CGDA Honorees
CGDA's 2019 Honorees
The Mr. Champion Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Lois-McBride Williams.
Mrs. Lois McBride is the daughter of the late Mrs. Ola. B. Haskette. She was born Hawkins, Texas and received her early education there.
Upon graduating, she attended Jarvis and received her undergraduate degree in Education. Mrs. Williams taught school in Kansas and Oklahoma City. She returned to school to earn her Master in Education at the University of Central Oklahoma, UCO, in Edmond, Oklahoma. It was (Central State Oklahoma, at that time.)
She moved to Amarillo and began teaching at Sleepy Hallow Elementary, where she was employed for thirty-eight years (38). Lois felt it was duty to embrace and push all children so that they could reach their full potential and one day attend college.
She joined Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church and was the Pianist under the pastor ship of Reverend J. W. Wade and Reverend Cleason Frost.
Mrs. Williams is a member if the Amarillo Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
She has one daughter, one granddaughter, one great-granddaughter, two great-grandsons, two great-great grandsons, two great-great granddaughters and is known in the family as the “Big Granny.”
Lois now resides in Wichita Falls, Texas and is a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, Reverend Robert Castel, Pastor.
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The Mr. Neal Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involved planned, prepared and delivered lessons to all students in the class. They teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person has adopted and worked towards the implementation of the school’s development plan of the school they have given service in. T have assigned work, corrected and marked work, carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities have included assessment, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Ms. Yvette Henderson.
Yvette Deshone Henderson is the daughter of Voncile Henderson and Robert Jeff Riles. She attended school in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) and graduated from Amarillo High School. Upon graduation from high school, she enrolled at West Texas A&M University (West Texas State University at that time). She graduated in 1998 with the Bachelor of Science degree. In 2004, she graduated with the Master degree in Instructional Technology and began pursuit of the Master of Administration degree.
She has taught various positions grades first through sixth in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) for twenty (20) years.
Yvette has been a life member of the Carter Chapel Primitive Baptist, Elder Herman Moore, Pastor. She is a member of the choir and is also a member of the Hood Mass Choir. She also volunteers for other organizations, such as the College Success Initiative, Snack Pack, The High Plains Food Bank and Center City.
Her hobbies are bowling, singing Karaoke and spending time with her family.
Ms. Henderson has always lived in and loves life in Amarillo, as she believes it is the friendliest city in Texas.
She works had to make sure students love their culture and themselves.
Yvette says “We should want our children to become successful in the world and teach them to become a productive society and to give back.”
“Make the best of what you have, love one another and never be Average.”
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This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involved planned, prepared and delivered lessons to all students in the class. They teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person has adopted and worked towards the implementation of the school’s development plan of the school they have given service in. T have assigned work, corrected and marked work, carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities have included assessment, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Ms. Yvette Henderson.
Yvette Deshone Henderson is the daughter of Voncile Henderson and Robert Jeff Riles. She attended school in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) and graduated from Amarillo High School. Upon graduation from high school, she enrolled at West Texas A&M University (West Texas State University at that time). She graduated in 1998 with the Bachelor of Science degree. In 2004, she graduated with the Master degree in Instructional Technology and began pursuit of the Master of Administration degree.
She has taught various positions grades first through sixth in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) for twenty (20) years.
Yvette has been a life member of the Carter Chapel Primitive Baptist, Elder Herman Moore, Pastor. She is a member of the choir and is also a member of the Hood Mass Choir. She also volunteers for other organizations, such as the College Success Initiative, Snack Pack, The High Plains Food Bank and Center City.
Her hobbies are bowling, singing Karaoke and spending time with her family.
Ms. Henderson has always lived in and loves life in Amarillo, as she believes it is the friendliest city in Texas.
She works had to make sure students love their culture and themselves.
Yvette says “We should want our children to become successful in the world and teach them to become a productive society and to give back.”
“Make the best of what you have, love one another and never be Average.”
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The Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person who has made a mark in our community. A person despite the odds against them stood up and said, “I can do this, and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community.” A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact, their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you, have heard you, and we say thank you.”
This award is being presented Posthumously and will be accepted by Mr. Charles Bates on behalf of Mr. Joe Jiles.
During the 1930’s life was hard for African Americans. Although we had been declared free for decades, there was still an abundance of racism and segregation. If an African American was luck enough to go to school, they were forced to write their race on everything, even inside the books. During the 1940’s things were getting a little better, but by no means did that mean equality. We were being recognized for contributions other than being slaves, but we still didn’t have the right to vote. Life is Amarillo in the 1950’s was still very dangerous. If you wanted to eat in a restaurant, you and your money either ate in the back or took it to go. We were only allowed to go to the movies on Saturday from 2:00-5:00 P.M. and had to sit in the balcony, with no refreshments and exits were guarded. If you need to go to the restroom, you either waited or went and then had to leave the theater.
We didn’t have the same privileges as whites. In the early 1960’s when things began to change, and the Black movement hit the “Freedom Highway” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made the statement “We as a people will make it to the promise land.” We must remain focused. The dream of an equal playing field in the United States has not been achieved. Sure, we have come a long way, but there is much is so much more work to be done.” At this time, we are still being denied the right to vote in parts of the country through trickery, illegal practices, deceit, the threat of death and in some cases death itself. This was a right given by the founding Fathers under the Constitution of the United States of America. But we kept pressing on."
In the 1970’s we as African Americans had achieved a new sense of pride. We began to realize that “Black is indeed Beautiful”, but in the fall of 1972, “Racism” once again made its presence felt, when thirty black students, who attended Palo Duro High School were arrested, booked, and jailed for trying to voice their concerns about unfair treatment from some of the staff at the school. Mr. Garrett, the Assistant Principal, at the time decided the student were out of order, called the police, and had them removed from the campus. Parents weren’t notified by school officials, the Amarillo Police Department, or the Potter County Sheriff Department. They learned that their children were in custody via the television, on the 12 Noon cast. This was indeed a violation of their Civil Rights. After arriving at the police station, many parents found their children weren’t involved, but as a Protector, he couldn’t stand by and allow this injustice to take place. After all we do have Freedom of Speech. How can you fight for you rights, if you don’t know what your rights are? So along with other parents, we began to organize the youth to teach them their rights and how to properly address problems that may arise in different areas of their lives.
From the 1980’s through the 2000’s, somewhere along the way, we as the “Village Elders” dropped the ball and lost our children to the various predators awaiting them, and now we had to reclaim them. We should never fear or revile our children. They are our future and if they are lost, we are all lost. Words of wisdom that were before and during my generation are still relevant today. Relationships with our children must be strong if the goals are to be reached. We must teach them how to survive. We must never forget about rushing to judge. Think of where “we” be if our parents had given up on us. We must talk to our children, and more importantly we must listen to what our children are listening to, and watch they watch. Without interactions with them how will we know what things are influencing them? "We need to love and encourage our children, teach them right way." Our agenda: “Lift them up and never degrade them, this will only make matters worse and won’t solve anything. We must let them know are loved unconditionally, not only by us, but by God. We must introduce those who don’t know or haven’t met our Lord and Savior t him. As Shepherds, we MUST be the guardians of our flock, or they will be taken by predator. Young people, there is LIFE in the Word!"
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This award is in recognition of a person who has made a mark in our community. A person despite the odds against them stood up and said, “I can do this, and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community.” A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact, their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you, have heard you, and we say thank you.”
This award is being presented Posthumously and will be accepted by Mr. Charles Bates on behalf of Mr. Joe Jiles.
During the 1930’s life was hard for African Americans. Although we had been declared free for decades, there was still an abundance of racism and segregation. If an African American was luck enough to go to school, they were forced to write their race on everything, even inside the books. During the 1940’s things were getting a little better, but by no means did that mean equality. We were being recognized for contributions other than being slaves, but we still didn’t have the right to vote. Life is Amarillo in the 1950’s was still very dangerous. If you wanted to eat in a restaurant, you and your money either ate in the back or took it to go. We were only allowed to go to the movies on Saturday from 2:00-5:00 P.M. and had to sit in the balcony, with no refreshments and exits were guarded. If you need to go to the restroom, you either waited or went and then had to leave the theater.
We didn’t have the same privileges as whites. In the early 1960’s when things began to change, and the Black movement hit the “Freedom Highway” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made the statement “We as a people will make it to the promise land.” We must remain focused. The dream of an equal playing field in the United States has not been achieved. Sure, we have come a long way, but there is much is so much more work to be done.” At this time, we are still being denied the right to vote in parts of the country through trickery, illegal practices, deceit, the threat of death and in some cases death itself. This was a right given by the founding Fathers under the Constitution of the United States of America. But we kept pressing on."
In the 1970’s we as African Americans had achieved a new sense of pride. We began to realize that “Black is indeed Beautiful”, but in the fall of 1972, “Racism” once again made its presence felt, when thirty black students, who attended Palo Duro High School were arrested, booked, and jailed for trying to voice their concerns about unfair treatment from some of the staff at the school. Mr. Garrett, the Assistant Principal, at the time decided the student were out of order, called the police, and had them removed from the campus. Parents weren’t notified by school officials, the Amarillo Police Department, or the Potter County Sheriff Department. They learned that their children were in custody via the television, on the 12 Noon cast. This was indeed a violation of their Civil Rights. After arriving at the police station, many parents found their children weren’t involved, but as a Protector, he couldn’t stand by and allow this injustice to take place. After all we do have Freedom of Speech. How can you fight for you rights, if you don’t know what your rights are? So along with other parents, we began to organize the youth to teach them their rights and how to properly address problems that may arise in different areas of their lives.
From the 1980’s through the 2000’s, somewhere along the way, we as the “Village Elders” dropped the ball and lost our children to the various predators awaiting them, and now we had to reclaim them. We should never fear or revile our children. They are our future and if they are lost, we are all lost. Words of wisdom that were before and during my generation are still relevant today. Relationships with our children must be strong if the goals are to be reached. We must teach them how to survive. We must never forget about rushing to judge. Think of where “we” be if our parents had given up on us. We must talk to our children, and more importantly we must listen to what our children are listening to, and watch they watch. Without interactions with them how will we know what things are influencing them? "We need to love and encourage our children, teach them right way." Our agenda: “Lift them up and never degrade them, this will only make matters worse and won’t solve anything. We must let them know are loved unconditionally, not only by us, but by God. We must introduce those who don’t know or haven’t met our Lord and Savior t him. As Shepherds, we MUST be the guardians of our flock, or they will be taken by predator. Young people, there is LIFE in the Word!"
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The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Mildred Cornish-Darton
Mildred Cornish-Darton was born in Quitaque, Texas, May 4, 1946, number seven of ten children. The family moved to Amarillo in 1959, first year Carver Junior/Senior High School opened at 1905 North West 12th Street. After graduating from Carver in 1965, she spent some time in Fort Worth. Returning home and employed by Levi Strauss for several years before going to work for Santa Fe Rail Road.
She married in 1979 and relocated to Minot, ND Airforce Base for a short period of time. Then moved to Tucson, AZ where she attended Pima Community College and work for IBM temporarily before going to work at Hughes Air Craft as a Data Entry Clerk.
Mildred moved to Fort Worth in 1987 and began working for Motorola and attending Tarrant County Community College. After her job moved to Mexico, she began a career with the Federal Government. SBAODA (Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance) as an On-Call Disaster Reservist. In 2004, Mildred worked Hurricanes: Charlie, Frances, and Jean in Florida, Hurricane Katrina in 2005. While working the Flood and Land Slides in Colorado, she had the unexpected pleasure of meeting Vice-President, Joe Biden at the Boulder, Colorado Disaster Recovery Center (DRC).
She retired in 2014 after working many natural disasters. While enjoying a quiet retirement, a call for help came from a long- time friend running for City Council that brought her home to Amarillo in 2015, where she found a man-made disaster. Vacant lots from unsafe structures being demolished, homes boarded up, weeds and overgrown grass everywhere. Trash, used tires, buildings burned and children shooting hoops in the middle of the streets. Alleys cluttered with debris and high weeds. After a successful campaign, she returned to Fort Worth. Again, the call came for help and once again she found herself back in Amarillo to work on the North Heights Advisory Committee (NHAC). For the first time in the History of Amarillo, North Heights was in the City Budget and for the first time in the history of North Heights the Community had a proclamation for a Neighborhood Plan, organized by the City to be approved by the City.
Mildred serves as President of the North Heights Advisory Committee (NHAC), St. Anthony’s Legacy and Redevelopment Corporation (SALAR) as a Board Member, Chair of a committee to rename Amarillo Blvd., Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Board Member of the Community Development Advisory (CDA).
She is also the care giver of her 97-year-old Aunt.
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This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Mildred Cornish-Darton
Mildred Cornish-Darton was born in Quitaque, Texas, May 4, 1946, number seven of ten children. The family moved to Amarillo in 1959, first year Carver Junior/Senior High School opened at 1905 North West 12th Street. After graduating from Carver in 1965, she spent some time in Fort Worth. Returning home and employed by Levi Strauss for several years before going to work for Santa Fe Rail Road.
She married in 1979 and relocated to Minot, ND Airforce Base for a short period of time. Then moved to Tucson, AZ where she attended Pima Community College and work for IBM temporarily before going to work at Hughes Air Craft as a Data Entry Clerk.
Mildred moved to Fort Worth in 1987 and began working for Motorola and attending Tarrant County Community College. After her job moved to Mexico, she began a career with the Federal Government. SBAODA (Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance) as an On-Call Disaster Reservist. In 2004, Mildred worked Hurricanes: Charlie, Frances, and Jean in Florida, Hurricane Katrina in 2005. While working the Flood and Land Slides in Colorado, she had the unexpected pleasure of meeting Vice-President, Joe Biden at the Boulder, Colorado Disaster Recovery Center (DRC).
She retired in 2014 after working many natural disasters. While enjoying a quiet retirement, a call for help came from a long- time friend running for City Council that brought her home to Amarillo in 2015, where she found a man-made disaster. Vacant lots from unsafe structures being demolished, homes boarded up, weeds and overgrown grass everywhere. Trash, used tires, buildings burned and children shooting hoops in the middle of the streets. Alleys cluttered with debris and high weeds. After a successful campaign, she returned to Fort Worth. Again, the call came for help and once again she found herself back in Amarillo to work on the North Heights Advisory Committee (NHAC). For the first time in the History of Amarillo, North Heights was in the City Budget and for the first time in the history of North Heights the Community had a proclamation for a Neighborhood Plan, organized by the City to be approved by the City.
Mildred serves as President of the North Heights Advisory Committee (NHAC), St. Anthony’s Legacy and Redevelopment Corporation (SALAR) as a Board Member, Chair of a committee to rename Amarillo Blvd., Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Board Member of the Community Development Advisory (CDA).
She is also the care giver of her 97-year-old Aunt.
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The Religious/Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is be presented to: Minister Lewis and Mrs. Angela Burrell
Minister Lewis Burrell is the son of Virginia Helen Burrell and was born in Middlesex, Virginia. He graduated from John F. Kennedy High School, in Richmond, Virginia and attended classes at VCU, AAC. He attended Peace For You Christian Academy in Amarillo.
He has owned his own business for the last fifteen (15) years.
He is the Associate Pastor at Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church and plays the piano.
Mrs. Angela Austin Burrell was born in Amarillo to John and Erma Austin, and was the oldest of four children. She attended school in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD), attending North Heights and Carver Junior High, and graduated from Amarillo High.
She moved to Los Angeles. She became an LVN and worked in that field for twenty (20) years. In 2013 she brought her mother back to Amarillo t care for her. After her mother passed, she was at church and met Minister Lewis Burrell and after a year they were married and have been married for three years.
Angela is a published author, the title of her book is “My Story”.
The Burrells spend time each week visiting the nursing homes is Amarillo to give encouragement and Spiritual healing to the residents who reside in them.
They are both members of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, Reverend Steven Martin, Pastor.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is be presented to: Minister Lewis and Mrs. Angela Burrell
Minister Lewis Burrell is the son of Virginia Helen Burrell and was born in Middlesex, Virginia. He graduated from John F. Kennedy High School, in Richmond, Virginia and attended classes at VCU, AAC. He attended Peace For You Christian Academy in Amarillo.
He has owned his own business for the last fifteen (15) years.
He is the Associate Pastor at Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church and plays the piano.
Mrs. Angela Austin Burrell was born in Amarillo to John and Erma Austin, and was the oldest of four children. She attended school in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD), attending North Heights and Carver Junior High, and graduated from Amarillo High.
She moved to Los Angeles. She became an LVN and worked in that field for twenty (20) years. In 2013 she brought her mother back to Amarillo t care for her. After her mother passed, she was at church and met Minister Lewis Burrell and after a year they were married and have been married for three years.
Angela is a published author, the title of her book is “My Story”.
The Burrells spend time each week visiting the nursing homes is Amarillo to give encouragement and Spiritual healing to the residents who reside in them.
They are both members of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, Reverend Steven Martin, Pastor.
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The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. Marlon and Mrs. Tasha Sims.
Marlon has been a volunteer in the North Amarillo community since the early 90s. He started by coaching his nephews and cousins for Kids Incorporated and the Charles E. Warford Activity Center (CEWAC) formerly the YMCA youth sports programs. Marlon has also been blessed to be able to coach his own children in multiple sports for countless years.
Tasha has been employed as a Program Assistant for Kids Incorporated of Amarillo for fifteen and one/half (15 1/2) years. She has volunteered as a coach for multiple teams in the North Amarillo Community.
Mr. and Mrs. Sims are lifelong Amarillo residents. They are the proud parents of four (4) sons, one (1) daughter and grandparents to two (2) grandchildren.
They are members of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, Reverend Steve Martin, Pastor.
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. Marlon and Mrs. Tasha Sims.
Marlon has been a volunteer in the North Amarillo community since the early 90s. He started by coaching his nephews and cousins for Kids Incorporated and the Charles E. Warford Activity Center (CEWAC) formerly the YMCA youth sports programs. Marlon has also been blessed to be able to coach his own children in multiple sports for countless years.
Tasha has been employed as a Program Assistant for Kids Incorporated of Amarillo for fifteen and one/half (15 1/2) years. She has volunteered as a coach for multiple teams in the North Amarillo Community.
Mr. and Mrs. Sims are lifelong Amarillo residents. They are the proud parents of four (4) sons, one (1) daughter and grandparents to two (2) grandchildren.
They are members of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, Reverend Steve Martin, Pastor.
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The Carver Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves.
This award is being presented to Ms Deloris Jones.
Deloris Jones was born in Amarillo Texas to late the James and Rosie Hood.
She received her education through the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD). After graduation she attended Amarillo College.
Deloris has performed countless random acts of kindness. Her generosity extends to giving of not only her money but her time, such as taking others to doctor appointments. Her charitable acts, includes going to see the sick and shut-ins, in the hospitals and in private homes.
Deloris always looks forward to attending church where she gives God all the praise and credit for blessing her to be able to bless others.
Mrs. Jones is a member of New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church, Reverend Joyce Mims, Pastor.
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The Carver Golden Dragon Association Gold Award
This award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mr. Dawit Rogers.
Dawit Rogers was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Ms. Della Rogers. His early education was in the Oklahoma City Independent School District (OCISD). The family moved to Amarillo where he was home schooled through his elementary school years, and the remainder of his education in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD). After graduation, He decided to bypass a full ride at Baylor University, to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. He became a Communication Specialist and a Sniper. He served at Fort Gordon, Augusta, GA for six (6) years and three (3) years at Scofield, Hawaii.
Upon leaving the military, he relocated the family to Langston, OK. He attended at Langston University, and when he relocated to Wichita Falls, Texas, he finished his degree in Business Administration at Vernon College in Vernon, Texas.
He joined the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) in 2016 and began to make the Goldies for the Award Ceremony, and has made the Goldies since then. Although the kitchen table is a mess for at least eight (8) weeks, he enjoys every minute of bringing the “Goldies” from a bowl of slip to the beautiful Dragons that the Honorees are presented with and take home as a reminder of the Honor given to them for their efforts in “Giving back," to the Amarillo Community.
He is the father of two (2) sons, one (1) daughter, two (2) grand-sons and two (2) grand-daughters.
He is a member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, of Wichita Falls, Reverend Robert M. Castle, Pastor.
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This award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mr. Dawit Rogers.
Dawit Rogers was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Ms. Della Rogers. His early education was in the Oklahoma City Independent School District (OCISD). The family moved to Amarillo where he was home schooled through his elementary school years, and the remainder of his education in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD). After graduation, He decided to bypass a full ride at Baylor University, to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. He became a Communication Specialist and a Sniper. He served at Fort Gordon, Augusta, GA for six (6) years and three (3) years at Scofield, Hawaii.
Upon leaving the military, he relocated the family to Langston, OK. He attended at Langston University, and when he relocated to Wichita Falls, Texas, he finished his degree in Business Administration at Vernon College in Vernon, Texas.
He joined the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) in 2016 and began to make the Goldies for the Award Ceremony, and has made the Goldies since then. Although the kitchen table is a mess for at least eight (8) weeks, he enjoys every minute of bringing the “Goldies” from a bowl of slip to the beautiful Dragons that the Honorees are presented with and take home as a reminder of the Honor given to them for their efforts in “Giving back," to the Amarillo Community.
He is the father of two (2) sons, one (1) daughter, two (2) grand-sons and two (2) grand-daughters.
He is a member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, of Wichita Falls, Reverend Robert M. Castle, Pastor.
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The CGDA's 2018 Honorees
The Mr. Champion’s Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students.
This award is presented to Mr. Roger Scott.
Mr. Roger Scott was born to the late Roger and Ester Scott in Upshur County, Gilmer, Texas.
He graduated from Carver High School, in Amarillo, Texas in l950. While at Carver he lettered in Football, in 1950, ‘51, ‘52 and ‘53. After he graduated, he enter Texas College, Tyler, Texas. He graduated in 1954, with the Bachelor of Arts degree.
He was the first athlete to earn a letter and graduate in Higher Education from Carver High School, Amarillo, Texas.
Roger entered the U. S. Army in October, 1954 and was honorably discharged in 1956.
He was the first coach to integrate the Amarillo Independent School District.
Mr. Scott was the first black Administrator to be employed by West Texas State A&M University, (formerly West Texas State University), Canyon, Texas. He retired in August, 1996.
He married his College Sweetheart, Eliza Ruth Holloman. They had four children. Mrs. Ruth Scott passed in 2001.
He met and married Nadine Stiggers Warren in 2002, and he has one step-son.
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The Mr Neal Assistance Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students.
This award is presented to Mrs. Beverly Lax.
Beverly Lax was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. She graduated from Amarillo High School in 1971. Upon graduation she attended Amarillo College and then attended West Texas State A&M University (Formerly West Texas University) and received the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1976. In 1995, received the Master of Education Administration from West Texas A&M University.
Beverly was employed at Mason Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex Plant) for seventeen (17) years. Mrs. Lax has been employed with Amarillo ISD for twenty-four (24) years. Beverly was in the classroom for seven (7) years, where she was the Career and Technology Recruiter for Palo Duro and Caprock for two (2) years. Beverly has just completed her fourteenth (14th) year as an Assistant Principal. She has served as the Assistant Principal at Wolflin Elementary, Hamlet Elementary and San Jacinto Elementary which she calls her home.
As an instructional leader in the district it is her job to mentor, support and help teachers grow in the classroom and as future leaders. Beverly feels it is her duty to embrace and push all children so that they can reach their full potential and one day attend college.
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students.
This award is presented to Mrs. Beverly Lax.
Beverly Lax was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. She graduated from Amarillo High School in 1971. Upon graduation she attended Amarillo College and then attended West Texas State A&M University (Formerly West Texas University) and received the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1976. In 1995, received the Master of Education Administration from West Texas A&M University.
Beverly was employed at Mason Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex Plant) for seventeen (17) years. Mrs. Lax has been employed with Amarillo ISD for twenty-four (24) years. Beverly was in the classroom for seven (7) years, where she was the Career and Technology Recruiter for Palo Duro and Caprock for two (2) years. Beverly has just completed her fourteenth (14th) year as an Assistant Principal. She has served as the Assistant Principal at Wolflin Elementary, Hamlet Elementary and San Jacinto Elementary which she calls her home.
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This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students.
This award is presented to Mrs. Beverly Lax.
Beverly Lax was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. She graduated from Amarillo High School in 1971. Upon graduation she attended Amarillo College and then attended West Texas State A&M University (Formerly West Texas University) and received the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1976. In 1995, received the Master of Education Administration from West Texas A&M University.
Beverly was employed at Mason Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex Plant) for seventeen (17) years. Mrs. Lax has been employed with Amarillo ISD for twenty-four (24) years. Beverly was in the classroom for seven (7) years, where she was the Career and Technology Recruiter for Palo Duro and Caprock for two (2) years. Beverly has just completed her fourteenth (14th) year as an Assistant Principal. She has served as the Assistant Principal at Wolflin Elementary, Hamlet Elementary and San Jacinto Elementary which she calls her home.
As an instructional leader in the district it is her job to mentor, support and help teachers grow in the classroom and as future leaders. Beverly feels it is her duty to embrace and push all children so that they can reach their full potential and one day attend college.
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students.
This award is presented to Mrs. Beverly Lax.
Beverly Lax was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. She graduated from Amarillo High School in 1971. Upon graduation she attended Amarillo College and then attended West Texas State A&M University (Formerly West Texas University) and received the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1976. In 1995, received the Master of Education Administration from West Texas A&M University.
Beverly was employed at Mason Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex Plant) for seventeen (17) years. Mrs. Lax has been employed with Amarillo ISD for twenty-four (24) years. Beverly was in the classroom for seven (7) years, where she was the Career and Technology Recruiter for Palo Duro and Caprock for two (2) years. Beverly has just completed her fourteenth (14th) year as an Assistant Principal. She has served as the Assistant Principal at Wolflin Elementary, Hamlet Elementary and San Jacinto Elementary which she calls her home.
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The Legendary Award
Minister Nathaniel Cantly was born and raised in Kilgore, Texas. He graduated from Kilgore Colored High School in 1946 and entered Tuskegee Institute School of Veterinary Medicine.
At the age of seventeen, he tried to join the Merchant Marines, but was unsuccessful. After that, he later enrolled in Texas College in Tyler, Texas majoring in Chemistry and Biology.
College was interrupted, was interrupted by the Korean War Military Draft. He entered the Military and served his country honorably for two years, serving as military medic.
Following his military service, Nat returned to Tyler where he graduated from Texas College in 1955. He moved to Amarillo, Texas where he worked as an Aircraft Instructor on the B-47 Aircraft at the Amarillo Air Force Base.
As a Civil Rights Activist, Nat Cantly served as President of the Amarillo Branch of the NAACP and with the help of fellow community leaders ushered in a new era of growth and prosperity for the North Heights Community.
Nat was employed at Southwest Public Service/Excel Energy as a chemist for over twenty-eight (28) years, where he helped open doors for the younger generations of African American men and women’s careers in science.
During his years of employment Nathaniel severed as Minister of the North Heights Church of Christ for over fifty (50) years.
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Minister Nathaniel Cantly was born and raised in Kilgore, Texas. He graduated from Kilgore Colored High School in 1946 and entered Tuskegee Institute School of Veterinary Medicine.
At the age of seventeen, he tried to join the Merchant Marines, but was unsuccessful. After that, he later enrolled in Texas College in Tyler, Texas majoring in Chemistry and Biology.
College was interrupted, was interrupted by the Korean War Military Draft. He entered the Military and served his country honorably for two years, serving as military medic.
Following his military service, Nat returned to Tyler where he graduated from Texas College in 1955. He moved to Amarillo, Texas where he worked as an Aircraft Instructor on the B-47 Aircraft at the Amarillo Air Force Base.
As a Civil Rights Activist, Nat Cantly served as President of the Amarillo Branch of the NAACP and with the help of fellow community leaders ushered in a new era of growth and prosperity for the North Heights Community.
Nat was employed at Southwest Public Service/Excel Energy as a chemist for over twenty-eight (28) years, where he helped open doors for the younger generations of African American men and women’s careers in science.
During his years of employment Nathaniel severed as Minister of the North Heights Church of Christ for over fifty (50) years.
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The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is presented to Mr. Elton Bradley
Elton Bradley was born in Amarillo to Terry and Judy Bradley. He received his education through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, attended Sam Houston State University. Elton earned the Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice. While there, he founded the Sam Houston State National Association Blacks in Criminal Justice Chapter. He also received the Scholar and Leadership Award while there. Upon graduation , while residing in Dallas, he became the Volunteer Coordinator and the Behavioral Analyst for the Dallas County Juvenile Department.
In 2006 Elton moved to Amarillo Texas and began his career in security at the Mason Hanger, Silas Mason, Department of Energy Pantex Plant.
In 2013, Elton founded the Northside Toy Drive. It began originally at Rain Sushi Bar with an attendance of only Fifty (50) people who were motivated to serve 50 children for Christmas at the North Branch YMCA. In the last five (5) years, the Northside Toy Drive has grown from serving only fifty (50) children to hosting an annual Northside Toy Drive/Black Tie Event that provides enough funds for purchasing toys and needed necessities for over one-thousand (1,000) children in the North Amarillo Community. The Northside Toy Drive also teamed up in 2017 with the High Plains Food Bank to provide groceries to elderly households within the Amarillo Community. The black-tie fundraiser is one of the mechanisms used to fund the toys and necessities needed to provide smiles to children who are more than deserving.
Elton has not forgotten what helped him to get to where he is now and vows to always help his community. As the old adage would have it, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
He is married to Claire and they have one daughter.
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This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is presented to Mr. Elton Bradley
Elton Bradley was born in Amarillo to Terry and Judy Bradley. He received his education through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, attended Sam Houston State University. Elton earned the Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice. While there, he founded the Sam Houston State National Association Blacks in Criminal Justice Chapter. He also received the Scholar and Leadership Award while there. Upon graduation , while residing in Dallas, he became the Volunteer Coordinator and the Behavioral Analyst for the Dallas County Juvenile Department.
In 2006 Elton moved to Amarillo Texas and began his career in security at the Mason Hanger, Silas Mason, Department of Energy Pantex Plant.
In 2013, Elton founded the Northside Toy Drive. It began originally at Rain Sushi Bar with an attendance of only Fifty (50) people who were motivated to serve 50 children for Christmas at the North Branch YMCA. In the last five (5) years, the Northside Toy Drive has grown from serving only fifty (50) children to hosting an annual Northside Toy Drive/Black Tie Event that provides enough funds for purchasing toys and needed necessities for over one-thousand (1,000) children in the North Amarillo Community. The Northside Toy Drive also teamed up in 2017 with the High Plains Food Bank to provide groceries to elderly households within the Amarillo Community. The black-tie fundraiser is one of the mechanisms used to fund the toys and necessities needed to provide smiles to children who are more than deserving.
Elton has not forgotten what helped him to get to where he is now and vows to always help his community. As the old adage would have it, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
He is married to Claire and they have one daughter.
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The Best of Carver Award
This award is presented to alumni of Carver Junior/Senior High School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver Junior/Senior High School.
This award is presented to Mr. Gerald Russell (Posthumosly).
Gerald Russell was born Hobart, Oklahoma to Mr. O’Neil and Paula Russell.
He received his education through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation he attended West Texas A&M University, (formerly known as West Texas State University, in Canyon, Texas.
In 1969 Gerald joined the Best of Carver. This organization was formed to satisfy the needs and desires of the Dragon Nation that was denied the opportunity to graduate from Carver Junior and High School. During his term with the organization he became known as Mr. Russell “Mr. Bartender”. This organization would always ensure that doing a reunion year, the Dragon Nation would have a gathering point to rekindle long lost friendships and enjoy a night on the town. He could be counted on to ensure that everyone attending these parties had a great time.
In his spare time, he would volunteer to teach the youth of Amarillo the skillful game of golf, possibly opening the door to a professional career as a golfer. He had a love to help feed the hungry and needy of the Amarillo Community. On many occasions he would contribute, not only his time and talent to ensure that the homeless had a warm meal, he would also contribute his own funds. In that same spirit of giving back. He never met a stranger and all who knew him, loved him.
Gerald was joined in matrimony with his wife Pamela for thirty eight (38) years, and have two children. He exemplified the epitome of a real man being a dad and husband to his family.
Gerald attended North Heights Church of Christ and he loved to hear a great church choir sing. His passion was "Down Home Blues." He had a good eye for fashion when it came to choosing just the right kind of cowboy boots and a good ole stingy brim hat or a kango cap!
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This award is presented to alumni of Carver Junior/Senior High School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver Junior/Senior High School.
This award is presented to Mr. Gerald Russell (Posthumosly).
Gerald Russell was born Hobart, Oklahoma to Mr. O’Neil and Paula Russell.
He received his education through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation he attended West Texas A&M University, (formerly known as West Texas State University, in Canyon, Texas.
In 1969 Gerald joined the Best of Carver. This organization was formed to satisfy the needs and desires of the Dragon Nation that was denied the opportunity to graduate from Carver Junior and High School. During his term with the organization he became known as Mr. Russell “Mr. Bartender”. This organization would always ensure that doing a reunion year, the Dragon Nation would have a gathering point to rekindle long lost friendships and enjoy a night on the town. He could be counted on to ensure that everyone attending these parties had a great time.
In his spare time, he would volunteer to teach the youth of Amarillo the skillful game of golf, possibly opening the door to a professional career as a golfer. He had a love to help feed the hungry and needy of the Amarillo Community. On many occasions he would contribute, not only his time and talent to ensure that the homeless had a warm meal, he would also contribute his own funds. In that same spirit of giving back. He never met a stranger and all who knew him, loved him.
Gerald was joined in matrimony with his wife Pamela for thirty eight (38) years, and have two children. He exemplified the epitome of a real man being a dad and husband to his family.
Gerald attended North Heights Church of Christ and he loved to hear a great church choir sing. His passion was "Down Home Blues." He had a good eye for fashion when it came to choosing just the right kind of cowboy boots and a good ole stingy brim hat or a kango cap!
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The Religious /Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is presented to Reverend Eleanor Murray.
Pastor Elanor Murray is a native of San Antonio, Texas. She accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior at the age of five years of age and immediately answered the call to the music ministry. At an early age she began to read and harmonize Christian songs under the guidance of her mother Verne Biser, who was a Music Instructor and Gospel Artist.
She received her Missionary and Evangelist Licenses in 1990 and was ordained to Pastor in 1992. She is currently the Minister of the New Light Ministries in Amarillo.
She was ordained by Bishop T.D. Jakes of the Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas in 2006.
She holds the Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Prairie View A&M University. She received the master’s Degree of Theological Bible Studies from Logos Christian College.
She is a board member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, serves as a songwriter, praise and worship leader and a musician.
Additional Achievements includes: a book entitled “Will You Obey the Word of God”, a Praise and Worship Syllabus, a member of the Texas Mass Choir, board member of the gospel Music Workshop of America and a board member of the Stellar Awards.
She is married to Richard Murray who is Bishop of New Light Ministries. They have two daughters, who reside in Houston, Texas.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is presented to Reverend Eleanor Murray.
Pastor Elanor Murray is a native of San Antonio, Texas. She accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior at the age of five years of age and immediately answered the call to the music ministry. At an early age she began to read and harmonize Christian songs under the guidance of her mother Verne Biser, who was a Music Instructor and Gospel Artist.
She received her Missionary and Evangelist Licenses in 1990 and was ordained to Pastor in 1992. She is currently the Minister of the New Light Ministries in Amarillo.
She was ordained by Bishop T.D. Jakes of the Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas in 2006.
She holds the Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Prairie View A&M University. She received the master’s Degree of Theological Bible Studies from Logos Christian College.
She is a board member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, serves as a songwriter, praise and worship leader and a musician.
Additional Achievements includes: a book entitled “Will You Obey the Word of God”, a Praise and Worship Syllabus, a member of the Texas Mass Choir, board member of the gospel Music Workshop of America and a board member of the Stellar Awards.
She is married to Richard Murray who is Bishop of New Light Ministries. They have two daughters, who reside in Houston, Texas.
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The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mrs. Joyce Mims.
Mrs. Joyce Mims was born and raised in Talco Titus County. She is the second of four girls born to Morris and Genetta Brown.
She is graduated from East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas, in 1974.
She worked as a Teacher/Coach for Palo Duro High School, for twenty-nine (29) years. She founded the Girls Track and Field and Cross-Country Team in 1974.
Joyce and her husband, Bishop James are the owners of Golden Gate Mortuary. She states “I am blessed to be the Co-Pastor of our ministry, at the New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church.”
She has been married to Bishop James Mims for thirty-eight (38) years; They have six children: James Jr., Michael, Eric Sr., Erica, Ebony, and Ernie and nineteen (19) grandchildren.
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mrs. Joyce Mims.
Mrs. Joyce Mims was born and raised in Talco Titus County. She is the second of four girls born to Morris and Genetta Brown.
She is graduated from East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas, in 1974.
She worked as a Teacher/Coach for Palo Duro High School, for twenty-nine (29) years. She founded the Girls Track and Field and Cross-Country Team in 1974.
Joyce and her husband, Bishop James are the owners of Golden Gate Mortuary. She states “I am blessed to be the Co-Pastor of our ministry, at the New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church.”
She has been married to Bishop James Mims for thirty-eight (38) years; They have six children: James Jr., Michael, Eric Sr., Erica, Ebony, and Ernie and nineteen (19) grandchildren.
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The Carver Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is presented to Mrs. Freda Powell.
Freda Powell is the second of five children and was raised in Amarillo and throughout the United States. Her father was in the United States Air Force. She graduated from Amarillo High School and Amarillo College. She has a degree in Management Development.
She is a former Purchasing Representative for LINN Energy, headquartered in Houston, Texas. She is currently the Office Manager for Warford-Walker Mortuary. And, she is the first African American woman to serve on the Amarillo City Council, Place 2.
She has been a member of Soroptimist International of Amarillo, for more than 20 years, one of 3,100 Soroptimist clubs that improves the lives of women and girls through volunteer projects in the community. Together, Freda and her clubs worked to affect social change and to increase the collective impact they have on local women and girls.
In addition to having served a two-year term as Governor of the South Central Region (consisting of seven states) of Soroptimist, Freda is a member of the Amarillo Women’s Network, Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Amarillo Branch of the NAACP and Light of Hope. She serves on the Amarillo Opera and Downtown Amarillo, Inc., Board of Directors. She is a member of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church where she serves as Secretary and is on the Finance Team. Powell served on the Access Community Credit Union Board of Directors for more than ten (10) years. She also served on the Airport Advisory Board.
Mrs. Powell received the Amarillo Opera Dee Lifetime Volunteer Award in 2009, she was named the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Council, Business Woman of the Year in December of 2011. She also received the Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Women of Distinction, Take Action Award in 2013, the Church Women United Humanitarian Award in 2013, the 7th Annual Louise Daniel Women’s History Lecture and Luncheon, Recognizing Women in Banking, Texas Panhandle Women Bankers, Recognized by Access Community Credit Union in 2016, the Woman of Leadership 2017 Award, to name a few.
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This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is presented to Mrs. Freda Powell.
Freda Powell is the second of five children and was raised in Amarillo and throughout the United States. Her father was in the United States Air Force. She graduated from Amarillo High School and Amarillo College. She has a degree in Management Development.
She is a former Purchasing Representative for LINN Energy, headquartered in Houston, Texas. She is currently the Office Manager for Warford-Walker Mortuary. And, she is the first African American woman to serve on the Amarillo City Council, Place 2.
She has been a member of Soroptimist International of Amarillo, for more than 20 years, one of 3,100 Soroptimist clubs that improves the lives of women and girls through volunteer projects in the community. Together, Freda and her clubs worked to affect social change and to increase the collective impact they have on local women and girls.
In addition to having served a two-year term as Governor of the South Central Region (consisting of seven states) of Soroptimist, Freda is a member of the Amarillo Women’s Network, Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Amarillo Branch of the NAACP and Light of Hope. She serves on the Amarillo Opera and Downtown Amarillo, Inc., Board of Directors. She is a member of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church where she serves as Secretary and is on the Finance Team. Powell served on the Access Community Credit Union Board of Directors for more than ten (10) years. She also served on the Airport Advisory Board.
Mrs. Powell received the Amarillo Opera Dee Lifetime Volunteer Award in 2009, she was named the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Council, Business Woman of the Year in December of 2011. She also received the Girl Scouts of Texas Oklahoma Plains, Women of Distinction, Take Action Award in 2013, the Church Women United Humanitarian Award in 2013, the 7th Annual Louise Daniel Women’s History Lecture and Luncheon, Recognizing Women in Banking, Texas Panhandle Women Bankers, Recognized by Access Community Credit Union in 2016, the Woman of Leadership 2017 Award, to name a few.
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The Carver Golden Dragon Association Gold Award
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is presented to Mr. Michael Franklin.
Michael D. Franklin was born in Lawton Oklahoma, to Mr. George and Mrs. Maiden Franklin. He was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation in 1972, he went to East Texas State University, Commerce, Texas for two (2) years. one of the two students from Amarillo to go to East Texas State University in Commerce that year but because funds ran out, he left school after two (2) years to join the United States Army in 1974.
Mike views himself as a pretty good volunteer servant and believes the folks that have pulled him along to truth, in that it takes all kind of people to make a World. His volunteer service to Amarillo spans more than 20 years. He consistently served as a laborer and Welcome Center setup crewman for the Carver Reunion Alumni Committee from mid-1994 through 2006. He served as consultant and writer for the late Mrs. Bonita Reynolds in construct of doctrinal guidance for Carver Golden Dragon Association.
At the very first Carver Golden Dragon Association Three on Three Basketball Shootout, he was there serving as laborer for the YMCA Director. He assisted Charles Bates, Charles Hood, and Herman Campbell in their organizing and setup of this event.
He was asked to and performed as Musician with three different acts for the First Carver Golden Dragon Association’s Award Ceremony.
In 2017, he joined the Bonita A. Reynolds Memorial Scholarship (BARMS) Selection Committee with three other Carver Golden Dragon Association Committee members in helping the Chairman, Mr. Donnell Hill to select Scholarship Applicants.
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is presented to Mr. Michael Franklin.
Michael D. Franklin was born in Lawton Oklahoma, to Mr. George and Mrs. Maiden Franklin. He was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation in 1972, he went to East Texas State University, Commerce, Texas for two (2) years. one of the two students from Amarillo to go to East Texas State University in Commerce that year but because funds ran out, he left school after two (2) years to join the United States Army in 1974.
Mike views himself as a pretty good volunteer servant and believes the folks that have pulled him along to truth, in that it takes all kind of people to make a World. His volunteer service to Amarillo spans more than 20 years. He consistently served as a laborer and Welcome Center setup crewman for the Carver Reunion Alumni Committee from mid-1994 through 2006. He served as consultant and writer for the late Mrs. Bonita Reynolds in construct of doctrinal guidance for Carver Golden Dragon Association.
At the very first Carver Golden Dragon Association Three on Three Basketball Shootout, he was there serving as laborer for the YMCA Director. He assisted Charles Bates, Charles Hood, and Herman Campbell in their organizing and setup of this event.
He was asked to and performed as Musician with three different acts for the First Carver Golden Dragon Association’s Award Ceremony.
In 2017, he joined the Bonita A. Reynolds Memorial Scholarship (BARMS) Selection Committee with three other Carver Golden Dragon Association Committee members in helping the Chairman, Mr. Donnell Hill to select Scholarship Applicants.
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The Mr. Champion’s Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being given to Ms. Felicia Cotton.
Ms. Cotton is a teacher and the Cross-Country Coach at Palo Duro High School through the Amarillo Independent School District, where she has worked for twenty-four years.
She earned the Bachelor Degree in Exercise Science. at Wayland Baptist University, Plainview, Texas, where she played basketball for the Flying Queens She earned the Master of Exercise Scene and the Principal Certificate at West Texas A&M (formerly West Texas State) University.
She is also an ordained Minister and often shares the Word of God with the congregation at the New Light Ministries.
She continues her personal encouragement of others to live healthy lifestyles.
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The Mr Neal's Assistance Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mr. Steven “Coach” Jackson.
Mr. Steven Jackson was born to the late Cecil and Brenda Jackson on December 1, 1982. He is the youngest of six children and has lived in Amarillo his entire life. “Coach” Jackson grew up in a home where faith, family, and education, in that order, were very important and that sports were a privilege that you weren’t going to be able to do forever so it was imperative that there was education to fall back on.
He was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Steven graduated in the top five percent of his senior class and received numerous awards for Academic and Athletic Excellence and Achievement. He went on to attend West Texas A & M University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies with the emphasis in Biology.
While attending West Texas A & M University, he was on teams that won Conference Championships in 2002 and 2006, and Steven was voted the 2006 Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Year and was also the recipient of the 2006 President’s Award which is given for outstanding achievement in the classroom as well as the field of play.
“Coach” Jackson served as an Assistant Boys’ Basketball Coach at Palo Duro High School from 2008-2011. While at Palo Duro those teams went 74-20.
From 2011 to present he has served as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Tascosa High School. Prior to his arrival at Tascosa, it had not enjoyed a winning season since 2007 nor made the playoffs. They have currently enjoyed six winning seasons, including the 2015-16 season, where they finished the regular season 29-0 and an overall record of 31-1. Tascosa made it to the 3rd Round Playoffs for the first time in in almost thirty years. The 2016-2017 season saw them finish 22-6, and saw several players garner individual accolades. In total since his arrival at Tascosa, six years ago the Boys’ Basketball teams have compiled an overall record of 134 wins and 42 losses.
In addition to being the Boys’ Basketball Coach at Tascosa, Mr. Jackson has taught Biology for four years and helped with the initiation and implementation of the Tascosa Forensic Science Program which he has taught for the past 2 years.
“Coach” Jackson enjoys any and all opportunities to be with his family, traveling, listening to music.
He is husband to his best friend and wife of 10 years Pamela Shovonne and is father to two amazing boys Khalil (12) and Carter (4).
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This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mr. Steven “Coach” Jackson.
Mr. Steven Jackson was born to the late Cecil and Brenda Jackson on December 1, 1982. He is the youngest of six children and has lived in Amarillo his entire life. “Coach” Jackson grew up in a home where faith, family, and education, in that order, were very important and that sports were a privilege that you weren’t going to be able to do forever so it was imperative that there was education to fall back on.
He was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Steven graduated in the top five percent of his senior class and received numerous awards for Academic and Athletic Excellence and Achievement. He went on to attend West Texas A & M University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies with the emphasis in Biology.
While attending West Texas A & M University, he was on teams that won Conference Championships in 2002 and 2006, and Steven was voted the 2006 Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Year and was also the recipient of the 2006 President’s Award which is given for outstanding achievement in the classroom as well as the field of play.
“Coach” Jackson served as an Assistant Boys’ Basketball Coach at Palo Duro High School from 2008-2011. While at Palo Duro those teams went 74-20.
From 2011 to present he has served as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Tascosa High School. Prior to his arrival at Tascosa, it had not enjoyed a winning season since 2007 nor made the playoffs. They have currently enjoyed six winning seasons, including the 2015-16 season, where they finished the regular season 29-0 and an overall record of 31-1. Tascosa made it to the 3rd Round Playoffs for the first time in in almost thirty years. The 2016-2017 season saw them finish 22-6, and saw several players garner individual accolades. In total since his arrival at Tascosa, six years ago the Boys’ Basketball teams have compiled an overall record of 134 wins and 42 losses.
In addition to being the Boys’ Basketball Coach at Tascosa, Mr. Jackson has taught Biology for four years and helped with the initiation and implementation of the Tascosa Forensic Science Program which he has taught for the past 2 years.
“Coach” Jackson enjoys any and all opportunities to be with his family, traveling, listening to music.
He is husband to his best friend and wife of 10 years Pamela Shovonne and is father to two amazing boys Khalil (12) and Carter (4).
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The Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person we all know and love dearly. This person has made a mark in our community and has probably been honored. This is a person in spite of the odds against them stood up and said” I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community. A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you and we hear you and we thank you.”
This award is being presented to Mr. Johnny N. Allen, Sr.
Johnny N. Allen, Sr.was born July 24, 1919, in McGregor, Texas, He graduated from Dunbar High School in Temple, Samuel Huston College (now Huston-Tillson University, a Historically Black College/University HBCU in Austin, and received the Master Degree from Prairie View A&M University, another HBCU in Prairie View.
He married Jewelle L. Bailey. December. 27, 1942, in Houston before leaving for Europe during World War II as a member of the Army Air Corps. After his military service, he became an Assistant Coach at Tillson College in Austin. From 1946 to 1948, he also coached at Lincoln-Jackson School in Clovis, New Mexico. Johnny N. Allen Sr. was known as an outstanding coach, teacher, spiritual leader and family man who also served his country proudly during World War II. He had four children, Johnny Nell, Courtney O., Johnny “Buddy”, Jr. and James N.
The Allen family moved to Amarillo in 1948, where Johnny Allen joined the George Washington Carver staff. He taught Mathematics and coached all boys’ and girls’ sports. From 1952 to 1970. He also managed the North Heights Swimming Pool and worked for the City of Amarillo in the summer youth programs. A lasting part of Mr. Allen’s legacy was the integral role he played in easing the racial divide in the Amarillo Community. He taught and coached at Carver until its closure in May of 1967. After the closing of Carver, Mr. Allen taught at Horace Mann Junior High and Amarillo High Schools, where he trained Cross Country and Track Athletes for the city’s other four high schools.
He secured his spot in Amarillo athletic history as the only Football Coach Carver had from its opening in 1948 to its closing in 1967. He led the Dragons to the Negro Interscholastic League Football Title in 1952 and two consecutive State Titles in 1964 and 1965.
Allen was named one of the Golden Spread’s Top 100 Sports Legends of the 20th Century. He was inducted into the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame in 1979, the Huston-Tillson Athletic Hall of Fame and Texas Black Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Allen retired his teaching career at Amarillo High School in 1985. Though Allen had many on-the-field victories, it was his no-nonsense, tough love approach with his students that stuck with many of them through the years.
Johnny N. Allen was a member of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, where he taught the Men’s Bible Study Class for more than 40 years. He also served as a Deacon, an Usher, Brotherhood President and Finance Chairman. Allen was a Life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, a 33rd Degree Mason, past Master of Markwell Masonic Lodge 415, past Potentate of Ozair Temple 146, treasurer of John W. McKinney Consistory 288 and past Deputy of Region 21.
“There will never be another Johnny Allen. There will be many who will accomplish a lot in life, but there will never be another Mr. Allen,” the Reverend Perry J. Jones said on January 12, 2003. The former Carver High School Coach and educator was called “The Greatest Dragon Ever.”
He died Jan. 4, 2003, at the age of 83.
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This award is in recognition of a person we all know and love dearly. This person has made a mark in our community and has probably been honored. This is a person in spite of the odds against them stood up and said” I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community. A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you and we hear you and we thank you.”
This award is being presented to Mr. Johnny N. Allen, Sr.
Johnny N. Allen, Sr.was born July 24, 1919, in McGregor, Texas, He graduated from Dunbar High School in Temple, Samuel Huston College (now Huston-Tillson University, a Historically Black College/University HBCU in Austin, and received the Master Degree from Prairie View A&M University, another HBCU in Prairie View.
He married Jewelle L. Bailey. December. 27, 1942, in Houston before leaving for Europe during World War II as a member of the Army Air Corps. After his military service, he became an Assistant Coach at Tillson College in Austin. From 1946 to 1948, he also coached at Lincoln-Jackson School in Clovis, New Mexico. Johnny N. Allen Sr. was known as an outstanding coach, teacher, spiritual leader and family man who also served his country proudly during World War II. He had four children, Johnny Nell, Courtney O., Johnny “Buddy”, Jr. and James N.
The Allen family moved to Amarillo in 1948, where Johnny Allen joined the George Washington Carver staff. He taught Mathematics and coached all boys’ and girls’ sports. From 1952 to 1970. He also managed the North Heights Swimming Pool and worked for the City of Amarillo in the summer youth programs. A lasting part of Mr. Allen’s legacy was the integral role he played in easing the racial divide in the Amarillo Community. He taught and coached at Carver until its closure in May of 1967. After the closing of Carver, Mr. Allen taught at Horace Mann Junior High and Amarillo High Schools, where he trained Cross Country and Track Athletes for the city’s other four high schools.
He secured his spot in Amarillo athletic history as the only Football Coach Carver had from its opening in 1948 to its closing in 1967. He led the Dragons to the Negro Interscholastic League Football Title in 1952 and two consecutive State Titles in 1964 and 1965.
Allen was named one of the Golden Spread’s Top 100 Sports Legends of the 20th Century. He was inducted into the Panhandle Sports Hall of Fame in 1979, the Huston-Tillson Athletic Hall of Fame and Texas Black Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Allen retired his teaching career at Amarillo High School in 1985. Though Allen had many on-the-field victories, it was his no-nonsense, tough love approach with his students that stuck with many of them through the years.
Johnny N. Allen was a member of Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, where he taught the Men’s Bible Study Class for more than 40 years. He also served as a Deacon, an Usher, Brotherhood President and Finance Chairman. Allen was a Life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, a 33rd Degree Mason, past Master of Markwell Masonic Lodge 415, past Potentate of Ozair Temple 146, treasurer of John W. McKinney Consistory 288 and past Deputy of Region 21.
“There will never be another Johnny Allen. There will be many who will accomplish a lot in life, but there will never be another Mr. Allen,” the Reverend Perry J. Jones said on January 12, 2003. The former Carver High School Coach and educator was called “The Greatest Dragon Ever.”
He died Jan. 4, 2003, at the age of 83.
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The Religious/Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being presented to Reverend Morris E. Mitchell, Sr.
Reverend Mithchel is a lifetime citizen of Amarillo, Texas. He is a graduate of Carver High School, Class of '66.
Pastor Mitchell is a retired utility worker from Oil & Gas CG Mapco and Pioneer Natural Resources after 40 years, being one of the first black operator and youngest in this area.
Reverend Mitchell joined the New Hope Baptist Church at a very early age. He was tutored and groomed for over 50 years by the late Pastor David Hill, Sr. Pastor Mitchell was called into the ministry and licensed and ordained by Pastor Hill in 1996. He has served as pastor of the Mount Olive Baptist Church since 2008.
He is married to Mrs. Nadine Traylor Mitchell and will celebrate fifty years of marriage this year.
Pastor Morris and his wife, Lady Nadine, are the proud parents of three children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being presented to Reverend Morris E. Mitchell, Sr.
Reverend Mithchel is a lifetime citizen of Amarillo, Texas. He is a graduate of Carver High School, Class of '66.
Pastor Mitchell is a retired utility worker from Oil & Gas CG Mapco and Pioneer Natural Resources after 40 years, being one of the first black operator and youngest in this area.
Reverend Mitchell joined the New Hope Baptist Church at a very early age. He was tutored and groomed for over 50 years by the late Pastor David Hill, Sr. Pastor Mitchell was called into the ministry and licensed and ordained by Pastor Hill in 1996. He has served as pastor of the Mount Olive Baptist Church since 2008.
He is married to Mrs. Nadine Traylor Mitchell and will celebrate fifty years of marriage this year.
Pastor Morris and his wife, Lady Nadine, are the proud parents of three children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Johnny Allen, Jr.
Mr. Allen is the son of the late Johnny N. and Jewell Allen of Amarillo. Johnny was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. After graduation from Carver High School, Amarillo, Texas he attended Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, Colorado on a football scholarship. He graduated from CSU in 1971 with a BS in Physical Education. He earned his Administration Certification from the University of Denver, in 2003. Additional post graduate studies were at the University of Northern Colorado, Greely, Colorado.
Mr. Allen pursued the dream of playing professional football. After graduating from college, He attended camps with the Washington Redskins and the Denver Broncos. He states, “I gave myself a chance to achieve my dream. It gave me an opportunity to form some lifelong friendships. Not many get the chance to compete at the highest level.”
He states “My first ‘real job’ was as a District Executive with the Denver Area Council Boy Scouts of America. He spent several years organizing scout troops, developing adult volunteers for the support of units and coordinating activities.
The next 30 years of his professional career has been spent working for the Denver Public Schools, where he has taught in a variety of settings: Alternative Education, Dropout Prevention and Physical Education.
Outside from the classroom, he has coached football, baseball, wrestling and track and field. Johnny has served as a Dean of Students, District Coordinator of Special Olympics.
The next 30 years of my professional career were spent working for Denver Public Schools. He taught in a variety of settings, Alternative Education, Dropout Prevention and Physical Education. Outside from the classroom, Johnny coached football, baseball, wrestling and track and field. Other positions include:
Dean of Students- Dean of students/student advisor: assists teachers with discipline and student needs. Councils students on course and program selection, confers with parents, teachers and administrators to resolve student issues. Provides crisis intervention.
District Coordinator of Special Olympics- District Coordinator Special Olympics duties were to include providing yearly district programs, organizing and coordinatization of travel for approximately two-hundred (200) Special Olympians to weekly bowling in the fall; winter basketball skills, and tournament events, a spring track and field meet and a soccer day of skills and tournament.
District Physical Education Specialist-As the District Physical Education Specialist. For one hundred twenty (120 schools), he was responsible for mentoring new teachers, putting together and leading a team of staff to write the District Curriculum, and helping teachers and administrators with problem solving.
Mr. Allen states “I see former Special Olympians who can’t verbally express themselves, but when I see them, they give me a look and a smile that tells me they remember me and the activities we shared.”
In summary, Mr. Allen coached some outstanding athletes, a number earning championships, college scholarships and going on to have professional careers. He taught many students who have been very successful in several pursuits.
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Johnny Allen, Jr.
Mr. Allen is the son of the late Johnny N. and Jewell Allen of Amarillo. Johnny was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. After graduation from Carver High School, Amarillo, Texas he attended Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, Colorado on a football scholarship. He graduated from CSU in 1971 with a BS in Physical Education. He earned his Administration Certification from the University of Denver, in 2003. Additional post graduate studies were at the University of Northern Colorado, Greely, Colorado.
Mr. Allen pursued the dream of playing professional football. After graduating from college, He attended camps with the Washington Redskins and the Denver Broncos. He states, “I gave myself a chance to achieve my dream. It gave me an opportunity to form some lifelong friendships. Not many get the chance to compete at the highest level.”
He states “My first ‘real job’ was as a District Executive with the Denver Area Council Boy Scouts of America. He spent several years organizing scout troops, developing adult volunteers for the support of units and coordinating activities.
The next 30 years of his professional career has been spent working for the Denver Public Schools, where he has taught in a variety of settings: Alternative Education, Dropout Prevention and Physical Education.
Outside from the classroom, he has coached football, baseball, wrestling and track and field. Johnny has served as a Dean of Students, District Coordinator of Special Olympics.
The next 30 years of my professional career were spent working for Denver Public Schools. He taught in a variety of settings, Alternative Education, Dropout Prevention and Physical Education. Outside from the classroom, Johnny coached football, baseball, wrestling and track and field. Other positions include:
Dean of Students- Dean of students/student advisor: assists teachers with discipline and student needs. Councils students on course and program selection, confers with parents, teachers and administrators to resolve student issues. Provides crisis intervention.
District Coordinator of Special Olympics- District Coordinator Special Olympics duties were to include providing yearly district programs, organizing and coordinatization of travel for approximately two-hundred (200) Special Olympians to weekly bowling in the fall; winter basketball skills, and tournament events, a spring track and field meet and a soccer day of skills and tournament.
District Physical Education Specialist-As the District Physical Education Specialist. For one hundred twenty (120 schools), he was responsible for mentoring new teachers, putting together and leading a team of staff to write the District Curriculum, and helping teachers and administrators with problem solving.
Mr. Allen states “I see former Special Olympians who can’t verbally express themselves, but when I see them, they give me a look and a smile that tells me they remember me and the activities we shared.”
In summary, Mr. Allen coached some outstanding athletes, a number earning championships, college scholarships and going on to have professional careers. He taught many students who have been very successful in several pursuits.
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The Community Recognition Award
This award is in recognition of a person who has made a mark in our community. A person despite the odds against them stood up and said “I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community.” A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact, their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We saw you, have heard you, and we say thank you.
Mrs. Idella Jackson is a Native of Lubbock, Texas, born March 11,1 971to Tommy Joe Simpson and Dorothy Thomas.
She is the first African American Female to be elected to the Constable Office in the West Texas Potter County Constable, Precinct 4. Prior to her election in 2013, Constable Jackson worked for the Potter County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, at the Bill Clementi's Unit for 1/12 years.
Constable Jackson has an Associate’s degree in Applied Science/Criminal Justice Law Enforcement from Amarillo College and has successfully completed the Texas Constable's Leadership College at Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas. She has also received over two thousand hours of continuing education training. Currently pursuing her Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement.
Constable Jackson is actively involved in the community and is a firm believer in giving back. In 2012 she received WTAMU NAACP Brilliance Banquet/ Exceptional Citizen of the Year award for her work and dedication to the community.
She has been married to Michael Jackson for twenty-two years and they have three children: Deandre (Jotosha), Deandra, 0and Malik. They have two grandsons: DreQuinn and Houston, II
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This award is in recognition of a person who has made a mark in our community. A person despite the odds against them stood up and said “I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community.” A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact, their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We saw you, have heard you, and we say thank you.
Mrs. Idella Jackson is a Native of Lubbock, Texas, born March 11,1 971to Tommy Joe Simpson and Dorothy Thomas.
She is the first African American Female to be elected to the Constable Office in the West Texas Potter County Constable, Precinct 4. Prior to her election in 2013, Constable Jackson worked for the Potter County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, at the Bill Clementi's Unit for 1/12 years.
Constable Jackson has an Associate’s degree in Applied Science/Criminal Justice Law Enforcement from Amarillo College and has successfully completed the Texas Constable's Leadership College at Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas. She has also received over two thousand hours of continuing education training. Currently pursuing her Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement.
Constable Jackson is actively involved in the community and is a firm believer in giving back. In 2012 she received WTAMU NAACP Brilliance Banquet/ Exceptional Citizen of the Year award for her work and dedication to the community.
She has been married to Michael Jackson for twenty-two years and they have three children: Deandre (Jotosha), Deandra, 0and Malik. They have two grandsons: DreQuinn and Houston, II
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The Best of Carver Award
This award is presented to alumni of Carver Junior High School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver Junior High School.
Ms. Cynthia Alvis Bolden was the daughter of the late Herbert and Patsy Bolden in Amarillo, Texas,
Cynthia’s was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, she started in the work force at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and later Xcel Energy, where she is still employed for fifteen years.
Cynthia is a lifelong member of Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she serves on the Usher Board and the Culinary Committee
She is the President of the Best of Carver and has been for three years. Cynthia is a wonderful leader,
She is the proud mother of one daughter, 3 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.
She also has a sibling, Mr. Hervey Bolden of Dallas, Texas.
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This award is presented to alumni of Carver Junior High School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver Junior High School.
Ms. Cynthia Alvis Bolden was the daughter of the late Herbert and Patsy Bolden in Amarillo, Texas,
Cynthia’s was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, she started in the work force at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company and later Xcel Energy, where she is still employed for fifteen years.
Cynthia is a lifelong member of Mount Zion Baptist Church, where she serves on the Usher Board and the Culinary Committee
She is the President of the Best of Carver and has been for three years. Cynthia is a wonderful leader,
She is the proud mother of one daughter, 3 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.
She also has a sibling, Mr. Hervey Bolden of Dallas, Texas.
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The Carver Golden Dragon Association Gold Award
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
Mrs. Doris Lax-Chandler was born in Frederick, Oklahoma to the late Huldon and Cecile Douglas Lax. The family moved to Amarillo, Texas in 1958 where she was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. After graduation from high school, she enrolled at Amarillo Junior College where she completed her freshman year. In 1971, the family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. Doris received an Associate Degree from Longview Community College and a Paralegal Certificate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Doris relocated to Dallas, Texas in 1994 and began pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree from Dallas Baptist University which she received in 1997.
Her work career includes more than twenty-two years as a Paralegal for several major corporations, including Accor and Blockbuster. Doris works with the Professional Achievers for Community Excellence (PACE), an organization located in Carrollton, Texas that raises money for scholarships for African American girls. She served as PACE President for several years and led the planning of the 20th Anniversary celebration of PACE. Doris and another PACE member also started an African American Read-In for Black History Month. This initiative was started to encourage children to read more books. Each year in February, PACE sponsors a program consisting of skits, poetry recitations, dancers and inspiring speakers. Books are collected by PACE throughout the year and following the program, each child leaves with a brand-new book to read.
Doris is a member of Keller Springs Baptist Church in Carrollton, where she serves in the Congregational Care Ministry, the Hospitality Ministry and as the leader of the Seniors With A Purpose (SWAP) Ministry.
Doris is married to Ernest Chandler. Their blended family includes one son, three daughters and four grandchildren. She enjoys scrapbooking and uses it to document and preserve her family history, as well as reading and participating in a book club. She still remembers the Bookmobile that used to come to Hilltop. She always checked out a stack of books and would have them all read when the Bookmobile returned in a few weeks. She credits part of her love for reading to Mrs. Marvel White, one of her teachers at Hilltop, who always encouraged her to read and explore new and exciting adventures through books.
Doris has such fond memories of growing up in Amarillo and attending Hilltop ES and Carver Junior/Senior High School. She is eternally grateful to the teachers who impacted her life and taught her so much.
She is a member of the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) and is the Assistant Coordinator of the Heavenly Golden Dragon Memory Book. This book preserves the memory of Teachers, Staff, Alumni and Mentors of those who are now Heavily Golden Dragons.
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
Mrs. Doris Lax-Chandler was born in Frederick, Oklahoma to the late Huldon and Cecile Douglas Lax. The family moved to Amarillo, Texas in 1958 where she was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. After graduation from high school, she enrolled at Amarillo Junior College where she completed her freshman year. In 1971, the family relocated to Kansas City, Missouri. Doris received an Associate Degree from Longview Community College and a Paralegal Certificate from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Doris relocated to Dallas, Texas in 1994 and began pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree from Dallas Baptist University which she received in 1997.
Her work career includes more than twenty-two years as a Paralegal for several major corporations, including Accor and Blockbuster. Doris works with the Professional Achievers for Community Excellence (PACE), an organization located in Carrollton, Texas that raises money for scholarships for African American girls. She served as PACE President for several years and led the planning of the 20th Anniversary celebration of PACE. Doris and another PACE member also started an African American Read-In for Black History Month. This initiative was started to encourage children to read more books. Each year in February, PACE sponsors a program consisting of skits, poetry recitations, dancers and inspiring speakers. Books are collected by PACE throughout the year and following the program, each child leaves with a brand-new book to read.
Doris is a member of Keller Springs Baptist Church in Carrollton, where she serves in the Congregational Care Ministry, the Hospitality Ministry and as the leader of the Seniors With A Purpose (SWAP) Ministry.
Doris is married to Ernest Chandler. Their blended family includes one son, three daughters and four grandchildren. She enjoys scrapbooking and uses it to document and preserve her family history, as well as reading and participating in a book club. She still remembers the Bookmobile that used to come to Hilltop. She always checked out a stack of books and would have them all read when the Bookmobile returned in a few weeks. She credits part of her love for reading to Mrs. Marvel White, one of her teachers at Hilltop, who always encouraged her to read and explore new and exciting adventures through books.
Doris has such fond memories of growing up in Amarillo and attending Hilltop ES and Carver Junior/Senior High School. She is eternally grateful to the teachers who impacted her life and taught her so much.
She is a member of the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) and is the Assistant Coordinator of the Heavenly Golden Dragon Memory Book. This book preserves the memory of Teachers, Staff, Alumni and Mentors of those who are now Heavily Golden Dragons.
*************2016 CGDA Honorees**************
The Carver Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.This award is being presented to Pastor Elisha Demerson
A lifelong resident of Amarillo, Elisha Demerson only left the Panhandle to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. When he returned, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and a Master of Science in Engineering Technology from West Texas A&M University. After earning his master’s degree, he began working for the Department of Energy at the Pantex plant, where he retired in 2014 as acting assistant manager for nuclear safety and engineering for the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration.
Elisha served as a Potter County Commissioner for eight years and was elected as Potter County Judge in 1986. He is the first black commissioner and councilmember elected to the Potter County Commission and to Amarillo’s City Council, respectively.
In addition to being a graduate of Leadership Amarillo & Canyon, Elisha has held board member positions with Catholic Family Services, Panhandle Community Services, Downtown YMCA, Habitat for Humanity, North Amarillo Political Action Committee and the North YMCA. He has also served the City as a board member of the Community Development Block Grant Committee, Zoning Board of Adjustments and the Panhandle Regional Planning Commission.
Elisha has served the community as a Senior Pastor of Emmanual Temple Church for more than 25 years. Elisha was raised in Amarillo with his four siblings. He and his wife Bobbie have three children and six grandchildren.
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The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mr. Fred H Lindsey.
Fred Lindsey, the son of Willie Fred and Arvella (Rowe) Lindsey is a native of Amarillo. He was educated in the Amarillo Public School Systems and a graduate of Palo Duro High School. Fred is the eldest of seven children and very family oriented.
Fred has been employed with United States Gypsum Corporation (USG) for thirty-three years, and currently serves as Warehouse Supervisor. During his tenure with USG he has been recognized and awarded multiple times and awarded with the Dedicated Service and Appreciation Awards.
His varied work schedule prevented him from securing a desired part time job and at one of his son’s games the opportunity to referee was shared. Coupled with his love of sports, he was off on a venture that would soon become a passion. For twenty-two (22) years, Fred has refereed baseball, basketball and football. The Greater Kansas City Officials Association recognized Fred for his dedicated service with State Championship Basketball (2015) and he also refereed the National football Championship, NAIA Division 3.
A member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church for thirty-two years, Fred serves as a member of the Male Chorus, Class Secretary and Outreach Worker for Class Number One (#1). He has served as Vice President of the Usher Board and member of the Courtesy Committee. On December 2, 2007 he was ordained as a Deacon.
Fred married his high school sweetheart Ann and they have been blessed with thirty-nine (39) years of marriage, blessed as the parents of a son and daughter.
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mr. Fred H Lindsey.
Fred Lindsey, the son of Willie Fred and Arvella (Rowe) Lindsey is a native of Amarillo. He was educated in the Amarillo Public School Systems and a graduate of Palo Duro High School. Fred is the eldest of seven children and very family oriented.
Fred has been employed with United States Gypsum Corporation (USG) for thirty-three years, and currently serves as Warehouse Supervisor. During his tenure with USG he has been recognized and awarded multiple times and awarded with the Dedicated Service and Appreciation Awards.
His varied work schedule prevented him from securing a desired part time job and at one of his son’s games the opportunity to referee was shared. Coupled with his love of sports, he was off on a venture that would soon become a passion. For twenty-two (22) years, Fred has refereed baseball, basketball and football. The Greater Kansas City Officials Association recognized Fred for his dedicated service with State Championship Basketball (2015) and he also refereed the National football Championship, NAIA Division 3.
A member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church for thirty-two years, Fred serves as a member of the Male Chorus, Class Secretary and Outreach Worker for Class Number One (#1). He has served as Vice President of the Usher Board and member of the Courtesy Committee. On December 2, 2007 he was ordained as a Deacon.
Fred married his high school sweetheart Ann and they have been blessed with thirty-nine (39) years of marriage, blessed as the parents of a son and daughter.
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The Best of Carver Award
This award is presented to an alumni of Carver School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver School.
This award is presented to Mrs. Wanda Perry Warmsley
Wanda was born to Elbert and Eleshia Perry in Clarksville, Texas. The family moved to Amarillo, and she was educated in the Amarillo ISD, attending North Heights (the original Carver), Hilltop, Carver Jr./Sr. High, and graduating from Palo Duro. While in school she turned her attention to sewing, under the tutalge of Mrs. Thelma Mayes while at Carver and Mrs. Wells at Palo Duro.
After Graduation Wanda attended Amarillo College to train as a Dental Assistant. She changed her major to Marketing and graduated with the Associate Degree in 1974.
In 1997 she joined the Wroten High Plains Court of Calanthe #145, where she held the office of Recorder of Deeds. She was hired as an operator by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, now AT&T (the Bell Companies). She worked in the business office, where she became one of the top sellers. Wanda retired from the telephone company in 2006. Currently she works as a Monitor for the AISD School Bus System.
On July 11, 1997 Wanda married Frank Bradley Warmsley. They were blessed with two children and two grandchildren.
Wanda is the Assistant Secretary for the “Best of Carver” and is one of the founders. A member of the Class of 1969 approached her in the late 1990’s to take over the party that they had carried for so many years. She agreed, provided her classmates could come on board with her to start this adventure. She contacted everyone of her class members that she could think of. They all came on board. They organized their group, first calling it the Class of ‘70. Afterward they came together and renamed it "The Best of Carver”. They created the name because they were the last 9th grade class of Carver and believed they were the best.
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This award is presented to an alumni of Carver School. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent, and financial efforts to preserve the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver School.
This award is presented to Mrs. Wanda Perry Warmsley
Wanda was born to Elbert and Eleshia Perry in Clarksville, Texas. The family moved to Amarillo, and she was educated in the Amarillo ISD, attending North Heights (the original Carver), Hilltop, Carver Jr./Sr. High, and graduating from Palo Duro. While in school she turned her attention to sewing, under the tutalge of Mrs. Thelma Mayes while at Carver and Mrs. Wells at Palo Duro.
After Graduation Wanda attended Amarillo College to train as a Dental Assistant. She changed her major to Marketing and graduated with the Associate Degree in 1974.
In 1997 she joined the Wroten High Plains Court of Calanthe #145, where she held the office of Recorder of Deeds. She was hired as an operator by Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, now AT&T (the Bell Companies). She worked in the business office, where she became one of the top sellers. Wanda retired from the telephone company in 2006. Currently she works as a Monitor for the AISD School Bus System.
On July 11, 1997 Wanda married Frank Bradley Warmsley. They were blessed with two children and two grandchildren.
Wanda is the Assistant Secretary for the “Best of Carver” and is one of the founders. A member of the Class of 1969 approached her in the late 1990’s to take over the party that they had carried for so many years. She agreed, provided her classmates could come on board with her to start this adventure. She contacted everyone of her class members that she could think of. They all came on board. They organized their group, first calling it the Class of ‘70. Afterward they came together and renamed it "The Best of Carver”. They created the name because they were the last 9th grade class of Carver and believed they were the best.
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The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through their public service activities.
This award is presented to Mrs. Charlene Watson.
Mrs. Charlene Watson was born to Charlie and "Betty" Pierson and resides in Amarillo, Texas. She attended Hilltop, Carver Jr./ High School. Due to mandated integrating of the Amarillo Schools that she attended and graduated Palo Duro High School in 1969. She attended Amarillo College for two years. She attended and worked at the University of Arizona, and Pima Community College.
Charlene have been volunteering in various charitable organizations, but her favorites have been Habitat for Humanity and mentoring for kids in reading at an elementary school and the NAACP during the 1960's and 1970's.
She believe that success is not measured by what you have, who you are but the belief that anyone dreams are possible and you have to work hard to achieve it.
Charlene lives each day knowing she is blessed and God has a purpose for her that is continuing daily. She believe that judgment is in the eye of the beholder. Attending Carver and growing up on the north side of Amarillo with strong discipline from parents, teachers, neighbors helped kept her focus from childhood to adulthood. She believes we must be mentors to this generation and thereafter.
In her spare time she likes traveling, gardening, and of course attending the Carver Reunion.
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This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through their public service activities.
This award is presented to Mrs. Charlene Watson.
Mrs. Charlene Watson was born to Charlie and "Betty" Pierson and resides in Amarillo, Texas. She attended Hilltop, Carver Jr./ High School. Due to mandated integrating of the Amarillo Schools that she attended and graduated Palo Duro High School in 1969. She attended Amarillo College for two years. She attended and worked at the University of Arizona, and Pima Community College.
Charlene have been volunteering in various charitable organizations, but her favorites have been Habitat for Humanity and mentoring for kids in reading at an elementary school and the NAACP during the 1960's and 1970's.
She believe that success is not measured by what you have, who you are but the belief that anyone dreams are possible and you have to work hard to achieve it.
Charlene lives each day knowing she is blessed and God has a purpose for her that is continuing daily. She believe that judgment is in the eye of the beholder. Attending Carver and growing up on the north side of Amarillo with strong discipline from parents, teachers, neighbors helped kept her focus from childhood to adulthood. She believes we must be mentors to this generation and thereafter.
In her spare time she likes traveling, gardening, and of course attending the Carver Reunion.
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Mr. Tremaine Brown
The Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) Gold Award
The Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) Gold Award is an in house award and is the highest honor the CGDA gives to a member of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mr. Tremaine A. Brown
Mr. Tremaine Arnaz' Brown was born in Childress, Texas to Ms. Charlottee Brown and Mr. KC Session in 1974. Tremaine was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduating from Palo Duro in 1992 he attended The University of Texas in Austin on a full academic and athletic scholarship. Upon leaving school, Tremaine became a business owner by joining some of his football colleagues in opening Millennium 3 Sports & Fitness, Inc., the first of its kind. Millennium 3 was a sports training facility for kids concentrating less on teaching any specific sport and focusing more on maximizing how one uses their body regardless of the sport they choose.
Upon returning to the Texas panhandle, Tremaine has been a professional in the business sector until realizing his dreams of being a business owner/operator of a small eatery. Tremaine loves to cook, so it's so fitting that his service to the community comes in the form of feeding others.
He spends his time with his daughter feeding children at the park, feeding the homeless around town, or engaging himself in some other charitable function such as Martha's Home, Hope & Healing Place, or the Christian Extravaganza. Tremaine has a strong passion for his community, and he wants his daughter to see it strong and thriving, again.
Tremaine is a single father of a 3 year old daughter and has one other daughter that resides in Cleveland, Ohio. Being a father is Tremaine's life. He wants so badly to give his daughter a community and city that she can be proud of, a life that is full of love and wonderful memories. That life starts at home and grows outward. Tremaine's work has just begun.
His motto is "Don't stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done!"
Mr. Brown’s visions for the future are our children, our community, and our city, in that order.
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The Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) Gold Award is an in house award and is the highest honor the CGDA gives to a member of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mr. Tremaine A. Brown
Mr. Tremaine Arnaz' Brown was born in Childress, Texas to Ms. Charlottee Brown and Mr. KC Session in 1974. Tremaine was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduating from Palo Duro in 1992 he attended The University of Texas in Austin on a full academic and athletic scholarship. Upon leaving school, Tremaine became a business owner by joining some of his football colleagues in opening Millennium 3 Sports & Fitness, Inc., the first of its kind. Millennium 3 was a sports training facility for kids concentrating less on teaching any specific sport and focusing more on maximizing how one uses their body regardless of the sport they choose.
Upon returning to the Texas panhandle, Tremaine has been a professional in the business sector until realizing his dreams of being a business owner/operator of a small eatery. Tremaine loves to cook, so it's so fitting that his service to the community comes in the form of feeding others.
He spends his time with his daughter feeding children at the park, feeding the homeless around town, or engaging himself in some other charitable function such as Martha's Home, Hope & Healing Place, or the Christian Extravaganza. Tremaine has a strong passion for his community, and he wants his daughter to see it strong and thriving, again.
Tremaine is a single father of a 3 year old daughter and has one other daughter that resides in Cleveland, Ohio. Being a father is Tremaine's life. He wants so badly to give his daughter a community and city that she can be proud of, a life that is full of love and wonderful memories. That life starts at home and grows outward. Tremaine's work has just begun.
His motto is "Don't stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done!"
Mr. Brown’s visions for the future are our children, our community, and our city, in that order.
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Pastor Anthony Harris
The Religious /Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being present to Pastor Anthony B. Harris
Pastor Harris has been in ministry for (thirty-four) 34 years, and (twenty-four) 24 of those Thierty-four) 34 years he has served as senior pastor in California, Washington and now Texas. He has achieved both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master Degree in Biblical studies.
He is very active in the Amarillo Community and is passionate for those in poverty. In 2014, he established a Peace Unto You Ministries which houses both a Bible Institute and many workshops locally and nationwide on church health and growth.
Pastor Harris is so adamant about helping others achieve a higher education that his church has become the first No Excuses University Church in the nation. He has incorporated mentoring at Horace Mann Middle School and led St. John to establish a college bus tour for the community that helps underprivileged youth in poverty. He also established the Nehemiah Project at St. John for the purpose of serving the needs of those in the North and East parts of Amarillo.
He is married to Tanya Harris and the father of 7 children, 1 deceased and 14 grandchildren.
His main goal in life is that of serving others with love and compassion.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being present to Pastor Anthony B. Harris
Pastor Harris has been in ministry for (thirty-four) 34 years, and (twenty-four) 24 of those Thierty-four) 34 years he has served as senior pastor in California, Washington and now Texas. He has achieved both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master Degree in Biblical studies.
He is very active in the Amarillo Community and is passionate for those in poverty. In 2014, he established a Peace Unto You Ministries which houses both a Bible Institute and many workshops locally and nationwide on church health and growth.
Pastor Harris is so adamant about helping others achieve a higher education that his church has become the first No Excuses University Church in the nation. He has incorporated mentoring at Horace Mann Middle School and led St. John to establish a college bus tour for the community that helps underprivileged youth in poverty. He also established the Nehemiah Project at St. John for the purpose of serving the needs of those in the North and East parts of Amarillo.
He is married to Tanya Harris and the father of 7 children, 1 deceased and 14 grandchildren.
His main goal in life is that of serving others with love and compassion.
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Mr. Roscoe Guest
The Mr. Champion’s Principal Award
Mr. Champion Principal Award – This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being presented to Mr. Roscoe Guest.
Roscoe Guest was born to the late Roscoe and Sarah Guest and is the sixth of eight children. He was raised in Amarillo and received his education in the Amarillo Independent School District.
Roscoe took this to heart, in that he chose many ways of the less traditional roads. After graduating from high school, he enter West Texas A & M (then West Texas State) where he earned degrees in Political Science and Education. He moved to Tyler in 1986 and began teaching. He returned to Amarillo in 1987 where he continued his teaching career. He was promoted to Assistant Principal and later as Principal. His teaching career has covered grades PK to 12th.
Among his many accolades: Region XIV Assistant Principal of the Year at Tascosa High School and the Betty Chafe Ward, Eastridge Elementary School.
Roscoe credits his success to a firm belief in God, his loving wife and a desire to truly better the lives of the children he has touched.
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Mr. Champion Principal Award – This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being presented to Mr. Roscoe Guest.
Roscoe Guest was born to the late Roscoe and Sarah Guest and is the sixth of eight children. He was raised in Amarillo and received his education in the Amarillo Independent School District.
Roscoe took this to heart, in that he chose many ways of the less traditional roads. After graduating from high school, he enter West Texas A & M (then West Texas State) where he earned degrees in Political Science and Education. He moved to Tyler in 1986 and began teaching. He returned to Amarillo in 1987 where he continued his teaching career. He was promoted to Assistant Principal and later as Principal. His teaching career has covered grades PK to 12th.
Among his many accolades: Region XIV Assistant Principal of the Year at Tascosa High School and the Betty Chafe Ward, Eastridge Elementary School.
Roscoe credits his success to a firm belief in God, his loving wife and a desire to truly better the lives of the children he has touched.
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Mr. Julian Reese
The Mr. Neal’s Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mr. Julian Reese.
Julian Reese was born on July 23, 1981, to the late Charlie and Janet Reese Sr. He is the 7th of 13 children who all are from the same mom and dad. He also has two other sisters. He is the husband of his best friend Erica Reese and father to 3 amazing children Angel 16, Julian II. 7, and Jordan 5. Mr. Reese grew up in a home where faith, family, education, and sports; all in that order were very important and taught right from the start. Charlie and Janet taught all of their children that you are not going to be able stand on sports alone but you MUST take care of business in the classroom as well. All 13 children also had academic scholarships to attend college, if they decided they did not want to play sports.
Mr. Reese went on to attend Iowa Central Community College where he received is Associates Degree and was a standout "QB" for two years before transferring to Indiana State University where he attained his Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Sports Management and finished his collegiate football career. Mr. Reese was well known for athletic ability his whole life earning numerous awards in high school for both football and basketball and in college for his outstanding play as "QB". Mr. Reese also took care of business in the class room; he maintained a 3.5 GPA throughout his college career earning him both academic and football honors. This helped Mr. Reese to be selected into the Omicron Delta Kappa National Honors society his senior year at Indiana State.
Mr. Reese was the former "QB" of the Amarillo Duster Championship team, which brought him to Amarillo. Mr. Reese is now the Head Coach for the two time LSFL Champions Amarillo Venom and only going into his 5 year as a head coach. He is also founder and president of TYH Sports and Sports Director of Life Tree Legacy where he is helping young people grow spiritually as well as athletically. He is also the new Head Football Coach at San Jacinto Christian Academy. He is a faithful member of New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church where he serves as a deacon, youth leader, and Brotherhood Choir. Director. Mr. Reese is the Co-Founder of The Urban Project, that is designed to be a mentoring program for our young men ages 12-18.
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This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mr. Julian Reese.
Julian Reese was born on July 23, 1981, to the late Charlie and Janet Reese Sr. He is the 7th of 13 children who all are from the same mom and dad. He also has two other sisters. He is the husband of his best friend Erica Reese and father to 3 amazing children Angel 16, Julian II. 7, and Jordan 5. Mr. Reese grew up in a home where faith, family, education, and sports; all in that order were very important and taught right from the start. Charlie and Janet taught all of their children that you are not going to be able stand on sports alone but you MUST take care of business in the classroom as well. All 13 children also had academic scholarships to attend college, if they decided they did not want to play sports.
Mr. Reese went on to attend Iowa Central Community College where he received is Associates Degree and was a standout "QB" for two years before transferring to Indiana State University where he attained his Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Sports Management and finished his collegiate football career. Mr. Reese was well known for athletic ability his whole life earning numerous awards in high school for both football and basketball and in college for his outstanding play as "QB". Mr. Reese also took care of business in the class room; he maintained a 3.5 GPA throughout his college career earning him both academic and football honors. This helped Mr. Reese to be selected into the Omicron Delta Kappa National Honors society his senior year at Indiana State.
Mr. Reese was the former "QB" of the Amarillo Duster Championship team, which brought him to Amarillo. Mr. Reese is now the Head Coach for the two time LSFL Champions Amarillo Venom and only going into his 5 year as a head coach. He is also founder and president of TYH Sports and Sports Director of Life Tree Legacy where he is helping young people grow spiritually as well as athletically. He is also the new Head Football Coach at San Jacinto Christian Academy. He is a faithful member of New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church where he serves as a deacon, youth leader, and Brotherhood Choir. Director. Mr. Reese is the Co-Founder of The Urban Project, that is designed to be a mentoring program for our young men ages 12-18.
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Mrs. Gloria Neal-Roberts
************2015 CGDA Honorees*************
The Mr. Neal’s Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Gloria Neal Roberts.
Mrs. Gloria Jean Neal Roberts was born to the late Mr. Nathaniel and Helen Neal in El Reno, Oklahoma.
In 1955, the Neal family moved to Amarillo, after Mr. Neal accepted a job with the Amarillo Air Force Base and then with the Amarillo ISD.
Gloria was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. She attended Hilltop, Carver and graduated in the Class of 1969 from Palo Duro High School. From there she earned her Associate degree from Amarillo Junior College and the Bachelor from North Texas State University in Home Economics Education.
Gloria began her teaching career at Opportunity School, fall of 1973. In 1974, she moved to the Amarillo ISD, where she spent twenty-eight years between Austin Middle School and Palo Duro High School. While at Palo Duro, she began the Teen Parenting Program for teen mothers. Under her tenure, Amarillo ISD was able to renovate a space to open an on-site day care for the teen parent in the cluster.
Gloria retired from teaching in 2003 to begin her volunteer career with: the Ace Program, 79107, United Way, United Citizen’s Forum, Religion 16 Head Start Program, Friends of the Opportunity School, CASA BSA Healthcare Systems.
In March, 1974, Gloria married the late Allen Roberts. She is the mother of a daughter and son, and one grandchild.
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Bishop John "Chris" Brown
The Religious/Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being present to Bishop John “Chris” Brown.
Bishop John “Chris” Brown is a native of the Amarillo. He was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) and is a 1982 graduate of Palo Duro High School. Upon graduation, he attended Amarillo College, obtaining the Associate degree in Auto, Life, and Health Insurance. He is self-employed as a licensed Insurance Agent with the State of Texas.
Bishop Brown met his mentor the late Bishop Horace Stacey II, at the age of 19 and it was during this encounter and under Bishop Stacey’s tutelage, Pastor Brown received his formal training and call to ministry. Recognizing, nurturing the anointing and call upon his life, he was appointed to various offices and positions within the church.
Bishop Brown was ordained as an Elder, and in 1985 became the Assistant Pastor for the Temple of Praise Community Church. In 2007, following the death of Bishop Stacey, then Assistant Pastor Brown was elevated to the office of Senior Pastor. On July 19, 2014 Pastor Brown was ordained as a Bishop. He is involved in a variety of ministerial endeavors that have prepared him to embrace lost souls and to minister to the whole-being of man regardless of the challenges or limitations.
He engages himself with hospital visits to pray for the sick and afflicted throughout the Amarillo and Panhandle areas, while demonstrating un-wavering faith and devoting his life and service to the ministry. He sows seeds unto God through ministry by praying for those that need healing of the mind, body, soul and spirit through teaching Bible Study classes for Singles and Couples, devoting time to study God’s word.
The work of the Lord has always been first and foremost in Bishop’s heart as he continues to strive for excellence: in Colossians 3:23 it says, “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not unto men”. His ultimate desire is to see the people of God fully embrace God’s love and walk in victory while they experience the fullness of God’s promises.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being present to Bishop John “Chris” Brown.
Bishop John “Chris” Brown is a native of the Amarillo. He was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) and is a 1982 graduate of Palo Duro High School. Upon graduation, he attended Amarillo College, obtaining the Associate degree in Auto, Life, and Health Insurance. He is self-employed as a licensed Insurance Agent with the State of Texas.
Bishop Brown met his mentor the late Bishop Horace Stacey II, at the age of 19 and it was during this encounter and under Bishop Stacey’s tutelage, Pastor Brown received his formal training and call to ministry. Recognizing, nurturing the anointing and call upon his life, he was appointed to various offices and positions within the church.
Bishop Brown was ordained as an Elder, and in 1985 became the Assistant Pastor for the Temple of Praise Community Church. In 2007, following the death of Bishop Stacey, then Assistant Pastor Brown was elevated to the office of Senior Pastor. On July 19, 2014 Pastor Brown was ordained as a Bishop. He is involved in a variety of ministerial endeavors that have prepared him to embrace lost souls and to minister to the whole-being of man regardless of the challenges or limitations.
He engages himself with hospital visits to pray for the sick and afflicted throughout the Amarillo and Panhandle areas, while demonstrating un-wavering faith and devoting his life and service to the ministry. He sows seeds unto God through ministry by praying for those that need healing of the mind, body, soul and spirit through teaching Bible Study classes for Singles and Couples, devoting time to study God’s word.
The work of the Lord has always been first and foremost in Bishop’s heart as he continues to strive for excellence: in Colossians 3:23 it says, “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not unto men”. His ultimate desire is to see the people of God fully embrace God’s love and walk in victory while they experience the fullness of God’s promises.
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Mrs. Mittie Carter Clark
The Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) Gold Award
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Mittie Carter Clark.
Mrs. Mittie Carter Clark was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduating, she attended Prairie View A & M University, West Texas State University (now A & M) and received a Bachelor Degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University and the University of Phoenix, San Diego, California in April 2008.
"Mittie is holding down a position she loves". Her position was to fill in temporarily until a few people returned from medical leave in May of 1999. She entered through the door ready to show them what she was working with. Her permanent position was paid for by Cox Communications in less than 30 days…she was in total work mode in the Accounting department. She was the new Credit Manager in a department with 4 other colleagues. She enjoyed calling clients to collect on advertising and she sent out monthly bills for seven (7) years. She is the face of the company, enjoying every minute of being the Front Desk Receptionist. “Smiling” is the main area of specialized expertise.
She is the mother of four (4) daughters, grandmother to seven (7) grandchildren, and two (2) great-grand children. In addition she is the legal guardian to three (3) additional children: ages three (3), four (4) and five (5). Mittie states, “My life has been consumed by the children in my life and I know for sure I have been richly blessed and truly loved.”
Her vision for the future will include children. She has received positive energy created through the positive experience.
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The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor the CGDA gives to members of the CGDA. It is in recognition and honor of the individual, who by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. This person has demonstrated leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Mittie Carter Clark.
Mrs. Mittie Carter Clark was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduating, she attended Prairie View A & M University, West Texas State University (now A & M) and received a Bachelor Degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University and the University of Phoenix, San Diego, California in April 2008.
"Mittie is holding down a position she loves". Her position was to fill in temporarily until a few people returned from medical leave in May of 1999. She entered through the door ready to show them what she was working with. Her permanent position was paid for by Cox Communications in less than 30 days…she was in total work mode in the Accounting department. She was the new Credit Manager in a department with 4 other colleagues. She enjoyed calling clients to collect on advertising and she sent out monthly bills for seven (7) years. She is the face of the company, enjoying every minute of being the Front Desk Receptionist. “Smiling” is the main area of specialized expertise.
She is the mother of four (4) daughters, grandmother to seven (7) grandchildren, and two (2) great-grand children. In addition she is the legal guardian to three (3) additional children: ages three (3), four (4) and five (5). Mittie states, “My life has been consumed by the children in my life and I know for sure I have been richly blessed and truly loved.”
Her vision for the future will include children. She has received positive energy created through the positive experience.
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Mr. James "Jimmy" Hilliard, Jr.
The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. James “Jimmy” Hilliard, Jr.
Mr. James “Jimmy” “Coach” Hilliard, Jr. was born to the late Mr. James Hilliard, Sr. and Mrs. LaVerene Hilliard. He lived in Amarillo until he was in fifth grade and the family moved to Denver, Colorado. He matriculated through the Denver School District and graduated from George Washington High School. Upon graduation he entered Langston University, Langston, Oklahoma where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. He began working at the university in Public Relations. He served as Sports Information Director from 1983-2006. He also serves as Head Track and Field/Cross Country Coach since 1991 and currently remains in this position.
James W. Hilliard, Jr. is in his 24th season of leading the Lions’ programs. He took over in the spring of 1991 and has watched the Lions track program grow from relative obscurity to gain recognition on the state, regional and national levels.
His Women’s Cross Country teams produced the university’s first NAIA Women’s Cross Country all-Conference member and National Qualifier Rosie Solano. Solano held the 5K Cross Country school record until Kenny Boquin wrote her name at the top of the record book on her way to becoming Langston University’s first cross country NAIA All-American Scholar Athlete (3.92 GPA). In 2010 his Women’s Cross-Country team captured the school’s first conference title. Since then the team has sent one (1) team and four (4) individuals to the NAIA Cross Country National Championships.
Coach Hilliard’s Track & Field teams have produced fifty (50) All-Americans, eight (8) of them scholars while collecting one hundred thirty-two (132) All-American Honors seventy (70) men and sixty-two (62) women and over three hundred-sixty two (362) All-Conference Athletes covering District-9 of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate and the Red River Athletic Conferences. He has coached six (6) individual national champions combining for nine (9) titles, one (l) relay champion. His women’s teams have finished in the NAIA top twenty-five (25) four times (4) and the men six (6) times.
Coach Hilliard enjoys photography, traveling, being outdoors.
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. James “Jimmy” Hilliard, Jr.
Mr. James “Jimmy” “Coach” Hilliard, Jr. was born to the late Mr. James Hilliard, Sr. and Mrs. LaVerene Hilliard. He lived in Amarillo until he was in fifth grade and the family moved to Denver, Colorado. He matriculated through the Denver School District and graduated from George Washington High School. Upon graduation he entered Langston University, Langston, Oklahoma where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology. He began working at the university in Public Relations. He served as Sports Information Director from 1983-2006. He also serves as Head Track and Field/Cross Country Coach since 1991 and currently remains in this position.
James W. Hilliard, Jr. is in his 24th season of leading the Lions’ programs. He took over in the spring of 1991 and has watched the Lions track program grow from relative obscurity to gain recognition on the state, regional and national levels.
His Women’s Cross Country teams produced the university’s first NAIA Women’s Cross Country all-Conference member and National Qualifier Rosie Solano. Solano held the 5K Cross Country school record until Kenny Boquin wrote her name at the top of the record book on her way to becoming Langston University’s first cross country NAIA All-American Scholar Athlete (3.92 GPA). In 2010 his Women’s Cross-Country team captured the school’s first conference title. Since then the team has sent one (1) team and four (4) individuals to the NAIA Cross Country National Championships.
Coach Hilliard’s Track & Field teams have produced fifty (50) All-Americans, eight (8) of them scholars while collecting one hundred thirty-two (132) All-American Honors seventy (70) men and sixty-two (62) women and over three hundred-sixty two (362) All-Conference Athletes covering District-9 of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate and the Red River Athletic Conferences. He has coached six (6) individual national champions combining for nine (9) titles, one (l) relay champion. His women’s teams have finished in the NAIA top twenty-five (25) four times (4) and the men six (6) times.
Coach Hilliard enjoys photography, traveling, being outdoors.
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Mrs. Lenda Nelson-Allen
The Carver Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community and has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite of their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Lenda Nelson Allen.
Mrs. Allen was born to the late Mr. Wayne and Mrs. Tommie Lou Nelson. She was reared in Amarillo and educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, she attended and received her Nursing Assistant Certification from Amarillo Junior College and worked for Saint Anthony’s Hospital for five (5) years. In 1981, she returned to Amarillo Junior College and graduated with her Medical Assistant Certification, this along with the Nursing Assistant Certification allowed her to work for Northwest Texas Hospital, Quality Care Health Services, and Outreach Home Health Care Services.
Lenda's thirst for knowledge did not stop there, she once again returned to school and received her certification in medical insurance and claims examiner from Richland College, Dallas, Texas. Continuing her education, she again returned to school and received a certification as a security officer and went to work for Nationwide Insurance in Amarillo as well as the Amarillo International Airport.
Whenever the call for help goes out, she does what needs to be done for the Amarillo community without question.
Lenda is now retired and living in Amarillo, where she enjoys spending her time with family and friends, but she especially enjoys spending time with her six grandchildren.
She is a faithful member of the New Hope Baptist Church and enjoys singing in the choir.
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This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community and has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite of their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Lenda Nelson Allen.
Mrs. Allen was born to the late Mr. Wayne and Mrs. Tommie Lou Nelson. She was reared in Amarillo and educated through the Amarillo Independent School District. Upon graduation, she attended and received her Nursing Assistant Certification from Amarillo Junior College and worked for Saint Anthony’s Hospital for five (5) years. In 1981, she returned to Amarillo Junior College and graduated with her Medical Assistant Certification, this along with the Nursing Assistant Certification allowed her to work for Northwest Texas Hospital, Quality Care Health Services, and Outreach Home Health Care Services.
Lenda's thirst for knowledge did not stop there, she once again returned to school and received her certification in medical insurance and claims examiner from Richland College, Dallas, Texas. Continuing her education, she again returned to school and received a certification as a security officer and went to work for Nationwide Insurance in Amarillo as well as the Amarillo International Airport.
Whenever the call for help goes out, she does what needs to be done for the Amarillo community without question.
Lenda is now retired and living in Amarillo, where she enjoys spending her time with family and friends, but she especially enjoys spending time with her six grandchildren.
She is a faithful member of the New Hope Baptist Church and enjoys singing in the choir.
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Mrs. Fransetta Mitchell-Crow
The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Fransetta Mitchell-Crow.
Fransetta Mitchell Crow, was born in Amarillo Texas, to the late Herschel and Lena Mitchell. She was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. At age 10, she realized her very special gift of "music" as she sang her first solo at the New Hope Baptist Church in Amarillo. It is very hard to cover all she has contributed in music without addressing her efforts of service in her professional and personal life to the Church, City, and Community of Amarillo, as it is all intertwined. It was if God appointed her to say and do the hard things that others would not do.
1971 marked the beginning of her professional career, that’s when she began singing with the Amarillo College Jazz Band. After performing with this band she traveled from New York to Los Angles and sang with many bands and Jazz groups. Whether it was music festivals, night clubs, piano bars or public arenas and public arenas, given the opportunity to share her beautiful voice, she didn’t miss a beat. Fransetta has performed with the Amarillo Opera, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, the Sunset Center Art Gallery, the Amarillo Country Club, the Amarillo Civic Center, on Amarillo College’s KACV TV and the United Citizen’s Forum.
Fransetta served as a volunteer at The United Citizens Forum; as the Juneteenth Activity Program Director, and three years with the Juneteenth Committee. In 1986 she was commissioned to sit for Amarillo Artist Barry Jones’ painting: "The Storyteller." In 1992, while working with the Miss Amarillo Scholarship Pageant, Fransetta was provided the opportunity to enable two young African American women to be the first to run for Miss Amarillo. Fransetta was appointed as Precinct chair for Precinct 422, Place 4 from 2003-2005. For six years, she worked as a Volunteer Voter Registrar Deputy, which required her to serve at the polls and assist others during the voting process. In 2006 she founded a Faith-based, nonprofit: "Giving Back" Community Services to address some of the needs in her community. The organization gives four (4) annual events a year to reach out and help the Community, City and Youth in the City of Amarillo. In 2008, she was invited to meet former President Bill Clinton as a community representative. She is a former Amarillo City Commissioner candidate and the first black woman to run in 2008. She also served in the Democratic Party as a Delegate to the 2008 Democratic Convention. She is in the book: “Images of Amarillo”, African Americans in Amarillo, released in 2009. The following year, 2010, she served as Docent at the Amarillo Museum of Art and performed with the Black artist that painted the story of the Underground Railroad, that introduced Amarillo to the Distinguished Guest Series.
When I do not have a single bit of talent left and can say, "I used everything you gave me."
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This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Fransetta Mitchell-Crow.
Fransetta Mitchell Crow, was born in Amarillo Texas, to the late Herschel and Lena Mitchell. She was educated in the Amarillo Independent School District. At age 10, she realized her very special gift of "music" as she sang her first solo at the New Hope Baptist Church in Amarillo. It is very hard to cover all she has contributed in music without addressing her efforts of service in her professional and personal life to the Church, City, and Community of Amarillo, as it is all intertwined. It was if God appointed her to say and do the hard things that others would not do.
1971 marked the beginning of her professional career, that’s when she began singing with the Amarillo College Jazz Band. After performing with this band she traveled from New York to Los Angles and sang with many bands and Jazz groups. Whether it was music festivals, night clubs, piano bars or public arenas and public arenas, given the opportunity to share her beautiful voice, she didn’t miss a beat. Fransetta has performed with the Amarillo Opera, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, the Sunset Center Art Gallery, the Amarillo Country Club, the Amarillo Civic Center, on Amarillo College’s KACV TV and the United Citizen’s Forum.
Fransetta served as a volunteer at The United Citizens Forum; as the Juneteenth Activity Program Director, and three years with the Juneteenth Committee. In 1986 she was commissioned to sit for Amarillo Artist Barry Jones’ painting: "The Storyteller." In 1992, while working with the Miss Amarillo Scholarship Pageant, Fransetta was provided the opportunity to enable two young African American women to be the first to run for Miss Amarillo. Fransetta was appointed as Precinct chair for Precinct 422, Place 4 from 2003-2005. For six years, she worked as a Volunteer Voter Registrar Deputy, which required her to serve at the polls and assist others during the voting process. In 2006 she founded a Faith-based, nonprofit: "Giving Back" Community Services to address some of the needs in her community. The organization gives four (4) annual events a year to reach out and help the Community, City and Youth in the City of Amarillo. In 2008, she was invited to meet former President Bill Clinton as a community representative. She is a former Amarillo City Commissioner candidate and the first black woman to run in 2008. She also served in the Democratic Party as a Delegate to the 2008 Democratic Convention. She is in the book: “Images of Amarillo”, African Americans in Amarillo, released in 2009. The following year, 2010, she served as Docent at the Amarillo Museum of Art and performed with the Black artist that painted the story of the Underground Railroad, that introduced Amarillo to the Distinguished Guest Series.
When I do not have a single bit of talent left and can say, "I used everything you gave me."
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Mr. J.B. and Mrs. "Kay" Baker
The Carver Alumni Commitment Award
This award is presented to a graduate of Carver. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent and financial efforts for the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver High School.
This award is being presented to Mr. J. B. and Mrs. Kay Baker.
Mr. J.B. Baker was born in Clarksville, Texas. He attended St. Martin Catholic School before becoming enrolling at Carver, and graduating in the Class of 1964.
J.B. retired as a manager from Affiliated Foods after thirty-six
(36 )years of service.
Mrs. Georgia "Kay" Baker was born in Lubbock, Texas and attended school in Slaton, Texas, graduating in the Class of 1970. She moved to Amarillo in 1992 where she met and married J. B. She has been employed with the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) for twenty (20) yrs.
The Bakers have been members of the Patten-Carver Reunion Committee approximately ten (10) years. They are the in charge of the Culinary. J. B. takes care of the briskets at the picnic and he can smoke some killer, melt in your mouth brisket.
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This award is presented to a graduate of Carver. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent and financial efforts for the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver High School.
This award is being presented to Mr. J. B. and Mrs. Kay Baker.
Mr. J.B. Baker was born in Clarksville, Texas. He attended St. Martin Catholic School before becoming enrolling at Carver, and graduating in the Class of 1964.
J.B. retired as a manager from Affiliated Foods after thirty-six
(36 )years of service.
Mrs. Georgia "Kay" Baker was born in Lubbock, Texas and attended school in Slaton, Texas, graduating in the Class of 1970. She moved to Amarillo in 1992 where she met and married J. B. She has been employed with the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) for twenty (20) yrs.
The Bakers have been members of the Patten-Carver Reunion Committee approximately ten (10) years. They are the in charge of the Culinary. J. B. takes care of the briskets at the picnic and he can smoke some killer, melt in your mouth brisket.
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Mrs. Mary Lou Hazelrigg
************2014 CGDA Honorees*************
The Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person we all know and love dearly. This person has made a mark in our community and has probably been honored. This is a person in spite of the odds against them stood up and said "I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community." A person who thought they were merely just doing a job; but in fact their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you and we hear you and we thank you.”
This award is be presented posthumously to Mrs. Mary Lou Hazelrigg.
Mrs. Mary Lou Hazelrigg was the daughter of John and Carrie Harris, was born in Mount Pleasant, Texas. She worked on her grandfather's Titus County farm near Mount Pleasant, chopping and picking cotton and driving a mule around a cane mill. She walked three miles to school during the rare times the family could spare her from chores on the farm, so she had little formal education. After the end of her first marriage, she was left with the full responsibility for her daughter, Ethel. Mary Lou worked as a cook and lived in servants' quarters so that she could afford to send her daughter to a Catholic boarding school through high school. She met and married her second husband, Alexander Hazelrigg in Dallas. They moved to Pampa and then in l940 to Amarillo in 1940, and both worked as custodians for the City of Amarillo. After their retirement in 1960 from the city, they worked for private families.
In the late 1960's she worked successfully to establish a neighborhood community center, where she worked as an unpaid volunteer for a time. Recognizing the need for a park in the area, she prevailed upon the Amarillo Parks and Recreation Board to lease a vacant half block, plant trees, and install playground equipment. From 1972 to 1982 she worked each summer as a recreational leader in the park, which was named for her. In 1965 they recognized that many of the underprivileged children in the North Heights area of Amarillo would have little or no Christmas celebration and began having Christmas parties in their home. The first party drew ten or twelve children for Christmas treats, entirely provided by the Hazelriggs.
As the years passed, news of the parties spread and hundreds of children came to the Hazelriggs’s home, confident that Santa Claus would be there to provide toys, goodies to eat, and, perhaps, shoes and jeans. Businesses, churches, clubs, and individuals began contributing to the project, so the children were never disappointed. The number of children attending grew to more than 700 while the parties were still being held at Mrs. Hazelrigg's home. Later, the party grew to include children from the whole Panhandle area. In 1984 the tradition was moved to the North Heights School and continued by the Gamma Tau Sigma Fraternity. As further expressions of her love for children in the neighborhood. Mrs. Hazelrigg held annual Easter Egg hunts and Juneteenth Picnics for them.
Among her many awards were: the Texas Governor's Award in 1984; the Distinguished Service Award for Women from West Texas State University, 1979 and 1985. 1982 Amarillo's Woman of the Year and Woman of the Year in Missionary work by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. In 1974 Mr. and Mrs. Hazelrigg were presented with a plaque and a gift certificate in appreciation of their Christmas parties by the Amarillo Police Department and Northwest Texas Hospital.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Hazelrigg were members of the Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church. Alexander died on February 6, 1975 and Mary Lou on May 16, 1990.
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Reverend Howard "Rev" Romaine
The Humanitarian and Religious Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being presented to Reverend "Rev" Howard Romaine.
Reverend Howard Romaine, was ordained into the ministry in 1964 and in 1969 moved from Chicago, with his wife Willeane and their four (4) daughters, to Amarillo to accept the pastorship of the Church of the Living God.
Reverend Romaine had a gregarious personality, and quickly made friends in Amarillo, making it his new home. He pastored the Church of the Living God for fifteen (15) years. Starting out with a handful of members, located at 11th and Lipscomb. His leadership and congregation prospered and the church was relocated to 1301 North Taylor, becoming one of the largest edifices. He later became the Pastor of the New Zion Baptist Church in Borger, and remained there until his retirement in 2008.
During his fifty years of ministry, Reverend Romaine dedicated and baptized more than two-hundred children, has officiated more than eighty marriages, and has eulogized more than one-hundred funerals. He became known in the community as "Rev" and was always the go-to person every holiday season for that FREE turkey. His generosity is amid many wonderful qualities that he instilled in our community. Leading the organization The Community Center, provided him an outlet to foster his love for people.
Reverend Romaine LOVES to laugh and cook; this great combination afforded him the opportunity to open a Bar-B-Que restaurant. People clamored to eat there, because they knew when they sat down to eat, they would be filled with good stories and finger-licking good food. Although the restaurant wasn’t as successful and he had hoped, this did not stop "Rev" from sharing his gift of cooking with friends and family.
Today, at age 89, with his preaching days well behind him, "Rev" lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his daughter, Andrea and the wonderful days of his ministry lives on.
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This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is being presented to Reverend "Rev" Howard Romaine.
Reverend Howard Romaine, was ordained into the ministry in 1964 and in 1969 moved from Chicago, with his wife Willeane and their four (4) daughters, to Amarillo to accept the pastorship of the Church of the Living God.
Reverend Romaine had a gregarious personality, and quickly made friends in Amarillo, making it his new home. He pastored the Church of the Living God for fifteen (15) years. Starting out with a handful of members, located at 11th and Lipscomb. His leadership and congregation prospered and the church was relocated to 1301 North Taylor, becoming one of the largest edifices. He later became the Pastor of the New Zion Baptist Church in Borger, and remained there until his retirement in 2008.
During his fifty years of ministry, Reverend Romaine dedicated and baptized more than two-hundred children, has officiated more than eighty marriages, and has eulogized more than one-hundred funerals. He became known in the community as "Rev" and was always the go-to person every holiday season for that FREE turkey. His generosity is amid many wonderful qualities that he instilled in our community. Leading the organization The Community Center, provided him an outlet to foster his love for people.
Reverend Romaine LOVES to laugh and cook; this great combination afforded him the opportunity to open a Bar-B-Que restaurant. People clamored to eat there, because they knew when they sat down to eat, they would be filled with good stories and finger-licking good food. Although the restaurant wasn’t as successful and he had hoped, this did not stop "Rev" from sharing his gift of cooking with friends and family.
Today, at age 89, with his preaching days well behind him, "Rev" lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his daughter, Andrea and the wonderful days of his ministry lives on.
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Mrs. Dorothy Ragster
The Mr. Champion's Principal Award
Mr. Champion Principal Award – This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is bing presented to: Mrs. Dorothy Ragster.
Dorothy was born to Julian and Idabell O’Neil in Crockett, Texas. The family moved to Houston where she received her education, graduating from Phillis Wheatley High School.
Dorothy received her Bachelor of Arts, from Prairie View A & M University. She has been certified in Reading (Remedy), from West Texas A & M University, Canyon, Texas; Special Education from Highland University, Las Vegas, New Mexico; her California Certification, from San Francisco State, San Francisco, CA.Mr. Champion Principal Award – This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is bing presented to: Mrs. Dorothy Ragster.
Dorothy was born to Julian and Idabell O’Neil in Crockett, Texas. The family moved to Houston where she received her education, graduating from Phillis Wheatley High School.
Mrs. Ragster began her teaching career in Waskom, Texas where she taught for four (4) years and two (2) years in Leveland, Texas. The last thirty-eight (38) years were spent teaching in the Amarillo Independent School District.
Since retiring she hasn’t let any grass grow under feet. Hobbies such as reading, working puzzles (including Sudoku) painting, traveling, dancing and casinos occupy her past times.
She is a life member of the Amarillo United Cultural Forum (AUCF) and of the PTA. Dorothy holds memberships in the Northwest Texas Health System Auxiliary, where she volunteers up to thirty-six (36) hours each month. She also volunteers at the Wyatt Clinic, Black Cultural Center (Forum), Window on a Wider World (WOWW), the Globe-News Center and the Discovery Centers.
Mrs. Ragster is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Amarillo Alumnae Chapter and the NAACP.
These are the Mottos, Dorothy lives by:
"Be free. Be happy. Be you." "How sweet Life is."
"Live in the present, forgive your past." "Think twice before you speak, especially if you intend to say what you think!"
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Mr. Edward H. Allen
The Mr. Neal’s Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being awarded to Mr. Edward H. Allen.
Mr. Allen's first teaching career was an assignment at Carver Junior-Senior High School, Amarillo, Texas where he taught art. He was there for five years.
After the closure of Carver, he returned to Shreveport and in 1969 began teaching a Valencia Junior-Senior High School of Shreveport. At his request, he was assigned to Byrd High School and remained there for ten years.
Mr. Allen is a former art teacher at Caddo Magnet High School in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Edward earned his Master of Art Degree from Northwestern State University in 1980. He began his teaching experiences a the college level as a substitute teach for a semester to replace on the University’s art professors. He had been with the school since its opening in 1980 until his retirement in 2003.
Mr. Allen is the founder and director of the Edward Allen Modeling Clinic and the Magnet Mannequins of Caddo Magnet High School. His extemporaneous fashion commentaries and choreography of fashion productions are an integral part of the success of both organizations.
He has served as a consultant, choreographer, and set designer for the Top Ladies of Distinction Annual Beautillion Ball. This is a formal dining and waltz presentation of young men, "beaux". This activity has been sponsored for the past 30 years. Mr. Allen is currently serving as an adjunct art professor at Southern University at Shreveport.
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This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being awarded to Mr. Edward H. Allen.
Mr. Allen's first teaching career was an assignment at Carver Junior-Senior High School, Amarillo, Texas where he taught art. He was there for five years.
After the closure of Carver, he returned to Shreveport and in 1969 began teaching a Valencia Junior-Senior High School of Shreveport. At his request, he was assigned to Byrd High School and remained there for ten years.
Mr. Allen is a former art teacher at Caddo Magnet High School in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Edward earned his Master of Art Degree from Northwestern State University in 1980. He began his teaching experiences a the college level as a substitute teach for a semester to replace on the University’s art professors. He had been with the school since its opening in 1980 until his retirement in 2003.
Mr. Allen is the founder and director of the Edward Allen Modeling Clinic and the Magnet Mannequins of Caddo Magnet High School. His extemporaneous fashion commentaries and choreography of fashion productions are an integral part of the success of both organizations.
He has served as a consultant, choreographer, and set designer for the Top Ladies of Distinction Annual Beautillion Ball. This is a formal dining and waltz presentation of young men, "beaux". This activity has been sponsored for the past 30 years. Mr. Allen is currently serving as an adjunct art professor at Southern University at Shreveport.
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Mrs. Lila Ford Mitchell accepted the award for Mr. Thurman Jefferson
The Carver Alumni Commitment Award
This award is presented to a graduate Carver. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent and financial efforts for the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver High.
This award is being presented to Mr. Thurman Jefferson.
Thurman is the son of the late Edward and Lessie Jefferson.
He attended Hilltop and Carver Junior and Senior High School and is a member of the Class of 1964. After graduation from high school he attended West Texas A & M University, Canyon, Texas, graduating in 1969.
Thurman is employed by Mason-Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex), and currently serves in the capacity as Manager of Service Solutions of Amarillo.
He, his wife Alonia, his children, grand children and great grand-child all reside in Amarillo.
His is a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and old school cars are his hobby.
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This award is presented to a graduate Carver. It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent and financial efforts for the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver High.
This award is being presented to Mr. Thurman Jefferson.
Thurman is the son of the late Edward and Lessie Jefferson.
He attended Hilltop and Carver Junior and Senior High School and is a member of the Class of 1964. After graduation from high school he attended West Texas A & M University, Canyon, Texas, graduating in 1969.
Thurman is employed by Mason-Hanger, Silas Mason (Pantex), and currently serves in the capacity as Manager of Service Solutions of Amarillo.
He, his wife Alonia, his children, grand children and great grand-child all reside in Amarillo.
His is a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and old school cars are his hobby.
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Ms. Patsy Swain accepted The Ronnie Shanklin Award for Mrs Gwen Parker-Harris daughter of Mr. Henry Parker.
The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. Henry Edward Parker, Sr. (Posthumously)
Mr. Parker, a loving father, husband, grandfather and a friend, was known in many places. He was born in Long Island, New York on August 15, 1916. He attended colleges in Stamford, Connecticut and in his military career included time served in the Army and Air Force. Many folks in the community addressed him as “Hey, Mr. Parker”. It was this friendly, neighborly interaction, that was always heard, especially at the many events garnered within our “Black Amarillo” community. Remembering Mr. Parker is rather easy if you were a Boy Scout, attended Carver Junior and Senior High School, the many “Carver Dragon”, football and basketball events. In addition, if you marched in the annual Homecoming Parades or the Amarillo State Fair Parades, it is a good bet your picture was taken. Seeing Mr. Parker you knew you needed to be poised to either have your picture taken or style your-self across the stage in the school auditorium and focus. Photography was his trademark. He owned and operated Parker’s Photo Studio located close to the Lott’s Restaurant. His accomplishments included being a Scout Master, Football Coach and supporting Mrs. Milligan’s Girl Scout troops.
Mr. Parker made major contributions to the "Black Amarillo" community. He did photos for the Carver Dragon Yearbook. He was in attendance at various different functions: the Carter Chapel A.M.E. Annual Teas and marching in parades with the Shriners.
Mr. Parker left a legacy to his family, friends and the community that Education is the Key to Success. In addition, he always believed that troubling issues could always be put on the back burner. He always encouraged his family to "Tell the Truth" and "Go with the Flow."
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This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie graduated from Carver High, went on to attend and receive his degree from North Texas University, Denton, Texas. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a Dragon that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is being presented to Mr. Henry Edward Parker, Sr. (Posthumously)
Mr. Parker, a loving father, husband, grandfather and a friend, was known in many places. He was born in Long Island, New York on August 15, 1916. He attended colleges in Stamford, Connecticut and in his military career included time served in the Army and Air Force. Many folks in the community addressed him as “Hey, Mr. Parker”. It was this friendly, neighborly interaction, that was always heard, especially at the many events garnered within our “Black Amarillo” community. Remembering Mr. Parker is rather easy if you were a Boy Scout, attended Carver Junior and Senior High School, the many “Carver Dragon”, football and basketball events. In addition, if you marched in the annual Homecoming Parades or the Amarillo State Fair Parades, it is a good bet your picture was taken. Seeing Mr. Parker you knew you needed to be poised to either have your picture taken or style your-self across the stage in the school auditorium and focus. Photography was his trademark. He owned and operated Parker’s Photo Studio located close to the Lott’s Restaurant. His accomplishments included being a Scout Master, Football Coach and supporting Mrs. Milligan’s Girl Scout troops.
Mr. Parker made major contributions to the "Black Amarillo" community. He did photos for the Carver Dragon Yearbook. He was in attendance at various different functions: the Carter Chapel A.M.E. Annual Teas and marching in parades with the Shriners.
Mr. Parker left a legacy to his family, friends and the community that Education is the Key to Success. In addition, he always believed that troubling issues could always be put on the back burner. He always encouraged his family to "Tell the Truth" and "Go with the Flow."
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Mr. Lester "LJ" and Mrs. Benita Carter Holland
The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
Mr. Lester Joe "LJ" and Mrs. Benita Carter Holland
Lester "LJ" is the son of O.C. Holland and Edna Faggins Holland. His family moved from Fort Worth to Amarillo in 1958. He was educated in the AISD. He is a member of the Class of 1971.
“LJ” started driving taxis in Amarillo in 2001 and along with his wife Benita have owned the Taxi-Pros Taxi Service sine 2004.
Mrs. Benita Carter-Holland is the daughter of Percy, Jr. and Gwendolyn Jones Carter. She is the eldest of three children. Benita was born and reared in Amarillo. She was educated through the AISD. She is member of the Class of 1972. Upon graduation, she moved to Rochester, New York.
She began work as a Computer operator working in several Data Processing Center of companies such as: Eastman Kodak and Bausch and Lomb before returning to Amarillo in 1983. At that time, she began working at Santa Fe Energy-Amarillo, and was relocated to Santa Fe Energy-Houston. In 1988. Benita retired from Santa Fe Energy and in 1994 and returnedto Amarillo.
"LJ" and Benita were married in July of 2002. They have become pillars in the community, demonstrating that with prayer and determination, success is only a day away. "LJ" has been heard to say on many occasions, “Man, I never thought I would be here.”, referring to how he has overcome trials and tribulations during his journey through life.
They are the parents of two daughters, three sons, and eleven grandchildren. They are faithful members of Faith Clinic Christian Center, where both serve in the Ministry of Helps. Benita also serves on the Praise Team and in the choir.
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Mrs. Janice Gassaway-Bolton and Mr. Clrarence Bolton
The Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Janice Gassaway-Bolton
Janice is the daughter of Annie Owens and Tim Gassaway.
She earned her B.S. in Occupational Education and Business Administration from Wayland Baptist College in Plainview, Texas.This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us, and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples’ needs and in spite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Janice Gassaway-Bolton
Janice is the daughter of Annie Owens and Tim Gassaway.
Janice is a very busy lady as indicated by her past time activities to include, but are not limited to: Kairos Outside-A special weekend retreat designed to support the female loved ones of men and women who are or have been incarcerated;
America's Promise-a volunteer opportunity within the Amarillo Independent School District where she helps to meet essential needs of the children; Golden Spread Emmaus Community-offers an opportunity to inspire and challenge others to take the walk to Emmaus which is an experience of Christian spiritual renewal and formation and a Girl Scouts of America-Troup Leader; The Silas Mason-Mason Hanger- Pantex Christmas Project-that serves and provides assistance to over 150 children and 15 senior citizens during the Christmas season.
She is a member of the Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church and serves as a substitute Sunday School Teacher.
Janice, her husband Clarence and daughter all reside in Amarillo.
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*************2013 CGDA Honorees**************
Mrs. Helen Neal
Mr. Neal Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students;
This award is presented to Mrs. Helen Neal.
Mrs. Neal was born in and grew up around Henrietta, Oklahoma. She attended public schools there and graduated from high school in Wichita, Kansas.
She moved on to Langston University but before completing her degree, she married Nathaniel Neal. To this union four girls were born.
Family was a top priority to her. She spent many years making a good home for the family, however, her education was not forgotten. She returned to West Texas State University to complete her degree in 1962, becoming the first Black student to graduate from WTSU.
Helen’s life long desire was to be a social worker. That opportunity never materialized, so she did the next best thing; she became an elementary school teacher and taught for twenty (20) years. That social work she desired to do so long finally came around again in the form of volunteer work on several boards and agencies such as: Jan Werner Board, Amarillo College Foundation, Young Achievers with YMCA, Amarillo Citizens Police Academy, RSVP, Northwest Texas Hospital Auxiliary, Girl Scouts of America leader, and Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority International.
Mrs. Neal is an active member of the Amarillo Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Amarillo United Citizens Forum, Amarillo Opera and Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church.
She is the proud grandmother of six, the great-grandmother of two.
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This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students;
This award is presented to Mrs. Helen Neal.
Mrs. Neal was born in and grew up around Henrietta, Oklahoma. She attended public schools there and graduated from high school in Wichita, Kansas.
She moved on to Langston University but before completing her degree, she married Nathaniel Neal. To this union four girls were born.
Family was a top priority to her. She spent many years making a good home for the family, however, her education was not forgotten. She returned to West Texas State University to complete her degree in 1962, becoming the first Black student to graduate from WTSU.
Helen’s life long desire was to be a social worker. That opportunity never materialized, so she did the next best thing; she became an elementary school teacher and taught for twenty (20) years. That social work she desired to do so long finally came around again in the form of volunteer work on several boards and agencies such as: Jan Werner Board, Amarillo College Foundation, Young Achievers with YMCA, Amarillo Citizens Police Academy, RSVP, Northwest Texas Hospital Auxiliary, Girl Scouts of America leader, and Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority International.
Mrs. Neal is an active member of the Amarillo Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Amarillo United Citizens Forum, Amarillo Opera and Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church.
She is the proud grandmother of six, the great-grandmother of two.
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Mr. Lewis Brazier
The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie left a legacy for us all to remember, when in his first three seasons, he led the Steelers in receptions. Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, this award is presented to a person that has displayed leadership on the Field of Life. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a positive mark that cannot be erased.
In keeping true to our vision, we were reminded of the people, who are now in the "Heavenly Realm" that made an impact on the countless ones of us who grew up in our community. These people truly understood "Giving Back, while continuing to send messages to a future they would not see." So, for the first time the CGDA will honor those who are "Gone But Not Forgotten." This award will be given posthumously to the family of a community member who made an indelible mark in our lives as children. This is living proof, that positive actions do carry messages across the passages of time and space. These people gave of their time, talents, expertise and money to act as mentors, counselors, and friends and, in some cases surrogate parents, and they did it all as volunteers, which meant they didn’t get paid.. The only compensation they wanted was to see us succeed, that was all. Although we didn’t know it at the time, each of our successes has been a return on their investments.
This award is being presented posthumouly to Mr. Lewis Brazier.
This award is being presented posthumouly to Mr. Lewis Brazier.
This award is being presented to the family of Mr. Lewis Brazier. He was born in Terrell, to Will and Mattie Choice Brazier. Mr. Brazier enjoyed a very successful career as a Probation Officer and Justice of the Peace for Potter County. He made his mark in the Texas Judicial System.
Now to address the Mr. Brazier that has brought us to this award. Mr. Brazier was an inspiration of "Giving back, while sending messages to a future we will not see." He realized the importance of reaching out to the children and gave the most valuable possession he owned, himself. He was many things to many people in the North Heights community and knew which role he needed to play for certain situations, as he possessed power of discernment.
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Ms Iris Sanders Lawrence
The Prestige Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in Amarillo and has been recognized not only to us as one of our Carver Dragon's citizen, but a person who has been recognized as one of Amarillo's outstanding citizens.
This award is being presented to Iris Sanders-Lawrence.
This award is being presented to Iris Sanders-Lawrence.
Iris Elaine Sanders Lawrence is the youngest of three children born to the late John D. and Irene Cox Sanders.
Iris was born March 17, 1943 and graduated with honors from Carver Junior/Senior High School, Class of 1960. She attended Howard University and received her B.A. in English from St. Augustine’s College in North Carolina. Post graduate work was done at West Texas State Uuniversity and East Texas State University in Special Studies and Psychology.
A pioneer in most things, she was the first "Miss Black Amarillo" (1955), and participated in the first Amarillo sit-in at J.C. Kress & Co. and a walk-in at the Paramount Theater in 1959-60.
In the political arena she was the first Black female Potter County Democratic Chairperson, appointed member of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, Potter County Commissioner and member of the Democratic National Committee.
In the political arena she was the first Black female Potter County Democratic Chairperson, appointed member of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, Potter County Commissioner and member of the Democratic National Committee.
Iris has received many honors and awards for her endeavors locally, state and nationally. In retirement, Lawrence serves as Directress/Volunteer for Hilltop Senior Citizens Association, a non-profit organization that was organized at Hilltop Elementary School when integration forced the community schools closure.
A Christian and proud mother of one daughter, four grandchildren and one great-grandson, Mrs. Lawrence wishes to leave a legacy of helping to make the community and the world a better place for all.
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Mr O. D. Nickerson, Jr.
The CGDA Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person who has made a mark in our community. A person despite the odds against them stood up and said, “I can do this, and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community.” A person who thought they were merely doing a job; but in fact, their actions opened the doors of possibility for all of us. We just want to say: “We see you, have heard you, and we say thank you.”
The CGDA Legendary Award is being presented to Mr. O. D. Nickerson, Jr.
Mr. O. D. Nickerson, Jr. was born in Terrell Texas, the second of nine children, to O. D. Nickerson Sr. and Ruby Nickerson. He received his education in Childress Texas. The family moved to Amarillo in 1948.
By 1958, he had opened the O. D. Nickerson, Inc., a contracting business. Mr. Nickerson has helped to make it possible for residents in the North Heights Community to own brand new homes, thus making a marked improvement in this area of Amarillo and giving our community a sense of pride in our neighborhood.
Mr. Nickerson is a member of the Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, where he and his wife Nellie have served and are still faithful members. They are the proud parents of five children. They have twelve (12) grandchildren, and nine (9) great-grandchildren.
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Dr.Rosemary Knighton-Harkins
The Mr. Champion’s Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being presented to Dr. Rosemary Knighton Harkins.
Mrs. Rosemary K. Harkins, Ph.D. was born to the late Herbert and Cloteal Knighton, the oldest of three daughters. She was reared in Amarillo and is a member of the Class of 1955.
Dr. Harkins has always had a thirst for knowledge and it shows with the numerous degrees. She holds: the A.S. in Biology, a Professional Certificate in Medical Technology (Medical Branch), her first B.S. is in Biology and English, a second B.S. in Funeral Service Education/Mortuary Science, the M.S. in Anatomy, and the Ph.D. in Anatomical Sciences. She is an accomplished pianist and organist, and skills in cosmetology.
Her community Service includes: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Life Member, Eastside Culture Club, Oklahoma City of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., Habitat for Humanity, Board of Directors, Amarillo, Texas, Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City, Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Metroplex Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., and Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) as Director of Health Information, Amarillo, Texas.
Dr. Harkins served in the U. S. Army Reserve Selective Service from 1981 to 1998, retiring at the rank of Colonel. She served proudly in the capacity of Clinical Laboratory Officer, at Ft. Sill Army Hospital, Lawton, Oklahoma, Ft. Sam Houston Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas and at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington D. C.
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Ms Ruth Ellen Lynch
The Honorary Award
This award recognizes an individual who did not have the opportunity to graduate from Carver, but gives of their time, talents and financial support with the enthusiasm of those fortunate individuals who had the honor to graduate from Carver.
This award is being presented to Ms. Ruth Ellen Lynch.
Ellen, an Amarillo Native. She serves as a Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics and as the Recruitment Specialist at Amarillo Globe-News Media. She states "I’m Blessed to say that, ‘I Love My Job and My Life!". She works with area businesses regarding their employment requests; listening to their needs and using her creativity to generate results. "It’s a very rewarding career!" Working with the Globe, allows her to keep her finger on the pulse of the community. She participates in many Amarillo Globe News (AGN) events through out the year. Giving her many chances to immerse herself into the diverse group of people who make up our city, and it is always nice to spend time with family and friends. The last five years, she has been an active member on the Vista College Program Advisory Board. In this capacity her group has the opportunity to help shape the development of residents in Amarillo with education, work and life skills.
Ellen, an Amarillo Native. She serves as a Beauty Consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics and as the Recruitment Specialist at Amarillo Globe-News Media. She states "I’m Blessed to say that, ‘I Love My Job and My Life!". She works with area businesses regarding their employment requests; listening to their needs and using her creativity to generate results. "It’s a very rewarding career!" Working with the Globe, allows her to keep her finger on the pulse of the community. She participates in many Amarillo Globe News (AGN) events through out the year. Giving her many chances to immerse herself into the diverse group of people who make up our city, and it is always nice to spend time with family and friends. The last five years, she has been an active member on the Vista College Program Advisory Board. In this capacity her group has the opportunity to help shape the development of residents in Amarillo with education, work and life skills.
Her passion in life is Singing and Acting! She has been blessed to have many wonderful experiences from the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville to Beale Street in Memphis, TN. She has performed as an ensemble member with The Amarillo Little Theater,10 and Play House on the Square in Memphis and is a Featured Vocalist with "The Andy Chase Big Brass Band." She states: "We are having lots of fun creating great music, everything from Rock and Roll, Jazz, Country and R & B. I enjoy traveling and hope to see the world and the many wonders that God created! I pray that my actions in life will honor, express my love and bless my family. My purpose in life is to encourage others to find their own beauty, power, and love in this journey called "Life".
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Ms Linnetta Walker-Turner
The Carver Alumni Commitment Award
It represents and recognizes those for continuation in their support through time, talent and financial efforts for the Carver Legacy. This person continues to keep this legacy alive through positive recognition of our beloved Carver High.
This award is presented to Mrs. Linnetta Walker Turner.
Mrs. Turner is the daughter of the late Limmie Walker, and Mrs. Ollie Mae Walker. Linn was born in Ardmore, Oklahoma, on August 24, 1944. It was when her father passed away when she at the tender age of eight, and was the oldest daughter, that she assumed the role of secondary mother to her younger siblings. It was then her journey of a caregiver and community server started.
In 1960, through her cousin, the late T. M. Crisp, football coach at Langston University, she was introduced to Dizzy Dean Turner. Their journey of a lifelong love began on September 16, 1962, at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Ardmore, Okla.
Mrs. Turner is the daughter of the late Limmie Walker, and Mrs. Ollie Mae Walker. Linn was born in Ardmore, Oklahoma, on August 24, 1944. It was when her father passed away when she at the tender age of eight, and was the oldest daughter, that she assumed the role of secondary mother to her younger siblings. It was then her journey of a caregiver and community server started.
In 1960, through her cousin, the late T. M. Crisp, football coach at Langston University, she was introduced to Dizzy Dean Turner. Their journey of a lifelong love began on September 16, 1962, at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Ardmore, Okla.
The young couple moved to Floydada, where Dizzy taught school. After leaving Floydada, they relocated to Amarillo, and she united with the Johnson Chapel A.M.E. Church, where she is still a faithful member.
On September 27, 1963 they were richly blessed with a son, Gregory Dean Turner; and five years later God again blessed them, but with a daughter, Felicia Ann Turner Brown.
Because Because of her love for her husband, "Dean" (as she called him) she has been very involved in the reunion committee of Carver High School. She has always been more than willing to help in any way possible the reunion. When Dizzy passed away, her commitment remained constant with her service to the reunion committee and asks for nothing in return.
Because Because of her love for her husband, "Dean" (as she called him) she has been very involved in the reunion committee of Carver High School. She has always been more than willing to help in any way possible the reunion. When Dizzy passed away, her commitment remained constant with her service to the reunion committee and asks for nothing in return.
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Pastor Vurn C. Martin
The Humanitarian and Religious Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is presented to Reverend Vurn C. Martin.
Reverend Martin was born to Mr. and Mrs. James Martin on June 24, 1941, Martin County, Texas.
This award is presented to Reverend Vurn C. Martin.
Reverend Martin was born to Mr. and Mrs. James Martin on June 24, 1941, Martin County, Texas.
He received his education through the Childress School District. He received his Seminary Education in Amarillo and was ordained into the Gospel Ministry, January 20, 1974. He was baptized in Jesus Christ at the age of eight.
Reverend Martin has served in the capacity of Deacon in the St. John Baptist Church until he was called as a Pastor. He was Pastor of the St. Stephens Baptist Church in Clarendon. for four and one-half years. He was then called to lead the flock of the New Hope Baptist Church, Pampa, Texas for nineteen years, then he was called to serve as Pastor of Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church, Amarillo, Texas, where he has been Shepherd for the last fifteen years.
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Mrs. Rose Taylor and Son, Quincy Taylor
The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver student in recognition of their distinctive service of a humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This award is being presented to Mr. Curtis Tee Taylor, (Posthumously) to his wife, Mrs. Rosie Mitchell Taylor.
This award is being presented to Mr. Curtis Tee Taylor, (Posthumously) to his wife, Mrs. Rosie Mitchell Taylor.
Curtis "Tee" was born on October 17, 1943, and was raised by Mary M. and L. T. Taylor. He was the owner of Mr. Record for forty-six years, where he sold thousands of records, 45’s, 78’s, albums, eight track and cassette tapes, and CD’s in the genres of R&B, Gospel, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Country and Western. He worked for Precious Metals and Smelter, ASARCO, Bell Helicopter, the US Postal Service, IBP, Affiliated Foods and as an auto mechanic. Curtis was indeed a “Jack of All Trades”.
Mr. Taylor was a faithful member of the Greater Mt. Olive Baptist Church until his health failed.
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Mr. Larry Pierson
The Carver Personality Award
This award recognizes an individual who is well known in the Amarillo Community and possesses a great sense of dedication to the Amarillo Community and always has a smile while serving in whatever capcity they are needed .
This award is presented to Mr. Larry Pierson.
Larry Wayne Pierson was born on June 6, 1955 to Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Bethenia "Betty" Pierson, Amarillo. He was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District.
Larry Wayne Pierson was born on June 6, 1955 to Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Bethenia "Betty" Pierson, Amarillo. He was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District.
He enlisted in the Army in February, 1977 where he received training as a Still Photographer. His tour included locations in Europe: Switzerland, France, Holland, Munich, Amsterdam, and the United States.
He received metals and accommodations for "Service Well Done", "Good Conduct", two awards for "Time Served", in the U. S. Army and numerous Letters of Accommodation. An Honorable Discharge in 1983, and began classes at Amarillo College.
He received metals and accommodations for "Service Well Done", "Good Conduct", two awards for "Time Served", in the U. S. Army and numerous Letters of Accommodation. An Honorable Discharge in 1983, and began classes at Amarillo College.
Community Service comes naturally to Larry. He worked with the Salvation Army from 1991-2011 . In 2011 he was acknowledged as the “Number One Bell Ringer”, and was awarded a Certificate for "Services Rendered" and having the most money donated to the kettle. After serving in this capacity, he decided it was time to pass the kettle on. He felt it was time to switch gears and be even more active doing what he enjoyed most and that was interacting with the people. During the aftermath of Katrina, knowing the need of those affected, Larry walked over twenty-seven (27) miles around Amarillo collecting donations for these victims. His efforts raised over a thousand dollars. He has helped to raise money for the March of Dimes, the High Plains Epilepsy Association as well as other organizations. "I am always willing to lend a hand to those in need. I am always walking" he stated. Larry can be seen throughout the community lending a helping hand where needed, but especially to our elderly.
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************2012 CGDA Honorees**************
Ms. Wanda L.Jones
The Mr. Neal’s Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students
This award is being presented to Ms. Wanda L. Jones
Ms. Wanda Loraine Jones who was born to Mr. Tommy and Mary L. Jones in Amarillo, Texas. She was educated through the Amarillo Public School System, and graduated from Carver Jr. and Sr. High in the Class of 1966.
After graduation from Carver, she entered the Pre-Nursing Program at Saint Anthony Hospital School of Nursing. She attended Amarillo Junior College and East Texas State University.
Wanda changed her educational focus to Special Education. She has served as a Special Education Instructor for the Amarillo Independent School District. Wanda has continued her educational quest.
This has not been easy for her, due to this thing called "Life." Despite the adversities that have presented themselves and unforeseen health issues, which have interfered with her educational process, she has never lost her zest for her education and the thirst for education has not been quenched. She is a woman with a clear vision of what she wants and failure is not an option for her. She is committed and tenacious. Wanda states: "I never say I can’t, but I will."
This story is one that should inspire and encourage all to be diligent and never give up, until you reach your goal.
She is the mother of one son Brett Bernard Jones.
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Ms. Rosieletta Reed
The Most Interesting Life Award
This award is presented to Ms. Rosieleetta Reed.
Rosieletta Reed is the founder and C. E. O. of Lakeside Riders from Fort Worth, Texas. The Lakeside Riders promotes academic responsibility and community service through scholarships. The club is located in the Stop 6 area of Fort Worth. Miss Reed is the NBC 5 Jefferson Awards Regional Grand Prize Winner in 2005; 2005 recipient of the Jacqueline Onassis Award for Public Service by an individual. She was the first winner of the First Humanitarian Award at Medical City Hospital, Dallas, where she was employed more than thirty years.
In 2006 she received the National Cowboys of Color Hall of Fame Award, the A Maceo Smith Community Service Award in the Youth Involvement. She served as the Health Coordinator for the Historic Huff Wagon Train Project under the Texas State Parks Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
She coordinates programs about the roles of Frontier Women for the Texas State Parks Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and has conducted programs at the Panhandle Plains Museum in Canyon, Texas. She has also held programs at the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, the Cowboy Artist of American Museum in Kerrville, Texas and the George Bush Memorial Library. Miss Reed travels statewide as a Trooper in the Texas Buffalo Soldier Regiment conducting education programs in Texas schools and other public venues. She was been recognized as a Docent for Fort McKavett and the Texas Partks and Wildlife Educational Department, The Cowboys of Color Rodeo, and The George Bush Memorial Library for Research and Presentations about the role of the Black Cowboys and Cowgirls. She specializes in presentations about Williams Cathy, also know as Cathy Williams, the first and only documented Female Buffalo Soldier and “Stagecoach Mary Fields, the first Black Woman to work for the U. S. Post Office. She drove a stagecoach in Montana.
The is the first Female to be elected the President of the Texas Buffalo Soldier Association.
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This award is presented to Ms. Rosieleetta Reed.
Rosieletta Reed is the founder and C. E. O. of Lakeside Riders from Fort Worth, Texas. The Lakeside Riders promotes academic responsibility and community service through scholarships. The club is located in the Stop 6 area of Fort Worth. Miss Reed is the NBC 5 Jefferson Awards Regional Grand Prize Winner in 2005; 2005 recipient of the Jacqueline Onassis Award for Public Service by an individual. She was the first winner of the First Humanitarian Award at Medical City Hospital, Dallas, where she was employed more than thirty years.
In 2006 she received the National Cowboys of Color Hall of Fame Award, the A Maceo Smith Community Service Award in the Youth Involvement. She served as the Health Coordinator for the Historic Huff Wagon Train Project under the Texas State Parks Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
She coordinates programs about the roles of Frontier Women for the Texas State Parks Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and has conducted programs at the Panhandle Plains Museum in Canyon, Texas. She has also held programs at the National Cowboys of Color Museum and Hall of Fame, the Cowboy Artist of American Museum in Kerrville, Texas and the George Bush Memorial Library. Miss Reed travels statewide as a Trooper in the Texas Buffalo Soldier Regiment conducting education programs in Texas schools and other public venues. She was been recognized as a Docent for Fort McKavett and the Texas Partks and Wildlife Educational Department, The Cowboys of Color Rodeo, and The George Bush Memorial Library for Research and Presentations about the role of the Black Cowboys and Cowgirls. She specializes in presentations about Williams Cathy, also know as Cathy Williams, the first and only documented Female Buffalo Soldier and “Stagecoach Mary Fields, the first Black Woman to work for the U. S. Post Office. She drove a stagecoach in Montana.
The is the first Female to be elected the President of the Texas Buffalo Soldier Association.
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Mrs. Doris Birdine-Smith
The Carver Reunion Alumni Commitment
Doris has been employed by and contracted to Xcel-Energy for the last forty-four years, as the Systems Analyst Manager for Dell Computers. In her position he manages eleven employees in Minnesota, Colorado, Texas and Wisconsin. She taught Computer Science at Amarillo Junior College.
Doris is a member of the Mount Zion Baptist Church.She has served on the Junior and Senior Usher boards for over fifty years. She has been a member of the Culinary Committee for twenty years.
This award is presented to Mrs, Doris Birdine-Smith.
Doris was a member of the Class of 1967. She is the Business Manager for the Patton-Carver Alumni. Every two years, she and the committee plans Carver Reunion Alumni Committee portion of the Reunion.
Doris was a member of the Class of 1967. She is the Business Manager for the Patton-Carver Alumni. Every two years, she and the committee plans Carver Reunion Alumni Committee portion of the Reunion.
Doris has been employed by and contracted to Xcel-Energy for the last forty-four years, as the Systems Analyst Manager for Dell Computers. In her position he manages eleven employees in Minnesota, Colorado, Texas and Wisconsin. She taught Computer Science at Amarillo Junior College.
Doris is a member of the Mount Zion Baptist Church.She has served on the Junior and Senior Usher boards for over fifty years. She has been a member of the Culinary Committee for twenty years.
She is married to Paul Smith, is the mother of two, the grandmother to five and has one great-grand child.
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Mrs. Patricia Odom-Wesley
The Carver Distinguished Award
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those during a storm and be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples' needs and despite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Patricia Odoms-Wesley.
Mrs. Wesley’s career objective has been simply to simply work with Special need children in an inclusive child care environment. to deveop and implement quality Child Care that meets the indivisual need of each child.
Having received a Carver Foundation, Patricia was ready to go after her goals. Her maturation furthered her preparation. She received the Associate of Science in Nursing, Amarillo College, the Associate of Applied Arts, El Camino College, Torrance, California, Associate in Child Development, Eastfield College and the Bachelor of Arts, Paul Quinn College, fields of study necessary to reach her goals.
Throughout Mrs. Wesley’s career, she has devoted tireless hours to the care of clients, always working to change the care they receive and how they are treated by the system.
Through Mrs. Wesley’s efforts, she has been recognized for her outstanding work in the child care provision by the former President George W. Bush and Dallas Mayor, Annette Strauss. Patricia has prepared and presented for the National Southern Association for the Education of Young Children, The Texas Association for the Education of Young Children, State of Texas Department of Human Services Committee on Special Needs Children, and Child Care Management Services Advisory Board.
Mrs. Patricia Odom-Wesley’s mantra is: “We recognize the individual needs of children, and encourage them to function interdependently within our environment.”
This award is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community who has given back to those during a storm and be counted on through thick and thin. One who grew up right alongside all of us and has been through storms themselves. This person understands peoples' needs and despite their own storms, they are always there when the Amarillo Community calls.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Patricia Odoms-Wesley.
Mrs. Wesley’s career objective has been simply to simply work with Special need children in an inclusive child care environment. to deveop and implement quality Child Care that meets the indivisual need of each child.
Having received a Carver Foundation, Patricia was ready to go after her goals. Her maturation furthered her preparation. She received the Associate of Science in Nursing, Amarillo College, the Associate of Applied Arts, El Camino College, Torrance, California, Associate in Child Development, Eastfield College and the Bachelor of Arts, Paul Quinn College, fields of study necessary to reach her goals.
Throughout Mrs. Wesley’s career, she has devoted tireless hours to the care of clients, always working to change the care they receive and how they are treated by the system.
Through Mrs. Wesley’s efforts, she has been recognized for her outstanding work in the child care provision by the former President George W. Bush and Dallas Mayor, Annette Strauss. Patricia has prepared and presented for the National Southern Association for the Education of Young Children, The Texas Association for the Education of Young Children, State of Texas Department of Human Services Committee on Special Needs Children, and Child Care Management Services Advisory Board.
Mrs. Patricia Odom-Wesley’s mantra is: “We recognize the individual needs of children, and encourage them to function interdependently within our environment.”
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Mrs. Nina Blackburn-Washington and (husband) Ron
The Carver Cheerleader Award
This award is presented to Mrs. Nina Blackburn Washington.
Nina attended Carver from 7th grade through 9th grade, and left Amarillo in 1968, moving to Denver when the Amarillo Air Force Base closed. During her years at Carver, she was on the 1967 Freshman Cheerleader Squad, under the guidance of Miss Nellie Scott and was a member of the Marching Band under Mr. Stubblefield. "Some of the best moments and blessings in my life came while attending Carver. I am a proud Dragon now and forever.”
Her late mother Greta Blackburn taught 12th grade English at Carver for several years before the family was transferred to Denver.
Nina currently resides in Denver, Colorado with her husband Ron. They have been married for twenty-eight (28) years and are the proud parents of three (3) grown children and the blessed grandparents of nine (9) with another one on the way in August.
Nina has worked at a national payroll processing company for the last twenty-three (23) years and hopes to retire in the next 2-3 years and do something more exciting than payroll. She lives each day knowing that she is truly blessed and believes that God's purpose for her life has not been truly revealed yet. Even though her husband, children and grandchildren are her greatest blessings she knows that God has something truly special in mind for her.
In Nina's words, "I live each day knowing that one day God will speak to me and reveal his plan. I just have to make sure I am listening."
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Bishop W. Coble
The Religous and Humanitarian Award
This award is presented to Bishop Warren D. Coble.
Bishop Coble, a native of Amarillo, he attended Carver Junior/Senior High School and graduated from Palo Duro High School. Bishop Coble is a spiritual leader to many in the kingdom of God. With a heart for the people of God, Bishop Coble is taking the gospel across the country. The Ministry recently expanded to Abilene area. Bishop Coble’s walk began serving as the Minister of Music and it was at this time he was called to the Ministry. His first pulpit was Amarillo Boulevard, where he ministered to the prostitutes and pimps.
He was ordained in 1978 by the late Bishop J. E. Alexander of the Texas North West Jurisdiction. He served for two years as Chaplain at the West Texas A & M University to the Black student body. Along with his good friend Elisha Demerson, Pastor, Emmanuel Church of Christ, and members of Love Fellowship Church started Manna of Love, a ministry which serves full meals after services on the second and fourth Sunday of each month.
He is the Senior Pastor of Love Felloship. Bishop Coble truly understands God’s purpose for his life, to be a "Good Shepherd to the Father’s Flocks."
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Mr. Dexter Harper
The Prestige Award
This award is presented being awarded to Mr. Dexter Harper.
This award is given to a person who lives in Amarillo and has been recognized not only to us as one of our Carver Dragons’ citizen, but a person who has been recognized as one of Amarillo’s outstanding citizens.
Dexter has been a resident of Amarillo for 50 plus years graduating from Palo Duro High School in 1976. He is currently employed by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Amarillo.
In 2001 after 25 plus years in the field of information technology Dexter founded BlackAmarillo.com. The purpose of blackamarillo.com is to address the concerns of African American communities across West Texas. The mission of blackamarillo.com is to establish a forum for open discussions about issues that affect all within the Panhandle of West Texas regardless color or race. The goal of BlackAmarillo.com is to serve as a catalyst in the provision of both short and long term solutions that will enrich individuals, businesses and communities.
Realizing the need for traditional outlets of communication, Dexter now produces two printed publications: "North Amarillo Now" (widely referred to as ‘The Book’) and "The Heights".
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Ms. Della Rogers
The Carver Glden Dragon Gold Award
The Carver Golden Dragon Gold Award is the highest honor that the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA) gives. It is in recognition and in honor of that individual people who attendeded Carver, and by their own capacity has kept us connected and informed about the Amarillo Community. One who demonstrates leadership, unity and a loyalty to us all.
This award is being presented to Ms. Della Rogers
Ms. Rogers Della is the only child of the late R.A. and Aeline Rogers. She was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD), where she attended Carver Elemenatary, Hilltop Elementary, Carver Junior High and graaduated from Palo Duro High School in the Class of 1970.
In 1973 she began working for Langston University with twenty years and counting, she looks forward to retirement. During her years at "LU", she has earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Education (B.A.L.E.) degree in 2005 and her Master of Entrepreneurial Studies (M.E.S.) degree in 2009. Della realized her purpose at Langston is the students. She states, "While I have been here, there have been a lot of students to pass through my office and my life, but every time any of them are in Langston, they make it a point to come by to see me, to give me a status report on how their lives are going. "This is the greatest reward, to know that I have touched the lives of others in such a positive way, and they remember their encounter with "Ms. Della". 'What a blessing to see a harvest from the seeds I have planted".
Ms. Rogers Della is the only child of the late R.A. and Aeline Rogers. She was educated through the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD), where she attended Carver Elemenatary, Hilltop Elementary, Carver Junior High and graaduated from Palo Duro High School in the Class of 1970.
In 1973 she began working for Langston University with twenty years and counting, she looks forward to retirement. During her years at "LU", she has earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Education (B.A.L.E.) degree in 2005 and her Master of Entrepreneurial Studies (M.E.S.) degree in 2009. Della realized her purpose at Langston is the students. She states, "While I have been here, there have been a lot of students to pass through my office and my life, but every time any of them are in Langston, they make it a point to come by to see me, to give me a status report on how their lives are going. "This is the greatest reward, to know that I have touched the lives of others in such a positive way, and they remember their encounter with "Ms. Della". 'What a blessing to see a harvest from the seeds I have planted".
Della, currently serves as the Executive Secretary, Graphic Designer and publisher of the Heavenly Golden Dragon Memory Book for the Carver Golden Dragon Association (CGDA). "Giving back, while sending messages to a future we will not see." is my passion. She is dedicated to make sure the investment into our community and preservation of the Carver Legacy reaps the desired and continued rewards. By doing this, she keeps a promise made to the late CGDA Vice President and Co-Founder, Mrs. Bonita Reynolds.
"I live by the twelve/twelve rule, I have twelve hours a day to mind my own business and twelve hours a day to leave yours alone."
"I pray daily that my words will always be the right ones to use in any situation."
Ms. Rogers is the mother of two sons, three grandsons, a grand-daughter, two great-grandsons and two great-grand-daughters.
God has truly blessed me to see three generations beyond myself.
God has truly blessed me to see three generations beyond myself.
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Mr. Carl and Barbara Dunn
The Mr. and Mrs. Allen Award
This award recognizes a couple who started out as sweethearts in high school, were married and are still married today. They have shown us what commitment to a relationship is. We thank them for being an example of how to do it right.
This award is being presented to Carl and Barbara Dunn
When you talk about a love story and what it really means to love, Carl and Barbara Dunn’s story will be reflected as an example. An unselfish love that has served more than their personal interests and love for each other, but has served the needs of many because of their love for God as individuals first, and then as a couple bound together for life. Barbara first remembers meeting Carl at a teen swing at North Heights Park when she was just in the 7th Grade. Carl walked over and asked her to dance.
When you talk about a love story and what it really means to love, Carl and Barbara Dunn’s story will be reflected as an example. An unselfish love that has served more than their personal interests and love for each other, but has served the needs of many because of their love for God as individuals first, and then as a couple bound together for life. Barbara first remembers meeting Carl at a teen swing at North Heights Park when she was just in the 7th Grade. Carl walked over and asked her to dance.
She remembers the moment in time so vividly that she even remembers what she was wearing. On her walk home after midnight with her friends, her mind was constantly reflecting on this young man. Carl says he remembers that time as well, but Barbara teases him that he really does not. (smile) A year and a half later, while passing from one classroom to the next on the sidewalk outside the Carver Junior/Senior High School building in 1963 in Amarillo, Texas, their eyes met again and this meeting sparked the beginning of a relationship that until this very day, their love for each other has never wavered but has grown into a mature God-centered love for each other. When you look at their individual lives and the parents that raised them, it also reflects a God-given purpose for their union that has played out in the service they have provided not only to their immediate family, but also to mankind.
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Mrs. LaVerene Hilliard
The Mr. Champion's Principal Awaard
While no formal awards or accolades have been given, Mrs. Hilliard, we would like to take this opportunity to say: "Your tenure with us was not 39 years, and how unfortunate, but we, your Amarillo students, say 'Thank you' for everything you gave to us."
Mrs. Hilliard is a member of the Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and serves as Chaplain, a member of the Optimist Club, NEA (retired) and the Denver Silhouettes.
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This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is presented to Mrs. LaVerene Hilliard.
To be kind to others and strive for excellence are the principals that Mrs. Hilliard has built her life on. She encourages others to be the very best person they can be by setting sound goals and working toward achieving them. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science and her Masters of Arts in Elementary Education. LaVarene developed a successful career in Education after many years in her field. Her compassionate nature has made a difference in the lives of both students and adults. She has the ability to show them needed love and to offer uplifting encouragement which has become her trademark. LaVarene is dedicated to the community advancement through education. LaVarene’s accomplishments include recognition by former Mayor Wellington Webb as an Unsung Hero of Denver, recognition by six former students as Outstanding American Teacher, and of course the opportunity and reward of working in the Denver Public School System for 39 years.
To be kind to others and strive for excellence are the principals that Mrs. Hilliard has built her life on. She encourages others to be the very best person they can be by setting sound goals and working toward achieving them. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science and her Masters of Arts in Elementary Education. LaVarene developed a successful career in Education after many years in her field. Her compassionate nature has made a difference in the lives of both students and adults. She has the ability to show them needed love and to offer uplifting encouragement which has become her trademark. LaVarene is dedicated to the community advancement through education. LaVarene’s accomplishments include recognition by former Mayor Wellington Webb as an Unsung Hero of Denver, recognition by six former students as Outstanding American Teacher, and of course the opportunity and reward of working in the Denver Public School System for 39 years.
While no formal awards or accolades have been given, Mrs. Hilliard, we would like to take this opportunity to say: "Your tenure with us was not 39 years, and how unfortunate, but we, your Amarillo students, say 'Thank you' for everything you gave to us."
Mrs. Hilliard is a member of the Denver Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and serves as Chaplain, a member of the Optimist Club, NEA (retired) and the Denver Silhouettes.
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Mr. Richard "Ricky" Cummingham
The Mr. Carver Personailty Award
This award recognizes an individual who is well known in the Amarillo Community and possesses a great sense of humor.
This award is being presented to Mr. Richard "Ricky" Cunningham.
This award is being presented to Mr. Richard "Ricky" Cunningham.
Ricky Cunningham was born in Plainview, Texas to Son Mason and Betty Cunningham. At an early age the family ( 5 boys and 4 girls ) moved to Amarillo. Ricky attended Hilltop Elementary, Carver Junior High and Amarillo High Schools. He graduated in 1976. After graduation, he went to work at the Coca Cola Bottling Company. In 1986 he went to work for the City of Amarillo as an equipment operator, and is still employed there at the present time.
He met his future wife, Darlene in 1977 and they were married in April 1983. They have three sons: Little Rick, Brandon and Cody and six grandchildren. After coaching his sons’ Kid’s Inc basketball and football teams, he discovered his passion. He started referring high school basketball in November 1994. Since then he has moved up in the ranks and in addition to high school, he also referees Division II men and women college basketball. He is a member of the Amarillo Basketball Association and Western Junior College Athletic Conference (WJCAC) Association. Ricky gets the most enjoyment out of life spending time with his friends and family especially his grandchildren and one; Betty Jewel Cunningham
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Mrs. Judy Turner
The Mrs. Carver Personality Award
This award is presented to Mrs. Judy Turner.
Judy entered Carver as a seventh grader in the Fall of 1961 and was President of Section 7D and the next year was elected as Treasurer of Section 8E. Judy was very active in school activities participating in the Junior Tri Hi Y, the Senior Tri Hi Y Sweetheart, the New Homemaker of America, the Spanish Club, the Paramedics Club, Cheerleader for three years, Choir Queen and Miss Carver 1966-67. Judy states she loved attending Carver and hanging out with friends, and recalls she could always make them laugh. She always tried to keep a positive attitude and to make the best of any challenges. Not going to college was never and option for Judy and she had a clear cut idea on her career path.
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This award recognizes an individual who is well known in the Amarillo Community and possesses a great sense of humor.
This award is presented to Mrs. Judy Turner.
Judy entered Carver as a seventh grader in the Fall of 1961 and was President of Section 7D and the next year was elected as Treasurer of Section 8E. Judy was very active in school activities participating in the Junior Tri Hi Y, the Senior Tri Hi Y Sweetheart, the New Homemaker of America, the Spanish Club, the Paramedics Club, Cheerleader for three years, Choir Queen and Miss Carver 1966-67. Judy states she loved attending Carver and hanging out with friends, and recalls she could always make them laugh. She always tried to keep a positive attitude and to make the best of any challenges. Not going to college was never and option for Judy and she had a clear cut idea on her career path.
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Mrs. Jewell Allen
The Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person we all know and love dearly. This person has made a mark in our community and probably wasn’t awarded. A person, in spite of the odds against them stood up and said "I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community." A person who probably thought they were just doing a job; but in fact they opened the doors of possibilities for all of us. We just want to say: "We see you and we hear you."
This award is presented to Mrs. Jewell Allen.
Mrs. Allen’s career spanned thirty-seven years. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Huston-Tillotson, her Master of Arts from Prairie Vies A & M, and the L. L. D. from West Texas State A & M.
During her service at Carver Junior/Senior High, Mrs. Allen served in the capacity of the Girl’s Basketball Coach; the Carver Yearbook Advisor; the Carver’s Senior Student Council Advisor; The Dragon Newspaper Advisor and as the Co-Advisor of the 1964 Senior Class Officers. Her last teaching assignment was at Palo Duro High School. Mrs. Allen’s service did not end with her profession, but her Community has been the recipient of her service also. The North Heights’ YMCA bears her name on its cornerstone, as well as the magnificent "Jewell Allen Stage for Performing Arts" located in the Bone Hooks Park.
This award is in recognition of a person we all know and love dearly. This person has made a mark in our community and probably wasn’t awarded. A person, in spite of the odds against them stood up and said "I can do this and I can do it right here in the North Heights Community." A person who probably thought they were just doing a job; but in fact they opened the doors of possibilities for all of us. We just want to say: "We see you and we hear you."
This award is presented to Mrs. Jewell Allen.
Mrs. Allen’s career spanned thirty-seven years. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Huston-Tillotson, her Master of Arts from Prairie Vies A & M, and the L. L. D. from West Texas State A & M.
During her service at Carver Junior/Senior High, Mrs. Allen served in the capacity of the Girl’s Basketball Coach; the Carver Yearbook Advisor; the Carver’s Senior Student Council Advisor; The Dragon Newspaper Advisor and as the Co-Advisor of the 1964 Senior Class Officers. Her last teaching assignment was at Palo Duro High School. Mrs. Allen’s service did not end with her profession, but her Community has been the recipient of her service also. The North Heights’ YMCA bears her name on its cornerstone, as well as the magnificent "Jewell Allen Stage for Performing Arts" located in the Bone Hooks Park.
Mrs. Allen holds lifetime memberships in the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the National Association of the NAACP, currently serves as a Grand Deputy of Texas Daughters of Isis, the Order of Eastern Star, the American Association of University Women and Delta Kappa Gamma.
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Mr. Donnell "Big D" Campbell
The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mr. Donnell 'Big D" Campbell.
After graduation, Donnell attended Clarendon Junior College and was the first African American to play Basketball there. He left college and served in the Army at Fort Lewis in Washington, D.C. He served in Vietnam in 1968 and upon leaving the military, he used his benefits and enrolled at the University of Washington where he majored in Business. After graduation, he went semi-pro.
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own, North Heights Community, Pro Bowl receiver, Ronnie Shanklin. This person has touched many lives in a positive manner over the years, making a mark that cannot be erased.
This award is presented to Mr. Donnell 'Big D" Campbell.
After graduation, Donnell attended Clarendon Junior College and was the first African American to play Basketball there. He left college and served in the Army at Fort Lewis in Washington, D.C. He served in Vietnam in 1968 and upon leaving the military, he used his benefits and enrolled at the University of Washington where he majored in Business. After graduation, he went semi-pro.
Donell put his degree in Business and enrolled in the Church’s Management Program and was able to buy a franchise, with the support of his wife LaVerne..
For seventeen (17) years he serve as Food Systems Manager for JPS. In his position, he assured the appropriate processes were completed to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner for the patients and employees. Donnell made significant contributions to the recent successes in Nutritional Services. Mr. Campbell was instrumental in instituting such programs as outside catering, increased vending services and expanded the Bistro service to better serve patients and staff.
Donnell is a volunteer with the YMCA, he is involved with the Polytehnic Middle School Adopt a-School program and is a member of the culinary ministry at his church.
He was instrumental in chartering a Dallas/Fort Worth Booster Club supporting the programs and projects of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., a national sorority of registered professional nurses and nursing students.
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*************2010 CGDA Honorees*************
Mrs. Sarah Hurd-Bates
The Carver Sweetheart Award
This award recognizes an individual who was and still is a sweet over-all person.
This award is being Mrs. Sarah Hurd-Bates
Sarah Hurd-Bates was born in Clarksville, Texas to Lon and Hattie Hurd, and is the sixth child of eleven children. Sarah grew up in Amarillo, where she received her education.
This award recognizes an individual who was and still is a sweet over-all person.
This award is being Mrs. Sarah Hurd-Bates
Sarah Hurd-Bates was born in Clarksville, Texas to Lon and Hattie Hurd, and is the sixth child of eleven children. Sarah grew up in Amarillo, where she received her education.
She attended North Heights Elementary from grades one to six. Sarah attended Carver Junior High for only two years, her 7th and 8th grade years, and due to rezoning by the Amarillo Independent School District, she finished her junior high days at Horace Mann Junior High.
She attended Amarillo High School graduating in 1973. Sarah lives in Arlington, Texas with her husband Charles and is a doting mother to two children and five grandchildren.
She attended Amarillo High School graduating in 1973. Sarah lives in Arlington, Texas with her husband Charles and is a doting mother to two children and five grandchildren.
She is employed at Texas Health Resource Arlington Memorial as a Nurse. Sarah has returned to school to actively pursue a degree in Radiology.
She is a member of Friendship West Baptist Church of Dallas, and is active in the giving back through her work in the Health Care Ministry and as Usher Minister.
Her hobbies are spending time with her grandchildren, cycling, shopping etc.
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Mrs. Gloria Foster-Young
Mr. Champion's Principal Award
Mr. Champion Principal Award – This award is in recognition of an educator who has succeeded in providing high quality learning opportunities for students. It is their responsibility to teach and educate per guidelines provided by the National Curriculum Framework under the overall guidance of the competent education authority. They will also teach and educate students per the educational needs, abilities and attainment potential of individual students entrusted to his/her care.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Gloria Foster-Young
This award is being presented to Mrs. Gloria Foster-Young
"One and Two and Three and Four"
For years Mrs. Gloria Foster-Young was the heart and soul of the Carver High Choral and the Jr. High Choirs. Her leadership, loyalty, and love for her students were beyond reproach.
Those days that we as students spent training for choral competitions not only prepared us for the day of our performance, but it also gave us a taste of what we could expect when we left the security of the halls of Carver. Life outside the confines of "Dear Carver" would hold many unexpected experiences, some good, others not so good, but with the foundation received at Carver, we stood on much firmer ground. Sometimes our beloved professors and teachers had to use what we call tough love. I recall one day Mrs. Foster-Young. after much frustration due to no cooperation on our parts, began placing students in the hall one by one, until almost the whole Jr. Choir was outside the door, she could have sent all to the Office, but she chose to bring the "troublemakers" back inside and with these words "Okay, you want to be clowns, but remember, I have mine and it’ll be up to you to get yours." She put everybody on notice that whatever we wanted out of life, it would be up to us to get it. For preparing us for a time such as that, we say Mrs. Foster-Young "Thank You."
Now for those who ask: Whatever happened to Mrs. Foster-Young?”
Gloria Foster-Young was the daughter of the late Mrs. And Mrs. Ben Foster. She was born and raised here in Amarillo.
Her Musical Education included study at: the Hines School of Music~Amarillo Study of Music: Piano, Organ Theory. The late Mrs. Kathlyn Oliver Hines, Instructor 1940 – 1952 and the Musical Arts Conservatory, Amarillo Seminar as a student of Dr. Leo Podolsky, 1950
Her early public school education and honors include: Patten-Carver High Schools Salutatorian- Class of 1952. Her higher education training continued at the Amarillo College Singers Accompanist 1952-1954; Amarillo Junior College Associate of Applied Science, 1954; Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee Bachelor of Arts Class of 1957; Fisk University Jubilee Singers 1956-1957~ Goodwill Tour to Europe with celebrated Fisk Jubilee Singers; University of Northern Colorado (Formerly known as Colorado State College), Greeley, Colorado and her Master of Arts 1962. Her Professional Career included fifteen years with the Amarillo Independent School District in the capacity of Education Teacher and Choir Directress.
Upon leaving the Amarillo Independent School District she worked for the Human Resources Texas Workforce Commission (Formerly Texas Employment Commission), served as Primary Church Musician: Directress Carter Chapel C.M.E. Church-Amarillo 20 years. For the last twenty-two years she is a Private Piano Teacher; Accompanist/Musician for “Christmas in the Hood” Mass Choir Amarillo, ten years. succeeding the late Mr. Ronnie Sherwood.
She is a member of the following Organizations: Member of Carter Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Order of Eastern Star-Superior Chapter #214, Amarillo Masonic Council- Amarillo TX, P.H.A. The NAACP –Amarillo Branch #6151, AARP~ Amarillo United Citizens Forum Amarillo and Gamma Sigma Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
In November 1979, she was married to Mr. Joe Edward Young, Professional Printer- Barber
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Mrs. Patricia "Pat" Mathis
The Carver Reunion Alumni Commiment Award
This award is presented to a graduate of Carver. This award represents and recognition those for continuing to spend their time, talent, effort and financial ability in providing us with the Carver Legacy. This person has continued to help keep Carver alive by bringing a positive recognition to our Carver High School.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Patricia "Pat" Mathis.
Sitting atop a tall file cabinet in her office, surrounded by pictures of her children and grandchildren, there is a plaque that reads: Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… It’s about learning to dance in the rain. For Pat Mathis, her dance occurs at Opportunity School.
Sitting atop a tall file cabinet in her office, surrounded by pictures of her children and grandchildren, there is a plaque that reads: Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… It’s about learning to dance in the rain. For Pat Mathis, her dance occurs at Opportunity School.
Born in a little town outside Waco, Pat moved to Amarillo in 1965. She was 16 years old when she moved in with her aunt to finish high school. At the time, Amarillo was a town caught in segregation. As a young African American teenager, Pat couldn’t go to the theater and there were stores in which she couldn’t shop. Even her class textbooks were old hand-me-downs from when the other schools in town got new ones.
After graduation, Pat began what would turn into a 40-year career – and still going strong – with Opportunity School, where the mission is to help young children, primarily from low-income families, succeed in school and in life. Her children, Vivian and Derek, were part of the inaugural class that started the school in 1969, and because she wasn’t ready to leave them yet, she volunteered in the classroom.
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Mrs. Ruby Smith-Pearson
The Mr. Neal's Assistant Principal Award
This award is in recognition of an educator whose responsibility involves planning, preparing and delivering lessons to all students in the class. They will Teach per the educational needs, abilities and achievement of the individual students and groups of students. This person will adopt and work towards the implementation of the school development plan of the school they are giving service in. They will assign work, correct and mark work carried out by his/her students. Responsibilities will also include assessing, recording and reporting on the development, progress, attainment and behavior of the students.
This award is being presented to Mrs. Ruby Smith-Pearson
"Let the work I am doing speak for me. I believe that I can do all things though Christ who strengthens me." Phil 4:13. "I believe in giving my best to God and my fellow man and the best always comes back to me."
Ruby was born in Paris, Texas, Lamar County, April 4, 1935 to McKinley and Rosie L. Smith. She and her family soon moved to Memphis, Texas.
Her undergraduate work was completed at Huston-Kiloton University, Austin, Texas where she received a B.S. Degree in math . Ruby attended West Texas State University for further studies and received an administrative certificate for Principal ship.
Ruby served as teacher and principal at Deep Lake School, near Memphis for two years. She taught for a total of 36 years and retired from the Amarillo Independent School District (AISD) in 1996.
After retirement, Ruby continues to give her time volunteering and serving others. She is an active member at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. She has worshipped and served as an usher for 42 years. She also serves on the Culinary Committee and wherever she is needed. Ruby was married to Lorenzo Person and they have a beautiful daughter, Jackie Person.
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Mr. Alphonso S. Vaughn
The Community Recognition Award
This award is presented to a Carver Student in recognition of their distinctive service of humanitarian nature or citizenship through community and public service activities.
This awaard is being presented to Mr. Alphonso S. Vaughn
Alfonso is a native of Amarillo, Texas where is resides with his family. He is a civil rights and community leader, a member of the Johnson Chapel AME Church, a husband, father, and grandfather. He served proudly in the US Navy, attended the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma where he majored in Journalism.
He currently serves as a County Commissioner for Potter County Texas. Alphonso is a past president of the Amarillo, Texas Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) where he served as President for 5 two-year terms for a total of 10 years.
Alfonso established a major communications outlet for the African American community, known as the Outreach News. As General Manager and Editor-in-Chief of the Outreach News, he along with others published the newspaper that reached out to a population of a few thousand residents. He saw a need for more community awareness, growth, and support of one another so he took the idea and brought it to fruition. The Outreach News was not only considered a major source of news and information for the African American community but played a large part in bringing the community more together.
It was Alfonso’s diligence for justice that helped to bring national attention to the atrocity, known as "Tulia 47," which occurred in Tulia, TX during the 1999 timeframe. Alfonso worked to facilitate efforts with the National NAACP Legal Defense as well as various private law firms in an effort to provide justice for the men and women who found themselves imprisoned from this humiliating fiasco. Alphonso was also in the forefront as a liaison with journalist, Bob Herbert of the New York Times as well as some other major media outlets to highlight the events that occurred in Tulia, TX.
He was appointed as the Northwest Texas Regional Coordinator for the Texas State NAACP. Alfonso serves on the Amarillo Hospital Board of Directors and Indigent Care as has served on many other civic boards within the Panhandle area of Texas. He has also served as a HOST mentor for the Margaret Wills Elementary School in Amarillo, Texas.
Alfonso has been the Community Liaison for facilitating the collaboration among members of the community, City and State Government officials, legal authorities and others to establish a full functioning Substance Abuse / Half-way house for ex-offenders. This represents the first transitional center in the city of Amarillo and its surrounding areas. Alphonso will serve on the Advisory Board for this facility.
Mr. Alfonso S. Vaughn is considered a humble man and also a strong and formidable leader not only within the City of Amarillo but also throughout the State of Texas.
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Mrs. Mattie Sue McClendon
The Legendary Award
This award is in recognition of a person who we all know and love dearly. A person who made a mark in our community and who probably wasn't aware. A person, in spite of the odds against them stood up and said "I can do this and I can do this right here in the North Heights Community." A person who probably thought that they was just doing a job…but in fact open the doors of possibilities for all of us. We just want to say to that person "We see you and we heard you."
This award is being presented to Mrs. Mattie Sue McClendon.
Mrs. Mattie Sue McClendon, was born November 14, 1933 to Shack and Mattie Lee Nash in Harleton, Texas . So believe me, I’ve seen and heard a lot. If you think about it I’ve been blessed to experience life in eight decades so it’s to the young I address these words.
During the thirties life was hard and especially for African Americans. Although we had been declared free for decades, there was still an abundance of racism and segregation. If an African-American was lucky enough to go to school, they were forced to write their race on everything even on the inside of books. Black families weren't wealthy by any means. They could barely afford to put food on the table every night, better yet buy essential things like shoes and clothing for their children and themselves.
During the forties, things were getting a little better, by now, but by no means did that mean equality. African Americans were now being recognized for contributions other than being slaves. We had our heroes such as Joe Louis, Jackie Robinson; but we didn’t have the right to vote. Lynchings were still occurring and blacks were being terrorized by the Klu Klux KIan (KKK) and other hate groups. It was hard living in a constant state of fear, because the wrong word or look could mean death came to your household.
I moved to Amarillo in the late fifties when being African American was still very dangerous. If you wanted to eat at restaurant, you and your money ate in the back or took it to go, We were only allowed to attend movies on Saturday afternoons from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and then you were corralled to the balcony, with no refreshments and exits were guarded. If you needed a bathroom break during the movie, you either waited or went and then had to leave the theater. You didn’t have the same privileges as your white counterparts. You could be arrested and jailed just to satisfy the need of closing a crime that was committed against a white person, you were presumed guilty and no one was really trying to prove your innocence. If you were the victim of a crime, very little investigation occurred simply because you were black. There was no respect shown to African Americans, even those professionals. Being called the "N" word was still as common as being called by your birth name.
I was here in Amarillo in the early sixties when things began to change and the Black Movement hit the Freedom Highway, and to quote the great Dr. Martin Luther King "We as a people will make it to the promise land. We must remain focused. The dream of an equal playing field for blacks in this United States has not been achieved. Sure, we have come a long way, but there is so much more work to be done". At this time African Americans were still being denied the right to vote in parts of the country through trickery, illegal practices, deceit, the threat of death and in some cases death, although this was a right given and guaranteed by the founding Fathers and under the Constitution of the United States of America. But we kept pressing on.
This is dedicated to my late husband John McClendon who in 2005 called home to be with the Heavenly Father. To my sons known to you as: Alder Ray Nash, Willie Nash (deceased), and Cleophus Nash, you are blessings and the inspirations to my life.
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Mrs."Kaysee-LaShea" Smalley
The Most Interesting Life Award
This award is being presented to Mrs. Ethel "Kaysee Reed-LaShae." Smalley
I have had a very interesting life and if you have read my first novel: Five Times: the Best Was Last, you know what I mean. Through all of the good and the bad it did not change me or my values implanted in me by my parents.
Ethel, is what everyone knows me by, I changed my name to Kaysee Reed-LaShae in 1986. This was not meant to be disrespect to my Dad or my Grandmother, who I was named for, but I wanted to be me and Ethel did not fit my personality,it was a personal decision.
I was born in Amarillo, Texas on August 10, 1955 to the proud parents: Ardella Richardson-Boyer and the late, Luegene Eugene "Gene" Reed Sr.
I attended my first year of elementary school at St. Mary's Catholic School, then Hilltop Elementary and North Heights Elementary. I attended Carver Junior High in the last three years that it was open. Those are memories that I will hold in my heart forever. I shared those good times with close friends and my best friend since the 2nd grade and we are still best friends, today: Maryann Pipkins-Mickens, to present. Can you imagine that?
I now live in New Hope, Minnesota with my loving husband of 30 years, Eric J. Smalley. Eric was born in Houston, Texas but his family moved to Minnesota when he was 9 years old. He is retired Army, retired from Prudential and will be retiring from Golfsmith in December of this year. We have 4 children between us and seven and a half grandchildren.
I loved to travel, I also have the gift to create photo graphics, writing and spending time with my family. I operated my own home based business, E K Personalized Design Imaging for ten (10) years, until I was injured in an car accident in 2005.
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Mr. Jack Montaque
The Ronnie Shanklin Award
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own North Heights Community Pro Bowl receiver Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976: He attended Carver and went on to graduated from college and left a legacy for all of us to remember when he lead the Steelers in receptions his first three seasons.
This award is dedicated in memory of our very own North Heights Community Pro Bowl receiver Ronnie Shanklin. Ronnie played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears from 1971 until 1976: He attended Carver and went on to graduated from college and left a legacy for all of us to remember when he lead the Steelers in receptions his first three seasons.
Thus award is being presented to Mr. Jack Montaque
Just as Ronnie displayed leadership on the football field, the Carver Golden Dragon Association feels you have done the same on the field of life. You have touch many lives in a positive manner over the years and we would like to recognize you for it.
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The Distinguished Service Award
This is an Award that is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community. A person who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. A person who understands people needs. A person who actually grew up right along side of all of us and who has been through a storm themselves. In spite of everything they have gone through, they are always there when the Community needs them.
This award is being presented to Mr. Sylvania Jeffery.
Sylvania was born October 6, 1953 to R.B. and Janie Jeffery in Amarillo, Texas. He attended St. Martin Catholic school for his elementary education and later Carver Junior High School.
This is an Award that is presented to a person who lives in the Amarillo Community. A person who has given back to those in the midst of a storm and can be counted on through thick and thin. A person who understands people needs. A person who actually grew up right along side of all of us and who has been through a storm themselves. In spite of everything they have gone through, they are always there when the Community needs them.
This award is being presented to Mr. Sylvania Jeffery.
Sylvania was born October 6, 1953 to R.B. and Janie Jeffery in Amarillo, Texas. He attended St. Martin Catholic school for his elementary education and later Carver Junior High School.
Sylvania graduated from Palo Duro High School and received a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Education and Sacred Music from Wayland Baptist University.
He has been a valued employee of Xcel Energy, (Southwestern Public Service Company) for thirty-four (34) years.
Sylvania is very involved in the community. He is dedicated to Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church where he serves as Choir Director. He is involved with the Amarillo Opera, Martin Luther King Youth Choir, Amarillo United Citizens Forum, NAACP, District Musician for Caprock District Association, and Director for the men's Conference of Amarillo. He is also a Piano Instructor. These are just a few of the many ways Sylvania serves the Community.
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Mrs. Vivian Jones-Moody
The Carver Cheerlead Award
This award is being presented to Mrs. Vivian Jones-Moody
Mrs. Vivian-Jones Moody, is the daughter of the late Lewis and Clara Jones. She was raised and educated in Amarillo, Texas.
She is married to David Moody, Jr, and they have been married for thirty-six (36) years. She has one sister, Dr. Reverend Claudia Jones-Williams (James, Fort, Worth, Texas), and one brother L. J (Memphis, Tennesse).
Vivian previously worked as a Registered Radiologic Technologist and Mammographer for thirty (plus) years. She returned to school and changed professions. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. She is currently employed with the Lubbock Independent School District as a Buyer in the Purchasing and Contract Services Department.
Vivian is an active member of Community Baptist Church, under the Prophetic, Visionary leadership of Reverend Larry D. Brooks.
She is the Director of the Children’s Music Ministry, and is a member of the Adult Choir and Praise and Worship Team. She also actively participates in her community as a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and she is also a member of the Road to Restoration Prison Ministry, for women.
She is the proud mother of two children, a son and daughter, and five grandchildren.
Vivian is a devoted wife, mother, grandmother with a heart for children and Outreach Services.
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Mr. Willie and Bettye Shaw
The Mr. and Mrs Allen Award
This award is being presented to Willie and Betty Campbell-Shaw
This award is being presented to Willie and Betty Campbell-Shaw
Willie married his high school sweetheart Bettye Campbell. They attended Carver High School, and were in the Class of 1967.
They are both servers in their community. Willie’s favorite past time is spending time visiting the elderly and the sick in his community. He offers comfort, prayer and a helping hand to those confined to their homes.
Bettye enjoys public speaking, poetry and an occasional shopping spree. Bettye is an exemplary mother and grandmother whose complete dedication to God and her family do not go unnoticed.
The Shaws are faithful members of Carter Chapel C.M.E. Church; where Bettye is a member of the choir and Stewart Board. Willie serves as part of the church’s landscaping team.
Both of them are retired and enjoying life, while continuing to care for others. Willie retired from Burlington Northern Railroad as a locomotive engineer with thirty-two (32) years of service and Bettye retired from Pantex with twenty-six (26) years of employment, before retiring.
They are the parents of three children, two daughters and a son.. Bettye is an exemplary mother and grandmother whose complete dedication to God and her family do not go unnoticed.
Mr. and Mrs. Shaw are both thought of as stand up models for the community and with that, I will leave you all with this quote:
Each of us, famous or infamous, is a role model for somebody, and if we aren’t we should behave as though we are. Cheerful, kind, loving, courteous, because you can be sure someone is watching and taking deliberate and diligent notes.
Maya Angelou
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Mr. John Chandler, Jr.
The Presige Award
This award is presented to a person residing in Amarillo and has been recognized throughout the City of Amarillo and the Carver Dragon nation for their efforts in assuring our community continues to thrive and exist.
This award is being awarded to Mr. John Chandler, Jr.
My Life As A Barber
Forty-eight Years of Dedicated Service
My name is John Chandler, Jr. I was born in Houston, Texas. At a very early age my family and I moved to Memphis, Texas. As a teenager in Memphis, is where I developed my skills as a Barber. It was there that I began cutting the hair of my brothers and friends. When I was in Junior High our family moved to Amarillo, where I graduated from Carver High School in 1962.
After graduation high school, segregation was an issue and there were not very schools allowed African-Americans to attend. But because being a Barber had been a lifelong dream, I was not going to be denied, I moved to San Antonio, and I lived with my sister and her family. I worked odd jobs. I attended Shaw’s Barber College and worked my way through college and on to my reality.
After graduation, I gained employment in 1963 at Your Barber and Beauty Shop in Amarillo along with two other Barbers. I worked there until 1981. In 1967 Dock Smith joined our group. Dock and I had very similar goals and aspirations. We each possessed an Entrepreneurial spirit and, while it would be a challenge, moved forward to open and operate our own Barbershop. In 1967, Dock Smith and I established the Union Barbershop, 1019 North Hughes, in Amarillo, Texas.
We are a traditional barbershop. The need of our customers is a priority with us. While our hours of operation are traditionally from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., our Clientele’s hours do not always fit within that time frame and we find ourselves here some nights as late as midnight, depending on the situation, in a effort to provide the quality of service our customers have come to expect.
Occasionally we have had Beauticians and a Nail Tech, but we are not a Salon. At the present time we have a female barber, which would make us a "Unisex" Barbershop.
As we face the economic challenges and changes of today, the Union Barber Shop will continue to present a strong presence in Amarillo and especially in the North Amarillo Community. We pride ourselves on continuing to be not only a dependable, but the oldest barbershop in our community.
I am married and have six children and fourteen grandchildren. My wife and I travel and spend time with our children and grandchildren in our spare time.
I am a member of the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. I serve on the Finance Committee.
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Mr. Dock Smith, Sr.
The Prestige Award
This award is presented to a person residing in Amarillo and has been recognized throughout the City of Amarillo and the Carver Dragon nation for their efforts in assuring our community continues to thrive and exist.
This award is being awarded to Dock Smith, Sr.
Forty-four years of Barbering
My name is Dock Smith. I was born in Clarksville, Texas, and graduated from Rule High School in Rule, Texas. After graduation, I gained employment with the Fort Worth-Denver Railroad. During the eight and one-half years that I was employed there, I was never really satisfied since I’d always wanted pursue a career in Barbering. I enrolled in the Tyler Barber College in Tyler, Texas where I graduated in 1967.
After returning to Amarillo, that same year, I joined the team of barbers at "Your Barber and Beauty Shop." It was a short time later, that John Chandler Jr. and I decided to become partners and open our own barber shop. We moved to 1019 N. Hughes, and the Union Barber Shop was established, in 1967.
Over the years, we have developed a personal connection with our customers, and this has allowed us to be prosperous. We work on a first come, first serve basis, but we also accept visitors. We have always tried to keep our prices competitive, especially with the economy situation. Our average price for a haircut is now $11.00 at the Union Barber Shop. In keeping with progress, we have made the conscious effort to cater to not only men, but to our women. We now have a beautician and a female barber. The price for the ladies fluctuates, depending on the services provided as well as the type of hair style.
Being a business owner is very time consuming, but I find my profession as a Barber to be very fulfilling, but I also know that a dedication of my services to my community is very necessary, since the success of the "Union" depends on support of the community.
My wife Bobbie and I will celebrate our 41st Anniversary next month. We are the proud parents of nine children, forty-two grandchildren and eight great-grand children.
I as an Elder of the North Heights Church of Christ and a member of the North Jenkins Masonic Lodge.
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Pastor Herman "Dupie" Moore
The Religious and Humanitarian Award
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. This person has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
This award is bring presented to Pastor Herman 'Dupie" Moore Jr.
This award recognizes one who is known to have exhibited to others a diligent responsibility through the churches. A person who has given back in more ways than one would ever expect.
My name is Herman “Dupie” Moore, Jr. I am one of ten children born to Herman, Sr. and Frankie Moore. My position in the family is the fifth child and the first son. I grew up in Wellington, Texas, where I received my nickname. I was educated in the Wellington School System. I attended Booker T. Washington and Wellington High School. Upon graduation in 1969, I attended Clarendon Jr. College from 1969-1971. I later moved to Amarillo, where, I gained employment with the Santa Fe Railroad Company, and worked there until I retired on October 2009.
I am a life long member of Carter Chapel A. M. E. Church. Since 1984, I have devoted my God given gift to save the lost through service. God gave me the voice to use and on October 3, 1999, I preached my first sermon, entitled “I Love Serving the Lord” at the Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Amarillo.
On January 15, 2006, I was called to preach at Carter Chapel A. M. E. Church and was installed as the Pastor. In September, 2010, I served as Vice Moderator to the Zion Rest Primitive Baptist District Association. Since 2008 I have served on the Trustee Board for the Black Historical Cultural Center, and I have also served as the Secretary of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Amarillo for the past five years.
I married my childhood sweetheart, the former Mary Meadow on June 15, 1982 . We have been blessed with seven children, twelve grandchildren and three great-grand children.
My service, love for life and people must be evident in my spiritual-walk. My vision is to do as God did, "Seek and save those who are lost.”
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