He began this year as the new chief deputy of the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office, but that’s only part of his story. In 1975, Mike Ditto joined the Bells Police Department for a year and a half as a rookie cop, but his passion and diligence exceeded far beyond his own imagination. “I had no idea I would be here this long. I was imagining myself 20 to 25 years and out, but that just wasn’t in the cards,” Ditto said. After Bells, Ditto worked for the Sherman Police Department as an investigator for over 25 years under different supervisors. He said it set the tone for the kind of leader he aspired to be, and
U.S. Marshal Service. Then, Fannin County Sheriff Cody Shook called Ditto with a job offer fit for his experience.
“Well first, I wondered if he had the right guy,” Ditto said. “Its been going very well. Its been a learning curve for a lot of us. Actually, I’ve never done this job before, but I think we’re making a positive impact on the department and the county.” As for what case sticks with him the most, Ditto said it’s easily the 2004 murder of Laura Thomas and her two children by the hands of Andre Thomas in Sherman, who’s on death row today. It’s these calls that test anyone in law enforcement’s commitment, and that’s just what Ditto says the next generation of officers will need.
“You have to want to serve the public and not accept a whole lot of pay for it I guess,” said Ditto. Ditto has been chief deputy for eight months and said the Fannin County Sheriff’s Office has a lot of growth in store, including its size and the amount of training for deputies.
Home Country: Slim Randles
We knew it was coming when Bert came into the Mule Barn truck stop the other day. He took his usual stool at the philosophy counter and world dilemma think tank, where he reigns as Cutting Edge Technology Advisor to the board of directors.
It was that glint in his eye that gave it away.
“Hi Bert.”
“Hi Doc. Say, isn’t this a beautiful day? It’s 32 out there.”
“Doesn’t seem that cold,” said Steve, our resident cowboy, who tends to look at everything from the back of a horse.
“Oh, not 32 degrees, dear friend …” Dear friend? We’re in for it.
“… but 32 inches of mercury in the barometer. Winds are calm. Sun is shining. No chance of snow.”
“You have a barometer?”
“Oh yeah. You can’t always depend on the TV weather guy, you know. You see, it’s not just where the barometer is that tells you what the weather’s like, but it’s where it is now in relation to where it was before. That’s what they
Leigh Dixon 2nd
Roger Stapp 5th
Randy Pendergrass 10th
Keith Barnes 10th
Teffany Kavanaugh 14th
Gary Haynes 19th
Judy Stevens Jeanes 25th
Sondra Compton 25th
Jason Frazier 30th
advertising based on the number of hits. The Leader will collect that income and divide the money between the Children’s
call the trend.”
“Heard that word before,” said Doc.
“It’s scientific. Got a book about it the other day. Maizie picked it up at the library. You see, to the layman, the world outside looks kinda nice, doesn’t it? Sunshine, no wind. Looks like a beautiful day. But to the expert … to the meteorologist … that’s just the start. Oh yes. He’ll look outside at the beautiful weather, but he realizes it’s simply a precursor to the weather we’ll have tomorrow. He’ll know, you see, from how the mercury is responding in the glass … we call the barometer a glass … what kind of weather to expect tomorrow. That’s what sets us apart from other people.”
“Because you read a book?”
“ … And I have my weather station … yes.”
“So what kinda weather is coming tomorrow, Bert?”
“Oh … ‘bout like today.”
“So the barometer told you that?”
Bert looked a little sheepish.
“I didn’t have time to figure it out. Heard it on the news.”
Center, The Family Life Center and Open Arms Shelter as a donation.
There is a a QR code on our front page, and below this article, so you can scan with your phone and go straight to the stream. Based on my research, this is the first and only live stream in Bonham or Fannin County on EarthCam! This will put Bonham and Fannin County on the national media map due to the significance and history of the Jefferson Highway.
Jefferson Highway Historic Site: Looking north on the historic Jefferson Highway, Main Street The Jefferson Highway was a highway stretching through the central United States from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Winnipeg, Manitoba in Canada. This is the Magnolia Oil Co. Gas Station. Construction on this station began in 1917 and was completed in 1918. It was built specifically to service motorists traveling the Jefferson Highway. It has been partially restored and now is home of United Motor Garage. The Jefferson Highway was replaced with the new numbered US Highway system in the late 1920s. The area was originally called Post Office Row, because the Post Office was there for 30 years, moving around 1885. Then the area began to be called “Panther Row” around 1895. Although the origin of the name “Panther Row” is not documented, some think the name came from a whiskey with the name “Panther” sold at the saloon.
Fannin County Commissioners Meeting
By Tim Meek
Fannin
Court. Quorum was established with all four Commissioners and Judge Cunningham present 5. Public Forum. Fannin County residents Jason Walker and Bonham Rusty Deets spoke in Public Forum about the court being inconsistent with the rules, specifically the 3 minute allowable speaking time and the allowable dress code. Pct. 1
and we go through a board that’s appointed by the court to make a decision, seen over one or two times. The court made a decision, the board made a decision, and … it’s pretty much final, Mr. Green, on my part.” Having already taken his seat after speaking, Mr. Green attempted to respond however the Commissioners voted not to allow a response.
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION ITEMS:
15. Discussion and possible action to approve addition to the Sheriff and Constable Fees to include ‘Collecting Money on an Order of Sale without a sale’; base price to be set at $2,500.00 – Sheriff Shook. Approved
16. Discussion and possible action regarding total loss insurance claim and replacement of vehicle for Constable Precinct 3 –County Auditor. Approved
17. Discussion and possible action to authorize County Judge to sign and submit the 2025 Annual Cybersecurity Training Certification Form stating Fannin County is in compliance and all training is complete – I.T. Director. Approved
18. Discussion and possible action to accept furniture donation from Legend Bank – Purchasing Agent. Fannin County Purchasing Agent Julie Criswell reported that Legend Bank is offering seven large, heavy-duty mahogany executive desks, and 18 chairs. Pct 1 Commissioner Troy Waggoner thanked Legend Bank for the donation. Approved
19. Discussion and possible action regarding HVAC and Chillers preventative maintenance contract –Purchasing Agent Julie Criswell with Facilities Coordinator Ruben Moreno. This item was passed until next week’s meeting.
20. Discussion and possible action to repair the Environmental Services truck due to safety concerns; repair funds requested from Contingency; $1,779.41 max – Purchasing Agent Approved
21. Discussion and possible action to approve the Fannin County Comprehensive Fund Balance Policy for Fiscal Year 2026 – County Auditor Approved
22. Discussion and possible action to approve the Fannin County Fraud, Waste and Abuse Policy for the 20252026 Fiscal Year – County Auditor. Approved
23. Discussion and possible action to approve the Fannin County Investment Policy for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year – County Auditor. Approved
24. Discussion and possible action to approve Resolution relating to application for the 2026 Fannin County Indigent Defense Formula Grant Program and authorize County Judge to sign on behalf of the County – County Auditor. Approved
25. Discussion and possible action regarding Interlocal Agreement with the City of Ladonia relating to law enforcement – County Judge. This item was passed until next week’s meeting.
happen.” Fannin County Clerk
Jenny Garner spoke to clear up some issues “I think it’s very confusing to the general public sometimes, because the companies we have been dealing with, every time we’ve asked them about something that needed to be changed, they have priced it out like there wasn’t anything being done in that area at all. Like, it was just a brand new project. And that’s very misleading. They’ve priced this storage out at $263,000, but there’s all kinds of things there already in that space that were included in the original bid and in the original price, and shouldn’t have been priced again like it was a brand new bid. The sheetrock has already been installed on all of the walls except for the one that we’re asking to be built. There’s all kinds of expenses in that $263,000 that are not necessary, that need to be cut. Mr. Waggoner’s been working on trying to cut that. And it’s misleading to the public. For it to look like that we’re asking for $263,000, because we’re not. That’s not what we’ve
asked for at all, and we realize that’s a completely irrational number. And I think the same thing is happening with the parking lot as well. There was already expense built into the original bids for the parking lot.” County resident Galen Bennett addressed the Court “Change orders are there for exactly what they are, because changes have to be made in large construction projects. It’s inevitable, they’re gonna happen. Now, if there were some failures on the front end, on the engineering and the design, and some of that stuff, well, that’s water under the bridge. At this point, we have to deal with what we have. And if we need some bonafide storage. It needs to happen. Does it need to happen at the dollars that are posted in this agenda? No, obviously it’s not, because it’s not a right number. Not the total space out. It’s just like with the parking lot, from a $900,000 concrete parking lot.
See Commissioners on page 7 Continued 9/2/25
Mr. Green presented his
about
process of
and was displeased about the
that was used. Commissioner Fogelberg responded “You know, this bid or request for proposal or whatever was done properly through court. That’s my understanding. And, it doesn’t stop Wise Funeral Home from getting a request to pick up anybody. I don’t know what, why people’s feelings got hurt, or acted like we’re trying to put them out of business, but when I sit up here as a court member,
26. Discussion and possible action to approve Potential Change Order #021, added storage areas for the County and District Clerks at the Justice Center; $263,271.00 – County Judge. Commissioner Waggoner reported “I’m actually going to meet with Icon today about this matter, and go over it so we can cut some of this out. I’m going to meet with him about agenda item number 27 also. We’re going to go over everything and see, get a full disclosure of what’s going to happen and what’s not going to
BOBBLE HEADS, SIGNS GALORE, VISION(EGG STYLE) GRILL, BEE KEEPERS SUIT & HIVE MATERIALS, QUALITY ROD & REELS, DIRTY HANDS WOOD SPLITER, CRAFTSMAN CHIPPER, KOBART 26 GAL. COMPRESSOR, CRAFTSMAN 12 GAL. COMP. , AC DELCO ENGINE HOIST, AMISH FURNITURE BROWN LEATHER SOFA & LOVE SEAT- ELECT. RECLINES TOO, HARVEST HIGH TOP DINING TABLE/6 CHAIRS, 3 LAWYERS BOOKCASES W/BEVELED GLASS, KING SIZE BEDROOM SET W/ PURPLE MATTRESS, QUEEN SLEIGH BED, LEATHER RECLINER, ANTIQUE BAR, ANTQ. SINGER & CABINET, DROPLEAF KITCHEN TABLE 5 CHAIRS, FLOOR LAMPS, ALADDIN HANGING KEROSENE LAMP, SRI TURTLE- BRONZE, HARLEY DAVIDSON LEATHER COAT, BOOTS, SHIRTS, ETC, COLLECTABLE BOOKSNEW,HISTORY & HOW TO, 4 PINE STORAGE CABINETS, ANTQ. SECRETARY, LG ROUND RUGS, GAMECRAFT HOCKY TABLE, CHILDS CHALK DESK, SOFA BED, 2 ROLLAWAYS, HEAVY CARVED CHAIR & SOFA, CHAMP GRAVITY INVERSION SYSTEM, WEIDER WORKOUT SYSTEM, PRO FORM & TOTAL GYM EQUIPTMENT, 2 SETS GOLF CLUBS & BAGS, COMPUTERS & ACCESSORIES, FRAMED PICTURES, SHEETS/TOWELS, CHRISTMAS ITEMS, SEVERAL FLAT SCREEN TV’S WITH SONY RECIEVERS & SPEAKERS
KITCHEN FULL OF ITEMS, HAMILTON-BEACH AIR FRYER, FORMAN, CROCK POTS, SUNBEAM MIXER, ENAMEL WARE, CUISINART CAFÉ, AROMA, RIVAL, VINTAGE LUNCH BOXES, IMPERIAL CHINA, KINSING CHINA, GIEN (FRENCH) TEA SET, 31 PC HAND PAINTED DISHES, RUSSIAN LEGEND PLATES, NICE POTS, PANS & UTENSILS
40 W RYOBI CHAIN SAW W/ATTACHMENTS, SPORTSMAN GENERATOR, POWERHORSE POWER WASHER, AIR TANKS, GARDEN TOOLS, NUMERIOUS DELTA ELECTRIC/ PNUMATIC HAND TOOLS, CHOP & MITER SAWS, HUSKVARNA LAWN MOWERS, METAL SHELVING, POWERMATIC POST HOLE DIGGER, NAIL GUNS, SKEET THROWER, LADDERS, NEW DEWALT PNEUMATIS, CRAGAR RIMS/TIRES, VOGUE RIMS, DELTA TABLE TOP DRILL, NEW HUSKY SPRAY GUN, HAULMASTER
The HOPE Program Recycle!
FREE!
The HOPE Program provides local GED classes at NO COST.
How do we do it you ask?
This is possible due to the donations and support from our community.
Our Recycling Fundraiser is a Win Win for everyone. Benefiting the people of Fannin County.
The HOPE Program
Recycle Old computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, VCR's, DVD's, power tools, medical equipment, audio equipment, electronics, cameras, vacuums, small appliances, sporting goods.
Items can be in any condition & do not have to working.
Items may be donated any time of the year.
Contact Corey Baker @ 903-583-7446
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Meals on Wheels, BONHAM, needs VOLUNTEERS to deliver meals to home bound seniors and adults with disabilities.
Just ONE HOUR of your time a week can make such a difference. Call 903-583-8573
210 E 6th St, Bonham
Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Monday, September 8,
FCRW meeting will begin at 5:30 pm with a meet and greet portion of our gathering where members will bring a covered dish. The program begins at 6:00 pm and concludes at 7:15 pm. Our meeting location is the Family Life Center, 200 W. 8th Street, Bonham, Texas. Please contact Debbie Gove at dgove1728@gmail.com for further information if needed.
dry ingredients. Add
Whisk well. Add
Heat skillet until water droplets sizzle when dropped. Pour batter into pan. Turn pancake when bubbles stop appearing and edges dry. The recipe may be easily cut in half. What I do is double the dry ingredients, mix well, and freeze in a Ziploc bag. I measure out 1 cup, add 1 egg, 1 cup milk and ½ cup sour cream for 2-4 people. —about 16 regular size pancakes.
Thank you so much Kay for sending this one in to our readers. I would like to encourage for others to send in their favorite recipes :) ENJOY!! Please send me your favorite or unique recipes to Fannin County Leader at 224 N. Main St. Bonham, TX 75418 or email me: fclweesie@ gmail.com
The Fannin County Leader Deadline is Thursdays @ Noon
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE
Community Art Contest
Bonham, TX == The Creative Arts Center in Bonham is pleased to announce a call for art for their annual Community Art Contest. All types of art are welcome, including acrylic, oil, watercolors, drawings, mixed media and 3D art.
Artwork is due by Sept 3. All paintings and drawings must have a wire suitable for hanging in the gallery. No sawtooth hooks. Everyone is invited to the opening reception, which will be come and go from 5-7 pm on Friday, Sept 5 at the Creative Arts Center at 200 W 5th in Bonham. The awards ceremony will be held at 5:30 pm. Entry fees for art center members are $25 for one piece or $35 for two pieces or $45 for three pieces. Nonmembers are welcome to also enter and will be charged
$35 for one piece, $45 for two pieces and $55 for three pieces of art. The amount of money available for the cash prizes will depend on how many entries are received. Likewise, the number and types of categories for the contest will be determined by the center after all entries have been received.
Artists will have the option to make their artwork available for sale or they can choose for it to be not for sale. Artists will set their own prices and should keep in mind that the center will take a 20% commission from any sales. The art contest judge is Lisa Temple. She is a Texasbased fine artist known for her bold, movement-driven oil paintings that blend abstract expressionism with figurative storytelling. With
roots in dance and choreography, her work captures emotion, rhythm, and energy on canvas. Some recent projects involve collaborative performance artworks with dancers, a saxophonists and other performing artists and photographers. Lisa painted directly onto the subject and canvas backdrop while photographers captured living artworks in motion. Lisa’s experience in the arts spans 24 years beginning with portraiture study and ongoing classes and workshops. She works in her McKinney Cotton Mill studio/gallery, has traveled throughout the region showing her work at area art shows, and displays her work at the Last Art Gallery in McKinney. Lisa had the opportunity to travel to Italy this summer and study under David Kassan and Shana Levenson. For more information, go to www. CreativeArtsCenterBonham. org or call (903) 640-2196.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS BUDGET AND PROPOSED TAX RATE
a record of significant events (such as those affecting a nation or institution) often including an explanation of their causes.
Ladonia Presbyterian Church History, noun :
“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.” Robert Heinlein, American author
Marker Text: The Ladonia Presbyterian Church, U.S.A., originally organized in the mid-19th century, erected this structure between 1910 and 1912. The building contract was awarded to W. H. Markey of Commerce for $6,400. An excellent example of 20th century mission revival style adapted to an ecclesiastical mode, the structure exhibits fine detailing and proportions with the simplicity of form. The congregation was dissolved in 1976. The character defining central parapet was reconstructed in 1997. Location: In Ladonia at Church and Paris Streets.
Fannin County Law Library Online
From the office of Newt Cunningham, Fannin County Judge The Fannin County Virtual Law Library is now available online. The library can be accessed twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week on the Fannin County web page with your personal computer or smart phone. The direct link is https://www.co.fannin. tx.us/page/fannin.law.library. The Library’s primary purpose is to provide public access to laws affecting Fannin County citizens, residents and visitors. Those laws include applicable federal and state,
constitutions, statutes, regulations, court decisions, and Fannin County ordinances. The Library also includes legal forms and links to other websites including those of other government agencies, courts, bar associations, legal aid services, and law libraries which have information that might be useful. The information provided through the Library website is not legal advice and does not take the place of talking to a licensed attorney. The information may not be complete and will be periodically updated.
Attention Fannin County Elected Officials
All Fannin County Commissioners and
are invited and encouraged to submit updates from their Precinct or County Office weekly, bi-weekly or quarterly. Publication is free as a service to Fannin County residents to keep the voters informed. Please e-mail them to fcleditor2020@gmail.com or fcltimmeek@gmail.com
LOOKING
Commissioners
Continued from page 3
Well, there’s $500,000 already there. The net change that is disruptive to this… to the cost is only $400,000. But there will be people in this room and others, they will try to make it sound like somebody really messed up on a $900,000 cost. And that’s not the fact. And they’ll use it for their political agenda. That’s kind of my perspective, and I think you are right in passing on it, because you don’t have a reported number, what the real number is, right? Troy, I appreciate what you’re doing and investigating this and pushing this stuff forward. I think in the future, any change order numbers need to be reported as the net impact. Not the total cost of that project,” Mr. Bennett also addressed the Court regarding decorum in the Commissioners meetings. “Just listening to the activities in the court this morning. I’m frankly kind of dismayed, by the attempted mockery that certain individuals have tried to bring to the session. The grinning… the applauding, the winking, looking back at each other between some people in the room, just to make disruption or to make sarcasm, I think is really below the dignity of this environment.”
This item was passed until next week’s meeting.
27. Discussion and possible action regarding steps or pass throughs leading to Judges’ Benches at Justice Center – Commissioner Precinct 1. This item was passed until next week’s meeting.
28. Discussion and possible action to approve entering the Secondary Opioid Settlement of Purdue and Sackler and authorize County Judge to sign the Combined Subdivision Participation and Release Form; Alvogen, Inc., Amneal Pharmaceuticals Inc., Apotex Corp., Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., Indivior Inc., Mylan, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc., and Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. –County Judge. Approved OPEN DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Open discussion items may be passed on unless discussion requested by a member of the Court or a Citizen.
29. County policies, ordinances, regulations and enforcement – County Judge.
Bonham Rusty Deets spoke to the Court about the procedures in the Commissioners Court meetings “Yes, we are supposed to sign up to speak, before the meeting, and that was approved in… the court of Randy Moore.
The weekly Fannin County Commissioners meeting is recorded on video via Zoom. This recording also includes an audio transcript to the right so you are able to read what was actually said. Scan this QR code with your phone camera and it will link you to the Fannin County Commissioners Court Audio and transcribed Recordings.
But as long as I was… at Judge Carter’s court, at Judge Moore’s court, we could raise their hand and speak. This having to sign up beforehand, it doesn’t work, because if you say something that I disagree with, or we have to discuss, if I didn’t sign up for it, I can’t speak. And that is just not the way be transparent.”
30. Construction; Courthouse repairs and Justice Center – County Judge 31. County budget and revenue sources – County Judge 32. Fannin County roads, water issues and risk assessments – County Judge 33. Solar, wind, battery energy storage systems and Fire Marshal –County Judge. Fannin County resident Michael Posey spoke concerning the potential BESS storage on Rec Road 3 near Lake Bonham. “When I look at that property on the county map, I see that it’s landlocked. And so, a road would have to be built, if there’s a facility back there of that size. A road capable of supporting heavy trucks. Who’s gonna pay for that road? I’m very concerned about having a facility so near to my property, my neighbors, my families, our water supply is right
The Fannin County Leader Deadline is Thursdays @ Noon
down from the lake. A facility like this is a good idea, but it needs to be far removed from people who could be affected by an accident. Accidents can happen, accidents do happen, and particularly in new and
untested, technologies.”
34. Emergency Medical Services – County Judge
EXECUTIVE SESSION(S) AND ACTION IF NEEDED: Executive Session to consult
with their attorney, and to discuss personnel issues. Commissioners invited the fire marshal to attend. No action was taken in executive session. Adjourn
Going Gold for Childhood Cancer
or Injured?
We recover damages for you. Car Wrecks / Truck Wrecks / Injuries
Press Release - September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month. There are over 15,000 kids diagnosed each year in the United States, with about 40 kids per day being diagnosed in the US. Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease for children. Gold ribbons are the symbol of Childhood Cancer. Katybugs and Butterflies Foundation, Inc is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to assist families in Fannin and Grayson Counties affected by childhood cancer. The Foundation was established in honor of two childhood cancer warriors: Katy Whaley and in memory of her dear friend Amanda
972-634-ROSE(7673) or email dale@roseknowslaw.com
Offices in Bonham and McKinney www.roseknowslaw.com
Mauppin. The two young warriors battled cancer with courage and strength while building a friendship forever. The families of these two girls have lived the horrific journey of childhood cancer and understand the suffering each child goes through while on the cancer journey. Therefore, on behalf of the warriors that fight cancer daily, who battle the odds, and for those who have gained their angel wings, the foundation reaches out to local families directly impacted to provide support throughout their cancer journey. Our goal is to assist families with much needed financial and emotional assistance during and after treatment.
We provide support to our warrior families with Warrior back packs for hospital stays, Back to School assistance, Thanksgiving and Holiday assistance as well as scholarships for graduating warriors. We currently support 23 warriors, with the addition of 5 new warriors in 2024.
We are a 501(C) non-profit organization. In February 2025, KBF was honored to be named the Non-profit of the Year by the Denison Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the foundation or fundraising events you can or Email us at katybugshuffle@yahoo. com or find us on FaceBook at Katybugs &Butterflies Foundation,Inc Donations may be mailed to Katybugs and Butterflies 193 Scenic Dr, Pottsboro Tx 75076 or VENMO.
Crossroads Hardware Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting
We recover
Call or Text Dale at 972-634-ROSE(7673) or email dale@roseknowslaw.com
Offices in Bonham and McKinney www.roseknowslaw.com
Press Release - Crossroads Hardware celebrated its grand reopening with a special ribbon cutting ceremony alongside the Leonard Chamber of Commerce. The two-day event welcomed the community with exciting promotions and activities.
Customers enjoyed great deals on Milwaukee tools, discounts on thousands of products, and raffle giveaways, including prizes such as Valspar 2-gallon interior paint. Shoppers were also treated to complimentary donuts, popcorn, and lemonade while exploring the newly restocked store.
The celebration marked a fresh chapter for Crossroads Hardware, reaffirming its commitment to serving Leonard and the surrounding community with quality products and hometown service.
Courtesy photos
Say You Saw It In THE LEADER!!
Honey Grove Football Star from the 1920s-30s Honored
at Oakwood Cemetery
By Malinda Allison, Oakwood Cemetery Association
Fay (Mule) Wilson (19011937) was the most famous football player from Honey Grove. After his high school career, he attended Texas A&M University and was a captain of the football team and also lettered in track.
After his time in college, he played professional football for the Buffalo Rangers and then for the New York Giants, playing on the 1927 NFL Championship team. He later played for the Green Bay Packers. He returned to Texas, but died young of a heart attack in 1937 just before his 36th birthday.
Mule Wilson was buried at Oakwood Cemetery in
Fannin County Criminal District Attorney John Skotnik
28, 2025
On August 27th, 2025 Fannin County First Assistant Criminal District Attorney, Nathan Young, secured a 25 year prison sentence for the offense of Failure to Register as Sex Offender in the case of Carl Alton Jones, Jr., 56, of Bonham. Jones also received a sentence of 10 years in prison for a related possession of controlled substance case.
The cases stem from a March 2025 Fannin County Sheriff’s Office investigation where the sex offender compliance division was reviewing known offenders living inside of the county. During a check on Mr. Jones’ residence, Investigator McCann was able to determine that Jones was not residing at his registered location – as required by law.
After speaking with other witnesses who further verified the repeat violation, Investigator McCann interviewed defendant Jones, who ultimately admitted he knew he should have notified the Sheriff’s office about the change – and had failed to do so for several months.
“In 2015 this defendant went to prison for six years for a failure to register as a sex offender,” said First Assistant Nathan Young. “He knew what was expected of his registration when he was released. His blatant disregard in complying with a service that helps keep our community safe warrants a severe sentence, and sends a message to other offenders that may fail to comply with sex offender registration.”
Honey Grove in the Wilson family plot. His grave was adorned with a marble football which celebrated the New York Giants 1937 World Championship. This marble football and perhaps a replacement were stolen many years ago.
Recently local Honey Grove citizens collected funds for a new football and turned to Kent Erwin of Paris Monuments to obtain it.
A ceremony on Saturday, August 23 at Oakwood, attended by members of the Wilson family and local citizens, celebrated the replacement football on the grave.
Thump Witcher, Kyle Milford and members of the Wil-
son family spoke and then the new football was unveiled.
Mule Wilson was not only a gifted athlete but apparently also a much beloved character. Local historian Alma Braudrick wrote of him: “He was loved by everyone. My, how we adored him. We thought he could do anything -- he was our idol and sports hero. . . Mule left Honey Grove to play professional ball but he always came back to visit. This Christmas he came wearing a long black overcoat with velvet collar, grey spats, black derby hat, and a cane - he was Mr. Fashion himself. Mule was never handsome but he was simply elegant looking. He walked with a swagger and was really something.”
Honey Grove is proud to remember Mule Wilson and to have the football back at Oakwood.
Have
Up and Down RV
“Quick
“Full
Need
service-call fee waived if work is performed! 903-505-2284
held a ribbon cutting for
on August 26th. Paragon
is located at 513 N. Main Street in Bonham. We are excited to have them here and they were welcomed by many!
Have you checked your RV roof recently for cracked sealant or sun-damage? Wet weather is on the way! Ensure your investment is water-tight now, BEFORE damage occurs! “Up and Down RV” offers VERY reasonable rates with EXCELLENT workmanship and GREAT referrals.
“Quick Seals” (new sealant over old sealant) starts at $50
“Full Seals” (remove old sealant and replace with new) $375
Based on a 20’ trailer with 1 skylight, 2 air vents, 3 sewer vents, 1 antenna, front and rear strips, and 2 side strips.
Need a skylight replaced?
$110
Need a vent cover replaced? $58
Need your A/C coils and fins cleaned? $45
All prices INCLUDE parts, supplies and labor!
$30 service-call fee waived if work is performed! 903-505-2284
The Bonham Area Chamber of Commerce
Paragon Realtors
Realtors
Photo courtesy of Jade Shafer Photography
concert in Nashville, Tennessee, debuted on November 28, 1925, as a one-hour radio “barn dance” on WSM. Cecilia Helena PayneGaposchkin discovered that hydrogen and helium are the most abundant elements in stars and, therefore, the whole universe.
Pete the Bear is Disney’s oldest recurring character; he debuted in the 1925 cartoon Alice Solves the Puzzle.. World Changing Event: James Carrier installed an air cooling system in Paramount’s Rivoli Theater in Times Square during a 1925 heatwave.
World Communications
Changing Event: Calvin Coolidge was sworn in for a full term as President of the United States. It was the first inauguration to be broadcast on radio.
Influential Songs include Sweet Georgia Brown by various artists and Tea For Two by Marion Harris.
The Movies to Watch include
Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, The Unholy Three, Battleship Potemkin, The Big Parade, The Phantom of the Opera, His People, The Lost World and The
Gold Rush The Most Famous Person in America was probably Charlie Chaplin
Notable books include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott
Fitzgerald Price of Brownie ‘Gift Box” Camera in 1925: $5.00
1 ounce of gold value: $20.67
(same from 1879 to 1932!)
The first koalas to live outside of Australia were named Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and arrived at the San Diego Zoo in 1925.
Nellie Tayloe Ross became the first female governor in the United States, taking office in Wyoming on January 5.
John Logie Baird demonstrated the first working television system, paving the way for modern broadcasting.
The first motel, the Milestone Mo-Tel, opened in California, revolutionizing travel accommodations.
The Tri-State Tornado struck on March 18, becoming the deadliest tornado in U.S. history, killing 695 people and injuring over 2,000.
By Rich Hilliard
Dodd
By Rich Hilliard
Missouri. Mauppin is also extending her softball career at ECU.
a
on
a
a
By Rich Hilliard
HONEY GROVE -- A change at the helm and graduation departures during the offseason haven't diminished the expectations for Class 2A-I Honey Grove's Warriors during the 2025 football season. The current summer edition of Dave Campbell's Texas Football magazine has Honey Grove favored to repeat as the District 9-2A-I champion en route to another trip to the playoffs.
The Warriors have reached the last three consecutive postseasons, including 2024's run to the Region III-2A-I final.
Last fall, Honey Grove (12-2, 6-0) produced its deepest playoffs run since 1969, after winning its first district title since 2012. A trip to Hugo, Okla., began Kyle Little's first regular season as the Warriors' head coach on Friday, Aug. 29.
Stanford University (Calif.) commit Ryelan Morris,
senior, heads out on
touchdown run
Aug. 21 during
live portion of Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Senior quarterback Jarrmez Daniels (5) leaps as he throws a pass on Aug. 21 during Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium. Photo by Rich Hilliard
Senior James Epting-Jackson (12) tries to fend off a Bonham tackler on Aug. 21 during Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium. Photo by Rich Hilliard
Senior Lane Foster (20) hauls in a touchdown pass on Aug. 21 during a non-timed portion of Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium. Photo by Rich Hilliard
Sophomore Armani Woods (3) totes the football on Aug. 21 during Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Senior Mason Banker (2) carries the football on Aug. 21 during Honey Grove's football scrimmage at Bonham's Warrior Stadium, as Warriors' offensive coordinator Hudson Milford (left) and special teams coordinator Don Daniels watch. Photo by Rich Hilliard
New head coach and athletics director Kyle Little will look during the 2025 season to continue Honey Grove's escalating success during this decade. Photo by Rich Hilliard
Sharon Broome
OBITUARIES
Burl William Proctor, Jr.
Burl William Proctor, Jr, of Dodd City, Texas passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Honey Grove Nursing Center at the age of 84. He was born in Paris, Texas July 27, 1941, the son of Burl “Billy” William Proctor, Sr., and Catherine Virginia Lowry Proctor.
He married his beloved wife Eldred “Diann” Newhouse Proctor on August 27, 1961 at Selfs Church of Christ. Burl lived a life rich in faith, service, and dedication to his family and community. Burl was a devoted husband to Eldred “Diann” Proctor for 64 cherished years. Not only was he a devoted husband, but he was also a loving father and grandfather. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Burl served as a pilot during the Vietnam War, earning the Air Medal for his acts of heroism and meritorious service in aerial flight. Burl’s professional life was distinguished by his commitment to education and mentorship, earning a master’s degree. He shared his passion for learning as an educator, inspiring many minds throughout his career.
Beyond his military and educational pursuits, Burl was a fervent supporter of the arts, receiving numerous accolades for his acting from various DFW theatrical organizations and the European American Forces Theater. He showcased his talents as both a producer and actor in independent television, commercial films, and dinner theaters, contributing to over seventeen community theater productions in North Texas. In his spiritual journey, he served as an ecclesiastic orator of the Lord and a sojourner for Christ both at home and in foreign lands, along with being a deacon at Selfs Church of Christ.
An athlete, a friend, and a cherished member of his community, Burl will be remembered for his infectious spirit and unwavering kindness. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Diann Proctor, daughters, Laurie Proctor Edwards and husband Jeff, and Barbara Ellen Proctorin, granddaughters, Cassandra “Cassy” Edwards Weeks, and Drew Edwards. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Max. Funeral services were held to celebrate his remarkable life at 2:00 on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Selfs Church of Christ. Pastor John Maxham officiated. Burial followed at Shiloh Cemetery Serving as pallbearers were: Bobby Proctor, Freddy Proctor, Barry Proctor, Dale Proctor, Bryan Proctor, and Troy Proctor.
To share a memory or leave an online condolence, visit www.coopersorrells.com
Joseph Edward Howard
Joseph Edward Howard, age 44, of Leonard, Texas, passed away on August 20, 2025. Born on January 12, 1981, in Greenville to Martin and Kathy (Lee) Howard, Joseph was baptized in the Presbyterian faith and grew up with a strong sense of family and community.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Joseph was known for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and love for the simple joys in life. He was the owner of Lone Star Plumbing and worked as a master plumber, a trade he took great pride in, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.
Joseph had a passion for heavy metal concerts and the outdoors, where he found peace in caring for his lawn. He was also a dedicated sports fan and looked forward every year to football season and his fantasy football leagues. Above all, Joseph was a family man. He deeply loved his wife of 13 years, Jennifer Howard, with whom he shared 10 and a half years of marriage. He cherished every moment spent with his children and adored his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer Howard; father, Martin Howard and wife Cindy; his children: Sadie Grijalva and husband Juan, Halie Howard and husband Nicholas, Hunter Howard, Avery Coker, Ashton Balvin and wife Triniti, and Aydan Balvin; his beloved grandchildren: Myles Malone, Maddox Malone, Axl Grijalva, and Levi Grijalva. He is also survived by his siblings: Jeremy Howard, Kelli Blackwell and husband Scott, Kyle Horton and wife Brandi; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and beloved friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kathy Howard; his brother, Cody Horton; cousin, Billy Powell; and grandparents: Charles and Ruth Howard, Neva and Bill Lee. Pallbearers were Hunter Howard, Ashton Balvin, Aydan Balvin, Kyle Horton, Doug Folks, and Richard Peck. Honorary pallbearers are Jeremy East, Joah Escalante, Alexander Mawford, Juan Grijalva, Nicholas Malone, Justin Sample, Seth McMackin, Scott Blackwell, and Matt Shipley. A visitation was held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Lynch Funeral Home Chapel in Caddo Mills, Texas. The funeral service was held on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Highland Terrace Baptist Church in Greenville, Texas. Following the funeral service there was a burial at IOOF Caddo Mills Cemetery. To leave online condolences please visit www.lynchfuneralservice.com
Sharon Broome was born in Clarksville, Tennessee on January 11, 1943 to Howard Kennedy Broome and Mary Jane Kooser Broome. She graduated from Sherman High School in 1961 where she was selected as most attractive in 1959 and 1960. She met her husband Bob at North Texas State University in Denton. They were married 61 years. She was incredibly creative and talented with a big imagination and happiest when painting, decorating, reupholstering, gardening, cooking, and inventing many amazing things. She especially loved nature, being amazed by God’s creations. She deeply loved her children and grandchildren who referred to her as NeNa. Preceded in death by her husband Bob who passed recently on April 4, 2025. Also preceded in death by her parents and younger brother Charles Broome who was an Air Force Vietnam Agent Orange veteran. Sharon is survived by her son Robert and his wife Christi and grandson Logan; son Chris and his wife Rachel and granddaughter Rebecca and grandsons Jack and David; daughter Ashlea Fraser and her husband Eddie Fraser and their daughter Tara; and daughter Meredith Gill and her husband Matt Gill and grandson Turner and Karson.
Family visitation will be at Cooper Sorrells Funeral Home in Bonham on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 6 – 8 PM. Private family burial will take place at Oakwood Cemetery in Honey Grove, Texas. To share a memory, or leave an online condolence, visit www.coopersorrells.com
Mickey Ray Holmes
Stacey Danelle Sanders-Bowen
Stacey Danelle Sanders-Bowen, passed away on August 20, 2025, at her home in Ivanhoe, Texas, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 1,1969, in Grapevine, Texas, to Danny and Joyce Rodgers. Stacey stepped into the world of customer service, where her innate ability to connect with people shone brightly. She was known for her patience, her ever-present smile, and her willingness to go above and beyond to help others.
Stacey’s love for her family was immeasurable. She found her soulmate in Rick, and their love story began a new chapter on October 10, 2013, when they exchanged vows and solidified their commitment to one another. Together, they built a life filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories. Their favorite times were spent on the family land out in Ivanhoe.
An avid reader, Stacey loved the adventure within the pages of her favorite books. Her culinary skills were another source of delight for her family and friends, as she enjoyed cooking and sharing her delicious creations, especially during the holidays, which were her favorite time of year.
Stacey embraced the role of MiMi with open arms, and her grandchildren were the light of her life. Whether she was cheering them on at sporting events or simply spending time with them, they were her pride and joy.
We take comfort in knowing that her faith has carried her home and that she is now at peace.
Stacey is preceded in death by father, Danny Rodgers, brother, Jeffery Rodgers, and granddaughter, Remi Sanders.
She is survived by husband Rick Bowen, son, Chris Sanders and wife, Cailee Sanders, mother, Joyce Rodgers, and grandchildren, Henry, Emri, and Lennyn. A graveside service was held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 10am at Bettes Cemetery in Ivanhoe. You may sign online condolences at www.wisefuneralhome.com.
God’s Garden God looked around His garden And found an empty place. He then looked down upon the earth And saw your tired face. He put His arms around you And lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful He always takes the best. He saw the road was getting rough And the hills were hard to climb, So He closed your weary eyelids And whispered “Peace be thine.” It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn’t go alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you home.
A celebration of the life of Mickey Ray Holmes, 64, a former resident of Honey Grove, TX, was held on Saturday August 30th at The Rails in Honey Grove, TX at 3:00 pm. Family and friends were invited for
Fishin’ Report
TAKE A KID FISHING or Hunting!
Week
of August 27, 2025
Bois d’Arc EXCELLENT. Water normal stain; 86-90 degrees; 1.03 feet below pool. Lake is about 18 inches low. Morning bass bite is good around pond weed with frogs and flukes and shaky heads at the edge in 2-4 feet. Pond dams with square bills and chatterbaits good early in 2-6 feet. Best bite is in the timber with Texas rigs and jigs. Best depth is 4-10 feet. Creature baits and beavers are favorites. Deep crankbaits are good over deep brush piles in 16-22 feet. Report by Marc Mitchell, Mitchell’s Guide Service.
Cooper GOOD. Water stained; 78 degrees; 1.37 feet below pool. As the summer temperatures increase, target crappie are in deeper timber along the river channel and brush piles. Start on the edge of the timber line working towards the dam then to the timber in coves. Summer bite is typically best on live bait. Report by River Bottom Boys Guide Service. Lavon GOOD. Water normal stain; 86 degrees; 1.90 feet below pool. Crappie are good in 12-15 feet on brush and timber using 1/16-ounce jigs in any color. Minnows work well, but you will catch a ton of babies so jigs are preferred to save money. There are not many fish below 18 feet. Black bass are good with white and chartreuse spinnerbaits in the mornings along with jerkbaits and soft plastics like the original Slugo worked Texas rigged without weight. If water is super clear, use that technique.
Ray Roberts FAIR. Water slightly stained; 82 degrees; 0.82 feet below pool. Things are starting to make a transition and it’s getting a little tougher with water temps getting up to the 90s. Crappie are starting to move out deeper to deep brush in 35-40 feet and in trees in 25-40 feet of water. Now they’re also moving out a bit and you can catch them better on timber in 12-18 feet of water, brush piles the same. Early mornings on windblown points for sand bass. Channel catfish are about the same - you can still fish baited holes. Sand bass are in 35-45 feet of water. Largemouth bass are on offshore rocks or shallow brush. Nothing fishing good except channel catfish.
Tawakoni GOOD. Water lightly stained; 80 degrees; 0.66 feet below pool. Lake Tawakoni continues to fish decently as we head into August. Fish are moving often–staying on them has been a challenge. The hybrid striper, striper and white bass bite has been good. Fish are stacking up on shallow points in 10-20 feet. Surface feeding is also happening sporadically in early mornings and late evenings when we have some wind. Slab spoons, downriggers and swimbaits are working equally good. The eating sized 1-3 pound catfish bite is red hot. Limits are being caught daily in just a few hours. Prepared baits such as punch and dip baits are working best. The crappie bite has picked up. Minnows are working best in 12-20 feet near bridge pilings. The largemouth bite is good on frogs at daylight and working over to shallow cranks around dock legs and submerged irrigation intakes. Texoma GOOD. Water stained; 83-84 degrees; 0.38 feet above pool. Fishing has been really good. Some days are definitely easier than others, but it has definitely started to turn around. Mostly catching them on slabs. Sometimes catching them on topwaters. Some anglers are trolling for them and catching them. You can jig them up and down off the bottom. Water temperatures are still pretty warm around 83-84 degrees. Report by John Blasingame, Adventure Texoma Outdoors. Striper fishing is good as they have schooled up and are feeding more frequently with the nicer weather. Look for fish surfacing with larger schools under them on river ledges. Slabs, topwaters and swimbaits are producing fish when you get on the right school. Fish can be found feeding throughout the day and in random places so keep an eye out for birds and blow-ups right now. Catfishing is good on punch bait off points and ditches in 20-25 feet of water for numbers of channel cats. Blues are on deeper flats in 40-60 feet of water on cut shad for numbers. Bigger blues are near coves and creeks in 18-25 feet of water drifting cut shad. Crappie fishing - look at brush near the mouths of coves and creeks in 15-20 feet of water. Temperature drops will have fish active near docks and structures throughout the day. Darker color jigs are working better with current water conditions. Report by Jacob Orr, Lake Texoma, Guaranteed Guide Service.
— Despite early weather challenges, Texas dove hunters can look forward to a strong 2025 season. Spring population surveys conducted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff found mourning dove numbers continue to trend near historic highs. Combined with strong habitat conditions across much of the state, hunters should expect solid opportunities when the 2025 dove season opens Sept. 1. Estimates place the statewide mourning dove population at 35.9 million birds, a 5 percent increase from 2024 and 28 percent above the long-term average. White-winged dove numbers dipped slightly from last year’s record but remain strong at an estimated 11.7 million, the third highest estimate on record. Texas continues to lead the nation in dove hunting, accounting for 32 percent of the mourning dove and 87 percent of the whitewinged dove harvest in the U.S. annually. More than 300,000 hunters take part each year, generating more than $500 million in economic activity. The regular dove seasons are as follows:
ANNOUNCING
CALVARY
UNITED PENTECOSTAL CHURCH
When: Sun. 10:30am. Wed. 7:00pm
Where: 1190 Hwy 56 W. Bonham.
Pastor: Steven Luton, 903-583-4346
Romans 12:18 “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”
Sunday Morning Re-Wind
12-18-18
Pleasing God, Not Pleasing Man
This week’s devotion comes from 1 Thessalonians 2:14. When we serve the Lord, there is no doubt that we are going to face opposition from the world. For example, a few years ago, someone criticized me on social media for using the King James Version of the Bible for these devotions. I very calmly stated that the King James Version is what I was raised on, and that it is what we use in my home church. This person came after me again some time later. I took my stand and said that I will not change what version of the Bible I use just to please men. The Apostle Paul did not preach the Gospel for his own personal gain, nor to gain friends. He faced persecution because of his preaching. For example, the Jews were upset that Paul preached Jesus as the Messiah, and the Greeks were upset because he was
telling them that their way of life was immoral. Paul reminded the Thessalonians believers that his visit to them was meaningful and fruitful. His preaching was not empty, nor without effect. It brought about real spiritual results in their lives. Before arriving in Thessalonica, Paul and Silas were mistreated and persecuted in Philippi. Despite these circumstances, they bravely proclaimed the Gospel. Paul’s preaching was not for any ulterior motives. His ministry was one of sincerity and truth. The lesson we can take from this is that whenever we serve the Lord, we should not do it for the praise of men, but to please the Lord. He alone examines and tests the motives of our hearts.
In 1939, Ruth Johnson Carruth wrote this classic hymn that comes from the message in this passage. “Swiftly we’re turning life’s
daily pages, Swiftly the hours are changing to years; How are we using God’s golden moments?
Shall we reap glory Shall we reap tears?
Millions are groping without the gospel, Quickly they’ll reach eternity’s night; Shall we sit idly as they rush onward?
Haste, let us hold up Christ the true light Into our hands the gospel is given, Into our hands is given the light, Haste let us carry God’s precious message, Guiding the erring back to the right.” If you are looking for a good home church, we invite you to come visit us, and be a part of our church family and worship at Central Baptist Church. Visitors are our honored guests, and we hope to see you this coming Sunday!
Bro. Josh Stevenson
Doing Good Unto All Men
God desires that all men would love their neighbors. Jesus said the first and greatest commandment was to “love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and will all thy soul, and with all thy mind” and that the second was to “love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matt 22:37-39). The Holy Spirit, through the pen of Paul, continues this thought with the message that “as we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto those that are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:10).
Jehovah wants us to ‘do good unto’ the poor. David of old wrote, “Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble” (Psalm 41:1). To the elders of the congregation
in Ephesus, Paul said that he had showed them all things, “how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). We find in the book of James that “pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to himself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27). The Creator demands of Christians to ‘do good unto’ all the saints. We are to “be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another” (Romans 12:10). We are to “let brotherly love continue” (Hebrews 13:1) and to “love one another with a pure heart fervantly” (1 Peter 1:22). We are also to, “be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another,
love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous” (1 Peter 3:8). We are to pray for the saints (Ephesians 6:18). The Savior wants us to ‘do good unto’ all those that are lost. Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). We find the importance of teaching ‘the word’ in Acts 8:4, where we see after a great persecution upon the church that “they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” Paul reminds the Corinthian Christians that “if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost” (2 Corinthians 4:3). The saints in Rome we encouraged to “not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Romans 1:16). Let us be mindful to ‘DO GOOD UNTO ALL MEN!
Before and After
“If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Whenever any person becomes a new creature in union with Christ, he or she becomes a new person altogether. There is a whole new creation whenever a person comes to be in Christ. The effect is the old life is passed away and a new life has begun. Everything becomes new in Christ. The person who is in Christ and has experienced the new birth is a part of the new creation.
We are new creatures in Christ Jesus. There has been a re-creation in which God has given us a new set of senses, values, and spiritual principles. Before we were spiritually blind, now we see with spiritual eyes, and we see all things new. Before we were spiritually deaf and we could not hear God’s Word, and now we have a new set of spiritual eyes and we hear and respond to the Holy Spirit. Before our minds were in spiritual darkness, and we called bad, good and good, bad. Now
we have the mind of Christ and we see the difference between that which is good and that, which is evil. Our minds are now being renewed day by day.
Before our hearts were hardened to spiritual truths, and we hated God and the things of God. Now God has changed them from hearts of stone to hearts made alive to the things of the Spirit. Before we were spiritually dead, and now we have become new creatures in Christ Jesus. Before we were a people without hope and now we have a living hope in Christ. Apart from the resurrected, living Christ we cannot have any true hope of anything beyond our grave.
Before we were without God in this world and now we have come to a living relationship with the one and only true God. We were separated from Christ and without God, but now we have an intimate personal love relationship with Him. We were “dead in our trespasses and sins,” but now in Christ we are made alive and have been brought near through the blood
of Jesus Christ (Eph. 2:13).
Before we were cut off from the covenants and promises of God, but now we are “members of one body, and sharers together in the promises in Christ” (3:6).
Before we were “without God,” but now we are “members of God’s household” (2:19-20).
Please take a few moments and draw a line down the middle of a sheet of paper and think about what your life was like before you became a Christian. In the other column list what it has been like since Christ changed your life. This is what my life was like before I became a Christian, and this is when I put my faith in Christ to save me. Now these are the changes Christ has wrought I my life. Then take a few moments and reflect upon what you shall be like when Christ returns, or when He calls you home in death to be with Him in heaven.
What a great new life we have in Christ!
Message by Wil Pounds
GRACE METHODIST CHURCH BONHAM A GLOBAL METHODIST
Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21
Nothing added. Nothing Subtracted. The Holy Bible in conservative Wesley Tradition Interested? Come Join us at Grace Methodist/Bonham 2430 Albert Broadfoot St. Bonham, TX Services - Sundays 10:15 a.m.
S outh
Leonard First Assembly of God, 108 Pecan Leonard, Texas 469-450-9777
Allen’s Point Baptist Church 310 CR 2775 Honey Grove, TX 75446 903378-7038
Bailey Bible Baptist Church 205 Leslie Bailey, Texas 75413
Bethlehem Baptist Church “The House of Bread” 1415 Franklin Avenue, Bonham, TX 7541 Office: 903-583-8061
Bois D’Arc Creek Cowboy Church Hwy 121 & Edhube Road 903-583-1671
Boyd Baptist Church 3707 St. Hwy. 78 N Bonham, Texas Phone (903) 583-7288
Calvary Baptist Church 913 S. 5th St Bonham, TX 75418 903-583-3910
Central Baptist Church (Fundmental, Independent) 709 Union Ave. Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 505-4124
Ivanhoe Baptist Church 4063 NO.FM 273 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 (903)583-2359
Lamasco Baptist Church 346 CR 2615 Telephone, Texas 75488
Corinth Baptist Church 277 CR 1150 N. of Bonham on Highway 78 903 583 2750
Dial Baptist Church 16816 FM 1550 Honey Grove, TX 75446 903-378-7070
Duplex Baptist Church 313 CR 2102 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 903-664-3175
Edhube Baptist Church 595 FM 2815 Bonham, TX 75418 903-583-2840
Elwood Baptist Intersection of CR 2125 and CR 2544 near Ivanhoe, Texas
Faith Independent Baptist Church 12676 W Hwy 82 Savoy, Tx 75479 903-965-5517
First Baptist Church of Bailey PO Box 221 Bailey, Texas 75413 (903) 583-0732
First Baptist Church of Bonham 710 N. Center Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-0732
First Baptist Church of Dodd City PO Box 47 Dodd City, Texas 75438-0047 (903)583-4465
First Baptist Church of Honey Grove PO Box 124 Honey Grove, Texas 75446 (903)378-2768
First Baptist Church of Ladonia 301 East Main Ladonia, Texas 75449-100 (903)367-7038
First Baptist Church of Leonard 100 East Thomas St. [PO Box 1146] Leonard, TX 75452 (903) 587-2250
First Baptist Church of Pecan Gap PO Box 100 Pecan Gap, Texas 75469 (903)359-6683
First Baptist Church of Randolph PO Box 14 Randolph, Texas 75475 (903)583-6900
First Baptist Church of Savoy .O. Box 177 Savoy, Texas 75479 (903) 965-4160
First Baptist Church of Trenton PO Box 157 Trenton, Texas 75490 (903)989-2319
First Fannin Baptist Hispanic Church Rt. 4 Box 10 Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-5727
Gober Baptist Church P.O. Box 82 Wolfe City, Texas 75496 (903) 583-2378
Grace Reformed Baptist Church 2800 10th St Honey Grove TX gracerbcbonham.com
Little Bethel Baptist Church PO Box 63 Ladonia, Texas 75449 Phone (903)367-7708
Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church Rt 1 Box 101B, PO Box 73, Ladonia, Texas 75449 Phone (903)367-7009
New Home Baptist Church 1300 N Maple St. Bonham 903-583-4509
Joyful Light Baptist Church 4695 FM 2645 Savoy, TX 75418 903-436-5440
Landmark Missionary Baptist Church 1409 W. Market St. Honey Grove, Texas 75446 (615) 448-8802
New Zion Baptist Church 627 County Road 1265 Bonham, TX 75418 903-961-2027
Pilgram Rest Baptist Church 703 Agusta St. Trenton, Texas
Ravenna Baptist Church 100 Elm Street Ravenna, Texas 75476
Rising Son Cowboy Church 1526 CR 2010 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 903-640-3377
Sandy Baptist Church Ravenna, Texas 75476 (903) 583-9546
Seventh & Main Baptist Church 617 N. Main Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-8679
Sovereign Grace Baptist Church 601 S. 4th St. Bonham, TX 469-207-1141
Telephone Baptist Church located on FM 273 in Telephone Office phone: 903-664-2377
Primera Iglesia Baustia Hispana 1134 FM 273 Bonham, Texas 75418 903-583-5727
Trinity Baptist Church 219 W. Denison Bonham, Texas 75418 (903) 583-3388
Valley Creek Baptist Church 3615 FM 896, Leonard, TX 75452 903-587-2386
Westside Baptist Church 912 W. Commerce St. Honey Grove, Texas 75446 903-249-2987
Windom Baptist Church 203 1st Street Windom, TX 75492 (903) 623-2215 Wild Horse Creek Cowboy Church 2992 CR 2285 Telephone, Texas 75488 903-486-1630
By Mike Dickison Minister for the Ivanhoe Church of Christ
CAREGIVER
I’M A CAREGIVER:
Reliable, punctual with 20 years experience. I can provide many references upon request and pass background check. I have compassion and respect while giving the best personal and medical care. Call 580-453-1612 and talk to Gina Jones who is local in Fannin County.
EMPLOYMENT
HELP WANTED
Need Part-Time welder and Part-Time Landscape Helper. Call 903-814-8620
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS for the FOLLOWING POSITIONS
HVAC Technicians, Journeyman Electrician, and HVAC/Electric Apprentice and Helpers. Competitive wages based on experience, vacation and company paid insurance. For more information Call: 903-583-4018 or apply in person at Blain Service Company, 7258 N. Hwy 78 in Ravenna
CNC Lathe/ Mill Machinist
POSITION OPENINGS
B.F. Gammon Tool & Die is accepting applications for immediate openings for CNC Lathe/Mill Machinist and also someone with Gear Cutting experience. 40 hours per week plus overtime. Full benefits including paid healthcare, retirement benefits and holiday, vacation and sick pay. Climate controlled shop. 7:30am4:00pm, 5 days per week. Send resume via email to brett@bfgammon.com or call 903-583-3597
NOW HIRING!
CDL drivers with recent driving experience and a clean driving record. Home daily. Driving radius within 3 hours of Fannin County, TX. Ability to use forklift, tarping and flatbed experience a plus, but will train the right driver. Please come in person to complete an application: 3765 County Road 2135, Telephone, TX 75488 or call 903-664-2332 ask for human resources.
ESTATE SALE
HUGE ESTATE SALE!
Sept. 4, 5 & 6
See ad on page 3 Side by Side Estate Sales 2315 CR 3105, Bonham Near Bonham State Park 214-533-1226
GARAGE SALES
GARAGE SALE
395 S. Main St. Dodd City
Sept. 4, 5, 6 9am-5pm Furniture and Misc. Items No Clothes Follow Signs
YARD SALE
205 S Elm St, Ector Sept 6 & 7 ٭ 8am - 5pm Bowl and pitcher sets, furniture, washer and dryer, kitchenwares. Too much to mention.
A PAW UP
Helping Animals
In Need Thrift Store 101 West Hayes, Savoy Open Friday thru Sunday 10am-5pm.
FREE CLOTHES & HOUSEWARES: Clothes ClosetValley Creek Baptist Church, 3615 FM 896, Leonard. Wednesdays 8-10am.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
HERCULES’S
HANDYMAN SERVICE 903-449-2533
• Roofing
• Fencing
• Welding
• Concrete • Electric
• Small Plumbing
• Remodels
• New construction
Serving our community since 1997
App House Leveling & Foundation repair Pier and Beam/ Slab Foundation/ Small & Large Remodels. 903-227-2860
STAPP TREE TRIMMING and REMOVAL
Hauling, Storm Damage, Demolition Work, Dead Wood Removal, Licensed and Bonded. Over 25 Years Experience. Call 903-5837888. “Cheaper than the cheapest. Give me a call, I can handle it all, guaranteed.”
FARM and LAWN MAINTENANCE Tree service, landscaping, brush clearing, fence of any kind, pipe fence painting, power washing, house painting, flagstone patios, gravel driveways, lot mowing, gutters and drainage, concrete demolition, any odd jobs. Call Jose Vazquez at 903-227-5898.
TOPSOIL & FLEX BASE
6 Yards Topsoil: $200
6 Yards Flex Base: $300
1-½” Crusher Run: $400
PeaGravel: $450
FREE Delivery in Fannin County! Also available: Mulch & other landscape materials. After hours and weekend deliveries available. Call for details! 469-585-9167
TREES and MÁS
Large Acreage Mowing with Tractor, Landscaping, Fences, Stump Grinding, and Concrete. Insured, Call for free estimate. 903-227-6940, 903-227-8369 or 903-486-2868.
SOLO HANDYMAN
Servicing Bonham & Fannin County No job too big or too small. We do it all! 903-217-6327
REAL ESTATE
OFFICES FOR RENT:
520 S. Center Bonham, TX 75418
2 offices, bathroom & storage area, Plenty of parking space. $750 per month. (utilities not included) Call or text 903-583-0108.
BillBuysHouses.com
Buying homes As Is Since ‘91. Also buys lots, land & Manuf. Homes 214.478.8979
94.3 ACRES
LAND FOR SALE Fannin County Call: 903-249-2501 or 903-783-1400
FOR RENT - BONHAM Lovely brick home. 2 large bed, 2 bath, 1 with large walk-in shower. 2 car garage, large den, large covered patio. Fenced in private yard. No pets, New paint. $1,600 mo. $1,600 dep. 903-267-0074
DUPLEX FOR RENT:
2 Bdrm, 1 Bath Completely Renovated Application Required. No App. Fee. Background Check. 702 E. Market St. Honey Grove
$1,100 / mo.
$1,100 / dep. 903-227-8573
PUBLIC NOTICE
The City of Ector has received a request to rezone the property located at 102 South Main (Property ID: 81721, Geo ISD:0867-210-0000-06: A 0867 J Pierson) from residential to commercial. Anyone having an objection, question, or comment is asked to contact Ector City Hall in writing before Tuesday, September 16, 2025 as this request will be on the City Council agenda for the September 22 meeting.
1 Bdrm. Apt. Single Story Brick, C/A, Washer & Dryer Included $950 - - - -
2 Bdrm house, C/A, Metal Windows, Single Car Garage $1,200 month Call: 903-227-0920
RETAIL SPACE
VINTAGE STORE
BOOTH SPACE AVAILABLE
Bluebonnet Country Store, a vintage shop and vendor mall in Leonard, has a rare opportunity for an experienced vintage vendor to join our store. Prime front of store space available. Leonard is a growing community, and we’re just 30 minutes outside DFW. Come join our family of over 50 vendors! ULTRA COMPETITIVE SPACE RENT!
AVAILABLE NOW. CALL 214-250-7700 or 903-304-9806 for more information.
Small Taxing Unit Notice
The City of Ravenna will hold a meeting at 07:00 PM on 09/16/2025 at Ravenna City Hall,
103 N. Main St., Ravenna, TX to consider adopting a proposed tax rate for tax year 2025. The proposed tax rate is 0.116630.
The proposed tax rate would increase total taxes in City of Ravenna by 4.36%. Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.
The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in
Small Taxing Unit Notice
The City of Dodd City will hold a meeting at 07:00 PM on 09/09/2025 at Dodd City City Hall, 304 S. Caney, Dodd City, TX to consider adopting a proposed tax rate for tax year 2025. The proposed tax rate is 0.265406.
9/2/25
The proposed tax rate would increase total taxes in City of Dodd City by 11.32%. Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.
Small Taxing Unit Notice
The City of Bailey will hold a meeting at 07:00 PM on 09/09/2025 at Bailey City Hall, 103 N Main St., Bailey, TX to consider adopting a proposed tax rate for tax year 2025. The proposed tax rate is 0.225749.
9/2/25
Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.
PUBLIC NOTICE: CITY OF LEONARD
Public Notice of Budget & Tax Rate Hearings
9/2/25
The City of Leonard City Council will hold public hearings to review the 2025-2026 Fiscal Budget and Tax Rate on the following dates, at the indicated location. Any person may attend and participate in the hearing. The Proposed 2025-2026 Fiscal Budget is available for inspection in its entirety on the city website at www.cityofleonard.net
Budget Hearing Tuesday, September 16, 2025; 6:30 PM 111 West Collin St. Leonard, Texas 75452
Tax Rate Hearing Tuesday, September 23, 2025; 6:30 PM 111 West Collin St. Leonard, Texas 75452
The proposed budget will raise more total property taxes than last year’s budget by $343,949, a 32.57% increase, and of that amount $19,239 is tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year.
HEARING NOTICE
• AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BONHAM, TEXAS ADOPTING THE BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF BONHAM, FOR FISCAL YEAR OCTOBER 1, 2025 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2026; AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFORE.
9/2/25
SECTION 1. That the budget for the City of Bonham, a municipal corporation, for the fiscal year October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, which calls for a total expenditure of $12,786,520 from the General Fund, $9,141,832 from the Water and Sewer Fund, $3,807,158 from the Emergency Medical Services Fund and $310,272 from the Airport Fund is hereby approved, adopted, and ratified; and the funds for said amounts are hereby appropriated. Further, that the appropriations for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025, and ending September 30, 2026 be set up in accounts and set out in said budget document substantially as shown in the documents attached and made a part hereof and marked Exhibit “A”.
• AN ORDINANCE SETTING AND LEVYING AN AD VALOREM TAX RATE FOR THE CITY OF BONHAM, FANNIN COUNTY, TEXAS, FOR THE TAX YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2025; PROVIDING FOR AUTHORIZATION OF COLLECTOR; PROVIDING FOR POLICY ON BOND DEBT SERVICE; PROVIDING FOR VALIDATION OF PROCEDURES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR LIMITATIONS; AND, PROVIDING A REPEALER CLAUSE.
SECTION 1: The City Commission of the City of Bonham does hereby levy and/ or adopt the ad valorem tax rate on $100 valuation for the City for the tax year beginning January 1,
Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate
Crossword
Fannin Farms Municipal Utility District of Fannin County (the “District”) will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2025 on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at the following location: 3045 Lackland Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76116. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners.
Friends of Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge September Activities
Facebook: Glaser-Family-Charitable-Foundation
Press Release - The following is the Friends of Hagerman NWR Press Release. For more information about these events, please email: Friendsofhagerman@gmail.org. All events are sponsored by the Friends of Hagerman and occur at the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center: 6465 Refuge Road, Sherman, TX 75092, unless stated otherwise.
Volunteers Needed: Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Greeters
Meet and greet people from all over the world while giving out information about the refuge and wildlife. Hand out maps and make sales in the Nature Nook. Come and join our team! For more information, please email friendsofhagerman@gmail.org.
Butterfly Garden Like digging in your garden? Want to learn about native plants? Come join our Master Naturalists and Gardeners in maintaining the Butterfly Garden. For more information on volunteering, please email FriendsofHagerman@gmail.org for details.
Outdoor Crew
Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.
For the proposal: Jonathan Ferreira, Jamie Johnson, and Catherine Cole. Against the proposal: None.
Absent, not voting: Helen Mullen and MacKenzie Reiter.
The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.
Total tax rate (per $100 of value)
$1.00/$100
Total homestead exemption (excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)
increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) N/A and percentage of increase (+/-) N/A NOTICE OF
55. Breezes through 56. Child 57. NBA legend Iverson 59. Horsley and Iacocca are two
60. Midway between northeast and east
61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation
62. U.S. leader during much of WW2
63. Lair
24. Weather events
25. A pituitary hormone
26. Jamie Foxx film
27. Rocker’s accessory
28. One point east (clockwise) of due north
29. One who obtains pleasure from another’s pain 34. Consume
35. Licensed for Wall Street
36. Sick
If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Texas Water Code.
Free of deceit 30. Performed a dance
64. Fibrous material
CLUES DOWN
1. Home of “60 Minutes”
2. Expression of sorrow or pity
3. __ fide: legitimate
4. Immune response
5. Assistance and support
6. Glared
7. Spanish saloon
8. Pitch black
9. S-shaped lines
10. Statistical test
Automobile 50. Fencing sword
Do you enjoy working outside, mowing, sprucing up hiking trails, trimming and removing brush and general cleanup? Join the Outdoor Crew at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. The Outdoor Crew meets on the First Tuesday and Fourth Saturday of every month. Please email friendsofhagerman@gmail.org for details and to join our team. Scouts welcome!
Activities & Events:
The Little Sit: September 2nd at 6:45am Pad-H on the West side of Hagerman NWR If you want to learn how to identify the birds of North Texas, the "Little Sit" is the perfect way to start.
Meet the Bird Census Team while learning how to identify the birds of North Texas, and enjoy the beautiful sunrise over Lake Texoma! Modeled after Cornell's national "Big Sit" event, a group of dedicated birders invite you to join them at sunrise to conduct a bird count as multiple species fly to the water and the surrounding land to feed. Leaders will bring spotting scopes and will provide tips for identification of the many species you will see. This event lasts a couple of hours, but all are welcome to come and go as they please. Participants are advised to bring a chair, binoculars and water. Free and open to the public, funded by donations.
8/26/25
We meet on the first Saturday of each month, 30 minutes before sunrise to watch the birds come into the water and begin to feed. We usually stay out for 2-3 hours, but you are welcome for all or part of the Sit.
For more information, a map to Pad-H and to register to receive event updates https://www. friendsofhagerman.com/event-5964078?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/22/2025 (registering is recommended) to be informed of location change). Or email: friendsofhagerman@gmail. com.
GPS Coordinates to Pad-H: 33.734961, -96.780582
Crossword Solution
37. Israeli city __ Aviv
39. Removed the husk
40. Mass of rocks and sediment
41. Two-year-old sheep
42. Area units
44. Prison overseer
45. Walked
46. Wartime escort aircraft carrier
47. Tax
48. 50 percent
51. Swiss river
52. Tattle
12. __ Paulo, city 14. Graduation garb 19. A way to record 23. Not good
53. Actor Idris
54. Resist authority (slang)
58. Egg of a louse
Solution form the 8/26/25 edition. I apologize for forgetting to change it! Tim
Early Bird Guided Walks
September 13th, 8am to 9:30. Master Naturalist Jack Chiles will lead this Early Bird Walk, weather permitting. Participants will view birds and wildlife along Harris Creek Trail, walking about two miles, and returning to the Visitor Center in time for the Second Saturday program. Register for weather updates at https://www. friendsofhagerman.com/event6304546?CalendarViewType= 1&SelectedDate=9/24/2025
Butterfly Garden Stroll: September 6th and 20th from 9am to 11am. Enjoy the Butterfly Garden at Hagerman NWR. Garden docents will be on hand to help identify the Texas native plants and visiting butterflies. Literature on plants and butterflies will be available. Special activities for families: scavenger hunts, the Metamorphosis Puppet and more. Registration is not necessary. The garden is free of charge and open to the public from sunrise to sunset every day of the year.
Donations are accepted to support the Butterfly Garden, Garden Walks and other events and programs sponsored by the Friends of Hagerman NWR. Refuge Rocks for Kids: Saturday September 20th from 10am to 11:30 - Microbiology or What's in a Pond (Ages 5-10) Ever spotted moths throwing a wild dance party around the lights at night? But wait—what exactly are these fuzzy party crashers, and how do they compare to their glamorous butterfly cousins? Buckle up, because this lesson is about to take you on a moth-tastic journey! We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of moth life cycles with their four fabulous stages: egg, caterpillar, pupa (or cocoon), and the dazzling adult moth. We’ll also uncover their quirky traits like those funky antennae and wing patterns, explore the stars of the moth world (hello, Luna and silk moths!), and reveal how they navigate the night using their super sniffer! Plus, get ready for some fun with moth-themed crafts, live moth spotting (if the little guys cooperate!), and lively chats about their amazing adaptations. Let the moth mayhem begin! Sign up for this class and reserve your kiddo's spot for this fun class! Registration required https://www.friendsofhagerman.com/event-6244646?Cal endarViewType=1&Selected Date=9/24/2025 Tram Tours every Saturday and Sunday at 2:00pm Enjoy a 60 – 90-minute tour along Wildlife Drive at the Refuge. Enjoy learning about the history of the displaced town of Hagerman while watching for wildlife. Lots of stops for birdwatching and photography. Reservations required. Standbys are accepted if space permits. Free and open to the public. Funded by donations. https:// www.friendsofhagerman. com/Tram-Tours.
Friday, September 26, 2025 @ 8am
Legacy Ridge Country Club
2201 Country Club Rd
Crossword Puzzle Sponsored By:
Bonham, TX 75418
Sign up Price: $100 per player or $400 for a team
Early Sign up: $75 per player
You do not have to have a team to play
Breakfast and lunch will be provided
If you aren't a golfer, become a hole sponsor for $125!
There will be a sign at the tournament with your name on it. It can be a company, family name or memorial hole sponsorship.
Contact: Jim Prescott @ 903-227-8341 (call or text)
Or email: lisa@dallaschina.com
*FCFCC is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Crisis Center. Our office can be reached at 903-583-7694
Fannin County Commissioners Contact Information
Fannin County Judge
Newt Cunningham Fannin County Courthouse 903-583-7455
Precinct 1
Commissioner Troy Waggoner Pct. Barn Location: 8865 Highway 56 W (2 miles east of Savoy) Savoy, Texas 75479
Phone: 903-965-7030
Email Address: twaggoner@fanninco.net
Precinct 2
Commissioner
A.J. Self Pct. Barn Location: 500 N. Highway 69 Leonard, Texas 75452
Phone: 903-587-3455
Email Address: aself@fanninco.net
Precinct 3
Commissioner Kurt Fogelberg Pct. Barn Location: 18101 East FM 1396 (Just off Hwy 82) Honey Grove, Texas 75446
Phone: 903-378-2941
Email Address: precinct3@fanninco.net
Precinct 4
Commissioner Doug Kopf Pct. Barn Location: 1369 East Highway 56 Bonham, Texas 75418
Phone: 903-583-2039
Email Address: dkopf@fanninco.net
Crossword Solution
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Notice is hereby given that Original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of JERRY DAN HARPER deceased, were issued on the 26th day of August, 2025, in Cause No. PR-2025-13446, pending in the County Court at Law of Fannin County, Texas to LAURA JEANETTE EDGAR.
The address of the Independent Executor is as follows: Ms. Laura Jeanette Edgar 7101 Winstanley Lane McKinney, Texas 75071
The address of the attorney for the Independent Executor is as follows: Ms. Sharron L. Johnson Attorney at Law 305 S. Center Street Bonham, Texas 75418
All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. DATED THIS THE 26TH DAY OF AUGUST, 2025.
s/ Laura Jeanette Edgar LAURA JEANETTE EDGAR, Independent Executor of the Estate of JERRY DAN HARPER deceased
PUBLIC NOTICE OF REQUEST
FOR PROPOSAL
Requests for Proposal for the purchase of furniture for the offices,
and
for the Fannin County Justice Center.
1) RFP 2025-005 – Request for Proposal for Fannin County Justice Center Furnishings-Revised Specifications may be obtained from: Julie Criswell Fannin County Purchasing 101 E. Sam Rayburn Dr. Suite 313 Bonham, TX 75418 purchasing@fanninco.net 903-583-0054
Changes: #1) Submittals must be filed before 3:00pm, September 9, 2025 #2) All other dates noted in the original RFP 2025-005 extended 7 days #3) The 5% Bid Bond no longer requested to be submitted with the submitted proposal.
Submittals must be filed in the County Purchasing Agent Office before 3:00 p.m., September 9, 2025, or said submissions will not be considered. Submittals shall be opened on September 9, 2025 at 3:15 p.m. in the Fannin County Purchasing Agent’s Office, 101 E. Sam Rayburn Dr. Suite 313, Bonham, TX 75418. Fannin County Commissioners Court reserves the right to reject or accept any and all proposals.
LEONARD ISD ACCEPTING BIDS
Leonard ISD is accepting competitive sealed bids, from qualified vendors for the purchase of gasoline and diesel fuel. Bids are due September 12, 2025 by 4:00 p.m. at the administration building, #1 Tiger Alley, Leonard, Texas. Contact Pat Mackey at 903-587-4015. LISD reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
Legal Notice Publication Information You Need To Know In recent public comment it was questioned as to the access of public notices placed in The Fannin County Leader. Every Monday morning the current published notices are added to a nationwide website. The Column website is accessible to every entity that publishes or would be a potential bidder on public notices. The Fannin County Leader staff work very diligently to ensure every advertiser’s funds are wisely spent. We appreciate the opportunity to provide a local source for so many valued businesses in Fannin County and beyond. Use this QR Code or search www.texaspublicnotices.com at any time to access all public notices published in Texas, including The Fannin County notices.
8/26/25
CITY OF TRENTON, TEXAS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE 2025-2026 PROPOSED BUDGET
The City of Trenton will hold a public hearing to receive comments from the public regarding the PROPOSED annual 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget on Thursday September 11, 2025 at 6:00 PM at Trenton City Hall located at 216 Hamilton Street, Trenton, TX in accordance with the Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 102.
The budget will raise more total property tax than last year’s budget by $27,493 or 4.12%, and of that amount $67,383 is tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year.
A copy of the proposed budget is available for public review at the Trenton City Hall during normal business hours: Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm and Thursday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
LEONARD ROOF REPLACEMENT
Texoma Housing Partners will receive bids until September 11, 2025, 5:00 pm for roof repairs in the City of Leonard. The specifications will be in a separate attachment. Email wbush@texomahousing.org for specification information.
9/2/25
Sealed Bids must be submitted to the Texoma Housing Partners Maintenance Office located at 814 W. 16th St. Bonham Tx, 75418 on or before September 11, 2025, by 5:00 pm. The bid must be placed in a sealed envelope before it is accepted.
Required For All Bids
ALL DOCUMENTS LISTED BELOW ARE REQUIRED FOR A RESPONSIVE BID:
All bidders are required to furnish general liability insurance and three project references. After the bid is awarded, the contractor will be required to provide a performance bond before work can begin. Failure to submit will be considered a non-responsive bid.
Texoma Housing Partners reserves the right to reject any or all bids and waive any informality in the bidding.
8/26/25
General Notice
Bois D’ Arc Municipal Utility District (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: Sloane’s Creek Pump Station Improvements Project Number B011294.001
Bids for the construction of the Project will be received by Bois D’ Arc Municipal Utility District at the office of the Engineer, Dunaway located at 118 Mckinney St., Farmersville, Texas 75442, until Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.
Obtaining the Bidding Documents Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found on the following designated website: www.civcastusa.com
Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the designated website. Prospective Bidders are urged to register with the designated website as a plan holder, even if Bidding Documents are obtained from a plan room or source other than the designated website in either electronic or paper format. The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the designated website. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the designated website.
Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office during the hours indicated above. Bidding Documents are available on compact disc (as portable document format (PDF) files) for a non-refundable charge of $25.00, excluding overnight or express service. Alternatively, printed Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office either via in-person pick-up or via mail, upon Issuing Office’s receipt of payment for the Bidding Documents. The non-refundable cost of printed Bidding Documents is $75.00 per set, payable to Dunaway, excluding overnight or express service. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office. A pre-bid conference will not be held.
Instructions to Bidders.
For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award,
McKenzie United Methodist Church, 701 7th Street. 1st and 3rd Thursday each month. 5pm - 7pm. 4th Tuesday: Produce 1pm - 4pm
Contacts: Star Breece281-832-8116 Soleil - 903-505-0250 God Bless You!
Meals for Getting Ahead
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route. FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone. FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is completed and opened to traffic.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 151 from Grayson County line to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct
