Target Gives to Fannin County Kids

Target manager Cindy Wheeler presented a store gift card to Sandy Barber of the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & CAC). The donation was used to purchase office supplies for the center and snacks and drinks for abused children who come to the Children’s Advocacy Center for forensic interviews and counseling.

Hometown Military News

Air Force Airman Beau B. Hensley has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Joann and David Hensley of Chaney St., Bells, Texas.

Hensley is a 2003 graduate of Bells High School.

Air Force Airman Shayne D. Brisbin has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Shonna Martin of County Road 4502, Wolfe City, Texas.

Brisbin is a 2001 graduate of Commerce High School, Texas.

Air Force Airman Carrie E. Mikeska has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Mikeska is the daughter of Lynda Wood of County Road 4925, Trenton, Texas, and Marcus Mikeska of Gwendola Drive, McKinney, Texas.

She graduated in the year 2000 from Leonard High School, Texas.

Debbie Ulmer Named Children’s Center Volunteer of the Quarter

Debbie Ulmer (center) was recently named Volunteer of the Quarter at the Fannin County Children’s Center. Joyce McGehee and Sandy Hood presented Debbie with a certificate to honor her for her dedication and hard work in advocating for abused children.

Debbie Ulmer of Bonham was recently named Volunteer of the Quarter by the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & CAC). Ulmer completed thirty hours of volunteer training in September 2001. Since that time, she has been appointed by the district judge to be a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and Guardian ad Litem (GAL) for three abused children involved in the court system.

When asked why she volunteers for CASA, Ulmer replied "because I love kids."

"I’m not in a position to be a foster parent," she continued, "but I can be a voice for a child who needs one." As a CASA/GAL, Ulmer visits her children regularly and keeps in touch with the children’s caseworkers, attorneys, caregivers and other significant people. She also attends court hearings and case meetings to advocate for the best interest of the children she has been appointed to represent.

Ulmer talked excitedly about one case involving a young brother and sister. She has been their advocate ever since they came into foster care a little more than two years ago due to neglect and sexual abuse. She had recently gotten word that the children are going to be adopted by their current foster parents. The young girl was so excited to learn that she wouldn’t ever have to leave again, she told everyone that she could not wait to tell her teacher and principal of her good news.

Ulmer has also worked a case involving a teen age girl. "Debbie works her cases very diligently and has worked wonders with her teenager," said Joyce McGehee, CASA Program Director.

Ulmer works full time, has two grown children and she still manages to find time to volunteer. She has recruited a friend and her daughter to become CASA volunteers as well. Daughter Britt Ulmer completed training this past spring and accepted her first case shortly thereafter.

"We also love her because she’s a good cook," McGehee said with a smile. Ulmer regularly cooks meals for the new volunteers who are in training.

For more information about volunteer opportunities and available services at the Fannin County Children’s Center (CASA & CAC), call (903) 583-4339 or visit www.fanninccc.org .

First of all, why do we even need to rescue Great Pyrenees?

Look at this adorable puppy? She is so cute and fuzzy? And her breath is so sweet! You probably say, "I am taking her home!"

But she grew and grew and grew and grew. You now say, "Uh oh, What was I thinking." Now this pup is no longer wanted. This pup may now get put outside where she probably will become neglected and pregnant. Do you know how many puppies a Pyrenees can have? Yes, many, and they will have many. And why do people think that those of us in the country are just waiting for them to drop off their unwanted pets?

This is my story: I love Great Pyrenees. I always have. The first Pyrenees I ever saw was an adult. He was so calm and gentle. He was a walking pillow. Then I heard about them being Livestock Guardian Dogs. I have two for my goats. That is one thing they do, but it is not necessarily a trait that they all naturally do. My older Pyrenees has been showing his age. So, I had been talking to SPIN, Saving Pyrs In Need, about a replacement. Then, a neighbor of mine in Fannin County told me about some abandoned Pyrenees. The owners just moved away. Another reason for a rescue!. These two dogs (one I realize now is not a Pyrenees) were so consumed by mange that their breed was unrecognizable. The older probably had 90% of her fur gone, and it was December. Within four weeks, she had at least some hair covering 100% of her body. She just needed someone to take care of her.

We have placed dogs into assisted living groups as well as into homes as pets. At my ranch in Leonard, I have Pyrenees from all over Texas (probably from Oklahoma), and we have placed dogs even outside of Texas. We still get stories of how happy these families are. Take time to read some of them on our website.

We had nine Heartworm positive dogs this year. Shame on you if you do not treat your pet with Heartworm preventative! And God Bless you if you do. The treatment is painful, but recovery is very successful. We treat each one of these dear animals who has heartworms, and the cost of adopting is the same.

We have pups, young dogs, and adults. Do you know that some people give up these dogs when they are nine years old? Sometimes the reasons break your heart for the people, as well as the dog. Sometimes you just want to have a pointy pair of cowboy boots on and kick the owner’s back pocket!!!!

Thank You

We were stranded with a flat tire 13 miles outside Bonham with a small tire iron and couldn’t break the seal in the tire. Good Samatarian Robert Baker, with the Water Department. and his wife and child stopped and helped us. Thank you, Mr. Baker.

Marge Ross

Bonham

DPS Kicks Off Recruiting Drive

The Department of Public Safety is now taking applications for trooper-trainees as the deadline for the next recruit class approaches.

June 25 is the deadline for Texas applicants seeking admission to the next recruit school, which will start October 4 in Austin. (The deadline for out-of-state residents is June 18.)

Information is available through a toll-free number, 1-866-TXTROOP (898-7667), that rings directly into the recruiting office at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Additional information is accessible on the DPS Web site, www.txdps.state.tx.us <http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/>, and application packets can be picked up at the nearest DPS office.

"Our goal is to attract exemplary men and women who want to serve as our first line of defense," said DPS Director Col. Thomas Davis Jr. "The need for dedicated public servants has never been greater for our state and nation."

Graduates are initially assigned as uniformed officers in one of several services. After gaining experience, troopers can compete for a variety of assignments in the Texas Highway Patrol, Criminal Law Enforcement, Driver License, Administration and Texas Ranger divisions.

"Diversity is important to DPS-and we encourage minorities and women to consider a law enforcement career with the Department," said DPS Recruiting Coordinator Lt. Renearl Bowie. "We also have another class to fill in January, so we will be recruiting all through the summer and early fall."

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 20 years of age by the time they are accepted as trooper-trainees, and have completed 90 hours of college credit. Law enforcement, jailer or military experience may be used toward fulfilling the college requirement.

Each applicant’s background will be carefully scrutinized, including prior criminal history. DPS is an equal opportunity employer.

Prevacid to treat your heartburn, $161; Celebrex for your muscle pain, $104; Zocor to combat high cholesterol, $120 ... the next time you’re at your local pharmacy calculating these costs for just a one month supply of your prescription drugs, know that lower prices may be on the way. Last year the President signed into law the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003, bringing sweeping reform to an antiquated system desperately in need of an overhaul. The marquis provision of the legislation was a prescription drug program, which will go into effect on January 1, 2006. But Texas seniors don’t have to wait until then for relief.

Starting this June, seniors can receive a discount card that will provide them with access to negotiated prices on prescription drugs. Enrollment is now open for the cards that will expire in 2006 when the more comprehensive Medicare benefit takes effect. More than 2.3 million Texans are currently Medicare participants, but a quarter of those beneficiaries do not have any prescription drug coverage. This program primarily benefits them by helping pay for the lifesaving drugs they need. Medicare estimates seven million beneficiaries, including 497,000 in Texas, will participate in the program. If participation reaches those levels, it will mean a potential savings of $8.6 billion nationally and $596 million for Texans.

The cards will provide a $600 annual credit to eligible low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Individuals whose income is less than $12,569 each year or married couples whose income is less than $16,862 may qualify for this additional help. Those with outpatient prescription drug coverage through TRICARE, FEHBP or other employer sponsored drug plans will not be eligible for the $600 credit. Medicare will cover the cost of the enrollment fee for these low-income cardholders and the Department of Health and Human Services will work aggressively to reach eligible low-income beneficiaries and enroll as many as possible in the new program.

Texas has 46 individual drug cards, including 39 national drug cards, four regional cards, and three Medicare Advantage exclusive cards. Using only their zip code, seniors can obtain information on plans available in their area, compare prices for drugs and identify pharmacies associated with the available card programs.

This program offers a wide range of choices, which can a mixed blessing. Numerous options enable Texans to find the card that best fits their needs, but it can also make for a confusing decision process. I encourage Texas seniors to do their research and take advantage of the right plan for them, because the choice they make now will last through the end of the year. Following these simple instructions will help:

1. Eligible beneficiaries will be limited to one Medicare-approved card. Toll-free operators and Medicare’s Web site will assist seniors in selecting which card best fits their needs. (See below for contact number.)

2. Before calling or applying online, seniors should make a list of the medicines that they take regularly as well as financial information to determine if they are eligible for the $600 credit.

3. Medicare then will help seniors compare prices among cards, taking into account factors like frequency of medicines taken, possibility of generic substitutes, as well as preference for a local pharmacy or mail order depending on convenience concerns.

4. Once seniors have selected a card, they should request an enrollment form from the card sponsor. Card providers may charge an annual enrollment fee up to $30. However, many sponsors have opted to waive the fee or have reduced its price. In addition, there is no enrollment fee for those beneficiaries for the $600 credit.

5. Most importantly, seniors should always look for the "Medicare-approved" seal when receiving their card in the mail.

Child Molester Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison

On Thursday, May 20, Judge Jim Lovett of the 6th District Court of Fannin County sentenced Scott Allen Gorday to 20 years in prison for indecency with a child. Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter prosecuted the case. Attorney Joe Moss of Bonham represented Gorday.

Gorday, age 23, of Dodd City was convicted of the 2002 molestation of a 4 year old Fannin County girl. Gorday, who was a friend of the young girl’s family, moved in with them in the summer of 2002. After gaining the family’s trust, the defendant was left alone with the child while family members ran errands. In August of 2002, the child made an outcry of sexual abuse to her grandmother who called the Fannin County Sheriffs Department. The young victim was interviewed by Michelle Griffith of the Fannin County Children’s Center, where she again told what Gorday had done to her. The case was then forwarded to the county attorney’s office for prosecution.

County Attorney Porter thanked Deputy David Perkins, Ron Hamilton of CPS and Michelle Griffith and Bethany Arie of the Fannin County Children’s Center for their hard work in this case. "Thankfully, we have dedicated people and an organized system in place to win these tough cases and send the perpetrators to prison where they belong," stated the County Attorney.

Railroad Commission Of Texas Rules On TXU Gas Case

DALLAS (May 25, 2004) The Railroad Commission of Texas has ruled on TXU Gas’ request to change the company’s rates for the 437 incorporated cities that TXU Gas serves throughout its service territory including the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex area. The ruling will increase the current rates that all classes of customers pay for the transmission and delivery of natural gas to their homes and businesses.

The request represented an annual revenue increase of $69.5 million, or $3.60 per month for the average residential customer. The Commission’s ruling, which authorizes a return on equity of 10 percent, produces an annual revenue increase of approximately $12 million, or approximately $2.00 per month for the average residential customer.

The company is preparing a motion for rehearing in the case, which is the next step in the process.

The Commission’s decision will not affect TXU Corp.’s (TXU) previously disclosed earnings guidance for 2004. TXU Gas is considered a discontinued operation in TXU’s financial statements since TXU has announced the planned sale of the business. However, as a result of this decision, TXU Gas expects to record a charge of approximately $100 million after tax in the second quarter related to pipeline and certain regulatory assets.

This price change affects only TXU Gas customers and does not impact electricity prices for TXU Energy customers.

TXU (NYSE:TXU), a Dallas-based energy company, manages a portfolio of competitive and regulated energy businesses in North America, primarily in Texas. In TXU’s unregulated business, TXU Energy provides electricity and related services to more than 2.6 million competitive electricity customers in Texas, more customers than any other retail electric provider in the state. TXU Power owns and operates 18,500 megawatts of generation in Texas, including 2,300 MW of nuclear-fired and 5,837 MW of lignite/coal-fired generation capacity. The company is also the largest purchaser of wind-generated electricity in Texas and among the top five purchasers in North America. TXU’s regulated electric distribution and transmission business complements the competitive operations, using asset management skills developed over more than one hundred years, to provide reliable electricity delivery to consumers. TXU’s electric delivery operations are the largest in Texas, providing power to 2.9 million electric delivery points over more than 98,000 miles of distribution and 14,000 miles of transmission lines. TXU has agreed to sell its energy business in Australia, TXU Australia, and has announced its intent to sell TXU Gas, its largely regulated natural gas transmission and distribution business in Texas. Visit www.txucorp.com for more information about TXU.

This release contains forward-looking statements, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from management’s current projections, forecasts, estimates and expectations is contained in the company’s SEC filings. In addition to the risks and uncertainties set forth in the company’s SEC filings, the forward-looking statements in this release could be affected by the outcome of any rehearing or appeals of the Railroad Commission ruling.

Annual Reports Offer Insight on State Agencies

Each year, many state agencies produce annual reports to provide information to the public, their employees and legislators regarding accomplishments, challenges and key issues the agencies faced during the year. From a legislative standpoint, this helps the legislature maintain oversight of the agencies as well as make determinations when writing a budget as to the efficiency with which the agencies are using taxpayer money. From a public standpoint, since the average citizen does not read the several hundred page long appropriations bill each legislative session, the reports help citizens determine whether their government is using their tax dollars effectively.

Last week, I received the 2003 annual report for the Texas Department of Public Safety. I found it quite interesting and thought I’d share in this column some of the statistics available in the report which show how hard our state troopers work to keep the citizens of Texas safe.

Highway Patrol Troopers cover more than 223,000 miles of roadway in Texas. At 1,881 officers, including supervisors, that averages out to about 119 miles of roadway for which each Trooper in the state is responsible. That is quite a task, especially given the fact that there are 14,639,132 licensed drivers in the State of Texas alone, not to mention visitors from other states or countries.

Troopers issued an estimated 528,000 speeding citations during 2003 and apprehended 32,712 intoxicated drivers. Routine traffic stops also sometimes lead to the detection of other criminal law violations. During 2003, routine traffic stops resulted in around 8,782 felony and 25,656 misdemeanor arrests for a variety of criminal law violations.

Texas’ Highway Patrol Troopers continue to lead the nation in the seizure of several types of controlled substances. In 2003, Troopers seized 72,308 pounds of marijuana (up from 53,000 pounds in 2002,) 2,299 pounds of cocaine, 146 pounds of methamphetamine and smaller amounts of other controlled substances. In addition, Troopers seized more than $11.3 million in drug-related currency.

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Service (formerly called the License and Weight Service) personnel conducted 187,567 roadside commercial vehicle inspections, during which 38,229 vehicles and 9,735 drivers were placed out-of-service for operating with equipment defects and safety problems posing an imminent hazard to the public.

The Texas Department of Public Safety has a much broader array of services than just traffic patrol. The Department also contains a Criminal Law Enforcement Division which provides specialized assistance to local law enforcement agencies; the Texas Ranger Division, which consists of highly trained, versatile officers who investigate felony offenses, apprehend fugitives, protect life and property and execute process in criminal cases; the Driver License Division, which issued over five million driver licenses and identification cards in 2003; as well as an Administrative Division and Director’s Staff.

All divisions are detailed in the report which is available on the Department’s website at www.txdps.state.tx.us.

Governor Announces Homeland Security Grants To Texoma Council Of Governments Region Communities

Communities in Cooke, Fannin and Grayson counties will receive $969,008 in 2004 Homeland Security Grants, according to an announcement from Governor Rick Perry. The grants are part of Governor Perry’s regional approach to homeland security. Working with TCOG, the office of the Governor’s Department of Emergency Management, his Office of Homeland Security, the three counties and the cities of Bonham, Denison, Gainesville and Sherman have created emergency preparedness plans that cover the entire region. Priorities to assist fire, police, and EMS first responders were established by city and county elected officials working through the Texas Engineering Extension Service and Texoma Council of Governments. These grants are to be used to increase communications interoperability between emergency responders as well as accomplish other projects aimed at increasing regional ability to respond to emergencies.

The grants received by each entity are: Cooke County ($96,565); Fannin County ($99,044); Grayson County ($319,605); Bonham ($44,569); Denison ($102,343); Gainesville ($70,980) and Sherman ($235,902).

TCOG president Leon Hurse said, "This is another example of how local governments working together through the Texoma COG can support our men and women first responders who need to be prepared to protect the public in the event of a terrorist incident and other emergencies." Additional media information may be obtained at http://www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/press/pressreleases.

TDH Offers Suggestions for Staying Healthy in Hot Weather

The sun is shining and skies are clear. Summer in Texas invites outdoor activities. But the intense heat that marks the season also can signal the need to take health precautions.

Preliminary numbers from the Texas Department of Health (TDH) show that there were 40 heat-related deaths of Texas residents last year. A total of 38 deaths were recorded in 2002 and 26 deaths in 2001. In 2000 in Texas 64 people died of exposure to excessive natural heat.

The elderly, the very young, those who are sick or without access to air conditioning are most severely affected by heat. Children left in closed vehicles, even for a short period of time, are at great risk.

Perspiration normally cools people. But high temperatures and high humidity can overwork the body. Dehydration and heat illness can result if a person does not replace fluids lost during perspiration.

Symptoms of heat illness include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weak but rapid pulse and headaches. People with these symptoms should find shade, drink water slowly and make sure there is good ventilation.

If fluids are not replaced soon enough, heat stroke can result, potentially leading brain damage or death. Get immediate medical attention for anyone with extremely high body temperature, red and dry skin, rapid pulse, confusion and loss of consciousness.

Staying in an air-conditioned area, either at home or in a public place such as a mall, library or recreation center, is the most effective way to fight heat. If air conditioning is not available, pull the shades over the windows and use cross-ventilation and fans to cool rooms.

A cool shower or bath also is an effective way to cool off. Limit use of stoves and ovens to keep home temperatures lower.

Children can quickly become dehydrated in hot weather. They need to drink fluids frequently, especially water, and wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes. Avoid drinks that are heavily sweetened or contain caffeine. Check on children often, especially if they are playing outside in high temperatures.

TDH offers these heat precautions:

• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle during hot weather, even for a short time.

• Drink plenty of fluids but avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine or a lot of sugar. Start drinking fluids before going out into the heat.

• Plan strenuous outdoor activity for early morning or late evening when the temperature is lower. Use a repellent containing DEET to avoid insect bites.

• Take frequent breaks when working outside.

• Wear sun block, hats and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.

• Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.

• Eat more frequently but be sure meals are well balanced and light.

• Don’t dress infants in heavy clothing or wrap them in blankets.

• Check frequently on the elderly and those who are ill or may need help.

• Check with a doctor about the effects of sun and heat when taking prescription drugs, especially diuretics or antihistamines.

Prevention is the best defense against heat-related illness and death. Staying cool, drinking plenty of fluids, wearing cool clothing and pacing outdoor activities are keys to staying healthy in hot weather.

  The Bonham Renegades 11-12AA Select Baseball team traveled to Rowlett this past weekend for a USSSA Qualifier Tournament. Their roster included: Trevor Allen, Dalton Cagle, Daine Dunlap, Lane Fox, Tyson Henson, Hunter Herriage, Michael Hubbard, John Nelms, Justin Nelms, Sport Phillips, Shelby Williams and bat boy, Tanner Herriage.
 

  The Renegades played great baseball against some strong competition both on Saturday and Sunday. For the team’s first season together, the coaches were very proud of all the young men for showing dedication to each game, great sportsmanship to their fellow team-mates, and wonderful positive attitudes the entire weekend. Each player gave 100% heart, and 100% knowledge of the game, with skills they have learned being a part of the Bonham Renegades. With all that determination displayed, they walked away late Sunday afternoon with the 1st place Championship team trophy, and individual player trophies.
Bonham Renegades, their families and friends travel to different tournament locations playing baseball on the weekends, for the love of the game, and for the goal of giving these young men more opportunities to obtain the best knowledge they can about sportsmanship and team-playing, while enhacing their baseball skills. Not only are these young men, given a great experience, by traveling to area tournaments and allowing them to play together, consistently as a team, but their lives are being enriched with a show of support of their talents, and their passion for this sport. Each young man has a driven attitude to learn as much as they can, from the support of not only the coaches, but all the committed parents and friends as well. Their individual love for baseball, is what has made the Bonham Renegades 11-12AA Select Baseball Travel Team become no longer a dream, but now reality.
 

  With the Bonham Renegades dreams coming true, the coaches and parents are very passionate about these young men continuing to play travel baseball, learn wonderful things, have great experiences, become better and stronger team players, and play something they love with a great team of other young men. Coaches, Kelly Nelms, Saul Dunlap Jr., and Randy Phillips, along with Warm-Up and Ralley Coordinator Bubba "Jimmy" Herriage, are all as passionate about baseball as the team players. With all this love for the game, the Bonham Renegades 11-12AA Select Baseball Travel Team is encouraged about all the possibilities that continue to await the Bonham Renegades, not just for the rest of this season, but for many more seasons to come.
The Bonham Renegades have only played together for a few months. And in that time, they have competed in many tournaments, placing 4th, 5th, and 6th; and although the coaches and parents were very proud of their performances - there was always the goal for higher achievement. The coaches knew that the team players had the talent they needed to pull off a 1st place win. This weekend, the players came together as ONE team, and showed all the knowledge that they are being taught by playing on this traveling team.
 

  The Bonham Renegades Select Baseball team is a non-profit organization, only established to ensure that all of their dreams continue to become reality, and that they don’t give up on these talented young men. With that being said, the Renegades want to thank all of the families, friends, and community supporters, who have shown their encouragement during the beginning of the team’s first season together. This Championship win in the Rowlett tournament has made this team stronger; it has reaffirmed that the establishment of the Bonham Renegades was the right move to make for all involved; each player has gained additional knowledge and wisdom of the game, and the entire team is energized to keep playing this wonderful pastime, we all love so much...baseball.

TMC Diabetes Life Center Receives Recognition

Texoma Medical Center’s Diabetes Life Center has received renewal of the American Diabetes Association Education Recognition Certificate for diabetes self-management education programs. The Association’s Education Recognition Certificate assures that programs meet the National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education Programs.

Programs applying for Recognition voluntarily submit to a rigorous review process by experts in the field of diabetes who evaluate each program on its ability to provide patients with a comprehensive individualized education program. Programs that achieve Recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide participants with comprehensive information about diabetes management. The process gives professionals a national standard by which to measure the quality of services they provide and, of course it assures the consumer that he or she will likely receive high-quality service.

"This is an honor because it signifies that we are one of 1800 Recognized programs in the US. Those with diabetes in our community can be assured that if they participate in an American Diabetes Association Recognized Program they are receiving the most current information and skills to control their diabetes. Until there is a cure, those with diabetes should receive the best care, including quality diabetes education, in order to live better lives and prevent or minimize the long-term complications," says Mary Utley, Service Specialist for the TMC Diabetes Life Center.

Education Recognition status is verified by an official certificate from ADA and is awarded for three years. This is the third renewal the DLC has received.

For more information on the services provided by the TMC Diabetes LifeCenter, call (903) 416-4112.

Courtney Jeffrey and Adam Blake West, both 2004 graduates of Ector have each been awarded a $1,000 scholarship by Bob Utter Ford Lincoln Mercury, and Ford Motor Company. Courtney Jeffrey’s parents are Tom and Traci Jeffrey of Ector. Courtney plans to major in Agricultural Journalism at Grayson County College (TX). Adam West’s parents are Walter and Vickie West of Ector and Adam plans to study Business Retail Management at Grayson County College (TX).

These scholarships are two of 626 awarded by Ford Division, Ford Motor Company Fund and the Ford Dealers to FFA members who are high school seniors planning to attend college in the fall of 2004. The Built Ford Tough Trucks/FFA Scholarship Program recently celebrated its seventh full year. 621 scholarships are being awarded on behalf of individual participating Ford Dealers Additionally, five $1,000 national scholarships are being awarded on behalf of Ford Division. The Built Ford Tough Trucks/FFA Scholarship Program is designed to recognize FFA members’ talents and accomplishments while encouraging their past and future academic achievements. Built Ford Tough Trucks and Ford Motor Company Fun sponsor these scholarships as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

Bob Utter Ford Lincoln Mercury is proud to support FFA and the Built Ford Tough Trucks/FFA Scholarship Program. For 55 years Ford has supported FFA, and for more than 50 years, people all over America have been putting Built Ford Tough Trucks to work. Ford knows the value of hard work and believes that hard work should be rewarded. That’s why Ford has increased the Built Ford Tough Trucks/FFA Scholarship Fund each year since its inception. Educating aspiring young people to become the leaders of tomorrow is just another way of ensuring a successful future.

FFA is a national youth organization of over 460,000 student members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture with approximately, 7,300 local chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Visit www.ffa.org for more information.

ETBU Releases 2004 Spring Dean’s List With Honors And Dean’s List

Marshall, Texas (5/21/04)- East Texas Baptist University has recognized its students for outstanding academic achievement during the 2004 Spring Semester with the release of the Spring Dean’s List and Dean’s List with Honors.

Among the students earning recognition to the ETBU Dean’s List with Honors and Dean’s List is Mark Jackson, of Bonham and Jaime Love Kennedy of Dodd City.

The United States Achievement Academy Announced Kamey Herpeche Has Been Named An All-American Scholar

The USAA has established the All-American Scholar Award Program to offer deserved recognition to superior students who excel in the academic disciplines. The All-American Scholars must earn a 3.3, or higher, grade point average. Only scholars seleted by a school instructor, counselor, or other qualified sponsor are accepted. These scholars are also eligible for other awards given by the USAA.

Kamey Herpeche, who attends Dodd City ISD, was nominated for this national award by Mrs. Carrie Gosnell.

Kamey Herpeche will appear in the All-American Scholar Yearbook, which is published nationally.

"Recognizing and supporting our youth is more important than ever before in America’s history. Certainly, winners of the All-American Scholar Awards should be congratulated and appreciated for their dedication to excellence and achievement," said Dr. George Stevens, Executive Director of the United States Achievement Academy.

The Academy selects All-American Scholars upon the exclusive recommendations by teachers, coaches, counselors, and other qualified sponsors. Once awarded, the students may be recognized by the USAA for other honors.

Kamey is the daughter of Jimmy & Becky Herpache from Dodd City, TX. The grandparents are Charles Sr. & Nan Herpache of Bonham, TX, Marie Butler of Telephone, TX, and the late Bobby Butler.

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Meatloaf/ Creole Sauce, Pea Salad, Beets/orange Sauce, Bread, Bread Pudding, Milk

Pinto Beans & Ham, Tomatoes, Cabbage & Carrots, Cornbread, Cake, Milk

Oven Fried Fish, Macaroni & Cheese, Coleslaw, Bread, Pudding, Milk

Roast Turkey/ Gravy, Glazed Sweet Potatoes, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Cornbread Dressing, Spiced Apples, Milk

Golden Gospel Jubilee

The annual Golden Gospel Jubilee will be back in session this Friday night June 4, at 7:30 pm at The Lake Bonham Hoe-Down located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation area east of the spillway on CR2610, Bonham, TX. The jubilee is an area event, and long time running that features the best of Bluegrass, Country, and ole time Gospel music. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and the "Bluegrass Gospeleers". Featuring: Randy Keister, Glen Clark, Mike Stroud, Jack Marshall, Bill Ogden, Gary Monroe, and Stuart Anderson sitting in for Don Sharp on banjo, plus other drop-in singing guests. Our scheduled special guest group will be Gary Sherrill and his "Hogwallow Boys" from Plano, TX. Gary and The Boys have played our stage before, and made an impression on all that saw them. We will have them back.

Everyone is invited and welcome to an evening of fun and inspiration. Admission is free, donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your support. We appreciate you all. God bless you.

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

Bonham ISD Board Of Trustee Special Meeting

Members Present for the meeting held May 24, 2004 at 6:00 pm: Charles Bulter, Allen Sanderson, Charlotte Kearney, Mike Sisk, Clark Smith, Doyce Taylor, Nolan Ashmore, and Linda Gist.

• May 15, 2004 Bonham ISD Trustee Election

• Given to Clark Smith, Mike Sisk, and Doyce Taylor by Justice of the Peace, Joe Dale

• Charles W. Butler, President

• Allen R. Sanderson, Vice-President

• Charlotte Kearney, Secretary

• BHS Band Twirler (State Bound!)- Casey Taylor

• BHS Band All State 2nd Chair (State Bound!)- Tara Fitzwater

• BHS Band- Roger Ashcraft, Director

• Finley-Oates UIL Academic Participants

• I.W. Evans UIL Academic Participants

• Bonham FFA- Team Dairy Products- Nita Bankston, Sponsor

•BHS Chorale (State Bound!)- Rudite Dodson, Director

• TAKS/SDAA/RPTE

• TAAS

•Resignation: Robert Applewhite

• Purchase of classroom projectors

• ASI as the vendor for the purchase of computers

•Substitutes- one

•Designating a specified amount of the fund balance

• Amanda Carter as a Spanish teacher at Bonham High School

• Tiffany Gantt as a teacher in the dyslexia program

• Sharlena Hamby as a second grade teacher at Finely-Oates Elementary School

"Stepping Up To The Platform In 2004" Video To Help Voters

In Fannin County

Sandra Ward-Chairman of the Literary Awareness Program

Why did the local Democrat candidates, except one, decline to tape a bi-partisan Literary Awareness Video (Stepping up to the Platform in 2004) after they had committed to do so and who are the losers? The answer to the first question is a mystery but who is the loser; it is clearly the folks in Fannin County. These are the folks who cannot personally go out and put a face and a voice to each of the local candidates. These videos will be distributed to libraries, churches, senior citizen homes, civic organizations, clubs, political science teachers at our schools and many other organizations that could inform you about candidates running for political office in the upcoming November election.

This is the second year of the Literary Awareness Program that benefits all citizens of Fannin County. Last year’s program impacted the lives of hundreds of 7th & 8th grade students throughout Fannin County with the "Readers Become Leaders" bookmark program. In addition to stimulating students to read, the program collected over 800 new books that were used at CASA in Bonham for their programs and Christmas presents. Everyone helped with this worthwhile program.

Sandra Ward, Chairman of the Literary Awareness Program, sent written invitations several weeks in advance to each of the Fannin County candidates and they all responded by setting up a time for the taping of a 3-minute video. This video is to be used as a tool to educate and promote voting for all the candidates. The setting was exactly the same for everyone: staged in the County Courthouse next to Judge Hall’s office. A respected and independent producer was hired to video the candidates in a totally non-partisan venue. The candidates were the only ones taping with the producer and could say what they wanted about their candidacy. County Clerk, Polly Gilbert was gracious to provide the introduction to the video and explain voting procedures.

The first tapings went very well with one Democrat, three Republicans candidates and Polly Gilbert participating in the video. Before the second scheduled day of taping a faxed letter came from the Democrat Chairman declining (for all the candidates) this opportunity to be a part of this bi-partisan video. A registered letter was then sent apologizing for any confusion and asking for reconsideration due to the overall benefit to all voters in Fannin County. The offer was made to cooperate with any party official to assist in this worthwhile project. After three weeks no response has been received.

The video will be completed as scheduled and ready for distribution in late July. At this point the video will not have all of your local Democrat candidates participating. Encourage the county attorney and sheriff candidate to join the other Democrats on the video and remove the politics of division from this nonpartisan production and work together to benefit all the voters in Fannin County.

Keeping Up With Schedules Vital For Childhood Immunizations

Perhaps it’s a letter from your child’s day care center. Or it may be among the list of requirements for school enrollment. Whatever the timing, the message is the same: Your child needs to be up to date on immunizations. Texas Department of Health (TDH) officials urge parents to begin monitoring their children’s immunizations records from birth, rather than waiting until a deadline rolls around.

According to Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, Texas Commissioner of Health, children should receive 80 percent of their childhood vaccinations by the time they are 2 years old.

"When children are not vaccinated, they are susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases," Sanchez said. "Vaccines are health protecting. They are safe and they are effective. They are one of the great public health achievements of the last century. But we must continue to remind people that controlling vaccine-preventable diseases is an on-going process."

Just name them - diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis or whooping cough, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, pneumococcal diseases, chickenpox, influenza, bacterial meningitis, polio. These are the baker’s dozen of diseases that vaccines can protect children from getting.

According to TDH statistics, about 1,000 births occur in the state daily. "This means there are about 365,000 infants born each year in Texas who needed protection against vaccine ­preventable diseases," Sanchez said. "Having their children immunized on time is one of the most important things parents can do to protect their children."

Disease-causing viruses and bacteria circulate in the United States and around the world. And those not currently a problem in this country may be just a visit or an airplane ride away. For example, highly contagious measles is no longer circulating in the United States, but the virus sometimes is brought in from other parts of the world.

Vaccines have made their mark against this sometimes deadly disease. In 1958, Texas recorded 88,000 cases of measles. Last year, no measles cases were reported in the state, and just one was listed for Texas in 2002. "Fewer and fewer people remember the fears that surrounded the deadly paralytic polio either," Sanchez said. "It has been a half century since we began using the polio vaccine."

In 1950, paralytic polio struc k about 3,000 people in the state. Polio vaccine was licensed in the United States in 1955; and since 1977, not one case of polio has occurred in Texas. Polio caused by wild-type viruses has been eliminated from the Western Hemisphere for more than a decade.

Immunizations protect children, families, schools and communities. Children who are not appropriately immunized increase the chance that others will get diseases. "One unvaccinated child can pass a serious disease on to a younger child, to a pregnant woman or to an elderly relative," Sanchez said.

The timing of immunizations also is important. "Vaccines are recommended for use at the time when they can best protect the child and when the child is most vulnerable," he said. Among the suggestions for parents:

• Get your child vaccinated on time, every time.

• Finish any vaccine series your child starts.

• Ask your health care provider if your child is up to date on vaccinations at every visit.

• Ask your health care provider or clinic staff to remind you when your child needs immunizations.

• Contact your local health department or call the TDH Immunization Division toll free at 1-800-252-9152 for information on childhood immunizations.

"Keeping children’s vaccinations up to date can be challenging, but the persistence pays off in healthier families and safer communities," Sanchez said.

TWC Offers Summer Youth Hiring Tips

AUSTIN - Every summer, Texas’ employers hire thousands of teen-age workers for a wide variety of part- and full-time positions. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) wants employers, workers and parents alike to be aware of the state and federal laws, and safety regulations affecting child labor issues.

Between May and June of 2003, as schools and colleges let out for the summer, as many as 134,200 people entered the labor market looking for work. In 2002, during the same period, as many as 123,900 people entered the labor market, while in 2001, 139,400 people began the search for work between May and June. Most of these job seekers were students.

"Teen workers are a critical component of the Texas workforce, especially during the summer," said TWC Chair Diane Rath. "Employers, teen workers and their parents should fully understand the labor laws that apply to them in order for all to safely benefit from summer labor."

Federal and Texas child labor laws ensure that children are not employed in an occupation or manner that is detrimental to their safety, health or well-being. Any individual under 18 years of age is defined as a child. Youths age 16 and 17 may perform any job not declared hazardous by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), for unlimited hours. Youths age 14 and 15 may work outside school hours in various nonmanufacturing, nonmining, nonhazardous jobs under the following conditions: no more than three hours on a school day, 18 hours in a school week, eight hours on a nonschool day or 40 hours in a nonschool week. They also may not begin work before 7 a.m. nor work after 7 p.m., except_. from June 1 through Labor Day, when evening hours are extended until 9 p.m.

"Teens are an integral part of the labor force and employers have long depended on young workers to fulfill their labor needs, particularly during the summer months," said Commissioner Representing Employers Ron Lehman. "Most of us started off working as teens, building a work ethic, gaining skills, and yes, even earning a little extra money. We just want to be sure that all involved know the laws relating to working teens so they can enjoy a safe and productive working environment."

Most working teens are employed in retail establishments, restaurants, supermarkets and stores. Others work on farms or in summer camps and amusement parks. Generally, according to federal law, teens may not work at jobs that involve:

• Driving a motor vehicle and being an outside helper on a motor vehicle (absolutely prohibited for youth under 17; subject to certain conditions for youth age 17)

• Roofing operations

• Excavating operations

• Power-driven wood-working machines

• Power-driven bakery machines

• Power-driven paper-products machines

• Power-driven hoisting equipment

• Power-driven metal-forming, punching and shearing machines

• Power-driven circular saws, band saws and guillotine shears

• Meat-packing or processing machines (including power-driven meat slicing)

• Manufacturing brick, tile and related products

• Wrecking, demolition and ship-breaking operations

• Logging and sawmilling

• Exposure to radioactive substances and ionizing radiation

• Manufacturing or storing explosives

"As a teen I worked in a carwash and at a hotel as a busboy," said Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. "Working as a teen served as a springboard for my later jobs as an adult. I valued and appreciated those experiences and urge teens to work if the are so inclined, but to do so safely."

For more information on prohibited or restricted jobs, or to get other details on child labor laws:

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the programs it offers in unison with its network of local workforce development boards, call (512) 463-8556 or visit www. texasworkforce. org.

Ashlee Ferguson Graduates As Salutatorian of Savoy

Ashlee Ferguson is the daughter of Jimmy and Mary Ferguson of Savoy and the granddaughter of Agnes and the late Clyde Rickes and Judy Newell and the late Don Ferguson. She has one brother Don Ferguson, also of Savoy.

Ashlee has been involved in many activities throughout high school. She was a member of her varsity volleyball, basketball, softball, and track teams. She was also captain of her cheerleading squad. She was class president and BETA club president. Ashlee was involved in the Big Brother/ Big Sister program and editor of the school yearbook. Ashlee has also participated in U.I.L. journalism events.

Ashlee will graduate as salutatorian of her class with Texas Scholar Honors and college hour credits. After graduation Ashlee will attend Austin College and major in Pre-Med.

Thank You

I would like to say thanks to the Blood Mobile, Burger King, Taco Mayo, Jr. High, Life Center, Channel 12, Brookshires, Kwik Check, Hostess, Frito Lay, Lehdes, Sonic, Wal-Mart, McBrooms, 102.5 Modern Rock, Dr. Pepper, and Auto Tech for donating everything we needed to have a fundraiser on May 8th for Ethan Hartwell. I would like to thank everyone individually that gave money, and/ or volunteered their time. We also had a silent auction. These businesses donated something: Wallace Towing, Charlottes Clipping Post, Foxworth, Tex’s Detail, Auto Tech, Lone Star Pawn, Hucks Catfish Denison, El Chicos, Los Amigos, Rolandoes, O’Rielly’s, AE’s Flower Shop, Discount Outlet, Goodwill Employees, Hickory BBQ, Trenton Bank, Bonham State Bank, Fannin Bank, Moore Chiropractic, Star Nails, Mary’s Boutique, Majestic Theatres, Movie Gallery, Auto Zone, Rawls Furniture, Bonham Golf Club, Alan’s Auto Supply, Burgers and Fries, Legacy Ridge Country Club, Carter Wood, Bonham Floral, Mac Tools, Past & Present, Bens Restaurant, Antiques on the Square, Bonham Family Drug, RtB, Hostess, Coca-cola, Sonic, and McCraw Oil. We raised $2,700. We could not have done this without everyone’s help. Once again thank you to everyone that helped raise money for Ethan Hartwell.

Car Club News

The Red River Valley Car Club of Bonham Texas held their Annual Spring Car Show on May 11, 2004 downtown Bonham on the Courthouse Square. There were 62 entries from Paris, Daingerfield, Anna, Bonham, Greenville, Sherman, Denison, Atoka and Calera Ok., Tom Bean, Melissa, Pottsboro, Van Alstyne, McKinney, Howe, Whitwright, Ladonia, Wolfe City, Caddo Ok., Colbert Ok., Trenton, and Ector.

The Judges for the show were Judge Derrell Hall, Jutice of Peace Joe Dale, Communication Officer of Bonham Police Department Cynthia Woods, Jack Youngblood of Anna and Bruce Rice of Colbert Ok.

Trophy’s were presented in 11 different classes plus for Best of Show, Best GM, Best Ford, Best MOPAR.

In Original Pre-50 Cars

1st place 1925 Model T Ford of Robert Layman, Whitewright Tx.

2nd place 1936 Ford 4 Door Deluxe Humpback of E.L. and Fran Keller, Anna Tx.

3rd place 1930 Model A Ford of Joe Tom Smith, Ector Tx.

3rd place tie 1931 Model A Ford of G.W. and Elizabeth Binion, Bonham Tx.

1st place 1957, 210 Chev. of Donny Layman, Whitewright Tx. 2nd place 1954 Buick Century Riviera of Claude Wix, Bonham Tx.

3rd place 1957, 210 Chev. of Nadine May, Bonham Tx.

1st place 1960 Ford Thunderbird of Joe and Joyce Darling, Bonham Tx.

2nd place 1969 Dodge of Randy Mahon, Paris Tx.

3rd place 1962 Studebaker of Claude Uselton, Bonham Tx.

1st place 1971 Chevelle SS of Grey and Karen White, Sherman Tx.

2nd place 1972 Chev. Nova of Danny Vellotti, Denison Tx.

3rd place 1971 Pontiac Bonnaville of Benny Smith, Dodd City Tx.

1st place 1990 Corvette of James Bruce, Trenton Tx.

1st place 1949 Modified Mercury Truck of Richard Kellerman, Bailey Tx

2nd place 1964 Ford Econoline Van of Jeff Peeler, Bonham Tx

3rd place 1951 Chev. Hardtop Deluxe of David Nelson, Bonham Tx.

1st place 1965 Ford Mustang of Cheryl Spann, Telephone Tx.

2nd place 1967 Ford of Bob and Jean Breedan, Atoka Ok

3rd place 1975 Pontiac Gradville of Boyd Smith, Sherman, Tx

1st place 1950 Chev. Sedan Delivery of Clifton Vick, Denison Tx

2nd place 1955 Chev. Bellair of Billy Carroll, McKinney Tx.

3rd Place 1966 Ford Mustang of Michael Smith, Sherman Tx

1st place 1972 El Camino SS of Wayne Barber, Bonham Tx

2nd place 1933 Half Ton of David Nelson, Bonham Tx

3rd place 1968 Ford of Steven French, Atoka Ok

1st place 1964 Chev. C10 of Nick Taylor, Melissa Tx

2nd place 1954 Chev. of Tommy Mills, Anna Tx

3rd place 1951 Ford of Billy Roberts, Bonham Tx

1st place 1934 Ford Coupe of Lee McBroom, Bonham Tx.

2nd place 1934 Ford 2 Door Sedan of Jack Youngblood, Tom Bean Tx.

3rd place 1934 Chev. Sedan of Clint Murphy, Van Alstyne Tx.

3rd place tie 1937 Ford 4 Door of Billy Carroll, McKinney Tx.

1955 Chev. Belair of Billy Carroll, McKinney Tx.

1956 Chev. 4 Door Hartop of Dolan Willis, Caddo Ok.

1933 Ford Coupe of Charlie and Jane Adams, Anna Tx.

1972 Chev. Cheyenne Original Truck of Mark Slagle, Daingerfiled Tx.

1970 340 Dodge Swinger of Ronny Fralicks, Colbert Ok.

1941 2 Door Willys of David McBroom, Bonham Tx.

1960 Ford Thunderbird of Larry Waldrop, Telephone Tx.

Skinner Graduates

The Skinner Family is so proud of their two graduates. Shannon Skinner is graduating from Bonham High School and Katie Skinner is graduating from Stephenson Headstart. A reception was held in their honor following the High School Graduation. We are all so very proud and look forward to watch them spread their wings and discover new things.

Donja Danielle Harvey Graduates as Valedictorian at Savoy

Dannie and Denise Harvey would like to congratulate Ms. Donja Danielle Harvey for being named Valedictorian of the 2003-2004 Savoy High School Class. Donja will complete the school year with a 3.78 grade point average. Donja will also be graduating with 12 college hours, which she earned this school year. She has been accepted to Texas A&M Commerce where she plans to major in Business Management and Advertisement.

Donja is the granddaughter of Ralph and Carol Ballard of Savoy, and of Juanita (Skeet) Harvey Harris of Savoy. We are so very proud of you Donja and pray that God will make great things happen for you.

Stephenson School Holds Head Start Graduation Ceremony

Fannin County Head Start honored all students at a graduation ceremony that was held on May 25 and 26. All students received diplomas from Mrs. McDonald, Principal.

Ector Elementary Award Ceremony

The faculty and administration of Ector Elementary are proud to recognize Kassie Shaw (upper elementary) and Nathan Johnson (lower elementary) as the Students of the Six Weeks. Congratulations to these students.

The faculty and administration of Ector Elementary are proud to recognize two students that have consistently throughout the year demonstrated wonderful attitudes along with a desire to be their best. These students are (L-R) Cloudi Burnett (lower elementary), and Brittney Stone (upper elementary). Congratulations to these students

The faculty and administration of Ector Elementary are proud to recognize these students for being the winners of this year’s Fitness Test.

This physical test consist of a battery of exercises that all of the students must undergo. Based upon their scores in each category winners are chosen for each class. This year’s winners are:

Kindergarten: Nathan Johnson and Alex Stephens

First Grade: Johnathan Whitlock and Billie Sue Elliot

Second Grade: Shelby Stockton and Tiffany Sellers

Third Grade: Kaleb Atkins and Brianna Teel

Fourth Grade: Bradley Bingham and Kassie Shaw

Fifth Grade: Isaac Hicks and Mallory Mayo

Sixth Grade: Zakree Thompson and Kacie Gilbert

This test and the entire elementary PE program are under the guidance of Coach Terry Johnson. Congratulations students.

As a service to the community, the Bonham City Planner will be writing a series of articles to answer questions from citizens to better inform the public of what’s going on in the City. This is the sixth in a series.

1. Does the City of Bonham have any grant money for housing rehabilitation, reconstruction, or downpayment assistance?

The City of Bonham recently received a grant from the HOME Program at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to tear down and replace six substructure homes in the City for low-income homeowners. Over the last few months we have been accepting applications from interested citizens to reconstruct their homes. We just completed the intake and eligibility process and will begin construction sometime this summer. Bids will be posted shortly for builders who wish to submit plans and costs estimates to demolish and build new homes on these six properties.

In April 2004, the City submitted a grant application to TDHCA requesting funds to replace six additional homes in the City in 2005. This new grant will be targeted for families or individuals with special needs, such as handicapped or elderly, who are low income, and own their own homes. TDHCA probably will not make a decision on awards until at least August 2004.

Also, in April 2004, the City applied for a grant to provide downpayment and closing costs assistance for low- to-moderate income individuals or families to buy a new home in the City limits of Bonham. If awarded, we will have funds available to assist ten families with up to $10,000 each to use towards downpayment and closing costs. This money is provided as a second lien mortgage on your home, at zero percent interest, with no monthly payments, and a 100% forgivable note if you live in the home for a specified number of years. If awarded, we will advertise the availability of the funds through public notices.

Good timing. On May 7, 2004, we were awarded a Community Development Block Grant from the Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA) to replace the water line and fire hydrants along South Fifth Street, beginning at Main Street and extending west to Robinson Street. The engineers currently are working on the plans. Construction bids will be let sometime in the next few months. If you are a utility contractor, you may want to stay tuned. We will advertise through a public notice in the local paper after the plans are finalized.

In conjunction with this project, we are submitting a grant application to ORCA in July 2004, requesting funds to replace the sewer line along the same street. ORCA won’t announce awards until probably 2005, so keep your fingers crossed.

3. Is the City eligible for other grants besides housing programs, and water and sewer projects from the State or the Federal Government?

Yes. We continually submit grant applications for a sundry of projects, including fire and EMS equipment, police equipment, public works equipment, street repairs, city parks, main street renovations, airport extension, library books and supplies, economic development activities, and on and on. If it wasn’t for many of these federal and state grants, we would not be able to provide the level of services that are available to the community. Your city employees work hard to obtain grants to pay for many of the services you receive in an effort to save you local tax dollars.

If you have questions about what’s going on in the City, please submit your questions in writing to the Mike Walthall, Development Services Coordinator, Bonham Planning Department, 301 E. Fifth, Bonham, Texas 75418.

Challenge at Critter Corner

   Friends of Fannin County Critters, FFCC, is facing the challenge of dealing with the havoc resulting from having canine distemper being brought into Critter Corner by a newly accepted puppy. A few weeks ago, Critter Corner took in a 5 month old Chihuahua terrier mix named Winston. Winston is cute as a button and no one knew that he should have been named Typhoid Winston. During his Vet intake exam he showed no signs of the virus as he was still in the incubation period. When Winston started coughing, he was treated immediately for the symptoms. However, when some of the other dogs began showing signs of the virus it became apparent to the consulting Veterinarian, Dr. Gerome that Critter Corner was dealing with its first case of Canine Distemper.
  

  The SPCA and other similar facilities usually will euthanize all the animals exposed to distemper and move forward to make space for the healthy animals needing placement. However, Critter Corner is known for going the extra mile to not have to euthanize an animal unless it is suffering. What the FFCC decided to do was to accept the financial costs of putting all the dogs on medication and the volunteers worked hard to nurse the sick dogs back to health. Almost all of the dogs made it through with relatively mild symptoms due to the quick treatment. Of the 6 dogs FFCC had at the time of the outbreak, 2 had been through enough of their required vaccinations to not get the disease. Of the remaining four, the only exception was Buddy, a 5 month old Corgi/Heeler mix, who succumbed to the virus and was humanely put down.
  

   What is Canine Distemper and how is it transmitted? Canine Distemper is an infectious viral disease occurring in dogs, characterized by loss of appetite, a discharge from the eyes and nose, vomiting, fever, lethargy, partial paralysis caused by destruction of nerve tissue, and sometimes death. The Canine Distemper virus, like the human flu virus, is spread by contact and air born particles from sneezes. The virus doesn’t last very long outside of the body and is easily destroyed with common disinfectants. There is a similar viral disease of cats but the two viruses are different and they do not cross species. If more people had their pets vaccinated then diseases like distemper would be rare.
 

    One of the most difficult parts of the distemper challenge for Critter Corner is that after a dog recovers from the initial bout of distemper the virus symptoms may reemerge within 3 months. This possibility of the virus symptoms reoccurring within 3 months would expose other dogs who are not fully vaccinated against distemper. This 3 month waiting period for the recovered dogs results in a crisis for Critter Corner. The FFCC will have to choose to shut down Critter Corner for up to 3 months during the waiting period in order to not infect any new dogs waiting for a spot at Critter Corner. Two solutions would be for the 4 dogs that are at Critter Corner to find a foster or permanent home where they can be either in a one dog home or only around adult dogs that are fully vaccinated. The ideal option is new permanent homes and Friends of Fannin County Critters will waive any placement fee for one of the dogs that have fought hard to get well from the virus.
"Dr. Cox, one of our participating veterinarians told our board members last year that something like this would eventually happen" stated Stephanie Wood, FFCC Board President. "He said that no matter how careful we were, in the business we’re in, that it would just be a matter of time. Unfortunately, our time has come and FFCC will need to review current policies and procedures to help us deal with these situations if they occur in the future". "We encourage everyone to make sure their animals are up to date with their yearly shots."
If you would like to help or give a home to one of these dogs in need of a second chance then stop by Critter Corner, 200 Winkler, Bonham during their open hours of Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, 10am-2pm or call 903-583-1652

Seven Oaks Nursing Home

Parents Most Influential In Helping Adolescents Avoid Pregnancy

Whatever the talk is called - the birds and the bees, the facts of life, sex education - the conversation is sometimes a challenge for parents and their children. It also

is one of the most important. . "The fundamental message to parents is to talk early, talk often and stay involved with their children," said Cindy Jones, director of family planning at the Texas Department of Health (TDH). "We know that teens want very much for their parents to have open and honest conversations with them about these topics. But talking is not enough. Parents must stay involved in the lives of their adolescents, if they want to help them."

TDH statistics show that the birth rate for Texas teens age 15 to age 19 in 2002 was 64 births per 1,000, less than the 66 births per 1,000 the previous year and down significantly from the 76 births per 1,000 10 years ago. However, while the Texas teen birth rate is declining, it still is higher than the national teen birth rate of 43 births per 1,000 in 2002.

"Young people need to understand that teen pregnancy usually does not lead to living happily every after," Jones said. Several health, economic and social consequences are associated with teen pregnancy, she noted.

Pregnant teens are less likely to get adequate prenatal care. In Texas, 35 percent of the pregnant women under 17 are likely to have late or no prenatal care, compared with 19 percent for all women who give birth.

Teen mothers are more likely to experience pregnancy and delivery problems and have less healthy babies than older mothers. Infants of teen mothers are more likely than infants of older women to weigh less than 5 1/2 pounds, have underdeveloped organs or be born prematurely. Parenthood also is a leading cause of high school dropout among teen girls. On average, teen fathers earn less money and are more likely to quit school than are young men who delay parenting.

"The fact is that one young person in five has sex by age 15," Jones said. "And every 10 minutes, a teen in Texas gets pregnant."

Jones offered parents these ideas to help make conversations about sex easier to have with their children:

• Educate yourself.

• Be clear about your own sexual attitudes and values.

• Be specific when you talk with your children about sex.

• Be a parent with opinions.

• Know what your child is doing and with whom.

• Know your children’s friends and their families.

• Talk with your children about what they are watching, reading and hearing.

• Supervise and monitor your children and adolescents.

• Discourage early, frequent and steady dating.

• Take a strong stand against your child dating someone older.

• Help your teen-ager have options for the future that are more attractive than early pregnancy and premature parenthood.

• Let your children know that you value education highly.

• Talk to sons as well as daughters.

"Research, common sense, public opinion and teens themselves make it clear that family matters a lot to teens," Jones said. "Parents should not overestimate the influence of peers and underestimate their own influence."

Gubernatorial Appointments Process

Recently, Governor Rick Perry appointed Denison resident Jerdy Gary to serve as Chairman of the Grayson County Regional Mobility Authority. This appointment comes as a result of the creation of the Authority by Grayson County and subsequent approval by the Texas Transportation Commission. I congratulate Mr. Gary and know that he and the other members of the Authority’s board, who are appointed by the Grayson County Commissioners’ Court, will do a great job in helping to provide for mobility in our transportation system in the county.

The appointments process is one source of great influence for Texas governors. The governor of Texas is granted the authority by the state’s constitution to make governmental appointments. A governor will typically make 3,000 appointments during a four-year term of office. These appointments include:

• State officials

• Members of state boards, commissions and councils that carry out the laws and direct the policies of state governmental activities

• Members of task forces that advise the governor or executive agencies on specific issues and policies

• State elected and judicial offices when vacancies result from the resignation or death of the office holder.

In most cases, state law prohibits state employees from being appointed to a board or commission. However, there are some boards and commissions which require designation of a state employee.

Once an applicant has submitted an application, his or her name will be entered into the governor’s appointments system. Then, the Appointments Office reviews statutory requirements pertaining to the applicant’s specific requested position and gathers information on personal and professional experience necessary or preferable for the position. The Appointments Office also considers the diversity of the current board for which the appointment is being made. For most appointments, a potential nominee must also be approved by his or her Senator prior to formal appointment by the governor. Appointments Office recommendations are submitted to the governor, who ultimately makes the decision.

For the majority of boards and commissions, the Texas Constitution requires that the nomination of an applicant by the governor must also be confirmed by the Texas Senate. The Senate considers the confirmation of an appointment when they are in session. An individual appointed during the interim can serve without confirmation until the legislature is back in session, at which time the Senate can confirm the appointment.

For more information on the application process, or to obtain an application or a list of current openings for boards and commissions, please visit the appointments section of the governor’s website at www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/appointments.

Rabecca McIntyre Graduates

Rebecca E. McIntyre, daughter of Bryce Jr. and Jenny McIntyre of Bonham, recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Upon graduation Rebecca received an Associate Degree in Applied Science Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Food Service Management.

During her enrollment at Johnson & Wales Rebecca was named to the Dean’s List each trimester and was inducted into the Alpha Beta Kappa National Honor Society, the Silver Key Honor Society and the Golden Quill. She was awarded a Merit Scholarship and the Faculty Junior Student Award as well as being named in the National Who’s Who In American Junior Colleges and the National Who’s Who in American universities.

While at JWU Rebecca participated in the University Career Ambassador Program where she assisted in coordinating groups of high school students visiting campus, guiding tours for students and parents, and also chaperoning these students at overnight student activities.

As part of her school training Rebecca interned at the Radisson Airport Hotel in Warwick, Rhode Island, where she assisted with banquet preparation and service for groups ranging from 50-1500 individuals; worked as a liason for guests hosting banquets; and prepared food for banquets and the hotel’s a la carte restaurant. Rebecca also spent a school term in Greece as an intern at the Alexander the Great four star resort in Thessaloniki. While there she served in the restaurant and its sever cafes, assisted with room inspection, and monitored amenity intake.

Johnson & Wales was founded as a business school in Providence in 1914 by Gertrude Johnson and Mary Wales with one student and one typewriter. Today it is an international leader in experiential learning. Students at JWU master needed skills by working in programs with companies like Sony, Microsoft, Saks, AT&T, GM, Marriot, Hyatt, and Universal Studios. University-owned and operated business practicum sites include several hotels, a retail clothing store, a string of restaurants, a travel agency, an equine center, and the oldest indoor shopping mall in the country. JWU campuses are located in Providence, RIl; N. Miami, FLA.; Norfolk, VA; Charleston, SC; and Denver, CO.

Rebecca’s parents (Bryce and Jenny), her siblings (Nathan, Rachel, Daniel, Esther, Liz, and Ruthie), her grandparents (Dorothy McIntyre of Bonham and Hank & Helen Giobbi of Greensburg, PA), and her maternal aunt (Rebecca Aupperle of Audubon, NJ) are very proud of her achievements.

5 Years: Nita Bankston, Brandon Godbey, Michael Ridge, Suzanne Bennett, Connie Skidmore, Amber Clark, Stephenie Liebel, JoAnn Lancaster, Kristy Young, Kevin Matthews

10 Years: Tonya Anderson, Betty Chandler, Susan Nelms, Karol Romans, Jan Woodruff, Tammi Collins, Jerri Goforth, Judy Brown-Cloer, Ron Clark, Kathleen Gunter, Suzanne Martin, Lori Flowers, Tammy Reich, Jodi Hunt, Kelly Trompler, Janette Owens, Brenda Wagstaff, Lela Morris, Charlene Shaw, Bettie White

15 Years: Kim Matlock, David Eaton, Myrna Malone, Jan O’Connor, Mary Lou Fox, Judy Lewis, Elizabeth Partridge Carter, Carey McClain, Carol Monte, Pam Ricks

20 Years Sue Ann Simpson, Elaine Whisenhunt, Elsie Hulstine

30 Years: Larry Whitehead

Retirees: Mary Frambes, Pat Pate, Tonya Kountz, Elsie Hulstine, Linda Kinkade, Nelda Smith, Glenda Meador, Janice Taylor, Oleta Lawson, Carole Monte, Lela Morris, Laurel McDonald, Rebecca Knight, Jo Ann Carr, Nancy DeRose, Joan Zoppi, Joetta Wallace

Bonham Toastmasters Skip Jones and Norman Young (President) gave the program at the Bonham Rotary Club meeting last week. Toastmasters is a non profit organization helping people not to be afraid to speak to a group by speaking, thinking and listening. It started in California in 1924. Skip Jones said, "We’re teaching people to talk turkey without turning chicken!". The local club (BonHAMs) meets twice monthly (first and third Thursdays) at the First Presbyterian Church in Bonham from 12 Noon until 1:00 p.m.

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