Washington, DC ...Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX), newly named chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, announced Rep. Ralph Hall (R-TX) as chairman of the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee this afternoon. The appointment will be ratified on March 3 at the first Full Committee meeting.

Hall resigned his seat as a Democrat on the Energy and Commerce and Science committees following his filing on January 2 as a Republican candidate in Texas’ March 9 primary. House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL) and members of the Republican Steering Committee reassigned him to both committees in January.

"I am honored to serve as chairman of this important subcommittee, and I appreciate the Republican leadership allowing me to maintain my seniority. Texas is an energy state-it produces significant amounts of energy for the other states. It is very important that we have good energy solutions and I look forward to working closely with my good friend, Chairman Barton, and other members on the important issues that come before the committee."

Hall stressed that he wants to work toward passing a much-needed energy bill. "We owe it to the youth of this country to solve our energy needs. We need to take steps now to modernize and expand our electricity grid, promote conservation and new technologies, and encourage environmentally sound domestic production in offshore and hard-to-reach areas.

"I am also looking forward to working with the committee to find affordable, innovative, and market-based ways to reach America’s air quality goals and satisfy the country’s energy demands.

"I have always believed that we can accomplish more through bipartisanship, and I will continue-regardless of where I am sitting-to reach across the aisle to find successful solutions to our nation’s biggest challenges."

The Energy and Commerce Committee is the oldest legislative standing committee in the House of Representatives and it enjoys the largest jurisdiction. In addition to serving as chair of the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee, Rep. Hall will also sit on the Health Subcommittee.

Red River Theatre Opening Play for 2004

The performances of Red River Theatre’s first play of 2004, After A Fashion, will be held at the Bonham High School’s KIVA theatre on Hwy. 121N and Warpath Drive in Bonham on March 19, 20 and 21. Seating for each performance is limited to 125 patrons.

Red River Theatre will open its 2004 season with the return of another group of the deep-south society ladies of Judy Simpson Cook’s fictional town of Aurelia, NC. Last February, the "Aurelia Women’s League" held its Flower and Garden Show Gala Committee Meeting in Bonham with an hilarious spoof on Robert’s Rules and proper behavior in a meeting.

The second of the Cook series of Aurelia, NC’s social affairs, After A Fashion features more of Aurelia’s flowers of society as they prepare for a benefit fashion show. The brassy humor of these southern belles contains some PG-13 type mild adult language.

Performances will be Friday and Saturday, March 19 and 20 at 7:00 PM, and on Sunday, March 21 at the 2PM Matinee. Tickets may be purchased in advance by credit card from a link to www.ticketleap.com from the Red River Theatre website, www.redrivertheatre.com. Advance sale tickets are $6 Seniors and Students and $9 Adults.

Advance sale tickets are also available at the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce, the Creative Arts Center, and at the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA and Children’s Advocacy Center). Tickets purchased at the door are an additional $2 payable by check or cash only. All tickets are open seating for any of the three performances.

A portion of the proceeds from each of the Red River Theatre Company’s productions in 2004 will be donated to a local nonprofit organization or community agency. The cast of After A Fashion has selected CASA/CaS of Fannin County as the recipient of this production.

Ad space in the production playbill is available starting at $25. Contact Julie Eubank for playbill ad rates and graphics layout at 903-583-4415. The second RRTC production will feature the musical NUNSENSE and will be performed April 30, May 1 and May 2.

Paul Bradshaw, Vice President Of Communications- American Heart Association, Texas Affiliate

We all have a story to tell.

Every one of us has been impacted by heart disease. Maybe your mother or father died suddenly from a heart attack. Perhaps you know a child who was born with a congenital heart defect. Maybe your spouse or a friend has suffered a stroke. Maybe you have high blood pressure, or you’re struggling with being overweight or smoking – all of which increase your own risk for heart disease.

Too many people are living with some form of cardiovascular disease – and far too many people are needlessly dying from it. The fact that heart disease, in many cases, is largely preventable has ignited a passionate call to action and a compelling motivation to learn – in order to live.

At the American Heart Association, we’re passionate about fighting heart disease and stroke, and we’re driven by the faces behind the numbers. The half a million women who die each year from heart disease are not just statistics buried in an annual report – they’re our mothers, our grandmothers, our sisters and daughters.

This is why we’ve created the Passion Project. The Passion Project is the American Heart Association’s national effort to impassion and empower people in the ongoing battle against heart disease and stroke. It inspires people to change through personal stories and testimonials. Our new tagline – "Learn and Live" – seems like a pretty simple concept, but it’s not always easy to live by.

The majority of heart attacks are caused by unhealthy lifestyles. As a society, we’re bombarded with constant reminders to watch our cholesterol, get our blood pressure checked, and eat right and exercise. We hear the statistics and figures – we might even know that we’re at risk – but most of us struggle to stay motivated to live a healthy lifestyle.

Maybe we need to start taking it personally now. If you wait until cardiovascular disease touches you or someone you love, it can be too late.

Elaine Sachs collapsed suddenly and died from an aortic aneurysm at the age of 41 while camping with her two young daughters. Although she seemed healthy, she had a family history of heart disease.

Jenny Dodd was just 21 years old when she died from a heart attack. When she went to the hospital with classic heart attack symptoms, she was sent home because she didn’t fit the profile.

John Godleski was 2 1/2 years old when he died from heart complications due to a congenital defect. His 4-year-old sister misses him.

Jan Murphy has suffered two debilitating strokes and has lost the use of her right arm and the ability to speak clearly. She is also in a wheelchair.

Cardiovascular disease has already claimed too many lives. It’s time for all of us to learn … and live.

Passion is ignited by personal stories. We’d like to hear about yours. Send us your story and help raise awareness and fight heart disease and stroke. Please contact us at TXAStories@heart.org.

To learn more about the Passion Project and to take our "Learn and Live" quiz, visit our website at www.americanheart.org or call 1-888-AHA-CARES.

The American Heart Association is the largest community-based voluntary health organization fighting heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. These diseases devastate millions of people of all ages and claim nearly 950,000 lives a year.

GE Elfuns Donate To Rainbow Room

Susy Meehan of Child Protective Services and Sandy Barber of Fannin County Children’s Center (center) accept a $5,000 donation for the Rainbow Room presented Terri Jones from the GE Elfun volunteer group and the Electric Insurance Company. The generous gift will be used to purchase new clothing, shoes, diapers and other items for the abused children of Fannin County.

Paul Bradshaw, Vice President Of Communications- American Heart Association, Texas Affiliate

The American Heart Association recently released new guidelines for preventing and treating heart disease in women, as it claims the lives of almost one in two women.

The first line of attack is lifestyle changes, and exercise is at the top of the list.

More than 60 percent of women don’t engage in regular physical activity. Think you don’t have the time to exercise? Consider making it a priority. Being physically active is critical to the health of your heart. And if you don’t take care of your heart, then it won’t take care of you.

In fact, around 300,000 people die each year due to obesity-related causes. Obesity is generally defined as 30 pounds or more above a healthy weight. Almost 60 percent of American females are considered overweight or obese.

This year, five Texas cities have the dubious distinction of making the Men’s Fitness magazine’s Top 10 list of the fattest U.S. cities – Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth and Arlington. That’s no laughing matter considering the serious health risks associated with being overweight. Extra weight increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney problems and several types of cancer.

Obesity is a growing crisis that demands immediate attention. So we’re going to make this easy.

Choose To Move is a free physical activity program designed specifically for women through the American Heart Association. The 12-week program was developed by the renowned Dallas-based Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research and sponsored by the Almond Board of California. Through regular exercise, healthy choices and good nutrition, you can take care of your heart and take care of yourself.

Women of all ages benefit from even moderate amounts of physical activity. One of the problems with modifying habits and behaviors, however, is that it’s a challenge to stay motivated. In fact, two-thirds of unhealthy lifestyle "relapse" occurs within 90 days of starting out.

The Choose To Move program enlists practical and fun ways to incorporate physical activity into your existing routine without spending a lot of extra time or money. It’s also packed with simple nutrition tips such as how to eat better on the run – instead of reaching for a candy bar for an afternoon pick-me-up, keep a handful of almonds or some low-fat yogurt nearby.

When you register for Choose To Move, you’ll receive a personal, easy-to-follow handbook that will give you tips on increasing physical activity, nutrition and healthy recipes, weight management, and useful facts on heart disease and stroke.

By increasing your energy level, you’ll be better equipped to deal with the demands at work, at home, and with your family – not to mention the demands you make on yourself. By "choosing to move," you can reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses, while maintaining healthy bones and an ideal body weight.

That’s a choice that should be easy for all of us.

More than 130,000 women have participated in the program since 1998. To learn more about Choose To Move, visit our website at www.americanheart.org/choosetomove or call 1-888-MY-HEART (1-888-694-3278).

SIDEBAR:

Achieve an overall healthy eating pattern.

• Choose an overall balanced diet with foods from all major food groups, emphasizing fruits, vegetables and grains.

• Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables and grain products – at least 5 daily servings of fruits and vegetables, and at least 6 daily servings of grain products, including whole grains.

• Include fat-free and low-fat dairy products, fish, legumes, poultry and other lean meats – eat at least two servings of fish per week.

• Choose healthful snacks, such as a one-ounce handful of almonds, a piece of fruit, or a small carton of low-fat yogurt.

Achieve a healthy physical activity pattern.

• Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Moderate physical activity includes brisk walking, gardening, swimming, and bicycle riding.

Achieve a healthy body weight.

• Maintain a level of physical activity that achieves fitness and balances energy expenditure with caloric intake; for weight reduction, expenditure should exceed intake.

• Limit foods that are high in calories and/or low in nutritional quality, including those with a high amount of added sugar.

New Art Class In Town

ATTENTION: ALL ARTISTS. There is a new special art class in town. The teacher, Mary Taylor of Denison, recently retired after teaching twenty-five years in the public school system. Upon her retirement, she decided to share her talent with mentally disabled individuals served by Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma.

For several months now, Taylor has been holding weekly classes at the Mental Retardation Community Support Services in Denison. The classes have featured work in these media: crayons, oil pastels, markers, acrylic paints, tempera paints, water colors, soft pastel colored pencils, and water color crayons. They have also completed craft projects that included decorated gift bags and painted doorstops, pencil holders, and candy containers.

"I believe that art is for everyone, and the clients have thoroughly enjoyed the classes. Many of the projects have turned out quite well. There are many reasons people like to do art, and one of them is for sheer enjoyment. One client came in for the first class and began painting. The class ended, but he would not stop painting. He was painting for sheer enjoyment. That incident really pleased me and made me realize I was accomplishing my purpose. My class size grows weekly," stated Taylor.

"Our first project was making picture books to be used in the Early Childhood Intervention program. Linda Horton, ECI program manager, came up with the idea. We cut pictures out of magazines and placed them in sealed plastic bags and made them into books. The ECI staff members distributed the books to families to use in teaching their children. One of the PAL classes from Denison High School volunteered to help complete this project. They have helped with some other projects. It takes quite a bit to prepare for a class, and I appreciated the help," Taylor continues.

"I have been teaching color and preparing projects to help develop small muscle motor skills. At first, I tried several projects and then adapted the process for this class. I have been learning myself. The class needs volunteers. Anyone with a love for art and some free time could help."

"In November we toured the Dallas Museum of Art with around twenty of the clients. They continue to talk about the experience. One of the clients immediately identified the baby in the Henry Moore contemporary sculpture of a mother and child. They also liked the contemporary piece that had candy on it. Every time a visitor took a piece of candy off, the art changed. Several of us also toured the Trammel Crow Center of Asian Art."

"I believe art is enriching their lives, and I have enjoyed working with the class. I hope that we will be able to have one ceramics project.

In today’s class, we are making Valentines for that special person and finishing other projects. They are really excited about the Valentines and getting to share their art with someone else" ended Taylor.

More volunteers are needed for this class. Some training through MHMRST is required for every volunteer. The art classes and training are held during the day. No night or weekend classes are offered. Donations of art supplies or funds are needed to carry on these classes. If you are an artist and would like to volunteer or make a donation, contact Paula Cawthon Community Relations Director at 903-337-4865.

March is Mental Retardation Awareness month. MHMRST has many services available for persons with mental retardation. Those services include Home and Community Based Services, Intermediate Care Facilities, Continuity of Care (State Facilities), Eligibility, Service Coordination, Client Worker Program, Supported Employment Services, In Home and Family Support, Day Habilitation, Community Support Services, Transition Planning, and Respite. For more information on services, contact 903-337-4795.

Texas A&M University Graduates

COLLEGE STATION - Diplomas were awarded to approximately 3,646 Texas A&M University graduates during fall commencement ceremonies. Among those recognized were: Stephanie Marie Upchurch of Bonham for Bachelor Of Environmental Design.

Where Do Lottery Proceeds Go?

One question I often receive is whether the proceeds from the Texas Lottery are dedicated to public education.

The Texas Lottery began in 1992. Since that time, more than $11 billion has been generated for the State of Texas. Originally, the proceeds from the lottery were not dedicated to education, but rather went to the state’s General Revenue Fund to be used for general state spending. Between 1992 and 1997, about $4.9 billion in lottery revenues went to the General Revenue Fund.

Legislative action in 1997 dedicated lottery revenue to the Foundation School Fund. The Foundation School Fund provides the majority of state funding for school districts. Since 1997, $5.9 billion has gone to the Foundation School Fund, used for school districts’ public education services at the local level. In Fiscal Year 2003, lottery contributions equaled $888.2 million, or about 9.5 percent of the $9.4 billion appropriated from the Foundation School Fund.

For each dollar that is spent to purchase a lottery ticket, approximately 58 cents is used to pay off winning tickets. Seven cents is used to pay for the administration of the program and five cents is paid to retailers who sell the tickets. The remaining amount, approximately 30 cents, is dedicated to the Foundation School Fund. Unclaimed lottery prize funds revert to the state to be appropriated for health care, medical education and other programs authorized by the state legislature.

Another question I am asked is, "Wasn’t the lottery supposed to solve funding problems with the education system?" Texas’ public school population is over 4.3 million students with about 80,000 students being added to the system each year. That is the equivalent of adding a school district the size of Austin ISD each year. In fact, nearly one out of every eleven students in the United States is educated in Texas. Keep in mind that while the lottery generates close to $900 million per year, total federal, state and local spending on public education is over $24 billion per year. That equates to the lottery contributing about 3.75 percent of total public education spending in the state.

Ector Elementary

Best Citizens For The 4th Six Weeks

The faculty and staff of Ector Elementary are proud to recognize our Best Citizens for the 4^th Six Weeks. They are (L-R) Drake Cravens and Caleb Stephens. Congratulations!

I. W. EVANS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

March 5 -Talent Show @ 12:30 in the B.I.S.D. Auditorium

March 8- 12-Spring Break

Mrs. Hines’ 6^th grade Social Studies class entered the Wal-Mart African American poster contest. All of the posters entered were unique and informative and we are very proud of all the students who entered. Caitlin Owens won 2^nd place and received a $15.00 prize and Huston Smith won 3^rd place and received a $10.00 prize.

Katelyn Bardwell, Samantha Cawyer, Margo McCutcheon, Rachel Penna, Haley Walker.

A HONOR ROLL- 5^TH Grade

Giselle Aranday, Jonathon Miller, John Reeder, Stephanie Spencer, Michael

Wood.

Alexa Cole, Leah Eaton, Ethan Fox, Mariel Galicia, Michael Hubbard, Kayla Irwin, Chris Orr, Caitlin Owens, Lauren Reeves, Paige Riza, Huston Smith, Haley Wilkerson.

Austin Ashlock, Jessica Barber, Collin Bennett, Haley Brown, Joshua Bullard, Hanah Clark, Austin Colley, Chase Craig, Meagan Crutcher, Tyler Edwards, Kaityn Fox, Levi Haggard, John Hall, Chelsea Hasten, Brianna Hodge, Lacy Holly, Stefanie Hutchings, Kaitlynn Keller, Taylor Kirkpatrick, Abby Lackey, Haley Lancaster, Gabrielle Lessley, Levi Malone, Mica Marsh, Colby McKelva, Robert Milburn, Lindsey Murphey, Clay Parsons, Rachel Pearson, Rex Richardson, Mason Riza, Audrey Sanchez, Savannah Shockley, Dakota Tredway,

Chelsea Tucker, Brenda Ventura, Robert Wells, Ryan Woodruff.

Kelsey Barnes, Daley Biggers, Chelsea Bobbitt, Celsey Bond, Dalton Cagle, Cady Carbajal, Rosario Chavarria, Nicole Clifton, Emily Feagan, Brianna Hayes, Hunter Herriage, Nolan Hughes, Brittany Joy, Rachel Kearney, Katy Kennedy, Tanner Long, Devin Norwood, Joshua Price, Ashley Rimbert, Corey Rodriquez, Matthew StClair, Katherine Stephenson, Monica Torres, Austin Towler, Sharla Vaughan, Bobby Voorheis, Kali Wheless, Chasen Williams, Shelby Williams, Cariann Young.

Carolina Arritola, Kaleb Baker, Fannin Bell, Shelly Benton, Mandee Betts, Jacob Brown, Tasha Brown, April Burk, Daniel Cabrera Kassidy Carr, Hope Clark, Eric Delapaz, Blaine Dunlap, Breelan Dunlap, Daine Dunlap, Stephanie Ferguson, Cammie Fiasco, Bailey Ford, Mercedes Garza, Breanna Goodman, Koby Grace, Chase Gregory, Savannah Harmon, Kelsey Hines, Ashley Kelone, Kelsie Kelton, Kasidy Kinkade, Tabitha Leeks, Manuel Longoria, Andrew Malone, Justin Massey, John McCraw, Veronica Mendoza, Sydney Millhollon, Ricky Mueller, John Nelms, Justin Nelms, Spencer Nichols, Sport Phillips, Susana Soto, Cesaley Sparks, Jennifer Spencer, Blake Stine, Bradley Stine, James Talley, Kyle Washington, Jacob Wheeler, Mark Wheless.

Rainbow Room Grand Opening

HOUSTON--(Feb. 26, 2004)--A new three-dimensional mesh patch can repair hernias with a minimum of recovery time, allowing patients to get back to their normal routines sooner, and reducing their chance for recurrence.

"The double layer of screen mesh, used with this method, protects the insides from bulging out more than does a single mesh repair," said Dr. Sam Awad, an assistant professor in the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, who is performing the hernia surgery at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and The Methodist Hospital. "The other benefit is that we can perform this surgery under local anesthesia, which often allows patients to go home the same day."

A hernia is a bulge of an organ or tissue through an opening in the body, usually happening when the inside layer of the abdominal wall has weakened, and the intestine pushes out. Hernias occur most commonly in the abdomen, groin, belly button, or at the site of a previous operation. They are most common in men.

Some people are born with hernias, while others develop them over time as a result of heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or difficulty in bowel movement or urination.

For many years, the only option to repair hernias was to push the protruding organs and tissue back into the correct position within the abdominal cavity, and then stitch it closed. The method worked, however, about 10 to 15 percent of patients who had the procedure would develop another hernia, because the pressure on the repair site was just too strong.

Subsequent methods of hernia repair have used mesh and plugs to strengthen the abdominal wall, and seal the rupture the hernia causes. Laparoscopic techniques also have allowed surgeons to place the mesh on the inside of the abdominal wall.

The new three-dimensional mesh device, called the Prolene Hernia System™, combines the advantages of an open and the laparoscopic repairs for a stronger, longer-lasting hernia repair. The device features a mesh that repairs the inside of the abdominal wall, a connector similar to a plug and a mesh patch that lays flat over the abdominal wall.

"The traditional approach to hernia repair takes about two to four weeks to recover," Awad said. "But with the Prolene mesh procedure, patients are usually back to their normal activity in seven to 10 days."

Sash Assembly Of God Together With Full Gospel Family Worship Center Presents A Night Of Praise And Worship

Featuring the talents of: Full Gospel’s Praise Team, Homer Belcher, Margene Cudd, Danielle Hendricks, His Praise, Phillip Moore, Rebecca Moore, DeAnne Oswald. Saturday, March 13th at 6:00 pm. Sash Assembly of God, 11380 FM 100, Honey Grove, TX.

Republican Candidates Speak to Capacity Crowd

State Representative Larry Phillips and nine Republican candidates spoke to a standing room only crowd at the American Bank in Bonham. Chairman Joe Ward stated that this was the largest crowd ever at a monthly scheduled meeting. "We are gaining widespread support and interest from a lot of folks in Fannin County and with each meeting our base is quickly growing. Our conservative message that we care about the needs of all our citizens from protecting America against terrorist to making local government the best it can be is being heard by the majority of people".

The speakers included three Congressional District 4 candidates: Mike Mosher of Paris, Mike Murphy of Frisco and Bob Collins representing Congressman Ralph Hall. The 336th District Judge candidates Lauri Blake and Rick Dunn addressed the crowd. Local candidates Richard Glaser, candidate for County Attorney, Bob Cherenko, candidate for Sheriff and Lynn Gibbs, candidate for County Commissioner Precinct 3 made statements concerning their races.

Myles Porter Announces His Candidacy For Re-Election in the Democratic Primary

Myles is a graduate of Texas A&M University and St.. Mary’s University School of Law. He is member of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas District and County Attorneys Association, Phi Alpha Delta legal fraternity, the Texas Aggie Bar Association, the Fannin County Bar Association and the College of the State Bar. He is a board member of the Fannin County Children’s Center and the Fannin County Bail Bond Board. He is a former board member of the Bonham Chamber of Commerce and a former president of the Fannin County Bar Association. He has been an area chairman for Ducks Unlimited for the past 9 years and is a frequent volunteer for a number of organizations in Fannin County.

After working for the Law Office of David Carlock in Dallas and Waltman and Grisham in College Station, Myles returned to Bonham and became a partner in the firm Turner, Meehan and Porter. He has extensive experience in both civil and criminal law and has tried cases throughout north Texas.

Myles took office in 2001 with a promise to stop the revolving door of child molesters who were being routinely released back into our community after being placed on deferred adjudication probation. He began by working with the Fannin County Children’s Center to establish a written protocol for the investigation of child abuse cases and he worked to provide state of the art video equipment so that small children would not have to face their molesters in court. His trial techniques in these tough cases have served as a model for other counties to follow and his office provides frequent training on the prosecution of child abuse. He has never lost a child abuse case and he has steadfastly refused to give probation to child molesters.

Myles has assembled a dedicated staff with Bill Gant as first assistant and Michael Skotnik as second assistant. Sherri Bell serves as the victim’s assistance coordinator and Jean Siebenthall is the hot check coordinator. The attorneys in the office have combined experience in 13 capital murder trials and they have raised the overall conviction rate in all trials from less than 40% to over 95%. There has been no employee turnover in the office in almost 3 years and all of the attorneys routinely work nights and weekends at no additional pay.

Myles completely reformed the county attorney’s hotcheck program by implementing the latest collection software and seeking assistance from Denton County’s successful model program. He created a "fast filer" program to make it easier for merchants to file checks and he uses innovative hotcheck roundups to get check writers to pay what is owed.

He was the first elected official in Fannin County to establish a website, www.fannincountyattorney.com, which is frequently updated with the latest news about crime in the county. The website also provides information on the hot check program, victim services, child abuse and a number of other topics. The contact information page tells citizens how to contact every police agency in Fannin County. "I am honored to be the chief prosecutor of my home county and I am humbled by the responsibility that the citizen’s have given me. I have kept the promises I made during my last campaign and I ask the voters to allow me to continue to seek justice on their behalf," stated Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter.

Deuell Appointed To Committee On Health And Public Schools

AUSTIN -- State Sen. Bob Deuell (R-Greenville) has been appointed by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst to serve on the Joint Interim Committee on Health and Public Schools. Deuell joins Sen. Eddie Lucio and Sen. Jane Nelson in representing the Texas Senate on the committee.

The committee was created by Senate Bill 474 during the 78th Legislative Regular Session. Committee members will study the nutritional content and quality of foods served to public school children, and will evaluate their short­term and long-term effects on obesity.

Deuell, a practicing family physician in Greenville, said he is honored by the appointment and looks forward to working with his colleagues on this issue.

"As a family physician, I know that prevention works better than cures," Deuell said. "We need to explore ways to prevent problems like diabetes and heart disease, and a good place to start is examining the nutrition our kids are getting."

Deuell, who serves on the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, said the state could see future economic benefit by taking pro-active action now.

"I know that the state has seen some tight financial times lately, but I believe any money we invest in the health of our kids we will get back exponentially in the coming years," Deuell said, "Treating heart disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases is very expensive. If we can prevent these illnesses, we can save a lot of money as a state. We are talking about the health of Texans who will be alive 60 or 70 years from now." "I look forward to working with Sen. Lucio and Sen. Nelson to find ways to study the nutritional content and quality of foods served to public school children and curb the growing problem of childhood obesity."

Scheduled Events For Stephenson School

SPECIAL EVENT! "Reading Matters" read-a-thon will start March 1 and last until March 26. The purpose is to introduce children to recreational reading and to help build language skills that will help them to be ready to read and learn when they enter elementary school. Points will be accumulated according to number of books read to children. Incentive awards will be given for every 15 books read to the children. It will last 4 weeks and will end with a special awards program April 1.

The following events are scheduled at Stephenson School in Bonham (Fannin County Head Start):

March 1 - "Reading Matters" read-a thon starts

March 2 - Dr. Seuss’ 100th birthday will be celebrated with birthday cake and readers from Bonham State Bank and community friends

March 2 - Read Across America - Read to a child today!

March 2 - Mrs. Lancaster’s class will visit the Bonham Public Library

March 3 - Make It/Take It Workshop - 12:30 p.m.

March 4 - Policy Council - 6:00 p.m.

MARCH 8 - 12 - SPRING BREAK

March 18 - Ident-A-Kid pictures taken

March 18 - Parent Meeting - 6:30 p.m.

March 24 - Computer Maintenance Workshop - 9:00 a.m.

March 25 - Spring Pictures

March 26 - Reading Matters ends

Finley-Oates Elementary Accelerated Reader Kenzie Rattan

Kenzie Rattan is a Second Grade student at Finley-Oates Elementary School. She has earned 150.3 points by reading and passing 302 computer-based tests in the Accelerated Reader (AR) supplementary reading program at her school.

Congratulations, Kenzie!

Finley-Oates Elementary Accelerated Reader  Caleb Springer

Finley-Oates Elementary Accelerated Reader Caleb Springer

Caleb Springer is a Second Grade student at Finley-Oates Elementary School. He has earned 150.3 points by reading and passing 315 computer-based tests in the Accelerated Reader (AR) supplementary reading program at his school.

Congratulations, Caleb!

Donations For Food Bank Helps Local Residents

The Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. would like to thank the Fellowship Class of The First Methodist Church of Bonham for their support by collecting saltine crackers and peanut butter for the Ministries. Delivered by Margaret and Pat Beaver, the much needed supply will benefit many families in the Fannin County area.

The women’s organization (relief Society) of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also recently donated toothpaste and toothbrushes, and are collecting a different item each month as an on-going service project for the Ministries.

"These organizations help us help those in need, and we are truly grateful," stated BCM president Vicki Hutchins. "The community has always been and continues to be very good to us."

Donations to Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. may be mailed to Bonham Community Ministries, Inc., P.O. Box 69, Bonham, TX 75418, or delivered to the Ministries office during regular business hours. For more information, please contact us at 903-583-6535.

Community Need Continues

"When a call went out for volunteers, First Assembly of God Church here in Bonham responded," stated Bonham Community Ministries president, Vicki Hutchins. "Fred Fowler organized a team and brought them in for training. As a result, we are going to be able to offer the people of Fannin County another day that they can come to BCM for assistance."

The new hours for Bonham Community Ministries will be Monday, Wednesday, THURSDAY, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"We are very grateful to the people of the First Assembly of God Church. Their commitment to this act of service will benefit many families in Fannin County," stated Hutchins. We would love to be open five days a week. All we need to do that is more willing volunteers like we have from First Assembly of God."

If you would like to donate a few hours a week to a rewarding organization, we could really use your help. Please feel free to stop in or call to find out more on volunteering, at our office located in the northeast corner of the Veterans Hospital grounds, in Building 10, Room 106. For more information, please contact us at 903-583-6535.

AUSTIN - Texas Health and Human Services Commissioner Albert Hawkins is encouraging senior Texans - especially low-income seniors - to learn more about improved federal Medicare benefits, including prescription drug discounts. Starting in less than 90 days, Medicare-endorsed drug discount cards good at most Texas pharmacies will be available to all Medicare participants.

"The new federal Medicare law provides significant benefits for Texas seniors who need prescription drug discounts," Hawkins said. "For low-income seniors, the new Medicare law could make the difference between rationing or going without needed medicine and being able to afford full prescriptions_"

Starting in June 2004, and lasting until the comprehensive Medicare drug coverage begins in January 2006, drug discount cards good at most pharmacies will be available to all Medicare participants. The cards will offer all Medicare enrollees discounts of 10 to 25 percent off the retail price of prescription drugs and will provide added benefits for low-income people.

In addition to the discounts, low-income seniors can use their cards to get $600 a year in direct Medicare assistance with drug purchases in 2004 and 2005. This new benefit does not require a new application or enrollment fee. The direct federal assistance is applied to qualified seniors’ prescription bills when they present their discount cards at the pharmacy. The federal government pays the discount card enrollment fees for low-income people.

For this program, low-income is defined as Texans with incomes less than $12,123 for individuals and $16,362 for couples, who have no prescription drug coverage from Medicaid or a private source. Seniors who meet the income requirements will not have to pay the monthly insurance premiums charged to other participants in the prescription drug insurance program.

Low-income seniors will never make more than a $5 co-payment for any prescription and as little as $2 for generic prescriptions.

"I encourage Texas seniors who do not have prescription drug coverage, especially low-income seniors, to enroll in the new Medicare prescription drug program," Hawkins said. "The new Medicare bill preserves consumer choice, enhances prescription drug benefits, and saves Texas tax dollars." HHCS is currently analyzing the new Medicare prescription drug law and determining how much savings the state will incur from the program.

Hawkins also noted that Medicare prescription drug coverage is strictly voluntary and the decision to participate won’t affect eligibility for other Medicare coverage. In both the drug discount and full prescription programs, participants can choose from a variety of Medicare-endorsed plans, according to individual needs_

Lone Star Shining

Walk down the streets of any foreign city with an outline of North Dakota on your shirt and you’ll undoubt­edly draw blank stares from passersby. But with the state of Texas on your chest, you’ll get a slap on the back, a "howdy pardner," and the inevitable inquiries about horses, South Fork and J.R. Ewing. Although we’re known for our can-do attitude and adventurous spirit, it is our state’s heritage that truly sets us apart.

Very few states enjoy such a rich history. We are the only state to enter the United States as a sovereign nation. Each year, starting on March 2, when Texas declared its independence from Mexico, through Apri121, San Jacinto Day, when we defeated the Mexican army, captured Santa Anna and won our freedom, people around the state find ways - small and grand - to celebrate being a Texan.

I have always loved Texas history in large part be­cause of my family heritage. My great-great-grandfather, Charles S. Taylor, was an "Alcalde" or chief magistrate under the Mexican government. He was later elected as a delegate from Nacogdoches to the Convention, where he signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. He, along with 58 other delegates, declared our independence from Mexico, setting Texas on course to be an independent republic for 10 years before joining the United States. One of his fellow delegates was Thomas Rusk, who would later hold a seat in the United States Senate - the same seat I hold today.

Each year, on or about March 2, 1 take to the floor of the United States Senate to read Colonel William Barret Travis’ letter calling for reinforcements at the Alamo. That letter reads in part:

"I shall never surrender or retreat ... I call on you in the name of liberty, of patriotism and of everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch. The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily and will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible and die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor and that of his country -Victory or death."

The bravery and solidarity of Col. Travis and the men he led at the Alamo are unmatched. Their refusal to yield in San Antonio enabled General Sam Houston to build up his troops, preparing for ultimate victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.

It is important for Texans to revel in our history and celebrate the strength and valor of our forefathers. Our independence was born out of a great battle and must never be taken for granted.

In the nearly two centuries since the Battle of the Alamo, Texas has forged a distinct path, growing into a prosperous and vital state. We are the second most populous state, contributing nearly $700 billion dollars to our nation’s gross domestic product, and we have nurtured some of this country’s greatest leaders. Our geographic diversity, from the flatlands of the panhandle, to the lushness of the Hill Country, sets the perfect backdrop for the varied industries, cultures and people that call Texas home. It is a unique blend that creates a rich state of contrast, color and flavor.

It is my hope that all Texans learn the wonderful and rich history of our state, and continue to pass on the tales of our past through the generations. I’m proud to represent Texas in Washington and will continue to make sure the lessons learned from the challenges of our past pave the way for continued growth and prosperity.

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Oven Fried Fish, Tater Tots, Coleslaw, Bun, Apples, Milk

Chicken And Dumplings, Scalloped Corn, Beets In Orange Sauce, Bread, White Cake With Pineapple, Milk

Pepper Steak, Baked Beans, Cream Potatoes, Peaches In Red Jello Made With Orange Juice, Milk

BBQ Beef, Potato Salad, Green Beans, Texas Toast, Pear Cobbler, Milk

Baked Ham, Pea Salad, Broccoli And Cauliflower, Bread, Cranapple Crunch, Milk

Improved Consumer Protection, Reduced Red Tape

TDLR Begins Accepting Applications for New Electrical Safety Program

For decades, licensing of electricians has been done at the local or regional level and each Texas community has set its own standards and requirements. Some cities instituted licensing based on experience and testing, others required only registration and payment of a fee. In rural areas, there has generally been no licensing at all.

That will change on September 1^st, 2004, when Texas kicks off a statewide licensing program for electricians. Electricians will need to earn only one license that will be valid throughout the state, and all licensed electricians will be required to demonstrate the same minimum standard of competence. The program was created by the 78^th Texas Legislature last spring. It will be administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).

TDLR began accepting applications for the new license on March 1st. The agency estimates 60,000 electricians will apply.

"Texans have the right to feel secure in their homes and businesses, and a substandard electrical system can be dangerous," said State Representative Joe Driver, who sponsored the legislation that created the new program. "Right now, the standards for electricians can vary widely from community to community, and in rural areas there may be no standards at all. We deserve better than that."

"TDLR has earned a first-rate reputation for administering consumer protection programs," he said. "I believe that under their capable stewardship this program will allow Texans to be confident that any licensed electrician they hire will have the training and experience needed to capably perform his or her duties. The legislature has made an important commitment to consistency and security across the state."

The licensing program was created last year by House Bill 1487. The law specifies the experience needed to qualify for each level of license, from apprentice to master electrician, from journeyman sign to master sign electrician and electrical contractor. In addition, electricians are required to demonstrate their knowledge by passing an electrical code examination approved by TDLR.

The law, however, allows for a three-month grandfathering period, beginning March 1st, during which electricians may qualify to receive a state license without taking an exam if they meet specific criteria including, but not limited to, prior local licensure, education and experience. In addition to the benefit uniform standards offer consumers, the program also will make it easier for many electricians to ply their trade. Under the current balkanized system of licensing, an electrician may be required to obtain a separate license for each municipality in which they work. Obtaining these licenses might require the electrician to pass a separate exam for each municipal or regional license.

For example, Keith Bell, who chairs TDLR’s Electrical Safety and Licensing Advisory Board, is an electrician in the Dallas-Forth Worth area. He currently maintains 28 municipal licenses - all expiring at different times - and has allowed 10 others to lapse this year because there was no immediate need for them.

"It is not often you can create a new regulatory program that actually reduces the regulatory burden and red tape for license holders," said William Kuntz, TDLR’s Executive Director. "But in many cases, that is what this one does. Instead of maintaining dozens of licenses and trying to keep track of all of them, electricians will need only one. Instead of having to acquire a new license every time they work in a different city, they will have a portable license that allows them to work anywhere in the state."

While the law does not prohibit cities from issuing local licenses that will permit electricians to work in those cities. Many cities have indicated they plan to discontinue their local licensing programs once the new statewide program begins. This will allow cities the ability to free up resources now dedicated to electrician licensing to meet other critical needs. TDLR will be working closely with communities to ensure the transition to the new system is smooth and all local and state efforts are coordinated.

An "electricians" webpage set up on the TDLR website (www.license. state.tx.us) will allow applicants to check on the status of their application as it is processed.

Until June 1^st, 2004, applicants can apply for a license without passing an exam if they can satisfy requirements established by HB 1487. After the grandfathering period ends, all applicants will need to present proof of having passed a TDLR-approved exam, which evaluates their occupational knowledge. Unless exempted by law, all electricians who wish to work statewide will be required to be licensed by September 1st.

Created in 1909 as the Bureau of Labor Statistics, TDLR protects the public welfare and safety and promotes a fair and competitive business environment by regulating twenty-two diverse industries and programs, including boxing, air conditioning contractors, and architectural barriers.

Karen Sue Farmer Honored By The Boy Scouts Of America

At the annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner of the NeTseO Trails Council on February 28, 2004 at Texas A&M-Commerce, the National Council, Boy Scouts of America, upon the recommendation of the NeTseO Trails Council, presented the Silver Beaver award to Karen Sue Farmer of Bonham.

The Silver Beaver award is given by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, upon recommendation of the NeTseO Trails Council, to a person or persons who have given outstanding service to youth over an extended period of time. The NeTseO Trails Council may make a limited number of recommendations each year according to its number of chartered traditional units. This award is the highest honor that can be presented by a local council and is bestowed only upon those persons who have continued, unselfish, and effective service, usually through the programs of the Boy Scouts of America. Only those persons who have been nominated by their Scouting peers are considered. The award cannot be applied for personally.

Ms. Farmer is a faculty member of Bonham High School and is currently serving as a Committee Member of Venture Crew 52, chartered to the First Presbyterian Church of Bonham. She has served as a Den Leader, Webelos Leader, Assistant Scoutmaster, District Committee member, member and Director of Mom & Me and Dad & Lad, and on the summer camp staff of Camp Dierks.

Ms. Farmer is Wood Badge trained, has earned numerous training awards and served on the staff of the 2003 Wood Badge Course, the council’s first course in ten years. She has been on the staff of the National Scout Jamboree. For the past several years she has been one of the adult leaders to represent our Council for Scouting’s "Report To State" in Austin, Texas.

Ms. Farmer is a dedicated leader and always willing to serve where needed. She continues to help bring a quality Scouting program to the youth of her community.

Dr. Seuss’ 100th birthday was celebrated March 2, 2004 at Stephenson School with birthday cake and Dr. Seuss stories being read by I.W. Evans 4th-6th grade high point AR Readers, Bonham State Bank employees Melinda Anderson, Erica Hilliard and Glynell Sewell; members of the Bonham Public Library Board Gloria Campbell, Sue Smith, and Jill Smith; and Stephenson Principal Mrs. McDonald.

The students and staff want to say" Thank You" to all who helped make Dr. Seuss’s birthday a big success

"Erase your bad credit - 100% guaranteed!" You have probably encountered these types of advertisements in a newspaper, magazine or on the Internet. Unfortunately, their claims are generally false or misleading. Despite what a credit repair company may lead you to believe, there is no easy way to fix bad credit.

Your credit history is maintained by credit bureaus, private companies that collect your payment history from creditors such as banks, department stores and mortgage companies. The only items that can be changed in your credit file are those that are erroneous or more than seven years old. Bankruptcy declarations can be reported for ten years.

Accurate items that are reported within the seven- or ten-year period cannot be erased from your credit record by companies advertising credit repair services. Credit repair companies charge anywhere from $50 to more than $1000 dollars for their services. In fact, you can do anything to your credit file that a credit repair company can. If you find an inaccurate item in a your credit file, you can fix it yourself at little or no cost.

Creditors seek information on your payment history from one of three major credit bureaus. It is a good idea to check the accuracy your credit report annually. You can do this by requesting a credit report from all three credit bureaus. Credit bureaus are required by law to share any information they have on file about you. In addition, you are entitled to a free copy if you have been denied credit, insurance or employment. You must request the report within 60 days from the credit bureau that provided the report to the business.

If you do find inaccuracies in your credit file, notify the credit bureau of the problem. Request a dispute form and submit it with supporting documents. By law, the credit bureau must investigate and correct any erroneous or outdated information. There is no charge to dispute mistakes in your credit file. The credit bureau must also send corrected copy of your report to anyone who received the incorrect version within the past six months.

Even so, it may also be a good idea to contact the creditor directly to ensure that its records are correct. If these steps do not completely resolve your dispute, you can have a written protest added to your credit file.

Consumers should be careful when considering loan consolidation as a way to pay off creditors. Some companies claim they can guarantee a loan for a fee paid in advance. The fee may be as much as several hundred dollars. If someone guarantees or strongly suggests that they can get a loan or credit for you, it’s against the law for them to request or accept payment until you actually get the loan or credit. And be aware that there are entirely bogus credit companies that will collect a fee up front and then simply abscond with your money. Legitimate lenders never guarantee or say that you are likely to get a loan or credit card before you apply, especially if you have bad credit, no credit or a bankruptcy.

We have also heard about companies that claim to be able to get your mortgage "released" by the holder for a fee of $2000. Needless to say, your mortgage cannot be dismissed for a fee. If you have credit problems, consider a consultation with a credit counseling service. There are no easy answers. Rebuilding your credit will take time and good management. Don’t allow yourself to be further victimized by credit repair scams.

Bonham, Texas. – The Senior Circle chapter at Northeast Medical Center has announced a new eye care plan to its menu of membership benefits. The EyeMed Vision Care Plan offers amazing discounts that average up to 50% off the regular retail prices of eye care and eyewear. All Senior Circle members will receive this benefit free of charge.
Senior Circle is a non-profit association of Northeast Medical Center for those age 50 and over. The program encourages a healthy and active lifestyle by providing programs that encourage continued learning, wellness, health and volunteering, coupled with a host of social activities.
Some of the benefits of the EyeMed Vision Plan include discounts off an exam, standard plastic lenses, frames, and laser vision correction. Providers on the EyeMed plan are LensCrafters, as well as other independent providers in the area. "An extraordinary feature of the plan is that it covers not only a Senior Circle member, but also everyone who lives in that member’s household," said Allison Keller, Senior Circle advisor.
With a membership fee of $15 a year, Senior Circle members participate in hosted social activities, local and national trips, and health education and exercise programs.
Members also receive special benefits and discounts at Northeast Medical Center, discounts at local businesses, travel discounts, emergency response system discount, and a wide variety of others.
For more information about Senior Circle, or for a complete calendar of events or a list of member benefits, contact Allison Keller at (903) 640-7341. Or visit www.seniorcircle.com.

Steve O. Black will be the guest presenter for our Artist’s Demo at the Creative Arts Center in Bonham Texas, 200 W. 5th St., Thursday, April 22, from 7-9 pm.

"Yeah, But Is It Art" examines modern and post-modern art and the public’s response to the imagery, concepts and issues raised by the art.

Many works of art of the 19th and 20th century that we consider art-worthy and place a high value on today at one time were considered avant-garde and in poor taste.

With slides and discussion, we will explore the role of both artist and viewer in what promises to be a lively debate.

Steve O. Black is the Fine Arts Chair and a Visual Arts Instructor at Grayson County College. Mr. Black received a M.F.A. in Painting from Arizona State University, a B.F.A. in Art from University of North Texas and also a B.A. in Psychology from University of North Texas.

Youth Art Contest & Show Comes To Bonham This Spring!

By Inga Posey

The Creative Arts Center’s mission is to encourage the creative arts in Fannin County, through exposure and teaching…And that’s exactly what our community has seen and experienced, since the very first day the doors to the gallery opened. From the exciting art exhibits to the fun-filled classes and workshops, artists and art lovers young and old have been able to explore, create, display and teach. It’s been a most successful and vibrant journey into the world of self-expression and beauty.

Our history is short, but the future looks to be a road without end, paved with the artistic endeavors of professional and aspiring adult artists, as well as those of the incredibly talented children of our community. Therefore, we are proud to present the 2004 Youth Art Contest and Show, dedicated to highlighting those youthful talents.

This year’s competitive show for youth is sponsored by the Law Office of Bill Terry and will open to the public on Saturday, April 17^th from 2:00 – 4:00pm, replete with a punch and cookie Artist’s Reception. This public opening immediately follows the judging process, which will begin that morning. Ribbons will be placed after scoring is completed, so all of the afternoon’s guests will be able to view the entries and see the final results of the judging process. Our young competing artists will be in attendance, along with family and friends, as well as the many guests expected to attend the very special opening. (All entries will remain on exhibit in the Creative Arts Center Gallery from April 17^th through May 22^nd.)

Youth ages 5-18 (only 18 year olds who have NOT graduated from their public, private or home-schooled senior year) will compete in four age group levels:

~LEVEL 1: Ages 5-8 ~LEVEL 2: Ages 9-12

~LEVEL 3: Ages 13-16 ~LEVEL 4: Ages 17 & 18

Each young artist may enter one piece in as many as three categories. This year’s media categories are:

~Water & Oil Painting ~Sculpture

~Collage (Multi-Media)

~Pen & Ink, Pencil or Charcoal, Marker, Crayon and/or Colored Pencil

~Textiles

~Printmaking (Block prints, etc…original works)

All entries must be original works produced within a year of the show’s date. Art copied from other artist’s work, artist prints/reprints, etc are NOT eligible. Reproductions of original works are NOT eligible. We are seeking self-expression and originality in all categories. Judges will be using a scoring system, with 1-60 points for skill, presentation and technique, and 1-40 points for originality. All winners place as follows in each age group and art category (ALL of our young artists are winners!):

~4^th PLACE (White): total scores of 67 or less ~3^rd PLACE (Yellow): total scores of 68-78

~2^nd PLACE (Red): total scores of 79-89

~1^st PLACE (Blue): total scores of 90-100

~BEST OF SHOW AWARDS: highest total scores in a single level, throughout all media categories

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Your artwork must be turned in at the Creative Art Center’s Gallery on one of the following TWO dates, at the times designated. NO LATE ENTRIES will be accepted!

Friday, April 9^th…from Noon – 5:00pm

Saturday, April 10^th…from Noon – 3:00pm

We are located at 200 West Fifth Street, in Bonham, Texas. You can reach us by phone at (903) 640-2196, or email us at: creativeartscenter@netexas.net. You may pick up a brochure at the gallery (which includes ALL the details, rules and entry form), or go to our website for a printable entry form at: www.creativeartscenter.us. The Arts Center is open Monday-Friday from 10am – 6:00pm and on Saturdays from 11:00am – 4:00pm.

Entry forms must be filled out in their entirety and taped to the back or bottom of each entry. Any signature on your artwork should be tastefully covered, to ensure anonymity during the judging process. An entry fee of $2.00 per piece is due with delivery of your work and entry forms. Please feel free to call the Gallery Assistant, Joan Snider or myself and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

This will be an exciting, uplifting experience for our young artists, so encourage the children in your life to enter the contest and experience the competitive environment of the art world. I am in hopes that Saturday, April 17^th will see a great turn-out for the artists, as they see their work on the gallery walls, some for the very first time. The support shown to our youth that day by family, friends, educators, community leaders, patrons of the arts and professional artists alike will instill in them a sense of community and show them just how much we admire their talent and their courage. Join us, along with our sponsors at the Law Office of Bill Terry, and be a part of building a child’s self esteem and acknowledging his/her boundless capabilities of self-expression.

Deuell Announces Formation Of Citizen Advisory Panel

On School Finance

Senator Wants Public Input On Issue

AUSTIN -- State Senator Bob Deuell (R-Greenville) has announced plans to form a Citizen Advisory Panel on Public School Finance made up of local leaders and constituents from Senate District Two.

The panel will be charged with reviewing public school finance proposals and submitting comments to Senator Deuell and staff in preparation for a possible special session on the issue.

Senator Deuell said he is looking forward to getting as much public input as possible.

"In preparation for the upcoming debate on this issue, I am assembling a Citizens Advisory Panel on Public School Finance to assist me in gauging the attitudes and desires of my constituents," Deuell said. "The panel will be made up of superintendents, school board members, business leaders, teachers, county and city elected officials, and other interested parties in District Two."

"As a State Senator, a former school board member, and a father of three children who attended public schools, I know the education of our children is of the greatest importance to our area and our state," Deuell said. "I believe that we must find a way to reform our property tax system, while maintaining equity and ensuring our schools have the resources to provide our children with every educational opportunity possible."

For more information on the Citizens Advisory Panel, constituents are encouraged to contact Sen. Deuell’s office at (512) 463-0102.

Sam Rayburn FFA Donkey Basketball

The Sam Rayburn FFA Booster Club will be sponsoring a Donkey Basketball game at the Sam Rayburn Elementary Gym on Wednesday, March 17, at 6:30 pm. The Buckeye Donkey Ball Company of Marengo, Ohio will be furnishing the animals and directing the games. There will be 4 teams riding in the competition. Free donkey rides will be given to the first 125 children through 5^th grade during intermission.

Advance tickets will be $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. At the door, tickets will be $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children. Children under 6 years old will be admitted free. Advance tickets will be available at Radio Shack in Bonham, Ivanhoe General Store, and Sam Rayburn School. A concession will be provided. All proceeds will be used for FFA activities. For additional information call (903) 664-3515, (903) 664-4705, (903) 664-2402, or (903) 664-2165,  ext. 214.

On February 25^th and 26^th, four local FFA chapters were honored with a visit from two Texas FFA officers. President Tobin Redwine and First Vice-President Jarod Justice visited the Sam Rayburn, Honey Grove, Savoy, and Trenton FFA chapters. The two young men travel all over the state speaking to FFA members about the great organization and the many opportunities it has to offer. They give a very motivating program to the students, encouraging them to strive to be the best they can be. The students learned many new things that will help each member and chapter become stronger at the local level. Each chapter would like to thank these young men for showing them that they must be relentless in all of their endeavors.

Multipurpose Complex Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The Fannin County Multipurpose Meeting was held on March 2, at the Turner Complex.

The meeting started by voting, and welcoming Kenny Karl to the board. Pictures of the Multipurpose Complex were handed out to give an idea of what it will look like.

The locations of the bathrooms were decided upon. It was voted unanimously to put the bathrooms in the building, and to try to make them 50% larger than the bathrooms at the Trades Day location. Tom Johnson was to go to BEDCo for further actions.

A committee was selected out of the board members to try to start some fund raising on the building. The goal have additional money to go along with the BEDCo’s grant money. The board is going to get prices on the septic system. It’s unsure whether they are going to go with using the city’s sewer line, or put one in for the building itself.

The minutes and the financial report were also approved at the meeting.

March BEDCo Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The BEDCo meeting was held on March 2, at the Bonham City Hall. The meeting was short and sweet.

The meeting was called to order at 4:30. The minuets of the February meeting and financial report for January were both approved.

It was decided by the board that the Cotton Mill water tower would be torn down, and Tom Johnson was appointed to do so in the cheapest way.

The rest of the agenda was Status and Executive Director’s reports. Reports were given on the parking lot wall, which is almost completed, but repairs were slowed because of the weather. Reports were also given on the Visitors Center, Expo Center, Powder Creek, vac./sick leave, sales tax revenue, and Feb. 2004 expenses.

Other items approved was action on a recommendation, directing the executive director to use only those funds in BEDCo’s Special Operating account (excess sales tax) for the construction of the Exposition Center at the Fannin County Multi-use Facility, and action to allocate any and all administrative and/ or construction supervisory costs incurred as a result of the construction of the Exposition Center at the Fannin County Multi-use Facility to the general operating budget of the current fiscal year.

Trenton Volunteers To Provide Labor For $165,050 Grant Project

Grant From ORCA To Fund Water Service Development Undertaking

(AUSTIN) - The Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA) announced on March 4, that it has awarded $165,050 grant funds from its Texas Community Development Program (TCDP) Texas Small Towns Environment Program (Texas STEP) to the city of Trenton (Fannin County) for a local water project. The fund will provide for equipment, expertise, and technical assistance, while volunteers provide the "sweat equity" to complete the project. Bonham is the seat of Fannin County.

Texas STEP is an innovative approach to solving the water and wastewater needs in rural Texas. Through this program, residents provide a certain percentage of the labor themselves. This self-help technique encourages small towns and counties to look within their own communities for resources to bring to the table.

The grant will help Trenton volunteers meet the terms of their Agreed Order with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and alleviate the threat to health posed by the wastewater overflow and excessive discharge.

The project will also ease the constant threat of water outage caused by the lack of gate valves and the aging, cracked and broken lines installed in the early 1900’s.

The volunteers will install approximately 4,250 linear feet of four-inch sewer service line and replace 50 sewer service lines, as well as 4,250 linear feet of two-, three-, and six-inch water lines and 54 water service transfers, bore and encasement

"I’m very pleased to see ORCA continuing its good work by partnering with my constituents in Trenton on this much-needed project," Senator Bob Deuell said. "My office, Rep. Phillips’ office and local leaders in Trenton have been working with ORCA and other state agencies on this issue for quite a while, and I’m happy to see we are on the way to a positive resolution."

"I am pleased that the state is partnering with the city on this much needed project," stated Representative Larry Phillips. "The use of volunteers allows more projects to be funded throughout the state. The volunteers who will work on this project are to be commended for their efforts to benefit the citizens of Trenton."

ORCA Executive Director, Robt. J. "Sam" Tessen, MS, noted that communities working with Texas STEP grants and this self-help approach have saved more than 50 percent on retail construction costs. "This saves cities and counties significant amounts of money and maximizes the number of citizens each project benefits," he continued. "Volunteers receive funds, direction, technical expertise, and specialized equipment from ORCA and contract engineering crews."

The program is a collaborative effort between ORCA, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Texas Department of Health, the Texas Water Development Board, the General Land Office, and the Rensselaerville Institute of Rensselaerville, NY.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the funding source for this program. ORCA is governed by a nine-member Executive Committee as listed below. ORCA is governed by a nine-member Executive Committee as listed below.

• David Alders Nacogdoches, Nacogdoche 936-569-1284

• Nicki Harle Baird, Callahan 325-676-0329

• Carol Harrell Jefferson, Marion 903-665-2700

• William Jeter Bryan, Brazos 713-688-6262

• Wallace Klussmann Fredericksburg, Gillespie Llano 325-247-3233

• Jim Roberts Lubbock, Lubbock 806-741-4200

• Lydia Saenz Carrizo Springs, Dimmit 830-876-9779

• Patrick Wallace Athens, Henderson 903-676-1191

• Michael Waters Abilene, Taylor 325-670-2201

ORCA’s door is always open for your comments and suggestions regarding the agency, or rural issues in general. Contact ORCA at P.O. Box 12877, Austin, Texas 78711. Phone: 512-936-6701 Toll free: 800-544-2042 E-mail: orca@orca.state.tx.us <mailto:orca@orca.state.tx.us> Fax: 512-936-6776.

On the web: www.orca.state.tx.us

ORCA was created by the 77th Legislature to facilitate and focus the State’s health, economic development, and community development programs targeting rural communities in Texas. ORCA’s programs and services support health care delivery in rural Texas, and address rural community planning activities, and housing and public facility needs such as sewer, water system, road, drainage improvements, and disaster relief funds. ORCA is the door to Texas government for rural citizens.

Last week at the Bonham Rotary Club meeting, Michael Walthall was inducted as a new member. Walthall is Development Services Coordinator for the City of Bonham. The local club currently has 39 members and has been active in many service projects here in Fannin County this year. The club is now planning a charity golf tournament at Legacy Ridge golf course on May 1 to benefit Fannin County Schools and to supply wheelchairs to those who are unable to get them - locally and internationally.