The Galveston County Citizen Of The Year Awards 2022. 2 Rising Stars by Clay Burton

The Galveston County Citizen Of The Year Awards 2022.
2 Rising Stars
by Clay Burton


Howdy Hitchcock/Santa Fe Folks, Out of persoanal appreciation, I couldn't wait any longer to spread some very important and exciting celebratory news for two men who have served Hitchcock and Santa Fe diligently with compassion for all the people through education and public awareness.


Whether, it be the historical hero's of all color from our nations past who defended us during the civil war, or the hero's of all color who serve us all today, that continue to defend our nation as we speak.


Two men, that have directly influenced and impacted my life are Mr. Sam Collins III A&M graduate historian of Hitchcock, Tx. and Santa Fe City Councilman and EDC President Mr. Fidencio Leija Jr.

Look for both men in the photo collage with the pink stars.


Mr. Sam Collins had befriended me 3 years ago as COVID had left most all recovery organizations and agencies largely inoperable to distribute critical resources, and support regarding human needs services.


I knew back then that sitting idly by and doing nothing to help others would be detrimental to my own recovery and wellbeing. God, tells me, that in order to keep my God given Grace, I must give it away, to those who suffer, as I once did.


It was my dear friend Courtney Dickman Toups who saw that I needed to be active, and made arrangements for me to be added to The Hitchcock Citizens Police Academy class in 2019 when it was already full. Thank for everything you Courtney, I love you!


On the first day of HCPA class I had met Sam. He sat right in front me. And upon taking a class break , I watched him introduce himself to the other class mates including me.

He seemed so assured and friendly, and I admired that about his personality, which enabled for me to see similarities between us. I am a talker, that will keep talking, if you allow me to, lol, so when we met each other, he was so nice, that I just continued to talk, to him and didn't realize the second part of class was beginning.


The man is so humble and grateful, that I would have never guessed his very impressive Galveston County influence as well nation wide, Texas state wide and locally as a Hitchcock recognized historian.

Sam Collins III is also the owner and restorer of String Fellows Orchard 7902 Hwy 6, Hitchcock, TX 77563, Home of Pioneer horticulturalist Henry Martyn Stringfellow established the thirty-acre orchard in 1883. A very big part of Hitchcock's founding.


It was Sam's friendship, that had opened doors of opportunity for me, and that I have attempted to follow in his foot steps as a community advocate and servant myself. Thank you indefinitely Sam.


So then, it was 3 years later that I was taking part in helping rebuild our communities, post COVID damage, in the recovery community and also in town via Facebook/social media.


In those 3 years I have achieved several unexpected accomplishments all that entailed working with Hitchcock, Santa Fe and Galveston County city officials, the Hitchcock Chamber of commerce thank you, executive director Chelsea Wick and only recently discovering ways to support our HISD, thank you Monica Cantrell


So, God sent me to another very active and influential man, Councilman Fidencio Leija Jr. who I had met a Hitchcock City Hall Council meeting.


He was there doing what he always does, and has done for all his military life, when it comes to our brave and courageous U.S. Men and Women Veterans.


Supporting, and bringing attention to those who had fought against those who would destroy us, and defended us from evil as they sacrificed their own lives to protect ours. As well as save and preserve our Constitutional Freedom.


He was there, at council, that night, to invite in implementing a celebration for Veterans Day with him on Thursday, November 11th, 2020 at the Galveston County Fairgrounds.

Quote: "As a Veteran of the United State Navy, my military service allowed me to witness sacrifice that gave profound meaning to “freedom is not free.”


From that day forward the councilman had graciously allowed me to take part in supporting many other different charitable causes.
For children, seniors, disabled persons, law enforcement and all first responders.

Generally, our societies tired, hungry, poor and hurting. Others in desperate need of humanitarian resources, that will uplift spirits, offer hope and help, and create faith, morale and trust in each other.


I am honored and proud, to be in association with these two man in any way that I am able to. Best of luck and success to you both. I realize that isn't about you wanting recognition, or winning elections.

You were doing this long before, your careers and after and still right now.



21You, Jackie Johnson Pennington, Keith Henry and 18 others
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