Walker County Proud -Citizen of the Year

WaLKer CoUnTY ProUD Sunday, February 22, 2015

dr. darrel Wells

The Huntsville Item’s annual salute to some of our community’s most special people

tom fordyce

CITIzen of THe Year

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

After retiring from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Dessie Cherry dedicated her life to helping others. She serves on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County, Huntsville Youth Advisory and “Promoting our Potential” as well as volunteering at SAAFE House and the Huntsville/Walker County Services. Cherry was integral in organizing the Jericho March, which emphasized the importance of supporting our teachers and schools.

‘I just love giving back’ Admirers say Dessie cherry works tirelessly to ‘make Huntsville a better place to live’

By Cody Stark News Editor hen people in Walker county need something done, there’s one person they can turn to, someone who will pour her heart and soul into everything to make it happen.

W

Since she first arrived in Huntsville in the summer of 1973 to work for the Texas Department of Corrections and take graduate classes at Sam Houston State University, Dessie Cherry has dedicated her time to “make a difference” in the Walker County community.

And those people who have had the pleasure of working side by side with Cherry on various projects will be the CMYK

first to say she has made a positive impact here. Whether it is through volunteer work with nonprofit organizations or helping establish mentoring programs at local elementary schools, she wears many hats and does it with a smile on her face.

“I just love giving back. That is one of my core values,” said Cherry, The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Citizen of the Year and also the top Volunteer of the Year.

“I love to invest time in people,” she says simply.

Cherry has invested a lot in the young people of Walker County. Before retiring as senior warden of the Goree Unit, she organized employees to form a mentor and volunteer program at Scott Johnson Elementary School.

She currently sits on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Walker County and the recently formed Promoting Our Potential committee, which supports Huntsville ISD and community involvement. She has also served on the City of Huntsville Youth Advisory Board.

Last fall, Susan Cryer, principal at

Samuel Walker Houston Elementary, reached out for help in getting parents and volunteers more involved at her school. Cherry grabbed the bull by the horns and got people organized. Samuel Houston Elementary now has a mentor program in place with more than 30 volunteers. “(Cherry) has been instrumental in helping us form a mentor and volunteer program,” Cryer explained. “She has been a key communicator in reaching out to the community to get parents to help their kids. She has been a joy to work with, and she has willingly given her time. We appreciate what she has done.”

Cherry has remained active in her community involvement, dedicating her time over the years to organizations such as the Houston-Galveston Area Council, Texas Public Employee Association, the SAAFE House, Red Cross, Huntsville/Walker County Public Service and a long list of others.

It didn’t take long for Cherry to realize that helping others was the path she wanted to take. It was an internship with the Harrison County Child Protective

Services while she was a student at Wiley College in Marshall, where she graduated with a degree in sociology, that inspired her.

“When I did my internship, I was assigned to this family and the children had a lot of challenges,” Cherry said. “I think that was the key to opening my desire to help people. I completed that internship and knew that I wanted to be some type of service worker.”

Cherry is an active member of the Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

She assisted church leaders in organizing the Jericho March last August. The event brought the community together to emphasize the importance of supporting education, students, teachers and local schools.

Her work through her church is one of the many reasons Cherry was nominated for Citizen of the Year by former citizens of the year Jane Monday and George Miles.

“She is a continued presence in the community offering love, outreach, ethiSee citizen, page 11

2 the huntSville item

SundAY, FebruArY 22, 2015

unsung Hero oF THe Year

Submitted photo

Tom Fordyce, right, poses for a picture with his old war buddy, Larry Heard, during the Walker County Wounded Warrior Banquet. Fordyce has had a profound impact on local veterans through his community service. Fordyce also helps former inmates find jobs through the DOORS Program and serves boards for the Lone Survivor and Walker County Wounded Warrior foundations.

An ex-Marine who’ll do anything to help people and his community

By JP McBride Item Reporter he Marine Corps shaped the man Tom Fordyce is today.

T

Right after graduating from Katy High School in 1966, Fordyce decided to continue his family’s history of service in the Corps.

Following basic training and sniper school, Fordyce landed in Vietnam on Nov. 4, 1966, not knowing how the brutal war would eventually change his life.

During a patrol in Kne Sanh

CMYK

on Aug. 28, 1967, Fordyce’s left arm was shredded by a bullet, rendering it useless. After quickly being flown to a military hospital, the doctor informed Fordyce that he would need to amputate Fordyce’s limp arm.

The next day, Aug. 29, Tom was supposed to take 30 days rest before embarking on another six-month tour.

This cruel twist of fate does not incite anger or bitterness in Fordyce, however. In fact, he would still be serving in the Marine Corps if it were up to him.

“I’d do it again,” Fordyce said recently. “I’d do it today.

“Fortunately, today the military gives you the opportunity, even if you get severely wounded like myself ... to stay in if you want to,” he added. “Had I had

the opportunity then, I would’ve stayed in then.”

Fordyce continues to exemplify Marine values to this day, according to those closest to him, sacrificing his time for others and meeting their needs before his own.

“You will find that his true gift to us all is being there for people, one person at a time,” Charles Hale said. “He is a true hero to those. He quietly, and with humility, goes through his life offering help to all those who need it that are fortunate enough to cross his path. He does not crow about what he does for others because his reward is truly in the giving.”

Fordyce knows no other way of living. Once a Marine, always a Marine.

“The Marine Corps sets stan-

dards and goals for you,” Fordyce said. “You take those standards and goals that they instill in you while you’re in boot camp, and as you are going through training and you just continue to apply those through the rest of your life. I’ve never failed to keep those applied and it’s helped me make it for all these years.”

Nowadays, Fordyce gives back to members of the military by raising money for the Warrior and Family Support Center at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, a place that provides coordinated services to patients recovering from combat injuries, next-of-kin and extended family members of veterans, through the Walker County Wounded Warrior Banquet.

“It’s an all-in-one package for the wounded warriors while they are seeking treatment,” Fordyce said of the Warrior and Family Support Center. “It’s an awesome place to visit, I’ll say that. I can tell you all about it ... but when you go over there and see it, I mean it just explodes.

You just look at it and say ‘Golly, this is a wonderful facility.’ We are taking care of these guys and girls.”

Fordyce and his wife Sharon are two of the minds behind the banquet in Walker County, which began in 2010. The event has come a long way in a short time, as nearly 1,300 people were in attendance for this year’s banquet. Close to $245,000 was donated by the See unsung, page 11

sundaY, februarY 22, 2015

walker countY proud 3

PUblic Servant of tHe Year

A doctor who’s glad to work at all hours of the day (and night)

By JP McBride Item Reporter arrel Wells was born and raised in Huntsville. He graduated with honors from both Huntsville High School and Sam Houston State University.

d

For more than 30 years, Wells has been the medical director for Huntsville-Walker County Emergency Medical Services, impacting the lives of community members in need and always training and critiquing his medical staff to make them all better.

Wells owns a private Independent practice, Clinic of Texas, in which he treats minor conditions, such as strep throat, lacerations and the flu.

Yet, the way he talks about his years of serving the community makes it seem like he has simply been doing his duty, something that needs no special recognition.

“It’s a privilege to practice medicine, and when I feel like I can be of assistance to patients and help out my crews, I’ll try to respond to scenes,” Wells said.

Wells briefly moved away from Huntsville to get his master’s degree from Rice University

before heading off to medical school at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

But home is where the heart is.

Wells returned to his hometown in 1979 to practice in the hospital’s emergency room.

“Certainly there is a need for more and more doctors here in Huntsville all the time,” Wells said when asked why he returned.

As the medical director for Huntsville-Walker County EMS, Wells primarily makes sure that paramedics and EMTs are operating according to procedure. He also plays a role in educating the paramedics and EMTs and responds to emergencies when he can.

“It makes me feel good to do what I do,” Wells said. “It really is a blessing to be able to get up in the middle of the night and go out and help somebody. That’s why the para-

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Dr. Darrel Wells has served as the medical director for Huntsville-Walker County EMS since 1984 and has a track record of putting the health and welfare of the community above everything else. Wells responds to calls at all hours of the night and has been known to shut down his private practice to aid citizens in need.

medics do what they do. It makes them feel very selfless.”

In spite of all the times Wells has dropped what he was doing to be of assistance to others, he doesn’t believe his track record stacks up with some of the other Citizen of the Year candidates.

“I feel undeserving,” Wells said. “Most of the people on the list probably deserve it more than me. I work and I try to do a good job. I am just very fortunate to work here and am very humbled by the fact that some people nominated me.”

Of course, those who nominated Wells for Citizen of the Year, and for the new Public Servant of the Year award, would strongly disagree with him.

“As director of EMS See doctor, page 11

4 the huntsville item

sunDaY, FebruarY 22, 2015

Volunteers of the YeAr finAlists

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Vanetta Mills, top row second from left, is pictured with members of The Community Praise Ministry at Huntsville Elementary School. Mills holds monthly fundraisers for the community’s annual “BackTo-School Supply Giveaway.” With the help of The Praise Ministry, Mills is always searching for ways to give back to the community.

Seeing a need

and supplying it

By Winston Spencer Item Reporter

V

anetta Mills is a reluctant leader. At every opportunity, Mills prefers to reflect the spotlight back on the children who are helped by the Community Praise Ministries and the volunteers who make it all possible.

“She witnessed a need and recognized those in the community who were willing to face that need with her,” Karin Olson Williams said of Mills, a finalist for The Item’s Volunteer of the Year award. “She founded the Community Praise Ministries to provide school supplies to Huntsville families.”

The more than 20-year Huntsville ISD employee works a full day as an administrative assistant at Huntsville Elementary, in addition to boosting the morale and optimism of hundreds of parents and thousands of children over the years.

Under Mills’ leadership, Community

Praise Ministries has grown, gaining the support of many local organizations and increasing the range of its outreach.

“She’s been able to get groups to work together,” Olson Williams said “Groups like LULAC, the NAACP, HISD, transportation, Bolicious Catering, Huntsville Pediatric and Adult Medicine Associates, the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County, Samuel Walker Houston Cultural Center and TDCJ. “Last August, over 1,000 bags of schools supplies and at least as many backpacks for local children from grades pre-K to 12th were organized and given away.”

That August event shows Mills’ ability to organize the scope of her vision. Local organizations with the aid of volunteers, inspired by Mills, set up tents with information on bus transportation, nutrition, health and dental care, as well as afterschool activities.

Each child enjoyed sausage on a stick, popcorn and bottled water, in addition to receiving everything needed to start a new school year.

All of that came at no cost to the students’ families.

“Last year, this event was a sight to behold,” Olson Williams said. “There were dozens — maybe hundreds — of volunteers and bags of school supplies

organized by grade level around the high school gym.

“Outside in the parking lot, local organizations set up tents with information about bus transportation, afterschool activities, and others cooked and served sausage on a stick with cold bottled water and popcorn.

“There were people everywhere reaping the benefit of the Community Praise Organization’s vision and year-long fundraising work as hundreds of students walked away with bags containing everything needed to start off a new school year without any expense to their families.”

A Huntsville High School graduate who serves on the HISD Board of Trustees, Olson Williams said the work done by Mills and the Community Praise Ministries is hugely important to families in the community.

“During difficult economic times, the Community Praise Organization came together to fill a need in Huntsville, and they continue to grow this school supply giveaway event every year,” Olson Williams said.

“In addition to the Back to School Rally/Supply Giveaway, they participate in Thanksgiving and Christmas food and toy drives, provide community tutorials and scholarships for local students, and

support the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Event.

“They have made an impact for good in our community by touching the lives of so many families and showing our kids that this community cares enough to help them have what they need to succeed.”

“It’s great to work with Vanetta in a worthwhile cause,” said Community Praise Ministries vice president Margie Mathis. “We have opportunities to work with kids and work with others through the county.”

The group also continues to hosts annual rallies to prepare students for their yearly standardized tests, as well as tutoring.

On behalf of Community Praise Ministries, Mills works with other community leaders in organizing the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and Juneteenth Parade in Huntsville.

“Vanetta is a remarkable woman. She really cares about the community and improving the lives of children in Huntsville,” said Jackie Hampton, former youth director of Greater Zion Baptist Church.

“We can say it’s not my child so it’s not my problem and do nothing. But for a person to see a need and act upon that need that is a true hero.”

sundaY, februarY 22, 2015

walker countY proud 5

UnsUng Hero of tHe YeAr finAlists

A ‘force’ for Huntsville’s youth sports programs

By JP McBride Item Reporter

t

he Huntsville community lost a wellrespected and beloved youth baseball and softball coach last month. george Ancira, 36, died after a tough seven-month battle with cancer.

The board members of the Huntsville Youth Baseball League were saddened by the loss of “Big George,” their former colleague and friend, but they stayed focused on the positive impact Ancira had on the young people of the Huntsville community during an interview on Jan. 20.

“The biggest thing was he was the most kindhearted man you would ever meet,” HYBL commissioner Jereme Wale said. “He was rough around the edges, but he would do anything to help anybody. His personality, his humor and his passion to help anybody made him a very inspirational person.”

After his friend’s passing, HYBL commissioner Stoney Bearden was excited to see so many Facebook posts that spoke so highly of Ancira and the impact he made here in Huntsville.

“Just in the past day or so with the thousands of Facebook posts, my favorite one described George in a way that I never thought of. It said that everywhere he went and everything he was involved in, that he was a force,” Bearden said. “I thought that was real fitting for him and his wife did as well. He was just a force.”

Ancira had a way of reaching kids and making sports enjoyable, the commissioners agreed.

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

George Ancira, also known affectionately as “Big George” was a well-known icon in the community for his tireless dedication to the Huntsville Boys Baseball and Girls Softball Associations. He spent every free second he had spearheading fundraisers and community events to fill the need for facilities and equipment for the teams.

“Kids were his specialty,” Kevin Von Rosenberg explained. “His heart was in the right place as far as organizing the baseball and softball leagues.

“It was always about the kids first. We didn’t always agree with him, but as long as he felt

strongly that what he was doing was for the kids, I guess you could say he didn’t really care what the other adults thought.”

Added Bearden, “He was always upbeat with them (the kids). He was motivational. The kids all looked up to him.”

Ancira’s passion for softball and baseball was matched only by his passion to help the girls and boys of Huntsville improve on the field.

“What I will remember about George is his love for the game, but more importantly his love to see

the girls succeed,” said Wiggins, a Shane Huntsville Girls Softball Association board member. “He worked real hard to make sure the girls were complimented or rewarded for their efforts.

It didn’t have to be his team, it could be any

team. He didn’t have to know them well, but he wanted to see them succeed and he always made that a point to be known to them (the girls).”

Ancira continued to be active in the community See george, page 11

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Eric McCarter delivers a speech at a Black History Program at Unity of Faith Missionary Baptist Church. McCarter organized a non-profit group entitled E&M Productions to honor his father, the late Rev. M.C. McCarter. E&M Productions has been an active part of the community, sponsoring holiday food drives and organizing cultural programs for the community.

Young man using his ‘gift’ to do good

e

By Winston Spencer Item Reporter

ric McCarter loves life. Blessed with a knack for drawing people together, McCarter admits in his younger days it was all about a party.

After the death of his father, Pastor M.C. McCarter, a few years ago, Eric’s focus began to change.

“I knew I always had a gift

for getting people together for a good time,” he said. “So why not get people together for something positive.”

That quest for positivity led

to the forming of E&M Productions in honor of his father.

“Eric’s a real unsung hero because he spends countless hours helping out people in this community,” Leteel Richardson said.

Over the course of the last four years, E&M Productions has sponsored events to feed the homeless for Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as meet other needs.

“Just this past October, Eric organized a gospel concert all

with local talent to benefit those suffering from breast cancer,” Richardson said. “It did more than promote breast cancer awareness. He was able to give all the funds raised to two members of the audience that were currently fighting breast cancer.”

McCarter feels that he is only doing what his faith has inspired him to do. He’s doing what he saw his father doing for years, helping his neighbors.

“I used to see my father see someone in need, and if he

could, I’d see him go into his own pocket and give whatever he had to help someone trying to make it,” McCarter said. “When I formed this production company, the purpose was to raise money to help even more people.”

Today, E&M Productions hears the voices of those in need, as well as recognizing local veterans.

“This past Valentine’s Day, we organized a Valentine’s banSee gift, page 11

6 WAlker CountY ProuD

Pillars of the Community

SunDAY, FebruArY 22, 2015

WAlker CountY ProuD 7

SunDAY, FebruArY 22, 2015

171 YEARS

165 YEARS

159 YEARS

These businesses are proud to call Walker County home, and plan to be around for many more years to support the community.

156 YEARS

125 YEARS

88 YEARS

76 YEARS

71 YEARS

61 YEARS

58 YEARS

53 YEARS

45 YEARS

44 YEARS

44 YEARS

42 YEARS

34 YEARS

CMYK

40 YEARS

30 YEARS

28 YEARS

35 YEARS

25 YEARS

23 YEARS

22 YEARS

18 YEARS

15 YEARS

14 YEARS

12 YEARS

14 YEARS

11 YEARS

10 YEARS

7 YEARS

CMYK

8 the huntSville item

SundAY, FebruArY 22, 2015

PuBlic ServanT of THe Year finaliST

Submitted photo

Butch Davis, center, organizes countywide training exercises to ensure emergency responders are ready for any disaster that might strike the Huntsville area.

Walker County’s

emergency man with a plan

Davis and his hard-working crews keep community safe

By Cody Stark News Editor

H

urricanes?

Been there.

Wildfires?

Done that. Tornadoes?

Taken care of.

Walker County Emergency Management Coordinator Butch Davis has dealt with a number of emergency situations since taking the job 10 years ago.

In fact, just a few months after he was hired by Walker County Sheriff Clint McRae, Davis had to coordinate one of the biggest evacuations Huntsville had ever experienced when thousands of people fled Louisiana and the Texas Coast as hurricanes Katrina and Rita stormed into the Gulf in September of 2005.

Earlier that year, Huntsville had been designated a hurricane evacuation hub and it didn’t take long for local emergency responders to be put to the test.

Luckily, Davis had hurricane preparation experience.

“I was raised in South Texas, so hurricanes were a way of life,” said Davis, who grew up in Sinton, which is located about 30 miles north of Corpus Christi. “I was a first responder and my parents were involved with hurricanes, so I knew exactly what needed to be done.”

Davis works a “24/7” job to make sure the citizens of Walker County are in good hands when disaster strikes. He answers the phone in the middle of the night and is always ready to do what needs to be done.

He was eating Father’s Day lunch with his family in 2011 when the first of several massive wildfires, which scorched thousands of acres of land, broke out in Walker County.

“I got the call that they were evacuating Cowboy Country, so I told my wife that I had to go,” Davis said. “We had just gotten that fire taken care of when the

Submitted photo

Walker County Emergency Management Coordinator Butch Davis, center, speaks with members of the Texas A&M Forest Service during a training exercise.

Davis has provided multitudes of hours dedicated to the safety and welfare of Walker County Citizens.

Cowboy Church fire started. We were out there for three days without sleep battling those fires.

“The fire departments, the Texas Forest Service and county workers made a heck of a stand on that third day that helped get that fire under control. That is what I love about Walker County. Everyone pulls together to solve a problem with hard work.”

That willingness to put the community’s safety first is why Davis was selected as a finalist for The Huntsville Item’s Citizen of the Year and Public Servant of the Year.

“Butch has provided multi-

tudes of hours dedicated to the safety and welfare of our citizens in Walker County,” County Extension Agent Reggie Lepley said in his nomination letter.

“He is a great supporter of the community, and deserves recognition for his tireless efforts. He has been a strong influence in the highly effective and cooperative effort between the government organizations of the City of Huntsville and Walker County.”

Majolein Lemmon, the executive director of Rita B. Huff Animal Shelter, said that even though there have not been any disasters lately, the county still benefits from Davis’ leadership

skills.

“I have worked under him on several occasions as leader of the small animal issues and can say without a doubt that Butch is truly the man in charge,” Lemmon said in her nomination letter.

“He is a very strong man that doesn’t budge when things get rough. Whether it is a hurricane or a wildfire, Butch manages to get everybody where they need to be in a safe and timely manner.

“We are lucky to have Butch leading our county in times of emergency. ...”

Davis has played a huge role in taking the Office of

Emergency Management to new heights over the years. He has worked close with county officials to get grants that has helped the county secure funds to build the Storm Shelter and purchase equipment and radios for emergency responders.

He also coordinates countywide training simulations that range from tornado drills at local schools to mass fatality accidents.

“Butch has done an excellent job and helped carry emergency management to a whole new level that supersedes what this county has ever done,” McRae said. “He is always willing to do whatever is needed.”

sunday, february 22, 2015

walker county proud 9

Now opeN Hamilton Vein Center is the leading vein clinic of Texas with multiple locations around Houston and Austin. Hamilton Vein Center’s board-certified interventional radiologists are vein specialists — specialized in diagnosing and treating vein disease to help people suffering from leg pain, heaviness and fatigue, skin changes, swelling, restless legs, night cramps, and ulcers.

Hamilton Vein Center is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive, least painful approach to the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders using the most advanced, minimally invasive procedures available.

Founded in March 2010 by Dr. Carlos R. Hamilton III, Hamilton Vein Center is committed to championing awareness of and relief from vein disease, a commonly misdiagnosed condition.

Since vein disease is a medical condition, most treatments are covered by insurance and Medicare. Call today for your free consultation at Hamilton Vein Center Huntsville.

102 Medical park Lane, Suite A Huntsville, TX 77304 281-565-0033 | HamiltonVein.com Multiple locations around Houston and Austin For more information, list of locations and clinic hours, please visit www.HamiltonVein.com.

Home Health Care of Huntsville (HHCH) and Thee Hospice, a local agency with deep roots in Walker County, began in 1983 as a small agency. Over the years, this hometown business has thrived, currently employing over 180 professionals with a location in Fairfield and a second, Conroe office, opening in the spring.

As a member of Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce (as well as the Preferred Partners group with the Chamber of Commerce) HHCH and Thee Hospice has invested in our county in many ways, both in community service and local economic partnerships.

One example of such commitment is supporting our dedicated local youth in their desire to work hard and succeed at whatever they do. In particular, HHCH and Thee Hospice is proud to support the Walker County Fair and Rodeo, the Walker County AG Booster Auction, and the Huntsville Girls Softball Association through donations and volunteering.

HHCH and Thee Hospice likewise focuses on our older citizens through partnership with other agencies, the Walker County Senior Center and the Walker County Master Gardeners TEEA Ladies Group. Supporting an environment where seniors can gather and have a meal, enjoy a game, exercise, sew, meet a new friend or find a quiet place to read, builds community.

For over 30 years, HHCH and Thee Hospice has been a vital part of taking care of Walker County's home health care patients as well as playing an integral part in the community via community service and economic development in our county. We stay involved in local causes because we are committed to the people who live and work here and want to give back and say “Thank You” for the support that has been given to us throughout the years. All of these community building endeavors increases quality of life; and that is something that Home Health Care of Huntsville and Thee Hospice strives to achieve not only within its community at large, but also with each and every patient under our care.

PArtnering to MAke MedicAl school A reAlity for texAns

The JAMP Camp is an opportunity for selected students to learn the finer details of the JAMP program and engage in activities geared toward their success in college and as medical doctors.

Campers will participate in interactive medical scenarios and workshops plus learn about the rich SHSU traditions while on campus. Recreational activities will be provided at SHSU’s main campus and at SHSU’s “University Camp” near the Trinity River. Students experience campus life as they stay overnight in a residence hall while attending the camp. The camp is scheduled for July 19-24, 2015, will be limited to 20 participants, and is offered at no cost to the students.

High school juniors and seniors who have a strong desire to pursue medical school, and would like to take their pre-medical coursework at SHSU, are invited to apply to attend SHSU’s JAMP Camp. (Preference will be given to students who are financially disadvantaged.)

All about the camp: • NO COST to the participant. Lodging, meals, and supplies are fully provided for each participant.

• Exposure to the medical profession by interacting with doctors and staff in local hospitals.

• Gain insight into medical school from current students and administrators.

• Enjoy a week of ‘college life’ at the beautiful Sam Houston State University Campus and its facilities.

Sam Houston Statue and Visitor Center & Gift Shop serves as a gateway to Huntsville!

Is your club or organization planning a conference? Is a family member getting married? Any event that brings visitors to our beautiful city, we can help you find the best location, prepare visitor information packet, and restaurants and we’ll even help with hotel room blocks for groups of 15 or more. We are here to make sure your guest experience will have them wanting to come back to Huntsville, “Where a Warm Welcome Awaits!

Located on I-45 the statue has welcomed over a million visitors that have signed the guess book, including visitors from 124 foreign countries.

Looking for things to do during Spring Break or any other time? Drop by the visitor center and let the Guest Service’s Representative help plan your day.

Bring the family and have a picnic under the tall pines trees in our beautiful park.

Don’t forget to visit the Statue Gift Shop to find that special something to take home. We offer a large selection of Texas gifts, Sam Houston Statue collectibles, one-of-a-kind gift items, shirts, mugs, and jewelry. Make sure to take home a miniature statue or ornament to remember your trip for years to come.

Explore one of Texas’ Cultural District with historic sites, activities and attractions that reflect our community‘s cultural heritage. Enjoy a theatrical performance at the Gaertner Performance Art Center, maybe join in the creative dance at the Crazy Wood Gallery or peruse the gallery at the Wynne Home Center. Let us go to work for you.

For more information contact Jamie Matthews at (936) 291-9726 or (800) 289-0389.

10 The hunTsville iTem

CMYK

sunDAY, FebruArY 22, 2015

sunday, february 22, 2015

walker county proud 11

george Continued from page 5

and his family life even when he was in great and constant physical pain.

“He kind of coined the phrase in his last days to never give up,” Bearden said.

“He fought cancer for seven months, and not one time in the seven months did I ever hear him say, ‘Why me?’ or ‘Poor me,’”

gift Continued from page 5 quet and comedy show at Walker County the Fairgrounds,” Eric McCarter said. “Having

Wale said.

“It was always ‘I’ve got this’ and ‘I’m going to beat this,’ and he didn’t quit fighting until his last breath.”

Ancira’s ability to create a positive atmosphere for everyone at the ballpark will never be replaced, Wiggins said. “(The HGSA) lost a consistent presence at the field,” Wiggins said. “He wasn’t on the board, but he was at the fields a lot. He was an encouraging person and was always there to be the best.

events like that help to promote strong marriages and provide our men with opportunities to take their wife out, that’s classy and close to home.

“We were also fortunate to bring local talent togeth-

unsung Continued from page 2

folks in Walker County to the Wounded Warrior and Support Center.

“When you go back to our first banquet in January 2010, we were thinking if we could get a couple hundred people to show up and make $5,000 we’ll be happy,” Fordyce said. “I think close to 650 showed up. It just blew our minds.

We didn’t have any idea. It’s just kept growing every year. The people of Walker County just open up their hearts for this event.”

During this year’s banquet, Fordyce received special recognition from his good friend Rusty Davis for his efforts in improving the lives of all veterans.

“He fought for the freedom we all enjoy and I hope you don’t take for granted,” said Davis, president of the Walker County Fair Association.

“A lot of people gave the ultimate sacrifice. Tom lost an arm, yet you never hear him grumble or complain about it. He’s always trying to help guys that are coming back from overseas. If you ask him a question, or if you ask him to do you a favor, he’s all over it. It’s not something he forgets.

“He goes way beyond the call of

CMYK

To me, you can’t replace that when people are that way.

“He was a jokester, yet when it got time to get serious and teach the kids the fundamentals of softball, he was there to teach the kids the fundamentals of softball. That to me is irreplaceable.”

Last August, the Huntsville Youth Baseball League board members held the first Team Big George Wiffleball Tournament, which raised more than $8,000 for the Ancira family.

er for a Black History celebration for the youth of this community.”

Born in a section of town called “New Addition,” McCarter is always mindful of his roots.

“I’ve heard people refer

duty to help someone. ” Along with his work on the Wounded Warrior Banquet, Fordyce sits on the Lone Survivor Foundation board, which serves veterans and their families, and is a supporter of the HEARTS Veterans Museum.

“He’s always got time to help anybody,” said Charlotte Oleinik, cofounder of the HEARTS Museum.

“He stays in the background and he’s low-key. In a lot of ways he is one of my mentors. I can always go to him with questions or with situations I’m trying to handle. He’s always been there for me and that means a whole lot.

“He believes in what I’m trying to do and he gives me a lot of moral Oleinik added. support,” “Sometimes I need that more than I need anything else. He’ll do whatever anybody asks him to do. No job is too lowly or too insignificant for him to do if I need some help.”

Fordyce joined the board of directors for the Walker County Fair Association this year after being asked to join by Davis. Fordyce has been a financial supporter of the fair for a long time because of the positive experience it affords the youth of Walker County.

“It provides a setting for kids and we’re hoping we are setting some standards and goals for these kids,” Fordyce said. “I don’t think I have

The amount surpassed the hopes of HYBL board members C.J. O’Donnell and Bearden.

“It was better than we expected,” Bearden said.

“We were hoping for the best, and in my opinion, I think it was a huge success,” added O’Donnell.

“I was pulling out of the driveway to go to the bank and when I went to go see what time the bank opened up, all of a sudden I saw all these cars pulling in and I thought, ‘Wow, this is awe-

to my old neighborhood as the Swamp,” he said.

“Some have even thought not much good can come from this area. It only motivates me to be a counter balance for all things positive.”

any statistics to back this up, but it just appears that those kids who have been involved in agriculture from when they were 5 and 6 years old ... it seems like we have less trouble out of them as they go through life. I think that you will find that kids who have been involved in agriculture tend to have a more meaningful goal set in life.”

The number of other boards not mentioned that Fordyce sits on and community events and projects he is involved in is truly staggering.

For all of Fordyce’s efforts, he is quick to point out that the work of others is the reason he was nominated for one of The Item’s Citizen of the Year awards.

“It’s an extreme honor,” Fordyce said. “I shouldn’t be given the award. That should go to the folks here in Walker County. The entire Walker County should be getting Citizen of the Year for their participation in the Walker County Wounded Warrior Association we have. It’s such an awesome feeling to see these combat men and women coming back and we are giving them an opportunity to better their lives.”

While Fordyce might like to stay in the background, as Oleinik put it, past Citizen of the Year winners were happy to bring him to center stage last week.

Fordyce is The Item’s 2014 Unsung Hero of the Year.

some.’”

O’Donnell guessed the tournament might bring in about half the money it ended up generating before the day began and was blown away by the results.

“I was thinking we’d be lucky if we hit $5,000,” he said.

“When we counted $8,000 we were like, ‘Really? We have to recount this.’ I recounted it three times.”

Ancira is survived by his wife Shelley and daughters Allie and Emily.

citizen

Continued from page 1

cal behavior, caring for our children and a desire to make Huntsville a better place to live,” Monday said in her nomination letter. “I have been privileged to know her and look to her as one of Huntsville’s shining stars. ... She also says her work is not done and I know it is not and whatever else she does it will be for the good of us all.”

Cherry, who was born in Henderson, said she thought upon graduating college that she would remain in the area she grew up in, but that “God had something different in store” for her and that she was “very grateful for that.”

The Walker County community is grateful as well.

doctor

Continued from page 3

and Medical Sevices, he goes above and beyond to serve the public,” Huntsville Police Chief Kevin Lunsford said. “He often closes down his personal business during the day to respond with EMS even though he’s not required (to). (He) often responds in the middle of the night to assist EMS, the fire (department), the police, etc. (Wells is) very selfless in all his actions.”

“He always places the needs of Huntsville-Walker County Emergency Medical Service and the welfare of the citizens of this county ahead of his own,” said John Nabors, director of Huntsville-Walker County EMS. “He gives all this time and effort and does this not for the money, but for the sense of community. He embodies what I think of when you ask a physician to become a medical director.”

Regardless of Wells’ opinion of himself, past Citizen of the Year winners and The Item’s editorial board have spoken. Wells is The Item’s Public Servant of the Year for 2014.

12 walker county proud

sunday, february 22, 2015

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE

Presented by: WALKER COUNTY FAIR & RODEO APRIL 3rd THRU APRIL 11th Pre-Sale Tickets • Rodeo • Carnival Season Passes • Fair

Buy Early, Save Money!

Parade Thursday, April 2nd • 7 p.m.

Parade

Pro Rodeo

Fair

April 3rd & April 4th

Arts & Crafts Sneek Peek

Top Entertainment

April 2nd

Walker County Rodeo Voted Top 5 Small Outdoor Rodeos by PRCA Cowboys And Cowgirls

Come See The Action Special Events All Week On The Midway!

www.walkercountyfair.com

Don’t Forget to Follow Us on Facebook®

Help support the Youth of Walker County Benefiting 4-H, FFA and Scholarships CMYK

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:31 Pm Page 1

WaLKEr CouNtY Proud

Sunday, February 22, 2015

The Huntsville Item

EduCator of thE YEar

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Calvin Ortiz, center, leads a group of elementary students through reading exercises during an after-school program at Stewart Elementary. Ortiz dedicates his time before and after school to tutor students who need extra help with reading or other subjects.

Called to teach with class

By Marissa Nunez Item Reporter

at

a huntsville Independent School District school board meeting earlier this month, board trustees and Superintendent howell Wright participated in a team-building and self-assessment workshop.

Each trustee and the district’s new superintendent took a moment to tell stories about the teachers who impacted them the most and why.

After each heartfelt story, Texas Association of School Boards consultant Kay Douglas asked the trustees and Wright, “Now, don’t you want every student to have a teacher like that?”

One teacher who has come to

epitomize these stories is Calvin Ortiz, a third-grade English and bilingual teacher at Huntsville’s Estella Stewart Elementary.

For all of his hard work and devotion to both his students and education, Ortiz was named Educator of The Year by The Huntsville Item.

“Teaching is not an easy job, and Calvin does it with a lot of class and style,” said Connie

Mathis, assistant principal at Stewart Elementary. “He is a leader and a role model to not just the students, but other educators throughout the district.

He is a great asset to our school district, and we need to celebrate everything he does.”

Ortiz, who grew up in the Cypress-Fairbanks area, graduated from Sam Houston State University in 1998 with his bachelor’s degree in early education. It was during his senior year at SHSU, while working a shift at Golden Corral, that he stumbled upon an opportunity to teach at Stewart Elementary.

His teaching career began with a casual conversation at Golden Corral with Stewart’s then-assistant principal Stacey Bennett.

“She was asking me about what I was majoring in and I told her that I was an education major about to graduate,” Ortiz

recalls. “She was just like, ‘You should come join Stewart Elementary.’”

Ortiz says that with Bennett’s advice to apply for the job, he was able to get his foot in the door in the teaching profession, but ultimately he felt like he was being led into teaching.

“I just felt like God was calling me to teaching, and I knew that if I followed what he had for me that it would all work out and it did,” Ortiz said.

Ever since joining the HISD team nearly 17 years ago, Ortiz has dedicated his career to the success of his students. He constantly displays a genuine interest and care for the students’ well-being.

“He doesn’t just meet the kids’ needs educationally, but emotionally as well. He truly takes an interest in the whole child,” Mathis said.

Not only has Ortiz displayed

such commitment to helping his students, but his fellow teachers as well. One colleague who has seen these characteristics in action is Ortiz’s teaching partner, third-grade math teacher Sylvia Little.

“I’m new to third grade and he has just taught me so much,” Little said. “He will come in sometimes and show me things I have never thought about. He will sit down and take the time to help me.”

Being one of several bilingual teachers at Stewart, Ortiz utilizes various resources and strategies to ensure all of his students are learning those critical skills needed later on in life.

“Learning a new language at this age is very difficult, and third grade is all about thinking and developing those skills,” Ortiz said. “We’ll use vocabu-

rachel elam audie Wyatt

marissa dixon CMYK

marcus evans

See teach, page 10

unsung hero's Section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:34 pm page 2

2 the huntSville item

SundaY, FebruarY 22, 2015

sTudenT of THe Year

SHSU senior leaving her footprints all over Earth

By Marissa Nunez Item Reporter prawled across a brick wall on the main courtyard of the sam Houston state campus, reads the university’s motto: “The measure of a life is its service.”

s

The glimmering gold-painted letters serve as a daily reminder to students as they walk to and from class to make the most of their lives inside and outside the classroom.

For SHSU senior Rachel Elam, serving people and her community is ingrained in her heart. For her, dedication to caring and reaching out to people is why she was awarded The Huntsville Item’s Student of The Year award for 2014.

“She’s exceptional at loving people the way Christ would, and is continually thinking about people that need help,” her boss, Facemaker owner Bert Lyle, said. “When she gets involved with something, she gives 110 percent to it.

She is someone you want on your team.”

The shy, soft-spoken Baytown native, says serving people and her community

is something she’s always been passionate about.

“I just love to serve,” Elam said. “I love to serve people and my church, and coming to college gave me a lot more opportunities to leave my footprint on the Earth.”

Elam, a double major in criminal justice and psychology, and a double-minor in Arabic and Spanish, currently volunteers at the Walker County Sheriff’s Office.

“I was talking with a guy at my church about my major and he said volunteering at the sheriff’s department would be a good opportunity for me,” Elam explained. “I’m still relatively new to it and still training.”

While volunteering, she helps assist See senior, page 10

Submitted photo

Sam Houston State senior Rachel Elam volunteers at her church, University Heights Baptist, running the sound and light boards each Sunday.

CMYK

JoShua YateS/the huntSville item

Rachel Elam is a senior at Sam Houston State and has dedicated her life to becoming involved in the community. Elam volunteers for the Walker County Sheriff’s Office and participates in a youth outreach program called Sportsreach.

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:35 pm page 3

sunday, february 22, 2015

walker county proud 3

CoACH of tHE YEAr

Item fIle photo

Led by Huntsville golf head coach Marcus Evans, pictured holding the state championship trophy, the Lady Hornets won their first state championship at the University of Texas Golf Club in Austin last spring. Evans was credited by former Lady Hornets golfer Courtney Tibiletti as being a profound swing coach and also provided a great deal of strong moral support. Pictured behind Evans, from left, are assistant coach Cody McKinley, Reece Haralson, Paige Weiss, Hannah Valentine, Casey Leatherman, Tibiletti and assistant coach Danny Leatherman. Evans was selected as The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Coach of the Year.

ON TOP IN TEXAS

In classic Cinderella story, Huntsville’s Marcus Evans leads Lady Hornets to Class 4A state golf championship

By Gene Schallenberg Sports Editor

C

onventional wisdom suggests that if one gets to the show enough times, they’ll eventually go home with the big prize.

After guiding several Huntsville individuals and

CMYK

teams to the state tournament over the years, the Lady Hornets

rewarded their head coach, Marcus Evans, plus assistant Danny Leatherman, with an elusive state championship in April of last year.

It was the first team state championship for Huntsville in nearly 35 years, and for that, Evans was selected as The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Coach of the Year, besting Sam Houston

State football coach K.C. Keeler and Bearkats bowling coach Brad Hagen.

Years and years of having to compete and contend in regional tournaments with a dominant Montgomery girls golf program, which won 11 state championships from 2001 to 2012, this past spring was finally the Lady Hornets’ time.

After finishing second in the District 18-4A tournament and third in the regional tournament, the Huntsville girls played lights for two straight days at the state tournament in Austin at the University of Texas Golf Club.

Posting the low score during both rounds, the Lady Hornets, See tops, page 9

unsung hero's Section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:37 pm page 4

4 the huntSvIlle Item

SunDaY, februarY 22, 2015

FeMaile atHlete oF tHe Year

Gene SchallenberG/the huntSvIlle Item

In her junior season, Marissa Dixon, pictured pinning her opponent in a dual meet last December, helped to make Huntsville’s girls wrestling program recognized as one of the best in Texas. Dixon won district and regional championships and was a state runnner-up. Led by Dixon, the Lady Hornets finished third as a team at the state tournament. Dixon later found plenty of success in the pole vault with the track and field team and because of her accomplishments, she was voted The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Female Athlete of the Year.

two-sport terror

Huntsville High School’s Marissa Dixon wrestles and pole vaults her way to district titles

By Gene Schallenberg Sports Editor

C

hampionships, especially in tournament- or meetrun sports, are often difficult to come by.

During 2014, Huntsville junior Marissa Dixon shined at the most important times for the Lady Hornets’ wrestling and track and field teams.

For winning a handful of championships in wrestling and in the pole vault, Dixon was selected as The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Female Athlete of the Year, prevailing over Huntsville High School golfer Courtney Tibiletti and Sam Houston State volleyball player Deveney Wells-Gibson.

“As an athlete, she was a cut above the competition and that makes her a great See terror, page 9A

CMYK

Item fIle photo

After finishing up her spectacular wrestling season, Marissa Dixon was also highly successful in the pole vault with Huntsville’s track and field team.

Dixon shared a district championship with teammate Sydney Beverly and placed third at the regional meet.

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:39 pm page 5

sunday, february 22, 2015

walker county proud 5

Male atHlete of tHe Year

Item fIle photo

Huntsville senior Audie Wyatt clears the bar during the Class 4A pole vault competition at the UIL State Track and Field Championships in Austin last year. After vaulting 16 feet, 9 inches, then 17 feet, Wyatt won the Class 4A state championship, putting himself on the level with other Huntsville track and field state champions like Ceasar O’Neal, Cleo Tyson, Lane Dennis and Justin Gilbert. Wyatt was voted 2014 Male Athlete of the Year by The Huntsville Item sports team.

Soaring above the rest

By Gene Schallenberg Sports Editor

a

year after experiencing a wealth of disappointment, Huntsville’s audie Wyatt had a year of triumph and jubilation in 2014.

Wyatt, a pole vaulter, bounced back in a big way and closed out his high school career with a district championship, a runner-up finish at the Region III meet, and best of all, a goldmedal performance at the UIL Track and Field State Championships in Austin.

Due to his success, Wyatt was voted The Huntsville Item’s 2014 Male Athlete of the Year, edging Huntsville High School golfer Chandler Phillips and Sam Houston State baseball player Anthony Azar.

The path to Wyatt’s stateSee soaring, page 8

Item fIle photo

Audie Wyatt blows kisses to the crowd, acknowledging their applause, after clearing a personal record of 17 feet in the pole vault at the state meet last spring.

After clinching his state championship with a vault of 16 feet, 9 inches, Wyatt capped his high school career with a personal-best vault.

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:40 Pm Page 6

6 the huntsville item

sunDaY, FebruarY 22, 2015

EducaTor of ThE YEar finalisT

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Pamela Zelbst, the director of Sam Houston State University’s Center for Innovation and Technology, poses for a picture with a new piece of cutting-edge technology designed to help a wounded veteran hold a cellphone. Zelbst and her team have been hard at work seeking ways to utilize new technology to solve real-world problems.

Dr. Pamela Zelbst, director of Sam Houston State’s Center for Innovation and Technology, thinks

waaaaaaaay

outside the box

By Marissa Nunez Item Reporter

T

he next time you’re watching television, playing on your computer or talking on the phone, take a moment to think about how far technology has come in the last 15 or so years.

From big, clunky cellphones to sleek, high-powered smart phones, from always advancing gaming systems to groundbreaking medical advancements, a world of change has been realized due to rapid innovation and technology.

Due to her dedication to improving the lives of the community and abroad, through groundbreaking work in robotics, director of the Center for Innovation and Technology Pamela Zelbst, Ph.D. was a finalist for The Huntsville Item’s 2015 Educator of The Year award.

“She works very hard, and she takes the initiative with so many things that a lot people would walk away from,” said Hamid Bouaicha, a graduate student who works at the center with Zelbst. “She has a very special way of looking at things, and it’s good to have a professor that thinks outside of the box.”

Zelbst, who considers herself a “nontraditional” student, earned her bachelor’s degree in general business administration from SHSU in 1997 and her master’s in business administration in 1998.

During her time in the master’s program, Zelbst had the opportunity to take a class called the “management of innovation and technology,” which she says spurred her interest in robotics and technology.

“The course was really eye-opening,” Zelbst said. “The things that you can do if you understood how to forecast for technology and anticipate what was going to be next on the market really intrigued me.”

After graduating from the master’s program at SHSU, Zelbst began teaching in the college of business as an adjunct

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Zoe Clancy smiles as she shows off her prosthetic hand during an interview last June. Clancy was born with amniotic band syndrome, which hindered the growth of her hand at birth. By use of 3-D printing technology, researchers at the SHSU Center for Innovation and Technology have been able to create a prosthetic hand crafted specifically for Clancy’s condition.

professor. She says that during her time there, her passion for teaching began to grow. She had “finally discovered what I wanted to do when I grew up.”

“I decided to go into teaching full-time and I recognized quickly that if I wanted to really do the things that I wanted to do, I needed to get a Ph.D.,” said Zelbst, who graduated from the University of Texas in 2006 with a doctorate degree in information systems and production operations management.

For more than nine years, Zelbst has committed her life’s work to improving the lives of the people around her by using revolutionary technology, such as 3-D printing and combining that with creative, innovative ideas.

One of those innovative ideas came in the form of a robotic hand for a 5-yearold girl named Zoe Clancy. Clancy was born with amniotic band syndrome, a physical abnormality that occurs when a

string-like band forms around the body’s extremities while in the womb.

Zelbst says she received an email from Zoe’s mother, Jessica, asking if Zelbst had access to a 3-D printer. A few email exchanges later, Clancy and Zoe traveled to Huntsville to meet with Zelbst and discuss plans for a 3-D-printed hand.

“As soon as Zoe walked through the door, all I could think about was my granddaughter, and automatically I thought I had to do something for her,” Zelbst said. “From there, the project became a passion of mine.”

The initial prototype of the hand took about three months to complete, but seeing Zoe put on the hand for the first time was worth all the time and hours of hard work that Zelbst and graduate student Victor Garcia put into the project.

“I still tear up when I think about it,” Zelbst said. “The first time she put it on she was able to use it, and that was amaz-

ing to me. She wasn’t able to make huge movements with it, but what she could do was move the fingers and she was able to pick up a piece of paper, a cup and hold her mother’s cellphone.”

Zoe is just one of many lives that Zelbst and her team have changed. From helping veterans through the Wounded Warrior project to even a student’s pet, Zelbst’s unceasing compassion and enthusiasm about what she does is what chair for the department of management and marketing Gerald Kohers says makes Zelbst unique.

“It’s fun to watch her out there because she legitimately loves doing what she’s doing,” Kohers said. “She carries what she’s doing into the classroom and involves the students in so much of what she does. There is a number of graduate students at the center that are learning a lot that they wouldn’t be able to learn inside the classroom.”

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:42 pm page 7

sundaY, februarY 22, 2015

walker countY proud 7

educator oF the Year FinaliSt

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Huntsville High School principal Beth Burt poses for a photograph in the hallway just before the bell rings on a recent afternoon. Burt has a track record of relentless dedication to her students and her staff. She always makes time to be involved on a personal level while managing the busy Huntsville ISD campus.

A principal who truly cares:

Burt goes to bat for students, staff

o

By Winston Spencer Item Reporter

riginally, beth burt came to huntsville to seek an undergraduate degree in drama and dance from Sam houston State university. all that changed after one semester.

With a burning desire to make a difference, Burt made the change to speech therapy and audiology. Her change of plans eventually led her up the career ladder to become the principal of Huntsville

High School. Along the way, Burt has been a big help to both students and teachers.

“In the 10 years that I have been teaching, Mrs. Burt has been my principal for

eight of those years. In the summer of 2012, I received my master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in mathematics,” said Barbara Lesikar, teacher at Huntsville High School.

“Even though Mrs. Burt was now at a different school than myself, she supported my attending master’s classes. She believed that by giving myself a higher education, I was giving our students one as well.

“After obtaining my degree, Mrs. Burt remembered that one of my ultimate goals as an educator is to one day teach mathematics at a university and sought

me out to teach the dual credit college algebra and trigonometry classes at Huntsville High School, where she had now been the principal for two years.

“I not only jumped at the amazing opportunity because it was a dream come true for me, but I also jumped at the chance because I would be able to work with Mrs. Burt again as my principal.

She is one that even though she has many people on her staff, she still knows how to make you feel important and special as an individual. She has allowed me to believe that I matter and that the choices See burt, page 8

Student oF the Year FinaliSt

Dancing to the beat of a helpful drummer

By Joshua Yates Item Photographer or many students, college offers a first taste of freedom. the rigid schedule and inflexible curriculum of high school gives way to a relaxed atmosphere, where you choose your own classes and your own level of involvement.

F

While some may choose the path of least resistance toward graduation, or the one that leads to the nearest pub, a select few dive headfirst into everything that their university has to offer.

Katy Aleecia Strouse, a recent art graduate of Sam Houston State, belongs in the latter group.

As a freshman studio art major, Strouse became a member of the Student Art Association on campus and quickly became involved in every aspect of the group. Her constant presence at each biweekly meeting garnered the respect of the current officers and members alike.

Joshua Yates/the huntsville item

Katy Strouse, second from left, practices with members of the Sam Houston Ballet Folklorico under the gazebo at the Walker County Courthouse. Strouse led the Sam Houston State Student Art Association as president while volunteering and performing with the ballet during her time at SHSU.

“She was always so helpful,” former SAA president Wendy Franklin said. “She jumped at every opportunity to be involved and was always look-

ing for ways to help others.”

While Strouse was busy getting involved in the art scene, she searched for other chances to lend a hand around campus as

well. By the time she was a sophomore, she had become a resident adviser for her campus dorm room in an effort to help new students become acclimat-

ed to the university setting.

Through the SHSU Health and Kinesiology Department, See dancing, page 12

unsung Hero's Section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:42 Pm Page 8

8 THe HuNTSville iTem

soaring

Continued from page 5

championship story began in the spring of 2013. As a favorite in the region’s pole vault competition, Wyatt pulled a hamstring prior to the meet and finished a gutty sixth, but well shy of the state meet.

“I think that injury bothered him and he had to get over it,” former Hornets track and field head coach Doug Shaw said.

After performing well and posting impressive marks at various meets in the spring of 2014, Wyatt was invited to compete at the Texas Relays, a premier track and field meet for college and high school athletes hosted by the University of Texas.

That’s where Wyatt began to

SuNDAY, FeBruArY 22, 2015

find his stride and pick up momentum for his run toward a state championship.

Among some of the best athletes in the country in his specific event, including a pair of competitors he practiced with and competed against at the regional and state meets, Wyatt finished fifth after clearing a height of 16 feet, 2 3/4 inches.

“I was with the best of the best,” Wyatt said following the Texas Relays. “It was the best of pretty much the state of Texas and even the country. I am kind of proud but I still know I could have done better. I could have placed in the top three for sure. I feel I have the potential to do way better.”

That put the wheels in motion for Wyatt, with district and regional meets on the horizon. ”To be able to compete on that

burt

Continued from page 7

that I make with my students, so that they may succeed in their own futures, has a meaningful purpose.”

Burt is also well-respected among her students. She’s fully dedicated to seeing all of the young students succeed.

“As a senior at Huntsville High School, I have enjoyed all four years of being a student here at HHS,” said Allison Nichols. “I have grown to love the remarkable staff that has dedicated their everyday lives to help our school prosper. Among these people is a lady who stands out, Mrs. Burt. She has been an honorable and sweet principal.”

“I have been lucky to get to spend my last four years with her. She is someone that not only says that she cares about her students, but shows that she is proud of our school,” Nichols added. “It is to her that I want to thank for always being a positive role model to our school, and pushing us to be successful in life.”

What impresses many the most about Burt is her genuine concern about people

level at the top echelon of his sport and compete as well as he did, I think that gave him the confidence he needed,” Shaw said.

At the District 18-4A meet in Brenham, the rest of the field topped out at 12 feet; Wyatt, risking that he would not advance to the area meet if he didn’t clear his first height, cleared 14 feet with no problem, repeating as district champion.

Wyatt continued to shine and even eclipsed the 16-6 mark, which was a personal record.

“I was trying for 17. I can have it,” Wyatt said following his impressive district performance. “I’m just tired right now and my hamstring is really tight.

I didn’t want to push it too much.

I set a new PR at 16-6. I’m feeling pretty good. I should be jumping 18 by state. That’s my

“She is someone that not only says that she cares about her students, but shows that she is proud of our school. It is to her that I want to thank for always being a positive role model to our school, and pushing us to be successful in life.”

Allison Nichols / Huntsville High School senior about her principal, Beth Burt — all people.

Never turning away from needed to talks about personal or professional concerns. Going out of her way to help anyone.

“She is willing to do any task that is needed. For example, I have seen her stand in the rain and put students in cars after school, or serve lunch in the cafeteria because there were so many visitors the lines became long,” Lesikar said.

“She has sat and consoled many students who have lost a loved one, taken her employees to the hospital, sat with them while a family was in surgery and so much more.”

goal.

Wyatt then finished as runnerup at the Region III meet with a clearance of 16 feet, 6 inches.

That earned him an automatic berth to the state meet. Practice partners Jacob Wooten and Antonio Ruiz of Tomball Memorial finished first and third in the region, respectively.

Competing at the state meet for the first time, Wyatt looked like a regular. He cleared bar after bar, clinching the state championship after flying over at 16 feet, 9 inches. He also vaulted a career best of 17 feet and came away with a gold medal at the state meet. Wyatt outlasted Corsicana’s Noah Gilfillan and Ruiz.

“It means everything to me.

This is all I’ve been aiming for all year,” said Wyatt. “All I wanted was 17 feet and a gold

medal and I got it. I was really excited with my performance. It was a tough competition.”

The other Male Athlete of the Year finalists, Phillips and Azar, also had remarkable years in their respective sports.

The Item’s Male Athlete of the Year winner in 2012, Phillips won nine high school and junior golf tournaments last year, including a district title and repeating as regional champion for the third straight year.

Azar was selected as Southland Conference Baseball Player of the Year. Azar led the Bearkats to a third straight regular-season conference championship.

Azar was the Kats’ biggest offensive threat, leading the team with a .368 batting average and nine home runs. He drove a team-high 49 runs.

Unsung Hero's Section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:43 pM page 9

SUNDAy, FEBrUAry 22, 2015

wAlkEr CoUNty proUD 9

terror

Continued from page 4

wrestler,” said Dean Schaub, who was Dixon’s wrestling coach at Huntsville for three seasons. “She’s really taken to the sport and she’s soaked everything up like a sponge. She’s got amazing work ethic.

It was great coaching her as long as I did.

She was constantly asking questions and whatever I asked of her, she tried it and we saw what worked for her on a trialand-error basis.”

Leading by example, Dixon helped the Lady Hornets wrestling team repeat as district champions in front of their hometown fans at the Paul Bohan Hornet Gym. A week later, Dixon won a second consecutive Region III championship, clinching her second straight trip to the state tournament, and was also the Class 4A regional girls wrestler of the year.

“This is just exciting. We lost half our girls from last year, so it’s exciting to come back and still get first,” Dixon said following the regional tournament.

Her run didn’t stop there. She cruised in the state tournament all the way to the championship bout last year. She fell just

tops

Continued from page 3

composed of Courtney Tibiletti, Hannah Valentine, Paige Weiss, Casey Leatherman and Reece Haralson, won the 2014 girls golf state championship by 10 strokes.

“The last tournament counts,” said Weiss, quoting her assistant coach, following the state tournament. “I think we got a little too used to losing. It just feels amazing to finally have that win and it be at a tournament that matters so much.”

Heading into the state tournament, the Huntsville girls finished as runners-ups at the district tournament and third at the

“She’s really taken to the sport and she’s soaked everything up like a sponge. She’s got amazing work ethic. It was great coaching her as long as I did. She was constantly asking questions and whatever I asked of her, she tried it and we saw what worked for her on a trial-and-error basis.”

DEAN SCHAUB / Former Huntsville High School wrestling coach short of bringing home a state championship medal.

Remarkably, her impact on the team is more than bouts she wins or doesn’t win.

She is always willing to help out for the sake of the younger, less experienced wrestlers.

“I get a lot of help,” Huntsville High School sophomore Skylar Brock said prior to the district tournament.

“Whenever I’m struggling, I ask for help and she’s one who helps, plus also watches me and corrects on what I’m doing. I became a much better wrestler than I was last year.”

A few months later, Dixon shined for the Huntsville girls track and field team in pole vault.

At the district track meet, Dixon edged teammate Sydney Beverly. Both finished with cleared heights of 10 feet, 6 inches,

region tournament. In both tournaments, the Lady Hornets finished behind Montgomery, the state’s top-ranked team.

“This year is the only time that we’ve beaten them and we’ve done that twice this year,” Valentine said. “We know they’re preparing for us and we’re preparing for them. We’re just ready.”

After spending time on the range and on the course with the Huntsville girls, Evans made sure the Lady Hornets were prepared, even managing an injury to Weiss days prior to the state tournament.

“It’s improved a little bit, but it’s still a factor,” Evans said during one of his final practices before the Huntsville girls left for Austin. “Just what I’ve seen

but Dixon got first place by virtue of clearing a previous height in fewer attempts.

“It was just really nerve-racking,” Dixon said. “Once there were three people left, I knew I was going to area, so I calmed down a little bit. Eleven’s my best overall, so I was aiming for 11 or 11-6. I guess I was just too nervous.”

She then turned in a top-three performance at the Region III meet, but missed advancing to state by one spot.

Dixon took the bronze medal with a height clearance of 11 feet, 3 inches, but fell short of an at-large spot, which would have taken the best posting of non-automatic qualifiers among the four regions.

However, clearing 11-3 was a personal record for her.

“I feel like I did really well,” she said.

“A lot of meets, I normally scratch at

from Paige, we try not to work her out too hard and try to let her get some rest in, plus she’s getting more used to it and dealing with it a little bit better.

“It wouldn’t be right for me to say that she’s going to be 100 percent at the state tournament, but she’s going to play like she’s 100 percent.”

On both days of the state tournament, the Huntsville girls could do no wrong. The Lady Hornets posted the low scores in each of the rounds.

The Lady Hornets improved on their opening round in which they led by six strokes and won the state title by 10 strokes.

The Lady Hornets finished third at the region tournament behind Montgomery and Kingwood Park, but both teams

every height, but I’ve been getting more consistent and I like that. I think there were just a lot of nerves at 11 feet because I know the third best out of all the regions gets to go to state and there were four of us still in.

“So it was the fact of me getting third or not getting third and having a chance.

Then I got to 11-3 and it was just me wanting to set a personal record.”

Tibiletti finished second at the district golf tournament and fourth at the regional tourney. Before signing a scholarship offer from the University of Houston, Tibiletti finished as the runner-up at the UIL Golf State Tournament and helped the Lady Hornets win a state championship.

Wells-Gibson, a first-team selection on the 2014 All-Southland Conference volleyball squad, led the Southland Conference with 520 total kills last fall.

looked up at the Huntsville girls by the end of the state championship tournament.

“It was definitely advantageous to play with them all year and know how they are and how strong we’d have to be in order to beat them,” Tibiletti said.

Huntsville went into the final round having already established a six-shot lead. The goal was to shoot better than the day before, but most importantly, play well enough to be in position to hoist the trophy at the end of the tournament.

Led by Tibiletti and with players like Weiss and Leatherman outplaying their respective groups, the Huntsville girls imposed their will to a title.

The other Coach of the Year finalists had impressive resumes

in 2014 as well.

Hagen guided the Bearkats bowling team back to the NCAA tournament. SHSU prevailed past Nebraska to win the national championship, which was the first NCAA Division I title in school history.

Keeler found a way to get his Bearkats to regroup after starting the season with a 1-3 record.

Sam Houston State rallied to win seven of its final eight games of the regular season to win a share of the Southland Conference championship.

The Bearkats reeled off three straight victories in the NCAA FCS playoffs and returned to the national semifinals for the third time in four seasons.

unsung Hero's section_Layout 1 2/20/15 11:45 Pm Page 10

10 THE HunTsviLLE iTEm

senior

Continued from page 2

officers with security during community events, serves as a citizen watchman, and even helps patrol officers. After she graduates in December, she hopes to use her degrees in law enforcement at the federal level.

Outside of volunteering at the sheriff’s department and working part-time as a receptionist for The Facemaker, Elam is involved with various ministries in the Huntsville community. One of the ministries — Sportsreach — takes members into prisons around Texas where they play games of volleyball and softball with the inmates, as well as take the time to sit down and visit one on one with the inmates.

“It’s such a great program. We get to go all over the state and share the gospel,” said Elam. “It’s so much fun and very rewarding because the inmates are just like us. They just want someone to talk to and want to know what’s going on in the world.”

Elam is also a part of The Bridge Ministries, whose goal is to help the

sunDAY, FEBRuARY 22, 2015

“She’s exceptional at loving people the way Christ would, and is continually thinking about people that need help. When she gets involved with something, she gives 110 percent to it. She is someone you want on your team.”

BERT LYLE / Owner of The Facemaker in Huntsville homeless by holding food and clothing drives, then going out into the community distributing them every third Friday of the month.

One man in particular, known as “the Wizard,” Elam says has impacted her by having such a positive outlook on his life.

She loves to talk to him whenever she is volunteering.

When Elam isn’t working with Sportsreach or The Bridge Ministries, she can be found with her SHSU women’s utimate Frisbee team, where she has been playing for the past three years. She also works behind the scenes as a lighting technician for the Truth Bible Study group.

It’s Elam’s enduring nature for those less fortu-

teach Continued from page 1

lary with pictures, videos, various technology, and of course, just immersing them in books.”

For students who are struggling, Ortiz hosts tutoring sessions before and after school every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.

“I had one student here just the other day trying to learn his long vowels and short vowels,” Ortiz explained. “In Spanish, vowels just make one sound and in English they make two, so I would pull out a sheet with the vowel combinations

CMYK

nate, and her passion and drive for everything that she does, that impressed Lyle enough to nominate her for the Student of the Year award.

“Rachel leads by being a servant to her community,” Lyle said. “She is incredibly kind and has great initiative to get things done.”

Through her serving, Elam has made life-long friendships, long-lasting memories and even met her boyfriend, Jason.

When asked how she finds the strength to juggle being a full-time student on top of volunteering with so many organizations, Elam says, without hesitation, “the Lord.”

“I find my rest in him.

He drives me every day to do what I do,” Elam said.

“I’m very blessed.”

to help him remember the sounds when reading them.

“He was only reading 40 to 45 words per minute at the time, but after a month he said he didn’t need the sheet anymore and was able to read 95 words in a minute.”

Ortiz says stories like that make him proud to be a teacher. Being able to make a single difference in just one of his students, that’s what Ortiz is shooting for when he shows up to work. He also wants his students to leave his classroom with positive memories.

“I just want to do my best and want to serve the students that I teach,” he said. “I want them to be engaged and want them to have a love for learning.”

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Walker County Proud 11

WALKER COUNTY PROUD Eric Fugate, Broker

Frank Olivares

Raven Property Management LLC

Se Habla Espanol Keller Williams Realty fishermancisco@yahoo.com

936-661-8183

Dale & Donna Story The Story Team-Broker Affiliates速 Keller Williams Realty 936-291-1520 www.TheStoryTeam.com Donna@TheStoryTeam.com Dale@TheStoryTeam.com

936-577-6419

Team Pugh Mike Mangham - 936-662-7000 Cathy Pugh - 936-661-4778 Mike Pugh - 936-661-7332 Misty Harrelson - 936-577-1065

Chris Ashorn

Betsy Malone

Myrna Ashorn

Scotty Kyle

Homeland Properties

Homeland Properties

Homeland Properties

Homes of Huntsville

936-295-2500 ext. 222 or 936-435-5211

936-668-2882

936-295-2500 ext. 226 or 936-294-8389

936-295-2674 or 936-581-1578

Martha Williams Cook

Barbara Larrison

Homes of Huntsville

Homes of Huntsville

936-714-1886

936-661-1796

Frank Murray, John Cook, Theresa Frazier, Dalene Smither, Dalene Zender Heart of Texas Real Estate & Management Co. 936-291-7777

Pam Markham

David Markham

Natalie Pierce - Cox

Sherri Barrett

Markham Realty

Markham Realty

Markham Realty

936-661-0800 pam@markhamrealty.com

936-661-1600 david@markhamrealty.com

936-661-1075 natalie@markhamrealty.com

White Ivy Real Estate 936-662-6386 Bill@WhiteIvyRealEstate.com

Roberta Plant

Lori Bradley

Markham Realty

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Anderson Properties 936-439-3666

936-661-2292 roberta@markhamrealty.com

CMYK

Barbara Collins, ABR, CSR, SRES Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Anderson Properties 936-662-7416 bchouseseller1@gmail.com

Jeff Markham Markham Realty 936-661-4343 jeff@markhamrealty.com

Bill Tutor White Ivy Real Estate 936-662-3311 Bill@WhiteIvyRealEstate.com

Mari Montgomery, Broker, CRS, GRI Don Montgomery, Realtor速 Michael McGinnis, Realtor速 MariRealty.com 936-291-8800

unsung hero's section_layout 1 2/20/15 11:47 pm page 12

12 the huntsvIlle Item

sunDAY, februArY 22, 2015 Despite a steady rain, members of the Sam Houston Ballet Folklorico perform during their outdoor festival “El Grito” in the Lowman Student Center Mall on the Sam Houston State campus.

Item fIle photo

dancing Continued from page 7

Strouse and the other resident advisors organized a 5K Fun Run for those residing on campus in an effort to encourage everyone to take a break from the books and focus on their health.

In the midst of becoming involved in the resident life, Strouse’s lifelong love of dance spurred her toward roles in the Chaos Step Team and the Sam Houston Ballet Folklorico dance troupe. She also volunteered for the history department and was an inaugural member of “Truth” on campus, all while earning exemplary marks in all of her classes.

It’s safe to say that Strouse was a fairly busy college student in every respect.

Her initial involvement with the Sam Houston Ballet Folklorico eventually blossomed into a long-lasting dedication to the troupe.

As a nonprofit, cultural organization, the Ballet Folklorico participates in numerous community events in an effort to promote Hispanic heritage and community involvement. They not only dance at events like the Fair on the Square and The Houston Hispanic Forum, they also bring their lively and colorful performances to those who need a brighter day, like the elderly citizens of Green Acres of Huntsville and many other nonprofit organizations.

From the start, Strouse became a leader in the Ballet Folklorico dance group.

“Katy is one of a kind,” said president of the SHSU Ballet Folklorico Nayeli Lopez. “She exemplifies a true artist who is committed, respectful and loyal to her team. She motivates her teammates to succeed and she is a role model to many of our dancers.”

While allocating her rhythmic talents to the ballet troupe, Strouse continued to have a strong presence in the Student Art Association and her dedication didn’t go

CMYK

unnoticed. By the time elections rolled around, Strouse was tabbed as secretary of the SAA. A full semester of organizing exhibitions, mentoring students and coordinating various fundraising and marketing events helped her earn the trust of both students and her mentors. “Katy was always working on a hundred things at once,” said classmate Nick Fregia. “She was always around, always smiling and helpful, both in and out of class.”

It didn’t take long for her efforts to gain a definitive leadership role. As she moved toward her senior year, she became vice president, then president of the SAA in consecutive semesters.

Strouse led the group through a growing period while many of the current officers moved on after graduation.

With a full roster of new officers, the SAA maintained a commanding presence both on and off campus. With Katy at the helm, the SAA was able to sponsor multiple art auctions, exhibitions and continue the longstanding tradition of holding a public art exhibition entitled “The Art Walk.”

Students like Strouse are certainly few and far between in the world of academia.

Those who go above and beyond the collegiate curriculum and search for ways to utilize their skills to help others often go unnoticed. At the end of her tenure at Sam Houston, Strouse’s work spoke for itself, but it didn’t end when she crossed the stage for graduation.

On the morning of a big show for the Ballet Folklorico, Strouse’s longtime boyfriend, Colt Barber, dropped down on one knee and popped the big question.

Without fail, Strouse honored her previous engagement and made it to the show that evening to perform with her group.

“Instead of going out and celebrating with her family, she drove to Houston to perform with us,” Lopez said. “It’s students like Katy who motivate me to keep doing what I love to do.”