EIGHT WASHINGTON CO. COMMUNITY MEMBERS RECEIVE COPPER STAR AWARDS

  

Eight Washington County community members were honored on Sunday for their service and contributions to others.

The second annual Copper Star Award ceremony, sponsored by PlanNorth Architectural Company and hosted at The Barn at Pleasant Hill, recognized some of the “unsung heroes” of the community, shining a light on those who lead by example, demonstrate high levels of work ethic and integrity, and lift others up by their actions and words over time.

This year’s Copper Star recipients are:

• Betty Wilson, Blue Bell Creameries, B’s Bling & More
• Ella Dallmeyer, Faith Mission
• Elle Steele, Alton Elementary School
• Gena Wilimitis, Miracle Farm Boys Ranch
• Holly Johnson, Washington County, Chappell Hill Sausage
• Jonathan Purvis, Burton High School
• Robert Jensen, Dozer and Field Services
• Samantha Gaskamp, Germania

Each of the recipients received hand-crafted dog tags made by Scott Sommerlatte Originals.

Jensen was selected as the Copper Star Award winner and receives the opportunity to gift a $1,000 donation underwritten by PlanNorth to a local nonprofit of his choice. 

Copper Star recipients are determined through an open community nomination process.  Those who submitted nominations were asked to provide examples of their nominee’s positive attributes, work-related and character references, and a verse or quote that embodies the candidate.  Nominations were open to those who live in Washington County.

Award nominations for the 2026 program are now open at https://plannorth.com. 

Below are more details and quotes about each honoree, written from the perspective of the person who nominated them:

Betty Wilson - Blue Bell Creameries, B’s Bling & More

She is very conscientious of communication to members of her organization. She leads by example by not just dictating what needs to be done but by including herself in getting the work done!

If there are mistakes made, she will take responsibility for her part in the confusion or misunderstanding.

I think I answered this earlier but will add that Ms. Wilson is always thinking how she can improve the organization. She works tirelessly to make sure everything turns is in order and will run well.

Ms. Wilson steps in to help other organization to ensure they are supported. An example was donating to the First of August event recently held. She has also served as the President of the Juneteenth Organization for multiple years, improving and elevating the status of the organization and adding awareness to the significance of Juneteenth. She has created a pathway for everyone in the community to embrace all people’s freedoms.

She deserves to be acknowledged for all that she does, especially trying to bring folks of different backgrounds together.

VERSE

“When they gather against you, that means your light is too powerful for them to face you alone! Let that sink in.”

Ella Dallmeyer - Faith Mission

Ella works in the spirit of excellence, she is always in a positive attitude, she helps where we need her with no complaints. Her manners are impeccable also as well as her performance on the job.

Her manners and helpful hand she is always ready to lend a helping hand and you can trust her. Matthew 5:16 reminds us of Ella, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your father who is in heaven”.

Always on time, always ready to help. She has been working consistently for 13 years. She as a “bright light” in the organization.

Whenever she is needed she helps 100%. She never complains if she has to move around in store to help in other ways. She is a pleasure to work with.

She is a positive influence on her fellow workers and takes special pride in helping those around her that are less fortunate and struggling.  She embodies the mission of Faith Mission.

Her loyalty, work ethic, her manners, her love of God   in an inspiration to all of us. She has grown so much. I trust her.

VERSE

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” -Galatians 5:22

Elle Steele - Alton Elementary School

Elle demonstrates punctuality, has a superb work ethic, is accountable for her actions, is professional, has a continuous improvement mindset and has positive attitude. Elle frequently assists her team and other team members with their work. She wants to see everyone succeed and does not mind helping others when she is caught up on her work. She will frequently do this without asking or without needing direction.

Elle does not get involved in any gossip groups and stays focused on her work and how to improve the department. She follows through on the commitments she makes and tries to help others, especially when they are feeling overwhelmed.

Elle has strong time management skills. She is able to get her work completed and helps others on a daily basis. She is involved in numerous projects. She pays attention to the small things that are needed, and those that are overlooked by many. She is kind to her customers and communicates well with them.

Elle lends a helping hand frequently. She not only maintains her current workload, but frequently assists others with theirs. She will help out without asking and without being directed.

She not only helps others in their job roles, but she assists others outside of work. Many individuals look up to her and to her for guidance in their spiritual lives. Elle is the Youth Pastor at her church. She deals with numerous children who are all in different points in their lives. She makes time to guide the youth while being instrument in her own job role.

VERSE

"If your actions inspire others to Dream More, Learn More, Do More and Become More, You Are A Leader." - John Quincy Adams

Gena Wilimitis - Miracle Farm

Gena embodies leading by example by being the first to volunteer her time to make sure something gets done. Not to mention, she will do it with an infectious energy and an unmatched positivity. She makes sure everyone feels welcome, and she is incredibly interactive with the boys and the staff that she leads at Miracle Farm.

Gena shows her integrity by showing up, and doing her job every day, on and off the clock. She steers the boys she leads in the right direction by teaching them valuable life skills, and having intentional conversations that keep their best interests at the forefront.

Gena’s work ethic is demonstrated by the success not only of Miracle Farm, but also her involvement in the community through Rotary and other non-profit organizations.

Gena’s devotion to her boys and the staff at Miracle Farm, as well as her devotion to the community, illustrates her willingness to lend a helping hand.

Gena demonstrates the characteristics listed above through her passion for her work and her attitude about life. She is a selfless servant in our community, always uplifting, and going above and beyond to make sure those around her are helped and taken care of.

VERSE

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”  -Philippians 2:3

Holly Johnson - Washington County, Chappell Hill Sausage

Holly is always in the forefront of things. She volunteers her time for so many of our local organizations and it is always with a yes when you ask her; she never hesitates.

I was once at the store when Holly was next in line at the self check out. The person before her did not realize that she selected the cash back button when paying and left without taking her money. Holly did not proceed with checking out her items, instead she made sure the managers knew the previous customer left her cash money, turned it in to them and then made her own attempts at tracking the person down to notify her. Most people would have just taken the cash.

Holly has worked for the County for over 20 years. She also works for Chappell Hill Sausage, does social media marketing, and works on her own as a photographer.  You can tell that she truly enjoys doing things for people, making them smile & bringing them happiness. Working hard is what she does. She leads by example to anyone to sees her.

Holly is the go-to person when you need anything because you know she will not only say yes but she will show up on time, with great ideas, a great smile and make whatever is needed happen. I know she has stepped in many times & photos for non-profits, and she regularly donates free photo sessions to almost any organization that asks. When you really need a helping hand, that is who you go to.

Holly Johnson is the whole package. She is generous, kind & such a sweet soul. She and her husband are driven by giving – they are perfect for one another & it shows by their actions why they their professions. Holly makes everyone & everything around her better.

VERSE

“Be kind. Work hard. Stay humble. Be thankful, always. Love yourself. Love deeply.”

Jonathan Purvis - Burton High School

Jonathan is a high school teacher. Every day he leads by example. He displays hard work, compassion, integrity, kindness, understanding, and patience. He works really hard and provides a great example to his students.

When people turn to Jonathan for advice or help, he is always honest, even if it’s not what you want to hear. He makes you re-evaluate the situation and see things in a more clear perspective.

He is such a hard worker. He wears “many hats” at the school. He drives a bus, teaches classes, runs the bowling team and keeps it going for the region, is head of technology and on top of all of this he works at Blinn College and is a husband and father.

Whether it’s on the job or outside of school, he is always willing to help you out, expecting nothing in return. There are countless families who can say that in a time of need, Mr. Purvis was there for them. He helps those at the school on a daily basis, a lot of times.  Because of this, other leaders and staff in all positions have come to depend on him.

For many, Mr. Purvis has become a dear friend and a valued co-worker. It’s that kind of relationship you have with only the people you’ve been in the trenches with and come out ok.  Whether it’s technology problems in the classroom, needing an ear to listen, seeking advice, if one of the kids needs math help, you have something broke at home that needs to be fixed, he is always there. He is kind, patient, trustworthy, loyal, honest, helpful and just a great person.

VERSE

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” -Philippians 2:3

Robert Jensen - Dozer and Field Services

When there is a need for some services he can provide, he will donate his time and equipment. During a freeze, he provided heat to the local church, as well as lights during power failure. When storms pass through he would clear roads, driveways, check on welfare of residents, provide food and assist with tree and debris removal.

He is a man who keeps his word. If he makes a promise, he will keep it. He is known for his honesty and fair treatment of everybody. He often works with new residents to the area to provide the information they need to make connections for services.

He seldom takes a day for himself. He works from early morning to late evenings. His reputation is in being trustworthy and dependable. The job is not complete until everyone is satisfied.

When friends are in a crisis, injury, equipment breakdowns, storm or fire events, he will assist in their jobs to finish safely and as soon as possible. He will often reach out to others to offer his assistance without being asked. Often he prepares food for members in the community. As a Firefighter, he often stayed on scene for hours to make sure everything that could be done to assist was done. Recently he spent an entire day from sunup to sundown on a traffic accident on Highway 105, twice in one week.

Robert has a giving heart. He is quiet, never wanting to get any credit. When he retired after 50 yrs as Captain of the Washington VFD, the members went to his home to present his award, as he would not come to the station. He strives to not be in pictures, he is a humble man who does not seek attention. He has lived his life in Washington, always being happy to be out of the limelight and the one reached out to for assistance.

“Quiet, honest, giving, and trusting heart. Living the life of someone who cares for the fellow man”

Samantha Gaskamp - Germania

Samantha follows through on any promises she makes. She admits when she has made a mistake and takes ownership of how to resolve the issue. Samantha continuously expresses gratitude for others and their individual contributions. She also helps to encourage team members to do their part for their job role, making sure everyone is helping and assisting the team.

Samantha presents herself for work timely each day. She adheres to the company rules and guidelines. She shows respect for others not only to her team members but any interactions she has on a daily basis. Samantha gives assistance to her team members whether they are in the office or out. She frequently volunteers to assist others. If someone is needing help with a project, she is the first to volunteer.

Even though Samantha does not have any children of her own, she volunteered to coach a soccer team with another individual. While volunteering to coach for the Washington County Soccer Association, she has also taken in numerous animals that most likely would not have survived otherwise. Samantha has a vision of a better future where all animals have a home. Many of these animals would have been released to the wild if it were not for her kind heart.

Samantha's love for animals, not just household pets, spills over into her daily work and compassion for people. Samantha has saved approximately 30 animals by rehabilitating and rehoming them. She currently has one hamster, one hedgehog, three snakes, two tortoises, one turtle, a fishpond, two crested geckos, and two bearded dragons.

VERSE

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unweakened.” - Anatole France