< Previous10 | The Daily News | Citizen of the Year | 2020 In what ways are you involved with the community? I am the longest-serving mayor in La Marque’s history. I served as five-time president of the Galveston County Mayor and Council Members Association. I serve on several boards and commissions. Also, I am very involved in my church! What do you like most about serving the community? There are loving people, and I enjoy seeing them reach their full potential. We are planting seeds of encouragement for our future leaders! What motivates you to get involved in your community? I love serving my hometown. Growing up here was what made me who I am today. When I see young children around town, I actually see myself in them. That warms my heart. What does it mean to be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year? It is a great honor. Once again, I must add that I’m just a humble servant. Why do you think it’s important to give back to the community? It is important to set an example for those looking to become more involved. There is room at the table for everyone! If you could go back in time and do one thing over, what would that be? I’ve lived a great life and learned from success and failure. Therefore, I wouldn’t change a thing. What’s something that most people don’t know about you? I was a professional singer working with some of the greatest bands in the country. In what ways are you involved with the community? Treasurer of the Board for the Resource & Crisis Center of Galveston County; treasurer of the board for Sunshine Center; vice president of the International Oleander Society; treasurer-elect for the board of Better Parks for Galveston; member of Elks Lodge No. 126 Galveston; member of Friends of Moody Gardens. I am a very active member of these agencies. I volunteer at fundraising events as well as secure auction items, sponsors and donations for the events. I also serve on various committees within the organizations. I volunteer for the Homes Tour and Dickens on The Strand with the Galveston Historical Foundation, for Yaga’s Children’s Fund fundraising events, Blue Santa for the Galveston Police Department and Christy’s Wish Foundation. Basically, wherever there is a need, I try to help as much as I possibly can. What do you like most about serving the community? I have a passion for helping people. Some people collect art or jewelry, I collect people! I love to see the clients at the Sunshine Center dancing at our annual Spring Fling, our biggest fundraiser of the year. Knowing that I can make a difference for the clients at the Resource & Crisis Center warms my soul. By promoting Santa for Survivors, every mother and child receives presents to open on Christmas Day. Promoting the Blue Santa program is Christmas to me for the same reason. Raising money so Oleander Park and all the city parks can stay maintained is really important to me, so the children in our community have a safe place to play, and families can have a nice place for a celebration. I don’t do any of this for recognition; I do it because I love seeing people smile. AMBER JINKINS CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Accountant/analyst/tax professional 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FINALISTS BOBBY HOCKING CITY OF RESIDENCE » La Marque OCCUPATION » Mayor, La MarqueEASY LIVING, TEXAS GULF STYLE EASY LIVING, TEXAS GULF STYLE MONTHLY APRIL 2018 Roping and rodeo COWBOY CULTURE IS ALIVE AND WELL APRIL 2018 $5.99 COASTMONTHLY.COM 645485005999 GETTING SAUCED POUR YOUR COOKOUT INTO A COCKTAIL AN ISLAND HOOTENANNY KEEPING AN OLD TRADITION ALIVE FISHING FOR KNOWLEDGE EXPERIMENTING WITH AQUAPONICS ESCARAMUZA WOMEN TAKE THE REINS EASY LIVING, TEXAS GULF STYLE MONTHLY SEPTEMBER 2018 DOMO ARIGATO, JAPAN NEW SPIN ON GIN Texas on the table IT DOESN’T GET MORE DOWN HOME THAN THIS SKILLET SNAPPER SIMPLE COOKWARE, SOPHISTICATED DISH SEPTEMBER 2018 $5.99 COASTMONTHLY.COM 645485005999 BRICK BY BRICK RESCUING AN ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE EASY LIVING, TEXAS GULF STYLE MONTHLY FEBRUARY 2018 Mardi Gras A YEAR-ROUND AFFAIR FEBRUARY 2018 $5.99 COASTMONTHLY.COM 645485005999 FAT TUESDAY FEAST WITH ISLAND FLAIR SHELL GAME REVIVING OYSTER BEDS HISTORY AND MYSTERY BEHIND THE MASK RARE SPECIES MEET A MASTER ROSARIAN EASY LIVING, TEXAS GULF STYLE Waterfront living BEAUTY OF THE GULF DRAWS COASTAL DWELLERS MAY 2018 $5.99 COASTMONTHLY.COM 645485005999PLUS: A MODEL SHIP BUILDER THE SECRET TO A GREAT CRAWFISH BOIL PYRAMID DREAM CULTIVATING A RAINFOREST SALTWATER SOLUTION ANGLERS HELPING ANGLERS MONTHLY MAY 2018 WWW.COASTMONTHLY.COM/SUBSCRIBE12 | The Daily News | Citizen of the Year | 2020 In what ways are you involved with the community? As mayor for 15 years, I have been serving the Dickinson community with all my heart and soul to address the issues facing my beloved hometown. Recovering from Hurricane Harvey has been challenging as rules from federal and state agencies fluctuate with each new program, and funding opportunities are slow to be dispersed. Perseverance is prevailing, and Dickinson will have many of its damaged streets and needed drainage improvements addressed within the next two years. As executive director and a volunteer for Keep Dickinson Beautiful, my desire to improve the environment and aesthetics of my community is truly my passion. Since 2003, I have applied for and received in value more than $1 million in landscaping, signage, recycling and cleanup projects and, in 2019, another $180,000 landscape grant from TxDOT and Keep Texas Beautiful. (continued at galvnews.com) What do you like most about serving the community? I like serving my community because I get more joy out of giving my time and energy to preserving our fragile environment and having a positive effect on people’s lives, much more than any hobby, job or travel experience could ever provide me. Working alongside others with the same mindset is putting oneself in a place full of heartfelt laughter, radiant and, sometimes sweaty, smiles. It is gratifying knowing that your efforts will ultimately improve an aspect of your community or the lives of those who need a helping hand. What’s something that most people don’t know about you? That my nickname is “Dink.” My dad only called me “Julie” twice in his lifetime. Family and old friends still call me Dink, and when I hear it, I feel love, comfort and connection with those whom I share my fondest memories. In what ways are you involved with the community? Since arriving in the community three years ago, I have tried to concentrate most of my efforts on ensuring that College of the Mainland serves our community with pride and dignity. To this end, most of my involvement with the community is through our active participation in every chamber of commerce within our service area, as well as involvement in many social and professional organizations. I specifically have served on the boards of League City and Texas City-La Marque chambers of commerce. What do you like most about serving the community? As the community’s college, it is an honor and privilege to be part of the College of the Mainland’s team and realize that every day we have the opportunity to improve the lives of our citizens. Our mission and goal is to ensure that businesses prosper by having a qualified workforce and that our community’s health and economic welfare are improved through an educated populace. What motivates you to get involved in your community? A deep and caring devotion to helping each individual be and become whatever they wish to be. For me, it is almost like spreading the gospel about how College of the Mainland can help every person achieve their goal. What does it mean to be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year? It is a tremendous honor to even be considered as a finalist, but, even more so, it is a humbling experience to be included with so many deserving individuals. I am confident that none of those nominated are serving their communities to receive any recognition, so the naming as a finalist is even more significant. WARREN NICHOLS CITY OF RESIDENCE » Tiki Island OCCUPATION » President, College of the Mainland 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FINALISTS JULIE MASTERS CITY OF RESIDENCE » Dickinson OCCUPATION » Mayor, Dickinson; executive director, Keep Dickinson Beautiful 2020 | Citizen of the Year | The Daily News | 13 Congratulations! College of the Mainland would like to congratulate all of the Citizen of the Year nominees, especially our very own president Dr. Warren Nichols. Each of the nominees have gone above and beyond in service to our community, and all are more than deserving of this recognition. Thank you for everything you do from all of us at COM.14 | The Daily News | Citizen of the Year | 2020 In what ways are you involved with the community? As The Grand’s chief spokesperson, I serve on a number of community committees as a major representative of the arts. Currently, I serve as a trustee of the Galveston Park Board, and I am its secretary/treasurer, chair of the finance committee and vice-chair of the Tourism Development Advisory Committee. I participate on virtually every committee concerned with marketing or strategic planning, including the annual Tourism Summit, and I represent the Park Board on the board of Moody Gardens. I am a member of the Rotary Club of Galveston, a current board member of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce and a past chair, a current member of its executive committee, a member of the Advocacy/Legislative Affairs Committee, and the Women’s Conference Committee. Also, I am a member of the Galveston Museum Area Network, which is comprised of those of us in the community who represent a piece of Galveston’s history. (continued at galvnews.com) What do you like most about serving the community? Galveston is rich in so much history and culture, and it’s a joy and honor to participate in keeping our island thriving, not just surviving, although we’ve certainly done that many times! The depth and breadth of talent among our citizens is nothing short of astounding, and I learn something each time I’m part of a project or effort where we all band together. The history of Galveston, especially as the second largest immigration port in the U.S., created a melting pot of nationalities and cultures that still remains today. We are so fortunate to live on this island! In what ways are you involved with the community? I am the founder and president of the “NEMO” Project, a program dedicated to handing out food and essential items to individuals without homes here in Galveston; leader of UTMB’s efforts for Point in Time Count, where I personally funded more than 100 care packs for the homeless of Galveston; Public Health Organization coordinator and community outreach officer; Galveston’s Own Farmer’s Market volunteer and member of Okra Fest Volunteer Coordinator Board; Blackwell Society coordinator; I have led several bingo/pizza nights during first and second years of medical school for burn victims at the Ronald McDonald House; Operation Blanket, where I personally provided more than 100 blankets to the Galveston homeless community in one day; collected and donated more than 300 books for the Galveston public library; mental health advocate for the underserved and underprivileged of Galveston; provided sweet treats and cleaning supplies for the women at the ADA Shelter. What do you like most about serving the community? I love talking to people and hearing their life story. It just makes me happy to get to know the people here in Galveston and actually make a difference in many of their lives. What motivates you to get involved in your community? I know what it is like to go through a difficult period in your life, and I also know that even the smallest of gestures can greatly impact those around you. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard? Never judge by what is said, judge by what is done. JAMES PITTMAN CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Medical student, University of Texas Medical Branch 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FINALISTS MAUREEN PATTON CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Executive director, The Grand 1894 Opera HouseJ ose B oix A meliA C ollins J une C ollins P ulliAm P eter D Avis e rnie D eAts C ArlA G eters B oBBy H oCkinG A mBer J inkins J ulie m Asters W Arren n iCHols m Aureen P Atton J Ames P ittmAn B en r Aimer C onnie r iCketts G inA s PAGnolA m Arilee s triPlinG J Ason t ABor B illy r Ay W AGner k imBerley y AnCy to the 2020 Nominees whose own personal roadmaps have made our cities better places for others. B.J. and Buddy Herz Warmest Congratulations 2020 | Citizen of the Year | The Daily News | 1516 | The Daily News | Citizen of the Year | 2020 In what ways are you involved with the community? I direct Fanfare! Lutheran Music Academy, an after-school music and arts program for the children of Galveston, and I do some private music teaching and music therapy as well. I am happy to have the opportunity to serve on the City of Galveston Families, Children and Youth Board, the Nia Cultural Center Board, Moody Early Childhood Center Advisory Board, The Future is US initiative Leadership Team, Education Committee of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce, ACEs to Assets Collaborative, the Rotary Club of Galveston and Galveston Musical Club. I am also president-elect of the Galveston Symphony Orchestra and executive director of the Galveston Heritage Chorale. What do you like most about serving the community? Serving with others in the community allows me to be more aware of all the excellent programs and services happening across this richly historic island, giving me a sense of hopefulness and enthusiasm in trying to offer whatever input and resources I have to contribute. What motivates you to get involved in your community? I have a sense of ownership in what happens in Galveston, as my family has been on this island for 155 years. I see the good work being done in the community, but, at the same time, I also see a tremendous need that must be addressed. The rich resources (material, social, educational and more) of this island need to be made more fully available to all of its citizens. What does it mean to be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year? It comes as a surprise to me, since it is not something I had previously considered. I am humbled and appreciative of the recognition. In what ways are you involved with the community? I serve as president ad interim of the University of Texas Medical Branch with campuses in Galveston, Angleton, League City and Clear Lake; we have more than 13,500 employees across Texas with a $2.5 billion revenue. Health care, education and research are our primary focus. What do you like most about serving the community? In particular, I am proud of the difference that UTMB makes in serving a role in prevention of disease through education and health promotion. Our ability to serve people from all areas of our community and state fulfill a 128-year legacy of commitment to the health of our communities. We, along with our other UT System institutions, have educated more healthcare providers across Texas than any other schools. I like knowing that we make a difference to people in this county through the economic impact that we make as an employer, in the promotion of health through meaningful, cutting-edge research and in the education of young learners for a life of improving health outcomes as providers, educators and researchers. Most of all, as a doctor who has practiced here for more than 45 years, I like walking through the grocery store, a school or being at a sporting event and seeing someone that I helped years ago, enjoying life with their children or grandchildren. Those memories of having been a help to a friend are so special and rewarding. What motivates you to get involved in your community? My parents taught me always to try to leave things better than you found them. I wake up every morning with the desire to live that day as if it were BEN RAIMER CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Physician/administrator (president ad interim, University of Texas Medical Branch) 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FINALISTS JUNE COLLINS PULLIAM CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Administrator/ music teacher/music therapist my last and to improve the life of at least one person. Why do you think it’s important to give back to the community? Because it is the best gift I can give my children and grandchildren as well as my friends.Congratulates Julie Dues Masters Citizen Of The Year Nomination! GOOD LUCK AND Well, Deserved! Julie Dues Masters CITIZEN OF THE YEAR NOMINEE Your family is so very PROUD!! - Love, Your Family 2020 | Citizen of the Year | The Daily News | 1718 | The Daily News | Citizen of the Year | 2020 In what ways are you involved with the community? I am involved in the community in many ways. First and foremost, I serve as the executive director of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Galveston County, as vice chair of the Family Children’s and Youth City of Galveston Board, and a community member on the Galveston County Children’s Services Board. I serve as a community volunteer on the Galveston County Adoption Day Foundation, served the community through the work of Vision Galveston and am a member of the ACEs to Assets Collaborate in the community. I am a Rotarian, affiliated with the Rotary Club of Texas City. I serve at Holy Family Parish of Galveston-Bolivar as an Extraordinary Minister. My state affiliations on the Children’s Justice Task Force and regional representative to the Texas CASA Board allows me to serve the Galveston community at a state level. What do you like most about serving the community? Serving my community allows me to have a voice in moving Galveston County forward, ensuring that each step includes looking out for children and families, so they can live in a safe and caring community. Serving allows me the opportunity to create and collaborate with fellow community members who have the same passions and vision about our county. As a Rotarian, I firmly believe in our motto of service above self. Being a part of a solution has always been important to me. Leading efforts to improve lives is what drew me to service. What does it mean to be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year? To be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year is an honor and an unexpected recognition of my service to the Galveston County community. In what ways are you involved with the community? Lemonade Day Galveston County director; Salvation Army, Advisory Board; Salvation Army, Women’s Auxiliary, member and past chair; Education Foundation, past chair; GISD, KTOR Media Arts Program, host of Live @ 2 with Gina Spagnola; Rotary Club of Galveston, member and Paul Harris Fellow; established GISD Ambassador Program; produces Galveston Coastal Legislative Tour; produces Leadership Galveston program; past board member, IDC; Cruise Ship Committee member; produces Step up FOR Education Event; raises money for Maritime Career Pathways Camp; GEDP, Executive Committee member; Humanities Texas board member; Governor Greg Abbott appointee, Texas Division of Emergency Management Business Advisory Council; The Grand 1894 Opera House, Advisory Board member (continued at galvnews.com) What do you like most about serving the community? I love seeing the impact it makes on the individuals and organizations in our community. Every minute we help with education, feeding, clothing and sheltering those in need, loving our neighbors and supporting our community, we as a community reap priceless benefits. We have the ability to encourage, support and love people, and to remind them that their current circumstance does not define them for the rest of their lives. What does it mean to be named a finalist for Citizen of the Year? It is an incredible honor because there are so many amazing people doing so much good. I don’t serve to be recognized, but it certainly is a huge honor to be considered for this very special award. GINA SPAGNOLA CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » President/CEO, Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR FINALISTS CONNIE RICKETTS CITY OF RESIDENCE » Galveston OCCUPATION » Executive director, CASA of Galveston CountyEST. 1845 Congratulations (409) 763-5326 | GalvestonChamber.com on your nomination of The Daily News’ 2020 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Thank you for your leadership and service to the business community. Love, Your entire Chamber family GINA SPAGNOLA Promoting and Advocating for Business and Community Development since 1845 2020 | Citizen of the Year | The Daily News | 19Next >