On a recent cold and wet December day, Habitat volunteers were found unloading two pallets of Hardiplank® siding at their storage facility furnished by the City of Leonard. This siding will be used as the exterior of two Habitat homes to be built in Fannin County. The siding is provided by James Hardie Siding Products through a cooperative agreement with the Habitat for Humanity Council of North Central Texas.

HFH of Fannin County would especially like to thank the Leonard Service Center and the City of Leonard for their assistance in unloading the Hardiplank ® product.

Individuals interested in applying to become a Habitat homeowner partner should complete a Mortgage Counseling Questionnaire, which is used to determine financial eligibility. Questionnaires are available on the Habitat website, www.fanninhabitat.org, or may be picked up at Moss & Cox, 518 North Main, Bonham, Texas; Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce, 110 West First Street, Bonham, Texas; First Presbyterian Church, 818 N. Main, Bonham, Texas; B&B Grocery, Leonard, Texas; Whitewright Library, Whitewright, Texas. Requests for questionnaire forms may also be mailed to P.O. Box 125, Bonham, TX 75418-0125, or emailed to info@fanninhabitat.org.

Those who would like to learn about becoming a Habitat volunteer are invited to attend "Habitat Night", Thursday, January 22 at 7:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 818 N. Main in Bonham.

Rep. Ralph Hall, longtime Democratic representative of the 4th Congressional District, announced that he has filed as a Republican candidate in the 2004 Texas Primary. Friday, Jan. 2

"This decision will not affect my representation of the 4th District and will not change my voting record," Hall said. "I will continue to vote my district as I always have, and I believe I will be in a better position to influence policy in the Republican Congress. This decision is in the best interest of my district."

"I have no ill will for the Democratic Party, and I know that I have many friends who might be disappointed by my decision," Hall said, " but everyone knows that my voting record has not aligned with the Democratic party for many years, and I don’t think this will come as a complete surprise to many. This year I was denied requests for district appropriation because I was a Democrat who voted against the bill. I have always stated that inasmuch as I was a Democrat representing a conservative and Republican district (66%), that if being a Democrat hurt my district, I would either resign or switch parties. Today I kept my word. I also support a Republican President who is constantly criticized by the Democrats who seek to unseat him. In the past year, some members of my party sought to politicize our efforts in the war on terrorism and the liberation of Iraq to a point that the President’s domestic agenda, which is overwhelmingly supported by my constituents, and the interests of my district were jeopardized. If I have made anyone unhappy in Washington D.C. - I repeat my longtime position. I’d rather be respected at home than liked in D.C. I’ll be working for all of you to whom I owe so much."

"I want to thank Democrats and Republicans in the 4th District who have consistently supported me since 1980 - and I will continue to seek bipartisan support as a Republican running for the post again in 2004," Hall added. "My record of bipartisanship will not change."

Women’s Fertility Drops Almost To Zero’ After Age 43

Wal - Mart Issues Grant

Aaron Williams, Asst. Manager and Community Involvement Coordinator for the Bonham Wal Mart, presents their $1,000.00 Civic Grant to the Bonham VFW Post #4852. Stevie D. Russell, Senior Vice Commander, accepted the Grant for VFW Post #4852.

JANUARY IS SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH

Bonham, Texas - Governor Ricky Perry has proclaimed January as School Board Recognition Month and Bonham Independent School District is joining other districts across the state to gratefully acknowledge their commitment to our communities and schools.

"Texans benefit every day from the dedicated energies and countless hours devoted by a group of more than 7,000 men and women across the state. These public servants are elected to serve by local citizens and receive no compensation for their tireless efforts. These men and women are the local school board members of Texas," said Dr. Linda Gist, Bonham Independent School District Superintendent. "Volunteer school board members serve countless hours working to improve public education," said Dr. Linda Gist. In difficult time, school trustees develop policies and make tough decisions on complex educational and social issues that affect the entire community and the lives of individual students. They bear responsibility in Bonham ISD for an annual budget of $15.5 million; 2000 students, ages 3 to 18; 300 employees and 5 campuses. "Even though we are making a special effort during January to show appreciation to our school board members, we recognize their contributions reflect a year-round commitment on their part," Dr. Gist said.

"We proudly salute these education advocates as they provide leadership for student achievement, academic programs, district funding, and school facilities. Their service ensures that decisions about local public schools are made by those most familiar with the needs of the community’s children and families," said Dr. Gist. These individuals deserve recognition and thanks for their dedication, to the continuing success of our students and schools," she said.

The men and women serving Bonham ISD are:

Charles Butler, Board President Allen Sanderson, Vice-President Charlotte Kearney, Secretary Nolan Ashmore, Mike Sisk, Clark Smith, Doyce Taylor

Alicia Glaser Graduates From Basic Training

Air Force Airman Alicia Glaser has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force Mission, organization and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle training, field training exercise, and special training in human relations.

In addition, flight 020 Received Honor Flight. Alicia will continue her education at Lackland AFB & Sheppard AFB, Wichita Falls, Texas.

Alicia Glaser is the daughter of Greg & Stacy Glaser of Ector, Texas. She is a 2003 Graduate of Savoy High School.

Her parents stated, "We are so verv-proud of her."

ANNUAL GIRL SCOUT COOK SALE BEGINS

Girl Scouts will begin their annual cookie sale on January 9, by taking orders from customers. The cookies will be delivered February 16 through March 7. Booth sales will also take place during that time at locations throughout the community.

Consumers will have eight varieties to choose from at $3.00 per box, according to Mailee Kirkbride, Volunteer Cookie Sale Co-Coordinator for the Girl Scout Council of Red River Valley.

Girls will be able to sell two new varieties of cookies this year. Lemon Coolers are bite-sized bursts of cool lemon flavor in crisp, vanilla cookies. Chocolate lovers need look no further than Double Dutch, which features semi-sweet and creamy milk chocolate chips.

For those who like to stick to the old favorites, other cookies available are Trefoils, the popular old­fashioned shortbread cookie, Thin Mints, Samoas, Do-si-dos, Tagalongs, and Aloha Chips.

"For decades, the Girl Scouts have been committed to helping girls grow and become confident, caring adults," said Inez Bailey, Volunteer Cookie Sale Co-Coordinator. "Through the Cookie sale girls gain confidence by learning to meet and greet people, keep financial records, and follow through on their promise to deliver the cookies ordered."

"In addition to the direct benefits to girls, in the form of increased self-confidence and skill development, the benefits of the cookie sale to the greater community are derived by the growth and satisfaction of its girls and young women .Enjoying cookies is the community’s way of showing support for its children," said Bailey.

According to Mrs. Kirkbride, 67% of the proceeds from the sale stay in the local community to provide programming, training, supplies and communication to girls and volunteers, as well as financial assistance to attend events and other opportunities.

If you are not contacted by a Girl Scout and wish to place an order, you my call the Girl Scout office at (903) 784-0803 or 1-800-987-9075, or your local Cookie Manager: Suzanne Bennett at (903) 640-1971.

Seniors Gearing Up For Tenth Texas Silver-Haired Legislature

On April 3, 1985, the 69th Texas Legislature passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 37, which supported the creation of a biennial Silver-Haired Legislature in the State of Texas. Governor Mark White signed the resolution on April 11, 1985 making Texas one of the twenty-seven states in the nation to adopt such a program. The Texas Silver-Haired Legislature (TSHL) is a non-partisan, unicameral body of 116 delegates consisting of and elected by persons over the age of 60. The goals of the TSHL are to: Motivate older citizens to realize that involvement is a primary responsibility of effective leadership.

Help older Texans to know that if they are to become a viable political force they must become informed and knowledgeable about the issues facing our community, state, and nation

Develop a forum for older persons to discuss and debate issues concerning not only their own welfare, but also that of others.

Educate the TSHL members in their advocacy role so they may continue their involvement in legislative matters in their local communities.

Provide a model legislative body in which the TSHL members shall have the opportunity to introduce, discuss, and pass resolutions dealing with major concerns of Texas

Work for the passage of legislative bills which favorably address Resolutions passed by the TSHL, especially those given high priority by the TSHL.

Elections for the first Texas Silver-Haired Legislature were held in May 1986. Four delegates were elected to represent the Texoma Region. They were: W. F. Ayers, - Grayson County; Mary Ethyl Praetz - Grayson County; David Brooks - Fannin County; Virgil Welch - Cooke County.

Current members of the Ninth TSHL include John "Jay" Tarwater (Fannin), Hazel Wright (Grayson), Imelda Rauschuber (Cooke), and Lela Foreman (Fannin).

The Ninth Texas Silver-Haired Legislature presented ten priority resolutions to the 78th session of the Texas Legislature, which convened

in January 2003. According to Janis Thompson, Director of the Texoma Area Agency on Aging, "The Legislature in Austin receives so many requests from a variety of interest groups that it is often difficult for them to weigh the importance of each. With older advocates taking these issues themselves and setting their own priorities, they are able to give the Legislature a better direction as to the immediate needs of Older Texans."

The most recent TSHL Resolutions adopted into law and signed by the Governor include the enhanced penalties for identity theft, legislation regarding tax freezes for elderly and persons with disabilities, required air conditioning for senior housing, and franchise tax laws to preserve tax revenues. Persons who are 60 years of age by January 1, 2004 are encouraged to run as a candidate for the Tenth Texas Silver-Haired Legislature. An eligible candidate must be a resident of Cooke, Grayson, or Fannin County; must be a registered voter in the State of Texas; and must be willing to participate in all activities required and expected of Silver-Haired Legislators. Four representatives to the Silver- Haired Legislature will be elected from Texoma Region, representing Cooke, Grayson, and Fannin Counties, and one position At-Large.

While filing for candidacy, a person must obtain and fill out a candidacy information form available through the Texoma Area Agency on.

Aging, beginning January 5, 2004. The candidate will also receive an official candidate petition and election procedures guidebook. The petition must be returned to the Area Agency on Aging with at least 25 signatures of registered voters 60 years of age or older residing in the Texoma Region. With the submission of the petition prior to the February 28, 2004 deadline and payment of $5.00 filing fee, the person is an official candidate and their name will appear on the ballot. Campaign forums will be scheduled in each county during the month of April. Elections are scheduled on Tuesday, May 25, 2004 from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm and will be held at several senior centers in the three-county region. All eligible voters unable to vote during the scheduled election may request an absentee ballot to be mailed to their home address by contacting the Texoma Area Agency on Aging, from May 1st through May 21st.

For more information, please contact:

Area Agency on Aging of Texoma

1117 Gallagher, Suite 200

Sherman, TX 75090

903-813-3502 or 1-800-677-8264

Local Organization Donates Stuffed Animals To Fannin County CPS

Joyce Smith, representing Bonham Chapter #852, Order of the Eastern Star, (on the left,) is presenting twenty stuffed animals to Peggy Gattis of the Fannin County Child Protective Services in Bonham.

Mrs. Smith is on the Kritters for Kids committee of the Grand Chapter of Texas, O.E.S. and is collecting stuffed animals to give to organizations which will in turn give them to children who are in need or have been traumatized in some way.

The Order of the Eastern Star is a Masonic-related, benevolent and charitable organization striving to help others in our communities.

HOUSTON--(Jan. 6, 2004)--Patients in the moderate to severe stages of Alzheimer’s disease may benefit from a new drug available in pharmacies this month.

The drug memantine, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in October 2003, has been shown to slow the disease’s decline, allowing patients to perform some functions of daily living longer. The Alzheimer’s Disease Center at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston participated in a clinical trial on the drug from 2001 to 2002.

"Memantine slows functional loss, helping people retain their functional abilities even when they are in the severe stages of the disease," said Dr. Rachelle Doody, professor of neurology and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Center at BCM. "In some cases it may delay the time until a patient enters a nursing home, or requires more hands on assistance from a caregiver."

Memantine is the first in a class of drugs that protects the brain’s nerve cells against excess amounts of the chemical glutamate, which overexcites one of the transmitter systems in the brain. When the transmitter system is over-activated, it can lead to the death of brain cells. The drug works on a different system of the brain than current drugs for Alzheimer’s, called cholinesterase inhibitors. Some studies have shown that combining both types of drugs may be an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s. No drug stops the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

When patients with Alzheimer’s reach the moderate stages of the disease, they uniformly have problems with the complex activities in daily life, like managing finances or using telephones. As the disease progresses to severe stages, they may lose many of the abilities that most people learn in early childhood and need help dressing, bathing, eating and walking. Stress on the caregiver increases substantially during this stage, because the patient needs more help to care for himself or herself.

"Severe Alzheimer’s disease takes all different forms," Doody said. "I can see a severe patient who needs help with dressing, and could never put together a proper meal, but still likes to go out to dinner, enjoy events with family and travel. So severe disease doesn’t mean the patient is inactive, or untreatable." Until more new treatments for severe Alzheimer’s are approved, early diagnosis is key.

"People need to know that Alzheimer’s disease can be diagnosed, and that diagnosing it early and treating it early makes a difference," Doody said. "Many patients are never diagnosed, or are diagnosed too late because families and physicians do not notice the problems until it’s very advanced."

A PART

Advocacy Partners for Accessibility Reaching Texomans

Local Committee on People with Disabilities for the Texoma Region

A PART officially became a local committee on people with disabilities after Texoma Council of Governments voted to become their sponsoring entity in July of 2003. The group approached TCOG after much discussion on which local government to ask to sponsor them and TCOG was the most logical choice because the group wanted to represent the tri-county area of the Texoma Region of north Texas consisting of Cooke, Grayson and Fannin counties.

After spending the late spring and early summer writing bylaws and electing officers and board of directors, they sprang into action on July 26^th by hosting an ADA Awareness Day Celebration.

In October, the committee co-hosted the 2^nd Annual Disability Expo for the Texoma Region and assisted the Arc of Texoma in an awareness and fundraising golf tournament. The Disability Expo consisted of 17 vendors and was at the local mall. A PART has made the commitment to continue sponsoring this event in future years. Over three thousand dollars was raised to promote disability awareness and activities for the disability community through the golf tournament.

A PART was awarded a certificate of Appreciation for providing empowerment to persons with disabilities by the Area Agency on Aging and Local Advocacy Network in December.

In January of 2004, the committee will narrow down from several possible projects to establish a plan of action for the upcoming year.

A PART meets on the 1^st Tuesday of each month on the 2^nd floor in the Texoma Room at Texoma Council of Governments at 1117 Gallagher in Sherman, TX.

"Join us to be A PART of the community". Call Kim Rice 903-813-3561 for more information

DINNER WITH GOVERNOR RICK PERRY!!!

You are cordially invited to attend the Lincoln Day Dinner on February 12, 2004 on the Austin College campus in Sherman, Texas. Governor Perry has accepted our invitation to be the keynote speaker. The Fannin. County Republican Party will join the Grayson County Republican Party in hosting this visit by the Governor.

We hope you can be part of this historic event as we continue to work to bring conservatives together throughout Northeast Texas. As our Republican majority grows in strength, it is more important than ever that we unite around the values that have made our county strong.

Sponsors tables will be available and sponsors will be listed on the invitation, recognized at the event and receive a number of tickets to the event and VIP Reception with priority seating based on the level of sponsorship

Individual tickets will be sold on an availability basis at $45 for the dinner and $100 for the dinner with VIP Reception. VIP Reception only tickets are $75. Because of limited seating and an expected high demand for tickets, all tickets will be sold on a first come first serve basis. I know you will want to be included in this wonderful evening.

The VIP Reception will begin at 6:00 p.m. and will feature wines from our own Red River Valley. Dinner will begin at 7:00 p.m. This will be an exciting evening to celebrate our heritage as Texas Republicans.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or attending, please respond by calling Joe or Sandra Ward at (903) 664-3022.

Dodd City ISD Honor Roll 3rd 6 Weeks

1st Grade: Cailee Fry, Kaleb Hammett, Christopher Hartnett, Makagan Mitchell, Hannah Monroe, Shelby Moore, Madison Phillips, Tiffany Prock, Keeshia Thompson, Dalton Underwood, Hunter Vaught, Jenna Wallace

2nd Grade: Lane Anderson, James Hellwarth, Mary Hellwarth, Meghann Maggret

3rd Grade: Hunter Brent, Misty Goodin, Rainy Goodin, Briann Hilliard, Tyler Knight, Jaiden Pelton, Christie Petty, Hayley Smith

4th Grade: Julie Hellwarth, Kaitlyn Massie, Connor Reed, Jaylen Wallace

5th Grade: Patrick Moore, Sarah Smeltzer, Seth Stephens

6th Grade: Blaze Blain, Barbara Kemp, Kasey Gatlin

7th Grade: Megan Thompson, Ethan Stephens, Cassidi Rogers, Will Reed, Callie Maxwell, Sydnee Horton, Bryer Lappin, Kaci Cumpston,

8th Grade: Chelsea Bell, Kamey Herpeche, Amy Jackson, Ethan Porter

10th Grade: Jennifer Burpo, Kim GIbson, Whitney Parker, Bethany Stephens

11th Grade: Justin Weeks, Jessica Hoffman, Crystal Hough, Chris Jones, Cody Maxwell, Casey Rogers

12th Grade: Tina Blevins, Kindra Kavanaugh, Michael Matthews, Mandy Milner, Lauren Renfro, Lauren Taylor

1st Grade: Ashlee Booth, Blake Deweese, Gracie Granstaff, Karmon Hernandez, Joedavid Huff, Jacqueline McGehee, Daulton Pilliod, Madison Porter, Taylor Spindle

2nd Grade: Rodney Coble, Jessica Glatt, Jacob Kemp, Eric McInnis, Lucas Wright

3rd Grade: Tyler Curfman, Joanna Gilbreath, Zachery Greenhaw, Casey Hall, Jayson McGehee, Sean Skipworth, Steven Standlee, Clayton Williams

4th Grade: Bethany Fisher, Charles Gibson, Lexi Langford, Rachell Lehew, D’Artagnan Porter

5th Grade: Blake Butler, Christopher Glatt, Morgan Hartnett, Rosblandel Hiteshew, Alexandrea Ingold, Zachary Knight, Ryan McInnis, Dillon Stewart, Jason Sullivan

6th Grade: David Dunn, Lacey Coffman, Colby Bockman, Kayla Thompson, Joshua Skipworth, Dillon Porter, Joe McGehee, Brittany Lasater, Braden Fry, Steven Cockrill, Ethen Bowman

7th Grade: Jessie Starnes, Dalton Herndon, Kaylee Booth, Hailey Spindle, Katy Pickering, Rebekah Gustin, Justin Coffman, Kourtney Bee, Christian Wood

8th Grade: Lorran Anderson, Stacy Graves, Hollie Hill, Toni Miller, Jordan Parker, Michael Smeltzer, Collin Taylor

9th Grade: Jeramie Horton, Kelli Horton, Leslie Jones, Angel Milner, Silayna Monroe, Colby Rogers, Heath Spindle, Justin Spindle, Jeffrey Sullivan

10th Grade: James Baxley, Jenna Lappin, Dee Pickering

11th Grade: Cody Horton, Tim Lavergne, Tiffany Lawhon, Tabatha Ottmo

12th Grade: Cody Adair, Misty Akers, Jennifer Angell, Kasi Dawson, Jackie Fleck, Audra James, Amber Sadler

Air Force Staff Sgt. Is Deployed Overseas

Air Force Staff Sgt. Amanda L. Zeltner is currently deployed overseas at a forward operating location in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Operation Iraqi Freedom is the official name given to military operations involving U.S. and coalition forces efforts to disarm and end the current Iraqi regime. Active duty, Reserve, and National Guard members from all branches of the U.S. armed forces are participating in the operation. The focus of the mission is to liberate the Iraqi people, preserve Iraq as a unified state, keep its territorial integrity intact, and help the Iraqi people begin the process of economic and political reconstruction.

The sergeant is a security forces patrolman with five years of military service.

She is the daughter of Patrick Zeltner of Bonham, Texas.

Zeltner is a 1998 graduate of Bonham High School.

Foundation Offers Condolences to Lezar Family

Tex Lezar Served as TPPF President in Early 1990s

AUSTIN, Texas - The state and nation have lost a fierce advocate for conservative ideas with the untimely death of Tex Lezar, said the chairman of the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Board of Directors. Lezar died Monday of a heart attack; he was 55.

"Mr. Lezar was one of the brightest legal minds and best defenders of free market, limited government ideas to have graced Texas," said Wendy Gramm, Ph.D. "I know that our president, Brooke Rollins, and her predecessor, Jeff Judson, were honored to follow in the footsteps of one of Texas’ most well-respected leaders."

Lezar served as the Foundation’s president and chief executive officer in the early 1990s, and was integral in the founding of the organization. Lezar also served in President Ronald Reagan’s Department of Justice, and was named chairman of the Washington, DC-based Empower America.

While serving as the Foundation’s president, Lezar wrote "Making Government Work," a landmark book outlining conservative activism and introduced by Reagan.

"Under the leadership of Tex Lezar... the Texas Public Policy Foundation has brought together specific proposals by some of the nation’s best authorities on the most important issues facing our states today," wrote Reagan in 1994.

Speaking for the Foundation’s board of directors, Gramm offered her condolences to the Lezar family, his wife and children.

School Board Recognition Month Proclamation

WHEREAS, the mission of the public schools is to meet the diverse educational needs of all children and to empower them to become competent, productive contributors to a democratic society and an ever-changing world; and

WHEREAS, local school board members are committed to children and believe that all children can be successful learners and that the best education is tailored to the individual needs of the child; and

WHEREAS, local school board members work closely with parents, educational professional, and other community members to create the educational vision we want for our students; and

WHEREAS, local school board members are responsible for ensuring the structure that provides a solid foundation for our school system; and

WHEREAS, local school board members are strong advocates for public education and are responsible for communicating the needs of the school district to the public and the public’s expectations to the district;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WAYNE MOORE, do hereby declare my appreciation to the members of the Bonham School Board and proclaim the month of January 2004, as

SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH in Bonham, Texas. I urge all citizens to join me in recognizing the dedication and hard work of local school board members and in working with them to mold an education system that meets the needs of both today’s and tomorrow’s children.

IN OFFICIAL RECOGNITION WHEREOF, I hereby affix my signature this 5th day of January, 2004.

Candidates For The Fannin County Electoral Offices

Myles Porter, incumbent (D) Richard Glaser (R)

Kenneth Moore (D) Bob Cherenko (R)

Pam Richardson, incumbent (D)

Ronnie Rhudy, Incumbent (D)

Dwayne Strickland, incumbent (D) Curt Fogelberg II (D) (Hoover) Edwin Wade (D) Charles Lynn Gibbs (R)

Craig Nicholas, incumbent (D)

Bob Clemmons (R)

James Woods (D)

Faces Of BPKIDS Project

CABF is collecting photos of children who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. We would like to share the faces of our children with legislators and other policy makers. You can help by sending in your most charming photo (it does not need to be a current photo, but it should be a "best" picture of your child!) If you send by email, please try to have at least a 300 dpi resolution for your photo. Send the photos to Stuart Cox at scox@bpkids.org.

Or by surface mail to:

Stuart Cox

P.O. Box 2186

Williamsburg, VA 23187-2186

Please include the following information in your letter or email (not on the photo itself):

-Child’s name

-Child’s date of birth

-Child’s age at diagnosis

-Current address

-City and State

-Zip Code

-Parent’s full name

-Parent’s daytime telephone number

-Parent’s email

Your child’s first name, age and state of residence will be published.

RELEASE AND CONSENT TO USE PHOTOGRAPH

"I am the parent of _________ who is shown in the accompanying photograph. I represent that I have authority to authorize CABF to use this photograph. I give permission for CABF to use the accompanying photographic image of _________ for the sole purpose of educating lawmakers about pediatric bipolar disorder. I understand and agree that neither I nor _________ (child’s name) will ever receive any compensation for this use of this copy of this photograph. I am not transferring ownership of the photograph to CABF. I understand that my child will not be personally identified

when sharing the photograph, but the first name, age of my child in the photo, city and state may be

disclosed."

______________________ (Name)

______________________ (Date)

I agree to the use of my photograph for the purpose of educating lawmakers about bipolar disorder. I understand I will not receive any compensation for the use of the photograph.

______________________ (Name)

______________________ (Date of Birth)

______________________ (Date Signed)

(If child is 12 or over they must also sign the release)

Fannin County Receives Grant Monies For Non-Profit Organization

Fannin County has been awarded $17,209.00 for Phase 22 funding cycle. The grant monies are awarded by the local Fannin County EF&S board to non profit organizations who: Have an active functioning board, meets standard money auditing procedures, provides utility, temporary housing, meals and food assistance programs to those in need or meeting EFSP guidelines. Applications may be obtained at the office of the Fannin County Judge at the Court House, Bonham, Texas. All applications are to be returned completed no later than 19 January 2004. Previous recipients of EFSP phase 21 grants who have NOT turned in phase 21 reports for end of year must turn in the reports before receiving phase 22 application. For more information call 903-583-7455.

Attorney General Greg Abbott Appoints Deputy Attorney General For Families And Children

AUSTIN -- Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has appointed Richard "Casey" Hoffman to the newly created position of Deputy Attorney General for Families and Children. Hoffinan will oversee the Child Support Division and will spearhead efforts to develop a broad range of policies and initiatives through which the Attorney General’s office can directly support families and children and cooperate with federal and other state agencies that share a similar mission.

"My office made great strides last year in helping children and families - such as collecting a record $1.5 billion in child support - but I believe we can do even more," Attorney General Abbott said. "Casey has the wealth of experience and the proven track record of innovation needed to help us chart new paths for protecting and supporting the families and children of Texas."

Most recently, Hoffinan served as chief executive officer of Supportkids, the nation’s largest private child support enforcement agency, which he founded in 1991. He also has significant public-sector experience, having directed the Attorney General’s Child Support Division as Special Assistant Attorney General from 1986 to 1991. Hoffman’s service includes terms as an assistant district attorney and as president of the Massachusetts Bar Association and the National Child Support Enforcement Association. He also served on President George W. Bush’s Transition Advisory Committee for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Prior to moving to Texas in 1985, he founded a law firm. and practiced for many years as a trial lawyer.

In his new role, Hoffman will take a more active role for the Attorney General’s office nationally ill working with the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He will also lead the agency’s efforts to work with leaders on family and child related issues in the Congress, such as former Attorney General and current Sen. John Comyn.

"Protecting families is a vital part of the work of the Office of the Attorney General," Attorney General Abbott added. "With Casey’s help, the OAG wiIl be a leader in Texas and nationally to help families and children."

The Child Support Division will fall under Hoffman’s purview as Deputy Attorney General for Families and Children. Cynthia Bryant will continue as the Director of Child Support, where she will manage the day-to-day operations of the division.

Hoffman will begin his new position on Jan. 12.

Brian P. Crutcher Graduates From OSUT

Army Pvt. Brian P. Crutcher has graduated from One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at the U.S. Army Infantry School, Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. The training consisted of basic military training and advanced individual training (AIT).

During basic training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremonies, military customs and courtesies, map reading, tactics, basic rifle marksmanship, physical fitness, field training, and first aid. The recruit developed combat skills and handled various weapons available to the infantry soldier.

During AIT, the soldier received instruction to serve as an infantryman using light and heavy anti-armor weapons, indirect-fire support, and mechanized operations while assigned to a rifle or mortar squad. The training included weapons qualification, tactics, patrolling, navigation, field communications, and combat operations; engagement in infantry combat exercises, battle drills, land mine locating, neutralizing and extracting, and survival operations during a nuclear, biological or chemical attack.

Crutcher is the son of Dale and Diana Crutcher of Rural Route 5, and grandson of Marlin and Betty Crutcher of Silo Road, all of Bonham, Texas.

He is a 2003 graduate of Bonham High School.

Police Officers Receive New Handbooks

The Fannin County Attorney’s Office has provided new Texas criminal law handbooks to the officers of every law enforcement agency in the county. The pocket-sized handbooks, which include the penal code, code of criminal procedure and portions of the transportation, health and safety, alcoholic beverage and family codes, provide officers with a quick reference to the most common legal issues they face on the street. The books also contain common English to Spanish translations. Each officer was also given a new copy of Fannin County’s sexual assault investigation protocol card. The protocol cards, which were developed jointly by the Fannin County Attorney’s Office and the Fannin County Children’s Center, serve as a guide for officers to follow when investigating sexual assault cases. County Attorney Myles Porter said the protocol cards have been used for over two years in the county and have been invaluable in his fight against child sex abuse. "One of the reasons we have been so successful is because of our protocol; we decided to take this opportunity to give the officers new cards to reinforce their importance and to make sure everyone has one," stated the County Attorney.

The donation was made possible with funds from the County Attorney’s hot check fee account. "It’s important for the officers of this county to have easy access to the most up to date statutes and codes. After talking to several officers, we felt that these handbooks would best serve that purpose and we were happy to provide them." said Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter.

There were many songs in the air at the home of Deanie Dunham on Saturday Dec. 13, 2003 when her piano student’s gathered to perform their annual Christmas Piano Recital for their family and friends.

Five year old Elizabeth Prater was first to perform. Elizabeth sang along as she played her three pieces, ‘Jingle Bells, O’ Christmas Tree and Angels We Have Heard On High.’ Kenna Duncan was next and played ‘Silent Night and Jolly Old Saint Nicholas.’ Alexis Fuller played ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas and Toyland.’ Cheyenne Sisk sang along on her first piece ‘The First Noel’ and then played ‘ Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer.’ Savannah Duncan performed ‘ Hark! The Herald Angels Sing and The Little Drummer Boy.’ Jake Mead played ‘Joy to the World.’ He then combined classical with traditional Christmas carols with "A Pachelbel Christmas" played to the setting of Pachelbel’s ‘ Canon in D’ laced with ‘Jolly Old St. Nicholas and JIngle Bells.’ Deanie Dunham followed Jake’s lead by performing another classical traditional combo. ‘It Came Upon The Midnight Clear’ with Chopin’s ‘ Nocturne in E flat.’

Cookies, cake and punch were enjoyed by all, except for four year old Colorado who, as leaving, politely informed his hostess, "Miss Deanie, the punch was yucky." Out of the mouth of babes! Students will return in Jan. to find new pieces to learn for the spring recital as well as a new punch recipe.

Bonham SNAP Menu January 12- January 16

Spanish Rice w/ Ground Beef, Texas Potatoes, Tossed Salad/ Dressing, Bread, Pudding, Milk

Turky Divan, Scalloped Potatoes, Bread, Spiced Pears, Milk

Pinto Beans & Ham, Oven Fried Okra, Tomatoes, Cornbread, Jellied Fruit Salad, Milk

Chicken & Dumplings, Pea Salad, Creole Squash, Bread, Bread Pudding/Lemon Sauce, Milk

Beef Stew, Cheese Slice, Coleslaw, Cornbread, Raisin Apple Cobbler, Milk

BCM Completes Honey Bee Genome Sequence

HOUSTON—(Jan. 7, 2004)--The Human Genome Sequencing Center at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) in Houston announced today the assembly of the first draft sequence of the genome of the honey bee, Apis mellifera. For the first time researchers can access the majority of the genes that make up this organism.

The honey bee now joins the fruit fly and mosquito as an insect with a genome sequence. The honey bee is important in the agricultural community as a producer of honey and for pollination. It is also a model organism for studying human health issues including immunity, allergic reaction, antibiotic resistance, development, mental health, longevity and diseases of the X chromosome. In addition, biologists are interested in the honey bee’s social instincts and behavioral traits.

"The honey bee project thrusts genomics into a new branch of the insect world with implications for agriculture, health, and behavioral research," said Dr. George Weinstock, co-director of the genome center at BCM.

The honey bee sequence will also be very useful for comparative studies in which scientists examine the differences and similarities between DNA sequences of various species to find genes and regulatory regions within DNA.

The project began in December 2001 when four bee researchers - Danny Weaver, Gene Robinson, Hugh Robertson and Spencer Johnston - approached the BCM group with a proposal for the project. Subsequently, the project was funded with approximately $6.9 million from the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) and $750,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Sequencing began in early 2003.

"We recognized the potential of this genome project immediately," said Dr. Richard Gibbs, director of the BCM genome center. "It is less than one-tenth the size of the human sequence, but is packed with information. It has the potential to positively influence initiatives in both human health and agriculture."

The sequence information can now be used to study the molecular basis of specific traits in the honey bees. The data will be the basis of a comparison with sequence from the Africanized honey bee strains that have invaded the southern areas of the United States.

The current genome assembly was generated by the whole genome shotgun approach, first used for the fruit fly. Data from bacterial artificial chromosome clones will be added for the next release, early in 2004. The sequence results are available on both the Baylor Human Genome Sequencing Center and the public ‘GenBank’ websites.

NHGRI Director Dr. Francis S. Collins said, "We are excited that researchers around the world now have free and ready access to a first draft of the honey bee genome. This achievement lays the foundation for new genomic studies with benefits ranging all the way from the produce stand to the medical clinic."

Fannin Soil And Water Conservation District Seeking Public Input

The USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS) and the Fannin Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are seeking public input regarding implementation of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

Fannin County will receive an EQIP allocation in 2004 to install high priority conservation practices. A work group made up of local government and agency officials with expertise in natural resources will advise NRCS on conservation concerns, cost share rates, and needed conservation practices.

The Local Work Group (LWG) will hold a Program Development Group Meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m. on January 21, 2004, at the Fannin County Courthouse South Annex, 210 South Main Street in Bonham.

In order to assure public participation in the development of the Fannin County program, the LWG will accept comments from individuals or groups regarding natural resource conservation. Oral or written comments may be given at the meeting. Following the Program Development Group Meeting, the LWG will consider public input and formally advise MRCS as to their recommendations for EQIP and other conservation programs.

Written comments prior to the meeting may be mailed to the Fannin SWCD, 200 E 1st Street, Bonham, Texas 75418. Letters must be received by January 20^th, 2004.

For further information regarding this announcement, contact Randy Moore at the MRCS office in Bonham at 200 E. 1^st Street or call 903-583-9513 ext. 3.

All USDA programs are open to all persons without regard to any discriminatory factor.

Local Schools Create Valuable Technology Partnership

Savoy- This school year Savoy ISD has taken steps to become increasingly efficient at integrating technology in the classroom.

Donna Thomasson announced recently that Savoy ISD has joined forces with Atomic Learning, a nationally respected provider of web-based software training.

Atomic Learning (www.atomicLeaming.com) provides web-based software training for applications that students and teachers use every day. It’s supplemental learning that’s available 24/7, delivered through short, easy to understand tutorial movies.

The timing of Savoy ISD is good. A National Center for Education Statistics brief shows that while virtually 98 percent of public schools nationwide had access to the Internet, only 52 percent of public school teachers used computers or the Internet for instruction. (www.nces.ed. ov.

"Putting computers into classrooms isn’t enough,’ said Dan Meyer, a former classroom teacher, and a founder of Atomic Learning. "That’s not really providing education. That’s like giving a child a book and not teaching her to read. Atomic Learning provides supplemental software training in an economical fashion, so schools still have money to invest in hardware. Technology is so important in education today. Corporate America has to deliver it affordably and efficiently to schools" Meyer said.

By teaming with Atomic Learning, Savoy Elementary has the opportunity to train every student and every educator on more than 40 of the most commonly used software applications.

The service will be implemented in three areas: in staff development, a curriculum supplement, and a resource for parents of school age children. That means educators, students and their families can access Atomic Learning from school or home, all day, everyday.

Fannin County Emergency Management

In the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, thousands of Americans responded by volunteering their talents and skills to help others. Many more Americans asked, "What can I do to help?"

During his 2002 State Of The Union address, President George Bush created the USA Freedom Corps to help Americans answer his call to service and to foster a culture of service, citizenship and responsibility.

The Medical Reserve Corps is the component of the Citizens Corps that will bring together local health professionals and others with relevant health related skills to volunteer in their community. These volunteers will assist local, existing community emergency medical response systems as well as provide a group of readily trained and available resources to help a community deal with pressing public health needs and improvements.

The success of the Fannin County MRC depends upon your participation as a volunteer in this organization. Please at this time take a few minutes and ask yourself "what can I do to help in a time of crises or emergency in Fannin County?" The Fannin County MRC is one of the ways that you can help.

Fannin County MRC will provide the necessary training and support to you as they begin this project. They will be conducting training classes, drills and assisting at some of the community sponsored events over the next year.

For more information on this new program please contact Fannin County Emergency Management Coordinator Clint Wagstaff at the following: 903-640-8484 or email fcmcem@cableone.net.

Fannin County Drug Court

On January 13, 2004 the Fannin County Drug Court will open its doors for the first time.

In early 2002, The Substance Abuse Council in partnership with the Fannin County Coalition applied to be a part of the Drug Court Planning Initiative. The Drug Court Planning Initiative is a training initiative that helps communities develop adult, juvenile, and tribal drug court programs. Up to 200 communities in the United States are selected to participate in the Drug Court Planning Initiative annually

On July 11, 2002, The Drug Court Planning Initiative informed The Substance Abuse Council that Fannin County had been selected to attend the Adult Drug Court Trainings in the year 2003. There are currently 7 Drug Courts operating in Texas. These Drug Courts are in San Antonio, Dallas, El Paso, Beaumont, Conroe, Ft. Worth and Austin. Fannin County was 1 of 200 selected in the United States.

A Drug Court Planning Committee was formed consisting of: Coordinator - Debbie Fesperman, Fannin County Drug Court Judge - Don Jarvis, Fannin County District Attorney - Michael Skotnik, Fannin County Public Defender - Steve Miears, Fannin County Probation Department - Cory Baker, Bonham Police Department - Mike Bankston, Alcoholic Services of Texoma, Inc. - Helen Perkins, Research/Evaluator/MIS - Jane Dodson, Denis Cowhig.

The mission of the Fannin County Drug Court is to improve the lives of those impacted by drug usage or addiction and to ensure a safer community by reducing drug-related crimes through quality treatment.

The Fannin County Drug Court is a post conviction voluntary program that utilizes a multi-faceted approach. It consists of intensive supervision of clients by a primary counselor/probation officer, frequent appearances before the Drug Court Judge, mandatory drug and alcohol counseling, regular attendance at a self-help group (NA-AA) and random drug testing. Upon completion the program offers aftercare treatment as well as an alumni support group.

The Fannin County Drug Court Program is a 12 month program consisting of four phases, consisting of four months each, with a six-month aftercare program.

A 2-year study in California on 150,000 people who received treatment through a drug court found that the cost of treatment was $209 million. The benefits in terms of cost savings during treatment and the first year after were approximately 1.5 billion.

For every dollar spent on treatment about seven dollars was saved, mainly in reduction of criminal activity and in hospitalizations for health problems.

For more information on the Fannin County Drug Court Program contact: Debbie Fesperman, The Substance Abuse Council 903-640-4902 or Mike Bankston,Bonham - Police Department - 903-583-2141.

Callie Maxwell Named 3rd Runner-up in Competition

Competing among 168 young ladies at the Distinguished Youth Program in August, Texas, Callie Maxwell was named 3rd runner-up. She competed in the talent contest with her crowd-pleasing yodeling and won 2"^d place. Callie has competed in the program the past three years and has been sponsored by friends and businesses in Fannin County. Her sponsors this year were Fannin Bank, First National Bank Bells/Savoy, Northside Church of Christ, Fannin County Special, Boyer’s Jewelry, S & E Western Wear, McCraw Oil, Coast To Coast, Barry and Mary Frambes, and Jimmy and Becky Herpeche. A special thanks goes out to all of you who supported Callie in the Distinguished Youth Program.

By providing a safe and welcoming environment at the Fannin County Children’s Center, female teens and caregivers of any child who has been sexually abused or assaulted will now be able to gather with others who have endured similar experiences. The Fannin County Children’s Advocacy Center has started a countywide group for teen girls surviving sexual abuse and/or sexual assault. The teen focus-group is led by Jan Snow, a Licensed Professional Counselor, to assist the girls in coping and expressing the many thoughts and feelings that they may have after experiencing an abusive event.

By: Sarah Meek

The Bonham Economic Development Corp. (BEDCo) had a meeting Tuesday the 7th and covered many and important agenda items.

There were quite a few items that caused a stir of discussion.

First off there was consideration of approval to repair the wall on the north side of the Main St. parking lot. The wall has cracks, and terrible mortar joints and could fall causing liability issues with cars that park there. Tom Johnson proposed to the Board to hire a contractor to fix the cracks, and replace mortar joints, for $13,800. Several members of the Board cringed at the price to fix a wall, but nonetheless, the board approved the agenda item 5-1, the 1 opposed was Mike Vaught.

Another item on the agenda was the disposition of the Cotton Mill water tower. It is still undecided what to do with the historic water tower. A suggestion to demolish it was made, and estimates to do so ranged between $10,000 to $30,000. Another suggestion was to paint the tower, this would cost about $15,000. Board members are hesitant to remove it from the Powder Creek Park, due to the fact that it is a piece of Bonham history. The Board voted unanimously to fund a study for necessary repairs and costs, and for a chain link fence to be placed around it.

David Henderson was appointed to serve on the Fannin County Multipurpose Complex board of directors as a representative of BEDCo. The Expo Center at the Fannin County Multi-Purpose Complex will have to have a soil study to determine the proper type of footing necessary before any work or planning can be done. The soil study will cost about $2,000 to $4,000.

Bonham City Manager, Blaine Hinds, has offered an update on the Visitors Center progress. Architectural plans for the first floor have been sent to the Texas Department of Transportation for review. He expects to receive the plans in about four months.

ONCOR manager, Troy Sellers, helped the Board understand why BEDCo received a $1,200 bill for street lights for one month. BEDCo now, after much discussion and schedule changing, expects their street lamp lighting bill to be cut in half.

Other items were also settled at the meeting. The consideration funding of a hydraulic study for dams on Powder Creek a, minutes of the last meeting were approved, approval of financial report for the month of November, approval of 2002-2003 financial audit, was also approved.

Happy Birthday Sam Rayburn!

On Tuesday, January 6, the Sam Rayburn Library held a celebration for Sam Rayburn’s 122nd birthday. Many friends, and trustees of Sam Rayburn were present. Bro. Beesley gave the opening prayer to start the ceremony, and there was a beautiful cake in honor of Mr. Sam Rayburn. Happy Birthday Sam Rayburn!

Understanding Mental Illness

Fannin County Retired Teachers Association Meeting

The Fannin County Retired Teachers Association met on January 6, 2004, in the Elizabeth May Room of the American Bank in Bonham, Texas. President Jo Jones called the meeting to order and Secretary Mary Campbell read minutes of the previous meeting. Barbara Gore reported that numerous books have been donated by FCRTA members to the Haven of Rest House and CASA. A presentation of encyclopedias and dictionaries has been made to the assisted living facility. A nominating committee has been selected to enlist officers for next year. Committee members are Tom Thornton, Audrey Rayford and Barbara Gore.

Following the brief business meeting, members played Bingo. Prizes were won by the following: Jo Jones, Judy Hasten, Jimmy Doyle, Joe Campbell, Gene Brandenberger, Dorothy Dale, Maurine Bankston, Edith Trout, Nita Brandenberger, Bob Williams, Violet Caylor, Tom Thornton, Mary Jim Clements, Audrey Rayford, Beverly Wakefield, and Shirley Manhart. Refreshments were served following the games.

The next meeting of the Fannin County Retired Teachers Association will be on Tuesday, February 3, 2004, at 2:00 p.m. in the Elizabeth May Room of the American Bank in Bonham. Hosts and hostesses are Maurine Bankston, Sue Taylor, Shirley Manhart, Gene and Nita Brandenberger.

Another Successful Christmas Drive at the

Christmas was a lot brighter for many children of Fannin County thanks to many generous folks. Around one hundred donors from all over Fannin County combined efforts to provide Christmas gifts of toys and clothes to 181 children served by the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA and Children’s Advocacy Center.)

The number of children benefiting from this annual project was up 57% over last year when presents were given to 115 children. "Thankfully, our donations were able to keep up with this increase," said Sandy Barber of the Children’s Center. "We are truly blessed to have so many generous and caring supporters who are willing to help our kids."

The list of children served came from the caseloads of the Children’s Center’s two programs, CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center. Each child has been the victim of abuse or neglect or is the sibling of a victim. For many of the children, the presents from the Children’s Center were all they got for Christmas.

Employees with GE Zenith Controls contributed a big portion of the gifts. They put up a "teddy bear" tree in their office. In no time at all, 50 teddy bears disappeared off the tree. First National Bank of Trenton, Doris Shockley’s State Farm Insurance, Pamela Sweet-Richardson’s office and Northside Church of Christ also put up "teddy bear" trees at each of their locations. These efforts combined with the contributions from many other local churches, businesses, individuals and families to make this year’s holiday project a great success.

"We also really appreciate everyone who helped wrap presents," said Barber. Staff, board members, volunteers and multidisciplinary team members wrapped all of the presents before they were delivered to the kids or picked up by family members.

The mission of the Fannin County Children’s Center is to protect and enhance the quality of life for the abused, neglected and needy children of Fannin County. The Center operates two programs: CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center. CASA utilizes trained volunteers to advocate for the best interest of abused children involved in the court system. The Children’s Advocacy Center facilitates a collaborative effort between public and private agencies involved in the investigation, prosecution and treatment of child abuse.

For more information, call 583-4339 or visit www.fanninccc.org .

King Cemetery: Almost Gone, Not Forgotten

By: Dr. Gary N Sisson

Perhaps one of the more frightful images our minds can conjure is that of an old unkempt graveyard on a fully moonlit night. Modern authors and screenwriters have capitalized on those fears with plethoric visits to similar scenes (R.I.P., here lies, etc.). We may be reminded of a Stephen King novel, of Halloween, or of Ebenezer Scrooge’s visit to Christmas yet-to-come. As macabre as it may seem, I have pleasant memories of an old cemetery from my childhood in Fannin County.

On March 23, 1966 my parents, Bob and Ruby Sisson, purchased from Finis Smith a 203.4 acre tract of land situated between Caney Creek and what would become FM 274, about 2 miles south of Ravenna. I spent many childhood days exploring those acres, surprised to find that they included an old graveyard that time seemed to have forgotten. It was not particularly terrifying in daylight, so I would occasionally find my way back to it, wondering who were those people buried there so long ago. In those years of my life I spent little time dwelling upon anything, but I never forgot the old bone yard.

In 1968 my parents sold most of the acreage, including the cemetery and a quaint old cabin, to the family of nationally acclaimed Dallas artist Florence Elliott McClung. I had the privilege of spending many summer afternoons at that cabin, visiting with Mrs. McClung and her husband, Rufus, and watching her paint. In the summer of 1972, my family moved to Welch, a small farming community on the South Plains near Lubbock, where I finished high school in 1976. My parents retained the old Fannin County homestead and 16 acres and returned here in 1982, where they still live, with my grandparents, Jack and Letha Simer, next door. After attending college and serving in the Navy I practiced optometry in Snyder, Texas, then in Dallas. I became a Veterans Affairs optometrist in 1999 and recently moved with my wife, Debbie, back to Bonham. Through the years I developed an interest in history and genealogy, so a return visit to the old King cemetery was inevitable. Last summer, armed with pencils and paper and accompanied by my brother-in-law, Ken St. John (himself armed with a .22 rifle), I hacked my way through the summer overgrowth and eventually located our destination. Most of the grave markers had been toppled, and an interesting ground cover, in contrast with the surrounding area, almost completely concealed the once majestic stone monuments. As luck would have it, the first stone I lifted was home to a juvenile copperhead snake, which Ken quickly sent to its own grave. We fortunately encountered no more surprises, and I was able to glean information about those buried there.

With great effort Ken and I lifted the largest supine obelisk onto its original base. It is a common marker for the graves of John Cooper (born 1786, died July 22, 1861), Sandy King (born February 18, 1808, died January 12, 1892) and Catherine C. King (born March 26, 1821, no death date). An etching on this marker reads:

Remember friends as you pass by

That all mankind are born to die

Then let your cares on Christ be cast

That you may dwell with him at last

Other markers found and recorded are for Royl, son of C.K. and S.L. Melton (born January 4, 1894, died January 10, 1894), James H. Ridgeway (born July 13, 1857, died September 22, 1867) and Andrew J. Cole (born February 1, 1862, died December 1, 1892). Unable to find information on these families in the available local histories, I visited the Fannin County Museum, where my friend, Tom Scott, happily produced a compilation of Fannin County cemeteries by Floy Crandall Hodge, author of "A History of Fannin County". Her inventory of the King cemetery shows an additional grave for H.B. James, for which I was unable to find a marker.

According to the 1850 U.S. census, Sandy King was born in Tennessee, but all subsequent census records show him to have been born in Virginia. The 1880 Fannin County census also shows his father to have been born in Virginia and his mother in Scotland. His wife, Catherine, was apparently born in Tennessee. The family was living in Mason County, Illinois at the time of the 1850 census. Living in the King household were also John Cooper, age 63, born in North Carolina and Hannah Cooper, age 15, born in Illinois. I surmise that John and Hannah Cooper were respectively the father and sister of Catherine King, further supported by the middle initial "C" on Catherine’s grave marker and the following 1860 census findings. Additionally, the 1880 census shows Catherine’s father to have been born in North Carolina, and Catherine’s will mentions "my Brother J.S. Cooper". By the time of the 1860 census, the King family was in Fannin County. Although the elder Cooper was listed as James, age 73, the census taker was likely incorrect, as the grave marker and the 1850 census both list him as John. Living in the same household were also H. Ridgeway, age 19, born in Illinois, and James Ridgeway, age 3, born in Texas. This was probably the Hannah Cooper from the 1850 census and her child. It is unknown what became of Mr. Ridgeway, but young James was undoubtedly the James H. buried in the King cemetery. The 1870 Fannin County census shows that Hannah was still living with the Kings, but she was not listed with them by the time of the 1880 Fannin County census. Living near the Kings in 1880 were C. Melton, his wife Susan (both born in Tennessee) and two small children. They are likely the parents of Royl, the infant buried in the King cemetery. I was unable to find information about Andrew J. Cole or H.B. James.

Catherine King left William D. Estes and Solomon S. Duckworth in charge of the cemetery in 1893. Interestingly, Solomon’s uncle, Alexander P. Duckworth, was the second owner of the property, having purchased it in 1852 from George Shelly, owner of the original land patent from the State of Texas, and sold it in 1854 to Sandy King. Mr. Estes is listed as a witness on the wills of both Sandy and Catherine. In his will dated July 18, 1881 and filed September 14, 1897, Sandy willed the property to his wife Catherine and stated his desire that after her death, the northern half of the property would go to Lula King and the southern half to Sandy King, Jr. (probably Lula’s son). It was his desire "that said land shall remain in and pass to the King family so long as it may be possible to do so". I was unable to determine the relationship of Lula King to Sandy King, Sr., but because the 1900 Fannin County census shows Lula (Louly) King to have been born in 1856 in Texas, and his father born in Tennessee, he was probably a nephew to Sandy and Catherine. By the time of the 1910 census Lula (Louly E.) King had sold the property to D.W. McCargo and was living in Brownwood. Catherine filed two wills in Fannin County. The first will, dated January 14, 1896 and filed September 6, 1897, bequeathed the property to "L.E. King who resides on the premises". The second will, dated August 27, 1897 and filed September 7, 1897, was meant to revoke the previous will. In it, Catherine bequeathed the northern half of the property to her "beloved niece, Catherine D. Wilson now residing at Wyoming Nebraska", but the Fannin County land records show the McCargo family obtaining the entire 200+ acres from L.E. King. There is no evidence of any further burials in the King cemetery, and because there is no death date listed on the marker for Catherine King, it is unclear to me whether she was buried there.

It is my hope that this article will serve as a tribute to the lives of those early Fannin County pioneers and will inspire others with knowledge of such seemingly abandoned cemeteries to document some facts concerning those buried there and their contributions, however small, to our local history. It is my belief that to do so to preserves and enriches our Fannin County heritage.

"Christmas was very meaningful for me, because I experienced the joy of giving to many children who may not have had Christmas gifts," says Grayson Mental Health Center Service Coordinator, Amy Wynn.

Wynn recognized that several clients needed help with gifts for their children. She knew that many of the nineteen children from nine families would get little or nothing at all for Christmas unless someone helped.

With the help and support of her other co-workers, they investigated and compiled a list of children’s names. Wynn immediately went to work forming a plan for Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma employees to meet the needs. She sent appeals to Grayson Mental Health, Administration, and Mental Health Community Support Service employees.

Each group collected money, food, toys, clothing and other items to make the children’s Christmas a happy one. The children ranged in age from pre-school to teenagers. Around $1,000 worth of gifts were collected and given to these families. The Sherman Kroger donated pies and cakes. Wynn did most of the shopping and spent time wrapping the presents.

"I had lots of fun shopping, even though, it was stressful trying to buy the perfect gifts for each child. I spent hours shopping during the last week before Christmas. It was worth it, though. The spirit of giving made me feel really good. I felt that I had done something to make someone else’s Christmas better. The clients were very grateful, and I knew it would make the children feel special to have gifts on Christmas morning," stated Wynn.

Each service coordinator played Santa by delivering the gifts to their client who suffer with mental illness. They got to see the results and happiness they had brought to their clients’ families.

Austin, TX -- Many have heard of the six flags of Texas, but over the years countless other banners have served the Lone Star State, flying over forts, accompanying men into battle and symbolizing significant passages in history. Texas Flags: 1836-1945, a new temporary exhibit at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum from February 28 - August 22, 2004, is a tour of Texas history seen through the banners that flew over the state. First presented at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in 2002, this exhibition has been organized to travel by the Center for Texas Studies at Texas Christian University. Texas Flags explores the history, symbolism and events behind 30 rare banners. Fourteen of these flags owned by the State of Texas have been conserved as a result of the efforts of the Texas Historical Commission with the support of the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission.
Curated by Robert Maberry, Jr., the foremost authority on Texas flags, the exhibition brings together banners from the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, along with James K. Polk’s Election flag from 1844, Texas battalion flags from World War II and more. Of the 29 flags on display, the earliest dates back to the Texas Revolution. Carried under the leadership of Sam Houston, the San Jacinto Battle Flag was handmade by women in Newport, Kentucky, and features a painted figure of liberty. Another notable flag from this period is the Guerrero Battalion Mexican Tricolor Battle Flag, one of 13 flags on loan from the State Library and Archives Commission, Austin. A silk Mexican tricolor, the flag features at its center an eagle with a snake in its beak. History has left its signature on the flag -- forensic tests have revealed that it was stained extensively with blood. Several Confederate flags are on display, including the flags of Granbury’s Texas Brigade, Terry’s Texas Rangers and all existing flags of Hood’s Texas Brigade. According to legend, one of the Hood’s Texas Brigade Flags, which features a large central star, was made in part from the wedding dress of Mrs. Wigfall, the wife of the brigade’s original commander, Louis T. Wigfall. Also included are two rare flags belonging to the Twenty-fourth U.S. Infantry, an African-American regiment that served at military outposts on the Texas frontier.
"Six flags have never been enough for Texans," says Robert Maberry. "Throughout the state’s colorful history, its people have unfurled dozens of individual designs, most sporting the lone five-point star in some form or other. These flags became the accoutrements to great events and conveyors of the myths Texans hold so dear." Texas Flags: 1836-1945 stands as a representation of the commingling of myth and history that make up Texas’ past.
Admission to the Museum’s exhibits, including the temporary exhibit Texas Flags: 1836-1945: Adults $5.50, Seniors $4.50, Youth (18 & under) FREE. The Museum is located at 1800 N. Congress Ave., at the corner of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. in downtown Austin. For more information, call 512-936-TSHM (512-936-8746) or go online to www.TheStoryofTexas.com.

AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott warned consumers to be wary of the potential for fraud resulting from increased attention to federal immigration laws following President Bush’s proposals announced this week.

In the past, proposed changes to federal immigration law have brought with them an inevitable surge in misinformation and deception perpetrated by scam artists. These are attempts to defraud the public by distorting facts to consumers seeking benefits for themselves or immigrant family members, or businesses with immigrant employees.

"As immigration policy is given increased national attention, consumers should be aware of those who use this heightened public interest as a means to deceive," said Attorney General Abbott. "Developing and enforcing immigration laws is the exclusive domain of the federal government. However, in Texas, I vow to continue enforcing our state consumer protection laws to go after those who seek to exploit the immigrant community."

Consumers should remember the following:

• Be wary of any immigration services professional who makes sweeping and vague statements or promises about a "new amnesty" or other federal program, suggesting that every immigrant is eligible for such benefits. No such program yet exists.

• In Texas, only licensed attorneys or nonprofit organizations approved by the federal government are permitted to charge fees to help immigrants complete and submit documents to apply for benefits, including work permits, visas, permanent residency or naturalization documents.

• Do not trust those who promise that they can help you obtain immigration benefits or who guarantee results. Legitimate immigration attorneys and organizations that assist immigrants will look at a case in detail before making any determination on eligibility. No reputable attorney will "guarantee" that the client will receive the benefits he or she is seeking.

• In Texas, notaries public are specifically forbidden from providing immigration benefit services unless they hold a separate license to practice law in the state. Furthermore, notaries are also prohibited from advertising their services using the Spanish term "notario público," since to some Spanish-speakers this may falsely imply that the person is an attorney.

To apply for immigration benefits, or to obtain a list of immigration attorneys and nonprofit organizations that can legitimately assist immigrants, consumers should contact their local Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) or go online at www.bcis.gov.

Consumers who believe that they have been the victims of a scam related to immigration services should contact the Attorney General’s office at 1-800-252-8011.

Spanish/English Poster: Beware of "Notarios"

Related story: November 7, 2003 - Attorney General Greg Abbott Shuts Down North Texas Scam Targeting Immigrants and Employers

Fowl Registration Program Slated;

Aims to Make Disease Tracing Faster

Texas animal health commissioners on February 18 will consider for adoption proposed regulations that will require domestic and exotic fowl sellers, distributors and transporters to register, making it easier to locate birds in a disease outbreak. The commissioners will accept written public comments on the proposed regulations through January 18. House Bill 2328, passed during the 2003 Texas legislative session and signed into law, requires the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to develop a registration program for fowl sellers, distributors and transporters who do not participate in recognized poultry or fowl disease surveillance programs.

"Many poultry diseases are highly contagious and when introduced into a flock, they spread quickly, threatening not only the state’s commercial chicken and turkey industry, but also backyard flocks, caged pet birds and fowl raised for agricultural exhibitions," said Dr. Bob Hillman, Texas’ state veterinarian and head of the TAHC, the state’s livestock and poultry health regulatory agency. "Knowing who is selling and moving birds will  allow us to access records, making it easier to track the movement of birds among flocks."

"In April 2003, Exotic Newcastle Disease (END), a deadly poultry virus foreign to the U.S., was confirmed in a small backyard flock near El Paso. State and federal quarantines were imposed on five counties in Texas and New Mexico, and for weeks, animal health teams combed neighborhoods, flea markets, roadside stands and feed stores to test birds, and provide information on disease, biosecurity and movement restrictions," he said. "More than 800 flocks were tested.If these flocks had been registered, the disease surveillance effort could have been conducted quickly and efficiently."

Dr. Hillman said that, although no additional infection was detected in El

Paso, the mere presence of END in Texas has cost the commercial poultry industry millions of dollars, due to trade restrictions imposed by nearly 30 countries. In California, the 2002-2003 END outbreak took an even  greater toll when the virus jumped from from backyard flocks to more than 20 commercial poultry operations. By year’s end, more than 3 million birds in California had been destroyed at a cost of $160 million to finally stamp out the viral outbreak, and thousands of hours were spent searching for at-risk flocks and tracking the movement of birds that had been sold or traded.

So, who does and doesn’t need to register with the TAHC?

The proposed regulations exempt flocks enrolled in the National Poultry Improvement Plan’s (NPIP) U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean (PT) and U.S. Avian Influenza Clean (LPAI) programs. Or the flocks may be enrolled in Texas  Poultry Federation’s avian influenza monitoring program. "These flocks already have regular disease surveillance protocols," said Dr. Hillman. "Flock owners also may request an individual review for exemption, provided they participate in a program in which birds are routinely tested for pullorum-typhoid and avian influenza."

"Registration will be required for distributors, transporters and the dealers who sell at public sites, such as auctions, flea markets and other venues," said Dr. Hillman. "For the most part, we are targeting domestic fowl, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks and game fowl raised for food, eggs or agricultural exhibition. However, dealers, distributors or transporters of exotic or pet birds (parakeets, parrots and a host of other caged birds) must register only if their birds are commingled or transported with domestic fowl, or are sold at the same public venue with domestic fowl. Exotic birds in commingled settings may be exposed to poultry diseases, or transport viruses or bacteria, even if they are not susceptible to infection. In a disease outbreak, it may be necessary to trace the movement and sale of these pet birds. At the sales, all fowl and birds must be confined to help reduce the chance for disease exposure."

Dr. Hillman stressed that the proposed registration program will not affect current TAHC regulations requiring that poultry offered for public sale or trade originate from flocks or hatcheries that are free of pullorum-typhoid, diseases caused by Salmonella bacteria. Sellers must furnish proof of their source of poultry or hatching eggs and be qualified by the Texas Pullorum-Typhoid Program as prescribed by the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) and/or the National Poultry Improvement Plan. Poultry that are not properly identified and qualified as pullorum-typhoid clean are prohibited from sale and will be returned to the owner’s or dealer’s premises.

"A key component for disease tracking or surveillance is good record keeping," stressed Dr. Hillman. "Registrants will need to follow current and proposed TAHC regulations that require dealers to maintain and make available to the TAHC all records for two years on the sale, barter or exchange of domestic or exotic fowl." Information that must be collected includes the buyer’s and seller’s names and addresses, any movement or health status documents, transaction dates, and the number, breed, sex and description of the birds. Individual identification devices, such as wing or leg bands, will not be required.

"A biosecurity component also is included in the proposed regulations and stipulates that fowl be kept in clean and sanitary conditions. Furthermore, registrants are to notify the TAHC of reportable disease exposure or infections," commented Dr. Hillman.

Dr. Hillman said registration will involve completing an application annually with the TAHC and providing a list of the locations where domestic fowl, or domestic and exotic fowl are to be sold, distributed or transported. HB 2328 authorizes the TAHC to charge a fee for registration, and a sliding scale has been proposed, based on the seller’s flock size. Fees range from $25 for fewer than 100 fowl, to $500 for more than 2,500 birds. Distributors or transporters will be charged an annual fee of $500. The registration requirement and fees also will apply to out-of-state business operators who plan to transact business in Texas.

Dr. Hillman said the TAHC commissioners will accept public comments on the proposed regulations through January 18. Comments should be emailed to comments@tahc.state.tx.us or mailed to TAHC Comments, Box 12966, Austin, TX 78711-2966.

"If these proposed regulations are adopted by the 12 TAHC commissioners at their February 18 meeting in Austin, we will work with bird and poultry associations, markets, dealers and fowl and bird producers to implement the regulations." noted Dr. Hillman. "TAHC staff at the TAHC offices or Austin headquarters also will be available to answer questions or provide registration applications." For more information, the TAHC Austin headquarters can be reached at 1-800-550-8242."

TMC Enrolled in Medicare

TMC enrolled in Medicare sponsored Quality Incentive project Texoma Medical Center is pleased to announce that it has joined 278 not-for-profit hospitals nationwide to participate in the Hospital Quality Incentive Demonstration Project.

The three year voluntary pilot project sponsored by Medicare and Premier Inc., a group-purchasing and health care consulting firm began in October 2003. Participating hospitals are being rated on how well they treat patients needing five of the most common types of medical care: heart attack care, bypass surgery, heart failure care, pneumonia care and hip or knee replacement surgery.

Premier Inc., will track whether hospitals follow widely accepted treatment guidelines for the five studied medical problems. "The hospitals that have stepped forward to participate are showing the kind of leadership necessary to move the quality agenda forward," said Richard A. Norling, Premier’s president and CEO.

The program does provide a financial incentive to those hospitals who rank highest. For each of the five types of medical care, hospitals that rank in the top 10 percent will get an extra 2 percent added onto their Medicare payments in that category. A ranking in the next 10 percent will earn a 1 percent bonus. By the third year, those TMC enrolled in Medicare sponsored Quality Incentive project, hospitals that fail to make improvements will lose 1 percent or 2 percent of Medicare payments. According to THCS president and CEO, Dr. Mackey Watkins, "We chose to participate because this project will definitely improve quality of care, thus, outcomes in some of our highest volume services-heart and lung disease. It also gives us an opportunity to compare ourselves to top hospitals in the nation. I am convinced that reimbursement rates will eventually be linked to quality and outcomes by all payers." Data on the top 50% hospitals in each clinical area will be publicly reported annually beginning in October 2004.

"This marks an important first step to building transparency and new systems for continually improving healthcare delivery. Texoma Medical Center is a leader in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma, and its involvement will help establish a new benchmark for other hospitals across the country," Norling said. "We’re pleased that TMC is joining Premier’s collaboration with CMS to take patient care to a new level of accountability."

Texoma Medical Center is the flagship facility for the Texoma HealthCare System and its payor mix includes 58.3% Medicare patients. For more information on Texoma Medical Center call (903) 416-4000.