Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, May 5, 1994 TAG: 9405050113
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: S-9 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: ERIKA BOLSTAD STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
The purpose of the awards is to recognize Virginia women who have made significant contributions, said Sally Howard, coordinator of communications for the YWCA.
In the arts, Maxine Hunt, a former music teacher and president of the Friends of the Roanoke Symphony, was recognized for her contributions to the musical community in the Roanoke Valley during the last 30 years. Hunt also is an organist and choir director for the Hill Street Baptist Church.
Lea Metts, a co-owner of Heartfelt Greeting Cards and Framed Gifts, was honored for her contributions to the business community. Metts and her husband started their company in 1987, doubling production each year, and distributing products to nearly 5,000 customers all over the world.
Elizabeth Bowles, a Roanoke City Council member and retired business owner, was recognized for her contributions to public service during the last 60 years. Bowles has been a member of many civic organizations, including serving on the board of directors of Community Hospital and Roanoke PTA groups.
Wanda Gail Spraggins, a guidance counselor at William Fleming High School, was honored in the area of public school education. Spraggins established a minority mentoring program to challenge high-risk students with academic career and personal goals. She also was named in the 1992 Who's Who Among American Teachers.
Evelyn Bradshaw, director of the Career Resources Center at Hollins College, was honored for her contributions to community education. Bradshaw is past director of Hollins' Horizon program, an adult baccalaureate program for women. A graduate of the Horizon program herself, Bradshaw also is known as an accomplished public speaker and writer.
Dr. Shelvy Bratcher-Porter, a nurse with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, was honored for her contributions to health services. Bratcher-Porter founded the Roanoke Valley Black Nurse Association, which provides prenatal programs for pregnant teens and their families. Bratcher-Porter also organizes health information seminars at area churches.
Julie Courter Hollyfield was recognized for her inspiration to the community. A former Roanoke schoolteacher, Hollyfield taught in the newly integrated public schools during the 1960s and was known for challenging her students. Hollyfield is state chairwoman of the Junior American Citizens Committee for Virginia, which encourages patriotism and American heritage.
Marion Walton, a strong supporter of Roanoke Valley's community agencies and events, was honored for her community service. Walton, a major coordinator of the Meals on Wheels program, also is involved with a Hidden Valley Junior High career program.
The YWCA also presented awards to its supporters during its annual meeting. Those honored were: Vivian Jalloh, Resident's Achievement Award; Ethel Allen, Appreciation Award; Ira White, Outstanding Volunteer Award; The Cartledge Foundation, Community Spirit Award; E. Grifford Dodson, Horizon Award; Jim Oyler, Monroe Preservation Award; Paul Buford, Kennard Award; Ginny Allison, President's Award; Ibby Greer, Vision Award; and Rev. Maurita Wiggins, Founders' Award.
by CNB