(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, the 2010 Heart of Gold honorees were recognized in April by the Whitley County Community Foundation. Honorees were celebrated for their often unsung good deeds in the community. Below, from left, Rob Bell of South Whitley, Ann Barrett of Churubusco and Sherry Sausaman of Columbia City were each selected to receive a $1000 grant to direct to the non-profit organization or project of their choice.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
It wasn't long after the Whitley County Community Foundation was formed 20 years ago, that Sharon Smith, the former executive director of the foundation, along with Dr. Clark Waterfall and Bob Cornmesser began discussions about a way for people to thank one another for doing good deeds for the community. 
From that idea, the annual Heart of Gold awards were born. Each year, the Whitley County Community Foundation receives dozens of nominations from Whitley County residents wanting to honor their friends and neighbors for serving the community in quiet ways -- whether it involves serving meals to the home-bound, helping a single mother fix her car or helping to change the lives of those who are incarcerated.
The Heart of Gold awards provide an opportunity for residents to share their appreciation, said Whitley County Community Foundation executive director September McConnell during this year's awards ceremony on April 22 at Indian Springs Middle School.
"It's about taking the time to say 'thank you," she said.
McConnell spoke of the passing of Bob Brittain, a Foundation volunteer and much-loved educator in the community. She urged those in attendance to think consider Brittain and think of the people in their lives who should be thanked -- and then making the time to do it, whether it was through the Heart of Gold awards next year or in a simply card or letter.
This year, two Heart of Gold awards were given posthumously -- one to the late Rebecca Hollenbaugh of South Whitley and to the late Tom Fletcher of Churubusco. Both were remembered for their commitment to their community and their giving spirits.
In all 38 groups and individuals were nominated with awards. One representative from each of Whitley County's largest communities were selected to receive a $1000 grant to direct toward the entity or project of their choice. Those individuals included Rob Bell of South Whitley, Sherry Sausaman of Columbia City and Ann Barrett of Churubusco.
Click the link below to read all of the 2010 Heart of Gold nominations in their entirety.
2010 Heart of Gold Award Nominees
1. American Legion of Churubusco – Joy Hillard, Linda Bufkin, Matt Hutton and Jimmy Claxton
Nominated by: Churubusco United Methodist Church
When the Churubusco United Methodist Church Soup to Shut-Ins Ministry ran into trouble, these people stepped to the plate and donated enough money for us to finish the 08-09 season. When prospects were dim for the following season, these folks from the American Legion, The Auxillary, Legion Riders and the Sons of the Legion, found a way to support the program another year. They have promised that there will be another season this year, and beyond. We are so very grateful to this organization for seeing the need and coming forward with a solution.
2. Chuck Bandelier
Nominated by Pat and Jack Smith
Chuck is a neighbor who always sees that our drive and other are cleared of snow at a very early hour in case we need to get out and about. When he is running in our neighborhood, if he sees someone having trouble with a chore, he will stop and help. He thinks nothing of offering his truck to haul a neighbor’s tractor for repair. Chuck is also active in his church, offering assistance with many activities as needed. He travels to help the Native Americans in South Dakota with home repair and locally, he supports the Mihsihkinaahkwa (Michigan-aqua) pow wow. We wish every neighborhood has a kind hearted neighbor like Chuck, and we are really thankful he lives in ours.
3. Coach Rob Bell
Nominated by DeeDee Maggard, Randy Sands and Gary Boyd
Rob organized Pink Night at Whitko High School – an event that brought the community and rival teams together for a great cause while helping hundreds of people see that we can make a difference. Coach Bell felt it was really important for the girls on our basketball team to see how important it is to give back. Despite having to organize and pull the event off in the middle of basketball season, his vision helped raise cancer awareness and has impacted so many people. When our girls look back at the season, the thing that impacted them the most was Pink Night, Coach Bell has a huge heart of gold!
4. Ann Barrett
Nominated by Emily Munk
I deliver soup to Ann on Tuesdays and she is always busy making quilts for others. One day when I arrived, she had a lap quilt made out of extra material. She asked if I knew a veteran that could use it. I told her I’d take it to the Veteran’s Hospital in Fort Wayne. Over the next six weeks she made three more quilts. They are so appreciated by disabled veterans! While she has quit for the summer, she promises that if she’s able, she will continue in the fall. Ann is in her 90s, and is a blessing to all.
5. Gerald & Jeanette Bills
Nominated by Mark Hodges
Gerald and Jeanette Bills have devoted decades of service to the community through their work at the Whitley County Jail. As volunteer chaplains, they have offered ministry, kindness and generosity to countless inmates and members of their families. During Christmas season, Gerald and Jeanette coordinated an angel tree to make sure children of inmates were not forgotten. “If it hadn’t been for Gerald and Jeanette, our family wouldn’t have had Christmas when I was growing up,”says one woman, now 24, whose father had been frequently incarcerated. In addition, they have helped inmates find transportation home upon release, and have on occasion driven people home themselves – even when the distance exceeds 100 miles. They regularly take inmates to funerals and doctor appointments. These gestures are secondary to their spiritual undertaking at the jail. They speak with inmates about their faith, pray with them and conduct services. Inmates describe Gerald and Jeanette in life-changing terms. Their presence seems to bring comfort, healing and hope. We believe the Bills have demonstrated consistent devotion, integrity and true service to the community and they merit the recognition that accompanies the Heart of Gold Award.
6. Sharon Brockhaus Nominated by Wilford Coy
I lost my wife tragically and you never get over that, but Sharon at DeMoney Grimes has a grief support class. Sharon listens while I tell her how much I miss my wife. While I don’t understand why she’s gone, I miss her. At Christmas, Sharon gave me some helpful words to help get through the holidays; she sure can help you to feel less miserable and sad. The class she leads is a God’s send. My wife and I were married 42 years and it is so hard without her, but Sharon’s words of comfort and her caring ways really brings comfort to my broken heart.
7. Max Busz
Nominated by Karen Newman
Max has gone above and beyond the normal duties of an automotive business owner. My late husband was an auto hobbyist. He enjoyed re-building engines and restoring muscle cars. His sudden death left me with a garage full of car parts and I had little to no idea as to their purpose of worth. During a routine oil change,Max offered to come to the house and look over what was jumbled in my garage to see if anything could be of value. He offered to haul five engines away to his shop along with other bits and pieces, work on them to see if they would run again, sell them for me, or scrap them if they were junk. He kept a strict accounting of everything he removed and I knew I could trust him implicitly. He spent hours going over engines and car parts, pricing and advertising, then dealing with interested buyers. He was also kind enough to sell my late husband’s truck
for me. The man is amazing. The time and effort he put forth on my behalf is truly above and beyond and of course he wouldn’t take a dime from me in thanks. I really can’t begin to thank him and his family enough for all of their help and support!
8. Margaret Cash
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
What do you call a mother who can cook for somewhere between 20 and 32 folks, mostly children every day and still keep a smile? – You call her Margaret! Margaret helps plan the menus for the hot meals and snacks at Faith Christian Academy. She also helps with transportation whenever needed. When her husband Bob is home from his job as an airline pilot, she gets him to come in and help wash dishes! What a deal – two for the price of one!
9. The Churubusco Pool Committee, Don Paige, Monica Trump, Tanya Young, Susan Cseri, Cathy Petrie, Lucas Konger, Gina Ramsey
Nominated by Liz Schemm
Formed in 2006, The Mueller Pool Committee worked faithfully to fulfill Paul Mueller’s dream and vision of bringing a swimming pool facility to the Churubusco community. Under the leadership of Don Paige and Susan Cseri, the group demonstrated perseverance and dedication to move the project forward. Eventually, the project was slowed by a lack of additional funding sources. The Committee never lost sight of the Mr. Muller’s vision and found an alternative project that matched the spirit of his dream. It appears that, to the delight of the youth in our community, Paul’s Pad will be in place, entertaining and cooling kids off this summer. This hard working dedicated group of Churubusco residents have given their time and energy solely for the benefit of the Churubusco community. They truly represent a grass roots effort and demonstrate what everyday people can accomplish when they work for the good of others. The Community Foundation has been involved with this project from the start and realizes that while Liz was the nominator for these awards, she was also one of the passionate and tireless team members who helped this project unfold, so we’d like to ask her to join her fellow committee members in being honored for their work.
10. Steve Clason
Nominated by George Roth
In the toughest of times, Whitko Community Schools are blessed to have Steve Clason as our Superintendent. His caring heart and unabashed faith and encouraging attitude have eased the uncertainty of many employees whose jobs are in a tenuous position right now. His compassionate approach to dealing with this problem, as well as any other issues, has put minds at ease, knowing he will do the fairest, least painful thing possible. Steve Clason adopted the Whitko Community as his home. He is an active participant and advocate for everything Whitko. We are blessed to have him leading us, for he truly has a heart of gold.
11. Amy Cook
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Amy volunteers by helping the Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade classes with tutoring. She is also our Campbell’s Soup lady and does a great job! She also helps in the office when needed and we want her to know how much she is appreciated!
12. Tom Cormany
Nominated by Larry Schmoekel w/ Faith Christian Academy, The Collins United Methodist Church and the Senior Citizens Center
Tom Cormany is a man who loves the Lord and loves people. Tom has been the lay leader at the Collins United Methodist Church for as long as anyone can remember. He is active on church committees and attends our cluster meetings. If the doors of the church are opened, Tom is the one who unlocked them. He has also served on the Board of Directors for Faith Christian Academy for years, providing the stable leadership that every organization needs so much. He is a man of few words, but when Tom speaks, everyone listens. Tom is also active in the Senior Center (where he can be seen frying sausage during their pancake breakfasts!), and the Gideons. Tom is always cheerful, smiling and ready to share a laugh and the Lord. Whitley County would be a poorer place without Tom Cormany.
13. Judy Couch
Nominated by Heather Ward
I’d like to nominate my mom, Judy Couch, for her investment in the lives of the youth of Whitley County. Four years ago when my mother told me that she wanted to start a sewing group to teach kids at her church how to sew, I have to admit, I thought it was a funny idea. With sports, video games and everything else that kids are into these days, why in the world would they want to learn to sew? I’m so glad that I was wrong! The first year, I saw her take three kids who had minimal parent involvement in their lives and teach them the beginnings of self-confidence and pride in something they could create. The next year the group doubled, and I saw my mother further invested in the lives of kids. Now the sewing group meets twice a week and there are 15 kids coming regularly. If a child can’t get there, she picks them up and drives them herself. Last year when one of the kids came to group regularly without supper, mom started picking her up early and taking her to her house for dinner. When the same girl was failing in school last year, mom started tutoring her and meeting with her teachers. She even went to the school and sat next to the girl in class when she wasn’t doing her assignments! This past year, kids in the group endured the loss of a parent, the break-up of parents and the loss of a home, as well as other stresses that would be too much for most adults. They kept coming to sewing group. I’ve personally seen kids change from this group. I am very proud of my mom and the difference she is making in the lives of these children.
14. The next recognition is a posthumous nomination for Tom Fletcher who passed away unexpectedly in January of this year.
Nominated by Brian Graham and Vivian Sade
About three years ago, Tom mentioned something he thought should be done at the Park. There was an opening on the Park Board and we asked Tom to fill the position. He agreed and it soon became very obvious that Tom Fletcher turned out to be a great selection. Maybe the best ever. He rarely –if ever- missed a meeting. He was full of ideas, but more often than that, he was seen working hands-on in the part right alongside Rick Krider, the Park Superintendent, on a project he wanted to see completed. In time, he was asked to also serve on the Board of Directors for Turtle Days and we were blown away –and outdone—by Tom’s enthusiasm and work ethic. He started the Turtle Days Annual Horseshoe and Cornhole Tournament, which grew rapidly in popularity in just one year. The event will now be named for him. With Tom’s passing, Turtle Days lost a great Board member. The town and park have lost a great advocate and a person willing to work hard to make this community a better place for all of us. All who knew him lost a great friend. He never turned anyone away who needed help. And it was doubly so for his family of whom he was very proud. It was obvious whenever he spoke of his mother, his children, siblings, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. And that’s the legacy he leaves – a hard-working man with a heart of gold the sacrificed everything for his family and friends. In the end, that’s all that really matters.
15. John Gaff
Nominated by Shirley Stampe
As far back as I can remember, John has always been there to help others. He’s always the first to help the Vets (John is one of five boys in the Gaff family to have served his country!) -- he cooks for them at the VFW and carries the flag for them in local parades. If someone loses a loved one, or someone is ill, John is the first one there to help out. He cuts firewood in the winter and then delivers it to those who are in need. He raises a garden and shares it with other veterans and those less fortunate. Though he seldom talks about it, he has gone above and beyond to help families dealing with the grief of losing a loved one. There’s also a happy-go-lucky side of John that everyone enjoys being around. If anyone needs a helping hand, a very wonderful man named John K. Gaff will be the first to say “I’ll be there for you ; just let me know where and when!”
16. Garrett Geiger
Nominated by Susan Langohr, Garrett’s first grade teacher
My Heart of Gold nominee is only 7 years old but has touched many hearts in Whitley County by his sincere desire to help the hurting people in Haiti after the devastating earthquake. The first night that Garrett heard about plans for a school fundraiser, he went into action. He came up with his own idea of raising money to help the Haitian people by drawing, coloring and then selling his own pictures. He went to family, friends, neighbors, school personnel and even local businesses for support. Everyone he spoke to was touched by his desire to help. His goal was to raise enough money to build a house for a family in Haiti. Garret’s heart of gold touched many local people as well as many Haitian people. What a fantastic first grader!
17. Donna Hillard
Nominated by Emily Munk
Donna has stepped up to preserve memories of our veteran’s activities by making and keeping current scrapbooks. The one that most touched my heart was created from a box of old newspaper clippings someone had donated to the legion. They are memories of WWII and the Korean Conflict. Thanks to Donna’s work, these papers will be preserved for the next generations to read. Anyone who is interested may take the scrapbook home and learn more about our history.
18. Dawn Hinthorn
Nominated by Meghan Hand
As Children’s librarian for the South Whitley Public Library, I am blessed to work with many youth and learn about their dreams and inspirations. Every student that has had the privilege of working with Mrs. Hinthorn knows of the wonders that she does that go far beyond teaching. She inspires. Ask a choir student to recount his or her experience with Mrs. Hinthorn and watch their eyes light up. Ask a drama student about a recent play and they will wax eloquently about how Mrs. Hinthorn worked with them, challenged them, laughed and cried with them as they reached for a dream they didn’t believe was possible until she opened the door to their imagination. She is truly a treasure to the students, faculty and community of Whitko Schools.
19. Jody Hoeppner
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Jody is another of the fine parents at Faith Christian Academy. Jody is our librarian, co-chair of the book fair, painter of classrooms, and maker of bulletin boards – changing three large boards monthly. Along with Jennifer Meredith, they transformed land-locked Faith Christian Academy into a tropical island for a week in January complete with palm trees and a cabana. Thank you for everything, Jody.
20. Rebecca Hollenbaugh, honored posthumously
Nominated by Jade Pfeiffer
Our local treasure, Rebecca Hollenbaugh is a shining example of one beautiful light reflecting off many. Her strength, faith, empathy, and determination were epic and contagious. As a result of her actions and example, our little corner of the world is a better place. Becca’s faith changed others lives by leading them back to God through her own example. Becca’s positive exampled included many community projects, including the Whitley County Relay for Life benefitting the American Cancer Society. Her team, Becky Curless State Farm, has been the top fundraising team in the county for many years. Ask anyone who knew Becca and they will tell you how caring she was. She overcame pain and fatigue to help others heal. She prayed for others when she was at her sickest. Her compassion knew no bounds. Out of this compassion, Becca’s runs were born. Her friend Jacki Bishop explains “She loved running and wanted the community to be healthier so she decided that a Fun Run was a good idea and it has grown into two different events – one for the South Whitley Fall Festival for health and now Becca’s Run to help those families with medical costs. Becca’s world was full of love and optimism. From this vantage, Becca saw opportunities to do good things and took action, leaving this world a better place than she found it. Some will remember Rebecca for being a great runner, others as a faithful Christian. She was a loyal friend to so many and beloved by her wonderful family. For all those she touched, we carry her light that glows brightest when we are kind, selfless or on a great run. For this and more than can ever be properly represented, please consider this posthumous nomination for Rebecca Hollenbaugh as a 2010 Heart of Gold recipient.
21. Mike Koller
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Mike is a great volunteer – in addition to being Robin’s husband and providing her the time to be here. Mike is a skilled repair man, from a portable table top to allow us to use the computer and video projector whenever we desire, to roof, siding, soffit, and other repairs. Did I mention he is our first I.T. man in residence? If we have any sort of computer problem, Mike is the first and only one we turn to. He also puts together our Powerpoint presentations and can really bread fish at the fish fry!
22. Robin Koller
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Robin is a great volunteer in many different areas of our school. She will help cook and serve lunch and then wash dishes. She tutors some of our math students, helps with our newsletter and teaches journalism to our students. She will drive to events and help chaperone field trips. All this with a pleasant smile and warm personality. Thank you, Robin.
23. Grant Loy
Nominated by Denise Puckett
Grant Loy served his country in the Marine Corp. from 1957 to 1960. In continuing his service he’s the commander of the Leatherneck Coffee Club in Columbia City. This club represents past and present marines that have served our country during peace and times of war. He has touched the lives of many servicemen in all the armed forces along with their families. Grand and his wife Linda make bread, roast peanuts and collect coffee at area Starbucks to ship to our servicemen along with other items that have been collected by the Leatherneck Coffee Club. Grant gives his own time to gather, package and ship these items. In the past year more than 30 boxes have been sent. Grant Loy takes pride in this. What a heart of gold he is to honor our local servicemen.
24. Charles “Chuck” Mathieu
Nominated by Mike and Bonnie Hazen
Chuck has a very caring heart for the citizens of Churubusco and the surrounding area. He has worked at the Churubusco IGA for 47 years – since he was 14 years old! He goes the extra mile to assist customers. He is kind, friendly, cheerful, optimistic and willing to help. During his 12 years on the Town Council, he went beyond the call of duty or job description to set up the town’s computer system and oversaw recording of town records. He has gone to great lengths to record the history of Churubusco. As town historian, much of his work can be viewed at the Churubusco library. He assembled a calendar with pictures of Churubusco from the past and the proceeds go to the Churubusco Library. He also created a DVD with a large collection of photos of Churubusco that was donated to the library. Patrons of the library are welcome to check them out. Chuck is always willing to assist and answer inquiries from people working on genealogy and seeking information about the history of Churubusco. As a good neighbor he is willing to lend a helping hand, especially in winter. He removes snow from walks and driveways. Chuck Mathieu truly has a heart of gold.
25. Jean McDevitt
Nominated by Margaret Kauffman
Jean has always been active in her church. When each of her children were just weeks old, she had them in Sunday School and Church. She always participated with each of them and took them to all kinds of activities. Not only did she do these things with her own children, but many of their friends and classmates benefited from Jean’s kindness. She is the grandmother of nine and they all enjoy the same benefits. She is a great-grandmother to 12 and continues to show her love to all of them. They are indeed a blessed family. For several years, Jean was secretary to the Sunday School at Grace Lutheran Church. She worked in the Food Pantry for several years. Jean took communion to shut-ins as well. She helps with the monthly church newsletter in addition to the Red Cross and 4-H Fair.At 84 years of age she is still going strong, continuing to cook and serve funeral dinners at Grace. Jean visited me many times when I was hospitalized for three months and continued to visit and bring small gifts while I recuperated. I’m sure she visits many others. I have known Jean for many years. She has been a good and faithful servant to her Lord and she truly does have a heart of gold.
26. Jennifer Meredith
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Jennifer is another of the Super moms at Faith Christian Academy. She cooks lunch once a month, helps tutor Kindergarteners, is our Box Tops for Education Coordinator, and co-chair of the Book fair. She also helps with on-going script card sales and helped paint classrooms this summer. And oh yes, she leaps tall buildings in a single bound!
27. Steven Myers
Nominated by Mark Hodges
At the Whitley County jail, Confinement officer Steve Myers does a serious job, yet rarely takes himself seriously. Steve handles the duties with efficiency and competency and, whenever appropriate, with a light-hearted approach. But Steve is on a personal mission to do much more. He helps inmates’ family members when he can. Especially children as he gently explains their parents’ incarceration. He assists chaplains in their work and speaks to inmates about his own religious convictions. After inmates are released, he often welcomes them to his church, offering them a church family. He visits former inmates in the hospital, drives them to doctor appointments and helps with other matters. Steve is always willing to help his fellow workers in any way possible. His resourcefulness as a handyman and tinkerer leads him to go way beyond his job description in making our facility function; and we know we can rely on his to be a source of comic relief. Steve organizes fundraisers for people with large medical bills. He volunteers at South Whitley School as a mentor and participates in numerous other local programs. His impact on the community is huge, but Steve is not the type to reflect on is accomplishments, so we will do it for him by nominating him for a heart of gold – he certainly deserves it!
28. Gary Parrett
Nominations from The McIntosh Family, Cheri Dear, Sara Ruff and
From the McIntosh Family: Overall, Gary has shown every characteristic of an angel on earth. As a local law enforcer, he serves and protects our community. As a local business owner, he continues to sponsor local teams and support the high school teams. As a family friend, he has gone above and beyond in our time of need with his concern and much needed support.
From Cheri Dear and Sara Ruff: Gary has a big heart and truly makes life better for everyone around him, whether you’re a friend, an employee, a service organization or even a high school student. Being a sports enthusiast, Gary has generously donated time and money to local high school wrestling, football, basketball and baseball teams. The giving doesn’t stop with sports. He’s has donated to the Columbia Township Fire Department, the Optimisits Clubs, FFA, and 4-H. He also supports the Down Syndrome Awareness Campaign. The staff at Big G’s can testify just how generous and giving Gary is to his employees. He is the kind of guy you cannot help but like. He gives from the heart and inspires others throughout the community.
From Bob Parrett: Gary always goes the extra mile to help out others. When my wife’s brother passed away, Gary is the one who gave us the money so my wife could go to her brother’s funeral. She wouldn’t have been able to go otherwise. Last fall when I was laid off and couldn’t find work because of the economy, Gary found a position for me at Big G’s even though it was a tough time of year for most businesses. He is one of those people who really makes life better for others and why I feel he deserves a heart of gold.
29. Alyse Perry
Nominated by Pamela Thompson
My nominee, Alyse Perry was a contestant in the 2010 Whitley County Junior Miss Program. Alyse was the co-reicpient of the Spirit of Jr. Miss Award and her best friend, Mindi Hoffman was selected as this year’s Whitley County Jr. Miss. As a 35 year volunteer for our local program, I am the primary preparer of our Jr. Miss participants as they get ready for the state pageant. Through the years, many best friends have demonstrated the qualities of being a friend, but none more so than Alyse. In addition to attending the send off and welcome home parties for Mindi, Alyse was in the audience for three nights of state competition. The roundtrip to Frankfort takes five hours-- a considerable commitment for a senior in high school. Each night Alyse was so excited to be there to support her best friend. She celebrated with great joy her friend’s success as Mindi won two overall awards as well as placing in the final eight. It was clear she respected and admired her best friend’s abilities. In my estimation, Alyse is a friend anyone would be fortunate to have. She stays true to herself and those she befriends. Jealousy has never entered into Alyse’s heart of gold.
30. Gayle Reed
Nominated by Janet Fager
Gayle has put numerous volunteer hours into our school ans has played a valuable role in making our school a better place. From the India Springs fundraiser to helping teachers and working in the concession stands, Gayle’s hard work has been appreciated. She is well deserving of a Heart of Gold Award, for all these things and more. Thank you Gayle for giving to others, you are much appreciated.
31. Sherry Sausaman
Nominations from Dawn Ramsey and Judy Bowers
From Dawn: Sherry embodies the tremendous strength Booker T. Washington spoke of when he said “There are two ways of exerting one’s strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up.” She displays so many of the qualitieis that people with Hearts of Gold share; she selflessly offers her time, talent, resources and experience for the benefit of others. Sherry’s caring nature is manifested in her career; she works as a registered nurse at Parkview Whitley Hospital and as an instructor at Ivy Tech. She has been recognized by patients and co-workers on numerous occasions for going above and beyond expectations. She volunteers extensively through work. She helped the Health Department administed H1N1 vaccinations, works at the annual Heartsbeats Festival and assists with blood drives. An active member of First Church of God, she greets visitors, assists with funeral dinners and sings with the Praise Team. She has volunteered at The Center for Whitley County Youth. Sherry is a member of the 2010 Class of Leadership Whitley County where she has nurtured her vision for a Whitley County Domestic Violence Task Force. She has inspired her classmates and brought a stark awareness to the reality of domestic violence. She is working diligently to to obtain money for a shelter in Whitley County for victims of domestic violence. Sherry is one of the greatest most selfless friends I will ever have. She is unfailingly kind, caring, thoughtful and generous. Our community is blessed to have Sherry Sausaman as one of its citizens. I am doubly blessed to have her as a friend.
Judy Bowers wrote: Sherry has seen the need for a Domestic Violence against women and children facility and taken steps to the County and the community to see this need. She organized the vigil for Deb Houser and used her own money for the effort. The reason I know this is because I’m sherry’s mother and have seen first hand the drive she has for this need. At no time could anyone not be able to contact her. She would willingly reach out her hand to anyone in need and tell that person “Take my hand, I’m here to help you.”
32. Mark, Kim, Jacob and Matthew Swain
Nominated by Jim and Kay Fleck
I’m nominating Mark and Kim Swain and family for the many acts of kindness they have performed for us as neighbors and for their volunteer service to the community and beyond. A couple of years ago, Mark was stationed in Korea with the Air Force for an entire year. He began volunteering in a Korean orphanage and was shocked by the lack of craft supplies so the children could draw, write, paste, color and paint. Mark contacted Kim who led a drive at the Columbia City United Methodist Church and boxes of supplies were sent to Mark for distribution at the orphanage. Also during this year, Kim was involved in a book study with a few members of the church. As a Head Start teacher, she saw the need for clothing an coats for the 3 and 4 years olds in Head Start. With the help of the other members of the study group, clothes were purchased for a “closet” to assist children without socks and other necessary items. What an example for Jacob and Matthew who are now 16 and 13. On numerous occasions Jacob and Matthew have fed our cat, brought in mail and mowed our yard while we were out of town. Last year, Matthew began doing these chores for free as a community service project. Their father Mark came over to help pound rebar into some landscaping timbers for our new vegetable garden. Recently, they were called on to help us move some furniture. The Swains identify needs and fulfill them, recognize opportunities and act on them and share their time and energy for the sake of others. Parents like Kim and Mark are excellent examples for their children.
33. Jean Tenny
Nominated by Sue Collier
Jean truly has a heart of gold. For several years, every other Thursday she would go and pick up bread and pastry items from the grocery stores for the food bank. Then she would help sort and hand out food. She always has a smile and words of encouragement for everyone. She is a true Christian lady who is active in her church and really cares about her fellow beings. So I nominate her for the Heart of Gold Award.
34. Jeanne Tison
Nominated By Janet Fager
When I think of the Heart of Gold Award, I can’t help but think of Jeanne Tison because of all the ways she helps life others up – especially here at India Springs Middle School. On any given day you might see Jeanne in the halls of ISMS putting up bulletin boards, helping with fundraisers, serving on committees bringing treats to those who could use a morale boost, or even digging through the trash to help her friend. She also volunteers time at the concession stand. Jeanne is an asset to our school community, to her church, and to anyone who knows her. Her positive attitude, friendliness and service to others makes her deserving of this award!
35. Rae Walker
Nominated by Faith Christian Academy
Rae is a volunteer who is here every day helping in the Middle School classroom and anywhere else she is needed. She will help with the lunch room, the playground and anything else she’s asked to do. She also helps chaperone field trips. She is a real master of the copier and helping with fractions! And she always has a smile.
36. Michelle Wilcoxson
Nominated by Janet Fager
Michelle is well-deserving of a heart of gold award because she has volunteered a lot of her time to help students and staff at Indian Springs Middle School. Some behind-the-scenes things Michelle has done include helping at the concession stand at athletic events and helping to organize and hand out prizes for out school fundraiser. Thank you, Michelle, for giving of your time here at Indian Springs but also at other schools in the community.
37. Betty Wise
Nominated by Janet Fager on behalf of Indian Springs Middle School
Betty is our boosters president. She is in charge of making schedules for all the events here at ISMS. She gets parents to sign up to work concessions, but always helps out even when she is not scheduled to be there. Betty also conducts meetings once a month with all parents. She takes care of ordering supplies for the concessions and schedules end-of-season repairs to the machines that need fixing. She always does more than is expected from one person. She will be a hard person to replace when she moves on to the high school.
38. Cindy Zollinger
Nominated by Sue Lough
“A leader creates what isn’t.” This statement is a perfect description of my nominee, Cindy Zollinger. Whether it be in her longtime role as educator at Churubusco Elementary School or as a volunteer for diverse organizations such as the Churubusco Rotary, Whitley County 4H or the LIteracy Council, or in her dedication to family and friends, Cindy endeavors to apply her time, talents, and treasures to created experiences for the betterment of all involved. While the basic standards of teaching 4th grade have remained unchanged for the past 32 years that Cindy has taught them to students, there’s nothing stagnant about the methods she uses and the experiences she creates for her students. Currently she serves of the committee responsible for the soon to be realized Smith Green Community garden, a perfect place for Cindy’s model of joining others to create what isn’t. Some people who create opportunities for others do so at the expense of family and friends. Not so with Cindy. She finds the time and effort to save her best interest and care for her family. An interested aunt to over 15 nieces and nephews, as well as the children of their friends, Cindy, along with her husband Dick, are enthusiastic supporters of their athletic events, concerts, and scholastic achievements, many times traveling many miles and states to be in attendance. The daughter of Whitley County residents, Jack and Mary Myers, Cindy remains involved in their lives and interests. Additionally, she is vital member of the support team for her mother-in-law, Ruth Zollinger. To this end, Cindy is a regular visitor at the assisted care center where Mrs. Zollinger lives, and Cindy has put her stamp there as well. She started a read-aloud event she opened to all residents, which she carried on when Mrs. Zollinger was temporarily not in residence at the facility. Identifying needs and fulfilling them, recognizing opportunities and action on them, sharing time and energy on behalf of others, working to create positive change in many areas; inspiring others to volunteer. These attributes are the signature of Cindy Zollinger’s life in a multitude of areas in Whitley County. We are all the beneficiaries of Cindy’s Heart of Gold.
