SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans are Available to Small Businesses in Grayson and Fannin Counties

February 17, 2015 | Denison, Texas

Director Tanya Garfield of SBA's Disaster Field Operations Center West recently

 announced that small non-farm businesses who have suffered reduced revenues as a result of the drought which began in November 2014 can now apply for low-interest federal disaster loans. These loans offset economic losses caused by the drought.

"SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster," Garfield said.

"Eligibility for these loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage.  These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent for businesses and 2.625 percent for private nonprofit organizations and a maximum terms of 30 years, " according to Garfield.

By law, SBA makes EIDLs available when the U. S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. Secretary Tom Vilsack declared this disaster on February 4, 2015.

For additional information about the application process and how to determine if your business may be eligible, contact the Grayson SBDC office at 903-463-8787 or e-mail stidhamk@grayson.edu.

Business start-up workshop at Grayson College

The Grayson Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is offering a

four-part business start-up series for aspiring entrepreneurs. The series will begin with an overview of the steps involved in starting a small business, followed by how to prepare a business plan,  a hands on class to begin writing a business plan, and finally, focusing on how to secure startup funding for a new business.

Classes begin March 3 with sessions scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Classes will be held at the Main Campus of Grayson College in Denison. To secure more information about the series or to register contact GraysonSBDC@grayson.edu or call the office at 903-463-8787.

The Small Business Development Center offers free one-on-one business advising to small business owners or those wishing to start a business. Free or low cost training is also available through the SBDC office. The Grayson SBDC is a business consulting and training center of the North Texas SBDC. The North Texas SBDC Network serves 49 counties in North Texas.

 (SBA Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested in advance. Contact K. Stidham, 6101 Grayson Drive, Denison, TX 75020)  

Grayson College presents “Cinderella Confidential” Feb. 18-21

Denison, Texas

The Prince has a shoe and he’s ready to marry. Find out why the

kingdom is abuzz when Grayson College Theatre for Young Audiences presents “Cinderella Confidential” at the Cruce Stark Auditorium, located in the Arts & Communication Center on Grayson College’s Main Campus in Denison. The 50-minute play features morning performances at 10 a.m. on Feb. 18-20 and one evening performance on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.

Lydia Foster, Craig Foster, Holden Webster and
Katie Gaskill in Cinderella Confidential

Inspired by the tales of the Brothers Grimm, “Cinderella Confidential” is a comedy written by Eric Coble, an award-winning playwright and screenwriter. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and raised on the Navajo and Ute reservations in New Mexico and Colorado.

In this modern re-telling of Cinderella, two investigative reporters compete for the scoop of the century to find the mysterious one-shoed woman. They interview everyone from a fairy godmother in desperate need of a day-planner to two (not three) blind mice in the witness protection program, asking the right questions and following clues to solve the mystery and break the story. It features cameos from Pinocchio, Jack and his cow, and other fairytale celebrities in this expose of the timeless love story and what it means to find – and tell – the truth.

“Each year, we try to present a show specifically for young audiences and ‘Cinderella Confidential’ is a perfect fit for children and adults alike,” said Robin Robinson, Grayson College theatre director. “It’s fast-moving with a lot of technical elements. We thought it would be a fun show, especially with our culture’s fascination with media and celebrity reporting.”

Grayson College freshmen Katie Gaskill of Savoy and Holden Webster of Denison lead the cast as Deb Jabber and Sonny Glamour, respectively. Denison sophomore Dakkota Foster tackles three roles as The Prince, Shoemaker and Mr. Mouse. Hunter McDaniel, Caddo Mills sophomore, performs two roles as Pinocchio and Elf.

“It’s a great opportunity for Dakkota and Hunter to create different characters, and both of them are really funny,” Robinson said. “All of the students are doing a great job of creating these outlandish characters.”

The Wicked Stepsisters are played by sophomores Ryan Ramirez of Rockwall and Alex Watkins of Anna. Other freshmen cast members include: Hunter Malone and Aaron May, both of Bells, as Mrs. Mouse and Fairy Godmother, respectively; Forrest Harris of Celina as Jack; and Lydia Foster of Amelia Courthouse, Virginia, as Cinderella.

 The comedy’s cast includes male actors playing the wicked stepsisters, which brings an added humorous edge to the play. Because Grayson has the distinction of more male actors in the department right now, Robinson cast a male as the fairy godmother as well.

 “The tradition of men playing women’s roles goes back to the Greeks and there are current theatre companies that play with the concept frequently. It is intended to create humor and gives our students exposure to this comedic format,” Robinson said. “The actors are quite funny in these over-the-top roles."

Five student designers are bringing their talents to “Cinderella Confidential.” They met with Robinson and GC theatre design professors Thea Albert and Tenna Matthews during the fall semester to plan and design the show before the Christmas break. The student designers had to find a way to combine both the contemporary media age with the storybook world.

 As sound designer, Sadler sophomore Chris Hendrik had to create or find sound that helps tell the story and is appropriate for this genre of theatre.  Denison sophomore Tommy Stowers, scenic designer, provided the look of the show by incorporating scenery that could be easily moved and reconfigured to depict five different locations. Denison freshman A.J. Johnston designed costumes that were both present day and fairytale in style. Freshman Robert Gildner and sophomore Dustin Meadows, both of McKinney, used light design to move back and forth between a look that says “we’re on television” to a look that indicates “we are in a story.”

In addition to being design adviser, Matthews is production manager. Hendrik also serves on the crew as operator and mics. Other sophomore crew members include: Krystina Burns of Howe, light board operator; McDaniel, assistant master electrician; and Gabe Parker of Ivanhoe, house manager and publicity. Freshmen crew members are: Jorge Amador of Princeton, assistant stage manager and assistant master electrician; Bryce Dansby of Denison, stage manager and master electrician; Harris, props; and May, wardrobe.

 Tickets are $2 for adults and $1 for students for “Cinderella Confidential,” or free with college ID. Parents are welcome to bring cameras and take pictures of their children with the actors after the performances. Reservations are not necessary. For more information about the play, contact the GC Theatre Department at 903-463-8609 or theatre@grayson.edu

Grayson College intern program recognized as Bellwether Award finalist

Grayson College garnered national attention for its “Building Pathways to Careers Through Partnership: Industry Intern Program” (I2). As one of 10 finalists competing in the Planning, Governance and Finance (PGF) category for the 21st Annual Bellwether Awards presented by the Community College Futures Assembly (CCFA), they presented the I2 program to hundreds of community college representatives during the annual policy summit Jan. 27.

Grayson College, Denison, Texas

     CCFA convenes annually as an independent national policy forum for key opinion leaders to serve as a think tank in identifying critical issues facing the future of community colleges and to recognize Bellwether finalists as trend-setting institutions. Bellwether Awards honor outstanding and innovative programs and practices that are successfully leading community colleges into the future. Grayson was the only Texas institution named a finalist in PGF category, which recognizes programs or activities that have been designed and successfully implemented to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the community college.

     While the college didn’t win the top award, GC President Jeremy McMillen was proud of the nomination. “It was an honor to be nominated. We feel like winners, even though we weren’t selected as the one in our category. Every program there was phenomenal; it was really amazing,” McMillen said.

     Finalists were selected from more 300 applications among nearly 1,000 nationwide nominations to make presentations at the summit, which showcases the competitively selected, leading-edge programs in community colleges that are worthy of replicating. Peer-reviewed committees judged entries in GC’s category and in two other categories as well, including: Instructional Programming and Services, and Workforce Development. Ten finalists per category were selected to present and showcase their programs.

     “With more than 1,200 national community colleges, the Bellwether Award is one of the highest honors an institution can receive,” said Dale F. Campbell, professor and director of the Community College Futures Assembly and Institute of Higher Education. “The award is similar to being selected by your peers for the Oscar or Emmy awards.”

      McMillen,  GC trustee Debbie Barnes-Plyler, and Vice President of Champion Cooler Brian Aspell, discussed Grayson’s I2 program during the policy summit. The presentation highlighted the college’s partnership with local school districts, Denison Development Alliance, Workforce Solutions Texoma, and several industries including Champion Cooler (Texas 2013 Employer of the Year). The partnership created a pathway for high school students to move into an industrial maintenance technology career via the intern program. The program’s successful outcome is that industries have more qualified candidates when searching for employees with this skillset and economic developers have a powerful example of how community partners collaborate to provide a trained workforce for local industry.

     “The pathway created through the program has helped the community retain and attract manufacturing industries,” McMillen said. “Beyond this, the partnerships created through this program’s development are allowing us to move faster as a community to tackle other issues in community and economic development.”

Grayson College offers cooking classes

Grayson College’s just-for-fun cooking classes are under way for the spring

Culinary Arts Class

semester. Desserts, hearty fare, healthy options, and regional favorites are menu themes as GC’s Hospitality Management & Culinary Arts Center partners with the Center for Workplace Learning to offer six recreational cooking classes and a three-day cooking boot camp this semester. Open to the public, classes take place at the Culinary Arts Center on GC’s Main Campus in Denison, east of the Viking Residence Hall. Participants must be at least 16 years old to enroll in the classes, except where noted.
         
Taught by GC’s chef instructors and guest chefs, courses provide hands-on training, demonstrations, and interactive learning in the college’s state-of-the-art facility. Participants experience cuisines, explore cooking methods, and learn disciplines and knife skills as they prepare and consume cuisine that ranges from the familiar to the unexpected. In some of the classes, participants prepare goodies to take home as well.
         
“Steakhouse Favorites” offers tricks of the trade to cook a sirloin steak to a perfect degree of doneness and to get a perfect crust.  Joanna Bryant, professor and executive chef instructor, also teaches how to make a compound butter, potatoes au gratin, grilled asparagus, and béarnaise sauce. Cost is $39 per person. Class meets Feb. 5 from 5 to 8 p.m.
         
 “Valentine’s Day Cuisine” is a class designed for those who want to put a little romance in their cooking. Bryant and Carrie Kelley, pastry chef instructor, help participants spark the romance with a menu of shrimp cocktail with spicy cocktail sauce, beef tenderloin with balsamic reduction, creamy cheese polenta, fried spinach, and chocolate lava cakes. Cost is $49 per person. Class meets Feb. 13 from 5 to 9 p.m.
         
 “Soup! Soup! Soup! Part 2” returns this spring as Bryant teaches students how to make a variety of great homemade soups that can be made in large batches to freeze and used throughout the year. Soups include New England clam chowder, sweet corn bisque with hushpuppy, and classic French onion soup. Class meets Feb. 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cost is $29 per person.
         
 “Gluten- and Sugar Free Baking” meets from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 2. Taught by Cody Daniel, pastry cook and GC culinary arts student, this baking class presents tried and true recipes for specialty baking. Cost is $29 per person.
       
“BBQ Seminar” is a half-day class that explores the differences in certain regional favorites and teaches participants how to make delicious barbecue. Taught by Bryant and chef instructor Scott Murray, topics include brisket, pulled pork, sausage making, sauce making, rubs, and ribs. Cost is $69 per person. Class meets April 26 from 1 to 7 p.m.
         
“Healthy Cooking Techniques” meets May 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Bryant explains the different cooking techniques that are the healthiest ways to prepare proteins and vegetables, including proper grilling, poaching and baking. Cost is $29 per person.
         
“Culinary Boot Camp” is a three-day, intensive course designed for home cooks who want to learn professional skills. Bryant and Kelley teach students the basics in knife skills, meat and vegetable cookery, sauce making, and baking/pastries. Cost is $229 per person and each participant receives a chef coat, apron, and professional chef’s knife. Class meets June 4-6 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition to the spring cooking classes, private cooking classes and children’s birthday cooking classes are available as well. For more information or to register for the spring recreational and private classes, visit the GC Center for Workplace Learning website at www.cwlgcc.org. Registration may be completed online at www.cwlgcc.org, in person weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the CWL on the college’s Main Campus in Denison, or by phone at 903-463-8765 if paying with MasterCard, Discover or Visa credit cards.

Grayson College offers TEAMS program for senior adults

Grayson College’s spring course offerings for its Texoma’s Educationally

Active Mature Seniors (TEAMS) program are available now. Designed for senior adults age 60+, the non-credit courses cover topics in art, culinary arts, current events, history, lifestyle issues, literature, social sciences, and local entertainment and tours.

Tuition is $60 for the semester and covers all TEAMS programs. Some classes have limited seating so registration may be necessary. TEAMS presenters include talented instructors, college professors and business leaders with categorical expertise. Other benefits of becoming a TEAMS student include: use of GC’s Fitness Center, access to the college’s Student Life Center, discounted green fees at the Grayson College Golf Course, and free admission to GC theatre and music productions.

“TEAMS students can customize their learning experiences to meet their own personal goals or desires,” said Kate Corder, Grayson College’s director of continuing education. “They can participant in one, a few, or all of the TEAMS programs for one low price.”

For more information about TEAMS or to register, visit the Grayson College Center for Workplace Learning website at www.cwlgcc.org. Click on Leisure & Personal Enrichment and then click on TEAMS. Registration may be completed online at www.cwlgcc.org, in person weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the CWL on the college’s Main Campus in Denison, or by phone at 903-463-8765 if paying with MasterCard, Discover or Visa credit cards.
           
Courses fall under six categories, including: Information Technology, Lecture Series, Health and Wellness, Touring Texoma, A Book and a Movie, and Just for Fun. Numerous courses are scheduled.
Information Technology

All information technology courses are held in the CWL Computer Lab, located on Grayson College’s Main Campus in Denison. Seating is limited so registration prior to class is necessary.
           
“Facebook Guide for Beginners” meets from 1 to 3 p.m. on Feb. 24 and 26, and March 3. Nearly one billion people access Facebook, the Internet’s most widely used social media network, to connect with old friends and meet new ones. This course covers how to create, used and maintain a Facebook page, including the site’s complex privacy policies and settings.
         
 “Beginner Photography for Point and Shoot Cameras” meets from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and features three topical sessions. “Tips to Improve Your Point and Shoot Photography” meets March 17 and offers general tips for improving photography with all automatic settings whether one uses a phone camera, a disposable camera or an expensive DSLR camera. “Taking Your Photos to Your Computer” meets March 24 and covers how to sync photos and videos from a camera to a computer. “Edit and Manipulate Your Photos” meets March 24 and explains how to edit photos with computer software or through free photo-editing web sites. Participants learn how to remove unwanted items, change photo colors, crop, add text, learn where to print locally, make collages and more.
         
“Introduction to Microsoft Excel” meets April 8, 10, 15 and 17 from 1 to 3 p.m.  Recommended for students who are new to Microsoft Excel or who have limited spreadsheet experience, this course introduces spreadsheets and the practical uses and versatility of the software. Participants learn time-saving features and tips for using Excel effectively.

Lecture Series
All lecture series courses are held in the CWL Seminar A, located on GC’s Main Campus in Denison.
         
 “Religion in Early Modern Europe” meets Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Dr. Chase Machen, GC’s chair of social sciences and professor of history, presents the various themes surrounding religion in early modern Europe. Pre-Reformation England had a belief system that included magic, astrology and witchcraft that were compatible and sometimes supportive of the more formal elements, both Catholic and Protestant. This eclectic belief system helped the inhabitants of early modern England deal with misfortune and inexplicable occurrences.
           
“Grayson County, Texas” meets from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on April 7, 14, 21 and 28. Dr. Donna Kumler, GC history professor and local historian, shares Grayson County history as she discusses the value of researching the local experience and understanding the types of records available, including how to use them and where to find them. Kumler has a depth of experience researching local history; even her doctoral dissertation titled “‘They Have Gone from Sherman’: The Courthouse Riot of 1930 and its Impact on the Black Professional Class” was a study of local history. She has been cited in various publications for her research.
         
 “The Tracks We Leave Behind: Native American Folklore and Customs” meets May 1, 8 and 15 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. GC English professor Kellie Matherly draws from her research in Native American culture and literature to present the myths, tales, death rituals and dances that are an important part of Native American religion and culture. With every new telling, each story changes slightly but retains the core message. While every tribe has its own unique stories and rituals, many legends share similar elements.

Health and Wellness
Dr. Keith Kimberlin presents three seminars this semester. All health and wellness seminars meet in the CWL Seminar A, located on GC’s Main Campus in Denison.
           
“Essential Oils for Well-being” meets Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. Participants learn more about the health benefits of using essential oils, which are known for their antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibiotic properties.
           
“Chiropractic Care Benefits” meets March 24 at 2 p.m. Kimberlin shares his personal experience with chiropractic’s natural, drug-free approach to healthcare. He discusses back pain relief, proper alignments, wellness and health benefits.
         
“Reflexology for Health and Healing” meets May 5 at 2 p.m. Specific studies have shown that reflexology can restore balance, release tension, and reduce pain, anxiety, fatigue and insomnia. Students learn basic reflexology techniques for healing.

Touring Texoma
Participants enjoy VIP tours at some of Grayson County’s historical attractions. Tours begin at 2 p.m. and participants meet at the locations, except where noted.
           
The Sherman Museum tour is Feb. 12.  Formerly known as the Red River Historical Museum, it is housed in the old Sherman Library building that is one of a few remaining Carnegie Library buildings in Texas. The museum embraces responsibility to engage and educate the community, promotes historical awareness, fosters research through shared knowledge, and encourages interaction through exhibitions, programs and service events. Participants meet at the CWL on Grayson College’s Main Campus in Denison for group transportation to the site. Seating is limited so pre-registration is necessary.
           
The Perrin Air Force Base Historical Museum tour meets on March 19. The Perrin Field Historical Society is dedicated to the research and preservation of the history of Perrin Army Airfield and Perrin Air Force Base during its 30 years of operating as an active military installation from 1941 through 1971. The museum is located at 436 McCullum Avenue, the first intersection after entering North Texas Regional Airport-Perrin Field from State Highway 691 (west) on to Grayson Drive.
           
The Frontier Village tour meets on April 30. Designated as Grayson County’s official museum, it has been described as one of the county’s “Best Kept Secrets.”  Frontier Village is filled with buildings and artifacts from years past, many photos, mule-drawn farm implements and early hand tools, and a portable jail that housed county prisoners working on roads before 1920.  The property houses many historical homes such as the Nettie Bass House, which is probably the most historic in the county and the first house in the county to have glass windows. Frontier Village is located just inside the entrance of Loy Lake Park at U.S. Highway 75 and Loy Lake Road in Denison.
           
The T.V. Munson Memorial Vineyard tour meets on May 7. Established in 1974 through the generosity of the W.B. Munson Foundation in memory of T.V. Munson, the vineyard features more than 60 original varieties grown in the vineyard as well as other hybrid and vinifera grape varieties. Each fall, cuttings are collected and shipped to grape growers and breeders across the United States. Participants walk through the vineyard and learn all about Texoma’s rich history in the wine industry from Andrew Snyder, director and professor of viticulture and enology at Grayson College. The Munson Viticulture and Enology Center and Memorial Vineyard are located on GC’s West Campus Extension at the North Texas Regional Airport on State Highway 691.

A Book and a Movie
Participants enjoy fun and discussion with TEAM’s new book and movie club, which meets at 1 p.m. Books are provided to participants. Discussions are led by Lisa Hebert and Andrew Smith, GC librarians and cinema enthusiasts, and take place in Study Room 5 in the GC Library on the college’s Main Campus in Denison. Movies are shown in the CWL Auditorium, also on GC’s Main Campus in Denison.
         
 “Maltese Falcon” meets Feb. 5 and 19, and March 5. The book was written by Dashiell Hammett. Directed by John Huston, the film starred Humphrey Bogart. “The Maltese Falcon” movie (1941) is one of the most popular, classic detective mysteries ever made, and many film historians consider it the first in the dark film noir genre in Hollywood. It leaves the audience with a distinctly down-beat conclusion and bitter taste.  The novel was released in 1929, originally serialized in the magazine Black Mask beginning with the September 1929 issue. In 1998, the Modern Library ranked The Maltese Falcon 56th on its list of the 100 best English-language novels of the 20th century.
         
 “Into the Wild” meets March 26, and April 9 and 23. The book was written by Jon Krakauer. The movie was written and directed by Sean Penn and starred Emile Hirsch. Mesmerizing and heartbreaking, Into the Wild is a 1996 non-fiction book. It examines the life and death by starvation in Alaska of Christopher McCandless, expanding on Krakauer's 9,000-word article titled “Death of an Innocent” that appeared in the January 1993 issue of Outside. Penn adapted the book to film in 2007.

Just for Fun
“Cinderella Confidential” is presented by Grayson College’s Theatre Department in the Cruce Stark Auditorium in the Arts & Communication Center on GC’s Main Campus in Denison. Performances are Feb. 18-20 at 10 a.m. and Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.  The comedy is a modern re-telling of Cinderella. The prince has the shoe and he’s ready to marry, but cannot find the woman behind the foot. Two investigative reporters compete for the scoop of the century, interviewing everybody from a fairy godmother in desperate need of a day-planner to mice in the witness protection program. The two reporters must ask the right questions and follow the clues in order to solve the mystery of the century and break the story. Look for cameos from Pinocchio, Jack and his cow, and other celebrities in this no-holds-barred expose of the timeless love story and what it means to find, and tell, the truth.
         
  “Gluten and Sugar Free Baking” meets from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 2 in GC’s Culinary Arts Center, located on the college’s Main Campus in Denison. This baking class presents tried and true recipes for specialty baking.
           
“Healthy Cooking Techniques” meets May 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Culinary Arts Center, located on Grayson College’s Main Campus in Denison. Professor and executive chef Joanna Bryant explains the different cooking techniques that are the healthiest ways to cook proteins and vegetables, including proper grilling, poaching and baking.

GC theatre students receive Kennedy Center awards

Grayson College | January 11, 2015

Six Grayson College students were recognized by the Kennedy

Grayson College

Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF) for their performance and behind-the-scenes roles in the college’s recent production of “Art.” The festival attracts theater departments from community colleges and four-year institutions across Texas and the United States.

After presenting the show to appreciative audiences Nov. 21-23 in the Black Box Theatre on GC’s main campus, the cast and crew heard from two KCACTF respondents (judges/critics). Fabrice Conte of the University of Oklahoma and Pia Wyatt of Northwestern State University in Louisiana presented the awards and gave their critique following the final performance.

 “Our students learned a lot from these two theatre artists, and the GC Theatre Department appreciates their time and comments about the show,” said Robin Robinson, GC theatre director. “It was an educational event, which is part of the mission of the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.”

“Art” was nominated by the respondents to be considered to perform at the KCACTF Region 6 Competition at Angelo State University in San Angelo Feb. 23-28. However, the show will not advance because it was not selected by the regional committee.

 “No two-year programs were invited to perform this year, but it is a huge honor for Grayson to be considered alongside universities and other two-year programs,” Robinson said. “The respondents were very complimentary regarding our show.”

Three students were acknowledged with the prestigious Meritorious Achievement Award for their participation. Denison sophomore Dakkota Foster received the award in acting for his role as Marc. Sadler sophomore Chris Hendrik composed original music for the production and received the award for sound composition and design. Bryce Dansby, Denison freshman, received the award for lighting design. He created the look of the show, using lighting to differentiate the setting of three different apartments on one stage. The design students will compete as individuals at the festival’s next phase (the Region 6 competition) along with Denison freshman A.J. Johnston as stage manager.

“Representing an artist who has gone beyond the call of duty and achieved excellence, the Meritorious Achievement Award is frequently given to only one individual – occasionally, two – from a specific production,” Robinson said. “It is a tremendous honor to have three of our students acknowledged this way.”

Foster, Bonham sophomore Gabe Parker who played Serge, and Denison freshman Holden Webster who played Yvan were awarded the Irene Ryan Nomination for Excellence in Acting. They will compete with acting partners during the Region 6 competition as well.

Grayson College student wins Coca-Cola scholarship

Grayson College sophomore Elizabeth Taylor received a $1,000 scholarship

Elizabeth Taylor

from Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as a 2014 Coca-Cola Leader of Promise Scholar. She is one of 207 Phi Theta Kappa members to receive the honor.

Chosen from more than 900 applications worldwide, the scholars receive scholarships of $1,000 each to further their associate degree studies. Independent judges evaluate the applications based on scholastic achievement, community service and leadership potential.
 
The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program provides new Phi Theta Kappa members with financial resources to help defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are also encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Phi Theta Kappa programs.
       
 “I am extremely grateful for this wonderful gift,” Taylor said. “Because my financial burden has been reduced by this scholarship, I am able to participate in leadership roles and service projects as well as maintain a 4.0 GPA.”
         
Taylor of Denison, formerly of Whitesboro, is a nursing major at Grayson and participates in Grayson College’s Honors College. She serves as vice president of special projects for GC’s Omicron Psi Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa and is a member of the Grayson Student Association. She also traveled to Washington, D.C., this semester as a member of Grayson College’s delegation to the National Model United Nations Conference.
         
Taylor is using the scholarship to help pay her tuition and books for the spring semester. Upon graduating Grayson College, she plans to transfer to a four-year university to pursue both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing, specializing in oncology.
       
 “These funds not only aid college completion, but provide students with the opportunity to engage in society programs and develop leadership skills to become future leaders in Phi Theta Kappa.  The funds are an investment in our students,Phi Theta Kappa, and the colleges and communities we serve,” said Dr. Rod Risley, executive director and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “Without a doubt, the Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise program will make a tremendous impact on the lives of hard-working, high-achieving students like Elizabeth Taylor – making it possible for them to complete their associate degrees.”
         
 J. Mark Davis, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, agrees. “The foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges, and we are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students like Elizabeth to achieve their educational goals,” he said.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society is the largest honor society in higher education with 1,285 chapters on college campuses in all 50 of the United States, plus Canada, Germany, the Republic of Palau, Peru, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the British Virgin Islands, the United Arab Emirates and U.S. territorial possessions. Nearly 3 million students have been inducted since its founding in 1918, with approximately 132,000 students inducted annually.

Grayson College holds Commencement on Friday

Grayson College is preparing to award 353 degrees and certificates in its

Winter Commencement ceremony Friday, Dec. 12. The ceremony will start at 10:00 a.m. in Cruce Stark Auditorium at the college’s Denison campus.

                Students receiving Associate of Applied Science degrees (except Associate Degree Nursing), Associate of Science degrees, Associate of Arts Teaching degrees and Certificates of Completion will participate in the 10:00 a.m. ceremony. Associate Degree Nursing students will graduate and complete their pinning ceremony that evening at 7:00 p.m.

                The College is continuing its tradition of inviting a former student to deliver the keynote address. This year’s keynote speaker is a locally familiar and respected public servant, Richey Rivers. Rivers is the Auditor for Grayson County, a post he’s held for more than 20 years.  Rivers began his higher education career at Grayson College before transferring to Baylor University to earn a bachelor’s degree. While at GC, Rivers was active in Phi Theta Kappa, the college’s honor fraternity.

 

                Music for family seating, processional and adjournment for the 51st commencement ceremony will be provided by Kristin Alexander. Norma Gomez, accompanied by Alexander, will perform the National Anthem. The invocation and benediction will be presented by Bernie Gallagher, director of the Baptist Student Ministry at GC.

                GC President Jeremy McMillen will present opening remarks and introduce the Board of Trustees before Vice President of Student Services Regina Organ certifies the degrees. McMillen and the Board of Trustees will confer the degrees. McMillen will also recognize the outstanding contributions of retiring administrator, Donna Byrum who retired after serving since 2006 in the College’s Adult Basic Education program. Vice President for Information Technology Gary Paikowski will present the graduates as they walk across the stage to receive their diploma.

                Grayson awards degrees in Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts in Teaching (AAT) and Certificates of Completion (CERT). Students with exceptional grade point averages are noted for their distinction. Those with 3.70-3.84 graduate with cum laude (C ) , gpa of 3.85-3.99 as magna cum laude (M) and 4.0 as summa cum laude (S). Students earning certificates of completion with A’s in all certificate classes are listed with ‘honors’ (H). Students completing the requirements of the Honors College program are designated with (HC).

                Candidates for graduation, listed by hometowns, for 2014 include:

Allen, TX: Sheneta Smith Coleman (CERT), Amanda Rian Hamilton (AAS), Noell 

Yvonne Hanby

 (AAS), Oscar Manuel Martinez (CERT), Stacey Bernell Smith (AS)

Anna, TX: Mark David Murray (CERT), Elizabeth Irene Rolbiecki (AAT)

Argyle, TX: Rachel Diane Sutton (AS)

Bells, TX: Suzanne Rich Broussard (AAS-S), Dorene Marie Jette (AAS), Chase 

Chandler Perkins (CERT), Misty Dawn Smith (2 AS), Breann Bailey Wilburn (CERT)

Bokchito, OK: Haily Christina Cross (CERT)

Bonham, TX: Cody Del Austin (AS), Jerred Wayne Brown (AAS, 2 CERT), Buddy 

Charles Hanson (CERT-H), Christopher Lynn Healy (CERT), Heather Lea Sears 

(AAS-C), Natasha Faith Simons (AS), Bryant Eugene Smith (CERT), Melodie Marie Sullivan (AAS)

Calera, OK: James Henry St. Clair (CERT), Brandon Dean Tolley (CERT-H, 2 CERT)

Celina, TX: Belinda Calderon (CERT), Luke Bryant Cudnik (CERT), John Phillip Maternowski

 (CERT),

Collinsville, TX: Beth Suzanne Harville (AS), James Richard Underwood (AAS)

Commerce, TX: Bethany Dianna Gidney (AAS)

Corpus Christi, TX: Francisco Trey Rodriguez (AS)

Dallas, TX: Tony Vasquez Jr (CERT-H), Andrew Reuben Wortrich (AAS)

Denison, TX: Christopher Michael Bain (AAS, 2 CERT), Kayla Nicole Baker (AS), 

Hunter Reed Ball (AS), Rodney Waide Barber (AS), Crystal Nicole Beltran (AS),
Jessica Dawn Boaen (AS), Paige Nicole Braxton (AS), Norma Jean Brown (CERT),
Teresa Anne Bruno (AS), Kristina Michelle Burns (CERT), Monica Fanny Chavarri
Pereyra (AAS-S), Christian Sabrina Chilton (AAS, 2 CERT), Chasity Lynne Davis
(AS), Michael Wayne Dunn (AAS), Andrew Todd Dutton (CERT-H), Ryan James
Greenwood (AAS), Seth Shallus Greenwood (AAS), Kirsten Ragnhild Haraldsen
(AS), Christine Dianne Harding (AAS), LaDonna Rae Kimsey (AAT), Gwydion
Drew Laubach (AS), Christian Cheyenne Lawrence (AAS, 2 CERT), Bridgit
Marian-Nicole Le (2 AAS, 2 CERT), Amanda Dene Leasure (AAT, AS), Phillip
Douglas Lefas (AAS), Travis Kyle Looney (CERT-H), Alysha Chantel Lora (2 AS),
Angelica Solana Luna (AAT), Rogelio Marrufo (AS), Tracy Lynn Matheny (AAS),
Heather Ann Mayorga Vazquez (CERT), Katrina Kay McIntire (AS), Keith Alan
Milks (CERT-H), Brittney Danielle Mitchell (AAS), Devin Scott Morris (AAS),
Patty S Moss (AAS-C, CERT-H, CERT), Tammra Kay Motley (AAS, 3 CERT),
Blake Ellis Murphree (CERT), Kayla Delayne Mygrant (AAS), Brenton Alan
Neasbitt (AAT), Shanda Diane Palmer (AS), Kirby Diane Pratt (CERT), Henry
Grady Presley (AAS), Carmesha Dane Ransom (AS), Dakota Carol Reese (AAS), 

Brandon Paul Rice (AS), Jeremiah Lamont Rivers (CERT), Austin Tyler Ross
(CERT-H), Deanna Danine Ross (AAT), Gregory Robert Schultz (CERT-H),
Rachel Paulette Shroeder (AAS), Dillon Sloane Smathers (AAS), Richard Thomas
Stowers (AS), Shawn David Tomlinson (CERT), Debbie Lynn Underwood (AAS),
Dianne Sue Walker (AAS), Marty Harrill White (AAS), Katy Ann Wright (AAS)

Dorchester, TX: Candace Hope Haggard (AAS)

Durant, OK: Brandon Colter Bates (AS), Phillip Courtney Hales (CERT), Crystal
Gail Harwell (AS), Nathan Thomas Hendrickson (CERT), Maria Aquinaldo Igay
(AAS), Lindsay Allyn Lansinger (AAS-S), Whitney Nicole Phillips (AS), Elizabeth
Ashley Stafford (AAS)

Ector, TX: Gerald Dylan Anglin (CERT),

Farmersville, TX: Tonya Shawn Ann Harris (CERT), John Dylan Hayes (AAT)

Frisco, TX: Jennifer Thanh Doan-Pham (AAS), Joanna Lynett Sanchez (AAS),
Denise Marie Schlossin (AAS-C), Julia Shomakhiya (AAS)

Garland, TX: Lindsay Hoefer Martin (AAS)

Gunter, TX: Jacob Matthew Dunning (AAS), Melissa Jeanette Frank (AS), Jesus
Arnulfo Fuentes (CERT), Jacinda Leigh-Anne Hinkley (AAS), Zackary Kyle
Shaver (CERT-H),

Houston, TX: Nicholas Patrick Ellis (AS)

Howe, TX: Abby Kirsten Allison (CERT-H), Michael Craig Bryant (CERT), Kristy 

Diane Bustos Kerley (AS-M), Reba Gayle Conner (AAS), Danielle Marie Farrell
(CERT), Jacob Ryan Grant (CERT), Dalton Scott Harris (AAS), Cody Joe King
(AAS), Collin Ryan Lankford (AS), Sara Elizabeth Lopez (AAT-C ), Brandon Lee
Lewis Ozuna (CERT-H), Jeffrey Ryan Peace (CERT-H), Christine Annette
Sandmann (AS), Eduardo Andre Webber Jr (CERT)

Leonard, TX: Dylan Ray Blackburn (AAS), Leah Katherine Shulze (CERT)

Little Elm, TX: Adriana Salamanca Butler (AAS), Alexandra Bianca Smith (AS)

McKinney, TX: Gregory Maurice Ross Brown (AS), Ian Gregory Carter
(AAS, 3 CERT), Ashley Michelle Fletcher (AAS), Cynthia Yesenia Frias (AAS-M),
William Charles Johnson (CERT), Edward Mwangi Maina (AAS), Whitney Marie
Martin (AAS), Leslie Diane Severn (CERT), Kimberly Faith Stone (AAS), Johnathan
Steven Warner (AAS)

Melissa, TX: Emily Michelle Berghauser (AAT), Michael Andrew Mosier (AAS)

Missouri City, TX: Ezindu Ukegbu (AAS)

Nevada, TX: Jamie Elizabeth Dick (AAS)

Paris, TX: Carneshia Renea Gray (CERT-H)

Pilot Point Jacob Daniel Frost (AAS)

Plano, TX: Oretha Marie Mennsfield (AS), Paige Ann Paladino (AAS), Susan A Seelie
(AAS), Anne Le Tran (AAS)

Pottsboro, TX: Abbi Christine Bergman (AAS), Abigail Alyse Clark (AAS), Kent
Richard Combs (CERT-H, CERT), Luke Lee Fairbrother (AS), Jarred Allen Hargrove
(CERT-H), David Allen Harman (AAS-S, 3 CERT-H), Jay Samuel Hennen (AS),
Steven Ray Hill (CERT), Jordan Danielle Moore (AS), Rachel Joyce Moore (AAT),
Tammy Lynn Price (AAS, 2 CERT), Timothy Joel Thomas (CERT-H)

Quanah, TX: James Taylor Finnerty (AAS, CERT),

Sadler, TX: Alexandra Kaye Boren (AS), Erica Dawn Lanham (AAS, 2 CERT),

Savoy, TX: Chad Everette Hickerson (AAS-C, CERT-H, 2 CERT), Stephanie Michelle
 Reed (AAT)

Sherman, TX: Sheila Rene'e Abbott (AS), Robert Andrew Adams (AS), Elizabeth
Diane Allen (AAS), Steven Jay Allen (CERT-H), Nicki Lynnette Anderson (2 AS),
Kelsey Marie Armstrong (AAS), Amanda Renee Ball (AAS, 2 CERT), Kyle Luther
Barclay (AS), Macy Leigh Bell (AAS), Hector Alexander Beltran (AS), Brittney Lee
Benge (AAS), Phyllis Kay Ashley Billmeier (CERT), Gerard Henry Bowers (4 AAS),
Ashley Elaine Campbell (AAS), Angela Elaine Capt (AAS), Tyler Austin Carroll
(CERT-H), Brandy Lynn Clark (AS), Gary Shane Crawford (2 CERT), Erin Michelle
Crichton (AAS-C), Charles Barrett Crocker (AAS-M), Kambria Nicole Dansby (AS),
Heather Nicole Drinnon (AAT), Rosalie Ann Dunn (AAT), Christopher Brian Ehrlish
(AAS), Ellyn Lynae Fairchild (AS), Christi Renea Fisher (AAS), Emily Dianne Flanders
(AS), John Anthony Flores (CERT), Shellie Deann Gaskins (CERT), Tina Mae Gutierrez
(AAS), Taylor Anthony Hansard (AAS), Douglas Edward Hansen (AAS), Benedict
Joseph Harrahill (AAS), Erica Danielle Hayden (AAT), Micah Stephen Hayes (AAS),
Leah Noreen Helmick (AAS), Cassondra Brooke Hicks (AAS-C), Anthony Jerome
Holland (CERT), John Marshall Holloway (CERT-H), Shannon Rene Howard (AS),
Cody Lee Hunter III (CERT), Aaron Dwain Ivy (AS), Tyler Brooks Jacobs (AAS),
James Cardwell Johnson (CERT), Corey Lee Jones (AS), Alxa Dawn Kane-Rolen (AS),
Diwas Karki (AS), Deborah Ann Lansinger (CERT-H), Sireyda Valdez Lara (AS),
Kimberley Michelle Lay (AS), Taylor Elizabeth Lowery (AS), Gokul Maniventhan
(AS), Veronica Mata (AAS), Amber Leigh McConkey (AS), Meghan Elissa McGovern
(AAS), Carrie Lynn McKee (AAS), Sydney Michelle Millhollon (AAS),Destani
Michelle Mohrmann (CERT), Andrea Marie Moog (AS), Honore Fon Ndoh (AAS), 

Kelly Christine Norman (AAS, 2 CERT), Jordan Nze Mba (AS), Robert Gene Olson
(AAS, 3 CERT), Cody Garrett Ottmo (AS), Edward Darnell Owens (CERT), Xin Patin
(AAS), Beatriz Patino (AS), Sarah Rebecca Pearson (AS), Lisa Marie Perales (AAS-C),
Cicilia Elaine Prado (AAS), Claudia Prado (AAT), Kharissa Ryan Rallis (AS), James
Alton Rhoton (AAS), Shane William Rodriguez (CERT), Shannon Danette Roper

 (AS-M), Magdalena Rudovica (AAS), Christopher Claud Sakowski (AAS, CERT-H,
2 CERT), William Braden Schramm (AAS), Whitney Nicole Schultz (CERT-H),
LaJuana Ruth Scruggs (AAS, 2 CERT), Justin Deen Slagle (CERT-H), Jody Leigh
Smitherman (AAS), Robert Kyle Stephenson (AAS), Linda Sue Stewart (AS),
Rebekkah Lee Sutherland (CERT), Lynsie Selena Trevino (AAS), Richard 

Todd Tucker (AAS, CERT-H, 2 CERT), Stephanie Ann Tumlinson (AAS), Demi Jo
Ussery (AAS), Amber Rachelle Webb (AS), Clayton Michael Wilder (AAS), Rachel
Elizabeth Willingham (AAS), 

Terry Joe Woods (2 CERT-H), Brandon Eric Yowell (AAS)

Southmayd, TX: Amanda Carol Green (2 AS)

Telephone, TX: Brian Keith Haywood (CERT),

Thackerville, OK: Aaron Seth Brandle (CERT),

The Colony, TX: Jennifer Chon Hirsch (AAS), Heather Lynn Hoffman (AAS)

Tioga, TX: Sergio Aguirre (AAS, CERT-H, 2 CERT),

Tom Bean, TX: Everardo Falcon (AAS), Samantha Lee Ramsey (CERT), Halona
Nancy Todd (AAS)

Van Alstyne, TX: Lindsey Nicole McLain (AS-M), Erin Mackenzie Smith (AAS),
Denisa Marie Stewart (AS-C), Allyson Nicole Weber (AS), Janna Beth Whitley (AAS)

Whitesboro, TX: Dakota Jay Denton (AS), Michaella Belle Eldredge (2 AAT),
Ashley Renee Foxall (AAS), Victor Andre Howard II (AAS), Christine Ann McMath
(AS), William Cody Stayton (AS)

Whitewright, TX: Kevin James Hartwell (2 AS-M), Austin James Langford (CERT),
Paul David Lashley (AAS), Katherine Marrouche (AS), Margaret Rebecca Roberts (AAS),
Christina Desiree Thompson (AS-S), Taelor Brooke Williams (AS)

New Strategic Plan for Regional Wine and Craft Beverage Industry

Grayson College | December 5, 2014

A new strategic plan to unite local businesses and foster growth within the developing industry of craft beverages was revealed today at Grayson College.  Grayson College President Jeremy McMillen, along with Sherman Mayor Cary Wacker, former Denison Mayor Robert Brady and Denison Development Alliance President Tony Kaai announced the details of an initiative that will make the Texoma region renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as the ancillary industries that support viticulture and fermentation.

“Professionals in our region have a wealth of experience in many of these unique industries, and this new coordinated effort will propel our area into the forefront of this emerging field,” said McMillen. Outstanding partnerships involving Grayson College, the cities of the Texoma region, local industries, supporting institutions of higher education, Cognac, France, and an active and vital Cooperative will unite the existing regional wine, beer, and distilled spirits businesses, and pave the way for new businesses to open.

The planning process began last spring when representatives of the College and the cities of Denison and Sherman, engaged the Planning & Development Department of the Texoma Council of Governments (TCOG) to facilitate the process. The group gathered ideas from stakeholders including College officials, local municipality and economic development representatives, and owners of the Texoma region’s vineyards, wineries, and the new brewery and distillery operators. Over several months of discussion, the group produced a bold vision statement for the region.
         
The vision statement states that “the Texoma region will be world-renowned for its excellence in wine, brewing and distillation, as well as ancillary industries in viticulture and fermentation.” These unique operations make up the craft beverage industry, and Grayson College will build upon its international reputation to become known as “The Texas Center of Excellence for Viticulture & Fermentation Sciences,” which will include the existing T.V. Munson Research Vineyard and proposed new Winery. Further, the Texoma Appellation will be the most productive in Texas, and the many vineyards and wineries, agricultural producers supporting the industries, breweries and distilleries will play a significant role in making the Texoma region a major destination in Texas tourism.
The Strategic Plan to achieve this vision includes specific action items and success metrics for year one and several goals for years two through five, and then longer-term goals to be achieved within ten years.  The first action item, hiring a new director for the viticulture/enology program, has already been completed. Andrew Snyder took the reins of the program this semester. He is a graduate of GC’s Viticulture and Enology program and the wine executive program at the University of California-Davis, and earned a bachelor degree in international business from Schiller International University in Heidelberg, Germany. He also earned three master’s degrees in adult education, communication and human relations, all from the University of Oklahoma. His expertise includes more than 10 years on the cultivation of grapes and winemaking, and eight years of teaching experience.

“Grayson College has a rich history of educating Texas’ grape growers and wine makers.  To have a part in the expansion of our mission to include other craft beverages while attracting tourists to the very area that T. V. Munson planted his vineyards is both exciting and rewarding.  Mr. Munson grafted grapevines; we hope to graft together these craft beverage industries to promote responsible consumption and enjoyment for our consumers.”

Other ambitious goals include the creation of a craft beverage cooperative, a partnership between Austin College and Grayson College to take the Munson Research Vineyard and proposed Winery to a new level, a marketing program and several tourism initiatives, including an interactive regional craft beverage map created by the TCOG GIS program. Also, a summer conference is planned to be held at the Hilton Inn Conference Center.

More information about the Texoma Craft Beverage project can be found on a newly-unveiled website, www.texomacraftbeverage.com, where visitors can also take a virtual tour of wineries, breweries and distilleries in the Texoma area through an interactive map developed by the GIS & Planning program at TCOG.

Master Gardners to host Garden Show in Denison

By Grayson County Master Gardeners | Sept 19, 2014 } Denison, Texas

Grayson County Master Gardeners and the Grayson County

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office announces they will be hosting the first annual Fall Garden Show on Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, October 19. The indoor event will be held at the Loy Park Mayor Arena at U.S. 75 Exit 67 in Denison, Texas.

A $2.00 per adult donation supports local charities Meals On Wheels of Texoma and the Grayson County Shelter.

We are inviting the public to browse through gardening related displays and attend informative presentations. We're very excited to have Texas gardening and horticulture expert NeilSperry share his timely expert advice on fall gardening tips.

The entire family will enjoy hands on activities for children of all ages. Show hours will be Saturday, October 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, October 19 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

A New High School, a New Stadium, New Traditions

Denison Texas | August 27, 2014
By B.J. Kirkpatrick

It's great to be a Denison Yellow Jacket!

On Friday, August 29th, Denison will hold ribbon cuttings and Dedication for the new and highly anticipated High School and renovated Munson Stadium.

The High School Dedication is scheduled for 8:30 am and the Stadium Dedication is scheduled for 10 am.  The High School will be open to the public for tours from 8:30 am - 5:30 pm on Friday as teachers and staff prepare for classes to begin on September 3rd.

The festivities will continue later in the afternoon as the first Yellow Jacket Tailgating party kicks off the 2014 football season for the Jacktes.   The public is invited to help welcome the team to the new stadium and join in celebrating the beginning of a new tradition which will be held before each home game in 2014 at Forest Park, 300 W. Crawford at 5:30 pm. The Jacket team will arrive at 6 pm for their walk down Touchdown Alley into the Stadium, followed by the DHS Band, Stingeretttes and cheerleaders.  You will not want to miss this!

Radio station KMKT 93.1 "Katy Country" will broadcast  the Tailgating Party live and rumor has it there will be interviews with the coaches.  Along with  a most Spirited Fan contest, games and activities are planned and Food & Drink vendors will be on site.  The Booster Club will have yellowjacket gear for sale.

The Jackets will face off against Liberty (Frisco) at 7:30 pm.  The six million dollar project, funded with district and community dollars, got underway after last year's season ended.  Crews from Plyler Construction Company will continue to do small touch-ups, like placing the engraved bricks around the fountain after Friday's opening and game.

Cyber Security Seminar for Small Business

Grayson College | August 18, 2014

Cyber Security is a growing concern in the world today.  As a service

to the community, Servpro®, Iron Lamb Group and the Grayson College Small Business Development Center (SBDC) are sponsoring a free seminar focusing on cyber security.  Seminar participants will be informed about risks and how to be better prepared to avoid or manage a security breach. The program is free of charge and lunch will be provided for registered attendees.

Detective Jeremy Cox with the Sherman Police Department will be the speaker.  Detective Cox has 19 years of law enforcement experience.  He has handled the investigation of identity theft and forgery in the past, and currently handles the investigation of online exploitation and other computer related offenses.

The event will be held on August 27 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the T.V. Munson Viticulture and Enology Center.  The Munson Center is located on the Grayson College West Extension, near the entrance of the North Texas Regional Airport.

For additional information please contact the Grayson College Small Business Development Center at
903-463-8787

Snow White Ballet

Sherman Texas --
North Texas audiences have fallen in love with this annual presentation of Snow White Ballet and Darli and Anton Iakovlev, from the Connecticut Ballet, will bring this timeless and charming ballet to life June 6 at Kidd-Key Auditorium in Sherman.

Darli began her training at European Dance Studio with her Mother Ilona Nogarr, continued with GSA, Washington Ballet School, Tallinn Ballet School and graduated from North Carolina School for the Arts. She also graduated from Tallinn University with bachelor's in dance and choreography. She has danced with Vanemuine Ballet (Tartu, Estonia), Estonian National Ballet, Washington Ballet, New York Theatre Ballet, Albany Berkshire Ballet,  Akjun Ballet, Montgomery Ballet, Oklahoma City Ballet and Maryland Ballet.

Anton trained at the Russian Ballet Academy from 1992-2000,earning bachelor of the arts while at the Academy. Anton has danced at the St. Petersburg Ballet, Russia, The Vanemuine Ballet (Tartu, Estonia), New York Theatre Ballet, Albany Berkshire Ballet, Akjun Ballet, Montgomery Ballet and Oklahoma City Ballet.

Recently they have both been dancing with Connecticut Ballet.

Denison Dance Academy's presentation of Snow White Ballet will be 7:00 p.m. Friday, June 6 at Kidd-Key Auditorium, located at 400 Elm Street in Sherman.

For more information, please call Denison Dance Academy at 903-337-0196.  The Texoma area is exploding this summer with Summer Music Concerts, Shakespeare in the Grove, the Oklahoma Shakespeare Festival, "Chicago" - the Musical and of course the July 4th celebrations.  Don't miss any of the fun, find it all on the Events Calendar on http://www.texomaconnect.com.