Van Alystne Educator With Cash Prize

Michelle Wichers, an educator in the Van Alstyne ISD and science teacher at Van Alstyne Middle School recently won $100.00 through educationappreciation.com, an Internet resource for teachers to locate lesson plans and other classroom materials. The Education Appreciation program is available to teachers only through Sponsorships that are paid by local businesses. Bob Utter Ford Lincoln Mercury In Sherman is the sponsor for all the school districts in Grayson County. Educationappreciation features thousands of lesson plans, classroom learning activities and education Research materials. The system also offers hundreds of links directly related to Texas Education and provides routing to participating school district Internet sites.

"We believe every business in the area should give back something of value to the communities they serve", said Bob Utter of Bob Utter Ford Lincoln Mercury. " We feel strongly that education plays a major role in the positive future of our area and that educators should be given every opportunity available to help enhance their teaching skills. We are proud to offer them Education Appreciation- a wonderful resource for administrators and teachers", Mr. Utter said.

New Traffic

State Representative Larry Phillips

The provision of public safety is a primary responsibility of our government. Each legislative session, many bills are passed aimed at protecting the lives of Texans. A number of new traffic laws were passed during the recent legislative session of which Texas drivers should be aware.

However, first I would like to clarify a rumor which has spread throughout the state regarding HB 281. An erroneous e-mail has circulated claiming that HB 281, which would have outlawed talking on a cell phone while driving—or without using a hands-free device—had passed and was to take effect September 1. The bill did not pass and did not take effect. I have received a number of phone calls inquiring about this rumor. OK, onto bills that actually did pass.

SB 193 requires drivers nearing a stopped emergency vehicle that has its lights activated to vacate the lane closest to the emergency vehicle if the highway has two or more lanes traveling the direction of the emergency vehicle. If the road does not have multiple lanes in the same direction, drivers are required to slow to a speed of not more than 5 miles per hour if the posted speed limit is less than 25 mph. If the posted speed limit is 25 mph or more, drivers are required to slow to a speed that is 20 mph slower than the posted speed limit. For example, if the posted speed limit is 35 mph, a driver would have to slow to 15 mph to pass the emergency vehicle.

A violation is punishable by a maximum fine of $200. If the violation results in property damage, the maximum fine increases to $500. If the violation results in bodily injury, the offense is enhanced to a Class B misdemeanor.

HB 1326 automatically suspends for one year the drivers license of anyone convicted of illegally racing on a public roadway. Before the license can be reinstated, the driver would have to complete 10 hours of community service. The penalty for street racing increases to a Class B misdemeanor.

The law also increases the penalties for other offenses committed while street racing, such as racing drunk, possessing open containers of alcohol in the vehicle when racing or seriously injuring or killing someone during a race. The offenses range from a Class A misdemeanor to a second-degree felony.

HB 1330 allows a drivers license applicant to voluntarily list on their license any health condition that might impede communication with peace officers. The applicant must supply DPS with a written statement from a licensed physician. This law takes effect Jan. 1, 2004.

SB 45 makes it a state jail felony to drive while intoxicated with a passenger younger than 15. SB 613 suspends the driver license of anyone under 21 who is convicted of the manufacture, delivery, possession, transportation or use of an abusable volatile chemical.

Please feel free to contact me if I may be of assistance regarding 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.

Ector FCCLA Remembers

A SEPT.11TH ceremony was held at the Ecto I.S.D. to remember and pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

The Ector FCCLA Officers organized the ceremony, which was held at the school flagpole. All students and teachers dressed in patriotic red, white, and blue. Sisters Christian and Summer Mercer sang the Star Spangled Banner and a memento to the ceremony, a small American Flag was given to each one.

Ector FCCLA Officers are: Kayla Hopkins, Amanda Johnson, Kayla Harbison, Britnee Beezley, Kayla Redden,

Ashley Pampuch, Cassie Glaser and Wendi Ball.

TMA Statement Regarding Victory Of Proposition 12:

Attribute to Charles W. Bailey, Jr., president, Texas Medical Association

"The real winners of this election are the people of Texas who can be more certain that doctor will be there for them when they’re sick or injured.

"The physicians of Texas and our patients owe a debt of gratitude to the Republican and Democratic legislators who recognized the serious threat to health care in Texas and passed the legislation enabling today’s vote.

"We also thank Governor and Mrs. Perry for their tireless campaigning on the issue.

"I can’t end the thanks without pointing out how hard our doctors, their spouses, and others in the medical community worked to keep the debate focused on the true issue-access to care."

TMA is the largest state medical society in the nation, representing more than 38,000 physician and medical student members. It is located in Austin and has 120 component county medical societies around the state. TMA’s key objective is to improve the health of all Texans.

Top Of Texas Builders Association Remembering "

Nine-Eleven 01"

State Senator Bob Deuell spoke to the members and guests at the Top of Texas Builders Assn. at Shumardii’s for their remembrance of "Nine-Eleven-01." Senator Deuell was awarded the honor of Top Senator in the State by the State Firefighters in Austin. Fire chiefs of Fannin County were honored at this dinner meeting.

"Give me liberty or give me death," these words of the revolutionary Christian lawyer, Patrick Henry, rang out and history came "alive" as Dr. Gary Sissom, in costume of 1775 period repeated the words of a hero from the past. The occasion was the meeting of Top of Texas Builders Assn. Tuesday, at Shumardii’s held in remembrance of the terrorist attack on the United States in New York City by El Quada, Muslin extremists on Sept. 11, 2001.

The setting for the program "Patrick Henry Speaks" was one year prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the American colonists are continuing to gather arms in rebellion against oppressive British rule. The British army and navy occupy the town and port of Boston. As tensions mount the British Governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, has dissolved the colony’s legislature. Having been dissolved, the Burgesses, meeting secretly in Richmond, listen as Patrick Henry of Hanover County stands to speak in favor of armed rebellion. Dr. Sissom gave this historic speech which lead to the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution of the United States.

Honored guests were the chiefs of the Bonham Fire and Police Departments, and 12 area volunteer Fire Chiefs from Fannin County, and their families.

They honored the men and women who daily in this county risk their lives to help and rescue others---­strangers---and "they represent a group of good Samaritans who rush forth to help anyone in danger, with no thought of their own safety."

Dr. Sissom’s portrayal of Patrick Henry showed history repeating itself as the choice of "Liberty or Death" is once more a choice in American life, and this battle is being fought in Iraq instead of on this Continent. Again, the citizens must demand "Liberty and justice for all" not just a favored few whose intent is to take over and control a nation.

Special guests to honor this event were Dr. Bob Deuell, state senator, who had just been honored by the Texas Association of Fire Fighters for being "Outstanding Senator; and State Rep. Larry Phillips who thanked the Fire Fighters and the Police for their heroic deeds, and invited all to call him at any time for information or issues in the state government.

Mayor Carl McEachern of Bonham gave the invocation.

Jim Simpson, president, Bonham Chamber of Commerce, was a special guest.

Jay Stephens, president of Top of Texas Builders Asn. made a special presentation to each honored fireman and policeman and their families. The Top of Texas Association presented plaques of the Bill of Rights with the inscription on brass--"In Appreciation for Heroic Service, the name of the honored fireman and policeman , and ‘Nine-Eleven-01 ‘ Never to Forget from Top of Texas Builders Assn. Sept. 9, 2003."

The honored heros receiving plaques included Fire chief Mike Baker, Police Chief Mike Bankston of Bonham and Volunteer Fire Chiefs; Kenneth Burks of Bailey, Tim Weiler of Dodd City, J. C. Cobb of Ector, Wayne Parks of Honey Grove, Doug McKinney of Ladonia, Roby Watson of Leonard, John Naylor of North Fannin Co. Fire Dept., Rodney Blackerby of Randolph, Jim Hughes of Ravenna, Billy Burks of Savoy, James Skidmore, Telephone, C. J. Fillingham of Trenton. Roby Watson was recognized for 30 years as a volunteer fireman.

Tim Weiler of Dodd City, is fire chief, and also president of the Fannin County Chief Association, and Assistant Emergency Management Coordinator for 911 Emergencies.

The president of the host group explained to guests that Top of Texas Builders Assn. is a service, non-profit group in the county stressing higher standards for building, is a clearing house for information on construction, legislation, regulations, and a gathering of individuals from all areas and businesses . The group is affiliated with the state and national associations,

Hosts introduced for this special commemoration of "Nine-Eleven 01" Eugene "Stretch" Lund of Sherman, Lee Hamby of Tri Glass, Bryan Peeler of Fannin Bank, Paul Hodge of Hodge Construction, Jennifer Kirkpatrick of Bonham State Bank, and Jay and Marilyn Stephens of Stephens Builder.

Door prizes donated by Mary’s Boutique, Brookshires, Susie McEachern, and Stephens Builder were awarded to Kimberly Fillingham, Alice Michaud, Joe Ward, Melody Michaud, Billy Burks, Micala Michaud, Jacob Nelson, Virgil Bowling, Wayne Denninger, Rita Hughes, J.C. Cobb, Sue Watson, Terry Blackerby, Richard Glaser, Billy Burks and Shawn Battey .

Color Guard, commanded by Erin Michaud, included Jeff Harrell, Russell Prichett, Shawn Battey, and Jacob Nelson.

Attorney General Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit

Cody Mann Of Granbury Found Guilty,

Sentenced By Jury

AUSTIN - Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit, with help from the Fort Worth Police Department and Hood County District Attorney Rob Christian, obtained a nine-year prison sentence against Lawrence Codell (Cody) Mann, 23, of Granbury. A Hood County jury heard the child pornography case the week of Sept. 8.

Mann was convicted on nine counts of promotion and possession of child pornography for posting obscene images of children to a Yahoo Web site. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tipped Abbott’s Cyber Crimes investigators about this posting, and investigators determined from his Yahoo "profile page" that Mann had created this "photo album" page.

A search warrant for Mann’s home ensued in mid-January 2003. Cyber Crimes investigators and a Fort Worth Police Department forensics expert gathered electronic evidence of child pornography from Mann’s home computer. Mann was indicted by a grand jury last February.

"I applaud the jury for recognizing that there should be no leniency when it comes to crimes against children," said Attorney General Abbott. "We’re proud of the role our office plays in making sure depraved individuals like this are taken off the streets."

The nine-year sentence came after the jury reviewed evidence tied to three counts of promotion and six counts of possession of this material. Promotion of child pornography is a second-degree felony, with a punishment range of from two to 20 years in jail. Possession is a third-degree felony.

Country Music Hoe-Down

There will be a big county music show featuring the best of country music this Saturday night, Sept. 27th, at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down, 1/2 mile from 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: Randy Keister, George Kirby, Glen Clark, Michael Williams, Paul Matthews, Mike Stroud, Fred Ulich and Gary Monroe.

Our scheduled special guest will be super talented, Jimmy Rhodes from Celina, TX, and for the first time on our country music stage, our long time friend, the multi talented Mike Copeland from Farmersville, TX. Sounds like fun. Plus we are expecting other drop-in guests.

Everyone is invited and welcome to an evening of clean fun and entertainment. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for supporting the Hoe-Down. May God bless all of you. For information call: 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

"Nine-Eleven-01" Never to Forget

Bonham Fire Chief Mike Baker receives an honorary plaque of the "Bill of Rights" inscribed with "In Appreciation for Heroic Service" and the occasion being the remembrance of tragedy in New York City. Jay Stephens (right), president of Top of Texas Builders Assn. of Fannin County, makes the presentation to Mike Baker (left). The meeting was at Shumardi’s restaurant.

Marriage Licenses of Fannin County

James Richard Underwood & Whitney Brook Lambert

Jimmy Dwayne Minyard & Marvel Ann Brown

Dale B. Conklin & Angela Kay Cunningham

Tracy Delano Wilson & Kelly Marie Monday

Reginald Realdo Smedley & Pamela Elaine White

Joseph Andrew Wilcox & Virginia Irene Capehart

Ronald Vanryn & Donnalla Lea Christian

Michael Wayne Colley & Joyce Margaret Jones

Kaven Ray Keen & Denise Renee Kruse

John Alvin Smith, Jr. & Crystal Cooper Kant

George Lewis Woodworth & Donna Welch Hannibal

Ray Lynn Harvey & Theresa Leann Ford Wyatt

Benjamin Ray Taylor & Jamie Lynn Hasten

Rickey Oneal Williams & Sandra Kay Mason

Jeffrey Alan Jones & Rebecca Kay Evans

Jimmy Lee Handy & Petra Michelle Gillilan

Joshua Leslie Clark & Kimberly Lynn Kirkpatrick

Michael Andrew Fisk & Tiffany Ryan Richards

Budget Amendment,

Teacher Appraisal Revisions For BISD

By Paul Berryhill

Bonham School Board trustees approved an amendment to their almost $12 million budget at last week’s regularly scheduled meeting. Amendment items included the addition of two science teachers and junior high cheerleader travel expenses.

Superintendent Dr. Linda Gist said there were some overcrowded classrooms at L.H. Rather Jr. High due to not having a fully dedicated science teacher. "We did find two excellent teachers," Gist said. Julianne Robinson will teach science at the junior high school and Tammy Resmini was hired at the high school as a science teacher as well.

The other amendment item was junior high cheerleader travel expenses. Parents of junior high cheerleaders had been taking the squad to out of town games at their own expense. Supt. Gist recommended the cheerleaders be able to take a school van to out of town events.

Enrollment in Bonham ISD for 2003 stands at 2,009 as of August 31^st which is up from last year on the same date by five students. Average daily attendance thus far this year is 1,885.

"We are all focusing on teaching the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills so that our students will do well on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) tests," Gist explained. "We are trying to do everything we can to make sure we’re instructing the students in the best way possible so that they will be successful in the spring.

Trustees approved the 2004 budget for the Fannin County Appraisal District and also approved a resolution to nominate candidates for the positions on the Fannin County Appraisal District Board of Directors. Current directors on the FCAD board were nominated and include John Burnett, Doyce Taylor, Linda Montanio, Ronnie Cooper and Donna Baugh. Various entities in Fannin County have an opportunity to nominate candidates to the board. After all nominees are received, ballots will be sent to the entities for a final vote and election of the new board of directors.

The Board approved revisions to the local policy regarding teacher appraisals. "What happened is that the Legislature passed a bill allowing teachers who have proficient scores in all areas on their most recent appraisals to exempt themselves from other appraisals. Those teachers must have one appraisal every five years," Gist explained. Teachers must agree in writing to be appraised less than annually.

The revision approved by the Board says, "Teachers who are new to BISD will be appraised and teachers on probationary contracts will be appraised annually.

"We would like to have that option. Even though a teacher might have taught five or 10 years in another district or a number of districts, we would still like to be able to appraise them by putting it in our policy," Gist said.

BISD Board of Trustees present for the meeting included Charlotte Kearney, Charles Butler, Clark Smith, Doyce Taylor and Allen Sanderson. Absent from the meeting were Mike Sisk and Nolan Ashmore.

Kimberly Morgan, TXU Corporate Spokesperson from Dallas and Troy Sellers (right) local Bonham Oncor Manager visited with Tom Turner of The Fannin County Special last week. Morgan and Sellers visited with area media in an effort to improve media relations and public communication.

Charles Herpeche, Bonham Brookshire’s Grocery Store Director, recently received his 25 year award from the company. Herpeche is one of only a few Brookshire’s store directors who has been with the same store location throughout his 25 year career. He is congratulated by Betty Bishop, Bonham store employee who has 22 years to her own credit.

the soapbox

By Paul Berryhill

My songs are about typical C&W subjects – like jails and prisons for instance. One of my first hits was Finally Out of Jail, Had Trouble Making $50 Bail. And, of course, a good C&W tune talks about drinking. An old time favorite is, "I Do My Best Thankin’ When I’ma Drankin’ and also I Know’d It Was Over, When I Got Sober and You Looked Like Rover.

My real talent however, is in writing Country songs about love and relationships. Check out these old favorites … Our Relationship Was Really Buzzin’ But Then I Found Out Yore My Cuzzin, and There’s Been No Other Since You Runned Off with My Brother, and who can forget When You Shave Yore Legs They’re Slicker Than Hen Eggs.

Assessing Iraq

Kay Bailey Hutchison

Operation Iraqi Freedom was the most widely covered war in our nation’s history. For the first time, reporters and camera crews were embedded in military units beaming live pictures of the conflict back to the United States, providing real time battlefield updates. Yet round-the-clock coverage does not begin to come close to the experience of seeing, hearing and feeling the danger firsthand.

I recently traveled to the Middle East to visit our troops and assess the situation in person. What I found is troubling.

I have often traveled overseas - to Europe and the Middle East - to talk with our troops to better understand their living conditions, their needs and the threats they face.

But what I saw in Iraq was unlike anything I’d seen in the Balkans even at the height of the conflict there. The situation in Iraq is far more treacherous than we anticipated. Conflict continues. The battle has shifted. Following a bril­liant conventional military campaign, our troops now wage unconventional warfare. Every day, they defend against guerrilla-type tactics.

Americans are being ambushed and danger lurks around every corner.

That point was brought home to me in a profound and dramatic way. I was within five miles of the United Nations compound in Baghdad when a truck bomb killed 23 people, including the top U.N. envoy to Iraq. Our leaders on the ground believe the remnants of Saddam Hussein’s regime are trying to stop the progress of rebuilding Iraq. But they also believe terrorists are coming over the border from Iran, Syria and Saudi Arabia.

It is clear we are stretched too thin in Iraq. We need more troops to help restore order and keep the peace. Not necessarily more U.S. troops; troops from the NorthAtlantic Treaty Organization and nations in the region that have a stake in the success of this mission could be immensely helpful.

We also need people who can begin the rebuilding process in earnest and for the long term. We need civil engineers, those who speak Arabic and people with border patrol experience.

The war on terrorism is ongoing and escalating.

My Middle East itinerary included meetings with Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, and then-Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas.

Each of these men has been called upon to provide leadership in the heart of the most volatile region on earth. Each has the responsibility - and the historic opportunity - to effect positive change. Each has the capacity to meet that challenge.

The escalation of violence throughout the Middle East and around the globe is a clarion call to all nations of the earth. This is not just an American problem. If terrorism succeeds against Western nations, it will be turned on Islamic governments that are not considered extreme enough. Some of our allies in the war on terror are doing their part, but it is not enough. Moderate Arab countries must also join in the fight. Standing on the sidelines implies silent support for terrorist actions.

A coalition of Muslim forces participating with se­curity and reconstruction efforts in Iraq would signal not only solidarity, but a genuine desire to create a peaceful and prosperous region. It could help our human intelligence capabilities as well.

Our country has called our troops to duty and they have readily answered the call. But they are living in very harsh conditions, and they are living in danger.

If we are going to continue the high operations tempo of peacekeeping, fighting a war on terrorism while remain­ing prepared to fight elsewhere, we need more soldiers and the support of other nations in the Middle East. Failure is not an option.

If we don’t bring this battle to the terrorists, they will bring it to us - again - on U.S. soil. September 11, 2001 is not a distant memory; it is a constant reminder of the menace of terrorism. We must stamp it out. Peace, security and the future of our civilization demand it.

Red River Valley Antique Car Club

The Red River Valley Antique Car Club held their regular monthly meeting at the American Bank - in the Elizabeth May Room, Thursday, 11th at 7 pm. With 27 members present. We had 2 new members to join. Activities for the month of September were to donate $25.00 to C.J. Brinlee Girl Scout Exhibition at the Bonham State Park. Several members attended the Tom Bean Chigger Fest Antique and Classic Car Show on Saturday Sept. 13th. Plans were made for a Christmas Party on Dec. 11th. Details at a later meeting. We will be displaying Our Antique Cars at the Sam Rayburn Chili Cook Off, on Sept. 20th, starting at 10 am.

We will be in the Fannin County Fair Parade Oct. 16th. There will be a Swap meet Sept 18th to 21st, Hwy 289 south of Hwy 56 Sherman, Tex.

CAR SHOWS in our Area: Sept. 13th Tom Bean; Sept. 20th Hugo, Ok; Sept. 27th and 28th Paris, Tx North Texas Travelers Rod Run; Sept. 28th Bois d’Arc Bash Car & Truck Show City Park in Commerce, Tx; Oct. 4th Wolfe City, Tx downtown; Oct. 11th Colbert, Ok; Frontier Day; Oct. 18th Whitesboro, Tx Peanut Festival.

BONHAM CRUISE NIGHT every Friday night weather permitting on the Court House Square we had 31 cars last Friday night. Everyone Welcome (several restaurants in walking distance.) Bring your lawn chairs and join the fun, starting around 6 pm.

The next regular monthly meeting will be on Thursday October 9th, 7 pm at American Bank.

Medicare Prescription Drug Bill Will Impact Seniors’ Health Care

State Senator Bob Deuell

As a doctor in family practice, my life’s work and day-to-day passion have exposed me to the plight of many of our nation’s seniors who do not have access to affordable prescription drugs. For seniors on Medicare, this access has become even more difficult in recent years.

Medicare was designed and implemented nearly 40 years ago, and that in that time, health care has progressed by leaps and bounds. Forty years ago, prescription drugs consumed a much smaller share of this market, and patients needed surgery, nursing home residences, emergency room visits and various other expensive services much more often.

But drug companies have made marvelous progress developing new drugs that treat many more illnesses and conditions, reducing the need for and frequency of these expensive procedures. Even so, Medicare beneficiaries are seemingly stuck in a forty-year time warp because many can’t afford these miracle drugs.

That is why I joined with Senator Rodney Ellis during the 78th Legislative Session in authoring the "Fair Market Prescription Drug Pricing and Prescription Drug Assistance Program" (Senate Bill 797). This bill sought to lower the price of prescription drugs provided by Medicaid and other state programs, and make prescription drugs more affordable, even for people without insurance.

More recently, I participated in a Community Health Care forum in Mesquite sponsored by Congressman Jeb Hensarling. He asked me to provide a state-of the-state with regard to health care issues. Following my report, many of our constituents stated their real concern for prescription drug coverage within the Medicare program. Currently, many low-income seniors receive their medication through Texas’ Medicaid program.. But with the state in a budget deficit this year, Texas cannot afford to provide a drug benefit for all of its seniors in the years ahead. Congress is poised to do something about this problem within the next few weeks, and I believe they should.

There are 10 million senior citizens in this country who have no prescription drug coverage at all. They desperately need prescription drug coverage, and Congress can help by approving a prescription drug benefit within the federal Medicare program. Now is the time to bring Medicare into the 21 st Century and empower older Americans to live longer and more productive lives.

Congress will soon consider a Medicare prescription drug benefit that has reached the final stages of negotiation and approval. But final passage must be won before we can declare victory for all seniors. And declare victory we should; the proposals being considered are exactly on track in my view. For instance, the prescription drug benefit currently being considered by Congress would encourage employers to continue coverage of prescription drugs for retirees. At present, many employers are dropping this coverage. Various components of the Medicare prescription drug benefit legislation would make continuing employer drug coverage cheaper in the long-term, to encourage them to preserve this benefit so that fewer elderly Americans would ultimately have to rely upon Medicare for health care coverage.

Of the seniors who do possess some prescription drug coverage, many of their plans are limited and do not provide adequate care. HMO coverage often includes various limits to care, Medigap coverage does not include catastrophic coverage for prescription drugs, and employer-sponsored coverage is increasingly subject to greater restriction. Congress can provide adequate care by working now to pass a prescription drug benefit that will enable 93% of seniors to utilize a complete prescription drug benefit.

Our nation’s seniors are waiting for Congress to approve a prescription drug benefit that encourages them to participate in the program as customers as well as beneficiaries. Each senior participating in the program would contribute approximately $1 per day towards the cost of their premium, and in return realize a 50% decrease in their overall drug costs. This is a long step in the direction of progress and will carry us forward into the 21 st Century - as Medicare’s designers intended.

These proposals are part of a comprehensive framework that would give seniors more reliable and affordable options for health care coverage, and will keep Medicare’s benefits financially secure. This plan is about options and choices for seniors, and it will allow seniors to keep the coverage they currently have with no changes if they choose.

Having worked in the medical field for many years, I cannot emphasize enough the need to pass a Medicare prescription drug benefit bill to empower beneficiaries with choice, competitive prices, a reasonable and affordable contribution and the benefits of bulk purchasing - all of which will work to contain costs on a larger scale by keeping our seniors health and out of the hospital.

Bonham Snap Center

Pepper Steak, Scallopesd Potatoes, Greens, Bread, Pears, Milk

Baked Spaghetti, Mexicali Corn, Tossed Salad/Dressing, Garlic Bread, Bread Pudding, Milk

Bookraiser Event Benefits Children

The Fannin County Republican Women held a book drive at the Fannin County Museum of History and received over 650 books to be used at the new library at the Fannin County Children’s Center.

Bookmark contest winner Samantha Bryant and runner up Jeff Sullivan receive recognition at the Bookraiser Event from Sandra Ward, President of the Republican Women. Also pictured is Tom Scott, Director of the Museum and Lenda High of Savoy.

Samantha Bryant signs some of her 3,000 reproduced bookmarks. Also shown are the winning bookmark designs submitted by 7th & 8th grade students in the county.

Sandy Barber, Executive Director of the Fannin County Children’s Center accepts a statue of two beautiful children reading and the 650 plus books to be used to benefit children at the center. The beautiful statue was given in the memory of Jayne Deweese.

Paradise Cove Comes To Seven Oaks Care Center

Do you ever dream of you own Paradise Cove, complete with a Luau? Well all the residents at Seven Oaks Care Center couldn’t go to Hawaii so Doris Matlock, Activity Director, brought Paradise Cove to them. It took a lot of planning and a lot of help from other staff and volunteers to create the right atmosphere and the residents enjoyed every minute of it. Tropical drinks complete with little umbrellas were served from the Tiki Bar and amidst the inflated coconut trees others were serving from the fresh fruit display. Many residents and staff dressed for the occasion in Hula skirts, Hawaiian shirts and everyone had their leis on. The party really got started when a few brave staff volunteered to do a Hula dance and then it was "How low can you go?" with the limbo. For all the Reggae music and fun they were having it could have been a Jamaican beach party.

The residents got their competitive juices flowing with a rather wild game of hot potato, played with apples from the fruit display. The grand finale was a tropical fish pinata that took a pretty good beating before spilling out a massive amount of candy. It is not any easy task to create a Luau style beach party in the dining room of a nursing home, but the staff at Seven Oaks is never afraid to take on a challenge for the benefit of their residents. Doris has proven time and time again that a lot of work, help and planning is worth it when you see the residents really having a good time. Doris says, "The best part is when I am walking by a week later and over hear some of residents still talking and laughing about something we have done. That is why I do this job." When asked what was planned next she hinted at some outdoor excursion now that the weather is cooling off then said, "After that will be the big Halloween costume party, that is always fun and we can put our own twist on it. We will need volunteers to be judges and more costume supplies." And the planning begins...

In the spirit of the Luau: Mary Caldwell, Administrator T.W. Bowen playing his ukulele and Doris Matlock.

West Nile Virus Settles Into Texas Landscape

Much like the uninvited houseguest who unpacks and never leaves, West Nile virus has come to Texas to stay.

"West Nile virus first appeared in Texas in June 2002 and has since moved across the state," said Joe Garrett, a veterinarian with the zoonosis control division at the Texas Department of Health (TDH). "We probably should consid­er West Nile virus endemic to the state now, much like St. Louis encephalitis is permanently established in Texas," Garrett said. "But West Nile virus is new to us, and we still are trying to understand it, We cannot predict what kind of a season we will have this year,"

In 2002, West Nile virus was reported in 213 Texas counties. A total of 202 serious West Nile cases, including 13 deaths, were reported in humans. The virus also was identified in 1,697 horses and 518 birds.

The TDH Laboratory tested more than 160,000 mosquitoes in 7,350 ‘groups or pools last year for a variety of mosquito-borne infections including West Nile virus; St. Louis encephalitis; and Western, Eastern and Venezuelan equine encephalitis. Of these mosquito pools, 466 of them were positive for; a variety of mosquito-borne viruses and 189 pools were positive for West Nile virus.

Mosquitoes generally are collected and tested from May through November, but several areas in the state have year-round surveillance.

"Testing mosquitoes and dead birds - generally jays, crows and hawks - gives us a way of actively tracking the virus to alert affected communities that they may need to take precautions to protect themselves, "Garrett said, "Tracking illnesses in humans and horses also gives us a more complete picture of the spread of the virus."

Mosquitoes get the West Nile virus by biting infected birds, People and animals ;get West Nile from the bite of an infected mosquito, not from other people, animals or birds.

West Nile virus infections usually are mild with flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, sore throat, body aches and fatigue, occasionally with skin rash and swollen lymph glands. Symptoms of more severe West Nile infections -­ encephalitis and meningitis - include headache, high fever, stiff neck, disorien­tation, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, coma and paralysis, If you have these symptoms, contact your health care provider right away.

The incubation period for West Nile virus is three to 14 days. Mild symptoms may last a few days while symptoms of the more severe illness may last several weeks. Neurological effects may be permanent, and West Nile can be fatal. Fewer than 1 percent of those bitten by infected mosquitoes become severely ill.

Currently no vaccine is available to combat West Nile virus in people, and no specific treatment is given for the infection other than supportive therapies for fever or pain. "People can, however, do a great deal to protect themselves, their families and their communities," said Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, Texas Commissioner of Health, "Reducing exposure to mosquitoes is one of the most important things."

Dr. Sanchez urged people to remember the four D’s:

Stay indoors from dusk to dawn, times when those mosquitoes likely to carry the infection are most active.

Dress in pants and long sleeves when you are outside, especially in mosquito-infested areas,

Apply insect repellent that contains DEET. Read and follow label instruc­tions. Spray both exposed skin and clothing with repellent.

Get rid of standing water in your yard and neighborhood, Old tires, flower­pots, clogged rain gutters, leaky pipes and faucets, birdbaths and wading pools can be breeding sites for mosquitoes.

Garrett said it also is important to keep mosquitoes out of the house. "Be sure door, porch and window screens are in good condition," he said.

Cities, counties, mosquito control districts or local health deparments will implement pesticide application if they consider such action appropriate for their communities.

"West Nile virus can infect just about any animal from alligators to zebras," Garrett said, "but most do not become sick."

Horses, however, seem to be most susceptible to the infection, the veterinarian noted. "A vaccine that is about 95 percent effective in preventing West Nile in horses is available," Garrett said. "Horses not previously immunized need two shots given three to six weeks apart, with a annual booster thereafter, Protection begins about three to four weeks after the last shot."

Even if horses were vaccinated late last year, Garrett advises that the animals be given the booster shot now rather than waiting a full year.

West Nile virus originally detected in Uganda in 1937. It was first identified in the United States in New York in 1999 and has since spread westward and southward across the country to 44 states and the District of Columbia. A total of 4,008 human cases were recorded nationwide by the end of last year.

TDH operates a toll-free line in English and Spanish - 888-883-9997- providing information on dead bird testing, mosquito surveillance and other West Nile virus topics. Additional information, statistics and maps are available by clicking on the West Nile virus information link on the TDH Web site at www.tdh.state.tx.us.

What You Need To Know About West Nile Virus

People over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe disease. It is not known if people with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk for West Nile virus.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus infection. In severe cases, intensive supportive therapies are indicated, such as intravenous fluids and medicine to control fever or pain. Antibiotics may be given for any secondary bacterial infection.

Less thank 1 percent of those bitten by infected mosquitoes become severely ill. If you have the symptoms mentioned on this flyer, contact your doctor immediately.

Contact your local health department. West Nile virus information can be found on the Texas Department of Health Web site at www.tdh.state.tx.us and the CDC Web site at: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm.

SPUR-net Research Improves Patient Care

HOUSTON – Primary care physicians are forming a research network to find answers to patients’ most common medical problems and increase efficiency in the exam room.

Physicians collaborate through the Southern Primary-care Urban Research Network, or SPUR-Net. The network helps improve patient care by reducing the time it takes to apply research results to practice.

"A routine office visit averages about 10 minutes, which makes it difficult to focus on health matters unrelated to the purpose of the visit but still may be important to the patient," said Dr. Grace Kuo, assistant professor of family and community medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and SPUR-Net program director. "Primary care providers are faced with many challenges in coordinating care for patients and in adhering to nationally established guidelines while examining patients."

SPUR-Net, a research network of five primary care organizations in Houston, focuses on the most common medical problems seen by physicians, such as diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.

By increasing the amount of primary research, SPUR-Net seeks to improve the quality of patient care its organizations give to the nearly one million patients they collectively serve.

"We want primary care physicians to collaborate with us so they can find answers to their patients’ questions," Kuo said. "We have such a culturally diverse area in Houston that it makes the quality of the research that our physicians do so applicable. We also welcome collaboration with other clinical researchers from Baylor, as well as researchers from other local, regional and national institutions."

Research information is disseminated on the SPUR-Net website, http://www.spurnetwork.org, and to primary care medical journals.

The network is funded by the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research and the Health Resources and Services Administration and is comprised of five primary care organizations in the Houston area, including Baylor Family Medicine, the Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, the Harris County Hospital District, Healthcare for the Homeless – Houston and the Memorial Family Practice Residency Program.

Kenneth Moore Announces Candidacy For Sheriff Of

Fannin County

Kenneth Moore announced his intentions to seek the office of Sheriff of Fannin County in the upcoming Democratic Primary in March 2004.

Moore was quoted as saying "For the past few years I have spoken to many of my peers, members of my family and friends about running for the office of Sheriff of Fannin County. Personally I believe this is the largest commitment that my family and I have made in my entire law enforcement career. My home is and always has been in Fannin County and I believe the citizens of this county are entitled to experienced and professional law enforcement. With over 900 square miles and 36,000 citizens in Fannin County it is vitally important all the citizens of Fannin County receive the best service and protection from the best trained, most experienced and professional law enforcement officers available."

Moore said his experience and training in various fields of law enforcement and criminal justice can and will make the citizens of Fannin County even more proud of their Sheriff’s Office.

Moore said in his 31-year career he has been fortunate to develop an excellent networking system with many law enforcement officers and individuals across the United States who work in different areas of the criminal justice field. He said "Knowing these people and being able to draw from their expertise is not only a plus for me if I am elected Sheriff, but these are also individuals that can and will assist the deputies of Fannin County in the performance of their duties."

Moore was also quoted as saying "If I am elected Sheriff of Fannin County I will do my best to personally see that all Sheriff’s Office employees receive more training and in turn the citizens will have better deputies, detention officers and communications and support personnel. To be effective the office of Sheriff requires all law enforcement agencies, especially those in the surrounding cities and counties, to work together and assist one another in their efforts to protect and serve the citizens of their respective jurisdictions. You as citizens are the eyes and ears of the county and many times you are more aware of what is happening than the law enforcement community. No one individual can perform the duties or manage the responsibilities of this job by themselves and this is why I will strive to stay in contact and maintain a good working relationship with all police and criminal justice agencies and the citizens of the county. The office of Sheriff is not a "ME" position, but instead a "WE" responsibility!

Moore began his law enforcement career with the Trenton Police Department in 1972 and from there went to the Sherman Police Department. He was with the police department in Sherman for approximately 6 months and then went to the Grapevine Police Department in 1973. After leaving Grapevine he was employed by the McKinney Police Department in November 1974. While with the McKinney Police Department Moore served as a patrol officer for 4½ years and was then promoted to Detective. After serving as a Detective for a year and a half he was employed as a Criminal Investigator with the Collin County District Attorney in January 1981. In October 1984 he was promoted to Chief Criminal Investigator and remained in that position until his retirement in December 2002. Moore is currently employed as the Chief of Police in Trenton.

As the Chief Investigator for the Collin County District Attorney he was responsible for the conduct, management and supervision of the investigative mission of the Office of the District Attorney. This included the investigation of major criminal cases. He also conducted pre-employment background investigations on potential employee applicants as well as internal investigations. Moore assisted the District Attorney in the preparation and execution of a multi million-dollar annual budget and provided the direct supervision to 20 investigators and administered their annual performance evaluation. The last 15 years at the District Attorney’s Office he managed and conducted the nationally recognized "Texas Homicide Symposium", a 3-day training school, sponsored by the office of the District Attorney.

Moore has over 31 years of law enforcement experience and has received more than 1400 hours of formal law enforcement training. He currently holds a Master Peace Officer Certificate and a Police Instructor License both from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education. He is an active member of the Sheriff’s Association of Texas and a current member of the Texas District & County Attorney’s Association and a past elected board member of the Investigator’s Section of that association. Moore is also a past member of the Texas Peace Officer’s Association, Texas Narcotic’s Officers Association and the Homicide Investigator’s of Texas.

He served as a part time law enforcement instructor for the Collin County Community College Law Enforcement Academy and has had one article published in the Texas Police Journal. Moore has received formal training in Management Supervision, Administrative Investigation, Supervision Development, Analytical Investigation, and Homicide Investigation. He has also been trained in crime scene search and Kinesic Interview and Interrogation and received his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Grayson County College. Moore was presented with the "Professional Criminal Investigator" award, the Chuck Dennis Memorial Award and the Oscar A. Sherrell Memorial Award for recognition of distinguished performance as a criminal investigator from the Texas District and County Attorney’s Association.

Kenneth Moore is a native of Fannin County and was born in Bonham in 1948. He is married to the former Norma Butler, also a Fannin County native. He has lived in Fannin County the majority of his entire life except for the 4 years he served in the United States Navy.

He and his wife have been married for 32 years and are members of the First United Methodist Church. They have two grown children and three grandchildren who are all Fannin County residents.

Registrations are now being accepted for the Fannin County Children’s Center fourth annual charity golf tournament.

The golf tournament will be held at the Legacy Ridge Country Club in Bonham on Friday, Oct. 3. Check-in for the four-person scramble will begin at 11:00 a.m. and the tournament will begin with a shot-gun start at noon.

This tournament will be the first chance for most golfers to play all 18 holes at Fannin County’s newest course. The entry fee is $75 a person, which includes green fees, cart, cap or visor, goodie bag, sack lunch and barbeque dinner. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams and there will be other prizes on every hole. Golfers will also have a chance of winning a brand new golf cart in a hole-in-one contest sponsored by Legacy Ridge.

All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Fannin County Children’s Center, a non-profit agency dedicated to serving the abused, neglected and needy children of Fannin County. The Center’s two primary programs include Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). CASA recruits and trains volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children involved in the court system. The Children’s Advocacy Center facilitates a team of public and private agencies who investigate, prosecute and treat child abuse in an effort to minimize the trauma to the victims.

Registration is on a first come, first serve basis and limited to 22 teams. To register, contact the Children’s Center by phone at (903) 583-4339, by email at info@fanninccc.org or in person at the Children’s Center’s new location at 112 W. 5^th Street in Bonham.

Meeting In Ladonia To Discuss Proposed

Lake Ralph Hall

A public meeting to discuss progress in development of proposed Lake Ralph Hall is scheduled for September 30, at 6:30 P.M. in the Cafetorium at the Fannindel High School in Ladonia. Mayor Leon Hurse said, "It is important to keep this important project moving for our area; but, more importantly, we need to keep our people informed." "We need to answer concerns and questions that neighbors and property owners may have," he said.

To help develop the proposed lake, the City of Ladonia and Fannin County are working with the Upper Trinity Regional Water District. The Executive Director for Upper Trinity, Tom Taylor, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work in cooperation with local people in planning this vital resource for the future of both Fannin County and Denton County. He said, "The farmers and landowners along the North Sulphur River have been enduring extensive erosion problems for over 50 years, and a new lake will be a way to solve a serious problem -- and, at the same time to create a vital water supply for future generations."

Taylor added, "At the public meeting on September 30, we will be able to provide more information and to answer additional questions, just as we promised in previous meetings." This is one in a series of public meetings to get input from local citizens and to share progress reports about the project. Studies are still underway about the erosion problem, about environmental issues and about regulatory requirements associated with a new lake. In his opinion, Taylor said that he expected it will take 12 to 15 years for all aspects of the proposed lake to be evaluated and for the lake to be constructed.

If any questions, please contact:

(1) Leon Hurse, Mayor, City of Ladonia, 903-367-7011

(2) Thomas E. Taylor, Executive Director, UTRWD, 972-219-1228

Fall Fashions At Factory Connection

Factory Connection is your Fall fashion headquarters! You’ll find all the must-haves for fall with layered knit 2fer tops accented with woven cuffs and collars. Satin trim on collars and "ruched" or gathered details on the sleeves and body will also be popular this fall.

"Camouflage pants with pockets, zippers and mesh treatments and chains will be big sellers this season," says Debbie Steppe, senior buyer for Factory Connection. Also look for "ruched" pants with gathered fabric and a drawstring for a fresh, trendy look.

The fall season would not be complete without jeans. This fall, look for jeans in different tints and washes, cargo pockets and fancy belts. "The punk look is on the rise," says Ms. Steppe. "You will see this with chains and mesh treatments on belted jeans."

Stripes will also be popular this fall on woven tops with zip fronts, button fronts and johnny collars. Look for pinstrips on menswear-look pants with wide legs and cuffs.

So, shop a Factory Connection store near you and update your fall wardrobe, today.

Smith-Tarver Reunion

The 27^th reunion was held Sunday, September 14^th at the Gober Community Center for the descendents of John J. and Elma Tarver Smith. Joetta Wallace was the MC, John Duke Smith lead us in prayer.

Those attending from Gober were Gene & Alene Brent; Annie Faye Woodson; Caribeth Sutherland; Terry Don Brent; John David; Nelda Smith; Jeff, Regina, Jaylen and Jenna Wallace; Happy and Joetta Wallace; Shane and Shawna Wallace; Jeff, Jenna, Nik and Jake Spillers; Tommy & Debbie Sutherland; Terry Sutherland; Kent Smith, and Terry Ingram. From Bonham: Nadene Hufford; James Reed Hufford; Margaret Daniels; Zachary Gibson; Gail Hamrick; Christopher Hamrick; Kevin and Donna McGaugh; Joshua and Andrew Hall; Gene and June Smith; James and Whitney Underwood; Sue and Buddy Frailicks; Jyl Herfford; Valarie Steele. From Little Elm: Mary & Larry Woodson; Michelle, Mitchel, Merdith, and Brooke Woodson. Texarkana: Billy Smith, Wilmer, TX: Jarred and Jennie Compton. Dodd City: James Compton, Dusty Compton, Mark, Beckie Daniel. Ector: Keleigh Reynolds, Jerry and Bobbie Smith, Ravenna: Jane, Keith Hall, Sherman: Boyd and Jane Smallwood, Mike and Teresa Patterson, Crystal Casares, Misty Brigman. Burleson: John Duke, Mary Smith, Denison: Given & James Sulton, Colony: Rick, Dee, Darrin, Patrick Higgin, Randolph: Jody, Jeseka Compton.

Share The Power Of A Wish

September 17, 2003 (Tyler, TX) - The Make-A-Wish Foundation^® of North Texas is seeking volunteers to assist in granting wishes to children in the Bonham/Fannin county area. The mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation^® is to grant the wishes of children with life threatening illnesses in order to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. "Many wish children have lost their childhood to hospitals and needles. Our goal is to give that childhood back, to provide wish children with something wonderful to look forward to and a reason to keep fighting," stated Lori Richard, Associate Program Director.

How does it work? After completing a four-hour wishgranter training session, wishgranters are notified as local children are referred to the Foundation. Upon accepting a wish, the wish team interviews the child to determine the child’s favorite wish, ensuring that the child has explored all the possibilities. Once the wish is approved, Foundation staff makes arrangements for travel or celebrity wishes, while wishgranters make arrangements for wishes that happen locally, such as shopping sprees or computers. "Wishgranters do not pay for the wishes, nor do they travel with families. Once arrangements for the wish are in place, the with team works behind the scenes to create the magic-planning a bon voyage party or parade, secretly delivering wish gifts, or arranging royal treatment such as a limousine ride or beauty makeover to make the day complete. Where else could you be a real-life Fairy Godparent!" stated Richard.

Wishes tend to fall into one of four categories: I wish to go, I wish to have, I wish to meet, I wish to be. Since 1993, the Foundation has granted eight wishes to children in Fannin County, including trips, celebrity meetings, a horse and more.

For more information, or to request a volunteer application, please contact the Make- Wish Foundation^® at 903-597-9474 or email lrichard@northtexaswish.org.

Do You Know Where You Would Go If You And Your Family Were Displaced Due To A Disaster?

BONHAM, TX (September 18, 2003)--When a disaster strikes, The American Red Cross opens shelters for those evacuated or displaced by a disaster, providing meals and snacks to families and to emergency workers in impacted areas. Red Cross volunteers determine families needs and helps them be aware of other community or government resources.

The Texoma Area Red Cross which includes Cooke, Fannin and Grayson counties is seeking business, churches and community centers of Fannin County willing to consider being an American Red Cross disaster shelter. Don and Trena Campbell, local disaster representatives for the Red Cross, would be happy to meet with the parties concerned and explain the procedures of becoming a designated shelter. To register as a designated shelter contact Don and Trena Campbell, pager, 903 640 7167; cell, 903-227­0926.

The American Red Cross depends on donations from individuals and business; it receives no government funding for disaster relief. Since July 2002, the Red Cross has spent $114.3 million on 3,321 disasters. It has raised only $39.5 million. Donations are urgently needed for the critically low ARC Disaster Relief Fund, which had a balance of $1.2 million as of June 30, 2002. This is not a "reserve" fund. It is a fund that allows us to bring disaster response immediately.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of these tornadoes and floods and thousands of other disasters across the country each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to those in need. Call 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may also send to the Texoma Area Red Cross, 2527 Highway 691, Denison, TX 75020. Internet users can make secure online credit card donations by visiting www.redcross.org.

County Commissioners

Adopt 2003-2004 Budget

By Paul Berryhill

Fannin County Commissioners adopted their 2003-2004 budget on Friday, Sept. 19th which saw a 7.8% increase in spending over the previous budget year. Also they approved and adopted a .60 tax rate per $100 evaluation. Commissioners voted 4-1 on both items with Pct. 4 Commissioner Pat Hilliard casting the opposing vote.

"There are just some things I would have liked to of seen done so I’m voting against it," Hilliard commented.

"The tax rate of .60 is about two cents lower than the current year’s rate, however higher property tax valuations will add money to county coffers next year.

"Friday the Court also was notified that the Fannin County Sheriff’s Department radio system needs major work or in fact, replaced. County Judge Derrell Hall said there is grant money available which could pay the full amount depending on several options involving not only equipment for patrol cars and portable radios, but also antenna systems across the county. Commissioners will be meeting on Monday, Sept. 22 to hear more about the options available to them. They did unanimously vote to spend $1,832 for a new radio system console for the Sheriff’s department as the grant money that is available would not cover that particular item. The $1,832 expense will be spent out of the current year’s budget.

Great Ants on Parade

There were some "fancy" ants parading through downtown Bonham last Saturday. The fund raiser benefiting the Creative Arts Center drew a lot of attention and participation from interested individuals and businesses the past few months. Above, the Northeast Texas Medical Center display their "Patient(Ant)" and the Easy Rider Ant  was a hit of parade attendees.

Last week at the weekly meeting of the Bonham Rotary Club, Carol Brinlee presented her Outdoor Education Program that she is working on for the highest degree of accomplishment in the Girl Scout program. She is having an outdoor exposition at Bonham State Park on Oct. 11 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. She expressed her need for financing and of manpower for this huge endeavor. If you would like to help, whether it be in a donation of money or a donation of time, please give her a call at 903-583-3482.

The Bonham Rotary Club meets on Wednesdays at 12 Noon at the Family Life Center.