By, Allison Keller

The Bonham Barracudas swim team participated in their first meet of the 2003 season on May 31, 2003. The meet was held at Waterloo Pool in Denison, Texas. The Barracudas competed against teams from Denison, Carrollton, McKinney, Commerce and Frisco.

Members of the team participating in individual races included Kathleen Brooks, Taylor Gantt, Madeline Wells, Jackson Keller, P.J. Quirk, Dalton Smith, Kaitlynn Keller, Taylor Kirkpatrick, Lexi Langford, Gabrielle Lessley, Abby Smartt, Robert Wells, Kameron Dollgener, Liz Lumpkins, Rikki Reedy, Austin Smartt, Ethan Brooks, Trevor Osborne, John Wells, Erin Buck, Michelle Bursell, Melinda Mason, Stephanie Quirk, Sabrina Strunk, Ian Atkinson, Autumn Marshall, Whitney Landers, and Cody Bonham. Bonham is expecting great things from their relay teams this year. The 9 and 10 year old girls, including Lexi Langford, Taylor Kirkpatrick, Abby Smartt, and Kaitlynn Keller participated in the 100 meter medley relay. They received a second place ribbon in this race. A third place ribbon was awarded to Gabrielle Lessley, Kaitlynn Keller, Taylor Kirkpatrick and Abby Smartt for the 100 meter free style relay. The 11 and 12 year old boys, including John Wells, Austin Smartt, Ethan Brooks and Trevor Osborne received third place in the boys 200 meter medley relay. Erin Buck, Stephanie Quirk, Melinda Mason, and Sabrina Strunk also received third place in the girls 200 meter medley relay. More relay teams are expected to form as the season continues.

Coaches Laura Amlin and Whitney Landers were so proud of all the team members.

HOUSTON – (June 2, 2003) – Following four simple steps when dealing with food during summer cookouts can minimize the potential for food poisoning, says an infectious disease expert at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

"Bacteria flourishes in heat an humidity and so does food-borne illness, so extra precautions need to be made when preparing foods for the grill," said

Dr. David Tweardy, chief of infectious diseases at Baylor.

Also, outdoor activities typically limit the safety controls usually found in a kitchen like a refrigerator and a sink, adding to the risk of food poisoning.

Tweardy recommends using a four-step process to keep family and friends safe.

* Wash hands often: Use hot, soapy water before handling food and especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers and handling pets.

* Separate foods: Cross-contamination can be a huge contributor to food-borne illness. Make sure to keep the juices from raw meats away from other foods and clean utensils and plates that came in contact with uncooked meats.

* Fully cook foods: Cooking foods for a long time at high temperatures can kill all bacteria. Bring a food thermometer along and make sure the meats are fully cooked.

* Refrigerate foods properly: Keep refrigerated perishable items, such as meats and potato salad, packed in a cooler with several inches of ice. Replenish the ice as soon as it starts melting.

"If food is left out for more than a couple hours unrefrigerated, it is probably not good to eat anymore," Tweardy said. "If you have questions about whether a food has set out too long, it probably has. Be safe and throw it out."

For additional food safety information about meat or poultry, call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline.

Mary Woodlee, Chief Appraiser

 Market value, Assessed value, what does it all mean? My value went up and I didn’t change a thing. How can that be right?

  There are many questions that come to mind at this time of year when taxpayers receive their notice of value from the Appraisal District. Here are some things you need to know to understand your property value and the tax system.

The Appraisal District is now in the protest phase of appraisal. This time is provided to determine errors or make corrections to values prior to certification of the appraisal roll. It is the opportunity for taxpayers to be sure that they have exemptions applied, name and address correct, legal descriptions correct and values correct. The Appraisal District employees will go out of their way to answer your questions and resolve any issues within the provisions of the State Property Tax Code. It is our responsibility to be in complete compliance with Texas law. It is also the desire of the Appraisal District staff that you receive every benefit available to you.

The Texas Department of Health has issued precautions people can take to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

--Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle during hot weather.

--Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine or large amounts of sugar.

--Plan strenuous outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day; then gradually build up tolerance for warmer conditions.

--Stay indoors in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible unless your heat tolerance is well established. If air conditioning is not available, pull shades over windows and use fans to cool rooms. Open windows on opposite sides of a room for cross ventilation.

--Take frequent breaks when working outdoors.

--Eat more frequently but make sure meals are well balanced and light.

--At first signs of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), move to a cooler location, rest for a few minutes and slowly drink a cool liquid. Seek medical attention immediately if conditions do not improve.

--Ask a physician or pharmacist about the effects of sun and heat exposure if taking prescription medications such as diuretics, antihistamines or mood-altering or antispasmodic drugs.

--Check frequently on ill or elderly friends, relatives and neighbors who may need help.

--Avoid bundling babies in heavy blankets or heavy clothing.

"Bad habits and good habits in the work place could make the difference in keeping a job or losing it," says Debbie Carpenter. Wendy Brown and Debbie Carpenter, both Job Specialists for Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma, had an idea to teach classes that would help mental health clients perform better in the work place. They presented the idea to their supervisor and program manager, Shirley Morris. Morris thought it was a great idea and told them to get the classes going.

For almost a year now, the two have been holding bi-weekly meetings on employment for a group of persons with mental illness. Around twenty individuals are enrolled. The classes are held at the Mental Health Community Support Services program in the Westwood Shopping Center, Sherman.

Brown and Carpenter take turns teaching. Each person has a workbook and enters into the discussions. The participants listed good habits and bad habits. Then they discussed how habits are developed. The last and most important item covered was how to break a bad habit and replace it with a good one.

"The employment classes give an opportunity for clients to sharpen their job performance. Everyone attending the classes has had previous work histories, but their mental illnesses have interfered and made them unable to work for a period of time. Now they are preparing to re-enter the work force. This class offers them the freedom to express fears and failures they may have experienced in the past," says Carpenter.

"The people in these classes come from all kinds of work experiences. Some have higher education and have received degrees in difficult disciplines such as mathematics, physics, etc. Many have had other types of work like retail sales, food service, home health services, management positions, tutoring, landscaping, welding, and many others. Our class has grown through the year and is attracting new people every month," states Brown.

As job specialists, Brown and Carpenter, help clients search for employment, write resumes, complete applications, with interviewing skills, and then they are able to provide some on the job training. The job specialists are also there to work with the employer if there are any problems.

MH Community Support Services is dedicated to providing quality rehabilitative services to clients in a positive environment that will encourage independence, self-determination, and promote their quality of life. Progress is reviewed on an on-going basis, and clients graduate upon achieving their objectives. The program provides individualized skills training, assertive community treatment team, supported housing and transportation, as well as, the pre-vocational skills training and supported employment program.

Mental illness can happen to anyone. Successful treatment rates for mental illness is 60-80% which is much higher than successfully treating heart problems. Persons suffering from mental illness may not seek help because of the stigma associated with the illness. Help is available through MHMRST. For more information on services contact, Paula Cawthon at 903-337-4865.

"Our goal is to keep the people that we work with independent and un-hospitalized," said Mental Health Community Support Services, student intern, Michelle Pierce, during a recent interview. Michelle will graduate in May, from Texas Women’s University in Denton, with a Bachelor of Social Work. To finish her degree plan, she had to complete a 15-week student internship. Michelle was accepted by MHCSS in January 2003 and has enjoyed her time working with the mental health consumers and their caseworkers. Mental Health Community Support Services provides rehabilitation services for consumers of MHMR Services of Texoma. These services are provided at the center, consumer’s homes, and in the community.

"You never know what the day will hold…especially with the ACT Team," Michelle laughed, as she quoted a MHCSS staff member. "I just take each day as it comes as the team members do many things. Part of the time I spent as an intern was working with the Skills Trainers and the rest with the ACT Team. The more time I spent with the ACT Team consumers, the more I enjoyed it. I have found my niche working with the ACT Team," said Michelle. "They work with people who have a full spectrum of mental illnesses and help them integrate into society and see that their basic needs are met. They teach them independent living skills. Some of the things they work on are budgeting, how to go to the bank and properly endorse a check, to get their allotment of money for the week, and maybe something as basic as how to clean their apartment. They teach them the skills that we all take for granted. I have really enjoyed working with the consumers. To me people that have severe or profound mental illness have so much potential.

"The thing I like the most at Community Support is working with the consumers and the staff. The staff works together as a team. It’s not one for one --- it’s all for one, and one for all! I’ve yet to see a conflict. Shirley Morris, Program Manager, has an open door policy, and the staff is welcome to come in anytime and talk. I was very nervous when I first started, as I had no educational background with mental illness. All members of the staff accepted me, and it’s been a rewarding experience to work with them. I have gained so much knowledge. It’s really exciting to see all that the ACT Team can do and accomplish in a day. They are amazing!"

Following graduation Michelle plans to go to work for a couple of years in the Mental Health field to gain experience before studying for her Master’s degree. "It’s kind of funny," said Michelle, "When I first got started all I could think about was working in Child Welfare. Since I’ve worked with adults during my internship, I’ve gravitated towards Adult Protective Services. If I can’t get into the Mental Health field, I’m going to try and work with the geriatric population. I have an interest in working with Alzheimer patients.

"I admire the work the ACT (Assertive Community Treatment) team and the case managers do to keep the consumers independent and un-hospitalized," said Michelle. "They work very hard to ensure that the person they are working with will have the best possible life they can have."

Community Support is dedicated to provide quality rehabilitative services to the consumers in a positive environment that will encourage independence, self-determination, and promote their quality of life. Progress is reviewed on an ongoing basis, and consumer’s graduate upon achieving their objectives.

This program, and other MHMR programs, are in jeopardy due to the proposed 12.5 percent cut in funding that the 78^th Texas Legislature has proposed. The direct impact on Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services of Texoma will result in a $400,000 loss. The reductions would affect Medicaid, CHIP funding and medication funding. That would drop about 400 people in this area out of medication funding. Cutting Medicaid and CHIP will put a financial burden on local governments and local taxpayers.

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.

Since 1993, Fannin Community Federal Credit Union has giver scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are members of the Credit Union. Each credit union member must complete the application process and submit an essay on credit unions. `The volunteer selection committee is made up of three credit union members who meet and individually score each application to determine the winners.

Winners from Bonham High School were BLAKE BETHEL, KATTIE BOWEN, TIMOTHY MCCLURE, KRISTOPHER GAMMONS, AMY RENEE STEPHENS, ZACHARY BAKER AND AMANDA PRATT. Recipients from Sam Rayburn High School were AMY VANETTINGER, KAREN KELTON AND CASSIE SADLER. Honey Grove High Students, SHAMYA BARNETT AND STEPHANIE BURNETT received scholarships as did CHANDLER MCRAE, North Lamar; TESHA VanDUSEN, Sherman High School; and ZACHARY ANGLIN, Ector High School.

Fannin Community Federal Credit Union membership is now available to persons who live, work, worship, or attend school in all of Fannin County and their family members. Free checking accounts are available to members under the age of 24 and over age 62. Low credit limit MasterCard's can be issued to students, with an approved guarantor, to begin establishing credit for future needs. Loans on autos, computers, recreational vehicles and other consumer items are available to members with approved credit.

Fannin Community Federal Credit Union is located in Building Six at the VA Center in Bonham and is committed to providing its members with services that meet their every day financial needs through sound business practices and high ethical standards.

America’s Credit Unions - Where People are Worth More Than Money

Fort Worth - several trends are leading to a growing need for hip and knee replacement procedures for local residents, Fort Worth physicians say. Indeed, the newest government numbers indicate that arthritis and joint problems affect more people in Texas than in every other state except New York and California.

"It’s no surprise that the local Baby Boom generation is hitting the age where knees and hips begin to ache from arthritis," said Ajai Cadambi, MD, an orthopedic surgeon from the Texas Hip and Knee Center in Fort Worth. Data from the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 30 percent of Texas residents complain of arthritis or other joint problems, according to DePuy Orthopedics, a Johnson & Johnson company, one manufacturer of high-tech metal and medical grade plastic implants used to replace diseased joints. This figure is nearly double previous estimates.

In addition to more people hitting the age where achy joints wear out and need to be replaced, Dr. Cadambi said that demand for joint replacements is also increasing because of longer lifespans. "My partners and I have observed that, as the frontiers of life expand, more and more elderly people will outlive their joints and need help," he said.

Another trend also affects the demand for implants: Texans, like other Americans, are staying more active. That can increase the need for advanced arthritis treatments in two ways. Certain activities can put added stress on knees and hips, contributing to osteoarthritis, known as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. Also, with the advances in implant technology, active patients with arthritis increasingly seek out the procedure in hopes of maintaining their active lifestyles for as long as possible.

Dr. Cadambi, who practices along with his three partners at Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital and Columbia Plaza Medical Center, says new technology is keeping up with the demand. Dr. Cadambi points to three advances:

• For hip replacement patients, implants with either a combination of metal and medical grade plastic parts, or all-metal parts can be used. He said one hip system offers a larger hip-ball component, which provides improved stability and range of motion. The goal is to give surgeons the opportunity to choose an implant suitable to a patient’s specific needs.

• Dr. Cadambi also commented on advances in mini-incision surgery. "Advanced surgical tools allow us to perform small-incision surgery on some hip patients, which can offer advantages." By reducing the incision from a typical incision to about four inches, doctors can potentially reduce scarring and recovery time. "This procedure works best for patients who are at or near their optimum bodyweight," he said.

• For knee patients, rotating platform knee implants are available that "more closely mimic the motion of the natural, healthy knee," Dr. Cadambi said. The design is referred to as a rotating platform because the three parts that make up the implant can swivel and rotate. This helps to reduce wear and tear on the implant.

These three trends in the design of artificial joints help support "a younger, more active patient population," Dr. Cadambi said. "Pain can discourage people from daily activity. If we can help reduce their pain with a joint replacement, we may encourage an overall healthier lifestyle."

The procedure is not for everyone, according to DePuy Orthopedics. As with any surgery, there are potential risks. Recovery takes time and hard work. The life of the new joint depends on weight, activity level, age and other factors. Each patient responds differently.

The most common adverse events following hip or knee arthroplasty include loosening, deformation or wear of one or more of the components, osteolysis, infection, fracture of the components or bone, change in position of the components, dislocation and tissue reaction.

HOUSTON--(June 3, 2003)—Laser hair removal is a surgical procedure and consumers should know the experience and training of anyone they choose to perform that surgery on them, said a dermatologist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

"In my opinion, patients should find a doctor who has experience with the skin – preferably a dermatologist or plastic surgeon," said Dr. Ramsey Markus, a dermatologist at Baylor. "It doesn’t take that type of experience to fire up the laser, but it does take that type of experience to properly deal with the complications that may arise."

Laser hair removal can cause scarring or skin pigmentation changes.

"There is never a guarantee there won’t be complications, but if you’re treated by someone who is well-trained, they may be able to minimize the complications and better deal with them if they occur," he said.

Consumers should also ask the person performing the procedure what additional training they have received, he said. Recent fellowships in laser surgery or additional training in cosmetic surgery are always a plus.

Markus recommends avoiding any salon or facility performing the procedure without a trained physician present to supervise. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery also recommends that all non-physician personnel performing laser procedures be both supervised by a trained medical doctor and have appropriate training in the pre- and post- operative care involved.

When done properly, laser hair removal can be performed quickly and comfortably during an outpatient visit. Results are permanent and side effects are minimal. Patients can resume normal activities immediately with minimal care to the treated area.

Fannindel’s Vocational Agriculture Equine Science class had Jay Smith as a guest speaker recently. Mr. Smith makes custom saddles and demonstrated his craft to the students. He showed them examples of different kinds of saddles and how he makes a saddle.

A Student’s Spring Piano Recital was held at the home of Deanie Dunham for her piano students on May 17, 2003. The first student to perform was Sierra Deloach. Five year old Sierra played ‘Three Blind Mice, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ and ‘Itsy Bitsy Bird’ by M. Goldston. Sierra was then joined by her brother Cheyenne for two duets, ‘One Rainy Day and Indian Boy’ both by David Glover. Next up were sisters Kenna and Savannah Duncan. They played a duet ‘Camptown Races’ by Stephen Foster, Kenna then played two solo pieces by Glover, ‘Good - Bye Summer and Chimes.’ Another duet was performed by Alexis Fuller and Deanie Dunham ‘Old McDonald’ by Glover. Alexis soloed with ‘Snappy Feet’ by Senter and ‘Amazing Grace’ arranged by Carrell & Clayton. Cheyenne Sisk was next to perform, she played "Ice Skaters’ by Glover, ‘From a Wigwam’ by J. Thompson, "I’ll be a Sunbeam’ J. S. Bastein and ‘Dancing Ponies’ by L. Bastien. Jake Mead played two Bastien pieces ‘Little Rock and The Blues’ followed with Beethoven’s ‘Ode to Joy.’ Savannah Duncan played ‘Happy Song’ by Glover and ‘The Glass Slipper’ by William Gillock. Cheyenne Deloach brought the musical portion of the recital to an end with four pieces. ‘Little Dog Boogie’ by Schaum ‘Agent 402’ by Garrow, ‘Quick Dane’ by Haydn and ‘Musette’ by Bach. Trophy’s were awarded to the students who have all grown musically since last year’s recital.

Special piano shaped pins were awarded to Sierra Deloach for being an ‘Outstanding Student.’ And a larger pin to Cheyenne Sisk for being an ‘Outstanding Student’ and for always having her ‘Lessons Prepared.’ Cookies, cake and punch were served to guests.

To: All students who attended Ector School, WHERE: Ector School Cafetorium. WHEN: Saturday, June 14, 2003. TIME: 3:00 P.M. Registration and visitation pictures for memory book will be taken at this time. Bar-B-Que dinner catered by Joe Cox starts at 6:30 P.M.

After the dinner meal there will be a SHORT program. NO SPEAKER is planned for this reunion. SPECIAL RECOGNITION will be given to all former and present teachers of the ECTOR SCHOOL. Class groups will be recognized. A short business meeting will be conducted by the president.

Two years have rolled around and it is now time for our school reunion. Please make this reunion a success by attending and also ask anyone that you may know that attended Ector school to join us. Please make every effort to make this 2003 reunion a successful one.

If you have any pictures, trophies, yearbooks, or any mementos of your school years at ECTOR SCHOOL please bring them. We will have a table set up to display them.

Advanced tickets for the meal will be $8.00 and tickets at the door will be $10.00, you may pick them up when you register.

Mail reservations to Ector School Reunion, Lou Ann Beazley Meek, P. O. Box 173, Ector, Texas 75439

To enter Mutton Busting - Calf Riding - Steer Riding - Ladies Steer Dressing: YOU MUST CALL IN THIS YEAR 903-346-3482. ENTRIES TAKEN 1 DAY ONLY. MONDAY NIGHT, 6:00 P.M. TO 10:00 P.M., JUNE 30.

Limited entries for each event.

Mutton Busting every night at 7:30 - 6 years & under $10.00 entry fee. Limit 10 per night.

Steer Riding: Thursday night only - 11-14 years, $30.00 entry fee. Limit 10 entries.

Calf Riding: Friday night only - 7-10 years, $20.00 entry fee. Limit 10 entries.

Ladies Steer Dressing: Saturday night only. No age limit - under 18 must have notarized & signed release by parent or guardian turned in before Saturday night performance. 3 people per team. TAKING 6 TEAMS ONLY. $30.00 entry fee per team.

REGULAR RODEO EVENTS - BOOKS OPEN SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 9:00 AM TO 6:00 PM. PHONE NUMBER: 903-378-3477.

Dance Saturday night - included in admission.

The Honey Grove round-Up Club is well under way getting ready for the 2003 Rodeo. This will be the 58th annual rodeo for this club.

They have some new events going for the younger cowboys and cowgirls as you can see in the schedule of events below. Hey ladies, they didn’t leave you out!!! CHECK OUT THE STEER DRESSING CONTEST FOR SATURDAY NIGHT.

Kids 10 years & under, the CALF SCRAMBLE THIS YEAR WILL PAY $100.00 to the winner EACH night. Get your parents to bring you out so you can climb into the arena and get that ribbon off the calf’s tail & claim that $100 prize.

Craft booths will be set up around the arena, along with western wear, jewelry, and of course, cotton candy & snow cones. Come out & spend your July 4th holidays with the Honey Grove Round-Up Club for a week-end of family fun. Plan to stay after Saturday’s performance for a foot stomping, 2 stepping good time at the dance, with music provided by Stacy Musgrove and his band from Paris, Texas.

Wednesday, June 11, 2003: Day Trip To Van Alstyne & The Durning House. We will meet in the hospital lobby on this Wednesday morning at 10:00 am. We will travel to downtown Van Alstyne, where we will dine at The Durning House. This unique restaurant is set inside an old Victorian home. The tables are dressed in linens with antique dishes. Their 88 year old pie maker is on hand every morning to bake fresh pies. After eating, we will go next door to a new gift mall. This old house is the home to several unique gift shops. Please call the Senior Circle offices at 903-640-7341 to RSVP.

Wednesday, June 18, 2003: Shopping and Eating at The Frisco Mall. We will leave the hospital cafeteria at 9:00 am and spend the day shopping at The Stonebriar Mall in Frisco. There are plenty of fun places to shop and plenty of fun places to rest, too. There are stores such as Williams Sanoma for all our cooking needs, and Nordstroms for all your clothing needs. We will have lunch together at the Cheesecake Factory. If you have not had a chance to eat at The Cheesecake Factory, you don’t know what you are missing. Please make sure to RSVP for this event, so I can assure we have adequate transportation. Please call the Senior Circle offices at 903-640-7341 to RSVP.

Monday, June 23, 2003: Lunch Bunch at Los Amigos.

Meet us at Los Amigos at 11:00 am. And, don’t forget Los Amigos is a Senior Circle Sponsor, so our meal will include a free drink. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends. Please call the Senior Circle offices at 903-640-7341 to RSVP.

Thursday, June 26, 2003: Summer Bingo. Meet us in the NEMC hospital cafeteria for a good time. Bring something that reminds you of summer to share as a bingo prize. Everyone is a winner! And, there is always a grand przce winner.

Senior Circle is sponsored by Northeast Medical Center and is part of a national non-profit organization devoted exclusively to offering enjoyable, healthful and meaningful activities to those who are 50 or older. With over 18,000 members nationwide, the Senior Circle is pleased to be able to offer numerous activities such as exercise classes, games, social events, nationwide discounts at Choice Hotels and Wal-Mart mail order pharmacy and even local merchant discounts.

If you are 50 or better, you are welcome to join us at any upcoming Senior Circle events, including our Lunch and Learn program.

For more information about The Senior Circle, please feel free to call Allison at the Senior Circle office at (903) 640-7341.

The Bonham H.S. Senior Class of 2003, would like to thank the following churches, businesses, and individuals for their support of project graduation:

1^st United Methodist Church (Celebration, Genesis, Builders, & Fellowship Classes) American Bank, Auto Zone, Baker Tire, BICC General, Bonham Chevron, Bonham Concrete, Bonham Floral & Greenhouse, Bonham State Bank, Brookshire’s, Carter-Wood, Charles & Judy Teller, Coast To Coast, Cooper-Sorrells, Crittenden Propane, Cut-Rate, Cynthia & Sara Medley, David McBroom, Deborah Green, Dragon Seed, Edhube Baptist Church, Fannin County Democratic Women, First National Bank Of Trenton, Foxworth, Genetic Seed, Hall Supply, Hope Chest, Kennedy Arbor,

KFYN/KFYZ, Kwik Chek, Larry & Judy Dyson, Los Amigos, Mary’s Boutique, McDonald’s O’Reilly’s, Parker Towing, Quick Lube, River Bend, Rolando’s, Sonic, Subway, Sunset Grill, Total Fitness Center, Trinity Baptist Church, Tyler Todd Family, VPG, Wise Funeral Home.

We would also like to thank our parents who cooked, distributed prizes, and played games with us throughout the night. We Love You!

WASHINGTON, DC ... Rep. Ralph Hall (D-TX) voted with a two-thirds majority in the House of Representatives June 3, 2003, to approve a constitutional amendment to protect the American flag. The vote was 300 to 125 in favor of passage.

The amendment is in response to 1989 and 1990 Supreme Court decisions that overturned state and federal laws banning flag burning. The Court ruled that these laws violated First Amendment protections of free speech and expression.

"Most Americans have a deep and abiding reverence for our flag," Hall said. "Hundreds of thousands of Americans have died defending our Nation and our freedoms, which are represented throughout the world by our American flag. This amendment would ensure that our flag receives the respectful treatment it deserves - and would require that those who exercise their right to protest must choose a means other than physically desecrating this sacred symbol."

"While there has been a renewed sense of patriotism since the terrorist attacks of 9-11 and few instances of flag desecration in recent years, we have no less a responsibility to rectify the Court’s onerous decision," Hall added.

All 50 states have passed resolutions calling on Congress to pass a flag protection amendment. A constitutional amendment requires a two-thirds vote by both the House and Senate and ratification by three-quarters of the state legislatures. For the past five sessions of Congress, the House has approved the amendment by the required two-thirds majority vote. Twice the Senate fell four votes short of the two-thirds necessary to pass it, and twice the Senate never considered it. The Senate is expected to take up the measure in this Congress.

"An overwhelming majority of Americans support this measure. We should give them the opportunity to amend the Constitution by passing this in Congress and sending it to the States for ratification," Hall said.

McKinney, Texas, June 3, 2003- Bryan Daniel, State Director, USDA Rural Development announced June 3, 2003, that federal funds are available for guaranteed rural housing loans.

To be eligible for financing the home must be located in a rural community with less than 10,000 in population, on a farm or in open country not closely associated with an urban area. Under certain circumstances loans can be made in towns and cities between 10,000 and 25,000 in population. Mr. Daniel states "never assume an area is not eligible, please call the McKinney Office for details on eligible areas."

The guaranteed rural housing loan may be used to finance new or existing homes that are structurally sound and have certified mechanical, electrical, plumbing and insulation systems.

The interest rate is set by the lender. The loan may be made for up to 100 percent of the market value. There is no down payment required and the lender may loan some closing costs when there is room in the appraisal. Theoretically, an applicant can move in for zero out of pocket expenses. However, typically, some out of pocket cash is required. The applicant must have acceptable credit and job history. All loans must be secured by a first lien on a residential property and the loan cannot be for investment property..

For more information regarding Rural Development programs, contact Yolanda Collins in the McKinney Office at (972) 542-0081x4

Rural Development, as an equal opportunity lender, makes loans or grants to individuals or groups and guarantees to approved lenders without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, and handicap. Complaints of discrimination should be sent to: Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250.

The summer is a joyous time when loved ones come together. But for many families, the summer can also be a time of stress and frustration, sometimes unintentionally resulting in an increased risk of child abuse and neglect.

Prevent Child Abuse Texas offers the following tips to help families enjoy the summer while keeping tension to a minimum:

1.         Establish a budget for summer spending. Be realistic about what you can afford to spend on entertainment, special foods, travel, etc.

2.         Hold a family meeting to discuss summer plans. Ask for ideas from the children for family activities that would appeal to them.

3.         Post a calendar of family activities in a place where all family members will see it.

4.         Check community calendars and local lists of events to find inexpensive or free activities for children. Write all possibilities on individual slips of brightly colored paper and put them in a _summer fun jar._ When children have been especially cooperative with other family members, allow them to choose a slip of paper from the jar. Then, the family can enjoy an afternoon of fun activity together.

5.         Have your children make a list of elderly or shut-in neighbors in your area. Plan to share a meal, some of your time, or run errands for these neighbors. Explain to children that helping and sharing are important elements.

6.         Find time to relax and reflect on the simple joys of the summer. When you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, take a break to get a better perspective on what needs to be done and what can be done.

7.         If you find that it is becoming difficult to avoid being verbally or physically harsh with your children, STOP. Don’t take out your anger on your kids. Instead, try the following:

·         Take a deep breath and count to 20.

·         Phone a friend.

·         Take a walk outside, or use another form of exercise.

·         Laugh. Even a comedy show on television will help relieve stress.

·         Spend one hour doing something you really enjoy.

Prevent Child Abuse Texas is the leading organization working to prevent the abuse and neglect of our state’s children.

More information is available by accessing the organization’s web site at

www.preventchildabusetexas.org.

AUSTIN - Frequently asked Questions (FAQs) about Texas Unemployment Insurance Benefits:

How do I register for work and find a job?

Job seekers should go to www.texasworkforce.org, which allows them to register for work online, and gives them immediate access to job search tools and the location of the nearest Texas Workforce Center. Workforce centers allow the use of computers, printers and fax machines to aid in the job search, as well as access to numerous other resources provided at no cost. Workforce centers, in many cases, offer job-search seminars which provide instruction in job-search techniques, resume writing, how to fill out a job application for best result and how to interview for a job. Claimants are required to register for work to remain eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits.

How do I get my Unemployment Insurance checks?

You request payment by filing claim certifications every two weeks. You will receive filing instructions in the mail that tell you how to file.

What am I required to do after I apply for benefits?

• Register for work, as directed, within seven days of the date you submitted your claim application.

• Look for full-time work each week and keep a detailed log of your work-search contacts.

• Read all information mailed to you by Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

Mary Woodlee, Chief Appraiser

Tax Terms Trivia for Taxpayers

1. FULL MARKET VALUE

2. ASSESSED VALUE

3. MASS APPRAISAL

4. EXEMPTION

5. APPRAISAL DISTRICT

6. APPRAISAL REVIEW BOARD

7. EFFECTIVE TAX RATE

8. RATIO STUDY

9. PROPERTY VALUE STUDY

10. VALUE SCHEDULE

11. TAXING UNIT

12. ADOPTED TAX RATE

______ an independent political subdivision in each county whose officials are responsible for appraisal of all taxable property within the district’s boundaries. It prepares and appraisal roll for the taxing units within the county.

______ any political unit of the state that imposes property taxes. Counties, school districts, incorporated icipalities(cities) and special districts

______ an appointed group of appraisal district residents that reviews appraisal records for correctness and completeness. It hears challenges and protests from taxing units and taxpayers, orders corrections to the records, and approves the appraisal records to create an appraisal roll for the district

______ the amount of taxes levied last year divided by the current year’s taxable value of property on the roll for both years. It is used by the taxing unit as a benchmark to compare with a proposed rate. By comparing the proposed tax rate to this rate, the taxpayer can get an idea of whether or not the governing body is really increasing taxes.

______ the rate that a taxing unit’s governing body has legally approved. The assessor applies this rate to the taxable value of property to generate a tax levy.

______ "The price at which a property would transfer for cash or its equivalent under prevailing market conditions if: (A) exposed for sale in the open market with a reasonable time for the seller to find a purchaser; (B) both the seller and the purchaser know of all the uses and purposes to which the property is adapted and for which it is capable of being used and of the enforceable restrictions on its use; and (C) both the seller and purchaser seek to maximize their gains and neither is in a position to take advantage of the exigencies of the other" (Section1.04(7)Texas Property Tax Code

______ excludes all or part of a property’s value from property taxation

______ the amount of value to which tax rate is applied

______ lists typical values per unit of measure for properties in a given use and construction category. May be based on market, cost, or income data.

______ a comparison of appraised values to actual sale prices in order to determine the accuracy of a mass appraisal schedule. Dividing the appraised values by the sale prices yields a ratio.

______ each year the SPTB (State Property Tax Board) conducts a study in each school district and each appraisal district to estimate the taxable property value in each school district and to test the level and uniformity of appraisals. The Texas Education Agency uses the school district values in the school funding formula, and appraisal districts may use the ratio study results to monitor the level of local appraisals.

______ refers to the process of valuing, in a manner that can be statistically tested, all properties in a fixed geographic or political areas. Usually, it involves the construction of value schedules for each category of typical property in the district

(answers: 5,11,6,7,12,1,4,2,10,8,9,3)

No one was looking up, no wonder. The clouds appeared fast, and let loose. Rain came down in clear sheets. The tears of the people, was equal water.

HOUSTON-- (June 5, 2003)--The lack of sunshine exposure in many babies and small children has led to an upsurge in vitamin D deficiency and rickets.

"Since we don’t want infants and children unprotected in the sun, we are now recommending vitamin D drops for all babies," said Dr. Steven Abrams, a professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "In addition, there is increasing recognition that maintaining adequate vitamin D intake is important for all ages, from infants to the elderly."

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently revised its guidelines to recommend that all infants from 2 months old, children and adolescents receive 200 IU of vitamin D per day. The previous recommendation was supplementation for exclusively breastfed infants at risk for developing rickets, a soft-bone disease.

Infant formulas and cow’s milk are fortified with vitamin D at the levels needed by infants and toddlers. However, breast milk does not contain enough vitamin D for some babies, especially those with dark skin who have limited sunshine exposure.

Once called the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is a hormone required for proper calcium absorption and bone mineralization.

"The body can make all the vitamin D it needs when the skin is exposed to sunlight," said Abrams, also a researcher at the Children’s Nutrition Research Center at Baylor. "However, the dangers of skin cancer have caused us to recommend that everyone, including young infants, be protected with a sun block when exposed to sunlight. That sun block also prevents the production of vitamin D."

Vitamin D is not easily obtained through diet. Certain types of fish are good sources, and some soy beverages, fruit juices and ready-to-eat cereals are fortified with the vitamin. Checking food labels is the best way to see if vitamin D has been added.

While the emphasis on vitamin D’s benefits has focused on its role in calcium absorption and strengthening bones in children, Abrams said more evidence is pointing to the health benefits of the vitamin throughout life.

"It may have a role in preventing some diseases, like cancer," he said. "And adults who take calcium without taking vitamin D may not be getting the most benefit from the calcium."

The 78th Legislative Session has officially ended and we now have the opportunity to stop and look back at what has been accomplished this session. Last week I covered some of the major issues; the budget, insurance reform and public school finance. This week and in the weeks to come, I’d like to discuss other bills of importance that were passed.

Important reform was made in the area of medical malpractice insurance. HB 4 places a $250,000 cap on non-economic damages applied to all physicians and health care providers on a per case/occurrence basis. Liability is also capped for hospitals at $250,000 each per case for non-economic damages. Total non-economic damages against hospitals, collectively, cannot exceed $500,000 in any single case. Non-economic damages are damages such as "pain and suffering" and "inconveniences." These limits will lower doctor’s and hospital’s exorbitant liability insurance rates, ultimately lowering health care costs to consumers.

Significant strides were made in the way of easing congestion on our roadways, allowing for new and innovative ways of building transportation systems in a cheaper and quicker fashion. HB 3588 provides for revenue to the Mobility Fund and allows this revenue to be leveraged into a multi-billion dollar transportation improvement package without jeopardizing our current transportation funding stream.

This bill should help relieve gridlock on our roadways and, as an added incentive, includes provisions to help fund trauma centers. Texas trauma facilities statewide incurred $564 million in costs to provide treatment to trauma patients. In 2001, $181.5 million in costs were incurred treating uninsured patients. Almost half of all trauma occurrences are vehicle related.

HB 2292 was another piece of legislation with significant impact. This bill reorganizes eleven Health and Human Service Agencies and consolidates many duplicative functions performed by those various agencies. HB 2292 also implements a preferred drug list on Medicaid coverage and increases responsibility of welfare recipients for non-compliance with participation requirements. The consolidation, streamlined service to clients and fraud reduction is expected to save taxpayers approximately a billion dollars.

I encourage you to contact me during the interim with your comments and suggestions or if I may be of assistance with any issues dealing with state agencies. 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. \

On Tuesday, June 2, the regular session of the 78th Legislature came to a close. My colleagues and I were faced with one of the most difficult sessions in recent memory, and I am confident we have found solutions to some of the most pressing problems faced by the citizens of Texas.

This edition of Capitol Update focuses on several pieces of major legislation deliberated and passed this session. Portions of this article were taken from the Senate News website. For more information, please visit their site at www.senate.state.tx.us.

budget

Crafting a budget was one of the toughest tasks the legislature faced this session due to a $10 billion deficit announced by the comptroller in January. Funding for education and social services were the most deliberated issues.

The legislature finally approved the $117.4 billion budget, HB 1, for 2004-05 after much deliberation and debate.

The House Bill 1 Conference Committee’s recommended appropriations for state government operations for the 2004-05 biennium total $117.4 billion from all fund sources. The recommendations provide a $1,602 million, or 1.4 percent, increase from the 2002-03 biennial level. General revenue funding, including funds dedicated

within the General Revenue Fund, totals $63.5 billion for the 2004-05 biennium, a decrease of $2.2 billion, or 3.4 percent, from the anticipated 2002-03 biennial spending level.

Next week’s Capitol update will feature a more in-depth analysis of the recently passed budget.

INSURANCE

The insurance reform bill, Senate Bill 14, uses a hybrid approach to increase the regulation of residential property and automobile insurance markets. Under the deal, insurance writers with ninety-eight percent of the homeowners market would have to adhere to a prior approval system in which the Commissioner of Insurance would have to approve a company’s rates before they can be put into effect. The companies would then fall under a file-and-use system starting December 1, 2004, which means that they would have to file their rates with the commissioner, but they would not have to receive prior approval before they are used.

The companies that write the remaining two percent would be regulated under a file-and-use system.

Automobile insurers would remain under the current benchmark system, which allows them to set their own rates below a set limit. They would then be governed under a file-and-use system as of December 1, 2004.

Under the bill, the commissioner is given the authority to change a company to a prior approval system anytime if it is determined that it is abusing file-and-use. Insurance companies would also have to have their forms approved by the insurance commissioner.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

One of the most hotly debated issues this entire session was medical malpractice reform. Skyrocketing insurance rates have forced many doctors to leave their practice, and some areas of the state were faced with severe shortages in medical service.

Under the provisions of House Bill 4, the omnibus lawsuit reform package, a claimant would be able to obtain a maximum of $250,000 from all doctors and nurses for damages for pain and suffering in medical malpractice lawsuits. A claimant could also sue up to two health care institutions, such as hospitals and nursing homes, for punitive damages for as much as $250,000 each.

Future articles will offer a more in-depth analysis of issues and legislation passed during the recently complete session. For now, I look forward to returning home to Senate District 2. My office is in the process of setting up a series of town hall meetings to take place during the interim, and I hope to see you back home.

To contact Senator Deuell about the legislative process, contact the Capitol Office at (512) 463-0102 or mail to Senator Bob Deuell, Texas Senate, P. O. Box 12068, Austin, TX 78711. The website for the Texas Senate is www.Senate.state.tx.us. The E-mail address for Senator Deuell is: bob.deuell@senate.state.tx.us.

Who said nothing is ever free? The members of the Northeast Chapter of Senior Circle would probably have disagreed last Tuesday, May 27, 2003. Fannin County District Attorney, Myles Porter was the guest speaker at the circle’s monthly Lunch and Learn Program. He spoke with the senior citizens about protecting themselves against scams and frauds targeted at the elderly.

Mr. Porter warned, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is." "He focused on telephone scams that have been increasing high in the area. Mr. Porter also stated to be cautious of anyone coming door to door and offering to do home repairs or offer other services. All citizens, including senior citizens, have a right to ask questions and check references of individuals or companies they are doing business with. Mr. Porter was also kind enough to stay after the program and offer free legal advice to anyone with questions.

As with all Senior Circle Lunch and Learn Programs, a free lunch was offered during the program. Members enjoyed a three salad plate, including chicken salad, fruit salad, and pasta salad. No meal is complete without dessert. Members had a choice of carrot cake, chocolate cake, or poppy seed cake.

The Lunch and Learn Program is sponsored by the Northeast Chapter of the Senior Circle. If you are 50 or better, you are welcome to join us at any upcoming Senior Circle events, including our Lunch and Learn program. For more information about the Senior Circle, please feel free to call Allison at the Senior Circle office at (903) 640-7341.

The Hunt County Fair in Greenville, Texas this year, promises to be bigger and better than ever. For the first time ever there will be nine full days of equine activities. On the schedule are a horse drawn day on 6/07/03 that features a multitude of horse carriages, Sunday 6/08/03 features Drill Team competition, Monday’s activities include a "Bull Jam" with North Texas best bull riders, Tuesday’s schedule includes a Missouri Fox Trotter Show and competition as well as Tennessee Walker competition and show, Wednesday is dedicated to a "youth play day" for children to participate in equine activities, Friday’s 6/13/03 schedule includes a "Ranch Rodeo" and for both Thursday and Saturday, June 12 and 14th, over 400 riders will compete in one of the largest Barrel Racing competitions in the state. In addition to the activities listed above there will be numerous seminars offering instruction for horses with "Van Hargis", Michael Richardson", Troy McKinney" and "Jimmy Tell."

Also offered at the Hunt County Fair this year, will be entertainment from some of Texas best homegrown artists: Cooder Graw, Kevin Fowler, Becca Dalrymple, Mark David Manders, Vince Vance & the Valiants, Pauline Reese, Shelley Laine, Deryl Dodd and Miranda Lambert, who recently competed on the U-S-A networks television hit "Nashville Star," where she made it all the way to the last night of national competition, and came in third.

For more information on the Hunt County Fair and its activities, contact Sandra Salley at 214-543-6470 or 903-455-1400.

Come check out the TAR (Teenage Republican Club) in Fannin County.

• Must be between ages 13 & 19

• Want to become politically active

• Know your local, state and national leaders

• Meet others that share your political interest

• Only 3-5 meetings a year

• Hot dogs & drinks after the flag ceremony for

Interested youth.

Contact Sandra Ward 903-664-3022 for more information.

On May 6th, 2003, the Four Corners 4-H Club completed their Shoeboxes for Soldiers project. Members of the club collected items to stuff the shoeboxes from a list of suggestions. Then, the members stuffed their shoeboxes with personal letters, drawings, and items chosen by individual families.

We were able to send 14 boxes out to our military personnel. Hopefully they will be encouraged and feel our support for their sacrifices on our behalf!
"I was very proud of the response of the club for the "Shoeboxes for Soldiers" project. Everyone that participated in the project put a great deal of thought into their choices for the contents of "their box." Many pictures drawn by the younger members were delightful. And the letters of appreciation from the older members were sincere expressions of gratitude and honor for the men and women who serve our country! This was just a little act of appreciation toward those who have given so much. We are blessed as a nation to have people willing to serve our country in this way," explains Chardell Novotny, the Adult leader of this project.

Many of the members seemed to greatly appreciate the opportunity to help our soldiers that are fighting for us. Erin Michaud, a military hopeful, enjoyed the experience, "I am really proud of the troops and am glad I could do something to try and help."

Myles Porter, Fannin County District & County Attorney, spoke last Wednesday at the regular meeting of the Bonham Rotary Club. He reported on the problem with sex offenders in Fannin County and how his office handles these cases successfully. Although Fannin County is not among the top 10 counties for sex offenders, Porter stated that Fannin County has its share, and that his office (even without an investigator) has put many of them in jail. He does not like to go for probation because of the problem these offenders have with recurrence, and usually gets them incarcerated for several years.

Elizabeth Ann Pannell, a 1977 graduate of Bonham High School, was recently awarded her EdD in Higher Education at Texas A&M University at Commerce. She is the daughter of Frank Pannell of Ravenna and the late Eddie Pannell.

Dr. Pannell is currently a professor at Collin County Community College, teaching in Computer Information Systems.