Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted' for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have show kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d dy of October, A.D. 1789.

(signed) G. Washington

Texas Internet Bureau Acted on Tip from Business Software Alliance

AUSTIN - A former Austin man received a 15-month federal prison sentence today for violating federal software copyright laws, following an investigation by the Texas Internet Bureau, Business Software Alliance (BSA) and FBI into these pirated transactions.

Erick Von Schulz, 35, most recently living in Stockton, Calif., appeared before Sr. U.S. District Judge Harry Lee Hudspeth. The evidence revealed he replicated expensive commercial software onto CD-ROMs and marketed these via email. He pleaded guilty to criminal copyright infringement last September.

Attorney General John Cornyn's Internet Bureau acted on a tip from the BSA in Washington, D.C., and later prosecuted the case on behalf of the federal government.

The BSA is a consortium whose members include Microsoft, Apple, Dell and others concerned about criminal software piracy. The BSA received information last December about an email solicitation an eBay shopper received from an individual identifying himself as Von Schulz. Von Schulz sent the person an extensive price list of pirated products he sold well below retail prices.

This person turned the information over to the BSA. In turn, an undercover

BSA fraud investigator emailed Von Schulz, requesting this list of available software. When he obliged via email, the investigator noted that the list included at least nine copyright-protected titles of BSA-member companies.

The investigator then ordered, and later received, CDs containing Adobe Illustrator 9.0 and Photoshop 9.0 for a price of $29.50, including shipping. The retail value of these software discs alone is about $1,000.

However, Von Schulz also included a number of other protected titles in this shipment, with a total retail value of about $3,300. These packages contained Von Schulz's return address on Norwood Lane in Austin. The BSA investigator subsequently made a much larger order via email, resulting in a total retail value of pirated merchandise at about $15,000.

Last May federal officials executed a search warrant at Von Schulz's residence, seizing three servers. These were forensically analyzed by the

U.S. Secret Service for evidence in later prosecution.

Von Schulz has a previous criminal record in California. Offenses include

a felony conviction related to narcotics, as well as arrests for theft, bad checks and obtaining money under false pretenses.

VOLUNTEERING FOR CHARITY?
Texas CPAs Say Don't Pass up the Opportunity to   Deduct Out-of-pocket Expenses

DALLAS - If you do volunteer work for a charitable organization and haven't kept track of your out-of-pocket expenses, the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants says you're passing up an excellent opportunity to lower your tax bill.

To qualify, your un-reimbursed out-of-pocket expenditures must relate directly to the charity. Additionally, you must itemize your deductions on your tax return.

Volunteers may deduct the cost of phone calls, postage stamps, stationery, computer paper, and other out-of-pocket costs incurred with their volunteer work. For volunteers who are required to wear a uniform, the cost of buying and cleaning is deductible if the uniform is unsuitable for normal wear.

The cost of your time, no matter how valuable it may be, is not deductible. That's true even if you would normally be paid for the type of service you contribute. For example, attorneys who perform free legal work for charities are not eligible to deduct what they would normally charge for their services.

Using your car in connection with volunteer charitable work can earn you a deduction. The standard mileage rate for volunteers who use their own cars is 14 cents per mile. Alternatively, you may deduct your actual un-reimbursed expenses for gas and oil -- but not maintenance, depreciation or insurance. Regardless of which method you choose, related parking fees and tolls are deductible as well.

If you pay your own way when you travel overnight for a charitable purpose, your out-of-pocket expenses are deductible as long as they are reasonable in amount and are not for personal pleasure, recreation, or vacation. For example, if you attend a meeting away from home on behalf of the charity, but spend part of the time sightseeing or visiting friends, you're probably jeopardizing your entire deduction. Deductible travel-related expenses include round-trip travel costs, transportation at your destination, lodging and meals. However, expenses incurred by a spouse who is not involved in the volunteer effort are never deductible.

Special rules apply to conventions. Travel and other out-of-pocket expenses related to attendance at a convention for volunteers are deductible only if you have been chosen as a delegate to represent the organization. Attending a convention simply as a member of the organization does not entitle you to deduct your expenses. 

If you decide to dedicate vacation time to a cause, don't count on deducting your expenses without consulting a CPA. Expenses related to volunteer vacations that involve, for example, mornings spent maintaining wilderness sites or building homes in third-world countries with afternoons free for recreation and sightseeing, do not qualify as deductible expenses.

CPAs point out that you should be able to substantiate your expenses by showing the connection between the expense and the volunteer work performed. You also should have receipts or canceled checks to back up your deduction. If you incur $250 or more in expenses on behalf of a charity, you'll need to have a written receipt from the charity in hand before your return is filed. For additional information, see IRS Publication 526, Charitable Contributions.

TSCPA (http://www.tscpa.org) is a nonprofit, voluntary, professional organization representing Texas CPAs. The society has 20 local chapters statewide and has 27,000 members, the largest in-state membership of any state CPA society in the United States. TSCPA is committed to serving the public interest with programs that advance the highest standards of ethics and practice within the CPA profession.

National Sleep Foundation and the TMC Sleep Lab Issue Wake-Up Call to Sleepy

Drivers-Stop and Nap or Drink Caffeine!

About one-half of America's adult drivers-51 percent or approximately 100 million people-are on the roads feeling sleepy while they

are driving. Nearly two in 10 drivers say they have actually fallen asleep

at the wheel in the past year.

These are among the findings in the National Sleep Foundation's

(NSF) 2002 Sleep in America poll released today at the National Summit to

Prevent Drowsy Driving in Washington, D.C. A major goal of the two-day event, spearheaded by NSF, is to make drowsy driving prevention a national public health and safety priority. The poll findings and the Summit, which is aimed at reducing the perilous poll numbers, come just days before some 70 million drivers are expected to be on the roads for the Thanksgiving holiday.

This marks the fifth consecutive year that approximately one-half or more of adult drivers admit to driving while drowsy or sleepy in NSF's annual poll. One percent of the respondents say they had an accident because they dozed off or were too tired to drive, a figure that has remained consistent in the polls.

"We are definitely on a collision course in this country," says Richard L. Gelula, NSF's executive director. "More and more drivers are on the road and millions of them get behind the wheel feeling sleepy, apparently without considering the inherent dangers they pose to themselves and others. This is a wake-up call to everyone who drives a motor vehicle or rides in a car, truck or bus: driving while feeling drowsy or fatigued is a lethal combination and is no less an impairment that driving while drunk," he adds.

Males and young adults between 18 and 29 are at the highest risk for drowsy driving and falling asleep at the wheel, according to the NSF Sleep in America poll: in fact, more than two-thirds of these young adults who drive report driving while drowsy in the past year. Adults with children in the household are more likely to drive drowsy than those without children while older adults, 65 and older, are the least likely to drive drowsy or to fall asleep at the wheel.

"People with untreated sleep disorders are also at risk for drowsy driving, says Lisa Smith, TMC Director of Cardiopulmonary/Neuro Services.

"These problems such as insomnia and sleep apnea often result in a person being sleepy when they should be awake." Smith notes. The TMC Sleep Lab is member of the National Sleep Foundation as a Community Sleep Awareness Partner® to help educate the people in Texoma about important sleep issues such as drowsy driving.

For more information about drowsy driving, the National Summit to Prevent Drowsy Driving and other sleep related issues; visit NSF's web site at www.sleepfoundation.org.

The Texoma HealthCare System is the 2002 Employer of the Year as awarded by the Texas Workforce Commission. For more information on the TMC Sleep Lab and other services provided by the Texoma HealthCare System call (903) 416-4000.

The Staff of the Sam Rayburn House Museum

invites you to join us.

Stop by the Sam Rayburn House Museum on Friday, December 13, 2002, from 12 noon until 6 pm, to join us in our Annual Holiday Open House.

The event will be held at the Visitor’s Center located just west of the Sam Rayburn House (2 miles West of Bonham on Highway 56). There will be: tasty goodies -- warm and cold beverages – and special treats for you to enjoy.

Take time to see the Rayburn House in Holiday Décor.

Stop by for a quick "Hello" or stay the Afternoon.

We wish you and yours the very best of the

Holiday Season and a Grand 2003!

For more information, please contact us at:

Sam Rayburn House Museum

PO Box 308,

Bonham, Texas 75418.

Phone: 903-583-5558

Fax: 903-640-0800

E-mail: srhmdir@texoma.net

Peyton Folks - 2nd,

Sarah Sturgeon - 5^th

Peyton Folks- 2^nd

Madison Cornwell - 3rd, Jared Miller - 6^th

1st place team-

Bailey McGehee, Kevin Gaddy, Madison Cornwell

William Brown - 5th, 2nd place team:

Madison Cornwell, Stephanie Dunstan, William Brown

1st place team-

Maci Ford, Michael Morrison, Paige McCarter

2nd place team-

Kody Douglas, Michael Morrison, Taylor Gibson

Taylor Gibson - 4th,

Micah Glass - 5th,

2nd place team: Kayla Sanders, Micah Glass, Taylor Gibson

2nd place team-

Jacob Rolen, Lauren Camp, Shelby Freeman

Jacob Rolen - 6^th

Brianna Hightower - 2nd; Second place team:

Ben Bausell, Ryan Klose, Zack Powel

Josh Skipworth - 3rd;

3rd place team Josh Skipworth, Courtney Moore, Terryn Loreth

1st place team-

Brianna Hightower, Jocelyn McGehee, Shelby Freeman

Marquin Malone - 1st, Christina Jimenez - 2nd,

Taylor Brown –

3^rd

1st place team: Amanda Gaddy, Ryan Klose, Ben Bausell

Ryan Klose - 3rd
Math:

Ben Bausell - 4th, Ryan Klose - 5th, Amanda Gaddy - 6th,

2nd place team: Amanda Gaddy, Ryan Klose, Ben Bausell
Music:

2nd place team- Amanda Gaddy, Ashley Harrison, Emanda Benton
Number Sense:

Ryan Klose - 5th,

3rd place team: Emanda Benton, Nathan Glass, Ryan Klose

Oral Reading: Amanda Gaddy - 5th
Ready Writing: Danielle Dophied - 5th
Spelling:

3rd place team: Christina Jimenez, Marquin Malone, Tim Doan

Mr. & Mrs. James Bobo and Mr. & Mrs. Bob Chaffin proudly announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their children, Stefanie DeAnn Bobo to Gerald Wayne Chaffin.

The couple will be married at five o’clock in the evening on Saturday, November 30, 2002 at the Telephone Baptist Church in Telephone, Texas.

The bride-elect is the daughter of James and Darlene Bobo of Telephone, Texas, and the granddaughter of Dorothy Eddington of Telephone, Texas. She is a 1999 graduate of Sam Rayburn High School, and is employed at Trailblazer in Bonham, Texas.

Her fiancé is the son of Bob and Kae Chaffin of Ivanhoe, Texas, and the grandson of Duane and Jan Gibbs of Ivanhoe, Texas, and Mary Chaffin of Bonham, Texas. He is a 1999 graduate of Sam Rayburn High School, and is employed with Noble Drilling.

All relatives and friends are invited to attend.

As colder weather approaches, the Bonham Fire Department would like to remind the citizens to be extra careful. Many fires are caused each year due to poorly maintained heaters and fireplaces. You should have your central heating units, furnaces, and space heaters checked and serviced at least once each year by a qualified technician.

Space heaters and fireplaces can be especially dangerous if combustible materials are stored too close; or, if you have on loose fitting clothing and get too near thorn.

Candles are an additional hazard and should never be left unattended! Please keep them and all fire away from children.

Please check your smoke detectors and keep them in good working condition. Replace the battery twice each year.

As the Holiday's near, be careful with seasonal lighting displays and ornaments. Remember, extensions cords are for temporary use only. Unplug them when not in use. Live Christmas trees need to be watered regularly.

If you have any questions or would like a free home fire safety inspection, please call the Bonham Fire Department at 583-3731.

The Bonham Fire - Rescue Department recently completed its first ever fire academy conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. The department sponsored ten (l0) students through the academy. On Tuesday, November 12^s', the State Examiner came from Austin and administered the State "Final Written Exam" and the State "Final Skills Evaluations." We are proud to announce the department had a 100% pass rate for the Academy.

We would like to thank Captain Brad Nichols for his dedication to the academy and recognize his extraordinary efforts in conducting this academy. We would also like to thank the other members of the department that assisted with instruction and live fire training. We would like to recognize Chief Jackson Gott and the members of the Sherman Fire Department for their assistance and the use of their facilities and Chief Richard Lazarus and the members of the Longview Fire Department for their assistance and the use of their live bum facilities.

The department would like to now recognize the following students as fully-fledged firefighters through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection:

Marc Bond, David Hale,

Scott Ridling, Alvin Shields, Jason Simpson and Ann Taylor

Intermediate, James Taylor and Curtis Smith

Basic Lieutenant Lance Watson

Volunteer Firefighter:

Dusty Baker and Phillip Gantt

Please join us in congratulating these firefighters on a job well done. We are extremely proud of them all.

AUSTIN - Santa Claus has some advice for Texans this year: skip the tiresome ties and stale scarves.

Instead, shop at the Texas General Land Office and its newly redesigned Web site for copies of historical maps and give your loved ones a piece of Texas history to hang on their walls - winning yourself accolades for being an inspired shopper.

With more than 23,000 maps and sketches from which to choose, holiday gift givers can bestow unique gifts on each and every member of their families, their friends, their business associates.

Texas Land Commissioner David Dewhurst initiated two important programs that resulted in the availability of the maps:

First came his Adopt-A-Map program to preserve several hundred precious historical maps documenting the settlement of Texas and its counties;

Second was scanning the Land Office's extensive map collection for easier public access over the Internet and making high quality full-color prints available at a low cost.

Dewhurst launched the scanned map collection on the Land Office Web site one year ago, with several hundred small 19th Century county maps that were the first to be scanned. One year later, the Web site has been redesigned for the more than 23,000 maps and sketches now on the Web site. Numerous other maps will be scanned and added to the Web site as they are professionally conserved through the Adopt-A-Map program, and eventually the historical land grant documents also will be scanned and added to the Web site.

Copies of the historical maps are available to the public for $20 if the map is less than 48 inches and $40 for maps over 48 inches. Shipping and handling for all sizes is $8 per tube, and the tubes can hold two maps.

To view the available maps, go to www.glo.state.tx.us and look under Archives & Records at the Map Collection and its searchable catalog. Ordering information is located there as well. Shoppers may also call 1-800-998-4456 or 512-463-5277 to reach the Archives and Records Division and its holiday helpers.

The map database allows shoppers to search by keyword, county, by time period (pre-Republic, Republic), for state maps and for several other types of maps.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for one-stop shopping and gifts that will be treasured by the recipients," Dewhurst said. "Texans love their state and are proud of its rich history. There's just not a better holiday gift than a copy of one of these historic maps."

Another gift possibility is to adopt a map in the name of your favorite relative or best friend, and his or her name will be placed on the General Land Office Web site in two places - on the Sponsor List and next to the map you choose. Donate $500 or more and your honoree will receive a collector's copy of the map once it has been conserved, allowing you to get two gifts for the price of one. And there's an added end-of-year bonus for you. Your donation is tax deductible.

Dewhurst kicked off the Adopt-A-Map program in 2000, and it has been highly successful. So far, more than $234,000 has been donated to have more than 220 historical maps of Texas counties and the state professionally conserved and preserved for future generations.

The unique public/private program came about after Dewhurst took office in 1999 and noticed the worn condition of the historically valuable maps housed at the Land Office. Most continue to be used by the public so there is daily wear-and-tear, and many also received damage in the late19th Century and early 20th Century when the Land Office did not have proper storage facilities. Also, there is damage from previous attempts to repair them in the days when historical conservation methods were not as precise.

"These important documents and maps are the basis for all land ownership in Texas from the earliest days when Texas was a Spanish colony, through its time as a part of Mexico, on to the Texas Republic and continuing today," Dewhurst said.

There are maps of all 254 counties, as well as maps of the state, settlement colonies, some cities and the old land districts that pre-date our current counties. Many of the nearly 500 maps in the Adopt-A-Map program are one-of-a-kind manuscript maps, which means they are original hand-drawn art and have never been published or reproduced in quantity. The average cost of conserving one map is $1,000, and conservation of all the maps will cost approximately $450,000.

"Our history connects us to our future, and preserving this link will keep history flowing from past to present to future," Dewhurst said.

Under the Texas Natural Resources Code, the Land Office may accept donations from the public to conserve the maps. The donations are tax deductible.

HOUSTON-- (Nov. 18, 2002)-- The holidays are a cheerful time for most people, but for others they are a painful reminder of a lost loved one. Families who are struggling with grief can find comfort in honoring that person's memory.

"Try to set aside a specific time to remember the person you lost," said Dr. John Burruss, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

Feelings of grief are especially intense for people who had a family member murdered or killed in a traumatic accident. They may be more reluctant to talk about their loss, for fear of dredging up memories. But ignoring the fact that your father, son, mother or child is not at your holiday gathering does more harm than good.

"Don't leave the loss unspoken. That is an injustice to the memory of the person who has been lost and it sets up the situation of the proverbial elephant in the room," Burruss said. "Everyone knows it is there. Everyone can feel it. Their loss is a palpable presence."

On the other hand, making grief a continual theme of the holiday also is not healthy.

"You don't want to make the holidays a constant memorial to the lost person," Burruss said. "Some types of memorial discussions are appropriate. However, they may take over the event."

No one grieves the same way, Burruss adds. Some people openly share their sadness, while others keep it to themselves and try to return to the routine of their lives. Both can be normal ways to grieve. However, persistent grief can become serious depression, which should be treated by a mental health professional.

· Warning signs of depression include:

· Dramatic change in behavior, such as change of appetite or sleep.

· Loss of energy, fatigue and loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed.

· Feelings of worthlessness and persistent feelings of hopelessness and guilt.

· Inability to concentrate or think, indecisiveness.

· Physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches.

· Recurring thoughts of death or suicide, wishing to die, or attempting suicide (Please seek help immediately for this symptom).

Help is available for people with depression from mental health professionals, employee assistance programs, hospices and churches.

New publication explains groundwater leasing

College Station – Groundwater leasing is relatively new, and as is the case of any new endeavor involving people's pocketbooks, scoundrels see a golden opportunity to take advantage of the uninformed.

Judon Fambrough, an attorney at law with the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, warns landowners to approach a groundwater lease with great caution. Even when signing up with a reputable water production company, groundwater owners should know how to protect their interests.

"Be very careful what you sign because groundwater production may last for generations," Fambrough says. "Unlike oil and gas wells, which go dry, water wells recharge, making the length of the lease indefinite."

Fambrough suggests the following.

· Be careful to sign a groundwater lease, not a groundwater deed. Many times the wording of a lease and a deed appears similar. The owner may be selling the water rights, not leasing them. Leases, generally "grant, lease and let" to the company the right to explore, produce and sell water for a limited time. Deeds "grant, sell and convey" the water or water rights to the company forever.

· Know the difference between negotiating a lease covenant and a lease condition. If a covenant is breached, the only remedy is to sue for damages. If a condition is breached, the lease terminates automatically. When possible, negotiate lease conditions instead of covenants. To be considered a condition and not a covenant, the provision must state that the lease terminates if a certain event or breach occurs.

· Remember all proposed provisions in the lease are subject to negotiation. The owner's power to negotiate depends on the amount of land owned; the amount, quality and depths of groundwater; and the number of companies vying for the lease.

· Do not feel obligated to accept the first offer the company makes. Remember the first offer the company makes may not be the best offer, especially in terms of lease provisions. For example, the company may pay the same for a lease whether or not restrictions are placed on the depths of production. Landowners might make more money by restricting the depth of the production and allowing for other leases at other depths.

· Avoid ambiguous terms. These may lead to misunderstanding and litigation. For example, some leases require groundwater companies to compensate landowners for "actual damages" to the land. However, no mention is made of how to calculate the damages, when the damages are due and payable or how to settle damage claims when a dispute arises.

· Make sure that any terms or provisions negotiated by the groundwater owner are in writing and attached to the lease form. Do not accept oral modifications to a lease. Generally, oral agreements are unenforceable.

More specific suggestions can be found in Secrets of Negotiating Groundwater Leases, a 2002 Center publication by Fambrough. This guide takes the reader through each lease provision paragraph by paragraph and notes how certain items may be negotiated in the landowner's favor. Because of the newness of the water production and leasing business, there are few guides like this. The publication can be downloaded for free from the Center's website.

Fambrough explains the differences and similarities between oil and gas leasing and groundwater leasing in this publication. There are no standard groundwater lease forms as there are for oil and gas leases, and much of the terminology and provisions lack legal definitions and precedents, making groundwater leasing riskier.

Fambrough is also the author of Hints on Negotiating an Oil and Gas Lease, a best-selling publication, which is now available for free on the Center's website.

The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University has been providing solutions through research for more than 30 years. Funded primarily by Texas real estate licensee fees, the Center was created by the state legislature to meet the needs of many audiences, including the real estate industry, instructors, researchers and the general public.

Thinking about getting a portable basketball hoop for the athlete in your family? Does your 10-year-old want to learn soap making? Considering a baby walker or swing for your newest family member?

It is the time of year for thinking about giving and receiving presents. But some of these gifts, according to the Texas Department of Health (TDH), have hidden hazards.

A few simple precautions can help people buying gifts for children make the best decisions, according to Annabelle Dillard with TDH's Product Safety

Division.

"Parents should not buy toys with small parts for children under 3," Dillard said.

"In addition, some toys can break, exposing young children to the hazards of choking on small internal parts. For example, recent product recalls have included plastic toys that can easily break and stuffed toys with parts or seams that can be detached during normal use, exposing parts that are small enough to become lodged in a child's windpipe."

To find out if a small part on a toy is a choking hazard, parents can use a simple test. Take the cardboard tube from a roll of toilet paper. If the part can pass through the tube, it could choke a child.

In addition to safeguarding children from obvious hazards such a small parts and sharp edges, parents need to train their children to be aware of safety issues, Dillard said. Most adults know that electronics and water don't mix, but children may not recognize the dangers of electrical shock.

Many model and art kits contain paint and glue that require knowing about proper use and adequate ventilation. Parents also should train older children to keep their toys away from younger siblings who may not know how to use them.

When selecting toys, pay attention to labels.

"Keep in mind the age and skill level of the child you're shopping for," Dillard said. "Look for age recommendations on the label such as 'Not recommended for children under 3' to guide you in finding a safe, age-appropriate toy. And keep in mind also that a few months can make a huge difference in the skill level of a small child, so it's best not to give an 18-month-old child a toy designed for a 2-year-old."

This year, Nov. 18 to Nov. 22 is "Toy Sweep 2002," when TDH inspectors go out looking for recalled toys and other children's items on retail store shelves.

"When we find recalled items on the shelves, we notify the retailer to remove the item and send it to the manufacturer for replacement and refund,"

Dillard said. "We also educate retailers about the importance of posting the recall notice so that consumers who already have purchased the item can stop using it, fix it or return it."

This year, inspectors are concentrating on baby walkers, baby swings, stuffed toys, children's toys, ride-on toys and cars, bicycles and portable basketball hoops.

Recalls can occur for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, as can be the case with basketball hoops and bicycles, sharp edges can injure a child. Some items can be fixed using instructions from the manufacturer; others will need to be returned for repair or replacement.

Sometimes design flaws or inadequate assembly instructions can cause problems as in the case of some baby swings that malfunction when assembled incorrectly. Some toys or craft kits such as a soap-making kit have packaging that melts when heated. Toys that require heating or microwaving can burn a child if not used properly.

Information on recalls and safe gift giving is available on the Consumer Product Safety Commission's Web site at www.cpsc.gov or by calling the TDH Product Safety Division at 512-834-6773.

"The last thing people want to do when giving a gift is harm a child,"

Dillard said. "Awareness of dangers and prompt action protects buyers, sellers and children."

AUSTIN – Cotton farmers and landowners with cotton production are eligible to vote in a Dec. 9 referendum that will determine whether to establish a boll weevil eradication program in the 36-county area of the Northern Blacklands Boll Weevil Eradication Zone.

Based on Farm Service Agency records, the Texas Department of Agriculture has mailed 797 ballots. Eligible voters in the Northern Blacklands Boll Weevil Eradication Zone should receive an official ballot by mail after Nov. 19. A postage-paid return envelope will be included. Completed ballots must be postmarked on or before Dec. 9 to be counted. Producers who planted cotton in 2002, but do not receive a ballot should contact TDA at (512) 463-7593.

In addition to deciding whether to establish an eradication program, producers will also vote on a maximum annual assessment of $13.25 per land acre of cotton.

Voters also will elect a board member from the Northern Blacklands Zone to serve on the statewide board of directors for the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation Inc. TDA received one nomination for this position before the Nov. 11 filing deadline.

The name of Steve Patman of Ellis County will appear on the ballot as a board nominee. Patman is a cotton producer who has farmed in Ellis County since 1973.

The Northern Blacklands Eradication Zone consists of approximately 70,000 acres of cotton in the following counties: Bosque, Bowie, Cass, Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Delta, Denton, Ellis, Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hamilton, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Hopkins, Hunt, Jack, Johnson, Kaufman, Lamar, Montague, Morris, Navarro, Parker, Rains, Red River, Rockwall, Somervell, Tarrant, Titus, Van Zandt, Wise and portions of McLennan and Limestone.

Class Act will be the featured entertainment for New Year’s Eve Gala 2002 sponsored by the Red River Symphony Guild and Sherman Musical Arts on December 31 at Taglewood Resort on Lake Texoma. The band performs classic dance hits of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

One of the most popular dance bands in the metroplex, Class Act, has appeared at the Omni-Mandalay and the Westin Hotel at the Galleria. The six-member group features fun-filled renditions of favorite classic rock-n-roll tunes, along with several pop and country standards. The result is fond memories, good music, plenty of dancing and toe-tapping good time. Proceeds from the party benefit the Sherman Symphony Orchestra. Reservations are $60 each and are on sale now. Other highlights of the evening include a silent auction, cash bar, a champagne toast and breakfast buffet. The event is black-tie optional.

Sponsorships are now available to companies, organizations and individuals. Levels are the Conductor; $3,000 (20 guests), the Principal; $1,500 (10 guests, the 13^th Chair; $150 (non-attending) or an option to purchase a table for ten guests at $500. Make checks payable to: Judy Fullylove, 1214 N. Bledsoe St., Sherman, Texas 75090. If you have questions, you may contact Judy Fullylove at 903-814-2638 or Marie Avery at 903-868-9584.

Tristan Allen, Tyler Burns, Colten Troxtell

Hailey Cox, Cindel Freeman

Kevin Gaddy, Madison Cornwell

Michael Morrison

Shelby Freeman, Brianna Hightower

Samuel Baca, Delaney Dophied, Brandon Fletcher, Kaitlyn Gaskill, Justin Berube, Colton Duvall, Carleigh Glass, Kaleb Ybara

Hayden Johnson, Makeala Massa, Ethan Seigler, Sara Sturgeon, Avery Wageman, Bonnie Billings, Peyton Folks

William Brown, Whitney Cooke, Stephanie Dunstan, Kristen Henderson, Bailey McGehee, Jared Miller, Erin Wageman, Devin Bailey, Victoria Crossman, Kimberly Francis, Claire Wageman

Dylan Bellows, Taylor Gibson, Kody Douglas

Andrea Vosburg, Hanna Howard, Fred Shewmake

Ben Bausell, Christina Jimenez, Marquin Malone, Emanda Benton, Amanda Gaddy, Ryan Klose

Nikki Bhuma, Tarron Dillon, Breeanna Merchant, Brayden Phillips, Gabriella Tovar, Dakota Washburn, Morgan Ford, Layne Harris

Hunter Franklin, Colten Kumler, Daisy Smith, Landry Snow, Danielle Tovar, Adam Raley, Makayla Adkins, Emily Cornell, Michael Hightower, Cassidy Hughes, Celeste Lewis, Kaleb Skipworth, Avery Strong, Sara Strong, Cynthia Benton

Lincoln Chaney, Garrett Doan, Kelsie Huschke, Thomas Marble, Alec Raley, Harley Baker, Caitlin McClain, Jordan Stone, Tracy Wardlow

Maci Ford, Felicia Jimenez, Paige McCarter, Cody McMorris, Logan Peasley, Taylor Baker, Micah Glass, Ashlyn Isom, Devin Norwood

Terryn Loreth, Jacob Rolen, Joshua Skipworth, Spencer Snow, Barbie Wilson, Lauren Hallford, Hailey Johnson, Jocelyn McGehee

Taylor Brown, Adam Grant, Nathan Glass

Regular meeting was held at 6:30 p.m. at the Bonham High School on November 18, 2002. The presiding officer was Charles Butler.

Members present: Charles Butler, Charlotte Kearney, Allen R. Sanderson, Mike Sisk, Doyce Taylor, Clark Smith, Randy Bowen (6:45 p.m.) and Linda Gist.

Members Absent: None

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Charles Butler and a quorum was present.

Invocation: Given by First Baptist Church Pastor Morgan Malone

Bonham High School-Exemplary Rating

(A) Tour/Highlights Bonham High School—John Sorrell, Principal

(B) Average Daily Attendance Update—1859 as of 10-31-02

· A lease agreement for the Bailey Inglish facility

· Participation in TxDOT Safe Routes to School Grant with the City of Bonham

· Waiver for K-1 Gifted/Talented testing

· Ten (10) substitutes

· Tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collection for October 2002

· Financial Statements and bills payable for October 2002

· Amended Budget

WASHINGTON, D.C. ...The House of Representatives adjourned late last night until January, with Rep. Ralph Hall (D-TX) voting this week to stay in session and continue working.  Hall voted against a "continuing resolution" to fund Federal agencies until January 11, saying Congress should remain in session until appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2003 were enacted.

 "A continuing resolution is simply an expression by Congress that we will do next year what we did last year because we can’t get together this year.  It’s madness," Hall said.

 "Congress has a duty to approve fiscal year appropriations bills by October 1 each year, and this year Congress managed to pass only two of thirteen appropriations bills that were sent to the President to sign," Hall said.  "Now we’ll probably just pass an omnibus bill next January to continue funding – but that’s not how the process should work.  We should be able to debate the provisions of each bill and then vote it up or down."

 Congress passed and the President signed two appropriations bills – defense and military construction.  The House passed three other bills – interior, legislative branch, and treasury/postal service.  The Senate passed one other bill – legislative branch.

The House did manage to pass the Homeland Security Act in the lame duck session this week, and the Senate was expected to follow suit next week.  The House also approved a provision that permits a correction in physician payments from Medicare, extension of Federally-funded temporary unemployment benefits of current recipients and those in high unemployment states through January, and full extension through March 31 of current funding for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, child care, abstinence education and transitional medical assistance programs.

 "Congress failed to enact a prescription drug benefit due to the Senate’s failure three times to pass a drug benefit bill for seniors," Hall noted.  "The national energy bill remained stymied in a Conference Committee after intense deliberation for two years.  We will pick up where we left off in the 108th Congress – and I also hope that we will take up other needed reforms such as Social Security preservation and tax reform and relief."

 "These issues will require policy solutions – not partisan solutions – and the American people expect us to work together," Hall said.  "I’ll continue to look to the citizens of the Fourth District for input on these important issues."

Alexandria Lorene Stephens celebrated her fifth birthday on October 19, 2002, at the Ector School Cafetorium. Alex turned 5 years old on October 18^th. A Ballerina party was given in honor of her fifth birthday party by her parents, Orland and June Stephens.

A Ballerina theme was carried throughout the party and a Ballerina doll decorated cake served as the centerpiece. Barbeque, beans and potato salad was catered by Hickory Barbeque of Bonham to all the guests. For dessert, Alex’s guests enjoyed the ballerina cake with Coke and Kool-Aid.

Alex is the granddaughter of Lorene Beazley, and the late Curtis Lee Beazley, of Ector, and Kitty Stephens and the late Ed Ray Stephens, of Bonham.

Among the 56 family and friends in attendance to Alex’s 5^th birthday were: Grandmothers (Nannie) Lorene Beazley and (Grandma Kitty) Kitty Stephens.

Uncles and Aunts: Butch and Lou Ann Meek, Becky Herpeche, Johnny and Holly Stephens, Laura (Lolly) Taylor, Cathy (Aunt Bunny) Nelson, Joe Stephens, Toney Stephens, Vernon and Kim Stephens, Bill Johnson, Charlie and Shelley Stephens and Terry and Jo Ann Erven.

Cousins: Lacey Herpeche, Amy and Brian Brinlee, Kirk, Trisha, Garrett, and Colby Meek, Ashley, Carla and Eli Norris, Rachel and Jesse Stephens, Cindy Johnson, Cody, Deloris and Lexi Powell, Jake, Clay and April Stephens, Sidney Stephens, Matt, Peggy and Nathaniel Stephens, Cole Stephens, Abby Stephens and Jayna Stephens.

Friends: Kayla Melton, Jimmy, Denita, Ryder and MyKayla Caplinger, Jodi, Keelei and Jake Rhettmier and Brad, Lisa, Hunter and Tanner Heathcock.

Alex would like to thank everyone for sharing in her special occasion.

ARDMORE, Okla. — In this age of technology, science is a part of everything around us. Advances in science have safeguarded our foods, improved auto performance, made our houses more comfortable whatever the season, and increased our work productivity. They have provided amazing glimpses of the tiniest elements of our planet, as well as entire galaxies light years away.

Yet, most people feel inadequate when it comes to understanding even the most basic concepts of science.

That’s why The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc., in Ardmore, Okla., has started the Public Lectures in Science series — to present news to the public about the fascinating work going on in the science world in plain, easy-to-understand languages.

"Science has become an increasingly important part of our everyday lives, probably more than most of us realize," said Michael A. Cawley, president of the Noble Foundation. "However, few of us feel that we understand what is happening in the world of science. This lecture series was created to introduce even those of us with virtually no background in science to the interesting things taking place at the Foundation and elsewhere."

Dr. Marilyn Roossinck, a principal investigator at the Noble Foundation, launches the series with her presentation, "The Secret Life of Viruses," at the Foundation’s Kruse Auditorium on Dec. 12.

It is fitting that Roossinck starts the series. Public Lectures in Science was her brainchild, stemming from the positive response by the community to an earlier Foundation-sponsored speaker in the Profiles and Perspectives program, researcher Mark Plotkin. Plotkin looks for medicines and cures among primitive rainforest tribes.

The science lecture series fulfills one of Roossinck’s favorite crusades — communicating science to the public.

"I want to dispel the ivory tower image of science," said Roossinck. "Science should be exciting and fun for people other than scientists. I’d like to give people a glimpse into what is happening in science in a way that is non-threatening and easy to understand. Science is fun for me because I’m driven by curiosity. I want to know how things work."

Other lectures in the series in 2003 are by Dr. Elison Blancaflor, "Modern Microscopes and the Marvels of Plant Motion," on Feb. 27, and Dr. David Meinke, "Arabidopsis: A Minor Mustard in the Major Leagues," on May 5.

All lectures are at 7 p.m. in the Kruse Auditorium at the Noble Foundation at no charge to the public, and will be followed by a reception. Parking is free at the facility.

HOUSTON--Turkey and dressing and heartburn, oh my! Unfortunately this holiday season, many people will receive the gift that keeps on giving -- heartburn and stomach upset.

"The holiday foods we love best, like Thanksgiving turkey, gravy and pie, are made up almost completely of fat," said Dr. Gulchin Ergun, medical director of the Reflux Center at Baylor College of Medicine and The Methodist Hospital in Houston. "The same fat that makes our food taste so good also can give us heartburn."

Heartburn is caused when stomach acid overcomes the barrier between the stomach and esophagus, called the sphincter, which keeps the lower end of the esophagus closed when a person is not swallowing food or liquids. Foods that contain fat cause the sphincter to relax, allowing the acid to come up more easily into the chest. The result is a burning pain in the chest and the abdomen that can that can last for hours and is often accompanied by a sour taste.

The simple way to prevent heartburn is to avoid the foods and drinks that trigger it, like high fat foods, foods high in acidity like cranberry sauce, and alcoholic drinks.

But if you just can't give up your favorite treats, the following tips might help soothe your holiday stomach:

Move around. Lying down after a big meal may help trigger heartburn. "Chest pressure is negative, and your body wants to move things from a positive to a negative area," Ergun said. "If you are lying down after a big meal, it makes it easier for stomach acid to move up." Ergun suggests taking a walk or playing a game of touch football with your family after your meal.

Take an antacid. For immediate relief, over-the-counter antacids work fastest to reduce the acid that causes heartburn or stomach upset.

Eat in moderation. If you can't give up your mother's famous pecan pie, then go easy on the ham, or just eat only a portion of everything on your plate.

"Having a small amount of heartburn around the holidays isn't necessarily bad for you," Ergun said. "But you should really see your doctor if you are having symptoms two or three times a week."

Annually, more than 7 million Americans suffer from chronic heartburn, called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Left untreated, GERD can increase the risk for esophageal cancer. Diet modification, prescription drugs and surgery are all options to relieve the symptoms of GERD.

Jennifer M. Reed

Communications Specialist

The 1st Annual Waterloo Race for Diabetes, presented by the TMC Diabetes LifeCenter, was a gold-medal winner for local children. Over $13,000 was raised from the 5K race/walk held November 9th at Waterloo Park in Denison. These proceeds will benefit local children in the TMC service area with Type 1 Diabetes for sponsorships to Camp Sweeney, a diabetes camp located in Gainesville, Texas.

Race winners included Marc Dick with an overall winning time of 17:39 and Chelsea Hermes with a winning time of 21:26 in the women's division. Medals were awarded to winners in 11 different age brackets, a Masters division, and a seniors division. Over 200 runners and walkers participated in this year's event.

"It was amazing to see so many volunteers and participants show up for this event," said Anne Melton, mother of eight year-old Scott who attends Camp Sweeney each year. "To see these people show up and support our kids was so special. And the great thing about this event is that it helps kids right here where we live," Melton continued.

Race sponsors included Texoma Ford, Novo Nordisc, LifeScan/Johson & Johnson, Medtronic MiniMed, Culligan, TexomaCare Durant, Diabetes Shoe Store, Larry Whitefield, M.D., Diabetes-Endocrinology, Texoma Agency, Melton Shoes, Timothy Brumit, M.D., Pediatrics, Ted Hayes, M.D., Pediatrics, Jeannine Hatt, M.D., Pediatrics, Ignacio J. Gonzales, M.D., Internal Medicine, and media sponsors KXII, Herald Democrat, and KTEN. Special scholarships were provided by the Clara Blackford and W. Aubrey Smith Foundation.

The TMC Diabetes LifeCenter is a service of Texoma HealthCare System. For more information on the services provided by the TMC Diabetes LifeCenter, contact them at (903) 416-4112.

State Representative Ron Clark Letter of Resignation

State Representative Ron Clark

State Representative Ron Clark submitted a letter of resignation to
Governor Rick Perry November 21^st. Representative Clark informed the Governor that
he was resigning his office "effective immediately." He also declined to
assume the office of Representative for the 2003-2004 term. The State-wide canvass of votes held on Wednesday confirmed that Clark had won re-election, carrying Grayson County with 68% of the vote and Fannin County with 55% of
the vote.

   Clark, who will be sworn in as a Federal Judge on Friday, stated in his letter that it had been a privilege to serve as State Representative. Elected in 1996, Clark was known for his knowledge of municipal issues, authoring several bills affecting cities, including a bill clarifying the
Local Government Code and correcting errors which had occurred over the
years.   He was also a member of the House Select Committee on Teacher Health, and joint authored the State-wide school employee health insurance bill.

   The broad range of issues Representative Clark worked on is indicated by
the recognition awarded by various groups.  In 2002 he received the "Fighter
for Free Enterprise" award from the Texas Association of Business, and in
1999 was named to the Texas Civil Justice League's list of "Eleven Best Senators and Representatives."  His work on behalf of senior citizens was recognized by the Texoma Area Agency on Aging in 1999, and the Sherman Chapter of the NAACP presented him its Political Involvement award in 2000
and again in 2001. Representative Clark received the  "Friend of CASA" (Court Appointed Special Advocates for children) award in 1998.

  Completion of the State-wide canvas of votes and Representative Clark's
resignation open the way for a special election to fill the position.
Governor Perry is expected to issue a proclamation today, calling for the
special election to be held on December 14, 2002.  Five individuals, John
Hefton, Donnie Jarvis, KiKi Osterman, Larry Phillips, and Harry Reynolds
have announced their interest in running for the position.

Bailey Inglish Lease Approved by Bonham School Board

By JACQUELINE WHITE

The regular meeting of the Bonham ISD Board of Trustees met at Bonham High School at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 18, 2002. President Charles Butler called the meeting to order. Members present were Charles Butler, Charlotte Kearney, Allen Sanderson, Mike Sisk, Doyce Taylor, Clark Smith, Randy Bowen and BISD Superintendent Linda Gist. Others attending were Joetta Wallace, Assistant BISD Superintendent, Ricky Gatlin, Director of Curriculum and Janette Owens, Chief Financial Officer.

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by President Charles Butler and a quorum was present.

First Baptist Church Pastor Morgan Malone was asked to give the invocation.

Recognitions: Bonham High School received an Exemplary Rating and was presented a certificate by Dr. Gist.

Dr. Linda Gist told members of the Board, and the twenty or so persons in attendance, that the average daily attendance update is 1,859 students in the Bonham District as of Oct. 31, 2002.

She then turned the meeting over to Bonham High School Principal, John Sorrell, who led the Board and guests on a "walkabout" of Bonham High. The first classroom visited was the Spanish classroom on the second floor. Sorrell's pointed out that the accordion wall has been replaced between the room to its east. This will enable the two teachers to have their own classrooms. When the school was built open classrooms were popular but it has proved to be a disadvantage for teachers and students. The room has also been painted and computer/listening rooms built so the students can be observed as they work, but also have some privacy. They used to have to sit outside the classroom in the hall. The adjoining classroom is a carbon copy of the Spanish classroom. Both rooms were remodeled with volunteer work and some of the funds that they received from the District designated for renovations.

Other points of interest on the tour included the future renovation of the library -- closing the second floor area in with glass walls and possibly building some small computer labs in that area. Improved areas for handicapped students in restrooms and at the water fountains are also planned.

Two of the highlights of the tour was visiting the gymnasium foyer and seeing the new location of the school athletic and band trophies display cases, and visiting the much improved Ag area. According to Miss Bankston the program is growing and has expanded from 36 students to 95 this year. The area has been painted and other improvements have been made.

As for the trophies new location, they can be viewed by visitors to athletic events or other school programs in this location. The area at the front of the school has been closed in by a glass wall and made into a trophy case to display District Championship trophies and memorabilia. A 1918 BHS diploma that belonged to graduate .Louis Agnew (Agnew Street may be named after him.) is on display as well as several old trophies and other items. "Visitors who come into the school can see some of the best that we've done," said Sorrell. "I welcome BHS memorabilia and we'd be glad to put your name on the display and return it when you want it back," he added.

This was followed by the Board approving a lease agreement for the Bailey Inglish facility with First Baptist Church of Bonham, to run from now until May 30, 2004. A discussion was held of possible lease concerns which included grounds upkeep, building renovations (building a partition to block off the east side of the building), and insurance concerns (FBC will provide liability insurance and the BISD will continue to insure the building).

According to Pastor Malone the building will be used for additional recreational space, youth education space, and fellowship space. It will be called First Baptist Church Bailey Inglish Annex.

The Board also approved participation in TxDOT Safe Routes to School grant with the City of Bonham; A waiver for K- I Gifted/Talented testing; The approval of ten substitute teachers; Tax credits, supplements and delinquent tax collection for October 2002; and Financial statements and bills payable for October 2002 and a discussion of the amended budget.

AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry today set Saturday, December 14, as the special election date to fill the vacancy for House District 62. House District 62 consists of Fannin and Grayson counties.

The seat was left vacant after Rep. Ron Clark, R-Sherman, formally declined the seat on Wednesday. Clark was elected to a full term on Nov. 5.

Candidates for this special election must file applications with the Secretary of State no later than Tuesday, November 26.

The early voting period for this special election runs from Tuesday, December 3, through Tuesday, December 10.

The representative elected in this special election will serve out the full term.

HOUSTON -- (Nov. 21, 2002) - The holidays can be a time of joyful reunion for seniors and their families, but they can also be a time of intense stress. A Baylor College of Medicine geriatrician suggests seniors take a break from the hustle and bustle.

"Get out and find a place to enjoy a holiday meal, a concert, or carolers," said Dr. Robert Roush of Baylor's Huffington Center on Aging. "Find a way to maintain some control over everything competing for your time and attention."

Taking brief walks each day can help take the edge off the stress of the season. Roush recommends seniors start shopping early and set aside some time each day to stay ahead on necessary chores.

"Give yourself deadlines for accomplishing small tasks," he said. "Staying organized alleviates stress."

Roush said that seeing family members for the first time in a while can also be a trying aspect of the holidays, and certain conversations should be postponed for a better time.

"Family members frequently will use these times to discuss topics that really need more in-depth consideration," he said. "The holidays are not a good time for families to discuss how to provide long-term care for an aging parent or loved one, for example."

Roush said seniors can make the holidays joyous by remaining mindful of changes within the family.

"As we grow older, we tend to still think of our `children' as just that," he said. "It is important to be cognizant that they now have changed and may have children and responsibilities of their own."

For many people, staying connected to the spiritual basis of the holidays and keeping in touch with close friends, as well as family members, can make the season more enjoyable, he said.

State Officials Announce Holiday Crackdown on Seat Belt Slackers

Buckling up yourself and all the passengers in your vehicle will give you two more reasons to be thankful next week: you'll be reducing the odds of serious injury in case of a crash and you'll also be protecting yourself from getting a ticket,

Texas is launching the second phase of "Click It or Ticket" as part of a national effort to reduce deaths and injuries from traffic crashes From November 24 to December 1, state troopers and local law enforcement throughout Texas will be cracking down on drivers and passengers who aren't using safety belts.

"We know that combining stepped up law enforcement with public education works to get people to buckle up," said Susan Bryant, the Texas Department of Transportation's traffic safety director. "Focusing on seat belt law enforcement during Thanksgiving week not only will save lives, but it will also give Texas motorists the extra incentive they need to always use their safety belts and make sure their children are properly secured."

Texas law requires drivers and front seat passengers to use safety belts. Children and teens up to the age of 17 have to be buckled up in the front or back seat. Child safety seats are required for children under four years old or less than three feet tall. Pines for violations range from $25 to $200,

As a result of this year's first round, of Click it or Ticket efforts during the Memorial Day holiday in May, statewide safety belt use increased from 76% to 81% in Texas. In the 10 major cities, safety belt use increased from 81% to 86%, Officials estimate that maintaining safety belt use in Texas at this level would result in 200 fewer traffic fatalities and 5,000 fewer injuries each year,

Cub Scouts Pack 54 held their annual Dad & Lad Bake-Off on November 19, 2002 at the VA Auditorium. Each Scout made a dessert with an adult male. Then the desserts were judged by age and category. Then the desserts were auctioned off to help raise money for the Pack.

Congratulations to these Scouts. Tiger Cubs:

1st Place - Cakes/Brownies, Lucas Wright Wolf Cubs:

1st Place - Cakes/Brownies, Tony Long

2nd Place - Cakes/Brownies - Stetson Buckaloo 1st Place - Cookies - Zechariah

1st Place - Misc. - Riley Campbell Bear Cubs:

1st Place - Cookies - Eric Peters Webelos I:

1st Place - Cakes & Brownies - Nolen Hughes 2nd Place - Cakes & Brownies - Blake Butler 1st Place - Pies - Logan McCurry

2nd Place - Nathan Orr

1st Place - Cookies - Tanner Long Webelos II:

1st Place - Cakes & Brownies - Adam Robinson 2nd Place - Cakes & Brownies - Christopher Orr 1st Place - Pie - Ahmad Kilani

Best of Show went to Bobby Voorheis for an Easy Apple Dumpling recipe taken from The Happy Jubilee Singers Cookbook which can be purchased at The Haven of Rest House. Thank you to every Scout that participated in this fund raiser. A special thanks to everyone that purchased the desserts. A big thanks to the judges, Doug Bush, Sue Farmer, Annette Keene and their Adventure Crew 52. And last but not least, the auctioneer Steve Deckard, we had fun and thank you very much.

The Sam Rayburn Library and Museum will celebrate Christmas with open House on December 5^th, from five until seven p.m.

Come and enjoy punch and cookies with us at Mr. Sara's Library and meet the new Director, Dr. Patrick Cox.

Patrick is not only the Director of the Sara Rayburn Library but also the John Garner Museum in Uvalde as well as Assistant Director of the Center for America History at the University of Texas. ,

We at the Sam Rayburn Library see more each year the strength of Mr. Rayburn's guiding hand for a half century and how great would be his leadership in the troubled tunes the nation now faces. But, we must took forward and be thankful for the things he bequeathed to us that still lives on.

We wish for all of you a Merry Christmas with the hope the New Year will bring peace and good will throughout the world.

2nd: Breakfast-Cereal Toast, Juice, Milk Lunch-Pizza Corn, Salad, Brownies. Milk

3^rd: Breakfast-Biscuits/Sausage Juice, Milk

Lunch-Steak fingers, Creamed Potatoes, Gravy, Grew, Beans Rolls, Chocolate Pudding, Milk

4th, Breakfast-Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Toast, Juice, Milk Lunch-Spaghetti/Meat Sauce, Salad, Bread. Sticks Peaches, Milk

5^th: Breakfast-Pancake on Stick, Juice, Milk.

Lunch Burritos Ranch Sty le Beans Spanish. Rice, Jello, Milk

6^th: Breakfast- Yogurt or Cereal Toast, Juice, Milk Lunch-Hamburgers/Trimmings, French Fries. Frozen Fruit Bars, AML

9th: Breakfast- Donuts or Cinnamon Rolls, Juice, Milk, Lunch-Dell Sandwich/Trimmings, Potato Chips, Pork & Beans, Cookies, Milk

10th: Breakfast Biscuits/Sausage, Juice, Milk, Lunch-Chicken Nuggets, Creamed Potatoes, Gravy, Green Peas, Rolls, Fruit, Milk,

11^th: Breakfast Oatmeal, Toast Juice, Milk.

Lunch-BBQ Sandwich, Tator Tots, Ranch Style Beans_, Fruit Milk

12^th: Breakfast-French Toast Sticks, Juice Milk Lunch-Frito Chili Pie, Corn, Salad, Chocolate Pudding, Milk.

13th: Breakfast-Scrambled Eggs, Toast Juice, Milk Lunch-Hamburgers/Trimmings, French Fries, Frozen Fruit Bars. Milk

16th: Breakfast- Breakfast Pizza, Juice, Milk

Lunch-Corn Dogs, Tator Tots, Ranch. Style Beans, Fruit, Milk

17th: Breakfast- Biscuits/Sausage, Juice, Milk Lunch-Salisbury Steak, Creamed Potatoes, Broccoli, Rolls, Whipped Dessert, Milk

I8th: Breakfast Cereal, Toast, Juice, Milk Lunch Tuna or Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Potato Chips, Beans, Peaches, Milk.

19th: Breakfast-Pancake on Stick, Juice, Milk Lunch-Beef Tacos, Pinto Beans, Salad, Cake, Milk

20th: Breakfast-Oatmeal, Toast, Juice, Milk Lunch-Hamburgers/Trimmings, French Fries, Frozen Fruit Bars. Milk

Christmas Holidays Dm 23-31 & Jan. 1-3

Menu Subject to Change Due, To Product Availability.

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

For the month of October, 2002

James Lee Taylor, age 41, of Ladonia, TX entered his plea of guilty to Indecency with a child. The court accepted his plea and sentenced him to 11 years in the penitentiary.

Jason Hooper, age 31, of Savoy, TX entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance-methamphetamine. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve one year in a State Jail Facility,

Lanny Frank Grier, age 38, of Ivanhoe, TX entered his plea of guilty to Possession of Anhydrous Ammonia (unapproved container). The Court accepted his plea and placed him on 4 years felony probation, $300.00 fine, court costs, $50.00 to Fannin County Family Crisis Center, 1.50 hours of community service, and as a condition of probation he must complete a substance abuse questionnaire to determine treatment while on probation.

Kellesha Monks, age 23, of Bonham, TX entered her plea of guilty to Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. The Court accepted her plea and placed her on 2 years felony probation, $500.00 fine, court costs, $50.00 to Fannin County Family Crisis Center, and successfully complete the Erasing Abuse Program. The 26-week Erasing Abuse Program is offered by FCFCC in an attempt to prevent domestic violence by holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and teaching them alternatives to acting out abusively

Rickey Mikel Stapp, age 48 of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to Delivery of Dangerous Drugs. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to 90 days in jail.

Kenneth Wayne Jerkins, age 27, of Hendrix, OK entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a controlled Substance-cocaine less than 1 gram. The Court accepted his plea and placed him on 4 years felony probation, $600.00 fine, court costs and $200.00 to the Child Advocacy Center.

Richard Graham Hubbard, 11, age 19, of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to Burglary of a Habitation. The Court accepted his plea and placed him on 5 years felony probation. He must pay a $500,00 fine, court costs, restitution, and $50.00 to the Fannin County Family Crisis Center.

Kimberly Grijalva, age 25, of Bonham, TX entered her plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance. The Court accepted her plea and placed her on 2 years felony probation. She must also pay a $100.00 fine, court costs, and $50.00 to the Fannin County Family Crisis Center, 100 hours of community service. As, a condition of probation she must complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine treatment while on probation.

David Henslee, age 41, of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to DWI 3"^d. The Court accepted his plea and accessed his punishment at 8 years in the penitentiary; however, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 10 years. He must pay a $300.00 fine, court costs and $50.00 to Fannin County Family Crisis Center and lose his drivers license for one year and after one year a deep lung interlock device will be placed on his vehicle; this will prevent him from starting his vehicle if he has been drinking. As a condition of probation he must attend DWI school and complete a Substance Abuse Questionnaire to determine drug and alcohol treatment while on probation.

Scottie Scourton, age 64, of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance, less than one gram. The Court accepted his plea and accessed his punishment at 90 days in jail.

Joshua Adams, age 22, of Bonham, TX was sentenced to 180 days in a State Jail Facility for failing to comply with the conditions of his probation. Adams had previously been placed on probation four Theft over $1500.00 under $20,000.00.

Landon Lee McBride, age 18, of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to Aggravated Robbery. The Court accepted his plea and placed him on 5 years felony probation. He must also pay a fine of $100.00, court costs, $100.00 to the Fannin County Family Crisis Center. As conditions of probation he must serve 30 days in the Fannin County jail and get a QED, attend an anger management class, keep a job or go to college and he will have a 10:00 p.m. curfew. He must also pay $810.00 restitution to the victim. And complete 200 hours of community service.

Emilo Martinez, age 37 of Bonham, TX entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance-cocaine, less than one gram. The Court accepted his plea and accessed his punishment at 2 years in the penitentiary; however, the Court agreed to probate the sentence for 5 years. He must pay $100.00 to the Child Advocacy Center and $50.00 to the Fannin County Family Crisis Center. As a condition of probation he must serve 60 days in jail.

Jason Hooper, age 31, of Savoy, TX entered his plea of guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance-methamphetamine. The Court accepted his plea and sentenced him to serve one year in a State Jail Facility.

The Region C Water Planning Group (RCWPG) will hold a public meeting to discuss the next steps in the regional water planning process. Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting and participate in a public comment session at the end of the meeting. Monday, December 2, 2002, 1:30 p.m. at the Trinity River Authority Central Wastewater Treatment Plant, 6500 W. Singleton Blvd., Dallas, TX 75212, (972) 263-2251

The RCWPG is one of 16 regional water planning groups selected by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to help develop a comprehensive state water plan for Texas over the next 50 years, as mandated by Senate Bill 1 (SB 1). Each water planning group is responsible for preparing and adopting a regional water plan for its area. The RCWPG is made up of 19 members representing 11 different interest groups.

Region C is made up of all or part of 16 counties in North Texas: Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Fannin, Freestone, Grayson, Henderson, Jack, Kaufman, Navarro, Parker, Rockwall, Tarrant and Wise.

KWIK Chek and Hannah’s Horseshoes of Hope (HHH), the Red River region’s only therapeutic riding center, have announced a joint effort geared toward raising money and awareness for the fledgling non-profit equine-assisted therapy facility.

From now until January 1, all completed stamp cards can be turned into HHH and KWIK Chek will pay HHH $.50 for each card they remit.

"Each KWIK Chek should have a box behind the counter, so customers can turn in their cards when completed," Janice Mills, founder of HHH, said earlier this week. "Completed cards may also be turned in at Radio Shack in Bonham."

Mills is hopeful the fund-raiser will catch on for the holidays and said the therapy facility needs more equipment, an additional horse, a tack shed, and sponsorships for needy students. Mills said she and the entire staff of HHH are grateful to KWIK Chek for this opportunity.

Since many people who patronize KWIK Chek do not save their stamps, Mills hopes those individuals will begin asking for their stamps each time they shop and give them to HHH instead.

"But they must remember to ask for the stamps," Mills said, "or it won’t do us any good."

HHH began its second session of lessons for riders with disabilities this month, finishing its inaugural session in September. With two therapy horses and three instructors, the facility has begun to actively recruit students – both children and adults.

Certainly, this fund-raiser could be considered a simple way for Fannin County residents to give to a worthy cause this holiday season, without it costing them a penny.

TMC Cancer Support Group to discuss Hope for the Holidays

Jennifer M. Reed

Communications Specialist

The effects of the holiday season can be important to those with cancer. Dialogue, a Cancer Support Group sponsored by Texoma Medical Center and the American Cancer Society is holding its holiday meeting November 26 at 6:00 pm in the TMC Munson Cancer Center. The topic for this meeting will be Hope for the Holidays. Participants will be encouraged to remember that it's important to keep a positive attitude and live each day one day at a time. Reminders like allowing others to help and sharing thoughts and feelings will also be discussed.

Do you or someone you love have cancer? Dialogue can help. Through

group sharing, participants have a chance to talk confidentially with others who are coping with cancer. Common experiences, problems, and solutions can

be shared in a supportive atmosphere. The program is free and open to the public. The TMC Munson Cancer Center is located near the South entrance of TMC. For more information call (903) 416-4220.

VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTHCS), Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center (SRMVC), recently recognized its three nurse practitioners in celebration of Nurse Practitioner Week in Texas.

Nurse practitioners hold a nursing degree and are licensed as registered nurses with advanced medical education and clinical training in various health care specialty areas. These highly skilled professionals perform many services and duties from performing physical examinations and obtaining medical histories to diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, prescribing medications and providing immunizations.

Nurse practitioners serving at the Bonham facility are Nancy Cook in the Nursing Home Care Unit; Kathy Simpson in Mental Health Services and Aline Speight in Primary Care. "These nurse practitioners are committed to excellence in patient care and serve as integral members of our health care team", said Daniel K. Heers, Operations Manager of the SRMVC.

Dylan Allen, Colby Bostick, Dalton Cagle, Tara Carlisle, Krishna Chhita, Brianna Hayes, Anna Heredia, Katy Kennedy, John Reeder, Ashley Rimbert, Stephanie Spencer, Bobby Voorheis, Chase Williams, Michael Wood

5^th GRADE "A" HONOR ROLL

Alexa Cole, Cheyenne DeLoach, Leah Eaton, Christopher Orr, Paige Riza, Huston Smith, Jacob Wheeler, Haley Wilkerson

6^th GRADE "A" HONOR ROLL

Logan Cunningham, Kristen Fox, Ashley Hollinsworth, Nicole Lipford, Bruce Orr, T