It’s time again for the best of country music. The big show will be taking place this Saturday night, May 24, at 7:30 p.m. at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham Recreation area, east of the Spillway on CR 2610. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton, and the talented Country Hoe-Downers. Featuring: George Kirby, Randy Keister, Michael Williams, Glen Clark, Mike Stroud, Paul Matthews, and Gary Monroe and Fred Ulich. Our scheduled special guest will be the young and talented 11 year old fiddler, Nick Conoy and area known and popular, Ken Spradlin, from Denison, Texas. Plus other drop-in guests are expected. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is invited out for a clean and fun-filled evening. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your support. May God bless you. For more information, call 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

Varna Sangster of Telephone, Texas, Fannin County, turned 99 on Saturday, April 26, 2003. She was born on April 26, 1904, to the late Clark Moore and Barbara Ann Bolt-Bell in McNab, Arkansas, Hempstead County.

She has 2 brothers, Clyde Bell of Giddings, Texas, and the late Floyd Bell of Temple, Texas, 4 sisters, Elsie Clowers of Houston, Maudie Craig of San Antonio, the late Ada Mae Williams of Lott, Texas, and the late Hattie Terry of Houston.

They moved from Arkansas to Mosely, Oklahoma, in a covered wagon. They hauled lumber there before moving to Texas. They worked on a farm in Deport and Detroit, Texas. They picked cotton in Honey Grove before moving to Telephone.

Her nickname is "Jack." She went to Mayfield School, north of Telephone, where she met Luie (Duke) Sangster in 1919.

He was born January 14, 1906, to the late Harry and Rosie May Snead-Sangster in Telephone, Texas, Fannin County.

They married September 8, 1928, in Belton, Texas, Bell County, in a grocery store on a rainy day.

They have 5 daughters. They are Mary LaVell Hawkins of Telephone, the late Jewellene Sangster of Malakoff, Texas, Imogene West of Sherman Texas, Jorene Collinsworth of Ivanhoe, and the late Neta Jo Sangster of Telephone.

They have 14 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 16 great-great-grandchildren.

Duke was a farmer. He went out West to pull cotton in the fall.

Duke and Varna moved to Bigbee, South of Telephone in 1936, where they lived in a dugout with a tent over the top for a month, while waiting for a house to be built. Duke worked for Ed Robertson, (twins, Loyd and Floyd Robertson’s dad), at a sawmill.

Duke and Varna bought their place 3 miles east of Telephone, Fannin County, on October 4, 1943 from Bob Lawson of Telephone. They paid $1,000.00 for 113 acres.

They built 2 or 3 houses and barns on it. There were pools on it. They had a well dug. They milked cows and churned butter. They raised hogs and sold them. They also raised chickens, planted watermelons, cantaloupes, sweet potatoes, potatoes, black-eyed and purple hull peas. They gardened enough to share with family and friends. They sold blackberries for several years. People came from all over to buy them.

They worked on the Morgan and Goss Farm at Riverby, North of Monkstown, in the 40’s and 50’s for 50 cents a day, hoeing cotton and peanuts.

At that time, everyone used a piece of paper called, "Jew Gout," the same as money, to buy groceries and things they needed at the Riverby store. They bought big sacks of flour and made clothes out of flour sacks. They mowed the Forest Grove Cemetery for several years.

Varna sat with sick people, too. Duke and Varna both played music. Both of their families played music. Duke played fiddle, guitar, steel guitar, and mandolin. Varna played guitar. Friends and family would come to sing and listen to music.

They had family reunions for several years at their home.

Duke fell and broke his hip in 1987. Later, he lost both of his legs. He was in the former Seven Oaks Nursing Home in Bonham for 4 years. He died September 15, 1991, at the age of 85.

Duke and Varna were married 63 years and 1 week.

Varna moved to Jim Bob and LaVell Hawkin’s place in 1995. The place was sold in 1996. She still helps her family at the age of 99. God has blessed her richly.

Erin Leigh Klose, the 1999 Valedictorian graduate of Savoy High School, was recently awarded a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Tarleton State University, at Stephenville, Texas, a division of the Texas A&M University System. The commencement ceremony was held in the Clyde H. Wells Fine Arts Auditorium on May 10, 2003.

Upon graduation from college, Erin had a cumulative GPA of 3.5. While attending Tarleton State University, she was a member of the Collegiate FFA. The organization performed many community service projects, assisted with leadership contests and livestock judging events held at the college for district, area, and state level competition.

Since completing college, Erin plans on pursuing her career in the Animal Science field and begin working on a Master’s Degree.

Erin is the 22 year-old daughter of Gary and Brenda Klose of Savoy, and the granddaughter of Almarine Klose of Lometa and David and Cynthia Redding of Mena, Arkansas.

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas, met Saturday, May 10, 2003, at the Honey Grove home of Mary Jo Barbee for their last meeting of the year. Mary Jo served a delicious lunch to twelve members. After the meal, Mary Jo, Regent, called the meeting to order and led the members in the DAR Ritual with Dot Linn as Chaplain. Nancy Bellows, secretary, read the minutes of the last meeting. They were approved as read. Martha Mayrell, treasurer, gave the treasury report. Flo Odom, registrar, gave a committee report on members. Last year in January, we had thirty-four members and we had Sherri Tedford approved in November and we have three to be approved in July. Judy O’Shields, Myra Rodgers and Mary Pauline Yarbrough had presented the chapter with a guideline to go by in picking the History Essay winner and the Good Citizenship award. Judy O’Shields made the motion and Flo Odom seconded and the guidelines were approved. A get-well card was signed for Paula Gilbreath who had knee surgery last month. Mary Jo was presented an Orchid corsage by the members. Birthday gifts were brought by Ruby Draisey, Mary Beavers, and Bellows, for her daughter, Joevelyn. Those winning the gifts were Gilbreath, Odom, O’Shields, Yarbrough, Linn, Beavers and Kay Partain. We received an invitation to attend the Rebecca Crockett Chapter, NSDAR, in Gainesville, Texas on their 100th Anniversary Reception on June 14, 2003. Mayrell discussed how we might bring more interest into our chapter. Everyone is asked to think about this during the summer. Our next meeting will be Saturday, September 20, 2003 at the Bonham Chamber of Commerce meeting room at 2 p.m. Before being dismissed officers were installed for the coming year. They are: Mary Jo Barbee, regent, Mary Lou Kissinger, vice-regent, Dorotha Linn, chaplain, Nancy Bellows, secretary, Martha Mayrell, treasurer, Mary Beavers, historian and librarian, Flo Odom, registrar.

Dr. Mark Patton, Director of Authority Clinical Services, Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma (MHMRST), is the fourth generation of his family to be in a healing profession. His great-grandfather, his father’s uncle, and his father were all physicians.

"I went this way on purpose," said Dr. Patton. "I decided that I wanted to go into the mental health field, and it was a good choice for me.

"I grew up in Amarillo, but other than visits to see members of my family, I haven’t lived there since 1965," he commented. A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) he received a Bachelor’s degree in Science from Texas A&M University, Master of Education from the University of Houston, and a Doctor of Philosophy from North Texas State University.

Dr. Patton spent the first ten years of his career in Arkansas, working at the Human Development Center in Boonesville with persons who have mental retardation. "I intended to stay three years and ended up staying for ten," said Patton. "I started as a psychologist and moved to Director of Residential Living.

"I decided to make the move to Texas as both my family, and my late wife’s family, were from Texas. We moved to Bonham 17 years ago, after I accepted a position with MHMRST. I’ve been here ever since. I enjoy working in the mental health field. It’s something that I enjoy and that I plan to continue to do. I like working with people who are part of our priority population.

The priority population are persons who have major mental illnesses such as major depression, bi-polar disorder, and schizophrenia," he added.

Dr. Patton told of several advances in treatment that have taken place since he started in the mental health field. "The biggest change has been in medications. It’s been radical," he commented. "When I first came, the major medicines that were prescribed were anti-depressants and anti-psychotics, and the cost of those medications, per client, ran no more than $40.00 a month. Today the new generation medications cost much, much more. We don’t use, nor have, the old medications anymore. The only way they are used is if they are the client’s choice. Several of them have been on the same medication for years, it works for them, and they don’t want to try any of the new medications.

"The newer medications have fewer side effects and appear in most cases to be more effective than the older medications," he continued. "There are a lot more choices than were available 15 years ago. MHMR, at the state level, is mandated to provide medication for the chronically and severely mentally ill. Do we provide for all we see? No, some of the people have Medicaid which pays for up to three prescriptions per month. Probably 30% of our clients don’t have any funding for medications and the center basically pays for those medications. There is a certain amount of money set aside for "new generation medications," but unfortunately, when you run out of that money, you’re out of money!

"Other advances have been in treatment. When I first came to work at MHMR we would see everyone who walked through the door and try to "fix" his or her problem. Today when someone comes in with problems we review it and determine what the illness is. We don’t treat situational depression. It has to be major depression.

"Over the years we’ve found that many of the problems don't need to be treated or can be treated in other places. Example: church counseling or private counseling. They don’t have to be treated here. When I first started we would see everybody and try to fix them. It didn’t always work. Now we don’t try to fix everybody.

"Another change has been the availability of hospital bed days. That has decreased considerably. We also have more control over what can be done and how it can be done to protect the rights of individuals. A husband can no longer go to the county judge and say, ‘My wife wants to leave me. She must be crazy,’ and have her put in the state hospital. I’m sorry to say that did happen in the past! Many significant changes have taken place for the better since I came to work in the mental health field. There have also been many advances in research in recent years.

"I have a very interesting job. The thing that take’s most of my time is going through all of the stuff that has to be read each day. I also work with the staff to help solve problems. I consult with them and help them develop solutions for our consumers. That’s probably the most important thing I do. But the paperwork take’s the longest time. Right now, I’m working on the Texas Administrative Code for Home and Community Based Services and comparing that with the Mental Retardation Local Authority Program. I still do clinical reviews when it’s necessary, or when I feel something is going on I need to check.

"When I first came to Bonham I directed a field center - both mental and mental retardation. I was doing both. Then policy changed, and it changed and changed. Then I got into direct service, which was fine for awhile. There was a period of time I just did triage, direct mental health services. Now I’m back into administration and direct service. Very little direct service now, but a whole lot of administration," he added.

When asked about the 78th Legislature’s proposed mental health budget cuts he pointed out that over the years the Community Health Centers have been called on to provide more and more services with fewer and fewer resources. The state of Texas has specified over the years who the Mental Health centers are going to serve. Texas ranks 43rd in per capita spending for public mental health and mental retardation services, according to the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors. The priority population for public MHMR services grows by about 11,500 new people each year, according to the Texas Dept. of Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TDMHMR).

Dr. Patton makes his home in Fannin County and enjoys playing golf in his free time. He is a member of Bonham’s First United Methodist Church and teaches a High School Sunday school class. He enjoys the Thursday afternoon Scramble at the Bonham Golf and Country Club and is serving a term on their Board of Directors.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. MHMRST serves persons with mental and developmental disabilities in Cooke, Fannin, and Grayson Counties. Services include mental health, mental retardation, and Early Childhood Intervention. For more information, contact Paula Cawthon, Community Relations Director, at 903-786-4804.

The Third Grade at Dodd City Elementary would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Danner for volunteering each week in the third grade classroom. Mr. Danner is the Fannin County Jr. Master Gardener Coordinator and Mrs. Danner is a Master Gardener. They have spent time each week this year helping educate students in horticulture. Students have been involved in activities such as making paper hats and butterflies, weeding flower beds at the school, making bird seed feeders, and learning to prepare a garden for planting. Students have planted sugar snap peas, cabbage, tomatoes, and peppers. They continue to water the garden regularly in hopes of harvesting some vegetables soon.

Students celebrated Mr. and Mrs. Danner’s final visit with a "Garden Salad Party." They presented a poem called "Low Down, Junk Food Blues" for the couple. Lexi Langford and Kaitlyn Massie wrote a song to sing for the Danner’s at the party. The class made tissue flowers, put them in a "Hornet" tin for Mr. and Mrs. Danner and gave them a collage of pictures to express their thanks for a great year. Rick Maxwell and Mr. Danner presented the third graders with a plaque for their participation in the Jr. Master Gardeners Program.

Joyce Maxwell and Jennifer Robinson, third grade teachers, also wish to thank Mr. and Mrs. Danner for giving their time to work with the Dodd City students. This has been an experience these students will never forget.

To help launch this year’s Memorial Day safety belt enforcement and awareness campaign, state transportation, health and law enforcement officials unveiled the largest safety belt in the state -- strapped firmly across the giant bronze star that stands in front of the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Inscribed on the safety belt is the simple, direct campaign message "Click It or Ticket."

During the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, Texans will hit the state’s roads and highways in record numbers. This year, more than ever, experts believe many Texans will do their vacationing close to home, opting to drive to the state’s many attractions, such as the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. That’s why this year the museum joined with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Texas Department of Health and other agencies to remind Texas drivers about the importance of buckling up. From May 19 to June 1, law enforcement throughout Texas will be out in increased numbers looking for drivers and passengers who aren’t using safety belts.

"We know that combining stepped up law enforcement with public education works to get people to buckle up," said Susan Bryant, TxDOT’s traffic safety director. "We hope that increased enforcement of the safety belt law during the weeks around the Memorial Day holiday not only will save lives, but also will give Texas motorists the extra incentive they need to always use their safety belts and properly secure their children."

Texas law requires drivers and front seat passengers to use safety belts. Passengers under the age of 17 have to be buckled up in the front or back seat. Child safety seats are required for children under four years old or less than 36 inches tall. Fines for violations range from $25 to $200.

Click It or Ticket is part of a national effort to reduce deaths and injuries from traffic crashes. Last year, the Click it or Ticket campaign during the Memorial Day holiday helped increase statewide safety belt use from 76% to 81%. Officials estimate that if 85% of drivers and passengers buckled up and secured their children in safety seats, there would be 100 fewer deaths and 2,300 fewer injuries in Texas each year and save Texans $280 million dollars each year.

The Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association, in cooperation with the Texoma Council of Governments and the City Planners Association of Texas, will be conducting a Workshop for Planning Commissioners, Elected Officials and Staff on Thursday, June 5, 2003. The Workshop will be held in the Eisenhower Conference room of the Texoma Council of Governments offices located at 1117 Gallagher Drive in Sherman, Texas.

The Workshop is designed for those individuals, both elected and appointed, that must deal with community planning and development issues in their city or county. The registration fee for persons attending the Workshop is $60.00 - a great value for a full day of useful, Texas-specific information. The Texas Chapter can also offer participants a full year’s Planning Official membership in the American Planning Association for $65.00, including the National magazine and other benefits, or a Texas Chapter Only membership for $40.00 that includes newsletters, networking and other advantages. If you are interest in joining either of these organizations, a separate payment made out to the Texas Chapter - American Planning Association is required.

Please share this information with each of your Planning and Zoning Commissioners, City Council or Commissioners Court members or those staff persons responsible for city/county planning. If you have any questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact either Sue Ann Stephens at 903-813-3523 or Kevin M. Farley at 903-813-3520.

Thank you for your commitment to building better Texas communities.

A Master’s of Science degree was conferred upon Karen Jenece Waggoner at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio on May 9th. Waggoner is a former graduate of Savoy High School. The ceremony was attended by proud parents Billy and Iverna Waggoner of Ector.

Waggoner earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin in Odessa, Texas in May 2001. She has continued to study geology with a specialization in paleontology for the past two years at BGSU in Ohio.

Waggoner has accepted a teaching assistantship and a Chancellor’s Fellowship from Texas Tech University in Lubbock. She will pursue a doctoral degree in the geosciences, concentrating on paleontology beginning this fall.

"We are very pleased to be able to recognize Miss Rattan and her commitment to upholding the same American Values that Foxworth-Galbraith considers essential to success in life and in business," said Jimmy Galbraith, III, Foxworth-Galbraith’s President. "We wish Morgan continued success in the pursuit of her academic goals."

Miss Rattan plans on using her scholarship in pursuit of a degree in Psychology at Grayson County College in the fall.

Foxworth-Galbraith Lumber Company is a successful family-owned business that has been meeting the building materials needs of the Southwest since 1901. With more than 70 operations throughout Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona, Foxworth-Galbraith serves professional builders, tradesmen, consumers, homeowners, and commercial, industrial and governmental customers.

C. Michael Rogers, M.D., has joined the medical staff of Texoma Medical Center as a physician in Internal Medicine at the TexomaCare-Durant location. Dr. Rogers is coming to Durant from the Carl Albert Indian Health Facility in Ada, Oklahoma.

Dr. Rogers earned his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He served an internship and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. Rogers is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and is a member of the American College of Physicians, the American Society of Internal Medicine and the Oklahoma State Medical Association.

TexomaCare Durant is located at 1901 University. Dr. Rogers will begin seeing patients in his offices on Monday, may 19th. To schedule an appointment with him, call the TexomaCare Durant offices at 580-920-1666. For more information on physicians affiliated with Texoma Medical Center, visit the newly updated Texoma HealthCare System website at www.thcs.org.

Saturday, May 24, 2003 - at the VA Auditorium at 10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. Sunday, May 25, 2003 - 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Audition selections will include any songs, comedy or dance routines from the specific era of the 1930’s through the 1940’s. Auditions will also be held for Master of Ceremonies. Come prepared with your own accompaniment to audition two separate selections. A CD player and piano will be available. All participants will be contacted with audition results by Tuesday, May 27, 2003. Performance dates will be June 27th and 28th.

By Greg Abbott

Texas Attorney General

Lampasas man charged after alleged solicitation of 13-year old girl.

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Texas Internet Bureau arrested an alleged child predator over the weekend. Sexual predators of this type solicit children over the Internet via chat rooms, then make arrangements to meet and have sexual relations with the child.

A police officer from the McAllen Police Department, and investigators from the district attorneys’ offices in Potter and Fort Bend counties participated in the undercover operation. Attorney General Abbott’s Internet Bureau is working with local communities around the state to offer specialized computer and forensics training to law enforcement officers. These officers working on special assignment for the Attorney General can use their Internet Bureau training to fight child predators in their own communities.

"Texas Democrats have shutdown government with selfish, irresponsible and dangerous antics that only hurt the people they were elected to represent. Their unbelievably partisan, obstructionist actions represent an unprecedented breach of trust and a new all-time low in Texas politics.

"These Democrats have disgraced themselves by running out on Texas children, seniors and families for their own partisan gain. For every hour that the Democrats cower in their hideout dozens of bills important to the people of Texas are being killed.

"Texas Republicans know what it is like to fight uphill legislative battles with slim odds of victory. Our Party fought against all hope for 130 years, and during that time we never disengaged from the battle or betrayed the people of Texas.

"The duties of leadership require courage, and real leaders do not run away from a fight, whether they will win or lose."

Dr. Phillips, a 1987 Graduate of Denison High School was awarded Tenure at Syracuse University. Phillips received word Friday, May 10 in Nice, France where he is currently enrolled in class learning French. He and his Wife Catherine have been living in London, England where they both taught at Syracuse University there.

They will return to New York in July.

He was 1987 State Champion in 4A Debate at Denison High, Professor of the year in 2000 at the Main Campus in Syracuse, New York.

Phillips is the Son of Fredda and Ray Phillips of Savoy and he is the Brother of Scott Phillips of Denison.

Kendall received the good news Friday, two days before his 34th birthday.

In February, the Children’s Center purchased the property at 112 West Fifth in Bonham, which is remembered by most as the old Lone Star Gas building. With the gift from the Meadows Foundation and many local supporters, the center has begun refurbishing the building to suit the growing needs of the abused and neglected children of the community.

The new location will be handicapped accessible, something the center’s current location is not. It will also offer about twice as much space, which will allow for expanded services to child abuse victims and their protective family members.

The Meadows Foundation is a private philanthropic institution established in 1948 by Algur H. and Virginia Meadows to benefit the people of Texas. The Foundation’s mission is to assist the people and institutions of Texas to improve the quality and circumstances of life for themselves and future generations.

The foundation looks for programs and services that employ imaginative, innovative ways to solve community problems through projects leading to organizational self-sufficiency and in capital plans that enable agencies to flourish. It seeks to support projects that can alleviate pain, enhance social skills and promote better human relations. For additional information, visit The Meadows Foundation web site at http://www.mfi.org. For more information about the Children’s Center, call (903) 583-4339.

The major crime rate in Texas increased slightly in 2002, according to data compiled by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The crime rate-the number of crimes per 100,000 population in Texas-declined .9 percent.

The eight-page summary of crime information can be accessed at the DPS Web site, www.txdps.state.tx.us. Go to News---Press Releases.

For crime summaries for the last several years, go to News---Public Information Office---Reports.

"The Democrats in the Texas House of Representatives have taken a stand on principle. They are not going to allow themselves to be run over by Tom DeLay, Tom Craddick, and the rest of the far right-wing Republicans who care more about their party’s agenda than what is best for Texas. The Republicans will attempt to call them obstructionists. They are heros. Like the killer Bees and the Dirty 30, they are showing what true courage and true commitment are all about. Wherever they may be, they should know that Texas Democrats are rock solid in support of them. They will triumph in the end. Redistricting was the last straw in a series of outrageous, iron-fisted power plays by Speaker tom Craddick. If Mr. Craddick wants to know who caused this, he should look in the mirror," said Chairwoman Malcolm.

AUSTIN - Less than one week after naming Edward Carreon to his top ten list of Child Support Evaders, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott

announced the San Antonio father’s arrest. Carreon, one of the most wanted Child Support Evaders in Texas, was arrested Tuesday by the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. He owes $18,690 in child support for his two daughters who reside in San Antonio. The first arrest from the top ten list occurred in El Paso when Child Support Evader Gerald Rhett Butler was apprehended within 24 hours of the list’s unveiling. Now, Carreon’s arrest is the second in less than a week.

"There are real consequences to those who refuse to pay child support, and I will do everything within my power to hold delinquent parents accountable for their actions. Thanks to tips from the public and the help of dedicated law enforcement officers, Edward Carreon is now behind bars," Attorney General Abbott said.

On Tuesday morning, deputies from the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office pursued a lead from the Attorney General’s Evader hotline that led them to a residence where Carreon was staying. Deputies were informed by an acquaintance that Carreon was growing weary of attention from being on the Attorney General’s top ten list, and was on his way to the Sheriff’s Office to turn himself in.

Carreon was arrested and booked into the Bexar County Jail Tuesday on contempt-of-court charges for failure to comply with a court order requiring the payment of child support. He is being held on a $4,291 cash bond that, if paid, will go to the mother and children involved in the case.

Edward Carreon’s child support enforcement hearing is scheduled for Thursday, May 15 at 1:30 p.m. in Judge Juan Chavira’s IV-D Master court. At that time, Mr. Carreon could receive a sentence of up to 180 days in jail.

The Child Support Evaders on the top ten list are being singled out because they have the ability to take responsibility for their children but refuse to do so. Incarceration is the only option for parents who flagrantly ignore a court’s order to pay child support.

For a parent to be named a Most Wanted Child Support Evader, court-ordered delinquent support must be in excess of $5,000 and an arrest warrant issued. The location of the non-custodial parent is unknown, and the parent has not made any payments in the last six months. The non-custodial parent must not be involved in bankruptcy proceedings or receiving welfare benefits. To make information public, the custodial parent must sign a confidentiality waiver.

Evaders as of May 6, 2003, last known address and estimated arrears are:

-Alun Tolson owes $137,477 for two children in Andrews, Texas. Last known address: Whites City, New Mexico

-Gabriel Botello owes $90,475 for two children in Houston, Texas. Last known address: Hobbs, New Mexico

-Gerald Rhett Butler owes $85,943 for one child in Brownsville, Texas. Last known address: El Paso, TX ARRESTED MAY 7, 2003 IN EL PASO)

-William Christopher Marlowe owes $47,518 for one child in Duncanville, Texas. Last known address: Phoenix, Arizona

-Guillermo Castillo owes $36,666 for three children in Douglass, Texas. Last known address: Nacogdoches, Texas

-Lorenzo Romo owes $26,008 for three children in El Paso, Texas. Last known address: El Paso, Texas

-Jason Gawriluk owes $24,820 for two children in McAllen, Texas. Last known address: Port Mansfield, Texas

-Louie C. Almanza owes $22,056 for one child in El Paso, Texas. Last known address: El Paso, Texas

-Edward M. Carreon owes $18,690 for two children in San Antonio, Texas. Last known address: San Antonio, Texas (ARRESTED MAY 13, 2003 IN SAN ANTONIO)

-Patricia L. Serna owes $7,209 for two children in Hebbronville, Texas. Last known address: Corpus Christi, Texas

People with information about the Evaders should contact the Attorney General by calling the hotline 1-866-EVADERS (382-3377), e-mailing evaders@cs.oag.state.tx.us or by writing Texas Child Support Evaders, Office of the Attorney General, Child Support Division, P.O. Box 12017, Austin, Texas 78711-2017.

Photos of the Evaders are available on the Attorney General’s web site: www.oag.state.tx.us.

Notice is hereby given that on the 19th day of May, 2003, at 6:30 p.m. the Board of Trustees of the Bonham School District will hold a regular meeting at BISD Administration Office, 1717 North Center Street, Bonham, Texas 754l8. The subjects to be discussed are listed on the agenda which is attached to and made a part of this Notice.

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

• 551.071 Private consultation with the board’s secretary.

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

• 551.073 Discussing negotiated contracts for prospective gifts or donations

• 551.074 Discussing personnel or to hear complaints against personnel.

• 551.075 To confer with employees of the school district 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 session, then the final action, final decision, or final vote shall be either:

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

On this 14^th day of May, 2003, this Notice was faxed to the news media who had previously requested such Notice and an original copy was posted at the School District Administration Building at 1:00 p.m. on said date.

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: Mike Sisk

III. OATH OFFICE: Justice of the Peace Joe Dale

· Nolan Ashmore

· Allen Sanderson

IV.

V. ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 2003-2004 VI. RECOGNITIONS:

· March of Dimes Bonham ISD Chairman - Karen McCommas

VII. OPEN FORUM:

Anyone wishing to address the board may have three minutes to do so. A maximum of 30 minutes will be used for Open Forum. Closed Session will be used if discussion involves an employee or student, which is designated for the public to address items listed on the agenda or other areas of school district operations.

VIII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Approval of minutes of the regular meeting on April 21, and special meeting May 6, 2003.

IX. SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT:

(A) L. H. Rather Scheduling

(B) Procedures for Paying Stipends

(C) Average Daily Attendance Update and Enrollment Date

(D) Resignations: Gail Orndorff, June Cox, Betty Crutcher, Carrie Lawson

X. ACTION ITEMS:

(A) Consider approval of a bid for a security system at Bonham High School and for amending the budget to cover the cost.

(B) Consider approval of Fannin County Head Start supplemental grant proposal.

(C) Consider approval of amended budget.

(D) Consider approval of substitutes.

(E) Consider approval of tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collection for April 2003.

(F) Consider approval of financial statements and bills payable for April 2003.

X. ACTION ITEMS (Cont.):

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

In order to accomplish this task, however, BSB needs recipes! Persons interested in submitting a recipe to be included in the cookbook, should type or write it neatly, sign their name at the bottom and turn it in to any bank employee. The signature will be considered an acknowledgement that the recipe will be published with the name of the person who submitted it. Deadline for submitting recipes is August 1.

A Tasting Luncheon will also be held on October 10 at the Family Life Center from 11am-2pm. People submitting recipes will be asked to make a "sample" recipe for the luncheon. Those attending the luncheon will be able to "taste" the recipes and mark their favorites in their new cookbooks.

For more information, call Carolyn Stroud at Bonham State Bank at (903) 583-2163.

Sixteen Texas law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2002 and 2003 were honored today at the DPS headquarters in Austin.

This is the eighteenth year that DPS has held a law enforcement memorial service. The survivors of DPS officers killed in the line of duty, and DPS officers who have been injured in the line of duty, are invited to the service each year.

"We are here to pay tribute to the officers, who lost their lives in service to the state of Texas and its citizens," guest-speaker Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst said. "We will not forget the price they paid for our safety."

Andrea Kuhnle and David Boyd, relatives of slain officers, placed a wreath at the Memorial Monument during the ceremony.

Andrea Kuhnle is the daughter of Highway Patrol Sergeant William J. Kuhnle, who was killed on May 21, 1989, along with Trooper Ralph G. Zerda. A drunk driver struck their parked patrol car. Both men were stationed in San Antonio.

David Boyd is the brother of Trooper Russell Lynn Boyd, who was shot and killed on Oct. 11, 1983, while conducting a traffic stop. He was stationed in Hempstead at the time of his death.

These Texas peace officers were killed feloniously in 2003:

* Officer Charles R. Clark, Houston PD, killed while responding to a robbery on April 3

* Officer Jose Arturo Herrera, Friona PD, killed when intentionally hit by the pursued vehicle on April 13

These Texas peace officers were killed feloniously in 2002:

* Captain George Scott Monier, White Settlement PD, killed while responding to a disturbance call on April 24

* Sgt. Stephen Edward Davenport, Limestone County SO, ambushed and killed during an auto theft ring operation on May 2

* Sergeant Jaime Rodriguez, Andrews PD, killed while conducting a drug search on May 16

* Officer Conrad S. Gernale, Beaumont PD, killed responding to a disturbance call on Sept. 6

* Patrolman Harry M. Steinfeldt III, Ferris PD, killed responding to a disturbance call on Oct. 6

Other Texas peace officers who died on duty in 2002:

* Agent Eloy Hernandez, US Border Patrol-McAllen, injured in a traffic collision on Jan. 16, died on Jan. 17

* Deputy Larry Mack Dowdy, Coryell County SO, killed in a traffic collision on Feb. 2

* Deputy Herman Scott, Jr., Harrison County SO, killed in a traffic collision on Feb. 8

* Officer Keith Dees, Houston PD, killed in a traffic collision on March 4

* Corporal David King, Liberty County SO, killed in a traffic collision on June 4

* Deputy Shane Ronald Bennett, Harris County SO, killed by friendly fire on June 12

* Patrolman Roberto Nieto, Eagle Lake PD, struck by a train on July 24

* Officer Patrick Metzler, Dallas PD, killed in a traffic collision on Oct. 23

* Deputy Bobby Franks, Houston County SO, killed in a traffic collision on Dec. 23

Paris, Texas -

A workshop regarding TX DOT’s Elderly and Disabled Transportation Program is scheduled for June 9, 2003 in TxDOT’s Paris District Training Room, 1365 N. Main Street, in Paris, Texas beginning at 10:00 a.m. The purpose of the workshop is to evaluate the currently year’s activities, review plans and goals for the next two years, and to select projects for FY 2006. Anyone who is interested in elderly and disabled transportation in the nine county Paris District of TX DOT is strongly encouraged to attend the meeting.

TxDOT’s Paris District includes the following counties: Delta, Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, Rains and Red River.

Comments or concerns regarding the Elderly & Disabled Program in the Paris District may be addressed to: Public Transportation Coordinator, 1365 N. Main, Paris, Texas 75460 or call (903)-737-9373.

The Grayson County Young Lawyers Association and the Area Agency on Aging of Texoma are sponsoring a free seminar entitled "To Will or Not to Will". The seminar will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2003 from 9:00 AM until 12:00 noon in the Eisenhower room at the Texoma Council of Governments, 1117 Gallagher, Sherman.

Because of the large percentage of citizens over the age of 60 in the Texoma area, companies and individuals from the Metroplex area have come to this area for years, attempting to sell living trusts, annuities, and other investment vehicles. Many of these use "scare tactics" in their sales pitch. They recount horror stories about the cost of probating a will or claim to have a magic way to protect your assets and still be eligible for Medicaid.

While it is important to plan ahead, the elaborate and costly plans proposed by these salesmen are not appropriate for most people. A living trust can be an excellent financial planning vehicle in some situations. However, most of us can accomplish our goals with a good will and other advanced planning documents. The difference in cost between a living trust and a simple will is generally significant.

Todd Estes, a Sherman attorney and member of the Grayson County Young Lawyers Association, will discuss the importance of having a will and other advanced planning documents, the pros and cons of living trusts, and the truth about probate in Texas. Mr. Estes’ practice is limited to wills, trusts, probate, guardianships and corporate law, so he is uniquely qualified to discuss these issues.

For persons over the age of 60 or disabled, Elder Rights Coordinators with the Area Agency on Aging of Texoma will be on hand to take confidential applications for a simple will to be prepared by a local attorney working with the Pro-Bono/Reduced Rate Legal Program.

Seniors or disabled persons in Fannin, Cooke, and Grayson counties are encouraged to attend, although the seminar is open to everyone. Please contact Helen Cowan at 903-813-3503 if you plan to attend. Seating is limited, so be sure to call ahead to make a reservation, although walk-ins are welcome subject to availability.

Sixteen Collin County Community College District dental hygiene students received their pin at a ceremony last week.

Local students receiving their pins were Reinette Burk, Bonham, Texas and Heather Walker of Ector, Texas.

For information on CCCCD’s Dental Hygiene Program, please call JoAnne Fletcher at 972-548-6537.

The Bonham Rotary Club heard about proposed budget cuts for persons with mental disabilities. Dr. Mark Patton, Director of Clinical Services, Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma presented the program. Also attending from MHMRST were Paula Cawthon, Community Relations Director, and Jacqueline White.

Patton stated facts that include 1. Texas ranges between 43^rd and 45^th in per capita funding in the nation for services for persons with mental disabilities. 2. More persons with mental illness are incarcerated in prisons and jails than are receiving services in the state’s mental health system. 3. State facilities stay filled to capacity. 4. Community MHMR centers are beyond capacity. 5. 19,000 people with mental retardation are on waiting lists for services. 6. Law enforcement personnel are overburdened with handling and transporting people with severe mental illness. and 7. The state’s population has been rapidly expanding, but the funding for MHMR services has not increased.

MHMRST served around 2,400 persons in Cooke, Fannin, and Grayson counties in fiscal year 2001. Texas statistics show that around 570,000 Texans have mental retardation, that is 3 % of the population. Around 6,000 Texas babies are born yearly with mental retardation. Half of all Americans will experience a mental disorder sometime during their life. One in four Texas families will deal with a mental health issue with a family member.

Patton said, "The proposed budget reductions are 12.5% and as great as 19% to some programs. It makes sense to fund community MHMR services to save lives and families, stabilize individuals and family units, to foster self-sufficiency and employment, reduce pressures on law enforcement personnel, reduce hospital costs, and reduce the criminal justice system costs by leveraging Medicaid dollars."

Patton continued, "The success rate for treatment of mental illness ranges from 60-80%. The success rate for heart disease ranges from 41-52%. The mentally ill population in Texas prisons rose from 3,148 in 1990 to 15,716 in 1999. Budget cuts will only add to the number in prisons, because there will be less funds to serve persons mental health needs. Because persons with mental disabilities will continue to be present in our communities after budget cuts, the long-term effect on individual lives, families, the criminal justice system and community safety will be substantial. The budget cuts will cost counties more in emergency medical care, county and state incarceration, crime, and deterioration of the family."

Patton urged individuals to contact local legislators and encourage them not to be penny wise and pound foolish when considering cuts to budgets that keep people stable in their communities and encourage self sufficiency.

Patton sited a report by the Perryman Group, a leading economists group. This report predicts what state budget cuts to Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) will do to the Texas economy.

Patton encouraged Rotary members to contact their legislators about these cuts.

Fannin Legislators to contact are:

Senator Bob Duell, P. O. Box 12068, Capital Station, Austin TX 78711, Fax: 512-463-7202, Telephone: 512-463-0102

Representative Larry Phillips, P. O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910, Fax 512-463-1561, Telephone: 512-463-0297

You always made me happy,

You always had a smile on your face,

You made my life worth living,

I want you to know I will always treasure our friendship,

You will never be forgotten,

You will always live in my heart,

And I really miss you, a lot.

It has been said that each of us must prepare for at least 7 career changes in our lifetime. Hank Spruce is preparing to change careers for the "big one". Hank is planning to retire on May 31, 2003.

Hank entered state service in October 1967 when he became Park Superintendent of the Bonham State Park. He remained there for 11 years until he left to enter private business. Hank returned to state employment in July 1986 in the position of Temporary Interviewer in the Texas Employment Commission office in Bonham. Since that time he has climbed the career ladder and is ending his career as the site manager of the Bonham Workforce Center. During the years he has greatly assisted many job seekers and employers in Fannin County and will be greatly missed.

Hank and his wife Denise plan to travel to Ireland in the near future to celebrate his "roots" and his new found "freedom".

A reception will be held Friday, May 30, 2003 from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. at 1205-B E. Sam Rayburn Dr., Bonham, Texas, 75418.

WASHINGTON, DC ... The House of Representatives last night overwhelmingly approved a resolution introduced by Rep. Ralph Hall (D-TX) commending those individuals who contributed to the debris collection effort following the Space Shuttle Columbia accident.

House Resolution 222 commends all those involved in the recovery operations, including personnel from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency and other agencies, along with State and local agencies and citizens of East Texas and other states who offered their support to the debris search teams. The resolution also recognizes the two searchers who perished and three others who were injured in a helicopter crash while searching for debris.

"In the weeks and months since the loss of Columbia and its crew, the focus has been on finding the cause of the accident- and examination of Shuttle debris has been an important part of that investigation," Hall said in his Floor statement in support of the resolution.

Hall remarked that the debris collection effort is an "impressive accomplishment." Nearly 85 thousand pounds of debris - about 38 percent of Columbia’s dry weight - has been recovered. This includes nearly 83 thousand specific items, of which more than 79 thousand have been identified

"That was far more than had been hoped for when the search began in February," Hall noted. "Most importantly, the Board investigating the Columbia accident has said that the debris collected so far has been invaluable in helping them to determine the cause of the accident."

"We all mourn the loss of the seven brave astronauts who perished on Columbia, and we will never forget their sacrifice in the cause of space exploration and science," Hall said. "We also owe a debt of gratitude to the thousands of individuals and organizations who worked so tirelessly to recover the Space Shuttle debris, and this resolution expresses our thanks on behalf of all America."

Bonham

Snap Center Menu

May 19-23, 2003

Smothered steak, mashed potatoes, green beans, bread, scalloped apples, milk

Pinto beans and wieners, mexicali corn, sauerkraut, corn bread, pineapple upside down cake, milk

Turkey noodle casserole, pea salad, beets, bread, plum cobbler, milk

Pepper steak, lima beans, sunny mixed vegetables, corn bread, peaches, milk

Ham, green beans, mashed potatoes, bread, lime jello/orange juice, milk

"We are extremely fortunate to be alive---living in this nation---today. We are the best. We have the advantage of being the best," Mayor Carl McEachern told members and guests at the dinner meeting of the Top of Texas Builders Assn. Tuesday evening at Shumardii’s.

The mayor, who is also a history teacher, reviewed the commemoration of Memorial Day, and asked the group, which war lost the most lives of the soldiers. The answer was the Civil War, and a member of the audience quipped that it was the "War of Northern Agression."

It was brought out that the numbers were high for the Civil War, because we listed all soldiers from both sides...

The speaker reviewed that decoration day began in Waterloo, N.Y., it evolved to 1828 Arlington National Cemetery in 1828, and then this became Decoration Day. The South called it Memorial Day. And today, this falls the May 30. In 1971 the federal government set awide the national day memorial to all American soldiers killed in action---the last day of May.

The speaker compared early losses of life to modern day warfare, and the patriotic men and women who uphold the principles of freedom, both here and for oppressed people.

Once a year it is right to commemorate the acts of our heros, but we should take time every day we are here to Thank God, we are here--in this nation,the speaker concluded.

Ted Stephens of Collingsville, a fourth generation builder, was a special guest, and he talked on his specialties of Fire Place Designs and he works as a builder. And he and his mother, Pat Stephens of Bonham, specialize in house plans.

The Red River Theater Chorus presented a program of patriotic music, including the National Anthem . New member of the group and special guests at the meeting were Dr. and Mrs. Gary Sisson, eye doctor specialist at the Bonham Veteran’s Administration. Singers and musicians included Dr . Gary Sisson, Lisa Avila, Lauren Durham. Allison Cardile.

Joe Ward led the prayer and the pledge. Later, Mr. Ward, who is chairman of the Fannin County Republican Party, announced the Armed Forces Day Fish Fry at the VFW Hall which is 2.4 miles north on Highway 898 turn right just past first bridge. The event, open to the public, is Saturday, May 17, 6 p.m.

Contributors to the Door Prizes were Tracy and Laura Lackey, of Bonham Floral and Green House , 501 North Main, Bonham, Susie McEachern, and Stephens Builders.

Winners of the door prizes were Donna Henard, Lisa Avila, John Henard, Dr. Gary Sisson, Debbie Sisson, Charly Avila, Flo Lund of Sherman, Ted Stephens, and Joe Ward.

Jay Stephens, President, announced that the next meeting will be the second Tuesday, June 10, 7 p.m. at Shumardii’s.

On May 9, 2003, the Buster Cole State Jail held their fourth annual TDCJ Memorial Service to honor the memory of their officers and all officers across the Nation who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and well being of others.

The TDJC recognizes the professionalism and dedication of all staff in corrections and applaud their day-to-day commitment to maintain the security of the facilities.

The Fannin County Commissioners met for their regular meeting on May 12, 2003.

Rebecca Shirley approached the board for a need of additional assistance in the Indigent Health Care Office. With a caseload of 148, Shirley told the commissioners that the workload has become too much for one person. Pending the outcome of the legislature concerning this program, the board asked what she could get by with for now. Shirley said she would like to have someone for about 20 hours a week and hopefully full time in the future. Judge Hall said they would look into the budget and get with Kathy Moss to see what could be done and would bring it up in the next meeting.

Commissioner Dewayne Strickland asked the board to dissolve the contract between Fannin County Pct. 3 and Lake Fannin Wilderness Park concerning the use of a chipper. The contract stipulated that the equipment was to be kept in working order, but Strickland told the commissioners that when the County went to use the chipper, it was in need of repair. "This is county equipment. I’m all for the Lake Fanning project, but my obligation is to the County and when equipment is needed, it needs to be working," said Strickland.

Gary McGuire told the court that if one contract is to be dissolved, then he wanted all contracts to be dissolved. He said that there was plenty of help from volunteers and that they would get by. Judge Hall told McGuire that he would need to get with County Attorney, Richard Glaser, after the meeting.

The Commissioners approved a resolution in support of State Legislators seeking a statewide solution to the State’s budget crisis, including passage of state revenue increases if necessary.

Judge Hall said, "I think we need to send a message to our legislators that they have the responsibility to make sure that, if they are going to mandate programs, they need to put the money to go with them, not pass them down to us."

Hall said that the state of Texas has more ways of raising revenue than Fannin County and if mandates were made, then taxes would have to increase. "We need to give them a little advice," said Hall.

The Court approved action to bid health insurance for Fannin County officials and full time employees.

The Commissioners also approved:

v A resolution pertaining to a $13,447 Juvenile Justice Program Grant;

v Matt Simpson to fill a vacancy on the Child Protective Services Board of Directors:

v Treasurer, Mike Towery’s, monthly report

v Pay bills.

The Air Force Sergeants Association has awarded its Outstanding Cadet Noncommissioned Officer of the Year Award to Civil Air Patrol Cadet Senior Master Sergeant Erin Michaud. Cadet Michaud is a member of the Civil Air Patrol’s Texoma Composite Squadron located at Grayson County Airport. The award recognizes Cadet Michaud for her outstanding leadership abilities and achievements as a cadet member of the Texoma Squadron. These include working in positions of responsibility within the squadron and as a team member with fellow cadets as well as her participation and honors earned at statewide encampments. During the past year Cadet Michaud earned outstanding leadership awards while attending the Texas Cadet Encampment at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio. She joined the Civil Air Patrol in 2002 and one of her goals is to be accepted to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. Cadet Michaud is the daughter of Michael and Melody Michaud of Bonham, Texas. Presenting the award on behalf of the Air Force Sergeants Association to Cadet Michaud was Senior Master Sergeant (ret.) Ken Bowen and Chief Master Sergeant (ret.) John Elkins.

The Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Founded in 1941 the CAP performs three primary missions of Emergency Services, Aerospace Education and Cadet Programs. Cadet membership is open to youth ages 12 and older. The Texoma Composite Squadron holds regular weekly meetings each Monday beginning at 6:30 pm. The squadron building is located at Grayson County Airport, 4331 Airport Dr., Bldg. # 502. Squadron Commander is Major Linc Grubaugh. Visitors are welcome to attend the meetings to learn more about membership and activities. The Civil Air Patrol national website address is www.capnhq.gov.

The Fannin Soil and Water Conservation District was honored for outstanding contributions to the Texas Soil and Water Conservation program at a Conservation Awards Banquet for Area V on May 6, 2003. The banquet was held at Tarleton State University Student Development Center in Stephenville, TX. Those attending the awards ceremony from the Fannin SWCD were C.W. Jones, Chairman, his wife Chloe; Billy Partridge, Vice Chairman, his wife Peggy, Roger Dawdy, member; David Keene, member; and Randy Moore, NRCS, District Conservationist.

The Fannin Soil and Water Conservation District won the First Place award for Outstanding Conservation District. Other categories in which awards were presented included Resident Conservation Rancher; Resident Conservation Farmer; Absentee Rancher; Water Quality Management Plan; Business/Professional Individual; Wildlife Conservationist; Conservation Homemaker; and Conservation District Employee. Awards were also presented to area youth winners of the poster and essay contests.

Some of the activities the district does to promote soil and water conservation are; a flood control program in cooperation with the county commissioners and the USDA-NRCS, fish pond seminars in conjunction with the county extension office, an information booth at the county fair each year, school presentations on watershed pollution to the 4^th graders of Fannin County, an essay and poster contest for students, and teacher workshops. The Fannin Soil and Water Conservation District works with 4-H groups in their fund raising efforts and sponsors youth to various competitions and to youth camps.

Each year the directors of the Fannin SWCD give program inserts to the churches in Fannin County to help promote soil stewardship. This year they distributed 3500 leaflets.

The district is involved in the North Texas Atrazine Remediation Project, which attempts to improve water quality in Lake Lavon. Forage tours and evaluations, prescribed burns and wildlife wetland habitat development are just a few of the things the Fannin SWCD is involved in to help the farmers and ranchers of Fannin County.

The purpose of the Conservation Awards Program is to recognize and honor soil and water conservation districts and individuals that have dedicated their time, efforts and talents to making wise use of renewable natural resources.

Sponsors of the Area Conservation Awards Program are the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts representing the 216 SWCDs in Texas.

The Bonham City Commission met for their regular meeting May 12, 2003.

No action was taken on a request from Joe Griffin, 2012 Arbor Bend, who was at the meeting to ask the City for damages incurred on March 30 when city sewage flooded his home. Griffin asked the board for $2,500.00 to cover his insurance deductible and co-pay for immunization shots. He told the board that he would either take cash or a tax abatement for the damage. McEachern told Griffin that something needed to be done to solve the problem, but that he could only speak for himself. McEachern asked Ronnie Ford about the situation and Ronnie told the Commissioners that the line would be replaced with a six inch line, which should correct the problem.

Roy Floyd spoke up and stated that sewage lines all over the city are bad. "There’s bound to be a way to address this problem. If we continue to go with this, we’re going to bankrupt the city. A cash settlement is not the way to go," said Floyd. McEachern told Griffin that they are sorry it happened, but they couldn’t vote without a motion and a second.

Judge Darrell Hall administered the Oath of Office to elected Commissioners, Roy Floyd, John Burnett and Carl McEachern. The Commission voted to keep Carl McEachern as Mayor and Wayne Moore as Mayor Pro tem.

Two second readings on ordinances passed special use permit for mini-storage warehouses in an Local Business Zone at 1901 N. Highway 121 and a zone change to Local Business at 120 E. Thomas L. Hayes Blvd. (Hwy 82).

A zone change to locate a mobile home at 1101-1103 South 4^th St, owned by Jack & Elizabeth Kreitel, was postponed till May 19^th at 5:00 pm. With Wayne Moore absent and Commissioner, Roy Floyd, owning property in the area and would need to abstain, the vote would have to wait until a full board is present. About 20 local citizens were ready to address the Commission concerning this issue, but left the meeting after McEachern said no action could be taken.

The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce received approval for the use of the Jones Field Municipal Airport for its second annual "Festival of Flight" to be held August 30, 2003.

Kevin Smartt resigned from the Planning & Zoning Commission and the board approved current alternate, Phillip Sigrist, to fill his position and replace Sigrist’s position with Cheryl Youree.

In other business the Commission approved:

This concluded the meeting.

Throughout Texas I have seen the problems that occur when people in medically underserved communities such as those in rural areas or along the Texas-Mexico border, don’t get the treatment and preventive care they need. One of the biggest challenges is lack of insurance coverage, but other difficulties include a shortage of health care professionals, hospitals and bilingual services.

Despite the tremendous progress that has been made in chronic disease prevention, detection and treatment, not all Americans are benefiting. The consequences of inadequate access to medical services means that these diseases are often diagnosed at a later stage when they are more advanced and options for treatment are decreased. Statistics reveal the scope of the problem.

Cancer - the most expensive illness in the United States - has an estimated economic impact in Texas of $13.9 billion in medical costs and loss of productivity in a single year. In 2003, more than 80,000 Texans will be diagnosed with the deadly disease and nearly 35,000 will die from it. And among those living in poverty, the cancer survival rate is 10 to 15 percent lower than for other Americans. We must improve these numbers.

I recently introduced legislation that attempts to address this health care crisis. The "Patient Navigator, Outreach, and Chronic Disease Prevention Act," would establish grants for a pilot "navigator" program through

the Department of Health and Human Services and the Director of the National Cancer Institute.

Patients would be provided with a trained "navigator" from their own community, who can help overcome language, cultural and societal barriers that often inhibit people from seeking healthcare. The navigators can help with scheduling appointments for prevention and treatment. They can also cut through the red tape, ensure doctor’s instructions are followed and arrange transportation to a specialist. The critical service they provide could be as simple as helping complete the mountains of paperwork that are often required for healthcare services.

This legislation is modeled after successful programs implemented in New York and Washington, D.C. with encouraging results. For example, in 1989 only one out of 20 breast cancer diagnoses in New York were made at an early stage. Now, through the navigator program, four out of 10 diagnoses are identified early. The program has also reduced the time between diagnosis and treatment to 10 days.

By reaching those who need care where they live - through community health centers, rural clinics, community hospitals and treatment centers - the patient navigator program will address the health needs of people who need it most.

TWC HAILS

CONTRIBUTIONS OF TEXAS CHILD CARE PROVIDERS

"The availability of quality, affordable child care is one of the leading concerns for working parents and job seekers trying to enter the workforce,: said TWC Chair Diane Rath. "I’m extremely happy to join Gov. Perry in saluting the child care providers of Texas for the invaluable impact they have on our economy and all that they do to ensure continued success for our employers, workers and job seekers."

The child care industry is the 16th largest industry in Texas, representing just under 1 percent of the total state employment base, and making it comparable in employment size to the Texas hotel and motel industry or the commercial banking sector. The total direct and indirect impact of the child care provider industry’s 107,000 workers in Texas amounts to approximately $2.36 billion in wages.

"I believe that recognizing Texas’ child care providers is an extremely appropriate and deserved gesture," said TWC Commissioner for Labor T. P. O’Mahoney. "The thousands of child care workers in our state are helping to ensure the future success and self-sufficiency of hundreds of thousands of working and job-seeking parents throughout Texas."

"I join my fellow commissioners in appreciation of the child care providers of Texas for their extraordinary contributions to our workforce system". said TWC Commissioner for Employers Ron Lehman. "In terms of job creation within their own industry alone, their positive impact is very impressive, while their overall impact on our efforts to ensure a larger, more reliable workforce pool for Texas’ employers is phenomenal."

TWC has long acknowledged the importance of child care to the success of employers and the well-being of children and parents. It is a key economic development tool critical to ensuring employers’ ability to attract and retain a productive, reliable workforce. Additionally, affordable child care services are crucial to Texas families striving to achieve self-sufficiency and financial independence.

TWC’s child care budget for the 2002-03 biennium was more than $886 million. Care was provided to an average of 109,019 children per day in Fiscal Year 2002. Without the partnership of the child care provider industry, TWC could not provide these services. More than 6,500 child care providers, or 28 percent of Texas’ licensed and regulated child care providers, have signed agreements to participate in TWC’s child care program.

BILL TO LIMIT APPRAISAL

INCREASES GETS SECOND CHANCE

HB 3223 would lower the current 10% limit on annual appraisal increases to 5% for all real property, including residential and commercial. The current 10% limitation applies only to residential property. Supporters say the bill would allow property to reach market value over a longer length of time, giving taxpayers a chance to adjust to rising property values.

The new version exempts school districts from the proposed 5% cap, and does not change current law which provides for a 10% cap on residence homesteads. However, under HB 3223 the 5% cap would apply to city, county and all other taxing entities. Because a complete revision of the public school finance system will likely take place in a special session, the law affecting school district taxing units has been left unchanged to allow for modification during the special session.

Since this bill requires a constitutional amendment, the public will have to approve the changes to the Texas Constitution in the November elections before the bill can take effect.

I would like to update you on an issue about which I have previously written: Identify theft, HB 1026, relating to the use of social security numbers, was passed by the House last Thursday. The bill will protect students in institutions of higher education from identity theft. A recent security breach at the University of Texas in which social security numbers of 55,000 people were stolen by a computer hacker has heightened awareness about students’ vulnerability to identify theft.

Last week, the Texas House of Representatives had the honor of having Rev. Terrence Steele of More Than Conquerors Church in Sherman serve as the Texas House’s Pastor of the Day. Steele gave an inspiring invocation during the opening proceedings of the House on Thursday, May 8.

I encourage you to contact me during these last few weeks of the legislative session. You can reach me by writing to P. O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.

REBA CHARITY GOLF CLASS AND BARN PARTY

One of the first charity tournaments in the Texoma region, the Reba Charity Golf Classic has raised over half a million dollars with proceeds benefiting Reba’s Ranch House, the Reba McEntire Center for Rehabilitation and the Reba Mobile Mammography Unit at Texoma Medical Center.

This year’s $225 entry fee includes 18 holes of golf, cart, green fee, a team photo, goody bag, continental breakfast, all contests and a post-tournament cookout. To add to the day of fun, a putting contest will be held for $2,500 in cash prizes with a shoot out during team play.

In addition to the golf tournament, the TMC foundation Development Committee is hosting a pre-tournament Barn Party on Saturday, May 25 at Bar K-R Ranch west of Pottsboro. Performing at this event will be country music’s hottest newcomer, Joe Nichols. Reserved seating only. Tickets for this event are $75 and include dinner, dancing, entertainment and auction.

Registration deadline for the 2003 Reba Charity Golf Classic is Wednesday, May 21. To enter the tournament or attend the pre-tournament party, call the TMC Foundation at 903-416-PUTT (7888).

HOMETOWN MILITARY NEWS

The student received instruction in receipt, storage, issue, shipping, and distribution of petroleum, oil and lubricant products used by the Army.

Frank is the son of Dianne C. Stoweers of Dugan Chapel Road, Bells, Texas.

In 2002, the soldier graduated from Denison High School, Denison, Texas.

The Dance Studio of Paris went to Dallas May 3rd, 2003 for Showstopper 2003 Regionals. The girl’s danced to Bounce, they won a 1st place trophy and gold medals and placed fourth overall and will be going to the National Finals in San Antonio, texas, July 16th through July 20th.

At the Bonham Rotary Club’s weekly meeting on May 7 Rotarian Roy Cooper gave a program on his business - locks and keys. Owner of Cooper’s Lock & Key, Roy displayed several types of keys and brought his key cutters to demonstrate how a key is cut properly. He had several interesting stories to tell about his experiences over the years unlocking safes, vaults, and even hand cuffs.