"This Is Your Life" Lloyd Dodson

Albert and Christine Graves Dodson lived in the Elwood Community (Route 1, Ivanhoe) over seven decades ago. They had 7 boys and 1 girl. Of those, on September 1, 1924, was born a little boy that they named Lloyd who grew up to be a man of great achievement.

Lloyd, this is your life.

Albert and Christine moved several times in Elwood and Lloyd went to school through the 8th grade in the Tulip School. He grew up with a love of hunting and fishing which extends to today (he was out dove hunting this morning). Most of his work during those years was on the farm with the family. He rode the bus to Bonham High School and graduated from there in 1942. After graduation, he worked for the railroad for a short time. Lloyd served in the Pacific Theater during World War II then settled back in Bonham to raise his family. He has been actively involved in his community and hasn’t found a sport he doesn’t like.

Lloyd and Doris Simpson met in January of 1947 then married on March 29, 1947 in Bonham Texas. They have four children: Jerry lives in San Antonio and is self employed; Danny is a Baptist Minister living in Center, TX; Ricky works for the U.S. Army and lives in Lansing, KS; and Judy works at Dillards and lives in Denison.

They have seven grandchildren (two granddaughters and five grandsons).

Service to veterans is Lloyd’s life. He is a member of the American Legion. Since 1967 when VFW Post 4852 re-organized, Lloyd has been a strong and active supporter. When the old building on Main Street in Bonham no longer met their needs, Lloyd helped get a lot at Lake Bonham and helped build a new home for the Post. That building burnt in November, 1994, and Lloyd couldn’t wait to get started on a new one. In June, 1995, the new building was opened. He is committed to the Post, serving as commander for over 30 years and is a Life Member.

He belongs to the Wesley United Methodist Church and helped build the current church. He was a leader in Boy Scout Troop 160, and coached Southwest Pump Cardinals in Little League.

So Happy Eightieth Birthday Lloyd Dodson.

Savoy Wins Lady Eagle Classic

By Rich Hilliard

GREENVILLE -- Brooke McGehee and Andrea Billings were all-tournament selections, as Savoy won the Greenville Christian Lady Eagle Classic, held Sept. 10-11.

Savoy (16-1) topped Cumby, in the title match, 25-18, 25-11, 25-9, after defeating Quinlan Boles, 22-25, 21-25, 25-11, 25-8, 15-8, in bracket play, for the second time this season. In pool play, Savoy garnered wins against Frisco Legacy, 22-25, 25-13, Miller Grove, 25-8, 25-21, and host Greenville, Christian 18-25, 25-9.

During the tournament, McGehee had 35 kills, 28 blocks, 24 digs and 10 aces for Savoy and Billings made 47 digs with nine aces. Daneille Newsom collected 74 assists to go with 17 digs and aces and nine kills. Savoy’s Ashley Thompson garnered 58 assists, 39 aces and 14 digs.

Mindy Woodson got a dozen blocks and kills, with 18 aces. Megan Malone of Savoy made 22 digs and 14 blocks.

DC wins 2 at Nocona

NOCONA -- Dodd City went 2-1 on. Sept. 11 at the Nocona Buckle Up for Lane’s Sake Tournament. The wins for the Lady Hornets (8-8) came against Forestburg, 25-15, 25-9, and.Gold-Burg, 25-9, 25-6. Dodd City lost to Class 4A Mineral Wells, 25-16, 24-26, 25-17.

Best of Bluegrass

The Best of Bluegrass music will be back at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down this Saturday night, Sept. 25th at 7:30 pm. The Hoedown is located 1/2 mile from Lake Bonham recreation area, east of the spillway on CR 2610, Bonham, TX.

The show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and her talented "Shades of Bluegrass" and they have what it takes to call them Bluegrass, featuring, George Kirby on fiddle, Randy Keister, Dobro guitar, Michael Williams, on five string banjo, Glen Clark on the mandolin, James Rice on the real flattop guitar, and Fred Ulich on Dog house bass. We welcome back, FM 852 from Winnsboro, TX as our special guest group. This group features a family that ranges from son, dad, uncle, and grandpa. It has been awhile since they have been here, and we are surely looking forward to having them back. All you Bluegrass fans won’t want to miss this show. Sounds like lots of fun. Everyone is invited and welcome. Admission is free, donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your continued support of the shows at the Hoe Down. We surely appreciate you, God bless you and we will see you at the Hoedown.

For more information call: 903-583-4131 or 903-583-5710.

Car Club News

The Red River Valley Car Club held their September 9th meeting Thursday night at the American Bank, Elizabeth May Room, with 19 members present. A delicious covered dish meal was enjoyed by all.

Plans were made to have a wiener roast at Claud Wix’s farm on Saturday, October 9th at 5 pm (rain date 16th of Oct.). Also, we discussed going out some Saturday Morning on a drive, and having breakfast, this will be discussed later. Four members went to the IBC Motorama Car Show in Paris Saturday, September 11th. Winners in the show from Bonham were BIll and Cheryl Spann Class (1963-1978) won 1st place with their 1965 Mustang. Claud Wix Class (1946-1962) won 1st place with his 1954 Century Reveria 66R. Other winners from Bonham were Glen WIlliams, 2nd place with his 1948 Modified Ford Pick Up, and Rowdy Williams, who won 2nd with his 1948 Ford Pick Up in their class. Everyone had a wonderful time. The proceeds from the show and bake auction will go to Immanual Baptist Men’s Mission & Ministry Projects. Other Car Shows in the area, Gunter, Texas at the High School 4th annual Antique & Classic Car Show on Saturday September 18th, October 2nd, Old Timer’s Day Farmersville, Texas, starting things off with a Parade and a Car Show. Oct. 23rd Wolfe City, Texas 2nd Annual Fall Fest and Custom Car Show (Rain date Oct. 30th).

And please don’t forget about the Friday Night Cruise Inn, 6 pm at Down Town Bonham on the Courthouse Square. Several Restaurants for your dining pleasure. Everyone is welcome. Bring your lawn chairs, enjoy a cool evening, talking about old cars that we all love. Untill next month, may God Bless you.

Child Support Services

By Greg Abbott Attorney

General of Texas

Not long ago, I met a boy who had been abandoned by his father. His father’s absence left him with an emptiness I could see in his eyes. Against the odds, he had become a star student, but he and his mother were struggling because of the child support his father wasn’t paying. They came to my office for help, and we tracked down the father, who returned to Texas and began paying what he owes. Every day at the Office of Attorney General, we try to help children like this boy. In 2003, my office’s Child Support Division collected a record $1.5 billion in child support, and we are on track to beat that record this year. But we do much more. The Child Support Division provides a full range of services needed to establish, enforce and collect child support, including:

If the absent parent’s whereabouts are unknown, the Child Support Division accesses various computer databases to locate that parent. Data sources include federal Social Security and income tax records, state drivers licenses and employment records, credit bureau information, occupational and professional license information, and phone and utility records.

Under Texas law, a child born to a man and woman who are not married has no legal father. If the children’s parents were never married, my office works through administrative processes and the courts to legally establish who the child’s father is and obtain court orders that set child support and medical support. If necessary, DNA testing is performed on all parties to determine the child’s father. Establishing paternity not only makes children eligible for child support and benefits such as Social Security, veteran’s survivor benefits and health insurance, but it also guarantees a father’s rights as a parent, such as visitation with his children.

For some children, paternity has been established but there is no child support order to make a parent legally responsible to pay child support. The Child Support Division establishes child and medical support orders for those children.

If the child support order is outdated and the child or a parent’s circumstances have materially and substantially changed, the Attorney General’s office can file a legal action to adjust the amount of support owed. This service is available both to non-custodial parents seeking decreases in support and custodial parents seeking increased support.

• withholding income from a parent’s paycheck;

• obtaining a legal judgment for past-due support;

• intercepting federal income tax refund checks, unemployment insurance benefits, or lottery winnings;

• filing liens against financial and real property;

• suspending driver, recreational and professional licenses;

• filing contempt-of-court charges; and

• incarceration.

I realize delays in the child support process can occur for a number of reasons, including waiting to obtain a hearing date in court. To help streamline the process, my staff routinely meet with parents to establish paternity and establish, modify and enforce child support orders without going to court. This Child Support Review Process (CSRP) allows parents to resolve matters amicably, and in a less formal environment than in a courtroom. For those situations that don’t qualify for the CSRP, my office stands ready to go to court to provide the necessary services. You can obtain an application for child support services by visiting Child Support Interactive on the Attorney General Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us, or by calling our 24-hour voice response system at (800) 252-8014. You can also look in your local phone book to find the Child Support office nearest you.

Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma

Mental Health Mental Retardation Services of Texoma has moved five programs to 315 West McLain, Sherman. The new central telephone number is 903-957-4700. Anyone needing services in Grayson County may call the number. The crisis number is 903-957-4701.

The programs that moved into the building are:

Grayson Mental Health Center: 903-957-4701

Mental Health Community Support Services: 903-957-4731

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services: 903-957-4820

Early Childhood Intervention: 903-957-4810

Administrative Offices: 903-957-4700 Central number for all locations Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Human Resources: 903-957-4870

The following locations have not changed their locations. The telephone numbers are:

Bonham Mental Health Center: 903-583-8583 or 903-957-4751

Cooke Mental Health Center: 940-665-3962 or 903-957-4766

Mental Retardation Community Support Services: 903-957-4831

Mental Retardation Services: 903-957-4795

Earlier this month, Chechen separatists carried out a gruesome attack on a Russian school, killing hundreds of children, teachers and parents. The episode was a particularly stark reminder of the despicable tactics terrorists of all stripes will use to advance their causes. That assault, and the recent third anniversary of the September 11^th strikes on our soil, underscores the continuing vigilance we must show to protect our homeland.

This survey, the last of three focusing on important issues facing our nation, concentrates on Homeland Security. I thank you for your participation and look forward to reading your responses.

An estimated 400,000 people travel into the United States on a daily basis through our state’s 11 border crossings. While our close proximity to Mexico has enriched us culturally and economically, the border also presents a security challenge. Under the recently adopted United States Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) program, Canadian tourists can visit up to six months but a Mexican tourist on the same visa can only stay for one month. Many Texans are concerned this will negatively affect the state’s economy by keeping foreign tourists from visiting. In your opinion, what is the best way to apply US-VISIT to the U.S.-Mexican border?

__Allow Mexican nationals to stay for 30 days on a visa, as allowed by present policy

__Allow Mexican nationals to stay for 6 months, the same length for Canadian nationals under the US-VISIT program

Additional Comments: _____________________________________________________

Since the attacks of September 11^th, Congress has approved critical legislation I co-authored to improve aviation security, from enhancing baggage and passenger screening to expanding the air marshals program. We know there is more to accomplish. Which issue should be our next priority in transportation safety measures? (Choose all that apply)

__Expand the registered traveler program to airports nationwide, allowing frequent flyers to volunteer personal information in exchange for access to shorter security lines

__Implement a computer database administered by federal security officials to check airline passengers’ names against terrorist watch lists

__Apply the same security standards to air cargo shipped on commercial airlines already in place for passengers and baggage

__Overhauling security procedures for passenger train travel

Additional Comments: _____________________________________________________

Since 2001, funding for homeland security efforts has nearly tripled. Budgets have increased for everything from aviation and port security to vaccinations and fire fighters. What further changes would you like to see in homeland security appropriations? (Choose all that apply)

__Better train and prepare first responders at the local level

__Change the distribution formula to allocate a larger share of federal resources to states and cities facing a greater terrorist threat

__Keep current spending levels; they are sufficient

Additional Comments: _____________________________________________________

Following September 11^th, Congress created the Homeland Security Department to address national security deficiencies and for the first time tasking a single government entity with defending U.S. soil. What do you believe should be our next top priority in improving our homeland security?

__Tightening security at national borders

__Upgrading screening of cargo on airplanes

__Addressing weaknesses in port security

Additional Comments: _____________________________________________________

Please visit my website and submit your answers online at:

http://hutchison.senate.gov/survey3.htm

Send via email at: capitolcomments@hutchison.senate.gov

Or submit via mail to:

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison

SURVEY

961 Federal Building

300 East Eighth Street

Austin, TX 78701

Electric Reliability Update

By Troy K. Sellers, TXU Electric Delivery

As Florida recovers from recent hurricanes and tropical storms, we are reminded that severe weather events often leave a path of destruction and major damage to homes, businesses and electric networks. I’m writing to share some of the steps TXU Electric Delivery is taking in Texas to improve electric reliability and help decrease damage from future storms.

First, we know how difficult electric grid recovery and repairs can be in the face of massive natural destruction. For example, while it was not a hurricane, Texas faced its own severe weather crisis in June when a powerful, supercell blew through North Texas and left us with the worst damage ever to hit our electric grid. In response, we quickly mobilized a total of more than 6,800 employees, contractors, and reinforcements from Texas and nine other states and set about the time-consuming task of restoring electric service and repairing the electric infrastructure.

The storm left a trail of incredible damage. In total, we accomplished the following:

• Restored power to about 1.4 million homes and businesses

• Removed about 40,000 tree limbs on power lines

• Responded to 4,000 emergency calls of downed electric wires

• Replaced 550 power poles

• Repaired 23 electric substations damaged by the storm

Even before the storm had hit, we had already begun making some significant new investments in our electric grid. While TXU Electric Delivery has traditionally been a strong performer in electric reliability – ranking in the top 25 percent nationally according to a recent study – we have made a new commitment to consistent improvement.

The result has been the continuing implementation of a major, three-year initiative to pump almost $2 billion into transmission and distribution line construction and repair with a major increase in operations support for tree trimming and vegetation maintenance. All these steps will be critical elements in ensuring the reliable delivery of electricity to our customers.

We understand that electricity is critical to high-quality daily life. We take our job of keeping the lights on very seriously. Whether it’s a neighborhood without power or a downed line across a farm-to-market road, we know people count on us to keep them safe and to keep the lights on. We provide an essential service, and that’s why we’re making a multi-billion dollar investment in future electric reliability

We have not forgotten those in need either. The people of Florida face a daunting task in the days ahead as they rebuild and resume their normal lives. To help in that effort, we have released almost 800 contractors – who were working on tree trimming and were doing non-emergency transmission and distribution line repair for us – so they could go to Florida and help with this mammoth restoration effort. It’s simply too much for one company, or even one state, to deal with alone.

Severe weather creates major challenges for the electric grid. Please be assured that TXU Electric Delivery is undertaking major efforts to help keep your lights on, even during the most difficult of times.

Bonhi Exes Reunion Committee

The Bonhi Exes Reunion Committee is in need of help in locating former students of Bonham High School. This week we are focusing on the classes of the 1930’s. If you know the address or can provide any information about the following former Bonham High School Students, please contact Pam Thompson (903)989-5528 or send an e-mail to pamt@fanninelectric.com.

Class of 1931: Rachel Sweeney Lovitt

Class of 1932: Mittie English Roger

Class of 1933: F. Loyd Dillow, Catherine Hestand Hunt, Richard Holder, John T. Roberts

Class of 1935: Calvin B. Denton, Joyce Luna Luttrell, Mrs. Wallace Moore Henry, Lorene Sandes Bradley

Class of 1936: Marvin Englander, Mary Lou Jackson, Leon Schillings

Class of 1937: Ruth Chaffin Brown, Edith Mize Hall

Class of 1938: Helen Brackett Howard, Jane Collins, James Darr, Hollis W.J. Grahm, James Hawkins, Nancy Kincaid Holland, Mary Ruth Little Christensen, Jean Miller Thomas, James Fray Mitchell, Goldie Moore Wells, Marion Moore, Dorothy Reaves Vise, Martha Sue Riddling, Durell Shipley Wright, Lillian Sorrell Charles

Class of 1939: Mary Nova Brown, Joan Carver, Catherine Clark Harris, Berti Lou Crumby Frassinelli, Harold Enlgish, Cletus Jeffcoat, Doyce Neal Manning, Loran E. Maples, Claude B. McClure, Eleanor Ruth McCrary, Jack Milstead, Evelyn Moore, Frances Moore Meeks, Mildred Neely Kincannon, Oretta Fay Nelson, Sarah Puckett Dooley, Wilbur Renshaw, Emma Sharp Selfs, Fay Jo Shephard, Charles W. Smith, Ruth Marie Withers

Fort Inglish Village In Bonham Holds Open House

Fort Inglish Village in Bonham will be holding Open House Saturday, September 25 from 10 AM to 3 PM in conjunction with the Autumn in Bonham Bike Rally going on in Fannin County that day.

Tours of the Village will be ongoing as well as a complimentary lunch of Chuckwagon Stew and Homemade Cobbler with drinks. The meal will be served, on the grounds, from 11 AM until it is gone.

Live entertainment of local talent will be featured on the adjoining stage from 10 AM to 2 PM.

The dedication of the Bailey Inglish Cabin and new Blacksmith Shop will be at 2 PM on the stage. Many Bailey Inglish descendants will gather for a reunion that day. These buildings were just opened this spring. Artifacts donated by Inglish descendants are featured in the cabin which was formerly the blacksmith shop, but has been moved to the east side of the Village.

A new more open blacksmith was built just west of the General Store in the Village and will feature Terry Blose, licensed blacksmith, making iron items that will be sold in the Gift Shop.

Fort Inglish Village is located at the corner of State Hwy 56 and Chinner St., just west of the Sam Rayburn Library, which will be open for tours.

Other historical places of interest that will be open Sept. 25 are the Sam Rayburn Home, State Hwy. 56, 1 mile west of Bonham and the Fannin County Museum of History, located south of the square on State Hwy 78.

Call Mildred Welch, (903)640-2228 for more information.

Taylor Reunion Held September 11, 2004

Descendants of Samuel Dawson and Nara Clay (Feeback) Taylor (1867-1949) gathered at the Windom Community Park at 4:30 pm September 11, 2004 for a covered dish meal and to celebrate their heritage and family relationships, approximately sixty attended.

A brief business meeting was held. The group voted to meet again in 2005.

Alcohol May be Riskier for Women

Jennifer Wider, M.D.
Society for Women’s Health Research

September 10, 2004

A beer at a barbeque, a glass of wine with dinner, a drink at a bar. Most adults have consumed an alcoholic beverage at one time or another. While many studies reveal that men use alcohol more frequently than women, drinking seems to affect women differently than men and poses unique risks to women’s health.

Drinking even a small amount of alcohol can affect a woman differently than a man. In general, women seem to become more intoxicated than men after drinking the same amount of alcohol. This is most likely due to body weight and hormone differences. There is also evidence that women under the age of 50 produce less of the stomach enzyme that breaks down the alcohol, thus creating a higher blood alcohol content for women when compared with men in the same age group, who consume the same amount of alcohol.

"Women metabolize alcohol differently than men and tend to get drunk more quickly," said Jean Kilbourne, Ed.D., a visiting scholar at the Wellesley Centers for Women in Wellesley, Mass. "The disease of alcoholism may progress more quickly in women as a result."

There are more than 15 million people abusing alcohol in the United States and approximately one-third of them are women, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center. The death rate among female alcoholics is significantly higher than among male alcoholics. Studies have revealed that women who abuse alcohol are more likely to die from suicide, alcohol-related accidents, circulatory disorders and liver cirrhosis when compared with men who abuse alcohol.

The death rate isn’t the only issue with which women using alcohol need to be concerned. Women who drink are at higher risk for breast cancer, fertility problems, high blood pressure and stroke. Women who abuse alcohol during their pregnancy increase their risk of miscarriage and having a child with fetal alcohol syndrome. Alcohol is also related to unwanted pregnancy. "A huge portion of teen pregnancies occur when a woman is drunk," Kilbourne said. And the burdens of those situations usually fall into the lap of the teenage mother or her family.

Women in college who excessively drink are escalating their risk of sexual abuse and rape. "There is a sexual double standard when it comes to alcohol," Kilbourne said. "If men and women are engaging in the same exact behavior, it is interpreted differently if a sexual act occurs. The man who is drinking is somehow viewed as less responsible while the woman who is drinking should have behaved more responsibly."

Heavy drinking may also contribute to psychological problems including relationship trouble, depression and anxiety. "Women tend to use alcohol as a medication for depression more than men do or as a way to cope with depression or anxiety," Kilbourne said. More research is needed to determine the exact relationship between mental ailments and alcohol use, but it is clear that a proportion of the population who suffer from psychological conditions including depression and anxiety also use alcohol.

In 2002, nearly 2 million women aged 18 or older were estimated to have both serious mental illness and a substance use disorder during the past year, according to an August 2004 report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Compared with men, women with co-occurring mental and substance use disorders were more likely to seek help in mental health and outpatient settings, have poorer job skills, and suffer from serious physical health problems.

Because the effects of alcohol use can be devastating for some women, it is important to recognize the warning signs and get the proper help, if necessary. Craving alcohol, needing more to get the same "buzz or high," having withdrawal symptoms including: nausea, shaking and anxiety if you stop using alcohol and feeling that you can’t

Fannin County Ducks Unlimited Holds Dinner Banquet

Fannin County Ducks Unlimited will hold its annual dinner, banquet and auction at the Bonham VFW on Thursday September 30. Doors open at 6pm and barbeque will be served at 7pm. Tickets are $35 if purchased prior to September 23 and $45 if purchased at the door. A special pre-event raffle ticket can be purchased for $50, only 100 pre-event tickets will be sold and they include a chance at one of two Benellie shotguns. All tickets include a one year membership to Ducks Unlimited, dinner and admission to the banquet. The events features silent auctions, live auctions and raffles. Prizes include 14 guns, wooden decoys, art prints and hunting trips. The money raised at the banquet goes toward the purchase and restoration of wetlands throughout North America. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Rick Hazelip at 583-2332.

Daughters of the American Revolution

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas met Saturday, September 11, 2004 for its first meeting of the year. They met in the Chamber of Commerce community room in Bonham. We did not have a business meeting but Myra Rodgers gave a program on "The State of Texas in 1776". Flo Odom and Mary Beavers brought birthday gifts. Those winning the gifts were Myra, Flo and Nancy Bellows. Members, Mary Jo Barbee, Martha Mayrell and Dot Linn were attending the TSDAR Fall Forum in Austin, Texas. Mary Dean Norris, Mayor, of the City of Ector, proclaimed, Sept. 17 - 23, 2004 as Constitution Week for our Chapter, George Blakey.

Myra served refreshments to five members. We will meet next month same place at 2 pm Oct. 9th.

License Plate Contributes to Legal Aid in Texas

The Texas Department of Transportaiton (TxDOT) and the FANNIN County tax assessor-collector’s office are featuring the And Justice For All specialty license plate this month. A majority of the proceeds from the sale of this license plate supports civil legal services to the economically disadvantaged through the Texas Equal Access to Justice Foundation. The foundation is the largest state-based funding source for Texas legal aid and assissists approximately 100,000 Texans a year with their civil legal needs.

The initial development of this license plate was sponsored by the Texas Young Lawyers Association (TYLA) in an effort to promote the concept of access to justice for all, regardless of income. Proceeds from the sale of the plate contributed more than $86,221 to the fund. There are currently about 3,450 vehicles registered in Texas with the plates. TYLA had educated hundreds of thousands of Texans through its projects including land title counsel, advice to senior citizens on estate planning issues; and youth education on constitutional rights obligations.

"Legal aid organizations provide valuable assistance to Texas’ most vulnerable residents in civil legal matter such as safety from abuse, affordable housing and access to medical care." said PAM SWEET-RICHARDSON, tax assessor-collector for FANNIN County.

The license plate design features a partial white star within a larger star with the Texas flag imprinted over it on the left side of the plate. The background is white and the last line of the pledge of allegiance, And Justice For All runs runs across the bottom of the plate.

The And Justice For All license plates are available to motorists for a $30 annual fee, plus $40 if personalized, in addition to regular vehicle registration fees. Of the $30 annual fee, $22 goes to a special fund set up to provide basic civic legal services. The remaining $8 fee is deposited into the state highway fund to cover administrative costs.

Applications for the And Justice For All specialty plates are available at county tax offices, on TxDOT’s web site www.dot.state.tx.us, by callin the TxDOT Help Desk at (512)465-7611, or TxDOT’s Fax-On-Demand forms line at (888)232-7033. Customer requesting orders for specialty license plates through the fax service should enter the code 0999 to receive the form for the license plate they are ordering.

TxDOT started its specialty license plate program in 1965. Today, there is a wide variety of different plate designs, many of them benefiting a particular group, organization, college or university. Since 1994, more than $10 million has been raised for sponsoring organizations, colleges or universities.

For more information, call PAM SWEET-RICHARDSON, TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR at 903-583-7493.

EXPERT GIVES TIPS ON COMPUTER SECURITY

COMMERCE, Texas - There are five steps you can take today to keep from being a victim of cybercrime according to tips given by Dr. Eugene Spafford at the Fall Convocation at Texas A&M University-Commerce

Spafford, a professor of computer sciences at Purdue University and one of the world’s leading authorities on issues of security and cybercrime, was the keynote speaker at the annual event on the A&M-Commerce campus.

His security tips to the public are:

1. "Don’t give out your personal information unless you know how it is being used, why it is needed, and how it is being stored. That includes Worldwide Web sites, contest forms, and warranty cards. Remember information is powerful so be careful who you give power to.

2. "Whenever you can, make decisions based on quality as well as price. Buying a car that goes off the road every 50 miles to save $20 is not a good deal. Let’s reward the vendors who do a better job of design.

3. "Tell your elected representatives that you are concerned about this area. Let them know you would like laws protecting your privacy. Let them know you would like more money spent on research regarding information security.

4. "Keep in mind that when something fails it is the result of a person and not a computer. The computers are easy to blame because they can’t defend themselves.

5. "Learn how to safeguard your system and your information -- that includes installing anti-virus software, using firewall, backing up your data, scanning for spyware, and installing patches."

Spafford also serves as executive director of the Center for Education and Research in Information Assurance and Security (CERIAS) at Purdue. CERIAS is a campus-wide multi-disciplinary center with a mission to explore issues related to protecting information and information resources. He serves as an adviser on information technology security for President George W. Bush and also was an adviser to former President Bill Clinton.

Dr. Sam Saffer, head of the A&M-Commerce department of computer science and information systems, said the university is offering its first undergraduate and graduate courses in network security this fall.

"There are new challenges with network security," he said. For the past two summers, three computer science faculty members have spent their summers studying network security at Purdue.

Spafford spoke at the Fall Convocation on Sept. 10.

National 4-H Week Poster Contest

Over a hundred years ago, America was introduced to an organization known as 4-H. Since that time, 4-H has blossomed into a wonderful way for young adults to learn important life skills. 4-H brings many opportunities: leadership skills, competition, and even scholarships.

National 4-H week is coming up October 3^rd through the 8^th. The 4-H County Council is hosting a Poster Contest to promote 4-H during this week. This is a project that will encourage club members to promote 4-H, and also remind the public that we are still alive and kicking!

All posters sent in will be judged prior to National 4-H Week, and then will be placed in businesses around the Bonham area for all to see.

The poster theme will be National 4-H Week. All posters need to be turned in to the Fannin County Extension Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on SEPTEMBER 3Oth.

The contest is open to all youth, including non 4-H members.

The following information needs to be listed on the back of the poster:

Name –

Age –

Contact number –

Club Name (if a 4-H member) –

The contest will be split into three different age groups: 5 - 8, 9 - 13, and 14 – 18. Remember, all entries are due by September 30^th, no late entries will be accepted.

Senior Circle Activities

The Northeast Chapter of Senior Circle has been very busy this past week. On September 7th, we had our monthly meeting and potluck. We always have the best food and enjoy each others company very much.
September 8th, we loaded up and went to Paris. We had lunch at Magel’s off of the loop. Every one had a wonderful time.
September 10th we went to Leonard to eat at Lea’s and to Mama Muriel’s. When we reached Mama Muriel’s we spent time looking at the dolls and reminiscing. Then we sat and had a tea party. We were served hot tea or ice tea, fruits, and cookies. We had such a wonderful time and was treated like royalty! Thank you Mama Muriel’s for such a wonderful time!

Son Of Area Residents

Trains On Board "Old Ironsides"

By Jo3 Bretta L. Heath

ON BOARD USS CONSTITUTION, Boston – Each morning on board the decks of the country’s oldest warship, "Old Ironsides," the national anthem punctuates the hustle and bustle of the city. On this morning however, the melody of "The Star Spangled Banner" calls to attention the crew of 150 Sailors recently selected for chief petty officer. Among those standing tall saluting the national ensign as it’s raised is Chief Petty Officer Select Mark Wright, son-in-law of James and Joan Rowse of Wolfe City, one of the Navy’s newest leaders. As the trumpet sounds the signal for the command to carry on, Wright and his shipmates return to their morning training on board USS Constitution, home ported in Boston.

Wright is a chief petty officer who was selected to assist in the training of chief petty officer selectees on board USS Constitution and learn what life was like for the Sailors of yesteryear.

"I wrote a poem about it, that I feel illustrates my feelings best," said Wright.

The ship has not only given the selectees the ability to understand just how much the Navy has changed since its inception more than 225 years ago, but to also observe traditions still in place today.

"The basic mission is the same. We keep our country free. They defended us with the tools of that day, and with muscle, blood and honor. Today, we use the tools of this day and with the same muscle, blood and honor, we defend the same freedom, not just for ourselves, but for the world," said Wright.

Even with the advantages that today’s Sailors have over their 19^th century predecessors; Wright says there are many obstacles that still present themselves.

"I was a striker (Sailor without specific job training) for my first two years in the Navy and learned the humility of being the lowest ranking person on the ship," said the husband of Beth. "Now that I am a chief, I remember myself as that lowest ranking man and realize that as a chief, I really work for him. My job is to do everything in my power to make him into a better Sailor than myself."

Promotion to chief petty officer is a Navy experience completely different from promotion to the equivalent rank in other military services. With the promotion comes an increased expectation in leadership traits and responsibilities by the Navy’s chain of command. For Wright, who has shared the anticipation of looking forward to this day with his students Navy, he knows they will accept their new rank with great respect.

"I have been a chief for ten years now, and seeing these outstanding future chiefs work so hard inspires me to go back to my command and work harder and smarter than ever," said Wright.

Working together is a characteristic that gets right to the heart of the Navy, and by doing so on board USS Constitution; the selectees have established a bond they may always carry. Wright, who has returned to his command, Navy Medical Clinic in Saratoga Spring, N.Y., will have a special place in his heart when his fellow chiefs don the uniform of a U.S. Navy chief petty officer in a Sept. 16 frocking ceremony.

Texas Music Office a Resource to Texas Artists

In 1990, the Texas Music Office (TMO) was established as a part of the Office of the Governor. The state legislature charged the Texas Music Office "to promote the development of the music industry in the state by informing members of the industry and the public about the resources available in the state for music production." The office assists more than 14,000 people a year including journalists, musicians, businesses, and the general public.

The TMO serves as a clearinghouse for the Texas music industry. Its Business Referral Network offers information on approximately 7,600 music businesses in 96 different categories, and provides referrals to businesses and musicians. For instance, the Business Referral Network can help a local musician find producers in their area, as well as other contacts across the state. This system helps attract new business to the state and encourages industry members to keep their business in-state.

The Texas Music Industry Directory, at 450 pages, is a listing of music-related businesses, musicians, music venues, record stores, recording studios, radio stations, and recording labels. It also contains a music calendar, which includes details on well over 600 music events across the state. Approximately 13,000 copies of the directory are distributed world-wide each year to musicians and business. The information is also available online, and includes a link to register a business or musician with the directory. Anyone may purchase a directory for $23 by sending a check or money order payable to "Texas Music Office" to: Texas Music Office, P.O. Box 13246, Austin, TX 78711. Delivery takes about one week.

For people interested in an education or career in music, the TMO has a database on over 100 Texas colleges and universities that offer music and music business courses and an indie-band information packet. The university and college database is complete with 135 schools that offer some sort of musical education. The schools are organized by region, and the relevant departments and classes are also listed. The indie-band packet is used by bands that have not yet been signed to a nationally recognized label. This packet includes a list of record stores, distributors, music journalists, nightclubs and venues; a suggested reading list; and general music business information. The indie-packet is free to anyone who requests it.

TMO’s website is also a great source of information on Texas music. The site provides a list of music museums to tour, Texans inducted into the Music Hall of Fame, and some of the history behind Texas music. For more information on the Texas Music Office, please visit www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/music, or call (512) 463-6666.

Please feel free to contact me if I may be of assistance to you with any matter of state government. You can contact me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.

Ask the City Planner

The final revised Lake Bonham Rules were approved and passed by the Bonham City Commission on September 13, 2004, and went into effect the same day. The new Rules are a two-part document: Lake Bonham Rules, Regulations, and Subdivision Building Restrictions for Leaseholders, and Lake Bonham Rules and Regulations for Public Recreation and Water Activities: Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Camping, and Picnic Areas for all users of the Lake.

Copies of both approved documents were placed on our website at www.cobon.net under Notices. Also, the final approved documents were mailed to all Lake Bonham Leaseholders on Friday, September 17, 2004. The Recreation and Water Activities Rules were converted into brochures and will be available to all users of the Lake at the Recreation Area Concession Building, and from B&R Bait Shop on Recreation Road.

We plan to post boating and fishing rules on signs by the boat ramp entrances in the near future. The Lake is important to everyone, so please help us take care of it and report any problems to the appropriate entities immediately.

2. Recently, you held a Housing Seminar about various housing programs, financing, and available City owned-lots, which would be available for persons to purchase, or to get for free or at a low cost if we build a house on such lot. When will these lots be available to bid on?

The available lots will be posted in the Public Notice Section of the Bonham paper this week to begin the public bidding process. Please check the instructions for bidding in the Public Notice and submit your proposals as soon as possible. We will start opening bids and/or proposals on Friday, October 1, 2004, and begin making decisions shortly thereafter; however, there will not be a deadline for submitting bids. So, if the City has lots available after October 1, 2004, please feel free to submit bids, or call me to discuss options and your plans for these lots. Our intent is to get as many homes built on these lots over the next year or so as possible, but building a house on some of these lots may not be practical depending on the location, so we are open to other suggestions. Make us an offer and we’ll consider it.

3. Does the City of Bonham have down payment and/or closing costs grants available for homebuyers?

Yes. We were just awarded a $100,000 grant from the HOME Program at the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. This is pass-through money from HUD. The grant money is available to income-eligible applicants on a first-come, first serve basis. A grant of $10,000 per family can be provided to those determined eligible, with no interest and no monthly payments required to pay back the money. It is income driven, meaning that to be eligible, your gross yearly income cannot exceed 80% of the area median income for Fannin County. I have the charts in my office. To receive the funds, you must be willing to have a new home built in the City of Bonham within the next two years. Also, we have lots available for free if you want to build on our lots; however, you are not required to build on our lots. The grant can be used for down payment costs, closing costs, buy down costs, or a combination of these costs. Applications are available at Bonham City Hall. We need buyers, so come check it out, or contact a local builder, bank, or mortgage company for details.

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

Lady Hornets win 17-A opener

By Rich Hilliard

ROXTON -- Kimberly Gibson served half of her 28 points in Game 3, with five aces overall, and had 19 assists, as Dodd City defeated Roxton, 25-16, 25-10, 25-8, on Sept. 14 to start District 17-A competition.

"The girls played with great emotion tonight," said Dodd City coach Cheryl Howerton. "It’s nice to see the girls come together and elevate their level of play now that district has started. I was extremely pleased with the team effort."

The win kept Dodd City (9-8, 1-0) undefeated against Roxton (0-1) in district volleyball since 1998.

Dodd City’s Amanda Spindle had four of her 14 points go for aces and 10 digs. Bethany Stephens made 14 kill shots, seven points and six digs. Jennifer Burpo collected 11 points, seven kills and five digs.

Jordan Parker of Dodd City finished with eight points and five digs. Whitney Parker garnered seven points and seven digs. Kamey Herpeche, Crystal Hough and Cecily Darwin each recorded three kills and two digs.

Dodd City also won the junior varsity match, 25-15, 22-25, 26-24, led by Mindy Horton’s 20 points, including five aces, 15 assists and seven digs. Kelli Horton got 14 points and five digs and kills, while Jaylyn McCarty had 13 points and five digs. Kendra Billy totaled eight points, six assists and four digs. Brandy Ingram served seven points, while Lorran Anderson had as many points with five kills and three aces.

Attorney General Gets Consumer Refunds For Overpayment of Insured Auto Repairs

Refunds of $3.4 million to reach about 15,500 Texas policyholders

AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today filed court-approved settlements with two major auto insurers to refund more than $3.4 million to Texas policyholders who paid more out of pocket on claims for auto repairs in certain years than their policies required.

Progressive County Mutual Insurance Co. agreed to pay $2.35 million, including interest, in refunds to about 11,000 policyholders who had repair claims from January 1996 through May 1999.

Old American County Mutual Fire Insurance Co. will pay refunds of $1.07 million to an estimated 4,500 policyholders. This refund period covers claims for vehicle repairs from January 1996 to September 2001. Any Old American policyholder who believes he or she may be entitled to a refund under this settlement may request a claim form by calling 866/233-7091 (ext. 970), or214/561-1970.

"Consumers who made legitimate vehicle insurance claims following traffic accidents have expectations that they will be treated fairly," said Attorney General Abbott. "Likewise, they deserve refunds from companies that used deceptive means to take money from them through such schemes as this. That’s not the way the standard auto policies in Texas work, and I’m seeing to it that these companies return money to these consumers."

The companies, along with others in the industry, engaged in the unlawful practice known as "betterment," in which they claimed that the use of better or newer parts to repair the vehicle increased its value. Companies then charged the amount of this supposed, "increased value" to the policyholders, thus reducing the amount the company paid for the repairs. Policyholders were then forced to make up the difference, in addition to them- deductible, to the repair shop­

The Attorney General has successfully settled 17 betterment cases since 2000, alleging that insurance companies merely increased the value of the replaced part, and not the entire vehicle. Texas law does not permit such a charge or deduction, and auto insurance policies require that the companies fully pay for the repair, less the deductible, even if the parts used were better than the ones they replaced. Under the terms of the agreement announced today, the companies, which have stopped the practice, agreed not to engage in this practice and will refund the total amount of overcharges, plus interest, to customers who had auto repair claims involving betterment deductions in the periods described. Eligible policyholders who have not yet been identified will be mailed a claim form in the coming months by these companies.

Since 2000, the Texas Attorney General’s office has obtained betterment settlements with Home State County Mutual Insurance Co., Consumers County Mutual, Insurance Co., Farmers, Texas Farm Bureau, Trinity, State Farm, Nationwide, USAA, Geico, Travelers, Safeco, Sentry, Liberty Mutual, Allstate and CNA for an estimated $16.4 million in total auto repair refunds to date. Two lawsuits against State and County Mutual Insurance Co. and Maryland Casualty Insurance Co. are pending.

To All The Women Of The Ector United Methodist Church

We are having a birthday party! The United Methodist Women are celebrating the organization of the First Women’s Society in the Methodist Church in 1869. 135 years of continuous service in the mission work of our church.

Also, our local unit was organized in 1889 as the Ladies Aid Society, now the United Methodist Women. We are celebrating our 115th anniversary!!!

Come join us on September 21st at 6:00 pm at the Church for a special program and a salad supper. We have memories, accomplishments and history to share.

Come and rejoice with us!

Lake Fannin Wilderness Park Texas

The entire community is invited to the County Commissioners Courtroom this Thursday, Sept. 23rd at 5:30 PM for the monthly meeting of the Lake Fannin Wilderness Park Texas to nominate and elect new officers.

Membership dues are only $10 a year, 100% of which is dedicated to the restoration of the historic park so that it can once again be open to local residents and visitors to Fannin County for reunions, church and community gatherings, camping, fishing, hiking and swimming.

The park was originally purchased a 100 years ago by the City of Bonham to be operated as a country club. In 1938 it became a part of FDR’s federal program to provide jobs for local residents following the Depression and as a training facility for new marketable construction skills. The clubhouse at the lake was advertised as The Ranch at Lake Fannin and became a popular resort that attracted thousands of visitors annually to its 16 cabins and lodge built of hand-hewn native logs and massive natural stone fireplaces. The lake with its boathouse, its scenic foot bridge and beaches was a popular recreational area for the local schools, churches and the entire community, as well as a tourist attraction.

The park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001 and, through a partnership arrangement with the U.S. Forest Service, restoration of the old cabins, the lodge and bathhouse, the caretaker’s cabin and many of the old facilities and the grounds have come under the care of the local volunteers of the nonprofit organization, Lake Fannin Wilderness Park, Inc.

The Best of America by Horseback Trail Ride is slated to feature the Lake Fannin Park in its 2005 television series on RFD-TV next March bringing national attention to Fannin County’s most historic natural wilderness area. Part of the programming will include interviews with people who worked on the park development in the 1930s as well as local residents who have fond memories of the activites at the lake in their youth.

The $10 membership dues can be paid at the meeting on September 23rd. All members are eligible to take part in the nomination and election of officers and are urged to attend the monthly meetings at the County Commissioners Courtroom in the Fannin County Courthouse the 4th Thursday of every month at 5:30 PM.

Txu Electric Delivery Volunteers On Move To Mississippi . About 80 crew members to rebuild lines after Hurricane Ivan.

BONHAM, TX – September 16, 2004 – About 80 volunteers from TXU Electric Delivery and 120 contractors are headed toward the Gulf Coast to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan.

Volunteers are coming from the breadth of the service area to ensure support can be offered to people in need without adversely affecting reliability or service to TXU Electric Delivery customers, said Troy Sellers, Community Relations Manager for TXU Electric Delivery.

"With the severe weather that has hit the Gulf Coast and the massive damage that has been caused to their electrical system, we are responding to the needs of the companies so they can help their customers," Sellers said. "During the major June storm we experienced in North Texas, we benefited greatly when other companies allowed us to use their contractors and sent utility employees to help in restoration. We know there is a tremendous need for assistance during a major severe weather event, and this is how we can help."

Crews originally had planned to go to Louisiana to help with restoration there, Sellers said. But initial reports from the state indicate that damage is much less than was anticipated, and officials have deferred to other areas that have suffered much greater destruction. TXU Electric Delivery crews and about half of the contractors will work on rebuilding distribution lines along the coast. The other half of the contractors will be involved in vegetation management.

"These talented crew members have volunteered to hit the road and offer their help to people with great need," Sellers said. "We are very proud of our employees who consistently demonstrate their concern and compassion for those in need, and who are willing to take on the additional burden of traveling and working hard and safely under difficult circumstances to help their neighbors."

The Southeastern U.S. has suffered great devastation during the past month in the aftermath of three major hurricanes. As a result, many electric companies are in need of additional support to restore electricity.

To help in that effort, TXU Electric Delivery previously released almost 800 contractors to help Floridians as they tried to recover from Hurricanes Frances and Charley.

Additional TXU Electric Delivery information can be obtained at www.txuelectricdelivery.com

Youth Begin Scripture Study

The alarm goes off between 4:30 and 5 a.m. Teenagers throughout Fannin county crawl out of bed and head to church for voluntary early morning scripture study. Youth, ages 14 - 18, from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began this early morning class for the 2004-05 school year on August 23 at 6 a.m. The "class" meets weekdays throughout the school year where the youth participate in scripture study and receive instruction on applying scripture to their daily lives. Beginning as freshmen, by the time they complete their high school curriculum, these teens will have received the equivalent of a college-level religion course.

Eric Rogers of the Church Education System in Salt Lake City, Utah which oversees the worldwide seminary program stated, "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began sponsoring the student seminary program in 1912, with 70 students at Grannett High School in Salt Lake City. Last year, over 380,000 young people were enrolled in seminary in over 150 countries and territories worldwide. Most were members of the Church, but many thousands of youth from other denominations attended as well. All are welcome. In addition, nearly 45,000 were enrolled in home-study programs in 2003, and 1,500 in programs tailored to students with disabilities or special needs."

Worldwide, 36,000 adult volunteer instructors teach the seminary students. They are seldom professional teachers but rather local business owners and executives, homemakers, attorneys, and others with varied backgrounds and experiences who sacrifice their time and talents. Instructors this year are Sheila Talley of Edhube and Myrna St.George of Trenton. They lead the students in a 45-minute lesson before the students disperse to attend their various high schools for regular classroom studies. This year, students from Bonham, Fannindale, Honey Grove, Leonard, and Wolfe City are enrolled. At an introductory meeting, Talley and St.George expressed to the students and parents that: "Coming to Seminary helps the students to realize the scriptures are not dead to them. They have very real application to their lives today."

"We learn as much preparing the lessons as presenting them to the students," stated Mrs. Talley. "We’re studying the New Testament this year, which, of course is about the life of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and his apostles. It’s very exciting to me to know that these students are choosing to begin their day in the most positive way they can."

"These seminary classes are open to any high school student (ages 14-18)," stated Mrs. St.George. "If other area students are interested in learning more about the New Testament, they are welcome to join us." Seminary meets at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Bonham Chapel, 1540 S. Hwy. 78, 2 miles south of the square on Highway 78 just before the intersection of FM 1629.

Bonham Man Sent To Prison For Failing To Register As Sex Offender

On September 8, James William Elmore, a convicted sex offender living in Bonham, was sentenced to five years in prison for failing to report a change of address with the Bonham Police Department. Fannin County Attorney Myles Porter handled the case.

Elmore, age 21, was placed on probation in Denton County for aggravated sexual assault of a child in 2001. Elmore moved to Bonham in May of 2004. State law requires persons convicted of sex crimes who have completed their prison sentences to report their residences, places of employment, change of automobiles and other such matters to local law enforcement at all ties. Captain Tim LaVergne of the Bonham Police Department is in charge of Bonham’s sex offender registration program. LaVergne determined that Elmore had changed his residence without informing authorities and issued an arrest warrant.

County Attorney Porter is pleased with the way the Bonham Police Department handles these cases, "Captain LaVergne keeps a watchful eye on sex offenders living in Bonham > If a sex offender is not living up to his obligations, he will beheld accountable," stated the County Attorney.

To learn more about registered sex offenders living in Fannin County, go to www.fannincountyattorney.com. The County Attorney’s website features a "Sex offender of the week" and gives citizens easy access to the the Texas Department of Public Safety’s sex offender database.

Matt Cox Wins Channel 12 A+ Athlete Award

Matt Cox, a third generation Ector High School Senior won the Channel 12 A+ Athlete Award. Matt stands now with a 99.119 grade point average and is very active in all sports. He was voted the Most Defensive Player in basketball both his Sophomore and Junior year and last year he received the Eagle Award, which is the highest athletic award given by the coach. He said Matt gives all he has in everything he attempts.

He runs the 10 & 200 yards in track and also runs cross-country. Last year he advanced to regional in both track and tennis. He is a member of the Trinity Baptist Church in Bonham and plays slow pitch softball on his church league and is president of the Ector High School Fellowship of Christian Athlete’s. He has been a Beta Club member all four years of high school and has participated in the talent at State level each year. He is also on the National Honor Roll. Matt is an all around guy and was voted Best All Around last year by his peers.

Matt and his brother Mason are members of the Ector FFA and have been showing registered Brangus cattle since they were nine years old. They have received many first place ribbons, belt buckles, money, and other items for their show animals and in showmanship. They travel to shows all over the State and also attend the National Junior Brangus shows out of state. They have both gained a lot of knowledge and met many friends at these shows.

Matt is the son of Mike and Lanna Cox of Savoy and plans to attend college when he graduates.

Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce staff visits Kiwanis meeting. Buster Norman, Misty Munger, Bill Jones, Richard Danner and Dori Leatherwood.

Bonham Kiwanis welcome new members. Joe Moss welcomes new Kiwanis member Kenneth Karl from TDCJ Moore Unit.

Bonham Kiwanis welcome guests. Don Coleman, Mary-K Wilson, and Palmer Rayford.

Bonham City Commissioners Meeting

By: Sarah Meek

The Bonham City Commissioners met on Monday, September the 14th for a regular meeting. The Commission first approved the minutes of the August 9th, 23rd, 24th, 30th, and September 2nd and 7th meetings, and also approved the financial report for August 2004.

The Commission took action and approved BEDCO Board’s actions.

• The purchase of maintenance equipment

• Approval of fiscal year 2004-2005 operating budget

• Approval of Glenn Taylor for position of Executive Director

Action was taken on the new Lake Bonham Rules and Regulations. Mike Walthall explained how the rules and regulations were decided upon. Mr. Walthall was assigned a project to recommend changes to the Rules and Regulations to Lake Bonham to help improve it. He put together a group to help. Six were Lake Bonham residents and the others were from various businesses in Bonham. The group helped Mr. Walthall through seven drafts of the Rules before taking them to the residents of Lake Bonham. A meeting was held at the VFW and about 40 people commented on the Rules.

The Commission approved the Rules, Regulations and Subdivision Building Restrictions and the Rules and Regulations for Public Recreation and Water Activities for Lake Bonham on a 4-0 vote.

The Commission approved the first reading of an ordinance revising fees for various water and sewer utility fees to include water taps, deposits, connect fees, non-payment fees, sewer taps and provision of sewer jet-rodding service to other municipalities.

A 1997 Crown Victoria with 48,000 miles was approved for purchase to be used as a vehicle for the Police Department.

Lt. Dale Day was using a Jeep for the DARE program. The money from selling the Jeep will be used to work on the new car and get it ready for patrol.

A public hearing was held on the first reading of the ordinance for zone change from ‘LI’ Light Industrial to ‘B’ General Business for 178.447 acres located at the intersection of the western city limits and the M & P Railroad. The Commission approved the ordinance, 4-0.

A public hearing was held on the first reading of an ordinance for a zone change from ‘R’ Residential to ‘D’ Duplex on Lots 5 and 6 Block 21 in the Fairview Addition (1615 and 1619 Oriental Street), requested by Pat Fournier. The Commission approved the ordinance, 4-0.

Three-year city property tax abatements were approved for the following residences: 904 Legend Avenue, 1004 Legend Avenue, 1200 Pioneer Trail, and 2212 North Village Drive.

A five-year city property tax abatement was approved for 813 East Twelfth.

Lou Norman and Rusty Deets were re-appointed as members of the Bonham Housing Finance Corporation Board of Directors. The Commission will vote on another member at the next scheduled meeting.

In other business, the court approved:

• A request from Barney W. Bray III for a CPI increase as per solid waste contract

• Advanced Funding Agreement Amendment No. 1 between the Texas Department of Transportation and the City of Bonham, changing location of the Visitor’s Center to the downtown square and allowing purchase of the building to serve as local share of grant project.

• An Interlocal Participation Agreement for the Texas Local Government Purchasing Cooperative

• Submission of grant application to Office of Rural Community Affairs for the 2005-2006 CDBG grant application cycle for street improvements on South Fifth.

Sunday, September 26, at 1:30 pm, at the Sam Rayburn Softball Field. Donations will be accepted at the gate.