HUNTSVILLE LIVING | JULY 2025 | 5
Celebrating Community and the People Who Make It Shine
ON THE COVER Citizen of the Year Jennifer Barnes Photo by Matthew Lahey
HUNTSVILLE
LIVING
STAFF
PUBLISHER Lange Svehlak lsvehlak @ athensreview. com
GENERAL MANAGER Traci Gallin traci @ itemonline. com
EDITOR Brenda Poe bpoe @ itemonline. com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George Oliver Allyson Kelly
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ashley Horton
All stories by Brenda Poe.
Every year, I’ m honored to take part in the voting and presentation of the Readers’ Choice Awards. It’ s a privilege that connects me with the incredible individuals in our community— people who make a difference in ways both big and small.
Meeting new people is genuinely one of my favorite things. There’ s something special about hearing stories of neighbors, classmates, or friends who’ ve grown into leaders. It’ s inspiring to see how personal connections and shared histories shape the fabric of our community.
I would be remiss if I didn’ t extend my sincere thanks to the team at the Small Business Development Center at Sam Houston State University. Year after year, their dedication helps make this event shine. From coordinating the celebration to hosting motivational speakers, they work hard to make each winner feel truly honored.
Thank you, Walker County, for your pride, your people, and for introducing me to so many of your everyday heroes. You remind me— and all of us— what community is all about.
Brenda Poe
BRENDA POE
bpoe @ itemonline. com 936-295-5407
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HUNTSVILLE LIVING | JULY 2025 | 5