Fannin County Commissioners Court Meeting For January

Many items were addressed at the Fannin County Commissioners Court Meeting Jan. 12.

The court approved a resolution concerning a 421 Grant application with County Attorney Myles Porter. The governor’s grant for an investigator for cases dealing with sexual assault of children was discussed. The grant will cost Fannin County a $2, 000 cash match from the 2005 budget.

There was an open bid referring to the radio tower located at the former Electric Co-op building. One company had bid upon it, and the County lawyer will read over the contract and make a recommendation at the next Commissioners meeting.

An establishment procedure concerning payment of new food handler inspector’s salary was addressed. The inspection fees will come to the Treasurer and Auditor’s office, will be accounted for, then paid to him. The inspector is working on a contract labor basis.

The District Clerk wanted something in writing for her files on the Consideration concerning collection and percentage disbursement of a $15.00 fee for Family Protection under HB 2292, approved by an earlier Commissioners Court on Nov. 24, 2003. The fee will be split equally between the Fannin County Family Crisis Center and the Fannin County Children’s Center.

In other business, the following items were also addressed:

Medical leave for a Precinct 3 employee and permission for Commissioner Dewayne Strickland to hire a part-time helper was approved.

Procurement cards between Fannin County and BankOne were approved.

An immediate burn ban in effect for Fannin County for 90 days.

Discussion consideration and approval of Homeland Security Grant Funding.

Consideration and approval for Health and Employee Benefits Pool Coordinator for Fannin County.

Consideration and approval to designate use/distribution of funds collected from Grayson County for prisoner placement in Fannin County Jail.

Approval of paying bills, and approval of previous meeting minutes.

The next meeting will be held next month.

Bonham City Commissioners Meeting For January

It was an easy going night for the Bonham City Commissioners last Monday evening. Every item on the agenda that was approved, was approved unanimously, 5-0.

Firstly, the minutes for the December meetings, held the 8th and the 22nd were approved. Along with the Financial Report for December. One citizen came forward to ask the Commissioners to consider an item for a future agenda.

A resolution engaging consultants in connection with a Texas Water Development Board Financing for the City’s water system, and a resolution requesting financial assistance from the TWDB; authorizing the filing of an application for assistance; and making certain findings in connection were approved at the meeting.

Approval of expressing official intent to reimburse costs of the water system improvement project from proceeds of tax-exempt obligations was made.

Approval of an ordinance of the city commission of the city of Bonham providing for the issuance of the city of Bonham, Texas Tax Notes, Series 2004: Prescribing the form of the notes; Levying ad valorem taxes to secure the notes; and ordaining other matters in connection with the issuance and sale of the tax notes.

Resolution directing publication of notice of a public hearing in connection with the issues of tax notes fund costs municipal airport hangers and other municipal improvements was approved.

A financial audit of last fiscal year showed everything was clear in Bonham’s finances. McClanahan and Holms PLLC performs the independent audit for the City. The balance must stay at 15% of the budget and it is now wavering under 10%, due to increased expenditures.

A proposal from INCODE, Inc. was made to replace the municipal court software program. INCODE Inc. will give substantial technical support. The total cost will be around $20,000.

BEDCo was approved to repair the wall on the north side of Main Street parking lot.

Consider and take action on resolution authorizing grant application for participation in the Regional Controlled Substance Apprehension Program-Drug Task Force.

The following items on the agenda were public hearings. All were approved, with no discussion from the public.

Consider action on second reading of ordinance amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1059 to correct typographical error in Article 13, 13.01 (i).

Consider action on second reading of ordinance restricting use of public streets for extended parking and storage of trailers.

Consider action on second reading of ordinance prohibiting the parking of any large truck exceeding GVW rating of 22,000 lbs. or any truck tractor in residential zoning district.

Consider action on second reading of ordinance amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1059 defining tatoo and body piercing business and identifying and restricting districts for the location of same.

Consider action on second reading of ordinance providing for enforcement of mandatory water restrictions.

The presiding officer of the Texas House of Representatives is the Speaker of the House, a position that carries with it great responsibility. The primary functions of the Speaker are maintaining order during floor debate, recognizing legislators who wish to speak and ruling on procedural matters. The constitution also requires the Speaker to sign all bills and joint resolutions passed by the legislature. As a member of the House of Representatives, the Speaker may vote on all questions before the house.

The Speaker is elected from among the 150 members of the House of Representatives. Like the other members, the Speaker is an elected representative from a legislative district in the state. Each time a new legislature convenes, the Texas Constitution requires the full membership of the house to choose one of its own members to serve as Speaker. This is in contrast to the way the presiding officer in the senate is selected. The Lieutenant Governor presides over the senate and is elected in a statewide election.

The other duties and responsibilities of the speaker are determined by the members of the House in the House Rules of Procedure, which are adopted by a majority vote of the members at the beginning of each regular session of the legislature. The members give the Speaker the authority to appoint the membership of each standing committee, subject to rules on seniority, and to designate the chair and vice chair for each committee. Under the rules, the Speaker is responsible for referring all proposed legislation to committee, subject to the committee jurisdictions set forth in the rules. The rules also allow the Speaker to appoint conference committees, to create select committees, and to direct committees to conduct interim studies when the legislature is not in session.

Fannin and Grayson Counties, which currently comprise District 62, have had several members of the legislature serve as Speaker of the House. Most recently, James A Turman, from Fannin County, served as Speaker during the 57th Legislative Session in 1961. From 1911-1913, during the 32nd legislative session, Sam Rayburn from Fannin County served as Speaker, immediately preceded by John Marshall from Grayson County, who served as Speaker from 1909-1911 during the 31st session. George Reeves from Grayson County served as Speaker during the 17th session from 1881-1883. Interestingly, during the very first legislative session in 1846 there were six different Speakers of the House. One of them, William Bourland, served as Speaker from Lamar County. He later returned to the House of Representatives as a regular member during the 5th legislative session, this time representing Grayson County. There have been 74 Speakers of the House since the beginning of the 1st session.

The current Speaker is Representative Tom Craddick from Midland. Speaker Craddick was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1968 and has served as a member from that time. He was elected by his peers to serve as speaker last January upon the convening of the 78th legislative session.

Bonham Nursing and Rehab Center

Welcome Loyd Robertson and Homer Fairchild and the band, Back for the 2nd year of entertainment. There is never a request turned down. Feet patting, smile, and singing along fill the residents heart’s and hallway.

Loyd Robertson and Homer Fairchild have lived in Fannin County all their life.

Resident’s of BNRC would like to thank the bands, for their entertainment. Anyone wishing to entertain for us here at BNRC. Single entertainment or bands please contact Virgie Kelton at 903-583-8551 activitiy Director.

Office hours: 8 am- 5-pm, Monday-Friday, 709 W 5th St., Bonham

Ector Game Reports

Ector vs. Dodd City at Dodd City (1-8-04) Ector: 2-4-2-2 10 Opponent: 0-2-2-4 8

Scoring For Ector Brittany Leatherwood:8 Shelby Proctor:2

8th Grade Girls Ector vs. Howe at Ector Tour. (1-10-04) Ector:8-2-8-4 22 Opponent: 6-3-4-13 26

Scoring for Ector: Brittany Bush: 4, Chanda Hopkins: 2, Whitney Spindle: 4, Megan Ryan: 4

Audra Rhudy: 6, Chelsea Thommason: 2

Ector Boys Ector vs. Roxton (1-9-04) Ector: 9-14-17-14 54 Roxton: 10-19-17-22 68

Ector Record: 9-8 Division 0-1

Stats For Ector Justin Rhudy: 21 pts., 11 rbs. (Double-Double)

Matt Cox: 11 pts., 10 rbs., 10 stls.( Triple- Double)

Colton Whisenhunt: 9 pts., 6 rbs., 5 stls.

Justin White: 7 pts.

Ryan Merces: 4 pts.

Weston Bush: 2 pts.

8th Grade Girls Ector vs. Dodd City at Dodd City (1-8-04) Ector: 6-2-4-10 22 Opponent: 8-11-6-8 33

Brittany Bush: 6

Chanda Hopkins: 4

Whitney Spindle: 6

Audra Rhudy: 4

Chelsea Thomason:2

8th Grade Girls Ector vs. Howe at Ector Tour. (1-10-04) Ector: 4-3-4-4 15 Opponent 2-10-8-14 33

Leanne Lemley: 2

Chanda Hopkins: 4

Whitney Spindle: 3

Audra Rhudy: 6

Small Steps Not Enough To Reverse Childhood Obesity

HOUSTON--(Jan. 12, 2004)--At the rate they’re currently overeating, many overweight kids would need to walk three miles or more a day to just prevent further weight gain, say researchers at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) in Houston.

"Although healthy children are expected to gain weight as they grow,

weight loss is recommended for overweight children, which are those with a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile," said Dr. Nancy Butte, a professor of pediatrics at BCM. "However, we found that many overweight children are continuing to gain weight at alarming rates."

Butte, the director of the Children’s Nutrition Research Center’s energy metabolism unit, measured body composition changes among 337 Hispanic children ages 5 to 19 years over a one-year period. She found that the overweight children who remained overweight one year later had gained an average of 16 pounds, while those whose weight status had returned to ‘normal’ over the course of the year lost an average of one pound. Children whose weight status was ‘normal’ at the beginning and end of the year were found to have gained an average of 9 pounds, while those whose BMI crossed the 95th percentile during the year gained an average of 15 pounds.

"Our results suggest that a deficit of at least 260 calories per day would be required to prevent further weight gain in 90 percent of these overweight children," she said.

According to Butte, to burn an extra 260 calories per day, these overweight children would need to walk the equivalent of three miles or about 60 minutes per day.

"Halting the epidemic of childhood obesity will take much more than helping children make small changes in diet and physical activity," Butte said. "It will require a significant and concerted societal effort to change the way our children are eating and to increase their physical activity."

Monthly Fact Sheet Bonham Fire Department

December 2003

TYBC Performs At Six Flags

TYBC (The Youth Bell Choir) of First United Methodist Church Bonham performed at Six Flags Holiday in the Park on Saturday December 20^th in the Texas area. TYBC is made up of 11 youth from the Fannin County area in grades 7-12. Members include James Brown, David McDonald, Mackenzie Reeder, Brittney Parr, Lori Warren, Alex Loftin, Rachael Eubank, Drew Reich, Daniel Wilson, Cody Loftin, and Jon Wood. TYBC is Directed by Kyle and Sarah Blackburn, Music and Youth Ministers respectively of Bonham First United Methodist. The Christmas Selection included "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "What Child is This," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," and "Carol of the Bells," along with other selections.

Other performances on the 2003 Winter Tour included playing their Christmas selections at Fort Inglish on Thursday December 11^th during the Bonham Heritage Festival and on Sunday December 14^th at First Christian Church’s Children’s Community Christmas Concert and worship at Bonham First United Methodist Church on December 14^th and January 4^th. You can hear and see TYBC play regularly in 10:30 am worship at Bonham First United Methodist Church.

6th and 336th District Courts of Fannin County

Charles Anthony Anderton entered his plea of guilty to Burglary of a Habitation. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 15 years in the penitentiary.

Brandyn Scott Cunningham entered his plea of guilty to Assault on a Public Servant. The court accepted his plea and placed him on 3 years felony probation. He must also pay a $200.00 fine and court costs. And as a condition of probation he must serve 30 days in the county jail.

William Dale Harrington entered his plea of guilty to possession of a Controlled Substance-­ methamphetamine. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 15 months in a State Jail Facility.

Jeremy David Morrison entered his plea of guilty to Burglary of a Building. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 2 years in State Jail. However, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 5 years. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs. He must also pay $1,525.00 in restitution.

Christopher Hilton Dement entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substanceme-thamphetamine. The court accepted his plea and placed him on 3 years felony probation. He must also pay a $200.00 fine, court costs and complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine treatment. He must also complete 50 hours of community service.

Miguel Molina entered his plea of guilty to DWI 3’^d. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 10 years in the penitentiary. However, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 10 years. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs, SAQ, DWI school. A deep lung interlock device will be placed on his vehicle; this will prevent him from starting his vehicle if he has been drinking.

Keith Todd Northcutt entered his plea of guilty to DWI 3rd. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 5 years in the penitentiary. However, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 5 years. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs. He must complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine treatment and attend DWI school. A deep lung interlock device will be placed on. his vehicle; this will prevent him from starting his vehicle if he has been drinking.

Ricardo Dominquez Porcayo entered his plea of guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance­-cocaine. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 2 years in a State Jail Facility. However, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 5 years. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs. He must also complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine treatment.

James Albert Reynolds entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance­-cocaine. The court accepted his plea and placed him on 3 years felony probation. He must pay a $250.00 fine court costs and $140.00 to DPS crime lab.

Barry Keith St. Clair entered his plea of guilty to Forgery by Check over $1,500.00 but less than $20,000.00. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 15 months in a State Jail Facility.

Daniel Lee Price entered his plea of guilty to Possess/Transport of Anhydrous Ammonia. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility. He must also pay a $500.00 fine and all court costs.

Dale Elisha Swan was sentenced to serve 2 years in the penitentiary far failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Swan had previously been placed on probation for Possession of Marijuana.

James Charles Whitfield was sentenced to serve 2 years in the penitentiary for failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Whitfield had previously been planed on probation for Arson.

Anton Dejuan King entered his plea of guilty to Aggravated Robbery. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 6 years in the penitentiary

Anton Dejuan King entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The court accepted his plea sentenced him to 1 year in State Jail.

James Lee Caldwell entered his plea of not guilty to Indecency with a Child. After a jury was selected and court proceedings had begun Mr. Caldwell changed his plea to guilty. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 12 years in the penitentiary.

Marlon Jerome Parker entered his plea of guilty to Indecency with a Child, The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to 20 years in the penitentiary

Jimmy Ray Newman entered his plea of guilty to Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility.

Theresa Brown entered her plea of guilty to Injury to a Child. The court accepted her plea and placed her on 5 years felony probation. She must pay court costs and attend anger management classes.

Tern Lynn Hill was sentenced to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility for failing to comply with conditions of her probation. Hill had previously been placed on probation for Securing Execution of Document By Deception.

Jason Don Prunty entered his plea of guilty to Forgery of a Check by Making and Passing. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 2 years in State Jail. However, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 3 years. He must pay a. $200.00 fine and court costs.

Jason Stuart Betters entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The court accepted his plea and placed him on 5 years felony probation. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs.

David Marion Roskowske entered his plea of guilty to Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 180 days in a State Sail Facility.

Jamie Lea Bradshaw entered her plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance methamphetamine. The court accepted her plea and placed her on 4 years felony probation. She must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs.

Ronnie Lynn Capehart, Jr. was sentenced to serve 4 years in the penitentiary for failing to comply with conditions of his probation. Capehart had previously been placed on probation for Arson.

Alex Wayne Goforth was sentenced to serve 2 years in the penitentiary for failing to comply with condition of his probation. Goforth had previously been placed on probation for Failure to Stop and Render Aid.

Justin Shawn Gray entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance methamphetamine. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 18 months in a State Jail Facility.

Mona Michelle Null entered her plea of guilty to Forgery, of a check, by making, passing and possession. The court accepted her plea and placed her 3 years felony probation. She must pay a $100.00 fine, court costs, restitution and complete 50 hours of community service.

Patsy Puckett Caldwell entered her plea of guilty to Retaliation. The court accepted her plea and placed her on 10 years felony probation. She must pay court costs. And as conditions of probation she must serve 10 days in the Fannin County and have no contact with children under the age of 17 years.

Bonham Police Report

Bonham Police reports the arrest of five individuals in a drug raid, which occurred late Saturday night at a house located in the 200 block of W. Boyd St., in Bonham. All the individuals were charged with drug related offenses. Arrested were: Lisa Ann D’Amico, w/f, age 39, charged with Possession of Controlled Substance, Christina Nicole Miller, w/f, age 25 charged with Possession of Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Gina Lorance Millhollon, w/f, age 46, charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Kellie Juanette Holley, w/f, age 31, charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Regina Rochelle Greathouse, w/f, age 36, charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, over 4 grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Danny Lee Cherney, w/m, age 34, charged with Possession of Marijuana. The information leading to the issuance of the search warrant was developed by Bonham PD and Fannin Co. Sheriff’s Dept. agents assigned to the Task Force, with members of the Drug Task Force, Bonham PD, Bonham Fire Marshall, and Fannin Co. Sheriff’s Dept., participating in the execution of the warrant.

A three-member business consortium, which includes Northeast Medical Center, Kwikset Corp. and GBC SignWarehouse has partnered with Grayson County College (GCC) for a $375,584 job training grant from the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) Skills Development Fund.

The grant will be used to custom train workers who will fill 238 upgraded jobs such as registered nurses, dietary technicians, sales representatives, managers, operators and more.

Representatives from the college and three-member business consortium will accept a check from, TWC Chair Diane Rath at a presentation to be held at 12 p.m. Monday, January 12, 2004, at GCC.

Dinner With Governor Rick Perry!

On February 12, 2004 at the Austin College campus the Fannin County Republican Party will join the Grayson County Republican Party in hosting Governor Rick Perry as the keynote speaker at the annual Lincoln Day Dinner.

Individual tickets as well as sponsor tables and a VIP reception are available. We hope you can be a part of this historic event as we continue to work to bring conservatives together throughout Northeast Texas.

The VIP reception will begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Johnson Gallery (Wright Center) and the dinner at 7:00 p.m. at the Sid Richardson Auditorium.

For event or ticket information, contact Joe or Sandra Ward at (903) 664-­3022.

The Daughters Of The American Revolution George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas Meeting, Jan. 10,2004

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas, met Saturday January 10, 2004, at the Bonham Chamber of Commerce meeting room at 2 p.m. for their monthly meeting.

Mary Jo Barbee, regent, opened the meeting with a reading. She led members in reciting, DAR Ritual, The Daughters pledge to the Flag and The American Creed with Dot Linn, chaplain. Mary Beavers led the group in saying, The pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Mary Jo read the president General’s Message. Judy O’Shields gave a very interesting National Defense Report. Nancy Bellows, Secretary, read the minutes of the previous meeting. It was approved as read. Martha Mayrell, treasurer, gave the treasury report.

Mary Pauline Yarbrough and Flo Odom, chapter registrar, presented, Dean Griffin of Honey Grove as a new member.

Linn reported she had received acknowledgement from the veterans on receiving the phone cards for christmas and oranges that chapter member, Charlene W_illiams had sent. Barbee stated we had received a level one achievement award for our chapter this year.

Mayrell made motion, O’Shields second to elect Linn as delegate to the 104th TSBAR STATE CONFERENCE in Houston March 11-13, 2004. Linn made motion, Rodgers, seconded for Mayrell to serve as an alternate to the conference. Motions carried.

Barbee and Mayrell, hostesses, served a delicious snack to eleven members. We will meet, February 14, 2004 at the Bonham Chamber Of Commerce meeting room. If anyone would like to know more about our chapter and how to become a member, phone Flo Odom, chapter registrar, 903-623-4031.

Red River Valley Car Club News

The Red River Valley Car Club held their first meeting on Thursday January 8th, 2004 at 7:00 P.M. at the Elizabeth May Room, American Bank, Bonham Texas.

31 members were present with two new members joining. This makes a total of 45 members.

Officers reelected were Bill Spann-President, Cherl Spann-Secretary, Elizabeth Binion-Treasurer.

This year the Annual Car Show will be held on the Courthouse Square Saturday, May 15th, 2004. (Rain date May 22nd).

The next meeting will be on the 13th of February at 7:00 P.M. anyone interested in joining the Club can contact Bill Spann at 903-664-2026 or come to the meeting, visitors always welcome.

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."

The staff and administration of Ector Elementary is proud to recognize the newest members of our 25 point reading club. These first graders are (L-R) Zayde Viola, Tyler Self, and Jonathan Whitlock. Congratulations.

Ector Elementary Employee of the Week

The faculty of Ector Elementary is proud to recognize Sandra Dizmond as our Employee of the Week. Sandra is a graduate of Azle High School. This is Sandra’s fourth year as a teacher’s aide at Ector Elementary. Prior to her employment with our district, Sandra worked for ten years as the daycare director for Crestmont Baptist Church in Burleson. Sandra is married to Pete Dizmond, and is the proud grandmother of Canaan Horn. According to Sandra the best things about working at Ector ISD is everything. I look forward to coming to work each day. Once again, we are proud to honor Sandra Dizmond as the Employee of the Week.

A Successful Christmas Dinner

Once again, the Christmas Dinner was a huge success, thanks to the people of Fannin County joining together to plan, prepare and serve the meal. Volunteers were present throughout the day to cook the food, help put the meals together and deliver them, serve the food, and clean up after the dinner was over. An assembly line was formed to put together the 280 plus meals that were delivered, and there were over 150 people served at the Family Life Center. Over 60 volunteers were present to help, not counting the people that helped prior to Christmas Day. The gym of the Family Life Center was beautifully decorated. Adorning the tables were placemats handmade by the 2^nd graders at Finley-Oates and poinsettias donated by the First United Methodist Church. Returning again this year with Christmas music on the guitar and violin were Jessica and Lindsay Beitel, and Mr. Rick Massey, who livened the spirits of diners and volunteers. Daniella Rivera, a newcomer, also performed piano solos. Patrons filled their plates and were escorted to a seat in the dining room. Several of our young men and a young lady, dressed in formal serving attire, served drinks and desserts, greatly adding to the atmosphere of the Dinner. After everything was cleaned up, the remainder of the food was donated to charities. This special project allows anyone, for any reason, to receive a hot Christmas meal. The many volunteers that worked to put the Christmas Dinner together learned first hand that giving is the true meaning of Christmas. Again Four Corners 4-H wants to thank all of the people, businesses, and organizations of Fannin County who so generously donated money, food, and time to make this wonderful project an overwhelming success.

Texas AG Seeks To Trample Rights Of The Disabled

Just when we thought Texas could stoop no lower in its treatment of our most vulnerable citizens, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott proves us wrong.

In an attempt to preclude the state from having to provide services to people with disabilities — services they are entitled to under the Americans With Disabilities Act, or ADA — Abbott is claiming the ADA is unconstitutional and states cannot be required to comply with it.

Signed into law in 1990 by the first President Bush, the ADA prohibits discrimination based on a person’s disability. The ADA lays a foundation of equality for disabled people and extends civil rights similar to those made available through the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Accordingly, the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in private sector employment, state and local government activities and public accommodations and services.

Title II of the ADA stipulates that "no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs or activities of a public entity." This is the section of the act that our attorney general seeks to overturn.

Texans should be appalled at the lengths our state’s top legal defender will go to keep the state from having to provide people with disabilities access to services in compliance with this federal law.

Abbott took this stance in response to a class-action lawsuit filed in 2002 on behalf of more than 25,000 individuals with disabilities who have been languishing, many for years, on waiting lists for home or community-based services. The class action alleges the state violates the ADA by not adequately funding services to people with disabilities, resulting in many being forced to live in institutional settings, often against their will and best interests.

If Abbott has his way, the state will no longer be required to comprehensively address the needs of the disability community.

Facing a $10 billion shortfall and in the name of "no new taxes," the Texas Legislature passed a budget with deep cuts to programs serving children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Budget cuts and policy decisions guarantee fewer people will receive crucial health and human services and waiting lists will continue to grow.

Now Abbott wants to go one step further and take away civil rights protections. Abbott’s approach is not only wrong, it sends a strong message to individuals with disabilities: You do not deserve the same rights as everyone else. I do not believe this is the message most Texans would like delivered.

What is perplexing is that the attorney general is not challenging the part of the ADA that bars discrimination by private interests. In other words, Abbott agrees private entities should continue to be required to provide access to individuals with disabilities, but public entities, including state and local governments, should not.

Since when are civil rights important in the private sector but not the public sector? Abbott’s response: The Office of the Attorney General is trying to protect the state’s interests, namely, its limited financial resources. Once again, the issue is state money or the lack thereof.

If Abbott prevails, areas other than waiting lists for people with disabilities in need of home and community-based services could be impacted.

For example, Title II could no longer be used to force modifications of governmental buildings and facilities so they are accessible to people with disabilities. But for the ADA, how many public schools, university classrooms and laboratories, public restrooms, libraries, museums, city halls, buses, trains, courthouses and capitols would still be inaccessible to people with disabilities?

Rather than facing up to the state’s responsibility and striving to generate new revenues to help cover the costs, our leadership seeks to dismantle the very legislation that mandates the above.

This is a blatant attempt to reinstate discrimination as yet another way to avoid the state’s obligation to provide services to the most vulnerable members of society. Texans should be embarrassed that one of our statewide elected leaders would stoop so low.

Baylor Dallas Nursing Earns National Recognition

DALLAS, TX (Jan. 12, 2004)—Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas announced that it received the Magnet Award for "Excellence in Nursing Services" from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Baylor Dallas joins a small group of fewer than two percent of hospitals nationwide to have achieved this coveted designation.

The ANCC granted the designation after Baylor Dallas demonstrated that it met or exceeded standards in 14 areas of nursing leadership, clinical practice, education, research and quality during a weeklong on-site survey last November. Hospitals that receive Magnet designation are committed to providing a work environment that empowers nurses and values their contributions to patient care.

"For more than 100 years, part of our mission at Baylor is to provide outstanding nursing care," says Baylor University Medical Center chief nursing officer Remy Tolentino. "For the last seven consecutive years in a survey distributed by the National Research Corporation, consumers have recognized Baylor Dallas as the hospital with the best nurses in the metroplex. And now, we are proud to be internationally recognized for our commitment to nursing excellence and to our patients."

Studies of Magnet Status hospitals have shown that patients have a shorter length of stay, higher rate of satisfaction with their care, and disease-specific mortality is lower. Moreover, nurses at Magnet hospitals are recognized, respected and supported for their clinical excellence, which results in a more satisfied staff. Magnet hospitals also have the ability to attract and retain nurses by providing educational opportunities, recognition, rewards, and the technology and tools required by nurses to give clinically excellent care.

The Magnet Nursing Services Recognition Program is based on quality indicators and standards of nursing practice as defined in the American Nurses Association’s "Scope and Standards for Nurse Administrators" (1996). ANCC surveyors grant Magnet designation only to hospitals that undergo the rigorous, voluntary evaluation process and extensive onsite inspection.

"Receiving Magnet status is the highest level of recognition for our nurses from the ANCC," says Tim Parris, president of Baylor University Medical Center. "Our patients have always told us that the area’s best nurses are at Baylor—now we’ve been recognized as one of the nation’s top 100 hospitals for nursing care. Families can be confident that they have qualified, compassionate nursing staff each time they visit our hospital."

Slow down or change lanes for stopped emergency vehicles

SB 193 requires drivers nearing stopped emergency vehicles-with lights

activated -to either slow down or change lanes.

The law states a driver must vacate the lane closest to the stopped emergency vehicle or slow down 20 miles below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph the driver must slow down to 5 mph.)

Emergency vehicles include police, emergency medical service and fire vehicles.

A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.

The new law was passed in the last regular session of the Texas Legislature and went into effect Sept. 1, 2003.

Community Need Continues

The Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support during the 2003 holiday season. The donations, both monetary and food, that poured into the Ministries during this season were very much appreciated and helped a lot of people in Fannin County have just a little nicer holiday.

As we continue into the new year, however, we need to remember that the need for food and assistance does not know a season. We can continue to help meet the needs of those in distress throughout Fannin County with everybody’s continued support. Listed below are items that we often run low on during the year and can always use more of:

Cooking Oil, Salt & Pepper, Ketchup, Margarine, Canned Meats, Meat that can be frozen, Mayonnaise, Salad Dressing, Mustard, Peanut Butter, Jelly, Diapers (sz. 3-5 used most), Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Shampo, Laundry Detergent, Dishwashing Soap, Bath Soap, Deodorant, Toilet Paper

The Ministries can always use cash donations. These donations are used to buy baby food, formula, diapers, and other items that are rarely ever donated and in need weekly.

We are also always in need of volunteers. 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. We are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cash donations 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.

MARSHALL, Texas (1/9/04)- East Texas Baptist University has recognized its students for outstanding academic achievement during the 2003 Fall Semester with the release of the Fall Dean’s List and Dean’s List with Honors.

The Dean’s List, which honors students maintaining a grade-point average of no less than 3.25, includes 416 ETBU students for the fall semester. Students making the Dean’s List with Honors are those who have maintained a GPA of 3.5 to 4.0 for the semester.

Jamie Love Kennedy of Dodd City is listed among the ETBU Dean’s List with Honors.

Stephenson School Schedule Of Events

January 20 - Breakfast With Grandparents- 7:45 am - M. Taylor, Owens, Lancaster, and S. Taylor

January 21 - Breakfast With Grandparents - 7:45 am - Shepherd, Fox, Lane, Runyon

January 26 - February 13 - Pennies for Patients Campaign

During the months of January and February, students all across North Texas will be collecting spare change for the Pennies for Patients Campaign. Each school will be fundraising in honor of a patient who battles a blood-related cancer every day. Students will learn, complete and help save lives all at the same time.

Through the support of people like yourself, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society can continue their mission: to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkins’s disease, and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. This money also helps patients cover expenses for much needed medication and transportation to medical appointments.

BONHAM ) – TXU Gas on Jan. 13 urged Fannin County residents to help keep their neighbors healthy and warm by supporting Project HAP’N, which pays the heating bills of those in need.

January bills from TXU Gas contain information about this easy way to help elderly, ill and disabled residents who are at risk from the cold. Contributors may add to their monthly gas bill, or they may request that a one-time contribution be included on their next bill. Contributions to TXU Gas Project HAP’N are tax-deductible.

Social service agencies screen potential recipients and make direct bill payments for those who qualify. Funds from TXU Gas Project HAP’N are distributed in the geographic area where the donations were made, so contributors are assured that their money stays close to home.

Visit www.txugas.com for more information about TXU Gas Project HAP’N.

Deuell Calls for Review of DWI Laws
Senator says recent court rulings require legislature to close loophole

AUSTIN -- State Senator Bob Deuell (R-Greenville) announced Jan. 13 that the Texas Legislature needs to move to close a loophole in the State’s DWI law which could make it harder to prosecute impaired drivers.

Deuell said recent court rulings could place additional barriers on law enforcement and prosecutors, and lawmakers should address the situation as soon as possible.

"Texas leads the nation in DWI fatalities," Deuell said. "We need to do something to close this loophole and keep the roads safe for our citizens and families."

Deuell was referring to rulings by the 4th Court of Appeals and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals that overturned DWI convictions of defendants whose blood alcohol content (BAC) analysis was taken some time after they were pulled over.

Under the current Texas DWI law, the state must show a driver was intoxicated at the time of driving, rather than at the time of a BAC analysis. Many times, the BAC analysis is done well after the police stop an impaired driver.

Deuell says this is a serious public safety issue, and the legislature needs to move to remedy it. Deuell also said his office is working on several DWI issues during the interim, and will file legislation to fix this problem at the appropriate time.

"We need to do whatever we can to ensure the safety of our citizens and crack down on drunk drivers," Deuell said. "I certainly believe this is a critical public safety issue, and we have the responsibility to do something about it."

Chili Con Carne, Oven Fried Okra, Carrot Pineapple Salad, Cornbread, Peaches, Bread

Chicken Pot Pie, Beets/Orange Sauce, Bread, Lime Jello W/ OJ & Pineapple, Cookies, Milk

Tex-Mex Casserole, Green Beans, Bread, Yellow Cake & Pears, Milk

Roast Beef/Gravy, Whipped Potatoes, Golden Carrots, Bread, Bread Pudding/Lemon Sauce, Milk

Turkey Spaghetti, Green Peas, Tossed Salad/Dressing, Garlic Bread, Pudding, Milk

IRVING On Feb. 9-10 at the Arlington Convention Center, the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC) will host the emPOWER Conference, a meeting featuring popular Christian speakers and musicians such as Henry

Blackaby, Zig Ziglar and Larnelle Harris. Admission is free.

The conference aims to uplift, inspire and motivate Christians to share

their faith with others. The emPOWER name is based on Acts 1:8, which speaks of being empowered by the Holy Spirit to take the gospel to the uttermost parts of the world. This will be the inaugural emPOWER Conference, formerly known as the State Evangelism Conference.

Platform guests include Ziglar, a Dallas-area motivator and author; Blackaby, speaker and author of the popular Experiencing God study; Jack Graham, pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano and president of the Southern Baptist Convention; and Johnny Hunt, pastor of First Baptist

Church, Woodstock, Ga. A detailed schedule is located on the web at www.sbtexas.com.

(AUSTIN) - Recently, I had the honor of being appointed to the Senate Select Committee on Water Policy by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst. This committee will be looking at a broad range of water policy in anticipation of the next regular session of the legislature.

Among the select committee’s specific charges as they relate to the management and policy concerning ground and surface water are: the role of federal, state, regional, and local governments in setting consistent water policies; the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality over water contracts; the role of the Edwards Aquifer Authority; the role of groundwater conservation districts; the regional water planning process; the conjunctive use of both ground and surface water resources; the rule of capture; historic use standards; water infrastructure and financing; interbasin transfers; junior water rights; conservation; water quality standards; drought preparedness and water marketing.

In the next few weeks, I will outline some of the state’s water laws and regulations in my Capitol Update. This article focuses on groundwater, and is taken from Water Resources Education website. To access more information, please feel free to visit their site at <www.texaswater.tamu.edu/index.html>.

Groundwater Water found below the earth’s surface in the crevices of soil and rocks is called percolating water, or more commonly groundwater. Texas groundwater law is judge-made law, derived from the English common law rule of "absolute ownership." Groundwater belongs to the owners of the land above it and may be used or sold as private property. Texas courts have adopted, and the legislature has not modified, the common law rule that a landowner has a right to take for use or sale all the water that he can capture from below his land.
Because of the seemingly absolute nature of this right, Texas water law has often been called the "law of the biggest pump." Texas courts have consistently ruled that a landowner has a right to pump all the water that he can from beneath his land regardless of the effect on wells of adjacent owners. The legal presumption in Texas is that all sources of groundwater are percolating waters as opposed to subterranean rivers. Consequently, the landowner is presumed to own underground water until it is conclusively shown that the source of supply is a subterranean river.
The state of the law with respect to ownership of subterranean rivers is not settled in Texas. Both stream underflow and subterranean rivers have been expressly excluded from the definition of underground water in Section 52.001 of the Texas Water Code.
The practical effect of Texas groundwater law is that one landowner can dry up an adjoining landowner’s well and the landowner with the dry well is without a legal remedy. Texas courts have refused to adopt the American rule of "reasonable use" with respect to groundwater.
Exceptions to Absolute Owner Rule. There are five situations in which a Texas landowner can take legal action for interference with his groundwater rights:
If an adjoining neighbor trespasses on the land to remove water either by drilling a well directly on the landowner’s property or by drilling a "slant" well on adjoining property so that it crosses the subterranean property line, the injured landowner can sue for trespass.
There is malicious or wanton conduct in pumping water for the sole purpose of injuring an adjoining landowner.
Landowners waste artesian well water by allowing it to run off their land or to percolate back into the water table.
There is contamination of water in a landowner’s well. No one is allowed to unlawfully pollute groundwater.
Land subsidence and surface injury result from negligent overpumping from adjoining lands.
Limited Regulation of Groundwater. The Texas Legislature acknowledged private ownership of percolating groundwater in legislation passed in 1949 and again in 1985, when it authorized the establishment of underground water conservation districts. These districts generally have the authority to promulgate rules for conserving, protecting, recharging, and preventing waste of underground water.

Please contact my office to discuss this, or any other issue.

To contact Sen. Deuell about the legislative process, contact the Capitol Office at (512) 463-0556 or mail to Sen. Bob Deuell, Texas Senate, P.O. Box 12068, Austin, TX 78711. The website for the Texas Senate is www.Senate.state.tx.us. The e-mail address for Sen. Deuell is: bob.deuell@senate.state.tx.us.

Free Income Tax Assistance Sites Open Soon

DALLAS - Internal Revenue Service trained volunteers will offer free tax help beginning the first week of February.

Organizers with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs are busy setting up shop at many nearby locations such as neighborhood community centers, libraries and churches. That is where they will prepare basic tax returns for low-income taxpayers as well as senior citizens and the disabled. Some locations provide Spanish-language help. TCE generally offers free tax help to people over age 60.

Anyone who wants free tax assistance needs to bring a copy of last year’s tax return, all tax year 2003 documents, including forms W-2 and 1099; social security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for each person who will be listed on the tax return.

Volunteers ask that anyone who needs help to bring their 2003 IRS tax packet they received in the mail, as well as receipts, bills or statements for medical, taxes, home mortgage interest, contributions and any miscellaneous expenses.

To find a location of the nearest free tax help site and hours of operation, call 1-800-829-1040. Taxpayers can also call AARP - the largest TCE participant - at 1-877-227-7844 to see if they are near a local Tax Aide site.

GRAYSON COUNTY COLLEGE OFFERS NEW APPROACH TO PLAYING PIANO IN BONHAM

Many students take piano lessons for 10, 13, even 15 years. They can read music notation and may even be their church pianist. But ask them to sit down at the piano and pluck out "Happy Birthday" without sheet music in front of them and they can’t do it. That’s one of the reasons why classically-trained piano students attend Terry Maddock’s Chord Approach workshops being taught all over Texas and Oklahoma.

"These students would like to be able to improvise and make the music sound like they want to sound" said Terry Maddock, instructor for these workshops. "I promise my Chord Approach students that by the end of the course they would be equipped to play any song, any style, in any key, with both hands."

That must have sounded good to the 18 students in a recent workshop who listened to Maddock explain how she’s simplified and demystified piano playing because they all seemed excited about what she said and couldn’t wait to get home to their pianos.

Deborah Daily whose children are reared and out of the house said all her life she’s wanted to learn to play the piano. "It was a matter of committing myself," she said, and not having the time to do that. Armed with instruction and a comprehensive packet of materials Maddock offered to the students, she’s ready to dig in. "I’m excited" she said. "My kids and grandchildren will be so impressed. We’re going to do this as a family!"

Buying the packet was optional, of course. Others just paid their $55 for the course and went home to practice. Oops…"practice" is a word Maddock tries to avoid. "I like to play the piano not work the piano. I don’t even like to use the word practice." There’s a reason for her word choice. "I want people to have fun when they learn to play the piano. This gets people playing music at a simple level. I give them ways they can improve and embellish and sound really cool when they’re ready for that."

"I love doing these workshops and people love coming. People are busy. They are looking for the fastest, easiest, and cheapest way to do about anything these days. When I put these workshops together, these were the 3 things I kept in mind in structuring this approach" says Maddock.

"This workshop-idea came about as a result of working with adults at the piano for 15 years. I developed a way to play that would cater to their needs and desires instead of mine. It’s worked so well for the past 12 years and I know there are people playing today that would never have tried traditional piano", Maddock says. "All piano players don’t have to be classically trained when their main desire is to play for their own fun and enjoyment", Maddock adds.

Learning 12 chords which is central to this system is augmented by ornamentation, different music styles, improvisation and playing by ear. Maddock says it’s helpful if students can read some music, mainly to be able to play the melody with the right hand. The left hand plays chords instead of following the notes written in the bass clef. However, if you’ve just always had a desire to play the piano and you know nothing, you can make this system work as well, according to Maddock.

Maddock says she does encounter a fair amount of skepticism, but she says this method gets results! For details about workshop opportunities in Bonham on January 31^st call the GCC Continuing Education Department at 903-463-8731.

Funds From Texas Reads License Plate Contribute To State’s

Ector 2003 Homecoming

Recently, Ector ISD celebrated its 2003 homecoming. Wendi Ball, daughter of Terry and Tena Ball was crowned homecoming queen. The queen’s court was made up of the follow from left to right:

Freshmen Princess: Emily Reynolds, daughter of Jackie and Sherry Reynolds

Sophomore Princess: Kayla Hopkins, daughter of Chris and Sherry Hopkins and Donnie and Sandra Lankford

Junior Princess: Britnee Easley, daughter of Robert and Amy Easley

Former Queen: Stacey Nelms, daughter of Bo and Jan Nelms and

Senior Queen Nominees: Cassie Glaser, daughter of Ron and Cindy Glaser, and Ashley Pampuch, daughter of Terry Pampuch and DeAnn Hale. T

The crown and flower bearers were kindergarten class favorites, Nathan Johnson, son of Terry and Verna Johnson and Alex Stephens, daughter of Orland and June Stephens.

FUTURE SITE OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOMES

This property in Honey Grove will provide building sites for two Fannin County Habitat homes, thanks to the generosity of Lloyd and Nina Nicholson of Honey Grove. Now all that is needed is a qualified homeowner partner, and construction can begin!

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 questionaire forms may also be mailed to P.O. Box 125, Bonham, TX 75418-0125, or e-mailed to info@fanninhabitat.org

To become a Habitat partner, an individual or family must:

-Be currently living in substandard housing

-Be willing to partner with Habitat to build the home

-Demonstrate ability to pay for the home, with an annual income between $11,950 and $44,500 depending on family size

In addition, the individual/family must have lived in Fannin County for at least one year, and should have an acceptable history of credit and paying debts.

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

Attorney General Greg Abbott Urges Supreme Court To Overturn VMI Prayer Ruling

Federal appeals court decision prohibiting dinner prayers sets dangerous precedent that could impact Texas public colleges and universities, Abbott argues

"These students are not impressionable minors susceptible to some perceived religious indoctrination," Attorney General Abbott said. "The Supreme Court must reverse the lower court’s ruling, to reaffirm the right of public colleges and universities to include prayer as part of their official ceremonies."

Ector High School Employee of the week

Ector High School Employee of the Week of December 15-19 is Roger Morris. Mr. Morris has been with Ector ISD for 27 years. He currently teaches Jr. High and High School Math, Algebra II, Geometry. He is our Transportation Coordinator and bus driver. Mr. Morris also served as principal, but missed the classroom and went back to teaching students. He states that the best thing about his job is that the students are willing to work for you. Mr. Morris has three very special people in his life. They are his wonderful wife Joyce, his great son, Jeff and his loving mother Nema. Mr. Morris is a very special part of Ector ISD. He is a great teacher, co-worker and inspiration to all who know him. Mr. Roger Morris thank you for all that you have done and for all that you continue to do. Thank you for being a part of Ector ISD and for helping to make our school continue to be the best.

Ector High School Employee of the week

Ector High School Employee of the Week for January 19-23 is LeAnn Sellers. We would like to congratulate Mrs. Sellers as our employee of the week. Mrs. Sellers currently teaches Junior High and High School Resource/CMC. She has been with Ector ISD for 9 years. She has taught in both elementary and high school. Mrs. Sellers has two very special people in her life. They are her wonderful husband, Chris and her beautiful daughter, Tiffany. When not at school she enjoys reading, camping and playing softball. She states," That the best thing about working at Ector ISD is being able to touch a student’s life in a positive way." Mrs. Sellers thank you for being such a special person and for helping to make a difference at Ector ISD. We truly appreciate all that you do.

Best of Bluegrass

The very best of Bluegrass music will be back at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down this Saturday night, Jan. 24, 7:30 pm. The Hoe-Down is located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham Recreation area east of the spillway on CR2610, Bonham, Tx. Doors will be open at 6:30 pm. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and her talented "shades of Bluegrass" band. Featuring: George Kirby on fiddle, Randy Keisten on dobro guitar, Glen Clark on mandolin, Michael Williams on the banjo, James Rice on flattop guitar, and Fred Ulich on dog house bass. The Shades of Bluegrass are no strangers to the Bluegrass Concert and they play all the instruments it takes to call them Bluegrass, and play them well. Our honorable special guest group, and they are always back by popular demand, will be the incomparable Third Generation Bluegrass. This group is always more than well accepted at The Hoe- Down. The group features Mark and Wayne Phillips from Norman, Ok.. We look forward to welcoming them back on our stage. If you are a Bluegrass fan, you won’t want to miss this show. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Everyone is invited and welcome. Thanks to all for your support. May God bless you, and we’ll see ya at the Hoe-Down.

January 19 Staff Development/ No school

February 16 Staff Development/ No school

March 8- 12 Spring Break

A HONOR ROLL- 4^th Grade Taylor Angell Alexander, Jessica Barber, Katelyn Bardwell, Collin Bennett, Austin Colley, Stefanie Hutchins, Haley Lancaster, Rachel Penna, Savanna Shockley, Chelsea Tucker, Haley Walker, Ryan Woodruff.

A HONOR ROLL- 5^TH Grade Stephanie Spencer, Matthew StClair, Michael Wood.

A HONOR ROLL – 6^TH Grade Shelly Benton, Alexa Cole, Leah Eaton, Stephanie Ferguson, Cammie

Fiasco, Kelsey Hines, Kayla Irwin, John McCraw, Huston Smith, Jacob Wheeler, Haley Wilkerson.

A/B HONOR ROLL – 6^TH Grade Carolina Arritola, Kaleb Baker, Jacob Brown, April Burk, Kassidy Carr, Eric Delapaz, Blaine Dunlap, Breelan Dunlap, Daine Dunlap, Mariel Galicia, Mercedes Garza, Breanna Goodman, Alicia Hall, Savannah Harmon, Michael Hubbard, Kasidy Kinkade, Tabitha Leeks, Manuel Longoria, Andrew Malone, Justin Massey, Veronica Mendoza, Sydney Millhollon, Ricky Mueller, Meagan Murphey, John Nelms, Justin Nelms, Nate Nichols, Chris Orr, Caitlin Owens, Kassie Phillips, Sport Phillips, Lauren Reeves, Paige Riza, Austin Smartt, Blake Stine, Bradley Stine, James Talley, Kelsee Tedder, Travis Thompson, Kyle Washington, Jeffrey Williamson

Consult doctor before popping herbal supplement pills

HOUSTON – (Jan. 16, 2004) – Harmful contaminants may be hiding in your bottle of echinacea or chamomile, say experts at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) in Houston.

"The number one cause of toxic reaction from herbal or dietary supplements is not from the herb itself, but from possible contaminants, like heavy metals, that may be in the supplement," says Dr. Grace Kuo, a clinical pharmacist and assistant professor of family and community medicine at BCM.

Because the manufacturing of herbal and dietary supplements is not regulated, the ingredients listed on the label may not list everything that is in the pill. This makes mixing herbal supplements with prescription medications harmful.

"The best thing a person can do before taking an herbal remedy or supplement is to consult a physician or a pharmacist, because some health conditions do not respond well to herbal remedies," Kuo says. "For example, patients with rheumatoid arthritis should not take supplements that stimulate the immune system."

Kuo suggests keeping the following in mind when purchasing dietary supplements.

* Do not use a supplement for an extended period of time. Treating

symptoms with an herbal remedy can mask the severity of an illness and delay necessary treatment.

* Herbal supplements can only claim to relieve associated symptoms, not cure an illness.

* Keep your physician aware of the herbal supplements you are taking. They may react adversely when used with prescription medications, vitamins, minerals or other herbal supplements.

According to a study conducted by the Southern Primary-care Urban Research Network at BCM, common health problems for which patients take herbal supplements are stomach pain, colds, flu or sinus symptoms. Herbs people use varied by different ethnic groups; the most common herb among non-Hispanic white, Hispanic white and African Americans are echinacea, chamomile and garlic, respectively.

The study also showed that four times as many respondents used their family as their main source of information on herbal supplements instead of asking their physician for information.

"For people who take herbal supplements as a preventive measure to maintain their health, remember that herbal supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise," Kuo says.

For more information on safe use of herbs, you can log on to http://www.herbwatch.org.

Under the direction of teacher Susan Toland, the Finley Oates third grade students (pictured above) entertained the Bonham Rotary Club last week. The students sang songs of the holidays to patriotic songs with motions and steps to go along with the music. After their outstanding performance, the Rotarians gave the students a standing ovation. Assisting Susan Toland with the music was teacher Mary Lou Fox, and Rotarian and Finley Oates Principal Linda Staton introduced the students.

The Bonham Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at 12 Noon at the Family Life Center.

Bonham Education Foundation sponsors Martin Luther King, Jr. Exhibit

Several Board Members were on hand to present the Bonham Education Foundation’s donation to the Creative Arts Center’s upcoming exhibit, "Martin Luther King, Jr. Remembered: Photographs by Flip Shulke". The Art Center’s Director, Inga Posey expressed her gratitude for the Foundation’s co-sponsorship of the event.

The Bonham Education Foundation was formed in 1999 with the distinct purpose of assisting the Bonham ISD in preparing our students educationally for life and career through encouragement and recognition. Our goal is to promote academics and to recognize our students who achieve academic excellence. For more information on how you can be a part of this exciting program, please contact Debbie Hopson 903-583­5934 or Lou Ann Warren 903-583-9057

Also sponsored by Richard Glaser, the exhibit will be celebrated by local and out­ of-town guests on its much-anticipated opening night Friday, January 23rd. Attendees who arrive promptly at 7:00pm will also enjoy a special presentation of Dr. King’s timeless and emotional speech, delivered by several of Bonham’s children.

The photographer, Flip Schulke, has been taking photographs for 55 years, working most of his career as a freelance photographer. Schulke has earned national and international accolades as a photojournalist, and is most famous for his photo documentation of the U.S. civil rights movement. Schulke met and became a close friend of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., while on assignment of Ebony magazine in 1958. (His extended biography will be available to you on opening night.)

Later in life, Schulke donated his nearly 10,000 images of Dr. King, his family, and the civil rights movement to the Center of American History at UTA. The 44 images, which comprise this particular exhibit, are on loan to the Creative Arts Center from the Center for American History. Dr. Patrick Cox, Director of the Sam Rayburn Library, which is managed by the Center, will also make a brief introduction, following the children’s delivery of Dr. King’s speech.

An added element to the opening night’s excitement is the recent addition of two original paintings by one of Louisiana’s most famous painters, Miss Clementine Hunter. These pieces are on loan from the personal collection of Edna Earl Joyce, of Honey Grove. These rare paintings will be back-dropped by several beautiful antique quilts, gathered from various personal collections in the area by Juanita Deal, who is also responsible for finding the Hunter paintings and arranging for their visit to our gallery. Ms. Hunter’s Biography will be available opening night.

The "Martin Luther King, Jr. Remembered" exhibit will remain on display throughout February. Tours are available for school groups or organizations and can be arranged by calling the Creative Arts Center in advance at (903) 640-2196 The gallery is located at 200 West Fifth Street, at the corner of Fifth and Willow, just one block West of Bonham’s historic town square. The beautiful gallery and teaching facility is a project of the Fannin Community Foundation, Inc.

Entrance to all Creative Arts Center opening night celebrations is free of charge and open to all. You may visit them on the web at: www.creativeartscenter.us.