Local High School Vocalist/ Instrumentalist Selected For 2004 European Concert Tour

Katia Caylor who resides at Ector and currently attends school at Bonham High School has been accepted as a member of the United States Youth Ensembles 2004 European Concert Tour. Qualified music students from all 50 states are eligible for the tour, yet only a select number are chosen each year to represent the U.S. in these honor groups as they tour and perform across western Europe.

The United States Youth Ensembles were founded in 1989 to emphasize the positive aspects of America’s youth and the achievements and dedication of our outstanding music students. The program is designed to enrich and expand the musical and cultural experience of it’s participants while showcasing the superb musical talent of all-state students from across America to European Audiences.

The chorale, string ensemble, and wind ensemble will perform seven concerts as well as impromptu performances. Past tours have been featured at the Musica Theatre in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland; Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France; St. Marc’s Church in Venice, Italy; the Piazza Riforma in Lugano, Switzerland; the Congress Center in Innsbruck, Austria; and the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris, France.

Katia Caylor is the 14 year old daughter of Rhonda Caylor and granddaughter of Byren and Alice Caylor. She was 3rd alternate at All-Region tryouts, and rated 1 (superior) at Solo/Ensemble contest. She plays the Baritone as a freshmen at Bonham High School and is also a part of the Bonham High School Jazz Ensemble as a trombone player.

More information about this organization can be obtained by contacting the U.S. Youth Emsembles Concert Tour National Office at 1-800-576-3423, or by visiting their website at: www.usye.org

Harmony House Concert May 1

Who? Emilie Aronson, Dallas singer-songwriter
Where? Wildscape Acres, 10 miles North of Bonham, TX and 65 miles North of Dallas
What? House Concert at Harmony House
When? Saturday, May 1, 2004, 7:30-9:30 pm; Potluck Picnic at 6:15 pm
How? Make reservations by calling 903/583-2661; state intent if attending Potluck Picnic; Song Circle after concert; Overnight primitive camping available
How much? $10 per person donation requested with additional $1 per person for beverages & treats at breaktime
Start your "Merry ‘Ole Month of May in a Merry Way" by hearing Emilie Aronson performing live at a Harmony House Concert on Saturday, May 1, 2004, from 7:30-9:30 pm. May Day has long been celebrated as a festive and light-hearted event by many cultures---a sign that summer has arrived with all its glory! All kinds of images may pop into your head as you remember May Day traditions, such as taking a basket of posies to a friend or shut-in or dancing around a Maypole when you were in kindergarten. Emilie will bring just that kind of frivolity, fun, and thoughtfulness to her performance. Behind her impish face and twinkling eyes is a masterful singer-songwriter-acoustic guitarist. Steve Fromholz says of Emilie, "She’s the greatest living female punster." Her voice has been called "clarion clear" as she reveals her musical wares. Some songs are dead honest, some whimsical, some tongue-in-cheek, but all are written from her unique perspective. Her music is an enjoyable acoustic smorgasbord, drawing from musical influences as diverse as folk, bluegrass, rhythm and blues, and rock.
Emilie was a New Folk Winner and a longtime Kerrville Folk Festival performer. Her energetic, eclectic shows have delighted audiences at festivals, clubs, colleges and on radio and television all over the southwest and midwest. She opened concerts for nationally known performers including: The Kingston Trio, Odetta, Mickey Newberry, Lyle Lovett, Nanci Griffith, Ray Wylie Hubbard, John Vandiver, and Shake Russell.
Using a bit of Emilie’s humorous style and song titles, Harmony House hosts, Faye Wedell & Scott Lipsett urge you not to be a "Couch Potato" and "Come on to Our House", where you will enjoy the "Wilderness" of Wildscape Acres. "Open Your Eyes" and maybe you’ll see "A Fabulous Bird" while there. You’ll definitely get away from "The PR Man" on TV and the phones. You’ll probably realize that "We Are All Candles" to one another, and it’s likely that you’ll "Go Dancin’ with the Moon". You will be greeted warmly and sent home with good wishes "Till We Meet Again", and the next morning you will surely know that it wasn’t "Only a Dream".
A donation of $10 per person is requested with all proceeds going to the artist. A bottomless cup of coffee or tea and dessert is available for an additional $1 per person. Please make reservations by calling 903/583-2661. Wildscape Acres is located 10 miles North of Bonham and about 65 miles North of Dallas. Ask for directions when making reservations.
As an appetizer for the evening, a Potluck Picnic will begin at 6:15 pm for those interested; state intent when making reservations. As an after-concert treat, bring your own guitar, banjo, washtub bass, washboard, voices, ears, etc. and we’ll go down to the campfire and have a little jammin’. Those guests who wish to camp overnight may bring tents and we’ll start the day with O-J; cafe; and sunnyside-ups.

By Greg Abbott

Attorney General of Texas

Prevention is an important part of the work my office does to protect consumers. You can help protect yourself and your family from being scammed by familiarizing yourself with some of the most common frauds and scams in circulation today.

Five scams in particular keep resurfacing in recent months. They are: phony lotteries and sweepstakes; "phishing;" counterfeit cashier’s checks; easy credit scams; and bogus loans.

• The lotteries and sweepstakes target senior Texans. The victim is told that he or she has won a fabulous prize. To collect the cash, the victim must send "fees" and "taxes." But there is no prize. This is theft, pure and simple. Anytime you have to pay up front to collect a prize, believe me, it is a scam.

• "Phishing" is an Internet scam that uses e-mail to deceive consumers into disclosing their credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, passwords, and other sensitive information. These e-mails appear to be from reputable companies, but they are not. Don’t be fooled! Legitimate companies work hard to provide security and privacy. They do NOT contact customers to solicit "updates" on their financial and personal information. If you receive a solicitation similar to this, contact the company yourself by telephone – do not use links or mailers provided in the e-mail you received. The real company will probably want you to forward the message you received to their security department.

• The counterfeit cashier’s check scam involves sales of major items by individuals, often over the Internet. The seller is approached by a buyer or a person claiming to represent a buyer. The seller is told that the buyer can only send a cashier’s check for an amount greater than the value of the purchase. The seller is asked to send the difference to the buyer. Later, it turns out that the cashier’s check is in fact a counterfeit. To protect yourself, make sure your bank clears the check before you release the item or give a refund. But be extra careful. These counterfeits are very convincing. In some cases, the bank has been fooled and the victim is responsible for the losses.

• Easy credit scams may be found online or in classified advertisements. A company claims it can guarantee a loan or credit card for a fee paid in advance, no matter how low your credit rating. The fee may be as much as several hundred dollars. It’s against the law for a lender to charge an advance fee for a loan or credit. And legitimate lenders will never guarantee that you can get a loan or credit card before you apply, especially if you have bad credit, no credit or a bankruptcy.

• A number of consumers have turned to our office in confusion after receiving demands from collection agencies to pay debts that they do not recall. We always suggest the possibility that the consumer’s identity has been stolen. However, in some cases no evidence can be produced that a debt even exists. Some collection agencies use intimidating letters to frighten consumers into paying off bogus debts. We caution these consumers that in addition to taking steps to protect themselves from ID theft, they should demand proof that an unfamiliar debt even exists. A legitimate debt collection agency can produce valid written proof of a debt’s existence. Be wary of these types of scams or others that sound similar. If you have received a questionable solicitation, do not hesitate to report it to my office.

Points To Remember Five Hot Scams

Phony lotteries & Sweepstakes

You did NOT win millions in a foreign lottery.

It is illegal to buy and sell lottery tickets across state and national boundaries.

You do NOT have to pay "fees" and "taxes" to collect a real prize.

Phishing

Legitimate companies do not ask you to "update" or "verify" your personal financial or account information.

Counterfeit Cashier’s Checks

Do not send money to anyone who pays more than asking price by cashier’s check.

Beware: banks have been fooled, too.

Easy Credit Scams

Legitimate lenders will not guarantee approval before you apply.

It is illegal for a lender to charge an advance fee. There is no easy fix for bad credit.

Bogus Debts

Demand proof that a debt exists before you pay a debt you were not aware of.

Information on this and other topics is available on the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us.

Creative Art Center Calendar Of Events

Youth Art Contest & Show at the Creative Arts Center 200 West 5th streets Bonham....

Steve O. Black presents "Yes But is it Art" at the Creative Art Center Thursday, April 22 from 7-9 p.m. Admission is free. Call 903-640-2196 with questions or R.S.V.Ps

May Market in Bonham....May 8th, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. SHOP arts & crafts booths, area merchants, food vendors & more! Live music. Kids entertainment ... special guests. Starts on the grounds of the Creative Arts Center, down 5th to the Square!

Thursday Freestyles at the Creative Art Center! Bring your own supplies; enjoy good company& the wonderful facility! Every 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday morning 10 a.m. - noon: Crafters & Quilters Freestyle. Every Thursday night, 6-9 p.m.: Artist freestyle.

The Creative Art Center needs Teachers! Adult or youth. Drawing, painting, specialty workshops-share your talents with our community! (CALL) (903) 640-2196 TODAY to schedule an appointment with the director to discuss your curriculum ideas, goals and needs. WE NEED YOU!

Aggies Unite For Solemn Tradition

"Former Students of Texas A&M University will assemble in Bonham on April 21 for the annual Texas Aggie Muster in honor of all Texas Aggies who have passed away within the last year," announced Muster Chair Thump Witcher.

Various Muster activities, including dinner, ceremony, and speaker, will begin at 6:30 P.M. at Shumardii’s Restaurant in Bonham, Texas. Texas Aggie Muster welcomes all former and current students, their families, and friends of Texas A&M University.

The Texas Aggie Muster Tradition spans over a century and will be observed in more than 350 locations around the world. These Muster gatherings are held in many unique places ranging from battleships and foxholes during World War II to ballrooms, steak houses and in Iraq this year.

Over the years, Aggie Muster has grown to be one of Texas A&M’s greatest traditions, The Muster Program honors the memory of A&M men and women whose death prevents them from answering Roll Call at this year’s Muster. The Roll Call is a roster compiled of all former and current students who have died over the past year. As each name is called, a friend or family member will answer"Here!"symbolizing that their memory lives on in the hearts of Aggies everywhere. Muster is more than just a ceremony; it is also a way for Aggies to renew, each year, the loyalty and unity which constitute the foundation of their friendship for each other and love and devotion for their school.

For more information regarding the Texas Aggie Muster held in Bonham, Texas, please contact Thump Witcher at (903) 785-0061 (day), (903) 664-2714 (night), or by e-mail at twitcher@estesinc.com. Additional information about Texas Aggie Muster and other Texas A&M Traditions and Programs can be obtained by contacting The Association of Former Students at (979) 845-7514 or by visiting their web site at www.AggieNetwork.com.

Country Music Hoe-Down

There will be a big country music show this Saturday night, April 24 at 7:30 pm. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, at the popular Lake Bonham Hoe-Down located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation area east of the spillway on CR 2610, Bonham, TX. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and the talented "Country Hoe-Downers" featuring: George Kirby, Randy Keister, Glen Clark, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, Mike Stroud, and Gary Monroe and Fred Ulich. Our featured special guest will be Emma Jean from Colgate Ok., Jimmy Rhodes, Celina Tx, and Vickie Reynolds as "May Pearl" from Fairchild, Tx. Everyone is invited and welcome to an evening of clean fun. Admission is free. Donations are most appreciated. Thanks to everyone for supporting our shows, here at the Hoe-Down. We surely appreciate you all. God bless you and we’ll see ya at the Hoe-Down.

For more information call: 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710

National Library Week, April 18-24, 2004

The Bonham Public Library wishes to invite all patrons to come to the Library, but especially during National Library Week, April 18-24, 2004. This is a time when the efforts of the library staff, the services the Bonham Public Library provides, and the facility itself can be showcased for the citizens of Bonham and the area. It also provides the staff the opportunity to thank visitors for their support through the year, to provide refreshments and tours of the library, and to give important information to the public about upcoming plans and continued programs for the coming year.

To celebrate National Library Week, the 3rd annual Preview Book Sale will be Tuesday, April 20, 2004. This Preview Sale will be from 5-7 pm that Tuesday for a $5 entry fee and provides those patrons the chance to browse through the titles of the books for sale and to buy favorite authors’ & books while avoiding larger crowds. The next day the Spring Book Sale will be open from 8-5 April 21-24, 2004.

The Bonham Public Library will also participate once again in the May Market at the Creative Arts Center. Hand-painted glassware and benches will be featured items this year at the booth. The calendar of events for the year also includes the annual Summer Reading Program, Tuesday in June, 10 am to 11 am, beginning June 8, 2004. Chemistry fun, reptiles, a mime, and more are already booked for this month long event. New ‘faces’ and colors have been added to the children’s area at the BPL that you won’t want to miss, either.

Hand-painted pumpkins and holiday decor and foods will be available in October at the Library’s Pumpkins Patch Bazaar. The Pumpkin Patch has been a part of the fall scene in Bonham for some time now, but we also hope to make the annual "Romance in Bonham" program "a must" for February each year, too. This romance writer’s forum is growing in popularity each year and we are excited to bring nationally known authors from the Dallas area to Bonham.

These programs are the extras that the BPL staff and volunteers provide, but the books and other services are the real draw for this beautiful facility. We hope you will come by during National Library Week, April 18-24, 2004 and see for yourself.

Fairview Easter Bonnet Parade

Fairview Nursing and Rehab. celebrated a fun day on Friday April 9th, with a Easter Hat Parade and contest. The residents enjoyed the morning wearing and showing off their Easter hats. The men even had hats of their on so everybody got to celebrate this special event. There were some very unusual and unique hats. Most of the hats were decorated by Belinda Reynolds and Suzanne Reynolds. The residents reminised about their Easters in the past. Everybody’s hat was different. This made for a very interesting day of conversation. Pictured are residents Carol Cleveland, Hattie Love, Drucella Ferrill, Gladys Ragan,Windell Mitchell and Doris Cowan. Congratulations to the winners in the hat contest who won a basket filled with candy and bunnies.

Child Abuse In Fannin County

Child abuse and neglect affects the lives of nearly 50,000 Texas children each year. In Fannin County there were 361 alleged victims of child abuse last year, according to the Data Book from the Texas Department of Family & Protective Services (formerly Texas Department of Protective & Regulatory Services.) The same report states that Child Protective Services (CPS) in Fannin County investigated 225 cases and confirmed 104 victims of child abuse and neglect in 2003. Eleven children were removed from their homes and 29 alleged victims were provided services by CPS in 2003, according to the same report.

The Fannin County Children’s Center also provides services for victims of child abuse and neglect in Fannin County. CASA, which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, recruits, screens, trains and supervises community volunteers for abused children who are removed from their homes. CASA is appointed by the district court to be the Guardian Ad Litem for the child and speak up for the child’s best interest at court hearings, staffings and in other situations. CASA in Fannin County also accepts a limited number of disputed custody cases which involve allegations of abuse and limited family resources. Last year CASA volunteers contributed more than 2,100 hours and drove over 19,000 miles in their service to 78 children.

The Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) is another program of the Children’s Center which serves abused children in Fannin County. The CAC has counseling and other support services available for victims of child abuse and their protective or non-offending caregivers. Last year, 100 new cases were referred to the CAC by CPS, law enforcement and the county attorney’s office and 238 primary and secondary victims of child abuse were served by the CAC. Services included 71 forensic interviews and 352 counseling sessions in the most recent fiscal year. CAC staff also provide court orientation, court accompaniment, referrals to SANE medical exams, assistance with Crime Victims Compensation applications and other referrals.

Recently CPS and the Children’s Center kicked off a collaborative project called the Rainbow Rooms. These two emergency resource rooms are stocked with community donations and run by volunteers in order to provide clothing, shoes, diapers and other basic needs of abused children served through these agencies. In the first three months of operation, the Rainbow Room has provided new items to 33 children and volunteers have contributed more than 140 hours of their time.

To report suspicions of child abuse, call the 24 hour toll free hotline at 1-800-252-5400. To learn more about the services and volunteer opportunities at the Children’s Center visit www.fanninccc.org or call (903) 583-4339. To become a foster or adoptive parent, call 1-800-233-3405 or visit www.tdprs.state.tx.us .

Candlelight Vigil To Be Held For Crime Victims April 22

Area agencies who work with crime victims are collaborating to host a community candlelight vigil to honor victims of homicide, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, drunk driving and other violent crimes in Fannin County. Community members are encouraged to attend the event at the Fannin County Courthouse lawn at 7 pm on Thursday, April 22.

Organizers are planning the event during National Crime Victims Rights Week, which is April 18-24, 2004. Plans include a testimony from a survivor and a message of hope and healing from Jan Snow, LPC. Snow is the Trenton ISD school counselor and a contract therapist at the Fannin County Children’s Advocacy Center, who regularly works with survivors of child sexual abuse. Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter will also address the crowd before the candle lighting ceremony. A resource table will be set up with information about the agencies and services available for crime victims in Fannin County.

The Fannin County Family Crisis Center and the Texoma Council of Governments will be bringing the Silent Witness display to Fannin County in observance of Crime Victim’s Rights Week. The display will be inside the courthouse all week and brought out onto the courthouse lawn during the candlelight vigil in order to bring attention to the personal stories of several women who have been killed because of domestic violence.

For more information, contact the Fannin County Children’s Center at (903) 583-4339 or Sherri Bell, Fannin County Attorney’s Victim Assistance Coordinator at (903) 583-7448.

Daughters Of The American Revolution

George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas

Meeting, April 10, 2004

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas met Saturday, April 10, 2004, at the Bonham Chamber of Commerce meeting room. Mary Jo Barbee, regent, opened the meeting with the members saying the DAR Ritual with Dot Linn, chaplain. Flo Odom, registrar, leading the members in saying, The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, The Daughters Pledge to the Flag and The American Creed. Judy O’Shields gave, The National Defense Report. She talked about President Bush’s new immigration law and how it would affect us. Nancy Bellows, secretary, read the minutes of the previous meeting. They were approved as corrected. Martha Mayrell, treasurer, gave the treasury report and reported on the materials she had ordered and received from the National Organization. Bellows gave the details on the chapter having a table at the Fannin County Resource Fair, April 24th in Bonham. She and Mayrell showed the handouts they had gotten for the Fair. Dot, Judy, Martha, Mary Jo, Kay Merworth, Flo and Mary Beavers volunteered to work at the Fair. Mary Pauline Yarbrough presented Dean Griffin of Honey Grove as a new member in January. She was voted and approved. Flo and Mary Jo will do her papers. Flo requested to help Myra Rodgers with Wanda Carter’s papers. Beavers and Bellows brought birthday gifts. Those winning the gifts were Barbee, Merworth, O’Shields, Ruby Draisey, and Mary Lou Kissinger. Kissinger was in charge of the program. She reported on the American Flag. She gave the history on the Stars and Stripes, when the first flag was flown, what the thirteen folds of the flag means, how to display and care for the flag. Odom and Kissinger served refreshments of punch, cake, meat, and cheese plate and nuts from a beautiful red, white, and blue decorated table with a 1776 Antique plate and an Easter Lily to eleven members. The next meeting will be at Mary Jo Barbee’s home at Honey Grove on May 8, 2004 at 11:30 am for a luncheon. Anyone interested in the Chapter may contact Flo Odom at 903-623-4031.

This year we received the most certificate awards in several fields than we ever had from the Texas Society of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Seven Oaks Care Center Celebrates Easter

Residents of Seven Oaks Care Center in Bonham celebrated Easter on April 9, 2004 with an Easter party and egg hunt. The Easter Bunny arrived at 1:00, hiding over 300 eggs on the patio surrounding lawn at Seven Oaks. At 1:30 the hunt was on! Amid a lot of playful jeering about who would get the most eggs, memories of children, grandchildren, and even themselves at this special time of year were recalled. Doris Matlock, Activity Director, had 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes for the men and women. 1st place for the women went to Kathryn CHaffin, 2nd place to Hazel Parker, and 3rd to Leona Bowen. 1st place for the men went to William Cobble, 2nd place to Darrell Weichman, and 3rd place to Claude Rayfrord. After the eggs were counted and prizes awarded, everyone was treated to cookies, punch, and a picture with the Easter Buynny. Thank you to Jennifer Walker (our Seven Oaks Easter Bunny) and all of our wonderful friends, families, and staff who graciously donated all the eggs and candy.

One of the things I enjoy most about being your United States Senator is the opportunity I get to visit with you as I travel around our great state. Every April, during the legislative break in Washington, I like to update Texans on what Congress has done during the first quarter of the year. While I make stops across the state, I wanted to also take a moment and update you in this column.

The Budget

One of our chief accomplishments thus far was the passage of the 2005 Budget. It has passed the Senate and provides a roadmap to win the war on terrorism, defend the homeland, promote economic growth and create new jobs. The budget clearly reflects our top priority of protecting Americans at home and abroad, while moving to cut the federal deficit in half, in just a few years. It is pending in the House of Representatives.

The Economy

We’ve also made great strides toward improving our nation’s economy. Americans are still reaping the benefits of last year’s tax relief. The service industry remains relatively strong, profits and cash flows continue to improve, business confidence and spending have been on the rise and job growth is accelerating. We received the good news that 308,000 jobs had been created in March, bringing the seven-month total to 759,000 jobs. An editorial in the Wall Street Journal responded to that news by stating, "The U.S. employment situation is strong, improving and still the envy of the economic world."

To continue that trend of job creation, we are working on the JOBS Act to preserve work for thousands of Americans, alleviate the tax burden on manufacturing companies and allow U.S. businesses to compete fairly with their European counterparts. Unfortunately, it has not passed the Senate, but we will continue to work to lower unemployment and make sure every American looking for work can find it.

We did pass highway legislation in the Senate, but it was a bill I did not support because it continues to substantially shortchange Texas. One of my top priorities in reauthorizing the highway bill, which funds our national Interstate highway system, was to ensure Texas receives a greater return on every gas tax dollar we send to Washington. Currently we receive 90.5 cents back for every dollar sent, while other states receive 100 percent - and in some cases even more. We have contributed more than $5 billion to enable other states to build their highway networks over the last 47 years and unfortunately this year’s bill did not lessen this disparity. I will continue to fight for an equitable formula that treats Texas fairly.

The Months Ahead

While we’ve worked on some major initiatives this year, there are many issues still on our plate on which we must make progress. Medical malpractice, asbestos litigation and class action reform are important issues that must move forward. Passage of a comprehensive energy policy remains a burning issue for Congress, particularly as we suffer through record gas prices at the pump. I’m hopeful we’ll be able to produce a bill that will lower costs, promote conservation, reduce our reliance on foreign sources of oil, and create jobs and opportunities for Americans.

But overriding everything we do in Congress is the war on terror our men and women in uniform are waging everyday. We know we are up against a vicious enemy who values nothing, not even their own lives, as they seek to destroy freedom and democracy. The United States of America will stay the course and we will see this battle through. In Washington, we’ll continue to give our soldiers the resources, support and encouragement they need to defend our freedom and way of life.

I, Bob Cherenko, am the republican candidate for Sheriff of Fannin County in the general election on November 2nd, 2004. I would like to take this opportunity to acquaint you on my qualifications and background and thank you, the people of Fannin County, for your strong support and votes in the March 2004 primary.

Upon my honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, I was accepted and served on the Washington D.C. Police department. I then served at the white house in the U.S. Secret Service under presidents Johnson and Nixon. The last twenty-seven years of my law enforcement career I served in the U.S. Marshals service carrying out the various duties of that office. I was in the Tampa, Florida office and later was promoted to witness security inspector in the Dallas, Texas office. I was in charge of the witness protection program in Dallas when I retired.

Though I was not born and raised in Fannin County I chose to live, work and some day enjoy my full retirement in Fannin county. I have been a landowner and resident of Fannin County since 1989. I have lived in the Dallas/Bonham area since 1982. I am married and I have two daughters and two grand children. My two son-in-laws are members of the U.S. Marshals service and my oldest daughter Candace and I were the first father and daughter employed by the U.S. Marshals service at the same time. I also have a nephew that is a captain on the Florida highway patrol.

Am a member of the V.F.W, the American legion, the N.R.A., The federal law enforcement officers association, the retired U.S. Marshals association, the Texas and SW cattle raisers association and the sheriff’s association of Texas. My wife Barbara and myself attend the First United Methodist church in Bonham, Texas.

When I am elected your next sheriff I will stand behind my strong and firm agenda: (1) a zero tolerance for drugs and drug traffickers. To all the concerned parents of this county I give you my word that I will make every effort under my power as sheriff, if elected, to keep all the schools of Fannin County drug free (2) have a greater emphasis on patrolling the Fannin County roads for quicker responses to emergencies of all types (3) and I will make every effort possible to produce county funds through the new county jail to help this counties struggling budget concerns.

I would like to be known as the sheriff of the people in Fannin County, meeting with community leaders, mayors and civic groups and keeping a close touch on the crime and problems in the county. I will work closely with all the police departments in the county with one goal in mind to make Fannin County as safe and drug free as possible and be one big team.

I offer you a different choice of law enforcement skills, different law enforcement views and my lifetime career of 37 years of public service experience helping people. I again thank you for your consideration and I would be greatly honored to be your next sheriff of Fannin County.

Oven Fried Fish, Tater Tots, Calico Coleslaw, Buns, Cran Apple Crunch, Milk

Chicken & Dumplings, Scalloped Corn, Beets/ Orange Sauce, Bread, White Cake W/ Pineapple, Milk

Hamburgers, Baked Beans, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Pickles, Onions, Buns, Peaches/ Jello/ Orange Juice, Milk

BBQ Beef, Potato Salad, Green Beans, Toast, Pear Cobbler, Milk

Baked Ham, Pea Salad, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Bread, Scalloped Apples, Milk

Hometown Military News

April 13, 2004 (FHTNC)-- Marine Corps Sgt. Johnny M. Granstaff, son of Debra L. and Charles R. Granstaff of Dodd City, Texas, recently was promoted to his current rank while serving with Marine Attack Squadron 231, Cherry Point, N.C.

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

Buster Cole State Jail- April Employee Of The Month

The employee of the month for the Buster Cole State Jail is Donna Mosley. Ms. Mosley has been employed with the state through the Windham School District for eight years as a counselor. Prior to her employment here, she worked with the Sam Rayburn School District and the Bonham School District as a teacher and counselor.

She is married with children and grandchildren, and enjoys spending time with her family.

She was nominated for this honor by co-worker S. Walker, who admires her "outstanding work ethic" and the "professional advice" she consistently offers the offender population.

Congratulations, Ms. Mosley!

Goal is to energize and activate the Democratic Community on a Local Level

Bonham, Texas- April 13, 2004- The Fannin County Democratic Party has launched its "Getting to Know You Better" local precinct meetings, starting with the Precinct 4 meeting to be held on April 20th.

"The goal is to give our local Precinct Chairs and Captains the opportunity to meet with Democrats and other Interested Fannin County residents and provide an update on what the Democratic Party is planning as well as looking to the community for ideas to help us be more effective," explains Pat Doyle, director membership and recruiting for the Fannin County Democratic Party. "We’ll also have sign-up sheets at these events for those people who want to take the opportunity to volunteer and help us with our efforts," she adds. In addition attendees will be albe to register to vote at these events.

Lillie Stewart, Precinct 4 Chair is excited at the opportunity to meet and talk with a group of people from her precinct. "It’s great to meet people one-on-one," she says, "but this meeting is a wonderful opportunity for sharing information and gathering suggestions from the people there."

Four Precincts have set dates for their "Getting to Know Your Better" meeting so far, with more planned.

Precinct 4: April 20th- 7:00 p.m.- Precinct Chair: Lillie Stewart, New Home Baptist Church, 1300 North Maple, Bonham

Precinct 7: April 29th- 7:00 p.m.- Precinct Chair: Billy Golden, Community Center, Leonard

Precinct 10: May 13th- 7:00 p.m.- Precinct Chair: Gary Duncan, Snap Center, 201 Pearl, Trenton

Precinct 11: June 14th- 7:00 p.m.- Precinct Captian: Mary Kaye Ashley, Leonard City Hall, Leonard

Once again it is time for the Annual, Kids’ All-American Fishing Derby that is scheduled for Saturday, June 5, 2004 at the pool just south of the entrance to Lake Fannin. The VA Employee Association, Wal-Mart and the US Forest Service are organizing this year’s Derby.

The Derby is open to children of Fannin County ages 2-16 years old. Each child attending the event will receive a prize and special prizes will be given for different categories and age groups. The morning will end with a hotdog lunch served by volunteers.

The VA Employee Association is looking for your support in buying prizes, food items and fishing items for the children. The children attending the event will appreciate your donation. Please help us with this very worthy cause. Without the support of the community businesses and individuals this annual event would not be possible.

We would like to thank you in advance for your contribution and support.

Please makes all checks payable to: VAEA (Fishing Derby)

Buster Cole State Jail- April Officer Of The Month

Our Officer of the Month is COIII Timothy Browning. Officer Browning began his career with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice April 2002. Since that time, he has proven to be an outstanding officer, greatly appreciated by his co-workers and supervisors alike.

Officer Browning was nominated by two of his fellow correctional officers, J. Maness and B. Frazier. Their nominations included "treats other staff like family", "team player" and "great asset". They also commended him for his "dedication" to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Buster Cole State Jail.

We are proud to announce Officer Browning as our Officer of the Month for April.

Savoy Elementary Career Day

Let's Play Ball!!!

Katie Skinner played in her 1st T-Ball game on April 3, 2004.  Katie plays on the Sam Rayburn Team #2.  Katie is the daughter of Jean & Jason Skinner of Ivanhoe, TX.  Her team won their first game;  the score was 6 to 4.  Katie is really excited about her up coming games.

Savoy Elementary Six Hour Reading Club

The students in Mrs. Keck’s first grade class earned a free ticket to Six Flags for reaching the goal of reading six hours. Back Row left to right: Rhianne Sweet, Ian Ryon, Jaden Tomlinson, Lindsey Stone. Front Row: Dayton Daniel, Andrew Glass, Christina Francis.

Savoy Elementary Six Hour Reading Club

Texas Foreign Language Symposium At Texas A & M University In Commerce, Texas Sponsored By NET-OLE

Memorized Poetry- Molly Lippert - 4^th Reading Comprehension-Alex Loftin – Good

Prepared Speech- Akasha Eaton – 1^st Sight Reading Poetry- Lora Dyson - 2^nd Sight Reading Poetry – Morgan Hopson – 8^th Memorized Poetry- Katia Caylor – 6^th Verbal Fluency- Erin Buck - 6^th Spelling Bee- Stephanie Quirk – 6^th Reading Comprehension- Superior

Verbal Fluency- Ryan Cirkles – 3rd Site Reading Poetry- Heidi St. Clair - 2^nd Site Reading Poetry-Kate Renshaw – 5th  Memorized Prose- Heidi St. Clair – 5^th Reading Comprehension- Derek Goodwin – Superior

Essay- Karla Aranday – 2^nd Essay- Oscar Laredo – 3^rd

Poetry- Jessica Posselt – 1^st Poetry- Karla Aranday – 4^th

Food (Cooking Competition) - Isaac Barnett – 4^th

Vocal Competition – Diana Solano – 1^st, Kelsie Chandler – 5^th

Karla Aranday, Brei Goodwin, Molly Lippert, Jeffri Malone, Sabrina Strunk, Jasmin Cruz, Mike Crum, Jenner Palacios, Oscar Laredo, Isaac Barnett, Ryan Cirkles, James Igo

Dance- Salsa Team – 2^nd

Abby Daniel, Akasha Eaton, Jessica Posselt, Sheyla Palacios, Jennifer Stewart, María Solis, Jenner Palacios, Oscar Laredo, Isaac Barnett, Ryan Cirkles, James Igo, T.J. Washington

Jasmin Cruz and Jessica Posselt

Texas Real Estate Confidence Jumps

College Station – As real estate enters the prime selling season, confidence in Texas markets is on the rise. The latest Texas Real Estate Confidence Index (TRECI) for second quarter 2004 is .57, up .05 from the first quarter survey and up .02 from one year ago.

"The numbers are up this quarter in part because we are entering the time of the year when new construction picks up and listings of existing homes start to appear," notes Dr. James H. Leigh, TRECI project director and associate research scientist for the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University. "Still, the jump from the last quarter and the improvement over this period a year ago are welcome signs that the overall real estate industry may be catching up to the improved sentiment in the other markets."

The index is constructed from responses of real estate industry expert panelists in the state to a series of questions about what they think about their market area in the coming quarter. TRECI ranges from 0 to 1, with .50 being neutral. Numbers above .50 reflect positive feelings about their market.

Commercial Realtors®, residential Realtors®, builders and commercial lenders surveyed were positive in their outlook. The commercial lender panel had the most positive TRECI number at .72.

"After experiencing a slump that extended over several quarters, the commercial Realtor® panel showed a jump in confidence last quarter, and the commercial lender market did the same this quarter," notes Leigh.

The mortgage lender panel was the only group with a negative reading, a TRECI of .39. This group’s confidence is somewhat improved from last quarter but is considerably less confident than it was a year ago.

"Home refinancing activity is not nearly as hot as it has been in the past, which leaves mortgage lenders more dependent on the home construction market. With the improved optimism among the builder panelists, increased activity in the new home construction market should help to an extent, but it may not be sufficient to keep this segment healthy," Leigh says.

As for the metropolitan area results, all panelists were positive in their feelings about the second quarter prospects.

"It is most definitely a positive sign that all of the state metros are optimistic about the coming quarter, which is something that hasn’t been the case in the past. Austin has been in a recovery mode for several quarters now, and most of the other metro areas have held their own in the recent past.

"The Houston market seems a bit soft on the surface, but in reality, it is more the case that the other metros are just stronger about the future" said Leigh, also associate professor of marketing in the Mays Business School at Texas A&M.

Among the metros surveyed, panelists in the Fort Worth-Arlington area had the most positive outlook overall.

The El Paso and San Antonio metro panels, along with the "other area" panel tied for the second most positive TRECI at .58.

More detailed information can be found on the Real Estate Center’s website, http://recenter.tamu.edu, by clicking on TRECI.

Now in its fifth year, the TRECI is a quarterly tracking of the state of the real estate industry. Expert panelists for the Center’s quarterly survey are recruited from professional organizations.

The Society of Industrial and Office Realtors® and the Certified Commercial Investment Member designates of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) cosponsor the commercial Realtor® panel. NAR’s Lone Star Chapter of Certified Residential Specialists cosponsors the residential Realtor® panel. The Texas Association of Builders cosponsors the TRECI builder panel. The Texas Mortgage Bankers Association, the Texas Association of Mortgage Brokers (TBA), and the Texas Bankers Association jointly sponsor the mortgage lender panel, and the commercial lender panel is co-sponsored by TBA.

The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University has been providing solutions through research for more than 30 years. Funded primarily by Texas real estate licensee fees, the Center was created by the state legislature to meet the needs of many audiences, including the real estate industry, instructors, researchers and the general public.

MHMRST Celebrates National Volunteer Week

By Paula Cawthon

Gainesville: Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma is celebrating volunteerism during National Volunteer Week, April 18-24. "Volunteers are a vital part of our organization and have made many great contributions. In fiscal year 2002-2003, volunteers donated almost 6,000 hours of volunteer time to MHMRST. We could not accomplish some tasks without volunteers. One of the volunteers in Gainesville is Wanda Sherman. She is a valued volunteer at the Cooke Mental Health (CMH) Center," says Paula Cawthon, Community Relations Director.

Bobbie West, CMH office manager, has nothing but praise for Sherman. "Wanda is loyal, dedicated, and conscientious. She approaches every task with a positive attitude and never declines a task she is asked to perform. She handles all information with confidentially. She is a lifesaver to us!"

"I hope what I am doing is making a difference for others. That is what it’s all about: helping people improve their lives," says Wanda Sherman. "I did not know anything about MHMRST until I came to do volunteer work here. My friends are always asking me, ‘What is MHMRST?’ I try to tell them about the services available to people with mental disabilities. I enjoy my work and plan to stay as long as I can," she continues.

She has been volunteering for twenty hours each week for the last nineteen months. Her duties include filing, purging medical charts, copying, shredding documents, keeping card files up to date, answering the telephone, etc. "The varied duties keep the job interesting. I do not like to be bored," she says.

Sherman is an interesting woman who retired several years ago but wanted to keep learning and working. She likes to stay busy and challenged, and this assignment accommodates her desires.

Her working career began in the fast food industry in her hometown of Ranger, Texas at the end of her sophomore year in high school. "I think it is an awesome responsibility to serve people consumable food. When I started working, I really did not have any dream career. I was not encouraged to pursue a dream like many women today. Girls were supposed to get married and have a family. If I had a dream, it would have been to work in an office. My dad had an oil business, and I would work for him on Saturdays when I was about thirteen years old. I thought that was a great job. But my first opportunity to work was in food service, so I took it," states Sherman.

Several years after her marriage, she found herself a single mother and needing a job to support her young son. With all her experience in food, it was only natural for her to begin seeking another job in the same field. Sherman landed a job in Fort Worth as bakery manager for F. W. Woolworth. Her next job would take her to four states as the assistant to the district manager for Southwestern Greyhound. For over five years, her job included trouble shooting, hiring, and setting up restaurants and gift shops.

Government employment was next, and it led her to be the cafeteria manager at the Post Exchange (PX) at Clovis, New Mexico Air Force Base. She moved on to Roswell, in the same position and then to Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls. She managed the cafeteria, bakery, snack bars, concession stands, and the flight line meals.

The next eleven years were spent selling recreational property and moving several more times. She lived in Tulsa Oklahoma, Vermont, Raleigh, North Carolina, and then Virginia. "When all the property was sold in a certain location, it was time to move. I have operated a couple of my own businesses, too. I had two drive-in restaurants in Iowa Park, Texas for three years and leased a grocery store for a couple of years. My last job was working for Russell Newman Lingerie. I have been without work, too. I lived in Odessa for three years and looked for work the entire time I was there. I finally found the Senior Training Employment Program (STEP) and begin working in the Senior Citizen Center," she added.

"I came to Gainesville, because I had family in the area. I started working as the director at the Friendship House and worked there for three years. I have volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program and at the Gainesville Convalescent Center helping with exercise and craft classes. I encourage people to volunteer. If they would just go and do it, they would see the difference they are making. But it is hard to get them to try it," she continues.

Sherman says her claim to fame is that her son built the flagpole that was placed on the moon. When not at work, she spends her time in her garden and takes great pleasure in arts and crafts that are challenging.

For more information on volunteering at MHMRST, contact Paula Cawthon at 903-337-4865.

Top of Texas Builders Association

Advanced technology to provide Protection against tornados and hurricanes was introduced to members and guests of the Fannin Division of the Top of Texas Builders chapter, Tuesday by the president of Omnitek Products Inc. Jim Graffigna of Grapevine. Omnitek Products Inc. was host for the evening to some forty members and guests attending the meeting at Shumardii’s restaurant in Bonham.

As Technical Sales Representative, Mr. Graffigna described a product "Storm Blocker" composite panel, a material developed to withstand wind shear and high-speed wind gusts, yet flexible enough to absorb and repel the impact of a 15-pound 2x4 traveling at 100 mph, and high speed wind shear without damaging the reinforced frame system.

Any supervised crew can install with traditional builders’ tools and the lightweight material. Omnitek Productions supervises the installations.

Paul Hodge, founder member of the group and a past president presided over the meeting and program, introducing Donna Henard of Red River Theater Group who presented Kristi Baker, as soloist and Molly Lippert, flutist. Melody Michaud and Aleha Michaud coordinated the registration and the door prizes presentation.

Steve Russell presented the prayer, and the pledge, which concluded with Kristi Baker singing, "God Bless America".

The president of Omnitek Inc. displayed a model of components for a safe room for any home or building, shown with the Storm Blocker Composite Panels. A safe room in homes is the protective barrier between your family and the storm. "Storm Blocker" composite panels are a unique material designed to withstand the extreme elements of a tornado, hurricane, or severe wind event, while still being light in weight, easy to fabricate and cost effective. The material was developed through trials of debris impact testing at the Texas Tech Wind Engineering Research Center and tested for wind shear at the Clemson University Wind Load Test Lab.

"The combination of high strength glass and a solid core material allows for a rigid material that can withstand high speed wind gusts and is flexible enough to absorb and repel the impact of a 1 pound two by four traveling at 100 mph, or high speed wind shear without damaging the reinforced frame.

"Storm Blocker composite panels are designed for faster fabrication and assembly than other FEMA approved materials, reducing assembly time and indirect labor or contracting costs for shelter construction. These panels can be cut with normal circular saw and framing tools, therefore there is no need for a separate set of tools for installation.

"All of the required building materials were chosen by research, for their strength, availability and simplicity. The Storm Blocker System exceeds the guidelines that are set by Federal Emergency Management Agency, The National Storm Shelter Association, the American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Association of Home Builders for an above ground, in home storm shelter capable of withstanding an F5 tornado, or a Category 5 hurricane. It is currently being used in the construction of new homes for home additions and is in the final stages of testing for a retrofit application in an existing home.

Omnitek Products Inc. is the exclusive representative for Storm Blocker Composite Panels, at 115 West Wall St. No. 102 in Grapevine Texas. They also have offices in Houston.

Mr. Graffigna is the technical contact for all material and shelters, and fields all questions and inquiries.

Manufacture of the composite panels is Industrial Laminates Norplex Micarta of Postville, Iowa. This company has a rich history of material development and manufacturing dating to the early 1900s.

He pointed out that this system is booming in Minnesota even though they have basements. The reason is that a safe room within the living quarters is more suitable to older people with walkers and wheelchairs. He also said that anchors into the slab have been produced that withstands tornados and storms, holding the shelters in place. It is a new and efficient way to protect your families for pennies per day over the life of your home.

The speaker graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, while simultaneously attaining a Masters Plumbing License.

He originated Omnitek Products more than ten years ago, and has expertise in selling industrial composites. His wife, Patrice, is a CPA and serves as financial manager of Omnitek Products. They have two children, Jonathan and Elizabeth, ages nine and seven.

Judy’s Garden Shed, Plants and Things, Lane’s Flowers, and Discount Outlet of Bonham donated door prizes. Paulette Andrew, Jay Sims, Herold Stephens, Stephen Kual, Debra Polly, Carrol Mulder, Stephanie Castle, Donna Henard, Pat Clark and Suzie Mulder won door prizes.

MHMRST Family Support Group Learns About Anger Management

Bonham: "Anger is a human emotion. Everyone gets angry from time to time. Examples of other names for anger are frustrated, upset or ‘putting the other guy in his place.’ Anger in itself is not bad. How you handle anger is what is important. One of the best ways to handle anger is to take a step back and count to ten or one hundred before you react to a situation. You should consider changing your environment by taking a walk. Try to get in touch with what your anger is telling you," states John Hoelzel of Ivanhoe at the Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma Family Support meeting held in Bonham on April 6.

Hoelzel continued, "Ways to harness or manage your anger include:

• Listen to the other party to find out how they feel

• Seek to first understand the other person’s viewpoint instead of insisting on them to understand your viewpoint

• Speak to and treat the other person with respect

• Make an appointment to discuss the matter at another time when tempers are not flaring."

Becky Williams and Pamela Jaimes from the Fannin County Family Crisis Center presented other tips to help manage anger:

• Admit your anger

• Identify and examine the source of your feelings. Is anger the primary feeling or is it another emotion such as sadness, hurt, loss of control or frustration? Make sure you have perceived the situation correctly.

• Separate the energy of your anger from the issue related to your anger

• Be open, direct and respectful by talking with the person who made you angry

• Use "I" statements and take responsibility for your own feelings. Resist the temptation to blame someone else for your anger

Williams and Jaimes also discussed Guidelines for Fair Fighting:

• Discuss controversial subjects at an agreed upon time

• Stick to the present—do not dredge up the past

• Stick to the subject—do not add other problems

• Do not hit below the belt

• Do not quit; work it out

• Do not try to win---EVER

• Respect crying

• NO VIOLENCE---EVER

• Never say: You never, I told you so, You always, When will you ever change? or How many times do I have to tell you?

• Always say: I am sorry, I need you, Please help me, I did wrong, Thank You, and I love you

Family Support meetings are held quarterly in Fannin County. For information, contact Paula Cawthon at 903-337-4865. John Hoelzel may be contacted at 903-664-2471 for information on a bi-monthly

Fannin County support group for persons with mental illness and their family members. The Fannin County Family Crisis Center holds anger management classes. Contact them at 903-583-7694.

AUSTIN - In a letter received by the Texas Workforce Commission April 9, 2004, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans Employment and Training Service (DOL-VETS) has attempted to cut the Texas Veteran’s grant by $998,429. DOL-VETS lack of approval of the Texas Workforce Commission’s budget amendment will delete a myriad of services to Texas veterans, including subsidized employment of disabled veterans, hiring of additional veterans staff and training of workforce center staff in centers that do not have veterans representatives, among others. TWC has initiated several high level contacts with DOL-VETS and will consider all legal avenues available to prevent DOL-VETS from taking any part of the grant to Texas.

"I am extremely disappointed that DOL would attempt to cut funds to Texas veterans," said Texas Workforce Commission Chair Diane Rath. "Texas veterans have a long and proud history of service to the United States, and they certainly deserve better than this."

TWC’s funding from DOL-VETS has taken the form of a staffing contract each year through FY 2003. In FY 2003, that amount was a little over $9 million. In FY 2004, DOL-VETS funding has taken the form of a program grant of more than $11 million requiring Texas to present a plan for the expenditure of our allocation. TWC submitted that plan in September 2003 after coordinating it with the DOL-VETS representative to TWC. In response to a subsequent budget amendment requested by DOL-VETS, TWC has learned that $998,429 has not been approved.

"Like my fellow commissioners, I am extremely disappointed that any effort would be made to reduce the allocation of veterans funds to Texas," said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman. "With so many veterans returning as part of the largest troop rotation since World War II, Texas veterans need and deserve more services than ever. I cannot think of a worse time to reduce funding to our returning troops, and we will carry that message to our government leaders in Washington."

It is TWC’s strong position that unless the plan or subsequent budget narrative submitted to DOL-VETS contains illegal activities under the grant, it has no authority to reallocate any portion of the grant. Further, the special grants provisions of the current DOL-VETS grant states that the only funds that may be reallocated are those "returned by other states through reclamation of under or unexpended grant funds." To date, there are no funds returned by the state of Texas.

"As a veteran myself, I am deeply disappointed in this issue, as Texas veterans will be the ones who suffer," said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. "We need to maintain our current allocation at its present level."

Highway 82 Now Open

On Tuesday, April 13, TxDOT cut the ribbon to open Highway 82. U.S. Congressman, Ralph Hall, State Representative Larry Phillips along with a fourth-grade class from St. Mary’s Catholic School and many other dignitaries participated in the ribbon cutting.

Fannin County Commissioners Court Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The Fannin County Commissioners Court met Monday, April 12 for a regular meeting.

Eleven individuals were appointed to be members of the Fannin County Industrial Board. For Precinct 1- Jim Glaser and Rhonda Blain; Precinct 2- Cheryl Stanley and Steve Holland; Precinct 3- Kyle Milford and Don Smith; Precinct 4- Millard Brent and Bryan Peeler; Precinct 5- Troy Sellers, Roy Floyd, and Fred Woodson.

Action to approve a contract with the Bonham Fire Department was tabled. The contract was asking for $2,500 a year for the fire department. This item will be discussed in the future.

Leon Hurse, Mayor of Ladonia, approached the Commission asking the Fannin County Sheriffs office to patrol the Ladonia area. Mr. Hurse is offering $15,000, and a car, to the Fannin County Sheriffs Office. Mr. Hurse assured the commission that the city would be able to offer more money in the future. Judge Derrel Hall said he would discuss it with the sheriff then it will be put on a future agenda.

Revisions of CPS bylaws were also approved. Mrs. Meehan also announced that this month, April, is Child Abuse Awareness month.

Other items approved at Monday’s meeting were:

• Release of security by Bonham State Bank

• Opening of county road off of FM 2990 in Pct. 3

• Dwayne Strickland will schedule auction of surplus county property

• Deed for property struck off for taxes in Cause No. T-2756

• Adult Probation Office independent audit for year ending 2003

• Advertise lease of space on radio tower

Bonham City Commission Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The Bonham City Commission met last Monday, April 12th at 5:30 for a regular meeting.

The first items approved on the agenda were the minutes of the March 8th and April 5th meetings, and a financial report for the month of March, including quarterly funds report for the quarter ending March 31, as prepared by Bonham State Bank.

Comments were received from a few lease holders of the Lake Bonham Temporary Campsites. They included Cindy Denison, Charles McDonald, and Charlette Miller. John Roach Jr. is the attorney representing the residents. He made a suggestion to table this agenda item, and have the commission set a meeting to talk with him and the lease owners. The item will be placed on a future agenda.

Public Hearings were held on the following eight ordinances. All were approved 6-0.

• An ordinance for a specific use permit to allow a tattoo and body piercing business in General Business ‘B’ Zoning District at 2620 N. Center Street Suite C

• Amending Sign Ordinance No. 1067 to no longer allow permitting and placement of off - premise billboards within the city of Bonham

• Amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1059 updating the definition of day care centers to correspond with the State of Texas recent revision

• Annexing City-owned portion of FM 898 between SH 78 and SH 121, including the intersection of FM 898/SH78 and FM898/SH121 and portion of SH 121 north of FM 898 and property recently purchased for the Jones Field Airport expansion

• Amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1059 changing the present ‘R’ Single- family Residential Zoning and ‘AG’ Agricultural Zoning to ‘LI’ Light Industrial for all City-owned property surrounding and abutting the City of Bonham Airport on the west and north

• Rescinding all presently unused Mobile Home or Manufactured Home zoning; and to rescind all presently utilized Mobile Home or Manufactured Home zoning, should such parcel or parcels become vacant or unused after 90 days.

• Designating the placement of traffic signs to all the intersections of Pecan Street and Legend Ave.; Pecan Street and Mockingbird Street; Pecan St. and Arbor Bend (north and south intersection); Pecan Street and Martin Street; Pecan Street and Wes Michael Rd.; Albert Broadfoot St. and Stadium Dr.; Albert Broadfoot St. and Finley-Oats Elementary School.

• Increasing solid waste fees and providing for demolition services

Bids were taken on March 31st for the demolition and removal of 22 vacant and dilapidated houses in Bonham. Bids were received from M & M Hauling & Leveling, Fast Forward Demolition, and Hilliard & Sons. Hilliard & Sons will be receiving the job with a bid of $59,064 including 41 loads of dirt to be added/deleted at $90.00 per load.

FM 898 between SH 121 and SH 78 has been renamed. The road was split in half for the construction of the Jones Field Airport. FM 898 from SH 121 eastward to Jones Field will now be called Airport Road West, and FM 898 from intersection SH 78 and FM 273 westward to Jones Field is now Airport Road East.

In other business the following items were also approved at the City Commission meeting.

• Action to ratify BEDCO Board awarding of the contract for construciton of Exposition Center to Swan Roofing

• Action on resolution for lease purchase of INCODE Municipal Court Software

Wal-Mart Donates Money To Bonham Schools

Last Wednesday, April 14th, Wal-Mart handed an environmental scholarship of $250 over to Stephenson Headstart, and Bonham High School. Aaron Williams, a manager at Wal-Mart handed out the checks.

Fannin County Resource Fair Schedule Of Events

(All will perform on the stage in the school cafeteria.)

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. - The Line Dancers will perform.

10:45 a.m. – 11 a.m. – Laura Dyson will sing.

11 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. – Callie and Cody Maxwell will sing.

Noon – 1 p.m. – Award Ceremony with presentation on stage.

1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Amy Bauer will sing.

1:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. – Nicole Bagley will sing.

The West Wind band will perform outside all day during the fair. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the show. The band will perform on the parking lot across from the entrance to Bailey Inglish throughout the day.

Reading with Dr. Seuss and Foster Grandparents: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and at noon. Youth and Children’s Activities Chairman, Linda Horton, announced that the Cat In The Hat will also make an appearance at the Fair and will read a story during one of the story hours. (Bring your camera and get a picture of your child visiting with the Cat In The Hat.)

Junior (Ages 8-11) at 10:30 a.m. Sign up between 10 - 10:30 a.m.

Youth (Ages 12-16) 11:15 a.m. Sign up between 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.

Tom’s Magic Show will be held at 1 p.m.

Art Tables (sand art and marble art) 10 a.m. until noon and from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.

Little Folks Corner with special games and prizes for pre-schoolers from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The following activities will be available from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Prize Walk, Giant Slide, Bounce Around and the Barrel Train. All Youth/Children Activities will be held in the Gymnasium or Fenced area just outside of Gymnasium.

A Bridge Tournament and Dominos (42) will be part of this year’s entertainment for senior citizens.

All exhibitor booths will be set up in the Cafeteria, with Cholesterol, Blood Pressure and other Health Screening available. Food and drinks include hot dogs, nachos, soda and water. All activities and entertainment are free. Donations will be accepted to help defray the cost.

Sandy Barber with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and the Children’s Advocacy Center gave a presentation on what CASA and CAC do in Fannin County. With many volunteers and donations, they work with Fannin County Child Protective Services and others to help the neglected and abused children in Fannin County. The difference between the two being CASA deals with civil cases and CAC deals with criminal cases.

Barber also showed slides of their new facility, especially their newest addition - The Rainbow Room. This room houses new clothes, shoes, diapers and other new items that children may need, basically for foster children.

If you would like to be a volunteer, please call them at 903-583-4339.

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