The Grapevine: Women of Distinction Banquet Set for June 28 in Clarksburg for Ladies Making a Difference
By Rosalyn Queen on June 20, 2024 from The Grapevine
The Progressive Women’s Association will be presenting the Women Of Distinction Award on Friday, June 28 at noon at the Uptown Event Center. This event is held three times a year and is planned to recognize women in our community who have excelled in volunteering. This event is to honor those whose efforts have contributed to making our area a more caring place. Each candidate is recognized For their service whether it is heading up a non profit fundraiser, caring for an elderly relative who may have dementia, caring for a grandchild and the list goes on. The contributions of their service cannot be calculated in terms of money.
Keynote Speaker for the event will be Stephanie Iaquinta, Antero Resources Public Affairs Coordinator. The luncheon will be held at noon and is open to the public. Reservations must be made prior to June 25, by calling 304 624 6881.
The Women of Distinction event is sponsored by Davis Funeral Home.
Karen Alastanos
Karen has worked several jobs in Harrison County but none compare to her passion for serving the homeless population. Karen has never 
thought she would find so much joy doing street outreach. She’s been doing street outreach for the past six years which lead her to form a nonprofit organization with two of her best friends called “Friends Feeding Friends”. Karen says “It’s been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done and will continue to do until God says our season is over”. Karen Alastanos, has been married to a wonderful husband for 31 years. A mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a grandmother of four sweet grandchildren. Karen has lived in Harrison County for a total of 48 years. She has had several occupations throughout her lifetime here in Harrison County, which include being a Hairstylist, a Teacher’s Aide, owner of a daycare and a clothing boutique. Serving others has taught her so much about people and their struggles in life and how important it is to have compassion without judgement. Some say she has helped them but what they don’t realize is how much they’ve helped her also. Be kind and spread the love of Jesus.
thought she would find so much joy doing street outreach. She’s been doing street outreach for the past six years which lead her to form a nonprofit organization with two of her best friends called “Friends Feeding Friends”. Karen says “It’s been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done and will continue to do until God says our season is over”. Karen Alastanos, has been married to a wonderful husband for 31 years. A mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a grandmother of four sweet grandchildren. Karen has lived in Harrison County for a total of 48 years. She has had several occupations throughout her lifetime here in Harrison County, which include being a Hairstylist, a Teacher’s Aide, owner of a daycare and a clothing boutique. Serving others has taught her so much about people and their struggles in life and how important it is to have compassion without judgement. Some say she has helped them but what they don’t realize is how much they’ve helped her also. Be kind and spread the love of Jesus.
Aimee Comer
Aimee J. Comer is a lifelong resident of the North View section of Clarksburg. She is the proud mother of Andrew Stewart, daughter of Don and Barbara Comer, niece of Peggy Knight and Tim
Bennett, sister of Doug Comer and aunt to Sara, Jake and Costa Comer. Aimee is a 1993 graduate of Liberty High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration Marketing from Fairmont State University and a Master of Science in Marketing from Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School. Bringing over 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations to her role as the Executive Director of the Clarksburg CVB, her career began as a Marketing Consultant at WV Radio Corporation, where she focused on supporting local, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. She further expanded her expertise and leadership skills during her tenure as the Fundraising and Community Development Director at United Way of Harrison and Doddridge Counties, and as a Contracted Political/Public Relations/Marketing Consultant. Prior to entering the marketing field, she served many clinical and clerical roles employed at United Hospital Center. During that time, she fostered many longtime friendships and gained customer relation skills she utilizes to this day. With a proven track record in strategic planning, community engagement, and fostering partnerships, Aimee J. Comer is well-positioned to lead the Clarksburg CVB towards a prosperous future, enhancing the city’s appeal and fostering growth within the community.
Bennett, sister of Doug Comer and aunt to Sara, Jake and Costa Comer. Aimee is a 1993 graduate of Liberty High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration Marketing from Fairmont State University and a Master of Science in Marketing from Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School. Bringing over 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations to her role as the Executive Director of the Clarksburg CVB, her career began as a Marketing Consultant at WV Radio Corporation, where she focused on supporting local, small businesses and nonprofit organizations. She further expanded her expertise and leadership skills during her tenure as the Fundraising and Community Development Director at United Way of Harrison and Doddridge Counties, and as a Contracted Political/Public Relations/Marketing Consultant. Prior to entering the marketing field, she served many clinical and clerical roles employed at United Hospital Center. During that time, she fostered many longtime friendships and gained customer relation skills she utilizes to this day. With a proven track record in strategic planning, community engagement, and fostering partnerships, Aimee J. Comer is well-positioned to lead the Clarksburg CVB towards a prosperous future, enhancing the city’s appeal and fostering growth within the community.
Carrie Ann Davis
Carrie Davis is a devoted advocate for girls and women with special needs, channeling her passion into meaningful initiatives and volunteer work. As the reigning 2023-2024 mentor Queen for Miss Amazing, Carrie holds the esteemed position of first runner-up, embodying leadership and mentorship qualities that inspire those around her. Through her involvement with Miss Amazing, Carrie strives to instill confidence and empowerment in young girls, fostering a sense of self-worth that extends far beyond the pageant stage. In addition to her commitment to Miss Amazing, Carrie generously volunteers her time and talents to various organizations in her community. She is an active member of the Progressive Women’s Association, readily offering her assistance and support whenever needed. Every Wednesday, Carrie can be found lending a helping hand at Friends Feeding Friends, where she plays a vital role in serving meals and providing essential services to the homeless. Carrie's dedication to serving others extends to her involvement in her local church, Clarksburg Baptist Church, where she devotes her time to working with children. Outside of her church and volunteer commitments, Carrie also volunteers at the Looking Glass, a local consignment shop, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to giving back to her community. Born on January 26, 1978, in Buffalo, New York, Carrie currently resides in Clarksburg with her husband, Lyle Davis, and their beloved dog, Dusty. At 46 years old, Carrie continues to inspire those around her with her compassionate spirit and tireless dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Meghan Navarini (Clark)
Meaghan is a member of North View United Methodist Church. Meaghan was a 2023 graduate of
Leadership Harrison through the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce. Meaghan Navarini (Clark) the daughter of Kim and the late Ron Clark. She is the oldest of three sisters Danika and Abbey Clark. Meaghan is a 2009 graduate of Liberty High School and graduated from West Virginia University with her bachelor’s in 2015. During her time at WVU she was a member of the Pride of West Virginia, WVU Marching Band. Meaghan is married to DJ Navarini. They have two beautiful little girls. Lillie-Rose(3) and Josephine(1). She works for Main Street Rural Health as a Health Navigator. Meaghan is passionate about making sure people have access to affordable healthcare, medications, and resources.
Leadership Harrison through the Harrison County Chamber of Commerce. Meaghan Navarini (Clark) the daughter of Kim and the late Ron Clark. She is the oldest of three sisters Danika and Abbey Clark. Meaghan is a 2009 graduate of Liberty High School and graduated from West Virginia University with her bachelor’s in 2015. During her time at WVU she was a member of the Pride of West Virginia, WVU Marching Band. Meaghan is married to DJ Navarini. They have two beautiful little girls. Lillie-Rose(3) and Josephine(1). She works for Main Street Rural Health as a Health Navigator. Meaghan is passionate about making sure people have access to affordable healthcare, medications, and resources.
Meredith Queen
Meredith is active in her community. She serves as an officer for the Miss Amazing West Virginia 
organization - a statewide nonprofit that provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to help develop confidence and self-advocacy skills in a fun and supportive environment. Active in her church, she is a member of the Simpson Creek Baptist Church where she serves as a member of the Children's Committee and as a Sunday School Teacher for Preschool. Having been born and raised in the West Milford area of Harrison County, Meredith Queen is a 2010 graduate of Robert C. Byrd High School. In 2014, Meredith graduated cum laude from West Virginia University with a degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. She began her professional career as a certified practitioner with the State of West Virginia as a Speech Pathologist Assistant for the Harrison County school system. In 2018, she was hired as a Speech Language Pathologist with the Marion County Board of Education. In an effort to encourage advanced education for Speech Language Pathologists working with the public school system in West Virginia, Meredith was selected to participate in a special program where she earned a Masters Degree in Communication Science Disorders in 2019 from the University of Cincinnati. In 2020, she opened her own practice providing certified Speech Language and early intervention services to families with children ages birth to three. Today, Meredith has grown her business into offering services to children and families throughout Harrison and Doddridge Counties. Meredith is married to entrepreneur, photographer, and State Senator Ben Queen. Together, they are the owners of the popular Stonewall Coffee shops located in Clarksburg and Bridgeport. Meredith and Ben reside in Bridgeport with their newborn son, Arthur.
organization - a statewide nonprofit that provides opportunities for girls and women with disabilities to help develop confidence and self-advocacy skills in a fun and supportive environment. Active in her church, she is a member of the Simpson Creek Baptist Church where she serves as a member of the Children's Committee and as a Sunday School Teacher for Preschool. Having been born and raised in the West Milford area of Harrison County, Meredith Queen is a 2010 graduate of Robert C. Byrd High School. In 2014, Meredith graduated cum laude from West Virginia University with a degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology. She began her professional career as a certified practitioner with the State of West Virginia as a Speech Pathologist Assistant for the Harrison County school system. In 2018, she was hired as a Speech Language Pathologist with the Marion County Board of Education. In an effort to encourage advanced education for Speech Language Pathologists working with the public school system in West Virginia, Meredith was selected to participate in a special program where she earned a Masters Degree in Communication Science Disorders in 2019 from the University of Cincinnati. In 2020, she opened her own practice providing certified Speech Language and early intervention services to families with children ages birth to three. Today, Meredith has grown her business into offering services to children and families throughout Harrison and Doddridge Counties. Meredith is married to entrepreneur, photographer, and State Senator Ben Queen. Together, they are the owners of the popular Stonewall Coffee shops located in Clarksburg and Bridgeport. Meredith and Ben reside in Bridgeport with their newborn son, Arthur.
Mendi Scott
Mendi is active in her community and serves as a board member of the The Change Initiative, working with the Phoenix House helping women in recovery and she is also a board member with the ARC of Harrison County. Mendi was born in Lewis and raised in Good Hope, Harrison Co. and moved to Clarksburg when she graduated from South Harrison High School in 1989. Mendi is married to Francis Scott and has been married for 24 years and they have three children, Anjellica, Lexy, and Austin and three grandchildren, Cohen, Kobe, and Jonylah. She has been employed for two years at the Clarksburg Harrison Regional Housing Authority, Mendi has been the Executive Director of a non-profit, Homes For Harrison, for five years finding homes for those struggling with homelessness. Her favorite activity is spending time with her family. 
Amy Strange
Amy is a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Clarksburg where she has served as an Elder and Deacon, as well as coordinated many service and fellowship projects. Amy currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Cultural Foundation of Harrison County, Clarksburg-Harrison Library Foundation, Sacred Heart Children’s Center, and Health Access Free Clinic. She is Chairperson of the Clarksburg Urban Renewal Authority. Through volunteering and financial sponsorship, she has supported many clubs, teams, and organizations throughout Harrison County. Amy and Jeff are founding members of the Harrison County Lacrosse Association and spent many wonderful years volunteering with their children’s activities at RCBHS. They graduated from WIHS in 1987. Amy Wilson Strange, daughter of James “Jeep” and Janet Wilson, was born and raised in Clarksburg, WV. Dr. Wilson Strange has a MA in School Counseling, a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from WVU. She has been a Licensed Psychologist in WV since 2003. After working in Monongalia County schools and teaching at WVU, she currently runs a private practice in Lost Creek, Family Matters Phycological Services and is contracted through WVU to teach kinship/foster parent education classes. Dr. Wilson Strange previously served as President of the WV Psychological Association and as the Disaster Network Coordinator for WV. In her personal life, Amy has been married to Jeffrey Strange for 26 years and they have two children, Megan and Matthew, who live in Morgantown with their puppy Acadia. In her free time, Amy enjoys sporting events, concerts, theater, boating at Tygart Lake, and spending time at the beach.
Valarie Vance
My volunteer career began when I was younger and started helping my friends with their children. I am a member of Bible Baptist 
Fellowship Church, where I enjoy helping with children of all ages. I have taught Sunday School and children’s church and helped in the nursery. I have helped in all aspects of Vacation Bible School by teaching lessons, making crafts, helping with snack time, and setting up games. I have also entertained at many functions in the area as a bag lady named "Tilly". After having a major back surgery for Scoliosis, I volunteered to speak with others who were contemplating Scoliosis surgery on what to expect and the things they would need to help them through the healing process. For the past 10 years I have volunteered at Big Elm Elementary School. I have run errands, made copies (feels like a million), helped with the Smile Bus (dental care), handed food out at the farmers market, and made tons of popcorn for treat day. I worked with the 5th grade band helping the saxophone players. I have also helped with picture days and book fairs, and I have spent many hours in Santa's Workshop. I've had so much fun watching the children pick out something special for their families. I am also a volunteer substitute leader for a Water Aerobics class. On social media, I put up “The Meadowbrook Road Report", which involves road conditions from weather, accidents, road work, or anything involving road closures. Valerie’s most recent act of volunteerism is with the Bridgeport Library. I love to help where I am needed, especially with children. I was not blessed with any children of my own but have been an "Aunt' to many. Although I do not feel deserving of this award, I feel humbled and blessed to be honored with this nomination.
Fellowship Church, where I enjoy helping with children of all ages. I have taught Sunday School and children’s church and helped in the nursery. I have helped in all aspects of Vacation Bible School by teaching lessons, making crafts, helping with snack time, and setting up games. I have also entertained at many functions in the area as a bag lady named "Tilly". After having a major back surgery for Scoliosis, I volunteered to speak with others who were contemplating Scoliosis surgery on what to expect and the things they would need to help them through the healing process. For the past 10 years I have volunteered at Big Elm Elementary School. I have run errands, made copies (feels like a million), helped with the Smile Bus (dental care), handed food out at the farmers market, and made tons of popcorn for treat day. I worked with the 5th grade band helping the saxophone players. I have also helped with picture days and book fairs, and I have spent many hours in Santa's Workshop. I've had so much fun watching the children pick out something special for their families. I am also a volunteer substitute leader for a Water Aerobics class. On social media, I put up “The Meadowbrook Road Report", which involves road conditions from weather, accidents, road work, or anything involving road closures. Valerie’s most recent act of volunteerism is with the Bridgeport Library. I love to help where I am needed, especially with children. I was not blessed with any children of my own but have been an "Aunt' to many. Although I do not feel deserving of this award, I feel humbled and blessed to be honored with this nomination.
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