Northeast Medical Center to Follow CDC Flu Shot Guidelines

High Priority Patients will be Among First to Receive Vaccines

October 7, 2004 (Bonham, TX)- The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announced Tuesday this year’s expected influenza vaccination supply has been cut in half due to complications at a major vaccine manufacturing facility. In response, Northeast Medical Center will follow CDC guidelines in administering the vaccine to ensure that limited supplies best serve the needs of our patients.

Individuals designated by the CDC to be priority recipients of the vaccine include:

• Healthcare workers involved in direct patient care;

• Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities;

• Adults aged 65 and older;

• Individuals between the ages of two and 64 who have underlying chronic medical conditions;

• All women who will be pregnant during the flu season;

• Children aged six months to 18 years on chronic aspirin therapy;

• All children between six and 23 months;

The CDC advises individuals who do not fall into the high priority group to forgo or defer receiving a flu shot to allow those with a higher risk of the flu to receive vaccination.

Intranasally administered influenza vaccination- or nose spray vaccine- is encouraged for healthy persons who are aged five to 49 and are not pregnant, including healthcare workers (except those who care for severely immunocompromised patients in special care units) and person caring for children under six months of age.

"We will make every effort to ensure that high priority patients receive the flu vaccine," said Jay Hodges, CEO of Northeast Medical Center. "We thank the community for supporting our efforts by reserving the flu shot supply for those in greatest need of vaccination."

For more information about the availability of the flu shot vaccine, please contact your physician’s office.

Savoy’s September Students of the Month

Savoy High School’s September Student of the Month is Scott Grant, the son of Julienne and Steve Grant. Scott’s accomplishment of which he is most proud is placing 4th in State UIL Computer Applications last spring.

Andrea Vosburg is Savoy Junior High’s September Student of the Month. Her parents are Christine and David Vosburg. Andrea’s favorite pastime is spending time with family and friends.

The Texas Commission On Fire Protection

According to the Texas Fire Information Reporting System, every seven minutes a fire occurs in Texas. In 2002, Texas had 72,347 fires, resulting in 129 deaths, 1,259 injuries and $373,020,577 in property damages.

The Texas Commission on Fire Protection, a state government agency, is one of many state and local agencies that make up the Texas fire protection community. The mission of the TCFP is to enforce statewide laws and assist local governments in ensuring that the lives and property of the public and of the fire service are adequately protected from fires and related hazards. The TCFP board is comprised of nine fire protection professionals and four public members who are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the senate. This board is accountable for adopting the policies that become state administrative laws governing fire protection.

Today, TCFP assists with four Texas fire service program areas: certification; curriculum and course approvals; testing; and setting compliance standards. Two divisions within TCFP, the Fire Protection Resource Library and the Fire Department emergency Program, supply education and assistance to approximately 535 paid or partially paid fire departments and 230 other entities, such as fire marshal office and training academies. Approximately 1,900 volunteer fire departments operate in Texas, and while they are not regulated by the commission, they are eligible to receive commission services, including grants, loans, and scholarships through the fire department emergency fund program.

Additionally, TCFP establishes minimum fire service training requirements, provides research material and ensures firefighter health and safety by establishing standards for and conducting inspections of personal protective equipment.

TCFP is an important resource in the fire protection community as it assists firefighters and identifies the appropriate agencies for addressing the public’s fire protection needs. However, it is ultimately the dedication and heroic actions of our paid and volunteer firefighters that protect our family and property against the devastation of fire. It is important that we show our appreciation as citizens and our support as a state to help these heroes perform their duties.

For more information on the TCFP you may visit www.tcfp.state.tx.us. Please feel free to contact me if I may be of assistance to you with any matter of state government. You can contact me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.

Gov. Perry Appoints Smith To State Securities Board

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced the appointment of William Smith of Campbell to the State Securities Board for a term expiring Jan. 20, 2009. The board protects investors by enforcing Texas securities laws to ensure a free and competitive securities market.

Smith, who is retired, is a 28 year veteran of the securities industry. He serves on the NASDAQ Listing Qualification Panel.

Smith is a member of the Commerce American Legion Post No. 1 and serves on the board of the Commerce Public Library. He previously served on the board of directors of the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum and the Kavanaugh United Methodist Church in Greenville. Smith has also served on the administrative board of Highland Park United Methodist Church. He received a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University.

This appointment is subject to senate confirmation.

Didn’t Get the Flu Shot? There are Other Ways to Prevent the Flu

With the flu shot supply cut in half, many people, especially those not in the high priority category, will have to go without vaccination this year. Although getting the flu shot is the best way to prevent the flu, there are other good methods to protect you and your family from this contagious virus.

Practicing good hygiene is a great way to avoid contracting and spreading the flu and many other types of infection. Here are some suggestions for preventing the flu through good hygiene:

• Wash your hands with soap and water. Because the flu virus is spread by direct contact, it’s important to wash your hands regularly, such as after using the restroom, touching animals, coughing or sneezing into your hands, handling garbage and before and after meals.

• Using a tissue when sneezing or coughing. When you sneeze or cough, cover you mouth and nose with a tissue instead of using your hands. This helps prevent spreading infection on your hand sand in the air.

• Avoiding touching your face. Viruses, such as the flu, typically enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. People often get the flu after touching something contaminated by the virus and then touching their face.

• Stay home when sick. Though misery loves company, avoid going to work, school, or other public places when you’re sick. This will help prevent others from getting the virus.

• Stay away from those who are sick. If at all possible, steer clear of close contact with people who are sick to avoid getting the virus.

Drinking plenty of water, getting both exercise and rest, and eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables can also help you prevent the flu this season. Static’s show that smokers and people who drink heavily are more prone to infection, so avoid these practices for additional protection from the flu.

TWU to Host Fast pitch Coaches College

DENTON — Texas Woman’s University will host the 2004-05 National Fast pitch Coaches College (NFCC), Jan. 7-9, 2005.

TWU will offer "Course 401-Personal and Professional Development," designed to improve skills related to conflict management, negotiation, communication, leadership, motivation and discipline. Participants also will examine steps to building cooperation, credibility, trust, confidence, coachability and positive relationships.

The cost of the three-day course is $225 for National Fast pitch Coaches Association (NCFA) members and $250 for non-NFCA members. Participants can save $25 by registering at least 14 days in advance. For more information, contact the NFCA at (662) 320-2155, Robie Reed at (940) 898-2575 or Dianne Baker at (940) 898-2383.

Instructors for the course include Laurie Soltman, a specialist in communications and life skills programming, former University of New Mexico coach Susan Craig and former Northwestern University coach and director of the NFCC Sharon Drysdale.

TWU is the only Division II school, and one of 12 sites nationwide, hosting the NFCC.

School Anxiety Can Make Kids Sick

HOUSTON – (Oct. 8, 2004) – Is school making your child ill? Frequently wanting to stay home "sick" from school could be a sign of school anxiety, says a psychiatrist at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) in Houston.

"Complaining to the point where the kids do not want to go to school is a telling sign of school anxiety," said Dr. Jacqueline McGregor, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences with the Menninger Department of Psychiatry at BCM. "This can be resolved pretty quickly depending on how parents handle it."

According to McGregor, the most important thing is to get these kids back in the classroom.

"The longer kids are out of school, the harder it is for them to go back," said McGregor. "Anxiety can become more ingrained the longer you put it off, but the sooner kids face their fears, the sooner they will overcome the anxiety."

To help a child become more comfortable with school, McGregor suggests the following approaches:

* Schedule play dates with other students.

* Reward children for their independence.

* Role-play anxiety-causing scenarios.

* Teach children relaxation techniques.

* Speak candidly about problems at school.

* Establish daily rituals.

School anxiety often develops from conflicts with teachers or bullies, but according to McGregor, learning, hearing or vision problems also could be culprits.

No matter the source, anxiety can spur physical discomfort including headaches, nausea and vomiting. To be safe, parents should have their child evaluated by a physician if complaints of illness persist, said McGregor.

"If school anxiety continues to impact a child’s functioning and enjoyment of life, parents may want to consult with a mental health professional to investigate additional approaches."

With college tuition, medical bills and mortgages to pay, American families cannot afford to pay more in taxes. That’s why I persistently fought to pass the Working Families Tax Relief Act to extend tax cuts that were put in place two years ago by Congress. Under this significant piece of legislation, American families will see $131 billion in tax relief.

Last year I worked with my colleagues and President Bush to pass a $350 billion jobs and economic growth package to put Americans back to work and stimulate the economy. By putting more money in the pockets of individuals and small businesses, we freed the engines of our economy. Since that bill was signed, the stock market is up, private sector growth is strong, and America’s standard of living is on the rise. Homeownership rates reached an all time high and among minorities it is at a new record of 51 percent. Almost two million jobs have been created nationwide since last April and more than 116,000 jobs have been added in Texas. At 5.4 percent, unemployment is below the averages for the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.

The Working Families Tax Relief Act covers several key provisions that were facing expiration at the end of this year. Among these is a respite from the well-known marriage tax penalty. In 2001 and 2003, Congress and the President passed sweeping tax cuts that saved 52 million married couples, including 3.6 million Texans, between $130 to $600 on their 2003 tax bills. By extending this through 2010, a family of four with an income of $40,000 will now save more than $900 on their taxes next year.

In 1997, Congress enacted a $500 per child tax credit and later doubled it to $1,000. The bill President Bush signed maintains the full credit for another six years, providing needed relief to parents of over 47 million children.

Furthermore, the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemptions were continued. The AMT helps cover 13 million Americans that otherwise would not qualify after the January 1^st deadline. This measure protects certain taxpayers by exempting from the AMT the first $58,000 of a married couple’s income and $40,250 for a single individual. The AMT, along with the included 10 percent tax bracket extension, provides significant help to middle and low-income Americans.

Additional benefits were included for military families and American schools. Under this bill, soldiers living in combat zones are provided higher child credit refunds and earned income tax credits. It is the least we can do for our troops sacrificing so much. Elementary and secondary school teachers, among other educators, are eligible for approximately $250 in deductions for personal payment of classroom expenses. This above-the-line deduction rightly defrays some of the expenditures our children’s educators voluntarily make to enhance the quality of each student’s education.

I have long believed taxpayers make better use of their money than the government ever could. Time and time again, the American people have proven that to be the case. They know how to handle their money to best provide for themselves, the economy and our country.

Country Music Hoe-Down

There will be a big Country Music show this Saturday night, Oct. 23 at 7:30 pm at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation area east of the spillway on CR 2610. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and the Country Hoe-Downers featuring: George Kirby, Randy Keister, Glen Clark, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, Mike Stroud, and Gary Monroe. Our special guest, and they are always back by popular request, will be Jimmy Rhodes, from Celina, TX, Brooks Payton, Richardson, TX, and Vickie Reynolds, better known as "May Pearl" Fairfield TX, and new comer to our stage will be 8 year old Breauna McCraw from Colbert, OK. This looks to be a promise for a fun filled night of clean fun and family entertainment. Everyone is invited and welcome. Admission is free. Donations are accepted. Thanks to all for your continued support of our shows, here at the Hoedown. We surely appreciate you all, and may God bless you.

For more information, call 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

2004 Creative Arts Center Pumpkin Patch Contest

Kids and Adults alike are invited to compete in 4 different age groups! (Ages 5 - 105!) Carve, paint, decorate...anything goes! This VERY creative, creepy, craze display decorates the CAC Front Porch every year! Winners receive framed certificates in the mail, with a photo of their winning entry, so make sure you write your name, your pumpkin’s name or title and your age, phone and address on the bottom or back with a permanent marker, so we can find you!!

Entries should be brought to the Creative Arts Center on Tuesday, October 26th or Wednesday, October 27th (1-5:30pm). 200 West Fifth Street. at the corner of Fifth & Willow. (All entries must be clearly labeled, as stated above!)

Judging will take place Thursday, Oct. 28th when winners will be marked by 1pm, for all to see! Come Thursday or Friday (1-6pm) to see winners! Entries MUST be retrieved Saturday, October 30th between 1 and 2 pm, or off they go to Pumpkin’ Heaven!

Call (903)640-2196 with any questions.

Sam Rayburn Honor Roll 1st Six Weeks

Second Grade: Kyle Fogle, Shelbi Foreman, Coleman Hopkins, Klayton Keeton

Third Grade: Grace Campbell, Julia Carpio, Kelvin Cockrill, Payton Crawley, Samantha Davenport, Machaella Dennis, Taylor Dollgener, Hayden Fulmer, Carson Gibbs, Ethan Gibbs, Amanda Loepky, Josh Maldonado, Heather Mason, Gerado Medina, Jordan Outlaw, Carly Park, Destiny Ray-Hammett, Eva Rempel, Kerlein Rempel, Clay Rhudy, Garrett Simpson, Kala Simpson

Fourth Grade: Will Alexander, Emily Duncan, Sarah Foreman, Alaina Kissinger, Brittany Page, Torri Pannell, Shelby Vandeventer

Fifth Grade: Sydney Davis, Samantha Duncan, Lupe Gomez, Jacob Nichols, Cameron Upson

Sixth Grade: Colt Brinlee, Trevor Eaves, Justin Shannon, Keeton Simpson

7th Grade: Samantha Avila, Hanna Baugh, Scott Berni, Brittany Campbell, Stephanie Carroll, Kameron Dollgener, Mariah Fritz, Brian Haywood, Kassie Phillips, Michael Trevett, Paige Vandeventer

8th Grade: Joel Gibson, Keri Goodwin, Hunter Maxey, Elizabeth Mills, Jennifer Neufeld

9th Grade: Chablee Alves, Lindsey Arthur, Jake Baker, Jacey Jones, Chris Sanders, Nolan Skidmore

10th Grade: Jonathon Akins, Ashley Arthur, Katrina Fritz, Jessika Hardy, Sarah Landis, Mollie Lasater, Adam Littrell, Lacie McGuier

11th Grade: Megan Butler, Jason Miears

12th Grade: John Curry, Todd Foreman, Caroline Reynolds, Katie Skidmore, Bridget Thompson, Kirsty Warburton

Second Grade: Rene Berg, Courtney Clark, Tyler Cooper, Kayle Davis, Savannah Dennis, Chance Duncan, Eluid Gonzalez, Landon Grier, Audrey Kuhn, Morgan Kuhn, Ashli Montgomery, Dakota Parker, Victoria Parr, Dalton Russell, Jordan Tate, Dalton Taylor, Kaylee Waldrop, Brittnie Whirley

Third Grade: Nikki Cantrell, Sarah Davis, Sarah Gowens, Tori Haywood, Sawyer Hilliard, Robert Jennings, Kelcie McBroom, Lyndi Pena, Dylan Potts, Chantel Richardson, Adam Simpson, Shayna Sutton, Hanna White

Fourth Grade: Jonathan Bridges, Ryan Bridges, Devin Campbell, Dylan Carringan, Brittany Davenport, Kaitlynd Dennis, Jordan Fuller, Brittany Gee, Courtney Goodwin, Lendele King, Landon Liebel, Sarah Mead, Aaron Mussett, Rani Nichols, Brett Peppers, Zakkary Rhodes, Ariane Taylor, Dalton Titsworth, Shelbi Titsworth, Kyle Wallace, Brittany Weissert

Fifth Grade: Danny Fuller, Victoria Fulton, Ruben Gonzalez, Nolen Gunter, Michael Hankey, Lindsay Maxey, Vanessa Parker, Taylor Potts, Clinton Prater, Tyler Rentfro, Vronika Schindler, Alyssa Taylor, Hunter Titsworth, Ryan Titsworth

Sixth Grade: Dalton Butler, Jennifer Butler, Cody Campbell, Timothy Harrison, Jesse McCain, Billy Mize, Dara Nelson, Josh Nichols, Jace Outlaw, Heather Raymond, Oscar Rempel, Brent Smith, Andrew Waldrop, Derek Wilson

7th Grade: Shelby Bridges, Drew Davis, Maddison Foreman, Tyler Hamilton, Jessica Jones, Cassie Wood

8th Grade: India Calame, Elizabeth Campbell, Ashley Carnley, John Davis, Gabriel Dominguez, Clayton Harrison, Jordan Johnson, Kandice Kissinger, Michael Low, Felecia McGehee, Danny Potts, Martha Rempel, Carly Sadler, Heather Shellenbarger, Casey Templer, Brittany Williams

9th Grade: Sarah Berni, Beth Davis, J.D. Drewek, Andrea Eaves, Chelsea Havens, Cyndi Hernandez, Laura Hernandez, Abby Jaynes, Keith McCain, Donaice Oakley, Haley Page, John Reynolds, Kacie Rice

10th Grade: Ashley Amlin, Daniel Brawner, Ashley Bultler, Jayden Floyd, Jordan Floyd, Suzie Friessen, Jed Gibson, Christina Gomez, Clayton Kerr, Mick Maidens, Cristyn Manhart, Matt McWhorter, Nicole Miears, Philip Milam, Ross Naylor, Sean Petrovic, Torrie Reynolds, Erin Taylor, Kayla Wade, Chris Young

11th Grade: Josh Gann, Lee Goodwin, Ashton Hamilton, Corey Hutner, Mendy Ivey, Christi North, Jemal Petrovic, Chris Sepaugh

12th Grade: Salina Carmon, Matt Davis, Jennifer Kempadoo, Nathan Mcwhorter, Michelle Milam, Shonda Rushing, Cora Wylie

Former President Bush Coming To Rockwall As Guest Of Ralph Hall

ROCKWALL, TX . . . Former President George H. W. Bush will be the featured guest of Congressman Ralph M. Hall at a fundraising reception Tuesday, October 19^th, at Rep. Hall’s home in Rockwall.

"I am honored that former President Bush will make a personal appearance in support of my re-election," Hall said. "He has been a good friend for many years, and I value his support. I am most appreciative of his willingness to take time from campaigning for President Bush to come to Rockwall on my behalf."

Additional information about the event can be obtained by contacting the Hall for Congress Campaign at 972-771-4255.

Ector Elementary Awards

The faculty and staff at Ector Elementary School would like to recognize the Best Citizens of the First Six Weeks. Due to their outstanding efforts and conduct the awards go to Maggie Crouch (lower elementary) and Emilie Tumey (upper elementary). Congratulations to you both.

This year Ector Elementary School will choose students from each grade that have excelled in our subject areas. There will be one student chosen per subject area. The areas are language, reading, math, science/social studies, and physical education.

Kindergarten: Dylan Martin, Kylee McCommas, Tristan Roper, Taylor Merworth, Kourtnee Cox, Ethan Norwood

First Grade: Alex Stephens, Austin Richardson, Avery Kraft, Jacob Rich, and Drake Cravens

Second Grade: Jacy Martin, Billie Sue Elliott, Jonathon Whitlock, Kayla Melton, and Elizabeth Essary

Third Grade: Brett Pearson, Shelby Stockton, Darcy Holder, Nathan Glaser, and Tiffany Sellers

Fourth Grade: Ben Bingham, Darrah Capehart, Cristi Abbott, Demetria Tumey, and Kaleb Atkins

Fifth Grade: Caleb Stephens, Taylor Glaser, Miranda Mayo, Kyle Wells, and Bradley Bingham

Sixth Grade: Blair Boling, Angela Haas, Mallory Mayo, Isaac Hicks, and Zachary Kelton

Savoy Student of the Month 4th - 6th Grade

Natalie Brasher was chosen as the Student of the Month in grades 4-6 at Savoy Elementary. Natalie was chosen because of her excellent citizenship. Natalie’s favorite subject in school is Social Studies because she enjoys learning about the past. Natalie likes sports and enjoys spending time with her close friends. In the future, Natalie want to become a vet because she loves all animals.

Savoy Student of the Month 1st - 3rd Grade

Justin Berube was chosen as the Student of the Month for grades 1-3 at Savoy Elementary. Justin was chosen because of his excellent citizenship. Justin’s favorite subject in school is math it is so much fun! In his spare time, Justin enjoys racing motorcycles. In the future, Justin wants to be a professional motorcycle rider.

The Daughters of the American Revolution

George Blakey Chapter, Bonham Texas

Meeting, October 9, 2004

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas, met for its monthly meeting, October 9, 2004 at the Bonham Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Mary Jo Barbee, regent, called the meeting to order at 2 p.m. by leading the members in saying, DAR Ritual, with Dot Linn as chaplain. Mary Lou Kissinger led the members in saying, Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Mary Jo led the group in saying, The Daughters Pledge to the Flag and The American Creed. Mary Jo gave the President General’s Message and the National Defense Report. Nancy Bellows, Secretary, read the minutes of the previous meetings. They were approved as corrected. Martha Mayrell, Treasurer, gave the treasury report. She also reported on the DAR sign the chapter had purchased and it will be placed this week. Mary Jo, Martha and Dot reported on their trip to the Fall Forum in Austin. They wanted a lineage research volunteer to report deaths of members to the National DAR chaplain. Mary Pauline Yarbrough reported on giving bells to the 3rd grade classes at Honey Grove elementary school in observance of Constitution Week. Mary Jo and Myra Rodgers helped with this project. Nancy and Julianne Grant did the project at Savoy elementary school 3rd graders. Forms were given Mary Pauline and Nancy to interview their husbands who are veterans. Mary Beavers was in charge of the program. She talked about ‘Collectibles’ and what to do with them while living and after death Kissinger and Bellows were hostess. They served pumpkin and sugar cookies, brownies, cup cakes, and assortment of drinks from a Fall decorative table to nine members. Beavers brought the birthday gifts and winners were Mary Jo, Mary Lou, Myra, Mary Pauline, and Nancy. The next meeting will be Nov. 13, 2004 at the chamber. If anyone would like to become a member of our chapter they can call Flo Odom, 903-623-4031.

Creative Arts Center’s October Artist of the Month at Bonham State Bank: HELEN BONHAM SHORT

Helen Bonham Short’s "Dewdrops", on display in Bonham State Bank’s lobby throughout October represents the artist’s Mixed Media work. A juried artist of Bonham’s Creative Arts Center, Helen is a talented painter from Paris, Texas who also creates bold, 3-d shadow-box pieces like the one you will view when visiting the bank this month.

When painting, Helen’s favorite subjects include sunrises, sunsets and clouds. She has a sense of style and imagination that is evident in the attention to detail and use of color in her paintings. Her landscapes in oil, her watercolor florals and shadow box collage creations are equally popular among admirers.

What began as therapy has become a satisfying hobby and small business for Helen. She started painting lessons seven years after an automobile accident claimed the life of her second son, Larry, who was studying commercial art at Texas Tech University. Through the years, Helen has also pursued other interests in the art ranging from sewing, needlepoint and crafts to cake decorating and music. She retired after serving 30 years at Campbell Soup Company as a staff secretary.

Born in Brookston, west of Paris in Lamar County, Texas, Helen now lives near Powderly with her husband, J.C. Short. She is a member of the Creative Arts Center of Bonham, the Artists Guild of Lamar County and the Art Study Club of Paris. Her paintings are shown at Creative Arts Center’s gallery and at Plaza Art Gallery in Paris.

Helen enjoys sharing her art with friends and family as well as customers across the nation. Please stop by Bonham State Bank anytime during lobby hours through the month of October and see Helen’s elegant, three-dimensional paper collage, "Dewdrops". We thank Bonham State Bank for their commitment to the arts in Fannin County through their consistent generosity, providing both financial support and an exhibition venue for area artists.

The Creative Arts Center is opened Monday – Friday from 1-6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 11:00am – 2:00pm. The gallery and teaching facility is located at 200 West Fifth Street, at the corner of Willow and Fifth. You may reach the Director or her assistant at (903) 640-2196 or by fax (903) 640-8148. Email them at: creativeartscenter@netexas.net. Their new website is up and running, with October updates coming daily. Visit them at: www.creativeartscenter.us !

Ribbon Cutting

The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce was please to welcome Aladdin Extermination with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, October 8th. Clark Dunmon, owner, was presented a Ceremonial Certificate from Bill Jones, Executive Director. Aladdin Extermination is located in Leonard and you can reach Clark by calling 903-271-1273.

Kiwanis Meeting

Bill Jones, Executive Director Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce; Mary-k Wilson, Kiwanis President & Tillman Bostick, Kiwanis Member.

Bill Jones, Executive Director of the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce presented the program and told us about his vision for things to come and some of his experiences from places he had been before coming here.

We are honored to have Sandy Brown join us as a new member and to have Nancy Miller, our Past Texas-Oklahoma District Governor visiting.

The Bonham Kiwanis Club meets every Tuesday at noon in the basement of The First Christian Church. You are invited to join us for the food and fellowship.

Ector Students Participate in Fire Safety Post Contest

Students in grades 2nd and 4th at Ector Elementary school participated in a Fire Safety poster contest. Students were asked to paint or draw posters illustrating fire safety. The posters were displayed in the hallway and winners were selected.

Prizes were given to the winners. First place received a free lunch from Ector Kwik Mart. Second place winners received a free ice cream and third place received a free Snapple from the cafeteria.

Second grade: 1st Rachel Conway 2nd Kayla Melton

Tie for 3rd Cloudi Burnett and Billie Sue Elliot

Fourth grade: 1st Cristi Abbott  2nd Ben Bingham  3rd Dathan Wiley

Savoy Elementary Has Been Well Trained For A Fire At Home And School

Both Savoy and Bonham Fire Departments presented fire safety to our students. Savoy Fire Department shared with the students the local fire truck, their equipment, and how the fire department extinguishes fires. The kids saw the fireman’s dress and equipment including the breathing mask and tank. The Savoy Volunteer Fire Department wanted the students to not be afraid of

the a fireman in full gear. Bonham Fire Department presented an interesting and informative program on personal fire safety. Instructions of what to do in case of a fire were emphasized. Sparky the Fire Dog with his side kick clowns kept the kids on the edge of their seats.

Thanks to both of the fire departments for their contributions to Savoy’s fire prevention week.

License Plate Contributes to Legal Aid in Texas

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Fannin County tax assessor-collector’s office are featuring the And Justice For All specialty license plate this month. A majority of the proceeds from the sale of this license plate supports civil legal services to the economically disadvantaged through the Texas Equal Access to Justice Foundation. The foundation is the largest state-based funding source for Texas legal aid and assists approximately 100,000 Texans a year with their civil legal needs.

The initial development of the license plate was sponsored by the Texas Young Lawyers Association (TYLA) in an effort to promote the concept of access to justice for all, regardless of income. Proceeds from the sale of the plate contributed more than $86,221 to the fund. There are currently about 3,450 vehicles registered in Texas with the plates. TYLA is the public service arm of the State Bar of Texas. Over the years, TYLA has educated hundreds of thousand sof Texans through its projects including land title counsel, advice to senior citizens on estate planning issues: and youth education on constitutional rights and obligations.

"Legal aid organization provide valuable assistance to Texas’ most vulnerable residents in civil legal matter such as safety from abuse, affordable housing and access to medical care." said PAM SWEET-RICHARDSON tax assessor-collector for Fannin County.

The license plate design features a partial white star within a larger star with the Texas flag imprinted over it on the left side of the plate. The background is white and the last line of the pledge of allegiance, And Justice for All runs across the bottom of the plate.

The And Justice For All license plates are available to motorists for a $30 annual fee, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular vehicle registration fees. Of the $30 annual fee, $22 goes to a special fund set up to provide basic civic legal services. The remaining $8 fee is deposited in to the state highway fund to cover administrative costs.

Applications for the And Justice For All specialty plates are available at county tax offices, on TxDOT’s web site (www.dot.state.tx.us), by calling the TxDOT Help Desk at (512) 465-7611, or TxDOT’s Fax-On_Demand forms line at (888)232-7033. Customer s requesting orders for specialty license plates through the fax service should enter the code 0999 to receive the form for the license plate they are ordering.

TxDOT started its specialty license plate program in 1965. Today, there is a wide variety of different plate designs, many of them benefiting a particular group, organization, college or university. Since 1994, more than $10 million has been raised for sponsoring organizations, colleges or universities. FOR INFORMATION CALL PAM SWEET-RICHARDSON TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT 903-583-7493 ORDERING INFOR AT www.dod.state.tc.us/vtr/spplates/allplates.htm.

Attorney General Abbott To Defend Ten Commandments At United States Supreme Court

Decision By High Court Will Have National Impact

AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today welcomed the opportunity to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court in defense of a Ten Commandments monument on the State Capitol grounds. The Court today agreed to hear an appeal of a lower court ruling that placement of the monument does not violate the First Amendment.

"The Ten Commandments are a foundational document for the Texas and U.S. systems of laws. Acknowledging that fact by displaying this monument on the state Capitol grounds is entirely appropriate –– and constitutional," Attorney General Abbott said. "I look forward to defending this Ten Commandments monument before the U.S. Supreme Court."

In 1961, the Fraternal Order of Eagles donated the six-foot red granite monument to the state as a way to combat juvenile delinquency and promote a personal code of conduct for youths, resulting in "liberty, peace and justice." The Texas Legislature approved its placement on the Capitol grounds that same year, in honor of the group’s "efforts and contributions in combating juvenile delinquency." The monument currently sits in the northwest quadrant of the grounds, between the Capitol and the Texas Supreme Court, along with other monuments and memorials.

In November 2003, the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals found the Legislature’s intent in accepting the monument was not an unconstitutional attempt to establish a state-sponsored religion. The plaintiff in the case, Thomas Van Orden, appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.

Attorney General Abbott continued: "In the very chamber where our arguments will take place there is a carving of Moses holding the Ten Commandments. Likewise, the Ten Commandments monument on the Capitol grounds is a constitutional recognition of the historic significance the Ten Commandments have played in the development of our shared moral and legal codes."

Federal appeals courts are deeply divided on the question of whether Ten Commandments displays violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.

"The Texas monument is an excellent example of how to display the Ten Commandments within the parameters of the First Amendment, and I hope the Court will use Texas as a model for the nation," Attorney General Abbott said.

Dodd City Junior High Wins at 17-A event

Cassidi Rogers and Samantha McCarty each served 17 points, during Dodd City’s 25-8, 25-17 defeat of Collinsville on Oct. 11 during Round One play at the District 17-A Junior High Volleyball Tournament.

Sydnee Horton added six points, while Barbara Kemp had five for Dodd City that continues district tournament play Monday, Oct. 18 at Melissa. Dodd City also got three points from Callie Maxwell and another two from Katie Pickering.

DC, Savoy stay in playoff race

By Rich Hilliard

DODD CITY -- Kimberly Gibson collected 13 points, 12 assists and 10 digs, while Jennifer Burpo had 17 points and eight digs, as Dodd City beat Roxton, 25-12, 25-16, 25-8, on Oct. 8 in district play.

Coach Cheryl Howerton of Dodd City (12-12, 4-3) garnered her 175th career win with the victory.

A dozen points by Crystal Hough and Bethany Stephens helped Dodd City to its second-straight district win. Hough got six assists, while Stephens and Burpo each garnered six kills.

Dodd City’s Amanda Spindle contributed 10 points and six digs. Jordan Parker had nine points and Cecily Darwin also dove for six digs. Kamey Herpeche got four digs and kills while Whitney Parker made three digs.

On Oct 5, twenty-four points by Spindle helped Dodd City top Melissa, 25-11, 25-10, 25-12.

Hough, Gibson and Burpo of Dodd City added 12 points apiece. Gibson additionally got 13 assists, and Burpo made nine kills.

Dodd City’s Stephens had 10 points to go with eight digs. Jordan Parker made five digs with four points. Darwin totaled three digs and kills, while Herpeche garnered three digs and two kills. Whitney Parker dove for two digs.

Also on Oct. 5, Mindy Woodson’s 17 points and 12 kill shots and Brooke McGehee’s 15 kills and 12 blocks led Savoy (24-5, 4-2) to a defeat at Trenton, 25-20, 25-6, 25-21, in 17-A play. Ashley Thompson made 26 assists and Megan Malone got 10 blocks.

Ector Elementary Awards Assembly 1st Six Weeks 2004-2005

Lower Elementary- Maggie Crouch

Upper Elementary- Emilie Tumey

Class Citizenship- Shelby Earnheart

Most Improved Boy- Ethan Norwood, Girl- Payton Anderson

Character Focus- Dependability- Emma Harris

Academic Olympics-Language- Dylan Martin, Reading- Khylee McCommas, Math- Tristan Roper, Workshop- Taylor Merworth, Enrichment- Kourtnee Cox, P.E.- Ethan Norwood

Perfect Attendance- Kourtnee Cox, Hailey Earl, Emma Harris, Dylan Martin, Khylee Mccommas, Ethan Norwood, Sarah Pasch, Tristan Roper, Haylie Stephens, Alexys Ward, J.R. White

Citizenship Award- Drake Cravens

Most Improved- Nathan Johnson

Character Focus- Dependability- McKayla Jones

Academic Olympics- Language- Alex Stephens, Reading- Austin Richardson, Math- Avery Kraft, Science/ Social Studies- Jacob Rich, P.E.- Drake Cravens

Perfect Attendance- Rylee Coldiron, Maggie Crouch, Hunter Heathcock, Tanner Heathcock, Nathan Johnson, McKayla Jones, Alex Stephens, Hannah Short

"A" Honoro Roll- Rylee Coldiron, Maggie Crouch, Wesley Elliot, Hunter Heathcock, Tanner Heathcock, Cyndal Jennings, McKayla Jones, Jacob Rich, Austin Richardson, Hannah Short, Alex Stephens, Drake Cravens

"A-B" Honor Roll- Nathan Johnson, Avery Kraft

Class Citizenship Award- Clouli Burnett

Most Improved- Trent Jones

Character Focus- Dependability- Billie Sue Elliot

Academic Olympics- Language- Jacy Martin, Reading- Billie Sue Elliot, Math- Johnathon Whitlock, Science/ Social Studies- Kayla Melton, P.E.- Elizabeth Essary

Perfect Attendance- Clouldi Burnett, Rachel Conway, Elizabeth Essary, Jacy Martin, Kayla Melton, Tyler Self, Johnathon Whitlock

"A" Honor Roll- Cloudi Burnett, Rachel Conway, Billie Sue Elliot, Elizabeth Essary, Jacy Martin, Kayla Melton, Ariane Rushing, Johnathon Whitlock

"A-B" Honor Roll- Trent Jones, Tyler Self, Nathan Thomason

Class Citizenship Award- Andy Haas

Most Improved- Mason Ryan

Character Focus- Dependability- Nathan Glaser

Academic Olympics- Language- Tiffany Sellers, Reading- Brett Pearson, Math- Shelby Stockton, Science/ Socail Studies- Darcy Holder, PE- Nathan Glaser

Perfect Attendance- Juan Grijalva, Andy Haas, Ashland Merworth, Kendall Owen, Brett Pearson, Tiffany Sellers, Shelby Stockton, Mallory Smyers

"A" Honor Roll- Ethan Garcia, Nathan Glaser, Juan Grijalva, Andy Haas, Danyelle Huey, Rachel Jones, Ashland Merworth, Brett Pearson, Tiffany Sellers, Kaylee Smith Mallory Smyers, Shelby Stockton, Dallas Stone

"A-B" Honor Roll- Darcy Holder, Mason Ryan, Kendall Owen

Most Improved- Bradlee Coldiron

Character Focus- Dependability- Christi Abbott

Academic Olympics- Lanugage- Ben Bingham, Reading Darrah Capehart, Math- Christi Abbott, Science/ Social Studies- Demetria Tumey, P.E- Kaleb Atkins

Perfect Attendance- Christi Abbott, Kaleb Atkins, Ben Bingham, Selah Burnett, Darrah Capehart, Bradlee Coldiron, Hailey Cox, Ryan Glaser, Cody Kennedy, Alora Lewis, Zachary Traylor, Dathan Wiley

"A" Honor Roll- Christi Abbott, Ben Bingham, Selah Burnett, Hailey Cox, Ryan Glaser, Alora Lewis, Brianna Teel, Kenna Duncan, Demetria Tumey, Dathan Wiley

"A-b" Honor Roll- Kaleb Atkins, Darrah Capehart, Cody Kennedy, Emilie Tumey

Class Citizenship Award- Dillon Holcomb

Most Improved- Susanann Boyette

Character Focus- Dependability- Carlie Easley

Academic Olympics- Language- Caleb Stephens, Reading- Taylor Glaser, Math- Miranda Mayo, Science/ Social Studies- Kyle Wells, P.E.- Bradley Bingham

Perfect Attendance- Bradley Bingham, Katelyn Bush, Chad Clement, Perry Crouch, Carlie Easley, Dillon Holcomb, Kristan Huey, Miranda Mayo, Kassie Shaw, Hannah Shirey, Korey Smith, Caleb Stephens, Kyle Wells, Bailey Whitehead, Shani Wiley

"A" Honor Roll- Bradley Bingham, Katelyn Bush, Carlie Easley, London Galaway, Taylor Glaser, Dillon Holcomb, Kristan Huey, Miranda Mayo, Aron Mercer, Kassie Shaw, Hannah Shirey, Korey Smith, Brittany Teel, Kyle Wells, Bailey Whitehead

"A-B" Honor Roll- Susanann Boyette, Chad Clement, Perry Crouch, Kandice Pasch, Caleb Stephens, Brandon Tigert, Shani Wiley, Pete Raymond

Class Citizenship Award- C.J. Bracken

Character Focus- Dependability- Mallory Mayo

Most Improved- Bodie Martin

Academic Olympics- Language- Blair Boling, Reading- Angela Haas, Math- Mallory Mayo, Science/ Social Studies- Isaac Hicks, P.E.- Zachary Kelton

Perfect Attendance- Blair Boling, Aaron Glaser, Angela Haas, Isaac Hicks, Morgan Leatherwood, Mallory Mayo, Devin Norwood, Chris Raymond, Savannah Duncan, Nate Williamson

"A" Honor Roll- Blair Boling, C.J. Bracken, Angela Haas, Isaac Hicks, Dillon Kraft, Savannah Duncan

"A-B" Honor Roll- Marla Brown, Aaron Glaser, Zachary Kelton, Morgan Leatherwood, Mallory Mayo, Devin Norwood, Chris Raymond, Nat Ewilliamson

Educators Should Save Receipts For Reinstated Deduction

WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service today advised teachers and other educators to save their receipts for books and other classroom supplies. They will be able to deduct up to $250 of such expenses again this year, following recently-enacted legislation.

The Working Families Tax Relief Act of 2004 reinstated the educator expense deduction, which had expired at the end of last year, for both 2004 and 2005. Expenses incurred any time this year may qualify for the deduction, not just those since the Act was signed on October 4.

The deduction is available to eligible educators in public or private elementary or secondary schools. To be eligible, a person must work at least 900 hours during a school year as a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide.

An educator may subtract up to $250 of qualified out-of-pocket expenses when figuring adjusted gross income (AGI). This deduction is available whether or not the taxpayer itemizes deductions on Schedule A.

The IRS suggests that educators keep records of qualifying expenses in a folder or envelope with a label such as "Educator Expense Deduction," noting the date, amount and purpose of each purchase. This will help prevent a missed deduction at tax time.

For more information, call the IRS Tele-Tax system toll-free at 1-800-829-4477 and select Topic 458. Or go to the IRS Web site at www.irs.gov  and use its search engine to find Tax Topic 458.

Dodd City tops Savoy

By Rich Hilliard

SAVOY -- Jennifer Burpo had 27 points and 10 kills, while Kimberly Gibson got 19 assists with 14 points, each making eight digs, as Dodd City beat Savoy, 25-17, 25-15, 29-27, on Oct. 12 to move into third place in District 17-A.

"It was a great team effort by the girls tonight," said Dodd City coach Cheryl Howerton. "Everyone contributed to the win by doing the little things, staying focused, and sticking to the game plan. The girls played hard and smart. We were fundamental tonight, and every team member was ready to contribute wherever she was needed."

Crystal Hough garnered 16 points, 11 digs, eight kills and five assists for Dodd City (13-12, 5-3) that hosted Wolfe City Saturday morning. Bethany Stephens totaled 11 points, seven blocks and seven kills and Kamey Herpeche had six digs and six kills against Savoy (24-6, 4-4).

Dodd City’s Amanda Spindle scored three points, joining Cecily Darwin with four digs. Jordan Parker got three digs and two kills. Whitney Parker dove for two digs.

How the AG Helps Parents Meet Their Children’s Medical Needs

By Greg Abbott Attorney General of Texas

Most people are aware that the Attorney General’s Office assists parents in obtaining financial support for their children. In State Fiscal Year 2004, the Attorney General’s Child Support Division (CSD) collected a record-breaking $1.677 billion for Texas children.

You may not know that my office also addresses a child’s health care needs by including medical support in each child support order. More than 655,000 children on the CSD caseload are subject to a child support order that includes a provision to provide medical support.

Access to health care is essential to a child’s well-being. For that reason, Texas law requires that each child support order address medical support in addition to child support. In crafting the child support order, courts consider the cost and quality of health insurance that may be available to the parents, so that each child receives the best possible coverage.

In many child support cases, the parent without custody is ordered to provide health insurance for the child through a policy available from the parent’s employer or membership in a union, trade association, or other organization.

If the custodial parent has comparable coverage that is available at a lower cost, the courts will order the noncustodial parent to pay additional child support to cover the cost of the health insurance premium for the child.

If neither parent is able to obtain private health insurance at a reasonable cost, the custodial parent is ordered to apply on behalf of the child to a government-funded medical program such as Medicaid or the state Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The cost of the CHIP premium is added to the noncustodial parent’s monthly child support payment.

In addition, both parents may be required to pay a percentage of "out-of-pocket" medical expenses that are not covered through insurance. The percentage is determined by the financial circumstances of each parent. If neither parent has private insurance and the children are not eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, the courts will order the noncustodial parent to provide cash medical support in addition to the monthly child support payment.

When the noncustodial parent is ordered to pay cash medical support, a notice of income withholding is sent to the employer according to the same procedures for withholding regular child support payments from the parent’s paycheck. If the parent is ordered to provide insurance through the employer, the employer is required to enroll the child in health insurance coverage and withhold the necessary premium payments from the parent’s income.

The Child Support Division surveys Texas employers about private health insurance provided to their employees. By matching the names of children who are subject to medical support orders with employer data, my office has enrolled close to 330,000 children over the last two years in employer-provided dependent health care coverage. Enrolling children in private health insurance represents a significant cost savings to the state of Texas. The Child Support Division found that over half of the children my office enrolled in private insurance were also covered by Medicaid. This information allowed the Health and Human Services Commission to recover $17.4 million from private insurers and pharmacies for services Medicaid paid, but was not required to cover. In addition, the Attorney General’s Office collected $10.4 million in cash medical support for families on Medicaid and distributed those collections to the Medicaid agency.

To find out more about services offered by the Attorney General’s Child Support Division, visit the agency Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us. Or you can contact your local Child Support field office. Consult your local directory for listings.

TxDOT Signs Agreement With Wi-Fi Vendor

AUSTIN — Free, wireless access to the Internet for travelers stopping at 102 safety-rest areas in Texas has moved a step closer to reality with the signing of an agreement between the company that will provide the service and the Texas Department of Transportation.

"Road Connect, a brand of Austin-based Coach Connect, will be providing
no-cost Internet connectivity at all of our safety-rest areas and travel-information centers within the year," said Andy Keith, TxDOT program manager for safety-rest areas. "The seven safety-rest areas that currently provide wireless Internet access will be upgraded to provide additional services."

TxDOT selected the firm after evaluating proposals submitted last summer by five potential vendors.

The first two rest areas to receive Coach Connect services will be in Medina County on U.S. 90 near Hondo and in Colorado County on Interstate 10 near Columbus. Installations there are expected to be complete by December. Installations at all 102 safety-rest areas should be complete by October 2005.

Travelers with wireless laptops or handheld Internet-capable devices will be able to access free safety, weather, and travel information at the safety-rest areas and travel centers across the state. In addition, up to 120 minutes of free Internet time will be available. Anyone wanting more time can subscribe in 20-minute increments, by the day, by the week, or by the month.

Cost for 20 minutes will be $1.99, followed by $3.99 for 24 hours, $7.99 for a week, or $29.99 per month. Coach Connect hopes also to support this network of hotspots with the help of sponsors.

"Our vendor will be providing the wireless service at no cost to the state," Keith continued. "TxDOT, in return, will receive 25 percent of the profit from subscriptions made by anyone wanting more than two hours of wireless service."

Besides the equipment needed to provide wireless connections with the Internet, the company also will install Internet kiosks in TxDOT safety-rest areas. The kiosks, placed at those safety-rest areas with indoor lobbies, will be for use by people lacking wireless devices.

"Increasingly, travelers are becoming accustomed to — and even demanding — Internet access whenever and wherever they stop. Road Connect will give drivers on Texas highways one more reason to take a break from driving," says Coach Connect Co-Founder Jamison Stewart. "That means more alert drivers, and safer Texas highways."

Bonhi Reunion Committee

The 2005 Reunion Committee is in need of help in locating former students of Bonham High School. This week we are focusing on the classes of 1950-1954. If you know the address or can provide any information on the location of the following former Bonham High School students, please contact Pam Thompson (903-989-5528) or send an email to pamt@fanninelectric.com.

Class of 1950: Billie Berger, Joyce Coonrod McGuire, Charlie Dodson, Sylvia Jo Jestis George, Betty McGuire Lewis, Betty Jean Mitchell Jones, Betty Mize Johnson, Billy Mize, J. D. Moore, Earl Dean Owen, Nettie Phillips Mendenhall, Melba Jean Rice Nash, Bernicelee Westbrook Silvers.

Class of 1951: David Abernathy, Letitia Moss Johnson.

Class of 1952: Mildred Atkins Gresham, Sam Flood, Barbara Johnson, Don Walls.

Class of 1953: Harold Anderson, William Anderson, Wanda Jo Bigbee Thomison, Kenneth Boughan, Don Allen Clark, Deloris Curtis, Francis Gentry, Gary Long, Fred Daniel McLarry, Margie Schriewer Redgeworth, Claude Wix.

Class of 1954: Bill Bell, Joe K. Brown, Kenneth Duckworth, Ann Huff Hall, Jack Dare Payne, Margie Schriner Dodgin.

Taking Charge of Your Prescriptions

Jennifer Wider, M.D.
Society for Women’s Health Research
October 7, 2004

Prescription drugs can work wonders. They can prevent disease, cure illnesses and even save lives. All too often, however, people leave their doctor’s office without fully understanding how to appropriately use the drugs. Because two out of three visits to the doctor end with a prescription, it is vital to be an educated consumer when it comes to your own health.

Women need to pay close attention medication issues.

"They visit the doctor more often than men and they take more prescription and non-prescription medicines," Ray Bullman, executive vice president for the National Council on Patient Information and Education in Bethesda, Md., said. "Women become pregnant, nurse babies and go through menopause. These normal health conditions affect how women’s bodies react to medicines."

Women also consume more herbal remedies and vitamins, which may put them at risk for adverse drug reactions. Some drugs work differently in women and men and women are more likely to use multiple medications at the same time.

In addition, women tend to assume the role of family caregiver, managing the medication for children, parents and spouses. Therefore, it is important that women pay close attention to what medications are being taken and why.

No matter what type of medication you are using, you are the person in charge of taking it properly. There are steps you can take to maximize the positive impact your medical treatments have on your health.

Communicating with your doctor or pharmacist is extremely important. Ask questions about your diagnosis and learn why you are taking the particular medicine. For example, it’s not enough to know that you’re taking a pill for diabetes. You need to understand diabetes, what sugar or glucose levels are, and what levels are safe and healthy. This knowledge can help you understand the nature of the disease and whether your treatments are working the next time you see the doctor.

Part of communication is sharing your medical and family history with your doctor. Before starting a prescription, discuss any medical condition that you might have, your family history of disease and any medication (prescription, over the counter or herbal) that you may be taking. The doctor will also need a history of your lifestyle habits and diet. Gaining complete understanding of who you are will help the doctor determine the right treatments for you and avoid unnecessary complications.

"Keep a list of your medicines and show that list to your doctor and pharmacist. Be sure to keep it up to date," Bullman said. "When medicine is being considered as part of your treatment, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to any medicines, if you’ve ever had a problem with any medicine, and if you are pregnant, may get pregnant, or are nursing a baby."

You should also let your doctor know if the cost of the medicine prescribed is a concern, Bullman said. There may be alternative medications that cost less and will work equally well.

Knowing how to take your medication correctly is essential. Make sure that when you leave the office or pharmacy counter, you understand the instructions. If you don’t know how many pills to take per day or when to take them, ask the pharmacist. Be aware of potential side effects and report them to your doctor immediately if they occur.

For women, oral contraceptives (birth control pills) can fail, resulting in pregnancy, when taking the antibiotics rifampin, tetracycline or penicillin. Women should be aware that some antacids can inactivate fluoroquinolones, which are drugs often prescribed for urinary tract infections.

Dietary supplements, used more often by women, can interact with other drugs and cause serious problems. Because there are no regulatory requirements for testing these compounds in humans, doctors and pharmacists know very little about their risks, so you should use caution with these products.

Every medication comes with a drug label and it can sometimes be confusing. Learning how to read it is very important.

The drug facts label includes the following important information:

• Active Ingredient: the chemical substance in your medicine that works to make you feel better.

• Uses or Indications: shows which symptoms the medicine can treat.

• Warnings: tells you what health conditions, other drugs and foods to avoid while taking this medication. It also lets you know what side effects you may experience while taking it.

• Directions: this is the daily dose and frequency with which you should take the medication. Make you that you understand this section fully.

• Other information: this section tells how to properly store the medicine and any other necessary information.

• Inactive ingredients: all other ingredients in the medication are listed here. Most often, they have no effect on your body.

Attorney General Abbott To Defend Ten Commandments At U.S. Supreme Court

AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today welcomed the opportunity to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court in defense of a Ten Commandments monument on the State Capitol grounds. The Court today agreed to hear an appeal of a lower court ruling that placement of the monument does not violate the First Amendment.

2004 Fannin County Fair Parade Winners

1st place: Red Hat Society 2nd place: Dodd City 4-H 3rd place: Friends of Fannin County Critters

1st place: Bonham Pee Wee Cheerleaders 2nd place: Cub Scout Pack 54 3rd Place: Oakland Miniature Horse Farm

1st place: Abigail Weeks 2nd place: Haley Walker 3rd place: Lorran Anderson

1st place: Lady Outlaws Riding Club 2nd place: BLT 4-H Club

1st place: Bonham School of Dance- BYOL 2nd place: Bonham School of Dance-MB

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the Texas Music office. This week I’ll continue with a look at another division within the governor’s office, the Texas Film Commission (TFC). The TFC is one of 14 divisions of the Office of the Governor and offers a great deal of assistance to filmmakers and the citizens of Texas. Since 1971, TFC has provided information to filmmakers on locations, talent, crews, laws, housing and much more.

One of TFC’s main roles is to bring the film industry to Texas. Some of the ways that they entice business are by promoting the advantages of filming a movie in Texas and by offering a database that allows filmmakers to search for over 1,100 talented Texas crew vendors and other video-related entities.

When film crews come to Texas they boost the state’s economy by staying in Texas hotels, eating in Texas restaurants and shopping in Texas stores. They also help by hiring local extras and crew members.

The TFC not only assists filmmakers, but also aids individuals who are interested in acting or working on a film crew. In order to help Texans who desire jobs in the entertainment industry, the TFC offers up to date information on current casting and crew calls and explains the expectations and responsibilities of specific film-related professions.

Additionally, not everyone who visits the TFC site is looking to make a movie or become famous--sometimes they want their property to become famous. TFC offers information to individuals who would like to have their property listed in the organization’s location library. This information includes what type of locations are in demand, what type of payment is received for allowing a location to be filmed and tips on sending photography to TFC.

One appeal of filming in Texas is that with so much land and so many different landscapes, Texas can appear as many different foreign locations. Over the past 10 years, more than 500 film and TV projects have been filmed in Texas, sometimes with Texas appearing to be such exotic locations as Manhattan, Morocco, Africa, Afghanistan and others. For example, in 2003, a film that was set in New York was actually filmed in the Austin area, and a 2002 movie used scenes of Dallas and West Texas to convey the landscape of Iraq.

For additional information on TFC you may visit: www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/film. Please feel free to contact me if I may be of assistance to you with any matter of state government. You can contact me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) steps out into the community once again to assist the Ector ISD complete a fencing project around their baseball and softball fields.

The project is coordinated by TDCJ and Mr. Gary Bohannon, the Superintendent of Ector ISD. The day-to-day operations are overseen by Mr. Shane Melton, Ector ISD’s Maintenance Director. Mr. Gaylon Murray of VPG Transportation is generously supplying tractor equipment, and Mr. Bob Moore, also of VPG, is providing tractor operator services. Sergeant Travis Box and Officer Shane Walter of TDCJ’s Choice Moore Unit are supervising the security of the project. Offenders Robert Sullivan, Adrian German, Robert Mitchum and Robert Cotten have provided labor.

Mr. Bohannon stated, "the Choice Moore Unit’s Community Squad, consisting of minimum risk offenders, has greatly assisted the Ector ISD. These offenders not only assisted in the physical removal of the old fencing but they also pruned trees, shrubbery, and landscaped some of the grounds. The service rendered by the offenders of the Moore Unit provided us with a much needed labor force but also a financial savings."

Phase I of the project to erect new fences around the individual ball fields was completed in the heat of the summer months.

Phase II is currently in process. Beginning Tuesday, October 5th, 2004, this phase has the offender workers tearing down an older fence around the field complex in preparation of constructing a new chain link fence. Once the new fence is complete, additional work will be done to the dugout and backstop areas of both fields. They estimate this phase to be completed October 29th, 2004.

Kenneth G. Karl, Senior Warden, Choice Moore Unit stated, "the Community Squad is our effort to give something back to the surrounding communities. It is a part of the Unit in which we take great pride. Even though the Moore Unit Community Squad is small we try to maximize our potential by pursuing projects of importance and worth. The efforts put forth by our men in assisting Ector ISD with this endeavor is typical of the type of projects we believe will enhance the community in both savings and service to its citizens."

The joint project shows again the rehabilitative efforts of the TDCJ in working with the communities for the benefits of the people that support and live around their local prisons.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is asking its regional offices and local public health departments throughout the state to serve as information clearinghouses to match providers who have leftover flu vaccine with providers who need the vaccine.

Physicians, companies, pharmacies and others who have ordered the vaccine are being asked to report vaccine supply information and needs to their local health department or nearest DSHS regional office on a weekly basis till further notice.

"The goal is to match the haves with the have-nots, to do everything we can to make sure that as many of the high-risk people as possible get the vaccine," said Texas Commissioner of State Health Services Eduardo Sanchez.

Sanchez reiterated other steps for dealing with the national flu vaccine shortage.

• The vaccine should be given to high-risk groups only.

• People who are not in the high-risk groups are asked to defer or forego vaccination this season.

• Individuals who have symptoms of respiratory illness should stay home from work, school and other places where they could infect others.

• Frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes reduce the spread of viruses and other germs.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Tuesday that some 14.2 million doses of the flu vaccine made by Aventis Pasteur will be distributed over the next six to eight weeks directly to high-priority vaccine providers such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes and private medical providers caring for young children.

Another 8.2 million doses are being held for later distribution after further assessment of vaccine needs throughout the country.

DSHS and local public health departments will be gathering information about shortage areas and unvaccinated high-risk groups in Texas. That information will be sent to CDC for use in determining distribution of the held doses.

More information, including listings of DSHS regional offices and local public health departments, is available on the DSHS Web site: www.dshs.state.tx.us

Joy Grider Demonstrates "Forcing Bulbs" at The Woodmoore

October 26, 2004 at 3:00 pm

Joy Grider, Fannin County Master Gardener, is an enthusiastic energetic gardener, rancher and loving grandmother. Joy’s "passion for gardening" is contagious as she cultivates her audience in the techniques and "hands-on" steps to forcing bulbs.

October is the best time of the year to begin potting your favorite spring bulbs to prepare them for winter flowering. Forcing (coaxing) actually is the term used to describe the process that stimulates bulbs to bloom out of season. This can be a rewarding activity for aspiring and advanced gardeners plus it’s a colorful way to beat the winter blues.

Join us for a delightful afternoon with "Joy"!

The Early American West Two Artists...One Story

Friday, October 22, 2004 at 7:00 pm at the Creative Arts Center. Please honor the artists with your attendance on this very special evening. As an added exhibit feature, you will also enjoy the works of other CAC juried artists, produced to compliment the western theme. These additional pieces can be found beyond the main gallery’s exhibit area.

Robert De Leon

Over twenty years ago, Dallas native Robert De Leon was so caught by the light and beauty of New Mexico skies that he now calls Santa Fe home. Largely self-taught, he is known for his panoramic western landscapes and enjoys investing each work with the authenticity drawn both from photography and a study of history. De Leon is one of just 200 artists to achieve membership in the Mountain Oyster Club of Tucson, annual sponsor of a national invitation-only show. His work is exhibited throughout the Southwest.

C.B."Buck" Mahaney

In his younger years, Buck Mahaney traveled the world hunting and fishing, from Alaska to Africa. An excellent eye for marksmanship evolved, in his thirties, to the eye of an artist. Soon, painting and sketching turned to sculpting as his real talent took hold. Buck’s fine art bronzes preserve the beauty and harshness of nature and his own western heritage. He works in his home studio in Parker, Texas. Buck’s limited editions have been presented to a United States Supreme Court Justice, collected by the Rockefeller family, and many others.

Fannin County Commissioners Court Meeting

The Fannin County Commissioners Court met on October 11th, for a regular meeting. The Court approved the minutes of the previous meeting.

The new subdivision plat known as R. Bearden Homes, Inc. addition No. 1, was approved by the court. The addition is located on Highway 151 one-half mile south of Orangeville.

October 2004 was approved by the court as "Czech Heritage Month".

Permission to build a multi-purpose building at the county jail was approved by the Court. The Building will be a 20X40 room for a gym, evidence room, and many other uses. David Perkins shared with the Court that everything is being donated, electricity, water, etc..

The Court approved an Inter-local Agreement between Cooke, Fannin and Grayson counties, and the Cities of Bonham, Gainesville and Sherman under 2004 State Homeland Security Program.

The Court approved an Inter-local Agreement for an Emergency Management Plan between Fannin County and the cities of Bonham, Bailey, Dodd City, Ector, Honey Grove, Ladonia, Leonard, Trenton, Savoy and Windom.

Deb Reed attended the Monday morning meeting to discuss a Deferred Compensation Plan. The Court approved, and adopted the resolution.

The Court also approved:

• Plat known as Meadow Park Subdivision located on CR 4410 in Fannin County

• Extra clerk personnel and possible security personnel during general election voting periods

• Final plat for Lake Bonham Addition, Phase Three

Bonham City Commissioners Meeting

The Bonham City Commissioners Meeting met Monday, October the 11th, for a regular meeting.

The Commission approved the financial report for the month ending September the 30th, including the quarterly funds report as prepared by Bonham State Bank.

The Commissioners approved the following BEDCO Board actions:

• The purchase of a 16 ft. trailer, chain saw, and pole saw

• A Bid for trash removal on the 200 Block of West First St., trash removal at the old roundhouse, and dirt work in the park.

• A bid for trash removal at 101 West First Street.

• A bid for the removal of two large trees and leveling lots in the 100 Block of West First Street.

• A Grant application to Texas Parks and Wildlife for park improvements.

• The hiring of Executive Director, Glenn Taylor, and Maintenance Worker, James Ingram, for BEDCO, 3-1.

The following public hearings were held and approved by the Commission.

• Second reading of an ordinance revising fees for various water and sewer utility fees to include water taps, deposits, connect fees, non-payment fees, sewer taps, and provision of sewer jet-rodding service to other municipalities

• Second reading of an ordinance for a zone change from ‘LI’ Light Industrial to ‘B’ General Business for 178.447 acres located at the intersection of the western city limits and the M&P Railroad- Request from Multi-Purpose Complex, Inc. on behalf of Fannin County, owner of property

• Second reading of an ordinance for zone change from ‘R’ Residential to ‘D’ Duplex on Lots 5 and 6, Block 21, Fairview Addition (1615 and 1619 Oriental Street) Request from Pat Fournier

The Commissioners approved to appoint Chad Burnet as a member to the Bonham Housing Finance Corporation Board of Directors.

Also approved was the appointment of Brad Nichols as Fire Chief. Nichols was appointed by the City Manager

The Commission approved to enter into a new delinquent court fines collection service agreement. The Commission authorized notice of contract termination with municipal Service Bureau, Adopted resolution authorizing a 30% delinquent collection fee to court fines, and authorized a two-year contract with the Linebarger law firm.

A consultant contract with Maurice Schwanke & Company for design of Simpson Park improvements and administration of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Grant was approved. The design drawings and specifications will cost $2,000, and the program administration assistance will cost $2,500

In other business, the Commission approved:

• A three-year tax abatement agreement for 804 Cedar Creek Circle

• Administrative decisions to delete Section 14 in the lease on Lot 7, North Park Subdivision at Lake Bonham for assignment to new leaseholders

•A Consulting Contract with Ecosystems Environmental for a contract specifications and oversight on hazardous materials abatement for Visitor’s Center

• An Interposal Agreement for the 2004 TEEX Homeland Security Program

• The first reading of an ordinance to establish a solid waste franchise