COUNTY LIFE
Editorial: Sunshine Week highlights a citizen’s right to know
By BARBARA GREEN
editor@bowienewsonline.com
Sunshine Week, March 11-15 coincides with the National Freedom of Information Day, but Sunshine Week is not just for journalists, it is for citizens to be aware that transparency from their governmental entities is right by law.
Sunshine Week was launched as Sunshine Day by the Florida Society of Newspapers Editors in 2002.
It also coincides with the March 16 birthday of James Madison, a Founding Father of America who acted as one of the main architects of the Constitution and Bill of Rights.
Madison was a driving force behind the Constitutional Convention of 1878 and presented the first version of the Bill of Rights to Congress. He also was the fourth president of the United States.
The Sunshine Week program went nationwide in 2005 with the American Society of News Editors and has been used an opportunity for newspapers to highlight public record laws, their importance to the community and how they need to be constantly strengthened to meet the demands of today’s technology driven world.
The Ray Walker Memorial VFW Post #8558 will host a Memorial Day service at 11 a.m. on May 26, 100 Baylor Street in Nocona.
The public is invited to attend to celebrate this special holiday to remember those who were killed in service.
Later in the day attend the fundraiser barbecue rib dinner at the Nocona Senior Citizen’s Center. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Enjoy ribs, french fries, beans, cole slaw, dessert and iced tea. Proceeds benefit the center and the Meals on Wheels program of Nocona.
Veterans eat free. Meal prepared by the award winning Nocona High School barbecue team.
Five Montague County high schools will graduate in ceremonies May 23 and May 24.
Make sure to see the 2025 Graduation Keepsake Section in the May 22 edition of The Bowie News. It is the only one to feature seniors from all seven of the area schools including Bowie, Bellevue, Gold-Burg, Forestburg, Nocona, Prairie Valley and Saint Jo.
Bowie High School
The Jackrabbits walk the stage at 8 p.m. on May 23 in Jackrabbit Stadium. Teacher Tabitha Jones was selected by the students to be the speaker.
Seniors Virginia Watson and Boston Farris will pass the mantle of leadership to the junior class represented by Laney Enlow and Hayden Heugatter. Superintendent Blake Enlow will present diplomas.
Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.
All members of the Tales ‘N’ Trails Museum or those interested in learning more about Montague County’s largest museum are invited to attend the annual membership meeting at 2 p.m. on May 31.
There will be a short business meeting to elect new directors afterwhich Dr. Sergio Ayala will discuss the museum’s newest archaeological exhibit. He also will conduct, “What’s Your Point?” where guests are invited to bring in artifacts for Dr. Ayala to examine.
All membership are due in May and there are several levels from which to chose starting at $35 a year. TNT is supported by its members along with donations, fundraising and grants. The museum celebrates its 15th years showcasing Montague County’s unique history.
The museum is located at 1522 E. U.S. Highway 82 in Nocona. Call 825-5330 with questions.
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