New Fire Chief for bonham

Today Bonham City Manager, Blaine R. Hinds, announced the appointment of William L. (Bill) Palya as the new Fire Chief of the City’s Fire/Rescue/EMS Department. Mr. Palya will become the head of a department that provides firefighting and rescue services for the Bonham Fire District and ambulance services for all of Fannin County. Mr. Palya will replace fire Chief Brad Nichols who took over when Chief Mike Baker left last spring. Chief Nichols assumed the post with the understanding that he would return to his previous duties, if there were a conflict with his other responsibilities.

Groundbreaking for Fannin Federal Credit Union set

 for July 12

On Tuesday, July 12, 2005, Fannin Federal Credit Union will break ground on its new facility. The new 3,250 square foot facility will be located at 1737 North Highway 121 in Bonham. Once completed the building will have 3 drive-thru lanes, drive-up ATM, offices, lobby tellers, member waiting areas, safe deposit vault, and boardroom. The new facility will offer their members more convenience and easy access to the Credit Union’s services. Fannin Federal Credit Union is a non-profit member owned co-operative; chartered to serve the Fannin County area. The groundbreaking ceremonies will begin at 5:00 pm. An invitation is extended to all of Fannin County to join the groundbreaking celebration on July 12^th.

NEW Postmaster Rosa Gonzales

On Wednesday, June 29, Mr. Harris swore-in Rosa Gonzales as Bonham’s Postmaster. The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce hosted many of Mrs. Gonzales’ friends, co-workers, and business people at her swearing-in ceremony.

Region C Water Planning Group

At the July 11 meeting in Arlington, members of the public may provide oral or written comments, and written comments on the Initially Prepared Plan will also be accepted by the planning group through September 9, 2005. The plan will then be revised and adopted by the planning group in December 2005, prior to submission to the Texas Water Development Board.

Given the critical importance of regional water planning in North Central Texas, all interested members of the public are encouraged to attend the public hearing and/or provide feedback on the draft plan.

Please contact me if you have any questions about the July 11 public hearing, the regional water planning process, public participation options or the recommended water management strategies in the draft plan. The entire Initially Prepared Plan can be found at www.regioncwater.org, and I can also provide an electronic copy of the Executive Summary if you would like to receive it.

Regards,

Colby Walton

GRANDFATHER PERIOD FOR ELECTRICAL LICENSING REOPENS

Experienced electricians who have yet not received a state license now have a second opportunity to obtain a license without having to pass the state electrician exam.

House Bill 1317, which was passed by the 79th Texas Legislature and signed by Governor Rick Perry on June 18, reopens the grandfathering period for electrical licenses, effective immediately. Under this bill, electricians who hold a municipal or regional license, or who can demonstrate that he or she has the prescribed amount of education and experience, have until December 31, 2005, to obtain a license without passing the state electrician exam.

"Since the state electrician licensing program began, many cities that previously had a municipal licensing program have chosen to stop issuing municipal licenses and rely instead on the state license," said William Kuntz, executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). "The new grandfathering period will allow electricians in those cities to obtain a state license without passing the state electrician exam. But this period is not limited to those individuals. Any electrician who meets the criteria to receive a license, but who didn’t take advantage of the first grandfathering period, now has a second chance to be exempted from the state electrician examination."

The state electrician licensing program was created by the 78th Texas Legislature. Since September 1, 2004, all electricians in Texas are required to be licensed, either by the state or by a municipal or regional authority, unless exempted by law. Since the law took effect more than 97,000 electricians across the state have received state licenses.

The original law allowed for a grandfathering period from March 1 to June 1, 2004, during which electricians could qualify to receive a state license without taking the state electrician exam if they met specific criteria including, but not limited to, prior local licensure, education and experience. More than 55,000 electricians took advantage of that opportunity. Since that grandfathering period ended, applicants for state electrical licenses except apprentices have been required to pass a competency exam.

TDLR will post documents on its website, www.license.state.tx.us, that will help electricians determine if they are eligible to receive a license during the grandfathering period and how to apply. For more information on the grandfathering period, electrical license exemptions or electrical licensing in general, all interested individuals may contact TDLR’s Customer Service Division at (800) 803-9202 or (512) 463-6599, or they can visit the TDLR website at http://www.license.state.tx.us/electricians/elec.htm.

To receive news and updates on the Electrical Safety Program, or any of the programs TDLR administers, sign up for TDLR’s email subscription service at http://www.license.state.tx.us/newsletters/TDLRnotificationLists.asp.

AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott today urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to require wireless phone companies to be truthful in the way they bill customers for their services, and to respect the right of Texas and other states to attack the problem.

Abbott’s proposal was included in official comments signed by 48 states and filed today with the FCC. Telecommunications issues have ranked in the top three categories of consumer complaints in Texas for the last three years, in part because of the widespread use of misleading terms on wireless phone bills that mask the true cost of their services.

"It is time for the wireless industry to abide by the same rules that all businesses in a competitive marketplace have to obey," Attorney General Abbott said of the FCC submission. "No business should be allowed to mislead its customers about the charges on their bills, and I commend the FCC for recognizing this problem among wireless phone providers. At the same time, I urge the commission to respect the important, longstanding role Texas and other states have played in enforcing compliance with ‘truth in billing’ laws."

The comments, which Abbott co-sponsored with the California Attorney General, were filed in response to a pending FCC proposal to make wireless carriers subject to its 1999 Truth-in-Billing Order. That order, which exempted wireless providers, requires that consumer telephone bills be clearly organized; contain full and clear descriptions of charges that appear; and clearly tell the consumer how to make inquiries about or contest charges on their bill.

The move to make wireless carriers subject to the order was prompted in large part by the widespread industry practice of adding line-item charges to bills to mask the true cost of services. In other words, at the time that a consumer enters into an agreement with a wireless carrier, that carrier will specify a monthly price for the service, but may fail to disclose additional variable add-on charges the carrier knows it will include in the consumer’s bill.

In addition, wireless providers’ bills often use misleading terms such as "regulatory assessment fee" to describe these add-on charges, which imply to consumers that the charges are governmental fees that carriers are required to impose upon customers, when in fact they are not.

Abbott and the other attorneys general commended the FCC for moving to prohibit wireless carriers from imposing carrier add-on charges to telecommunications bills. If the FCC does allow add-on charges, they said, such charges should be clearly defined, accurately stated, and separated from required taxes and regulatory fees.

However, another part of FCC proposal would pre-empt state authority to enact and enforce telecommunications "truth in billing" rules. Attorney General Abbott and his colleagues urged the FCC to scrap that provision, contending that such action goes beyond the Commission’s legal authority. Any federal requirements and enforcement should complement, not displace, traditional state regulatory and police authority, they added.

Consumers who need additional information or want to file a complaint can visit the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us or call (800) 252-8011.

Bonham High All-School Reunion

The Bonham High All-School Reunion consummated months of preparation and was gone in a flash the weekend of June 17-19, 2005. More than 1400 Exes and their guests registered for the event.

Seventy-seven Exes traveled from 26 states to Bonham, Texas, for the Reunion. According to Registration information, Jim Sutton, Class of 1965, came the farthest; he lives in Portland, Oregon.

Mr. David Alexander, Class of 1930, was the oldest registered Ex; he lives in Fort Worth, Texas.

The class having the greatest percentage of registered class members received the ‘Traveling Trophy’; the class receiving this coveted honor was the Class of 1956; 47% of their class was registered and in attendance.

The next Bonhi All-School Reunion is planned for the year 2010.

Unique Novel Hits Bookstores

Patrick Chalfant’s second novel, Bury My Heart at Redtree, has just been released by Hawk Publishing. Inspired by the tragic death of several Osage Indians during Oklahoma’s early years, the mainstream thriller is psychological suspense at its best.

Chalfant, a member of the Osage nation, says that even though his novel is set in modern times, it shares strong similarities to the murders that occurred at the Osage Nation over 80 years ago. "In my latest novel Indians are murdered by wealthy businessmen for financial gain, just as some Native Americans were killed years ago for their stakes in the rich oil deposits of Osage County."

The incidents occurred on the Osage Indian Reservation between 1921 and 1923. The discovery of oil on the reservation made the members of the Osage Nation the richest group in the entire world. In 1923, the Osage Nation received $27 million of revenue from oil drilled on its reservation. Their newfound wealth also brought another statistical anomaly—their murder rate soared to record levels.

After several Indians died under very suspicious circumstances, the Department of Interior requested help from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In one of his most celebrated cases, FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover led his team to infiltrate the reservations. The killers were soon captured and sentenced to life in prison.

Throughout his life, Chalfant remembers hearing stories about the murders from his family. "My grandfather was raised in Fairfax, Oklahoma, which is in the heart of Osage country. He was a child at the time of one of the most horrific murders. A Mafia-style bomb blew up an entire house, killing all the Indians inside. It’s hard to imagine something like that happening in small-town America."

The stories prompted Chalfant to conduct extensive research and ultimately fictionalize his own story with a common theme. "Just as with the Osage murders, my plot is driven by greed and the horrible things some people will do for money and power."

Bury My Heart at Redtree is available anywhere fine books are sold.

GhostLight Productions

GhostLight Productions presents FREE children’s plays on Friday, 1 July, at 7:00 PM. at Heard-Craig Hall, 306 N. Church Street, McKinney, TX. Three plays will be performed: Lillian and the Dark Road; Hearts, Tarts, and Valentines; and Stone Soup. More information at www.ghost-light.net or 214-477-4891.

America’s Independence Day Helped Spark Independence World-Wide

By U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison

"We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men." This is the best-remembered sentence from the Declaration of Independence.

When I was a child, I loved the Fourth of July because of the picnics, fireworks and the patriotic feelings inspired by the flags and red, white and blue decorations. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the deeper significance of the holiday. An avid reader from a young age, I particularly enjoyed history and learned that America’s bid for independence came close to failing. We were fighting Great Britain, which was the 18^th Century’s superpower. It was only through bravery and steadfastness that our forefathers emerged victorious despite numerous setbacks and defeats.

The Declaration of Independence, written so eloquently by Thomas Jefferson, neither began nor ended the American Revolution. By July 1776, the 13 colonies had already been involved in a shooting war against the British for over a year, and the Continental Congress had appointed George Washington as the commanding general. The untried Continental Army, augmented by local militias, had managed to force the British to leave Boston, but had been defeated on other battlefields. In the beginning, the fight was to assert American rights as British citizens, but the Declaration of Independence clarified the goal of the war, making it a conflict about the fundamental concept of liberty.

This concept was a powerful motivator as George Washington kept the poorly paid and equipped army together during the seven years of war. His strength of character, ability to learn from defeat and shrewdness helped drive the Continental Army, but the glue which held it together was the goal of the mission – liberty for all.

Sometimes Americans forget how revolutionary the idea of freedom was for the world in 1776. There were very few countries which were even vaguely democratic at the time. The Netherlands were a republic. England had its parliament, but was ruled by a king. Some of Switzerland’s Cantons, and various small city states in Germany and Italy, were republican in structure, but the great nations of Europe, including Spain, France and Sweden, were absolute monarchies. Elsewhere the oppressive autocracies of Imperial Russia, the Turkish Ottoman Empire and Imperial China were the rule.

The idea that a government existed for the benefit of its people and not the reverse was revolutionary. Even within our borders it took a bloody civil war and a bitter civil rights struggle to broaden the concept to include Americans of all ethnic and religious backgrounds.

The idea of freedom is still unsettling in many parts of the globe, from the dictatorships of Zimbabwe and North Korea to Cuba. Communist China still cracks down on democratic forces and is imposing strict controls on the freewheeling internet. The young people of Iran are rejecting the sham elections approved by the clerics who run that country. Resistance to our liberation of Iraq from the tyrant Saddam Hussein is driven by the fear that a free Iraq can threaten the strongmen who currently oppress so many who live in the Middle East.

Though the present struggles in Iraq and Afghanistan are difficult, I am confident that the power of freedom will help remake this region of the world, just as it remade Imperial Japan and Nazi Germany after the end of World War II. Though there will always be setbacks, history seems to be moving toward greater acceptance of democracy and free markets in South America, Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia and the Middle East. This will make the world more peaceful and far more prosperous.

This is why our Fourth of July is so important. It was a declaration of independence for 13 small colonies over two centuries ago, which has become a clarion call for freedom that is still being heard today.

DAV Chapter 129 Of Bonham, Texas Donate Wheelchair

The Disabled American Veterans Chapter 129 of Bonham, Texas received a new wheelchair on the condition it is donated to a disabled veteran or their spouse. In early May of 2005, Fred Fowler and Steve D. Russell, of DAV Chapter 129, presented the new wheelchair to Mary Rains. Mary is the wife of former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Rains and she resides at The State of Texas’s Clyde Cosper Nursing Home in Bonham, Texas. Anyone wishing to help or donate to a disabled veteran please contact us at 903-583-6318.

Special Sessions of the Legislature

June 21st marked the opening day of the first called special session of the 79th Legislature. On June 18th, the governor signed the proclamation calling members of the legislature back to Austin for the purpose of considering legislation relating to school finance and property tax reform.

Prior to 1992, special sessions were fairly common. From 1992 to 2003, however, there were no special sessions called. After the 78th Legislative Session in 2003, the governor called four special sessions. Since special sessions are different than regular legislative sessions, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss some of the history and parameters of these sessions.

The first special session ever called in Texas occurred following the 3rd regular session and lasted 26 days, beginning August 12, 1850 and ending September 6 of the same year. It was followed 73 days later by a second called special session. The Texas Constitution does not limit the number of special sessions the governor may call. In fact, following the 71st Legislature in 1989, there were six special sessions, five of which included school finance as a topic for consideration.

The Texas Constitution places no limitation on the number of topics the governor can designate in a special session proclamation. Although legislation considered during the special session is limited to the topics listed in the proclamation, the governor may expand the call to include additional topics at any time. Legislation was allowed on 153 topics during the 1st called special session of the 43rd Legislature and 72 topics during the 2nd called Session of the 72nd Legislature.

The Constitution limits special sessions to a maximum of thirty days but does not limit the minimum amount of time the legislature must be in session. The first called session of the 38th Legislature met for only one hour and no legislation was enacted.

I encourage you to contact me during the special session with your comments and suggestions, or if I may be of assistance with any issues dealing with state agencies. You can reach me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.

Ladonia Rodeo Association

The 40th Annual Ladonia Rodeo & Frontier Days will be held Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, July 7th, 8th, & 9th, 2005 at 8:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by Ben E. Keith, Cavender’s Boot City, and K95.5 Radio. The location of the rodeo will be at the Eastman Arena on FM 64 @ CR. 3360, Ladonia, Texas in a beautiful, modern 150ft x 300ft, all steel arena with comfortable seating throughout the facility. There are concession stands and restroom facilities on the east and west sides of the rodeo grounds, as well as facilities for the physically challenged.

The rodeo begins at 8:30 p.m. each evening. The stock producer is Wing Rodeo Company, Bagota, Texas. Books will open: Sunday, July 3rd, Entry Fee $65/$130 team roping, rough stock 2-5 p.m., timed events 5-10 p.m. To enter call 903-846-5151. There will be $300 added money to each event, and a trophy buckle is awarded to each event champion. This is a rodeo sanctioned by U.P.R.A and C.R.R.A. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for kids.

Thursday night is Mutton Bustin’ (Sheep Riding) for kids 6yrs. and under, limited to 15 contestants, entry fee $15. Books open Tuesday, July 5th, 6-9 p.m. @ 903-367-7244. Friday night is steer riding for kids ages 7-12 yr.; Entry fee $20, limited to 10 Contestants. Books open Tuesday, July 5th, 6-9 p.m. @ 903-367-7244. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night is the Kids Boot Find for kids 6yrs. & under, and Kids Calf Scramble for kids 10 yrs. & under. Prizes are awarded in all kids events. Saturday night there will be a dance featuring "Ace High" Band. There will be eight events including bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, calf roping, break-away roping, team roping, and barrel racing. You also won’t want to miss the outstanding comedy act by Paul Meyers of Denison, TX and sponsored by Greenville Ford, Lincoln, Mercury.

The Ladonia Rodeo Association raises funds to promote the sport of rodeo in the local area, as well as sponsoring youth ball teams and awarding a scholarship to a local senior in the FFA. For additional information contact Jennette or Berry Burnett at 903-886-8232.

"Ferguson Family Show"

The Ferguson Family Show will be back in session this Friday night July 8th 7:30 pm. The show will be hosted by the Ferguson Family and their "Red River Express" Band. Featuring guests from the Bonham, Sherman and Paris area. The show will be at the Lake Bonham Hoe-Down "Show Barn" located 1/2 mile east of the Lake Bonham Spillway on CR 2610, Bonham, Texas. This features some of the best Country music and Country Gospel music.

Everyone is invited and welcome. Admission is free. Donations are accepted and most appreciated. Thanks to all for your support. For information call: 903-583-4731.

Trade Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

by Sheldon Richman

Hold on a minute. This is not the beginning of the next installment of Star Wars. It’s the latest news of the Bush administration’s attempt to get the government of China to rein in its apparel exporters. According to Reuters, "China took a tough line on Saturday in trade talks with U.S. officials on its surging textile exports, signaling no quick breakthrough in a row that threatens to spill over into the diplomatic arena." Vice Premier Wu Yi says the administration’s latest restrictions on trousers, shirts, underwear, and cotton yarn endanger the 19 million people who work in the Chinese textile and clothing industry. Wu is quoted as saying, "If this cannot be handled well it will severely affect the course of bilateral economic relations and trade."

For its part, the Bush administration is playing the classic good cop–bad cop game perfected by President Reagan when he extorted "voluntary" restrictions on auto exports from Japan 20 years ago. U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez told the press, "I don’t believe there is a full appreciation in China for the level of political pressure that we face with respect to our relationship." In other words, take the terms Emperor, I mean President, Bush is offering or risk inciting the wrath of the Imperial Council, I mean Congress.

Some background: On January 1 the worldwide regime of quotas on clothing and textile exports ended. Chinese producers had the chutzpah to think that meant they can now export all the goods to the United States that American consumers were willing to buy. How naive. Or not. Maybe the Chinese are simply being wily. Surely they know that when we say "free trade" we don’t really mean free trade. We mean managed trade — managed by politicians and bureaucrats, who obviously know better than consumers how many inexpensive trousers, shirts, and the rest they should buy. After all, consumers are just concerned about their personal well-being. Government officials are thinking of the welfare of the whole nation. So President Bush sent his representatives to, let us say, enlighten the audacious Chinese in the ways of the world. Will they get the message? Or are there hard lessons ahead?

If the situation is beginning to look a little ridiculous, it should. In the 1950s some people irrationally feared swarms of Chinese invading the United States and imposing communism. Today some people irrationally fear floods of Chinese shirts invading the United States and imposing ... what? Consumerism? Don’t the politicians see that we want the goods? Why can’t we have them? As they say, it’s a free country. Isn’t it?

Has it occurred to our (mis)leaders that Chinese entrepreneurs have done more to raise the living standards of low-income Americans than all the welfare-state bureaucrats, anti-poverty workers, and their trillions of dollars combined? Speeches about the minimum wage, Medicaid, and food stamps amount to nothing compared to the mass production of low-priced goods. Worse than nothing — because the welfare state stunts economic growth, hurting low-income people far more than the middle and upper classes.

The assault on our Chinese benefactors strips bare the hypocrisy at the core of the welfare state.

Sheldon Richman is senior fellow at The Future of Freedom Foundation (www.fff.org), author of Tethered Citizens: Time to Repeal the Welfare State, and editor of The Freeman magazine.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid Certified for the Clean-Fuel Deduction

WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service has certified the model year 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid as being eligible for the clean-burning fuel deduction. This certification means that taxpayers who purchase one of these hybrid vehicles new during calendar year 2005 may claim a tax deduction of up to $2,000 on Form 1040.

Under the Working Families Relief Act of 2004, which was signed into law in October of 2004, the clean-burning fuel deduction is limited to up to $2,000 for certified vehicles first put into service in 2005 and $500 for vehicles placed in service in 2006. No deduction will be allowed after 2006.

Federal law allows individuals to claim a deduction for the incremental cost of buying a motor vehicle that is propelled by a clean-burning fuel. By combining an electric motor with a gasoline-powered engine, these hybrid vehicles obtain greater fuel efficiency and produce fewer emissions than similar vehicles powered solely by conventional gasoline-powered engines.

This one-time deduction must be taken in the year the vehicle is originally used. The taxpayer must be the original owner. Individuals do not have to itemize deductions on their tax return to claim this deduction. This benefit can be taken as an adjustment to income on the Form 1040.

The amount of the deduction for Highlander Hybrid was set after the manufacturer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. documented for the IRS the incremental cost related to the vehicle’s electric motor and related equipment.

A complete list of vehicle models that have been certified for the clean-burning fuel deduction can be seen at IRS.gov.

Local Resident Among Recent Harding University Graduates

Rebekah K Mohundro, Daughter of Steve and Kay Mohundro of Bonham, was among 620 graduating seniors who received diplomas in commencement exercises at Harding University May 14, 2005. Mohundro, who majored in finance, received the Bachelor of Business Administration Degree.

President David B. Burks presented the diplomas to the graduates. Mohundro was announced by Mr. Bryan Burks, Dean of the College of Business.

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

Leonard Newspaper Wins Sweepstakes Award

The Leonard Graphic, for the first time ever in its 115 year history, has won the coveted Texas Press Association Sweepstakes Award in its division. The award was presented at the TPA convention to Publishers Bethany and Charles Russell on Saturday, June 18 in Las Colinas. The Graphic placed in seven categories in the 2005 Texas Better Newspapers Contest, and subsequently won the most points in Division 9 for small/medium weekly newspapers in the state. The contest was judged by the New York Press Association. Sweepstakes is the highest honor bestowed at this contest. "The win required the efforts of the entire staff, as well as the support of the town that we love," the Russells said. "The Graphic has been reporting the community news of Leonard since 1890. Truly, this award-winning newspaper has been 115 years in the making."

HerCare ribbon cutting

Bonham, TX - 6/24/05 - HerCare Women’s Specialty Clinic of Bonham hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate their membership in the Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce. Chamber Director, Stephen Murden, was on hand to honor Dr. Jeffrey Hermann and staff with a ceremonial certificate.

The staff at HerCare Women’s Specialty Clinic of Bonham, P.A. is dedicated to providing the highest quality of women’s health care for all stages of life. They provide comprehensive health services to women and adolescent females in the North Texas area. Enjoy seeing a thorough, attentive physician who will take the time to customize your care plan. Please make yourself at home, and join them on the path toward better women’s health. You can contact HerCare Women’s Specialty Clinic of Bonham by calling 903-640-4364, visiting them in office located at 1211 E. 6th Street, Suite 150, or visit www.hercare.net.

ATTORNEY GENERAL ABBOTT APPLAUDS CONVICTION OF FORMER FORT HOOD MAN FOR CHILD SEX CRIMES

Lamar Smith sentenced to eight years in prison and fined $15,000

AUSTIN - Attorney General Greg Abbott Tuesday applauded the conviction of a former Fort Hood soldier on two counts of committing child sex crimes. Lamar E. Smith, 28, was found guilty in the 22nd Judicial District Court of attempted aggravated sexual assault of a child and attempted sexual performance by a child.

He was sentenced to eight years on the first offense, a second-degree felony, and fined $10,000. On the second offense, a third-degree felony, he was sentenced to five years and fined $5,000. The sentences will run concurrently.

"This conviction shows, once again, that Texas will not tolerate those who prey on children," Attorney General Abbott said. "Child sex predators are a serious threat to young Texans, and I am absolutely committed to cracking down on this shameless abuse and exploitation by putting these people behind bars."

Smith, who at the time was a noncommissioned officer stationed at Fort Hood near Killeen, was arrested by investigators with Attorney General Abbott’s Cyber Crimes Unit on June 9, 2004, when he arrived in the Buda area to meet what he thought would be a young girl he had contacted in an Internet chat room. When he arrived, however, he was surprised to find that the "girl" was actually a Cyber Crimes investigator. Smith was charged with attempted aggravated sexual assault of a child. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the arrests.

Smith was indicted on Sept. 1, 2004 for attempted sexual performance by a child and criminal solicitation of a minor.

Attorney General Abbott has made pursuing sexual predators a top priority in his administration. His Fugitive and Cyber Crimes units have arrested nearly 250 child sex predators since he created the units in 2003. The Fugitive Unit works to pinpoint and arrest convicted child sex offenders who have violated parole and could be stalking children. Cyber Crimes investigators assume the identity of underage teens in Internet chat rooms, which often leads to child predators soliciting them for sex online and then attempting to meet them. Predators agree to meet the person they think is a child, but are surprised to find out the "child" is actually a Cyber Crimes investigator.

To find out more about Attorney General Abbott’s efforts to crack down on sexual predators, visit the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us or call (800) 252-8011.

"Green" Taxes Smart Way to Fund Schools, Clear the Air

Press Conference Tuesday, June 28 at 12:30 PM, South Steps of Capitol

Austin, Texas – With both the House and Governor’s tax plans bottled up in the House Ways & Means Committee due in part to lack of revenue, pollution taxes could "bridge the gap" by helping generate more than $1.2 billion for Texas schools, according to a new study released on Tuesday. A crowd of schoolchildren and concerned citizens gathered at the Capitol to announce support for these "green taxes" and to highlight the serious health risks children face from pollution.

"Just as we tax cigarettes, alcohol and other "sins", in part to influence behavior and pay for the impacts of that behavior, taxing pollution is smart economic and environmental policy," said Cyrus Reed, Director of the Texas Center for Policy Studies and the report’s author. "It makes plain sense to tax the ‘bads’ before you tax the ‘goods’".

The report recommends levies such as an energy efficiency tax, a tax on coal use, a motor vehicle surcharge on high-polluting vehicles and a higher fee on highly-polluting diesel fuels. In recent years, economists, environmentalists and decision-makers have called for a shift away from taxation on productivity, including both labor and business inputs, toward resource extraction and pollution. Such taxes would raise significant revenue and create disincentives for polluting or inefficient technologies. Countries like New Zealand, Germany and Denmark have adopted broad-based carbon and pollution taxes while reducing income and payroll taxes in recent years.

The groups cited the serious health risks children face from exposure to pollution. Studies indicate that exposure to air pollutants such as particulate matter, sulfate, sulfur dioxide gas, and ozone can result in reduced lung function, asthma attacks, increased visits to the doctor’s office and emergency rooms, hospitalizations and may, very tragically, also lead to increased risk of infant death. An estimated 4.4 million Texas children live in areas that don’t meet federal air quality standards.

"Millions of children in Texas today are exposed to unhealthy air at home, at school, or at their playground," said Luke Metzger, TexPIRG Advocate. "We need to reduce the pollution that’s making our kids sick, and it’s only right that we tax the polluters responsible and use the revenue to pay for our schools."

Additionally, the groups called for an expansion of the state’s successful renewable energy standard (which passed both houses of the legislature in the 79^th regular session but died in a conference committee) citing the significant tax revenues gained on the capital-intensive wind projects. In 2004 alone, Texas school districts were paid more than $14.5 million in property taxes from wind projects.

The full report –Bridging the Gap: Green Tax Options for Texas" -- is available at www.texascenter.org. Groups endorsing the report include Texas Center for Policy Studies, Texas Public Interest Research Group, Texas Impact, Center for Public Policy Priorities, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, Public Citizen, Texas Office, Texas Clean Water Action, S.M.A.R.T, and Texas Campaign for the Environment.

TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION EVENT HONORS TEXAS IN WORLD WAR II

AUSTIN, Texas –– On Sept. 2, 1945, aboard the USS Missouri, representatives of Japan formally signed instruments of surrender marking the end of the global conflict known as World War II.

Sixty years later the Texas Historical Commission (THC) will honor Texans that served in the military and on the home front at a special ceremony at 9 a.m., Friday, Sept. 2, on the South Steps of the State Capitol in Austin. County historical commissions in Texas will be hosting similar ceremonies.

Partners supporting THC in this event and future projects regarding the Texas in World War II initiative are: the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas Veterans Land Board of the General Land Office, the Texas Veterans Commission, the Texas State Historical Association and Preservation Texas. Spanning three years, Texas in World War II will include site surveys, historical markers, oral history workshops, a heritage tourism brochure and support links to websites related to the significant role Texas played in the war. One quarter of the funding for the $800,000 project will come from the THC; the remaining funds will come from various private sector partnerships.

Plans for the Sept. 2 celebration include a military band performance, historical marker unveilings, memorial wreath placement, launching the new THC brochure Texas in World War II, a bagpipe performance by the Capitol City Highlanders and much more. Invited guest speakers include Texas Gov. Rick Perry, World War II veterans, government officials, THC staff and other dignitaries. The event is free and open to the public.

If you are unable to attend the Austin event, check with your county historical commission to learn about local plans to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the war’s end.

Deuell Files Bill to Protect Private Property Rights

(Austin) On the heels of a controversial Supreme Court ruling that would allow the seizure of private property for economic development purposes, State Senator Bob Deuell (R-Greenville) filed legislation Tuesday June 28th aimed at amending the Texas Constitution to prevent such actions.

The recent ruling by the Supreme Court in Kelo et al v. City of New London stated that governmental agencies have the right to use their eminent domain powers for economic development purposes even if the concerned property isn’t blighted. Contained in the decision is the authority for states to restrict the use of eminent domain, as written by Justice John Paul Stevens.

"States are within their rights to pass additional laws restricting condemnations if residents are overly burdened," Stevens said.

Senator Deuell’s bill (Senate Joint Resolution 10) would allow Texas to utilize this authority. It proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit a political subdivision from taking private property for the primary purpose of economic development and would put the measure on the November Constitutional Amendment ballot.

At a press conference held Tuesday at the State Capitol to unveil the House Companion bill, House Joint Resolution 19 by Rep. Frank Corte of San Antonio, Deuell joined a large bi-partisan group of Representatives and Senators speaking on behalf of the bill.

"I’m very torn by the Supreme Court’s decision because I believe in obeying our laws and as an elected official I have taken an oath to uphold our laws," Deuell said. "We are a nation of laws, and that is what has made us unique in world history. But sometimes there are decisions made in the courts that you know are just absolutely wrong, and we have to do all we can to address this situation."

"I think it starts with a Constitutional Amendment in our Texas Constitution to protect private property rights," Deuell said. "From that point we can develop legislation that will allow as much due process as possible for citizens until we can overcome this at a national level."

"When I was through my district over the weekend, and I traveled a lot of miles and went to a lot of places, all of the questions I got were about this Supreme Court decision," Deuell said. "In my opinion it is in direct conflict with our Constitution, and we need to send a strong message that this is not proper to do."

"I appreciate Rep. Corte filing this legislation in the House and I am proud to file it in the Senate," Deuell said. "And I appreciate all the State Representatives and State Senators who are here to support it."

Senator Deuell is joined by fellow Senators Jeff Wentworth and Jane Nelson in authoring SJR 10.

Art Students Show And Pottery Sale

Valley Creek Studio will hold an Art Students Show and Pottery Sale on Friday and Saturday, July 15^th and 16^th, during the Leonard Picnic. The show and sale will be in the old library/SNAP center on the west side of the square. This building has been made available through the generosity of the Leonard Historical Preservation League. Everyone is invited to come by and enjoy the artwork of these aspiring artists. Several of the participants have won awards in area shows. The show will include drawings, paintings, and pottery created under the guidance of Valley Creek Studio artist Katherine Kluger. A variety of hand-made high-fire stoneware crafted by Ms. Kluger will also be on display and available for purchase. For more information, please contact Ms. Kluger at 903-587-2367.

"If It Has 2 Wheels, It Will Be Raced"

Texas Pocket Bike Racing Association Announces 1st Points Race of the Season

Austin, Texas - June 24, 2005 - Texas Pocket Bike Racing Association (TPBRA), in conjunction with West Texas Pocket Bike Racing Association and the Lubbock Karting Association, will be hosting their first points’ race of the

season on July 9-10, 2005 at Sleepy Hollow Raceway in Lubbock, Texas. Riders

from Austin, Dallas, Houston, Lubbock, San Antonio as well as other cities throughout Texas and surrounding states will be competing for points’ ultimately leading to the State final.

Pocket bikes are small (approximately 17" in height) 2-stroke motorized

motorcycles that can range in speed of up to 30 mph to well over 50 mph, depending on the class of bike being raced. Pocket Bike racing is a family event with racers from 7 years of age right through to adults. Professional Moto GP racers such as Valentino Rossi started their racing career riding Pocket Bikes. Pocket Bike racing is a spectacle to witness in person, and is something the whole family can enjoy on a Sunday afternoon.

There will be 4 classes of races, hosting all racers abilities from novice to expert. Practice laps will begin at 12:00 pm Saturday, July 9th and racing will commence at 11:00 am Sunday, July 10th. For registration and detailed race information please visit www.tpbra.com

Founded in 2005 and Based in Austin, Texas, TPBRA provides an open door into the exciting world of Pocket Bike racing for racers statewide. TPBRA is committed to helping our members and non members in the state of Texas and surrounding states to provide a safe and fun environment to compete head to head in the sport of Pocket Bike Racing. TPBRA, a non-profit organization, will continue to offer first class race events throughout the state with a focus on racing for all ages.

Work begins on Panhandle’s first Texas State Veterans Home

AMARILLO — Panhandle residents turned out today for the groundbreaking of Amarillo’s Texas State Veterans Home, which will provide affordable nursing care for Texas veterans and their spouses. When the facility opens in early 2007, it will be the seventh Texas State Veterans Home.

"Folks from the Panhandle have a long history of serving our nation," said Jerry Patterson, Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office and Chairman of the Texas Veterans Land Board. "With so many veterans living in this area, it made a lot of sense to build one here. We’re really heartened by the support this home is getting from the community."

Patterson was joined at the ceremony by Amarillo Mayor Debra McCartt, state Sen. Kel Seliger, state Rep. John T. Smithee, Texas Veterans Commission Chairman Leo Barraza, Potter County Judge Arthur Ware and Randall County Judge Ernie Houdashell. A number of veterans also attended the ceremony, as well as Panhandle-area health care providers and educators.

The groundbreaking was especially poignant for family and friends of Mike Ussery, the recently deceased Veterans Land Board member from Amarillo who championed the building of a Texas State Veterans Home here.

"Mike was so excited about the Amarillo home, and he really wanted to be here today. In some ways, I think he was," said Patterson, who served with Ussery on the Veterans Land Board. "Mike was instrumental in securing this facility for his hometown. The Land Board will strive to make the home a place of healing and comfort for those who served our nation honorably. Our ceremony today is a tribute to Mike Ussery’s tenacity and perseverance on behalf of his fellow veterans."

As a state senator, Patterson authored the legislation that created the Texas State Veterans Home program. Upon taking office as Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office in 2003, Patterson’s first act was to call together the Veterans Land Board to approve locations for new Texas State Veterans Homes. The Board selected Amarillo, El Paso and McAllen to be the next host communities.

"I am committed to seeing these facilities be the best they can be," Patterson said. "For veterans in Texas, we intend to offer the best care anywhere."

Construction on the Amarillo home should be completed in early 2007. It will have 120 beds, 30 of them certified for Alzheimer’s care in a separate, secured unit. The home will serve as a model for future Texas State Veterans Homes, and will have sufficient utilities, laundry and kitchen facilities, as well as dining and common areas to care for 160 residents if future expansion becomes necessary.

Because the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs subsidizes a significant portion of a veteran’s cost to stay in a Texas State Veterans Home, the daily out-of-pocket rates are well below market average and include the cost of medications. A veteran currently pays $63-$74 a day for a semi-private room in a Texas State Veterans Home. The average cost for a semi-private room in a private Texas nursing home is about $109 a day, which often doesn’t include the cost of medications.

Spouses of Texas veterans and Gold Star parents are also eligible for care in Texas State Veterans Homes.

The Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo will help the Veterans Land Board serve the more than 600,000 Texas veterans age 65 and over. According to the VA, in Potter and Randall counties alone, there are an estimated 6,300 veterans over 65 who will be able to take advantage of the many amenities the home will provide. Approximately 30,000 veterans live within a 75-mile radius of the Amarillo home site.

As of May 3, there were 105 certified Alzheimer’s-care beds in Potter County nursing homes, and none in Randall County. More than 1,000 of the 19,000 veterans in Potter and Randall counties are thought to have the disease, and U.S. Census projections show the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s is growing rapidly.

The Amarillo home will eventually employ about 100 full-time employees, including registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, therapists, nurses’ aides, laundry and housekeeping staff, activities aides, cooks and dietary staff.

Like all Veterans Land Board programs, Texas State Veterans Homes are self-supporting and cost Texas taxpayers virtually nothing.

The Texas State Veterans Home in Amarillo will join existing homes in Big Spring, Floresville, Bonham, Temple and McAllen. A new home is also set to open in El Paso next month. Each home provides long-term, skilled nursing care, comprehensive rehabilitation programs, special diets, recreational activities, social services, a library, and a certified, secured Alzheimer’s unit with its own secured outdoor courtyard.

For additional information on Texas State Veterans Homes and special home, land and home improvement loans for Texas veterans, call 1-800-252-VETS (1-800-252-8387), or visit the VLB Web site at www.texasveterans.com. An event Web page is also available for photos and video from the groundbreaking ceremony at www.glo.state.tx.us/amarillo.

National American Miss Texas Pageant

Miss Blessing Hensley, 11 of Bonham, Texas has been chosen as a State Finalist in the National American Miss Texas Pageant to be held July 30-31, 2005 at the beautiful Hotel Inter-Continental in Dallas, Texas. The pageant is held for girls ages 10 through 12. Miss Blessing Hensley is the daughter of Bill and Jeannette Hyde of Bonham and Glenn Hensly of Bonham, and the granddaughter of Roy and Kay Clark of Bonham, William and Ann Hyde of Dallas, and William and Francis Hensley of Justin, Texas. Miss Blessing Hensley’s activities include cheerleading, soft ball, basketball, and music. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, and going to church. Miss Blessing Hensley’s sponsors include Past & Present Furniture, Legacy Ridge, Ken Pharr, CPA, and Bill & Jeannette Hyde - Keller Williams.

Norm Coleman, U.S. Senator from Minnesota once said, "It is easy to criticize, particularly in a political season. But to lead is something altogether different. The leader must live in the real world of the price that might be paid for the goal that has been set." It would seem his words are ringing louder than ever clear down to the nation’s southernmost border, as the Texas legislature grapples with the idea of adopting a daring education reform plan conceived by Kent Grusendorf (R-Arlington), and a potential finance solution set forth by Governor Perry.

Early in the legislative session, Grusendorf and his conservative counterparts set forth a principled, methodical plan for improving Texas education, while providing accountability and transparency in an otherwise murky school finance system. The plan, and its prematurely alleged "failure" earned Grusendorf an honor coveted by conservative leaders session after session: a place on Texas Monthly’s "10 Worst" list.

Following a short vacation, the aforementioned legislators have returned, sticking with their ideological guns, and are, once again, sending the education reform plan to the floor for consideration. With the proper tax plan behind it, Grusendorf’s education reform plan is expected to cross the Governor’s desk in no time flat.

Bonham SNAP Center Menu

Closed For Independence Day

Hamburgers, Tater Tots, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Pickles, Onions, Buns, Rice Pudding, Milk

Chicken & Noodles, Carrots, Broccoli, Bread, Cake, Milk

Pepper Steak, Whipped Potatoes, Creole Squash, Bread, Scalloped, Apples, Milk

Chicken Spaghetti, Pea Salad, Beets, Bread, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Milk

Fannin County Democrats

The Fannin County Democrats met for dinner at the Red Brick Grill in Honey Grove on Friday the 24th of June. It was strictly a social gathering. It is just something we do the last Friday of every month said Al Turinsky. We meet at a different restaurant the last Friday of each month. Ella Reamer is in charge of making arrangements. Anyone who wishes to attend should call Ella at: 903-583-4807.

In the picture in the background, Judge Jimmy Doyle engages in conversation with Alvin Files, and in the foreground Sherry Turinsky, Pat Doyle, Joan Gilbreth and Lizbeth Echandia exchange thoughts. Everyone enjoyed themselves as usual.

TVFD beefs up capabilities

By Lisa Avila

The Telephone Volunteer Fire Department recently completed training and receipt of its newest equipment – the Jaws of Life. Last Thursday, Bryan Williams of TNT Rescue in Caddo Mills conducted a seminar and training session, teaching TVFD firefighters and first responders how to use the device. TNT, a company based in Ashippun, Wisconsin, specializes in high-quality rescue tools.

The Jaws of Life save many lives each year, utilized primarily in motor vehicle accidents. The device now owned by TVFD has three capabilities. First, a cutter can bow the door of the vehicle, then cut it and the frame away, giving responders access to the injured. The spreaders are the second tool and can push the floor of the vehicle away from the dashboard, making a large opening through which a victim can be treated and removed safely. There is a third "arm" to the unit – a "ram" which can push or pull slowly.

The life-saving unit was acquired through a U.S. Forest Service grant, according to Wendell Anderson, TVFD’s Safety Officer. Anderson said in the last six months, such a unit could have been utilized three times.

A separate grant enabled TVFD acquisition of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Anderson said. Fifteen people have been certified for its use through the Red Cross and the American Heart Association. Anderson said the AED has arrived and will be in use after a service check. Since many calls involve medical emergencies, the device is expected to save numerous lives.

As first responders, local VFDs are first on the scene of an accident. When seconds count, the training of emergency personnel and the equipment available to them can often make the difference in a victim’s chance at life.

North Texans Challenged to Rideshare for Cleaner Air

Web-based contest rewards commuters for driving less during Air Pollution Season

(NORTH TEXAS) – So far, 2005 has been a bad year for air quality in North Texas.

Since May 20, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has issued 18 air pollution watches for Dallas-Fort Worth compared with two watches issued during the same time last year.

The D-FW region violates federal clean air standards and must take action to reduce air pollution to healthy, acceptable levels. "Drive-alone commuting is the biggest reason North Texas faces serious air quality and traffic congestion problems," said Brian Boerner, 2005 chairman of the North Texas Clean Air Coalition and director of Fort Worth’s Environmental Management Department. "More than half of the harmful ozone-causing emissions in the D-FW region come from cars, trucks and SUVs. The North Texas Clean Air Coalition recognizes this and is offering solutions to reduce the number of vehicles on our roadways."

Texans’ love affair with their cars and trucks is legendary, so convincing North Texans to drive less to reduce air pollution calls for innovative measures.

The North Texas Clean Air Coalition (NTCAC) is rewarding commuters who try parking it for cleaner air and less traffic congestion beginning July 1.

Commuter Challenge

The Commuter Challenge is an Internet contest that rewards North Texas commuters who carpool, vanpool or take the bus or train to work. "It all adds up to fewer cars on our roadways and less air pollution," said Boerner. "That’s something all of us can get behind."

When commuters share rides to work or school, cut out car trips by eating lunch at the office instead of going out, or telecommute, they may enter the contest. Drivers simply log on to www.tryparkingit.com to document which commute solution activity they chose and how many miles they saved, making them eligible to win great prizes.

Air Pollution Solutions

When temperatures heat up during the summer and there’s little wind, vehicle emissions begin to "cook" creating air pollution that is especially harmful to children, the elderly and people with lung diseases like asthma. Air pollution season in North Texas runs from May 1 through October 31.

During this time of year, the NTCAC sponsors Commute Solutions Season, a public awareness campaign promoting alternatives to drive-alone commuting through advertising, employer outreach, e-mail campaigns, media relations and the Commuter Challenge.

Each month focuses on a different commute solution.

July is Try Transit Month -Fort Worth Transportation Authority (the T) passengers ride the bus free all day on July 6. A kick off event is scheduled at the Intermodal Transportation Center, 1001 Jones Street in Fort Worth at 8 a.m. Mayor Mike Moncrief, T Board Chairman Paul Geisel, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce President Bill Thornton and North Texas Clean Air Coalition Chairman Brian Boerner are scheduled to speak.

-DART is planning an event at Cockrell Hill July 23 featuring Radio Estereo Latino 94.1 FM.

August is Vanpool/Carpool Month

September is Telecommute Month

October is Clean Commuter Employee Recognition Month

For more information about the Commuter Challenge visit www.TryParkingIt.com. For information about Commute Solutions Season, visit www.NorthTexasAir.org.

Supreme Court Justice To Lie In The Bed He Helped To Make???

Rumor has it that a pro-liberty organization is planning to capitalize on last week’s Kelo vs. New London, Connecticut decision allowing local governments to seize private property for economic development by building a hotel on land presently occupied by the home of Supreme Court Justice David Souter.

Neal Boortz (http://boortz.com/nuze/index.html) reports today that just four days after the decision, which Souter supported, the CEO of said organization started the paperwork to acquire Souter’s land and begin plans for construction. Boortz further reports that the group is currently seeking investors to support the project. Because the hotel will surely generate many more taxpayer dollars than Souter is paying, it therefore meets the requirements of the Supreme Court majority, including Souter, in deciding that "public use" is the same thing as being in the economic interest of the public.
The real kicker here??? The hotel will tentatively be called "The Lost Liberty Hotel" and will feature the "Just Desserts Café." Any chance guest rooms will include a complimentary copy of Ayn Rand’s book, Atlas Shrugged???

RESULTS OF BSE TEST ANNOUNCED

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Agriculture reported today that DNA has confirmed the 12-year-old cow testing positive for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy – commonly known as mad cow disease – was from a Texas herd. The cow, which was originally tested and sampled in November 2004, was blocked and removed from the human food supply last year at the time of testing.

"Texas cattle producers are committed to ensuring that the nation’s beef supply remains safe for all consumers both here and abroad," Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs said. "It is important to remember that this animal was banned from the food or feed chain and that long-standing safeguards have been in place to protect public health."

Because the animal was unable to walk, it was removed from the food supply and was processed at a facility that handles animals unsuitable for human consumption. The carcass was incinerated.

The infected cow was born before the industry’s ban on feeding ruminant-derived protein to cattle.

"Because of progressive steps taken by the U.S. cattle industry and the government and the strong firewalls in place, the American beef supply remains safe. For more than two decades, the government and industry have taken precautions to protect the public health," Combs said. "Following the discovery of a Canadian-born cow with BSE in Washington state in December 2003, additional safeguards were added."

In 2003, USDA banned from the human food supply any cattle that are unable to walk or show signs of possible neurological disease. In addition, USDA mandates that material that would most likely carry the BSE agent, such as the brain and spinal cord, be removed from the food supply.

"Last year I met with British veterinarians, researchers and cattle producers in the United Kingdom to learn how the United Kingdom had handled its outbreak of BSE. Their system had clearly been inadequate. This is not the case in the United States," Combs said. "We have had a nearly 20-year plan with effective safeguards.

"Our strong vigilance should assure consumers that the United States has the safest beef supply in the world," Combs said.

Texas is the leading cattle state in the nation with 13.8 million head or 15 percent of the total U.S. cattle inventory. In 2004, cattle added $8 billion to the Texas agricultural economy with a total economic impact of $14 billion on the state’s economy.

Texas Senator Spearheads Movement to Protect Private Property Rights

Legislation Would Curtail Federal Government Participation in Land Acquisitions for Private Uses

June 29, 2005

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), introduced aggressive property rights protection legislation Monday in response to the ruling by the United States Supreme Court in Kelo v. City of New London. In a shocking decision last week, the court established that the government may seize a home, small business, or other private property belonging to one owner and transfer that same property to another private owner, simply by concluding that such a transfer would benefit the community through increased economic development.

Cornyn’s legislative initiative would prohibit such transfers of private property, without the owner’s consent, if federal funds were used, and if the transfer was for purposes of economic development rather than public use.

Shelly Addrue Broiles

Shelly Addrue Broiles, a 2001 graduate of Paul Pewitt High School was among Texas A&M University-Texarkana students to earn Magna Cum Laude honors at spring commencement on May 7. Ms. Broiles received a B.S. degree in interdisciplinary studies with a major in elementary education early childhood through grade 4, with a special education endorsement. Shelly is the daughter of Colleen and E.J. Carson of Omaha Texas and the late John Broiles, and the grand-daughter of Janie and H.E. Hazlewood and Elizabeth Broiles all of Bonham, and the late James Broiles.

Supreme Court Ruling On Takings Hits Home

Texans Also Vulnerable To Economic Development Seizures

By Bill Peacock, Texas Public Policy Foundation

June 29, 2005

Acie Frizzell owns a couple of vacant lots in the City of Freeport. The city attorney has told her that if she won’t sell her lots as part of a planned economic development project, the city will condemn her land at the price of $100 per lot. The lots might then be turned over to a private developer.

On the other side of town, Wright Gore is the owner of Western Seafood Company. The city also wants to condemn part of his property — 330 feet along the old Brazos River — and turn it over to his next door neighbor to build a marina. Gore says the condemnation threatens the viability of his $40 million-a-year business.

Now that the U.S. Supreme Court has issued its decision in the Kelo case, the city says it will move "aggressively" to condemn this and other property necessary for the development.

Statement Of Gov. Rick Perry On Bse Announcement

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry issued the following statement today on the announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that a cow recently tested for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy – commonly known as mad cow disease – is from a Texas herd.

"I want to urge calm and reassure the public that they can have the highest confidence in our beef supply, and the safeguards we have in place to protect the public from the spread of BSE. There is not, nor has there ever been, a known instance of BSE contaminating the food supply in Texas or anywhere else in the United States. The animal in question was not processed into food or any other product. Texans can be sure that the beef they buy at their local supermarkets or restaurants is as safe today as it was yesterday, and I encourage Texans to continue to enjoy Texas beef products."

Gov. Perry Appoints Five Individuals To Nursing Facility Administrators Advisory Committee

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced the appointment of five individuals to the Nursing Facility Administrators Advisory Committee. The committee advises the board of the Department of Human Services on licensing and regulation of nursing facility administrators.

Walter E. Sjoberg Jr., M.D., of Cypress Mill, an internist, is being reappointed to the board. He is a member of the Texas Medical Association, the Travis County Medical Society and the American College of Medical Quality. Sjoberg also is a member of the American Society of Hematology and International Society of Hematology. He is a former member of the American Society of Internal Medicine, the Southern Medical Association and the Mayo Alumni Association. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, he received a medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. His term will expire Feb. 1, 2009.

Ramona D. Kennedy of Flower Mound is a former nursing home volunteer and is being reappointed to the board. She is a volunteer with Crusade Against Drugs and the Lewisville Lake Symphony. Her term will expire Feb. 1, 2009.

Esther H. Steinberg of Sugar Land is a social worker and project coordinator with Care for Elders. She also is a guest lecturer at the University of Houston’s Graduate School of Social Work and is being reappointed to the board. She serves on the advisory board of the Houston Community College System Mental Health Association Program and is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Steinberg is a founding member of the Houston Gerontological Society and a member of the University of Houston GSSW Gerontology Committee, the University of Texas Center on Aging Gerontology Committee, and the Mental Health of Houston and Harris County Aging and Education Subcommittee. She received a bachelor’s degree from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and received a master’s degree from McGill University Graduate School of Social Work. Her term will expire Feb. 1, 2011.

Linda S. Strong of Corpus Christi is a former registered nurse. She is a member of the Nueces County Beach Management Advisory Committee and Clowns Who Care of Driscoll Hospital. Strong serves as a trustee of the Art Museum of South Texas. She received a nursing degree from the University of Texas at Galveston. Her term will expire Feb. 1, 2011.

Susan Farris of Springtown is executive director and CEO of the James L. West Alzheimer’s Center. She serves on the board of the American College of Healthcare Administrators and is chair of the Texas chapter. Farris is a member of the Texas Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, and the Downtown Fort Worth Rotary Club. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, she received training in nursing home administration from Southwest Texas State University, now Texas State University. Farris has been a licensed nursing facility administrator since 1988. Her term will expire Feb. 1, 2011.

David Maxey

David Maxey, a true Texas Outdoorsman, enjoys hunting, fishing and artifact hunting near his ranch in Telephone, Texas. Teaching his grandchildren the "way of the land" is one of his favorite pastimes. David has a large collection of Indian Artifacts found in North Texas, East Texas and along the Red River. He is fascinated with Indian History and how Indian Tribes used natural methods of craftsmanship to live "off the land and the animals". David’s enthusiasm will "rub off "on his audience as he shows his "favorite finds" and describes how they were used long, long ago…

Young and old are invited to "gather around"

For fun and refreshments at…

The Woodmoore Assisted Living Community

1200 W. Russell Ave., Bonham, Texas 75418

Time: 3:00 PM, Tues., July 12, 2005

LIBERTARIANS SUPPORT BAN ON EMINENT DOMAIN

AUSTIN, TX - The introduction of a bill in the special session of the Texas State legislature met with unanimous support by members of the Libertarian Party.

House Joint Resolution 19, submitted by Rep. Frank Corte, would amend the Texas state constitution to ban the use of eminent domain for the purposes of economic development. If passed by the legislature and the people, this amendment would halt condemnations to build a private marina in Freeport and a new football stadium in Arlington, among other projects.

"This is the ideal opportunity to defend the property rights of Texans," said Pat Dixon, Lago Vista city councilman and chairman of the Libertarian Party of Texas. "I only hope that the Legislature passes the bill swiftly and that Governor Perry allows it to go to the voters for ratification."

Other Libertarians expressed their amusement that the Supreme Court ruling which triggered HJR 19’s drafting may soon cause one of the justices who affirmed the ruling to lose his home.

According to freestarmedia.com/hotellostliberty2.html, Logan Clements seeks to have Supreme Court Justice David Souter’s home in Weare, New Hampshire condemned for purposes of economic development- specifically, a theme hotel dedicated to principles of liberty.

"While we defend the rights and property of all Americans, it is certainly appropriate for Justice Souter to suffer the consequences of his decision," added Dixon. "He joined in the ruling, and now he’s hoist by his own petard."

Patrick Dixon was elected to city council in Lago Vista, TX in May of 2005. Information about his activity in office can be found at PatDixon.org. Information on the Libertarian Party, the only political party which supports the preservation of property rights, may be found at www.lp.org .

Bonham Kiwanis Meeting

Bonham Kiwanis welcomes guests. Sandy Brown brought her daughter Trisa Robertson who is home from college. Joe Moss brought with him his son Jim who has just finished Law School. Brad Nichols, the outgoing Fire Chief brought with him the new Bonham Fire Chief Bill Palya who will be assuming his duties on July 14.

The Bonham Kiwanis meets at noon every Tuesday at Shumardii’s Steak House. You are invited to attend and join in for the great fellowship and food.

AMERICAN CONSOLIDATED MEDIA ANNOUNCES PURCHASE OF ASSETS FROM TOM TURNER AND TOMMIE SUE TURNER IN BONHAM AND FANNIN COUNTY

DALLAS - American Consolidated Media, Inc. ("ACM") of Dallas, Texas, announced today that it has purchased the publishing assets of The Fannin County Special ("The Special") from Tom Turner and Tommie Sue Turner of Bonham, Texas, owners and publishers of The Special. The purchase price for the transaction was not disclosed.

The Special is a weekly, market saturation community shopper delivered by mail or carrier to households across all communities in Fannin County including Bonham, the county seat, Leonard, Trenton, Savoy, Honey Grove, Ravenna, Ivanhoe, Dodd City, Telephone, Ector, Windom, Ladonia, Randolph, Bailey, Gober and others. Current weekly circulation of The Special is 15,148.

ACM currently owns and operates The Bonham Journal ("The Journal"), the local, community weekly newspaper serving Bonham and surrounding Fannin County. The Journal was launched by ACM as a new publication in November 2002 and its current weekly circulation is 5,000.

Under combined ownership, The Special and The Journal will remain separate and distinct weekly publications. The Special will continue to be distributed on its current mid-week cycle while The Journal will shift its publication cycle towards the weekend. This will provide more comprehensive coverage for readers and advertisers throughout Fannin County. The name of the new operating entity for the combined publications will be Fannin Newspapers Holdings, LP.

In conjunction with this transaction, no personnel changes or staff reductions are anticipated at either The Special or The Journal.

"Since its founding in 1972, The Special has provided a high quality, consistent level of service and value to the readers and advertisers throughout Fannin County and the surrounding area of northeast Texas," stated Jeremy L. Halbreich, chairman of the board, president & CEO of ACM.

"This publication and the service it provides the communities of Fannin County represent a great testimony to the hard work, dedication and true community service of The Special’s founders, Tom and Tommie Sue Turner, and their talented staff of dedicated employees," he added.

"It has been a personal and professional pleasure to become acquainted with Tom and Tommie Sue and we are delighted they will remain in the community and continue their deep involvement in a variety of civic activities and projects serving Bonham and Fannin County," Halbreich said.

ACM, directly and through its affiliates, owns and operates daily newspapers in Alice, Brownwood, Stephenville and Waxahachie, Texas and in Miami, Oklahoma; weekly publications in McAllen, Brownsville, Harlingen, San Benito-Los Fresnos, Laredo, Edinburg, Rio Grande City, Bonham, Midlothian, Ennis, Red Oak, Italy, Alvarado, Erath County, Ballinger, Winters, Marble Falls, Burnet, Kingsland, Llano, Hearne, Franklin, Calvert, Robertson County, Orange Grove, Premont, Kingsville and Freer, Texas and Picher, Oklahoma; and, one bi-weekly business publication and one seasonal weekly publication in the Rio Grande Valley.

The Trenton Sports Association will hold Fall 2005 soccer registration on Sat. July 16th from 9:00a.m.-12:00p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Trenton. All players must be 4 yrs. old by July 31st, 2005. TSA soccer teams practice in Trenton and play all games in McKinney on Saturdays. Games will be held in September and October. All returning players register with their coach from last season. All new players come on July 16th with a copy of your birth certificate. The fee is $55.00 and does not include the uniform, cleats, or shin guards. For information, please call Brian Himmelright at 903-989-2632.

Texoma Regional Blood Center