Two local youth were awarded prizes for their art work by the Fannin County Children’s Center (FCCC). Cole Owens of Bonham won the first place ribbon and a $100 gift certificate to WalMart for his drawing. Bailie Jones of Bonham took home the second place ribbon and a $50 WalMart gift certificate for her entry.

FCCC board member Valerie Tarpley presented the awards to the winners in front of a room full of people during the agency’s annual open house on April 19,2007.

Both of the winning drawings have been used to create cards for the Children’s Center’s “Open Your Heart” campaign.

Tarpley showed off the campaign cards to the crowd and explained their purpose. The cards are being mailed out to area supporters in an effort to raise funds for critical services to abused and neglected children in Fannin County.

The winning artwork includes a big red heart, with an open doorway and a person inside. “Please take care of children. Amen” are the words printed in the blue sky of the picture.

“These words and picture paint a clear vision of what we hope to accomplish with this campaign,” said Sandy Barber of the Fannin County Children’s Center. “The funds we raise will help us continue to take care of children by providing forensic interviews, advocacy, counseling and other critical support services when abuse and neglect is suspected or has been confirmed.”

About seventy pieces of artwork were submitted for the third annual art contest from children and youth from all over Fannin County. More than one hundred people turned out for the agency’s open house, dubbed “Network Nites,” and held in conjunction with the Bonham Chamber of Commerce.

“Once again, we appreciate all of the children and youth who entered and their parents, grandparents, teachers and other adults who encouraged them and help deliver the artwork” said Barber.

“We are also thankful for Dr. Jim & Valerie Tarpley, who were the prize sponsors again this year,” continued Barber. “And we also are grateful to our board members Fannin County Attorney Richard Glaser and Fannin County District Clerk Nancy Young for being the judges for this contest.”