A salute to great women

Minot (N.D.) Daily News: Last Thursday was a special day for some special women of the Minot area.

The 22nd annual Women of Distinction awards were presented to a slate of women who have made extraordinary contributions to the community.

As in past years, awards were given to women engaged in business, volunteerism and community service to name a few categories. We were also reminded by the YWCA, which sponsors the awards, that this is a special year for that organization. In its 100th year, the YWCA has always been a vehicle for “women of distinction” to make a positive difference in their communities. We were especially struck by the words of one of this year’s recipients, Breanna Benson, who said the award is great inspiration to be of service to the community.

Perhaps Benson should be in the running for a new category at next year’s awards banquet — role model of the year.

Role models — mentors, too — are always in short supply and therefore to be highly valued.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients.