1-20-26 Fannin County Leader

By Margo McCutcheon

So, you think you know the United States of America? Prove it during our Big Fat Quiz of the U.S.A. at the Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. on Friday, January 23rd. We're looking for four teams of two players who want to answer questions in fun and unique ways about all things America, from history to popular culture and more. Everyone from teenagers to seniors is welcome to participate! Players must pay $1.00 per person to play, and the winning team receives prizes. Players are not allowed to use phones or other information tools during the quiz. This program is free to watch, but audience members won’t be eligible for prizes and must stay silent during question-and-answer sessions (audience space is limited). Registration is required – registration deadline is January 18th. Contact us at (903) 5835558 or email Margo.McCutcheon@thc.texas.gov to register. The quiz will be held at the Sam Rayburn House at 890 W. State Hwy 56 in Bonham, TX. We are hoping to have this kind of quiz throughout the year! If you can’t make it to this quiz program, contact us anyway and we will inform you once we plan another quiz. We would like to thank the staff at the Sam Rayburn Museum for their help with researching and conducting this quiz!

January 19

New Adult SANE Program Expands Sexual Assault Care in Fannin County

Press Release - As of November 2025, adult survivors of sexual assault in Fannin County now have increased access to specialized, traumainformed medical care through a new partnership between the Fannin County Family Crisis Center and TMC-Bonham.

The collaboration establishes a local Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program for adult survivors, allowing individuals age 18 and older to receive medical forensic care closer to home. Previously, adult survivors often had to travel outside the county to access these services. Survivors who choose to seek care at TMC-Bonham will be treated by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner who is trained in trauma-informed response, evidence collection, and survivor-centered care. Advocates from the Fannin

County Family Crisis Center are available to provide emotional support, explain options, and offer ongoing advocacy before, during, and after the exam. Local leaders say the program fills a long-standing gap in rural health care. By keeping adult forensic exams within Fannin County, survivors face fewer barriers during an already traumatic time, including long travel distances and delays in care.

The Fannin County Family Crisis Center will continue offering its full range of services, including counseling, legal advocacy, accompaniment, and referrals for ongoing support.

Adult survivors seeking assistance may go directly to TMC-Bonham’s emergency department or contact the Fannin County Family Crisis Center’s 24/7hotline at 903583-7000 for confidential support and guidance. The exam is time sensitive and must be completed within 120 hours (5 days) of the assault. Survivors are encouraged to seek help as soon as possible but are not required to report the assault to law enforcement to receive services.

Community partners hope the program strengthens safety, dignity, and healing for survivors across Fannin County.

*For child victims or suspected abuse involving a minor, residents should contact local law enforcement, Child Protective Services or the Fannin County Children’s Center immediately.

•The “bad road” pictures shall be entered electronically. The date of the pictures will be verified by the judges.

•If more than one contestant enters a picture of the same stretch of road, a drawing will be held to determine the winner. Judges: The judges will consist of at least one resident of each commissioner precinct. If multiple judges are selected from the precincts, each precinct shall be represented by the same number of judges. Send your picture to

Elect BILL

CAREY

Attention Fannin County Elected Officials

Letter to the Editor

When Process Breaks, the People Notice. Even If You Pretend They Don’t.

By: Nita Bankston

For folks saying, “If you don’t like it, don’t go to Commissioners Court,” that misses the point entirely. Citizens shouldn’t have to attend every meeting, decode legal jargon, or grow a law degree just to understand what their county is doing. That’s why agendas, votes, and minutes exist. Or are supposed to. Commissioners Court is not a courtroom. The judge

does not rule by decree, and disagreement is not contempt. When meetings start feeling like trials, rules changing midstream, public questions treated as interruptions, credentials waved like a badge, that’s not efficiency. That’s control.

Transparency doesn’t mean telling people after the fact why they’re wrong. It means explaining decisions clearly, in the meeting where they’re made, with the same rules applied to everyone. Anything else is theater. There is another issue that

deserves attention, because it strikes at the heart of representative government. When elected officials question the intelligence, education level, or motives of commissioners or citizens, without evidence, they are not just insulting individuals. They are undermining the voters who put those people in office. Commissioners do not speak for themselves alone. They are the voices of the people who elected them. Dismissing those voices as uninformed, ignorant, or malicious does not elevate governance. It devalues representation itself.

And let’s talk about tone.

When rural residents, seniors, veterans, or agexempt landowners are reduced to math problems and framed as unfair burdens, that’s not fiscal responsibility. That’s contempt dressed up as logic.

Roads, courthouses, decorum fights, none of

these are isolated. They all point to the same issue: when process gets flexible, power gets personal.

You don’t fix that by telling people to sit down, be quiet, or trust harder. You fix it by following the rules in the open, documenting decisions, and remembering who the county actually works for.

Sam Rayburn once said that any jackass can kick down a barn, but it takes a good carpenter to build one.

Local government isn’t tested by how loudly authority brays. It’s tested by how carefully process is followed, how patiently dissent is heard, and how clearly the record is kept for people who weren’t in the room.

If we want to honor Rayburn’s legacy, especially in the week of his birthday, the answer isn’t bigger personalities or tighter control.

Build the barn.

Fannin County History: The Road Down Memory Lane

Barn Location: 8865 Highway 56 W (2 miles east of Savoy) Savoy, Texas 75479 Phone: 903-965-7030 Email Address: twaggoner@fanninco.net

Pct. Barn Location: 500 N. Highway 69

Texas 75452 Phone: 903-587-3455 Email Address: aself@fanninco.net Precinct 3

Fogelberg

18101 East FM 1396 (Just off Hwy 82) Honey Grove, Texas 75446

Phone: 903-378-2941 Email Address: precinct3@fanninco.net Precinct 4

Kopf

Location: 1369 East Highway 56 Bonham, Texas 75418

Phone: 903-583-2039

Email Address: dkopf@fanninco.net Fannin

Group” “A generation which ignores history has no past and no future.” Robert Heinlein, American author

Photos courtesy of the Fannin County Historical Museum three blocks south of the Courthouse Square in Bonham, One Main Street Bonham, Texas 75418 903-583-8042 Visit

“Fannin County

The Natatorium was located in Simpson Park on the corner of 13th and Center Street. Date: ca.1930 Place: Bonham, Texas

By Malinda Allison

SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS

Five '25 Fannindel Falcons feted w/All-State football recognition

Class 2A HG girls continuing successful hoops campaign

By Rich Hilliard

Class 2A Honey Grove's successful girls' basketball season has extended into District 14-2A play.

The Lady Warriors reached the district play midpoint as a contender for the district title.

Honey Grove looks this season to unseat Merit Bland, the 2025 district champion in 14-2A girls' basketball.

DC alumna Medina vying again for Elmhurst hoops in 2025-26

Rich Hilliard

By

Former Dodd City standout Natally Medina continues extending her basketball career at the next level. Medina has returned for a second season for DivisionIII Elmhurst University (Ill.). The 5-6 guard, who as a senior in 2024 helped Dodd City reach its first girls' regional basketball final since 2021, has recorded two points on a pair of free throws in a game and also a steal in three total appearances this season through Jan. 10. Last season, Medina, as a true freshman, in four games had three points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal.

By Rich Hilliard

Five Fannindel players garnered All-State recognition from the Texas Six-Man Coaches Association for their efforts during the 2025 football season. Those recipients included: Kalob Runnels, second team wide receiver; Noah Trussell, second team linebacker; Terren Judkins, second team safety; Kai Hilliard, honorable mention quarterback; Nathaniel Castillo, honorable mention special teams.

The All-State notoriety occurred after the Falcons (11-1, 2-0) started their 2025 season 11-0 -- the first such start for Fannindel football since 2020's State quarterfinalist team.

The Falcons reached the area round of the postseason, after going undefeated in District 10-1A-II.

Terren Judkins (23) drives near the 3-point arc as teammate Noah Trussell sets a screen on Jan. 6 during the Falcons' non-district basketball game against a non-varsity Caddo Mills team in Ladonia.

By Rich Hilliard

LADONIA -- Success during Fannindel's 2025 football season has continued into the Falcons' ensuing boys' basketball campaign. Despite a late start due to an area-finalist appearance in

Mills team in Ladonia.

football, Fannindel reached the beginning of District 19-1A boys' basketball this month with double-digit wins. All-District 2025 recipients return this season for the Falcons who are seeking their first postseason since 2023's

trict basketball game against a non-varsity Caddo Mills team in Ladonia.

bi-district advance in the gym sport.

Senior Kalob Runnels, a first-team selection, and sophomore Terren Judkins, a second-team recipient, join senior Josh Tinnell, senior Noah Trussell and junior Nathaniel Castillo, all honorable

mentions, who are back for Fannindel.

Senior Kai Hilliard, who grabbed his 1,000th career high school rebound on Jan. 6, also has been added to the Falcons' team, which is led again by head coach D'Lance Sharp.

Martin Marietta

Date: January 9, 2026

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND PARTIES:

Martin Marietta Texas Ready-Mix, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for: Issuance of Permit 182636

This application would authorize continued operation of a Concrete Batch Plant located at 9111 South Highway 121, Trenton, Fannin County, Texas 75490. Additional information concerning this application is contained in the public notice section of this newspaper.

World War II History Roundtable, Audie

Murphy Chapter, Greenville, Texas

WWII Programs

Planned For January and April, 2026

Press Release - Locals from Northeast Texas will find the initial 2026 programs presented by the WWII History Roundtable, Audie Murphy Chapter, to be exceptionally linked to the region. The first presentation will feature Baylor University’s Dr. Stephen Mayes Sloan with a lecture entitled “Tattooed On My Soul--Texas Veterans of World War II.” This will be Thursday, January 22, 2026

at the Audie Murphy/Cotton Museum in Greenville at 7 p.m. One of those WWII participants spotlighted will be Colonel Jimmy Doolittle’s co-pilot, the late Richard E. Cole, who was interviewed in 2009 by Dr. Sloan as part of Baylor’s Institute of Oral History. This will be fodder for the April 23 program to be given by Columbia University Professor and Attorney Michel Paradis. The public is invited to attend both. There is no admission fee. Platinum sponsor for the 2026 lecture series is Dr. Jerry Ransom. Gold

Sponsors for the 2026 lecture series are: Dr. Larry “Rocky” Clinton, Robinson Family, Greenville Electric Utility Services (GEUS), Alliance Bank, Frank Treadaway, Lou King, Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum, and the East Texas A&M History Department. Those area residents who study the 1942 Tokyo Raid are familiar with not only Dick Cole but with two other Texas flyers on that first air strike against Japan after the Nippon attack on Pearl Harbor. Dean Edward Hallmark was pilot of bomber #6 on the

USS Hornet, taking off behind Cole. Greenville native and former Sulphur Springs resident Nolan Herndon was a navigator two back with crew #8. Hallmark played football for East Texas State Teachers College and Paris Junior College. His crew ditched after dropping its bombs. Herndon’s B-25 diverted to Russia, but the crew eventually made their getaway in late 1943. Those attending the Sloan program are encouraged to bring along any interviews they have completed with their own family participants.

Bonham Texas Senior Center formerly known as Bonham Senior Citizens Center

Press Release - The Bonham Texas Senior Center is formerly known as the Bonham Senior Citizens Center (until another entity incorporated the name in 2025) and also formerly known as the Friends of the Bonham SNAP Center (until our name change in 2026). We also

have Meals On Wheels of Texoma's Bonham location at this facility. This facility is provided by the City of Bonham. The City has authorized Meals on Wheels of Texoma and the Bonham Texas Senior Center to manage the building and to use the building for their activities. The Bonham Texas Senior Center is a small, 501 (c)(3) organization incorporated by Jay Tarwater in 2004 to assist in feeding home-bound, seniors (60 and older), handicapped and the

that pet is not seen right away. When a female has trouble giving birth (dystocia) the lives of both mom and babies are at risk. It can be hard to determine if a cat is having issues since they can start and stop labor. If a dog is in labor more than 4 hours or goes more than 45 minutes between pups then she needs to be seen. Similarly, an older female dog that has not been spayed can be at risk for uterine infection which could cause her to be lethargic, vomit, or not eat; she should be

less fortunate in our community as well as supporting other senior citizen programs. Meals are served daily (Monday - Friday at 11:15 am) by Meals On Wheels of Texoma which serves, Fannin, Grayson and Cook Counties. This is one of the many ways we have for Seniors to socialize.

Funds to maintain the Senior Center are provided by your donations, an annual Gospel Concert, and other activity fees. In addition to paying for the electricity services, the

seen urgently for surgery.

Trouble breathing is always at least an urgent matter, depending on the severity. There could be multiple different causes including heartworm disease, Bordetella, pneumonia, fungal infection, or heart failure; so, the animal should be evaluated as soon as possible. Hopefully this information can help in some of the gray areas, however there are the obvious emergencies that should proceed directly to an ER such as choking, eye injuries, heat stroke, or unconsciousness.

of emergency care. Diarrhea and vomiting that lasts more than 24

or has blood present could indicate a serious medical condition such as parvovirus or pancreatitis. Dogs and cats can get upset stomach issues that may be easily treated with a bland diet and probiotics. However, if those signs are present for more than twice in a day, they should be seen by a veterinarian urgently.

Trauma can have many forms – a wound that is not bleeding could be cleaned with soap and water only, wrapped and wait to be seen until regular business hours. However, if bleeding continues for more than 5 minutes or is coming out from the inside it needs to be addressed. Disorientation, slow heart rate, cold paws and pale/ white gums could indicate shock which happens with extreme pain or internal injuries so these pets should be seen immediately. Small dogs or cats, have very high metabolisms so if they are not eating it can cause their blood sugar to drop dangerously low extremely quickly. These pets will be very sleepy, stumble, or even have seizures so they should be seen emergently. Some pets can have epilepsy, but if a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or occurs repeatedly in a day, there could be long term problems if

Fannin County Community Ministries

Food Pantry Wednesday, Thursday & Friday

8:00am - 11:45am 1022 FM 273

BONHAM TX 75418

903-583-3663

Bonham Texas Senior Center makes minor repairs to the building. We also do fund raisers to accomplish larger renovations. The Senior Center has a library and activities are available, such as cards, dominos, bingo, puzzles and much more. We often have crafts and parties for the seniors to enjoy when the Senior Center is open. The facility is available for rental especially for senior related activities. Contact the Secretary, Jan Johnson by phone or text at 972-529-0282 for questions, donations or for facility rentals. We are proud to serve our Bonham Seniors.

&

110 W. 5th St. P.O. Box 519

The Fannin County Leader Deadline is Thursdays @ Noon

Keene announcing

for Fannin County Commissioner Pct 4

I am a lifelong resident of Fannin County and a proud member of the Dodd City community. I’m running for Fannin County Commissioner, Precinct 4 because I believe our county deserves practical, results-driven leadership from someone who truly understands the area and the people who live here.

I currently serve as Mayor of Dodd City, where I’ve worked hard to improve infrastructure, maintain responsible budgeting, and strengthen city services. I believe leadership should be

transparent, accountable, and focused on doing what’s right for the people we serve. In addition to public service, I am a small business owner, operating Family Lawn Care right here in the community. Running a local business has given me firsthand experience with the challenges that families and small businesses face every day, and it’s taught me the value of hard work, reliability, and earning people’s trust.

I also hold multiple state certifications that reflect my commitment to responsible stewardship of local resources. I am a Licensed Groundwater Operator and a Licensed Applicator certified by the Texas Department of Agriculture, which gives me

practical knowledge of land and water management—issues that are critical to the future of Fannin County. I have deep local roots, decades of hands-on experience, and a strong work ethic. I’m ready to serve Fannin County with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to getting the job done right. My wife, Jamie Keene, and I are committed to preserving the values of hard work, faith, and community that make Fannin County a great place to live and raise a family.

As your next County Commissioner for Precinct 4, I will bring common-sense leadership, accountability, and a strong work ethic to the job—fighting for better roads, smarter spending, and a stronger future for all of Fannin County.

Vote Mike Keene for County Commissioner, Precinct 4 A Voice for the People. A Vision for the Future.

Partially paid for by Mike Keene campaign

Old Time Gospel / Country Program

What: Half Gospel / Half Country Music

When: January 24th ● ● 6pm - 8pm

Where: Bonham Texas Senior Center

Admission: FREE, Donations appreciated If you play or sing, come prepared. For more info contact please text: Lenny Paulk 903-449-0880

Movie Night at Wolfe City Public Library

Join us on January 24th at 5PM for “The Lorax”—a fun, family-friendly movie adventure based on the beloved Dr. Seuss book! Admission to the movie is absolutely free, and we’ll have hotdogs, chips, popcorn, desserts, and drinks available for purchase. Grab your blankets and pillows, wear your comfiest pajamas, and get ready to laugh and cheer with friends and family.

Paris, Texas -- Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin County for the week starting January 12, 2026. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues

Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.

FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.

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 occasional delays as the contractor performs the final minor activities in 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.

SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work 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

FC Justice Center Progress continues.....

passed the Chinaberry tree 

Let’s look at family life in 1962: All clothing had to be ironed, there was no “permanent press” fabrics. Men often wore ties and hats even at home in the evening, and women often wore white gloves and hats with veils when attending church. Refrigerators were smaller, occasionally the buildup of frost had to be melted by using boiling water. Televisions were smaller, and there were only 3 national networks, so everyone watched the same few programs and discussed them with their friends the next day. Some cities would also have one more local channel devoted to local news and events, or cartoons.

Between 1 A.M. and 5 A.M. the T.V. studio “signed off” and there was no broadcasting. The first few color TV shows appeared around 1960, and by 1965 all new shows were in color. News was only broadcast for 30 minutes at dinnertime, and again at 10 or 11 p.m., and the announcer tried to present a neutral viewpoint instead of being strongly liberal or conservative.

Children bought bubble gum which also contained “baseball cards” and they would collect cards showing famous athletes.

Boys made “model airplanes” by fitting and gluing pieces together from a kit. Sometimes their fathers had flown in those planes and ships in World War 2. Bowling game leagues were popular for awhile, as parodied in the movie “Pleasantville” and Flintstones cartoons. Adults belonged to fraternal lodges or veterans organizations, womens clubs, and school PTA’s (PTO’s). Phonograph records were either in long-playing “albums” or individual discs with only 1 song per side - which were called “45’s”. Hand-held transistor radios were portable and used batteries. AM band radio was used more, instead of the FM band. There was great fear of Communist, Godless Soviet Union (Russians) threatening to drop an atomic bomb, and schools would have practice “air raid drills.” There was great interest in the first Astronauts. The concept of “shopping centers” was new, and they lessened the need to go downtown into the city to find department stores. Enclosed malls did not appear until the late 1960s. There was less awareness of health foods and the content of foods (sugar, salt, fat), and of the harm in cigarettes. White low-fiber

bread was standard, and steak dinners were popular, with a slab of iceberg lettuce and a baked potato. 40 to 50 percent of American adults smoked, including routinely in offices,

restaurants, public places, in cars, and around children. They often developed the habit in the military. Children could sneak and buy cigarettes from vending machines. Children

bought toy peppermint “candy cigarettes”. Cigarettes, beer, and whiskey brands were widely advertised in magazines as marks of glamorous living.

4 lane as dumb as I was. We had no fears walking to school, every kid did it and it was normal to see a hundred or more kids walking Ave. N twice a day, just a steady steam of rascals lined up in a steady march. Now that’s a memory you just can’t get out of you head, simple times with everyday procedures you just did, without a thought or worry. And yes, there was a lot of horseplay going on with the guys, especially when we

Sunday Morning Re-Wind

Where True Rest Comes From

Hello everyone!

This week’s devotion comes from Matthew 11:28. In this verse, Jesus personally invites those who are spiritually, emotionally, and physically worn out. He is calling us to come to Him personally; not to a ritual, system, or religion. He wants a personal relationship with us, and He wants us to trust in Him. In this verse, Jesus refers to anyone who is exhausted by sin and guilt, burdened by religious rules and self-effort, or overwhelmed by the storms and struggles of life. In Jesus’ day, many were weighed down by strict religious rules that

did not offer any peace. The rest that only comes from Jesus Christ is rest for the body and soul, forgiveness instead of guilt, peace with God, and relief from trying to earn the favor of God. This kind of rest comes from knowing that you are accepted by God through Jesus Christ. True rest is found in Jesus Christ alone. He calls us to bring our burdens before Him in faith. When we do, He gives us peace, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. In 1904, Charles Price Jones wrote this classic hymn that comes from the message in this verse.

“Hear the blessed Savior calling the oppressed, “O ye heavy-laden, come to Me and rest; Come, no longer tarry, I your load will bear, Bring Me every burden, bring Me every care. Come unto Me; I will give you rest; Take My yoke upon you, hear Me and be blest; I am meek and lowly, come and trust My might; Come, My yoke is easy, and My burden’s light.”

Bro. Josh Stevenson

What Does It Mean To Follow Jesus?

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). What does it mean to follow Jesus? Does it mean that we simply believe in Jesus or believe that He is the son of God? Luke records that in the time of Christ, the “devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ” (Luke 4:41). The devils believed and knew that Jesus was the Christ, the son of God, but they did not follow Jesus. What does it mean to follow Jesus? We follow Jesus in baptism. Jesus was baptized to “fulfil all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). Jesus declared “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved” (Mark 16:16). Jesus gave the great commission “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 18:19). Paul told those at Rome, “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from

the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Of baptism, it is written, “whereunto even baptism doth also now save us” (1 Peter 3:21). In baptism, we follow Christ’s example, teaching, commission, and gospel for salvation. What does it mean to follow Jesus? We follow Jesus by changing our lives to live for Him. Jesus professed that keeping His commandments and doing whatsoever He command was vital. Christ stated that “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15) and that “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you” (John 15:14). Jesus declared “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). Jesus preached, “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63). Paul taught that what avails in the life of a Christian is “faith which worketh by love” (Galatians 5:6). Consider the words of Paul, “Therefore 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). What does it mean to follow Jesus? We follow Jesus by suffering with Him. Paul wrote to Timothy, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ

Spanish Sunday School

Every Sunday @ 9:45 AM

Calvary Baptist Church 913 S. 5th Bonham, TX

Children, Adults, Everyone Invited Call Rita For More Information 516-262-8191

Email: twin2_santana@yahoo.com

Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). Peter reasons, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). Paul made Christians aware that “what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ” (Philippians 3:7-8). Peter stated that “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit” (1 Peter 3:18). Paul confessed, “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).

What does it mean to follow Jesus? We follow Jesus by being obedient to His word. We follow Jesus by baptism. We follow Jesus by changing and living for the Lord. We follow Jesus by suffering for Him. Are you following Jesus?

An Autopsy of Jesus

I have a confession; I’m a crime show junkie. Whether I’m watching a true crime documentary or a fictional crime drama show, I do my best to identify the perpetrator before the investigators on the show can. One of the things I have learned from watching far too many of these shows is that investigators often find important clues in a victim’s autopsy. Most notably the medical examiners findings regarding “cause of death” and “manner of death” are of interest to investigators. And while cause of death and manner of death may sound like the same thing, I have learned they are not. A victim’s cause of death has to do with the victim’s body and what caused that living organism to stop living. On the other hand, the manner of death has to do with the victim as a person and how the cause of death came to be inflicted on the victim. An example of cause of death would be something like exsanguination (excessive blood loss) or vital organ failure (from trauma, chemical imbalance, poisoning, starvation, disease, etc.). Examples of manner of death include accidental, homicide, suicide, etc. One day I got to thinking about the death of Jesus and what that autopsy could have revealed. While I have absolutely no expertise or training as a medical examiner I decided to do my own autopsy of Jesus. Normally an autopsy starts with a detailed examination of the body, but of course, with Jesus that is not possible.

Forty days after his resurrection he ascended directly into heaven (Acts 1: 6-11) so there is no body remaining on earth. Therefore, all I had to go on was the historical record and I know of no record more complete and more accurate than the holy scriptures. I arrived at the manner of death through the process of elimination. While his death was intentionally inflicted on him by other persons, Jesus’ death was not murder. His death was ordered by authorities (Luke 23: 21-24) and carried out by solders following orders under the Roman law. Some might consider execution his manner of death, but I don’t agree. Criminals being executed have been properly tried and found guilty of a capital offense, and they usually vigorously attempt to stop the execution. However, authorities did not find Jesus guilty but ordered his death because of the violent mob stirred up by Jewish religious leaders (Luke 23: 21-24). Lynching would be a more likely manner of death except for the fact that Jesus could have stopped the mob at any time (Matthew 26: 52-54), but he didn’t so that the scriptures would be fulfilled. Since Jesus could have avoided his crucifixion could his death be considered suicide? Certainly not! Based on Jesus’ fervent prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane we know that he did not want to die, however, he knew that it must happen to complete God’s plan for our salvation (Luke 22: 41-44). His prayer

even prompted God to send an angel to strengthen Jesus for the grueling hours leading up to his crucifixion. (Luke 22: 43). All of these things considered I feel the manner of death for Jesus Christ is best described as sacrifice.

Next I looked through the scriptures to identify a cause of death. Shortly after being arrested Jesus was beaten (John 19:1), probably with a Roman flagrum (similar to a cat of nine tails), which would cut into his back and cause bleeding tears in his skin. A little later when Jesus was placed on the cross he was hung by driving nails through his hands and feet (Psalms 22: 16, John 20: 25-27), opening up additional wounds to bleed. He hung on the cross, bleeding and suffering, for at least three hours before dying. And while he had already died, his side was also pierced with a spear (Isaiah 53:5, John 19: 33-37), spilling additional blood and water. From this information I feel the cause of death was exsanguination (fatal blood loss). Also, this cause of death was necessary for it to be considered a proper sacrifice (Leviticus 17:11, Hebrews 9:22) under God’s plan to provide salvation to the world. I believe these "autopsy" results can help us understand God’s plan of salvation and the meaning of the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26: 26-29, Mark 14: 22-25, Luke 22: 14-20).

Richard (Rick) Osburn, Member Northside Church of Christ

CALVARY UNITED PENTECOSTAL

CHURCH

When: Sun. 10:30am. Wed. 7:00pm

Where: 1190 Hwy 56 W. Bonham. Pastor: Steven Luton, 903-583-4346

GRACE METHODIST CHURCH BONHAM A GLOBAL METHODIST CONGREGATION

12-18-18

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.

Fannin County

Leonard First Assembly of God, 108 Pecan Leonard, Texas 469-450-9777

Allen’s Point Baptist Church 310 CR 2775 Honey Grove, TX 75446 903-378-7038

Ivanhoe Baptist Church 4063 NO.FM 273 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 (903)583-2359

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

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

Lamasco Baptist Church 346 CR 2615 Telephone, Texas 75488

Duplex Baptist Church 313 CR 2102 Ivanhoe, Texas 75447 903-664-3175

Ector Baptist Church P.O. Box 248 Ector, Texas 75439 (903) 961-2175

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

Shady Grove Baptist

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

Elizabeth Catholic Church corner of 10th & Maple Bonham, TX office 903-583-7734

Ivanhoe Church of Christ P.O. Box 322-

CR 2040 Ivanhoe, TX 75447

Blvd Church of Christ 411 Katy Blvd Bonham, TX 75418 706-294-5996 Midway Church of Christ Hwy 56 W Bonham 903 583

W.

St. Trenton, TX 75490 903-989-2446

Bonham Living Word Church of God- 699

James Lutheran Church 14394 E FM 1396 Windom Tx 75492 Phone: 903-583-5155

TX 75446 (903) 203-4455

Windom United Methodist Church 207 Second Street PO Box 936 Windom, TX 75492 940-390-0146 Pleasant Grove CME Church box 34 Ladonia TX 75449 Hwy 64 903-367-7870 St. Paul CME Church 801 E. 6th St. Bonham, TX 75418 903-864-8768 Virginia Point United Methodist Church 1386 CR 1200 Savoy, TX

OBITUARIES

Dolores Fay Runyon

Dolores Fay VanHooser Runyon, 1944-2026

Dolores Fay VanHooser Runyon, 81, of Princeton, Texas, passed away on January 3, 2026. She was a beloved daughter, sister, Mom, Grandma, and Ma.

Dolores was born in Randolph, Texas, on July 2, 1944, to Ernest “Dick” VanHooser and Velma Pratt Key. She attended Ector High School, graduating in 1962 as Salutatorian. The majority of her professional career was spent at Texas Instruments, where she worked for over 35 years. Outside of work, Dolores enjoyed antique malls and thrift stores where she could go “junking.” She also loved Sonic diet cokes, staying up all night to read, and spending time with her family.

Dolores was preceded in death by her father Dick; her mother Velma; her step-father Charlie Joe Key; her brother David VanHooser; and her brother-in-law Maurice Walker. She is survived by her sister Lorene Walker; her daughter Angie Lessard and her husband Scott; her grandchildren Justin Wilson, Dylan McKenzie and his wife Jessica, Marissa McKenzie, Cassie Lessard; her great-grandchildren Isabella Aguado, Eleanor McKenzie, Nolan McKenzie, and Rhodes McKenzie; and her three nephews and their families.

A memorial will be held on January 31 at 2:30 p.m. at the Richardson Women’s Club in the clubhouse. The address is 2005 N Cliffe, Richardson, Texas 75082. We invite you to join us in celebrating Dolores and her life.

Tommy Keith Johnson

Tommy Keith Johnson, 68, of Bonham, Texas passed away December 30, 2025, surrounded by family. Arrangements are under the loving care of Wise Funeral Home, Bonham, TX.

Born on July 10, 1957, Keith spent his entire life on the land his family called home. A farmer and rancher by trade and by heart, he worked the same ground his parents and grandparents before him tended, carrying on a legacy of hard work, stewardship and deep respect for the land. He believed in honest labor, early mornings, and doing things the right way even when it wasn’t the easy way. Those who knew Keith knew his quick wit, ability to entertain friends and family, and passion for collecting farm equipment and remnants of the past. He stood firm on his beliefs and lived life on his terms. He was happiest riding around in the old feed truck with his best friend, Penny, and his dogs checking cattle, working fields, fixing equipment, or simply watching the sunrise or set over the land he loved. Farming was more than a job to him— it was a way of life, one he was proud to pass on. Above all, Keith was devoted to his family. He valued time spent together, shared meals and traditions rooted in faith and family. His wisdom, work ethic and love will continue to guide those who knew him. Keith is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Penny Kay Johnson, his sister Paula Gayle Galyon, spouse John, his daughter Jennifer Dyan Morris, spouse Josh, son Eric Kyle Hutchins, spouse Sandy, son Cory Lance Hutchins, spouse A.J. His grandkids Kyla Mize, Cevan Hutchins, Preston Morris, Tatom Robinson, Chesney Robinson, and Konnor Hutchins. Great-Grandkids Charlie Hutchins and Edwin Mize.

He was preceded in death by his parents Billy Paul and Betty Maxine Johnson, brother Kenneth Wayne Johnson, daughter Becky Denise Johnson.

A service was held on January 5, 2025 at 12pm at the Bois d ’Arc Creek Cowboy Church, Bonham, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hampton Cemetery or by simply by honoring his memory through hard work and care for the land. Keith’s legacy lives on in the soil he worked, the family he raised, and the lives he touched.

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.

Thank You to Cooper Sorrells Funeral Home For Sponsoring The Obituary Section.

Witness to History #3 Smith Lipscomb

Daily Favorite July 22, 1940

Lipscomb

Fannin County Witnesses to History

A Joint Project of the Sam Rayburn House Historic Site and the Fannin County Historical Commission

Celebrating America 250 with Spotlights of Fannin County Citizens Who Participated In or Witnessed Historical Events

By Margo McCutcheon, Educator, Sam Rayburn House SHS

Born in the Spartanburg District of South Carolina on February 26, 1840, Smith Lipscomb, Sr., attended area schools for his education before going to classical school at Limestone Springs, SC. He was at Fort Sumter, perhaps as a civilian, in South Carolina on April 12, 1861, when the Confederate States of America military forces attacked the U.S. military forces at Fort Sumter, beginning the Civil War (1861-1865). He joined the Confederate army after the declaration of war and served in Company F of the 18th South Carolina Regiment, eventually earning the rank of captain.

Smith had two encounters with Confederate General Robert E. Lee. On guard duty at one time, Smith had orders not to let anyone pass, so he did not let Lee pass until he received orders from his officer to do so. While stationed at a fort in Petersburg, VA, Smith reportedly saved the life of Lee and Confederate Brigadier General Archibald Gracie III from sniper’s bullets, pulling both generals down as they toured a fort in Petersburg, possibly Elliot’s Salient.

On July 30, 1864, Smith was one of at least three survivors of an explosion, later known as the Crater or the Mine, where U.S. troops dug a mine underneath Confederate forces in Petersburg and denotated explosives in the mine, immediately killing 300 South Carolinian troops. He participated in the Battle of Appomattox Station on April 8, 1865, and witnessed Lee surrender to U.S. General Ulysses S. Grant on April 9, 1865.

Smith married Sarah Warden Goudelock on May 18, 1865, and they had ten children. They moved to South Texas in 1866 and made their way to Fannin County, TX, in 1869. Smith was Chief Deputy Sheriff under Sheriff John Dunn before being elected to the office of sheriff and tax collector. After two terms as sheriff, Smith served four years as a tax collector before retiring to his farm. He was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Sul Ross Camp of the United Confederate Veterans. Smith died on December 2, 1923, in Bonham, TX. He is buried in section A19 of Willow Wild Cemetery in Bonham.

This information was obtained from the Fannin Co., Texas GenWeb (txfannin.org) and other online sources including the National Park Service website.

The Sam Rayburn House SHS presented this information at their 2025 Cemetery Walking Tour. For a copy of the 2025 Cemetery Walking Tour guide or for other information, contact the Sam Rayburn House at (903) 583-5558 or email Margo.McCutcheon@thc.texas.gov

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.

The Fannin County Leader Deadline is Thursdays @ Noon

Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home 2022 North Center Street Bonham, TX 75418 903-583-5555

Cooper-Sorrells Funeral Home 803 East Main Street Honey Grove, TX 75446 903-378-2291

Whitewright- 903-364-2215 Leonard – 903-587-3336 Denison – 903-516-5160 Bells – 903-965-4244 Wolfe City – 903-496-2331 We are family owned and operated Obituaries Sponsor Thank You to Turrentine Jackson Morrow Funeral Home For Sponsoring The Obituary Section.

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 1

LOUISE GOODWATER

2026 Fannin County Candidates

TYNAN

FANNIN - JUDGE, COUNTY COURT AT LAW

CHARLES BUTLER

FANNIN - DISTRICT CLERK

APRIL GIBBS

FANNIN - COUNTY CLERK

JENNY L. GARNER

FANNIN - COUNTY TREASURER

DALE MCQUEEN

DEREK MOORE

FANNIN - COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2

JIMMIE ALLRED

BRANDON WALLACE

FANNIN - COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 4

MIKE KEENE

DOUG KOPF

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 1

LOUISE GOODWATER

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 2

MARK BUCHANAN

PAUL IVY

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 3

KENNETH "KENNY" KARL

FANNIN - COUNTY CHAIR

DARREN YORK

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 2

MARK BUCHANAN

PAUL IVY

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_4_REP KAREN MCELHANNON BUTLER

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_5_REP

DIANA L YOUNG

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_6_REP

SHERMAN SWARTZ

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_7_REP

GREG FLOYD

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_9_REP

WADE RIZA

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_11_REP

JOYCE BUCHANAN

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_12_REP

GARY MICHAEL TUCKER

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_16_REP

SARA YOUNG

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_18_REP

MARY HALE

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_19_REP

VIOLET SPELL

2026 Vendors Fannin County Master Gardener Expo

FANNIN - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE PRECINCT 3

KENNETH "KENNY" KARL

FANNIN - COUNTY CHAIR

DARREN YORK

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_4_REP

KAREN MCELHANNON BUTLER

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_5_REP

DIANA L YOUNG

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_6_REP

SHERMAN SWARTZ

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_7_REP

GREG FLOYD

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_9_REP

WADE RIZA

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_11_REP

JOYCE BUCHANAN

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_12_REP

GARY MICHAEL TUCKER

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_16_REP

SARA YOUNG

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_18_REP

MARY HALE

FANNIN - PRECINCT CHAIR FOR PCHR_19_REP

VIOLET SPELL

Call for Vendors

The 21st annual Garden, Lawn and Home Expo is rapidly approaching and will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Fannin County Multipurpose Complex located at 700 FM 87, Bonham, Tx. This event focuses on horticultural topics and may include Viticulture, Honey Production, Entomology, and Pollinator Gardening, Does your company offer materials for gardening, home, and lawn? Looking for an enjoyable way to reach customers? Fannin County Master Gardeners are on the lookout for vendors, sponsors, and food trucks for this year’s event. Last year’s attendance was around 400. Vendor benefits to your company include sales on the day of the event, new customer leads for future sales, local and statewide publicity for your company in flyers, news articles, Facebook, and radio prior to the event. We have indoor and outdoor booth space available. In addition, there will be people to assist in moving your materials into the building and public announcements of your business during the event when door prizes are given.

If you cannot be a vendor, we have a Sponsorship program which will get your business listed in our advertising and announced when door prizes are given out. Please contact us for more information @ fanninmastergardeners@gmail.com

The Expo will open to the public at 8:30 a.m.

Educational presentations will begin at 9:00 a.m. with breaks between our speakers to give those attending plenty of time to shop at the booths. To secure your space, complete the application at www. txmg.org/fannin and send it with your check to the address shown on the form. We look forward to seeing you at the Expo! If you have questions, please contact Teo Hunter, Vendor Committee Chair, at teohunter@gmail.com or Lauri Blake, Expo Chair, at laurineblake@gmail.com.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service provides equal opportunities in its programs and employment to all persons, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

The cost is $75.00 for a 12 x 12 booth space with one table and two chairs provided. Please make sure to let us know if you need electricity. We ask that you supply a door prize/silent auction item(s) valued at $50 or more for the event.

Hayes Equine Newsletter

CAREGIVERS

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. 7:30am-4:00pm, 5 days per week. Send resume via email to brett@bfgammon.com or call 903-583-3597

FIREWOOD

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

$75 / Rick 903-271-3858

HELP WANTED

HANDYMAN HELP WANTED

Help Wanted for part time handyman. Carpentry, paint, minor electrical & plumbing. Must have own tools & transportation. Working on older homes. Will pay up to 20/hr. 903-227-5202 Leave message

HOUSEHOLD HELP

WANTED

Elderly, handicapped woman needs household help. Ideal job for housewife who wants to make extra money. 903-821-4322

MISCELLANEOUS

A PAW UP

Helping Animals In Need Thrift Store 101 West Hayes, Savoy Open Friday thru Sunday 10am-5pm.

FREE CLOTHES & HOUSEWARES:

Clothes Closet Valley Creek Baptist Church, 3615 FM 896, Leonard. Wednesdays 8-10am.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

GARDEN TILLING

Call for pricing & appointment. 817-999-4140

PROFESSIONAL PAINT & DRYWALL REPAIRS: Cracks, holes, patches, water damage, sheetrock repair, ceilings, walls, matched texturing. Interior/Exterior Painting. 45+ years experience. Call Johnny @ 903-209-6958

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 903-583-7888.

“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. Firewood! Call Jose Vazquez at 903-227-5898.

TREES and MÁS

Large Acreage Mowing with Tractor, Landscaping, Fences, Stump Grinding, and Concrete. RoofingMetal or Shingles, Indoor or Outdoor Remodeling & Repairs. House Painting. Pressure Washing. Insured, Call for free estimate. 903-2276940, 903-227-8369 or 903-486-2868.

FLEX BASE

6 Yards Flex Base: $350 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

HANDY ANDY VENTURES,LLC

Drywall Repairs, Painting, Carpentry, Remodeling. No Job Too Small. 40 yrs. Experience. References. Call 352-208-8832

PUBLIC AUCTIONS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 @ 11:00 am LAKE COUNTRY STORAGE 1582 Rec Rd 3, Bonham, TX

Complete contents (nice furniture, lots of saddles, western items, tools and misc. household items) of self-storage units will be sold to satisfy landlord’s lien. Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale. Unit’s contents sold for cash to the highest bidder. Cleanup deposit is required. Property includes the unit contents belonging to the following tenants: Michele R Sewell, Tim Petty

PUBLIC SALE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Rick’s Towing LLC will Hold a public sale on: Wednesday January 21, 2026 @10:00 am

Rick’s Towing LLC VSF 103 N Main St. Bonham TX 75418 Items may be sold at any time or date after this posting.

1997 Dodge Intrepid #8263

JAN 2026

In December, Dr. Hayes went to the AAEP American Association of Equine Practitioners meeting in Denver. Attending this event enabled her to complete the required annual 20 hours of CE Continuing Education.

She would like to share some highlights from the meeting.

EHV1 Equine Herpes virus update

The EHV1 virus is spread 80% in the air and 20% on surfaces from the nasal passages and

REAL ESTATE

123 ACRES FOR SALE in FANNIN COUNTY

On Highway 11 near Wolfe City. Ponds, barns, gravel roads. $4.765 million. 214-803-6214

PINE RUN APARTMENTS

Now taking applications for 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. Please call 903-378-7146

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

3 BEDROOM + 1 BATH HOUSEHONEY GROVE All-electric with 1-bay parking garage. Includes small storage w/ concrete floor and secure double deadbolt locking door. Rent: $1,200/month Deposit: $500. Located at East Commerce & South 14th Street. Text for more info: 903-227-6133

tears of infected horses. Once exposed, the horse becomes infected in 2 days and can start shedding virus with no signs of fever. In some cases, 7 days later, the horse may develop a fever and spike a temperature. Exposed horses need to be quarantined for 21-28 days.

The virus likes to live in cool damp conditions. It lives 48 hours on surfaces such as clothes, buckets, blankets, bridles etc. The virus is killed by disinfectants such as Lysol or a 1-part bleach to 10-part water dilution. Sunlight (UV light) kills the virus. Clean the tack, brushes, etc. then put them in the sunlight.

EHV1 vaccine (Rhino, Pneumabort) does not prevent the virus infection but will reduce the viremia (virus in the body) and nasal shedding of the virus. Vaccination of many horses will decrease the presence of EHV1 virus in the general population of horses.

EHV1 usually causes respiratory disease but some strains of EHV1 can cause the neurologic disease EHM Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy. The neurologic form is caused by inflammation of the blood vessels and blood clots in the spinal cord, resulting in a lack of blood flow and damage to the spinal cord. Signs are fever, swelling of the legs, hindlimb weakness, urine dribbling, and inability to stand. 60-70% of EHM affected horses recover with treatment.

The EDCC Equine Disease Communication Center website provides confirmed cases and status of various equine diseases by state. Texas had 30 EHM cases during the outbreak. There are currently no new cases in Texas as of January 4, 2026. The EDCC did an excellent job of reporting cases. The Texas Animal Health Commission also did an excellent job of contacting exposed horses’ owners and quarantining, which stopped the outbreak by Dec 11.

As of January 6th, most states have lifted the restrictions in place following the EHV1 outbreak. Some states still require a statement on the health certificate that the horse has not been exposed to EHV1 in the past 21 days. It has always been our practice to call the destination state to confirm entry requirements before issuing a health certificate.

CONSTRUCTION

Temple Grandin

Dr Hayes was fortunate to attend a lecture where Temple Grandin was the keynote speaker on animal behavior. Ms. Grandin, who is autistic, is an American academic, inventor, and animal behaviorist. She has written several books, where she explores the animal connections between their behavior and her experiences with autism. In her speech, she said that horses as prey animals use sight and smell and it is important that owners realize that. Sudden new objects are scary to the horse. She recommends walking or riding the horse past it until the horse relaxes, no matter how long it takes. Shadows, going into a dark barn from the daylight, into the dark trailer, or towards the rising or setting sun are issues for the horse. They must process and overcome the fear factor. If the horse has bad memories of trailer loading, change the location of the trailer. If using a small, enclosed trailer change to a bigger stock sided one and use treat training. Reward good behavior only, not the bad. Rewarding bad behavior with treats just reinforces that behavior. Give treats as a reward when the horse does something good.

Ms. Grandin explains that horses have these emotions: fear, rage, panic (separation anxiety), seeking (exploring, curiosity), lust (breeding), caring and play. The first day in a new place or changing stall location is often stressful and takes a day for the horse to settle in. A horse with fear or uncertainty produces less manure. The commercially available compression body wrap Haematex back on track or the Tellingto Touch figure 8 wrap does decrease anxiety in the horse. Ms. Grandin invented the “hug” box that squeezes the animal which reduces anxiety. Ms. Grandin has, because of her autism, transformed the livestock handling industry and contributed to the awareness and acceptance of autism. Her life story is adapted in the movie “Temple Grandin”. We highly recommend watching it.

Castration signs: January 1722, Weather permitting.

ADVERTISEMENT AND INVITATION FOR BIDS

The City of Windom will receive bids for Bois D’Arc, Wood, 1st, and 2nd Street Rehabilitation until 3:00 p.m. on February 12, 2026, at Windom City Hall, 406 Main Street, Windom, TX 75492 where bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

Bids are invited for several unit price items of work, including approximately 3,692 SY of HMAC, 4,314 LF of ditch grading, and related appurtenances.

Bid/Contract Documents, including Drawings and Technical Specifications are on file at the following places:

City Hall, 406 Main Street, Windom, TX 75492 Hayter Engineering, Inc., 4445 SE Loop 286, Paris, TX 75460, 903-785-0303.

Contract Documents are available for free download at www.civcastusa.com

It is the responsibility of the BIDDER to contact Hayter Engineering to be placed on a planholder’s list to ensure that the BIDDER is notified of any potential addenda for the project.

A bid bond in the amount of 5 percent of the bid issued by an acceptable surety shall be submitted with each bid [for those contracts that exceed $100,000]. A certified check or bank draft payable to the City of Windom or negotiable U.S. Government Bonds (as par value) may be submitted in lieu of the Bid Bond.

The project to be constructed will be financed with assistance from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and is subject to all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations. Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing (Davis-Bacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as issued by the Department of Labor and contained in the contract documents, must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. Adherence to the grant recipient’s Section 3 Policy is required for contracts and subcontracts.

All contractors/subcontractors that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any activity in part or in full under this project. Minority Business Enterprises, Small Business Enterprises, and Women Business Enterprises, and Historically Underutilized Business firms are encouraged to submit bids.

Any contract(s) awarded under the Ad for Bids is/are subject to the Buy America Build America Act (BABA), section 70914 of Public Law No. 117-58, §§ 70901-52.

The City of Windom reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Bids may be held by City of Windom for a period not to exceed 90 calendar days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder’s qualifications prior to the contract award.

City of Windom

Liena Fox, Mayor January 20, 2026 & January 27, 2026

Celebrate America’s 250th with the Texas Historical Commission

Austin, TX - As the United States prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of its founding, the Texas Historical Commission (THC) is proud to announce a series of patriotic events honoring the real stories of Texas and its contributions to the nation’s past.

Below is a list of some events happening at the THC’s historic sites. For a complete list of events, go to www.thc. texas.gov/america250

Big Fat Quiz of the U.S.A., Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site

Show off your knowledge of America during the Big Fat Quiz of the U.S.A. at the Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site in Bonham from 5:30 –6:30 p.m. January 23, 2026. The site is looking for four teams of two to answer questions about America, from history to culture and everything in between. Registration costs $1 and is required. To register, call 903-583-5558 or email Margo.McCutcheon@ thc.texas.gov. The deadline to register is January 7.

History At Home: Preserving Family Photographs and Documents, French Legation State Historic Site

Along with celebrating the 250th anniversary of the nation and the impending 200th anniversary of Texas, the French Legation State Historic Site in Austin is also honoring local and family history from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. January 24, 2026. In this second session of the site’s Genealogy Research series, learn how to store and preserve photographs and timeless documents or learn how

Family Violence

Affects the Children

PLEASE ... if you need help dealing with personal problems or you need help coping with your children, seek help!

“At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents.”

- Jane Dee Hull

Children depend on the adults around them for protection, guidance and a feeling of belonging.

Children flourish in a positive environment!!

Call for help. There is never any shame in saving a young life from pain and despair.

Fannin County Family Crisis Center

903-583-7694

24 Hour Hotline

903-583-7000

to scan them to preserve them digitally. Standard admission is required.

Historic Preservation: How Americans Honor the Past, Fulton Mansion State Historic Site Join visitors and staff at Fulton Mansion State Historic Site in Rockport from 2–3 p.m. February 17, 2026, for a lecture that explores how Americans uniquely mark historic eras like the 1976 Bicentennial, the 1936 Texas Centennial, and the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The lecture examines how these anniversaries have transformed educational and physical landscapes, as well as the ways to highlight and preserve history in your own community.

"The Republic of Texas is no more." 180th Anniversary of Texas Statehood, Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site

Celebrate the anniversary of Texas becoming a state at Washington-on-the-Brazos

State Historic Site, where Texas became Texas. On February 19, 1846, Anson Jones lowered the Texas flag and raised the American flag, signifying the end of the Republic of Texas. While this event happened in Austin, the groundwork for Texas’ annexation happened while Washington was the capital. The site will have its own American flag raising in front of Hatfield’s Exchange, and readings of Anson Jones’ speech at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. For more information, please contact Tynan Shadle at tynan.shadle@thc.texas. gov or at 936-878-2214, ext. 224.

America 250 with TimeTraveling Quills, Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site

Celebrate 250 years of American history with a hands-on history experience at Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site in Paris from 10–11 a.m. and 2–3 p.m. March 10-13, 2026. Kids will step back in time as they write or draw using real quills and ink on parchment paper. Creative prompts will inspire thoughtful reflections and a bit of imaginative time travel. The cost of the event is $3 per person. About the Texas Historical Commission

The Texas Historical Commission is the state's official

historic preservation agency. It preserves, operates, and manages 42 state historic sites, the Texas Heritage Trails Program, Texas Main Street Program, Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, and many more heritage tourism and historic preservation initiatives across the state. The Texas Historical Commission's mission is to protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, enjoyment, and economic benefit of present and future generations. For more information, visit thc.texas.gov

We love our members and more members are needed (Age 18 and up)

Come join the Friends who support our seniors. Make new friends just like you! They use their time and talents to support senior activities and be a part of fund raisers. It will improve your social life and theirs. We meet at the Bonham Texas Senior Center every 1st Monday of each month at 3:00 PM. (210 E 6th Street). If you are unable to give of your time please consider a tax deductible donation. Questions: text Jan at 972-529-0282. Submitted by Jan Johnson, President

Bonham Texas Senior Center 972-529-0282

Mail: 210 E 6th Street, Bonham, 75418

LEGAL NOTICE

Texoma Housing Partners is accepting sealed bids for water line upgrades on property located in Honey Grove, Texas. For bid specifications or any questions, please email Weston Bush at wbush@texomahousing.org. Bids must be received by 5:00 PM on January 29, 2026, at 814 W. 16th Bonham, Tx 75418.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

FOR AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 14 ZONING ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:

1/13/26

The City of Leonard Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing, on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 6:30 P.M.; and if approved by the Commission, the City Council for the City of Leonard will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:30 P.M. at the Leonard City Hall Council Chambers located at 111 West Collin Street, Leonard, Texas giving all interested persons the right to appear and be heard on the amendment of Chapter 14 zoning ordinance. Of all said matters and things, all persons interested in the things and matters herein mentioned will take notice.

Repealing Section 35.2 “Planning and Zoning Commission,” of Chapter 14A “Zoning Ordinance” to create a new Section 35.2. to amend Planning and Zoning Commission authority.

You may attend the meetings shown above and make comments for or against the proposed changes. You may also send written comments before the date of the meeting to the City, in person at 111 West Collin Street, Leonard, Texas 75452, or by mail at PO Box 1270 Leonard, TX 75452, or by email at citysec@cityofleonard. net

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT (NORI)

PROPOSED AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBER 182636

APPLICATION Martin Marietta Texas Ready-Mix, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for: Issuance of Permit 182636

1/20/26

This application would authorize continued operation of the Concrete Batch Plant located at 9111 South Highway 121, Trenton, Fannin County, Texas 75490 This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=96.2747,33.4679&level=13. The facility will emit the following contaminants: particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less.

This application was submitted to the TCEQ on January 7, 2026. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Dallas/Fort Worth regional office, and the Bonham Public Library, 305 East 5th Street, Bonham, Fannin County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Dallas/Fort Worth regional office of the TCEQ. The application, including any updates, is available electronically at the following webpage: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/airpermit-applications-notices

The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application.

PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments.

PUBLIC MEETING. You may request a public meeting to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or ask questions about the application. A public meeting about the application will be held if requested by an interested person and the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing.

After technical review of the application is complete, the executive director may prepare a draft permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application. If a draft Air Quality Permit is prepared, a Notice of Application and Preliminary Decision is required and it will then be published and mailed to those who made comments, submitted hearing requests or are on the mailing list for this application and will contain the final deadline for submitting public comments.

OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, and daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing”; (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or an association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns.

The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 30 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after the mailing of the response to comments.

If a hearing request is timely filed, following the close of all applicable comment and request periods, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.

MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list to receive future public notices for this specific application by sending a written request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14. tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040. You can also view our website for public participation opportunities at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/participation

Further information may also be obtained from Martin Marietta Texas Ready-Mix, LLC, 1503 LBJ Freeway, Suite 400, Dallas, Texas 75234-6007 or by calling Mrs. Melissa Fitts, Senior Vice President, Westward Environmental, Inc. at (830) 249-8284.

Notice Issuance Date: January 9, 2026

2025: A Year of Major Construction Milestones

Finishing a milestone year and forging into 2026

Lake Ralph Hall Current News - 2025 was a critical year for Lake Ralph Hall, with visible progress on every part of the project. Below is a snapshot of the year’s achievements.

LEON HURSE DAM & SPILLWAY

National Central Road

mi.E of present Ladonia), coming eastward to make abrupt north turn here and push over Sulphur River at crossing named for Isaac Lyday, who came here in 1836. A small segment of the road may still be seen (1972) skirting Lyday Cemetery in the W. D. Wehrmann, Jr., pasture, just east of FM 904, southwest of Dial. Location: The marker was stolen. It was previously located at the juncture of FM 904 and Highway 64.

Crews made significant progress on the dam and spillway, finishing most of the project’s dirt and concrete work. Progress details:

● Dirt work: Nearly finished, with a total of 5 million cubic yards of soil.

● Spillway (to release water downstream): To be completed early next year.

● Soil cement protection: 46 percent added as a protective layer on top of the dam.

● Intake tower: Almost finished, with pipes to be added in 2026.

THE WATER CONVEYANCE SYSTEM (From Lake to Treatment)

The conveyance system was mostly completed this year.

Progress details:

Pipeline: Completed, undergoing testing and commissioning.

Pump station building: Completed, undergoing testing and commissioning.

Balancing Reservoir: Earthwork and major structures mostly finished, with final completion in early 2026.

Full System Testing: The entire water delivery system is undergoing final testing.

LAKE ADMINISTRATION

& VISITOR BUILDINGS

The maintenance building is complete, and designs for the Lake Ralph Hall Visitor Center and Office were finalized. Progress details: Lake Visitor Center/ Office: Designs were finalized in 2025, with plans to break ground in early 2026. Parking lot construction started this winter.

Maintenance Building: Built from the ground up this year.

MITIGATION & RECREATIONAL OFFERINGS

Environmental improvements (mitigation) construction to be completed in early 2026, beginning the required seven years of monitoring. Construction of public lake access points began in late 2025, with completion scheduled for early 2027. Progress details:

● Stream Restoration: Ninety percent of the restored streams are flowing, with vegetation and trees taking root. Remaining streams and planting will be completed in early 2026.

● Permanent Ladonia Fossil Park: Constructed this year, including river

access, parking, fencing, and a pavilion. Hosted first Fossil Day celebration.

● Shoreline Management Plans/Recreational Lake Access: Draft shoreline management plans drafted, and public access areas being planned.

● Boat Ramps & Fishing Jetty: Boat ramp locations were selected and construction is underway. The fishing jetty is already completed.

LOOKING AHEAD

Lake Ralph Hall is well on its way to securing a longterm, reliable water supply for generations to come.

Both the dam and water delivery system are nearly finished, with the lake on schedule to begin filling in 2026 and delivering water later in the year. Recreation and public access will open later, once the lake is filled and safe for recreational use.

Taking the Dam and Spillway to New Heights THE SPILLWAY

Crews are completing the top section of Lake Ralph Hall’s spillway, the structure that will occasionally carry water out of the lake and downstream. This final portion requires 31,000 cubic yards of rollercompacted concrete— enough to cover a football field nearly 15 feet deep!

Once the stepped concrete surface reaches elevation 540, crews will install a labyrinth weir on top. This zigzag shaped concrete structure is 13 feet tall and controls how water leaves the lake to help the dam

keep the lake at its ideal maximum water level. The weir carefully regulates water releases between 551 and 553 feet above sea level, while still allowing high water above 553 feet to safely pass downstream. Leon Hurse Dam Spillway, showing the zigzag labyrinth weir, intake and spillway. During construction, water from the North Sulphur River is being rerouted through three large pipes located at the bottom of the new intake structure. The water is temporarily flowing through a not-yet-finished opening on the reservoir’s north side and downstream. THE EARTHEN AND CONCRETE DAM

The concrete part of the dam is also progressing quickly—crews are adding about 2 vertical feet of concrete each day onsite. The dam to the right of the spillway is already complete, and the left side is now about 25 feet from its final height.

Workers are also finishing the northern sections of the dam and the final dirt work near the old North Sulphur River Channel. They are topping the earthen embankment with a protective layer of soil cement.

All major dirt and concrete work on the primary dam is planned to wrap up by the end of this year, with spillway completion anticipated in the first few months of 2026.