District 4-H Roundup Results

Fannin County was very well represented at the District 4-H Roundup in Commerce on June 20^th, at A&M Commerce. The competition was fierce from the 22 counties that make up District 4. The results are as follows:

Jr. Teams: 1st place- Christina Gunlock , Breanna Irvin, Sarah Davis, Alex Harvey- Four Corners

2nd- Haley Lawhon, Derrick Recer, Stephanie Ferguson, Marcia Circles- Honey Grove

Sr. Teams: 1st place- Max Goerte, Matthew Henderson, Landon Wightman, Marta Goerte- Four Corners

2nd place- Breanna Davis, Christi Ferguson, Nicholas Wightman- Four Corners

• Leah Curren, 1^st place, Clothing and Textiles, Four Corners

• Daniella Rivera, 1^st place, Open, Four Corners

• Hailey Smith & Kaitlyn Massie, 2^nd place, Housing and Home Environment, Dodd City

• Julie Hellwarth, 2^nd place, Public Speaking,Dodd City

• Krista Goerte, 1^st place, Horse, Four Corners

• Aleha Michaud 1^st place Public Speaking Bonham

Cody Maxwell 1^st place Farm & Ranch Management Dodd City

• Selah Burnett, 2^nd place, Choreographed routine, Bonham

• Whitney Slaughter & Callie Maxwell, 1^st place, Vocal, Dodd City

• Rachelle Shofner, 2^nd place, Musical, Four Corners

• Andres Burnett, 2^nd place, Choreographed routine, Bonham

• Erin Michaud, 1^st place, Poetry, Bonham

• Carol & Katja Brinlee, 2^nd place, Comedy, Bonham

• Leslie Kasparek, Main dish, Bonham

• Jeannine Bryan, Fruit & Vegetables, Bonham

• Lacy Holly, 5^th place, Bread & Cereal, Bonham

• Micala Michaud, 1^st place, Nutritious Snack, Bonham

• Riley Bonds, Main Dish, BLT

• Cassie Franks, 4^th place, Fruit & Vegetables, Bonham

• Jennifer Bryan, 5^th place, Nutritious Snack, Bonham

James Moore, 2^nd place, Bread & Cereal, Bonham

McCraw Oil Company To Keep Crittenden Locally Owned

McCraw Oil Company/Kwik Chek purchased Crittenden Propane on December 8, 2004. McCraw Oil Company is owned by Doyce Taylor and Kevin Smartt, both residents of Bonham, Texas. Crittenden Propane has been a locally owned and operated company since 1942. Jim Crittenden, former owner, states "that my goal in selling the business was to find a company that could keep the business locally owned and also a company that would be able to expand services."

The company will operate under the new name of McCraw Propane. Doyce Taylor says, "the new company will offer a larger and more accessible RV & cylinder filling station," which will be located at McCraw Oil Company’s main office on North Center Street. Taylor also emphasizes that "McCraw Propane will be focused on taking care of the customer." "We want our customers to be satisfied and to know how much we appreciate them letting us be their propane supplier," Taylor states.

McCraw Oil Company/Kwik Chek has been operating in Fannin County since 1972. Doyce Taylor and Kevin Smartt purchased the company four years ago from Bob McCraw. Taylor and Smartt have continued to find ways to support the local communities through efforts such as "Kids and College" which in the last four years has given back $85,000 to many of the local area schools in Fannin County.

"I am proud to be able to say that in a time when many of our North Texas communities have lost locally owned businesses, Fannin County is keeping one," comments Smartt. With the recent sale of Trenton LP Gas Company to Heritage Operating LP based out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, McCraw Propane will be the last locally owned LP Company in Fannin County.

Bonham High School Reunion Committee

The 2005 Reunion Committee is in need of help in locating former students of Bonham High School. The all-school reunion is set for June 17-19, 2005.

This week we are focusing on the classes of 1980-1983. 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. Please include the year.

Class of 1980: Jessica Anderson, Glenda Barnes Brawner, Leslie Booth Brownlow, Ronnie Butler, Lisa Clark Heistand, Gay Cox Howard, James Cullon, Philip Dauster, Bobby Davis, Paula Duaster, Suzanne Elliott, Judy Glass, Glenda Haggard Lively, Mike Haggerty, Cecil Hall, Mary Lynn Hayes, Jan Hicks Werth, Steve Holder, David Hollins, James Janett, Julie Johnson Price, Juanita Jones Wishard, Bobby Louis, Ruth Martz, Lee McDowell, Paula McFarlane Whited, Mike McWhorter, Kathy Millhollon Richardson, May Morris, Allen Mulder, Kim Mulder, Elaine Murray, Jeena Pinkston, Mark Powell, Brad Rattan, Patricia Reed Goodwin, Tim Roberts, Gary Smith, Michael Smith, Billy Spindell, Carlon Stapp Brenning, Rusty Stephens, Teresa Stephens, Randy Swindell, David Vermillion, Sidney White, Ronald Whited, Craig Wilbanks, Jimmy Williams, Coatriana Wilson, Ronnie Wilson, Kim Wix Haggerty, James Woodard.

Class of 1981: Teresa Adams, Sandra Alexander Posey, Eric Baker, Mark Bennett, Roger Blackerby, Cindy Bozeman Franks, Jeff Bradshaw, Wayne Brown, Julie Cheshier Johnson, Bobbie Edwards Shields, Julie Edwards, Sally Fuller, Eddie Johnson, LaTonna Jones Wagner, Trey Lind, Kelly Mendenhall, Jackie Minnick, Karen Moody, David Oliver, Timmy Pinkston, Renee Rayford, Doris Shelton, Kerry Skonczewski, Stephen Taylor, Liz Thomas Broiles, Pam Titsworth, Becky Whitfield Cowling.

Class of 1982: Shelia Arburthnot Butler, Stephen Armstrong, Brett Baker, Greg Barrow, Steve Bell, Leddy Carder, Chris Castle, David Cullar, Angela Cunningham, Michael Davenport, David Dorough, Delia Dunlap, Marie Dunlap Timmons, Becky Hagerty, Greg Higgins, Brad Houghland, Conni Isaacs, Michelle Johnson, Carl Kasper, Eric Kavanaugh, Mycheale Kuhn, Lloyd Long, Rhonda Manley, Mary Manning Long, Andrea McDonald, Jerry Murphey, Karla Newhouse, Donnette Oliver, Darlene Parker Boatner, Ruth Ann Pharr, Kelly Phillips, Norma Porter, Judith Richards Hicks, Eddie Roberts, Sherry Robertson, Gary Robinson, Maria Rodriguez, Kenny Roundtree, Milton Rushing, Michael Lee Shelton, Kevin Simpson, Dolores Sprinkles, Michael Titsworth, William Toland, Kelli Vermillion, Duane Walker, Derrell Wyatt.

Class of 1983: Tammie Arbothnot, Kirk Bell, Dana Brady Owens, Duaine Bridges, Faron Davis, Lana Flippo, Carla Furtch, Dwayne Gage, Tammy King, Stephanie Lambert McGuire, Loyd Long, Robbie McCarty, Jussi Mertaner, Denise Phea, Sharla Polston Zumwalt, Janssen Roundtree, Tony Southerland, Steve Stone, JoBeth Walker.

There is probably no other season which means as much to me and my family as Christmas. I look forward to sharing its festive traditions with my family and children.

While the joy of the season is infectious, we can make it more meaningful. Amidst all the celebration, I encourage you to try to make a difference for someone in need in your community. There are many charities deserving your support; here are just a few suggestions:

The Angel Tree program was established to provide gifts to children whose parents are incarcerated. The name of the child, along with relevant information to help the donor purchase an appropriate gift, is inscribed on a paper angel. Businesses, organizations, and individuals "adopt" the angels and buy gifts for the recipients. If there is not a drive underway in your area, consider starting one yourself. More information is available on the Prison Fellowship’s website: www.pfm.org/AM/Template.cfm.

Another popular charity is the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. It provides happiness and hope to disadvantaged children who might otherwise be overlooked this holiday season. Donors provide unwrapped toys which the Marines deliver to needy children. These toys can give a child joy and a positive memory for years to come.

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a 57-year tradition of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves which last year delivered more than 15 million toys to over 6.5 million children. With 13 million children living in poverty, the Toys for Tots Foundation needs donations more than ever. They are also happy to take cash donations, which help the Marines buy toys in bulk at deeply discounted prices and ensure children receive toys appropriate for their age and gender. For more information on the Toys for Tots Foundation and how you might help them, their website is www.toysfortots2004.com.

The colder winter weather also highlights the need for warmer clothing. Goodwill Industries is engaged in the Samantha’s Coat and Clothing Drive to collect coats and other garments for needy children. For more information, or to locate a Goodwill facility in your community, you can visit the Goodwill website at: www.goodwill.org.

It would not be the holiday season if I did not take time to mention the traditional kettle program of the Salvation Army. The money raised during this effort funds the year-round activities of one of the most cost-effective and respected charities in our country. So, please, make them a priority when you see one of the kettles in your community. For more information about the Salvation Army’s activities, you can visit their website at: www.salvationarmyusa.org.

Though I have singled out four organizations, there are a host of other charities we can help through gifts of cash, food, toys or time. The Junior League, local churches and many others are working to spread Christmas cheer. If you want to participate in the great American tradition of volunteering and need help finding an appropriate activity, consult the USA Freedom Corps, which was established by President George W. Bush to encourage Americans to continue donating their time to worthy causes. Their website, www.usafreedomcorps.gov, matches you with charitable organizations based upon your interests and location.

Sometimes the best gift we can provide is a simple helping hand, a greeting, or even a smile to a friend, neighbor or stranger. That kind gesture may seem unimportant, but we should remember that sometimes the greatest gifts only appear to be insignificant, just like that child born to poverty in a horse’s stall so long ago in Bethlehem.

I want to wish all Texans, of all faiths, a joyous holiday season.

Bonham Police Officers Association

The Bonham Police Officer’s Association is taking donations for the annual Christmas Food Basket Drive. This is an annual event to help those in need within our community. Your donation of cash or non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the Bonham Police Department located at 301 E. 5th in Bonham. Food items needed include instant stuffing, canned corn, canned green beans, canned cranberry sauce, and instant potatoes. The baskets will be distributed on Saturday December 18th from 8am to 1pm at the Armory building located on the Bonham Fair grounds.

On behalf of the Bonham Police Officers Association I would like to extend to you a very special thanks for helping those in need within our community.

- Mike Stephens

Fannin County People Helping Kids For Christmas

Children from First Presbyterian Church in Bonham recently helped the staff at the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & CAC) get ready for the holidays. The children helped move and sort toys and get out decorations at the center. The Children’s Center is currently accepting donations of new toys and clothes for the children they serve. For more information visit www.fanninccc.org or call (903) 583-4339.

The women of First United Methodist Church of Leonard recently collected Christmas gifts for the abused and neglected children served by the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & CAC). The Children’s Center is currently accepting donations of new toys and clothes for the children they serve. For more information visit www.fanninccc.org or call (903) 583-4339.

Savoy Yard of the Month

The Savoy Main St. Beautification Committee has selected the Slaughters Duplex at 306-308 N. Mill St, as the yard of the month. The Beautification Committee has been busy decorating for the holiday season. They would like to thank all of you who donated and purchased from the annual Thanksgiving Bake Sale.

Bonham Kiwanis

Tandy Hix and President Mary-k Wilson welcoming new member Mandy Leonard

Richard Glaser and President Mark-k Wilson presenting a check for Fannin County Junior Master Gardeners to Richard Danner.

Bonham Fire Chief Brad Nichols, President Mary-k Wilson, former member David McClure and Charles Teller. David presented a program of his experiences while aboard the USS Forrestall during the "Cold War" days.

Jack Williams Show

Hello, friends and fellow music lovers! Christmas is fast approaching, and we are looking forward to Jack Williams’ show here on Friday, December 17th. Many of you will be here to celebrate another magical evening of music, and we will be able to wish you Happy Holidays in person. I wish that all of you would be here and could fit into our abode, but that doesn’t seem possible.

Anyway, we wanted you to know that we are thinking of you and that we have another great year of music planned for you to enjoy. We will kick off the NEW YEAR with "Small Potatoes", a talented and hilarious husband-wife duo, on Sunday, January 30th from 3:00-5:00 pm. You might mark your calendars early. and you will receive a press release about the first of January.

Also, if you have not put up that Christmas tree yet, don’t forget to visit the Ivanhoe Christmas Tree Farm in Ivanhoe, TX near us. It is owned and operated by Ivan & Susie Burton, who are part of our musical community here in NE Texas. We got our tree there on Friday.....the trees are just breathtakingly beautiful and the experience was that of old-fashioned tradition....taking a hayride out to select our tree, sawing down the tree of our choice, and going back to warm our hands, tummies, and hearts by a campfire while we sipped hot cider, listened to some mighty fine pickers, and enjoyed good conversation!!! We almost came home with another cat...FREE! We put up the tree today and decorated with ornaments filled with memories. Certainly, we will also find a way to recycle it after Christmas has passed. You can find the tree farm on the web or call 903/583-5460 for directions.

Good wishes to you all,

Faye & Scott

State Data Center an Important Resource

The Texas State Data Center was initiated in 1980 to establish a state level liaison to the U.S. Bureau of the Census for better dissemination of Texas census data. All 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands have state data centers. The program was expanded in the mid-1980’s to meet a demand for more timely population estimates and projections for years between the census counts, which occur every ten years. The Data Center also provides training and technical assistance in accessing and using Census Bureau data for research, administration, planning and decision making by local governments, the business community and other interested data users.

The Data Center is located at the University of Texas at San Antonio and is directed by the State Demographer of Texas, Dr. Steve Murdock. Dr. Murdock was appointed to this position in 2001 by the governor.

One of the most important functions of the Data Center is to provide timely analyses of the patterns of past, current and projected future populations in Texas; and of the implications of such patterns for key issues facing Texas. As the legislature and local governments plan for the future, reliable information on what the population of Texas will look like in ten, twenty, or fifty years is critical.

The following are some key findings and projections from the State Data Center:

· Texas’ historical pattern of rapid growth is projected to continue. Whereas the Census Bureau has recently projected that the U.S. population will increase by roughly 49 percent over the 50 year period from 2000 to 2050, Texas is projected to grow by at least 71.5 percent for the 40 year period from 2000 to 2040. At least 14.9 million and as many as 30.9 million people will be added to the state’s population over the next 40 years.

· Texas will also become increasingly diverse. It is projected that Hispanics will comprise a majority of the population by no later than 2035. By 2040, the percentage of the population that is Hispanic will be between 52.6 and 59.2 percent, the percent Anglo will be between 23.9 and 32.2 percent, the percent African American will be between 8.0 and 9.5 percent and the percentage in Other population groups will be between 5.7 and 8.9 percent.

You can find more information on the state’s population trends at the State Data Center’s website at http://txsdc.utsa.edu/.

Hometown Military News

December 06, 2004(FHTNC)--Marine Corps Pvt. Albert Guerrero, son of Lidia and Moises Guerrero of Whitewright, Texas, recently completed 12 weeks of basic training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, Calif. designed to challenge new Marine recruits both physically and mentally.

Guerrero and fellow recruits began their training at 5 a. m., by running three miles and performing calisthenics. In addition to the physical conditioning program, Guerrero spent numerous hours in classroom and field assignments which included learning first aid, uniform regulations, combat water survival, marksmanship, hand-to-hand combat and assorted weapons training. They performed close order drill and operated as a small infantry unit during field training.

Guerrero and other recruits also received instruction on the Marine Corps’ core values--honor, courage and commitment, and what the core values mean in guiding personal and professional conduct.

Guerrero and fellow recruits ended the training phase with The Crucible, a 54-hour, team evolution culminating in an emotional ceremony in which recruits are presented the Marine Corps Emblem, and addressed as "Marines" for the first time in their careers.

Guerrero is a 2004 graduate of Whitewright High School of Whitewright, Texas.

Red River Valley Chorus

Have you ever wished that Christmas could last forever? You don’t want to miss seeing the Red River Valley Chorus in their musical production of "Forever Christmas" on Saturday, December 11, starting at 7 PM. It will be a magical night filled with wonderful Christmas music and the highlight of your Christmas season. The Sherman High School auditorium will come alive with the lighting of the Christmas tree and singers and dancers. Joining the chorus on stage will be the Texoma Chordringers, TQ and Tonacious. Special guest performers are Gil Nelson, the Sherman High School Choir and the fifteen Performance Opportunity Program ladies.

The evening would not be complete without all those special holiday characters, Frosty, Rudolph, Suzy Snowflake and Santa Claus. The rumors say they will be in Sherman just for this show. Santa promised the elves if they would work extra hard they could have the evening off to see the show.

If you want to get in the spirit of Christmas don’t miss the wonderful musical - "Forever Christmas". Ticket prices are $8 and $6 and can be purchased from members of the chorus or reserved by calling 903-364-2875 or 903-813-6489, please leave a message and your call will be returned. Merry Christmas to all and to all a great night.

Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. Closing for Holidays

Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. will be closing for the Christmas Holidays beginning Thursday, December 23, 2004 and will reopen on Monday, January 3, 2005. Normal hours will then resume for the Ministries which are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bonham Community Ministries, Inc. Receives Verizon Grant

November 16^th was a very good day at Bonham Community Ministries, Fannin County’s largest food bank. A Central Freight Line’s truck backed up to the dock and unloaded five computers received through a grant partnership with Verizon. "We had applied months ago for the grant, and hadn’t heard a thing," stated BCM president Vicki Hutchins, "so we just kind of assumed we didn’t get the grant. Then we got a call from Gifts In Kind (who makes the final grant determination and arranges for delivery) saying the truck was trying to find our location. Needless to say, we are thrilled, and very grateful to Verizon."

Fannin County Retired Teachers Association Meeting

The Bonham ISD All Star Choir entertained the Fannin County Retired Teachers at their meeting on December 7, 2004. This choir is composed of fourth, fifth and sixth graders from I. W. Evans School under the direction of Susan Toland and Kim Kennedy. After an introduction by Richard Campbell, the choir sang several selections of Christmas music, and Ms. Toland and Ms. Kennedy sang a duet.

Barbara Gore spoke about Pearl Harbor Day and support of our military. She reported on the Book Festival which she recently attended at the state capitol.

The Project Committee proposed that a $1,000.00 donation be given to the Red River Theater Company and this action was approved. The Nominating Committee is now working and will have a report at the next meeting.

Membership in the Fannin County and Texas Retired Teachers Association is encouraged for everyone who receives an annuity from the Teacher Retirement System. These organizations work to protect and improve benefits for all retired school personnel. President Jo Jones reports that the Fannin County Chapter will be receiving a $125.00 stipend from District X for retaining and increasing membership.

The meeting concluded with a drawing for door prizes which were won by Shirley Manhart, Joyce Denton, Glenna Langford, Barbara Gore and Violet Caylor. Refreshments were provided by Barbara Gore, Dorothy Dale, Charlotte Varner, Tom Thornton, James Denton, Jimmy Doyle and Clara London.

The next meeting of the Fannin County Retired Teachers Association will be at 2:00 p.m. on January 4, 2005, in the Elizabeth May Room of the American Bank in Bonham Texas.

Campbell’s Soup Donates Truckload of Food to Ministries

Janie Segrist of Bonham is a valuable volunteer at Bonham Community Ministries. Not only does she volunteer almost every day the food bank is open, she also makes phone calls. One important phone call she made recently was to her brother who works for Campbell Foods in Paris. He then coordinated with Campbell Food’s Community Outreach to donate 6,000 pounds of Campbell’s products to the Ministries.

Wednesday, November 17^th a trailer backed up to the dock door at Fannin County’s largest food bank, and volunteers from Masonic Lodge 13 in Bonham were on hand to help unload the large donation – just in time for the holidays.

"Janie is such an asset to us. She is a willing, faithful volunteer who saw a need, and rose to find a way to meet that need," stated BCM president Vicki Hutchins. "We are also very grateful to Campbell Foods. Many, many families will benefit from their generous donation!"

Fannin county farm bureau attends the  71st convention

Six voting delegates from Fannin County Farm Bureau recently participated in the 71st annual Texas Farm Bureau convention December 4-6 San Antonio.

They were: David Hembree, President; Harold Roberts, Secretary; Sandra Hembree, Wanda Roberts, Billy Partridge, and Peggy Partridge. Curtis Dyer, Manager, and wife Denise also attended.

Policies directing the state’s largest farm organization were adopted by more than 1,200 delegates from 207 organized Farm Bureaus. Approved recommendations on national policies will advance to the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting to be held in January in North Carolina.

Addressing the delegates were Kenneth Dierschke of San Angelo, TFB president; Ralph Detten of Hereford, secretary-treasurer; and Vernie Glasson, TFB executive director. The business session covered the final day of the meeting. The last order of business was the election of the president, KENNETH DIERSCHKE of San Angelo.

Democratic Women Present Christmas Gift

Judy Teller, Fannin County Democratic Women; Sandy Hood and Michelle Griffith, Fannin County Children’s Center and Ruth Ann Moore, Fannin County Democratic Women. The Democratic Women of Fannin County presented a cash donation to the Children’s Center to help in their annual Christmas program.

House Approves Intelligence Bill and Adjourns; Hall Commends Bipartisan Efforts

WASHINGTON, DC...The House of Representatives approved Tuesday evening a landmark intelligence reform bill designed to better coordinate government efforts to provide intelligence and counter terrorism. Rep. Ralph hall (R-TX/Rockwall) praised the bipartisan support for the bill, which passed by a vote of 336-75 and was the final measure to be considered by the 108th Congress.

"I am pleased to see the Congress come together at the end of a highly partisan year to enact this important legislation," Hall said. "This was a top priority for the President and a bill that is vital to improving efforts to protect our homeland. Our current intelligence operations were established some fifty years ago- and in the wake of 9/11 and the war on terrorism, a major reform was in order."

The intelligence reform bill creates a direct of national intelligence and a counter-terrorism center to plan intelligence and combat terrorism. It creates an oversight board to ensure individual liberties, increases the number of border guards and immigration agents, sets minimum standards for issuing driver’s licenses in the States, and supports new aviation security programs.

"These provisions will enhance our intelligence capabilities and provide vital coordination among government agencies," Hall said. "We still must deal appropriately with immigration reform as part of homeland security concerns, and the Speaker has given his assurance that this would be considered next year."

"With the election behind us, we must come together to solve the critical needs facing our Nation at the local, State, and Federal levels," Hall said. "Our local governments need help in expanding their infrastructure and attracting new businesses that will create more jobs. Our law enforcement and our schools must have the resources they need, and our citizens need quality and affordable healthcare."

"A priority for me as chairman of the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee will be to enact national energy policies that put America on course for more energy independence," Hall stressed. "Congress was not able to agree on a comprehensive bill this year, so I plan to work to pass a series of stand-alone bills that will include energy conservation, production, and reliability."

"The President’s top priorities include reform of our tax code and Social Security-both worthy goals that will require much discussion and input from citizens. I have been a long-time supporter of abolishing the current burdensome and punitive tax code and replacing it with a system that is simpler and fairer. Social Security has been one of the most successful Federal programs in our Nation’s history, and we must find a way to ensure its viability for generations to come," Hall said.

"These issues will require both parties working together for the common good," Hall said. "We need to avoid personal partisan attacks. My opponent in the November election, Jim Nickerson, ran a clean campaign. He debated the issues but was never critical of me personally or of the President. I look forward to working with local officials, community leaders and citizens in both sides of the political aisle to support those goals that will be beneficial to all of Northeast Texas."

"As we wind up the 108th Congress and look ahead to the 109th Congress, I hope we can come together to deliver good results for our Nation," Hall said. "I will continue to do my part and work for bipartisan solutions."

Bonham Kiwanis

Our program was hosted by Mary Karl in honor of Pearl Harbor Day. We were honored to have an actual Pearl Harbor survivor and the son of another to share with us their stories and memorabilia. Thanks to our special guests for this personal glimpse into this very important date in history.

Jerry Newton, TDCJ Choice Moore/Buster Cole Chaplain, displayed some of the keepsakes that belonged to his father who was a Pearl Harbor survivor.

Bonham Kiwanis meets at noon every Tuesday at Shumardii’s. You are invited to join us for the fellowship and food.

2005 Day-Use Passes Now Available

Day-use passes from the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas make the perfect Christmas stocking stuffer for the person who enjoys the great outdoors.

The pass entitles visitors to unlimited day use in participating fee areas forest wide from January 1 to December 31, 2005 and includes such things as access to boat launches picnic areas, swim beaches and trailheads. A cooperative agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Kisatchie National Forest in Louisiana allows visitors to also use the pass

at selected boat launches at Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Town Bluff Reservoir and National Forest recreation sites in Louisiana. In addition, the pass is also honored at Harvey Creek, operated by San Augustine County and Haley’s Ferry, East Hamilton Boat Ramp, Ragtown, Lakeview, Willow Oak, and Indian Mounds operated by Sabine River Authority.

Annual passes are $30 for one and $45 for two. Holders of Golden Age or Golden Access passports pay $15 for one and $22.50 for two.

"For boaters who make regular trips to the lake, this is one of the best bargains around," said Forest Supervisor Fred Salinas. "And the fees stay in the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas to help maintain and improve the recreation areas so many enjoy."

The pass does not cover fees for overnight use, fees to reserve a picnic pavilion, fees in other national forests or areas run by private concessionaires.

Passes may be purchased at Ranger District Offices in Zavalla, Hemphill, Ratcliff, New Waverly and Decatur, or at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Lufkin. For more information, call 936-639-8501.

Edward Jones Ranks No. 1 In National Survey Of Brokers For The 12th Consecutive Year

For the 12th consecutive year, Edward Jones ranked No. 1 in Registered Representative magazine’s annual survey of the nation’s seven largest financial-services firms. The magazine randomly selects brokers nationwide and asks them to rank their firms in various categories.

"The firm received verbal praise for its ethics, for its unwavering business focus and for its attention to the needs of its reps, including its longstanding policy of providing a full time assistant paid for by the firm," according to the magazine’s December 2004 issue. The firm’s ranking on "support" topped all other firms, the magazine reported.

Edward Jones investment representatives gave the firm its highest scores in 14 of the 20 categories in which it was rated. Some of those categories include: ongoing training, client account statements, quality of the products offered, management and the firm’s strategic focus.

"The firm’s steady, conservative approach was consistently lauded by reps," the magazine reported.

While it’s always an honor to be recognized by a national publication, this particular ranking is significant for a variety of reasons.

"This ranking is formed by the opinions of our investment representatives--the people who meet with clients every day," said JIM COOK, the local Edward Jones investment representative. "That makes it a good measure of how well we are serving our clients, which gives this ranking even greater significance."

COOK said that he is particularly proud of the No. 1 ranking because of the number of years Edward Jones has achieved this honor.

"Twelve years is no coincidence," COOK said. "We are doing things differently at Edward Jones, and we are proud of that distinction."

Edward Jones, the only major financial-services firm advising individual investors exclusively, traces its roots to 1871 and currently serves more than 6 million clients. The firm offers its clients a variety of investments, including certificates of deposit, taxable and non-taxable bonds, stocks and mutual funds.

The largest firm in the nation in terms of branch offices, Edward Jones currently has more than 9,000 offices in the U.S. and, through its affiliates, in Canada and the United Kingdom.

The Edward Jones interactive Web site is located at www.edwardjones.com.

Clayton Homes Makes Generous Contribution to 6^th Annual Christmas Dinner

Four Corners 4-H would like to thank Clayton Homes for their very generous contribution of $500 to the 6^th Annual Christmas Dinner. This is the largest contribution to date towards this cause. The 6^th Annual Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Family Life Center. The dinner is provided at no cost and delivery is available to the homebound. We are counting on the continuing financial support from the generous people of Fannin County to help us with this worthwhile project. As in previous years, there is a need for contributors, volunteers, and drivers. The dinner is only made possible because of the time and effort of the people and businesses in Bonham and the surrounding communities. If you would like to contribute to the Christmas Dinner or are interested in volunteering, please call (903)583-2325 or (903)583-0446.

Kiwanis Funds Presented

A large group of deserving local organizations was on hand at a recent meeting to receive Kiwanis funds to assist in their various missions. President Mary-k Wilson is shown presenting a check to each organization. We salute them for their efforts and wish them continuing success.

Bonham Kiwanis meets at Noon every Tuesday at Shumardii’s. We invite you to join us.

Holiday Safety Tips for Consumers

By Greg Abbott

Attorney General of Texas

The holidays are a time of joy and good spirit. Families and friends come together and share in good will and fellowship. Many people will be traveling long distances to see their loved ones. Unfortunately, criminals are well aware of this fact and will use it to their advantage. That is why consumers must take precautions when traveling and shopping over the holiday season.

If you are going out for the evening, turn on several lights. Also, turn on a radio or television. Don’t display gifts where they can be seen through the window from the outside. Turn off or unplug the lights on any indoor holiday decorations. Double-check door and window locks when you leave, even if you will only be gone for a few minutes. If you find signs that someone has entered your home while you were away, go to a neighbor’s house immediately and call the police.

If you are going out of town, do what you can to make it look as though someone is home. Put two or more interior lights on automatic timers. Set each one on a different schedule, so that no pattern is obvious to outsiders. Ask a friend to stay at your house for one or two nights while you are away. Also, ask the neighbors to watch your home and to park a car in your driveway from time to time. Have the mail and newspaper delivery stopped, and ask a neighbor to pick up any packages that are delivered to your door.

You should also take basic safety precautions when you go shopping. Stay alert and be aware of what is happening around you. Park in a well-lit place. Be sure to lock the car and close the windows. Lock any packages or shopping bags in the trunk.

Pay by check or credit card when possible, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. If you are shopping with children, make sure they know to go to a store clerk or security guard in the event you become separated. Finally, deter pickpockets and thieves by protecting wallets and purses.

Sometimes, criminals pose as couriers delivering packages or flowers. If a delivery person comes to your door, do not open the door right away. Ask them to show you proof of identification through a window or peephole. If the person’s identification, dress or demeanor make you suspicious, tell them that you will pick up the item at their store or delivery warehouse, or ask to have the package left at a neighbor’s house. If there is a charge for delivery and you are reluctant to open the door, get an address where you can send payment and arrange for delivery at a later date.

Some people will try to take advantage of our generosity by asking for contributions to a bogus charity. If someone comes to your door seeking a donation, ask to see identification before opening the door. Also, ask for information about the charity, including how the funds will be spent.

If you are uncertain about making a donation, ask for an address where you can send money at a later date. Legitimate charities will not hesitate to give you this information. If you suspect the solicitation is a fraud, decline to make a contribution and report the incident to your local law enforcement agency and the Attorney General’s Office.

Help Our Soldiers Call Home

The Texoma Chapter of the American Red Cross has announced a holiday project for American troops who will not be home for Christmas due to injuries received in the Middle east.

"Many soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines will not be able to travel home for Christmas due to the extent of their injuries," a Red Cross spokesman said. "These young warriors have significant wounds and thus will be in the hospital undergoing treatment and then rehab for quite some time."

Due to the nature of their injuries, these men and women can’t check out and go home for the holidays but they can make long distance calls to their families and loved ones.

The local Red Cross chapter is urging area residents to purchase domestic phone cards in denominations from $5 up and drop them off at the Red Cross office in Denison at 2527 Hwy. 691 or in Gainesville in the basement of the Cooke County Courthouse. Cards will then be shipped to a military liaison in Bethesda, MD. Deadline is December 17.

Additionally, cards would be welcomed for distribution to Texoma Area National Guard members who may soon be deployed, Sharon Watson, local Red Cross director said. This type card would need to be a prepaid GLOBAL phone card to be used overseas.

Domestic cards may be purchased at local retail outlets. Global cards may be purchased by visiting a special page on the Army Air force Exchange web page: www.aafes.com. When logged onto this page look for the message that says support our troops and get information from "Help Our Troops Call Home."

The gift of a card is far more portable and usable that bulk items, Watson said. It is also a gift that can be used year-round. For more information, call the Red Cross at 903-465-1330.

Texans say taxes, energy, transportation, are top priorities

Kay Bailey Hutchinson

This January, a new Congress will be sworn in and will begin setting its legislative priorities. As I contribute to the process on behalf of Texas, I use information I gather from many sources, including my annual Listening Post. In this year’s survey on domestic issues, you provided excellent feedback and suggestions for dealing with energy, transportation, tax relief, legal reform, and more.

The largest number of responses came in support of tax relief measures that, without congressional action, are set to expire in 2011. More than any other provision, the respondents said, relief from the Marriage Penalty was the item to preserve. Permanent elimination of the Death Tax, lower marginal tax rates on all income brackets, and maintenance of the higher child tax credit were also heavily supported.

Gordon and Nancy, from Richardson, summed up their position on tax relief in this way: "We don’t want this relief so much for ourselves as we do for our children and their children. We had hoped to leave them with a better world than the one we have now, or at least similar to what we remember from our growing up years."

Other comments were short and to the point. Lee, from Austin wrote, "The alternative minimum tax needs reform."

"Eliminate the income tax and IRS and institute a consumption tax," was the terse reply of Stephen, of Highlands.

Dale, who lives in Flower Mound, said he favored elimination of the Marriage penalty, lower marginal tax rates, and the higher child tax deduction, and added, "I also want a balanced budget."

Legal reform questions generated a large number of reactions. The greatest number approved prohibiting lawsuits against gun manufacturers. Medical liability and tort reform drew many responses on both sides. Fern, from Beaumont, argued, "Lawsuits and the threat of lawsuits are the only way to keep big business from putting out bad products and taking advantage of the little guy."
Carolynn, who hails from Friendswood, had a different take, saying she wants to see tort reform to prevent frivolous lawsuits from driving up insurance for doctors. "I lost my OB-GYN for this reason, and he was the best doctor I ever had," she wrote.

Energy policy generated many comments. Most of you said the United States should increase domestic oil and gas drilling and production, while nearly as many argued on behalf of renewable resources. Raising federal requirements for fuel efficiency was much less popular.

James, of Kilgore, said, "I believe our tax dollars are wasted on funding for solar and wind energy." John, of Pflugerville, counters that he wants, "Massive emergency federal funding research and development of alternative energy sources. Get out of dependency on foreign oil, NOW."

William, from San Antonio, speaks bluntly, "We have had 31 years since the OPEC oil embargo of 1973 and still we have no comprehensive energy policy. This is a disgrace."

The final category of questions addressed our state’s transportation needs. On a topic that generated the most answers for any single question in the survey, Texans wanted a fairer share of the gasoline taxes paid to build more roads. Raising those excise taxes received the lowest backing of any proposal in the survey. Almost as unpopular was the suggestion of an alternative way to finance highways through methods such as tolls. Conversely, many agreed we should increase funding for light rail and mass transit.

Michael, a Dallas resident, replied, "New taxes and tolls are not the answer. Increasing efficiency is…I, and everyone I have spoken to, find it hard to believe that there is no high-speed rail system connecting major Texas cities."

Marc, from Houston, agrees with half of what Michael says. "Tolls are bad because they are discriminatory," he wrote. "Gas taxes should be MUCH higher."

Thomas, of Bryan notes, "I do not believe gas taxes should be raised. However, getting people out of their vehicles and onto mass transit will be tough….I do not really have an answer."

With the help of your responses and other input from my fellow Texans, we can work together to develop practical answers to these and many other challenges face our state and nation. I really appreciate the time you took to weigh in…I am listening.