Transportation Commission Expanded To Five Members

People often wonder how highway construction projects are determined. A majority of the state’s transportation program is determined locally. Most projects involving local roads or improvements to existing highways are selected by the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) districts and divisions.

Major projects that improve mobility or safety are selected by the Texas Transportation Commission, the governing body of TxDOT, as part of the Unified Transportation Program, a 10-year statewide plan for transportation project development. Traditionally, these high-cost projects have had to compete with similar jobs from all over the state to receive funding. Each must follow three authorization stages: planning, development and construction. Due to complex planning and development requirements, the commission selects projects up to four years in advance based on anticipated funding. New tools developed by the legislature, however, have allowed local entities such as Regional Mobility Authorities to speed up local projects.

The Texas Transportation Commission consists of five members appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the senate to govern the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). During last year’s legislative session, SB 409 expanded the membership of the Commission from three members to five members. Earlier this year, the governor appointed the two additional members, one from San Antonio and the other from El Paso. Members’ six-year terms are staggered, so that an appointment is generally made every two years. The governor designates one member of the commission to serve as the chair and that person is referred to as the commissioner of transportation.

The primary responsibilities of the commission include:

• Establishing policy and rules necessary to carry out the duties and functions of the commission and TxDOT, including the planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of the state transportation system; and

• Developing a statewide transportation plan that contains all modes of transportation, including highways and turnpikes, aviation, mass transportation, railroads and high-speed railroads, and water traffic.

The commission meets once a month, usually the last Thursday of the month, generally in Austin. To make it easier for citizens throughout Texas to participate in the transportation planning process, the commission schedules 3-4 meetings a year at locations around the state. You can view a meeting schedule at the Texas Transportation Commission’s website at www.dot.state.tx.us/transcom.

Local citizens and interest groups can form delegations and make presentations before the commission at their monthly meetings. Individual citizens also have the opportunity to express their concerns about any item posted on the agenda, or any issue that falls under the commission’s jurisdiction.

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.

TMC Keeping Behavioral Health Services

In keeping with its mission of providing for the physical, mental and spiritual health of all Texoma residents, the Board of Directors at Texoma HealthCare System announces that it has decided to retain the TMC Behavioral Health Center in Sherman rather than consider divestiture of the facility and program to a private psychiatric company.

According to THCS President and CEO, W. Mackey Watkins, M.D., "Our

BHC is the only facility for mental health services in our regional service area. It provides a critical access for not only Grayson County patients, but also for patients from surrounding counties. Our mission as a not-for-profit institution offers a more conducive environment for many patient groups to access care such as Medicaid and MHMR patients. I have never seen a more dedicated staff than those employees we have at the BHC.

They are a classic example of our motto " a caring heart close at hand."

The TMC Behavioral Health Center is a 60-bed facility dedicated to providing mental health services and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. The BHC offers two separate inpatient units for patients with psychiatric health issues. It also offers a partial hospitalization program that allows patients to receive treatment similar to an inpatient program, yet patients have the advantage of returning to their homes and families during evenings and weekends.

The TMC Behavioral Health Center is located at 2601 Cornerstone Drive in Sherman, Texas. For information 24 hours a day, call (903) 416-3000.

Jennifer M. Reed, Communications Specialist TMC Marketing

(903) 416-4153  (903) 867-3168 (media pager)

A Ceramic Sculpture By Fannin County Artist Katherine Kluger Will Be Included In The Upcoming Cambridge Art

Association’s National Prize Show Open Exhibition, May 4^th. Through June 24^th , 2004, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The untitled sculpture is among the 130 art works selected by juror Robert Fitzpatrick from over 4,000 entries. Fitzpatrick is the Pritzker Director, Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago and the former Dean of the School of the Arts at Columbia University in New York, and previously served as President of California Institute of the Arts.

The Cambridge Art Association was founded in 1944 "to provide a supportive environment for the creation and appreciation of art in the community and to encourage developing and emerging artists." The Association’s National Prize Show has grown to over 4,500 entries and $10,000 in awards annually, and is juried by internationally recognized leaders in arts and culture.

Ms. Kluger’s figurative ceramic sculptures explore the complex relationship between society and the individual. Her work has been exhibited nationally, most recently at the Holter Museum of Art in Helena, Montana, and the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art, San Angelo, Texas.

"It’s very exciting and rewarding to have one’s vision, dedication, and hard work recognized."

The artist creates fine art sculpture, functional pottery, and teaches classes in drawing, painting, and pottery in her Valley Creek Studio located just north of Leonard, Texas.

2004 Pennies Campaign

Meet Your Shining Star Justin

Justin is a student at Bonham High School who was diagnosed in May of 2002 with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). He is a big brother to Thomas, 14, and his 2 year old sister, Raegan. His cancer went into remission for 16 months until this November when it returned. Justin is currently undergoing treatment and waiting for a bone marrow transplant.

Despite all of this, Justin’s passion for football and life has kept his spirits up. Coach Hill, Athletic Director at Bonham High, said "I have never seen a kid with more gut, try as hard, have a good attitude, with more athletic ability and team spirit than Justin. I think the world of him. We’re fortunate to have him on the football team and more importantly as our friend."

Justin recently won the Jack McElhannon Award at the 2004 Bonham Football Banquet. This Yankee fan hopes to start college this fall at either Texas Tech or Miami.

Country Music Hoe-Down

The Best of that good ole country music will be back at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down this Saturday night, Feb. 28 at 7:30 pm. The Hoe-Down is located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation dew east of The Spillway on CR 2610, Bonham, Tx. Doors will be open at 6:30 pm. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and The "Country Hoe Downers." Featuring: George Kirby, Randy Keister, Glen Clark, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, Mike Stroud and Gary Monroe, and Fred Ulich. Our special scheduled guest will be popular and area known, Frank Waymire and Sonnie Boone, better known as "Sonnie and Frank" from Denison and Celina, TX., and Singer and fiddle player, David Brackeen, from Paris, TX., plus other drop-in guests are expected. Sounds like a lot of fun. Everyone is invited out for a clean fun evening. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and very appreciated. Thanks to all for your support. God bless you, we surely appreciate each and everyone of you. We’ll see ya at the Hoe-Down. For information call: 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710

Bonham ISD Board Of Trustee

The Regular Meeting was held on February 16, at 6:00 pm in the Administration Building.

Members Present: Charles Butler, Allen Sanderson, Charlotte Kearney, Mike Sisk, Clark Smith, Doyce Taylor, and Linda Gist. Member Absent: Nolan Ashmore

Recognitions:

• Janette Owens (Certified Texas School Business Specialist)

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT:

• Campus Reports

• Facilities Update

• Dates for accepting Bonham ISD Board of Trustee candidate applications (February 16- March 15, 2004, 5:00 pm)

• Required Team Building Training for BISD Board- Monday, February 23, 2004 6:00 pm, BISD Admin. Bldg.

• 2004 Election of Board Members for Region 10 Education Service Center

• Overview of Projected Revenue for 2004-2005

• Average Daily Attendance Update- 1870.21

• Transfer Students -1

The Board Approved:

• Substitutes-5

• Tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collection for January 2004;

• Financial statements and bills payable for January 2004;

• Resolution to participate in the Texas Building and Procurement Commission Cooperative Purchasing Program;

• Administrator’s/directors’ contracts;

• Resolution to enter into a compromised settlement agreement with The Grand Lodge of Texas and the local lodge concerning the Bailey Inglish properties;

• Contract with SturdiSteel for bleacher replacement at Warrior Stadium and budget amendment for the project;

• Jeff Miller with WRA Architects as an architect;

• Von Gallagher with Gallagher Construction as a construction manager-agent.

Bonham Nursing Center held a Valentine’s Party for their residents Friday 13th at 2 pm in their social activity room

Leelwyn Sledd and Majorie Sledd were named King & Queen of the party. King Leelwyn Sledd was born on April 23, 1928, he has been a residents at Bonham Nursing Center for 1 year and 3 months.

Queen Majorie Sledd was born on December 10, 1922. She has been happily married to Leelwyn Sledd for 51 years.

Mr. & Mrs. Leelwyn Sledd live on the East Hall at Bonham Nursing and Rehab Center.

Virgie Kelton, Activity Director, organized the event and would like to give a big thank you for the family and staff support.  Activity Department Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00 903-583-5851

Dewey Wallace, president of the American Acrylics and Injection Inc. of Farmersville, and recent winner of the top Enterprise Business Award in Collin County, was host and brought the program for Top of Texas Builders meeting at Shumardii’s in Bonham.

Some forty members and guests were inspired with the speaker’s high standards, his quest for perfection and compassion for the distributors and end customers. Caring for the customer, as well as the distributors and his own employees was theme of his program and his personal life.

Mr. Wallace explained that since 1997 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 whirlpool 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 of 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 their 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 the units safe for the consumer.

He said that the builders have been important to the economy and that Industry provides jobs and makes things happen.

Here is a main part of the economy that stabilizes the nation. Industry does not need more taxation. It needs to be free to expand, and this expansion brings the prosperity.

The manufacturer pointed to the whirlpool tub, that they manufacture and explained how this system purifies the tub for healthy use, free of bacteria. We try to take care 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.

They are suppliers for the cultured marble markets around the world, and second largest supplier in the nation.

Mr. Wallace said that we bring new ideas that you see to the cultured marble industry. As a designer, they are responsible for the many shapes, sizes and designer colors. And seeking perfection, they are always open to ideas. The speaker was optimistic about the economy and the future for the industry.

He stressed the need for quality, honesty, innovation, and caring for all employees, distributors, and end customers.

Joe Orr of Farmersville was introduced as National Sales Representative. Jessie Parish of Sherman, owner of Johnson Burke Supplies (Sherman, Paris) was introduced as a distributor of AAI products.

Ronnie Atnip of Frontier Properties was master of ceremonies. He had all members and guests introduce themselves.

City Officials, Blain Hinds, city manager, and Mike Walthall, city planner, were special guests.

Steve Russell presented the prayer and the pledge. Rick Massey of Red River Theater presented a medley of entertaining songs, accompanying himself on the guitar.

Aleha Machaud was coordinator of registration and door prizes.

Glaser Announces Candidacy For District Attorney

Richard Glaser has formally announced his candidacy for the office of County Attorney for Fannin County. Glaser is seeking the Republican Party nomination for the November 2004 election.

In his announcement, Glaser said, "The people of Fannin County deserve better management of our system of justice. After careful consideration and encouragement from many citizens throughout Fannin County, I have decided that I can make a difference. Fifty-eight percent of Fannin County citizens responding to the citizen survey last August rated the current County Attorney’s Office as poor to fair. This is not good enough. Overall, the survey indicated that Fannin County citizens desire a more efficient use of their tax dollars and a thirst to know what is going on in our county’s government. I feel that is what the citizens deserve and I will make a difference as County Attorney."

Glaser stated, "My goals as Fannin County Attorney are to aggressively pursue a course of reducing the backlog of County Court cases. We need to get tough on crime and enforce all the laws in a firm, but fair manner, without regard for who they are or who they know. I plan to put together a staff qualified to try capital cases, so that the limited resources of Fannin County will no longer be spent to employ attorneys outside of Fannin County to try the difficult cases. I will aggressively pursue those felony cases, which seem to have been forgotten or placed on the back burner. In order to quell the rumors, I will also keep the citizens of Fannin County fully informed on the progress being made in those cases, by rendering an honest annual assessment of the status of all Fannin County cases pending in the County Attorney’s Office."

Glaser has over 34 years of legal experience as a licensed attorney and he is a member of The College of the State Bar of Texas, an honor society chartered by the Supreme Court of Texas which recognizes and represents lawyers who make an extraordinary commitment to professional education. He received his Juris Doctorate Degree from St. Mary’s University at San Antonio, Texas, in January of 1969, and was admitted to the Texas State Bar on May 13, 1969. Glaser was admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court on May 13, 1974. He has also been admitted to practice before the U.S. District Courts of the Eastern, Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas, as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5^th Circuit, New Orleans, Louisiana.

After law school, Glaser clerked for the Honorable Joe J. Fisher, Chief Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas at Beaumont, and the Honorable William M. Steger, U.S. District Judge/Eastern District of Texas. In 1972, Glaser returned to his home in Dallas and practiced with the firm of Abney, Burleson, Conner & Mills. In 1974, Glaser established a law office and practice with a General Civil and Criminal Trial Practice. Later Glaser expanded his practice to include an office in Trenton, Fannin County, Texas. Glaser noted that he has been involved in Fannin County through his law practice and ownership of real estate since the early 1980s. In 1996, he chose to make Fannin County his residence. From 1999 to 2001, Glaser served as an Assistant County Attorney for Fannin County.

Glaser has served as a legal advisor to the County Commissioners and Commissioners Court of Fannin County from 2001 to the present. Glaser believes his experience will be an asset to the citizens of Fannin County.

Glaser added, "I have always been civic minded and feel that lawyers should give back to the community. I am a member of the Bonham Kiwanis Club, the Planning & Zoning Committee for Fannin County, the Multipurpose Complex Board, the Bonham Chamber of Commerce, a Pro Bono Legal Aid volunteer of Northwest Texas, the Board of Directors of the Fannin County Family Crisis Center where I am President of the Board of Directors, and, along with the Bonham Education Foundation, sponsored the Martin Luther King, Jr., Remembered exhibit at the Creative Arts Center."

"Having worked closely with the Fannin County Commissioners since 1999, I believe I have the right experience, maturity, and temperament to know the issues that are important to the citizens of Fannin County and I will continue to work toward establishing trust, cooperation, and harmony at all levels of your county government. Because of my experience, I believe I can represent the County Commissioners from the Office of County Attorney and save Fannin County thousands of dollars."

Glaser promised to work hard every year to gain the citizens trust, not just during an election year.

Glaser asks for every Fannin County citizens’ support to help him attain these goals.

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Chili, Mexicali Corn, Hot Spiced Beets, Cornbread, Sweet Potato Pudding, Milk

Ground Beef & Macaroni, Green Peas, Tossed Salad/ Dressing, Garlic Bread, Jello W/ OJ & Peaches, Milk

Baked Ham, Baked Mashed Potatoes With Cheese, Greens, Whole Wheat Bread, Pineapple Cobbler, Milk

Smothered Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Pudding, Milk

Chicken Pot Pie, Broccoli, Bread, Apples, Milk

Braving the cold, the Northeast Chapter of Senior Circle toured the Homestead Winery on Friday, February 13, 2004. The winery is housed in the oldest building in Ivanhoe, which was built in 1854. Several Senior Circle members remembered this building as their home economics classroom in high school. After touring the vineyard, Gabe Parker, owner, spoke with the group about the wine making process. From there, the group was led into the tasting room. Mr. Parker gave the group a lesson in proper wine tasting. Learning the "legs", "nose" and taste of the wine was not only fun, but educational. Shopping in the gift shop was a perfect ending to the day (and a perfect beginning to the Valentine’s weekend).

WHO Program In Fannin And Grayson Counties

"Another child was abducted walking home by herself two weeks ago in Florida. A few days later her body was found. As I watched the videotape of her abduction on television, I wondered why she did not do something. Then I realized she did not know what to do. She may have known her abductor. We do not know what he said to her. I wanted to tell her to yell, do something to attract some attention, pull away from the guy and run. But it was too late for her to do any of those things," states, Paula Cawthon, Community Relations Director and WHO Coordinator, for Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma (MHMRST).

Children in the Texoma area have the WE HELP OURSELVES (WHO) that teaches them what to do in a situation like the one in Florida. The WHO program is sponsored by MHMRST and presented in Fannin and Grayson counties.

The WHO program is a preventive educational program for children age three through high school. It teaches children how to recognize dangerous situations, then it gives them the skills to handle what could happen to them.

There are six age appropriate programs: Pre K, Kindergarten- 2nd grade, 3rd-4th grades, 5th-6th grades, 7th-9th grades, 10th-12th grades, and college.

The WHO rules are taught in Pre-K through 6th grade. The rules are to 1. Know safety rules and use them. 2. Do -have a plan- that means to get away from the situation, and, 3. Tell a trusted adult. The Pre K and K-2nd programs utilizes puppets and a game show video. The discovery method of teaching is used. A series of questions is asked by the presenter and the students work out the best solution to the problem. These two programs discuss stranger-danger and emotional, sexual, and physical abuse.

The 3rd-4th grade and 5th- 6th grade programs discuss peer pressure, stranger-danger, bullies, self care at home, and physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

Topics for discussion with adolescents 7th grade through high school are: peer pressure, sexual harassment, premarital battering, physical abuse, incest, running away from home, suicide, eating disorders, and date rape.

The WHO program makes a difference in the lives of area children. Every year children make disclosures to counselors or teachers. Some reports have stated the WHO program helped children to escape life threatening and other dangerous situations.

Requirements for becoming a WHO volunteer: 1. dedication to children, 2. complete a 12 hour training course, 3. be available during school hours to give programs in schools, 4. be able to present the program to a classroom of students.

"It is easy to become a WHO volunteer. Volunteers follow an extremely flexible training schedule. We allow different time commitments. Some volunteers may choose one particular school or age group. The training teaches the volunteer exactly what to say and do. I am in need of volunteers from area schools that have a big heart and a small amount of time to commit to the program," states Paula Cawthon. For more information, call Paula Cawthon at 903-337-4865.

HOUSTON--(Feb. 17, 2004)--Parents who have faced the complaint "My tummy hurts!" may find out what that really means from a Baylor College of Medicine study.

"It’s a common complaint, especially among kids who are 7 to 12 years old," said Dr. Robert Shulman, professor of pediatrics at BCM in Houston. "There seems to be no obvious cause for the pain, but we believe these childhood symptoms may carry over to adulthood."

Shulman has begun a research study to determine what causes abdominal pain in children and to investigate whether there is a link between the childhood pain and irritable bowel syndrome in adults. The study is being conducted at the USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center at Baylor and Texas Children Hospital.

"It used to be thought that the pain wasn’t real -- that it was something the child was imagining, but we know that is not the case," he said. "But we still don’t have all the answers on what is causing the pain."

The abdominal pain experienced by children can be so severe that it affects the ability of some youngsters to participate in regular activities, while in others, it is handled easily.

"We will try to determine what causes some kids to have their lives turned upside down by this recurrent pain," Shulman said. "And what allows some kids to cope easily with the symptoms."

Shulman suspects that the "tummy ache" of childhood is actually a number of conditions and problems that come under that umbrella. Research in adults has shown that in some individuals a gastrointestinal infection may lead to chronic intestinal damage, resulting in recurring pain, he said.

"We hope that by understanding it better in children, we will eventually break this cycle," Shulman said.

Child Molester Gets 40 Years In Prison And $10,000 Fine

John Charles Fox IV, age 31, of Westminster, Texas, decided to leave his fate to a Fannin County jury. That was a mistake. Fox was indicted for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child by a Fannin County Grand Jury and he pled not guilty. On Monday, February 9, 2004, a jury was selected to hear the case. Both sides closed the evidence on Thursday, February 12^th at 10:00 a.m. and before lunch the jury came back into the courtroom with a finding of guilty. After lunch, the jury heard evidence of the effect of Fox’s crime on the victim. Also, the jury heard from Fox’s family and friends, who stated they did not believe Fox was guilty but asked the jury for leniency. The jury went out at about 3:30 p.m. to consider punishment and returned with a punishment verdict at about 5:30 p.m. The jury sentenced Fox to 40 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Fox lived with a woman and her two young children near Leonard for several years. During that time he repeatedly sexually molested the woman’s 11 year old daughter. The child was afraid to tell anyone about the abuse because Fox had threatened to kill the girl and her family. About a month after the woman had separated from Fox, he returned to the home late at night. He promised the little girl that if she opened the window for him, he would not hurt her. Once inside the residence, he again sexually molested the child. This time, with her tormentor no longer living in the home, she had the courage to tell her mother about the abuse. Michelle Griffith, a forensic interviewer with the Child Advocacy Center in Bonham, interviewed the child. Griffith is trained to interview the child in such a manner as to not influence what the child has to say. During the interview with Griffith, the child unloaded the burden she had been carrying for years. The child told how Fox had sexually molested her for three years. Griffith videotaped the interview and played it for the jurors. The little girl also testified at trial about her ordeal.

Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter praised Michelle Griffith and the Fannin County Children’s Center for their outstanding service to the community. Referring to Griffith, Porter said, "She started with the Center several years ago and has developed into an irreplaceable component in our fight against child molesters and abusers in Fannin County. I don’t know how we could try these cases without the Children’s Center."

Fox never testified during the trial. Both the defendant and his family openly wept when the verdict of guilty was read. His family and friends asked that he be sentenced to probation. At no point did Fox or his family and friends admit that he molested the child. Fox had never before been convicted of a felony and was eligible for probation. His lawyer, Deric Walpole of Plano, pleaded with the jury for probation, telling the jury that Fox had family support, could be cured of his problem and was not a further threat to the community. Porter pointed out to the jury that the defendant wanted them to gamble with the lives of other children by placing a convicted child molester back into the community.

At punishment, Patti Andrews, the counselor for the child testified that the girl had been in and out of mental institutions as a result of the horrors perpetrated against her by Fox. The child is currently on four types of medication and is doing much better. But Andrews cautioned that the child may need emotional help for the rest of her life due to the actions of the defendant. Andrews told the jury the little girl suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Fox will be required to serve a minimum of 20 years in prison before he will even become eligible for parole. County Attorney Porter thanked the jury for their service and their verdict, "It takes a special person to stand up for justice and truth. I know that as long as we have people in Fannin County like the 12 who served on this jury, we will remain a strong and free people and Fannin County will remain a great place to live, work and raise a family."

A New Look At Texas Bases

Kay Bailey Hutchinson

The first responsibility of the federal government is preserving our national security. A strong defense is also critically important to Texas and our economy.

So as we launch a periodic review of our national system of defense facilities, we must take into account the changing nature of our security^- challenges, particularly the new threat posed by terrorism. Decisions on troop strength, training, deployment and facilities should be based on con­ditions that fully^- assess current security needs.

The Pentagon has begun the 2005 Base Closing and Realignment Commission (BRAC), charged with adjusting. our military capacity to meet realities of the 21" Century. The Defense Department started the process by publishing a set of draft criteria, seeking comment on the ground mules to be used in judging whether military facilities across the country are to be maintained or closed.

The Pentagon’s draft criteria are very similar-almost identical - to standards employed by the 1991, 1993 and 1995 BRAG rounds. ‘These are Cold War criteria. I believe that using old standards to face a new enemy is a mistake. The criteria should be improved, enhanced and updated to reflect the lessons we’ve learned after 9-11.

The current draft does not direct BRAC commissioners to take into account contributions a military base might make to our overall homeland security effort. Nor does

It requires our extensive network of overseas facilities be included in the planning. I am urging that both omissions be corrected.

In the new war on terrorism, homeland security is the ultimate goal. They may be two separate federal departments, but Homeland Security and Defense are already working in tandem on numerous measures, from biochemical threats to port security. For example, if a military base such as Brooks City-Base in San Antonio can play an important role in medical and biological research that’s vital to both homeland and national defense, that contribution ought to be weighed as part of the BRAC process- If Corpus Christi’s Naval Station Alongside can host Coast Guard infrastructure to help patrol the Gulf of Mexico, that should be considered as well.

Most of our overseas bases were established during or after WWI or after WWII, and maintained to meet conventional old War threats. Even the Department of defense (DoD) has acknowledged that several are poorly located to meet today’s military needs. Some bases, particularly those in Europe and Asia, lack the land area and flying space to allow first-class training-- for our forces.

If an overseas training mission can be accomplished more efficiently, and at less expense, in the vast expanses of Ft. Hood Fort Bliss/White Sands, then BRAC commissioners should factor that into the equation. The current criteria do not.

Let’s be clear: the ultimate goal should be the stron­gest national defense and the most effective homeland security our tax dollars can bury. If all relevant factors are considered, I’m confident that Texas will fare very- well in the BRAC process.

Our military men and women enjoy serving in Texas. They benefit both personally and professionally from our wide-open spaces, our weather, and our reasonable cost of live inland our facilities. The Texas Congressional delegation, Republicans and Democrats alike, have worked closely over the past decade to ensure that Texas bases are modernized and fully tasked. Over tire past five years alone, we’ve been able to secure $1.2 billion in federal appropriations for Texas base military construction to improve the daily lives of our service families.

I voted against starting the 2005 BRAC because I don’t belies e we’ve had sufficient experience in the ter­rorism war to evaluate all threats we may be facing. But now that it’s underway, we have an obligation to make certain the criteria used in the base evaluation process are themselves updated and modernized.

Defense is important to Texas, and Texas is vital to our national defense. It’s been said, "Texas defends America." That’s true-Texas has more active duty than any state-and we’re superb at it. Texans should welcome a thoughtful and politics-free BRAC process.

As Americans, we all have a stake in ensuring that our force structure and facilities are as efficient and effec­tive as possible - and that the criteria used to judge those conditions reflect the changing threat we face at home and abroad.

Texas Water Development Board Approves $7,715,000 Loan To The City Of Bonham For Water System Improvements

AUSTIN (February 17, 2004) – The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved a loan in the amount of $7,715,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Disadvantaged Community Program to the City of Bonham (City) to finance improvements to its water system, utilizing the pre-design commitment option.
Under the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Disadvantaged Community Program, an applicant may meet the criteria of a disadvantaged community if the adjusted median household income of the service area is no more than 75% of the median state household income (2000 Census) and the average yearly water and wastewater bill divided by the adjusted median household income is greater than or equal to 2%. Also under the program, the TWDB may extend the term of the loan made to a political subdivision or disadvantaged community if the extended term terminates not later than 30 years after the date of project completion and does not exceed the expected life of the project. The City has requested a 30-year repayment for this loan.
The project will consist of either the construction of a new 6.0 million gallons per day (mgd) water treatment plant or the expansion of the existing plant. The City and its engineers will determine which project is most cost effective when the final engineering feasibility report is complete. Other improvements will include the construction of a new 400,000 gallon  elevated storage tank, renovation of an existing 500,000 elevated storage tank, 7,500 linear feet of transmission main to connect the new facilities and the demolition of an existing 400,000 gallon elevated storage tank.
The City is the county seat of Fannin County and is located on U.S. Highway 82, thirteen miles from the Texas-Oklahoma border. The City’s estimated population is 9,990. The City currently has 4,679 residential and commercial customers and also provides wholesale water service to Boisÿd Arc Municipal Utility District.
The TWDB is the state agency charged with collecting and disseminating water-related data, assisting with regional planning, preparing the State Water Plan for the development of the state’s water resources, and administering cost-effective financial programs for the construction of water supply, wastewater treatment, flood control and agricultural water conservation projects.

Members of the 2004 Fannin County Resource Fair committee met Wednesday, Jan. 28, to make plans for this year’s event. Attending were Debbie Freeman, Mary Diekman, Melanie Todd, Linda Horton, Judy Fullylove, Becky Renfro, Jacqueline White, Leonard Gerner, Dana Parker, Rhonda Ives, Pamela Jaimes, Chris Moore, Darrel Brown, and Jane Schwarz. Committee heads were chosen and plans were made to hold this year’s fair at the former Bailey Inglish Elementary School on Saturday, April 24^th, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Many different booths will be in attendance at the fair. They represent local businesses and crafts. Free health screening will be available throughout the day. The goal of the fair is to provide free health information and screening for people of all ages. This is the 11^th year the Resource Fair has been sponsored by the Fannin County Networking Committee and each year the fair gets bigger and better. It is co-chaired this year by Debbie Freeman and Mary Diekman.

The group talked about plans for special youth activities, tests for health screening, and this year’s awards. Awards will be given to the Fannin County Youth Volunteer, Young Adult Volunteer and Senior Volunteer. The entertainment committee told of their plans to bring great entertainment, as they have in the past, to this year’s fair.

The next meeting will held at the Bonham Housing Authority meeting room at 3:30 p.m., on Wednesday, Feb. 25^th. If you are interested in volunteering for this year’s fair please attend.

Notice Of Special Board Meeting Of The Bonham Independent School District

Notice is hereby given that on the 23rd day of February, 2004, the Board of Trustees of the Bonham School District will hold a special meeting at 6:00 pm, at the 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 or executive meeting or session of the Board of Trustees is required, then such closed or executive meeting or 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 meeting such closed or executive meeting or 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 to receive information or to ask a question.

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 representatives 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 or executive meeting or session, then the final action, final decision, or final vote should 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 there as the School Board shall determine.

Local Students Compete in 2004 RodeoHouston™ Calf Scramble

Houston- When world champion rodeo athletes compete at RodeoHouston™ March 2 through 21, 2004, they won’t be the only contestants reaching for glory. Christopher Merritt of Ladonia, Bobby Miller of Bailey, Megan Butler of Ivanhoe, John Davis of Leonard, Aaron McCraw of Bonham, Caleb Coonrod of Bonham, Chance Roberts of Bonham, Devin Grigg of Ravenna, Nathan Kent of Leonard, and Dustin Yeager of Bialey, will all be among 28 4-H and FFA members competing in the exciting and heartwarming calf scramble.

During the calf scramble, sponsored by Justin Boot Co. and Clear Channel Outdoor, 28 4-H and FFA members will attempt to catch and halter one of 14 calves that are released into the Reliant Stadium arena. With the drop of a hat, the calves will dart into the arena and the challenge will begin. With youngsters and calves scattered about and moving in every direction across the arena floor, the calf scramble is one of the most chaotic and lovable events of the Show.

If successful, some students may receive a $1,000 certificate for the purchase of a beef heifer and will join the ranks of 16,440 boys and girls who have received certificates. Additional "hard luck" certificates are presented to individuals who don’t catch a calf but are recognized for their efforts. Since the program began in 1942, $7,509,500 has been awarded in certificates and bonuses to Texas young people.

The purchased heifer becomes a yearlong project for the scrambler-feeding, grooming and providing all the care necessary to raise and show a beef animal. Supervised by an agricultural science teacher or county extension agent, winners must keep accurate and detailed records of the animal’s progress, submitting records to both the Show and the certificate donor to chronicle the heifer’s development. These 4-H and FFA members then have the opportunity to return to the Houston Livestock Show™ in 2005 to compete in the Junior Breeding Beef Heifer Show as well as a special scramble heifer show. As a bonus from their donors to help with expenses, participants also will receive $250 for completing their yearlong project and returning the show in Houston.

The calf scramble program is just one of the Show’s educational opportunities for Texas youngsters. Since awarding its first scholarship in 1957, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ as committed almost $100 million to scholarships, endowments and other educational programs.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo begins March 2 and runs through March 21. Show officials are proud to salute Reliant Energy, Ford, Coca-Cola and Miller Lite as Heritage Partners for the 2004 Show.

For additional information, visit the Show’s Web site at www.rodeohouston.com or ww.hlsr.com.

TEXAS 4-H AND FFA MEMBERS TO EXHIBIT TOP ANIMALS AT 2004 HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW™

HOUSTON- Excitement continues to build as thousands of Texas 4-H and FFA members make their final preparations before heading to Reliant Center to exhibit their livestock at the 2004 Houston Livestock Show March 4 through 21.

Local entrants are:

Trenton FFA- Brittany Benavides, Brittany Giles, Casey Edwards, Cassidy Benavides, Chase Mcdaniel, Clay Jones, Cody Allen, Cody Douglas, Drew Skinner, Dustin Ray Kincade, Ethan Edward Lovelace, Garrett Walker Lewis, Jessica Ann Cobb, Jessica Madewell, Jonathan "Seth" Henry, Josh Benavides, Julia Lewis, Kurt Allen Edwards, Kyle Griffin, Nathan Olen Henry, Todd Haggard, Tyler Lewis, Wade McCroan, and Whitney Benavides.

Sam Rayburn FFA- Alaina Kissinger, Clay Kelton, Jennifer Butler, Justin Akers, Kandice Kissinger, Megan Butler, Michael Ross Naylor, and Nylan Smith.

Savoy FFA- Jeffrey Lockridge.

Fannin County 4-H- Brandi Alexander, Callie Maxwell, Cody Maxwell, Hillary Slaughter, and Whitney Saughter.

Honey Grove FFA- Auburn Carway, Jordan Mallicote, Weston Mallicote, and Will Carway.

Leonard FFA- Ashley Lunsford, Bobby Miller, Carinne Ayad, Chris Row, John M. Davis, Joshua Eubanks, Kyle Brent Graves, Nathan Allen Kent, Samantha Henderson, Spencer Roberts, and Zachary Krider.

Ector FFA- Mason Cox and Matt Cox.

Dodd City FFA- Cody B. Horton, Connor Reed, Jeff Sullivan, Kasie Dawson, Kelli Horton, Lexi Langford, Misty Akers, and Will Reed.

Bonham FFA- Caleb Coonrod, Chance Roberts, Danner Duncan, Devin Dee Grigg, Jacob Lackey, and Justin Lackey.

The junior show, which showcases the animal projects of FFA and 4-H exhibitors, as well as agricultural mechanics projects, begins with livestock competition on Friday, March 12. Professional breeders and ranchers will compete for top prize money and global recognition in the livestock industry during the first part of the Show, beginning Thursday, March 4.

Entries from both the open and junior shows, along with the horse division, combine to make the Houston Livestock Show the largest event of its kind in the world.

More than 15,000 entries, representing about 1,100 Texas 4-H clubs and FFA chapters, will compete in this year’s junior show. A wide variety of animals will be shown in the junior divisions of the livestock competition, including market steers, market barrows, market lambs, market goats, market poultry, beef and dairy heifers, breeding gilts, breeding sheep, llamas, alpacas, commercial steers, cavies and rabbits.

"The Houston Livestock Show is the pinnacle of youth competition for many 4-H and FFA exhibitors, and we are excited to be able to be an integral part of their agricultural learning experience," said John Sykes, assistant general manager, Agricultural Exhibits and Competition Department. "Through our junior shows and junior market auctions, we are helping make dreams come true and experiences pay off for thousands of Texas students."

The four market animal auctions (steer, lamb and goat, barrow, and broiler and turkey) represent animals raised by junior exhibitors for food sources. The animals judged as best in each of these categories are eligible for their individual market auctions. In 2003, the Houston Livestock Show’s junior market auction sales were $4.7 million (not including pre-sales and cash contributions).

In addition, the Show hosts one of the premier horse shows in the country. Cutting horse events begin the horse division competition on Tuesday, March 2. Competition in five different breeds of horses, Appaloosa, Arabian and Half Arabian, Paint, Palomino and Quarter Horse, plus donkeys and mules, runs March 8 to 21.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™is proud to salute Reliant Energy, Ford, Coca-Cola and Miller Lite as 2004 Heritage Partners.

The 2004 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 26, with the World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest presented by Miller Lite, slated for Feb. 26 to 28, in the southwest Reliant Park parking lot. Go Texan weekend is Feb. 26 to 29, including contests, the downtown rodeo parade and the ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run.

On Friday, Feb. 27, high school seniors from across 60 Texas counties will be recognized with the presentation of the Area Go Texan scholarships.

The streets of downtown Houston will fill with the sounds of horses’ hooves, children’s laughter and marching bands on Saturday, Feb. 28, for the annual Rodeo Parade at 10 a.m. After traveling by horseback to Houston, thousands of trail riders will join the parade festivities. Prior to the parade, participants in the ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run will make their way through downtown to Minute Maid Park.

Go Texan fun continues at Reliant Park with teams competing in dominoes, washer pitching and horseshoe pitching in Reliant Arena on Saturday, Feb. 28. The team penning competition will take place in Reliant Arena on Sunday, Feb. 29. From March 2 to March 21, the winning entries in the Go Texan quilt and photography contests will be displayed in Reliant Center.

RODEOHOUSTON™ action takes off on March 2 with 20 daily performances featuring outstanding PRCA/ProRodeo action in the world’s largest rodeo, the heartwarming calf scramble, chuck wagon races and concert entertainment. Only the top 60 cowboys and cowgirls in the world are invited to compete in RODEOHOUSTON’s seven PRCA and WPRA events - bareback bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping and tie-down roping. The exciting performances also include entertainment by some of the music industry’s hottest artists. RODEOHOUSTON finals will be held on Saturday, March 20. On Sunday, March 21, the rodeo action becomes extreme-as in PRCA Xtreme Bulls, a special presentation of only bull riding.

For a mini-education in agriculture, visitors can check out Destination: AGVENTURE, a unique learning experience with interactive displays, live animals and friendly information. Plus, spinning and weaving, cotton ginning, and milking demonstrations are conducted each day. Located in Reliant Center, this exhibit area opens at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 2, and is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily thereafter.

Outside in Rodeo Plaza, visitors can get up close with animals in the petting zoos. The whole family will enjoy holding, feeding and petting the exotic and domestic animals. The fast-paced pig races return for another year with the porky contestants racing daily around a 150-foot track to the finish line. And, for a wild ride, take a spin on the mechanical bull!

From Monday, March 15, to Friday, March 19, the Show is geared for fun during the Spring Break Stampede. Hot superstar concerts are at the rodeo, and the carnival opens this week at 2 p.m. so that visitors can start their fun early.

Ticket prices for 2004 RODEOHOUSTON range from $16 to $77 and include admission to the horse division, livestock show, carnival, all exhibits, attractions and the rodeo. Tickets are available at the Reliant Stadium south ticket windows and at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Foley’s, Fiesta, FYE and Wherehouse Music stores. Tickets also are available on the Internet at ticketmaster.com.

Admission to Reliant Park for the livestock and horse show, carnival and all exhibits and attractions, excluding RODEOHOUSTON performances, is $6 for adults, $3 for children ages 6 to 12, and free for those age 5 and younger.

The New Medicare Act and Its Impact on Fannin County and Texas Medicare Beneficiaries

O Some 5,414 residents of Fannin County were on hospital insurance and/or supplemental medical insurance as of October 29, 2002, according to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) statistics.

O The Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, signed in December, 2003, provides all of the 2,392,209 Medicare beneficiaries in Texas with access to a Medicare prescription drug benefit – for the first time in the history of the Medicare program – beginning in January, 2006.

O That year, the bipartisan agreement will give 591,867 Medicare beneficiaries in Texas access to drug coverage they would not otherwise have and will improve coverage for many more.

O Within six months after the December 8 signing date, Texas residents will be eligible for Medicare-approved prescription drug discount cards which will provide them with savings of between 10 and 25 percent off the retail price of most drugs.

O Beneficiaries with incomes of less than $12,123 ($16,362 for couples) who lack prescription drug coverage (including drug coverage under Medicaid) will get up to $600 in annual assistance to help them afford their medicines, along with the discount card. That’s a total of $651,954,681 in additional help for 543,296 Texas residents in 2004 and 2005.

O Beginning in 2006, all 2,392,209 Medicare beneficiaries living in Texas will be eligible to get prescription drug coverage through a Medicare-approved plan. In exchange for a monthly premium of about $35, seniors who are now paying the full retail price for prescription drugs will be able to cut their drug costs roughly in half. In many cases, they’ll save more than 50 percent on what they pay for their prescription medicines.

O A total of 858,469 beneficiaries in Texas who have limited savings and low incomes (generally below $12,123 for individuals and $16,233 for couples) will qualify for even more generous coverage. They will pay no premium for their prescription drug coverage, and they will be responsible only for a nominal co-payment (no more than $2 for generic drugs or $5 for brand name drugs).

O In addition, 188,333 low-income beneficiaries in Texas with limited savings and incomes below $13,470 for individuals and $18,180 for couples will qualify for reduced premiums, lower deductibles and coinsurance, and no gaps in coverage.

O Additionally, Medicare, instead of Medicaid, will now assume the prescription drug costs of 420,318 Texas beneficiaries who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. This will save Texas over $1.7 billion over 8 years on prescription drug coverage for its Medicaid population.

(Data on prescription drug benefits interpreted by PhRMA, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, from CMS report)

BISD Teachers Learn About CAC

While students had the day off on President’s Day, Bonham ISD teachers and staff were in school learning more about how to identify signs of child abuse and their duty to report any suspicions of it. Sandy Barber, Executive Director of the Fannin County Children’s Center started the program with an overview of the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC).

Barber explained that the CAC is a team consisting of various public and private agencies who are involved in the investigation, prosecution and treatment of child abuse. Partner agencies include law enforcement, Child Protective Services, prosecutors, medical professionals, counselors and other professionals with specialized skills. Last fiscal year the CAC opened 100 new cases, provided 71 forensic interviews and 352 counseling sessions.

Participants then watched a brief video about child abuse that included guidance about how to respond when a child is disclosing abuse. Susy Meehan, Supervisor at Child Protective Services, reviewed the definitions of child abuse and the signs to look for. CPS investigator Ron Hamilton talked about the possible outcomes of a CPS investigation and details about how and what to report to CPS. Lt. Kelley Warren of the Bonham Police Department followed with information about criminal investigations of crimes against children.

CAC Program Director Michelle Griffith, who has completed over 200 forensic interviews with children, explained what a forensic interview is and how it differs from counseling sessions, CPS interviews and law enforcement interviews. A forensic interview is a fact-finding interview to determine, what, if any, abuse has occurred. In Fannin County, interviews of alleged sexual abuse and serious physical abuse are conducted at the CAC, which is a neutral, child-friendly location. The interviews are videotaped to preserve the child’s statement and include the child’s demeanor and expressions.

Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter talked about his duty to prosecute people who commit crimes against children. Porter explained that he has refused to give sexual offenders probation and that he has a 100% conviction rate in these types of cases. He also talked with teachers about subpoenas and testifying in court.

The CAC team members are making plans to bring this presentation to each of the other school districts in Fannin County, with the law enforcement representative being rotated to match the appropriate jurisdiction. For more information, contact (903) 583-4339 or visit www.fanninccc.org or www.fannincountyattorney.com . To report suspicions of child abuse, call toll free, 24 hours a day 1-800-252-5400. If the situation is an emergency, call 911 for local law enforcement.

Abused children of Fannin County recently gained eight new advocates. The Honorable Judge Ray Grisham of the 336^th District Court recently swore in eight new CASA volunteers. Volunteers include JoAnne Duncan and Doris Reagan of Trenton, Dianna Wild of Windom and Shari Bigger, Debra Cloudt, Pat Henderson, Regina Smith and Britt Ulmer of Bonham.

Each of the trainees successfully completed 30 hours of training to become volunteers with each of the Children’s Center’s two main programs. Volunteers are now ready to be appointed by the judge to serve as a Guardian ad Litem for an abused child involved in the court system. In that role they will gather information for the judge and advocate for the child’s best interest. In addition, volunteers have been prepared for providing support to the children and families who come to the Children’s Advocacy Center for forensic interviews.

"We are thrilled to have each one of these volunteers join our team," said Sandy Barber, Executive Director of the Children’s Center. "With their help we will make a positive difference in the lives of some very special kids."

In the agency’s most recent fiscal year, CASA volunteers contributed 2,115 hours in their work for 78 children. Volunteers also logged in 556 hours with the Children’s Advocacy Center. For more information about CASA or the Children’s Advocacy Center, call (903) 583-4339 or visit www.fanninccc.org .

Dodd City Honor Roll 4th Six Weeks

1st Grade- Cailee Fry, Kaleb Hammett, Riley Hartnet, Joedavid Huff, Jacqueline Mcgehee, Makagan Mitchell, Hannah Monroe, Shelby Moore, Madison Phillips, Tiffany Prick, Keeshia Thompson, Hunter Vaught, Jenna Wallace

2nd Grade- Lane Anderson, Jessica Glatt, Jacob Kemp, Meghann Maggret

3rd Grade- Rainy Goodin, Briann Hilliard, Jaiden Pelton, Christi Petty, Hayley Smith

4th Grade- Kaitlyn Massie, Connor Reed, Jaylen Wallace

5th Grade- Patrick Moore, Sarah Smeltzer, Seth Stephens

6th Grade- Kasey Gatlin, Barbara Kemp, Dylan Porter

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

8th Grade- Kamey Herpeche, Ethan Porter

9th Grade- Justin Spindle Jeffrey Sullivan

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

11th Grade- Jessica Hoffman, Crystal Hough, Chris Jones, Tabatha Ottmo, Justin Weeks

12th Grade- Kindra Kavanaugh, Mandy Milner, Lauren Taylor

1st Grade- Ashlee Booth, Dakota Brown, Susannah Gustine, Karmon Hernandez, Jared Huff, Eric Phillips, Daulton Pilliod, Summer Pittman, Madison Porter, Taylor Spindle, Dalton Underwood

2nd Grade- Rodney Coble, James Hellwarth, Mary Hellwarth, Eric Mcinnis, Lucas Wright

3rd Grade- Hunter Brent, Tyler Curfman, Joanna Gilbreath, Misty Goodin, Casey Hall, Alex Hilliard, Tyler Knight, Jayson Mc Gehee, Steven Standlee, Clayton Williams

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

5th Grade- Blake Butler, Tara Carlisle, Morgan Hartnett, Alex Ingold, Dillon Stewart, and Jason Sullivan

6th Grade- Blaze Blain, Ethan Bowman, Steven Cockrill, Colton Gilbreath, Brittany Lasater, Joe Mc Gehee, Josh Skipworth, Kayla Thompson, and Kacie Tucker

7th Grade- Courtney Bee, Kaylee Booth, Kaci Cumpston, Rebekah Gustine, Dalton Herndon, Bryer Lappin, Katy Pickering, and Megan Thompson

8th Grade- Lorran Anderson, Chelsea Bell, Stacy Graves, Holly Hill, Jordan Parker, Colin Taylor

9th Grade- Kelli Horton, Leslie Jones, Angel Milner, Colby Rogers, and Heath Spindle

11th Grade- Tim La Vergne, Tiffany Lawhon, Cody Maxwell, Casey Rogers

12th Grade- Misty Akers, Jennifer Angell, Tina Blevins, Kasie Dawson, Jackie Fleck, Rena Isbell, Audra James, Michael Matthews, Lauren Renfro, Amber Sadler, Dean Womble

The Children’s Chorus of Greater North Texas has been classified as a 501(c) (3) by the Internal Revenue Service. The new status allows the chorus to apply for local and national grants and for all donations made to the chorus to be considered tax deductible to the donors.

Presently the chorus has 21 singers in grades 3 through 8 who are from 9 towns around North Texas and from 13 elementary and middle schools. Qualifications for membership are a good voice, a good sense of pitch, and a commitment to regular attendance at rehearsals and performances.

The chorus was formed in August of 2003 and considers its first year singers as charter members. Members of the chorus are Alex Rogers, Tabitha and Kathryn McGinness, Alyssa Blackwood, Meredith Foster, Becca Johnson, Melissa Pannebaker, Chelsea Pruitt, Chelsea Schoggin, Summer Janaceck, James Watson, Tess Manning, Allyson Weber, Ellen Thompson, Amaris Bertholf, Amy Young, Tonja and Zandra Renshaw, Brandi Dorley, Tosha McArthur, and Kelsey Landis.

New members are now being recruited for the 2004-2005 school year. Students who are in grades 3 through 7 should schedule an audition with Susan Matthews, Artistic Director, beginning in March. Rehearsals for the incoming singers will begin in September 2004. Weekly rehearsals are held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1515 North Travis in Sherman each Monday from 5:25 to 6:30 p.m. To schedule an audition or for more information contact Ms. Matthews at 903-893-0607 or Myrna Peterson, President of the Board of Directors of the Children’s Chorus of Greater North Texas, at 903-786-3239.

TMC Physician Awarded Certification

Neurologist, Jose Antonie Matus, M.D. has recently been board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc. Dr. Matus is an active member of the medical staff at Texoma Medical Center. Dr. Matus earned his medical degree from the Medical Sciences Faculty in Guatemala City, Guatemala and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at General Hospital also in Guatemala City, Guatemala. In addition, he completed a residency in Neurology at the Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda, California. Dr. Matus is a member of the American Medical Association, American Academy of Neurology, the Dallas Medical Society and the Texas Medical Association. He practices Neurology at Texoma Neurology Associates, P.A., located at 2201 S. Austin in Denison. His office can be reached by calling (903) 463-4752.

For more information about Dr. Matus and other physicians affiliated with Texoma Medical Center, call (903) 416-4000.

Farm Bureau Recognizes Food Check-Out Day

Food in America is a rare combination of exceptional quality and inexpensive price, and the average American works about 40 days of the year to earn enough income to buy food for the entire year. Farm Bureau recognizes February 5th as Food Check-Out Day. Despite the abundance of our food supply, there are still those in need. In doing so Fannin County Farm Bureau placed a donation drop off basket at Brookshire’s and other locations through out the county to collect can goods for those family’s in need. Pictured delivering donations to Fannin County Family Crisis Center are Curtis Dyer, Manager and David Hembree, Director and accepting the donation is Becky Williams, FCFCC Director of Counseling.

Rainbow Room Ribbon Cutting

The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce was pleased to participate in the Grand Opening of the Rainbow Rooms at the Fannin County Children’s Center and Child Protective Services on Friday, February 20, 2004. There are two emergency resource rooms which utilize community volunteers and donations to provide new clothes and other items for abused and neglected children of Fannin County. Please stop by and view these rooms at 112 West Fifth Street and 1205 East Sam Rayburn Drive.

Celebrate Texas History!

Spend Texas Independence Day Visiting Historic Sites

AUSTIN, Texas -- Texas travelers can spend March 2 experiencing the historic places that symbolize Texas’ struggle for freedom. The Texas Historical Commission (THC) provides a free Texas Independence Trail Region brochure, which highlights cultural and historic sites related to Texas’ struggle for a sovereign nation.

Seek out hallowed spots where buck-skinned patriots cast their lot for freedom. Discover Gonzales, where Texas soldiers prevented Mexican forces from capturing the famous "Come and Take It" cannon; visit the San Jacinto Monument, near Houston, memorializing the battle where Sam Houston and his troops revenged losses at the Alamo; and explore Goliad where nearly 400 Texans were held prisoner and executed at Presidio La Bahia.

To obtain a Texas Independence Trail Region brochure, call the toll-free number 877/55-TRAIL (87245). For other free brochures on the people and places that shaped Texas history, contact the THC toll free at 866/276-6219 or www.thc.state.tx.us/travel.

The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. The agency administers a variety of programs to preserve the archeological, historical and cultural resources of Texas.

Red River Theatre Company Board Hands-On Work

The Red River Theatre Company Board is a hands-on working group of volunteers whose major responsibility is the selection and production of live stage theatre. All five RRTC Board members are involved in every aspect of the production process, from the reviewing and selection of plays to the auditions, casting, rehearsal, stage decor, costuming, special effects, promotion, performance, and intermission features. Unlike many Boards of Directors of other nonprofit organizations and corporations, RRTC Board members are not required or expected to offer their personal funds or to raise funds for the organization. An IRS code 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is required to have a Board of Directors so that a person or persons are available to receive notices and official mail, file the appropriate quarterly financial reports, and keep the official records of the activities conducted by the organization. Those obligations are shared by RRTC Board members according to their interest and expertise.

Historically, the third year is the turning point for small community theatres. Either they expand the scope of their services and continue to develop as a valuable cultural presence for their townships and its people, or they close the doors of their community theatre and go on to other ventures with their energies and interests. Participation by individuals and community support is the determining factor.

It is also at the end of the third year that performing arts nonprofits who have documentable support from their communities become eligible for grants that enable them to expand their service to the community. Exciting opportunities for higher performance level productions are being offered to RRTC because of its demonstrated success over the past two years.

Critical to the continuation of RRTC beyond 2004 is an immediate increase of two to four Board members and the location of a building that can be converted into a theatre facility. No theatre experience is required to serve on the RRTC Board of Directors or its production and acting staff.

RRTC can be reached via links on its website, www.RedRiverTheatre.com, through the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce, or by phone at 903-664-2233 or 903-583-4415.

TMC Welcomes New Ear, Nose And Throat Specialist

Texoma Medical Center is pleased to welcome Peter A. Selz, M.D. to the medical staff. Dr. Selz is an Otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in the treatment of disorders of the head and neck, especially those related to the ear, nose and throat. Dr. Selz comes to TMC from Memorial Hospital in Belleville, Illinois. He earned his medical degree from Loyola University of Chicago-Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois and served his residency in Otolaryngology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Illinois.

Dr. Selz is joining the physicians of North Texas ENT and will begin seeing patients on February 23rd. To schedule an appointment, call his office in the Morrison Medical Office Building at (903) 416-6250.

For more information on physicians affiliated with Texoma HealthCare System and Texoma Medical Center, visit the THCS website at www.thcs.org

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Students of I. W. Evans Intermediate School in Bonham danced the night away to 50’s favorites Friday, February 13th, at the 3rd annual 50’s Bash. Sponsored by the I. W. Evans PTO, the 50’s Bash is a family event, designed to encourage parental involvement in a fun setting. The bash was held at the Family Life Center and was decorated in pink, white, and black 50’s motif, thanks to the talents of parent volunteer Randi Arms. Students participated in the jitterbug, limbo, Elvis and "50’s Girl Sing" contests. Winners for the contests were Ethan Brooks and Brittany Henderson for the jitterbug, Kori Simpson in limbo, Tyson Henson as Elvis, and Abby Smart and Kori Simpson in the "50’s Girl Sing" category. Students and parents enjoyed hot dogs and chips, sodas and root beer floats at the concession area. Buzz Photography provided a 50’s backdrop with soda shop props for family and friends pictures to capture the memories.

The I. W. Evans PTO would like to thank all parents and teachers who graciously donated food items, time, money, energy and their attendance toward making this event a great success. Money raised will go directly back to the students by providing snacks during TAKS testing and food and drinks for spring field days. The I. W. Evans PTO would also like to thank The Family Life Center, David Reeder who served as our D.J., Buzz Photography and Gail Fiasco for coordinating our concessions.

A Ceramic Sculpture By Fannin County Artist Katherine Kluger Will Be Included In The Upcoming Cambridge Art

SAN JOSE, Calif., February 20, 2004) - Acer America Corporation, one of the leading worldwide suppliers of PC solutions, today announced that Sam Rayburn High School in Ivanhoe, Tx. has successfully completed installation of their free wireless equipment. As one of the selected "Wi-1i 101" K- 12 schools nationwide, Sam Rayburn High School became eligible for the installation of up to 4 access points in two different locations at no cost to the school or the school district.

"We are very excited about being selected by Acer America for the `Wi-Fi 101’ program," said Wendy Keeton, Technology Coordinator at Sam Rayburn School District. "The additional wireless access at the Secondary level will offer our students and staff greater flexibility in accessing technology services such as the Internet while greatly improving the quality of the learning environment."

"Through `Wi-fi 101’ K-12 schools across the country have the opportunity to obtain the building blocks they need to help engage in wireless connectivity, at no cost," said Jay Buckner, director of Marketing at Acer America. "We are excited about the prospect of supplying Sam Rayburn High School with the access points and installation required to upgrade the technology in their educational environment while providing teachers with a tool that can allow them to concentrate on what they do best - teach."

Sam Rayburn High School is one of 120 schools across the country that has been selected to participate in this unique program which is funded by Acer America and Intel. For more information about "Wi-Fi 101" go to www.acer.com/wifi101.

Established in 1984 as a subsidiary of Acer, Inc., Acer America Corporation designs and markets client and server solutions for professionals who require reliability, enhanced productivity and greater value of ownership. As one of the largest global suppliers of PC’s,more than 50 million Acer systems have been purchased throughout the world, solutions for living, learning and working. Acer America’s award-winning products include tablet PCs, desktop PCs, notebook computers, servers, displays and peripheral solutions for business, government, education and home users. The Acer Group employs 39,000 people supporting dealers and distributors in over 100 countries. For more information about Acer America, please visit www.acer.com/us.

Laws Regulate The Placement Of Political Campaign Signs

Austin- March Texas brings wind, wildflowers and, during primary years, an increase in the number of political campaign signs placed on state highway right of way.

State transportation officials want to remind Texans that under Texas law, it is a class C misdemeanor to place any sign on state highway right of way. The penalty for violating this law is a fine of up to $500 per sign.

However, it is legal to place a campaign sign on private property adjacent to state highways with landowners’ permission.

Restrictions require that signs be constructed of lightweight material and up to 50 square feet in size. Signs may be placed as early as 90 days prior to an election and must be removed within 10 days after an election.

TxDOT officials say the laws are intended to reduce clutter along highways so that official traffic control signs and vehicles approaching intersections are clearly visible for the safety of all the traveling public.

"Safety along state roadways is a priority," said Mike Behrens, TxDOT executive director. "It can be affected when objects are placed in the right of way, and it is our job to make sure safety is not compromised during this time of year or at any other time."

TxDOT’s regulatory authority allows the immediate removal of a sign placed on state highway right of way without prior notice, if the sign isn’t authorized by state law or approved by the department. Signs posing potential safety hazards will be removed as soon as possible.

Texas is subject to the Federal Highway Beautification Act of 1965. Under the federal law, if the state fails to control signage visible from interstate and other federally-funded highways, Texas may be subject to sanctions of up to 10 percent of its federal transportation construction funds.

Innovative Initiative Provides Wireless Access Points And Installation To Enhance Classroom Experience For Both Faculty And Students

SAN JOSE, Calif., February 20, 2004) - Acer America Corporation, one of the leading worldwide suppliers of PC solutions, today announced that Sam Rayburn High School in Ivanhoe, Tx. has successfully completed installation of their free wireless equipment. As one of the selected "Wi-1i 101" K- 12 schools nationwide, Sam Rayburn High School became eligible for the installation of up to 4 access points in two different locations at no cost to the school or the school district.

"We are very excited about being selected by Acer America for the `Wi-Fi 101’ program," said Wendy Keeton, Technology Coordinator at Sam Rayburn School District. "The additional wireless access at the Secondary level will offer our students and staff greater flexibility in accessing technology services such as the Internet while greatly improving the quality of the learning environment."

"Through `Wi-fi 101’ K-12 schools across the country have the opportunity to obtain the building blocks they need to help engage in wireless connectivity, at no cost," said Jay Buckner, director of Marketing at Acer America. "We are excited about the prospect of supplying Sam Rayburn High School with the access points and installation required to upgrade the technology in their educational environment while providing teachers with a tool that can allow them to concentrate on what they do best - teach."

Sam Rayburn High School is one of 120 schools across the country that has been selected to participate in this unique program which is funded by Acer America and Intel. For more information about "Wi-Fi 101" go to www.acer.com/wifi101.

Established in 1984 as a subsidiary of Acer, Inc., Acer America Corporation designs and markets client and server solutions for professionals who require reliability, enhanced productivity and greater value of ownership. As one of the largest global suppliers of PC’s,more than 50 million Acer systems have been purchased throughout the world, solutions for living, learning and working. Acer America’s award-winning products include tablet PCs, desktop PCs, notebook computers, servers, displays and peripheral solutions for business, government, education and home users. The Acer Group employs 39,000 people supporting dealers and distributors in over 100 countries. For more information about Acer America, please visit www.acer.com/us.

John Murphy, owner of Progressive Martial Arts in Bonham, held a karate demonstration at last week’s meeting of the Bonham Rotary Club. Murphy, along with 2 assistants, Jennifer Sonya and Trey Singletery, took the Rotarians through several routines of karate, demonstrating different ways of self-defense. Sonya proved to everyone that size is not a factor as she tumbled men to the ground.

Not only was the program a karate demonstration, but Murphy also told about the Red River Texas State Karate Championships that will be held in Bonham on April 3, 2004 at Bonham High School. Karate entrants from all over the United States will be in Bonham for this event. For more information on this tournament, or if you wish to get tickets, you may call him at 903-583-6160.

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