ty Commissioners Court. Quorum was established with County Judge and all County Commissioners present. The Invocation was led by Judge Cunningham with the Pledges led by Major James Manis, Retired.
4. Introductions: Judge Cunningham welcomed
County Commissioner Elect of Precinct 1 Troy Waggoner, to the court.
5. Public Forum: Fannin County Emergency Coordinator Troy Hudson gave an update on the Red Cross program “Sound the Alarm” that was part of the organization’s annual Home Fire Campaign aimed at reducing the number of home fire deaths through prevention and education. He noted that installed were 113 free smoke detectors in approximately 56 homes located across Ravenna, Win-
dom, Ladonia, Telephone and Honey Grove with 119 citizens helped thus far.
ROUTINE ITEMS:
6. Approve payment of bills – County Auditor: Fannin County Auditor Alicia Whipple noted the bills were $120,378.07. A motion was made by Commissioner Magness to approve payment with Commissioner Kopf seconding the motion which passed.
7. Approve Treasurer’s Financial Report for September 2024 – County Treasurer: Fannin County
Treasurer David Woodson reported that receipts were $771,283.03 with Property Tax being $35,388.44 and Sales Tax for September (which are actually from July) was $173,191.21. A motion was made by Commissioner Magness to approve the report with Commissioner McQueen seconding the motion which passed.
Continued
See Commissioners on page 4
L to R: Commissioner Dale McQueen, Pct. 1, Commissioner AJ Self, Pct. 2, County Judge Newt Cunningham, CEO of TMC Bonham, Chris Zeringue, Commissioner Jerry Magness, Pct. 3, Commissioner Doug Kopf, Pct. 4. Photo by Rose Schwartz
2 small sweet potatoes scrubbed clean and sliced into ¼" rounds
4 oz. goat cheese room temperature
2 Tbsp. milk
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
¼ c. toasted chopped pecans
½ c. dried cranberries Honey for drizzling
Preheat oven to 425°. Spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking oil. In a large bowl toss together the sweet potato slices, olive oil, salt and pepper. Lay the slices out on the baking sheet in a single layer, spray the tops with more cooking oil if necessary. Place on the middle rack in the oven and bake for 10 minutes then flip them
over and bake for another 8-12 minutes or until tender. While the sweet potatoes bake, use a stand or hand mixer with the whisk attachment to whip the goat cheese, milk, rosemary, salt and pepper until smooth and fluffy. Spoon approximately ½ tsp. of the goat cheese mixture onto each sweet potato round. Top with goat cheese with a few chopped pecans and cranberries, then drizzle with honey. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips: The goat cheese mixture can be made a day in advance, but make sure to let it come to room temperature before dolloping on the sweet potato rounds.
No need to peel the sweet potatoes, just clean them well. This appetizer will make 2024 Sweet Potato Bites.
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
Tour Of Duty ..........
Larry C. Waldrop United States Navy (1960-1966)
The definitions of “patriotism” can be found in Webster’s or it can be found by taking a journey back in time to the Revolutionary War (1775-1783). The American Revolutionary War was an insurrection by PATRIOTS in the 13 colonies against British rule……..the birth of American Patriotism. The Revolution a civil war gave the right to form militias to carry and bear arms against the British Empire. Patriots were scavengers looking for any means and weapons to defend their idea of a free nation. They even tore down the statue of KING GEORGE III in New York City on 9 July, 1776 and melted down parts that could be used to make rifle “balls” used against their British cousins. On 14 June 1775 the Continental Army was formed to defend the “Colonies” with trained soldiers as opposed to local militias. Most militia’s members joined the Army to continue their fight. Patriotism is driven by traditional conservative values handed down from one generation to another. Patriots are willing to sacrifice their life in defense of freedom and its corner stone.......the Constitution of the United
Call or
States of America. It is at the highest……during and after tragedies uniting together in common cause as was after the attack on the World Trade Center 11 September, 2001. For the first time in modern history Americans witnessed a horrific act of terrorism on American soil……..an act of war without a Declaration of War. According to the (Gallup.com) poll patriotism has fallen to an all-time low a record low of 38%...that means that 62% are patriots, less those who are riding the fence.
Recently I was approached by two boys with their hand extended (around 12 years old) to shake my hand…… they said “thank you for your service, sir.” Being approached by young folks does
“Righteousness Exalts a Nation” –Proverbs 14:34
As America pauses this week to remember her veterans of both war time and peace, we who have served wish to express in turn our thanks to her for being the kind of nation worthy of our support and sacrifice.
By Bro. Bill Beasley
I never share in a Veteran’s Day observance that I don’t remember the four men on our crew that lost their lives in the fiery crash of our plane while doing combat duty on September 5, 1944. They paid the ultimate price. One of them was my roommate in the barracks and my very best military friend. Others on our crew were captured. I for one spent nine months as a prisoner of war. My personal thanks again America for not forgetting where we were and that we were
yours.
Seventy-six years have passed since we sang with joy “ Don’t Fence Me In”. With my restored freedom America has provided me a safe harbor, in which to rear my family, and good passage in which to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Thank you America! And now to follow veterans let us renew our commitment to keep up good effort, to make a great nation even greater. We love you America! We thank God for you America! We
Sunnyside Cemetery, Fannin County, Savoy, Texas
Press Release - There will be a Cemetery Work Day Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 10:00AM. Please bring your tools, flowers, fireant killer, etc The Cemetery will supply the water and trashbags. At 11:00AM we are also excited at the opportunity to Honor and pay Tribute to the only interred female Military Veteran in Sunnyside Cem-
not happen very often if at all and that includes young older folks. I never felt so grateful, the afterthought: a fine example of values handed down from their parents. These young boys represent the bridge between the past, present and the future of America.
Turning the page to bring closure to this Veterans Day I take this opportunity to say “thank you for your “tour of duty.” Yes, thank you the American people for your contribution in making our country free. You are the ones that wrote the letters that gave hope of return…….….. the ones that grew our food, made uniforms, manufactured and assembled weapons, ammunitions and aircraft rivets……the engines that powered aircraft, tanks and ships. You are the ones that help keep our home-
etery, Eula Sturdivant Phillips, U.S. Army Air Force, World War II. On November 2nd, 1942, at the age of 25, she enlisted in the Women’s Air Corps. Eula’s Honorable legacy lives on in all who knew her.
LT Billy G. Teague, Sr., Veteran of the Marine Corps Reserve, Chaplain of the American Legion Post 29 and
land safe while the military fought in distant lands…… you are the ones who gave us your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your service to our country on this Veterans Day and everyday……..you are truly an American Patriot………lest we forget that we serve but one nation under God…………. the very foundation of our free republic THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Texoma Hero, will be guest speaker and will present Staff Sergeant Phillips’ next of kin and Sunnyside Cemetery with an American flag to be flown in Honor of Eula and all interred Veterans. So everyone please come out for this at the Pavilion/Chapel and bring a Pot Luck Lunch to be served after the Ceremony.
Be Thankful
BONHAM TRADE DAYS
November 7 thru 10, 2024
Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Bonham, Texas
11/5/24
Eula Sturdivant Phillips, U.S. Army Air Force, World War II.
Continued from page 1 Commissioners
8. Approve Treasurer’s Investment Report for September 2024 – County Treasurer: Mr. Woodson commended Commissioner McQueen for his assistance with the new format for the Investment Program before noting interest amounts from Tex Pool Accounts were $59,673.43; Business Money Market was $166.96; the 2022 Bond was $17,229.07 and the interest on Cash Accounts were $15,171.42. Total interest was $92,240.88. He noted the average interest rate on the Tex Pool Accounts had been 5.1637% but as of yesterday had dropped to 4.8878%. A motion was made by Commissioner Magness to approve with Commissioner McQueen seconding the motion which passed.
9. Accept Treasurer’s 2024 continuing education from the Texas Association of Counties Conference September 17-18 – County Treasurer: After Mr. Woodson gave a brief report on the conference he attended in Denton; a motion was made by Commissioner Magness to approve with Commissioner McQueen seconding the motion which passed. DISCUSSION, CONSIDERATION AND ACTION ITEMS:
10. Approve Resolution in support of a Community Development Block Grant
for the Fannin County Hospital Authority, dba TMC Bonham Hospital, for a new vehicle for hospital use – County Judge for Chris Zeringue CEO, TMC Bonham: CEO of TMC Bonham, Chris Zeringue, referred the court to the documents provided them before beginning his description of the Community Best Health Service Grant funds he was seeking the county’s support for. He detailed how this grant helps with non-emergency healthcare services and noted the funds received will be used in purchasing a vehicle that will assist with healthcare education, prevention and wound care across the county. He further noted the grant, that will be benefiting several hospitals across the state, requires no matching funds from the hospital or the county. After Mr. Zeringue’s presentation, Judge Cunningham read the resolution, and a motion was made by Commissioner Magness to approve the resolution with Commissioner Kopf seconding the motion which passed.
11. Discussion and possible action regarding Bois d’Arc trees at the Fannin County Justice Center and possibly the Fannin County Courthouse – County Judge for John Baecht: Fannin County resident and bois d’arc tree enthusiast, John Baecht first thanked the court for allowing him to speak on the history and the
uniqueness of the native bois d’arc trees scattered across Fannin County; before he explained why he believes they should be part of the landscape of the FC Justice Center and County Courthouse. Relaying the history of the tree and how they became native to our area, Mr. Baecht proposed his service to donate some bois d’arc trees for the Justice Center noting he would require help with the transportation of the trees should the court take him up on his offer. Judge Cunningham noted it was something the court would think about. No action taken.
12. Discussion and possible action to invite representatives of the Caddo Nation and the French Consulate to attend the Fannin County January 2025 swearing in ceremony – County Judge for David Keene: FC resident and creator of the coveted bois d’arc wood, hand crafted pens that are annually presented to newly elected dignitaries in Fannin County, David Keene, joined John Baecht at the podium to present his request to possibly extend a welcome to representatives of the Caddo Nation and the French Consulate to the next swearing in ceremony of elected officials, to celebrate how the rich history of the county is entertwined with theirs. Judge Cunningham suggested that with uncertain road conditions existing during the month of January,
an invitation to be on hand for the planting of bois d’arc trees at the Justice Center might be a more reasonable invite. A discussion ensued with other suggestions made and the Judge noting it was something for the citizens of the county and the court to think about. No action taken 13. Discussion and possible action regarding county owned property on Silo Road and Chestnut Road in Bonham – County Judge for Angel Titsworth: Real Estate Broker Angel Titsworth gave a summary of the two county properties being considered for marketing, the ½ acre downtown lot on Chestnut St that Ms. Titsworth said could be reasonably priced at $89,900 and 5 acres located on Silo Rd near Ballpark Way that she believes should be priced at $25,000 per acre. Some discussion ensued with Judge Cunningham suggesting the matter be revisited at the next Commissioners Court. No action taken. 14. Approve Easement Agreement with landowner for TXDOT constructed bridge on CR 1202 near Savoy – Commissioner Precinct 1: Commissioner McQueen explained how a temporary bypass that was necessary for the construction of a needed bridge, has generated a request from the landowner providing easement, for some type of shrubbery (not exceeding $17,000) be provided by TxDot to replace trees that had been taken down for the bypass. He made a motion to approve the agreement with Commissioner Magness seconding the motion which passed.
15. Approve Resolution supporting Fannin County’s application to TXDOT’s Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) call for projects; signage for Precinct 1 –Commissioner Precinct 1: Commissioner McQueen explained how this is involving the receipt of grant money for signage and does not require funding from the county. After some discussion regarding possible overage costs, Judge Cunningham noted he was okay with this going forward with a vote of approval but would like to take a closer look at the resolution before signing it. A motion was made by Commissioner Mc Queen to approve with Commissioner Magness seconding the motion which passed.
OPEN DISCUSSION ITEMS: Open discussion items will be passed on unless discussion requested by a member of the Court or a Citizen.
16. Subdivision Committee and Subdivision Policy – County Judge: Commissioner Self noted there would be a meeting held this Thursday.
17. Courthouse repairs and litigation – County Judge: Judge Cunningham commented on his goal of getting as many of the things in the courthouse that are not right, fixed.
18. Justice Center –County Judge: Judge Cunningham commented on the work going on noting that there had been a water leak problem but believes the problem is being resolved. Commissioner Kopf noted he had been informed by Bonham’s Public Works Director Lance Capehart, that an 8-inch city water line had been hit.
Continued
See Commissioners on page 5
Crossword Puzzle Sponsored
“We, too, born to freedom, and believing in freedom, are willing to fight to maintain freedom. We, and all others who believe as deeply as we do, would rather die on our feet than live on our knees.” —Franklin D. Roosevelt
Food Boxes of Love
from page 4
After some discussion
Judge Cunningham noted the contractor is responsible for damages and that he was informed by the contractor that everything was under control with the matter.
19. County budget and revenue sources – County Judge: Judge Cunningham touched on the discussion had with real estate agent Angel Titsworth before inquiring with Alicia Whipple
for a status on the hot tax (hotel tax) issue. She noted that she is hearing from property owners who had been unaware they had to pay hotel tax to the county.
20. Water issues affecting Fannin County – County Judge: Commissioner Kopf stated the next FC Water Agency meeting will be the 14th of November and will be sending out notices.
21. Fannin County road issues – County Judge: Judge Cunningham briefly touched on the rain forecast for the weekend possibly creating
road issues. 22. Solar and wind farms – County Judge: No significant update.
23. Emergency Medical Services – County Judge: Judge Cunningham opined regarding the vehicle being added by TMC Bonham discussed in item 10 and noted that Allegiance Ambulance is considering adding a nonemergency vehicle to their fleet that would be in addition to the ambulances they currently have. He noted the goal is to always have adequate ambulance service
Gathering Time Ranch wants to invite everyone to join us for our 2024 events. The Ranch is located at 487 CR 2105 Ivanhoe, TX. 75447. Call 903-227-7969 for more information! • Dec. 6th Spanish Christmas Drive Through • Dec. 13th Christmas Drive Through
12-18-18
Seek Him and Live
Calvary Baptist Church
Bonham, Texas
God gave the prophet Amos, the shepherd from Tekoa, a clear vision. In this vision, the Lord is standing on a wall holding a plumb line. The message is clear: God’s Word is the plumb line that indicates His moral standard. Our culture is very rapidly moving farther and farther from God’s moral “plumb line!”
Amos gives us a woe in this context. He proclaimed, “Woe to you who are at ease in Zion.” The warning here is related to apathy and affluence. We are a nation that is addicted to comfort and convenience. Many of our sins in this nation are driven by those two things. For our comfort we seek pleasure and entertainment. Our nation has a “convenient store” on every corner. We want it fast, no
matter the cost.
The answer Amos provides in found in Amos 5:4. Treasure the simplicity of it: “Seek Me and live.” Focus your life on seeking Him. Hunger for His presence and His righteousness. May our nation turn to the Lord. May our nation “seek Him and live.”
Yours for National Revival and Awakening, Lyn and Lissa
Sunday Morning Re-Wind “Where Would You Be?”
Hello everyone!
This week’s devotion comes from Matthew 24:4-8. There is no doubt that we are living in the end times. In this passage, Jesus warns us concerning what will be experienced during these times, and it is certainly unfolding before our very eyes. We should be cautious of those who say that they come in His name, and are merely wolves in sheep’s clothing, because they are definitely among us. 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, “Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” In verse 6 of Matthew 24, Jesus tells us that we will hear of wars and rumors of wars. Think about what is going on in the Middle East right now. Nation is rising against nation, and there are famines, earthquakes, diseases, among other things, just as Jesus tells us in verse 7. He also
reminds us not to be troubled, as these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. Jesus explains, in this chapter, the events leading up to His return, and the tribulation period to follow. Fortunately we, as believers, won’t have to experience the tribulation period, because we will be taken home to Heaven with Him when He returns (see 1 Thessalonians 4). We are reminded in Matthew 24:42, “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” The Lord is coming back. The question is, will you be found faithful in His sight? Will you be ready? The inspiration for this week’s message comes from a song that I started singing in church around the middle of 2023. It’s a different direction than I would normally go in for this, but it was what the Lord laid on my heart. This was made popular by Brian Free back in 1999. This song asks a very powerful question,
and this fits right in with this passage.
“This morning’s front page headline reads, ‘Disaster Strikes Once More.’ The writing on the wall is just too great to be ignored. Floods and earthquakes everywhere, violence plagues our land.
The last days are upon us, Christ’s coming is at hand. Where would you be had Jesus come back five minutes ago? Would you still be here, alone and lost, without hope?
He will return as a thief in the night. Will you be taken or left behind? Where would you be had Jesus come back five minutes ago?”
If you are in search of a good church home, 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
He Must Increase, But I Must Decrease
By Mike Dickison Minister for the Ivanhoe Church of Christ
John the immerser spoke of Jesus saying “This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me” (John 1:15). “The Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask John, Who art thou?” (John 1:19). John answered “I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose” (Luke 3:16). John, the son of Zecharias, said, “I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly
because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:28-30).
Everyone that follows Jesus must understand this point. Christ Jesus must increase in our lives, and each of us must decrease in our lives. Christians, we do not belong to ourselves, we were “bought with a price: therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's” (1 Corinthians 6:20). The Christian must constantly decide to be what Christ desires us to be. Christians “have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10). Paul, by inspiration of God, wrote
but noted that in the event of an unforeseen catastrophic event, sufficiency may not be reached, and outside ambulance could be needed, but that is just a fact of life.
EXECUTIVE SESSION(S) AND ACTION IF NEEDED:
24. Pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 551.071, Commissioners Court reserves the right to meet in Executive Session to consult with their attorney –County Judge: Not needed.
25. Pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section
“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). Truly Paul was decreasing in his own life, but Christ was increasing in Paul’s life.
Jesus increases in our lives when we “with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:6).
Jesus increases in our lives when we “bear much fruit; so shall ye be Christ’s disciples” (John 15:8). Jesus increases in our lives when we follow Christ’s saying of “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
Tuesday, November 5th @ 2pm
First Presbyterian Church, education building, Bonham
Special guest: District 10 President: Susan McDaniel
551.074, Commissioners Court reserves the right to meet in Executive Session to discuss personnel issues –County Judge: Not needed.
26. Consider and take action regarding matters discussed in Executive Session – County Judge: See 24 & 25. COMMENTS AND ADJOURN:
27. Comments by County Commissioners and County Judge: Commissioner McQueen thanked everyone for their attendance and solicited their prayers for rain. Commissioner Self agreed and
3375 S outh
voiced his hope for everyone to have a great week. Commissioner Magness voiced his hope for 2 inches of rain. Commissioner Kopf stated his belief that rain is coming before thanking everyone for their attendance and wishing everyone a wonderful week. Judge Cunningham noted it’s been said, “you know a drought ends when it rains” and thanked everyone for their attendance before encouraging everyone to get out and vote.
28. Adjourn: The meeting adjourned at 10:05 a.m.
Honey Grove Cowboy Church 3050 Hwy 100 North Honey Grove, TX
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
Ivanhoe Baptist Church 4063 NO.FM 273 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 (903)583-2359
Lamasco Baptist Church 346 CR 2615 Telephone, Texas 75488
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
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
Fannin County
Lannius Church of God 2803 Hwy
Apostolic New Life Holiness Church of Jesus Christ 210 Hamilton St, Trenton, TX 903-818-8412
Kiwanis Hears Speakers
James Cartwright Marines
Beasley (Bill)
Byron Royse and wife Beverly
Bobby D. Clayton
Frank A. Dunai, SMSgt,
Bobby W Eaton Agent
Robert E. Holland
John Bacon Saunders (Far right)
War 1
Rear Admiral Joseph David Stinson, USN, CHC, (ret)
James Dismang WW2 US Navy
Gean Albert Womack
Deryl Bishop
Letter
To Editor Fannin County Leader
Fannin County Judge Cunningham and the County Commissioners are proposing to prohibit wind farms and solar collector farms from being built in this county. This is very short-sighted and wrong-headed for several reasons.
1. ERCOT has said that the only thing that kept us from having brown-outs and black-outs this summer were the wind power and solar power generators that supplemented the usual electric power generators. With all of the new homes and buildings being added in this state, we need solar and wind power to keep up with the growth in demand for electricity.
2. Solar and wind power do not require the burning of fossil fuels (coal, gas, oil, diesel) to operate. Although some people refuse to believe it, the burning of fossil fuels is the primary cause of global warming, which gives us more extreme weather. I don't know about you, but I am tired of the increased number of tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes that disrupt our economy, kill and injure people and crops, and raise the cost of my homeowner insurance. Look at Asheville, N.C. And look at your insurance bill.
3. Solar and wind farms don't require the County to provide much in the way of services. They don't add traffic to the roads; they don't add students to the school system; they don't call the sheriff in the middle of the night so they don't create extra work for law enforcement; they don't consume water nor require septic systems, and yet they pay taxes on their improvements (unless the County gives them a tax abatement). So it's a win-win for the County and the school districts' budgets and for the rest of us taxpayers.
If you don't like the looks of the wind-powered generators, then enact some reasonable setback requirements to keep them away from occupied residences on adjacent property. But prohibiting them from being built in this county, or making the construction of them so difficult that none can be built is extremely backward, self-serving, and a wrong decision.
Pete Phillips PO Box 1247 Leonard, TX 75452 (903) 436-2851 pphillips922@gmail.com
Our Letter to the Editor/Readers Voice section is composed of letters submitted to The Fannin County Leader by our readers. The views expressed in these letters are not necessarily the views of The Fannin County Leader. Political letters must be paid for, in advance. To submit a letter, please e-mail fcleditor2020@gmail.com. Letters 300 words or less are published for FREE. Letters exceeding the limit will be charged $20.00 additional for each 100 words. Free publication of Letters to the Editor is limited to one every 60 days. Letters from the same contributor within the 60 day period will be published at standard advertising rate. Opposing views are welcomed and will be published according to the same guidelines. We welcome Letters to the Editor on topics that would be of concern and interest to the community. The decision to publish is left to the Editor and Management. We do not allow personal attacks on individuals, that’s what Face Book is for. If a process is broken or something is just dead wrong, e-mail us a letter and sign your name. Un-signed letters will not be published. To my brothers and sisters who love Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul and might: I write this with great humility and love to warn you that the Church is in great danger. Proverbs 8:36 says, “But he who sins against Me wrongs his own soul - all those who hate Me love death.” Driving thru Bonham this Saturday, I saw a great many people loving, celebrating and glorifying death. Worse than that, teaching their children to love it as well. I saw them dressed up as witches, fairies, ghouls, vampires with bloody clothes.....all things the Most High God and His Son HATE! As believers and followers of Christ, we should have NOTHING to do with Halloween. Even re-naming it as a “harvest” is STILL participating in its wickedness. This is the holiest day of Satan and whether you realize it or not, like it or not, those who celebrate it glorifies the enemy of the One who died for you. Repent! Repent and turn from your wicked ways, lest you provoke the anger and wrath of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob! For “judgment must begin at the house of God” (1 Pete 4:17.) If not for yourselves, do it for your children. For more info, please watch this you-tube video “The Satanic Order of Balaam: This is worse than Halloween” by REVELATIONS OF JESUS CHRIST.
Fishin’ Report
TAKE A KID FISHING or Hunting!
Week of October 30, 2024
Bois d’Arc stained; 85 degrees; 3.14 feet below pool. Morning bass bite has slowed down but bass can be caught covering lots of pond weed with Ribbetts. There is a fair bite on 1.5 inch squarebill crankbaits around shallow pond dams in 2-5 feet. Best bite has been on Texas rigs in the timber lines and old road beds or creek channels in 4-8 feet. Flukes and Yum Dingers are good on the edge of pond weed and lay downs 3-5 feet. Cooper GOOD. Water stained; 75 degrees: 2.00 feet below pool. Fish are starting to move to winter patterns so target the river channels. Be cautious of lake turnover as the water begins to cool. This will slow the bite for about two weeks until the water stabilizes. Hybrids are great off main lake humps and points with live shad, you can catch them vertically jigging spoons. Crappie are slow but can be caught in 3-10 feet of water on the bottom of timber with a crawdad jig. Catfish are good on the edges of the river channel in 15-20 feet of water. Fork GOOD. Water Stained; 81 degrees; 2.29 feet below pool. Fishing on Lake Fork has been slow due to lake turnover in the mid lake area. Bass are good on topwaters early around grass, and lipless crankbaits in front of the grass and in the flats 3-6 feet. Carolina rigs are fair on points in 7-12 feet. Streamers are tempting active feeding bass in 1-3 feet on main lake points. Dock fishing is providing a variety of fish with small beaded fish imitations. Catfish are shallow around boat houses and brush. Report by Guide Alex Guthrie, Fly Fish Fork Guide Service. The crappie fishing on Lake Fork is improving as the water temperature drop into the 70s. You can find fish all over the lake and any type of structure between 12-58 feet. We are seeing some fish on brush piles, laydowns, bridges and road beds. The best fish are definitely on timber. Focus on the edge of timber and creek channels mostly. We will see more fish hitting deeper timber as the water temps drop to the 60’s and 50’s over the next few months. Minnows are still a dominant bait, but small hand ties are producing again and soft plastics should also put some good fish in the boat. Ray Roberts GOOD. Water slightly stained; 83 degrees; 1.20 feet below pool. Crappie are good in 5-20 feet with minnows out fishing jigs. White bass has been tough with very little surface activity. Some can be caught off points on live bait and slabs. Texoma GOOD. Water stained; 68 degrees; 2.14 feet below pool. Striper fishing is excellent using live bait on humps and ledges in 25-40 feet of water with live shad. Look for schooling fish and gulls working the main lake in the river channels as well. Swim baits and A-rigs will catch those suspended fish. Crappie fishing will pick up as water temperatures drop and fish move towards the brush and creeks in 10-15 feet of water. Use electronics and jigs to trigger reaction bites from fish in the brush. Bass fishing is slow as water levels remain below average, exposing shorelines. Target fish around docks and in the backs of coves. Reaction bites on crankbaits or swim baits and topwaters early along the sandy points can be effective. Catfishing is great, with bigger
In peace and love, Dawn McGee Bonham, TX
Game Warden Field Notes
Covering for a Cousin
A Williamson County game warden was patrolling a new section of a farm-to-market road that dissects several ranches that is not yet open to the public when he spotted a vehicle inside a ranch with a subject standing nearby drinking a beer. The warden watched the individual for about 15 minutes before he heard a gunshot in the distance beyond the truck. When the subject spotted the warden,
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he immediately got out his phone and appeared to calling someone. The warden started his truck and continued down the road giving the subject the perception that he was leaving. After waiting down the road for a while, the warden returned to the location where the subject was parked and spotted another male with his son near the truck shooting at several doves well after sunset. The warden parked his truck and walked several hundred yards to make contact with the hunters. When he arrived, the hunter with his son was no longer there. The lone hunter was in compliance with state laws and told the warden that the other man was his cousin and was heading back to the house. The man was stalling answering questions about the other hunter as if buying time for his cousin’s escape. The warden was able to make it back to his patrol truck, drive to the front of the property, and find the hunter before he got away. As the warden tried to conduct a compliance check on the man, he denied hunting and became verbally aggressive. The warden advised Williamson County of the situation and requested back up. When two deputies arrived, the man became more compliant, admitted to hunting and said he hid his shotgun in his cousin’s truck. It was discovered that the man not only shot at a dove after sunset, but he did not have a hunting license, or identification.
Bryson Hartwell
Clyde
Theresa Smotryski
Scarborough, Oscar H. Sitting: Joe Denton,
Agnew, Roege McClure of Bonham. After WWI.
in
Mearle Daniel Weyrick
Mearle Daniel Weyrick, age 88, of Wolfe City, TX. passed away at his residence on Wednesday October 23, 2024.
Mearle was born on December 29, 1935 in Wooster, Ohio to Earl and Mary (Prokop) Weyrick. Mearle was a graduate of Berea High School, Berea, Ohio class of 1954. After high school he joined the Naval Reserve serving for 6 years. Mearle married Barbara Lee Carr on October 14, 1961; the couple spent 57 years together before Barbara’s passing in 2018. Mearle had a career of 35 years as an auto mechanic for various Ford dealerships. After retirement from Ford, Mearle began another career with Auto Zone, working for 25 years at the store located on Wesley St. in Greenville, TX. where Mearle’s coworkers affectionately nicknamed him “Mighty Mearle Master Mechanic.”
WISE FUNERAL HOME
Mearle loved his family and was known as the life of the party. He enjoyed life, he was kind, patient, funny, and often times goofy to garner a laugh.
Mearle’s favorite things to do was spend time with his family and bass fishing. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Mearle is survived by his children, son Randy Daniel Weyrick & Patty of San Antonio, TX, daughter, Rhonda Lee Hunt of Bailey, and son Ryan Edward Weyrick of Wolfe City, TX. five grandchildren, Britney Booth & Brandon of Bells, April Peterson & Jeremy of Savoy, Ashley Weyrick of San Antonio, Katelynn Warren & Brett of Greenville, and Amber Hunt & Jonathan of Bailey. His 10 greatgrandchildren, Tyler, Tayler, Luke, Emily, Alee, Wyatt, Andrew, Jacky, Charleigh, and Ariane. Additionally, Mearle is survived by his brother Keith Weyrick and wife Freda of Brunswick, Ohio.
Mearle was preceded in death by his parents, Earl & Mary Weyrick, wife, Barbara Lee Weyrick son-in-law Joe A Hunt, granddaughter, Amanda Weyrick, 4 siblings, Sandra Weyrick, Melvin Weyrick, Dorothy Arthur, and Arline Williams.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Sunday October 27, 2024 at the Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Chapel in Bonham, TX. with Pastor Josh Lott officiating. Online condolences can be made at www.coopersorrells.com
Wanda Eudeene Pellonini
Wanda Eudeene Pellonini was born on June 12, 1937, in Bakersfield, California, where she primarily resided for 68 years before settling in Texas for the remainder of 19 years. Mrs. Pellonini passed away October 24, 2024, in College Station, TX. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Oak Ridge Church of Christ beginning at 10:30 AM. Interment of ashes will follow at Oakridge Cemetery.
Wanda was a devoted mother, and a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. She will be remembered as a loving, talented, musically gifted, selfless woman who always put others before herself.
She is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Little of College Station, Texas, and Kathryn Ferderer of Auburn, California; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Pellonini was preceded in death by her son, James Shackelford, five sisters, and her parents.
To convey condolences or sign an online registry please visit www.coopersorrells.com
Home Country: Slim Randles
Four years ago now. Yep, four years ago we lost Max Evans. I sure did, anyway. That old cowboy, artist, writer, bar brawler and two-fisted philosopher meant a lot to a lot of people and not just his wife, Pat, and their twin daughters.
I met Max one day about 40 years ago. I was working for the Albuquerque Journal as a columnist at the time, and another columnist there, Jim Belshaw, came up to me in the newsroom one morning and said, “We’re having lunch with Max Evans today at noon. Don’t plan anything else for the rest of the day.”
I thought he was kidding. Lunch lasted through closing time in several establishments, and by closing time, I mean …. well, you know.
On my way home that night, I sat remembering some of those stories of his and one thing occurred to me: the hardest thing to do in the world would be to write a boring biography of Max Evans.
So many years later, after countless lunch interviews and little expeditions here and there with Max, I finished his biography, “Ol’ Max Evans, the First Thousand Years.” It isn’t boring.
Max had grown up in a small town in Texas called Ropes. I visited the town once and saw where his grandfather’s store had been and saw the house he grew up in and was told his little brother is still buried in the backyard in an unmarked grave. Nothing evil, just another issue people in those days of covered wagons, cattle drives and wind had to face. They were tough people and it was a tough life. Max fit right in. He went from cowboying to painting pictures to writing some of the best literature about life in the West that’s ever been seen. He was tough. Hitler tried to kill him on D Day plus one when Max was “blown up” by one of Adolf’s railroad guns. Max survived.
It killed everyone else in the outfit. But survive? Oh yes. He had an inner-ear balance problem because of it for the rest of his life. Right up until two days before his 96th birthday. That was right in the middle of the pandemic, so we couldn’t even gather for a farewell lunch or sacred words, or to have one of us bring a bottle of something. To sum up what this old cowboy curmudgeon with an honorary doctorate in literature meant to me … he was another member of my family. After three years working on his
bio, I was wrapping it up and finally about to write the darn thing..
“So Max,” said I, “do you have any advice for beginning writers?”
He looked across the table at me without any sign of a smile.
“Slim,” he said, “never hit a critic.”
“Ol’ Max Evans: The First Thousand Years” is available from the University of New Mexico Press. UNMpress. com.
OBITUARIES
We think of you in silence, We often speak your name, But all we have are memories, And your picture in a frame.
here.
History, noun :
a record of significant events (such as those affecting a nation or institution) often including an explanation of their causes.
“A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.”
Stokes Homestead
Marker Text: In 1895 R. E. (Bob) Stokes (18651944), his wife Ada, and their childlren migrated from Mississippi to Hickory Creek community in Fannin County. Stokes purchased this farm in 1901 and erected this house the following year. Nearby there was a log barn and a two-story room workers’ house. The family had ten children. Stokes served as trustee of the Bralley School and helped erect a new schoolhouse and Bethel Baptist Church building. Peddlers traveled dirt roads which Stokes helped maintain with a drag hitched to four mules.
Location: 3 miles NE on FM 272 from Leonard.
NOTE: This house and the marker were destroyed in 2023.
Jacqueline Lee Anderson
10/15/24
Bonham- Jacqueline Lee Anderson was born December 26, 1942, to Thomas and Ozell (Troxlar) Jackson, in Sulphur Springs, TX. Mrs. Anderson passed away October 22, 2024 in Bonham, Texas.
Jacqueline is survived by her daughter Lorna Armstrong, granddaughter Tayla Shaë Legerski and husband Ty, 2 great-grandchildren Shae Lynn Legerski and Luke Thomas Legerski, as well as her sister Tommie Sue Turner and husband Tom.
Mrs. Anderson was preceded in death by her beloved husband Lester (Swede) Anderson and her parents Norton and Ozell Jackson.
Cremation arrangements are under the care of Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home in Bonham, TX.
Online condolences can be made at www.coopersorrells.com
Judy Lyn Cloer
Judy entered the gates of Heaven on October 24, 2024. She was born to Thomas Rayburn and Austra Brown on July 26, 1958 in Phoenix, AZ. At the age of 9 years the family moved to Texas.
Judy is survived by her husband Joe Lee, brother; Bobby, sister-in-law’s; Delores and Shirley Brown, a cousin; Harris Braunfeld of California, along with nieces and nephews.
She was a 1976 graduate of Bells High School. Judy was a Bonham ISD employee for 29 years teaching 1st grade and doing reading intervention to many.
She loved the Lord, family, many great friends, Hospice Plus and all animals, especially cats. Judy will be cremated and buried at the Rose Hill Cemetery in Bells, Texas No services are planned.
Lorretta Carol Gaither
Born July 25, 1948 – Left this Earth to her eternal home in Heaven on October 29, 2024
Funeral services for Mrs. Gaither were held Friday November 1, 2024, at CooperSorrells Funeral Home Chapel in Honey Grove, TX, beginning at 10:00 AM. Ellsworth Franklin presided. Interment followed at Oakwood Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Jessie Gaither, Tony Massey, Taylor Massey, Jairo Flores, Patrick Goff and Terry Hewett. Lorretta Carol Gaither was born on July 25, 1948, in Bonham, Texas, to Guy and Ruby Bells Wilson. Growing up in Windom, Texas, as the youngest of six siblings, Carol learned the values of hard work and resilience, often helping her family in the cotton fields and on the farm.
In November 1963, Carol married Cleo Gaither, beginning a beautiful journey together in Petty, Texas, where they raised their family. Carol was a caring mother to Sharon Briscoe, Ray Gaither, Dale Gaither, and Carolyn Franklin, creating a warm and loving home that became the heart of her family. After Cleo’s passing in 1982, Carol drew on her unwavering faith in the Lord and continued to nurture her family, balancing roles as a homemaker and later as a dedicated factory worker. She enjoyed walking and gardening, finding peace in nature and the simplicity of life.
Carol’s love grew with each new generation. She was blessed with eight grandchildren— Rachel Flores, Ashley Goff, Gage Franklin, Jessie Gaither, Tony Massey, Taylor Massey, Tory Smith, and Mandy Briscoe—creating cherished memories through sleepovers, holidays at her home, and a legacy of unconditional love. Her family further blossomed to include eleven great-grandchildren—Katie Garcia, Matthew, Ryker and Langston Gaither, Rider, River, Piper, Spencer Massey, Heath Elrod, Amelia and Jairo Jr. Flores—and one great-great-grandchild, Raelynn Garcia, each a testament to her enduring warmth and kindness.
Carol is preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Ruby, her beloved husband Cleo, her grandson Gage, and her daughter Sharon. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, resilience, and love that touched everyone who knew her. Her life was a testament to the strength of family, the comfort of faith, and the beauty of kindness. Carol will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the honor of knowing her.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Arshia Quadri, the TMC ICU staff, and Heart to Heart Hospice for their compassionate care.
To convey condolences or sign an online registry please visit www.coopersorrells.com
GARAGE SALE
EMPLOYMENT
PART-TIME POSITION:
Seeking part-time maintenance person. For applications: 700 Piner St. Honey Grove, TX 75446 or call: 903-378-7146
*Own tools required.
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. 7:30am-4:00pm, 5 days per week. Send resume via email to brett@bfgammon.com or call 903-5833597
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.
TWO PEOPLE to do MOBILE HOME REPAIR
Leveling, decks, siding. Experienced only. Good pay. Part - time. Call: 903-328-0227
ESTATE SALE
ESTATE SALE 588 CR 1545, Bonham Lots of furniture, tools & kitchenware.
Fri., Sat., Sun. November 8, 9, 10 7am - 4pm
HAY FOR SALE Sudan $10
Wheat straw $6 903-227-2920
FIREWOOD FARMING
3 HUGE OAK TREES ON THE GROUND Need someone to cut-up & haul away for the wood. Call: 903-640-8022
FIREWOOD FOR SALE
Seasoned Oak Bags $20 or 4 for $60 Larger quantities available. 903-486-5657
GARAGE SALES
GARAGE SALE:
900 Amy Way, Bonham Nov. 8 -- 8 to 5 Nov. 9 - 8 to 2 Friday & Saturday Furniture, Appliances, Lots of Miscellaneous. See Facebook Market Place for pictures the day before the sale.
401A E Sam Rayburn Rd in Ector, North side of 56. Kids & adult clothes, toys, household items, & misc. Thurs. Nov. 7th - Nov 9th from 8-5.
2 FAMILY SALE 849 CR 4130 Bonham. (1 mile south on ‘Old Drive In Theatre Road’) Saturday, Nov. 9th, 9am - 2pm Lots of everything. Some furniture, women’s, girls clothes, 50¢ - $1.00. All kinds of household, farmhouse decor. In case of bad weather sale will be Nov. 16th.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
App House Leveling & Foundation repair Pier and Beam/ Slab Foundation/ Small & Large Remodels. 903-227-2860.
FARM and LAWN MAINTENANCE
Tree service,
HELP WANTED Need Part-Time Mechanic’s Helper and Part-Time Landscape Helper. Call 903-814-8620
HOUSEKEEPING HELP WANTED
THE CLEANING LADY Let me clean so you won’t have to. Very reasonable rates, great references! Years of experience. HAVE BROOM WILL TRAVEL! Call Mairi 903-815-1877
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.
He Came Out Last
By Skipper Steely
Most Americans think the Great War, later called World War I, ended at the 11th hour on the 11th of November, 1918. But not for Ladonia, Texas native General Wilds Preston “Dick” Richardson. He finally left an assignment in Northern Russia during the late Summer of 1919. In all probability, he was the last of the American infantry commanders to close his war office. After the Armistice date, Americans, the English, the French, the Poles, and soldiers from some other countries placed troops there to protect a huge amount of supplies stored for use by the former Russian Tsar’s government against the German onslaught. The supplies were not needed for war against Germany after the Russian revolution began, but needed to be guarded while governments met at Versailles to craft a treaty. Four months later, however, by mid-March 1919, some 5,500 Americans found themselves somewhat stranded in the cold, working on projects and doing some fighting. They were defending regional Russians from a faction of the Russian disturbance. Parents, especially of those in the 339th Infantry Regiment originally called “Detroit’s Own,” eventually pushed their Congressmen hard enough to demand these soldiers come home.
After December 13, Wilson was in Paris, France, attempting to shore up those countries who went to war and find some method of a long-term peace. He also had another problem—the American soldiers in Russia.
About March 17, 1919
Richardson was called to a meeting, probably at the Quai d’Orsay ministry complex. With a small staff of 35 officers and 267 enlisted men, Richardson was sent by President Woodrow Wilson, General Tasker H. Bliss, and General John J. Pershing to a “wobbly venture” at a place called Murmansk.
Richardson was ordered to extract the American soldiers, who were called “besogged troops” by the British lieutenant later left behind to work on a graves registration project in
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the Arkhangelsk Oblast. He thought all the soldiers were rather bogged down in a confusing mess. By now the event was labeled the Polar Bear
Expedition. A cable was sent to the American Arkhangelsk Ambassador outlining the decision to leave. Richardson departed on his assigned mission from England March 31.
By the time he arrived at the city of Archangel and began the process for all his command to say goodbye to Northern Russia, the midApril 1919 weather was still cold and wet. The temperature was 34 degrees, with a harsh, persistent winter hanging on. Accompanying Richardson were many railroad personnel of the 310th Engineers, giving the impression that work would be done by Americans before the final decision to leave arrived. More British were incoming, also.
The withdrawal orders found the American troops finally on board ships and gone by June. It was no longer cold, but 90 degrees “in the shade!” By July 11 the last of the 339th and some other American units from Northern Russia debarked from Brest, France for home. They arrived in New York City just days after Wilson brought home the Treaty of Versailles for Congressional approval. Meanwhile, Richardson remained in Russia with
part of his staff and some volunteer railroad engineers. The English wanted to stay until they had formed and trained a reliable Russian army ready for the onslaught of the revolutionary Bolsheviks. But, that ability was not possible. The last 709 American members of the medical units and the 310th engineers left Archangel July 28. Some others left Murmansk two days later.
Along with them went eight Russian brides and numerous adopted young Russians! Though Russians had been promised protection by both the Americans and English, residents now saw the contingents leaving. By the first week of September, only a few special American officers remained. Embassies in town were vacated. The British were set to leave in three weeks. They blamed the Americans for the debacle; the Americans were not happy with working alongside the British. One American said, “We beat the British twice, so why should we salute a British officer!” Another complained that the British officers could not even speak good English.
The saga was so little known nor taught in history books that when Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev made a state visit to the United States in 1959 he was told that Americans had never fought on Russian soil. “You are wrong,” the premier said, and reminded them of 1918-1919 when not only were American troops in Russia, they were fighting against his government! Few of the allied soldiers who served in and near Murmansk knew why they spent 8-10 months on Russian soil.
General Richardson formally closed his Archangel headquarters on August 5, 1919, and after traveling the region some, left for Scotland on the hospital steamer called the Kalyan. In February 1920 the Red Army marched into Archangel, meeting with little resistance. As with the Afghanistan exit by allies two years ago, little was left the Russians to fight with. Citizens of the Oblast were assimilated
into the Soviet cause. By the time Richardson was sailing back to the United States, word came that Wilson suffered a stroke on October 2. Richardson never saw him again, but received a Distinguished Service Medal for his command of the American Expeditionary Forces in North Russia. Richardson’s tangible work for the Army and citizens of his country had been years before. He created most of the roads in Alaska, with one named for him and a joint military base still stands with his name. His portrait hangs there.
Richardson was briefly given command of the 5th United States Army Infantry Division. He retired at his permanent rank of colonel in October 1920 after helping write the history of World War I. He spent his last years living in Washington D.C., residing at the Army and Navy Club. Richardson never married, and after his death in 1929, was buried at West Point among schoolmates, most of whom knew little or nothing of the American intervention into Russia. Congress promoted him back to brigadier general by a June 1930 act. U.S. Navy transport ship The General W.P. Richardson was named in his honor during World War II. His much younger step-brother and cousin, Admiral James Otto Richardson, was Fleet commander-in-chief in 1941, later helping design the current Department of Defense operation.
Note: The life of W.P. Richardson [1861-1929], who personally dealt with at least three presidents, is told in the digital book called “Allied Intervention in Russia 1918-1920: General W.P. Richardson and His Role in Withdrawal of American Troops.” A month before he died, he was still active in meetings on the future of Alaska. A historical monument to his efforts stands on the Richardson Highway today.
Honoring Our World War I Veterans
By: Management
By Fannin County
the First Presbyterian Church in Bonham. See photos here: https://www.fannincountyhi-
The Fannin County Leader deadline is Thursdays at Noon!
Fannin County Commissioners Contact Information
Precinct 1 Commissioner
Dale McQueen
Pct. Barn Location: 8865 Highway 56 W (2 miles east of Savoy) Savoy, Texas 75479
Phone: 903-965-7030
Email Address: dmcqueen@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
Jerry Magness
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
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS BONHAM INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT’S STATE FINANCIAL ACCOUNTABILITY RATING
Bonham Independent School District will hold a public meeting at 6:00 p.m., November 18, 2024, at the Bonham ISD Administration Building located at 1005 Chestnut St. Bonham, TX 75418.
The purpose of the meeting is to discuss Bonham Independent School District’s rating on the state’s financial accountability system.
Crossword Solution
Museum of History
SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS
DC, Ector, Savoy, Trenton set for '24 volleyball postseason
By Rich Hilliard
and Kendyl Lindsey watch and look to hit on Aug. 27 during non-district volleyball at Dodd City.
Four Fannin County teams qualified for the 2024 high school volleyball playoffs. Class 2A Trenton secured its ninth volleyball postseason in the last 10 years. The Lady Tigers advanced as District 10-2A's third-place qualifier and second seed to the Division-II bracket of the 2A playoffs.
Dodd City, Ector and Savoy -- assured of postseason trips from the start of the season due to available berths and district composition -- will represent 21-1A.
The Lady Hornets (24-11) advanced as the undefeated 21-1A champion, with the Lady Eagles as the district’s runner-up. On Oct. 29, host Dodd City defeated Ector, 25-15, 18-25, 22-25, 25-19, 15-10, to win it.
The Lady Hornets' upcoming trip equates their 30th postseason in the last 35 years. Dodd City has advanced at least to the regional quarterfinals three of the previous four seasons. Ector's postseason advance equals its third-consecutive in as many varsity volleyball seasons. Meanwhile, Savoy advanced to its 10th-straight postseason, as 21-1A's third-place qualifier
Evans Envisions Another Elevens:
By Rich Hilliard
last trip to the Class 3A State girls' cross country championship at Old Settler's Park to start November.
It equated her thirdconsecutive time to reach the Round Rock race.
Though it's a familiar advance for the Leonard senior, each one has had a different meaning for her.
"It was the biggest meet I'd run in -- like 200 runners were there," said Evans of her sophomore advance. "It was nerve racking. "My junior year," she said,
"I knew there was more at stake with colleges looking at me [to run for them].
"[This year,] it means a lot. I still have to prove myself to my friends and family, go work my butt off and know I
made it one last time. This is awesome."
To advance again to State, Evans finished 10th in 12:20.57 amongst the 180 runners in the Region II-3A girls' race on Oct. 22 at Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie. That followed winning her third-consecutive District 11-3A girls' individuals title on Oct. 9 at Pecan Grove
Park in Sherman, to reach her fourth-straight regional race.
Coming off her fastest regional time, she ran Saturday, Nov. 2, at 9:30 a.m. in the 3200m State 3A girls' championship at Old Settler's Park in Round Rock.
"I still have to go prove myself and place higher at State," said Evans on Oct. 28. "I want to run in the 11s (minutes range)," she said. "I did it once before; I can do it again.
"I have to be mentally prepared."
Note: Parker Evans has three to four colleges interested in her services in cross country and track events including the 3200m, 1600m, 800m and 4X400m relay.
2024 Fannin County Football Standings
Dodd City's Addison Weeks (7) sets the ball as teammates Gracyn Shindler (5), Emma Garner (9)
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Trenton's Jessi McMahon hits as the net as teammates Allie Faggart (8) and Faith Williams (13) watch on Sept. 10 during non-district volleyball at Savoy.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Savoy's Cassidy Almy (10) hits at the net as teammate Presley Walker watches on Sept. 10 during nondistrict volleyball at Savoy.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Ector's Adalynn Dederick (4) sets the ball as teammates Ally Harris (6) and Alana Mackey watch and look to hit on Oct. 8 during District 21-1A volleyball at Savoy.
Photo by Rich Hilliard
Trenton quarterback Nolan Yowell takes a snap as Cole Latimer blocks on Sept. 6 during non-district football at Trenton.
The Tigers, with four wins through Oct. 25, reached their district open date with as many wins in 2024 as they had last season.
Elsewhere, Honey Grove had clinched a postseason berth
Leonard's Parker Evans. Photo by Rich Hilliard
“Honor
privilege to meet with very dear individuals who, though maybe not expecting to have their lives upended by the deaths of their loved ones, found themselves forced to navigate life without them. Leaders of the “Grief Share” program operating out of the Boyd Baptist Church in Bonham, shared their thoughts with me regarding the invaluable classes they have been a part of which will be restarting in late February of next year. Carolyn Rogers, the most senior member/leader of the Bonham group, has been with Grief Share since its inception in 2018. Having lost her husband of fifty years some years ago, Carolyn expounded on how the program helps those who have lost a spouse, parent, child, friend, and others. She explained how the participants in the last session (men and women whose ages ranged from the early 20’s to the late 80’s) had lost loved ones from various causes of deaths (unexpected illnesses, vehicle accidents, etc.) and who had been referred to the program via a physician or at the urging of a friend or family member. She, along with member/leader, Becky Williams who also suffered the loss of a spouse of 31 years and who has been attending the classes for the past two and a half years, agreed on how the course along with all the instruction found in the Bible based lessons, helps by allowing one to speak with others who are going through the same difficulties and as Becky put it, allows you “to know that you’re not the only one.”
Mike Bauer, another of the leaders I spoke with is a retired minister well acquainted with grief as he and his wife had suffered through the loss of a 17-year-old child through illness (which produced a fear of death in his other children as they approached the same age), and had sometime later lost his parents and two sisters in the space of about a year. Those tragedies alone would have been a lot for any to deal with and yet, eight months later he would lose his wife. When I asked when the latter had happened, he replied, 2 years and 20 days ago. Mike, who has attended the classes for the last year and a half explained how though he and his daughters sought the help of a counselor/psychologist after his wife’s passing, it did not help like these courses have. So, Mike, who is a member of the Corinth Baptist Church in Ravenna, has volunteered to be a leader for the Grief Share classes next year at Boyd Baptist. All three of these leaders
spoke about how, more than just instruction, the classes are about people helping each other make sense of what may seem at the time, an impossible existence. Participants often form lasting friendships and they and other alumni from former classes make it a point to get together in between the Fall & Spring class sessions to share a meal at a local restaurant. And as Mike and Becky noted, some participants meet after church and during the week for fellowship (and women’s craft projects) as well. The 13 week “Grief Share” course beginning in February of 2025 will run through March, April and end sometime in May. The 2-hour classes will be held at the Boyd Baptist Church on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with daytime classes available on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Though the lessons are scripturally based, it is not required to be associated with any one religious belief or church to be a participant. The only requirement to attend the class is the $20 workbook fee and the willingness to obtain assistance with learning to cope/adapt with the grief, the loss of a loved one has brought to your life. To acquaint the public with “Grief Share,” a special presentation titled “Surviving the Holidays”, will be held on Sunday, November 17th (open to all at no charge) at the church from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For those just hearing about it, Grief Share is an international organization that has helped over a million people recover from the loss of a loved one by utilizing approximately 45 experts ranging from licensed psychologists, certified grief therapists, pastors, authors, professors, psychiatrists, theologians and trauma counselors to co-produce brief video seminars that are viewed during the two-hour Grief Share sessions. The videos cover grief and recovery topics with expert interviews using real life case studies and dramatic re-enactments. After viewing the videos, a group discussion is held regarding the contents of the video and those wishing to share what is going on in their life can do so. Participants take home the workbook and write their feelings regarding the topics discussed. Those feelings can then be shared or not shared with the group at the discretion of the participant. For more information, contact Boyd Baptist Church at 903-583-7288 and/or online at www.griefshare.org
