Local Students Collect Coins To Find A Cure

Stephenson and other Bonham schools will kickoff the 2004 Pennies For Patients Campaign benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. For three weeks, February 9- February 27, students will bring their spare pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters to school and contribute them to their classroom’s collection container. Their spare change will add up to save the lives of people touched by blood-related cancers.

In 2003, $11 million was raised by schools throughout the country which participated in School and Youth Programs like Pennies For Patients. Multi-Platinum Artist Mandy Moore will serve as the National Honorary Chairperson of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s School & Youth Programs. She will personally visit the top fund-raising school in the country at the end of the year.

Over 400 schools in the North Texas area are participating in the campaign. Funds raised through these schools support the Society’s mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Thanks to the fantastic efforts from last year, 515 North Texas schools raised over $495,000. This year, the goal is set at $600,000 and BISD is helping the North Texas Chapter reach that goal.

If you haven’t heard yet, the BISD Pennies For Patients Campaign kicked off on Monday, February 9. Stephenson School has participated in the campaign for five years now but this year, with Dr. Gist’s permission we have included the entire district. This is a very special year because our, "Honored Hero," (meaning all donations will be accepted in his name), is Justin Owens. Justin is a junior at BHS, who is giving Leukemia one tough fight, but desperately needs a bone marrow transplant. He doesn’t ever complain or give up. We can all learn so much from that alone. It is a goal to make Justin Owens feel like a HERO for at least the next three weeks, while at the same time make a lot of money for Pennies For Patients, which supports The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma- and to improve the quality of life for patients and their families. This program is not only helping to save lives but it teaches our children so many valuable qualities.

President Bush called on all Americans to dedicate at least two years of their lives to serve others back in January of 2002. He said, "America’s young people will be a powerful force in our effort to overcome evil with good. In the process of serving others, they will be helping communities, developing their personal characters, and learning about our civic traditions and institutions."

Also, February 9th was the last day for a St. Jude's donation drive on the radio station 99.5. This is a different charity but it is all about putting those cancer doctors out of business by finding cures through research. Cancer research has come a very long way already which is only possible because of the donations.

For more information on the program and its benefits call Jodi Hunt at 903-583-8141 ext. 2100.

By: Sarah Meek

Item number 7 was very important for the Fannin County Special. It was approved to give The Fannin County Special official designation for publishing public notices and advertisements on behalf of Fannin County. The Fannin County Special is now the paper of record for the city of Bonham and Fannin County.

In other business consideration and action on the bid, for the radio tower, proposal submitted by Choice Wireless, L.C. dba AmeriLink Wireless was disapproved. The Court has assigned Richard Glaser to renegotiate the bid. The tower’s bid will be compared to the KFYN tower, and a minimum bid will be set for the tower.

Other items that were approved on the agenda were:

•Consideration to approve Letter Agreement concerning funds required for housing Grayson County inmates in Fannin County Jail

•Resolution pertaining to grant application with TCOG for a Regional Solid Waste Grants Program

•Consideration and action to give permission for Precinct 2 to purchase equipment from City of Leonard

•Consideration and action to approve budget amendments for Office of Distric Clerk

•The Release of Security #429515DZ9 and replace with Cusip #3128X1GCF FHLMC

Habitat For Humanity Seeks Eligible Partner Families

What does Habitat for Humanity of Fannin County need? Donations of materials and cash to help build the first Habitat home in Fannin County?

Certainly. Volunteers to assist in all aspects of running the organization,

from committee members to construction workers to grant writers? Definitely. But most of all, Habitat needs eligible partner families to apply to become Habitat homeowners in Fannin County! Habitat for Humanity of Fannin County, Inc. is now accepting Mortgage Counseling Questionnaires for the purpose of determining financial eligibility for potential homeowners. To become a Habitat partner, an individual or family must:

•Be currently living in substandard housing

•Be willing to partner with Habitat to build the home

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

In addition, the individual/family must have lived in Fannin County for at least one year, and should have an acceptable history of credit and paying debts. To learn more, visit www.fanninhabitat.org, contact HFH at (888)

365-8901, or join us for our next meeting on Thursday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m., First Baptist Church in Honey Grove.

TFS Awards 2604 Grant To Fire Department

The Texas Forest Service has awarded the Savoy Volunteer Fire Department with a $657 cost-sharing grant from the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program for a computer system. House Bill 2604 enacted by the 77th Texas Legislature established the aid program, a $15 million annual cost-sharing program funded by contributions from the insurance industry and administered by the Texas Forest Service.

Since September 1 of last year, over $18.7 million in grants for equipment and training have been awarded to volunteer fire departments across the state under the 2604 program, as the aid program is also known.

"Requests for over $92.1 million in assistance have already been received, and additional requests are likely," stated Joe Fox, program manager with the TFS in Bryan. "These requests clearly indicate that the 2604 program addresses an unmet need of the state’s volunteer fire departments. The program obviously will have a backlog of requests for several years."

The needs of the volunteer fire community are tremendous, Fox said. He indicated that he wished the program could immediately fund each and every assistance request that has been received. Because the requests far exceeded appropriation of funds, though, the TFS has had to implement a rating system to guide program decision-makers in allocating existing funds.

For additional information about the program, contact: Emergency Services Grants Division, Texas Forest Service, 301 Tarrow, College Station, TX 77840, phone 979-458-6505. Fire departments can also obtain information via the Internet at: http://www.tamu.edu/ticc/.

By Tim Meek

A large crowd of Republicans from Grayson, Fannin, Cooke and Lamar counties gathered Thursday night the 12th for the 34th annual Grayson County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner. State Representative Larry Phillips was the Master of Ceremonies and introduced Governor Rick Perry as the keynote speaker. Perry laid out his plan for revamping school funding in Texas that would reward schools for excellence by making more than $500 million available to Texas schools based on the superior performance of their students. He also promised to continue efforts to make Texas a destination for new or existing businesses. The Republicans in attendance were urged to get out the vote on election day to show support for President George W. Bush.

Fannin County Republicans were well represented in attendance and as part of the program. Fannin County Republican Party Chairman Joe Ward introduced Congressman Ralph Hall to a crowd that was ready to receive him into the Republican Party. Congressman Hall made national news recently changing from the Democratic party to the Republican party on the eve of the primary filing deadline.

The event ended with a tribute to fallen heroes by Grayson County Sheriff Keith Gary and Senator Craig Estes offered the closing benediction.

Cell Phone And Road Rage Wrecks Increase

The number of cell phone-related and road rage-related collisions both increased in the latest statistical data compiled by DPS.

Cell phone-related traffic crashes increased from 716 to 1,032 from 2000 to 2001-a 44 percent increase. In cases where cell phone use was listed as a contributing factor, there were 7 fatalities in 2000 compared to 8 in 2001.

Road rage-related accidents jumped from 90 to 219-a 143 percent increase.

There was one fatality in both 2000 and 2001 that was attributed to road rage.

It is important to note that new accident reporting forms listing cell phones and road rage as contributing factors were not available until April 2000, so comparing the two years may not present an accurate picture.

"It is difficult to draw conclusions at this point, but the data probably understates the problem," said DPS Director Col. Thomas Davis Jr. "There is no doubt that cell phone misuse and road rage create major problems on Texas roadways."

The DPS urges drivers to minimize cell phone usage in their vehicle and refuse to be drawn into the road rage cycle.

House Bill 1549 by Representative Mary Denny implemented the Help America Vote Act in Texas. The following list outlines some of the changes to Texas election procedure caused by HB 1549:
• Requires a voter registration application to include certain information, including the applicant’s Texas driver’s license number or the number of a personal identification card issued by the Department of Public Safety;
•Requires the statewide list of registered voters to include each voter’s name and registration information and assign a unique identifier to each registered voter;
• Instead of using the challenge voter process, voters whose names do not appear on the voter registration roll, may vote a provisional ballot, which is not counted until the voter’s eligibility is verified after the election. Provisional voters must have a free access system to allow the voter to contact the elections office confidentially to find out whether his or her ballot was counted, and if not, the reason it was not counted;
• Requires a sample ballot to be posted at each polling place; and
• Prohibits the use of lever and punch card machines after January 1, 2006 and requires each polling place to provide at least one electronic accessible voting system.

More information on the Help America Vote Act, including a full list of requirements for states as well as actions taken by the State of Texas to implement the requirements, may be found on the Texas Secretary of State’s website at www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/hava/index.shtml.

Returning to a topic which was discussed in a recent Capitol Watch column, I have been contacted by a number of citizens in District 62 who read the column regarding the Texas Comptroller’s Unclaimed Property list and were surprised to find that they had property being held by the state. I encourage everyone again to check the Comptroller’s website at www.window.state.tx.us/up or call 1(800) 654-FIND (3463) to see if unclaimed property is being held for you. Also, please note that the unclaimed property provisions apply to businesses as well, not just to individuals.

Please feel free to contact me if I may be of assistance regarding any matter of state government. You can contact me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state..tx.us.

Local School Received Visit From Mobile Dairy Classroom

Savoy Elementary received a visit from the Mobile Dairy Classroom on Monday, February 3. The students learned how a dairy works and the benefits of milk. The arrangements for this visit were made by Rick Maxwell, Fannin County Agricultural Extension Agent.

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Chicken & Dumplings, Pea Salad, Glazed Carrots, Bread, Raisin Apple Cobbler, Milk

Beef Stew, Oven Fried Okra, Cheese Slice, Cornbread, Jello W/ OJ & Pineapple, Milk

Meatloaf/ Creole Sauce, Black Eyed Peas, Turnips & Turnip Greens, Cornbread, Pudding, Milk

Turkey Noodle Casserole, Mexicali Corn, Green Beans, Bread, Cake W/ Pears, Milk

Hot Dogs, Texas Bean Soup, Sauerkraut Salad, Cornbread, Gingerbread, Milk

Marshall, Texas- The Texas Alpha Zeta Chapter of Alpha Chi recently inducted 14 East Texas Baptist University students into its cross-disciplinary national honor society.

The qualifications to be a member: must be a student at ETBU for a year before the semester of invitation; voted on by the faculty; must be a junior or senior; must have a grade point average of 3.0 or better; and be in the upper 10% of his or her class.

Mark B. Jackson from Bonham was among the 14 selected.

Chartered in 1912, ETBU is a four year Christian liberal arts university accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, National Association of Schools of Music, Commissions of Collegiate Nursing Education and the Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas. ETBU provides for its students, faculty and staff "A World of Opportunity in a Community of Faith."

(AUSTIN) -- Helping Texas prisoners become industry-certified, productive, free world employees is the challenge of Career and Technology Education (CTE) teachers in the Windham School District (WSD). This month, 181 Windham CTE teachers statewide are being recognized during Vocational Education Week (Feb 9-15) for efforts to help offenders learn valuable job skills - and avoid returning to prison. These correctional educators are certified by the Texas Education Agency and are also required to hold appropriate industry certification for their trade, making them some of the most highly certified vocational instructors in Texas.

"Industry certifications earned by Windham students assure employers that certificate holders are equipped with valuable skills, knowledge, and work competencies," said Marjie Haynes, Windham Division Director for Instruction. "These portable credentials are based on industry standards, which provide a clear description of jobs and skills needed to succeed in the free world. The standards are a common language among employers throughout the nation, marking a certificate holder as a competent craftsman who is able to do a required job."

Last school year, CTE instructors trained 15,298 offenders. Current courses include specialized training in 32 trade areas such as automotive electronics, plant maintenance, business computer information systems, and landscaping. Other courses include computer maintenance technician, computer-aided drafting, mill and cabinetmaking, plumbing, construction carpentry, and electrical trades. The newest CTE program is Business Information Management and Multimedia (BIMM), offering offenders training in digital aspects of the printing industry.

Opportunities to earn industry certifications are also accompanied by chances to gain work experience during incarceration. Offenders who complete Windham CTE programs are frequently assigned to related jobs within the prison system. While gaining work experience, their labor offsets the cost of incarceration. Windham CTE students may also volunteer for community service projects within prison walls, such as building cabinets or framing new homes for Habitat for Humanity Families.

The Windham School District was created in 1969 and was the first education system of such scope to be established with a statewide system. It has been accredited by the Texas Education Agency since September, 1970.

"Windham has a long-standing tradition of excellence in correctional education," said WSD Superintendent Dr. Ron Bradford. "We’re proud of the daily work done by our CTE instructors. They help make it possible for offenders to obtain entry-level employment in high-skill, viable wage jobs after release. We will strive to keep improving our programs and efforts to fight recidivism."

Attorney General Abbott Wins Over $1 Million In Refunds For Customers Of Dietary Supplements Company

Bankrupt Mark Nutritionals Inc. Of San Antonio To Make Refunds To 11,400 Customers

AUSTIN - A San Antonio federal bankruptcy judge recently agreed with Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott and signed an order for settlement that will result in $1.1 million in refunds to thousands of consumers who bought falsely advertised weight-loss products from Mark Nutritionals Inc. of San Antonio. The refunds apply to consumers who bought certain products after the company filed for bankruptcy.

The settlement between Attorney General Abbott and the court-appointed trustee of the failed dietary supplement manufacturer closes the book on a scheme to mass-market products with the trade name Body Solutions Evening Weight Loss Formula. The company falsely advertised that by using the product, consumers could burn fat and lose weight during sleep, without diet or exercise.

"This should send a warning that my office will vigorously pursue unscrupulous businesses that violate the public trust and break consumer laws, whether they’re in bankruptcy or not," Abbott noted. "I am pleased the judge agreed with our assessment that bankruptcy court is no place for unlawful businesses to hide."

About 11,400 customers nationwide -- 2,000 of them in Texas - purchased products directly from Mark Nutritionals while it sought to reorganize its business under Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Under the terms of the settlement, these consumers will receive 100 percent of their purchase price back as restitution.

Customers who purchased products while a company is in bankruptcy must be paid prior to customers who did business with the company before it fled for protection. Although other consumers nationwide may be owed as much as $190 million for purchases they made, the bankruptcy estate will not have sufficient funds to make these refunds.

The settlement also secures an important privacy protections for consumers. The company’s database listing of confidential personal information about its customers must be destroyed, including all credit card and other financial information. In addition, the company’s Internet domain name will not be sold and may be transferred to the state to be used, at its discretion, as a government site for consumer health information and education.

Abbott’s Consumer Protection Division sued the company in December 2002, following Mark Nutritionals’ filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Then in April 2003, Abbott’s office helped persuade the bankruptcy court to place the company in Chapter 7 liquidation.

Last fall, the Attorney General obtained a settlement with two original owners, Harry Siskind and Edward D’Alessandro Jr., and Siskind’s wife, Patti. They were placed under injunction and ordered to pay $475,000 in fees and penalties to the state of Texas.

Notice is hereby given that on the 16th day of February, 2004, at 6:00 p.m. the Board of Trustees of the Bonham School District will hold a regular meeting at the Bonham ISD Administration Building, 1717 North Center Street, Bonham, Texas 75418. The subjects to be discussed are listed on the agenda which is attached to and made a part of this Notice.

If during the course of the meeting covered by this Notice, the Board of Trustees should determine that a closed session of the Board of Trustees is required, then. such closed session as authorized by the Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code Section 551.001. et seq., will be held by the School Board at the date, hour, and place given in this Notice as the School Board may conveniently meet in such closed session concerning any and all purposes permitted by the Act, including, but not limited to the following sections and purposes:

551.071 Private Consultation with the board’s secretary.

551.072 Discussing purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property.

551.073 Discussing negotiated contracts for prospective gifts or donations.

551.074 Discussing personnel or to hear complaints against personnel.

551.075 To confer with employees of the school district ot receive information or to ask questions.

551.076 Considering the deployment, specific occasions for, or implementation of security personnel or devices.

551.082 Considering discipline of a public school child, or complaint or charge against personnel.

551.083 Considering the standards, guidelines, terms, or conditions the board will follow, or will instruct its representative to follow, in consultation with representatives of employee groups.

551.084 Excluding witnesses from a hearing.

Should any final action, final decision, or final vote be required in the opinion of the School Board. with regard to any matter considered in such closed session, then the final action, final decision., or final vote shall, be either:

(a) in. the open. meeting covered by the Notice upon the reconvening of the public meeting; or at a subsequent public meeting of the School Board upon notice as the School Board shall determine.

On this 11th day of February, 2004, this Notice was faxed to the news media who had previously requested such Notice and an original copy was posted at the School District Administration Building at 1:00 p.m. on said date.

Specialty License Plates Promote Scouting In Texas

If you haven’t bought their cookies or popcorn already, you can promote your local Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts another way. This month, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and local county tax assessor-collectors offices are featuring the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts specialty license plates and motorists can purchase them for a $30 annual fee.

"Scouting is a great way for children and adolescents to gain the values and skills that help them develop into well-rounded adults," said Pam Sweet-Richardson, tax assessor-collector for Fannin County. "These license plates provide motorists with a great opportunity to promote these scouting organizations that play such an important role in the growth of our children."

The Boy Scouts of America license plate features the organization’s emblem on the left side of the plate. The phrase "Scouting teaches values" runs along the bottom. The Girl Scouts specialty license plate includes the Girl Scout logo with the words "Where girls grow strong" on the bottom of the plate.

These license plates are available to motorists for a $30 annual fee, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular vehicle registration fees. Of the $30 annual fee for the Boy Scouts specialty plate, $22 is appropriated to the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse for drug abuse prevention programs. The portion of the annual fee ($22) for the Girl Scouts plate is used to make grants that benefit educational projects sponsored by the Girl Scout Councils of Texas.

Applications for the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts specialty plates are available at county tax offices, on TxDOT’s web site (www.dot.state.ts.us), by calling the TxDOT Help Desk at (512) 465-7611, or TxDOT’s Fax On Demand forms line at (888) 232-7033. Customers requesting orders for specialty license plates through the fax service should enter the code 0999 to receive the form for the license plate thy are ordering.

TxDOT started its specialty license plate program in 1965. Today, there are more than 100 different plate designs, many of them benefiting a particular group, organization, college or university. Since 1994, more than $10 million has been raised for sponsoring organizations, colleges or universities.

For more information, call Pam Sweet-Richardson, Fannin County Tax Assessor-Collector at 903-583-7493.

IRS Has $203 Million For Texans Who Did Not File Their Taxes In 2000

DALLAS - More than 158,000 Texans could face loosing refunds totaling $203 million dollars because they did not file tax returns in 2000. Half of the people who could claim refunds would receive more than $563, according to Internal Revenue Service estimates, but, in order to collect their money, a tax return must be filed with an IRS office no later than April 15, 2004.

In some cases, people had taxes withheld from their wages, or made payments against their taxes out of self-employed earnings, but had too little income to require filing a tax return. Some taxpayers may also be eligible for the refundable Earned Income Tax Credit.

"The clock is running if you want to get your refund," said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson. "People who aren’t required to file sometimes overlook that they had tax withheld. Don’t wait until it’s too late. We want all taxpayers to get the refund they’re due."

In cases where a return was not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. If a return is not filed to claim the refund within three years, the money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury. For 2000 returns, the window closes on April 15, 2004. The law requires that the return be properly addressed, postmarked and mailed by that date. There is no penalty assessed by the IRS for filing a late return qualifying for a refund.

The IRS reminds taxpayers seeking a 2000 refund that their checks will be held if they have not filed tax returns for 2001 or 2002. In addition, the refund will be applied to any amounts still owed to the IRS and may be used to satisfy unpaid child support or past due federal debts such as student loans.

By failing to file a return, individuals stand to lose more than refunds of taxes withheld or paid during 2000. Many low-income workers may not have claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Although eligible taxpayers may get a refund when their EITC is more than their tax, those who file returns more than three years late would be able only to offset their tax. They would not be able to receive refunds if the credit exceeded their tax.

Generally, individuals qualified for the EITC in 2000 if they earned less than $31,152 and had more than one qualifying child living with them, less than $27,413 with one qualifying child, or less than $10,380 and had no qualifying child.

Current and prior year tax forms are available on the IRS Web site (www.irs.gov) or by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676). Taxpayers who need help also can call the IRS help line at 1-800-829-1040.

Correct Use Of Child Safety Seats Vital Ingredient In Saving Lives

Child passenger restraints can save the lives of children in autos. But those child safety seats need to be used correctly, according to safety experts at the Texas Department of Health (TDH).

"More than 81 percent of child restraints are used incorrectly," said Frank Luera of TDH’s traffic injury control program. "Correct installation and use of child safety seats are vital because motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 2 to 14."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, child safety seats reduce the risk of death by 71 percent for infants less than a year old and by 54 percent for toddlers ages 1 to 4.

Common child safety seat problems include the seat belt not holding the seat tightly, harness straps not snugly restraining the child and harness clips not at the armpit level. One third of children age 14 and under ride in the wrong restraint type for their age and size, Luera said.

Guidelines for child restraints are to:

• Use rear-facing seats in the back seat with children until they are at least 1 year old and weigh 20 pounds;

• Use forward-facing toddler seats in the back seat with children ages 1 to about 4 who weigh 20 to 40 pounds;

• Use booster seats in the back seat with children from about ages 4 to 8 who weigh at least 40 pounds and who measure less than 4 feet 9 inches;

• Use safety belts for children 8 years old and older who are 4 feet 9 inches or taller; and

• Be sure all children age 12 and younger ride safely secured in the back seat.

Several SAFE KIDS Coalitions across Texas are having safety events to mark Child Passenger Safety Week, Feb. 8 – 14. (List follows.)

"Child safety seat checkups give adults a way to be sure a child’s seat is safe and being used correctly," Luera said. "Drivers also should read and follow the directions that come with the safety seat and review the child restraint section of their vehicle owner’s manual."

Statewide Child Passenger Safety Week Events Austin SAFE KIDS

• Booster Seat Workshop, 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 9, Children’s Hospital of Austin, One Children’s Place, Austin;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 11, Henna Chevrolet, 8805 N. I-35, Austin;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 3 – 6 p.m. Feb. 13, San Marcos Police Department, 2300 S. I-35, San Marcos.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 9, Sonshine Day-Care, 7623 Wilcox, El Paso;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 13, Thomason Hospital, 4815 Alameda, El Paso;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 14, Alamo Auto Supply, 5923 Trowbridge Dr., El Paso;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, noon to 4 p.m., Babies R Us, 1327 George Dieter Dr., El Paso.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 12, Allen Samuel’s Chevrolet, 7000 Southwest Freeway, Houston.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 9, Guadalupe Valley Hospital, 1215 E. Court, Seguin;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 1 – 3 p.m. Feb. 10, Nelson Wolff Stadium, 5151 Highway 90, San Antonio;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 11, Wal-Mart, 1209 I-35, New Braunfels;

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 12, Southwest Texas Regional Hospital, 1901 Highway 97 East,  Jourdanton.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 3 – 5 p.m. Feb. 12, Plains Chevrolet Service Center, 2200 I-40 East, Amarillo.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 1 – 3 p.m. Feb. 14, West Texas Medical Associates, 3501 Knickerbocker Rd., San Angelo.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 14, Allen Samuel’s Chevrolet, 2118 S. Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi.

• Child Safety Seat Checkup, 2 – 6 p.m. Feb. 12, Dink Wardlaw Building, 302 E. 17th, Del Rio.

Safety Checkups were held earlier in the month by the Austin SAFE KIDS in Round Rock; the Dallas Area SAFE KIDS, Children’s Medical Center of Dallas; the Tarrant County SAFE KIDS, Cook Children’s Medical Center; Texas State SAFE KIDS Coalition, Texas Department of Health, in Austin and Laredo; and the Waco-McLennan County SAFE KIDS in Waco.

2-1-1 Dialing Code For Free Health And Human Service

2-1-1 is a three digit dialing code for free health and human service information that has been available in Fannin County for over a year.

The Texoma Area Information and Access Center is the answering point for 2-1-1 in the Texoma area. 2-1-1 is available 24/7 from any landline phone in Cooke, Grayson and Fannin counties.

When you don’t know who to call for social service information, call 2-1-1 and our trained information specialists will be able to assist you to connect to available resources.

TMC Announces Workforce Reduction

In an effort to achieve a balanced budget in Fiscal Year 2004, Texoma Medical Center has implemented a reduction in its workforce. Twenty (20) employees were affected by the reduction on Monday, February 9th. These employee reductions represent 1.4 percent of the total workforce. The workforce reduction is the result of increasing numbers of uninsured patients and bad debt that TMC has faced in recent years.

"This is a very sad day for all of us at TMC," said W. Mackey Watkins, MD, President/CEO of Texoma HealthCare System. "The combination of denied, delayed or reduced payments from insurers; the ever growing amount of charity care that we have and the increased amounts of uncompensated care is affecting hospitals and healthcare systems nationwide. These factors are complicated further by increases in supplies and materials expense that TMC must acquire to provide services to its patients. To lessen the impact on staff, we have, wherever possible, eliminated positions that were already vacant. However, some valued employees have lost their jobs. While we have been forced to eliminate positions that we would prefer to keep, we remain confident that the reductions will not have a negative impact on the quality of our patient care," continued Dr. Watkins.

In addition to workforce reductions, TMC is taking other steps to reduce costs that are not related to labor. "Despite these challenges, our patients should know that they will receive high quality of care at Texoma Medical Center. Our commitment and dedication to high-quality patient care remains constant."

Big Project Under Way In Small Community

In the small Northeast Texas town of Ben Franklin, a big project is under way that will benefit not only the 100-plus residents, but also those in the nearby area.

The project starts with the Ben Franklin Community Church and will proceed to include several community outreach programs, including after-school programs, a day care, food pantry, job search and interview support, and several ministries targeting seniors, youth, and inmates.

"These programs are forthcoming, but the building has to come first," commented Shanna Hoskison, long-time Ben Franklin resident and church member.

Already conducting church services in a borrowed, downtown-area building, church members know ultimately a building is needed, and more importantly, the programs planned by the church are also needed.

"Often the little bitty towns get passed up, and funds go to the larger cities where there are more people," Hoskison explained. "But even if we have just 10 people in need of a service, those 10 people are just as important."

Al Clark, Ben Franklin Community Church pastor, added detail about some of the planned programs’ benefits: "In today’s economy, it takes both Mom and Dad to make ends meet, and we want to give kids a secure after-school environment. And, when it comes to day care for small children, there’s not anything around here, except maybe over-extended grandparents and day-care in neighboring cities."

Plans are to begin the foundation work for the new building around the first of June, Clark said. The goal is to have the building, and programs, established by spring 2005.

"The primary purpose of this building is obvious, but in addition to being a church fellowship, we hope the facility will be used in many ways to contribute to the community and surrounding area," Hoskison said.

Church members have long been involved in raising funds to support community projects, missionaries, and other endeavors, even when their own need for a new building is in their plans. Recently, BFCC’s children and youth began an ongoing "penny march." The first march, concluded after two months of collecting pennies, raised over $200 which was sent to a missionary in Kenya, Africa.

Clark, who was "born and raised in Winnsboro," has worked to help pioneer several churches in the Northeast Texas area, including Winnsboro, Hawkins and Paris. "In the beginning, many of the programs will be served by volunteers; but the main person, who will oversee the outreach programs, will be a paid position," he added.

Church & community members have begun promoting the building project, which is the initial step in their endeavor, by posting information on the community’s website, mailing out newsletters, and having the efforts mentioned in newspaper columns. One community member, who wishes to remain anonymous, has already risen to the occasion and donated a 2-acre plat for the building. Anyone wanting to assist with the Ben Franklin Community Church’s building project, can call Hoskison at 903-325-4344, or visit the website at:  http://benfranklintx.faithsite.com

2004 Fannin County Walkamerica Announces Important Dates

March of Dimes answers the call for answers in Fannin County by announcing the important dates for the annual WalkAmerica Campaign. The event will officially kick off at the Leadership Luncheon, to be held Thursday March 4, 2004 at the Family Life Center in Bonham, 11:45am to 1:00pm. Invitations will be mailed out shortly.

Almost one week later, Team Captains from businesses, schools and groups of friends will gather for an Orientation Meeting on Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at the TDCJ – Buster Cole Unit in Bonham, 11:45am – 1:00pm. WalkAmerica will be reviewed in full detail so that everyone understands their task and why it is so important. Important materials will be distributed and questions answered.

It’s important that all team captains attend the Orientation as it will be another month before they meet again to review logistics and collection procedures and get any additional materials needed. The second Team Captain’s Meeting will also be at TDCJ – Buster Cole Unit in Bonham on Wednesday, April 7, 2004, from 11:45am – 1:00pm.

Bank Collection Days will be held during the week before the Walk, April 19 – 23, 2004 at American Bank of Texas in Bonham, 9:00am – 4:00pm. All monies raised for the Walk by the teams will be due.

On Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 9:00am in Fort Inglish Park, Bonham, the day will begin with a great culmination of hard work as the teams take off on a walk through Bonham in honor of March of Dimes.

WalkAmerica is March of Dimes largest annual fundraiser that promotes awareness of premature births and the effects it has on lives. Money raised goes toward research to discover the causes of early births and eradicate them whenever possible. For more information or to sign up, contact March of Dimes at 1-888-MODIMES or www.marchofdimes.com. For local information, go to www.modnt.org.

Debbie Arnold Was Recently Awarded The God And Service Award From The First United Methodist Of Leonard, And The Boy Scouts Of America.

Ms. Debbie Arnold has been very influential in the lives of the youth in Leonard Texas. She has been very active in the Boy Scouts of America and a constant fiber in the youth of the First United Methodist Church of Leonard Texas.

As a Cub Scout leader she served one year as a Tiger Cub coach. One year as a Wolf den leader and another as a Bear den leader. She served three years as an assistant Cub Master and has also served as the popcorn chairperson for three years. She initiated the Cub Scout carnival and Cub Scout treasure hunts. She has proven herself through hours of dedication and servitude for the Boy Scouts of America.

Ms Debbie has been a long time Sunday school teacher. Last year she brought the twelve disciples to life by bringing adults into the children’s classroom dressed for the part telling about themselves. She has been involved with the singing in the nursing home with the children on the second Sunday of the month for at least the past five years. She has been the Sunday school superintendent for many years directing the classes from the 1st to the 12th grade. She has had a lot of influence with different plays at Christmas and the singing programs of the youth. She is now the leader of the Youth Choir. She has directed the Vacation Bible School for at least seven years bringing this program to a two month annual project that manifests itself into one of the largest vacation bible schools in our area. Teaching children that God loves them and not to forget to love each other. She is a sponsor of the youth classes in Leonard and helps with "Just for Kids" program for smaller children. She is a long standing member of the United Methodist Women and has served as their secretary. She is now serving her second year as their president.

Debbie has also helped in the community with the KOOL lunch program bringing lunches in the summer to children who might not have a lunch of their own. She has recently volunteered to start distributing commodities. She also goes to the elementary school and reads to children on an individual basis as a book buddy. It is our understanding there are two different children she has adopted as book buddies.

As you can see Ms. Debbie is a very special person in the lives of our children. For these reasons and many more we are so proud of our remarkable Ms Debbie Arnold.

Bonham High School One Act Play Performs

The Bonham High School Theater Department is presenting for public viewing, the one act play they will perform for 2004 UIL Competition- the delightful comedy, Daddy’s Dying’ Who’s Got The Will?, by Del Shores

Buford Turnover (Daddy) has had a stroke and he’s losing his mind. This bittersweet comedy about a Texas family of feuding siblings will have you roaring with laughter one minute and emotionally touched the next. Each family member has a burning desire to find the will and discover whether they are in or out of the inheritance circle. Real people- perhaps the Turnovers resemble a family you know.

The Public Performance is at the Bonham Main Street Auditorium on March 5th and March 6th at 7:00 p.m. both nights. Advanced Tickets are $3.00 and go on sale February 16th at Bonham State Bank and Cole Title. Tickets at the door on the performance nights are $5.00.

The cast includes: Sarah Medley- Sara Lee Turnover, Katia Caylor- Mama Wheelis, Paul Talley- Harmony Rhodes, Mike Talley- Buford Turnover, Brei Goodwin- Lurlene Turnover Rogers, Erin Jones- Evalita Turnover, Akasha Eaton- Marlene Turnover, James Igo- Orville Turnover.

The crew includes: Cassie Sigrist- Stage Manager, Edward Ray- Lights, Leia Jones- Costume and Make Up, Sterling Wells- Properties Chief, Hailey Smith- Sounds, Actor Alternates: Austin Bennet, Rachel Eskue, Tristen Robertson, and Sarah Davis- Director. The play is produced with permission Samuel French, Inc.

Animal abuse happens all over the world, even here in Texoma. And while it’s always a tragedy, it often goes unnoticed.

When Thoa Allen received a phone call of a horse being starved to death on FM 898 to Lake Bonham, she got in her car and went to investigate. What stood before her eyes was the worst she had ever seen. The horses ribs stuck out. Her coat was ragged. Her flanks were caved in. As Allen stood there, her emotions overwhelmed her. She did not ask herself "Why", but vow to turn this negative situation into a positive one.

We, as a human race cannot forget to "Feel." If a person is capable of abusing animals, it has proven that eventually they will escalate to human crime. To say I don’t want to get involved or it’s not my business is not solving the problem but contributing silently to the situation.

"Braveheart" was a movie by Mel Gibson. Though outwardly she looks weak, and pitiful, Thoa Allen saw strength, determination, and most of all, "A Will To Live."

Thoa Allen did call the Fannin County Sheriff Department, who informed her the horse had in fact already been rescued. Anita Adams, also a local resident, had been caring for and rehabilitating the horse for nearly two weeks.

A sigh of relief was taken over and Allen decided to leave Anita Adams a note. "I have rescued horses, but never saw one this bad. If you need my assistance or advice, please don’t hesitate to call me."

Adams did. She told Allen she had been caring for the horse for nearly two weeks. Although she was doing everything in her power to help the horse, she realized it needed more. Adams then asked if Allen would like to take this horse.

"I was elated," Allen said. "Because of Anita’s big and noble heart, it enabled me to rehabilitate this horse and remind me that life is what you make of it. You have choices. The animals don’t."

For Braveheart to look like this, did not take a couple of weeks or a couple of months, it took many, months.

Thoa Allen added that there are options when a person can no longer care for their animals, organizations like SPCA in McKinney, 972-562-7297 or Friends of Fannin County Critter Corner, 903-583-1652 and asked for assistance in what to do.

In Braveheart’s case, she is an older horse but that is no excuse for not feeding her. As we age, our body doesn’t function like it used to, but we still feel hunger. The other option is to ask the media to do a story to find a home for the animal when everything else has failed. Sometimes, local veterinarians will work with you if finances is a problem.

There’s law to protect animal rights, prisonment and fines are the penalty but due to the lack of funds, knowledge, and space here in Fannin County Sheriff Department, they are only able to do with what they can. It’s up to each and everyone of us to report abuse and be the voice for the animals. It takes a "Village" to make a difference.

"Braveheart" will live out her life on the Flat Iron Ranch, a 350+ acres with two lakes and when the weather is bad, she goes into an insulated barn. Within 3-6 months, when her health improves, she will join up with the other Allen horses.

Thoa Allen also stated, "The statistics say that there are over 10 million animals being abused and neglected every year, and over 4 million dogs and cats are euphonized." In seven years, one pair of unsterilized dogs can produce almost 4,500 puppies. Cats over the same period, can produce more than 73,000 kittens. We have a choice to be part of a "Solution" or to be part of a "Problem." Pick one.

Flat Iron Ranch

Mrs. T. Allen

3057 County Road 4245

Bonham, Texas 75418

Phone: 903-583-2709

Fax: 903-583-4559

E-mail:thoaboballen@yahoo.com

Washington, DC- The Request for Proposals for the Water 2025 Challenge Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2004 is now available online at www.doi.gov/water2025.

The $4 million Challenge Grant Program is seeking proposals from irrigation and water districts that want to leverage their money and resources in partnership with Reclamation, to make more efficient use of existing water supplies through water conservation, efficiency and water market projects. The program will focus on achieving the outcomes identified in Interior Secretary Gale Norton’s Water 2025: Preventing Crises and Conflict in the West, particularly in water conservation and efficiency, water markets, and collaboration, with an emphasis on projects that can be completed within 24 months and that reduce future water conflicts.

"The goal of Water 2025-- and these challenge grants-- is to support realistic, cooperative approaches and tools that have the most likelihood of successfully addressing water challenges in basins where crisis and conflict are preventable," Secretary Norton said. "Water 2025 is focused on local solutions in partnership with local water users. It is not a big federal program."

The deadline for submitting proposals in April 8, 2004. Selection and award will be in May or June with implementation beginning in early August of this year.

Examples of proposals Reclamation is seeking include development of water accounts that would provide a way to market water for other existing needs, including agriculture; retrofitting and modernizing existing facilities to achieve better water management through use of new technology; and canal lining or construction of new measurement devices that will allow for more accurate measurement and accounting, leading to increased efficiency.

Eligible entities include irrigation and/ or water districts legally created and organized under state law, within the states identified in the Reclamation Act of June 17, 1902, as amended and supplemented. Specifically, these states are Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

The grants program is being funded under the Western Water Initiative, which was proposed by President George W. Bush in his Fiscal Year 2004 budget request. The Western Water Initiative was the initial step towards Water 2025, which was announced by Secretary Norton in June 2003. President Bush has requested $20 million for Water 2025 activities in FY 2005.

Water 2025 will help manage scarce water resources and develop partnerships to nourish a healthy environment and sustain a vibrant economy. They will encourage voluntary water banks and other market-based measures, promote the use of new technology for water conservation and efficiency, and remove institutional barriers to increase cooperation and collaboration among federal, state, tribal, and private organizations.

Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits.

February Bonham City Commissioners Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The minutes of the January 12th and 26th meetings and a Financial Report were both approved.

To start off the evening, Bill Munger shared his comments on the BEDCO Board construction of the expo center for the Fannin County Multi-Purpose Complex, Inc.

A public hearing was held on behalf of the City of Bonham issuing a series of tax notes in the principal amount of $250,000 to fund the T-Hangers at the municipal airport but no one had any problem, or discussion about it.

Next, Joe Moss, from the Kiwanis Club, asked the Commission for permission to place a gate across the west extension of Fifth Street between the Fort Inglish Park property and the privately leased Peeler property and a temporary fence along the west boundary of the property. A few people at the meeting didn’t agree with the idea Mr. Moss brought to the Commission, but the Commission voted 4-1, Glen Taylor being against it, to giving the Kiwanis Club permission to place a gate and a temporary fence along the west entrance to Ft. Inglish Park.

The Bonham EMS proposed new fees for transportation, treatment, therapy and supplies. Last month, Bonham EMS responded to 47 no transport calls which they currently have no way to recoup costs for. The new fees will charge $125 for no transport calls, but there is a gray area included. Paramedics will have discretion over whether the person should actually be charged. Malicious false alarms and prank calls will be charged. So, on the scene treatment without transportation will be charged $125 plus the cost of any supplies used. The fees were approved 5-0.

In other business; consideration to engage the services of a firm to prove a Needs Assessment and a Facilities Master Plan for a capital improvement program was approved 5-0, consideration to appoint an individual, Keith Shriver, to fill un-expired term on the Planning and Zoning Commission and to appoint an individual, Curtis Smith, as an alternate was approved 4-1, David Henderson being against. Also, donations were accepted of property from respective owners, Coastal Capital Corp and Myra Alfred Partnership, Consideration on proposal from Terracon for performing soil and water testing at Lake Bonham was approved along with the consideration to order a municipal election to be held May 15, 2004 to elect City Commissioners from Ward Nos. 2,3, and 4.

March Of Dimes, Lions Camps And Air Force Association Featured On License Plates

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Fanning County Tax Assessor- Collector’s office are pleased to announce three new specialty license plates now available for Texas motorists. The March of Dimes specialty plate will help raise funds for the birth defect registry. An Air Force Association specialty plate will provide funds for that organization’s programs. Sales of the new Texas Lions Camp specialty plate will create funds for wilderness camps for children with disabilities and medical conditions. All three of these new plates were authorized by the 78th Legislature.

"The March of Dimes specialty plate is a unique way for motorists to support the prevention of birth defects of all babies in Texas," said Pam Sweet-Richardson, tax assessor-collector for Fannin County. "Drivers can also choose to support the programs of the Air Force Association or the Texas Lions Camp by displaying either of these organizations plates on their vehicles."

The March of Dimes specialty plate features the official logo of the March of Dimes against a yellow background with the phrase, "Saving babies together" below the graphic. The Air Force Association specialty plate design includes an emblem of a five-pointed star with wings. The words, "Air Force Association" appear at the bottom of the plate. The Texas Lions Camp specialty plate features a blue silhouette of the state on the left side with two disabled children in the foreground.

These specialty license plates are now available for passenger vehicles and light trucks for $30 annually, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular registration fees. Of the $30 annual fee, $22 will be used to fund programs of the sponsoring organization.

Applications for the March of Dimes, Air Force Association, and Texas Lions Camp plates are availbable at county tax offices, on TxDOT’s web site www.dot.state.tx.us, by calling TxDOT Help Desk at (512)465-7611, or TxDOT’s Fax-On-Demand forms line at (888) 232-7033. Customers requesting orders for specialty license plates through the fax service should enter the code 0999 to receive the form for the license plate thy are ordering.

TxDOT started its specialty license plate program in 1965. Today, there are more than 100 different plate designs, many of them benefiting a particular group, organization, college or university.

For more information, call Pam Sweet Richardson, Tax assessor-collector at 903-583-7493.

Boyd Baptist Church is hosting a Kids for Christ Praise Rally with Keith Coast on Sat. Feb. 21^st 6:30 PM-8:30 PM! It’s for Kids and "Big Kids at Heart!" We’ll sing Fun, Interactive Sing-a longs, High Energy Songs with Lots of Hand Motions, and Praise and Worship Songs! There will be Solid Teaching, Giveaways and More!

Then on the following Sun. morning, Feb. 22^nd, at 9:45 AM the Children’s Sunday School Classes will join together in the Fellowship Hall with Keith Coast, Children’s Evangelist/Comedian, from Lawton, OK. During the morning worship service at 11:00 AM, we will enjoy Worship & Praise with Keith Coast. Don’t Miss It!!!!

Savoy Elementary Students Celebrate Chinese New Year

In past weeks the third grade classes of Savoy Elementary have been studying and celebrating the Chinese New Year. This year, the celebration invoked on January 15th and came to a close on January 22nd, in accordance with the lunar year. The classes got the celebration started with a dragon parade around campus followed by a sampling of authentic Chinese cuisine. Each day thereafter they learned more about the customs and superstitions that accompany the celebration as well as the Chinese Zodiac. Along with all of the fun activities, Mrs. Grant’s and Mrs. Green’s students also learned about some of the living and working conditions experienced by those living in Communist societies.

Dewayne Strickland Seeks Re-Election County Commissioner Pct. 3

I would like to take this opportunity to announce that I will be seeking a third term as County Commissioner Pct. 3. I am married to Debra Dockrey Strickland and together we have 5 children, 7 grandchildren, and 1 due in June. We live in Honey Grove and attend Westside Baptist Church. I have had the honor of serving you for the past 7 years as your commissioner. On January 1st of 1997 when I took office, most of the equipment was inoperable and many roads were close to being impassable. If you remember a few of the roads made the channel 12 news. We started working hard to improve the roads until Christmas 2000 when the ice storm took down trees closing every road in the precinct. The flooding took out culverts and bridges in several locations. We have continued to work hard and now have many dirt roads that are rocked. What precinct three is working towards is to try and chip seal as many roads in precinct 3 as possible. This will take time and money. I work close with all the cities and schools in my precinct, because the citizens in town pay county taxes to." Through interlocal agreements we have done street repairs and rebuilt ball fields for all four school districts. I have worked to keep your taxes as low as possible, but our demand for service keeps growing. When taking office there were three employees, now there are ten. I work close with the Forestry Service and Soil Conservation to benefit from their services and programs. One thing I would like to see is an additional county agent added for the 4-H clubs in the county. These 4-H clubs are growing and our children are our future. Lets keep working together to better Fannin County. I would like to take this time to say thank you for your continued support and remember your vote counts. Please vote March 9th, in the Democrat Primary.

Thank you

Dewayne Strickland

Attorney General Abbott wins $5 million for Texas Taxpayers in Medicaid Fraud Settlement

Payment by HCA Inc. closes the book on case

AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has received a final payment from health care provider HCA Inc. on behalf of the state’s Medicaid program, a $5 million settlement that corrects years of fraudulent cost reporting, and over-billing to state and federal Medicaid programs.

The total recovery of funds to both state and federal government totals $9.5 million, including a $2.6 million criminal penalty to the state of Texas, for engaging in such conduct over time. To date, the company has paid about $1.7 billion in damages and penalties to several states and the federal government for criminal and civil violations of the law. This is considered the largest recovery ever reached by the government in a health care fraud investigation.

"We are closing the book on years of abuse and exploitation of our the government’s health care programs by bringing these wrongdoers to justice and making them pay back all those dollars they deliberately defrauded from Texas," said Attorney General Abbott.

Texas and the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control investigators began criminal investigations in 1996 into several companies engaging in conduct similar to that of HCA (formerly Columbia/HCA).

Texas’s initial investigation, which began with a tip from the FBI, centered on Columbia West Medical Center in El Paso. The investigation grew from there to gathering evidence of growing criminal trends among several health care providers. Many corporations and officials, including those at the El Paso facility, have pleaded guilty to health care fraud. Because the scope of the investigations broadened to include several states, the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units established a negotiating team with all involved states, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice.

The case with HCA was handled in two phases. The first, which the company settled in October 2001, addressed outpatient laboratory billing practices and use of fraudulent coding, as well as up coding claims for inpatient hospital admissions that were not supported by physician documentation.

The second phase, which today’s announcement represents three years of negotiations, resolves:

• the filing of false reports with the Medicaid programs, including expenses which the company never incurred

• kickbacks to physicians, which involved referrals of patients to home health care agencies or hospitals in which HCA had an interest.

Community Comes Together For Kids

Hometown Military News

February 12, 2004(FHTNC)--Marine Corps Sgt. Darrell W. Roberts, a 1999 graduate of Trenton High School, Trenton, Texas, recently participated in the seizure of an estimated 2, 800 pounds of hashish with an estimated value of  $11 million, after intercepting a small Arabian sea vessel in the North Arabian Sea, while assigned to the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), home based in Camp Pendleton, Calif.

These interceptions are designed to hinder the funding of terrorist organizations by denying the use of the seas for the smuggling of illegal contraband. This is the third such interception by coalition maritime forces in recent weeks.

Roberts’ unit is an expeditionary intervention force with the ability to rapidly organize for combat operations in virtually any environment. MEUs are composed of more than 2, 000 personnel and are divided into an infantry battalion, aircraft squadron, support group and command element. With this combination, Roberts’ unit supplies and sustains itself for quick mission accomplishment and for clearing the way for follow-on forces.

Fannin County Head Start Celebrated Valentines

The children of Fannin County Head Start celebrated Valentines with Hearts and Hugs on Feb. 10th and 11th. Fifty-three friends and family members shared breakfast with their child in the classroom.

Pinewood Derby Time

If you think the Super Bowl was the only excitement around here on February 1st, you weren’t anywhere near the Methodist Church Fellowship Hall! Sunday afternoon was the annual Pinewood Derby for Trenton Pack 159. 24 Scouts, their parents, grandparents and siblings were on hand for some great racing this year. There were 24 heats of three racers, with the top nine point getters moving on the finals. Winners of this year’s event were: 1st Place-Brady Boone, 2nd Place- Anthony Pommaz, and 3rd Place- Matthew Wilson.

The scouts judged each other’s cars and selected winners in the following categories: Best Paint Job- Wade McCroan, Fastest Looking Car- Sam Cangemi, Most Unusual Car- Carlton Roegner, and Methodist Pastor Dan Gurley selected Dustin Williams’ car for Best of Show honors. Non-scouts were invited to enter the Open Race Division. Six racers, ranging from 3 years old to 42 years old fought it out on the three lane track. Winners in the Open Division were: 1st Place- Rachel Wilson (the 3 year old), 2nd Place- Janet Boone, and 3rd Place- Garrett Lewis. A Silent Auction was held during the Derby Event to raise money for the Pack. Special thanks go out to the following for their donations to the auction: the Dallas Cowboys, the Texas Rangers, the Dallas Stars, the Dallas Mavericks, Chilis- McKinney, Abracadabra, The Finishing Touch, Rose Heart Stained Glass, Terry’s Treasures, Applebee’s- McKinney, 1st International Bank, Janet Boone, Kim’s Corner- Melissa, Car Wash Company-McKinney, Macaroni Grill- Plano, Bennigan’s, Randy & Michelle Tripp, Jan Flowers, Jill Lewis, and Theresa Thompson.

Special prizes were awarded to our Top 3 Sellers for the Pack’s Fall Fundraiser. The Pack sold Pizza Kits and ready-to-bake Cookie Dough this year, raising $1,992.00. Third Place Seller, Nicholas Frattarelli, won a digital camera, donated by the Sherman Wal Mart. Second Place Seller, Ryan Bledsoe,, won a CD Boombox, donated by Best Buy- McKinney, and First Place Seller, Hunter Cates, won a 13" Color TV donated by the Sherman Sam’s Club.

Before the holiday season began the Finley-Oates PTO sponsored "Create a Better Community" to encourage the students to get involved. The students were asked to submit ideas that would make our community better and in return the PTO would promote the idea selected. During the regular December PTO meeting Taylor Gantts idea was selected to be promoted. Her idea was to "Meet a Hero". On January 31 the Bonham FIre Department kicked off a series of "Meet a Hero" events. Children that attended were able to see a firefighter in full gear, tour a fire engine and ask many questions. Everyone walked away with a better understanding of much work is involved in being a firefighter and how reading impacts their ability to keep all of us safe during an emergency. The Finley-Oates PTO sends out many thanks to the firefighters that entertained and educated our audience. We also extend our gratitude to the Bonham Public Library for providing the location for our community to "Meet a Hero". We look forward to meeting Dr. Dana Sisk on February 21 from 10-11 am at the Bonham Public Library. Hope to see you all there!

Family History Fair

Genealogy or family research is not new to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They house the world’s largest library of genealogy records and share it freely with anyone desiring to know their family. This information has been donated by various individuals, members and nonmembers. Computer research is a bit easier with the Church’s free information. While the Family History Center in Bonham is fairly new, assistance and direction are offered there also.

This Family History Fair is being called "Who Are You?" The numerous sessions will give aid to those just beginning or for the more advanced genealogist. There will also be displays of various interests. During the noon break a guest speaker, Bill Hurst, will share his information about various membership organizations and the help one can acquire through them.

There is no admission costs, no sign up fees--it is indeed free to the public. We encourage all to come, however, we are not offering facilities or staff for childcare. While drinks will be provided for the noon lunch break, each participant is asked to bring their own sack lunch.

Each session will be 50 minutes in length. There will be handouts. See if one of these workshops might be of interest to you. Workshops offered are: Beginning Research; Census 1790-1930; Germany, Native American, Ireland, and British Isle ancestry search and helps; Immigration searching; Military records helps; Organizing your information; Tax information in genealogy; Texas research; Court records helps; Death, Wills, and Probates; Using the computer in your research; Institutions records; Land records; Additional Marriage Records; and even a class on Roadblocks.

Doors open at 9:30 am on 21st of February. The location of Family History Fair is 1540 S Highway 78 or 2 miles south of Bonham, near the intersection of FM 1629 and Highway 78.

Julia Gatchel, Director of Family History Center, will be glad to give more information if you would like to call 903-998-9998

Dewey Wallace, president of the American Acrylics and Injection Inc. of Farmersville, and recent winner of the top Enterprise Business Award in Collin County, brought the informative and entertaining program at the Feb. 10 meeting of the Top of Texas Builder’s Chapter at Shumardii’s in Bonham. Some forty members and guests were fascinated with the Wallace story and the high standard of excellence his company represents as supplier to manufacturers and suppliers to builders.

Mr. Wallace explained that since 1977 his company, American Acrylic and Injections Inc. has been supplying the highest line of quality products that relax your mind and rejuvenate your body.

The speaker had brought to the meeting a whirl pool tub that he manufactures. He described his affordable high end whirlpool tub, designed to bring relaxation, comfort and stress relief to your muscles. They have specially designed hydro massaging units of the American Whirlpool tub, offered in a variety of styles, with the AAI inventor of the Safety Suction Valve that stops the pump if hair or any other obstructions cover the suction cover. AAI supplies this SSV to many national whirlpool tub manufacturers.

Also supplied by AAI is a Hydro Thermix heat jacket, and their invention to sterilize the pipes so that there is no build up for bacteria. They also have a self leveling way to assist the installers in their work.

The speaker began his career as a designer for America Molds, cultured marble. It is the second largest in the nation today. AAI, today, is the second largest supplier of ingredients for Cultured Marble, and the many other manufactured items, as lavatories, motors, PVC fittings, thousands of other items to supply this industry. The company has created ceramic bearings, quality plastics top designs and they try to give the best service in the world to their customers. Mr. Wallace is a designer and inventor. He considers all problems in the industry and with some thought, he says "I think I can make this work." They own many patents that make units safe for the consumer.

He said that the building industry has long been a main part of the American economy, and that industry makes everything happen. Industry doesn’t need more taxation. It needs to be free to expand, and this expansion brings the prosperity.

The manufacturer pointed to the whirl pool tub, that they manufacture and explained how this system purifys a the tub for healthy use, free of bacteria. "We try to take caed of the people and we, as developers and suppliers set a high standard and we continue to improve on what we have.

This tub is designed to self, level for the installer, and the system that sterilizes the pipes and drains is their patent. "We try to take care of the people, and as developers and suppliers we keep improving the product.

They are suppliers for the cultured marble markets of the world, second in the nation on many of their varied plastic party, "We are developers throughout the world of cultured marble industry. We bring now ideas that you see in your home, we have designed molds for the industry. Seeking perfection, they are always open to ideas. And he expressed optimism for the industry and the prosperity for the nation. They supply the need for top quality, honesty, innovative, and caring for all of their distributors and end customers.

Joe Or of farmersville was introduced as the national sales representative, and a guest, Jessie Parish of Sherman, who owes Johnson Burke Supplies in Sherman and Paris, is a distributor of their product.

Ronnie Atnip of Frontier Properties was master of ceremonies, and Introduced the program and the many members and guests including, Blain Hinds ,Bonham City Manager, and Mike Walthall, city planner.

Steve Russell presented the prayer and pledge. Rick Massey of Red River ‘theater entertained with song and guitar. Aleha Michaud was coordinator of registration and door prizes, assisted by Mr. and Mrs. John Henard.

Door prizes were donated. by Western Wear, Radio Shack,

Auto Zone, O’Reilly Auto parts, Warehouse and UPS and Fed X shipping station and gift shop, Dollar Tree, Hope Collectibles. and Pyramid Inc. The $100 certificate given by the host, American Acrylic and Injection Inc. was won by Carroll Mulder. Paulette Andrew and Glynell Sewell of Bonham State Bank brought calendars and pens to each member and guest.

Door prizes were won by Leona Bowling. Paulette Andrew, Johnny Birdwell, Jesse Parish, Debbie Sisson, Blain Hinds, Susie Mulder, John Henard, Harold Stephens, Rick Massey Ronnie Atnip, Mike Michaud, Greg Pasch, Donna Henard, Virgil Bowling, Donnie Snider.

The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its newest member, Peacocks Fabric, Antiques & More. Nicole Peacock Floyd, owner was presented a ceremonial dollar certificate by Tillman Bostick, Chamber Chair Elect at a Ribbon Cutting held on Friday, February 13, 2004. Peacock’s is located at 316 N. Main Street in Bonham. Stop by or give Nicole a call at (903) 583-5392

Bonham Rotarian Mary Beth Watson gave a presentation on R.Y.L.A. (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) last week at their weekly meeting. This year the Bonham Rotary Club will be seeking students (who have finished their junior year in high school) from all the schools in the county. Hopefully each school will be contacted about a video that the Rotary Club viewed at this meeting which explains the honor of being awarded this leadership camp and life-changing experiences of some of the participants. The camp is scheduled this year the second week in June and will be at Midlothian, Texas. Individuals may sign-up for an interview by calling Tommie Sue Turner at 903-583-3556.

Also, at the same meeting Bonham City Manager Blaine Hines was presented with t-shirts from the Rotary Memorial Freedom Walk that was held September 7, 2003 in Dallas. These t-shirts will be given to the Bonham Police and Fire Departments in appreciation for all they do to protect the citizens here.