The Celebrate America Women of Distinction were honored by The Progressive Women's Association at a luncheon held at the Uptown Event Center.  Those honored were Judy Bonamico, Tracy Brady, Donetta Ortenzio, Kathy Wagner, Mary Jo Flaherty, Judy Hileman, Lyda Lister, Tracy Miller, Jaclyn Rominger, and Irene Sellas.

 

Natalie Tennant delivered a moving Keynote Address challenging the honorees and those present to continue volunteering in our community to make a difference.

 

Making a presentation to the honorees were Davis Funeral Home, sponsor of the event, and the City of Clarksburg representative, Council member Will Hyman. Also presenting the flag was Dixon Pruitt, who led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. Ruby Oldaker, PWA member offered the blessing prior to the meal.

 

The Women of Distinction program has been in existence for five years and has honored approximately 150 local women.  Emphasis is put on the volunteer efforts of the volunteers and those organizations that have been helped by these women include the Arc, United Way, Lions Club, local churches, children’s charities, Shepherd’s Corner, The Clarksburg Mission, WVU medicine, Hope, Inc., and the list goes on.

 

The sold-out event included an luncheon. Also assisting were Sharon Twentier, PWA Secretary, and Laura Davis, PWA Vice President, as well as members.  Betty Waddy, president, gave a welcome to those present.

 

I served as emcee and encouraged the honorees and those present to observe the American holidays and to give rebirth to these observances. I put an emphasis on those young people who join our armed services to ensure our freedom.  Two of the women honored served our country.

 

The next Women of Distinction will be held in October, which is National Italian Culture and Heritage month, and Italian American Women will be honored.  To nominate a woman, contact Elinda Carson, PWA Director.

 

Have a safe summer and until next week “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”

 

Editor's Note: Pictured are the 10 honorees with others involved in the fuction.