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Home My WebLink About2007 6th Annual Appreciation BanquetAfiican American National Heritage Soci 6th Annual Appreciation ban9uet � Honoring Outstanding Museum Supporters � wr THE BRAZOS VALLEY AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM - - Tuesday, January Plaza Hotel & 6:30 p.m. College Station, 30 Suites Texas This program is dedicated to the memory of Board Members, Irma Jean Walton Clark and Wanda Malone whose hard work, selfless service, geneorosity, and commitment were key to the opening of the museum. The Board honors their memories and applaud their contributions. Jean Walton Clark February 10, 1945 — October 12, 2006 Wanda Jo Ross Malone November 7, 1947 - October 12, 2006 Contents The Negro National Anthem .................................................. ............................... Biographyof Frank D. Jackson ............................................... ............................... Appreciation Banquet Program ............................................... ............................... 2007 Honorees ................................................................... ............................... A Message from the Board Chair ............................................. ............................... A Message from the Chair of the Appreciation Banquet .................. ............................... A Message from the Banquet Co- Chair ....................................... ............................... MuseumHistory .................................................................. ............................... Mission Statement, Vision, Goals, Membership and Tax - Exempt Status ............................... African American National Heritage Society Officers, Board, and Membership ...................... MajorMuseum Donors ........................................................ ............................... Previous Appreciation Banquet Honorees ................................... ............................... Banquet Committee Members ................................................. ............................... How You Can Help the Museum ............................................. ............................... Biographies of 2007 Honorees ................................................. ............................... Upcoming Events / Announcements ........................................... ............................... Ads, Honorarius & Memorials ................................................. ............................... The Negro NationafAntftem James Weldon Johnson Lift every voice and sing Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; Let our rejoicing rise High as the listening skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us, Facing the rising sun of our new day begun Let us march on till victory is won. Stony the road we trod, Bitter the chastening rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? We have come over a way that with tears have been watered, We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered Out from the gloomy past, Till now we stand at last Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, Thou who has brought us thus far on the way; Thou who has by Thy might Led us into the fight, Keep us forever in the path, we pray. Lest our feet stray from the places, Our God, where we met Thee, Lest, our hearts drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand. True to our GOD, True to our native land. Frank D. Jackson Mr. Frank Dr. Jackson was born and raised in Luling, Texas and is the second of three sons born to Robbie Jackson Sr. and Willie Louise Jackson. He graduated from Luling High School in 1969 and from Prairie View A &M University in 1973 with a Bachelors of Arts Degree. Frank D. Jackson majored in Geography and earned a 4 -year Scholarship as a Naval Science student. Upon graduation from Prairie View A &M University in 1973 Mr. Jackson was Commissioned and Ensign in the United States Navy. During his eight years of Active Duty, Frank D. Jackson served aboard the Nuclear Powered Cruiser USS Long Beach CC (N) 9, the USS Coral Sea CV 43 and the Inchon LPH 12. He ended his active duty service at Prairie View A &M University in 1982 as Assistant Professor for Naval Science — Navigation and Ship- handling Instructor. Frank D Jackson immediately accepted a Commission in the US Naval Reserves and was promoted to the rank of Captain in 1995 (Officer Grade 06). He began his employment at Prairie View A &M University in 1982 as Associate Counselor for Admissions. Frank D. Jackson has served the University as Director of the Memorial Student Center, Assistant Director of University Centers, Director for Auxiliary Services, Director of Student Initiatives and Development and currently serves as Special Assistant to the President for Governmental Affairs. This multi - dimensional speaker is very active in his community. He served on the City Council — City of Prairie View for 12 sears, and 8 sears as County Commissioner Precinct 3, Wailer County, Texas. Frank D. Jackson was elected Mayor for the City of Prairie View, Texas on May 4, 2002 and was re- elected to serve a second term May 8.2004. In addition, Frank D. Jackson is President and Fire Chief of the Prairie View Volunteer Fire Fighting Association, Inc., and Past Master of Lone Star Lodge #85 — Hempstead, Texas and currently serves as Grand Historian for the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas. Mr. Jackson is married to the former Marian Elaine Jones and is the father of four children, Tracy, Ayanna, Cheikh, and Okofo. The Jackson's have two grandchildren Chazrel and Simone. Banquet Speaker Program African American National Heritage Society Appreciation Banquet Program January 30, 2007 Moderators Mildred Ray Davis Faye Hall -Laws Music Welcome and Opening Remarks The Negro National Anthem Purpose Invocation Eugene Smith Dr. Wendell Davis, President Board of Directors Willie Taylor, Vice President Rev. Christopher A. Goins Grace Missionary Baptist Church Dinner and Entertainment Introduction of Speaker Speaker Dr. Halcyon Sadberry Watkins Frank D. Jackson, Mayor Prairie View, Texas Special Presentations Recognition of Honorees Music Closing Remarks Dr. Wendell Davis Beverly Bennett - Walker Agnes Gray Kenneth Robinson M.A. Sterling, Director Brazos Valley Troupe Willie Pruitt, Banquet Chair Janette Hedge, Banquet Co -Chair Dr. Wendell Davis Thank you for your continuous support of the African American National Heritage Society Museum. "Group Picture of all honorees will be taken on stage immediately following the program" 1 2007 Honorees Nina Bess Astin (Posthumously) Nina Heard Astin (Posthumously) Susan Scott Birdwell Sally Gibbons Bowen Mary L. Broussard Patricia Burchfield Kevin R. Carreathers Dr. Sharon Colson Denise Fries Barbara Walker Guillory Jason E. Handcock Dr. Valerie Hill - Jackson Bowen Keiffer Jackson, Jr. Sharron Knutson Shirley Payton Mell Ruth Pruitt Willie Pruitt Amanda Urrutia Bishop M. C. Williams Roger Williams A Message from the Board President Dr. Wendell Davis I am reminded of a song that is often sung. When I think about the goodness of Jesus and all that he's done for me, my soul cries out Hallelujah. I am thrilled to be able to say to the Brazos Valley community that the faith given by each of you to the Museum Board of Directors was justified, we have been good stewards of your money and time and the museum is now a reality. Your donations and volunteer services have made the museum a place that houses archival materials, educational tools, documents and artifacts. It is a place to do research, see exhibits and participate in educational programs. The mountains of historical documents that document the contributions made by African Americans now have a place to call home — the Brazos Valley African American Museum. I am honored to be able to say to the community of Brazos County that a visionary lives in our community, a visionary who was responsible for organizing a small group of individuals to explore her dream to rectify the void of information that would tell the story of African American experience in the Brazos Valley. This visionary's dream resulted in a building that will preserve the cultural and rich heritage of African Americans not only in the Brazos Valley but in Texas, the Country and the World. . • Out of the ashes that would have been blown away, there was smoke and out of the smoke a fire was started - that is now located on East 20` Street. I thank God that this courageous visionary remained steadfast in her commitment to make the history of African Americans available to every child, every educator, and • every citizen. She refused to compromise on her ongoing mission to collect, preserve, exhibit, and share with others information, materials, and knowledge that involved the presentation of history. Our hats are off to this wonderful visionary for the time and effort given to open the museum. • I invite you to visit the museum located at 500 East 2& Street. The first phase of the vision is complete. The grand opening for the public was held on July 22, 2006. • The second phase of the vision is to develop a permanent funding plan that includes annual contributions for • operating the museum and supporting the countless exhibits, programs and activities. The children of the Brazos Valley and throughout Texas and the Nation will thank you for your generous support to sustain our museum. Message from the appreciation Banquet Chair Welcome to the sixth annual appreciation banquet. This is a very special evening when we celebrate the contributions of our many supporters and volunteers and honor them in the presence of their family and friends. Their work is what makes our community such an outstanding place to live and raise families in an enriched and wholesome environment. We extend our special thanks to the honorable Frank Jackson, Mayor of Prairie View, Texas for supporting us this evening with his presence. We are delighted to have him as our special guest this evening, and invite him to visit the museum at the earliest opportunity. Without the support of our distinguished honorees, each of you who are in attendance this evening, and many others the museum would not have opened to the public on July 22, 2006. Many of you have generously donated money, time, documents, artifacts, furniture and volunteered countless hours to the museum. I thank you for your past support and I pray that you will continue to support the Museum, its programs and activities in the future. Your financial contributions, volunteer time, donated items and materials are still needed. Your unselfish support will always be much appreciated. May God bless our museum, our community and may God bless America. Willie Pruitt A Message from the Appreciation Banquet Co- chair yanette Hedge On behalf of the Brazos Valley African American Museum, I would like to extend my thanks to all of you who have come out tonight to honor all of our many wonderful volunteers who have worked diligently to help make our community a better place to live. Many people from all walks of life are working very hard to help make the museum a reality. The museum will help educate our visitors about African Americans who have come before us on the local, state and national levels to make many contributions to society. Our ancestors made many sacrifices for us, and as a result, future generations will have fuller and richer lives. Audio visual materials, books, genealogy studies, photographs and many other items of interest have been donated thus far to the museum. The lives of our ancestors will be shared by many visitors and their legacies will live for many years to come. Many thanks to our founders, Mell and Willie Pruitt, whose vision, contributions, persistence and determination helped us to see this project through its completion. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you who played a part in making this vision become a reality. I invite each of you to visit the Museum at 500 East 20th Street in Bryan. It is a wonderful Museum that is filled with lots of wonderful things to see and do. We are proud to have such a beautiful, welcoming and historically filled Museum in our community. Thank you again for coming this evening. Brazos Valley African American Museum History The dream to build a museum was conceived in 1952 by Mell Pruitt as a means to house her extensive collection of artifacts and materials that depicted the history of African Americans. In 1999 Willie Pruitt, Mell's husband, challenged her to bring her dream of building a museum to reality. As an educator, Mr. Pruitt understood the importance of helping to educate the public about the struggles, achievements and contributions of African Americans at the local, state and national levels. Shortly there after, a small committee was formed to discuss the idea and to investigate ways to make Mell Pruitt's dream a reality. The founding committee quickly moved to form a board of directors, consisting of 25 members. The board, including members Mell Pruitt, Willie Pruitt, Effie Perry, Bill Page and Clara Mounce met numerous times to brainstorm and to finalize the plan to move ahead to build a museum that would showcase the contributions of African Americans. Once built, the museum would become a major holder of archival materials and artifacts — a one of a kind facility and a definite asset to citizens of Bryan, College Station and the Brazos Valley. The board of directors' first major challenge was to locate a site for the Museum. Dr. Wendell Davis, the museum building committee chair and Willie Pruitt, the museum building co -chair lead the charge to locate a site. Dr. Davis' dream was to have the museum built on the grounds of the first public school for African American children, that was built in 1885. Dr. Davis attended school on this site which has special meaning to him. It is the only place in Freeman Town that has a Texas historical marker. The property is located across the street from Shiloh Baptist Church, which is the first Baptist church built in Bryan for African Americans. A part of the land desired for the museum was owned at one time by the Bethune Women's Club, who sold the lot to Bryan Independent School District. The city of Bryan was also approached for funding assistance and they donated two adjourning lots and pledged $100,000 toward the building of the Museum. These three lots brought the property for the museum grounds to 17,250 square feet. The Board of Directors next approached the City of College Station for funding assistance and they graciously pledged $50,000 to the building project. The Board members met with architect Jim Singleton, who took their ideas and designed a blueprint for a beautiful 4,000 square foot building. Bubba Bean was hired shortly thereafter as the general contractor. The museum cost approximately $700,000 to build. • On July 22, 2006, the Brazos Valley African American Museum held it's grand opening and officially • opened to the public. Ther museum opened it's door debt free and desired by the Board. Since the grand opening, over 500 individuals, including groups have visited the museum. Additionally, the museum is open for use by community organizations and groups for meetings and other events. Guidelines have been • established for the buildings use by _community groups and individuals. Docents and volunteers have been trained and scheduled to greet and conduct tours for visitors to the museum. A director, curator, and a receptionist are employed part-time. • The museum has over 500 artifacts, including pictures, audiovisuals, paintings, furniture, tools, books, and various forms of arts and crafts. There is a permanent gallery, changing gallery, genealogy classroom, and administrative office. Since it's opening the changing exhibit has featured the works of Pulizer prize winner • Charles Gordone and local artist David Woods. 4 WW VW MW Mission of the American Nationa(Helitage Society The African American National Heritage Society became officially recognized in 1999. It is the first r. project of its kind in the Brazos Valley that is designed to promote the history of African American `r' citizens. qW MISSIONSTMEMENT V The mission of the African American National Heritage Society is to explore, develop, preserve and present the cultural history and heritage of African Americans. ""` VISIONSTA EMEN7 It is our vision that schools, families and educators will visit the museum and use the archival records. The Society's Museum will promote individual and community awareness, understanding, pride, and respect for the contributions that African Americans have made in the past and present to the American experience. GOALS r7-M • Gather, organize, analyze, and assemble artifacts, letters, documents, oral histories and make these materials available to all interested persons, schools, churches and organizations • Cultivate a climate of awareness that promotes an understanding of the values of African Americans • Acquire and manage the archival records of the Society's Museum. MEMBERSHIP Membership into the African American National Heritage Society is open to all individuals `•'' regardless of race, creed, or color. ?SIX- EXEMPT S7AMS The African American National Heritage Society is a publicly supported organization and has a 501 (C) (3) tax - exempt status. All donations given to the Museum are tax deductible. rr 1W Officers and EXecutive Board Dr. Wendell Davis — President Willie Taylor — Vice President Willie Pruitt — Chair, Building Committee Mel Pruitt — Immediate past President Mattie Carter Freddie Curry Nadine Eaton Janette Hedge Christine Matthews Ruby Adams James Alexander Dr. Nancy Algert Marsha Anderson Linda Asberry Roger A. Beaumont Thelma Betties Dr. William Birdell Susan Birdwell W. E. B. Blackmon Dr. Judge E. Blackman Dr. Ray Bowen Sally Bowen Dr. Albert S. Broussard John Buckley, Jr. Mrs. Buckley J. K. Campbell Shirley Chambers Jean Clark Eddie M. Council Lazell Curry Beth Donavon Ella Donavon Detrich Eaton Shirley Eaton Sean Elias Katie (Katherine) Elrod Kathy Eugster Helen Foley Nathan Foley, Sr. Joe Garon Audrey Gloves Hiawatha Dix Godine Agnes Gray B.J. Cole Green Sylvia Green Eric Hall Bill Page, Secretary Bessie Carroll Johnson, Asst. Secretary Effie Perry, Treasurer Mary L. Broussard, Asst. Treasurer Board Members Clara Mounce Joyce Newton Brenda Owens Hayward Peterson Shirley Payton Callie Turner J. Marvin Walker Helen Washington Lucile Young Dr. La Verne Young - Hawkins General Membership Mary Elizabeth Hamlin Mrs. Melvin Hanks Roshunda Hanks Tanisha Hanks Toshara Hanks Linda Harris James Hawkins Otis Henry Dr. G. E. Higgs Olivette Higgs Onie Holmes G. Wayne Ivie Lenora Jackson Ronnie Jackson Ron Knutson Sharron Knutson Freddie Komor Dr. Jim Janes Dr. G. M. Long Wanda Malone Willie Martin Christine Matthew Andrew Merchant James Richard Moore James Mosley Celia Nash Johnny Nash Benjamin Nicks Thabiti Ngozi Jeff Nutall (Desire Choir) Beth Price David Price Sheron Riley Sandra Robertson Willie Robertson Katheryne Robinson Dr. P. David Romei James Rose Lorine Rose Edith Roy Dave Ruesink Lonnie Sadberry Wayne Sadberry Vince Sandle Nancy S. Schwost Belle Sealey Sam Sealey Al Smith Bette Smith David Stasny Anne L. Steen Annette Stephany Jeanette Stone 011ie Taylor Charley J. Terrell Mildred Thomas Palnice Bass Thompson Roger Turner George Vaults Susan Wagner Lorine Washington Yanina Washington Dr. Halcyon O. Watkins Bessie Watson Dr. Karan Watson Ginger Wentrek Amos Whitae George White Warren Whiting Ivy Williams - Ellen Wilson Melvin Wilson Bertha Word "ORDONOR5 $100,000+ $1000+ $1,000+ continued The City of Bryan Acme Glass Company Planters and Merchant Bank American Legion Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, $50,000+ Anco Insurance Company Rev. Craig Anderson The City of College Station B.C. Realtors Willie Pruitt, Jr. by Rose Chase Bethune Woman's Club Robertson Engineers $25,000+ Albert and Mary Broussard St. John Baptist Church Arts Council of Brazos Valley Travis Bryan, Jr. St. Joseph Regional Health Center Jim Singleton John and Laura Burrell Richard G. Robertson 011ie and Mattie Carter Vernice Seastrunk $20,000+ Coach Francione Charities Willie and 011ie Taylor Nina Heard Astin Charitable Trust Alma Daniels Texas A &M Univ., Freddie and Lazelle Curry Dr. Wendell.Davis Architect Student Asso. Delta Sigma Theta, The American Legion, $10,000+ Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Earl Graham Post # 159 A &W Ranch, Sean Elias Mildred Thomas Nancy Algert and Karen Watson Jerry and Janeth Ellis TXU Curry Plumbing, Freddie Curry W. E. Enos Community House University Title Company First National Bank of Bryan Clyde C. Ferguson Verizon Kling Engineers Ira B. Franklin Marvin and Beverly Walker Nina Astin Winkler Trust Betty Hanks, Big Top Learning Center Wal -Mart George and Mary Ruth Weinstein Betty Hatchet Carolyn Sheppard Ward Wells Fargo Bank La Verne and James Hawkins Waymon and Bernice Webster Charles and Lorraine Hermann Mary Weinstein $5,000+ Edward and Pat Hiler Ernie and Ginger Wentrcek BTU Onie Holmes Clarence and Ivy Williams Coffer and Coffer (Community Jones - Washington Mortuary House) Kemp High School, Decade of 50's $500+ First American Bank Loving Tender Day Care Barbara Bush Literacy Fries Financial Services Lucent Technologies, Ethel Batten Ben Milam Elementary School Bessie Carroll Johnson Wanda and Michael Malone John and Sara Buckley Joyce Nies and Peter Witt Christine Matthews Ernestine Carreathers Walden H. and Adele J. Orr Garland and Daisy McIlveen Congregational Beth Salome Charitable Trust James and Jarlen Mosley Greater Tabernacle Baptist Church William Page Mt. Vernon Baptist Church Anne Linne Clinton and Judy Phillips Nan's Shop Blossom M. Frank T. Sprague Fund Post Oak Florist Nita's Flowers, Inc. Morning Star Baptist Church Willie and Mell Pruitt Linda and Paul Parrish John and Carlie Nash The Eagle Neutral Posture Lorraine Ochetree Texas Historical Commission Bobby and Effie Perry Reliable Insurance Company Wells Fargo Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Mervin Peters Jacques C. Richard and Pitcock and Croix Inc. Valerie E. Taylor Alan and Elizabeth Smith University Title Company Previous reunion appreciation Banquet Honorees 2002 2003 C. J. Allen Evelyn Freeman Judge Randy Michelle Dr. Sarah Ashburn Elma Jackson Green Lorranie Ocheltree Dr. William Birdwell Celia Goode Haddock Senator Steve Ogden Brian Blake Dick B. Haddox Gardner Osborn Annette Boney Ronald Hale Mervin Peters Dr. Ray Bowen Betty Hanks Dr. Clint Judy Phillips Rep. Fred Brown Melvin Hanks Pastor Warren Roberts Travis Bryan, Jr. Royce Hickman Dr. Chet Robinson Dan Buche Pat Hiler Vernice Seastrunk Dr. Laura Petty Burrell Rev. Robert Jeffries Annette Stephney Mattie Carter Gloria Stocklin Kennard Jessie Walton Otis Carter Coach David Kent Carolyn Ward, Avaya Coach Marty Criswell Mike Kristynik Mayor J. Don Watson Freddie & Lazelle Curry Sister Gretchen Kunz Ginger Wentrcek Bill Erwin Faye Hall Laws Rev. Williams Kathe Eugster Janie McDougal Dan Wilkerson Roy Flores Mayor Lynn McIlhaney Rev. Robert Wilson 2003 • Dr. Nancy Algert Paul Madison, Sr. Jim Singleton • Edna Jones Anderson George J. Mann Charles Sippial, Sr. • Donnis Baggett Rusleen Maurice Alan C. Smith Nancy F. Berry Janice McBride Eugene Smith • Dr. Abe Clearfield Judge Tom McDonald Dr. James Stegall • Ruth Clearfield Dwight McKenzie M. A. Sterling • Alma Daniels Dr. Douglas Menarchik Anderson Tennell • Dr. Nancy Dickey James Mosley George Vaults • Jerris Ellis Dr. Linda Parrish Susie Velasco • Linda Gilbert Dr. Paul Parrish Mable Walker Dr. Howard Graves Lauralee Phillips Dr. Karan Watson Harrel Lee Johnson Judge Ramiro Quintero Ernie Wentrcek, Jr. • Dr. Noreen Johnson Dr. Haywood Robinson Carolyn White Thelma Johnson Kathryn Robinson Nettie Williams • Bobby Glenn Lebow Stephanie Sale Lucile Young 2004 Dr. Russell Bradley George Lea Coach Melvin Watkins • Timothy Bryan Wanda Malone Edward Lee Watson Dr. David Carlson Christine Matthews Col. Cecil Webster Dr. Shawn Carlson Rev. Msgr. John McCaffrey Dr. Marsha Webster • Ikie Cooper Mineola Newman Ray Wilkerson Dr. Wendell Davis, Jr. Dr. Oswell Person Ivy Idlebird Williams • Nadine Eaton Hayward Peterson Theodore William Bob French Sam Sharp Tommie Williams • Dr. Robert M. Gates Mayor Ron Silvia George Winstein Larry Hodges Callie Turner Mary Winstein Dr. Steve Johnson Elvin Walker 2005 Elizabeth Smith Ethel Gibbs Batten Daisy McIlveen (Bette) • Shirley Chambers Dr. Garland McIlveen John Trcalek, Jr. Inez Grays Dr. Joyce Nies Jesse Marvin Walker • Janette Hedge Dr. Rhonda Richardson Dr. Waymon T. Webster Dr. Charles Hermann Dr. Richard G. Robertson Mrs. Waymon T. Webster Onie Heard Holmes Dr. P. David Romei Dr. Peter A. Witt 2006 Luella Myers Bell Rodessa Grays Dr. Valerie Taylor Richard Reverend John Edward Burrell Robert Guyden, Sr. 011ie Taylor Superintendent Mike Cargill Bessie Carroll Johnson Willie Taylor Gloria Cooks Reverend D. N. Jones Mildred C. Thomas Sean Elias Howard L. King Helen M. Washington Katie Elrod Nancy Newman Dr. Halcyon O. Watkins Reverend Kris Erskine Reverend Carlous Marie Nutall Mike Wright Warren Finch Dr. Roman Popadiuk Dr. La Verne Young - Hawkins Crystal Gamy Sondra Webster Robertson Clarence "Wayne" Grays Dr. Jacques Richard Appreciation Banquet Committee Members Banquet Chair Willie Pruitt Banquet Co -Chair Janette Hedge Finance Effie Perry Bookkeeping Bill Page Awards J. Marvin Walker Joyce Ellis Souvenir Book Mary L. Broussard Willie Taylor Publicity Hayward Peterson Mell Pruitt HospitalityJoyce Newton, Chair Mattie Carter Lazelle Curry Onie Holmes Bessie Carroll Johnson Christine Matthews Callie Turner Lucile Young Youth Attendants Willie Taylor, Chair Darius Alexander Bryston Bass Ethan J. Brisby Byron Johnson Brandon Nichols Appreciation and qfianks We would like to extend our gratitude to the following supporters who have made this evening possible: A &W Ranch Arts Council of the Brazos Valley Anderson "Andy" Tennell, Video Productions Brian Blake, Photography Copy Corner KORA - TV Insite Magazine Nita's Flowers Plaza Hotel & Suites Post Oak Florist The Eagle WTAW — TV • • • • How you Can Help the Museum • • Become a Member of the Heritage Society We invite you to become a member of the African American National Heritage Society members are welcome to attend board meetings, which are held at 7 P. M. on first Tuesday of each month at the Museum. Individual membership dues are $25 and a family membership is $100 per year. r Make a Donation The African American National Heritage Society is a publicly supported organization and has a 501 (c) (3) tax - exempt status. All donations given to the museum are tax deductible. Donations may be sent to: The African American National Heritage Society & Museum, 500 E. 20 Street, Bryan, Texas 77803. Give or Loan Artifacts Our exhibits will be built around the many generous donations of artifacts which have come from our caring community. If you have artifacts that you would like to donate to the museum, they will be catalogued and displayed with pride. The museum will also accept loans of artifacts for our constantly changing exhibits. Volunteer your Time Volunteers are needed to help staff the museum staff for one three -hour shift each week. Please contact one of the Volunteer Coordinators for more information. The hours of operation are: Tuesday through Friday: 1:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. and Sunday: 2:00 — 5:00 p.m., and by special appointments. Volunteer Coordinators Nadine Eaton (979) 774 -3456 Dr. La Verne Young- Hawkins (979) 691 -2902 BRAZOS VALLEY AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 500 East 20 Street Bryan, Texas 77803 (979) 775 -3961 Email: bvaam @verizon.com HOURS: ADMISSION: Tuesday through Saturday Sunday Friday 1:00pm to 4:00 pm 10:00 am to 4:00 pm 2:00 pm to 5 pm Adults Senior Citizens Students Children 5 and under Groups (8 or more) President & CEO Dr. Wendell Davis Founders Willie & Mell Pruitt Director Velma Neblett Spivey Curator Wayne Sadberry $5.00 $4.00 $2.00 Free $3.00 per person Receptionist Valerie S. Broussard i Biographies Of 2007 Honorees Nina Heard Astin (Posthumously) and Nina Bess Astin (Posthumously) Charitable Trusts Nina Heard Astin and her daughter, Nina Bess, each created charitable trusts in their wills. Mrs. Astin died April 17, 1972, after her daughter's death in 1967. These trusts benefit many charitable organizations as well as provide scholarships to area students. Nina Heard was born in McKinney, Texas on January 17, 1888. She attended Mary Baldwin College in Virginia and majored in music at Texas Presbyterian College. She married Roger Q. Astin, a descendant of a pioneer cotton farming family near the Brazos River. Roger and Nina had three children, Daisy, John and Nina Bess. The family was known for their philanthropy. Mrs. Astin had a substantial amount of property in Collin County, Texas. She supported the First Presbyterian Church of Bryan with her gifts, energy and tremendous interest in the church grounds. The Brazos County Red Cross saw her as an active volunteer during both World Wars. Her daughter Daisy died as a child. Her son John died of cancer in 1958. His death was a tremendous blow to Mrs. Astin, and she and her daughter became very close in the following years. Nina Bess Astin was born on January 24, 1914. Both of these ladies were strong supporters of the Bryan Boys and Girls Clubs and the Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center Their trusts continue to make life better in the Brazos Valley. The Astin example of caring is a lasting legacy for all to follow. Wells Fargo Bank serves as Trustee of the Nina Heard Astin and Nina Bess Astin Charitable Trusts. Mary L. Broussard Mary L. Broussard is a native of San Francisco, California and received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of San Francisco, and has completed graduate work in Secondary Education from the University of Northern Colorado. In 1981, Mary moved to Dallas, Texas with her husband and worked at Southern Methodist University, initially as an admissions recruiter and later an academic advisor. In 1985, the Broussard's accepted positions at Texas A &M University. Mary has held a number of positions at TAMU, including Undergraduate Counselor, Assistant to the Dean, and Director of Advising for the College of Liberal Arts. Currently, Mary serves as Office Manager and Coordinator for Special Programs in the Office of Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Associate Provost for Academic Services. She is responsible for providing major staff resource and support to the Dean, University committees and units reporting to the Department. Ms. Broussard has been recognized numerous times for her commitment and dedication to the University and the community. She received the Faculty Distinguished Achievement Award in Student Relations by the Association of Former Students in 1999; Enhancing Diversity Award for Professional Staff by the Department of Multicultural Services in 1998; Board Member of the Year award by the Brazos Valley United Way in 2002; the Prenatal Clinic's "Women Who Make a Difference" in 2004; and recognition for 20 years of service at Texas A &M and the State of Texas in 2006. Mary's love, passion and dedication to service and providing the best education for our children are reflected in the varied organizations that she commits her time, energy and resources. She serves or has served on numerous boards, including the American Heart Association of Brazos Valley; the African American National Heritage Society and Museum; United Way of Brazos Valley; Girls Club of Brazos County, the Childrens Museum of Brazos Valley, and currently serves as a Trustee and Board Vice President for the College Station Independent School District. A few of Mary's local, state, and national organizational affiliations include, Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Society; Leadership Texas Alumnae Association; National Academic Advising Association; Texas A &M University Advisors and Counselors (UAC); Concerned Parents of Public Schools (CSPS); Texas Democratic Women; Texas A &M African American Professional Organization (AAPO); Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Mary has conducted workshops that promote leadership skills, appreciation of the arts, study skills, goal setting, and personal development. She loves arts and crafts, reading, shopping for bargains and spending quiet quality time at home with her family. Mary is a member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Bryan. Mary is married to Albert S. Broussard, a History Professor at Texas A &M University and the mother of two children, Valerie Stephanie a student at Blinn College and Matthew Christopher a freshman at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. Susan Birdwell Susan Scott Birdwell was born and reared in Lufkin, Texas She earned a degree in elementary education from The University of Texas and taught 5th grade in Spring Branch ISD in Houston while her husband, Bill, was in dental school. She moved to Bryan/College Station in 1975 when he opened his private dental practice here after two years of service in the US Air Force Dental Corps at Beale Air Force Base in California. Susan is the mother of two wonderful children Will (deceased) and Bonnie Birdwell Mason. Bonnie and her husband, Dr. Steven D. Mason, are the parents of Susan and Bill's two beautiful qrandchildren Caroline and William. They live in Longview, Texas where Steven teaches n the Biblical Studies Department at LeToumeau University. Susan is an active member of the United Methodist Church in Bryan where she sings in the Sanctuary Choir. Voluntarism and community service have always been important to Susan. She has served as a Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School Director, Brownie Girl Scout Leader, a Volunteer in Public Schools, Brazos Valley Symphony Belles Chairman and an Education Docent for the Bush Presidential Library. Susan is a past president of The Junior League of Bryan/College Station, The Woman's Club, The Seventh District Dental Auxiliary and Zeta Tau Alpha Alumni of Bryan/College Station. She has twice served as president of the Bryan High School Parent Teacher Student Organization. She has also served on the board of The March of Dimes, the Brazos Valley Rehabilitation Center and the Texas State Dental Auxiliary. Susan was named a "Woman of Distinction" in 1995 by The Bluebonnet Girl Scout Council and has served on the WOD Steering Committee for Bryan/College Station. Susan is a member and supporter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, EO, Brazos Valley Texas Exes, OPAS Guild, Friends of the Symphony Orchestra, Crestview Volunteers, The Arts Council of the Brazes Valley, The African American National Heritage Society and Museum, Big Brothers and Big Sisters of the Brazos Valley, The Children's Musem of the Brazos Valley and The St. Joseph Foundation. Sally Gibbons Bowen Sally Gibbons Bowen is a native of Dallas, Texas. She is a graduate of Southern Methodist University in Dallas. She married Ray Bowen forty eight years ago and is the mother of two grown children, Ray and Beth. Sally has six grandchildren and she loves them dearly. In 1994 she moved to College Station when her husband became President of Texas A &M University. While Ray was President, she was involved in all things concerning Texas A &M. She loved her interactions with students, faculty, former students and all employees of Texas A &M University. Patricia Burchfleld Patricia is the Deputy Director /Curator of the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. She was born and raised in Odessa, Texas. Her undergraduate degree is in American Studies from the University of Texas and her graduate degree is from the University of Oklahoma. She has worked in the presidential library system for thirty-two years. She has worked at two other Presidential Libraries: The Johnson Library in Austin, Texas and the Nixon Museum and Birthplace in California. Patricia has worked on hundreds of exhibits focusing on historical subjects as varied as Theodore Roosevelt, Civil Rights, World War II and the Cold War. Jason E. Hancock Jason Hancock has been with the George Bush Presidential library and Museum since November of 1997. He performs the duties of audio video specialist, and Exhibit Specialist. Before that, he attended South Plains College in Levelland, TX. He was a Master Control Operator for a NBC News affiliate in Little Rock AR. Amanda Urrutia Amanda Urrutia is the Museum Administrative Assistant for the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. She has worked for the library and museum for nine years. Amanda is a graduate of Bryan High School and is currently attending Blinn College. She has dedicated her time as a HOSTS (Help One Student to Succeed) volunteer at several Bryan schools, the Brazos Valley Children's Museum and Voices for Children (CASA of Brazos Valley). Kevin R. Carreathers Kevin R. Carreathers is currently the Assistant to the Provost/Director of Diversity- at Salisbury University. Previously, he served as the Associate Dean of Students at The University of Memphis and Director of Multicultural Services at Texas A &M University— College Station, TX for 10 years. He holds a B. A. Degree in Psychology from The University of North Texas and a M.A. Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Prairie View A &M University. He has taken courses toward his Ph.D. at The University of North Texas, Texas A &M University and The University of Memphis. While serving as Director of Multicultural Services at Texas A &M, the institution maintained the highest freshman retention rate for minority students for 1 0 consecutive years. The Department of Multicultural Services was also recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for creating a positive campus climate amongst public universities and colleges and received the Noel/Levitz Retention Excellence Award. Mr. Carreathers is a founder of the Southwestern Black Student Leadership Conference, the largest student run conference in the nation, co- founder of the Diversity Education Institute and founder of the Multicultural Affairs Institute. He served as a strategist to assist Texas A &M University and other Texas state universities to find alternative solutions to maintain minority recruitment and retention programs during the Hopwood decision. His areas of expertise include diversity issues, program development, mentoring and student retention. Mr. Carreathers has been a consultant on diversity issues for The College of William and Mary, The University of North Carolina. Baylor University, Blinn College, The Central Intelligence Agency, Bryan ISD, Stephenville ISD and The School of St. George, University of North Carolina – Greensboro, The University of Alabama - Huntsville, University of North Texas and the College of the Mainland. He is an invited presented annually at The National Conference on Race and Ethnicity in American Higher Education. Mr. Carreathers has received recognition from the following awards: Texas A &M Association of Former Students Distinguished Faculty Achievement Award in Individual Student Relations (1991), The John J. Koldus Faculty/Staff Achievement Award (1989), the 1988 Young Black Achiever in Houston, Who's Who in Black America (1986 and 1994) and the Outstanding Educator Awards In Roads, Houston (1988). He is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His hobbies include collecting Black art, listening to jazz and reading literacy works by Black authors. Kevin is the proud son of the late Dr. R.E. Carreathers and mother Ernestine T. Carreathers. He has one sister, Denise C. Armstrong and a nephew, Eugene Armstrong. Sharon Colson Sharon Colson has been coming into homes in the Brazos Valley since 1975 through KAMU -TV the Texas A &M University- licensed PBS affiliate. In that period of time, she has become a friend of most of us in this room tonight. But, there are some things about her you may not know. Sharon holds B.S. and M Ed. degrees from Texas A &M University- Commerce; and a Ph.D. from Texas A &M University — College Station. She has taught graduate classes in TAMUs Interdisciplinary Education Department; undergraduate classes in the Department of Educational Psychology; and supervised public relations/broadcasting internships at KAMU/Educational Broadcast Services. She is a frequent consultant to education service centers, public schools, colleges and universities. Coming from a public school and community college background, she has administrative and management experience as well as in grants and contracts. She is the author of published works in professional journals. Serving on a variety of boards, she currently chairs the Wolf Pen Creek Tax Increment Finance Board for the City of College Station, serves on the Child Development Advisory Board for Blinn College, and serves on the Luncheon Committee for Health For All, Bryan. Dr Colson is a 1990 Leadership Texas Alumnae; was Woman of Distinction" in 2003, Bluebonnet Girl Scout Council, Waco Area; and "You're the Tops" 2003 Honoree, the Prenatal Clinic of Bryan. She has been listed in Personalities of the South. Sharon and her husband, Lynn, are active members of First Baptist Church in College Station. They are the parents of three grown children all of whom (with their families) live in College Station. Denise Fries Denise Fries is a Financial Advisor and owner of Fries Financial Services in Bryan, Texas. Denise graduated from Texas A &M University in 1984 and immediately started her business, Fries Financial Services. Denise found that the only way she could provide her clients with the types of products and services she believes they deserve was to "start from scratch ", building a new type of financial planning firm. Denise is the youngest American woman to qualify in the shortest period of time for the Million Dollar Round Table, an international association of the top 5% of life insurance agents. Denise is a top equities producer with her Broker/Dealer, Capital Analysts Incorporated, and manages over 175 million dollars in investments for her clients. A much sought after speaker in the financial planning industry, Denise travels extensively to teach other financial planners customer service skills. Denise balances an active career with community service. She was the first female Kiwanis member in Texas. Denise has been twice nominated "Outstanding Woman of the Brazos Valley ", recognized as one of the "Leading Ladies of the Brazos Valley ", was featured as "The Most Interesting Person in the Brazos Valley" by Insite Magazine, and is a frequent lecturer on the topics of Financial Planning, Estate Planning and Wealth Preservation. Denise is married to a Milam County cattle rancher and has a 13 year old daughter, Taylor. Barbara Walker Guillory Barbara Walker Guillory graduated from E.A. Kemp high School in Bryan, Texas in 1965. She is the daughter of the late Mr. & Mrs. George Walker, Jr. Barbara has enjoyed an extensive Career within the County Clerks Office (Court —at -law Criminal Court), The Circuit Clerks Office (Family Court), and the District Clerks Office (Civil Litigations) as a court clerk and case coordinator in Beaumont, Jefferson County, Texas; Springfield Greene County, Missouri; and Austin, Travis County, Texas. She was on the board of directors and events planner for Rita Patten and Associates in Chesterfield, Missouri. She serves on the advisory board for the Links Golf Magazine and the Austin Times Weekly Newspaper of which her son Sedric is the Publisher. She is the chairperson of the Class of 1965 E.A. Kemp High School and has served on the planning committee for the mass reunion for E. A. Kemp High School. Barbara organized the first golf tournament and is the tournament chair for the Brazos Valley African American Museum's Annual Golf Tournament that is held annually in April at Pebbly Creek County Club. She also serves on the African American National Heritage Society's event planning committee. Barbara is married to Andon H. L. Guillorv, a retiree of Lucent Technology. and they reside in Bryan, Texas. They are the parents of two children, a son. sedric who is the publisher and owner of a golf magazine and newspaper in Austin, Texas and a daughter, Elizabeth who is the director of Campus Life and First Year Experience at Huston - Tillotson University in Austin, Texas. Valerie Hill- Jackson Dr. Valerie Lynn Hill- Jackson was born and raised in New Jersey and moved to Texas with her family three ears ago. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Culture at Texas A &M University (TAMU) where she teaches critical multicultural education. urban education, curriculum studies. and cultural related courses. Prior to arriving to TAMU, Dr. Hill- Jackson worked as the principal investigator and director of the Math & Science Upward Bound Program at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. and as a curriculum designer, department chair, and science teacher in two urban school districts. Dr. Hill- Jackson's educational philosophy is every child, every opportunity. She feels that the institution of education should never compromise when it comes to educating its youngest citizens. As the twelfth child of thirteen, the first and only to go to college, and parents who were illiterate migrant workers, she has discovered that education is the great equalizer. But there have been few school districts that have provided meaningful learning experiences in underserved communities - for learners and their families. Dr. Hill- Jackson's research interests are passionately located in improving educational experiences for all of America's children. The U.S. `s changing demographics should propel educators to embrace pedagogical experiences that partner with the community and ensure excellence among America's forgotten children in needy communities. Dr. Hill- Jackson is a 2001 -2002 AERA/ Spencer fellow and received the national LEAD poisoning) STAR award for her research in childhood lead poisoning in urban environments and school readiness. She is also a Geraldine R. Dodge fellow for outstanding teaching. Dr. Hill -Jack son received Distinguished Educator of the Year and is a prolific writer with several journal articles and book chapter contributions to her credit. Dr. Hill- Jackson has been invited to speak nationally and internationally, and has presented papers at numerous professional meetings and conferences. Dr. Valerie Hill- Jackson provides consulting to numerous educational and non- profit agencies and serves as the editor of Parents' Voice, a national newsletter for United Parents Against Lead (UPAL), National, Inc. for environmental justice. She recently co- founded The Barnabas Outreach Foundation, Inc., whose vision is to be the premier outreach provider that inspires individual and community excellence through academic, personal. and professional development. • • • • • Bowen Keiffer Jackson, Jr. Born in I 953 in Baltimore, Maryland, Mr. Jackson was raised in Pasadena, • California where he attended and graduated from Pasadena High School. Mr. .Jackson attended Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio where he received a • Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science, June 11, 1977. After completion of • the prescribed course of study, Mr. Jackson received a Master of Public Administration Degree from the University of Dayton, April 25. 1982. Mr. Jackson's early professional experiences were as a Community Affairs Coordinator for the Department of Housing, City of Dayton, 1977 to 1979 and as a Public Affairs Officer for the Dayton Power and Light Company, 1979 to 1983. On September 18. 1983. Mr. Jackson accepted an appointment as a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Thereafter he traveled to the FBI Academy at Quantico, VA to begin a rigorous course of training and instruction. Upon training completion, Mr. Jackson was assigned to his first office, the Tulsa, Oklahoma Resident Agency. He subsequently was assigned to the Philadelphia. Pennsylvania Office and then to the Houston, Texas Office. During his service of over twenty three years, Mr. Jackson worked numerous types of investigations to include, white collar crime, bank robberies, major illicit drug traffickers, foreign counter intelligence /espionage, civil rights, domestic and international terrorism violations, as well as serving in several administrative capacities. After a highly successful career, Mr. Jackson was honored upon his retirement from the FBI, December 26, 2006. 0 Throughout his professional life, Mr. Jackson has been the recipient of numerous • honors and awards. They include: Outstanding Young man of America, Jaycees of America in 1980; Letter of commendation, Deputy Attorney General, Civil • Rights Division, Department of Justice, 1987; Performance Award, Director, • FBI 1988; Outstanding Service Award, National Association of Black Accountants. 1995; Certificate of Commendation, Director, FBI 1999; • Certificate of Achievement, Director, FBI 2001; Exceptional Service in the Public Interest Award, director, FBI 2003; Outstanding Service Award, East Coast Gang Investigators Association, 2003; Joint Intelligence Initiative Service • Award, Federal Bureau of Prisons, 2003. Sharron Knutson Sharron Knutson has lived in College Station since 1975. She was the first president and chair of the board of directors of the Friends of KAMU (4 years) and was also chairman of the KAMU auction (4 years). She has been recognized by KAMU as well as by the Arts Council of the Brazos Valley for her work on behalf of public broadcasting in the Brazos Valley. She was the first president and chair of the board of directors of the Oakview Condominium Homeowners' Association in Austin (10 years). She served in a number of volunteer positions for the College Station Independent School District's band program (1977 -1991) and has been recognized for that work. Most recently she has helped the Friends of Marcus Young campaign to raise funds for a liver/kidney transplant. Sharron and her husband have three children and their spouses and six grandchildren. They spend time in College Station and at their Colorado cabin and travel extensively. Shirley Payton Shirley Payton is a native of College Station. She attended Lincoln High School and graduated from A&M Consolidated High School. She also attended Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Mrs. Payton is married to Lonzell Payton, Jr. for 40 years and they have two sond, Lonzell III and Justin (wife Fabiana and a beautiful granddaughter, Naj. Shirley is currently a Vice President/Financial Center Manager for Citibank where she has been employed for 20 years and recently received the Citistars Service and Support Award, recognizing outstanding interdepartmental support, exceptional service delivery to internal and external clients, and consistent demonstration of outstanding service achievement. She is a member of North Bryan New Birth Baptist Church where her husband is the pastor. She is the adult ladies Sunday School teacher and choir director. Shirley presently serves the community as a Board member of the African American National Heritage Scoeity, the March of Dimes, and a member of the City of Bryan Police Department CommunityAdvisory Committee. Preious board member of the Brazos Valley Arts Council, Health For All, The better Business Bureau, U& I Can, Brazos County Community Council, Dug and Violence Prevention Committee at Jane Long Middle School and the Black History Program Committee. She has been honored by the Prenatal Clinic for the "You're The Tops" award recognizing women making a positive impact in the community. Bishop M. C. Williams Bishop Williams was born in West Texas in a town called Brady to Mrs. Johnnie M. Williams. His family later moved to Bryan where the attended Washington Elementary, Neal Junior High, and Bryan High School where he graduated. He has served as a Laboratory Technician for 21 years at Texas A &M University Chemistry Department. In the year of 1975 he heard and accepted the call of God to the ministry of Jesus Christ. After years of seeking God's will and being instructed by many great inspirational leaders of the Gospel, he was licensed and ordained as pastor of the Endtime Evangelistic Pentecostal Church in Bryan, Texas where he has served faithfully and willingly for 27 1 /2 years. He received his Masters of Religious Administration from the Maranatha Bible College in Brundidge, Alabama under the tutelage of Apostle/Dr. S. D. James, Senior Bishop and CEO of the S. D. James Evangelistic Association, Inc. and it's Pentecostal Churches Worldwide, Inc. along with Bishop/Dr. K. A. Tenah, Dean. These men of God's lives are governed by the righteousness of God's law. This man of God has traveled to many cities, states, countries, and even the island of the seas preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was ordained to the Bishopric in the year of 1992 and now serves as Jurisdictional Prelate of Mid - Western USA. His diocese extends to Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, and Clarendon, Jamaica. This young man is multitalented and he uses every gift for the edification and building up of the Kingdom of God. He loves God's people and his greatest desire is to see men saved, delivered, and set free from the bondage of sin. He is the husband of one wife: Mrs. Wanda Williams and the father of two sons, Barachiel and Joseph. He is a motivator and implementer of positive change. He is also an administrator, but most of all he is a messenger of the Lord Jesus Christ. Roger Williams Roger Williams moved to Bryan/College Station in 1976. He started building custom homes in 1984 as Southwest Homes. Roger has served two terms as President of the BCS Home Builders Association and various terms as Director of the local, State and National Home Builders Associations. He is married to Belinda and has a daughter Stephanie and a Stepson Kevin. Mell Ruth Pruitt Mell Ruth Pruitt was born the eighth child to Henry and Maggie Carreathers, in East Texas in a small town called Blossom. Her family was sharecroppers, mainly cotton pickers. The family moved to Denison, Texas when Mell was nine years old. Mell graduated from Terrell High School in 1948 with 26 students in her graduating class. Her classmates Octavia Franklin Butler from Oakland, California and Adelle Huey Perry from San Antonio, Texas came to the Museum's grand opening in July 2006. In 1948, Mell attended Prairie View A &M University where she was an honor student, was active on the drill team, and the Physical Education Club. Mell graduated in 1952 with a B.S. degree in Health and Physical Education. She continued her education by completing a M.S. degree in 1959 at Prairie View A &M and a counselors certificate from Texas A &M University in the 60's. While attending Prairie View, Mell met and married Willie Pruitt in May 1951. After graduation they moved to Bryan to teach. Mell retired from Bryan Independent School District as a Counselor after 38 years. Mell has been the recipient of numerous awards, including: Outstanding Teacher of Kemp School Award; Future Teachers of America; Bethune Women's Club Outstanding Member; The Eagle's Woman with a Purpose Award; Outstanding Woman of Brazos County; Outstanding Service Award by the Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Chamber of Commerce, volunteer of the year; Kemp High School Class; Shiloh Baptist Church. Her lastest awards include the distinguished 2005 Jefferson Award, and the Arts Council of Brazos Valley Award in 2006. Mrs. Pruitt is a true believer in community service. She founded the Debutant Ball for young African American ladies; brought the Ebony Fashion Show to Bryan and served as the event's first chair; was President of the Bethune Women's Club from 1967 — 1995; lead the fund raising program to build the North Bryan Community Center — which opened debt free in 1990; served as Chair of the Brazos Valley African American Museum from 2001 — 2006; helped raise about $700,000 to build the Brazos Valley African American Museum — which opened debt free in 2006. Mell believes in the importance of education, so it is not surprising that her greatest pride comes from the scholarship programs that she helped establish. Scholarship programs were established through the Bethune Women's Club, North Bryan Community Center, Shiloh Baptist Church, Henry and Maggie Carreathers Memorial Scholarship Fund, Antioch Baptist Church Scholarship, and Brazos Valley African American Museum Scholarship Fund — honoring the late museum board members Wanda Ross Malone and Jean Walton Clark. The Pruitts have two sons, Clovus, earned a B.S. and Masters degree from Prairie View A &M, and Willie Pruitt, Jr., who earned his B.S. degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and a Masters degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs. Mell and Willie have three grandchildren; Nikita Bass Robertson, employed by St. Joseph's Regional Hospital, William Pruitt III, who is a senior at Amherst Univeristy in Amherst, Massachesetts and Margaret (Maggie) Pruitt; who is a sophomore at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina and have two great grandchildren, Bryston Bass and Braylon Robertson. Mell Pruitt is a member of Shiloh Baptist Church where she is the founder and served as president of the church's scholarship program. She has been active on the usher board, a youth sponsor, and teacher in the after school tutorial program. Willie Pruitt Willie Pruitt is co- founder of the Brazos Valley African American Museum. He was born the oldest of three sons to Euril and Sarah Pruitt, in Waxahachie, Texas. His family moved to Fort Worth, Texas when he was fourteen. He attended Guinn High School then graduated from I.M. Terrell High School. He then went to Prairie View A &M University on a track scholarship. He was a member of the South West Conference track team for all four years and set records in the 100 -yard dash, the 220- yard dash, and the 440 yard relay. He was also a member of the South West Conference football team for four years. Willie was the Outstanding Player of the Year for 1951 -1952. Willie graduated with a B.S. degree in 1952 and a M.S. degree in 1959. Mr. Pruitt came to Bryan, Texas to teach at Washington Elementary School in 1952. He retired from teaching, coaching, and serving as assistant principal for Bryan High School after 37 years. Willie has always been a financial supporter of Prairie View A &M's football, track teams and the choir. He has raised funds and generously made donations to the football and track teams and the Choir. Willie raised funds following a tragic fatal accident involving members of the track team and donated it to the track program. The Pruitts are well known for working together on numerous projects. Mr. Pruitt is ther receipeient of many awards, including: the Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta's Community Leadership Award, Kemp High School Classes Award, Bethune Womens' Club Service Award and the Bryan Future Farmers of America Award. Willie is married to Mell Ruth Carreathers Pruitt. He is a member of Shiloh Baptist Church where he is a founder, Chair of the Deacon Board and trustee. Willie and Mell wishes to thank Onie Homes and Lucile Young of College Station for their support of them for this evenings recognition. Announcements ■ Banquet videos Videos of this evening's banquet may be purchased by placing an order tonight at the registration table or you may contact Andy Tennelle of Video Productions at (214) 333 -2980. Everyone is welcome to attend the events listed below. Come for fellowship and a great time. ■ David Woods Exhibit Opening and Reception The public is invited to the Exhibit Opening and Reception for David Woods, a Navasota native, on Sunday, February 3, 2007, 3:00 p.m. — 5:00 p.m at the Brazos Valley African American Museum located at 500 East 2e Street, Bryan, Texas 77803. The reception is being sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank, Mervin Peters, Regional Vice President. Call the museum at 775 -3961 for more information. ■ Ebony ,fashion Sfiow — Sponsored by the Bethune Women's Club Date: March 21, 2007 Time: 8:00 p.m. Location: Bryan Civic Auditorium 800 S. Coulter Street Bryan, TX Price: $30 per person To purchase tickets call: Mattie Carter, President of the Bethune Women's Club at: (979) 690 -3820. ■ Brazos Nafley Aftan American Museum — Golf Tournament Date: April 2, 2007 Time: To be announced Location: Pebble Creek Country Club 4500 Pebble Creek Pkwy College Station, TX 77845 Golf teams are being recruited. Contact Willie Pruitt at (979) 822 -0469 for additional information and to register your team. T, Ads, Honoranous And Memorials www. a c bv. o rg American Museum Congratulations and Thank You Onie Holmes and The African American National Heritage Society For Bringing to our community the Brazos Valley African American Museum It is a treasure that will forever inspire residents of, and visitors to, the Brazos Valley. P e Jim and Jan Hughes We extend our very best wishes to our friend Barbara Walker Guillory as she is honored during the Brazos Valley African American Museum's Annual Appreciation Banquet Margaret * * * Barbara * * * Kayte Friends Forever Dr. Margaret Fomer Dr. Kayte Perry Congratulations to my lovely wife, Barbara... Your husband, • • • • • • s • • • • • • • Andon In Loving Memory of Our Parents Mr. &Mrs. George Walker, Jr. In order that we may not forget the benefits that your lives meant to us, we dedicate this to you. Your bringing us into the world was our beginning, keeping together is a process, working together is our success. Your Children: Alvin (deceased) Barbara Carolyn Evelyn Elvin Joe Lee Willie Lee CONGRATULATIONS With our love to Barbara Walker Guillory, Honoree And the African American National Heritage Society with Great Success in the Future Dr. Elizabeth A. Guillory Medina Huston - Tillotson University Austin, Texas Sedric L. Walker CEO & Founder, Publisher On the Links and The Austin Times Austin, Texas Best Wishes to the Brazos Valley African American Museum (979) 690-2260 FAX (979) 690-2270 ai CURRY PLUMBING COMPANY, INC. 21 X11 ROG K PRAIRIE ROAD FREDDIE LEE CURRY PO, BOX 9334 PRESIDENT COLLEGE STATION, TX 77842 Plaza Hotel & Suites At the corner of University Drive and Texas Avenue, Across the street from Texas A &M University The Hotel for all of your Rooms, Banquet, Conference and Catering Needs Plaza Hotel & Suites 410 South Texas Avenue College Station (979) 846 -4242 (97) 846 -8569 Fax (800) 888 -6937 toll free www.plazacs.com Uocktail flour S cholarship Presentations Production ( atfln' to be Invited) D ie C hristoptier , att lac* area old .rwfit Ball is a s oqoalw e The firSt 150 purchasers of tall tickets will far ; l PMgFa a of the mas se receive a complimentary ItCkel to the rKodvCt�on Outr wh Foundation, Proceeds from the fie# will be used to r e For ticket information and sponsorship and educ bon l opp ortunities, p lease visit rd 1tfr9J arry www ,bamabasoutreachfdn.org learrwrs The Hall rs raarrrerj r rn rrjtary or call 28 1 -256-3992 o f Chfis Scott, a stelt r athlete Earld iucaw w ho t.�ewvefit m the power of hher oe #uctiorr to lire =rform We? `" Proudly Supporting the lax-L's ville A , AFRICAN Po AMERICAN MUISELINA Irl The Ea le Here when you need us. TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 979476-2,345 J r The Brazos Valley African Amercian Museum is a 4,000 square foot facility constructed on the site of one of the original black schools in the Brazos Valley. It provides three galleries, a classroom, a ge- nealogy study room, an office, and a storage room. The form of the building alludes to elelphant tusks which also serve as the museum logo. Authentic African patterns are subtly applied to the facades. EXISTING PLAY ! c p courtyard f /� • M • =- W a s.I[ZZ rie — i> a , gallery lr h "Jim made us feel that our job was his most important priority." Me// Pruitt, Executive Director Brazos Valley African American Museum Bryan, Texas In Honor of Susan B i 4 ordw e CC William R. Birdwell, D.D.S., Inc. Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry 2705 Osler Boulevard Bryan, TX 77802 (979)776-4843 Fax (979)776 -5174 Website: www.birdwelldds.com CongratuCations to the Brazos vaCCey African-American 9Ruseum MAY THE LORD CONTINUE TO POUR OUT HIS BLESSINGS ON THE BRAZOS VALLEY AFRICAN - AMERICAN MUSUEM. THROUGHOUT HISTORY, FAITH HAS BEEN A CORNERSTONE IN THE LIVES OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE. YOUR FAITH IS WHAT IS MAKING THIS MUSEUM WHAT IT IS TODAY. THE SPIRIT OF UNITY, CARING AND SERVICE BUILT ON A STRONG FOUNDATION WILL STAND FIRM. DR. KRIS F. ERSKINE THE SHILOH BAPTIST CHURCH FAMILY Shiloh Baptist Church 502 East Martin Luther King Street Bryan,TX 77803 Phone: (979) 823 -5002 Fax: (979) 822 -2365 www.shilohbaptistbcs.homestead.com Africein American National Hege Society Brazos Valley Africdn American'Museum on Your 6 th Annual Banquet U "" Albert Allen Kanzetta Allen Pauline taS'trappe Barnes Esel Sell Wye Beg, Jr. Thomas Bellinger Amy Boykin Cecil Boykin Emestine Carreathers Burnest Carter Gwendolyn Carter Savanna Clark Alvin Coleman Redessa Coleman Loretta Craft Henry Cyrus Minnie Cyrus Trevia Cyrus Clem Dams Gabriel Darby"' Vera Darby Mein Davis W iiam, R. Downey, if Kenneth Gray Vera D. Harris Jacqueline P. Haynes Lillian Haynes Marie Hemdon Amecip Hi99s George E. Higgs" Marous Higgs Oivette Higgs Bonnie Jackson Gwendolyn Johnson Yolanda Jordan Griff Kendrick Irma Kendrick James Kennedy Leon LeWs Tyron Mox Charlie Mayes. Jr." Renard Mitchell Gloria Wesley Leroy Moore" Wiliam Moultriie Georgia Owens Maurice Owens Thoymmee Phillips Benin Rance Lucous Randle Kathryn Reed Sylvester Roach, Jr. Erma Simon Sadberry" Cleophus Sharp Calvin Singleton Cherie Singleton Earl Smith Taylor Smith i Lorenzo Tramble March Tramble Halcyon VA*ns Lindsey Weatherspoon" Bernice Webster W aymon Webster Clarence Wright Johnny Younger - WHAT .A RICH HERITIAGE 110 REMENDDR and HoxoR DE -ACOW JAMDS LDR.O1J. JO WSOW SR. 1897 -1986 -A CovabCe christian family man who worked in ad departments of church. Dedicated to doing the Master's will: A friend in the community, source of information, possessor of attributes of Cove, kindness, respect, honest. His speciaCsolo, "My HEA` EWly ,T.A7HEP, `WA7 "CHES OVER M E' I count it aCCjoy and thank the lordfor your footprints. Love, Lorraine Ocheltree family (daughter) Congratulations to the Brazos Valley African American Museum Board In Memory of Otis Carter and Patricia Ann Carter - Miller Albennie Carter, Bobbie Carter, Otis Carter, Charles & Shirley Carter, Gary & Delores Burton, Leonard & Ruby Carter, Chares & Donna Roach, Dinah Shannon, Keith Carter, Herb & Cynthia Jones The Family that Prays together, stays together!! Thanks African - American The Next Stage' National Heritage Society For Enhancing The Communities In Which We Live Your friends and neighbors at Wells Fargo Bank Brazos Valley: Navasota, Brenham, Waller, Bellville, Sealy, Bryan - College Station, Franklin, Marquez, Iola, Madisonville, Centerville, Fairfield, Waco, Hillsboro, Hubbard 02005 Wells Fargo Bank N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. wellsfargo.conn 1. Vill F_ Congratulations to the Brazos Valley African American Museum for your outstanding contribution to our community! From the Board of trustees of the Brazos Community ,Foundation Sam Sharp Chairman Janie McDougal Vice - Chairman Celia Goode - Haddock Treasurer Larry Holt Secretary Nancy Berry Charles Ellison Jerry Fox Jeff Harris Larry Hodges Paula House Kenneth Loke Carol McFaddin Diane Jones Meier Mary Kaye Moore Pete L. Rodriguez Tiffani McKinney Executive Director Congratulations and Best Wishes to the Brazos Valley African American Museum Linda and Paul Parrish West Union Missionary Baptist Church 1801 McArthur, Bryan, TX 77803 (979) 822 -1988 "Our Best Is Yet To Come" We invite you to worship with us Sunday 9:45 A.M. Sunday School 11:00 A.M. Praise and Worship Service Wednesday 7:30 P.M. Bible Study Reverend Anthony Lang, Pastor Congratulations to the Brazos Valley African American Museum Bryan Animal Clinic Katherine M. Wheeler, D.V.M. Member: Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice; BVVMA; TVMA; AVMA Practice Limited to Dogs and Cats Since 1982 2710 Maloney Ave. Bryan, TX 77801 (979) 822 -5953 Doctor's Hours by Appointment Emergency Number after Hours: 845 -2351 Best Wishes to the Brazos Valley African American Museum from Marie Herndon Mayor Pro Tem City of Prairie View, TX Co.NGRA7VGA71ONS to the African American Nationa0feritage Society on yourAnnuaf AWRE CIA 7zoN (BA NQvE7 and Our Dear Friends 914r. c� 9Vrs. WiCCie Pruitt Banquet Chair, Board Chair and Founders Dr. a� �44rs. 4Naymon 7. Webster Prairie view, Texas Brazos Valley African American Museum 2nd Annual Golf Tournament April 2, 2007 Pebble Creek Country Club 4500 Pebble Creek Parkway College Station, Texas 77845 This year's golf tournament promises to be one that will offer something for everyone. For more information contact Barbara Walker Guillory, Tournament Administrator (979) 204 -3489 Charles Sippial, Assistant Administrator Sedric L. Walker, Support Administrator Effie Allen Perry, Finance Administrator • • • J • Congratulations Brazos Valley African American Museum The Carreathers Family Best Wishes Brazos Valley African American Museum MAKE THEM PAY! Co. HERIVANDEZ LAIC' FIRM. P.C. r 1a,i w W, v 14M 51G Top BIG TOP LEARNING NINE CENT R 908 Daiisby - -- Bt*yan, Texas — (979) 779 -8778 Owner, :Betty Darks RAFYC Accredited Center Accredited by the National, Academy of Early Childhood Pros • Infiajits anti u1) + D evelc)j)rii ell rit] 1 .E:arml « Flash,. Skill • E'lay Care • Kincicrg<1rtcli • After School Care • E )rcip -ins + Summer Scluiol Tutoring « CcrtiGecl Teneller:s « C'c�r�3l�utc:rs Food Program Video Monitored ('l,tssr•v()rnS Nutritiou -s Breakfast, 1.11110h ajid Simck "Preparing !Geis for the Basics" 11w well being ofthe childre:l comes # net. 1 ax (979) 7710 -84 F �rnLtil: r'ml:lh «-trr litrrct.�ltt.flc�t Congratulations and Best Wishes on your 6 th Annual Appreciation banquet. Life Long Learning 979 - 574 -7373 Fax 979 - 779 -8458 * Curriculum * Books *Resource Guides *Lesson Plans * On -Site Training * Seminars Author: Betty Sue Hanks E -mail: rmbhanks@worldnet.att.net 906 Dansby Street, Bryan, Texas Web Page: www.rmbhanks.com In Honor of Onie Holmes For her willingness and devotion in helping the African American Museum become a reality in the Brazos Valley. On July 22, 2006, the Brazos Valley African American Museum held its grand opening and opened its doors to the public. It was her belief in the importance of the museum and hard work that will make the Brazos Valley African American Museum a success and a lating treasure for all of us to enjoy. David Price Homebuilders, Inc. Applauds you for your efforts. CONGRATULATIONS To the African - American National Heritage Society In presenting The Sixth Annual Appreciation Banquet Honor the Past and Create the Future With God's Continued Blessings Willie and 011ie M. Taylor • • • • • • • Congratulations To the African - American National Heritage Society On your sixth Annual Appreciation Banquet Continued Success with Your Ongoing Endeavors The Taylor Children & Families Anthony, Jacques &Valerie (Theodore, Jasmin) Lawrence & Angela (Taylor, Alexis) The Brazos Valley African American Museum Salutes Coach Jerome Delly, Jr. A bit more than school pride p, A"11, A VIVIN rn; a sff Wr station C rnnrr,wa: C"Ift . avid tkttley and hta wife, F,thRl, viewod t)r rnhiail the e#Ibn •pantile RiOa: Coal, 1MOItw OeAey a - and the �Altla Utley JI ml'' foe a[at Ilmr W!ver,MF llriGeln Poal,ex FOOdwl team' K M Olaply at one CW sae 1 Cf2LL5 a time when a w 11 a "CtNaary day. 'Whnn vier area Ylarted, I Stotoan lanl,, - Center. lea e#libll, awnsa,W by Cot Inge Slaon_ 5 Halatp ortlme libmy oaanaee, la _and snag picloW wthm an dal. ball. hid it, Irk foo ri M the a ble:. for nnla hrammien aeon HgRt HMO. horn rode drir hcwoo, to and 1heY were wping to Nate : / /HUtu.ca;l,gov. ' pracncC hwatwll al taw t.in- ruin &hunt our HoneIDen lrwl JertMw areal:!' !%rid. - Aft.'they'd i fxlve. 1 % or 3M puur.ht ofawion fur H__ the wl &_ aald gee sonwbrdi,a wax Ueney remrmhrra a,.- tb ears fin oetke loot didnt how• %p ih,rwu. Uel crone nobmlk s No* they dI, brc:msl bus the one brill for an wo Lvov.. other t ley pirMb up cane spate w li tome far a vigil wi., taught hie boys how to When f Saw O.-Y v�rn lavedkx clothes from &vr .01t planing to gee mc: play looman vitae than u , doing than. 1 raid, W.W Bryant, who M the I— In Augll6t. a gnOnp d DI4. a, year. go gut a thence nnerve got as To., A&M t'nivttsp lea's tamer pl.ym h0.wed 'fhr aly ar ok1 sort -spo- gaud minds.'fhey Jmt mad tv'sfotNnR awch. A loans a "lawn M.1 r a" im' the k G station tent. a teacher'" oconam4n tro l,er eyed the cash :d Vne idavm coot dent ,mial oed Wed.,di, odley'a ,lay brkyp: to umhatm In match the yam her. Aaple oam, nom Cah- ala,ut ha, ienme ae ea ,4 of mind viskms rw eat ilL•lpt o, dwr ,,ton of Ample and ha, la, Rhode Island and thy I.iauhr panther, frtwn banal meat, 71,e p,Bed1, a Ladd. Minis far the event• Kited lade W I% & A adkcaint of former fwlball pieym' at "I tad yott 1 wish n'u Usher wkI. photos, htbr )a ip m newt/ ,sane 1119h Adwlol amt —old hew. yen, It,' nehey Ytal anlld till Iww mnda pap.,, uteiaw MW "hi- Wllcy Coll W, W1.11t her yukl. wiping hale ewes with ,. an dWhil, at the Qilelle hoq and iwwwne Ibntr men, twndkerchid. "1 nigh yam See COACH. page A6 TY The Ea `_/r / ■a le Co From Al - 7 they care for him," sale said "'I'loey vivre some of the best chat ume titntugh t;ys•.coln." Among the guests even current Zia Consolidated foothull ctwsrll Jim Slaughter ;Ind a fety of his players- Public education has come a long way since the "A&M Omsolifilted Negt'o School" opened its 6even•rcoai build- ing in 194L The name wag ,,hanged to Llrumin School in 1W. Public schools in the area began integrating in the early 1960s, and tlw! CoWgo Station sehooj board ducided at 1965 0 1 years after the Supreme uOurt's landnlnrk decision in t[niWn v. Board IA Uticatkon) that any student who wanted to attt'nd A&M Consolidated High 'k - tool - which former- IV had be rl the white seboot could do so. In early 10% there wet no longer an option. Thr Lbttnln ScMyol burned, and all the stthStmts find U) go to A&M Consolidated. What's now knuw•n as ills UnWoln Center was rebuil t on the liropeliv near Holleman Drive. The mriter offers after school programs for children and operates the ColaW. Sta- tiou Buys and Girls Club. Ethel Dailey, who taught at Ltnuoln 5uhocrl, continued teachutg in the College Sta- tion school system, but the integration changes leg her husband without a job. His position at Lincoln School was Jerome De11oy's fast and Jsst as a football' ClM - WJI, lie joined the Job Corps and worked temporary jobs Tar a while, later earning a coon. aeljng degree at Sam Houston State University and becom• Ina a truant officer. He retired in 1986. Anne Boykin, a Collego Sta- tion historian, remembers when the st. hecalne integrated because the black students, many of whom had ptaycd for Delleyb Panther roothttl team, came to A&M Consolidated High School, which Abe attended. Boykin graduatpA from Consolidated In 1967, 'The new kkls taupe corer Pretty much oven rnight - she said. "I don't recall having any fnuCiall problems of any kind. - fio}'kill r 111pd¢s College Stition's Historic Online Library Database, also tti'ered to W Protect IIDLD, and said she recalled mtnno- rler of the Lincotn Panther "hall team as sale was with [ring information for the Web site, "I trinrmber that was one of our highlight,, when the Lincoln football ttuu would play at Tiger Stadium." Boykin said. •"ITaev p1a.yed nn, our field occasiuttally, and we'd go to their zones. They were so colorful, so atdmut. ed," She put together Ihr exill it about the tearu, which is on display at the conference center on George Hush Drive, As Delley ]caked over tilt old photos Wednesday, he stalled and said he had great memories but didn't want to brag about himself "1'v+e always believed you shutdd Ice your work speak for you." he said. 0 April Amon's email awmss is aprlt.avispn& I heeaele -tom LK Ie • p U,E larome Dollar a. em Li ae a radar. MMe L950 Larn School w.slaaday ooft M1 Deliey ero ," at I - ,clad lw Jul rootwen team. wawa a sa.rld, In CWage station on rare CS exhibit celebrates coach's time at all-black Lincoln School Congratulations To The African American Heritage Society Honoring Two Doctor's of Distinction Dr. Fred C. Thomas Dr. Dana Thomas The History of one's heritage is buildeth by encouragement from the outside and instilled in the inside of a person which develops their personality. Congratulations Dr. Waymon T. Webster For being recognized by Former E. A. Kemp High school Band Students for your major instruction, motivation and career launching of so many of your students that are succeeding in the entertainment world. Placque presented on June 22, 2006 at the Grand Opening of the Brazos Valley African American Museum One Giant Step for our Community One Giant Step for our Neighborhood "God is Good" Congratulations ! From the Evans Family. The late John E. Evans, Mary and children John Jr. Judy Joyce Jerry James Jeffrey Joe Jacques • • • IN MEMORY OF HARVEY HANKS, JR. Best Wishes to the African American Museum "My confidence comes from a deeply rooted faith in God" Matthew 17 — 20 Earnestine Hanks The African American National Heritage Society CONGRATULATIONS! We extend our best wished for your continued success with the Brazos Valley African American Museum Walker Rental — Investment Properties Bryan - College Station, Texas (979) 485 -0343 Kwik Kar Wash 260929 Street Bryan, Texas Power Car Wash 709 North Washington Street Bryan, Texas Elvin and Mable Walker, Owners r • • • • • • • • • • • • • Best Wishes From Is "� "Especially for you" Professional Seamstress, specializing in Weddings and Decorations Owner: Emma Newton Graves Congratulations to the Brazos Valley African American Museum College Hills Baptist Church 712 Churchill Street College Station, TX 77840 Reverend Marlin Outing, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship 11:00 a.m. Mildred Martin - Secretary Lucile Young — Church Clerk �io ze ��i�n/ cqazx1a1nw)ea CA16 January 17, 1989 — September 15, 2006 q cwct�w ow aw P�Tll -19.. Y A IX , w ile Awcedanw11vx Marett George Burnett Lola Martin- Burnett & Marett G. Burnett Rebecca Sams- Jameson You are the seed that decides the harvest around you. Cecil ebster, Jr. Ella McAfee - Webster Cecil Webster, Sr. kz We are proud to support the Brazos YalleyAfticanAmericczn Museum. We also want to salute one of your tireless volunteers Onie Holmes a true treasure in our community! J AVI J AR N ER'S JEWELERS T G E M 0 L 0 G I S T S ;K# 1 W -� V W- - - - V - sit An tinvestment in the community always sees a return. Citibank would like to congratulate the African American National Heritage Society and Museum, for their continued dedication to preserving our cultural history. Because some investments cannot be charted on a graph. c tibank citibank.com 02007 Citibank. Citibank, N.A. Member FDIC. Citibank with Arc Design is a registered service mark of Citigroup Inc. CONGRATULATIONS TO Shirley Payton 2007 Honoree Brazos Valley African American Museum We are proud of you Love Yourfamily Your Family Tree VZ T.11- W4 ;Cal J ' C t '`� , J �' �c� �� l td -. �� •+ - c�' 4oittT'l.l,�c.klw - rya �> ; �c.�,v= ;- � -'+�°' "' :wit• o African American National Heritage Society In Loving Memory Of Our Mother Mrs. Hattie Robinson From Her Children, Grand Children and Sister HONORING Dr. Albert S. Broussard On your recognition as recipient of the "2006 Journal of the West (JOW) award for Best Issue of the Year" for the issue he edited for African Americans in the West. This is what the managing editor said about the issue... "Congratulations and thanks for putting together such a wonderful issue with such a fantastic diversity and level of article authors! As I look back on last year, my first as JOW's managing editor, I have no doubt that your issue was truly the finest. The Journal of the West board of directors voted to bestow this award on you in honor of your work in producing such a wonderful theme issue. �$ 0111 BEST WISHES May the journey into the future meet with All the dreams and hopes that you (we) Desire! Dr. & Mrs. James E. Johnson Prairie View, Texas Congratufations TO the Africam American Nationa(Heritage Society From qhe Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church By7anette Hedge Congratulations Congratulations! May you continue with much success Thomas, Octavia and Franklin Butler Oakland, California Mell and Willie Pruitt Your dreams of building an outstanding Museum is reality now. This wonderful addition to our community will be an experience to be enjoyed for generations to come. We are proud to be part of history. The first African American Museum in the Brazos Valley. We Salute You We Thank You Luke 1:3 "For with God nothing is impossible" Onie Holmes Lucile Young F. E A A 5 A,, M U N! V Er W 5. t. f.. Y -. Best Wishes from Dr. Jay Arekere, Ph.D. Interim Director Center for the Study of Health Disparities Congratulations From Golden Keys Learning Center, LLC 246 Southwest Parkway, East College Station, TX 77845 (979) 693 -9944 1106 N Harvey Mitchell Pkwy Bryan TX 77803 290 -6500 Q AT James' Sudie 59 3181+1. Main Street • Bryan q t=on - in-te ne,rating the Grand Opening of the Brazos Ballet' African American Museum James and La Verne Hawkins, Owners Contact us about events for special occasions (979) 229 -2986 Home of the Lobos Success... Expect No Less! FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1125 Wellborn Road •• College Station, TX 77840 (979) 690 -8415 Rev. Conrell Lockett, 111, Pastor Weekly Schedule of Events Sunday t 9 :45 am Sunday School 1 1:00 am Morning Worship Monday 7:00 pin UMW Meeting Tuesday 7:00 pm Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal Wednesday 7:00 pm Bible Study /Youth Fellowship Thursday 7:00 pin Inspirational Choir Rehearsal Congratulations African American National Heritage Society For Brazos Valley African American Museum From United Methodist Women's Organization Bobbie Smith, President Martha Watson, Vice President Charlie Mae Jones, Secretary Thanks to the following Patrons for their support Hair Designs 2024 South Texas Avenue Bryan, TX 77801 Serina Baylan (979) 220 -8128 Zavondria Shorter (Aka — P.D.) (979) 492 -6056 ..................................................... ............................... R.B. Robinson Houston Texas COPY CORNER Service & Technology A Proud, on 9-9 i ng supporter o the Brazos Valicy African American Museum For all your reprographic needs. 694 -COPY I c 0 www.copy- corner.com COPY CORNER Service & Technology Printing Donated by Copy Corner