Notice Of Special Board Meeting Of The Bonham Independent School District

Notice is hereby given that on the 11^th day of April, 2005, the Board of Trustees of the Bonham School District will hold a special meeting at 6:00 p.m., 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 meet in 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:

TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION:

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 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 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 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 there as the School Board shall determine.

On this 6th of April, 2005, this Notice was mailed to news media who had previously requested such Notice and an original copy was posted at the Bonham ISD Administration Building at 10:00 a.m. on said date. AGENDA:

I. CALL TO ORDER:

(A) Announcement by the President whether a quorum is present, that the meeting has been duly called, and the notice of the meeting has been posted for the time and manner requested by law.

II. INVOCATION

III. ACTION ITEMS:

(A) Consider approval of April 18, 2005, 6:00 p.m., for public hearing on the proposed budget and tax rate for 2005-2006 followed by the adoption of the 2005-2006 budget.

(B) Consider approval of an Interlocal Joint Use Agreement concerning Simpson Park between the City of Bonham and Bonham ISD.

IV. BUDGET WORKSHOP

CLOSED SESSION:

Closed Session will be held for the purpose permitted by Article 551-074 Revised Civil Statutes of Texas.

(A) Discuss personnel matters pertaining to evaluations, duties, terminations, replacements, reassignments, and additions to staff.

(B) Discussion with Principal Karol Romans, L. H. Rather Junior High School.

III. ACTION ITEMS (Cont.):

(C) Consider approval of the items listed in Closed Session.

ADJOURNMENT

SH 56, Choctaw Creek Opening

The Texas Department of Transportation announced on April 4 that the SH 56 featured grade separation bridge structure at Choctaw Creek between Bells and Sherman is nearing completion.

Traffic is tentatively scheduled to be allowed access to the new section during the week of April 11, 2005.

This project is funded through the Federal Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation program, which seeks to improve structurally deficient and functionally obsolete bridges, both on and off the State highway system.

SH 56, Mill Creek Bridge Closure

The Texas Department of Transportation announced on April 4, that SH 56 between Bells and Sherman at Mill Creek Bridge will be closed for replacement. Approximate duration of closure will be April, 2005 through September, 2005.

The traveling public is requested to observe road closure signs and barricades, signed detours along adjacent highways will be provided. Local traffic will be required to utilize alternate routes during this road closure.

City Of Bonham Needs Applications From Citizens For Home Grant Funds

The Bonham City Council is considering grant applications to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs for HOME Program funds. The City is asking interested residents to participate by responding to a citizen survey. The survey is designed to determine the needs of a homeowner and their ability to participate in the program. The amount of funds requested is based on the number of survey responses. Interested residents are urged to contact City Hall to complete a survey form.

The HOME Program’s Owner Occupied Program provides funds for the reconstruction of single family homes. This program includes replacement of your present substandard home, roof repair or replacement, electrical system and plumbing repairs. After the construction is completed, the homes must meet Texas Minimum Construction Standards.

The American Dream Down payment Initiative provides down payment assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers for the purchase of affordable single-family housing. Eligible homebuyers may receive a forgivable loan for up to $10,000 for down payment and closing costs.

For information, applications, and survey forms, please contact Mike Walthall, Development Services, at 903/583-7555 or come by City Hall by April 22, 2005, to complete the one-page form indicating your interest in obtaining grant funds.

Attentus Healthcare Announces Acquisition of LOCAL HOSPITAL

Franklin, TN, March 31, 2005 – Attentus Healthcare, has announced the closing of the acquisition of three hospitals from Community Health Systems (CHS). The facilities serve growing and diverse populations in Alabama, with 97 bed Troy Regional Medical Center in Troy and 74 bed Lakeview Medical Center in Eufaula and in Bonham, Texas, 75 bed Northeast Regional Medical Center.

"We are excited about increasing our presence in Alabama and entering the Texas market. We are looking forward to working with both the management and the employees to infuse new energy into these facilities as we support the delivery of quality healthcare in the counties they serve." stated Robert A. Yeager, Chairman and Co-CEO.

"We are eager to partner with the physicians and employees in these hospitals to broaden and compliment their services. We will invest the capital, leadership and resources to meet the healthcare needs of these communities" added Richard D. Gore, Co-CEO and President.

Attentus Healthcare is a company dedicated to providing quality, cost effective healthcare in non-urban communities. The Company was founded in 2003 by Richard Gore and Robert Yeager and has partnered with JLL Partners and Clayton Associates to provide equity funding for transactions. The Company currently owns or operates five hospitals with a focus on developing physician relationships, expanding services and improving patient satisfaction in the hospitals it acquires.

Established in 1988, JLL Partners is a private equity firm focused on partnering with exceptional management teams to create equity value by improving and growing fundamentally sound companies with strong business franchises. The firm has invested over $2.2 billion in 18 core portfolio companies, which in turn have made more than 50 strategic add-on acquisitions subsequent to JLL’s investment. Specifically, JLL has made several successful investments in the healthcare industry including Iasis Healthcare, Advance PCS, Medical Card System Inc., Attentus Healthcare and OrNda Healthcorp.

Clayton Associates, LLC was founded in 1996 by R. Clayton McWhorter, Stuart C. McWhorter and Bill F. Cook. Due to the extensive operating experience and network of relationships of the principals, Clayton Associates has attracted many skilled managers with inventive ideas seeking access to capital. Since its inception, Clayton Associates has invested directly, advised or served as General Partner through FCA Venture Partners to over 40 private equity deals.

Boy Scouts of America

By: Craig Jones

The weekend of April 1, I went to the Carson and Barnes Circus. I interviewed this lady named Lisa Frisco (I thought that she was very beautiful) she is the only American that does an act in the circus. She has been with the circus all her life. She is also a 3rd generation in the circus- business (that means that her Grandparents and her parents are in the business too). They have a compound in Hugo, Oklahoma. They keep active and retired circus animals there. Her dad runs the compound and gives tours. Lisa says their animals are all pampered ( I want to go sometime and see the compound.. hint, hint, wink, wink, Mom and Dad).

There are many things that she has done in the circus. She has worked with camels, elephants, and dogs. She has also done the trapeze and arial ballet. Her favorite is working with the elephants. The Siberian Tiger named Liberty, born on July 4th, was one she bottle fed and helped raise.

Other than the circus her favorite thing to do is school and play basketball. With the circus the hardest thing for her to learn was the Trapeze (but she learned it and I respect her for that). The last question that I asked was "How long does it take you to get ready for your acts?" and she said "It only takes me about 1 hour to get ready."

We went out to the Multipurpose Complex early that morning to watch them put up the Big Top. There were 2 elephants they used to help put it up. When they were pulling or pushing on the poles of the Big Top you couldn’t even tell they were working, it was so easy for them. Lisa was our "tour guide" for morning to watch the Big Top go up. We were the last ones to leave that tour.

After our interview was over, my family and I stayed to watch the circus. It was about 2 hours of fun and excitement. My favorite was her aerial ballet. She was spinning real fast for part of it. But in a close 2nd was the Double Wheels. The clowns were good, especially when they were playing "Who Let the Dogs Out" and dancing. Lisa was in the elephant act at the circus that day too. She rode one of the elephants and did tricks. (I could go on and on but it would be too long). Every one at the circus was very good and nice. I look forward to going the next time they are in town.

Ector ISD Kindergarten Pre-Registration

2005-2006

Ector Independent School District will be holding its annual kindergarten pre-registration, for the 2005-2006 school year on Tuesday, April 26^th at 9:00 in the elementary school library. Children must be five years old on or before September 1, 2005 in order to participate in next year’s kindergarten program. Parents will need to bring copies of their child’s birth certificate, social security card, and shot records (copies of these documents can be made in the office if necessary). Following the registration, a tour of the kindergarten classroom and school will be conducted. If you have any questions please contact either Sherry Wilthers or Jim Shaw at (903) 961-2355.

Bonham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center News

Bonham Nursing Center Sportsman’s Club members Alvin Nelson, Lee Sledd, Gene Newman, Beryl Hilliard, Jimmy Wilson, and Danny Ingram would like to thank James Baldridge and David Kelton of Legacy Ridge Autoplex for their donation of the Club member’s caps.

The Sportsman’s club meet once a month to discuss outings and fund raising activities and would like to invite all, to their Hot Dog sale event on April 15, 2005.

There are always card games, checkers, and dominoes going on at the center. In addition, when the weather permits there will be outdoor competitions with the Red Hat Ladies Society Ya Ya Girls, and they always welcome other area club members to join in the fun!

For more information on event dates and times, contact Virgie Kelton Activity Director @ (903)583-8551.

Dodd City Golf Team Wins Tournament

By: Dodd City Media Department, Photos By: Celia Weeks

Congratulations to the Dodd City Golf Team for winning the Dodd City Golf Tournament over spring break! Team members included: Justin Weeks, Nathan Blankenship, Justin Spindle, Colby Rogers, Jeramie Horton, Keith Williams, and Garrett Sadler. Justin Weeks won 1st place with a score of 68. The team is coached by Coach Milton Page.

Congratulations to the Dodd City Golf Team for winning the Dodd City Invitational Tournament last week during spring break with a combined score of 324.

Girl Scout Day Camp!!

"Camp Awanabee" will be held at the Leonard City Park, the week of June 13th -17th.

From 8.30 a.m. until 3. p.m. During that week.... the various age levels of Girl Scouts will be learning new skills, earning badges, going on nature hikes, singing, making friends, etc., etc., and having LOTS OF FUN!!

Last year was a Fantastic time for all involved!

All girls who are going into the first through sixth grades are invited to attend.

(What a great opportunity to give Scouting a try!)

Any girls from seventh grade on up may sign up as volunteers.

We are also currently looking for adult volunteers; child-care for siblings will be provided by volunteers.

Everyone is asked to bring their own sack lunches, drinks, sun-screen, and there is a registration fee.

For more information...Please call Sara Anderson at 903-587-9429

Hometown Military News

Army Pvt. Sam T. Bursell has graduated from the Land Combat Electronic Missile System Repairer Advanced Individual Training course at Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville, Ala.

The course is designed to train soldiers to troubleshoot and repair land combat electronic missile systems, including tube launched, optically sensed, wire guided (TOW) missiles, Dragon weapon systems and associated components; perform quality control measures, and inspect, adjust, repair and replace defective assemblies, sub-assemblies, and related components and parts on missile systems.

Bursell is the son of Larry D. and stepson of Sally l. Bursell of Meadow Road, Bonham, Texas.

In 2004, the airman graduated from Bonham High School.

Stephenson School News

The following events are scheduled at Stephenson School in Bonham (Fannin County Head Start):

April 5 - Mrs. Lane’s class will visit Bonham Public Library for Story Time.

April 7 - Students from L. H. Jr. High will be coming to Stephenson School on Thursday to read to the students.

The students are under the direction of Donna Caylor. This will continue each week until mid May.

April 7 - Sherman Community Players presents "The Golden Touch"

April 8 - Reading Matters Awards Program 9:00a.m. Sandy Taylor, Miller, Owens, and M. Taylor’s classes

10:00 a.m. Lane, Shepherd, Stacy Taylor, and Lancaster’s classes

April 11 - No School

April 21 - Rather Readers

April 18 - 22 National Volunteer Week - As a special "Thank You!" Refreshment will be available April 20th.

April 26 - 28 Pre-registration for 2005-06 - 9:00 - 2:00

Special Events:

March of Dimes - PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD FOR AMERICA’S BABIES!!

Stephenson School, along with BISD, Is participating in collecting money for the March of Dime. We would like for our students to be involved, too. We have March of Dimes shoes on sale for $1.00. The shoes will be placed around the Play Area. Our goal is to go all the way around the Play Area. Your participation is in any way be greatly appreciated. So step right up and buy your sneaker here! And for information on participating in WalkAmerica, call the March of Dimes at 903-893-1352.

Pre-registration for Fannin County Head Start will be held Tuesday, April 26 through Thursday, April 28, at Stephenson School, 321 South Second St. from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm for children who will be 3 or 4 years old on or before September 1, 2005. Families must bring proof of income, a certified Birth Certificate, Social Security card and immunization records and Medicaid if applicable.

Services for children with special needs are available.

Transportation is provided for children living outside Bonham ISD.

Creative Arts Center

Ms. Rust was assisted by Mart Means, CAC juried artist and Silver Patron and by Aubri Sisson, CAC Gallery Assistant. Welcoming statements and announcements of top winners was given by Roger Reeves, CAC juried artist and Silver Patron.

All in attendance who placed FIRST, SECOND or THIRD received cash awards that afternoon, which were sponsored by Mr. Paul Strickland, of Dallas (also in attendance for the exciting event). Additionally, staff from the Fannin Children’s Center (CASA * Children’s Advocacy Center) presented Toys-R-Us gift certificates to the FIRST and SECOND place winners of their "Open Your Heart" contest, sponsored by Dr. Jim Tarpley. (The two pieces will be reproduced and used in the Children’s Center’s upcoming campaign to raise funds to provide critical advocacy and support services for the abused and neglected children of Fannin County.)

Award ribbons were also issued by Ms. Rust to FOURTH place and for PARTICIPATION in all age groups. Mr. Paul Strickland chose and placed special ribbons for the AWARD SPONSOR’S CHOICE in each of the six age groups as well!

A great time was had by all. The remarkable, colorful and inspiring exhibit will remain on display through May 26th, so if you missed the public opening and reception, please make sure you stop by for a visit to see what young Northeast Texas artists have been up to! The gallery is opened Monday-Friday from 1-6 pm, and on Saturdays from 11am - 2 pm. You can reach the Creative Arts Center by phone (903-640-2196), fax (903-640-8148) or email (creativeartscenter@netexas.net). Winners will be posted on our website soon (www.creativeartscenter.us).

Thank you to everyone who entered, and congratulations to all of the talented artists.

4^th place-Tirsah Haskison  3^rd place-Zachary Hollman Rodriguez  2^nd place-Tirsah Haskison  1^st place-Grace Ashby

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Zachary Norman

4^th place-McKenna Yowell  3^rd place-Tyler Long  2^nd place-Andrew Davis  1^st place-Hunter Wasilew

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Hunter Wasilew

4^th place-Selah Joy Burnett 3^rd place-Will Rutherford 2^nd place-Monica Malone 1^st place-Trevor Hevron

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Trevor Hevron

4^th place-Foycica Hayes 3^rd place-Tyler Roberts 2^nd place-Courtney Rosa 1^st place-Kaitlyn Plata

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Kaitlyn Plata

4^th place-Justin Copley 3^rd place-Steve Reisor 2^nd place-Autumn Lewis 1^st place-Megan Walls

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Autumn Lewis

4^th place-Josh Barr 3^rd place-Cory Black 2^nd place-Jaime Mulder 1st place-Cody Hardin

Sponsor’s Choice Award - Joseph Hayes

2nd place - Emily McDonald 1st place-Jessica Barber

Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation

By the Fannin County Judge

WHEREAS: Fannin County prides itself on giving back to the community, contributing to the quality of life among our citizens; and

WHEREAS: Child abuse prevention is a community responsibility and finding solutions depends on involvement among all people; and

WHEREAS: Communities must make every effort to promote and support programs that benefit children and their families; and

WHEREAS: Effective child abuse prevention programs succeed because of partnerships among a variety of entities including but not limited to, schools, religious organizations, law enforcement agencies, child protective services, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), children’s advocacy centers, prosecution agencies, medical professionals, mental health professionals, and other community-based non profit organizations; and

WHEREAS: More that 400 alleged victims of child abuse and neglect were reported in Fannin County in 2004; and

WHEREAS: Everyone in the community should become more aware of child abuse prevention and consider helping parents raise their children in safe, nurturing environments as well as supporting local professionals dedicated to meeting the needs of child abuse victims; and

WHEREAS: The County of Fannin, Texas urges all citizens to work together to reduce child abuse and neglect and to significantly improve the response of our community when child abuse occurs in the months and years ahead; and

WHEREAS: This effort will give abused and neglected children in our community and around the country, a chance for a safe and positive future.

NOW, THEREFORE, WE, The Fannin County Commissioners do hereby proclaim the month of April 2005, to be Child Abuse Prevention Month in Fannin County, Texas, and urge all citizens to join in a national effort to raise awareness and help reduce child abuse and neglect in years to come.

______________________

Fannin County Judge, Derrell Hall

Dated this 4th day of April, 2005

Deuell Appointed Vice-Chair of Rural Caucus

- Looks Forward to Addressing Needs of Rural Texas -

AUSTIN - On Tuesday, State Senator Robert F. Deuell (R - Greenville), was appointed to serve as Vice-Chairman of the Rural Caucus of the Texas Legislature. Deuell was appointed to serve by the Chairman of the Rural Caucus, Rep. Robby Cook (D - Eagle Lake).

The Caucus exists as an informational source for members of the Texas Legislature. Throughout this legislative session, weekly meetings will be held to provide members with valuable insight into issues that impact the rural areas of Texas. The caucus currently has 64 members, including Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs.

Deuell said he is honored to be selected to serve on the Caucus’ executive committee.

"I feel that the Rural Caucus will play an important role in this legislative session," Deuell said. "Issues such as transportation, accessibility of quality medical care, and public school finance are important to the rural areas I represent. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Caucus to address these issues."

Property Tax Exemptions Reduce Disabled Veterans’ Taxes........

"Veterans with a service-connected disability may reduce their property taxes in 2005 by filling out a simple exemption form at the Fannin County Appraisal District office," Chief Appraiser Charles M. Shannon said.

A veteran’s percentage of service-connected disability determines the size of the exemption. The exemption ranges from a $5,000 to a $12,000 deduction from the veteran’s property value. Shannon explained who is eligible for the application:

• a disabled veteran;

• a surviving spouse of a deceased disabled veteran, as long as the spouse remains unmarried;

• a surviving minor child of a deceased disabled veteran, if the veteran’s spouse does not survive the veteran and if the child is both under 18 and unmarried;

• a surviving spouse of a person killed while on active duty, whether the spouse has remarried or not at application time; and

• a surviving minor^- child of a person killed while on active duty, if the child is both under 18 and unmarried.

"Any eligible person who has not received this exemption should apply by April 30," Shannon said. "But, if you received the exemption in 2004, you do not have to reapply in 2005." Late applications are allowed if filed within one year of paying the taxes on the property, or when the taxes went delinquent, whichever date is earlier.

An applicant may claim the exemption on only one piece of property, such as a home or any other property the applicant owned on January 1. The applicant must be a Texas resident to qualify.

The appraisal district will require proof of the disability, such as documentation from the Veterans Administration or the branch of the armed service in which the veteran served. Applicants may need proof of marriage, age, spouse’s or parent’s death.

Obtain an application form and more information about specific qualifications from Shannon at the Fannin County Appraisal District office located at 831 West State Highway 56, Bonham or by calling (903) 583-8701.

Homeowners May Defer Taxes on Appreciating Home Value!

Texas homeowners may postpone paying the current property taxes on the appreciating value of their homes. Homeowners may take advantage of a payment option called "residence homestead tax deferral" by signing an affidavit at the Fannin County Appraisal District office.

This special form of tax relief allows homeowners to pay the taxes on 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value of their homesteads, plus the taxes on any new improvements to the homesteads, according to Charles M. Shannon Chief Appraiser of the Fannin County Appraisal District. "The remaining taxes are deferred and accrue interest at an annual rate of 8 percent," Shannon said. "The homeowner may receive the deferral only if the taxes are paid on 105 percent of last year’s value. A homeowner may not receive the deferral if the home’s taxes go delinquent."

The tax deferral applies to property taxes beginning with the tax year following the first year that the individual qualifies the property for residence homestead exemptions. Homeowners who qualified for residence homestead exemptions in 2004 may use the deferral in tax year 2005.

The deferral process applies for any taxing units in which the homestead was located. The homeowner may defer taxes in any of the taxing units-even if some of these units do not offer the homeowner a homestead exemption.

Once a homeowner files the tax deferral affidavit with the appraisal district, the chief appraiser will notify the taxing units that tax the homestead. No taxing unit can start or continue a lawsuit for the deferred taxes as long as that person owns and lives in that home.

Shannon stressed that the tax deferral for appreciating home value only postpones paying a portion of the taxes on the home; it does not cancel them. During the deferral time, deferred taxes and interest of 8 percent per year continue to add up. He said, "When the homeowner no longer owns and lives in the home, the taxes become due. If the taxes are not paid, taxing units can then sue to collect all the deferred taxes and interest."

There is no penalty on the unpaid taxes during the deferral time. If the taxes remain unpaid more than 90 days after the deferral ends, a taxing unit may charge an added penalty-up to 20 percent-if the account goes to a delinquent tax attorney.

Homeowners who add an improvement to their homesteads must pay the taxes on the new improvements plus 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value. A new improvement includes a change to the residence homestead that is made to the property after the preceding year’s appraisal and that increases the home’s market value. A new improvement is not ordinary maintenance of an existing structure, its yard or another feature of the homestead.

Homeowners also may file for a tax abatement with the court if there is a pending delinquent tax lawsuit. If the court finds the homeowner is entitled to the deferral, the court shall abate the lawsuit until the homeowner no longer owns and occupies the property as the individual’s residence homestead.

Residence homestead tax deferral forms are available at the appraisal district office. "The homeowner should fill out the form and have the signature witnessed by a notary public," Shannon said. For more information, taxpayers may contact the Fannin County Appraisal District, 831 West State Highway 56, Bonham or by calling the districts office at (903) 583-8701.

Elderly or Disabled Homeowners May Defer Property Taxes

Texans aged 65 or older or who are disabled may postpone paying delinquent and current property taxes on their homes. They may take advantage of a tax option called "tax deferral" by signing an affidavit at the Fannin County Appraisal District office.

"If the affidavit is on file, an older homeowner or one who is disabled cannot lose a homestead because of delinquent property taxes," Shannon said.

This special form of tax relief also halts a lawsuit filed to collect delinquent property taxes on an older or disabled Texan’s home, according to Shannon Chief Appraiser of the Fannin County Appraisal District. "To stop a delinquent tax suit," Shannon said, "the age 65 and older or disabled homeowner files the deferral affidavit with the court in which the suit is pending."

Once a homeowner files a tax deferral affidavit with the appraisal district, no taxing unit can start or continue a lawsuit for delinquent taxes as long as that person owns and lives in that home.

Two new provisions in the law now address how an age 65 and older or disabled homeowner with a pending sale to foreclose on the homestead’s tax lien may halt that sale. And, the law extends the tax deferral to the surviving spouse of an individual who deferred the taxes on the homestead if the surviving spouse was 55 years of age when the deceased spouse died.

Shannon stressed that the tax deferral only postpones paying taxes on the home; it does not cancel them. During the deferral time, taxes and interest of 8 percent per year continue to add up. He said, "When the qualified homeowner or qualified surviving spouse no longer^- owns and lives in the home, the taxes become due. If the taxes are not paid, taxing units can then sue to collect all the deferred taxes and interest."

There is no penalty on the taxes during the deferral time. However, filing the deferral affidavit will not forgive penalties that were already due. Also, if the taxes remain delinquent after the deferral ends, a taxing unit may charge an added penalty if the account goes to a delinquent tax attorney beginning on the 181st day after the deferral ends.

Tax deferral forms are available at the appraisal district office. "The homeowner should fill out the form and have the signature witnessed by a notary public," Shannon said. For more information, taxpayers may contact the Fannin County Appraisal District, at 831

2004 State Property Value Study Released

Charles M. Shannon, Chief Appraiser, Fannin County Appraisal District

Annually, the State Comptroller of Public Accounts Property Tax Division conducts a study of the appraised values of properties within the counties. This "Property Value Study" serves two important purposes. First it determines the accuracy of appraised values at the local level. The second purpose (results from the use of the information above) determines if schools receive full state funding available to them from sources other than property tax.

Using real estate sales information gathered by the state, the Property Tax Division compares "their information" to the local appraisal districts’ "appraised values" assigned to those same properties and property types identified by sales information. The measure of success is that the appraisal district appraises every property in the county at 100% of the properties full market value. If the appraisal district has the value at less than 95% or over 105% of the full market value, the local school may not receive full state funding. This check-and-balance process both prevents over taxation and promotes fairness and equality in the appraisal process.

This year, three of the nine school districts in Fannin County did not make value. Property values in these districts fell in the 90-95 percent of the value study range. Sale prices of properties in these three districts are increasing at a faster rate than can be anticipated, and properties in other school districts are climbing in value right behind those three. As an example, in the Bonham ISD in a residential category of properties that sold from $18,301 - $41,980.00, there were 52 deeded documented sales transactions, of which 32 sold for "more" than the appraisal district’s appraised value. This resulted in only 91.3% of full market value for property in that category, type, and value range. Other categories were higher, but the overall determination "100% of full market value" was not met in this particular category.

To "put the bottom line up front," it is essential to make a "property value increase" to those areas determined low (or in compromise) with the State Property Value Study. This must be performed in order to obtain and keep school funding by the state. However, any value increase must be performed appropriately and only to indicated amounts - not a numerical increase to every property in the county.

Will this constitute a "tax increase?" It is not the appraisal districts function to predetermine taxes, only to determine property values as close to 100% of full market value as possible. A property tax increase depends on many things. In essence, more state funding can only reduce the role on the individual taxpayer - - our Governor’s stated objective and task he charged the legislature to resolve.

Our elected lawmakers are currently in session rethinking the methods that finance and fund our schools. This task must be accomplished by September. This is much too late to have any impact on the 2005 property values due in May or the tax rates set by those entities in August. As the legislature attempts to move in the right direction to reduce school funding with property tax and further protect the individual property owner and taxpayer, we must still continue to operate our schools, which cannot be performed without state funding. We can only do this by investing in and protecting our future’s most precious commodity - - our children.

L.H. Rather April Happenings

April 8th - District Track meet @ Community

April 9th - Special Olympics @ Texas A&M- Commerce

April 11th- No School (Bad Weather Day)

April 12th - Jr. High Tennis practice begins @ 3:30-4:30 @ the Bonham High School.

April 14th - UIL Band @ North Lamar

Immunization Clinic to be held at South Annex (210 S. Main St.) from 9:30­11:30. Bring shot record. Parent must be present. Sliding fee scale.

April 18th - TAKS 8th Grade Science Field Test

April 19th - TAKS Math Test 7th & 8th Grade

April 20^th -- TAKS Reading Test 7th & 8th Grade

April 21st- TAKS Social Studies 8th Grade

April 23rd - Special Olympics @ Bonham- Warrior Stadium

April 29th - Kids and College Tour @ Texas A&M - Commerce

April 30th - Extended Day Program goes to Texas Rangers baseball game Jr. High Tennis tournament in Bonham

May 2nd - Jr. High Tennis @ Greenville May 3rd - Choir @ Sandy Lake

May 6th - Special Olympics Area Meet @ Bishop Lynch

Coach Bankston’s seventh grade science classes completed roller coaster projects. These were built in order to put scientific concepts to work, and to understand the way science works in everyday life. Classes were judged with 5th period being the winner. They celebrated by having an ice cream party. The roller coasters are now on display in the library.

April is National Poetry month. Every morning during announcements poems are read. The poems are either written by students’ favorites.

Sam Rayburn Fourth Six Weeks Honor Roll

Second Grade- Tyler Cooper, Savannah Dennis, Chance Duncan, Kyle Fogle

Shelbi Foreman, Eliud Gonzalez, Landon Grier, Coleman Hopkins, Audrey Kuhn, Morgan Kuhn, Ashli Montgomery, Victoria Parr, Dalton Russell, Jordan Tate, Dalton Taylor, Ashley Vance, Hunter Vaught, Brittnie Whirley

Third Grade- Nikki Cantrell, Samantha Davenport, Machaella Dennis, Hayden Fulmer, Carson Gibbs, Ethan Gibbs, Tori Haywood, Sawyer Hilliard, Kelcie McBroom, Jordan Outlaw, Dylan Potts, Kerlein Rempel, Adam Simpson, Kala Simpson, Hanna White

Fourth Grade- Will Alexander, Alexandria Bliss, Jonathan Bridges, Ryan Bridges, Devin Campbell, Kelsea Capehart, Brittany Davenport, Kaitlynd Dennis, Emily Duncan, Sarah Foreman, Jordan Fuller, Courtney Goodwin, Landon Liebel, Rani Nichols, Brett Peppers, Ariane Taylor, Dalton Titsworth, Shelbi Titsworth, Kyle Wallace, Ali Weichman

Fifth Grade- Samantha Duncan, Lupe Gomez, Michael Hankey, Lindsay Maxey, Taylor Potts, Vronika Schindler, Allysa Taylor, Cameron Upson, Justin Vance

Sixth Grade- Colt Brinlee, Alyshia Bums, Trevor Eaves, Timothy Harrison, Jesse McCain, Billy Mize, Dara Nelson, Josh Nichols, Jace Outlaw, Oscar Rempel, Keeton Simpson, Brent Smith, Andrew Waldrop

7th Grade: Samantha Avila, Drew Davis, Tyler Hamilton, Brian Haywood, Jessica Jones, Franklin Mead, Kassie Phillips, Heather Trimble, Danae Walker

8th Grade- Bo Bryant, Clayton Harrison, Jordan Johnson, Chelsie Kavanaugh, Michael Low, Hunter Maxey, Jennifer Neufeld, Martha Rempel, Carly Sadler, Heather Shellenbarger, Nylan Smith, Brittany Williams

9th Grade- Jake Baker, Sarah Berni, Beth Davis, Andrea Eaves, Dale George, Chelsea Havens, Cyndi Hernandez, Laura Hernandez, Abby Jaynes, Keith McCain, Donaice Oakley, Haley Page, Shawn Price, John Reynolds, Chris Sanders

10th Grade- Jon Akins, Ashley Arthur, Daniel Brawner, Jordan Floyd, Jessika Hardy, Sarah Landis, Mollie Lasater, A.J. Littrell, Mick Maidens, Philip Milam, Ross Naylor, Ernie Taylor, Cara Thompson, Kayla Wade, Chris Young

11th Grade- James Dodson, Stephen Duvall, Amber Gabbard, Josh Gann, Lee Goodwin, Ashton Hamilton, Dahenna Hernandez, Mendy Ivey, Quicy Kueckelhan, Marie Rempel, Jessica Stephens, Amanda Stockton, Samuel Trimble

12th Grade- Salina Carmon, John Curry, Nikita Petrovic, Shonda Rushing, Danny Smith

Second Grade- Klayton Keeton, Dakota Parker, Kaylee Waldrop

Third Grade- Grace Campbell, Julia Carpio, Kelvin Cockrill, Payton Crawley, Taylor Dollgener, Josh Maldonado, Heather Mason, Gerardo Medina, Carly Park, Destiny Ray-Hammett, Eva Rempel, Garrett Simpson

Fourth Grade- Alaina Kissinger, Sarah Mead, Brittany Page, Torri Pannell, Shelby Vandeventer

Fifth Grade- Sydney Davis, Ruben Gonzalez

Sixth Grade- Derek Wilson

7th grade- Hannah Baugh, Scott Berni, Brittany Campbell, Stephanie Carroll, Kameron Dollgener, Maddison Foreman, Mariah Fritz, MIchael Trevett, Paige Vandeventer

8th Grade- Elizabeth Campbell, Joel Gibson, Keri Goodwin, Kandice Kissinger, Elizabeth Mills, Casey Templer

9th Grade- Chablee Alves, Lindsey Arthur, Jacey Jones, Nolan Skidmore

10th Grade- Katrina Fritz, Lacie McGuire

11th Grade- Megan Butler, Amanda Lee, Jason Miers

12th Grade- Matt Davis, Todd Foreman, Nathan McWhorter, Caroline Reynolds, Katie Skidmore, Bridget Thompson, Cora Velazquez, Kirtsy Warburton, Amanda Wyatt

Chief Denninger Announces Changes for N. Fannin Co. Volunteer Fire Department

A general meeting of the N. Fannin Co. Vol. Fire Dept. is scheduled for Tuesday, April 19^th at the Ivanhoe Baptist Church Fellowship Hall at 7 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to attend. Changes to be discussed will include a new location with a new 4 bay building to accommodate the new equipment and growing needs of our community. Everyone in our fire district will be included in the decision making and future of this department.

I look forward to meeting everyone and answering any questions and concerns.

Imagine a young girl walking to school who ventures into the street because of a damaged sidewalk or a boy who pedals his bike into a poorly marked school crosswalk. Projects to reduce incidents like these are underway thanks to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School program. In 2003, TxDOT began offering the God Bless Texas specialty license plate, as well as the God Bless America plate, to raise funds for the program. The God Bless Texas plate is TxDOT’s featured specialty license plate for the month of March.

By purchasing a God Bless Texas license plate, drivers can display pride for their state while contributing dollars for safety-related construction projects around schools. Funded projects include sidewalk improvements, creation of pedestrian and bicycle paths and crosswalks, and installing school zone flashers, to name a few. The Safe Routes to School program is the result of House Bill 2204 passed during the 77th Legislature.

"We are excited about this program and the positive impact it has already had in many communities across Texas," said Pam Sweet-Richardson, tax assessor-collector for Fannin County. "Parents can rest easier knowing their child’s trip to school, whether by bike or on foot, will be safer."

The God Bless Texas license plate design includes an image of the state flag and the phrase "God Bless Texas" runs along the bottom of the plate. Both the God Bless Texas and God Bless America license plates are available for passenger cars, light trucks and motorcycles for a $40 annual fee, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular registration fees. Of the $40 annual fee, $32 is deposited in the state highway fund to improve safety in and around school areas. In 2004, more than 700 God Bless Texas plates were sold.

Applications for the God Bless Texas and God Bless America specialty license plates are available at county tax offices, on TxDOT’s web site (www.txdot.org) or 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 they 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 have been raised for sponsoring organizations and scholarship funds.

For more information, call Pam Sweet-Richardson, Fannin County Tax Accessor/Collector at 903-583-7493. For a view of the plate go to www.dot.state.tx.us/vtr/spplates/allplates.htm.

19-1A District Golf Results

Shannon Hamby 125, Kayla Hamby 130, Kayle Redden 131, Amanda Johnson 128

Ariel Seigler 135, Andrea Billings 146, Megan Malone 142, Miranda Moore 133, Jessica Lewis 155

Northeast Medical Center Cafeteria Menu

April 11 - April 15 11:45 - 1:00 pm

Monday- Salmon Croquettes, Mac & Cheese, Okra & Tomatoes, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Pineapple Upsidedown Cake, Salad Bar

Tuesday- Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes/ Gravy, Squash, Calif. Blend Veggies, Dinner Roll, Chocolate Pie, Salad Bar

Wednesday- Meatloaf, Black-eyed Peas, Scalloped Potatoes, Capri Veggies, Cornbread, Apple-cran Pie, Salad Bar

Thursday- Fried Fish, Steak Fries, Hushpuppies, Cole Slaw, Brownies, Salad Bar

Friday- Chicken Enchiladas, Refried Beans, Spanish Rice, Chips & Sauce, Coconut Pie, Salad Bar

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Chicken Fried Steak/gravy, Whipped Potatoes, English Peas, Bread, Cake, Milk

Hamburgers, Tater Tots, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onions, Pickles, Buns, Jello W/orange Juice, Milk

Oven Fried Chicken, Broccoli Rice Casserole, Green Beans, Pineapple, Milk

Chili W/beans, Oven Fried Okra, Beets/orange Sauce, Cornbread, Spiced Apples, Milk

Lima Beans, Creole Squash, Carrots, Cornbread, Peaches, Milk

Bonham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Bonham Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Activity Director Virgie Kelton would like to introduce the Red Hat Society Ya Ya Girls.

Back row, left to right, Ruby Bedwell, Jake Silvestrini, Johnni Butler.

Front row, left to right Ruby Howard, Stella Shipley, MarjorieSledd, Alma Walgamott and Virgie Kelton, activity director. Not pictured the assistant D.O.N. Pam Weger Pink Hat member.

The Ya Ya Girls recently met with Fairview, Leonard and Sherman’s Red Hat Society Ladies. "The Tea Party was a smashing success" special guest Queen mother of the You Me and Tea Group was Nancy Anderson.

The Red Hat Society members will meet again on the 4th and the 20th of April during Activity Program Week.

Seven Oaks Nursing Home Visits The Circus

The residents of Seven Oaks went to the Carson and Barnes 5 Ring Circus. April the 1st. We would like to thank Bonham Family Drug and Legacy Ridge Autoplex for helping out with the tickets. We also want to thank Jannie and Sharon and JR volunteering their time to help us fulfill this day with excitement.

The residents got full on the hot dogs, cotton candy, peanuts, snowcones, and Coca Cola. We enjoyed getting to see the lions, elephants tigers, horses, dogs and many more animals. The clowns and other crew members did an excellent performance. We really enjoyed the entire show and look forward to seeing it next year.

Thanks again to everyone who helped us enjoy a wonderful day.

Cowboy Ain’t Ded Yet

Red River Theatre Company

Red River Theatre Company will be featuring Robert Joe Vandygriff on its stage in Windom for two performances only of his popular comedy and cowboy music show, The Cowboy Ain’t Dead Yet, on Friday and Saturday, April 22nd and 23rd at 7:30PM.

A former rodeo athlete, bull fighter and rodeo clown, R.J. Vandygriff’s stories and historical perspective on the life of a cowboy of the old west is riveting in its hilarity as well as its nostalgic sentiment for a lifestyle of yesteryear. Nominated as one of the top western humorists by the Academy of Western Artists in 2003, he has toured The Cowboy Ain’t Dead Yet all over Europe and North America to sell-out audiences. He might be most familiar to local audiences from his roles in over 100 episodes of Walker Texas Ranger. Country music fans will remember his top of the charts records, "Blue Diamond" and "Say Lady". RJ is a native of Roxton, TX and raises and trains quarter horses on his ranch in north Texas.

With a BS in History from ETSU, Vandergriff has produced a homeschool video of the history and life of the cowboy. While the story RJ tells onstage is historically factual, like all cowboys, he is known to embellish the facts with humorous imagination. "It gets so hot in Texas I’ve seen a rattlesnake crawl into a campfire, just to get in the shade of the fryin’ pan!" His descriptions of life on the plains is so vivid, one can almost smell the trail dust and see the stars over the prairie.

Tickets for each performance are $10 and available only at the door. Seating is limited to 190 per performance

Network Nites At The Children’s Center

April is Child Abuse Awareness month. In recognition of this, the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce’s Network Nites in April will be hosted by the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & Children’s Advocacy Center). Everyone is encouraged to make plans now to attend this great networking opportunity on Tuesday, April 19 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. This event, generously sponsored by Bonham State Bank, will include lots of great food and beverages, door prizes and guided tours of the renovated Lone Star Gas building which is now home to the Children’s Center at 112 West Fifth Street in Bonham.

"Be sure to bring your business cards with you and contact the Chamber to let them know the names of those planning to attend," said Sandy Barber, Chamber Board member and Executive Director of the Children’s Center. The Chamber can be reached by phone at 903-583-4811 or by email at bonhamchamber@cableone.net.

In the fall of 1992, Paula Spindle learned about a new program called Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) which was making a difference for abused children involved in the court system. She set out to bring the program to Fannin County, Texas and quickly secured the support of the local courts, Child Protective Services, local individuals and businesses. Dr. Rudy Churner of the Eye Center donated office space and Court Appointed Special Advocates of Fannin County, Inc. was started. By early 1993 the first volunteers were trained and sworn-in to advocate for abused children involved in the court system and the agency accepted its first case. The program grew steadily and soon all children in foster care in Fannin County had a CASA volunteer.

By 1995, the effort to provide Christmas presents to the children served by CASA began to be more organized. In 1997 the agency held its first school supply drive to provide supplies to needy children of the community. Both the Christmas and School Supply Drives have grown to serve more children with each passing year.

In 1999 the agency added the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) to further expand its efforts to serve abused and neglected children in Fannin County. By pulling together all of the public and private agencies involved in investigating, prosecuting and treating child abuse, the CAC set out to make the criminal justice process more sensitive to the needs of the child victims and their protective family members. Soon after, the agency began doing business as the Fannin County Children’s Center (FCCC) in order for the organization’s name to better reflect all of its programs and projects.

In 2002 the agency launched a capital campaign to raise the needed funds to purchase and renovate an existing building just off the downtown square in Bonham. With a generous grant from the Glaser Family Charitable Foundation, Meadows Foundation and additional gifts from other local supporters, the agency soon accomplished this goal and moved into the building at 112 West Fifth Street in Bonham by the end of May 2003.

After settling in to the new facility, the agency joined forces with Child Protective Services (CPS) and officially opened two Rainbow Rooms in February 2004. The Rainbow Rooms are located at each agency and stocked with community donations of clothing, shoes, diapers and other items for abused children served by CPS, CASA and/or CAC. For more information about the Children’s Center, visit www.fanninccc.org or call (903) 583-4339.

Bonham High School Drill Team

The Bonham High School War Dancers were honored March 22 at the Booster Club’s annual banquet. This banquet is held to recognize the team’s hard work and the accomplishments of individual members. The gathering of parents and friends watched as honors went to:

War Dancer Of The Year - Jennifer Steward, Sr.

Outstanding Officer - Jennifer Steward, Sr.

Four Year Members - Brandi Taylor, Sr.; Jennifer Steward, Sr.; Jayme Brown, Sr.

High Kick Award - Holly Higgins, Sr.; Maddie Milburn, Soph.

Senior Of The Year - Jayme Brown

Junior Of The Year - Brittney Bowman

Sophomore Of The Year - Maddie Milburn

Freshman Of The Year- Mackenzie Reeder

Miss Congeniality - Morgan Godbey

SOCIAL OFFICER OF THE YEAR - Jayme Brown

Vitamin D Necessary for Healthy Bones

Jennifer Wider, M.D.
Society for Women’s Health Research
March 31, 2005

"Got milk?" Most women in the United States understood the message of the widespread and successful advertising campaign imploring them to increase calcium in their diets. But the message should have posed an additional question, "Got Vitamin D, too?"

Women over the age of 50 do not fully understand the role vitamin D plays in keeping their bones healthy, according to a national survey conducted by the Society for Women’s Health Research, a nonprofit advocacy organization in Washington, D.C. What’s more, more than half of those surveyed hadn’t even discussed vitamin D with their doctors.

"Calcium, vitamin D and physical activity are three key elements in maintaining optimal bone health, especially for women over 50," said Jo Parrish, the Society’s vice president for communications. While many women are aware of the need for calcium and exercise, a majority "simply do not associate vitamin D with bone health," Parrish explained.

Osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and increases the chances of fracture, affects more than eight million women in the United States. As women age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases. During menopause, bone loss is hastened by the depletion of estrogen, placing women at high risk for developing the disease.

Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health because it helps the body absorb calcium from the diet. "The relationship between calcium absorption and vitamin D is similar to that of a locked door and a key; vitamin D is the key that unlocks the door and allows calcium to leave the intestine and enter the bloodstream," Parrish said. It also works in the kidneys, "to help absorb calcium that would otherwise be excreted."

In October 2004, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a report on bone health and osteoporosis for the first time. The report emphasized the importance of getting enough vitamin D to maintain good bone health. But most women are unaware of how to increase the amount of vitamin D in their diets.

"Many women erroneously assume that the foods they eat contain an adequate amount of vitamin D," Parrish said. But it’s "almost impossible to get the required amount of vitamin D from foods."

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in a limited number of foods and can also be manufactured by the body after sun exposure. "Few foods in an otherwise healthy diet contain vitamin D," Parrish said, "with the exception of fortified milk, fortified orange juice, certain cereals and fatty fish such as salmon and sardines." For most people, a supplement is usually required to get the right amount in their diets.

The take home message – especially for women over the age of 50 – is to get enough vitamin D in their diets every day: "Women should talk to their health care providers about their need for vitamin D and how best to obtain it. Although it is not a routine test, women can ask for a test to determine their vitamin D level," Parrish said. "The surgeon general’s report recommends that men and women over the age of 50 get 400 International Units (IU) of vitamin D per day, and that men and women over the age of 70 get 600 IU of vitamin D per day."

Last week at the Bonham Rotary Club’s weekly meeting, J. C. (Skip) Jones was inducted as a new member. Jones is a Financial Services Professional with New York Life and resides here in Fannin County. Prior to Jones’ induction, the club held a business meeting to discuss the upcoming golf tournament which will be held on Saturday, April 30 at Legacy Ridge golf course. Also the club helps sponsor the Special Olympics that is held here in Bonham every year at Warrior Stadium, and this year’s date has been set for Saturday, April 23.

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

Collins Celebrate 50th Anniversary

W.R. (Billy) Collins and Edna Atnip were married April 16, 1955 in the Church Parlor of the First Presbyterian Church. They will celebrate their 50th Anniversary Saturday, April 16, 2005 in the Education Building of the First Presbyterian Church, 818 N. Main, Bonham.

O’Reilly’s Customer Appreciation

On Friday, April 8th, O’Reilly Auto Parts Store in Bonham had a cookout for Customer Appreciation Day. Hamburgers and Hotdogs were served for lunch. Jimmy Murray, Assistant Manager, pictured left, and Will Bradley, Store Manager, pictured right, showed their Store Spirit in Green.