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Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Category: Volunteer

Pre-Law Society First Meeting

By: Kiarra Flores

First Meeting

Despite the pandemic, we were able to kick off our first Pre-Law Society meeting of the Fall 2020 semester. Our advisor, Mike Yawn introduced the PLS to all the new members and explained our agenda for the evening. For the first meeting, we had the great honor to have a Zoom meeting with two special women, Alicia Cramer and Shawn Adams, to discuss law school and answer any questions we may have in regard to admissions.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

To begin, we first had Shawn Adams speak. She is not only an attorney, but she is also the Assistant Director for Recruitment at Texas Tech Law. She discussed how Texas Tech has a ‘dual degree program’ where a student can finish their first year of school, then start their Masters. They can complete law school in three years, receiving both Juris Doctor (JD) and an MBA. She also mentions how you can be a “student attorney” where you can work under a licensed attorney and have clients and go to court, which I felt like caught a lot of members’ attention!

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

Dean Alicia Cramer was next. Cramer is the Assistant Dean of Admissions and South Texas College of Law. To showcase the school, she mentioned how they were recently nationally ranked for their Moot Court and Mock Trial teams. As an assistant dean, she emphasized the importance of being involved in different programs and clinics the school offers. She also encouraged students to begin building relationships with people who may write letter of recommendations.

Following the presentations, the guest speakers took questions.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

Two questions that stuck out to me were:

Q: Do I need to apply separately for scholarships, or will I receive automatic consideration through the admissions process?

 A: You can do both. Depending on your situation, you can apply for financial aid, but also you can earn money depending on your GPA and LSAT scores, so study!

Q: I was another major for two years and it tanked my GPA. Even with the A’s and B’s I have been making in my Pre-Law major, my GPA hasn’t touched a 3.0 yet, does that ruin my chance to be accepted?

A: No, if your GPA isn’t the best and your LSAT scores are subpar, your personal statement will really dictate your acceptance or not. You want a great personal statement that not only describes you as a person but also explains why your grades were not the best. You need to stick out during the admissions process and show the board why you deserve to attend their law school.

After the Q&A portion of our meeting, we applauded and thanked them for their time and insight on the navigation of law admissions. To end our meeting was officer elections. The group had eight members running for positions of VP of Finances, VP of Membership, Secretary and Historian. With time running short, members’ speeches were short and to the point. For President, we have appointed Quinn Kobrin (senior), VP of Finances, Leslie Canchola-Rangel (junior);

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

VP Membership, Ruona Odharo;

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

Secretary, Aisha Adeniyi-Adeoya (junior);

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Pre-Law Society, PLS, Kattorneys, South Texas College of Law, STCL, TTU Law, Texas Tech Law

and Historian, Kiarra Flores (senior).

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 23, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Civil Rights, Fun, Jobs, Law, Politics, Volunteer, VolunteeringTags Alicia Cramer, Center for Law, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Dean Alicia Cramer, Kaplan, Kaplan Testing, Law School, LEAP at SHSU, LSAT, Pre-Law, Pre-Law at SHSU, Pre-Law Program SHSU, Pre-Law Society, Pre-Law Society SHSU, Shawn Adams, South Texas College of Law, Texas A&M, Texas A&M School of Law, Texas Tech Law, ZoomLeave a comment on Pre-Law Society First Meeting

Feeding the Hungry and Promoting the Arts: Empty Bowls 2020

Some 14 years ago, a LEAP intern worked on Montgomery County’s first-ever “Empty Bowls” fundraiser.  The next year, she worked with the City of Huntsville to implement the program locally.  This year, the Wynne Home once again coordinated and hosted this wonderful program, raising much-needed money for “Meals on Wheels.”

The program is innovative.  The Wynne Home recruits local artists (thank you Lauren Clay!) to lead ceramics classes–an open ceramic studio–to allow local citizens to create bowls.  The Wynne Home also finds a sponsor for soup (thank you HEB!).

These two processes came together on February 24, when soup lunches were sold at the Wynne Home.  Patrons who purchased the soup were then allowed to choose from a selection of “Empty Bowls.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Arts Center, Meals on Wheels, Empty Bowls

The proceeds from the lunch, in turn, were donated to “Meals on Wheels,” a Senior Center program that helps feed the hungry in Walker and Madison counties.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Arts Center, Meals on Wheels, Empty Bowls

In one program, the Wynne Home Arts Center is able to promote the Arts and raise money for local charities.

This year, more than 200 people attended the luncheon, and more than $2,500 was raised for Meals on Wheels.

Many thanks to the artists who led the open studios, the Empty Bowls’s sponsor, and the many volunteers (including LEAP Ambassadors) who assisted with the program.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Arts Center, Meals on Wheels, Empty Bowls

Author mikeyawnPosted on March 14, 2020Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, Food, VolunteerTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Empty Bowls, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Meals on Wheels, SHSU, Wynne Home Arts CenterLeave a comment on Feeding the Hungry and Promoting the Arts: Empty Bowls 2020

Reagan Dinner: Version 2020

by Esmeralda Mata

For at least the 12th year, the LEAP Ambassadors were on hand to assist the Republican Party host the annual Reagan Dinner.  This year, GOP Chair Linda McKenzie arranged to have the dinner at the beautiful Elkins Lake Clubhouse and managed to have Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick serve as the keynote speaker.

Nearly 220 local Republicans and elected officials attended the dinner, making it one of the more successful of the party’s dinners.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner

For our part, we assisted signing in guests and seating.  It was a great opportunity for us, because not only were we able to help, but we also had a chance to meet new people and say hi to community people and elected officials we hadn’t seen in a while.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner

Guests arrived at 6pm for a reception and cash bar hosted by the Walker County Republican Women, and when Lt. Governor Patrick arrived, he enthusiastically took photos with guests and made conversation with the many grateful guests.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner

At seven, County Chair Linda McKenzie welcomed guests and introduced the elected officials in attendance, including Judge Matt Johnson, District Judge Don Kraemer, District Judge Hal Ridley, County Court-at-Law Judge Tracy Sorensen, and many more. Shortly after the brief introductions, Carol Skidmore, WCRW President, took the podium to present the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Judge Kraemer.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Judge Don Kramer

Guests enjoyed their elegant meal with enjoyable conversations around the table.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner

The evening’s dinner included chicken cordon bleu served with mashed potatoes, asparagus, and bread.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

We were seated at Congressman Brady’s table with tickets donated by him, along with his campaign manager, Craig Lewellyn, and his field director and LEAP alumni, Brian Aldaco; Melanie Schoettle, a Montgomery County political consultant, was also at the table and contributed to the easy-going conversation.

After dinner, Tom Fordyce, board secretary for the Texas Board of Criminal Justice…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

…formally introduced Lt. Governor Dan Patrick. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick spoke about his admiration for President Donald Trump and the importance of keeping Texas a Republican state—“if we lose the state, we lose the country.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

He emphasized that, while Republicans won 239 of Texas’s 254 counties in the last election, the 15 counties the party lost were among the largest in the state.  In his latest tweet about the Reagan Dinner, the Lt. Gov. used the hashtag #KeepTexasRed!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

Following Patrick’s speech, State Representative Ernest Bailes took the podium to further inform the guests about the importance of voting for the primaries and general election, and the productive 2019 session in the state legislature.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and State Rep. Bailes both highlighted the education reform by increasing teachers’ salaries and training, introducing more trade school resources, and changing schools grading model from good and bad to A-F. State Rep. Bailes also mentioned his new point of focus: supporting small businesses.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

Next, Senator Charles Schwertner briefly discussed his experience working as senator.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

County Chair Linda McKenzie again took the podium for the closing remarks…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

…and her husband, Jim, led the closing benediction.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

After the event, we took a picture with the Lt. Governor.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

Our biggest take-away of the night was educating others on the importance of voting and appreciating the welcoming aspect of our local community.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

We would like to thank Congressman Kevin Brady for donating tickets to make our attendance possible; and Linda McKenzie for thinking of us when filling seats.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Walker County Republican Party, Dan Patrick, Ernest Bailes, Charles Schwertner, Reagan Dinner

Author mikeyawnPosted on February 16, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Politics, VolunteerTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Linda McKenzie, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Reagan Dinner, SHSU, Texas Representative Ernest Bailes, Texas Senator Charles Schwertner, Walker County Republican PartyLeave a comment on Reagan Dinner: Version 2020

Make a Smile Happen with KSAM: Christmas Toy Drive, 2019

For the past 13 years, KSAM and KHVL have been “Making A Smile Happen” (MASH) by conducting a toy and gift drive for local area families in need.  This year, LEAP Ambassadors and Pre-Law Society members were happy to help this worthy cause by volunteering over a two-day period to collect gifts and help market the event.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

The drive was undertaken to benefit seven local charities: Good Shepherd Mission, SAAFE House, Santa’s Helpers, Huntsville YMCA, Clayton Sparks Foundation, National Guard Children, and the Rita B. Huff Animal Shelter.  The benefits came in the form of cash and gifts–with the latter ranging from toys, bicycles, food, blankets, house-hold items, and pet food.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

From a volunteer perspective, it was a rewarding program to be a part of.  Our tasks were simple–KSAM and ROTC had done the heavy lifting in setting up tents (ROTC) and organizing the event (KSAM)–(1) promote the event by having a presence along 11th street, with signs,

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

…(2) assisting generous donors in unloading their gifts into our MASH tents, and (3) occasionally re-organizing the gifts.

The rewards were manifold.  The KSAM staff have always been nice to us, and Larry Crippen regularly invites to be part of “Around Town.”  But we also had the chance to meet Steve and Dee Everett…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

…Bryan Reeder, Steve Rixx, Glenn Edwards, and William Franz.  It was a good opportunity to meet some of the folks we hear on-air.  Steve Rixx even did a “mock on-air interview” with the students, helping them develop their articulation skills, and teaching them about the radio business.

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We also had the chance to meet some community leaders who stopped by to donate or otherwise help promote the event, such as Wayne Scott…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH, Wayne Scott

…Chamber of Commerce Director Ray Hernandez…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH, Huntsville Chamber of Commerce, Ray Hernandez

…even Santa Claus showed up (thank you Krogers and Philip Johnson).

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

So just from a community education perspective, the event was valuable.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

But, of course, the real value was seeing the spirit of giving that pervades the Huntsville community.  There were more than 300 donors, and KSAM was able to raise approximately $5,000 in cash and gift card donations, while also bringing in countless gifts….

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

…especially those for children.  The donors represented all walks of life, and many volunteered some variation on the following theme: “I wanted to help, because people helped me.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

That help covered almost all aspects of a what a child could want, but late on Thursday, minutes before the event closed down, we noticed there was no full-size bike, an item specifically requested by one of the charitable organizations with which MASH collaborates.  But Joe Chick from Dale’s Auto arrived with 15 minutes to spare, bringing two full-size bikes and, as Dee Everett noted, “instantly made a smile happen.”

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement and Politics, KSAM, KHVL, Christmas Toy Drive, MASH

Special thanks to Matthew Lahey, who took many of the photos above and generously shared them.

 

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on December 6, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, VolunteerTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Christmas Toy Drive, KHVL, KSAM, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Make a Smile Happen, MASH, SHSULeave a comment on Make a Smile Happen with KSAM: Christmas Toy Drive, 2019

World Affairs Council’s Semi-Centennial: An Evening with Ambassador Nikki Haley

For the final event of our busy week, LEAP Students took a trip into Houston to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the World Affairs Council…

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

…with Ambassador Nikki Haley.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

LEAP has loved working with WAC this semester, and several students made an early trip to Houston to help with setup and check-in.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Nikki Haley

The event, as expected, had a large turnout and the ballroom where Ambassador Haley was speaking was packed.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Nikki Haley

Ambassador Haley was introduced by Mr. Ronan O’Malley, and the event was moderated by Dr. Maryanne Maldonado.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

Ambassador Haley began the evening by telling the audience about growing up as the only Indian family in her small South Carolina community. Ambassador Haley stressed the importance of her childhood because those interactions have shaped who she is today, and still impacts how she chooses to lead her community. Growing up, she worked as the bookkeeper for her mother’s small business, learning then that she was good at numbers. She then graduated from Clemson with a degree in accounting. After working in the private industry for several years, she decided that “the statehouse had too many lawyers, and needed one really good accountant”, which received a good laugh from the audience.

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Ambassador Haley spoke about her experience as Governor during the tragic shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2015 where nine church members were killed, including South Carolina State Senator Clementa Pinckney. Ambassador Haley gave a touching story about her decision to remove the Confederate Flag from the statehouse, not to erase history, but because she remembers all too well how it feels to associate pain with a particular place and memory.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

Ambassador Haley then talked about her interactions with President Trump during the 2016 Presidential Campaign, which interestingly led to her close relationship with President Trump and her nomination as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations in 2016.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

Ambassador Haley was confirmed on January 25, 2017, and she served until December 31, 2018. The event was concluded with questions from the audience, and Ambassador Haley gave advice for young Republicans who want to be involved, she said “You have to push through the fear. If you push through the fear, you don’t live with any regrets.” I particularly enjoyed that quote. After the event, we were privileged to meet and take a group photo with Ambassador Haley.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

Because of Ambassador Haley’s heritage, LEAP chose a local Indian restaurant, India’s Restaurant, for dinner. This was the first time for several members to try Indian food. We started with garlic, onion, and regular naan bread for the table, which everyone enjoyed.   A couple of students were more adventurous, while others chose familiar dishes. Entrees at our table consisted of Chicken Tikka Masala, Chicken Korma Kashmiri, Navrattan Korma, and Chicken Jalfrezi.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, India's Restaurant

Overall, the evening was well spent, and I think everyone took away a lot from what Ambassador Haley had to say, as we always do from World Affairs Council events!

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Hillary Clinton, Brazos Bookstore

Author mikeyawnPosted on December 3, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Law, Politics, VolunteerTags Ambassador Nikki Haley, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSU, World Affairs Council of Greater HoustonLeave a comment on World Affairs Council’s Semi-Centennial: An Evening with Ambassador Nikki Haley

An Entrepreneurial Education: Scott McClelland

Although SHSU may be most known for its Criminal Justice and teaching programs, it is currently undergoing tremendous growth and innovation.  Chief among these are new programs such as the School for Osteopathic Medicine, a Nursing Program that is excelling, and an Entrepreneurship program that is showing great growth.

The program began in 2003, with a major in Entrepreneurship added in 2012.  Now, we have more than 140 majors and minors in the program, and an “Entrepreneur in Residence” program that highlights the work and principles of key business people.  Last year, for example, Mattress Mack spoke on campus, and this year, the Entrepreneur in Residence is the “H-E-B Guy” Scott McClelland.  The LEAP Ambassadors happily volunteered at both events.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Entrepreneur in Residence, Scott McClelland

Scott McClelland is currently the President of H-E-B.  The grocery company opened its first store in Kerrville, Texas in 1905, and it is now a 25-billion dollar retailer with almost 400 stores in Texas and Mexico.  Of course, to many Texans, he is known for his HEB ads with celebrities (with many featuring the Houston Astros).

With hundreds of students, faculty, staff, and locals in attendance, President Hoyt introduced McClelland….

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Entrepreneur in Residence, Scott McClelland

…who described how his company grew from a single-store enterprise to one of the largest chains in the country.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Entrepreneur in Residence, Scott McClelland

McClelland emphasized a couple of themes, beginning with the idea that companies must evolve.  If they don’t, they will go out of business. To punctuate this point, he showed a list of leading grocers who have gone under.

McClelland discussed the importance of staying curious and being paranoid.   Curiosity should prompt you to want to learn and encourage innovation. And “paranoia” can be good if it means you are always looking for ways to grow and to be aware of competitive trends.

The entrepreneur shared that H-E-B will be making history by opening a completely kosher store in a Jewish community in Texas. Everything in the store from the homemade tortillas to the fresh sushi will be kosher. He described the in-depth research they did in order to truly serve the Jewish community.

In one of the more colorful discussions, McClelland also admonished budding businessmen to “sell shit they don’t,” if they want to be successful.  This succinct message was met with much approval.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Entrepreneur in Residence, Scott McClelland

McClelland finished by discussing Hurricane Harvey and how the employees of H-E-B rallied together to help the community. This represents the culture of H-E-B and how the employees feel like a family.

After a few questions from the crown, McClelland was sent off with a great round of applause. We thought it was a great talk and we learned so much about H-E-B and the entrepreneurial spirit!

The LEAP Ambassadors would like to thank Rachel Allison for the opportunity to volunteer, and SHSU’s Entrpreneurship Program for offering interesting speakers on campus.

Author mikeyawnPosted on November 22, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, VolunteerTags Entrepreneur in Residence, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Scott McClelland, SHSULeave a comment on An Entrepreneurial Education: Scott McClelland

Huntsville Main Street’s Scare on the Square: 2019 Version

Why didn’t the skeleton cross the road? He didn’t have any guts!  Either that, or he was already at Scare on the Square, and he would have no reason to go anywhere else.SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Indeed, the LEAP Ambassadors and ten Pre-Law Society members found themselves at the Scare on the Square for the 15th straight year–probably the longest streak of participation in the community–once again assisting Huntsville Main Street with the 2,500 or so visitors who came for the fun and scares at the community’s premier Halloween event.

All of the Ambassadors dressed up in costume. Since there was no theme this year, costumes ranged from Tinker Bell to Wednesday Adams to Bob Ross and even a Minion.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Since “ghost bowling” was such a hit last year, LEAP decided to recycle the idea which, in hindsight, proved to be a good idea because everyone loved it this year as well!

Similar to bowling, the game consists of toilet paper ghosts stacked on top of each other in a pyramid and a lane made of butcher paper leading to it.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
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SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
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SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Although a few rebels insisted on throwing the ball at the pyramid instead of rolling it…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…and some thought it was a soccer game…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…most enjoyed playing and the candy prize that came afterward.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Pre-Law Society came prepared with an (and I am a bit biased in saying this) artfully decorated game of bean bag toss. The idea was simple: toss the bean bag into the hole and claim your candy for playing. We had many cute baby sharks, Elsas, and dinosaurs walk right up to the hole and drop it in…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…but a few confident contenders took it upon themselves to stand far away and still manage to sink both of the bean bags into the hole.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
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SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
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SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
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Either way, the prideful look on their faces when they played was a reward to us in and of itself.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Although I mentioned cute costumes, there were plenty of frightening ones as well. We were amused by the contrast but impressed by the creativity. There was a duo dressed in a two-person costume in which one of them was a wad of gum made of pink balloons and the other was a shoe with gum stuck on the bottom of it! All in all, pointing out the best costumes to one another was one of our favorite things to do.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville
SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Speaking of which, one of the real treats of Huntsville Main Street’s “Scare on the Square” are the games they provide to the young children in the community.  Not only is there a bounce house…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…they also partner with the Fire Department to provide hot dogs!

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

….And face painting.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

But the highlight of the program is the costume contest…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…where kids are divided into age groups to compete for “best in show.”  They have to introduce themselves, which provides them with public speaking practice…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…and some of them really impress with costumes, such as this young winner.

Even dogs got into the act.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Although our volunteers’ costumes were creative, they weren’t necessarily unique.  Thus we had two Wednesday Addams…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

….two “Incredibles,” who, in truth, were actually only pretty good…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…and, of all things…two Bob Rosses…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

It was gratifying to see the many volunteers come out.  Indeed, our pre-law society provided 10 volunteers: Karen Rodriguez, Olivia Kelly, Ethan Stephens, Liz Moore…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

…Sara Bonilla, Amanda Amway, Savannah Gonzalez, Summer Davis, Quinn Kobrin and Esme Mata.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

And, as usual, we had 100 percent participation from our five LEAP Ambassadors.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

Of course, most of the credit goes to Huntsville Main Street Director Tracy Chappell and intern Brittney Flores, both of whom did a great job.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Huntsville Main Street, COH, City of Huntsville

As the event came to an end, and our candy bowls nearly empty, we packed away our tables and decorations with the happy notion that we made a positive impact on the many families that came to spend their evenings having fun. We would like to thank the Huntsville Main Street Program for putting on such a great program each year!

Author mikeyawnPosted on November 1, 2019November 1, 2019Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, VolunteerTags City of Huntsville, COH, Huntsville Main Street, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, SHSULeave a comment on Huntsville Main Street’s Scare on the Square: 2019 Version

Celebrating a Life of Service: An Appreciation of Linda Pease

Linda Pease has contributed to the Huntsville community for almost five decades.  Having moved here in 1972, Ms. Pease spent the next 47 years making Huntsville a better place.  So it was fitting that the community spent months planning for a three-hour ceremony on Thursday, October 24, 2019, giving citizens the opportunity to express their appreciation for Pease’s tireless work.

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

As expected, more than 100 people showed up, and this included, of course, the LEAP Ambassadors, all of whom have been touched by Pease in numerous ways.  Indeed, several LEAP alumni showed up from out of town, while others from Washington state (Constance Gabel) to Washington, DC (Justin Veillon), sent cards or gifts.

The event was organized by the Friends of the Wynne, with Nancy Gaertner leading the way.

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

The house and grounds were decorated…

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

…catering was provided…

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

…and SHSU provided a quartet…

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

The most important part of the evening, however, was for guests to spend time with Linda Pease, and to say, “thank you.”

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

Pease worked for the City for 44 years, working in the Library, heading the LEAP program, and serving as the Cultural Arts Coordinator.  Many of the City’s public sculptures are a result of Pease’s work; she helped establish the Main Street Program in Huntsville; she was almost solely responsible for the City’s “Cultural District;” she facilitated the transfer of the “Wynne Home” from the Wynne family to the City’s possession; and she was responsible for commissioning world-famous Richard Haas to do some 15 murals in the community.  Indeed, Huntsville beats out New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, St. Louis, and Oakwood, IL, as having the most exterior Haas murals in the world.  This is quite an accomplishment, given that the New York Times called Haas the “greatest architectural muralist of our time.”

In light of these achievements, it’s no surprise that she was given the SHSU Art Department’s Award “Supporter of the Arts” in 2014.  Department Chair Michael Henderson announced the award, saying, “If we gave this award to Linda for the next three years, we wouldn’t fully capture all she has done for the arts in our community.”

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease, Art Department Gala, Dr. Michael Henderson

Equally unsurprising, Ms. Pease was recognized as Citizen of the Year in 2018.

And, with Nancy Gaertner continuing her lead….

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

…and James Patton emceeing…

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease, James Patton

…many additional honors were bestowed on this night.

City Manager Aron Kulhavy announced that the Wynne Home porch would henceforth be the “Linda and Ralph Pease Porch.”

Roberta Plant presented Linda an art piece from Charles Pebworth (a close friend of Pease’s, before his passing earlier this year), a gift from Betty Moody…

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease, Roberta Plant

…while Ilexus Williams and Maggie Denena….

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

…presented Linda with a flag flown over the Texas Capitol building, a gift from former Wynne Home Intern Lexi Gonzalez, who now works as Chief of Staff for State Rep. Hubert Vo.SHSU, LEAP Center, SHAIP, Lexi Gonzales

Brian Aldaco, another former Wynne Home intern, presented Ms. Pease with a flag flown over the US Capitol building, an honor by Congressman Kevin Brady (for whom Aldaco now works).

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

And, of course, many more friends were on hand to enjoy the occasion.

LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

Nicolay Dance Works also put on a performance (“Arabian Dance”) on the front porch–now the Linda and Ralph Pease porch!

LP_42_Dancers_BW_Web
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease
LP_33_Dancers_Web
LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Wynne Home Art Center, Linda Pease

It was, as expected, a wonderful evening in honor of a remarkable woman.

The Wynne Home has been an operational Art Center for approximately 13 years.  Over that span, Ms. Pease supervised more SHSU interns than any other City supervisor (approximately 40) and the Wynne Home has offered some 500 classes to the community.

 

 

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 29, 2019October 29, 2019Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, VolunteerTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, City of Huntsville, Congressman Kevin Brady, Friends of the Wynne, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Linda Pease, Moody Art Gallery, Nancy Gartner, TX Rep. Hubert Vo, Wynne Home Arts CenterLeave a comment on Celebrating a Life of Service: An Appreciation of Linda Pease

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