Bill Ectric

I recently wrote about my great-uncle, Corbett Hamilton, who wrote poetry as well as a series of newspaper articles about the Hatfield-McCoy feud. Today I want to introduce my wife’s great-uncle, Tom Harris, a retired art teacher from Quincy, Florida. One of Mr. Harris’ art students was Dean Mitchell, one of the most recognized and award-winning watercolor artists in the nation.  A brochure accompanying his 2011 Gadsden Arts Center exhibit says, “Mitchell’s high school teacher Tom Harris was an early champion, taking him to art fairs and competitions, in addition to helping him develop his skills in school.”

Those of you who know me, know that I believe teaching is one of the noblest professions. It’s my understanding that when states cut their budgets, art and music are often the first subjects to go. This is sad, because science and math need to be balanced with things like music and art.