Fannin County Foster Parent Appreciation Banquet

On October 23, 2003 Fannin County Children’s Protective Services and the Fannin County Child Welfare Board honored the 10 foster families in Fannin County with an evening out for dinner and entertainment at the Purple Sage Bistro in Bonham. Ron Hamilton presented a special prayer of thanks and appreciation for families and for this event. Special music depicting what children mean to us was presented by Joe Knight. The highlight of the evening was when each foster family was presented with a certificate of appreciation for their wonderful work with foster children. As each family came forward to receive their certificates, placement workers Emma Casselton and Gwen Henderson shared heartwarming, and sometimes comical stories about each family’s foster care experiences. Supervisors Susy Meehan and Jerry Scott, along with program director Michele Bland each expressed to foster parents how much their care of foster children is appreciated and respected.

Foster parents and staff urge anyone interested in becoming a foster parent to call 800-228-8226 for more information.

November’s Creative Arts Center Artist

Of The Month

November’s Creative Arts Center Artist of the Month is Jane Dodson. Her dramatic oil painting titled "Found" can be seen in the lobby of Bonham State Bank, the gracious host of the continuing Artist of the Month project

Jane Dodson grew up in Odessa, Texas, where she met and married Fannin County native, Charlie Dodson. In 1976 they, along with their daughter and son, moved to Aberdeen, Scotland, where Charlie worked on offshore oil rigs in the North Sea and Jane took her first painting class. After the first lesson, she was hooked! In 1978, the family moved to Fannin County to their farm in Valley Creek (a suburb of Randolph). Jane studied several years with the late Jessie Adams in Bonham and has taken classes taught by Pat Pierce of Sherman. She has won Best of Show at Fannin County Fair three times. Her favorite medium is oil but recently has tried some acrylics. In addition to the traditional canvas, Jane has painted on wood, leather, metal and even on rocks. "I really like painting people, but also enjoy painting anything in the animal kingdom. Painting is just plain fun and I hope that I will always be able to hold a brush," she says.

Each month, Bonham State Bank presents to its delighted guests a new piece by one of the Creative Arts Center’s many talented artists. Please drop by and view Jane’s painting throughout November. A new artist’s work will be presented each month, for your pleasure, in the bank’s main lobby.

Hometown Military News

November 07, 2003(FHTNC)--Navy Seaman Apprentice Casey A. Scott, son of Kathy A. MacDonald of Weir, Texas and Cal E. Hutcherson of Leonard, Texas, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Scott completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, fire fighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations." This exercise gives recruits the key skills and confidence they need to graduate and take to the fleet. "Battle Stations" has been designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ‘Navy’ flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor.

Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Adam L. Zeller, whose wife, Julie, is the daughter of Judy Yandell of Honey Grove, Texas and Willie Yandell of Honey Grove, Texas, recently was promoted to his current rank while serving with Marine Aviation Training Support Group 21, Naval Air Training Command, Pensacola, Fla.

Zeller was promoted based on sustained superior job performance and proficiency in his designated specialty.

Sen. Deuell’s Capitol Update

Because of legislation passed:

Landowners will now be paid for the value of groundwater rights - cities must meet several new requirements before condemning water rights. Until this law changed, a city had only to condemn the land and pay the market value of the land. Now the value of the water beneath the land must be considered.
Landowners may now take feral hogs that destroy property without having to purchase a hunting license.
While there was nearly an $11 billion dollar budget shortfall this session, we were successful in protecting agricultural exemptions and valuations in sales and property taxes. This saved farmers and ranchers millions in taxes.

Although we have completed our legislative work for the moment, the issue of school finance is still on the horizon. I look forward to receiving your input on this important issue, as it will have a major effect on our tax system and structure.

Include Alzheimer’s Patients In Holiday Celebrations

A few simple strategies can help draw isolated Alzheimer’s patients back into holiday gatherings.

"Too much holiday noise and activity can confuse patients with Alzheimer’s disease, causing them to withdraw from surrounding social activity," said Dr. Mary Kenan, a psychologist with the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "Disruption of routine for those with Alzheimer’s can trigger behavioral symptoms, which makes care giving more difficult."

To cut down on confusion, Kenan suggests asking family and friends to arrive at different times or visit in small groups. If everyone is coming together, find the Alzheimer’s patient a side room with soft music and lighting where he or she can escape with one other person.

"Conversations can be very hard for people with Alzheimer’s to follow if many people are participating," Kenan said. "One to one conversation allows them to focus their attention and engage."

In order to make this season with your loved one as joyful and meaningful as possible, Kenan offers the following dos and don’ts to caregivers:

* Compare the present with the past. If you aspire to a picture-perfect holiday, you are likely to be disappointed.

* Test your loved one’s memory by asking, "Do you remember who this is?" Testing memory does not preserve it, and often demoralizes the person with AD. Instead, introduce the family member to your loved one by name and state his or her relationship to your loved one. For example, say, "Bob, your nephew David wants to wish you happy holidays. Say hello to your nephew David."

* Include the person with Alzheimer’s in the activities of the day. An Alzheimer’s patient may help with meal preparation, such as peeling vegetables, stirring batter, tossing salad, folding napkins or setting the table.

* Be aware that active, loud children may distress the person with AD. Try to have some activities planned for the kids, ideally those that they can do with the Alzheimer’s patient such as making holiday decorations or decorating cookies. Watch for any signs of anxiety or distress in your loved one and intervene immediately by redirecting the children to another room or by taking the person with Alzheimer’s on a walk, sitting together for awhile in a quiet room or taking a short drive around the neighborhood.

* Try to maintain routine as much as possible. If your loved one customarily takes a walk after eating lunch, try to maintain this activity and go with him or her.

* Develop new ways of marking the holiday season. For example, ask family and friends to come prepared to tell a favorite story from past holiday seasons involving the loved one with Alzheimer’s. Reminiscing is an important therapeutic tool that benefits those with Alzheimer’s

* Use the sights, sounds, smells of the holidays to stimulate your loved one’s senses. Your loved one may be able to participate in the singing of well-learned holiday songs.

* Ask for help. Your stress increases the stress of your loved one with Alzheimer’s. Delegate holiday responsibilities to family or friends.

"Patients with Alzheimer’s disease can still enjoy the holidays," Kenan said. "Be sensitive to your loved one’s strengths and limitations, as well as your own as a caregiver, and celebrate accordingly."

Genome Center At Baylor Receives $96.2 Million For Research

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) has awarded Baylor College of Medicine’s Human Genome Sequencing Center $96.2 million over the next three years.

The HGSC at Baylor will be one of five centers to carry out new large-scale sequencing projects, incorporating the knowledge gained through the Human Genome Project to dramatically expand the understanding of human health and disease.

"This award allows Baylor’s Human Genome Sequencing Center to continue its leadership role in the international genome program," said Dr. Richard Gibbs, center director.

In addition to Baylor’s center, Agencourt BioScience, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University’s Eli & Edythe L. Broad Institute, The Institute for Genomic Research and Washington University School of Medicine will comprise the NHGRI Large-Scale Sequencing Research Network. The participating centers represent academia, private industry and the non-profit sectors. Over the next three years, the centers will use robotic technologies to sequence a strategic set of animal genomes.

Currently, NHGRI-supported sequencing centers are close to completing working drafts of the genomes of additional organisms that improve the understanding of genomes that have already been sequenced and provide insights into the evolution of humans. These include the rat, honey bee and sea urchin at the Baylor Center, and genome sequences of the chimpanzee, dog, chicken, and a set of four fungi at other sites.

This summer, initial sequencing began on the rhesus macaque. Other organisms which are high-priority include the cow, the South American gray opossum, the red flour beetle, the acorn worm, several species of fruit fly, more fungi, and microorganisms. Details of these sequencing projects are now being finalized.

"These new genomes are our latest step in the quest to interpret the biology of the human," said Dr. George Weinstock, center co-director.

"The historic effort to produce a reference sequence of the human genome was successfully completed in April 2003, but our work is far from over. There remains a compelling need to sequence the genomes of many more organisms," said Dr. Francis S. Collins, NHGRI director. "The ability to compare the genomic sequences of different species has opened a powerful new window into how our own genome functions."

The Daughters Of The American Revolution George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas, met Saturday, November 8, 2003, for its monthly meeting in the Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Mary Jo Barbee, regent, opened the meeting with the DAR Ritual with Dot Linn as chaplain. Mary Pauline Yarbrough led the members in The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, The Daughters Pledge to the Flag and The American Creed. Mary Jo read the President General’s Message. Judy O’Shields gave the National Defense Report on the history of the Constitution.

Myra Rodgers introduced Wanda Carter of Garland as a prospective member Mary Jo introduced Dorothy Witcher of Dallas as a prospective member. Nancy Bellows, secretary, read the minutes of previous meeting. No treasury report was given. Judy gave a report on the workshop that was held in Dallas. Dot gave a report of the V.A. activities. She attended a VAVS retreat in Waco, VAVS meeting in Bonham and the Regional Veterans Day program held in the V.A. auditorium last week honoring the area veterans.

Mary Beavers, Mary Lou Kissinger and Dot brought birthday gifts. Those winning were Mary Pauline, Mary Lou, Nancy, Judy, Flo Odom, Ruby Draisey and Kay Partain.

Judy was in charge of the program. She showed a Video, " Women In Service."

Judy and Dot were hostesses and they served a delicious snack to eleven members and one guest.

Our Christmas party and luncheon will be at the home of Kay Partain, Savoy, on December 13, at 11:30 a.m.

"Country Music Hoe-Down"

There will be another big country music show, featuring the best of country music this Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. Doors will be open at 6:30 p.m. at the popular Lake Bonham Hoe-Down 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation are, just east of the spillway on CR 2610.

The Show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and The "Country Hoe-Downers." Featuring: Randy Keister, Glen Clark, George Kirby, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, Mike Stroud, Fred Ulich and Gary Monroe. Our featured special guest will be the well known Ken Spradlin and his young, talented fiddler friend, 11 year old Nick Conory from Denison and a newcomer to our stage, singer and fiddle player David Brackeen from Paris, Tx, plus others.

Everyone is invited out for an evening of clean fun and entertainment. Everyone is welcome. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your support and God Bless you. See ya at the Hoe-Down. For information call 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

Bonham Snap Center

Ham Salad, Texas Potatoes, Tomatoes, Bread, Chocolate Cake, Milk

Meat Loaf, Pea Salad, Beets/Orange Sauce, Cornbread, Scalloped Apples, Milk

Roast Beef/Gravy, Scalloped Corn, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Bread, Pudding, Milk

Wieners, Pinto Beans, Cabbage & Carrots, Cornbread, Pear Crisp, Milk

Chicken Fried Steak/Cream Gravy, Whipped Potatoes, Waldorf Salad, Bread, Peaches & Cookies, Milk

Dodd City ISD Honor Roll

2nd Six Weeks

2nd Grade  Lane Anderson, Mary Hellwarth, Jacob Kemp, Meghann Maggret

3rd Grade Misty Goodin, Rainy Goodin, Briann Hilliard, Tyler Knight, Jaiden Pelton, Hayley Smith, Steven Standlee

4th Grade Kaitlyn Massie, Connor Reed, Jaylen Wallace

5th Grade Alexandrea Ingold, Patrick Moore, Sarah Smeltzer, Seth Stephens

6th Grade Blaze Blain, Kasey Gatlin

7th Grade Sydnee Horton, Callie Maxwell, Will Reed, Cassidi Rogers, Ethan Stephens

8th Grade Kamey Herpeche, Amy Jackson, Ethan Porter

9th Grade Justin Spindle

10th Grade James Baxley, Jennifer Burpo, Kim Gibson, Jenna Lappin, Whitney Parker, Bethany Stephens

11th Grade Crystal Hough, Cody Maxwell, Justin Weeks

12th Grade Jennifer Angell, Tina Blevins, Mandy Milner, Lauren Taylor

1st Grade Amber Atkinson, Blake Deweese, Karmon Hernandez, Jared Huff, Eric Phillips, Daulton Pilliod, Talor Spindle, Hunter Vaught, Dakota Brown, Tyler Dotson, Gracie Granstaff, Cody Hodges, Jacob Taylor

2nd Grade Rodney Coble, Jessica Glatt, James Hellwarth, Eric McInnis, Lucas Wright

3rd Grade Hunter Brent, Tyler Curfman, Joanna Gilbreath, Zachery Greenhaw, Casey Hall, Jayson McGehee, Christie Petty, Sean Skipworth, Clayton Williams

4th Grade Charles Gibson, Julie Hellwarth, Lexi Langford, Rachel Lehew, D’artagnan Porter, William Wild

5th Grade Morgan Hartnett, Rosblandel Hiteshew, Zachery Knight, Dillon Stewart

6th Grade Ethen Bowman, Steven Cockrill, Colton Gilbreath, Barbara Kemp, Brittany Lasater, Joseph McGehee, Dylan Porter, Joshua Shipworth, Kayla Thompson, Kacie Tucker

7th Grade Kaylee Booth, Dalton Herndon, Dustin Ingold, Bryer Lappin, Hailey Spindle, Megan Thompson, Christian Wood, Kaci Cumpston

8th Grade Lorran Anderson, Kendra Billy, Lisa Fisher, Stacy Graves, Holly Hill, Jordan Parker

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

10th Grade Nathan Blankenship

11th Grade Chris Daniel, Jessica Hoffman, Chris Jones, Tim La Vergne, Tiffany Lawhon, Tabatha Ottmo, Casey Rogers

12th Grade Cody Adair, Misty Akers, Kasie Dawson, Nicholas Dorau, Jackie Fleck, Rena Isbell, Audra James, Kindra Kavanaugh, Michael Matthews, Lauren Renfro, Amber Sadler

Combating Diabetes

Kay Bailey Hutchinson

Nearly 1.5 million Texans are living with diabetes. Unfortunately, almost one-third of them don’t know it. You or someone you love could be one of an estimated half million undiagnosed cases. It’s time to take action and reverse those disturbing statistics. November is American Diabetes Month, a perfect time to learn about the till^-eat of diabetes and what you can do to combat this disease.

Diabetes is the sixth leading cause of death and one of the most serious health problems in Texas. There is no cure for diabetes yet, but if’ detected early and carefully managed, diabetics can live healthy, active lives.

Diabetes is a disease affecting the pancreas. A healthy, functioning pancreas releases a hormone called insulin to help the body store and use sugar and fat from food. In diabetics, the pancreas is unable to properly use sugar.

Diabetes can lead to major complications with the body’s circulation and nervous systems, such as damaged limbs and organs, and blindness. Diabetics are also more prone to other serious health problems. For example, heart disease is the leading cause of diabetes-related deaths and more than 60 percent of diabetics have high blood pressure.

There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational (occurring during a pr^egnancy). Type 1 diabetes makes up less than 10 percent of all cases andusually occurs before age 20. People with type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin and require regular injections of the hormone. Type 2 diabetics produce some insulin, but it’s either not enough or doesn’t work properly. Seventeen mullion Americans have type 2 diabetes, making up more than 90 percent of all cases. This form of the disease usually doesn’t develop overnight. Doctors can often detect the likelihood of type 2 diabetes before the condition actually occurs.

If left untreated, diabetes can be life-threatening, so it is crucial to identify and diagnose it early and treat it properly. Education is the key to fighting this treatable disease. Today, most people who develop type 2 diabetes are over the age of 40, overweight and notphysically active. Unfortunately, the number of children with this type of’ diabetes is on the rise due to fatty, high-sugar diets and less active lifestyles. To lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, careful] y• monitor vow^- diet, exercise regularly, and keep cholesterol and blood pressure levels low.

If you, or someone you know, is currently suffering from extreme thirst, fatigue, frequent urination, and/or unexplained weight loss, you might have diabetes. It is a good idea to check with your doctor, who can properly diagnose diabetes and get you started on a path to better health.

If you are diagnosed with diabetes, you can manage it by maintaining a diet low in fat, salt and sugar. Doctors recommend daily physical activity, lowering your blood pressure, and taking medication as prescribed, to ensure your glucose levels stay within a safe range.

In Congress, we are working to do our part by increasing funding for diabetes research. The Senate has approved $1.8 billion for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases to conduct clinical research into the causes, prevention, diagnosis and treatment into several disease categories, including diabetes. The funds will also be used to transfer the knowledge gained from the program to health professionals, patients, and the general public, ensuring the research doesn’t sit on a laboratory shelf, but is translated into vital resources for the American people.

The 1.5 million Texans living with undiagnosed diabetes are 1.5 million too many. For more information about diabetes, contact the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES or visit its Web site at www.diabetes.org.

Northeast Medical Center Home Health Joins Home Health Quality Initiative To Improve Quality Of Care Delivered By Home Health Agencies

Quality Information Posted On Medicare’s Web Site, Home Health Compare, Will Enable Consumers To Make More Informed Decisions On Home Health Care

Northeast Medical Center Home Health announced today that it has joined the national Home Health Quality Initiative to further improve the quality of care received by the 3.5 million elderly and disabled Americans who receive care from nearly 7,000 Medicare­certified home health agencies nationwide annually. The initiative gives consumers the ability to now gain easy access to important, objective health care information to help make more informed decisions when choosing a home health care provider for themselves or a loved one. The data is part of a new Home Health Quality Initiative (HHQI) of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a federal agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, designed to improve quality of care provided by home health agencies through public reporting and community-based efforts,

"As a partner in this quality initiative, we recognize the opportunity to work collaboratively with Texas Medical Foundation will expand our knowledge and resources to help us achieve greater and more immediate improvement in our services," said Melanie Todd, RN. " And as a leading provider of home health care in Texas, we are committed to providing the best possible quality of care for our consumers."

"A key step towards improving quality is getting consumers the information they need to make informed health care choices," said Melanie Todd, RN, "As a leading provider of home health services in Texas, we are committed to the best possible quality of care and are actively involved in this initiative."

Consumers are encouraged to use this information as one tool in an overall strategy to learn about home health care. Additional information available online or by phone includes brochures and fact sheets on how to choose a home health agency, information on patient rights and a checklist that will help consumers begin the dialogue with home health agency.

For more information about the Home Health Quality Initiative or about other quality improvement projects now underway at Texas Medical Foundation, call Lisa Robinson, Home Health Department Assistant, at 1-800-725-9216 or visit www.tmf.org/homehealth.

"Click It Or Ticket"

The Bonham Police Department will again participate in the up coming "CLICK IT OR TICKET" program which runs from November 17 thru November 30, 2003. this is a nation wide program designed to increase the use of seat belts by drivers and vehicle passengers. Bonham Police Chief Mike Bankston said BPD officers currently write numerous citations each month for seat belt violations but will give greater enforcement efforts during this time of emphases and awareness. Of special concern are those adults who fail to buckle or secure children in the vehicles. The Bonham PD does not show any tolerance for these violations. Chief Bankston also points out that in addition to the added safety provided by seat belt usage is the monetary consideration. The fine for failing to "buckle up" is $182.00 and the fine for failing to make sure children are properly restrained is $282.00. There are no guarantees for total protection in the event of a motor vehicle accident, but statistics have shown that using seat belts does save lives and reduces serious injuries. So for your sake and the sake of those around you. BUCKLE UP!

November Is Red Cross Heroes Month

November is Red Cross Heroes Month for the Texoma Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, serving Cooke, Fannin and Grayson Counties.

"From now until March, if history is any indication, we will see an increase in the number of families affected by house and apartment fires," Sharon Watson, executive director, said. "Actually our unwelcomed ‘fire season’ began with the apartment fire in Sherman on October 30."

The local Red Cross depends on donations from the community to help it assist families affected by disasters. Red Cross heroes are asked to donate at all levels. For information, contact the Red Cross at 903-465-1330.

Help Keep Kids Warm This Winter

Donna West of Town West Coin Laundry urges Fannin County residents to make a donation of coats, gloves, scarves or caps for needy families and children. West is taking donations through Friday, Nov. 21st for CASA and the Kids Clothes Closet at Town West Coin Laundry located behind Burger King on Hwy. 121 in Bonham. "Good new or used clothing would be appreciated," West said.

November 15 - 16 To Be Recognized As National Donor Sabbath

November 15 - 16 is recognized as National Donor Sabbath a weekend to honor the living and deceased donors and their families across the Nation, who have renewed the lives of others. This weekend sets aside a special time for clergy and congregations to talk about the need or organ and tissue donation. The weekend was chosen because of its proximity to Thanksgiving and its interfaith time to focus on an issue of faith and Thanksgiving.

Of an estimated 15,000 potential organ donors in the United States each year, just over 6,000 actually become donors. Those donors help save more than 20,000 lives, because most donate an average of four organs. However, the national waiting list has hit an all time high of more than 80,000 names. And every day, about 17 people die waiting, because the organ they need doesn’t become available in time.

Every one of those names on the list represents not only the patient waiting for the life-saving transplant, but also the family, friends and community whose lives hang in the balance. One of those names could belong to someone you love.

Please consider following the example of the people who have given the gift of life by becoming donors and make the decision to share your life and then share your decision with your family. For more information about organ and tissue donation please contact Judy Taylor 903-961-4665 or Southwest Transplant Alliance 1-800-788-8056.

Ector High School Employee Of The Week

We would like to congratulate Jamie Hawkins as our Employee of the week for November 17-21. Mrs. Hawkins is currently teaching Spanish I, Spanish II, Spanish III, U.S. History, U.S. Government and Economics. Her favorite activities include riding horses, reading, writing, short stories, and poetry. Her hobbies include researching horse pedigrees and gene logy.

The special people in her life are Tim, Haley and Talon and all her family. The thing that she likes best about her job is the kids and her co-workers. Mrs. Hawkins thank you for all that you do and for helping to make Ector a great place to work.

Ector High School Employee Of The Week

We would like to congratulate Alicia Farley as our Employee of the week for November 10-14. Mrs. Farley is currently teaching High School English and Theatre Arts. She has been at Ector for three years. Mrs. Farley’s favorite activities include reading, coaching her sister’s softball team, and taking pictures of her beautiful daughter Paige. Her hobbies include crafts, and collecting picture frames. Mrs. Farley is married to her wonderful husband Jack. The thing she likes best about teaching at Ector High School is to see a student succeed. Mrs. Farley we would like to thank you for a job well done and for all that you do for Ector ISD.

Lake Residents Flood City Hall

By Paul Berryhill

Bonham City Hall was overflowing with interested Lake Bonham residents Monday evening, November 10^th, as more than 100 citizens attended with interest regarding the Lake Bonham Redevelopment Plan.

After a presentation was given last week (Nov. 3^rd) by Trent Petty of Petty & Associates on a Lake Bonham Redevelopment Plan (LBRP), many lake residents became alarmed by several issues as talk and word spread. However, the only issue on the City Commissioner’s agenda Monday, Nov. 10^th, was to consider and take action on the LBRP for a moratorium on lease transfers.

The common denominator which virtually everyone agrees is the quality of the water coming from the lake. Everyone wants proper septic systems and should a lot or site not be big enough to handle a proper septic system, then perhaps it should not be leased at all.

City Manager Blaine Hinds said the only reason the moratorium issue was placed on the agenda was because it was causing uncertainty among homeowners/lessees and local realtors. Lessee’s who have their homes on the market or were planning to place their homes on the market were in limbo as a result of an impending "moratorium" as suggested on the LBRP. Commissioners emphasized the moratorium was merely a recommendation of Petty & Associates and not something that they were planning on doing.

Several citizens addressed Commissioners expressing their concerns over the LBRP. Don Barkley, a Lake Bonham resident, shared his concerns in what he called "inaccuracies" which consisted of a page and a half report. Barkley was told the Commission couldn’t address all concerns as the "moratorium" issue was the only item on the agenda from the entire LBRP.

Stephanie West said she simply wanted to be fully informed before decisions were made regarding the LBRP.

Commissioner John Burnett said, "What you’re talking about is just a study done by Petty & Associates. It doesn’t mean anything is going to happen that they recommended. We’ll take all that up later and consider it. I couldn’t promise you one thing will or won’t happen on that plan. Nobody knows yet.

Mayor Carl McEachern assured West, "Before we vote on anything that will affect this many folks, you will have the opportunity to give your opinion." The Mayor said there was no need to panic. "You will be able to give proper input with proper knowledge of what’s going on, before we do anything or we simply won’t do it.

After several other citizens spoke, Burnett and McEachern and other Commissioners assured residents they were getting upset over nothing as they felt confident the impending vote on the moratorium would be voted down.

Later Commissioners voted to increase lease transfer fees at the lake from $30 to $200 with the lessee/owner being responsible for sewer inspection and compliance costs to be performed by a state-licensed inspector. They, in essence, voted against any type of moratorium as it was not a part of the resolution.

Charlotte Miller stood before the Commissioners and wanted to know why she was told the City would not accept her lease payment for lots in the Hidden Cove campsite area.

"If you are in the Hidden Cove campsite area we will not accept your payment," Hinds told Miller. "We are taking those leases back."
Miller responded, "I paid $10,000 for those lots out there."

"Who did you pay $10,000 to?" McEachern asked.

"We bought lots 5 and 6 from Charlie Hughes and had them transferred to our name."

"Well that’s another issue and not a part of what we’re voting on tonight," McEachern said.

Regarding the leased campsites in Hidden Cove, Charlie Hughes addressed Commissioners. Hughes has been and still is the lessee of several of the sites.

"I have told the city numerous times, anything they wanted out there on those lots, I would be willing to do. (Hughes was referring to septic issues.) I didn’t care what kind of a system they wanted. I would put it in," Hughes said.

Numerous letters have been sent to Hughes by the city regarding septic violations. Hughes indicated city commissioners and an inspector had been out to his lots, walked through them and saw nothing wrong.

Hughes said he had the water tested all over the lake and the water behind his house was "the best on the lake."

"We didn’t get notification, didn’t get nothing – just that we’re going to take your lots back. It’s not going to be a pretty scene if you do," Hughes concluded as he walked away from the podium.

· Approved a resolution authorizing the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division to select a consultant on behalf of the City of Bonham for the airport layout plan project. · Turned down the donation of the Southwest Pump property to the city at this particular time due to the foreseen expense of demolition and disposal of concrete and iron materials.

· Approved Johnson Controls to perform a brief study to determine the feasibility of replacing city water meters on a performance-based contract. The Johnson Controls proposal guarantees that the revenue from the new, accurate replacement meters will pay for the new meters.

Soapbox

By Paul Berryhill

County Commissioners Increase TCOG Payments

By Paul Berryhill

The Texoma Council of Governments will be receiving approximately $1,800 more per year from Fannin County as a result of a unanimous vote of County Commissioners Monday, November 10. The County will make quarterly contributions of about $450 in addition to the $1,300 per year which had been budgeted.

The request for additional financial assistance came from TCOG as a result of the last legislative session according to TCOG Executive Director Frances Pelley.

She explained, "The impact of what the legislative session did was not only to take away the $50,000 TCOG traditionally had, but also to take away the $28,000 it had cut the grant to. So, we got zero in this last budget year. And the Legislature won’t meet again, if there’s a possibility to restore that funding, until a year from next January."

Pelley went on to say that a lot of people treat TCOG like a local government, but that they have no tax base or taxing authority. She also explained that Fannin County receives about $600,000 in services and financial resources through TCOG as a result of grants for criminal justice, homeland security, environmental enforcement, home weatherization for the elderly and diabled and rural addressing for 911.

"What you get back for investing in TCOG is money that pours into the local economy," Pelley explained. "When we got the $3 million housing and urban development grant for public housing in Fannin County, that went to contractors, to plumbing supply and to lumber yards."

Pelley and TCOG officials are getting the opportunity to tell the story of their services to local governing authorities all over the state as a result of the lack of funding being provided by the state. TCOG, in order to provide usual services, needs additional financial assistance.

In other business the Court approved:

· the purchase of two 2004 Ford police interceptors from Philpott Government and Commercial Sales at a cost of $44,000. (This price is about $2,500 less than what had been budgeted)

· parking lot repairs at the Courhouse South Annex;

· safety officers for the Courthouse, Courhouse South Annex, probation office, county jail and all road and bridge precincts;

· petition to open a road off County Road 2291;

· Sysco to supply groceries at the county jail;

· The nominees to the Board of Directors of the Fannin County Appraisal District: John Burnett, Doyce Taylor, David Farris, Donna Baugh and Ronnie Cooper.

Trenton Motocross Track Being Opposed

A number of Trenton residents recently held a meeting to discuss concerns and procedures to act and secure a temporary injunction to delay construction of a "SuperCross" Motorcycle Track. The track is being constructed in an area close to residential homes and residents are concerned not only with the loud noise of the six-day a week operation, but with the increase of traffic and pollutants discharged from the exhausts of the cycles.

The track is to be located on property known as "the gravel quarry" which was purchased by a Dallas businessman. One of his investments is reportedly a professional motocross team and the track will be used as a practice course, six days a week by six professional racers. Mechanics and trainers will be on the site as well.

Darel R. Woods, one of the concerned property owners, recently sent a letter to Stan Barker, Fannin County Commissioner Pct. 2 which read as follows:

"I am a new resident of Fannin County. I am in the beginning stages of developing a 10-acre parcel that I own, into five, two-acre lots. I plan to build homes ranging from $200,000 - $350,000. I have placed this project on hold pending the outcome of the decision by this county on whether or not to allow the racetrack currently under construction. I am aware of the following guidelines for property development in Fannin County:

1. Fannin County has no restrictions.

2. The property is designated for use as: (a) Primary residential / agricultural use.

(b) Deviation from the above stated use of property is considered "non-conforming".

(c) Therefore, it is not unreasonable to assume any use other than residential / agricultural would require specific approval by county officials. Before such approval could be granted, the citizens of Fannin County are entitled to a public hearing to assess the overall impact of any "non-conforming" use planned by others. This assessment assumes enforcement of principal usage of land in Fannin County to be limited to residential / agricultural use.

3. The reason for submitting this assessment to County Commissioners for immediate action is to secure a temporary injunction to delay construction of a SuperCross Motorcycle Track, which is allegedly to be used in a private venture for the training of professional racing teams. This track is already under construction adjacent to the residential property owned by Rick Robinson, 762 County Rd. 4642, Trenton, Tx. The ongoing construction was witnessed by 25-30 property owners and concerned citizens who were guests of Mr. Robinson. These property owners, for the most part, are directly impacted by the disruption that the noise and increased traffic will create and are opposed to its being completed and put into use.

County To Observe Great American Smoke-Out

The Great American Smoke-Out is set for Thursday, November 20^th, and Fannin County will be an important participant.

Carla Lane, coordinator for the 2003 Smoke-out, has several events planned in the county. Janice Finnell will coordinate a program for the Ector schools and Dr. Jim Tarpley will present a program for L.H. Rather Jr. High students in Bonham. Lane will have information on display in the lobby of Bldg. 1 of the VA Center from 8 a.m. till 3 p.m. and the public is invited.

The American Cancer Society urges everyone to become more educated as to the dangers of tobacco use:

TDH Targets Troubling Toys

Money is tight, but you need to buy a toy for your nephew who is in his "terrible twos." You find a great deal on a stuffed animal at a small discount store. Is it terrific or is it trouble?

Well, that depends. "Often product-recall information from manufacturers does not get to discount and bargain stores because they buy their merchandise through auctions rather than from the manufacturer," said Annabelle Dillard, product safety expert with the Texas Department of Health (TDH).

For that reason, TDH inspectors will focus on secondary markets such as discount and bargain stores during "Toy Sweep," an annual campaign to educate Texas retailers about the latest recall information and to remind consumers that certain items have been recalled and are not safe for children.

Each fall — just before the big holiday shopping season — TDH’s product safety inspectors visit retail stores making sure that certain recalled toys are no longer available and giving retailers detailed information about each of the recalled items. This year’s event will be Nov. 17–20 in stores in the Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Austin areas.

Inspectors have 10 toys and five children’s furniture products on their list this year. Some of the products that recently have been recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are a pendant that is high in lead content; pacifiers that come apart; a plush toy with small parts; bunk beds that pose a strangulation hazard because of the spacing between the guard rails; a changing table whose poor design could cause strangulation hazard; and children’s chairs that tend to break.

"Choking hazards are the most common reasons products are recalled," said Dillard, adding that toys or games with small parts cannot legally be sold for use by children under 3. Toys containing small parts that are for children 3 through must have a warning label, and toys that generate heat must have a warning to alert parents and children to the risk of burns or electrical shock.

Dillard said a new product that inspectors will be discussing with retailers this year is a yo-yo water ball. TDH has received complaints that the stretchy cord of the toy can wrap around a child’s neck when the child swings the toy overhead like a lasso. No recall has been issued on them, but the CPSC has issued a warning.

Some tips for buyers:

-- Buy toys that are age-appropriate for the child. Toy and game manufacturers test their products for safety according to how they should be used by children and include age-range recommendations on their packages.

-- Look for quality construction and design. Can the product withstand an assault by your 2-year-old nephew?

-- Don’t buy anything that has sharp glass or metal edges for children under 8.

-- When shopping for children under the age of 3, avoid small toys or toys with small parts that could come off. A good rule of thumb: If the item is small enough to fit through the cardboard spool from a toilet-tissue roll, it’s not appropriate for children under 3.

-- Assemble toys properly. Many manufacturers offer assistance by phone if you need help.

The CPSC Web site (www.cpsc.gov) is a good resource for retailers and consumers who want the latest information on recalled products. The CPSC has a free e-mail subscription list that is notified each time a recall is issued.

Prescription Drug & Medicare Improvement Act Of 2003

Northeast Medical Center is a life-saving resource for our community, providing convenient, high quality healthcare for the citizens of Bonham.Yet, for far too long, our local community hospital has been operating at a disadvantage. Under the current Medicare system, rural hospitals are reimbursed at a lower rate then their urban counterparts for the same service, even though they are expected to provide the same high standard of care and treatment. That current disparity has profoundly affected healthcare in rural America. For example, rural America has half the physicians per capita and 1/3 the medical specialists compared to urban areas.

It’s time that rural America got a fair shake when it comes to Medicare reimbursements. That’s the reason The Fannin County Special is joining Northeast Medical Center in urging passage of the Prescription Drug & Medicare Improvement Act of 2003 (Senate Bill S-1 and House Bill HR-1).

Passage of this bill will create an enormous positive impact for our community. Fair and equitable Medicare payments will provide greater financial strength and stability for our healthcare system. It will lower healthcare costs and improve our community’s ability to provide more medical services and recruit more physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals.

This bill will affect the health and well-being of every person in this area, so we’re urging people to get involved. Contact our elected officials in Washington and tell them that you express their support for passage of the Prescription Drug & Medicare Improvement Act of 2003, especially the full Medicare DSH provision contained in Senate Bill S-1. Say YES to fair Medicare payments for rural hospitals. It’s good for you, good for your family and good for our hospital.

The Search Is On For Miss Bonham U.S. Galaxy, Miss Teen Bonham U. S. Galaxy, and Mrs. Bonham U.S. Galaxy 2005

The search is on for Miss Bonham U.S. Galaxy, Miss Teen Bonham U.S. Galaxy, and Mrs. Bonham U. S. Galaxy if you would like the honor of representing Bonham at the State Competition This Summer please contact our State Office at 281-370-7220, or email at misstxunitedstates@sbcglobal.net. You can visit our Website at www.TexasGalaxy.com

LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! Are YOU ready? This year’s competition will be televised! Global T.V. of Florida will be taping and distributing the 2005 pageant across the State of Texas! This is a great way to get exposure and possibly even get discovered like Miss Teen Rockwall 2004, Amy Ross, who was picked up by a Texas Modeling Agency in attendance at the pageant! Although she was not a finalist, she was discovered, it could happen to you! This year Model Management will be awarding a Modeling Agreement to a lucky contestant in each division! This year’s prize packages are valued at over $67,500 and include the trip to Nationals, a $20,000 scholarship for the Miss and Teen winners as well as a large cash prize for the Mrs. Winner!

This years pageant will be held July 21-25, 2004 in San Antonio, Texas on the University of Incarnate Word Campus.

If you are between the ages of 13 and 19 (Teen), 20 and above (Miss), and 18 and Married (Mrs.) as of June 1, 2004, you could represent Texas at the International Competition. All contestant will be judged in four areas of competition: Personal Interview, Swimwear, Eveningwear, and Fashion Show Presentation.

For more information or to receive an application, contact the Miss Texas U.S. Galaxy, Miss Teen Texas U.S.Galaxy, Mrs. Texas U.S. Galaxy Competition at the office: Miss Texas U.S. Galaxy: 9597 Jones Road # 138, Houston, Texas 77065: Phone (281) 370-7220, Fax (281) 257-0278, Email misstxunitedstates@sbcglobal.net or apply on line at: www.misstexasgalaxy.com.

The Prescription Drug & Medicare Improvement Act Of 2003

Senate Bill S-1 House Bill HR-1

Fact Sheet

• Eliminates Medicare base rate differential between urban and all other hospitals

• Eliminates DSH payment cap of 5.25% for small rural hospitals (Senate version) or raises the DSH payment cap to 10% for small rural hospitals (house version)

• DSH Stands for Disproportionate share hospitals. DSH payments are supplemental payments, required by law, to hospitals that serve a large number of Medicare and low income patients. Currently, small rural hospitals have a payment cap of 5.25%. In other words, the hospital can only receive 5.25% of its income from DSH. Urban hospitals, on the other hand, have no cap.

• One in four Medicare beneficiaries live in rural America

• 61 million Americans live in rural America

• Rural areas have about half the physicians and less than one-third the specialists per person compared with urban areas.

• The overall operating margin for rural hospitals was negative 2.9 in 2000, compared to 8.4 for large urban hospitals.

• 20% of the Average Small Town’s economy relies on healthcare dollars

• Higher per-unit costs compared to Urban hospitals

• More dependent on Medicare revenues than Urban hospitals

• Often the sole provider of medical services

• Difficulty in recruiting physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals

2003 Fannin County Toy Run

The fourth annual Fannin County Toy Run will be held on Saturday, November 22nd. This year’s run is sponsored by the Booger Holler Scooter and Streetrod Club and the Texas Spirit Riders, (a Christian motorcycle riding group). The Haven of Rest House will distribute the collections. Entry will be a $10 fee, a new unwrapped toy, and 2 cans of food. If you prefer not to bring a toy, the fee will be $20 and 2 cans of food. Please no damaged canned goods.

Registration and parade line up will begin at 8:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. at the Armory Pavilion located at Hwy 56 and 121 in Bonham. The parade will leave the pavilion at 10:00 a.m. led by the Fannin County Sheriff organization and will ride throughout Fannin County and return to the pavilion. A hot dog lunch will be available at the pavilion along with live entertainment from the Ferguson Family Red River Express Band. There will also be a 50/50 drawing benefiting the children.

All street legal vehicles are welcome, two wheel, three wheel, or four wheel. Come join us for a good cause and a fun ride. All donations are welcome. If you need more information or would like to make a donation, please contact Carrol Brown at 903-583-8258.

Serve Family Traditions, Nutrition Lessons To Little Chefs At Thanksgiving

Making an assistant chef of your child this Thanksgiving can build positive food memories and offer an opportunity for kids to learn about nutrition along the way.

"Preparing a meal together not only allows you to pass down family traditions, but it gives you an opportunity to explore good feelings about healthy food," said Joan Carter, an instructor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "A big holiday meal doesn’t have to be about overeating, it can be about building positive food and family memories."

From menu planning to preparation, parents can share many nutrition lessons in the kitchen, along with handing down family traditions and stories.

"Conversation about food ingredients can spark a curiosity about nutrition with information that is likely to be remembered. Such as what makes the sweet potatoes orange and the spinach green - it’s the stuff you need for your eyes - Vitamin A," she said.

Involving children in what dishes to serve gives you many opportunities to discuss nutrition, said Carter, also a registered dietitian at the Children’s Nutrition Research Center at Baylor.

"Mashed potatoes are popular, but you can talk to your child about how leaving the skin on makes the potatoes healthier." she said. "Or how skimming the fat from the turkey juice won’t cost anything in flavor but will cut down the unnecessary fat and calories in the gravy."

Carter said the nutrition insight that goes along with the cooking will contribute to positive feelings about food that can be handed down - just like other family holiday traditions.

Turkey - Protein

Sweet potatoes and Pumpkin Pie - Vitamin A, fiber

Spinach casserole - Vitamin A, iron

Dressing - Load it up with veggies to increase nutrients

Brussel sprouts - Cancer-fighting phytonutrients

Cranberries - Vitamin C, antibacterial qualities

Fruit salad - Vitamin C, Vitamin A

Mashed potatoes - More nutrients with skin on

Bread - Use whole wheat to increase nutrients

Ector First Graders Join 25 Point Club

Six members of Mrs. Morris’ class have recently earned 25 points in the Accelerated Reader Program. These students are (l-r/backrow) Billie Sue Elliott, Kayla Melton, Jacy Martin, (l-r/front row) Amber Browning, Ariane Rushing, and Elizabeth Browning. Congratulations.

Ector Kindergarten Readers

The faculty and staff of Ector Elementary are proud to recognize two members of Mrs. Wilthers class for reading at least 30 books so far this year. They are (l-r) Rylee Coldiron and Drake Vankirk. Congratulations.

Savoy Elementary Third Grade Field Trip

The Savoy Elementary Third Grade attended a broadway play on Oct. 28th at the Sherman Kidd-Key Auditorium. After the performance the students went to Midway Mall in Sherman. The students made purchases at the food court, visited the art gallary, and did several economic activities. Lana Bernardine Of Midway Mall spoke to the students about businesses and community services working together to meet consumers needs. She informed students of a program that the mall in conjunction with community support is providing to children and their families. The students were given free lunch passes and activity booklets.

Ector Elementary Celebrates National Young Reader’s Day

On Tuesday, November 11^th, the students of Ector Elementary took part in celebrating National Young Reader’s Day. The school had several people come in and read to individual students along with entire classes. Among the day’s readers were Tom Miller and Matt Brown of KXII Channel 12 News, County Clerk Polly Gilbert, and numerous parents and grandparents. The school appreciates everyone that volunteered to help us emphasize the importance of reading.

Ector Elementary Employee Of The Week

The faculty of Ector Elementary is proud to recognize Donna Haas as our "Employee of the Week". Donna is a graduate of Bells High School. Following graduation, she went on to earn an Associate Degree from Grayson County Community College and her B.A. from the University of North Texas. This is Donna’s sixteenth year in education, with the last eleven years being here at Ector. After teaching Spanish for many years, she is currently teaching both 5^th and 6^th grade mathematics, along with Title I reading. In addition to school, Donna is very active in the Ector Baptist Church’s AWANAS Program, where she teaches 3^rd and 4^th grade girls. Donna and her husband Cyrus have two children; Angela and Andy. According to Donna the best thing about her job is seeing the children each day, especially when they are able to grasp new math concepts, or discover the enjoyment of reading. Once again, we are proud to honor Donna Haas as the "Employee of the Week."

Honey Grove Christmas Tour Of Homes

The Honey Grove Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Christmas Tour of Homes in Honey Grove on Sunday, December 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the Bertha Voyer Memorial Library, First State Bank, Farmers & Merchants State Bank, Smith Grocery in Honey Grove, and Fannin Bank in Windom. Tickets may also be purchased at the homes during the tour hours.

This year’s tour is in memory of Honey Grove civic leader and businesswoman, Evelyn F. Wise. Mrs. Wise died last year and was a past president of the Chamber, as well as being involved in many other organizations.

Homes on the tour are the homes of Mr. and Mrs. Ira Hicks at 301 West Market Street, Mrs. Linda Goss at 506 West Market Street, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Maxam at 507 Elm Street, and Mr. and Mrs. Billy Bob Stephens at 1601 N. 16th Street.

The Hicks home was formerly known as the Robnett House and was built in 1875 by Joe Robnett, who was a cotton buyer. The home of Linda Goss was the home of Jacob Fein, a prominent Honey Grove builder and stone mason. It was built in 1900. Mr. Fein was born in Germany in 1863 and worked his way to Texas. He worked as a stone mason on the Texas State Capitol. He arrived in Honey Grove in 1884 and constructed many of the buildings on the square, as well as homes and churches, and the first public school building in Honey Grove.

The home of Mike and Cheryl Maxam was built in 1924 by John Black, SR. It is a variation of a colonial Cape Cod. It was the home of Evelyn Wise until her death last year. Cheryl Maxam is the daughter of Mrs. Wise. It was restored to its original style in 1975. The last home on the tour is that of Mr. and Mrs. Stephens, and is the only new home on the tour. The Stephens have been in the house several years and they always have the home decorated beautifully at Christmas.

Federal Appeals Court Rules In Favor Of Texas Attorney General; Ten Commandments Can Remain At Texas Capitol

5th Circuit Court Of Appeals Finds No Establishment Of Religion In Placement Of Monument

AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today applauded a New Orleans federal appeals court decision affirming the state’s argument that placement of a Ten Commandments monument on the State Capitol grounds is not an unconstitutional attempt to establish a state-sponsored religion.

In making the ruling late Wednesday, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the Attorney General that, when taken on the whole with other aspects of the state’s heritage, culture and legal codes, the Ten Commandments monument does not reflect an attempt to coerce a religious belief on the public, or exclude other beliefs. The court described the variety of memorials present on the Capitol grounds, all of which convey the sense of the grounds as a museum, overseen by a curator.

"The Ten Commandments are undoubtedly a sacred religious text, but they are also a foundational document in the development of Western legal codes and culture," Attorney General Abbott stated. "The Texas monument has stood for over forty years, and the court’s decision affirms that the monument is entirely consistent with the requirements of the U.S. Constitution," he added.

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 court found that the Texas Legislature’s intent in accepting the monument was to commend the Eagles for their efforts in fighting juvenile delinquency, a secular concern.

The original plaintiff in this case, Thomas van Orden, had argued that by accepting such a gift, the state had directly endorsed a religion favoring the Jewish and Christian faiths to the exclusion of other faiths.

But in upholding lower court decisions, the appellate court ruled that the state’s placement of this monument "on a direct line between the legislative chambers, the executive office of the governor and the (Texas) Supreme Court building" links it with those houses of law "while standing apart and not physically connected to any of them. (The Commandments monument) is presented as relevant to these law-giving instruments of state government, but from a distance."

Larry Standlee and a large group of volunteers assist the Bonham Chamber of Commerce in putting up Christmas decorations for the city each year. They got started this past week as the city began the holiday transformation.