A Gift Of Love To

Fannin County Children

By JACQUELINE WHITE

On Wednesday, July 9^th, Mr. Rick Allen, representing the York Children’s Foundation, presented Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma (MHMRST) a $1500.00 check to be used for children with special needs in Fannin County. The children are served through Early Childhood Intervention Texoma (ECI) which helps children from birth to age three who are developmentally delayed, or have a condition that could result in a delay, in Fannin, Cooke, Grayson, Lamar, Delta and Hopkins Counties. The children all have disabilities, developmental delays, or a diagnosed medical condition likely to result in a developmental delay. These services have been provided at no charge for the past 22 years to those who needed them, regardless of income. "Due to the State of Texas, 78^th Legislative budget cuts, a fee will have to be charged for services, starting on September 1, 2003, for the children we serve," said Paula Cawthon, Community Relations Director. "We will use part of the York Foundation money to help families who are unable to pay the fee, and the rest for adaptive equipment, medical testing (that the families can’t afford), and other special needs," she added. The York Children’s Foundation was founded in 1992, by The York Group, in conjunction with the York Distributors Association. Working with funeral directors nationwide, the Foundation has helped children’s organizations in every area of child welfare, including child abuse, prevention, mental, physical development, medical treatment, recreation, social skills and mentoring. Out of sorrow comes joy. Each time a family selects a York casket, a donation is made to the Foundation in the name of their loved one. Local organizations are nominated by funeral directors across America, and grants are issued by a Board of Trustees, comprised of Funeral Directors and York Distributors from every part of the United States. The Foundation’s goal has been to expand the reach of your family’s expression of love, to help children everywhere. An expression of this love has come to Fannin County, thanks to Wise Funeral Home and Stephen Murden, who nominated MHMRST. Many local children will benefit from it. For more information about Early Childhood Intervention Services call (903) 463-5691.

Legacy Ridge To Open "Bottom Nine" Soon

Legacy Ridge Country Club is due to open their "bottom nine" this fall. This beautiful golf course is located right off of Hwy. 82, just east of the Hwy. 82 & Hwy. 78 intersection (by McDonald’s).

The "bottom nine" layout is the portion of the golf course that is visible from Hwy. 82. TifSport bermuda grass was applied by way of a sprigging process back in the month of June and the grass will require about 4 months of growth in order to create total coverage, but Wiggins says, "the course is right on schedule to open for play this Fall".

McFarlin Speaks At Family Support Meeting

"Elephants don’t bite, but mosquitoes do," said Carolyn McFarlin, Texas Cooperative Extension Agent. "It is the little things in life that get to us." McFarlin presented "Happiness Is A Choice" to Grayson County Family Support members last week. Family Support meetings are sponsored by Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma. The program focused on stress and its emotional and physical effects. McFarlin discussed good and bad stress. Stress becomes bad when the reaction is distress. "Continued distress will cause burnout, and burnout can produce depression. People who experience too much stress will be sick with headaches, stomach aches, and colds more often than others who know healthy ways to deal with stress," McFarlin added. McFarlin gave several ways to reduce or cope with stress in daily life. "Learning to vent is important. Everyone should have a friend who will listen to them, so they can express their feelings and emotions. Don’t sweat the little things. Volunteer for a special project. Do something for someone else and focus on other people instead of your problems. This brings joy and a sense of purpose to life. Learn how to relax and have fun. Everyone needs to laugh everyday. Exercise is a good way to reduce stress. Eating healthy and getting plenty of rest also helps," continued. McFarlin. McFarlin is teaching a series of classes for women on coping with and reducing stress. Family support meetings are held quarterly in Grayson County. For more information, contact Paula Cawthon at 903-337-4865.

Lauri Blake Speaks At Bonham Kiwanis Club

The Bonham Kiwanis Club was pleased to have Lauri Blake, First Assistant Attorney to Grayson County Attorney Joe Brown as guest speaker at their regular meeting on Tuesday, July 15, 2003. Lauri is running for District Judge of the 336th District Court for Fannin and Grayson Counties. She presented the Kiwanians with information on the new Children’s Advocacy Center in Grayson County. You are invited to join the Bonham Kiwanis Club every Tuesday at 12 Noon at the First Christian Church of Bonham.

Jury Gives Maximum Sentence To Inmate For Assaulting

A Prison Guard

On Monday, July 7, 2003, a Fannin County jury was selected to hear the case of Lee Clinton Hobdy. The 25 year old former resident of Commerce was charged with the felony crime of assaulting a corrections officer while he was imprisoned at the Buster Cole State Jail. On September 29, 1998, Hobdy had been at Buster Cole State Jail for about two months and was serving a sentence for the felony crime of Burglary of a Building. The testimony showed that at around noon, Hobdy and ten other high risk inmates were being led back to administrative segregation after working in a field near the state jail. The group was being transferred by a lone corrections officer, Jason Jones. Jones verbally admonished Hobdy when he stepped out of line and began talking with a prison employee about a disciplinary case. Jones then led Hobdy and the other 10 inmates into a locked hallway where the prisoners waited to proceed through the next set of doors. When the next door was unlocked the inmates began filing through the door, Hobdy, who was near the end of the line, stopped and confronted Officer Jones in a narrow hallway near the door. This was an area of the prison where there were no cameras and no other guards and the defendant knew Jones was alone. Jones felt threatened by Hobdy and pushed him away, at this point the other inmates began turning around and coming back through the doorway toward Officer Jones. As Jones turned to look at the inmates coming toward him, Hobdy hit Jones in the forehead, causing Jones’ clipboard to open a two inch cut in Jones’ forehead. Jones ran for safety from Hobdy and the other inmates who began chasing him. The officer fought off his attackers as best he could by holding his radio by the antenna and swinging it at the attacking inmates. By sheer willpower and determination the officer made it to an area where he could be seen by other prison officials. When several officers arrived to provide assistance, the door was unlocked and they were able to restore order and take officer Jones for medical treatment. Jones showed the jury the scar that is still visible on his forehead, describing it as a constant reminder of his ordeal.

Hobdy, represented by John Skotnik, took the stand on his own behalf and testified that Jones struck him first and he was just defending himself. When asked about his history of violence in and out of prison, Hobdy admitted that he had been in many fights that "didn’t make any sense." Hobdy had no explanation for chasing Officer Jones to continue the fight after Jones fled. The defense also called Bobby Savage to the stand, half-brother of Hobdy, who was also one of the high risk inmates being transported that day by Jones. Savage testified that Jones started the fight by acting like he was going to hit Hobdy with a clipboard. Savage then admitted on cross-examination that he did not really see what started the fight but he was sure it was not Hobdy’s fault. Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter then played Savage’s videotaped statement which severely contradicted his testimony at trial. At one point during the video Savage said, "He (referring to Hobdy) should not have done that." The jury began deliberations on Wednesday, July 9, and in less than an hour, they found the defendant guilty of assault on a public servant. At the punishment phase of the trial, the prosecution put on evidence that the defendant is currently in prison for robbery. The State also called a 19 year old disabled girl from Commerce who testified that Hobdy had sexually assaulted her when she was 12.

After deliberating on punishment, the jury returned the maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $10,000.00 fine. County Attorney Porter then asked Visiting Judge Webb Biard to make Hobdy’s sentence consecutive to the robbery conviction. Judge Biard agreed and ordered Hobdy’s sentence in this case to begin after his robbery sentence ends. "We have been trying to get this case to trial since I took over in 2001," stated Porter. "Hobdy has managed to change lawyers and file continuances for a long time but we finally brought him to justice. The people of Fannin County have neighbors, friends and loved ones working as corrections officers at the prisons here and my office is not going to tolerate convicts assaulting corrections officers. They can live by the rules in prison, serve their time and come back to live in free society or they can hurt or injure a guard and stay in prison forever, as far as I am concerned," concluded the County Attorney. Porter praised Jason Jones for his exceptional bravery and cool head in a terrifying situation. He went on to thank the correction officers and prison personnel in general saying, "It is a tough, thankless job guarding convicts and I thank them for their service." Porter also thanked Royce Smithey, investigator with the Special Prosecution Unit, for his assistance in helping prepare the case. Buster Cole State Jail Warden Brian Vandergriff expressed his appreciation for the prosecution, "We are pleased with the way our cases are handled by the Fannin County Attorney’s Office and we are very happy with the sentence in this case," concluded the Warden.

22 Swimmers Advance To The State Finals

By, Allison Keller

Qualifying for "A Regionals" is a huge accomplishment. The TAAF (Texas Athletic Amateur Federation) sets strict time qualifications for each stroke, yardage and age group. Members of the Bonham Barracudas swim team have worked hard all season to meet, and exceed, these qualifying times. Only swimmers with qualifying times were able to participate in this Saturday’s meet, which was held in Mesquite, Texas. Other teams competing against Bonham included Sherman, Allen, Paris, Irving, Farmers Branch, Frisco, McKinney, Garland, Grand Prairie, Lancaster, Whitesboro, Rockwall, Commerce, Balch Springs, Carrolton, Plano and Mesquite. There were over 1500 participates at Saturday’s meet, but only the top 4 places in each event advance to the State Finals. 22 Barracuda swimmers were within the top 4 places, and will be representing Bonham in the 2003 TAAF State Swim Meet. Bonham coaches can not remember sending this many swimmers on to the state meet.

This week’s column continues the series outlining the proposed constitutional amendments on which Texas voters will decide on September 13. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions on any of the constitutional amendments. You can view a document which explains the amendments along with arguments for and against each amendment at http://www.tlc.state.tx.us/research/pdf/analyses-sept13-condensed.pdf. Amendment 3: The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation property owned by a religious organization that is leased for use as a school or that is owned with the intent of expanding or constructing a religious facility.

The proposed amendment authorizes the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation the property owned by a religious organization that also owns a place of religious worship, such as a church or temple, if the property is owned for the purpose of expanding the place of religious worship or constructing a new place of religious worship and if the property does not produce any revenue for the religious organization. The amendment also authorizes the legislature to provide eligibility limitations for the exemption and to impose sanctions related to the exemption. In addition, the amendment authorizes the legislature by general law to exempt from ad valorem taxation any property owned by a religious organization that is leased to a person for use as a school that meets the statutory definition for a school that is exempt from taxation.

Amendment 4: The constitutional amendment relating to the provision of parks and recreational facilities by certain conservation and reclamation districts.

The proposed amendment provides that conservation and reclamation districts have the specific right and duty to develop parks and recreational facilities. The amendment requires the legislature to pass laws concerning the development of parks and recreational facilities by districts. The amendment, without limiting the power to finance parks and recreational facilities that currently exists, provides for the issuance of bonds financed by taxes in districts located completely or partially in the following counties: Bexar, Bastrop, Waller, Travis, Williamson, Harris, Galveston, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Montgomery, and Tarrant.

I encourage you to contact me if I may be of assistance with any issues dealing with state government. 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.

Bonham Area Chamber Of Commerce

Golf Tournament Big Success

The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Tri-County Glass for placing first in the 9th Annual Golf Tournament held Saturday, July 12, 2003 at Legacy Ridge Golf Course. Herpeche’s Coast to Coast placed second and a group of individuals, which were Terry Bee, John Kirkpatrick, David Bostick and Corey Forman placing third. Ronny Ford prevailed over both closest to pins, Tommie Sue Turner won the Women’s Longest Drive, and Tommy Randall succeeded in the Men’s Longest Drive. The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all of the hole sponsors, food sponsors, media, committee members, volunteers, and Legacy Ridge staff for a successful tournament!

Purple Sage Bistro Hosts Chamber Mixer

A very large crowd gathered at Purple Sage Bistro on Tuesday, July 15, 2003 to celebrate a Re-Grand Opening/Mixer/Ribbon Cutting. Stephen Murden, Past Chair, presented Melissa Nelson, owner, with a Ceremonial Certificate.

Purple Sage Bistro is located at 318 North Main Street in Bonham. It is the perfect setting for a relaxing meal and great food. Give Melissa and the fine staff a call today at 903-583-4411.

Savvy Snack Bar Marketing Could ‘Ad’ Up To Better Nutrition For Kids

HOUSTON--Behavior scientists at Baylor College of Medicine are taking a page out of the food marketers’ handbook to entice middle school students to eat healthier.

In a Children’s Nutrition Research Center study involving over 10,000 sixth, seventh and eighth graders, marketing research strategies commonly used by food companies to sell snacks like soda and chips are being used to make school snack bar offerings healthier and increase students’ consumption of fruit and vegetables.

"Figuring out how to get kids to buy healthy foods like fruits and vegetables with their lunch money is as much a marketing challenge as it is a health issue," said Dr. Karen Cullen, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Baylor.

According to Cullen, kids’ consumption of fruits and vegetables slides significantly between elementary and middle school, a time when they begin having access to middle school snack bars. Snack bars, favored for their convenience, tend to offer foods like pizza, burgers, fries and chips -- but no fruit or low-fat vegetables.

"The experience of food service managers is that kids won’t buy fruits or low-fat vegetables at the snack bar," she said. "We wanted to see whether we could change that." Cullen’s team put on their "marketing caps" to kick off the study. Their goal: learn what middle school students -- their ‘"target market" --- thought.

"A basic tenet of marketing is the need to understand your customer," she said. "We needed to hear from students what fruits and vegetables they liked and what they thought they would buy -- and why."

Through focus groups and written surveys, the team garnered important marketing insights, such as kids who liked apples and oranges wouldn’t buy a whole piece of fruit because it was hard to eat or messy. On the other hand, apple slices with a caramel dip got enthusiastic approval. Armed with such knowledge, Cullen’s team crafted and launched a two-pronged marketing plan.

First, the team worked with food service managers to develop healthy kid-friendly "products" like salad "shakers," veggie and dip "grab bags", and bananas with a side of chocolate dip that could be offered at snack bars.

Then they launched an advertising campaign, consisting of poster "ads" and table tents.

"Our poster ‘ad campaign’ connected eating the new snack bar fruit and vegetable ‘products’ with the things that kids told us they want most, like friends, being cool and having fun," Cullen said. "These are the same feelings that snack food companies play into so effectively with ads for high fat/high sugar foods aimed at kids."

"Marketing is used to sell everything from shoes to sodas to kids. Why shouldn’t it be used to sell healthy foods at school snack bars, too?" she said.

Having Your Kitchen Or Bath

Remodeled... Is Your Contractor Certified?

Des Plaines, Ill.,-- The National Association of the Remodeling Industry, (NARI) "The Voice of the Remodeling Industry"^TM recently launched a new certification program called the Certified Kitchen & Bath Remodeler (CKBR), a designation proving the remodeling contractor’s knowledge, technical comprehension and skill in kitchen & bath remodeling.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 3.6 million kitchens were remodeled in 2001 and 4.4 million bathrooms were remodeled, up from 3.4 million kitchens and 4.1 million bathrooms in 1999.

NARI recognizes that demand for kitchen & bath remodels are on the increase and both continue to be the most popular rooms in the home to remodel and launched the CKBR program nationally, offering remodeling contractors the opportunity to become certified specialists in kitchen and bathroom remodeling through a specialized education program. The course is open to specialists who have been working in the remodeling field for a minimum of five consecutive years and who are NARI members. They must also adhere to NARI’s strict Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

"The CKBR program was much more challenging than I had anticipated, but it challenged me to research information and do my homework, "said Phil Perry, CR, CKBR, of CRS Custom Contracting in Mission, Kan. "In addition," he continued, "it instills confidence with my clients to have the most up-to-date certification available in the kitchen and bath remodeling business."

To prepare for the Certified Kitchen & Bath Remodeler certification, remodelers are asked to complete a qualification form, which outlines the background of their experience and education in remodeling, and given a study guide and a business management book. NARI also offers study groups at the chapter level to prepare them for the written examination, which tests for knowledge in Computer Aided Design (CAD), materials selection, layout standards, installations processes, and trade guidelines. It enriches the professional’s understanding and maximizes performance during a kitchen or bath remodeling project.

The remodeling market, a $163 billion industry in the U.S. in 2002, is projected to grow to $214 billion or more in 2003. It is estimated that more than a million homes per year undergo major renovation or remodeling.

NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.RemodelToday.com to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI.

Consumers can also call the NARI National hotline at 800-611-NARI and request a free copy of NARI’s brochure, "How to Select a Remodeling Professional," or visit www.RemodelToday.com and click on the homeowner’s guide for more information.

Parents Right To Refuse Childs

Immunization

AUSTIN -- Some Texas newspapers recently have reported critically and editorialized against a recent change in the state’s vaccination law. Although the change originated in the Texas Senate and not in the House where I am a member, I generally agreed with the shift in state policy reaffirming a parent’s right to control and supervise the health care of their child.

I’m disappointed that some have chosen to over-react with dire predications of horror, and I’d like to set the record straight.

The controversy surrounds a parent’s right to refuse to have their child immunized. It should be pointed out that this is not a new issue. Under current state law, a parent may refuse to have their child immunized, either for religious reasons or because of a medical necessity.

While the new law expands the exemptions to include parents who strongly believe that certain immunizations pose a significant health risk to their children, the Legislature added protections in the final version of the bill that are actually more stringent than current law regarding this so-called conscientious objector provision.

Under the old law, a parent could exempt their child by belonging to or claiming to believe in the "tenets and practices of a recognized religious organization." Pretty vague language, right? Individuals claiming such an exemption could do so literally on the first day of school or daycare whether the parent was an actual practitioner of the religion cited or not. This vague language was too ambiguous to be an effective policy that could be enforced consistently by schools, child-care providers and others who care for our children.

Under the new bill, which goes into effect Sept. 1, in order to exercise their rights to an exemption for conscientious objection, a parent must first request in writing a state-designed form from the Texas Department of Health, sign the affidavit, and have it notarized 90 days before the time it is submitted to a school, daycare or other entity.

The point is that getting an exemption from immunization will now be more complicated, not less. For example, requiring a notary will impose a fee on their objection. These measures are to ensure that a waiver be granted only to parents who strongly feel that it is not in the best interest of their child to be immunized.

Ironically, many children now fail to get immunized against childhood diseases because their parents simply fail to have them vaccinated, not because their parents seek an exemption.

In times of public health disasters or epidemics, non-vaccinated children can be refused admission to schools and day-care facilities but more significantly under the new law, to protect the public health from an outbreak of a communicable disease the commissioner of health may compel an individual to reveal their vaccine status and, if not vaccinated, quarantine them. That’s pretty tough medicine that demonstrates the state’s commitment to protecting the overall public health.

I recognize that this change in state policy is hitting a large portion of the public and Texas medical community for the first time through newspaper reports and word-of-mouth. I have heard from both parents who appreciate the reaffirmation of their rights and doctors who are alarmed by any modification of the conscientious objector provision.

Sadly, Texas has consistently ranked near the bottom of childhood immunizations (we now rank 42nd). Some fear this policy will negatively affect our rate further, even though 18 other states currently have conscientious objector status, and 14 of them rank higher than Texas, according to a 2001 study. Nonsense! It’s time for parents and doctors to work together to increase our collective immunization rates while being respectful of everyone’s desire and rights. In fact, the Texas Legislature enacted several other bills designed to increase the immunization rate.

I intend to monitor this change very carefully over the next several years to ensure that it is being implemented fairly and in a manner that protects the public without trampling on the rights of parents. Our children and the public deserve no less.

"Country Music Hoe-Down"

There will be a big country music show presenting some the best of country music this Saturday night, July 26 at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down, 1/2 mile form Lake Bonham recreation area east of the spillway on CR 2610. The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and the talented "Country Hoe-Downers," Featuring George Kirby, Randy Keister, Glen Clark, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, and Mike Stroud plus Fred Ulich and Gary Monroe. Our scheduled special quest will be the young ant talented Brooks Payton from Richadson, TX and back by popular demand will be the Honorable Bill White, nephew of the late and legendary Jim Reeves, from Dallas. Both of these artist make a memorable performance on our stage. We are always glad to welcome them back. Brooks is well known on the opry circuit for his presentation of new and old country music. Bill White is well known everywhere for singing and bringing his uncle Jim Reeves hit songs back to life. Jim Reeves was known for songs like "Welcome To My World", "He’ll Have To Go"; "Four Walls"; and "Am I Losing You" just to name a few. Everyone is invited out for an evening of clean fun. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your support and may God bless you. See ya at The Hoe-Down. For information call 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

Update on Special Session

(AUSTIN) - Since the current special session was called on June 30, over 50 bills have been filed in the Texas Senate. These bills cover a wide variety of issues including redistricting, tort reform, insurance and the death penalty.

In this article, I have given a brief synopsis of some of the pieces of legislation that have been filed so far. If you would like more information on any of these bills, please visit the Texas Senate website (www.senate.state.tx.us or feel free to contact my office.

Senate Bill 6 - Currently, the Texas Constitution directs the legislature to apportion Texas into state senate and state representative districts at the legislature’s first regular session after the publication of the United States decennial census. As proposed, S.B. 6 establishes a nine member bipartisan citizens’ redistricting commission to draw district lines for congressional districts, state senate districts, and state representative districts.

Senate Bill 8 - Current law permits an asbestos claim to be placed in the civil court system like any other civil claim. It is estimated that over half of the 200,000 asbestos claims pending in the United States have been filed in Texas courts. S.B. 8 creates a new chapter in the Civil Practices and Remedies Code for civil claims relating to asbestos litigation. This bill establishes an inactive docket for unimpaired claims, establishes objective medical criteria for determining actual impairment, and gives trial preference to asbestos claims involving malignant conditions caused by asbestos exposure.

Senate Bill 19 - As proposed, S.B. 19 seeks to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of state government by eliminating the Texas Board of Paroles and Pardons (TBPP) Policy Board and folding its duties into TBPP and eliminating the State Aircraft Pooling Board and transferring its duties and responsibilities to the Texas Department of Public Safety. This bill also establishes the select committee on prison privatization and abolishes the Texas Commission on Private Security. S.B. 19 abolishes the Texas Legislative Council, creates the Legislative Information Services Board, transfers responsibility for financial audits from the state auditor to the Legislative Budget Board, and creates a Performance Review Commission to take the place of the Sunset Advisory Commission.

Senate Bill 20 - As proposed, S.B. 20 creates offenses for abandoning or endangering an elderly individual or disabled individual and for failing to provide certain care for a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual.

Senate Bill 21 - As proposed, S.B, 21 clarifies legislation contained in H.B 3184 and H.B. 3588, 78th Regular Session, in three areas, First, S.B. 21 amends the funding provisions contained in H,B. 3588 to reflect legislative intentions that certain Department of Public Safety fees go to general revenue (GR) for the 2004-2005 biennium to stabilize the budget and go to the Texas Mobility Fund thereafter. Second, S.B. 21 clarifies that specified portions of driver responsibility fines and additional court costs go to the Texas Mobility Fund for the 2004-2005 biennium and the GR thereafter. Third, S.B. 21 amends Chapter 361 of the Transportation Code, referencing the Texas Turnpike Authority. The conference committee report for H.B. 3184 inadvertently used the House version of the bill rather than the agreed-upon Senate version. The Senate version was passed in H.B. 3588, resulting in two different versions of the bill in law. S.B. 21 removes any conflicts mistakenly added by H.B. 3184.

Senate Bill 28 - Current law requires a person circulating a petition for a candidate’s place on a ballot to read certain statements in the petition to each person who signs it and requires each part of a petition to include an affidavit of the person who circulated it stating that the person pointed out and read certain statements to the signer. As proposed, S.B. 28 requires a person circulating a petition only to be present when each signature is obtained and requires the petition to include an affidavit attesting to that fact.

June 2003

Grand Jury Cases

Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter announces the resolution of the following criminal cases that were heard in the 6th and 336th District Court of Fannin County.

Agustin Jose Enrique Garza was sentenced to 4 years in the penitentiary for failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Garza had previously been placed on probation for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Dustin Jones was sentenced to 180 days in a State Jail Facility for failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Jones had previously been placed on probation for Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Samuel Mora was sentenced to 2 years in the penitentiary for failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Mora had previously been placed on probation for Assault on a Public Servant.

Bobby Reed entered his plea of guilty to Harassment by Person in a Correctional Facility. The Court accepted his plea and accessed his punishment at 2 years in the penitentiary.

Iasios Sanchez entered his plea of guilty to two charges of Endangering a Child. The Court accepted his plea and accessed his punishment at 2 years in the penitentiary.

Tonya Semanovich entered her plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The Court accepted her plea and sentenced her to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility.

Tamra Weissert entered her plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The Court accepted her plea and sentenced her to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility.

Frank Ryan Willgues entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 180 days in a State Jail Facility.

James Anthony Davis entered his plea of guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve 18 months in a State Jail Facility.

Mark Kim Bethel entered his plea of guilty to Injury to a Person. The Court accepted his plea and placed him on 5 years felony probation. He must pay a $400.00 fine, court costs and he must stay away from the victim.

Antonio Jerome Cuba entered his plea of guilty to Burglary of a Building. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to 2 years in the penitentiary; however, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 5 years. He must pay a $500.00 fine and court costs.

Janice Ann Fuller entered her plea of guilty ot DWI 3rd. The Court accepted her plea and sentenced her to 10 years in the penitentiary; however, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 10 years. She must pay a $1000.00 fine and court costs. She must attend DWI school and complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine treatment. A deep lung interlock device will be placed on her vehicle; this will prevent her from starting her vehicle if she has been drinking.

Round Ravenna

The Ravenna Community Center Fish Fry was not as successful as we wished, but we made $624.00 less expenses.

Thank you to all who baked and those who worked so hard, especially Martha Weaver (she is a merry maid cleaning lady - wow), Katricia Akres is a deluxe French fry cutter and then she cooked them and hush puppies for hours on end, Shirlene Pannell does it all from potatoes to fish to dish washing, Rita Hughes helped with the potatoes, the serving and she made sure everyone paid their money. Jim Hughes, Roy Lakey, and Percy Adams fried fish all day, Richard Wiley fried some of everything.

Thank you to all who worked, all who ate, all who donated time and work and money. Thanks to Hodge Fish Farm and L.T. Gilmore for the fish, and thanks to Mavis Sanford for her help.

We had a garage sale on Memorial Day weekend, bad timing, only made around $200.00 and most of that was due to Gerard and Diane Charron.

A big thanks to David Jones for wonderful pie baking, donations, and for mowing the lawn so often.

Our community lost a very nice lady in June, Lois Hill passed away and is truly missed by so many who loved her.

The next covered dish supper will be August 7th at 6:30 pm. All are welcome. Happy Summer.

Smithsonian Curator to Speak

Dr. Dan Rogers, Curator of Archeology for Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C. is principle speaker at the organizational meeting of The Valley of the Caddo Archeological Society on Monday evening, August 11 at the PJC Student Center Ballroom. "The Smithsonian is beginning a national public museum project to promote the establishment and upgrading of local public museums. Dr. Rogers is delivering the first of many national speeches on the program at PJC. A local organizer, archeologist Larry Banks of Red River County, also an anthropological research associate with Smithsonian, said, "It is a great honor for this area to be first in this new program." Dr. Rogers toured several sites in Red River County in May with Banks and local avocational archeologist, Gary Sykes. He was impressed with the archeological potential of this area and offered to aid in establishing local museums and archeological operations.

The organizational meeting for the Society will start at 5:00 PM with the "Archeological Roadshow." Everyone is invited to bring historical artifacts to the meeting to be identified by archeologists and anthropologists. Sykes, who is responsible for setting up the "Roadshow", said he is hopeful that everyone, including private collectors, will bring in their best objects. "This is an archeologically rich area," said Banks, "We are expecting to see some really significant artifacts and want to really "wow" Dr. Rogers!" Other speakers include Banks, Larue Parker, Chairperson of the Caddo Nation, Dr. Pam Anglin, new President of P.J.C., District Judge Jim Lovett as Master of Ceremonies, Glyn Osburn, President of the Tarrant County Archeological Society and businessman and novice archeologist, Roy Floyd. The program will end with the election of a 15 member Board of Trustees and signing of new members.

The group is planning its first archeological dig at Coach Gene Stallings ranch in north Lamar County this fall. Stallings is also one of the organizers of the Society.

The material sent out from the Fannin County Appraisal District told us: "They (the Appraisal Review Board) were to hear challenges/protests to the Appraisal District values and to ensure that the appraisals are fair and reasonable.----

Generally, the ARB is interested in any information which shows how much your property is worth, or will bring in the open market / an arms length transaction." This is also called a willing seller and a willing buyer basis.

In representing my daughter Donna Old Griffis and my son-in-law Lenard Griffis at the hearing, along with other information given, I presented the actual sale and purchase price of their property made last year, 2002, which was $71,500 for the land and home. The FCAD appraisal, also presented to the ARB, had no actual worth value- only their estimates of $82,370. Instead of the actual facts presented to the ARB which was their required duty to use to determine what the property was worth, as stated above, the ARB voted 5 to nothing to go along with the Appraisal District estimates rather than facts. This is immoral, inequitable, reprehensible, and it intimates a conspiracy between the FCAD and the ARB.

The FCAD uses an "average system". By definition, if all of the homes and land of a single category were appraised at their true price (willing seller-willing buyer), then one half of the homes and lands would be undervalued and and the other one half overvalued. It means that the poorer neighborhoods are appraised falsely high and the richer neighborhoods are appraised falsely low. It is an unfair system.

For the moment we can not be interested in any concern that taxes are too high. Taxes are necessary. However, if you found that your property was appraised in an unfair and inequitable manner, and you have comparable figures to show so, you are invited to mail your name, address and telephone number to Tax Suit, Box 129, Bonham, Texas 75418. The Lenard Griffis family and I will enter an individual or a class action suit against the Appraisal Review Board and the Fannin County Appraisal District. I would like for you to join us.

The only wish that I have is that the appraisals are done accurately, legally and fairly. Do you wish the same?

Robert E. Old, Jr.

AUSTIN, Texas - The Texas Historical Commission (THC) needs your help to ensure its newest initiative, the Historic Endangered Landmarks Program (HELP), is a success. From ancient Native American petroglyphs to historic buildings and battlefields, the THC is working to identify important heritage sites throughout the state that are threatened and in need of assistance.

The program is being launched in conjunction with the THC’s 50th anniversary, and will identify, record and publicize significant endangered properties. In addition, the HELP program will assist communities in addressing threats and reducing or eliminating them.

"The people of Texas recognize the importance of preserving their unique and irreplaceable heritage," said THC Executive Director Larry Oaks. " This program combines 50 years of experience as the state agency for historic preservation with public input of what is important and what is endangered."

Area residents may be contacted by THC staff to help gather more information on selected locations. THC staff will also work with citizens to target assistance efforts with specific needs. A "tool kit" with funding information, technical assistance and successful strategies to reduce threats to historic properties will be available.

Starting in 2004, the THC will publish an annual list of Threatened Texas Treasures selected from the database to highlight significant endangered properties. Selected sites will be nominated to the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of Most Endangered Historic Properties.

For more information, contact Peter Ketter of the THC’s History Programs Division at 512/463-5942 or email peter.ketter@ thc.state.tx.us.

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 call for Medicare reform has echoed through the halls of Capitol Hill for years. This June the Senate passed significant legislation to bring Medicare up to health care standards of the 21 st century.

While Medicare has provided important protections for millions of Americans in the past 37 years, it is an outdated federal program in need of a major overhaul. As the number of beneficiaries has grown, life expectancy has increased and the cost of medical care has skyrocketed, our nation’s senior health care program has remained stagnant.

Largely financed by today’s workers for today’s retirees, Medicare is facing a structural crisis. Currently, Medicare covers 40 million Americans. By 2031, with the baby-boomer generation fully into retirement, it will have to serve an estimated 77 million people and the already­ stressed system could be overloaded. Simply put, too many retirees and not enough workers to fund the system will result in a catastrophic failure to provide care to millions just when they need it most.

This year Congress acted to revitalize Medicare and keep it solvent by addressing two fundamental issues: incor­porate a prescription drug benefit into the system and provide seniors with choices in their health care coverage.

Medicare has not kept pace with the rapid changes in our health care system. As our research community pushes the envelope to develop life-saving medicines and procedures, our nation’s health care system must take that innovation into account.

Pharmaceuticals have revolutionized medical care. Increasingly, ailments are treated with medication instead of invasive surgeries and it is imperative that those who rely on Medicare have access to affordable prescription drugs.

When Medicare won’t pay for medicine to treat diabetes, but will pay for an amputation of a limb caused by complications from the disease, we have an obvious problem. But this new legislation corrects that absurd prescription.

The bill establishes comprehensive prescription drug coverage for traditional Medicare participants as well as those who opt for privately sponsored health plans. Beneficiaries will pay an average $35 monthly premium, a $275 annual deductible and 50 percent of drug costs up to $4,500, with a provision for catastrophic coverage when bills exceed $5,800.

The legislation also addresses the problem inherent with Medicare - its intrinsic inflexibility. True reform must provide our nation’s seniors the freedom to choose physicians and benefits based on their individual needs. This bill does just that.

It does not force participants out of traditional Medi­care. If a beneficiary is satisfied with her existing coverage, she has the option to stay put. However, if she chooses to enroll in a private insurance preferred provider organiza­tion (PPO) or health maintenance organization (HMO), Medicare will allow that choice.

An important amendment to the Medicare legislation was approved by a 94-1 vote to make generic drugs more readily available to patients, which could significantly reduce their bills. The amendment eliminates delaying tactics sometimes employed by drug companies to keep lower­cost prescription drugs off the market and inaccessible to consumers. At the same time, it protects innovation and preserves incentives for companies to invest in research and development.

With the passage of Medicare reform, Congress has reaffirmed an important promise to America’s seniors. This legislation will help bring this venerable program into the 21st century and give our seniors the medical coverage they need and deserve.

Treatments Help Soothe Arthritic Knees

HOUSTON – Arthritic knees are a constant concern for millions of Americans, causing discomfort or, in many cases, limiting movement. According to Dr. John Cianca, an assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, several lubricating solutions are now available and have been successfully used to treat osteoarthritis, or arthritis of the knee.

"The normal joint is surrounded by a fluid that acts as a lubricant and shock absorber," Cianca said. "Manufactured forms of this substance can be injected into the knee as a substitute. They don’t cure osteoarthritis, but they have been shown to reduce pain in the knee." Currently, two treatments are available – Synvisc and Hylagan.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, progressive disease of the joint that involves the breakdown of cartilage. As the smooth cartilage becomes pitted and frayed, it becomes less elastic and is susceptible to overuse and injury. In addition, the fluid surrounding the joint also may lose its ability to cushion and lubricate.

Bonham Snap Center

Fish Sandwich, Potato Salad, Orange Beets, Buns, Raisin Apple Cobbler, Milk

Pepper Steak, Black Eyed Peas, Carrot Raisin Salad, Cornbread, Pudding, Milk

Ravenna Swimmers Bound For State Meet

Miranda Fannin, 6 year old daughter of Bryan and Dawn Fannin will be swimming in the 100 meter freestyle relay, 8 years and under division, in the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF) 2003 Games of Texas State Meet.

Miranda is a member of the Denison Dolphin Swim Team and qualified for the state meet with a relay time of 1:37.09, 4th place. She also swam the 25 meter back stroke and the Medley Relay at Regionals in Mesquite, Texas.

The State meet will be at the Carroll Independent School District Aqwatics Center in Southlake, Texas on July 25-27. Swimmers from across Texas will be competing.

Miranda will be entering first grade at Finley-Oates Elementary this fall.

Wyatt Fannin, 7 year old son of Bryan and Dawn Fannin competed in the TAAF Region 7 "A" Regional Swim Meet in Mesquite, Texas on July 12 and recieved a silver medal (2nd place) in the 50 meter freestyle in a time of 46.89 in the 8 years and under age division. He also swam the 25 meter breast stroke and the individual medley 100 meters.

Wyatt will swim with the Denison Dolphins in the State meet, July 25-27 in Southlake. This is Wyatts second trip to compete in the State Swim Meet. He will be a second grader at Finley-Oates this year.

Human Growth Hormone Products Don’t Always Live Up To Sales Pitch

HOUSTON--It’s often marketed as "the fountain of youth" to seniors, but a specialist in aging warns that human growth hormone products found in health food stores and on the Internet are not everything they are hyped up to be.

In addition, adequate long-term studies have not been done on the prescription human growth hormone injections that can cost seniors as much as $1,000 per shot, said Dr. Roy. G. Smith, director of Baylor College of Medicine’s Huffington Center on Aging. Smith has examined human growth hormone compounds for years.

"I would not recommend growth hormone injections for older people, because it doesn’t restore the normal physiological profile for growth hormone release that one sees in younger people," he said. "Growth hormone is released naturally in pulses – not in one huge shot."

The oral growth hormone products currently available online and in health food stores are heavy on clever marketing but extremely thin on science. In one instance, Smith found that what was actually being marketed was extract of cow brain and cow pituitary.

"If you see something advertised as oral growth hormone, it is not what they are saying it is. Real human growth hormone is only available by prescription and is injected."

Choosing a care

facility for patients with Alzheimer’s

HOUSTON--One size does not fit all when choosing a care facility for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.

"A facility may offer a full calendar of activities to stimulate the mind, but that doesn’t help if the patient can’t remember where and what time the events are held, or how to get to them," said Dr. Mary Kenan, a psychologist with the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "People with Alzheimer’s disease need structure and routine so that they know what to expect."

With their golf courses, trips to casinos and luxurious apartment suites, many senior facilities are a far cry from sterile nursing homes of the past. But some facilities are better equipped to deal with the special problems that Alzheimer’s patients may face, such as anxiety, wandering, unpredictable behavior and the inability to perform every day tasks.

"The best facilities for patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease focus on patient safety and comfort while providing opportunities for socialization and structured activity," Kenan said.

By Tina Jones

The Bonham City Commission met in regular session Monday, July 14th.

The Commissioners passed a resolution authorizing a residential tax abatement program for the City. It is the intent of the City to offer residential tax abatements as a stimulus for economic development in Bonham. The policy is to make residential tax abatements available to new structures and to modernization of existing structures. Also, residential tax abatements are intended for residential structures built upon vacant lots within existing subdivisions, as well as, within new subdivisions of the City.

The board approved four of Bedco’s decisions to:

• purchase 40 acres from Union Pacific Railroad ($98,350) and lease another 4.8 acres;

• make sidewalk improvements at 110 East 5th St.;

• increase funding for renovation of the Visitor’s Center for $125,000;

• and to purchase additional benches & trash receptacles for the courthouse square ($7,110).

Three ordinances dealing with the Heritage District Overlay Zone passed on second reading. The first adds a Heritage Corridor Zoning Overlay District to existing zoning laws. The second amends Zoning Ordinance No. 1059 to include a list of uses allowed in the Heritage District Overlay Zone. The last amends Section 16.04(a) relating to abandonment or expansion of a nonconforming use within the Heritage District Overlay Zone.

Owners of the Southwest Pump property have made an offer to donate the whole block to the City with no strings attached and to duplicate the EPA investigation conducted when the plant closed. Due to the conditions of the buildings, several issues will need to be addressed before any decisions are made.

The Commission approved a resolution authorizing the city to initiate condemnation lawsuits, as the city manager and city attorney deem necessary, to accomplish the Heritage District Development Plan. This action concerns private properties in the 300 block of N. Main Street that BEDCO wants for a parking lot. BEDCO is to pay all costs.

Additional items the Commission unanimously approved include:

What’s Hot For Back To School At Factory Connection

Factory Connection has all the hottest looks for Back to School! The new code word this fall is "Cargo" as in "Cargo Craze!" You’ll find cargo pants, jeans, and capri’s in various fabrics such as denim, satin, linen-blends and twills. Cargo pants have pockets everywhere; on the hip, on the knee, or even near the ankle.

"This year you’ll see cargos with lots of novelty detailing," says Debbie Steppe, senior buyer for Factory Connection. This includes metal-rings, ribbon, mesh trim, drawstrings and zippers. Drawstrings at the ankle will be especially pop­ular this year. "Cargos look great with a strapped, fitted tank," says Ms.Steppe.

Besides selling all the latest styles of cargos, Factory Connection is the #1 source for Jeans for Back to School. Factory Connection has name brand jeans, in every­ones’ favorite styles, for low, low prices.

Other Back to School trends include military style jackets in distressed twill and men’s throw-back football and baseball style jerseys with team names and numbers. Asian floral prints with lots of black and red colors, along with satin trims for collars, cuffs and pockets will be popular this season. Also, look for drape necks and slanted hems on fall fashions.

So, shop a Factory Connection store near you, today, for all the hottest looks for Back to School!

National Junior Swine

Association Elects Board Of Directors

National Junior Swine Association members gathered on Thursday, July 3, to elect five new directors to serve their organization at the National Junior Summer Spectacular in Louisville, Ky.

The newly elected Eastern Region directors are Hope Ballman and Donielle Inskeep. Ballman, 17, is the daughter of Kelly and Wendy Ballman and Janet Ballman of Leitchfield, Ky. Ballman is a senior at Brekinridge County High School. Inskeep, 19, is the daughter of Paul and Donna Inskeep of Mount Airy, Md. Inskeep is a junior at West Virginia University where she is majoring in agricultural science education.

Wravenna Phipps will be serving as the new Central Region director. Phipps, 19, is the daughter of Bill and Robin Phipps of Kearney, Neb. She will attend Black Hawk East and work towards an Animal Science degree.

The new Western Region director is Sara Houret of LaGrange, Calif. Houret, 18, is the daughter of Paul and Kathleen Houret and will attend Oklahoma State University in the fall.

Brandon Yantis, Findlay, III., was elected At-Large director. Yantis, 18, is the son of Morris Clay and Rhonda Yantis. Yantis will attend Black Hawk East in the fall.

Returning to the NJSA Board of Directors for one more year of service are President Charles Covey, Telephone, Texas; Vice President AJ Genter, Archbold, Ohio; Secretary Molly McCormick, Martinsville, Ind.; and Southwest Region Director Aaron Cobb, Lake City, Ark.

The NJSA Board of Directors serves the organization by setting goals for future activities, organizing events, and raising funds to support their national and regional shows and scholarships programs.

RED RIVER THEATER COMPANY PROUDLY ANNOUNCES

"SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY"

A RAINBOW OF ENTERTAINMENT

CELEBRATING MUSIC AND COMEDY FROM YEARS GONE BY

From Vaudeville to Musicals, from Radio to the Silver Screen, the entertainment industry experienced a myriad of changes in the middle of the last century. The Red River Theater’s new production harkens to the glory days of Hollywood and beyond - routines such as Abbott and Costello’s "Who’s On First", Ethel Water’s "Stormy Weather" or "People Will Say We’re In Love" from the musical Oklahoma.

"Sentimental Journey" features a variety of characters audiences of yesteryear came to know and love. Long before "Harry Potter" another wizard captured the public’s imagination. The RRTC invites you to join them as they journey down their own yellow brick road of comedy, singing and dancing.

Performances are: 7:00 p.m. Friday, August 1, 2003; 7:00 p.m. Saturday, August 2, 2003

Ticket Prices are: $15.00 - General admission

$10.00- Seniors and students

This musical revue is the RRTC’ s annual fund raiser. Proceeds from this event help fund future productions and buy much needed technical equipment. For more information please call 903-583-4415 or visit our website at RedRiverTheatre.com.

BONHAM VA AND TCOG PUBLIC HOUSING HONOR CNA GRADUATES

The VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTHCS)/Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center (SRMVC) and Texoma Council of Governments (TCOG) Public Housing recently honored eight graduates completing the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program.

The seven-week course, including both class work and clinical application, is taught by Certified Instructors, Beth Rushing and Carla Lane, both registered nurses at the SRMVC. Upon successful completion of the course, graduates are armed with competitive marketable skills that enhance their ability to attain gainful employment. The program includes books, tuition, childcare, and transportation, as well as Texas state certification upon completion of successful testing.

Students graduating were Velma Arroya, Maranda Brown, Renita Dixon, Christina Garcia, Rana Harper, Lawana May, Sharon Middleton and Christina Peek.

The next class will begin September 8, 2003. Mary Deikman, Social Services Coordinator for the TCOG Public Housing Authority in Bonham, may be contacted at 903-583-1264, for additional information regarding registration.

By Tina Jones

Last May, the Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice in Bonham, held a Memorial Service to honor the memory of their officers, and all officers across the nation, who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and well being of others. The TDJC recognized the professionalism and dedication of all staff in corrections and their commitment in maintaining the security of the facilities. Several businesses helped sponsor this event, so in turn, the Buster Cole and Choice Moore Units wanted to show their appreciation. Tuesday, July 15, Senior Warden of the Cole Unit, Bryan Vandagriff, Assistant Warden of the Choice Moore Unit, Al Castillo and Patricia Alfred, CS2, presented plaques to VPG, AE’s Flower Shop, Wal-Mart, Brookshire’s and the Bonham Industrial Foundation, for their support

Study Aims To Understand Teen Inactivity

HOUSTON - Simply thinking they’re "just not athletic" could be keeping "couch-potato" kids rooted to the sofa.

"People tend to limit their activity level based on how they see themselves athletically," said Dr. Cheryl Braselton Anderson, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. "To do vigorous exercise, like running, swimming, or cycling, or any type of physical activity, you have to see yourself as a person who does these things."

Anderson believes that the tendency to be active (or inactive) is maintained by a feedback loop, with "athletic identity" determining what activities people do, and the activities they do influencing how they see themselves.

"Those who develop a positive athletic identity are more likely to stay active over the years, while having a poor athletic identity is related to inactivity," said Anderson, a behavioral scientist at the Children’s Nutrition Research Center.

Anderson also believes that individuals who have a positive athletic identity likely developed it in childhood or adolescence.

To test her theories, Anderson is launching a four-year study, which will follow over 900 middle school students as they make the transition to high school. Research shows this period tends to coincide with a marked drop in kids’ level of physical activity. The study will measure whether the teens’ athletic self-perceptions change over time and if so, what influences this.

The study is being funded by a $1.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute/National Institutes of Health, where increasing physical activity and decreasing sedentary behavior has become a research priority.

Anderson hopes the study’s findings will eventually lead to more school-and community-based programs that help less athletically talented children develop more positive athletic identities.

"To change ingrained identities like ‘I’m a poor student’ or ‘I’m not athletic,’ kids need the opportunity to have positive experiences," she said. "Although I’m a big supporter of team and individual sports, not everyone can be on the ‘A team’ or ’B team’. We have to make a place for all kids."

Anderson also believes that children need to know they can be physically active without being a star athlete.

"Kids have to know it’s OK to run slow and it’s OK to be the last one," she said. "They don’t have to be a Lance Armstrong to ride a bicycle."