Fannin County Sheriff’s Office executes warrants

In the morning hours of March 22, 2005 the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms, United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Leonard Police Department and the Red River Valley Drug Task Force, executed 9 federal arrest warrants in Fannin County. The suspects arrested were charged by indictment with Conspiracy to Deliver and Manufacture Methamphetamine as well as federal firearms violations.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms was directly involved, because firearms were allegedly sold or possessed by the suspects during illegal drug activity. Of the 9 suspects arrested 4 were females, one of which was a Celeste High School student. Two of the suspects who had federal warrants were already in custody of the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office on other felony charges. The arrested subjects were processed through the Fannin County jail then transported to the federal holding facility in Grayson County by the U.S. Marshal’s Service, where they will be arraigned by a Federal Magistrate on March 23, 2005.

The Fannin County Sheriff’s Office would like to take this opportunity to thank all law enforcement agencies involved, as well as the citizens of Fannin County, for their continued support and assistance in the fight against illegal drug activity. The cases against these suspects are currently pending investigation.

April 21, 2005 - April 24, 2005

Announcing the first Red River Valley Birding & Nature Festival, April 21-24, 2005 featuring Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge.

This 4-day event will feature seminars, field trips, workshops, cruises on Lake Texoma, a trade show, and children’s program. Our keynote speakers will be John & Gloria Tveten from Baytown, TX. On hand for the welcome reception (and a little entertainment!) will be Bill & Elsa Thompson, founders of Bird Watcher’s Digest. Events will be lead by experts from four colleges in north central Texas and Oklahoma, as well as other experts from our part of Texas.

The events will not only be specific to birding, but many other aspects of nature as well, see below. For more info see: www.redriverbirding.com

• In Search of Painted Buntings

• Birding Denison Dam and Parks

• Winemaking at the Munson Viticulture Center

• Birding Hagerman Wildlife Refuge

• Tall grass Prairie Restoration at Sneed Prairie

• Breeding Warblers of the Caddo National Grasslands

• Bug Hunt in the Arbuckles

• Exploring Nature on the Cross Timbers Trail

• Exploring the Underwater World of Lake Texoma

• Stargazing

• Canoeing and Kayaking Big Mineral Creek

• Evening Cruise on Lake Texoma

• Breakfast Cruise on Lake Texoma

• Identifying Birds by Sound

• Birds of North Texas

• Habitat Ecology of the Blackland Prairie

• Bird Migration

• Herps of the Texoma Region

• Habitats of North Texas Across Time

• Introduction to Birding

• Underwater World of Lake Texoma

• Keynote Presentation - Butterflies: Gems on the Wing

• Carve a Bird Feather

The Fannin County Republican Party

If you missed the "St. Patrick’s Day Celebration" you missed an informative and fun filled evening. THE FANNIN COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY hosted the dinner March 17^th with over 75 in attendance at the Elizabeth May Room in Bonham, TX. Chairman Joe Ward stated, "This was one of the best meetings we have ever had. There was a tremendous turnout of folks from all over the county and it was just a great time for all." Everyone enjoyed the pizza and desserts while receiving positive and informative messages from 336^th District Judge Lauri Blake, County Attorney Richard Glaser and Sheriff Kenneth Moore.

Whitney Slaughter of Wolfe City provided the evening’s entertainment. Whitney is the fourteen-year-old granddaughter of Vida Pittman. She beautifully sang the National Anthem as well as a medley of Patsy Cline songs.

Each one of the three speakers impressed the audience with their commitment to professionalism and to serving all the residents of Fannin County.

Easter baskets were filled with can goods and hams for several families in need in our community.

Everyone is welcome to these meetings so make your plans to join us at our next meeting May 2, 2005 at the Elizabeth May Room in Bonham at 6:30 PM.

Bonham Police Department Reminder

The Bonham Police Department is reminding everyone to be very cautious when someone approaches you about doing unsolicited work at your home. Over the past couple of years, this has not been a real problem in our area, but we are reminding everyone about this to keep them from becoming a victim of a repair scam or rip-off. If you are approached by someone who wants to do work for you, we offer these suggestions.

1. Ask why they are wanting to do this work. How did they pick your house to stop at.

2. Ask for identification, and write down the information, including a license number and description of the vehicle they are driving.

3. Ask for references- who have they done work for in the area- then call that person or persons and find out about the quality of work.

4. DO NOT pay any money before the work begins, unless you know what the money is to be used for.

5. DO NOT pay more than you originally agreed to pay unless you agreed to the extra before the work was finished.

6. DO NOT allow people soliciting your work into your house for any reason.

7. Report any person you have suspicions about to the police.

A little common sense goes a long way in not being a victim of crime. Take the time to check someone out and don’t do something just because it SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. The Bonham Police Department will be glad to offer our assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to call.

Creative Kids Theatre Camp

June 6th—10th

Monday-Thursday: 1-3 p.m. camp

Friday: 1-2 p.m. parent performance

Ages 10-13

This awesome camp is offered by the Creative Arts Center and is led by drama teacher Cheryl Youree. Acting skills, technique, stage / direction basics and more, geared for the pre-teen/young teen. Those with past performance adventures as well as those taking their FIRST step into the world of dramatic stage acting will both benefit from and totally enjoy this week! And parents will see for themselves just what we’ve been up to on Friday, when they come and enjoy some major show-off time! Classes and parent performances will be held at the gallery & teaching facility in Bonham Texas. (200 West Fifth Street)

Instructor Cheryl Youree began her love affair with performance as a child winger and tap dancer in her hometown of Los Angeles, California, where she studied at Meglin Studios. She received her undergraduate degree in drama at California State University and her Masters in Theatre at what is now Texas A & M University at Commerce. Cheryl taught theatre in the Bonham School system for 17 years in grades 6 through 12. She is presently the theatre teacher at Tom Bean High School. Her spare time is spent acting in regional theatre productions and directing plays at her high school. She debuted as a professional director with "The Miracle Worker", for the Red River Theatre Company in 2003. She will be directing "Barefoot In the Park" for the popular community theatre this fall. She has instructed children’s theatre camps for Grayson Community College in the summer and looks forward to these four days of FUN at the Creative Arts Center!

Cheryl is an active patron of the CAC gallery and serves on it’s Planning Committee, assisting with planning, marketing and execution it’s events and fundraisers. She is also proud to be well on her way as an art collector, building a wonderful personal collection in her Bonham home, comprised of the works of many local artists. We are proud to have her, now, as an instructor this summer and know that your children will reap great rewards from their wild week of performance art and personal expression, under her passionate and attentive guidance.

Full week camp is only $58.00 & includes cool Creative Kids Theatre Camp T-shirt!

(give size need at registration please)

MUST register NO LATER than Thursday, May 26 by 6 p.m.!

Only 10 student openings, so hurry in!

(Parental agreement signature required for all youth classes and camps.)

Please call (903-640-2196) or email (creativeartscenter@netexas.net) with any questions.

Come in to register. We are located at 200 W. Fifth Street in Bonham Texas.

We are opened Monday-Friday from 1-6 pm and Saturdays from 11 am-2 pm.

An Invitation to All Women

If you are new in the Bonham area and want to meet and make new friends...or, if you’ve lived in the area a long time and want to widen your circle of friends...come to the Women’s Get-Acquainted Group at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 4, 2005.

This month we will meet at Texas Star Bar B Que on the corner of Russell and Hwy. 78, Bonham. Take a little time for yourself to relax and enjoy some good company. Come hungry for a great meal or just come enjoy the fellowship.

For more information, call the Bonham Chamber of Commerce at 903-583-4811.

Golden Gospel Jubilee

The Golden Gospel Jubilee will be back in session this Friday night, April 1 at 7:30 pm. It will be at The Lake Bonham Hoe-Down, "Show Barn", located 1/2 mile east of the Lake Bonham Spillway on CR 2610, Bonham, TX. The gospel show will be hosted by Joan Kelton and the Bluegrass Gospeleers featuring: Randy Keister, Don Sharp, Glen Clark, Mike Stroud, Jack Marshall, Gary Monroe, and radio personality Bill Ogden from Commerce, Tx.

Our scheduled special guest, and they are always welcome back, will be "Hard to Git" featuring James Martin, and Sam Bolton, from Paris, TX. This group is straight from the Bluegrass circuit and they have gained a lot of popularity in this area for their style of Bluegrass and Bluegrass Gospel. They always play a memorable performance on stage with their multi talent and enlighten your hearts with their humor.

Everyone is invited and welcome to an evening of fun and inspiration. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks for your support, may God bless you. We hope to see you there. For information call 903-583-4731 or 903-583-5710.

HELP WANTED

Ector ISD is taking application for a full time Maintenance/Custodian position. Applications will be taken until April 6th, 2005. You can come by or contact the Superintendent’s office at 1-903-961-5405. Ector ISD is taking applications for Bus Driver’ for the 2005 - 2006 school year. You can come by or contact the Superintendent’s office at 1-903-961-5405.

Bonham High School Ex-Student Search

The Bonham High School Reunion Committee has completed their first mailing of information regarding the all-school reunion this summer (June 17-19). Bonhi grads are "on the move" and Reunion information cards for the following ex-students have been returned due to an incorrect address.

If you know the address or phone number for any of these ex-students, please send an e-mail to pamt@skytex.net with the mailing address/phone number, or call 903-989-5528. The community has done an outstanding job in helping locate hundreds of grads; this is just another way you can help to make the Reunion a success.

1970: William Charles Everett, Jackie Fitzwater McGehee, Carol Neal Osborn, David Wayne Roberts, Gerry Robinson, Robert L. Williams

1971: Mary Bateman, Vonda Sue Berry, Price Allen Brooks, Jeff Craig Bryant, Kathy Burk, John Burtner, Rhonda Clary Johnson, Vicki Dismang, Bobbie Haggard, Karen Hazlewood Broiles, Janet Lawrence Green, Kathy Louis Phillips, Scott M. McDonald, Debra McGuire Edwards, Virgil Pinkston, Barbara Smith Robertson, Paula Taylor, Charlotte Watson, Marsh White, Georgia Wilson

19A Division II All District Team

On February 23, Coaches from District 19A had the boys all district meeting award winners are as follows:

MVP- Justin Rhudy, Senior, Ector; Offensive Player- Josh Duran, Junion, Roxton; Defensive Player- Matt Cox, Senior, Ector;

1st Team- Cord Franklyn, Senior, Roxton; Justine White, Senior, Ector; Colton Whisenhunt, Junior, Ector; Frank Weaver, Senior, Miller Grove; Lucas Kirby, Senior, Miller Grove; Tyson Shaw, Junior, Fannindel, Jared Scott, Junior, Fannindel; Chris Threat, Sophomore, Savoy; Nate Blankenship, Junior, Dodd City

2nd Team- Do Do Maxwell, Senior, Dodd City; Brandon Stephenson, Senior, Roxton; Justin Earl, Junior, Ector; Weston Bush, Senior, Ector; Brad Darrow, Senior, Miller Grove; Johny Taylor, Junior Fannindel; Steve Curry, Junior, Savoy; Casey Pendelton, Senior, Roxton

Memorial Day Concert To Benefit Reba’s Ranch House

Country music, Broadway and television superstar Reba McEntire will once again light up the stage on Memorial Day in a dazzling new show benefiting the families of critically ill patients hospitalized in Texoma Medical Center.

The mega-event, benefiting Reba’s Ranch House, is set to get underway Monday, May 30th at the all-new Choctaw Casino & Resort Coliseum located just off Highway 75 north of the Red River. Concert organizers say the evening will be an incredible celebration of Reba’s musical and theatrical strengths featuring a career-spanning array of hits that prove why she’s considered the most remarkable and accomplished female country singer of her generation.

"No one can touch Reba when it comes to sheer musical talent," wrote a critic who has followed her career for over two decades. "Her strength, range and depth are incredible. When she’s on stage, she pours her heart and soul into every lyric, every note. She’s a born entertainer and storyteller who pulls heartstrings, evokes emotions, makes her audiences think and feel...laugh and cry. She sings about life and love and all the things that are important to all of us."

Reba’s Ranch House, built in 1992 for families with critically ill patients hospitalized in Texoma Medical Center, will once again benefit from Reba’s Memorial Day concert, this time with funds earmarked for endowment. The Ranch House was the first of four major TMC projects that also include a state-of-the-art nursery, a mobile mammography unit and a rehabilitation center that all carry her name. Concert benefits to date total over $4 million.

"We’re extremely grateful that Reba has very graciously agreed to another concert fundraiser," said TMC Board trustee and longtime hospital supporter Jerdy Gary. "What she has done for Texoma Medical Center is monumental and will benefit our people for generations to come. Because of her generosity, TMC has grown to become the most comprehensive medical provider in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma." Tickets to the concert will go on sale April 30th at a one-day kickoff sale in downtown Denison at North Texas Center for the Arts at 506 W. Chestnut Street. Doors will open at 10 a.m., close at 4 p.m., and organizers expect a huge crowd. Ticket prices are $35, $55 and $75, all reserved seating. Following the kickoff sale, any remaining tickets will be sold at outlets throughout the area. For further information, call 903-416-REBA (7322). "There will be no patron gala this year, just wonderful entertainment by country music’s biggest, brightest and most generous star," said Maurine Ridlehuber, who co-chairs the Concert Committee with Anne Gary. "We are all so fortunate to have had Reba’s love and support for so many years. Our communities have truly been blessed by her commitment to Texoma Medical Center and the people it serves."

According to Golf Committee co-chair David Bayless, Jr., the 17th Annual Reba Charity Golf Classic will tee off on Monday, May 30th at Denison Country Club promptly at 9 a.m., giving golfers plenty of time to enjoy golf and still make it to the concert.

"We are so appreciative of all the support we’ve had from golfers over the years," said Bayless. "We hope we’ve done a good enough job that everyone will want to play again."

In addition to the usual 18 team prizes, shootout money and cash prizes, Bayless says all golfers are in for a new treat.

"This year our "goodie bags" will include a new pair of golf shoes for every golfer," added Bayless. "A representative will be on hand to assure a perfect fit."

Anyone interested in playing in the golf tournament or being a hole sponsor or major sponsor is urged to call 903-416-4147.

I.W. Evans Intermediate News Calendar of Events

March 25, 2005- No School / Good Friday

March 28, 2005- No School / Bad Weather Day

April 5, 2005- TAKS 5^TH Grade Math

April 8, 2005- End of six weeks

April 19, 2005- TAKS 4^th Grade Math, TAKS 6^th Grade Math

April 20, 2005- TAKS 4^th and 6^th Grade Reading, 5^th Grade Reading Retest

April 21, 2005- TAKS 5^th Grade Science

Congratulations to our students who were able to participate in the Reading Challenge and to those who won. For each 70% or above students received on an AR test, they were given the opportunity to enter their name in a drawing. Students were able to enter their name to win such things as moving to the front of the lunch line for a week, checking out any book from the Library, eating outside with friends at the picnic tables, an athletic bag or spending 20 minutes in the Library with a friend.

Thank you to the I. W. Evans PTO for assisting in the purchase of the new picnic tables, benches and trash cans at our school. The students and staff are enjoying using them.

4^th Grade- Taizia Bennett, Madeline Dow, Cassidy Hall and Nathaniel Martinez.

5^th Grade- Stefanie Hutchings, Margo McCutcheon, Rachel Penna, Haley Walker, Robert Wells and Ryan Woodruff

6^th Grade- Giselle Aranday, Kaitlyn Herd, Katy Kennedy, John Reeder, Ashley Rimbert, Stephanie Spencer, Austin Towler, Shelby Williams and Michael Wood.

4^th Grade- Enrique Alvarez, Jessica Bautista, Skylar Castle, Madison Cockrill, Kelsey Duncan, Luke Dyer, Morgan Evett, Layton Ford, Taylor Gantt, Terra Goodfellow, Sara Hernandez, Tucker Irwin, Teqwan Jones, Joshua Joy, Jasmine Keene, Katie Larocca, Solmayra Longoria, Dylan McCarley, Ashlyn Morris, Tara Morris, Hayden Murphey, Victoria Nichols, Summer Perry, JL Pratt, Candice Rich, Kaleb Sewell, Carolina Soto, Jenna Toland, Katie Weyrick, Talon Wilkerson and Malaysia Yandell.

5^th Grade- Austin Ashlock, Jessica Barber, Katelyn Bardwell, Haley Brown, Austin Colley, Chase Craig, Maegan Crutcher, Katherine Flores, Kaitlyn Fox, Levi Haggard, Chelsea Hasten, Suwey Hernandez, Brianna Hodge, Lacy Holly, Leslie Kasparek, Kaitlynn Keller,

Taylor Kirkpatrick, Haley Lancaster, Gabrielle Lessley, Levi Malone, Robert Milburn, Chelsea Murphey, Lindsey Murphy, Clay Parsons, Rachael Pearson, D’Artagnan Porter, Diego Ramirez, Rex Richardson, Mason Riza, Audrey Sanchez, Savannah Shockley, Abby Smartt, Erik Soto, and Chelsea Tucker.

6^th Grade- Kaylee Baker, Haley Ballard, Amanda Barber, Kelsey Barnes, Daley Biggers, Celsey Bond, Shanbricca Brown, Nicholas Burns, Cady Carbajal, Rosario Chavarria, Holly Clifton, Kacey Collinsworth, Joshua Edmiason, Chris Edwards, Lane Fox, Lanie Frazier, Elizabeth Gainzar, Taylor Gibson, Kayla Gregory, Jennifer Groseclose, Brianna Hayes, Haley Henson, Anna Heredia, Hunter Herriage, Nolen Hughes, Alexandra Ingold, Anthony Johnson, Brittany Joy, Rachel Kearney, Jeremy Lane, Corwin Louis, Shelby May, Javier Padilla, Joshua Price, Ashley Rimbert, Khali Ruddick, Russell Ryman, Joshua Samford, Katherine Stephenson, Charnece Taylor, Caleb Thompson, Monica Torres, Kali Wheless, Heather Williams, Chasen Williams and Cariann Young.

Bonham SNAP Center Lunch Menu

Wieners, Pinto Beans, Sauerkraut, Cornbread, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Milk

Spaghetti/Meat Sauce, Carrots, Tossed Salad/Dressing, Bread, Bread Pudding, Milk

Pepper Steak, Black Eyed Peas, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Cornbread, Peaches, Milk

Chicken & Dumplings, Pea Salad, Creole Squash, Bread, Jello w/Orange Juice, Milk

BBQ Beef, Mexicali Corn, Green Beans, Buns, Rice Pudding, Milk

The Daughters Of The American Revolution George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas Monthly Meeting, March 19, 2005

The Daughters of the American Revolution, George Blakey Chapter, Bonham, Texas met Sat., March 19, 2005, for it’s monthly meeting in the meeting room of the Bonham Chamber of Commerce at 2 p.m. Mary Jo Barbee, regent, called the meeting to order and led the members in saying the DAR Ritual with Dot Linn as chaplain. She also led the Daughters Pledge to the Flag and the American’s Creed. Mary Beavers led the group in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Barbee read the President General’s Message. March is women history month and she told us of some famous women that had affected our lives. Nancy Bellows, secretary, read the minutes of previous meeting and they were approved as read. Martha Mayrell, treasurer, gave the treasury report. She explained about the Memorial service that was held at the TSDAR conference for members who have passed away. They recognized Florence Keahey and Billie Jo Richardson members of our chapter. Martha stated she and Kay Merworth ­Partain had finished bringing the history of chapter up to the year 2000 and sent to TSDAR. At the state conference they stated a small percent of people want to remove "In God We Trust" from our money and important papers.

 It was recommended that all mail that we mail we should write, "In God We Trust" on back of envelope so everyone that sees it will know we are against doing away with it. Barbee discussed the conference and read the Achievements awards our chapter won. They will be placed in the chapter scrapbook. Martha Mayrell won a special award for special computer service for DAR 2004-2005. Dot Linn who is a deputy representative volunteer for Sam Rayburn Memorial Center, Bonham received a pin representing VAVS. Mary Jo Barbee was presented a certificate in recognition of leadership and outstanding services to the TSDAR Linn reported on the interviews that were being made on ones who have served in the armed forces. Joe Bellows of Ector, husband of Nancy Bellows, father to Julianne Grant and Joevelyn Naylor, brother-in law to Mary Beavers, uncle to Becca Dean, nephew to Mary Lou Kissinger and May Evelyn Wilson all members of the George Blakey chapter was interviewed and video made to be sent to NSDAR. Flo Odom gave a report on prospective new members and we voted and approved Shirley Robinson, Lake Bonham for membership to chapter. Bellows, Beavers and Merworth­ Partain brought birthday gifts. Those winning gifts were Linn, Bellows, Merworth-Partain, Kissinger, Judy O’Shields, Susan Hawkins, Barbee and Ruby Draisey. Bellows was in charge of the program. She talked on "George Washington". She told important facts about his life and about his terrible teeth. When he became President he only had two teeth. He had several sets in his lifetime. They were made from walrus and elephant ivory, cow, elk and human teeth. His last set was made of hippopotomas ivory put together with gold. It was just a myth that he had wooden teeth.

He died at age of sixty-seven and it was stated as pneumonia but most historians think he died from untreated infections from root fragments in his gums. Odom and O’Shields were hostesses and served sandwiches, sun chips, cake, mints and punch to ten members and two guests from a lovely patriotic decorated table with a picture of George Washington, Father of Our Country. April 16th will be our next meeting and if anyone would like any information on our chapter they can call Flo Odom, 903-623-4031.

Non-Profits, Some Businesses File For Tax Exemptions

 by April 30

"Non-profit organizations may qualify for a total exemption from property taxes by applying for the exemption no later than April 30, 2005," said Charles M. Shannon, Chief Appraiser of the Fannin County Appraisal District.

The April 30 deadline also applies to businesses that are receiving tax abatements with taxing units; to firms that ship inventory out of Texas and may be eligible for the "freeport" exemption on certain goods in transit; and to businesses that acquired pollution control property.

Property tax exemptions are available to non-profit charitable, youth development, religious organizations, non-profit private schools, cemeteries, veterans’ organizations, historical and archeological sites and other organizations. Requirements vary for different types of organizations as set out in the Texas Constitution and the Property Tax Code. Cemeteries, charitable organizations, youth development associations, religious organizations and other non-profit organizations may receive a property tax exemption immediately upon buying or acquiring a property during the year and meeting the exemption qualifications.

Shannon noted that cemeteries, charitable organizations, youth development organizations, religious organizations and non-profit private schools, once granted tax exemptions, do not have to reapply for the exemption each year unless the chief appraiser asks them to file again. However, they also must reapply if their exempt property changes ownership, if their qualifications for exemption change or if they acquire new property. The law requires annual application for all other types of exempt organizations.

Property owners who own mineral property or business personal property worth less than $500^- are exempt from property taxes on those properties. No application is required for exempting these small accounts valued at less than $500. A property owner’s mineral property accounts are added together to determine if the total value in each taxing unit is less than $500 and exempt. If the total value in any taxing unit exceeds $500, then the property is taxable. The same process is used for adding together a property owner’s business personal property accounts by taxing unit to determine if the properties are worth less than $500 and exempt from property taxes.

"If a non-profit organization or a business with tax abatements, fi^-eeport goods or pollution control property has any questions about tax exemptions, it should contact the appraisal district office before April 30," Shannon added. Additional information is available from the Fannin County Appraisal District office at 831 West State Highway 56, Bonham Texas 75418, or by phone at (903) 583-8701.

A Variety Of Homestead Exemptions Could Lower Your Property Taxes!

A homestead exemption lowers the property taxes on your home by lowering its taxable value. If your home is valued at $50,000 and you receive a $15,000 homestead exemption, your home will be taxed as if it were worth $35,000.

Who qualifies for an exemption? Anyone who owns a home on January 1 and uses it as a primary residence on that date is entitled to a $15,000 homestead exemption to lower school taxes this year ... and it doesn’t matter if your home is a house, condominium or mobile home. Counties, cities and special taxing districts may also offer homestead exemptions.

Are other exemptions available? If you’re disabled-or if you’re 65 years old or older ­you are entitled to an additional $10,000 school tax exemption on your home. And if you qualify for the over-65 or disabled exemption, you’re also entitled to a permanent, locked-in "ceiling" on the school property taxes on your home. (The county, city or junior college may adopt a tax ceiling to lock in 2005 taxes as the highest amount for 65 and older or disabled homeowners.) The over-65 homeowner’s school tax ceiling transfers to the surviving spouse, if the spouse is 55 years of age or older at the time of death and lives in and owns the home. The age 65 or older homeowners (or their surviving spouses 55 years of age or older) also may transfer the percentage of school tax paid, based on their former home’s school tax ceiling, to a new home.

Do I have to apply each year? No. If you had a homestead exemption on your home in 2004, you won’t need to reapply for 2005 unless your Chief Appraiser requires it. However, if you haven’t received an exemption on your present home-or if you’ve moved to a new home - you’ll need to file for an exemption for 2005. If you are 65 this year, you may file for the age 65 or older exemption up to one year after the date you turned 65. And if you became disabled, you need to file for the disabled person’s exemption.

When and where should I file? File applications by April 30 at:

Fannin County Appraisal District, 831 West State Highway 56 Bonham, Texas 75418

Phone (903) 583-8701

Fax: (903) 583-8015

For more information: stop in or call for a free copy of

Or contact:

Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn, Property Tax Division

P.O. Box 13528, Austin, TX 78711-3528

or call: 1-800-252-9121

iVarias exenciones de residencia pueden rebajar sus impuestos de propiedad!

Una exencion de residencia reduce sus impuestos de propiedad. Por ejemplo, si su residencia tiene un valor de $50,000 y Ud. recibe una exencion de $15,000, sus impuestos se calcularan como si el valor de su residencia fuera de $35,000.

Quien califica para una exencion? Cualquierdueno de una residencia principal el dia 1° de enero tiene derecho a una exencion de residencia de $15,000 este ano para rebajar sus impuestos escolares... y no importa si la residencia es casa, condominio o casa movil. (Los condados, municipios y distritos especiales de impuestos tambien pueden ofrecer exenciones de residencia.)

Debo solicitarla cada ano? No. Si Ud. recibio una exencion de residencia en el 2004, no hay necesidad de solicitarla de nuevo en el 2005-al menos que se to pida su jefe de valoraciones. Sin embargo, si no ha recibido una exencion en su residencia actual-o si ha cambiado de domicilio tendra que solicitar una exencion para el 2005. Si cumple 65 anos durante este ano, tiene hasta un ano de esa fecha para solicitar una nueva exencion. Si resulto incapacitado, tendra que solicitar la exencion de personas incapacitadas.

Donde y cuando debo solicitar mis exenciones? Debe presentar su solicitud en la oficina local del distrito de valoraciones antes del dia 30 de abril. Si necesita mas tiempo, puede ponerse en contacto con nosotros antes:

Fannin County Appraisal District 831 West State Highway 56 Bonham, Texas 75418

Phone (903) 583-8701

Fax: (903) 583-8015

Si desea mas informacion, visitenos y obtenga una copia gratis de "Impuestos Sobre la Propiedad en Texas: Derechos, Recursos y Responsabilidades del Contribuyente de Impuestos"

o escriba a:

Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn

Property Tax Division P.O. Box 13528

Austin, TX 78711-3528

o llame: 1-800-252-9121

o en la Web:

www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/proptax.html

Un Servicio Publico cortesia de este periodico

i"La valoracion productive" puede reducer los impuestos de su terreno agricola, ganadero o maderero!

La ley de Texas permite a los granjeros, rancheros y madereros pagar sus impuestos de propiedad basandose en "la valoracion productiva" del terreno calificado-o sea en su habilidad de producir cosecha, ganado o madera-y no de su valor en el mercado actual. Y esto le puede ahorrar en sus impuestos de propiedad.

Cual es la fecha limite? Si su terreno nunca ha tenido una valoracion productiva, o si Ud. Es nuevo dueno, debe solicitarla a su distrito de valoraciones antes del dia 30 de abril, para recibir el beneficio en sus impuestos de propiedad del 2005. Puede recibir hasta 60 dias mas si tiene una buena razon y si solicita el tiempo adicional antes del 30 de abril. Si se pasa de esta fecha, es posible que todavfa la pueda obtener, pero pagara una multa. Pregunte en la oficina de su distrito de valoraciones.

Debo solicitarla cada ano? Por to general, si su propiedad ya recibe una valoracion productive agrfcola o maderera, no hay necesidad de pedir una nueva cada ano-al menos que se to pida su jefe de valoraciones. Si se require una solicitud nueva, el distrito de valoraciones le mandara un aviso

por correo.

"Impuestos Sobre la Propiedad en Texas: Derechos, Recursos y Responsabilidades del Contribuyente de Impuestos"

o escriba a:

Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhom Property Tax Division

P.O. Box 13528 Austin, TX 78711-3528

6 Ilame: 1-800-252-9121

Productivity Appraisal May Lower The Property Taxes On Your Farm, Ranch, Or Timber Land.......

Texas law allows farmers, ranchers and timber growers to pay property taxes based upon the "production value" of their land rather than on market value. This "productivity appraisal" means qualified land is taxed based on its ability to produce crops, livestock or timber-not on its value on the real estate market. And it can mean substantial property tax savings.

When is the application deadline? If your land has never had a productivity appraisal, or you are a new owner, you must apply to your local appraisal district by April 30 to take advantage of this benefit on your 2005 property taxes. You may get up to 60 extra days if you have a good reason and ask for it by April 30. If you miss this deadline, you may still be able to apply, but you will pay a penalty. Check with your appraisal district office.

Do you need to reapply annually? If your land already receives agricultural productivity appraisal, you don’t need to reapply unless the Chief Appraiser requires you to do so. If a new application is required, the appraisal district will notify you by mail.

Call or come by:

Fannin County Appraisal District 831 West State Highway 56 Bonham Texas 75418

Phone: (903) 583-8701

Fax: (903) 583-8015

We’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a current copy of "Texas Property Taxes: Taxpayers’ Rights, Remedies and Responsibilities"

Or contact:

Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn Property Tax Division

P.O. Box 13528 Austin, TX 78711-3528

or call: 1-800-252-9121

A Public Service announcement courtesy of this newspaper.

Texas moving forward to provide congestion relief to I-35

Public-private partnership formed for Trans-Texas Corridor

AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Transportation and Cintra-Zachry - an international group of engineering, construction and financial firms - formalized a partnership to develop TTC-35, the first element of the Trans-Texas Corridor from Oklahoma to Mexico.

The agreement allows the state to take advantage of private sector innovation and resources in the development of TTC-35 to reduce congestion, improve safety and address long-term mobility needs in the Interstate 35 corridor.

"This partnership brings private investment - billions of dollars in private investment - to provide congestion relief to I-35," said Ric Williamson, chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission. "Private sector funding will help put transportation improvements on the ground sooner."

Cintra-Zachry is proposing to invest $7.2 billion to help build TTC-35. The first phase of their proposal calls for building a $6 billion toll road between Dallas and San Antonio by 2010. In exchange for building and operating it as a toll facility, the consortium will pay the state an additional $1.2 billion, which the state may use to fund road improvements or high-speed and commuter rail projects along the I-35 or TTC-35 corridors.

"We at Cintra and Grupo Ferrovial are delighted to play a role in helping Governor Perry and TxDOT bring billions of investment dollars to Texas and create new jobs for Texans," said Rafael del Pino, executive chairman of Grupo Ferrovial, Cintra’s parent company. "In fact, we consider this to be a major Texas jobs producer, because estimates show this project will create more than 140,000 direct and indirect Texas jobs. And that is good news for Texas!"

The comprehensive development agreement was signed at a ceremony in Austin by Michael Behrens, TxDOT’s executive director, Rafael del Pino, and David Zachry, CEO of Zachry Construction.

"Zachry has been a long time supporter of identifying processes to deliver highway projects better, faster and cheaper for the state," said Zachry. "We believe the Trans Texas Corridor will accomplish that and serve as a model for future expansion of the state’s highway system."

The agreement authorizes Cintra-Zachry to begin the master development and financial plan. This plan will guide the development of a new system of roads, rail and utilities.

The plan will include a project list, implementation schedule and funding options. For each project identified, the consortium will develop a conceptual design plan, preliminary cost estimates, toll feasibility studies and a plan for complying with environmental requirements.

The master plan will be updated regularly to account for environmental, financial and other factors.

The agreement authorizes a $3.5 million planning effort. It does not set the alignment for TTC-35, authorize construction, set toll rates, determine who gets the tolls, or eliminate competition for future services.

No final alignment for TTC-35 has been selected. The environmental study, which is being conducted by TxDOT and FHWA, is ongoing. This first phase is expected to be completed by Spring 2006. Additional environmental studies are required to determine the final route alignment before construction can begin.

Local Families Needed For Exchange Students

ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE) is seeking local host families for boys and girls from a variety of countries around the world. These students are 15 to 18 years of age, and are coming to this area for the upcoming high school year or semester. These personable and academically select exchange students have good English, are bright, curious and anxious to learn about the USA by living as part of your family, attending high school and sharing their own culture and language with you.

The exchange students arrive from their home country shortly before school begins and return at the end of the school year or semester. Each ASSE student is fully insured, brings his or her own personal spending money and expects to bear his or her share of household responsibilities, as well as being included in normal family activities and lifestyles.

The students are well screened and qualified by ASSE. Families may select the youngster of their choice from extensive student applications, family photos and biographical essays.

To become a host family or find out more about ASSE and its programs, please call 1-800-473­-0696. There are hundreds of students to choose from, so call - and begin the process of selecting your new son or daughter today!

Exemption Deadline Is April 30, 2005

There are some exemptions and special valuations for which annual applications are not required. These are General Homestead, Over 65 Homestead, Disability Homestead, Disabled Veteran Exemption and Agricultural Appraisals. Any taxpayer who received these exemptions, must notify the Fannin County Appraisal District in writing before MAY 1 if he or she is no longer entitled to these exemptions or allowances. If you no longer own the property that is stated on your application you must notify the Appraisal District. Also, you MUST RE-APPLY if you acquired. another home or if you turned 65 years of age, or became disabled since your last homestead application. [Texas Property Tax Law Section 11.43]

You must re-submit your agricultural application if you have sold acreage which received an agricultural appraisal for 2004 or if you purchased additional acreage and you wish to claim agricultural use for 2005.

If you were mailed an application form to submit for 2005, you must complete and file the application with Fannin County Appraisal District by April 30, 2005 or you could compromise or lose that allowance.

Section. 33.06 of the Texas Property Tax Code states an individual is entitled. to defer or abate a suit to collect delinquent tax if he/she is 65 or older, or disabled (for purposes of payment of disability insurance benefits under Federal Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) and owns and occupies as a residence homestead the property on which the quit is delinquent. Information and forms may be obtained from the Fannin County Appraisal District. A tax lien remains on the property and interest continues to accrue during the period collection of taxes is deferred.

Section 33.065 provides that a homeowner may defer or abate a lawsuit to collect delinquent property tax on the portion of the residence homestead’s appraised value that exceeds the market value of any new improvements and 105 percent of the homesteads appraised value for the preceding year. The homeowner must file the application for deferral with the appraisal district before the taxes actually become delinquent.

Fannin County Appraisal District

831 West State Highway 56

Bonham, Texas 75418

Phone (903) 583-8701

Fax (903) 583-8015

www.trueautomation.com

Don’t Forget!

2004 Northeast Texas Youth Art Competition

Completed entry form for each artist. Completed Art Labels for each entry.

(3 entries max, per youth artist...one per media category) (Must be affixed to back or bottom of entry!)

Entry fees. ($2 per entry)

2-D (hanging) art MUST have a wire across back for hanging!

NO sawtooth or matboard hangers will be accepted this year...our hanging system does NOT allow for these and art would be at risk of damage if it released/fell...as well as art of other entrants, hung below, beside, etc.

This restriction is found in ALL art competitions and we must adhere to it, to ensure the attractive and safe presentation of this exciting exhibit, which will remain on display for several weeks and will be seen by many!

Any entries that do NOT have a wire across the back will NOT be placed on display or be judged, should they slip past the check-in phase.

IF, at check-in, the infraction is noticed, you will have the opportunity to make physical adjustments and return with the entry later, but within the dates/times listed above.

Frames can be purchased for very little at discount and dollar stores. If they are wooden, small eyehooks can be screwed into the backs at left and right about 1/3 way down from the top. Then simply run picture wire from hook to hook, securing well at ends. Done! Your work is now professionally presented in the manner it deserves, and can be displayed proudly for exhibit or competition ANYWHERE!

3-D art must have its own stand or base, or be free-standing.

Nothing that cannot be easily moved by one person.

Also, cash awards will be presented to all in attendance. If not able to attend, your winnings will be mailed to you, with a letter notifying you of your accomplishments, approximately one week later.

All ribbons will remain attached to the artwork throughout the exhibit, for all to see.

Exhibit will remain on display at our gallery in a formal exhibit from April 2nd through May 26th.

You MUST retrieve your work between May 23 and May 27, please. At that time, you will also take your ribbon, for safe keeping, scrapbooking, or just showing off!

Every individual is an awesome example of the creative capacity of the human spirit.

Artistic expression is the most ancient and respected form of communication known to man.

Your visual art expressions are precious and important...just as YOU are! We appreciate you!

When Neil Armstrong radioed Houston, Texas’ Johnson Space Center "The Eagle has Landed," a waiting world wondered at this triumph of science and technology. I watched those grainy black and white images along with millions all over the world, and I felt such pride in our nation, and the role Texas played in putting the first humans on the moon.

Since that time, we have had many triumphs in space, including the launch of the space shuttles, putting the Hubble Space Telescope into orbit and inaugurating and using the still incomplete International Space Station. We have also, in these intervening years, experienced deep losses as well. The explosion of Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986, and the loss during re-entry of the Columbia in 2003, are sobering reminders that space travel is still a risky business. The fleet is currently grounded as we work to correct safety problems to ensure access to orbit is as safe as possible.

This year, I have taken the chairmanship of the Subcommittee on Space and Science. My goal is to help refocus NASA on its scientific mission.

The road back into orbit faces some hurdles. Our space shuttle fleet is not only grounded, it is aging. The first shuttle flights were launched in 1981. The youngest shuttle, Endeavor, flew its first mission in May, 1992, more than 12 years ago. The International Space Station is incomplete, with many parts ready for launch and assembly. Finally, we have to lay the groundwork to implement President Bush’s vision of a Mission to Mars.

The decisions we make this year will have an enormous impact on how we surmount these obstacles and how we achieve our short-term and long-term goals. As subcommittee chairman, my priorities will be as follows:

First, we have to return to manned space missions. NASA is still working to get the shuttles flying again and its new nominee for administrator, Dr. Michael Griffin, has to make this his first, and highest priority.

Second, as soon as we get our shuttles flying, we need to finish the International Space Station. This is not only an obligation we made to all those nations which joined the project, it is vital to our future space efforts. Weightless conditions allow us to perform many experiments involving crystals, materials and biology that are impossible on earth. The scientific benefit is enormous and is likely to generate tremendous economic benefits in the future. For example, NASA, in cooperation with the National Eye Institute, has developed a new dynamic light scattering device which allows doctors to detect cataracts in patients 55 years old or less before the clouding of the disease is visible. The research was spurred by the discovery that astronauts with prolonged exposure in space become more prone to develop cataracts. NASA is now experimenting in using this technique for non-surgical treatment of cataracts and for early detection of other diseases such as diabetes.

The space station will build our experience with prolonged human exposure to zero gravity, which is known to cause loss of bone mass in astronauts. NASA is testing treatments for osteoporosis, a disease which reduces bone mass in many senior citizens.

The third priority is to develop a new transportation system to get us into space without an interruption in our launch capability. Some plans envisage a gap of several years between the last projected flight of our shuttles and the first flight of a planned new reusable space ferry capable of carrying an entire crew. That is not, in my opinion, a wise course to take. It could be a national security risk for other countries to have men and women in space while America is grounded for five years.

We are at a very important juncture in the history of space exploration. China has become the third nation to orbit the earth with a manned space craft; Japan and India have also announced very aggressive programs.

As we work to achieve our first three priorities, we must also keep our eye on the fourth: the Mission to Mars. Landing men on an entirely different planet would mark a new epoch in history.

The Moon can be our laboratory. The Lunar surface would allow us to perfect the landing equipment, exploration techniques and living quarters for the first explorers of Mars. In the meantime, we could erect the next generation super telescope on the dark side of the moon, where it would benefit from permanent night conditions without the decaying orbits and size limitations which affect orbiting telescopes.

We cannot afford to surrender our lead in space exploration. Our defense depends upon control of the high ground of space and our space program has always been a catalyst for technological and scientific development. Our future lies in space.

The Bonham Renegades began their third season of Travel Baseball, with a Super Series National Qualifier Tournament,
hosted by Texas Tournament Baseball, and held in Sherman, Texas, March 19^th and 20^th. After two long days of baseball, the Renegades came out with third place.

Saturday’s first game was against the Plainview Angry Reds, and the Renegades came out on top 11-0. The young men of Bonham, battled it out during the second game against the Heart Bar Brahmas. After six long innings, the Renegades pulled out another win, 9-7.

The sun was not the only thing giving off heat during Sunday’s first game. The Renegades proved to be on fire their first game against the Plano Cardinals, winning, 11-1. After a two hour wait, the young men gathered on the field for, what proved to be a test of not only energy, but an individual test of the desire to keep your head up. The game was against the Graham Texans, and the Bonham Renegades were unable to pull out a win, which ended their tournament play for the weekend. This particular last game, was good for the team to go through (in my un-expert opinion), because they have to be taught how to deal with loss, and how to keep a positive attitude, and more importantly, they have to learn how to regain control of a bruised ego while still playing such a battle of a game.

The Bonham Renegades are proud to be traveling again and playing 12U Minor Super Series Tournaments. With the start of the third season, some changes and additions have faced the team. The first big change, and perhaps the most important, are the additions made to the team roster. Seven young men were able to continue this season to play as a Bonham Renegade. With the addition of three new players to the team, the roster is now at ten, and here are their names: Austin Ashlock, Dalton Cagle, Daine Dunlap, Lane Fox, Hunter Herriage, John Nelms, Justin Nelms, Clay Parsons, Shelby Williams and Ryan Woodruff. Our committed coaches again this season are: Kelly Nelms, Saul Dunlap Jr., and Bubba Herriage, who all have hopes for a great season of baseball.

Another great change for the Renegades this season, is the addition of our website. We have been blessed with the opportunity to have our own team website, to not only promote our players, and their accomplishments, but to show off our great community of supporters. Super Series is a large organization, and hundreds of people browse our website each week, and this season, as a Renegade sponsor, you and your business can advertise on our website. We are so proud to be able to give this opportunity back to those who have supported this team. If you are interested in becoming a Bonham Renegade team sponsor/advertiser, please go to our website, www.bonhamrenegades.com and click on Our Sponsors, there you can submit an email to get sponsorship/advertiser information, and ask any questions you may have.

We also invite you as a reader, to browse our website and look at our scrapbook pages of past and present tournaments. The website is full of lots of great information, pictures and sponsors...we encourage you to visit www.bonhamrenegades.com, and give us your feedback.

After all this, the Bonham Renegades first tournament this season was a great one, for many reasons. And placing third in this National Qualifier last weekend, qualifies these young men of Bonham to attend and play in the Super Series 12U National Tournament held in July this year in Tennessee. The Renegades also qualified their first season playing together, but was unable to raise the funds to travel as a team of ten with twelve families, and the costs of playing baseball an entire week, just couldn’t be raised. The team is encouraged this season, that supporters will come out of the woodworks, and help carry this North Texas team to the National Tournament, as a show of support for this team and our hometown community.

The Bonham Renegades Select Baseball team is a non-profit organization, only established to ensure that all of our dreams continue to become reality, and that we don’t give up on these talented young men. With that being said, the Renegades would like to thank all of the families, friends, and community supporters, who have shown their encouragement during the last two seasons. And the pouring out of love so far this season, has only made this team stronger; it has reaffirmed that the establishment of the Bonham Renegades was the right move to make for all involved; each player keeps gaining additional knowledge and wisdom of the game, and the entire team is energized to keep playing this wonderful pastime, we all love so much...baseball.

Beginner Knitting

led by Textile Artist Tish Ogden

Four Weeks of Instruction! Tuesdays, 5-6 pm May 3^rd , 17^th , 24^th & 31^st

Join Bonham textile artist Tish Ogden as she offers instruction knitting for beginners! Make a SWEATER in this informative, hands-on instructional. You will be knitting like a pro and have a beautiful sweater to show for it! Tish is extremely talented and looks forward to teaching all of you this time-honored art form.

Students to bring two size 7 or 8 knitting needles (2), one skein Worsted Weight Yarn, Wool or Acrylic, in the color of their choice.

Only $50 per student for 4-week instructional.

Register by April 25^th !

Full payment due at registration.

For more information, call the Creative Arts Center TODAY at 903-640-2196!

To register, come by Monday-Friday from 1– 6pm, or Saturday 11am-2pm.

We are located at 200 W. 5^th Street in Bonham.

Hometown Military News

Army National Guard Pvt. Christopher A. Benoist has graduated from the Light-wheeled Vehicle Mechanic advanced individual training (AIT) course at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

The course is designed to train soldiers to perform maintenance, troubleshoot, and repair wheeled vehicles and related mechanical components, including suspension systems, internal combustion engines and power trains, spark- and compression-ignition engines, wheel-hub assemblies, hydraulic brake and steering systems, and operate a wheeled vehicle crane, hoist, and winch assemblies.

Benoist’s parents are Otis C. and Yolanda M.L. Benoist of E. Grand, Whitewright, Texas.

The private is a 2003 graduate of Whitewright High School.

Bonham ISD Board of Trustee Meeting

March 21, 2005

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

Member Absent: Doyce Taylor

• First day of instruction waiver

(A ) Early Voting for School Board Election Early April 20 - May 3, 2005, at the BISD Administration Building, 1717 North Center Street for Places 6 and 7 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. An election is hereby ordered to be held on Saturday, May 7, 2005, at the Bonham High School cafeteria for the purpose of BIDG Trustee Election Places 6 and 7. Also, a proposition for/against maintenance tax will be voted on the same ballot.

(B) Budget Workshop for 2005-2006 budget April 11, 2005, 6:00 p.m.,

BISD Administration Office

(C) TAKS Update

(D) Average Daily Attendance Update – 1840.83

(E) Transfer Students Update - 1

(F) Resignations – 0

• Minutes of regular board meeting February 21 and special meeting February 28, 2005;

• Certifying textbook adoptions for 2005-2006;

• Revision to FFAC (LOCAL) policy;

• Depository contract to Fannin Bank;

• Second Wednesday in June (June 8^th, 2005) as Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day (TODASTWD).

• Seven substitutes;

• Tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collections for February 2005;

• Financial statements and bills payable for February 2005;

• Teacher contracts;

• Termination of two probationary contracts;

• Christine Miller as a special education teacher at L. H. Rather Junior

High School for the 2005-2006 school year; and

• Special Warranty Deed transferring the property described in the attached Schedule A to North Texas Development, Jess James, owner-partner.

Hispanic Big Top Family Fun!

With approximately one hundred Hispanic employees from various countries, including Peru, Mexico, Argentina, Columbia, and Brazil, the Carson & Barnes 5 Ring Circus is proud to honor their contribution to the 2005 edition of the biggest of the big tops. Hispanic performers, technicians, office workers, and department heads provide the unique skills and talents vital to the success of this very unusual business. Both Traci and Krystin Byrd, daughters of the circus owners, Barbara and Geary Byrd, have merged by marriage into this great Hispanic culture. Traci is married to Julio Cavallini, a sixth generation circus family from Peru and Kristin married to Gustavo Parra from Mexico. Together, they represent the next generation circus management.

Various departments have long-term Hispanic employees in charge. Jaime Garcia from Mexico has been with Carson & Barnes Circus for more than thirty years. As superintendent, Jaime makes sure the big show moves and the world’s largest big top goes up on schedule. "Many people say that it’s the most amazing act of the show," Jaime says with a smile. Wardrobe manager, Hernando "Fichi" Reyes from Columbia, is responsible for the hundreds of exotic and colorful costumes for the performers and animals. This years edition will feature Spanish costumes in the opening Aerial Ballet and mid-show Spectacular Parade.

Properties manager, Luis Soto and his crew ensure that all props and equipment are in the right place at the right time – in the circus, lives depend on it. Cookhouse managers, Martin Rivera and Yamina Huaman, natives of Peru, are responsible for feeding the 100+ members of this very international company. "Catering to their tastes is a challenge I enjoy" Martin Rivera recently said, "It makes my job interesting and very rewarding." The circus is a small town that not only moves daily, but also generates its own electricity. Andres Huaman of Peru is the head of the electrical department.

Carson & Barnes Circus features more than thirty Hispanic performers, many of them follow in family footsteps with generation after generation of circus performers. The cast of highly talented artists also includes performers from other countries around the globe and over 100 animals. The Biggest Big Top on Earth will be at the Fannin County Multi-Purpose Complexin Bonham on April 1, 2005 with shows at 4:30 & 7:30PM, sponsored by the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce.

Advance general admission tickets are now available at Ticket Outlets at special prices or you may choose to go online and get tickets at www.carsonbarnescircus.com. On Circus Day advance general admission tickets can be upgraded to preferred seating for an additional charge.

More than one million Texas children are being raised by single parents. Growing up is easier for boys and girls from single-parent households when the parent without custody stays involved in his or her children’s lives.

In a continuing commitment to building strong Texas families and children, last month my office awarded grants to 11 organizations that help never-married, divorced or separated mothers and fathers work together to parent their children.

The federally funded "Access and Visitation" grants are administered by the Attorney General’s Division for Families and Children. This year’s grants, totaling more than $300,000, were awarded to private nonprofit organizations and local governments across Texas.

Access and Visitation grant recipients include: Family Support Services of Amarillo; Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas in Arlington; Travis County Domestic Relations Office in Austin; Family Services Center in Brownwood; Voices For Children Inc. in Bryan; Child Crisis Center of El Paso; Family Court Services of Tarrant County and NewDay Services for Children and Families in Fort Worth; Panhandle Crisis Center in Perryton; Bexar County Domestic Relations Office in San Antonio; and The Place in Wichita Falls.

The awards will fund services that help parents who do not have custody develop and maintain meaningful relationships with their children. Approved services include co-parenting education; dispute resolution; providing legal advice about visitation, paternity establishment and child support; and visitation enforcement. Providing funding to local organizations is a way the Attorney General’s Office helps children whose parents are engaged in custody or visitation disputes, since federal regulations prohibit state child support programs from handling these matters directly.

Studies have found noncustodial parents who maintain close ties with their children are more likely to make regular child support payments. Children of parents who pay their child support have fewer behavior problems, make better grades, and stay in school longer than children who do not receive regular support.

Texas has received Access and Visitation funding from the federal government since 1997. This year’s grantees were selected based on their ability to provide crucial services that were identified by a statewide team of family law judges, court administrators, directors of county domestic relations offices, and child support program officials.

Partnerships with local organizations allow my office to reach the families and children of Texas in ways we couldn’t do alone. Children thrive from the love and support of both parents. It is my hope that these grants will help more Texas parents make a positive impact in their sons’ and daughters’ lives.

Bonham Fire Department Receives Donation

Bonham Fire Chief Brad Nichols (left) accepts a donation of $100 from VFW Post 4852, Lake Bonham. Presenting the donation is Post 4852 Quartermaster John Grisham.

Work Zone Facts

From TX DOT

Work Zone Safety Facts & Statistics

As a child I can remember coming to town on Saturday, in our farm wagon, and I looked forward to passing the big red barn with the windmill sitting on the pool bank. I had never seen such a large building. My mother and dad, Oscar and Maud (White) Duncan, always told the story of them playing music for the dances in the barn, in the early 1900’s. They were musicians and had the Duncan Brothers String Band. My Uncle Jim Duncan played the fiddle, my dad the fiddle and guitar, my mother the piano, guitar and pedal organ, my Uncle Ed Duncan played the bass fiddle, which was taller than him, some of my dad’s and mother’s other brothers played various other instruments in the band. They would place a can in front of the bandstand and the dancers paid five cents a couple, per dance, on an honor system. The band would each receive a share of the proceeds. Jim Duncan was later part of the Wolfe City Wolves String Band.

J. Riley Green, the owner, was an auctioneer and the barn was where the auctions were conducted. I don’t know if he raised the Jersey cows on this farm or if they were only sold here, as he was known to have the "Best Jersey Milk Cows" in the country. He was born in 1869 and died in 1927 and is buried in the Mount Carmel Cemetery near Wolfe City. This historical "J. Riley Green’s Red Roof Sales Barn" is located southwest of downtown Wolfe City on the curve of Highway 34 entering town.

An article in the Greenville Morning Herald on February 16^th, 1918, reads: Col. R. L. Harriman and J. Riley Green, Auctioneers, for the Jack and Jennie Sale. Write S. L. Green, Celeste, Hunt County, Texas for a catalogue. I don’t know if the two Greens were related or not.

J. E. James, Chairman, wrote this poem about J. Riley Green from an excerpt of the "Flowers for my Pastor and Stewards" of the Wolfe City Methodist Church in the early 1900’s. In the photo I have he has written a poem for each of them. It reads: "To J. Riley Green, who has a big heart, and stands by the brethren in their task, doing for the church a good Steward’s part, faithfully trusting for reward at the last, I find in my heart there’s a spacious nook in which shall always be found a flower that shall tell as a written book of his helpful mirth as onward we bound".

Do you have more history about J. Riley Green or the Big Red Barn? Do you know what the J. stands for? Everything I find about him, it only states his name as J. Riley Green. E-mail me at johnwdfarm@lycos.com or johnwdfarm@yahoo.com. Don’t let this Landmark be destroyed.

Fairview’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt

The residents at Fairview Nursing and Rehab. held it’s annual Easter egg hunt for the Footsteps and Fingerprints Daycare children. Although the weather was cold and damp the hunt was held inside the facility. The residents had a great time getting ready for this great event. We at Fairview always look forward to having the daycare come to our facility and hunt eggs and the children always go home with a basket full of eggs.

The residents at Fairview Nursing and Rehab. held it’s annual Easter egg hunt for the Footsteps and Fingerprints Daycare children. Although the weather was cold and damp the hunt was held inside the facility. The residents had a great time getting ready for this great event. We at Fairview always look forward to having the daycare come to our facility and hunt eggs and the children always go home with a basket full of eggs.

Savoy Student of the Month for Grades 4-6 Adam Raley

Adam Raley was chosen as the Student of the Month in grades 4-6 at Savoy Elementary. Adam likes to play any kind of sport. In the future, Adam would like to serve his country and join the army.

Savoy Student of the Month for Grades 1-3 Jack Neal

Jack Neal was chosen as the Student of the month for grades 1-3 at Savoy Elementary. Jack enjoys reading and playing basketball and baseball. Jack also enjoys learning about animals. In the future, Jack would like to become a paleontologist.

COMMERCE, TEXAS, March 22, 2005 – USDA Rural Development State Director Bryan Daniel announced today that the Agency will hold a seminar to discuss the Value Added Producer Grant program. The meeting will be held on Friday, April 1, 2005, at 1:00 p.m., at Texas A&M University, AG Science Building, AG Auditorium, 2600 South Neal Street, Commerce, Texas.

"This grant program will foster the development of value-added projects to help create the opportunity for economic development and job creation in rural areas," said Daniel. "USDA Rural Development is committed to providing the necessary tools to help rural businesses create jobs and improve the quality of life for their communities."

Authorized as part of the 2002 Farm Bill, the Value-Added Agricultural Producer Grant Program provides an opportunity to refine agricultural commodities and products to increase their value in the marketplace. Grants may be used for planning activities and working capital for marketing value-added agricultural products and for farm-based renewable energy. Eligible applicants are independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, agricultural producer groups, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures.

Value-added agricultural proposals are being requested from eligible independent agricultural producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures interested in this program. The application deadline for the Agency’s 2005 Value-Added Producer Grant Program is May 6, 2005.

To reserve a seat or learn more about this program, contact the McKinney Local Office at (972) 542-0081, Ext. 4 or visit our website at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/tx/. USDA Rural Development was created in 1994 and its mission is to use the resources of USDA to help enhance the quality of life for the nation’s rural residents.

BPL Depending on Patrons

Recent federal and state budget cuts are having the greatest impact on smaller libraries across the nation. The Bonham Public Library is a part of the NETLS or Northeast Texas Library Systems and the structure and budget changes for the coming years for our area provide a good example of the growing problems for our nation’s libraries.

NETLS contains both large and small libraries and estimates for 2006 funding cuts affect all of these facilities, however percentages will be higher for the smaller library. Dallas Public Libraries will experience an approximate 43% cut whereas Bonham Public Library’s government funding will decrease about 54%. The large libraries like Dallas and Garland provide general programs that assist all libraries in our regional system, so this is the primary reason that these libraries are not facing the same kinds of budget cuts.

The Bonham Public Library uses these government funds to purchase books for the collection. This 54% budget decrease will directly affect materials available to patrons and the BPL is taking steps to decrease the impact these changes will have on the library. National Library Week will be April 10-16, 2005 and the Bonham Public Library will be hosting a series of events that week to promote the library and raise necessary funds to purchase books. The Annual Spring Book Sale will have a Preview Night Monday April 11, 2005 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a $5.00 admission fee to be among the first to peruse the volumes for sale. The Book Sale will continue for all Tuesday through Saturday during the libraries regular business hours. There will be no fee to attend those days.

In addition to the Annual Book Sale the library will also be having a "Baking for Books" Bake Sale Tues, April 12, 2005 from 8:OOAM to 5:00 PM. Beautiful plants in decorated pots will be for sale Monday through Friday at the Bonham Public Library during regular business hours.

Refreshments will be served all week to commemorate National Library Week and thank our patrons for the support they provide during the sales and throughout the year.

Fort McHenry Returns to Forward Deployed Port

Navy Seaman Andrew C. Jones serves aboard the USS Fort Mchenry in Japan.

Son of Leslie & Alice Jones,Jr. of Ector and the grandson of Leslie & Bessie Jones Sr. of Bonham Texas.

Jones is a 2004 graduate of Bonham High School.

Fort McHenry Returns to Forward Deployed Port

By Journalist 2nd Class James Kimber, Amphibious Group 1 Public Affairs

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) returned to Sasebo, Japan, March 19 after spending nearly three months deployed at sea.

The amphibious dock landing ship deployed to Sumatra, Indonesia, in support of Operation Unified Assistance and ceremonies commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

Fort McHenry Commanding Officer Cmdr. Mark Weber said he couldn’t be prouder of the tremendous efforts and dedication of the Navy and Marine Corps team aboard Fort McHenry during the surge deployment.

"From [the Navy and Marine Corps team’s] superior performance in helping to prevent further loss of life and reduce suffering by providing humanitarian assistance for the victims of the horrific southeast Asia tsunami, through their outstanding commitment and untiring support for Former Presidents’ Bush and Clinton visit to the area, to the amphibious operations in support of the 60th Iwo Jima Commemoration, they excelled in all mission requirements," said Weber.

"Although the personal gratification and professional experience has been very rewarding for all, I can state without hesitation, we are very happy to return to our families and friends in Sasebo," he added.

Fort McHenry joined Combined Support Force (CSF) 536 in Operation Unified Assistance and delivered more than 1.2 million pounds of humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies to the area, which was devastated by the Dec. 26 tsunami. Assault Craft Unit 5’s Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 262 helicopter support delivered the much-needed supplies. Included in the delivery was the more than 2,000 pounds of supplies collected by communities attached to Fleet Activities Sasebo.

The ship also embarked personnel and equipment from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 40 to support the effort. Embarked medical and dental teams also provided care to more than 150 patients.

Fort McHenry also participated in activities marking the 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima March 12. Both American and Japanese war veterans joined Fort McHenry and embarked personnel from the III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) to commemorate the Pacific’s bloodiest World War II battle.

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael W. Hagee, guest speaker at the ceremonial event, said he was proud to stand amongst the heroes and service members who set the standard.

"The battle of Iwo Jima remains as a landmark of mass courage and individual honor," said Hagee. "The world might not remember what we said or did today, but it must remember what they did 60 years ago."

Fort McHenry is an an amphibious dock landing ship forward deployed to Sasebo, Japan, and is a part of the Navy’s only forward deployed amphibious ready group, the USS Essex (LHD 2) Amphibious Ready Group.

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.

On Monday, March 14, 2005, Judge Blake impaneled Fannin County’s first Felony Jury of 2005. Fifty seven (57) potential jurors appeared for duty. The 12 jurors selected heard the case of The State of Texas vs. Albert Charles McKinney. The defendant was charged with the offense of DWI-3rd Offense (Enhanced), a Second Degree Felony. The applicable punishment range in this case was a minimum of 2 years to a maximum of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.

Mr. McKinney was stopped for traffic violations the evening of August 26, 2001, by then Fannin County Sheriff Deputies Chris Brooks and George Robinson while on routine patrol. After the stop and contact with Mr. McKinney, Deputy Brooks suspected that the defendant was intoxicated and called for backup from the Texas Department of Public Safety, which was standard practice at that time. Dep Brooks and Robinson were the only deputies on duty that night protecting the over 900 square miles in Fannin County. Department of Public Safety Trooper Kevin Verner, a long-time Bonham resident with 17 years of law enforcement experience, answered the call. After Trooper Verner’s investigation, he determined that Mr. McKinney was intoxicated and arrested Mr. McKinney charging him with driving while intoxicated.

Mr. McKinney refused to take the required breath test offered by Trooper Verner and chose instead to test the resolve of 12 Fannin County Jurors. Later Mr. McKinney failed to appear in court in January of 2002, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Mr. McKinney was arrested in June of 2004 and remained in the Fannin County jail until his trial on March 14.

Fannin County Attorney Richard Glaser and Felony Prosecutor Michael Morrow represented the State. For two days of trial, the Jury found Mr. McKinney guilty and they sentenced Mr. McKinney to 18 years in the Institutional Division- TDCJ and assessed a fine of $5,000.

Third Brother Earns Eagle Scout Award

BONHAM, TEXAS: The Stephen Talley family of Edhube is very involved in Boy Scouts. Mom has been Cub and Den leader, dad a Scout Master, and all four sons have been active in Scouting. Paul Talley, the next-to-the-youngest brother has followed in his two older brother’s footsteps and recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The Eagle Scout award is the highest award in the Boy Scouts.

Only two percent of young men who join the Boy Scouts go on to achieve the Eagle Scout rank. Besides completing a community service project, these scouts must earn 12 specific badges and at least nine other badges, as well as serve in leadership positions within their troop while earning their way up through several ranks in Scouting -- all before the age of 18. Paul’s Eagle Service Project consisted of working with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department building birdhouses for the birds, and benches for the bird watchers at Bonham State Park.

A Bonham High School junior who has earned credits to graduate in May, Paul played on the varsity football team. Just two of his other extracurricular activities include being a member of the Executive Student Council, and participating in UIL Lincoln Debate. Currently ranked 7^th in his class, Paul has been accepted and will be attending Brigham Young University in the fall.

The family is members of the Bonham Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which sponsors the boy’s Scout troop. "The church is a staunch supporter of the Boy Scout program," stated Bishop Philip St.George. "Troop 1910 is working toward helping all the boys achieve their Eagle rank. Since the troop’s formation in 1999, it has helped to produce eight other Eagle Scouts. We currently have several scouts very close to qualifying for Eagle. We are quite proud of Paul, and all the boys and leaders who are working so diligently in the program. Ninety-nine percent of our young men who earn their Eagle Scout rank go on to serve a two-year mission for our church. Paul’s older brothers, Sam and Michael are both currently serving missions in Argentina and Mexico, respectively."

Paul joins such people as former President Gerald R. Ford, businessman H. Ross Perot, and Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld in the "Eagle’s Nest."

Blackland Prairie Raptor Center

By Mary Ann Page

Here’s a birds of prey quiz! What bird of prey is the fastest flying? What special characteristics set birds of prey apart from other birds? What are the most common owls in North America? Which birds of prey are diurnal (daytime) raptors?

These and other questions are answered at the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center. Did you know it is right here in Fannin County? This raptor center was named after the tallgrass prairie that once covered more than 18,000 square miles of Texas from the Red River to San Antonio. Founded in 2004 to increase raptor rehabilitation and expand educational resources available in North Texas.

How can you learn more about the raptor center? Outreach presentations are available to public and private schools, home school groups, youth organizations and community groups throughout the counties in North Texas. We benefit because it’s right in our back yards!

Take Advantage of their outreach presentations for a great learning opportunity. Make arrangements for them to come to your school or home school group and excite the kids’ imagination! Or, invite them to come to your summer kids program. Experience these incredible birds up close and personal!

For more information, please contact Dee Ann Armstrong at (903)624-6010 or e-mail her at info@bpraptorcenter.org.

Cindy Lee Webster

An exhibiting artist of Bonham’s Creative Arts Center, Cindy Lee Webster has been painting professionally since 1993. Her artistic roots, however, extend back into her childhood, where she spent countless hours hanging out in the art studio of her nationally acclaimed father, Robert Cassell. The renowned illustrator made a profound impact on his daughter as she observed the skills of fine art and illustration at a very early age. These influences are evident in Cindy Lee’s portfolio, which displays a wide variety of subject matter and spans many traditional artist mediums. Portraits, architectural renderings, landscapes, still life and floral paintings impress, whether in pastel, watercolor or oil.

Subjects that radiate a unique spiritual energy inspire Cindy Lee. Her portraits capture the soul and spirit of the models, not just their physical attributes. Her renderings, landscapes, still life and floral compositions echo themes of nature’s beauty, light transformation and abundance. The artist states, "It is my greatest desire to capture a unique spirit in all that I paint. I particularly enjoy creating pieces that bring meaning to the lives of others – capturing a special moment or recreating a cherished memory."

The artist graduated with honors from the University of Texas in Austin, and she is owner of Cindy Lee Studios in Plano, Texas. Her artwork hangs in galleries, business offices, educational facilities and private residences throughout the United States. Cindy Lee sits on the board of the Plano Art Association and is a member of the Richardson Civic Art Association, the Pastel Society of the Southwest, among others. Representation includes the Artists’ Showplace Gallery in Dallas, Texas, Anthurium Gallery in McKinney, Texas and the Creative Arts Center in Bonham, Texas. She is available for commissions, so please feel free to reach her through contact with the Creative Arts Center for such inquiries.

Please visit the lobby of Bonham State Bank and view Cindy Lee Webster’s "Mother and Child", one of a series of illustrations that she has created for her book (in progress) titled Celebrating the Facets of the Feminine Spirit. This body of work celebrates women’s uniqueness and their abundant choices. Her hope is that, through the book, it’s words and it’s images, women will be encouraged to embrace their gifts and diversity and to support each other on their chosen paths. "Mother and Child" captures a precious moment frozen in time, representing the special bond between a young mother and her newborn.

Bonham State Bank’s commitment to the arts in Fannin County has always been consistent and generous, providing both financial support and exposure for area artists. Please visit the bank each month to see a new fine art piece on exhibit, submitted by the Creative Arts Center on behalf of it’s many talented artists. Your visit to the gallery, located at 200 W. Fifth Street will be most welcome and you will see the work of many of our juried artists on exhibit throughout the year.

The Creative Arts Center is open Monday through Friday from 1-6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Visit them on the web at: www.creativeartscenter.us. You can email your inquiries regarding exhibits, educational offerings or special events to: creativeartscenter@netexas.net, or phone the gallery at 903-640-2196. Mark your calendars for the next exciting event of the spring, The 2005 Northeast Texas Youth Art Competition! Fine art entries from youth ages 4-18 will be judged and awarded Saturday, April 2^nd, 2005. The gallery will open to the public with a punch & cookie artists’ reception that day from 2-4pm. At that time, all ribbons will be in place and cash awards will be issued to those young artists in attendance! All are welcome and first viewing of this exhibits public opening is at no charge! For more information on the contest itself, pick up a brochure (or email us with the subject line "YOUTH BROCHURES") for important entry forms, instructions, rules and entry fee information. All entries are accepted Thursday, March 24^th and Friday, March 25^th (Good Friday), from 1-5pm ONLY!

Artist’s Workshop

Oil Painting Techniques with Robert DeLeon

1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Serious artists are encouraged to take advantage of this incredible opportunity! Study under award winning and nationally known artist Robert De Leon, of Sante Fe, New Mexico, in his four-day, hands-on oil painter’s workshop. The curriculum will be geared for those who have had experience, but both the oil painter AND the artist who has not yet experienced this medium are encouraged to attend!

Artists who currently work in oil will move forward and advance their skills, learn new techniques, and be enriched by studying under a new artist, as the learning process is a never-ending journey for us all!

Those artists who currently work with only water media will find the traditional oil experience to be an excellent way to broaden their education and bring life to their canvas, as they learn to appreciate the qualities of the pigment, and rid themselves of any prior intimidations or hesitations regarding oils.

Robert will cover initial discussions on a great beginning (your drawing). Additional and more in-depth discussion time will include what it takes to be an accomplished artist, important guidelines for great composition, the advantages of working with oils, as well as Q & A time at the end of each day.

This workshop will focus on Landscape and Still Life paintings, so please bring several photos from which to choose for your workshop piece. This workshop will be intense and thorough and the techniques and mechanics of oil painting presented are valuable to painters of all styles...Realists, Impressionists, Abstract Artists & Multi-Media or Experimental Artists!

Artists bring easels, supplies and several photographs from which to choose or combine for composing their Landscape or Still Life painting.

All attendees welcome to stay and utilize the facility until 6pm on any workshop day.

12 x 16 canvas is recommended. Larger canvases may certainly be used, that decision being up to the individual.

Four Day Workshop, Q & A and Extended Freestyle Time

Registration requires payment in full, no later than May 7^th at 2pm.

Register by phone with your MasterCard or Visa, or come in to register at 200 West Fifth Street, Bonham.

We are open Monday-Friday from 1-6pm, and Saturday from 11am - pm.

Phone: 903-640-2196

Email any questions (with subject line: OIL WORKSHOP) to: creativeartscenter@netexas.net

Visit us on the web at: www.creativeartscenter.us, where the artist’s bio can soon be seen.

A native of Dallas, Robert De Leon’s interest in art began in grade school. Combining that with a love of history gives him the basis for his peaceful settings of different Native American tribes and his panoramic western landscapes.

It wasn’t until 1982, however, while an Art Director for a Dallas company designing commercial interiors that he decided to devote himself fully to his art. Gallery commitments eventually took the place of once a month art shows, and he says he misses meeting the person who buys his works.

His paintings start with hours of research, followed by quick thumbnail sketches that evolve into a final sketch that is transferred to the canvas. Attending artist photo shoots once a year strengthens his composing.

From miniatures to murals, De Leon believes tin putting his best effort into whatever he paints. Authenticity is the key. "I hear people say that you get the sense you can walk right into the painting," he notes.

Today, De Leon calls Santa Fe home and has his studio there. As his paintings grow from sketch to canvas, they take on a character of their own. "Then," he says, "you can enjoy working with it."

His work may be found in galleries in Scottsdale, Santa Fe, Aspen, and Dallas. Additionally, this past fall, the Creative Arts Center’s gallery in Bonham was proud to present "The Great American West - Two Artists, One Story", a two-man show featuring Robert De Leon’s panoramic landscapes and fine portraiture, along-side the richly detailed fine-art bronzes of C.B. "Buck" Mahaney.

House Bill 2:

Roadmap To Results

The Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 2, "Roadmap to Results" on Friday, March 11. HB 2 invests more money in every district in Texas and ratchets up accountability for student achievement and fiscal management.

House Bill 2 strengthens the core of Texas public education and creates the basis for a new generation of public schools to successfully meet the demands of the 21st century. The bill updates the Texas public education system in five key areas: funding, accountability, assessments, teacher and principal excellence, and governance and efficiency.

All Districts Benefit. HB 2’s funding formulas increase the state share of funding for public education from 38 percent to 60 percent, and add more than $3 billion new dollars over the biennium on top of $1.2 billion for enrollment growth. Every district in the state will get at least a three percent increase in per pupil funding this fall. The bill:

• Assures pay increases for teachers: HB 2 requires districts to dedicate to teacher compensation at least 50% of the new money distributed. HB 2 also establishes two performance pay programs for teachers--one developed by local districts and a separate, statewide incentive program. Together, they ensure our best teachers will be rewarded.

• Increases transportation funding by more than $100 million annually. HB 2 also simplifies the transportation funding formula, reducing district reporting requirements.

• Reduces Robin Hood by 88 percent: Currently, property wealthy districts give up about $1.2 billion in tax dollars per year through recapture. Under this plan, that number drops to less than $150 million for 2005-06.

The bill restores the $1,000 health insurance supplement for teachers and distributes it directly to their paychecks. Districts will also have access to local enrichment funds, with the approval of voters. Every district would have access to the same enrichment revenue as the school districts at the 90th percentile of wealth per student. With HB 2’s formula changes, 99 percent of revenue for public education will be in an equalized system.

HB 2 holds schools accountable for college readiness by linking accountability ratings for schools and districts to high performance measures such as college entrance exams, Advanced Placement test results, and AP test-taking rates. HB 2 also:

• Calls for new reports of growth in student achievement.

• Establishes accountability for bilingual programs based on students’ progress toward proficiency in English.

• Creates stricter sanctions for low-performing schools, including charter schools.

• Requires improved reporting of campus and district revenues and expenditures.

To help schools and districts meet the demands of increased accountability, the bill requires the Texas Education Agency to establish online clearinghouses of best practices in curriculum, instruction and operations. The bill also calls for the development of a statewide student information system to allow secure transfer of student records and better tracking of completion, truancy and dropouts.

As an incentive for high performance, HB 2 provides all exemplary campuses and districts the same freedom from regulation that open-enrollment charter schools have.

HB2 initiates an important shift in statewide assessments by requiring that they be administered online starting in 2006. Online, computer-adaptive assessments will decrease costs, increase efficiency and allow for better assessment of content knowledge. The bill also phases in end-of-course exams for high school courses that will allow for much more thorough assessment of course content. End-of-course exams will ultimately replace the current high school TAKS exit test.

The bill includes specific measures to support teacher and principal excellence. It:

• Provides mentoring support for beginning teachers and requires that mentors have a proven record of improving student achievement.

• Establishes training for principals in advanced business management.

• Creates temporary certificates for principals and administrators, allowing districts to attract talented professionals outside of education who have an interest in leading schools.

• Establishes performance pay for teachers. HB 2 requires local school districts to design and implement performance pay programs and/or mentoring programs.

Governance and Efficiency

HB2 is highly focused on reducing money spent on administration and business operations, and increasing spending for the core mission--instruction. The bill calls for more shared services arrangements that Education Service Centers and larger districts can provide to small districts. It establishes a uniform school start date after Labor Day, which saves money and greatly increases the opportunity for mobile students to be in school on the first day. The bill establishes that school board elections be held in November, and it institutes four-year terms for school board members.

Texas has been a leader in establishing strong and coherent state education policy.  Our clear standards and strong accountability system have led to significant  improvements in student achievement. However, now is not the time to sit back; for our state and for our children, it is time to go the extra mile. With this roadmap to results, no child will get lost along the way.   

Troop 52 Receives Awards at Central District Banquet

At the Central District Awards Banquet, held on Saturday evening, March 19^th, at the First United Methodist Church in Paris, members of Troop 52 were recognized for their volunteer work with Boy Scouts of America.

Maureen Reeder, troop advancement coordinator, received recognition for the leadership she provided in organizing and presenting a Cub Scout training course, Pow Wow. In addition to this recognition, Maureen was honored as Scouter of the Year, which was awarded due to her selfless work with the District Committee as well as her willingness to serve wherever needed.

As reported a few weeks ago, Maureen completed the requirements to receive her Wood Badge beads. Mrs. Reeder received her beads during a ceremony held at the district banquet.

The District Award of Merit is the highest award which can be bestowed on a Scouter at the district level. One of this year’s recipients was Troop 52’s own Committee Chairman, Frank Orr. The countless hours of volunteer effort displayed by Mr. Orr brings credit to himself, Pack 54, where he still serves as Cub Master, Troop 52, and Central District. Congratulations, Frank, on a well-deserved honor.

For the fourth consecutive year, Troop 52 was honored as a Quality Unit. This award represents a considerable amount of work by the youth members of the Troop as well as the registered adults. It is our goal to provide the best environment for the boys to succeed and have fun, and trained leadership is the key ingredient. The recognition bestowed on Troop 52 leadership is evidence to the quality people associated with the troop, as well as the dedication everyone in the troop has to providing the highest quality program for the boys. Congratulations to Maureen and Frank, you represent the troop well, and we are proud of your accomplishments. Keep up the good work.

For information regarding Troop 52 or Wood Badge training, please contact Scoutmaster David Wheeler at 903-640-1869, or visit our web site: www.troop52.com.

March 28 - April 1

11:45 - 1:00

Monday- Meatloaf, Black-eyed Peas, Mac & Cheese, Spinach, Cornbread, Apple-cranberry Pie, Salad Bar

Tuesday- Fried Catfish, Steak Fries, Hushpuppies, Cole Slaw, Brownies, Salad Bar

Wednesday- Smothered Pork Chops, Green Beans Casserole, Buttered Carrots, Fried Zucchini, Dinner Roll, Peanut Butter Bars, Salad Bar

Thursday- Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes/gravy, Corn, Winter Blend, Dinner Roll, Chocolate Cake/chocolate Icing, Salad Bar

Friday- Spaghetti, Vegetable Lasagna, Italian Blend, Broccoli, Garlic Bread, Swedish Pineapple Cake, Salad Bar

FGG specializes in helping people become qualified to be a New Home owner when they felt there was no possibility. FGG has gone Nationwide with their exciting new method of getting people qualified for New Home Ownership. Alex Jakubowski, the President of FGG stated, "This is a very rewarding business, everyday people are qualifying for their Dream Home. The biggest problem we have is people prejudging their ability to qualify. People who have been turned down several times are amazed they have qualified for their own New Home. Last week one of our clients, had been turned down for a Credit Card the week before, then qualified for a New $200,000 Home through our FGG program. "

The company says there is a few criteria customers must meet before they are approved to take part in the program. Applicants must have a down payment equal to 5 percent of the land value; they must have a household income of approximately $40,000, and they must agree to act as project manager.

If clients already own their land, no down payment is required.

Clients may choose from 22 styles of homes – ranch, two-story, split-level, etc. – with three to five bedrooms.

All homes are stick built from the ground up and range in size from 1,200 square feet to 2,800 square feet.

Clients must complete their home within one year of receiving their loan. No payments are due until the clients have moved into their new home.

Mr. Jakubowski said, "One of the major strengths of our program is clients can easily build equity into their New Home by acting as their own project manager. By doing this our clients have more control over the building process. They will select their own land, apply for permits and hire contractors and our agency helps assist with each process."

The program guarantees at least 20 percent equity on the very first day clients move into their homes.

Upon completion of the home, homeowners get a mortgage from the lending institution of their choice and pay the construction loan.

At the Bonham Rotary Club meeting last Wednesday, all was quiet and everyone was listening attentively as Inguna Gruznina of Latvia spoke. Latvia is one of the Baltic States in what used to be Russia. With a population of 2.5 million, 50% are Russians. Latvia was under Communism for 50 years and was taught that there was no God. In 1990, Inguna put her 18 month old daughter Elina to bed completely healthy and when she awoke, she was partially paralyzed on her left side. The doctors told her that she required brain surgery to remove a malignant tumor, warning that Elina could die during the complicated surgery. Even being a non-believer, Inguna prayed and asked, "God, if you exist and if you are real, please save Elina’s life and I’ll serve you!". Elina survived the surgery, but the doctors said that by age six, she would die. In 1991, American missionaries came to Latvia and witnessed about Jesus to Inguna. She said that she had never felt so much love before in her life. In 1992 she received Jesus in her heart and God told her that Elina would not die at the age of six. Because Elina was physically handicapped, she would not be able to go to public school. In Latvia handicapped children could not go to school or be in public. Inguna began to dream of a special Christian school for her daughter and other physically handicapped children to meet their needs. They all went to America for Inguna to study for one year to open the Christian school. While in America, her husband Maris, became a Christian and now pastors a little country church in Latvia and helps at the school.

Talsi Christian School was opened in 1995 with 5 teachers for 37 students in 1st-4th grades. The school was started to integrate physically handicapped children into regular student life, providing them with the opportunity to get a good education according with the standards of the Latvian educational system. Today there are 163 students and 23 teachers, and the school has been accredited through the 12th grade by the Latvian Education Department and continues to grow because of answered prayers. Inguna stated that all these miraculous things could happen only because of generous help from American Christians.

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

Jim McCammon with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas was the guest speaker at the Bonham Rotary Club on March 16, and spoke on "What You Should Know About Checks". Checks are being processed more quickly these days. Faster processing means that when you write a check, the money may be deducted from your account sooner. Be sure you have enough money in your account at the time you write a check. The items listed on your checking account statement may look different from one another. Some items may be listed by check number, and others may be listed by the name of the company you paid. Always review all of the charges listed on your account statement to make sure they match your receipts or records. To make check processing faster, many banks no longer send paper checks to other banks to receive payment. Instead, these banks exchange payment information electronically. A federal law, known as Check 21 (effective 10/28/04), makes it easier for banks to electronically transfer check images instead of physically transfer paper checks. Sometimes, when you write a check to buy something at a store or to pay a bill, your check is used as a source of information to make a one-time electronic payment from your account. If you have questions about how your checks are processed, contact your bank, savings and loan, or credit union.

McCammon is involved in business development and with S.M.U. in Bank Marketing.

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

It’s A Girl

Emma Grace Holman was born January 28, 2005 to proud parents Rob and Sarahbeth Holman. Grandparents are Dennis and Jan Holman of Lamasco and Boyd and Barbara Ruffner of Bonham.

Ricky Is One

Ariel Turns One

Weatherby - Morton Wedding Announcement

Ashley Dawn Weatherby and Andrew Dewayne Morton to unite in marriage on April 2, 2005 at 3:00pm at Edhube Baptist Church, Edhube, Texas. Family and Friends are invited. Reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Vaughan - Cline Wedding

Jerrie Beth Cline and Adrian Vaughan were united in marriage on Saturday, March 5 at 3:00 PM at Central Baptist Church in Bonham.

Jerrie Beth is the daughter of Patricia Burk of Montgomery City, MO and Keith Cline of Bonham. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Ginger Griffith of Ravenna, TX. and the great granddaughter of Mr. Millard Montgomery of Ivanhoe, TX.

Adrian is the son of Mr. & Mrs. Steve Vaughan of Bonham and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Moyer of Bonham and Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Vaughan of Eureka, CA.