in the community,” said Mayor Jerry Jennings, “I am privileged to crown this year’s winner and to recognize the nominees and finalists who care for our region’s children and future.”

Julianne Urbanski, a devoted mother of two and tireless advocate for the Stillwater Central School District, was crowned 2011 Mother of the Year. Her efforts include bringing in community volunteers to speak to children at local elementary schools. Urbanski is one of the quintessential caregivers the Mother of the Year contest proudly honors. She truly makes a difference in her community.

The 2012 Mother of the Year finalists also possess the motherly love and charitable disposition that Urbanski continues to demonstrate.

“St. Peter’s has had a special commitment to caring for women and families for more than 140 years” said Steven P. Boyle, Chief Executive Officer, St. Peter’s Health Partners. “We are proud to pay tribute to the outstanding achievements of mother’s who five so much to their families and the community at large”.

All five finalists will receive flowers from Ambiance Floral and Events as well as gift bags courtesy of Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Dunkin’ Donuts, Price Chopper and Mazzone Hospitality.

“Mothers rarely have time for themselves and their dedication to others deserves recognition and reward,” said Ray Bleser, owner and founder of Northeastern Fine Jewelry. “Jewelry is the kind of gift that can show a mother she is loved and appreciated.”

The Mother of the Year will be awarded luxurious Pandora bracelet from Northeastern Fine Jewelry, $100 gift cards to Dunkin’ Donuts and Price Chopper, and a four-person dining experience at Angelo’s Tavolo in Scotia.

“Mothers have a great responsibility to their children and should be recognized for their care and diligence,” said Angelo Mazzone, owner of Mazzone Hospitality, which owns and operates Angelo’s Tavolo. “Honoring the hard work of Capital Region mothers with a fine dining experience is one way to say thanks for their commitment and guidance.”

The four runner-ups will also be rewarded for their devotion to motherhood with $50 gift cards to Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Dunkin’ Donuts and Price Chopper, and a gift certificate for two to at Angelo’s Tavolo in Scotia.

“Mothers keep their families running and we’re honored to help Capital Region moms get a good start to their day,” said Eric Stensland, upstate New York field marketing manager for Dunkin’ Donuts. “Mother’s deserve praise for their devotion even though they don’t seek praise for their tireless work.”

The 14th Annual Mother of the Year Contest is sponsored by St. Peter’s Health Partners, Northeastern Fine Jewelry, Ambiance Floral and Events, Dunkin’ Donuts, Mazzone Hospitality and Price Chopper.

Photo and interview opportunities will be available immediately following the crowning ceremony.

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