Fort Report: "Faith"

I'd like to take a short reprieve from the drama and debate in Washington to share a story about a talented young Nebraskan. This week, Jerrica Tietz of Bancroft, made her first visit to our nation's capital as the winner of the 2013 Nebraska's First Congressional District Art Competition. In a week packed with special events, Jerrica and her family were able to view her drawing, entitled "Faith," hanging in the United States Capitol.

Congressman Jeff Fortenberry and 2013 First Congressional District Art Competition winner Jerrica Tietz.

The story behind Jerrica's artwork is quite special. The youngest of three sisters, Jerrica was named godmother for her oldest sister Jennifer's baby daughter. The little girl, Faith, was born with a heart defect that led to countless doctor's visits, surgeries, and medications. Even with the help of her doctors, baby Faith's heart couldn't take it anymore and she passed away when she was only six months old.

Jerrica decided to do a pencil drawing of Faith from a photo taken when she was three months old. The Tietz family has a tradition of drawing portraits of their newest members. Jerrica decided to use her talent to honor the memory of her goddaughter. When Jerrica was ready to give the drawing to Faith's mother, she had to ask her a favor – could the gift be delayed for a year? As the winning entry of the congressional art competition, "Faith" had been selected to hang in the U.S. Capitol for a year.

When I met Jerrica, I was impressed by her poise and maturity. At a young age, she's experienced devastating loss, yet she remains committed to sharing Faith's story to bring courage and hope to others. Jerrica's parents are Sheryl and Duane Tietz of Bancroft. She recently completed her sophomore year at Bancroft-Rosalie Community School and hopes to go to college to become a veterinarian. Amidst the rancor that often surrounds Washington, meeting young people like Jerrica renews my confidence and hope for the future of our country.

The nationwide Congressional Art Competition began in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982 and serves as an opportunity for Members of Congress to showcase the artistic talents of high school students within their districts. I am proud that Nebraska's First Congressional District will be represented by the excellent work of an extraordinary young person, Jerrica Tietz, over the coming year.

Jessica, Sheryl, Jerrica, and Jennifer Tietz with "Faith" on display in the U.S. Capitol.