Fannin County Texas Builders Association

Barbara Sargent, international distributor for Kemiko concrete stains and wax , described the continued innovations of the treatment of concrete for a permanent and dependable floor covering and decorator item for members and guests of the Fannin Division, Top of Texas Builder’s Assn. Tuesday .

Mr. and Mrs.Merle Sargent were hosts to the group for their gourmet buffet dinner meeting at Shumardii’s Restaurant in Bonham. And they brought a program of innovative design for floors "Old World Beauty , Modern Day Luxury."

Displays of the Stone Tone Stains, for the every style and decorator trend were shown by Ms. Sargent to illustrate the individuality and versatility of this unique and durable floor treatment. This application is for new concrete slabs, and old, and every stain is different on the concrete, creating an individual design, almost totally maintenance free and excellent for those with allergies.

She said that the finishes may resemble tile, slate or brick, achieving a warm natural look, complementing stone or wood. It can be made to look, have the texture and feel of quarried stone, like marble.

State Rep. Larry Phillips brought an up to date report on the state legislature and how the state was cutting back on taxes to work and live with a budget that the state can afford, and that the people can enjoy

more of their own money. He will bring a more comprehensive program to this Association in October. Laurine J. Blake, of Sherman, was introduced as a candidate for District Judge in Grayson and Fannin Counties.

Randy Shelton of Sherman spoke on metal building sales for Monitor a manufacturer specializing in car wash buildings, roof structures and vacuum canopies since 1959

Dr.Gary Sissom and Clif Harjo entertained with guitar jamming session during dinner. Their musical theme was Summertime.

Lane’s Floral Company donated the floral centerpiece and door prize. Other door prizes were donated by Susie McEachern, and Stephens Builder.

Winners of the door prizes were Richard Glaser, Virgil Bowling, Merle Sargent, Myrtis Williams, Donnie Coffman, Mrs. Virgil Bowling, Dori Leatherwood, Jason Leatherwood, Barbara Sargent and Carolyn Harjo.

Jay Stephens, president, announced that the Builders will recess for the summer months of July and August, and will resume fall meetings on the second Tuesday in September, which will be the honoring of the heros in the police department and fire department, for Bonham and the area. The state president for Texas Association of Builders will be guest speaker at this special program.

Dr. Gary Sissom and Clif Harjo and the Red River Singers will present a patriotic program of music for the event.

Dr. and Mrs. Sissom were introduced as new members of the Top of Texas Builders Assn.

Local Author Honored

Kay Layton Sisk’s book A Suite Deal was chosen as one of the top five novels entered in the short contemporary category for 2002 in the HOLT Medallion Contest. The HOLT Medallion (Honoring Outstanding Literary Talent) is presented annually by Virginia Romance Writers as a mark of excellence in romantic fiction. The HOLT contest has grown steadily in numbers with national and international entries and in increased prestige. Unlike many contests, it attempts to reflect the actual marketplace. Judging panels are comprised not of editors, agents and writers, but of avid romance readers who participate with enthusiasm and sincerity. The judges are looking for a good read, a book they would buy, and an author they would follow. As a HOLT finalist, Sisk has been recognized for her outstanding literary talents and skills in the art of writing. For more information about the contest and a complete list of winners, visit  virginiaromancewriters.com.

Crownover Reunion

On June 8th, the family of the late Frank and Mandy Crownover had their family reunion. A lot of visiting and picture taking. We met at Betty and Max Owens of Tom Bean. Thanks to them we had a great time at their home. Guests attending were Linda and Lorene Lawrence of Wills Point, Wayne Parum of Brownfield, TX, Mary Bush, and Jimmy Dixon of Ector, Danny, Debbie, Brandon, Weston, Brattany Bush of Ector, Lisa, Mike, Blaine, Mason, Morgan Woodbridge of Gladewater, Billy Jon and Colt Whisenhunt of Ector, Margaret and Stan McNear of Point, Claudett, Craig Carlile of Bonham, Pam and Steve Russell of Bonham, Dillon and McKinzie, Mark Warren and friend Jennifer of Irving, Bobby and Joan Russell of Irving, Betty and Max Owens of Tom Bean, Doug, Linda, Matt, Kyle and Kevin Owens of McKinney, and Louise Wallace of Bonham. Our next meeting will be June 13, 2004 at the Owen’s.

As I contemplate a decade in the United States Senate, it is plain to me that I have been privileged to serve during a unique time in our nation’s history. From the breakup of the Balkans, to the impeachment of a president to Septem­ber 11, 2001 and the war in Iraq, I have been awed and inspired by the challenges, the tragedies and the triumphs of the American people. So many critical issues have been considered in the past ten years, and our world has changed dramatically since I was sworn in on June 14, 1993.

As a member of the Defense Appropriations Commit­tee and chair of the Military Construction Subcommittee I have focused on improving the quality of life for military personnel and strengthening Texas bases. My highest prior­ity has been a strong national defense.

When I first ran for the Senate in a special election, I visited every corner of the state. One visit remains particularly vivid and continues to motivate me to this day. Ten years ago, I was led through the streets of a colonia, a community that lacked paved roads, wastewater facili­ties and running water. Quite frankly I could not believe I was in America. I offered as my first amendment in the Senate a bill authorizing $50 million for a colonias clean­up project, and I have consistently worked to improve the quality of life for people who live on the border. Since then I have helped secure more than $615 million to upgrade the colonias of our state.

When I learned from personal experience that homemakers could not fully contribute to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) as could their counterparts in the workplace, l knew this inequity needed to be eliminated. A woman’s role in the home is every bit as important as a woman’s role in the workplace, and the savings and investment opportunities should be equal. I made it my mission to ensure that our laws did not discriminate against homemakers. I was proud my legislation passed and today homemakers and those who work outside the home may make equal savings investments in IRAs.

In 1996, Congress passed "Interstate Stalking" leg­islation I introduced to protect people from predators who travel across state lines with the intent to kill, injure, harass or intimidate. Two years later, an Alabama man accused of threatening his ex-wife and sons here in Texas became the first in the nation to be convicted and sentenced for interstate stalking, under the law I wrote.

This was a landmark case for a number of reasons. It was the first to be tried by a jury after the legislation was enacted; it was tried here in Texas; and most important, this legislation stopped him before violence occurred. It was clear from his words and actions that this predator intended to harm or kill his ex-wife. Fortunately, he was sent to prison for 20 years before he could act.

I have long advocated the elimination of the marriage penalty, which places a tax on couples simply because they get married. In 2001, I was able to pass a law to lessen this fundamental inequity. With this year’s Jobs and Growth package, we eliminated temporarily this added tax by doubling the 15 percent bracket and the standard deduction for married couples. In June I introduced a bill that would eradicate permanently this penalty levied on American couples.

One of my top priorities since I joined the Appropria­tions Committee in 1997 has been to increase the amount of federal research dollars coming into Texas’ institutions of higher education. When I began looking at the funds coming into our state, I was astounded to learn we ranked sixth nationally. Since that time I have worked closely with our universities and medical schools to ensure we are actively pursuing federal research dollars and highlight­ing the centers of excellence at our universities to federal agencies. We are now ranked 4^th in the nation, bringing in nearly $1 billion in 2001.

After September 11, securing our nation’s aviation system became a top priority. As the chair of the Senate Aviation Subcommittee, I worked closely with my colleagues, the airlines, and the Administration to make our skies safe again. The changes we enacted were dramatic and clearly made a difference. Flying today is safer than ever before.

As I reflect on 10 years in the United States Senate, I am honored to serve the greatest state in the union and to represent the finest people in the world.

IRS Web Site Offers Identification Numbers for Businesses

WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service now lets businesses obtain identification numbers directly from its Web site. After the taxpayer completes an application form online, the system issues an employer identification number (EIN) that may be used immediately.

This online process eliminates the need to send paperwork to the IRS as well as the delay in issuing a number that may result from an incomplete application form. Once a business has its EIN, it can file tax returns and may enroll in the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System to handle its payments most efficiently.

Businesses do not need to pre-register before requesting an EIN. The number issued is the permanent EIN for the business, unless the IRS finds that it has already issued an EIN for that business or if the principal officer’s name and social security number do not match Social Security records. In such cases, the IRS will void the number issued through the Web site and notify the business.

The online application process is not available to some EIN requestors, including federal, state or local government agencies, Indian tribal governments, real estate mortgage investment conduits, and taxpayers with addresses outside the 50 states.

For more information, go to www.irs.gov/smallbiz and click on the "Online Application - Form SS-4" link.

Businesses may still obtain EINs by telephone at 1-800-829-4933 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (local time), or by mailing or faxing Form SS-4, as provided in the form’s instructions.

Denison Summer Fine Art Tour

The booming arts scene in Denison has a lot of North Texas residents referring to this small town, 65 miles north of Dallas, as "the next Santa Fe." Recent exhibitions there have featured the work of artists including Picasso, Matisse, Jasper Johns and Robert Rauschenberg, as well as regional and artists from across the nation.

On Saturday, June 28, from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, June 29, from 1 pm to 5 pm local galleries will hold The Denison Summer Fine Art Tour.

The tour will include seventeen galleries offering a range of traditional, modern and contemporary art. Featured are painting, photography, works on paper, sculpture, ceramics and glass.

"The arts scene here is growing rapidly and it’s really exciting," said Arts Council spokesperson Larry Matthews. "Word is spreading about what’s happening in Denison, in fact we recently had visitors from New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Japan. The Summer Art Tour will give art lovers a great opportunity to view the high caliber of art work being shown here.

For more information visitors may contact the Denison Arts Council at 903-465-1551 or visit www.smalltownbigart.com

Correct Address - Taxpayer Responsibility

According to the Texas State Property Tax Code (Sec. 1.07), it is the responsibility of the taxpayer to provide the Appraisal District with the correct mailing address for each property. Please be positive that we have your new 911 address or current mailing information.

New Survey Finds Millions of Older Americans Need Help with Basic Daily Tasks

Della Reese to Lead Effort in Raising Awareness of Faith in Action - A National Network of Free Services

Washington, D.C. - Changing a light bulb, walking a dog or mowing the lawn all seem like basic activities for a majority of Americans, but according to a new survey, more than one quarter of Americans over age 55, approximately 16 million people, struggle with these simple chores and nearly one half of those who have difficulty do not receive any help from family or others.

To address this need, Touched by an Angel’s Della Reese is leading an effort to spread the word about a national network of free, interfaith, community-based services called Faith in Action.

"We have found people sitting in the dark because they can’t reach the light fixture to change the bulb - and don’t have anyone to help," said Reese. "Millions of Americans need our help or they will lose the independence they cherish. Faith in Action’s network of volunteers can help meet the need."

Reese, singer, actress, performer, and minister - perhaps best known for her role as Tess on the hit television series, Touched by an Angel - now joins Faith in Action as the national spokesperson, making it her mission to spread the word about the network. She also is committed to encouraging more people to volunteer to help their neighbors in need.

The survey, conducted by Lake Snell Perry & Associates, Inc., indicates maintaining independence is extremely important to Americans over 55. In fact, the research found that the two things they value most are maintaining their independence and staying in their homes and communities. The survey also suggests that older Americans prefer receiving assistance from faith-based organizations compared to secular organizations (47 percent vs. 19 percent).

Faith in Action, a national program of The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, is stepping up its efforts to increase awareness of its current programs, to create new programs, and to recruit new volunteers to help their neighbors in need. To date, the Foundation has committed more than $35 million to establish programs in communities throughout the United States. Grant money continues to be available.

To find a Faith in Action program in your community, call toll free at (877) 324-8411 or visit the Web site at www.fiavolunteers.org.

• 27% of Americans over age 55 report having difficulty doing daily activities such as driving, shopping, or daily chores.

• 45% do not receive help from family or others.

• 51% of those caring for an aging loved one report that they feel stressed and need more personal time.

• 47% of older Americans would prefer receiving help from a faith-based organization as compared to 19% who prefer a secular organization.

78TH LEGISLATURE GOOD FOR PROPERTY OWNERS BUT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER

AUSTIN-Apparently this para­phrased old saying - No one’s life or property is safe when the legisla­ture’s in session - isn’t always true.

Now that the 78th Texas Legislature is over, George Stephens, chairman of the 60,000-member Texas Association of Realtors, credits state lawmakers for protecting the rights of private property owners while acknowledging there is still room for improvement in future sessions.

"The good news is most Texas families will get some relief from exorbitantly high rates and other problems associated with homeown­ers insurance. However, the legisla­ture didn’t go far enough to institute meaningful reforms. We supported what ultimately passed because it’s a step in the right direction - but we feel Texans deserve even better."

Stephens cited these consumer issues from the 2003 session:

•Homeowners insurance. When the session opened in January, high insurance costs and lack of avail­ability were hardships for many Texas families. In fact, Texans’ homeowners insurance rates were already 83% above the national average back in 2001, before the biggest increases. By sessions end June 2, Realtor-supported legisla­tion had passed, establishing state oversight of rates, limiting the use of credit scoring, restricting insur­ance companies’ right to rescind policies and stopping the stigmatization of properties when an appli­ance-related water claim is filed.

•Home equity lending. The Realtors group persuaded legislators to add key consumer and homestead protections to legislation allowing home equity lines of credit.

•Mortgage bankers. During the 1999 and 2001 legislative sessions, Realtors worked with lawmak­ers to implement and improve a licensing system and regulatory authority over mortgage brokers. Since then, it became apparent that mortgage bankers were not subject to the same scrutiny. This session, Realtors successfully supported legislation requiring mortgage bankers to register with the Texas Savings and Loan Department, an important step in making mort­gage bankers accountable and giving consumers a place to file grievances.

"All in all, the 78th session was good, but there’s room for improve­ment to make Texas a better and more affordable place to live, work and raise a family," Stephens said.

In previous sessions, Realtors and lawmakers worked together to ensure buyers were protected when home warranties (residential service contracts) conveyed with a purchase; helped curb abuses by overzeal­ous homeowner associations; and increased the maximum size of urban homesteads from one acre to 10 acres, making it easier for many Texans to obtain home equity loans.

For more information Texas Association of Realtors Web site, www.TexasRealEstate.com

Thank You from the Bottom of our Boots!!

The North Fannin County Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank everyone if Fannin County who supported our boot drive on June 14th-15th.

Thanks to the generosity of this county our department was able to raise $1,925.00. Our department understands hard times and we want the public to know even though some could not give financially how much we appreciated the praise and pat on the back too.

As you thank our department for being there when you needed us in your time of need, we too thank you for being there in our time of need. The funds raised this past weekend will go toward new equipment to help our firefighters and first responders help you.

During our fundraiser it was brought to our attention that many in the North Fannin County VFD District are unaware of their boundary lines. With hot dry conditions rapidly approaching we would like the residents in our district to be aware of what district they are in so that proper coverage can be dispatched quickly. This will allow more property and lives to be saved.

We are publishing a map of the North Fannin County Vol. Fire Department district.

Once again thank you from the bottom of our boots!

Sincerely,

North Fannin County Volunteer Fire Department

Hometown Military News

Air Force Maj. Ancel B. Yarbrough has graduated from the School of Advanced Military Studies at Fort Leavenworth, Leavenworth, Kan.

The school provides selected officers an opportunity to study in-depth for the conduct of combined arms warfare, the operational level of war, joint and combined operations, and low-intensity conflict.

Students who graduated from the course are awarded a Master of Military Arts and Science degree.

Yarbrough will be reassigned to the Joint Forces Command, Norfolk, Va.

He is the son of Col. Jim and Mary Yarbrough of Rural Route 1, Honey Grove, Texas.

His wife, Mary, is the daughter of Claude and Terry Mleziva of Sunnycrest St., Green Bay, Wis.

The major graduated in 1984 from Honey Grove High School, Texas, and received a bachelor’s degree in 1988 from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo. He earned his master’s degree in 2000 from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Fla.

Local resident among recent Harding University graduates

SEARCY, AR David R. Mohundro, son of Mr. & Mrs. Steve Mohundro of Bonham, was among the 540 graduating seniors who received diplomas in commencement exercises at Harding University May 10. Mohundro, who majored in computer science and vocational ministry, received the bachelor of science degree, and graduated magna cum laude.

The ceremonies were held in the Ganus Athletic Center with Lynne V. Cheney as the commencement speaker. Cheney, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and wife of Vice President Richard B. Cheney, has spent much of her professional life writing and speaking about the importance of knowing American history and teaching it well. She served as the chairman of the National Endowment for the Humanities from 1986 to 1993, and has authored or co-authored six books.

President David B. Burks presented the diplomas to the graduates. Mohundro was announced by Dr. Travis Thompson, dean of the College of Sciences.

Harding University is the largest private university in Arkansas with more than 5,200 students from 48 states and 45 nations. International campuses are located in Brisbane, Australia; Vina del Mar, Chile; London, England; Athens, Greece; and Florence, Italy

Best of Bluegrass

The show will be hosted Joan Kelton and the multi talented "Shades of Bluegrass." Featuring: George Kirby on fiddle, Randy Keister on dobro guitar, Michael Williams on banjo, Glen Clark on mandoline, James Rice on flattop guitar and Fred Ulich on doghouse bass.

Our scheduled special guest will be our special friends Don Sharp and his Texoma Valley Bluegrass group, formally known as The Texoma Valley Boys, along with their new fiddler, 11 yr. old Olivia Page. If you are a fan of toe tapping Bluegrass music, you won’t want to miss this show. Everyone is invited and welcome to an evening of fun and clean entertainment. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for supporting the "Hoe - Down."

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

Trial studies infertility therapies for polycystic ovarian disease

Houston - A new study at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston is investigating the best treatment to help women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) become pregnant.

The syndrome is a leading cause of infertility and affects an estimated five million, or 10 percent, of U.S. women. PCOS causes hormone imbalances that lead to irregular menstrual cycles, excess facial and body hair, weight gain and adult acne.

"Getting pregnant is a frustrating experience for women with PCOS," said Dr. Sandra Carson, a primary investigator for the study and an associate professor of obstetrics/gynecology at Baylor. "Often, they have been trying to get pregnant for some time and are unsuccessful or they have been told that they cannot become pregnant at all."

Baylor is one of 13 medical centers across the United States recruiting participants for the study sponsored by the National Institute of Child and Human Development, a division of the National Institutes of Health. The study is testing a combination of medications to see which one best encourages ovulation in women with PCOS.

Women in the study will be assigned at random to one of three medication groups comparing metformin XR and placebo, clomiphene citrate and placebo and metformin XR and clomiphene citrate. Metformin is a medication commonly used to treat insulin resistance in diabetes, and has been used to treat infertility in women with PCOS since the 1990s. Clomiphene citrate, also known as Clomid, is the standard treatment for infertility for women with PCOS.

Women who qualify for the study will receive free study medications, blood tests performed after enrollment in the study, a physical exam including an ultrasound of the ovaries, a pregnancy test and an ultrasound if they become pregnant.

The study will also determine whether multiple births result from use of the drugs, a known problem with clomiphene, and if any of the therapies reduce the possibility of an early miscarriage, a common problem for women with PCOS.

For more information about the study, call 713-798-7549.

Making Waves and Improvement!!

Major improvements were seen by all of the swimmers on the Bonham Barracuda’s team. Head Coach, Laura Amlin, would like to congratulate the following swimmers on their hard work and dedication to improving their times. Elyssa Herrington improved her back stroke by 7 seconds. Cassidey Hall’s butterfly improved 5 seconds. Dalton Smith improved his free style by 6 seconds. Kaitlynn Keller improved by 4 seconds on her backstroke and by 17 seconds on her individual medley. Taylor Kirkpatrick improved 4 seconds on her back stroke and 6 seconds on her breast stroke. Gabby Lessley’s butterfly improved by 4 seconds. Josh Curry’s breast stroke also improved, with a 5 second decrease. 10 seconds was shaved off of Kameron Dollgener’s breast stroke. Austin Smartt’s breast stroke improved 9 seconds. Finally, Sabrina Strunk took 7 seconds off of her free style.

Next weeks meet will held in Paris, Texas on Saturday, June 21st. Everyone is invited to come and cheer on their hometown swim team.

VA Honors 2003 High School Seniors

The VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTHCS), Bonham VA Employees Association (VAEA) sponsored a reception to honor high school seniors with parents that are employees at the Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center. The graduates attended schools throughout Fannin County. The annual recognition program demonstrates the commitment of Bonham VA employees to honor students for their accomplishments and encourage them as they pursue their career.

"These youth are our future health care professionals, educators, community officials, and other vital leaders in our communities", said SRMVC Operations Manager, Daniel K. Heers. "It is gratifying to know we have dedicated youth seeking advanced education and planning high goals for their lives".

Students attending the high school graduation celebration were: (back row, left) Joshua Patton, Tim McClure, Dustin Ford, Jess McCarley, Zach Anglin, Chantz Lewis, Jonathan Hughes; (Front row, left) Josh Mackey, Shane Patton, Morgan Rattan, Amanda Pratt, Danielle Horton, Melody Stone, Heather Lankford and Cheree Howell.

FIRE DEPARTMENT GAINS AID

Bailey Volunteer Fire Department took advantage of equipment aid available from the Texas Forest Service. The department acquired a free truck tractor and semi trailer, courtesy of the Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) equipment program administered by the agency. Under the FEPP program, equipment acquired through the military is transferred to qualifying fire departments at no cost.

Additional free equipment is available to rural fire departments, thanks to the Volunteer Fire Department Helping Hands program, through which companies and organizations donate used fire equipment for use by volunteer fire departments. Companies interested in donating industrial fire equipment should contact the TFS Rural Fire Defense Section at 936-639-8130 for more information.

Volunteer fire departments may save money through several other programs administered by the Texas Forest Service. A self-insurance vehicle liability insurance pool offers liability coverage for $200 per vehicle, ambulances excluded. Fire departments can also purchase firefighter clothing, hand tools and water handling accessories at discount prices through the Fire Safe program. TFS regional fire coordinators located across the state now provide local training in wild land firefighting techniques and assist fire departments with applications for equipment and financial assistance.

Detailed information on volunteer fire department assistance programs is available from the Texas Forest Service regional fire coordinators and from the agency’s Rural Fire Defense Section, P. O. Box 310, Lufkin, TX 75902-0310

Working in concert with federal and state agencies, Texas animal health officials are alerting pet owners and distributors to comply with a federal emergency order issued Wednesday, June 11, prohibiting all sales, interstate movement and most intrastate movement of prairie dogs and several specific species of rodents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the embargo to prevent the potential spread of monkeypox, a foreign virus that may have infected more than 70 persons in Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois and New Jersey. Health officials believe the virus was introduced into the U.S. by infected Gambian giant pouched rats imported from Africa in April for sale as companion animals. To date, no monkeypox cases in humans or animals have been confirmed in Texas.

"Investigations are still underway, but federal and state human health and veterinary epidemiologists theorize the imported Gambian rats may have spread monkeypox to a group of American prairie dogs that had been captured for the pet trade. The animals were distributed to new owners, mostly in northern states. By may, several persons had developed the rashes, fever and sores indicative of the disease," commented Dr. Bob Hillman, Texas’ state veterinarian and head of the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), the state’s regulatory agency for animal health. He noted that it is the first time monkeypox was diagnosed in the U.S.

"With the Gambian rats and prairie dogs now suspected in this disease outbreak, it complicates the eradication effort, and makes it even more important that everyone obey movement prohibitions. Several other species of foreign rodents also may harbor or be susceptible to the virus, so the federal embargo covers Gambian rats, tree squirrels, rope squirrels, dormice, brush-tailed porcupines and striped mice, and prohibits the importation of all rodents from Africa."

"If you have owned one of these species of animals for several months, and it appears to be healthy, there is probably little risk that the animal has monkeypox. Likewise, we do not believe that the wild prairie dog population has been endangered," stressed Dr. Hillman. "However, do not release any of these captive species into the wild. If the animal has been exposed to monkeypox and is set free, it could potentially spread the virus to our native species."

"In susceptible animals, monkeypox can cause eye irritation, fever, and lesions. If you have a sick animal or are apprehensive about retaining captive prairie dogs or the other susceptible species, contact your private veterinary practitioner. The federal embargo allows for owners to transport their animals intrastate for veterinary care, but not for sale, swap meets or any other distribution. As a biosecurity measure, dead prairie dogs or other susceptible species should be incinerated, so that free-ranging rodents will not have contact with the carcasses."

"The Texas Animal Health Commission does not ordinarily regulate the health issues of prairie dogs and exotic pet animals, but we are charged with protecting the state against foreign animal disease," said Dr. Hillman. "In this case, monkeypox is not only a danger to pets, but to owners, and to several of our wildlife species. We are providing any assistance and support possible to the Texas Department of Health (TDH) and other state and federal agencies that are working as a team, under the direction of the CDC, FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture," he said.

Dr. Hillman said that TAHC animal health inspectors and veterinarians have assisted the USDA by visiting pet dealers and distributors to trace the movement of prairie dogs and other susceptible species of animals. TAHC representatives also have issued several temporary hold orders, restricting animal movements while the disease investigation is being conducted.

"If you may think you have been exposed to monkeypox, contact your physician," said Dr. Hillman. "The TDH and CDC have developed human health guidelines and are working with physicians to ensure appropriate medical care for persons who may have been exposed to or infected with this foreign disease."

Bonham Kiwanis Meeting

The Bonham Kiwanis held their weekly meeting on Tuesday, June 12, at 12 noon at the First Christian Church in Bonham. Representative Larry Phillips was guest speaker. He gave us an update from the session in Austin. We would like to thank him for his time. Please join us every Tuesday at 12 noon.

Estelle Whitaker turns 100

Estelle Whitaker celebrated her 100th birthday at I.H.S. of Bonham on May 29, 2003.

Celebrating with her was: sister Dean Moore also of I.H,S,; two nephews, Joe and Ruth Moore of Sherman; Bobbie and Dorothy Harris of Bonham; a niece Ruth Claxton of Cosper State nursing home; Great nephew Ron and Charlotte Harris; a great niece Donna Cullum; great- great niece Sarah Cullum; two sisters-in-law, Lois Woodruff and Juanita Blalock; several friends and residents and staff of I.H.S. of Bonham.

Cake for the event was brought by family and staff at I.H.S. along with a special 100th birthday cake donated by Brookshires Bakery.

Estelle was born May 29, 1903 in Gober, Texas to Joe and Minnie Turman. She had two brothers Burl and Cecil Turman and four sisters Thelma Turman, Flossie Harris, Loretta Carter and Dean Moore.

She attended Gober School and North Texas Women’s College in Denton where she received a teaching certificate in 1923. She and her sister Flossie taught school at Clutter, Gober and Danner all in Fannin County.

She married Donald Turner in 1929 with both teaching in Danner. They moved together to Beaumont where they taught until 1941. They divorced and she moved to Washington D.C. during World War II. She worked for the Navy Department during World War II making reports on ship construction and assigning numbers to the ships.

After the war was over the work force was cut back and she was transferred to Nevada to teach children in the Indian School System. She was there for two years when she was transferred back to Washington to work for Civil Service until she retired in 1966. She then returned to Sherman and lived there until 1978.

That year she married Fred Whitaker of Eunice, New Mexico and the couple moved there. She lived in New Mexico until her husband's death in 1990. At that time she moved back to Bonham where she resided at 802 W. Russell St. In 2002 she entered I.H.S., where she is cared for by some very caring people. Ironically her roommate at I.H.S. was a student of Estelle’s when she taught school in Fannin County and they are very close. Estelle is very loved and everyone wishes her continued happiness.

Texas Historical Commission Offers Educational Summer Vacations

If fighting crowds at the local theme park isn’t your idea of a dream vacation, the Texas historical commission (THC) offers an alternative.

Before planning your summer vacation, contact the THC for free travel guides to heritage and cultural destinations around Texas that inspire and educate.

"These driving trails guide visitors through such places as the Texas Forts Trail Region where travelers experience first-hand the flavor of the western frontier, or Los Caminos del Rio, with its Spanish Colonial villages, unique architecture and natural beauty," said Janie Headrick, director of the THC’s Texas Heritage Trails Program.

The THC works to protect, preserve and promote historic and cultural resources across the state by offering free travel guides that highlight Texas’ rich heritage. These brochures showcase one-of-a-kind festivals, historic sites, shopping and Texas cuisine. They give families and individuals a valuable opportunity to see up close what makes the state special.

The THC offers seven themed travel guides - Texas Forts Trail Region, Texas Independence Trail Region, Texas Forest Trail Region, African Americans in Texas: Historical and Cultural Legacies, The Chisholm Trail, Texas in the Civil War and Los Caminos del Rio: Legacies of the Borderlands. To request a free copy, call 512-463-6254 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us/travel.

The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. The agency administers a variety of programs to preserve the archeological, historical and cultural resources of Texas.

The Internal Revenue Service today issued a consumer alert, warning

taxpayers about a new scam targeting potential recipients of the Advance Child Tax Credit.

The IRS has seen isolated instances of this new scheme. A taxpayer receives a telephone call from a person who promises to speed up the payment of the Advance Child Tax Credit checks. The catch is the taxpayer must agree to a $39.99 charge to a credit card.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that no person or organization can "speed up" the payment of tax benefits. In reality, taxpayers do not have to take any action to get the new benefit, which features an advance payment for up to $400 per qualifying child. The Treasury Department and IRS will perform all the calculations and automatically mail a notice and a check to each eligible taxpayer, beginning the week of July 25.

"The only thing the taxpayer needs to do is cash the check," said Mark W. Everson, IRS Commissioner. "If you qualify, we will send you a notice. There’s no need to call, no need to apply, no need to fill out another form. The IRS will do all the work. A few days after the notice, you will get the check."

Under the new scam, the IRS is seeing the continuation of a trend that emerged earlier this year when the families of those serving in the Armed Forces were targeted. In both of these schemes, scam artists use current events to prey on unsuspecting victims. The scams also feature callers seeking credit card information to get taxpayers to pay for special benefits.

If the taxpayer agrees to the charge and provides a credit card number or other sensitive personal information, she could find a much larger charge to her account. By the time the taxpayer realizes something is wrong, the scam operator is long gone, possibly victimizing another taxpayer.

If you encounter this latest tax scam or suspect tax fraud or abuse in some other situation, report it to your nearest Internal Revenue Service office. When in doubt, seek help from the IRS or a tax professional.

You can call the IRS tax fraud hotline at 1-800-829-0433.

BONHAM ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEE

The regular meeting of the Bonham ISD Board of Trustees was held at 6:30 p.m. on June 16,2003 in the Administration Office with Charles Butler as the Presiding Officer.

Members Present: Charles Butler, Allen Sanderson, Charlotte Kearney, Doyce Taylor, Mike Sisk, Clark Smith, Nolan Ashmore, and Linda Gist.

Member Absent: None

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Charles Butler and a quorum was present.

RECOGNITIONS:

•Donation of Light Poles and Landscaping at the Auditorium on Main Street was accepted by Jimmy Alexander, Tom Scott, and Allen Wait, Class of 1949.

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT:

•Special Board Meeting - Goal Setting Workshop - Monday, July 14, 2003, 6:30 p.m., Bonham ISD Administration Building

•TASB/TASA Convention - September 19-22, 2003

•Report of TAKS/SDAA and RPTE Scores

•Campus Reports - A Review of 2002-2003 and a Preview of 2003-2004

•2001-2002 Administrative Cost Ratio

•Legislative Update - Textbooks, etc.

•Average Daily Attendance 1811 May / ADA for the year: 1832-42 • Resignations: Ryan Tomlin

THE BOARD APPROVED:

•Closed Circuit TV Systems Company for a security system at Bonham High School

•Fuel proposal from McCraw Oil Company

•Bonham ISD 2003-2004 Student Code of Conduct

•Charlotte Kearney as delegate and Allen Sanderson as alternate delegate to the TASB/TASA Convention in Dallas, Texas, September 19-22, 2003

•Lynn Sperry as TASB Board of Trustees nominee

•Amended budget for food service fund for 2002-2003

•Tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collection for May 2003

•Financial statements and bills payable May 2003

•Cathy Jones as math teacher at L. H. Rather Junior High

•Dave Brown as history teacher/coach at L. H. Rather Junior High

•Brooke Nichole Beaver as English teacher at L. H. Rather Junior High

•Tammy Balch as art teacher at L. H. Rather Junior High

Statement from Sen. Deuell on Special Session

Austin - June 18, 2003, Texas Governor Rick Perry announced that a special session of the Legislature will convene on June 30. The primary focus of the special session is to address congressional redistricting.

Sen. Deuell made the following comment regarding the special session:

"I was hoping we could have done redistricting in our regular session. However, given that fact that fifty some Democrats chose to leave their duties in Austin and go to Oklahoma, we must deal with the issue in a special session," Deuell said.

"I look forward to developing a congressional redistricting plan that will be fair to my constituents, and will reflect the voting trends of the last ten years. Texans deserve a congressional delegation that reflects the views of the people, not three federal judges."

A congressional redistricting plan died in the Texas House of Representatives during the 78th legislative session when over 50 House democrats left the state, thereby denying the House a quorum.

Hall Supports Passage of Death Tax Repeal

The House approved H.R. 8, legislation that makes permanent the estate tax repeal, which is currently scheduled to expire at the end of 2010. "This bill is an outgrowth of the bill Congress enacted two years ago - and will give families and small-business owners the assurance they need for long-term financial planning," Hall said.

"Many families have been forced to sell their farms or small businesses to pay the death tax - or they have paid life insurance premiums so these taxes could be paid when the owners die," Hall said. "I’m pleased that we are finally putting and end to this punitive tax."

"This bill also benefits employees of small businesses who would lose their jobs if the business had to be sold. It creates a positive economic climate for business owners that could spur investments in business expansion and, in turn, create new jobs," Hall noted.

Hall, a longtime supporter of estate tax repeal, was an original cosponsor of the bill and is a member of the End the Death Tax Caucus in the House.

"We must now encourage the Senate to address this issue and eliminate the sunset provision in 2010," Hall added. "It is my hope that a House-Senate Conference would make repeal of the estate tax both permanent and immediate."

LOCAL COUNTY EXTENSION AGENT COMPLETES COMMUNITY Development Training

A three-session course in community development was recently completed by Lori Barfield, a Texas Cooperative Extension Agent - Family & Consumer Sciences from Fannin County.

Several key issues were covered throughout the course, including economic development, rural entrepreneurship and the social interactions of a community.

"The goal of this course was to offer professional development for county agents so they could get a broad understanding of the issues involved in economic and community development, and how agents could interact and be involved with the process," said Dr. Danny Klinefelter, an Extension economist who designed the course curriculum and received input from a State Community Development Committee established in response to Extensions Texas Community Futuxes Forum.

Participants included Extension agents as well as representatives from the Office of Rural Community Development.

The first, three-day session gave an overview on community development as a process, including topics such as community diversity, social structure, demographics and leadership. The second session focused on community economics. The third session included discussions on business retention and expansion strategies.

BHS Class of 1943 holds 60th Anniversary Celebration

A total of 31 class members and quests registered. Attending were: Oleta (Young) Walker of Ravenn, TX; Melba (Chambers) and Verlon Eubanks, of Ivanhoe, TX; Lyda (Atnip) and Weldon Nichols of Bonham, TX; Lila Nell (Hudson) Burchfield of Bonham, TX; Troy Norwood of Mesquite, TX; Lloyd Dodson of Bonham, TX; John Ruark of Ravenna, TX; Wayne Wright of Bonham, TX; Roy Laycock and wife of Houston, TX; George W. Nelms and Maudine of Arlington, TX; R.E. Hodge of Bonham, TX; Phil and Edie Brown of Garland, TX; Glenda (Carlton) and Joe Mulkey of Bonham, TX; Joe Turner of Irving, TX; Ella Mae (Clayton) Riddles and daughter Mary Ella Zarones of Paris, TX; A.T. and Dell Chaney of Bonham, TX; Dan Carver of Bonham, TX; Thurman and Doris Hayes of Sherman, TX; and Billy Joe and Edith Wearthersby of Honey Grove, TX.

Decorations were all in Warrior Purple and white.

Bonham Snap Menu

Wieners,corn Coleslaw, Buns, Apple Crisp, Milk

Beef, Macaroni, Tomato Casserole, Pea Salad, Garlic Bread, Pears & Cookies, Milk

Chicken Salad, Pasta Salad, Copper Carrots, Bread,

Pineapple Cobbler, Milk

Pinto Beans & Ham, Broccoli & Rice: Casserole, Tomatoes

Cornbread, Plums, Milk

Oven Fried Chicken/cream Gravy, Whipped Potatoes,

Green Beans, Bread,

Spiced Peaches, Milk

Rodeo License Plate Expands Agricultural and Educational Horizons for Texas Youth

In 2003, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will offer more than $7 million in scholarships and educational programming to young people in Texas. Motorists can help support these initiatives by purchasing a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo special license plate. This month, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Fannin County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office are featuring the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo special license plate as the plate of the month.

"The young people of Texas are an invaluable treasure and the best investment that we can make for the future is providing for their education," said Pam Sweet-Richardson, tax assessor-collector for Fannin County. "By purchasing a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo special license plate, motorists can help make young people’s dreams come true."

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo special license plate features a cartoon-like graphic of the letter "H" wearing cowboy boots and a cowboy hat. The words "Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo" appear below the graphic in addition to the phrase "Benefiting Youth & Supporting Education" that runs along the bottom of the plate.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo license plates are available to motorists for $30 annual fee, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular vehicle registration fees. Of the $30 annual fee, $20 is deposited into a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarship account in the state treasury.

Applications for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo license plates are available at county tax offices on TxDOT’s web site (www.dot.state.tx.us), or by calling the TxDOT Help Desk at (512) 465-7611.

TxDOT started its specialty license plate program in 1965. Today, there are more than 100 different plate designs, many of them benefiting a particular group, organization, college or university.

For more information, call Pam Sweet-Richardson, Fannin County Tax Assessor-Collector at 903-583-7493. Ordering information is at www.dot.state.tx.us/vtr/spplates/.

As I have discussed in several past columns, homeowners’ insurance was a major issue during the recent legislative session. One area of particular concern came in response to the mold crisis which has occurred in the last couple of years and has contributed to soaring insurance rates. The increased number of mold and water damage claims in the state has brought attention to mold remediators, who clean up the damage, and public adjusters, who help evaluate the cost of damage to property. Also of concern to Texans is how insurance companies treat properties which have had past water damage.

HB 329 prohibits insurers from holding a past water claim against a homeowner if the problem was fixed. Under the bill, an insurer may not make an underwriting decision regarding a residential property insurance policy based on previous mold damage or a claim for mold damage if mold remediation has been performed on the property and the property has been inspected by an independent assessor or adjustor who determines that the property does not contain evidence of mold damage.

The bill also protects consumers from unlicensed mold remediators by requiring the Texas Department of Health to license mold remediators. These remediators and assessors are not currently regulated by state or federal law, raising concern that the sudden market for this service has lead to potentially unscrupulous behavior, such as unnecessary home renovation, by some unlicensed, untrained remediators. The Department of Health will be responsible for developing rules for licensing requirements, fees and mold removal procedures.

SB 127 requires insurance companies to respond more quickly to water damage claims in order to get the damage cleaned up before mold issues can arise. The bill allows the commissioner of insurance to establish time lines for insurance companies to take action on water damage claims. This provision is intended to reduce confusion and inconvenience for policyholders who file claims and to reduce premiums for homeowners’ insurance.

The bill also requires licenses for public insurance adjusters, who often represent policyholders in settling insurance claims. Adjusters who work for or on behalf of insurance companies are currently required to be licensed. Supporters of this bill say that by creating consistency and standards, setting forth ethics policies, and giving consumers a forum to voice complaints, the bill would make public insurance adjusters more accountable to their clients and to the state.

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.

Vehicle Title Fees and Diesel Surcharge Will Support State’s Air Quality Program

In order to fund a comprehensive emission reduction program throughout Texas, increased title application fees for all motor vehicle and surcharges for certain diesel powered vehicles have been approved under provisions of HB 1365 passed by the 78th Legislature, effective immediately.

Motorist who live in the 41 affected counties will pay $33.00 for title application which is $20.00 in increase from the current $13.00 fee. All other counties will charge a $28.00 fee for title applications. a $15.00 increase. The Texas emissions reduction plan (TERP) will receive $20.00 or $15.00 respectively, of these title fees until 9-1-08. After that date, all counties will collect $28.00 for a title application, with $15.0 deposited into the Texas Mobility Fund. The new fee for Fannin County $28.00.

Title application fees and vehicle registration are collected and processed by the states’ 254 county tax-assessor collectors and processed through the Texas Department of Transportation’s automated registration and titling system (RTS). More than 4 billion is collected annually in motor vehicle fees and sales taxes. The Fannin County tax office collects about $3 million annually in motor vehicle fees from 34,000 customers.

HB 1365 also requires a 2.5 percent surcharge collected on sales and leases of all on-road diesel vehicles that weigh more that 14,000 pounds and are model year 1996 or older. A one percent surcharge will be assessed for the same type of diesel vehicles that are model years 1997 or newer. These surcharges expand on current surcharges collected on certain diesel powered vehicles. These measures will be effective July 1, 2003 and will apply to these vehicles whether they were purchased inside or outside of Texas.

According to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more than half of all Texas live in areas where the air is unsafe to breath on some days and violates EPA standards. The 77th legislature established the TERP in 2001. The TERP provides voluntary financial incentives for projects that will reduce that emissions of nitrogen oxides which combines with volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight to form ground level ozone (SMOG).

A CHILD’S 10 COMMANDMENTS

As Printed In Footsteps & Fingerprints

June Newsletter

1. My hands are small, please don’t expect perfection whenever I make a bed, draw a picture or throw a ball. My legs are short; please slow down so I can keep up with you.

2. My eyes have not seen the world as yours have; please let me explore safely. Don’t restrict me unnecessarily.

3. I’m little for only a short time, please take time to explain things to me about this wonderful world, and do so willingly.

4. My feelings are tender; please be sensitive to my needs. Don’t nag me all day long.

5. I am a special gift from God; please treasure me as God intended you to do, holding me accountable for my actions, giving me guidelines to live by and disciplining me in a loving manner.

6. I need your encouragement to grow. Please go easy on the criticism.

7. Give me the freedom to make decisions concerning myself. Permit me to fail so that I can learn from my mistakes.

8. Please don’t do things over for me. Somehow that makes me feel that my efforts didn’t quite measure up. Please don’t try to compare me with my brother or sister.

9. Please don’t be afraid to leave for a weekend together. Kids need vacations from parents, just as parents need vacations from kids.

10. Please take me to Sunday School and Church regularly, setting a good example for me to follow.

Last Wednesday, three students from Austin College informed the Bonham Rotary Club of the Model United Nations Program that they are participating in this year. These students, Chris Harris, Natashi Makarova (from Russia) and Ross Sanderson, will travel to Hawaii for Model United Nations competition and Rotary International is their NGO (Non-Government Organization). The Bonham Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at the Family LIfe Center.