After a little more snooping online, I found out that the Kyle, Texas water tower has been saved and restored.  I’m not sure who paid for it, but it has happened. 

Maybe the National Trust for Historic Preservation could be an avenue of funding for the City of Bonham or a grassroots organization formed in order to preserve the old Bonham water tower?

Cindy Bankston (Glaser) – BHS Class of 1979

My entire family, wife Kim (BISD employee), sons Trey (12th grade) and Jacob (10th grade), and parents Larry and Judy (Bonham residents) all wholeheartedly support the effort to paint a warrior head on the new Bonham water tower.

Please let me know what assistance we can be in pushing this issue forward.

David Wheeler

We've had a couple of emails regarding concern that the new water tower will not have the Warrior logo representing Bonham Warriors.  We wanted to show our support that this be done.  Yes, it would cost a little, but if we're spending such a large sum on a new courthouse, surely our city can come up with the money for a Warrior logo to be painted on the tower.    You know there may be people who would even consider making donations if money is the issue.

Hope to see the Warrior logo painted on the new tower to show that fighting purple Warrior pride.

Dean & Lynnette Lackey

I think that a warrior head is definitely what needs to be put on the new water tower. The old water tower with a warrior head on it is old and dilapidated. Anyone passing by can barely see what it is. I think putting a warrior head on the tower would bring a sense of pride to the community, and show pride in our schools.

Katie Hitt

I lived in Bonham from 1971 – 1975 and had family there before and after. I attended L.H. Rather Jr. High and Bonham High School.

In my opinion, it would be a shame to drive through town again if the new water tower did not represent purple pride properly.

David Maddox

I just received an email from another Bonham graduate about the Warrior emblem on the new water tower.  I don't think there should be any question about putting that on the tower.  It shows who we are as people pull into Bonham; that we have pride in our schools.  Hope more people will write in and let their voice be heard.
 
Cheryl Simpson, '88 BHS grad

I believe that in small town America (especially in Texas) high school sports are synonymous with team spirit, excitement and sportsmanship.  Nothing shows town pride like the mascot.  It would be very disappointing NOT to see the Bonham Purple Warrior proudly displayed as you enter town.

I see no reason why, at the very least, the old water tower can’t be repainted and kept as an historic landmark.  I know that everything revolves around time and money, however, I’m sure that there are plenty of Bonhi exes that would be willing to donate both.

Karen (Dunlap) Brooks

Just a note asking that they either leave the old warrior logo on the old water tower or put it on the new one. WE NEED PURPLE PRIDE!

Angela Barnes

I would like to see the Purple Warrior displayed on both water towers in Bonham.

Karen Frazier

Please add our names to the list of people who think it is a shame to not show Warrior pride.  We want a Warrior logo painted on the water tower.
 
Eddie Hines
Marsha Hines
Chance Hines
Braxton Hines
Kelsey Hines
 
I think there should be a Warrior logo on the new water tower.
 
Daphne Paige Gammons
 
Yes, we need to keep the Warrior logo on the water tower.  Purple Pride all the way.
 
Debbie Walker
 
When you drive into a town, one of the first things you notice is the water tower with the name of the town and usually a logo of what they are.  There is so much traffic coming in from Hwy. 121 this would look so nice to have a Warrior logo on the water tower.  If you come from 121, 56, or 82 you will be able to see the new water tower and what a better way to show we have purple pride than to have our Warrior logo on the water tower. I know they say it will cost a lot of money, but the square looks so nice since they have put the corner lights up and all the flowers are so pretty we need Bonham to look nice so we need a purple and white water tower with the Bonham Warrior logo on it. Have some PURPLE PRIDE. I attended Bonham School my whole life and graduated from here!!
 
Ruthann McWhorter
 
I have been a part of Bonham for 26 years and I am proud to be Fighting Purple Warrior!! The last thing we need is to have that part of the Bonham tradition to be gone. That is one thing that gives me great pride in Bonham ISD and a wonderful tradition. I am so for the Warrior logo!!
 
Whitney Fox-Jones, Senior 2000
 
I am proud to say that I am a graduate of BHS.  Purple Pride was and should be a part of our community.  I think the Warrior logo needs to be on the water tower.  When you drive through other communities they usually always have their mascot on their towers.  I noticed since moving my daughter to Bonham four years ago that our Purple Pride has been deteriorating.  I can remember when it did not matter if we were winning or losing, the bleachers would be full at football games and other sporting activities.  We do not need to lose that for our kids' sakes.  They are proud of who they are and give their all.  We should be proud enough to display the Warrior on our tower. 
 
Kim Stephens
 
We need the tower to reflect respect and encouragement for the local school kids.  Hope this works!!!!
 
Daniel Archer
 
I am writing to express my support for having a WARRIOR logo painted on the new water tower.
 
John Ed Shinpaugh, 74'
 
I would like to see something to indicate our mascot--either the Warrior logo or the words "Home of the Bonham Warriors."
 
Donna Rich
 
I would like to see a Warrior Head on the new water tower that is being put up to replace the old one.  We need to have pride in our town.
 
Leslie Bowser

I personally grew up in Bonham, Texas and have a son at BHS and another coming up.  Back when I was in school, the Bonham Warriors was such a big deal as it should be.  Now, it seems like this town wants to become this quiet little retirement place and the Bonham Warrior logo has faded into the past.  I think that it is sad and very boring to put “City of Bonham” on the water tower and when I travel through a town that has the school logo on it I think how nice and supportive this town must be of its youth.  I would love to see any sign that shows that Purple Pride rules in this town and that we support and think enough of our high school youth to place it on the water tower and make them proud of their home town and “The Fighting Purple Warriors.”

Tammie Curry

My entire family and I strongly support having the new water tower painted purple and white with a Warrior logo on it.  Since that is the first thing that visitors to our town see when coming into Bonham, it should represent our school mascot.

Tami Collins

I am writing to you in regards to the new water tower not having the Warrior Head on it. I feel if we remove yet another symbol of our school then more school pride will be lost. Every town we travel to has their school emblem as you enter their city. The location of this new water tower is perfect as people enter the city to see our Warrior Pride. No one cares about a Bonham City Logo. The sign at the edge of the road displays where they are and can welcome people to Bonham.
 
Donna Caylor, Class of 1978

I am asking that you please put a warrior head on the new water tower.  I feel this is important to show our pride in our schools and show that the community supports our school system and children.

Sharlena Hamby

I did not graduate or attend Bonhi, but have been teaching 42 years in Bonham.  I feel the Warrior logo is a symbol that generates dreams and ideals; even sets up values.  As Paul Tillich said, " Symbolic language alone is able to express the ultimate."  Please express to the "powers that be" that a Warrior symbol is important to this generation and those that follow.  we must never forget who WE are.  Go Warriors!
 
Glenda Meador
 
I just heard about the thought of not having a Warrior logo on the new water tower and taking the old one off as well.  That just can't happen!!  I feel that the community needs to support our schools and students by putting a Warrior logo on the new water tower.  Many visiting teams will see that water tower when entering "Warrior territory" and see the purple pride that our community shows. 
 
Patsy Richardson, Class of 1983
 
I was told the Bonham Warrior emblem will not be painted on the new water tower.  I think it would be shameful for our city government to not include our school emblem on the water tower.   I hope you get more comments on this topic.
 
Carolyn Lawrence

I would like to see the Warrior painted on the water tower.
 
Mike Vaught

I am a 1981 graduate of BHS and a proud ex-Warrior! Please paint the Warrior logo on the new water tower.
 
Van Smith

I am a graduate and former cheerleader of Bonham High School and have recently learned that the water tower is being replaced with a new one.  When I heard this, my first reaction was, “This is great.”  But then to further hear that the mascot would not be a part of the new water tower was disappointing to me.  I know that I am not a resident of Bonham at this time.  But when I come home and bring individuals to visit my hometown that is one of the things that I always like showing off.  It's a part of our town, of our schools, of us.  I don't know if this letter will help change anyone's decision, but I would ask that the council would please take this into serious consideration.  It's not JUST a picture on a water tower to us!
 
Thank you in advance for your time and efforts.
 
Delia Dunlap, Class of 82' 

Please, please, please do whatever you have to do to insure the Warrior logo is on the new water tower! It just will not be the same without it. It has been a tradition in Bonham for as long as I can remember.  Please see to it that Bonham's tradition is carried on for the next several generations. It would truly mean a lot to so many people who live in and have graduated from Bonham.

Kathy Janeway Norton

I can't believe the city would want a tower without the Warrior head on it.  I thought that was part of football in the south.  Everyone is proud of their team, and so should Bonham.  Have a fundraiser, if it is the cost (which I am sure it is). 

Patsy Atnip Shelton, Class of '61

Being a Bonham alumni and considering the condition of Bonham schools now we should do all we can to increase the pride in this town. Please make adjustments to allow the warrior.

Phillip Gantt

Glad to hear other people want something to do with the Warrior Head or Purple Pride on the water tower. Hopefully you can get this across to whom ever it needs to get across to. 
 
Todd and Dawn Hubbard

I understand that there is a need for a show of support for either keeping the Warrior logo on the old water tower or adding to the new water tower. Actually, not sure why it can't be in both places! I no longer live in Bonham but that Warrior has been "keeping an eye" on downtown for as long as I can remember. I always look at it when driving through. The Warrior symbolizes the "Purple Warriors" and reflects the pride at BISD and throughout the community. I hope that you get the support needed to keep the Warrior's presence and visibility alive. Thanks!
 
Jean Kay Cole, BHS Class of 1982

Please leave the Warrior on the old water tower or at least have on the new one!

Stephanie Nichols

I would like to see a Warrior on the new water tower. I know it will be very expensive so let me know if we need to start raising money.

Ronnie Hill

Please KEEP the BONHAM LOGO ON the Water Tower!!!!!   Or at least the WARRIOR LOGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jennifer Cagle

I cannot believe that we even considered not placing a Warrior on the new water tower.  Practically every community you drive through that is large enough to have a water tower has the name and emblem of their school on at least one water tower.  Usually the one that sits nearest the main highway or street into the city.  With our school history and proud traditions in this community, I cannot imagine not replacing the Warrior icon that will be removed when the old tower is taken down. 

I have lived here all my life and have been involved with activities surrounding the school and community throughout my life.  One of my most vivid memories was of a homecoming celebration when I was about 5-6 years old.  I was a cheerleader mascot and it was homecoming.  At that time, homecoming was a much bigger celebration that it is now.  There were class floats and the homecoming nominees rode around the track in beautiful cars or floats.  I was going to get to ride around the track with Chief Warham!!  I remember that as I approached him as he was standing beside the car and he looked so BIG!  I was a little frightened and very awestruck by how powerful and strong he looked.  Once I was beside him, I felt very safe and important too!  This memory is the most outstanding one I have until I became a Purple Warrior myself.  Then later, my pride swelled again as my daughters have graduated from BHS and were very involved in the girls athletic programs.  I currently have a son who also is a Fighting Purple Warrior!  Our Warrior is not just a mascot; he is the icon that represents the community.  Strong, proud, defender and protector.  A leader with good character and honesty.  Someone we should all strive to be like.  What a wonderful message to give to those who pass through our beautiful town! 

I understand that there may be budgeting concerns with this new tower.   I also have been told that the tower by the airfield is scheduled to be painted.  If this is true then why not budget the funds necessary for placing the Warrior icon on this tower if there is no funding to place it on the new tower?  If the North area of Bonham continues to grow along Hwy 82 as projected, this tower may be viewed by more people, anyway. 

It should definitely be placed on one or the other.  I hope it's not too late... 

Kelli Bowen

I am in support of the Warrior being on the water tower.  It just would not be the same without it. After all, it is on the way to the high school and what better way to show our support for all the activities that go on out there.

Sheila Byrd Loftin, Class of 1979

Please keep the Warrior logo on the water tower - either the old one or the new one.  It's very sentimental to all of us Bonhi grads!!!!

Kimberly McDonald

I would like to see a Warrior logo painted on the tower.

Susan Colley

Just a note to add my voice to those who are hoping to have the Warrior emblem on the new water tower that is being built. Hope you can help us achieve that.  I understand that the old one will be taken down and that there are no plans to add the purple pride to the new one.  Thanks for being our voice.

Carol Terry

I am writing in response to the water tower. I understand they are not going to paint the Warrior logo on the tower. The Warrior is our school/town symbol. It needs to have the Warrior logo on it.

Karen McCommas, Bonhi Ex

Yes, We need the Warrior logo, especially in that location!

Joe Clark

I am a Bonhi graduate (Class of '79), and I support the move to show our Purple Pride by painting a Warrior Head on the new water tower.  Many of us feel that if funds cannot be budgeted for this, then we need to do a fundraiser for the project.

Kim (Thomas) Kennedy 

I feel like the Warrior Head needs to be painted on the new water tower.  We are proud to be Bonham Warriors and it needs to be seen.

Lori Flowers

I would like to see a Warrior on the new water tower.  That has become a tradition for the Bonham Warriors.
 
Marc Clayton, Class of 1968

I think the Warrior logo needs to be painted on the water tower.

Mary Lou Fox

Just a note to let you know that I, along with a lot of other Bonhi Exes, support having Bonham's Warrior logo painted on the new tower.  I can't imagine our small town without the school symbol being on the new tower.  It's the Spirit of Bonham!

Barbara Cox

We need the Warrior head put on the new water tower.  This has been a tradition in Bonham since before I can remember!!  Without it, we will lose a little bit of our identity at a time when our beloved Warriors need the most encouragement.

Jason Fox

We do need Purple Pride placed on Bonham's new water tower by the armory. I am in support of this request.

D. Morris

I think the Warrior belongs on the new tower!  I always liked looking at that downtown tower with the big Indian head.  Before the new tower starting looking like a water tower, many asked "What is that they're doing there?"  Nobody that I know of announced, much less did they ask about the tower.

 

Gloria Walker '70

 

I would like to endorse putting the Warrior on the new water tower in Bonham.  The Warrior emblem is what Bonham is all about.

 

Jim Bono

$10,000 seems a little steep for a " Purple Warrior logo." But I sure would like to see it on the new water tower. I don't know how long it was on the others, but as long as I can remember. ??????    And who is the artist???? I bet it could be done for a lot less..... Whatever I can do, let me know.... 

Judy Phillips, Class of '73 

What's a Bonham water tower without the Warrior? I support leaving the old water tower up to preserve the historical value of the square. I would be so sad if they took it down. That is one of my earliest memories of Bonham.

Susan (Flowers) Toland, BHS Class of 81

 

I strongly endorse either the Bonham Warrior logo or the words "Bonham- Home of the Fighting Purple Warriors" to be painted on the new water tower.   Either of these advertises unified community pride & support for the school system and our youth to any visitors that may be passing through town.  Painting a very generic "City of Bonham" is the equivalent of declaring, "We really like vanilla!!"  I feel that the city limit signs adequately disclose which town you are entering.

 

Ken Porter, Class of '75

 

The Purple Warrior logo on the water tower is as much a historical figure to Bonham as the Sam Rayburn Library or Fort Inglish. The idea of doing away with this local Icon is beyond belief and is an unflattering reflection on the lack of loyalty in today's society, but this kind of thing usually happens in the big city--not Bonham, Texas where we have been proud to show our purple and white colors "win or lose" for decades. Remember the days when businesses closed for the big game?  Schools turned out early, there were parades for victorious Bonham Warriors, and Purple and White streamers were all over the city; that's called pride and maybe the City of Bonham needs to revert back to the "Old Days" and show a little pride. How do they expect the students of today and Bonham Alumni to respect their office if they themselves can't muster enough pride and respect for the community to paint a Bonhi Warrior on a water tower? Many City Officials, past and present, would not have the jobs they have today if it weren't for the Bonham ISD. There should not even be a question about having a "Purple Warrior" on a water tower in Bonham. However, if it is a necessity that the old water tower be torn down, I could not think of a better place than on the new water tower at the 121 and 56 intersection for all comers to know that they have entered "Warrior Country."

 

Rodney Blackerby, Purple Warrior and Bonham Alumni

The decision to omit the Purple Warrior smacks of the politically (in)correct removal of pigs and piggy banks from corporate desks. Let's put it back. Our first donation is already on it's way for preservation of the only thing rising from the years of Bonham ashes. It has always been said, and it is very true, that you can never go home, but the memories are always pleasing and to think that a memory is lost to generational ideas is almost unforgivable. Please urge the city fathers to continue the tradition. 

Dean and Lydia (Schumpert) Taylor

Yes, keep the Warrior logo on the tower.

Terry Perry

We need to have a Warrior on the tower.  You are in Warrior territory in Bonham.

Mr A., Class of 49

Personally, I'd like to see the old water tower preserved as well, but only the city leaders understand all the issues are regarding that. I'm sure it's not as simple as just raising $10k. I'd like to see an article on that sometime as well.  Water towers are a cultural icon and the old ones with "character", like Bonham's, are disappearing daily.

Chuck Cox, Class of 1978

What on earth are the city leaders thinking by wanting to eliminate the Warrior from the water tower? Are these people natives of Bonham or they transplants? The Bonhi Warrior is the heart of this city as well as the symbol of the school district. We as former BISD students have taken great pride in being a Bonham Warrior. The Warrior is a welcoming site each and every time I come home to visit. It brings about a sense of pride, comfort, and peace as I enter Warrior country. There is no place like Bonham, no place like home, and certainly no greater symbol than the Warrior logo to welcome the young and old. Please give the people a chance to have say in what happens in that community. I am a proud Fighting Purple Warrior of the Class of 1979.

Alvis L. Dunlap Sr.

 

We welcome newcomers into our town.  New blood means forward thinking, crisp ideas, and a fresh approach to laminating our legacies.  It's like polishing Grandma's silver service tea set or sanding the rust off the old hand pump.  New folks have helped us show case our town and attract businesses, industry, and warm bodies. 

 

We often take for granted that newcomers will have . . . "the feeling."  The Warrior logo on the water tower represents . . . "the feeling."  It's intense.  It's gut-tightening.  It's the rhythmic sound of synchronized heart beats.

 

Without "the feeling," there will be no Bonhi Warrior.

 

Cindy Baker

 

 I heard about the water tower issue, and I hope I'm not to late to put in my vote. I'm all for having the Bonhi Warrior on the new water tower and leaving the old tower as it is. This is another example of the leaders of our communities, cities, and nation being out of touch with what we the people value and care about. In this instance that being the "Warrior pride" that was engrained in us throughout our school years, and at the same time we were establishing lifelong friendships with our classmates.        "GO WARRIORS"

 

David McCraw

Yes, we need the Warrior logo, especially in that location!

Linda Hayes –BHS graduate

Have the "shakers and movers" on the city council lost whatever school spirit that they once had?  The Bonhi classes of 1948, 1949, and 1950 have been getting together twice a year for reunion lunches since 2001. Through our efforts we replaced the lamps on the front of the old high school auditorium that were "lost" during its renovation. And planted and tend shrubbery on both sides of the entryway.  We will back all efforts to get the logo painted on the new water tower. The Warrior MUST BE THERE for all to see.

Allen Wait---Bonhi, 1949

I am glad that I had the chance to read through the numerous replies from all the “Warriors” before I put pen to paper.  I couldn’t believe the emotions and memories these stories brought back to my mind, and the pride that was in the forefront of them all.   

I can remember playing baseball when I was a kid out at the fields by the VA Hospital.  Being a Warrior at that time seemed to be a far away dream, but there was a constant reminder looking down on all of us from the water tower.  That Warrior logo represented everything that I wanted to be.  That strong, confident face seemed to almost be a blanket of security.  Even at that young age, we all knew we were safe at home. 

After I graduated from Bonham High School in 1977, I remember watching my baby sister put on that purple and white for six years cheering for the Warriors, and I can remember how strange it was to see her later, cheering for East Texas State University and wearing Blue and Yellow?  It was hard to imagine a Lion had taken the place of the Warrior on her uniform.  She and her husband (a Fighting Purple Warrior himself) now live in Sherman with their two boys and are doing the Bearcat thing...but they know!  There is a favorite picture of mine hanging at my Mom’s house next to the closet where my sister’s letter jacket is hanging.  The picture shows her posing as a cheerleader in front of Warrior Stadium (wooden bleachers and all) showing that Warrior Pride.  She looks very much at home. 

I ran across a picture the other night of my wife when she was still in High School at Bonham.  She was the Homecoming Queen that year and was riding on top of a Corvette around the square during the parade.  There were cars, trucks, and floats that were decorated from top to bottom with purple and white crepe paper, and signs everywhere with that familiar Warrior Head painted on them.  It was obviously a happy time, and everybody seemed glad to be in their hometown.  Her letter jacket is hanging in the utility room. 

My daughter graduated from BHS, went through college at A&M-Commerce, and now teaches elementary school at Royse City.  That’s right...she now wears a shirt with a Bulldog on it...but she knows!!  Still today, you can go in her old bedroom and hanging beside her letter jacket you can see pompoms, megaphones, softball helmets, and homecoming corsages that all sport the purple and white and most of them somewhere have that Warrior Head on them.  Seeing those things always makes her feel right at home. 

My son graduated from BHS just last year.  He too, walked the halls as a Warrior.  He was part of a great team through his athletic years, and his letter jacket sports baseball and football patches on both sleeves and on the back, but none of them are as impressive as that Warrior Head.  He went on and played baseball for a short time at Northeast Texas Community College in Mt. Pleasant.  There he represented the Eagles, but I think he would tell you, that Eagle just didn’t seem to have the same meaning as that Warrior Head on his letter jacket that is hanging on his bedroom door at home.   

Although I was never a good athlete, I did try my hand at football through my Jr. High, Freshman, and JV years at Bonham.  When I was a Junior, I decided to go to work and I dropped out of football.  I have regretted that ever since.  I can remember in Jr. High, we were called the Papooses.  I couldn’t wait until I was a Freshman so I could be an Indian, but the ultimate goal was to be a Warrior...a Fighting Purple Warrior...and get that letter jacket with the Warrior Head on it.  I never got there...but sometimes when nobody is looking, I’ll slip on my son’s letter jacket...just to get that feeling! 

I know that none of the things I’ve mentioned above seem to have anything at all to do with the new water tower not having a Warrior Head painted on it, but to me, that’s exactly the point!  Without that logo, it just doesn’t feel like home.  People look for signs every day.  They tell us what to expect, where you are, what to do, and in a lot of cases, they give you a certain feeling.  I had to take a trip to Mexico a few years back, and I remember the first thing I saw where the plane touched down was the flag pole.  It wasn’t the sight of the Mexican flag that seemed strange; it was the absence of the American flag that made my stomach kind of knot up.  It just didn’t feel right. 

I know that we have been told that the $10,000 required to paint the logo was not budgeted for in the new water tower project.  In my job, I am responsible for a budget myself.  During each year, we are required to set the budget for the next fiscal year’s spending.  That process takes months to prepare for, and the decisions are not made by only a few.  I can only assume that our city officials went through that same process, and somewhere along the line, they decided that the cost of the logo was too high and so it was eliminated from the plans...just like that.  I would be interested to find out how much it is going to cost to have “The City of Bonham” painted on the tower.  I’m sure that is not free, so the real “upper” is the difference between the “words” and the logo.  

Anyway...enough complaining!  I don’t like for people to always talk about what WON’T work, and not have any ideas about what WILL work, so here’s my idea.  There are many very talented musicians and singers that have graduated from BHS or are still attending...and many more that have moved in or would be willing to help out with this effort.  I am suggesting that we put together a benefit concert to raise money for the logo...only after we challenge the quoted cost and see if we can reduce it as much as possible.  I would be willing to help put it together, and if it is truly only the money, we should be able to take care of it with a little help from the community.  We have the new multipurpose complex, the Armory, the Auditorium...many places where we can pull this off.   

Let’s just accept that we missed the boat on this one and made a bad decision...move on...and fix it.  Sometimes decisions are made based on the data available, but in the end, it just doesn’t feel right.  The absence of the Fighting Purple Warrior watching over our town just doesn’t feel right.  I know that sometimes, I would give $10,000 for my own letter jacket!

Mark Rattan 

We think pride in our youth, pride in our schools, pride in our history and pride in our community should always be visible.  Traditions are what this community has been built around.  When traditions are abandoned, even for a short period of time, they can be lost forever.  We request the the Bonham City Counsel reconsider their decision not to placed the "WARRIOR" logo on the new water tower.  We would be glad to help in any way.

 

James & Brenda Sherer, BHS class of '68 & '69

 

I am a lifelong resident of Bonham, my family legacy is from Bonham all the way back to the mid 1800's , I do live in Plano Texas today but I visit good ol Bonham at least once a month.

The reason I am writing you is because of our heritage and our need to preserve it !  I would insist on keeping a Warrior on the Water Tower at whatever cost!    Bonham it seems is somehow losing its heritage and leaving nothing for the folks to be proud of.  And believe me it sure isn't WAL MART !  That is another gripe !!

The downtown area needs a facelift for sure and we need to be mindful of keeping the downtown an impressionable place for visitors and residents alike.  I personally have native american heritage and have always felt proud that the Warrior is Bonham's mascot !  

The Warrior is something to be proud of when you drive into our sleepy little town.  It is a powerful image and reflects our true Texan/American heritage.  

We must pay homage to the many years of having a solid school system since it seems that is ALL Bonham has going for itself these days.  While your are at making changes why not do something about MAIN Street and the zoning laws !  Can't you spend some time on cleaning up Main!  It needs a huge facelift and most of the buildings and homes need to have rules about fresh paint and junk in the front yards !  That is a real change that Bonham needs not removing our Warrior from the Water Tower.  

I would suggest asking one of the artists from Denison to do it pro bono and have a big publicity push for that artist's willingness to preserve a piece of Bonham's history.  I am happy to lead a committee on this project if you wish.  I can be reached at 214-336-0379

Pamela Hagerty-Martin

I agree……and I grew up in New Jersey……(don’t hold it against me….I had no choice in the matter) . Although I haven’t been here long, I believe in the importance of Bonham “civic pride”. This issue falls into that category and I am 100% behind anything that helps promote the kids of this town as my 3 have benefited by going to school here.

To the “decision” makers…..it’s 10 Thousand Not 10 MILLION.

We have a new paint mfg in town, KWAL, that I’m sure would help subsidize if not totally donate the paint. Has anyone asked for their participation? I realize the labor will be the biggest chunk of the cost but I’m sure that could be negotiated down as well.

The bottom line is it needs to be done….for a lot of reasons. 

Bill Catalane

An e-mail was sent to me stating the new water tower in Bonham would not bear the Bonham Warrior logo, but rather the emblem of the City of Bonham.   Additionally, it stated the old water tower which displays the Bonham Warrior will be torn down.   This greatly disappoints me!    On a recent trip to Bonham, I commented on the new water tower, and wondered when the new Warrior head would be put up.   We all expect to see that Warrior up there as a symbol of what we grew up around and the spirit of our school and town.  Especially to those of us not living there, we have come to expect to see our Warrior up there welcoming us back home! 

Having been a proud graduate of Bonham HS, and now having a grandson as a Purple Warrior, I cannot imagine him not having that Warrior on his hometown water tower to look upon with pride as we all did. 

That Warrior needs to be on that new water tower!!!   No city emblem could compare to our Warrior logo which represents the spirit of the Bonham Purple Warriors!  My blood still runs purple. 

Cathy Percy Horton, class of ‘73

The PURPLE WARRIOR is a symbol not just for Bonham but for the pride and the traditions of the town.  As an alumni, your spirits lift and the memories flood in when you see it.  You think of  the many pep talks that you received about this symbol and the color (Thanks to Mrs. Snead for teaching us that the color purple stood for royalty). This IS warrior country and purple pride runs deep for those that remain and for those that have left.  It is who we are.  As a community, we need to allow others to see and feel who we are.  The warrior does that.  I would encourage all almni and students to contribute either monetarily or by just passing the message on. Its a great symbol that needs to continue.

Dana Day Nichols

Either leave the old warrior logo on the old water tower or put it on the new one.  WE NEED PURPLE PRIDE! I graduated in 1968.

Jim “ACE” Horton

I'm still a poor old dumb country boy from Bonham now living in coastal North Carolina, but I think my math is right that if 1,000 of us readers give $10 each that should pay for that paint job.  Any leftover money could be used to buy Purple Warrior tee shirts for the rocket scientists at City Hall that came up with the dumb idea to omit the Warrior in the first place.

Sam Zumwalt

BHS '72

 

As an ex Fighting Purple Warrior, the choices are obvious to me.

Paint the Warrior on the tower or, change our mascot to "The Fighting Purple Water Towers."

"The difference between a stumbling block and a stepping stone is how one uses them."

Rodney Neal, Class of 1971

I would also like to voice my opinion about the Warrior logo.  As Bonham Exes class of 79, 80, 2003, 2006 and coming up 2011 this family is shocked that the city officials would attempt to display something other than the Warrior logo.  As one of my sons said, "Can you see it now, 'City of Bonham' on the tower."  Doesn't that just emulate a warm, caring, prideful town!  NOT!  Why our city officials would even consider such is beyond me.  I thought we had city officials that were full of Warrior Pride!!

Go Warrior Pride! 

The Williams Family - Class of 79, 80, 2003, 2006 and soon 2011

I am not native to Texas or the Bonham area.  In fact I moved here when I got a job teaching at the Head Start program through Bonham ISD.  I have fell in love with the town of Bonham and its small town atmosphere.   The warrior logo on the water tower would prove to anyone who travels via 121 that we are a prideful community that supports the education of our children.  We stand by each other and pull together to help in any way we can. 

Melanie Miller

I think putting a warrior on the new water tower is a must. When people drive into Bonham, they should know they are entering Warrior Country!

Doris Shockley

We would be very disappointed NOT to see the Bonham Purple Warrior proudly displayed on the new water tower.  The “Warrior” has been a symbol of Purple Pride for as long as we can remember.  The Warrior logo symbolizes the “PURPLE WARRIORS” and reflects the pride of the community.  For those of you who are not graduates of BHS, you have no idea what it means when someone says, “I Bleed PURPLE” but we do. 

Cindy Templeton-Jarrell Class of ‘73
Bonita Templeton-Williams Class of ‘75
Katie Jarrell-Aldridge Class of ‘99

When I drive into a town one of the first things I often look for is the water tower. Why do I look at the water tower? For one reason, not to see if it is leaking, or to see if the town has water, but rather to see what the town's school mascot is. You see, I believe the display of the school mascot says a lot about a town and a school. First, it says simply what the mascot is. It also demonstrates the communities pride in their school. As far as Bonham is concerned, I would hope that the mascot would be displayed on the water tower so that others can see a demonstration of pride. Perhaps, the pride in Bonham is not what it used to be - would not simple steps such as the displaying of the mascot be one step toward the restoration of that pride? Would not the the mascot on the water tower show others that "We Are the Purple Warriors" and warriors never quit or give up? Would not the mascot on the water tower show all the visitors to our town that we are indeed proud to be a part of the this community and its school? I would think so. A simple act of displaying the mascot would say volumes about our town and our school to all who "look at the tower."

 

Colleen Coonrod

BHS - IPC Teacher

I feel the urgency to BECOME involved...
I am VERY disappointed in what this city is coming to....
Our kids are the FUTURE!!!!!
We should be HONORED from where we came
from and we should be HONORED to know that our children
and our friends children are from WARRIOR country!!!!
Why is it that this city is TAKING so much from our kids...
Why is it that this city is TAKING so much from our past...
We are what we lived... and most of us LIVED Bonham....
The water tower is a MEMORABLE sight to this city...it is
a TIMEKEEPER....
We can pull together and get plans ironed out to RESTORE
the courthouse back to the THE PAST look... but we can't
KEEP the WARRIOR on the water tower?
Maybe this city needs to prioritize better....
Maybe this city needs a REALITY check...
Maybe this city needs NEW BLOOD in the "decision" making
positions....
Please GET INVOLVED!!!!!!!!
PLEASE BE CONCERNED!!!!!
This is our town.... This was OUR school.... This is our mascot...
This is OUR PAST!!!!  & it is STILL our future!!!!!
Forward your concerns to EVERYONE in your address book...
and if nothing else FORWARD this email to EVERYONE in your
address book.....

BHS Grad '90
Kathryn (Katie) Peterson-Dunlap

I would like to see the warrior painted on the new water tower, along with the city logo.

 

April Runion-Peterson

BHS Grad 1989

 

Putting the issue of cost aside, I think it would be a shame not to renew the Warrior emblem being lost by the destruction of the old tower.  I vaguely remember the old tower being erected, but I do remember the pride that was generated when the people of Bonham looked up and saw the Warrior on the tower.  Not to mention, the fact that the original colors of the tower were purple and white (which did fade over time).

 

My questions are:

 

(1) Is the decision not to paint the Warrior emblem on the new tower strictly a budgetary issue?

(2) Is the town council trying to remain politically correct by not using an emblem that could be considered derogatory to the American Indian culture?  This has been an issue in other areas of the country.

(3) And in regards to the old tower, who remembers the reasons why the Warrior emblem was chosen over the town seal at that time and why are those decisions not still valid today?

(4) Would the town council be agreeable to a fund-raising project to raise the money to have the Warrior emblem added to the new tower?

 

So, I am behind keeping the Warrior emblem visible to all persons traveling through Bonham and showing support for the local school sports programs and the past and present students of the Bonham Independent School District.

 

Go Warriors! 

 

Richard E. Blackerby, Bonhi Class of 1974 

I think the Warrior has been a big part of the history of Bonham and I hate to see it just go away just because these “transplant” people have come in and taken over control of the city.  I haven’t lived in Bonham in 19 years, but I live in Leonard because it’s closer to work.  I go to Bonham every weekend and all my family still lives there.  Bonham will always be home to me.  I wonder if the city has “shopped” around for the price of painting the Warrior on the water tower.  $10,000 sounds like a whole lot just to paint something on there.  Vic Poe is a sign painter & if he’s still around Bonham they might check with him & see if he could do it cheaper.  He is married to Jenny Hodge Poe BHS Grad of 1986.  She sells insurance there in Bonham.  She has an older brother, Paul Hodge, that I think lives in Leonard. 

Kim Flowers Barber, BHS 1985

I am a former student from Bonham and it would really break my heart to not have the warrior up there on that tower where he belongs.  Watching over our town, our schools, our children, our people.  I no longer live there but I am still a Bonham Warrior.  Now and Forever.  Keep the Pride People!  We have enough deep pockets in Big B to raise $10.000.00.  I know I would be willing to work for the cause.  Party on the square!!!  Get those Cakes a Baking!!!

 

Purple and Proud,

Brenda Howard

 

I just want to add my two cents in on the decision to leave off the Warrior logo. I move here from West Plano thinking coming to a small town was great for my family and I still believe that, but traveling across the U.S.A. I’ve always seen the school logo on most cities water towers. I believe this town should show the PRIDE of the PURPLE WARRIORS on the water tower. Its good for a location guide and it shows travelers that we are proud to be who we are.

 

Joseph Shellman

 

There aren't very many forwarded emails that I respond to, but this one really tweaked my shorts.  I am a 1983 graduate of Bonhi and as far as I am concerned,  the WARRIOR "IS" a symbol of Bonham.  There have been championships in all sports, pillars of the community, professional athletes, and even war veterans (of which I am proud to say that I am after 20 years of loyal service to the country and the great city of Bonham) I won't get on a soap box, but I will say,  If someone wants to know what city they are in,  they need to look at the city limits sign when they drive in.  If they miss the sign, there will be no question  of where they are when they look up and see the Warrior on the water tower.  I hope this gets to you in time.  If not, well I got to say my piece.   

Jay

 

I have only been a resident of Bonham since 1991. The guys at the coffee shop have finally promoted me to "Damn Yankee."  So, I am going to say some things. I have been in Texas since 1981 I feel I have a right to make an observation concerning the new water tower.

When I got here (in Bonham) the color purple was new to me and somewhat overpowering. Everywhere I went things were painted purple. I even saw some purple pickup trucks! OK, enough of that, now I understand the BHS logo is not to be placed on the new tower. Hold on a minute; (I have to look in the dictionary for some polite words to use.....)

THAT'S JUST DUMB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This small town has a large amount of pride - Show it!

The people of Bonham show their pride in all sorts of ways; why are the city "leaders" losing any backbone they might have been born with?

Bob Gerardi

Unlike most commenting on the subject, I did not graduate from Bonham High (another purple one but bison), but my daughter did.  I can't see why this would cost $10,000 to paint. All that is really needed is some safety gear (borrowed), fifty bucks worth of paint and brushes, and an artist to sketch it out and paint it on.

Nothing says small-town America like the high school logo on the water tower. We are losing small-town America as urban sprawl engulfs a three-county radius around cities. Save the tradition while we can, but don't pay rip-off prices to do so. We can show some self-sufficiency and do it ourselves. I am no artist, but I can paint within the lines!

Paul Cardwell

I THINK IT'S A GREAT IDEA TO HAVE THE LOGO ON THE TOWER. IF WE DON'T HAVE THIS, THEN WHY SHOULD  TRENTON HAVE  TIGERS ON THEIRS. I WENT TO BONHAM HIGH AND WE ARE PROUD OF OUR WARRIORS!! THIS IS BONHAM!!! WE ARE A TEAM AND WE ALL WANT THE LOGO ON THE BONHAM WATER TOWER.

 

ANGIE MCNEAR (MCCONNELL) 1998

The pride that we all learned to be a part of is displayed on that water tower.  Whether it was marching in those purple uniforms down the streets for a parade or a pep rally, standing at a football game hearing the school song, or just driving around the square and up and down the drag, we all could see the image of what we stood for.  Each of us in our own way look at the Fighting Purple Warrior as a symbol of belonging to the town where we grew up.

To me, as part of "Tommy Nugent's Raiders", the best part of growing up in Bonham was spent with those who marched along with me to Sweepstakes, and then beyond to be where we all are now.  To each of us when we come home to Bonham there is the pride of being part of what that Warrior stands for.

Each of us has gone away, but when we come back to look at our town, we expect, and we deserve to have the Warrior on the tower to welcome each of us home.

Debby Seals, Class of 1973

My husband, Bruce McAnally, BHS Class of 72, and I, BHS Class of 73, have lived in Collin County since 1980.  Whenever we have been asked about our hometown, people who are familiar with Bonham almost always have one of two responses:

 

1.  “Oh, home of the Purple Warriors!”

                             Or

2.  “Oh, Sam Rayburn Country!”

 

Not one time has anyone said, “Yes, the town with the great logo.”

 

The Warrior head is who we are and how we are recognized! Bonham residents have always been able to embrace both their community and their school with this one esteemed emblem.

 

 Keep the Warrior head on the new water tower! 

Our donation check has been mailed!
 

Tina Leslie McAnally 

P.S.  Bruce says, “Quit talking about it and send whatever donation you can!!!"

Bonham High School Class of 1978 starts the ball rolling on the PAINT THE WATER TOWER CAMPAIGN.

 

In planning it’s 30-year Reunion to be held in Bonham on June 14, 2008, the BHS Class of 1978 Reunion Planning Committee has located over 130 of it’s classmates.  The class is so organized that when the Warrior Water Tower piece started circulating, the news was forwarded to the class master e-mail list. As you might expect, an overwhelming majority of the class wants to see the Purple Warrior painted on the new water tower and have committed to help financially to see this accomplished.

 

The Reunion Planning Committee contacted Bonham Mayor Roy Floyd and the Superintendent of Bonham ISD, Sonny Cruse, and cleared its efforts to help get the fundraising efforts started.  The estimated cost of painting the Warrior on the new water tower is $10,000; however, the final bid will not be available until the Bonham ISD Board Meeting next week. 

 

“We realize all Bonhi Exes will want to donate to this worthwhile project to insure the Purple Warrior continues to be proudly displayed over the community of Bonham. Our class simply volunteered to get the ball rolling and started making a few phone calls to work out how to collect the donations.  We look forward to working contributing our part to make this a reality!”

 

Class of 1978

 

Send donations to:

 

Bonham Education Foundation
c/o Steve Mohundro, Treasurer
1400 W. Russell Avenue
Bonham, Texas 75418

Be sure and note that your contribution is for the “Paint The Water Tower Campaign.”