News from CCMC
10/26/2009
  I haven’t written about our “Pink Ladies” for a while, but it’s not because they haven’t been busy helping our hospital. By the way, if you haven’t been in their gift shop lately, you owe it to yourself to go and see what beautiful jewelry they have, not to mention a lot of other things, including Christmas items!
  What do they do with the money they make from the gift shop and their other activities such as the Christmas Tour of Homes that will be coming up this year? They help purchase equipment for the hospital. Their latest purchase is a new hospital bed – not just any old hospital bed, but one that will lower so the patient can put both feet on the floor. The patient can also be weighed in it, and there are a lot of other features such as a bed alarm that, when programmed, can notify the nurses when a patient is trying to get out of bed without assistance.
  We now have several of these wonderful beds, and will have more in the future. They are replacing beds that are almost older than I am (well, maybe not quite that old, but 20 to 30 years old!)
Thank you, CCMC Ladies Auxiliary!

District Cross County Postponed
10/26/2009
The District 8-AA District Cross Country Meet in Brady has been POSTPONED until tomorrow, Tuesday, October 27th. High School will run at 10:00 a.m. and Jr. High will run at 4:00 p.m.

LOCAL DOG WINS BEST OF SHOW IN UTAH
10/26/2009 
  It was a long trip, but Mona Watts and her friends with the Texas Heat Pit Bull Club of Abilene took their Pit Bull Terriers to Salt Lake City in late September for the American Dog Breeders Association’s 100th Year Anniversary Birthday Bash. It was worth the effort. Watts’ show dog, Double Snort, won first place in the Judges Choice in a class of 24 dogs. He also won first in his class in the two- to three-year old males. But that was not enough for Double Snort. He also won Best in Show.
 The American Dog Breeders Association is the largest registration office for the American Pit Bull Terrier. The Association is responsible for making the American Pit Bull Terrier the number one breed of dog exhibited in the United States through conformation dog shows and weight pulling events.
  Watts is the animal control officer in Coleman and has been breeding Pit Bull Terriers for 20 years. She knows the breed has a reputation for being dangerous and unpredictable, but, according to Watts, it is strictly a matter of how the dogs are raised and trained. She has no qualms about letting her Pits around her children and grandchildren.
  Even though Watts is a reputable and caring breeder of the American Pit Bull, she is still well aware that too many Pits are being bred by irresponsible owners with little concern about how they are trained or treated. “I put too many Pits and Pit mixes down at the shelter, and I wish more people would get their Pits neutered if they are not registered breeding dogs.”

Two car accidents end in fatalities in Runnels County
10/26/2009 
Accident 1:
  ONE PERSON WAS KILLED AND THREE INJURED IN A ONE VEHICLE ROLLOVER TEN MILES NORTH OF WINTERS, TEXAS. THE CRASH OCCURRED SATURDAY AT 9:46 P.M. ON US 83.
DECEASED:
1. LINDA SUE ARMSTRONG, 54 YEARS OF AGE FROM ABILENE, TEXAS. ARMSTONG WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE AT 10:15 P.M. BY JUDGE HAMILTON. HER BODY WAS TAKEN TO WINTERS FUNERAL HOME IN WINTERS. THIS SEAT BELT WAS NOT WORN.
INJURED:
1. (DRIVER) JENNIFER ZAMOSKY BAKER, 43 YEARS OF AGE FROM ABILENE, TEXAS. BAKER WAS TAKEN TO HENDRICK MEDICAL CENTER WITH HEAD INJURIES. THIS SEAT BELT WAS NOT WORN.
2. RICHARD DALE BRANNON, 50 YEARS OF AGE FROM BROWNWOOD, TEXAS. BRANNON WAS TAKEN TO HENDRICK MEDICAL CENTER FOR UNKNOWN INJURIES. THIS SEAT BELT WAS NOT WORN.
3. JEROME ELLIOTT RANALLO, 19 YEARS OF AGE FROM ABILENE, TEXAS. RANALLO WAS TAKEN TO HENDRICK MEDICAL CENTER FOR UNKNOWN INJURIES. THIS SEAT BELT WAS NOT WORN.
VEHICLE INVOLVED;
1. 2007 CHEVROLET FOUR DOOR DRIVEN BY JENNIFER ZAMOSKY BAKER.
  SYNOPSIS;
THE CHEVROLET WAS TRAVELING NORTH ON US 83. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, LEFT THE ROADWAY AND OVERTURNED. THE WEATHER WAS CLEAR AND THE ROADWAY WAS DRY. THIS CRASH IS UNDER INVESTIGATION BY TROOPER BRIAN GAHAGAN.
Accident 2:
  ONE PERSON WAS KILLED AND SIX INJURED IN A TWO VEHICLE HEAD ON CRASH TWO MILES WEST OF WINTERS, TEXAS. THE CRASH OCCURRED SUNDAY AT 6:09 P.M. ON SH 153.
DECEASED:
1. (DRIVER OF THE PONTIAC) KERA DANIELLE MARTIN, 22 YEARS OF AGE FROM ROTAN, TEXAS. MARTIN WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE AT 6:30 P.M. BY JUDGE HAMILTON. HER BODY WAS TAKEN TO WINTERS FUNERAL HOME IN WINTERS. THE SEAT BELT WAS WORN.
INJURED: (ALL WERE IN THE CHEVROLET SUBURBAN AND TAKEN TO RUNNELS HOSPITAL IN WINTERS, TEXAS)
1. (DRIVER OF THE CHEVROLET SUBURBAN) LINDELL EDGAR LEE, JR., 63 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. LEE HAS CHEST INJURIES. THE SEAT BELT WAS WORN.
2. AMY WHITTLE, 35 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. WHITTLE HAS A BROKEN LEG AND WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT.
3. TATUM WHITTLE, 2 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. SHE HAS MINOR INJURIES AND WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT.
4. JENCIE DIANE LEE, 59 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. LEE HAS A BROKEN ARM AND WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT.
5. ALAYNA WHITTLE, 5 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. SHE HAS MINOR INJURIES AND WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT.
6. SIDNEY WHITTLE, 8 YEARS OF AGE FROM IDALOU, TEXAS. SHE HAS MINOR INJURIES AND WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT.
VEHICLES INVOLVED;
1. 2008 PONTIAC DRIVEN BY KERA DANIELLE MARTIN OF ROTAN, TEXAS.
2. 2004 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN DRIVEN BY LINDELL EDGAR LEE, JR. OF IDALOU, TX.
  SYNOPSIS;
THE PONTIAC WAS TRAVELING EAST. THE CHEVROLET WAS TRAVELING WEST. THE PONTIAC TRAVELED ACROSS THE CENTER STRIPE INTO THE PATH OF THE CHEVROLET, CAUSING THE HEAD-ON CRASH. THE CHEVROLET SUBURBAN ROLLED OVER ONTO ITS SIDE. THE WEATHER WAS CLEAR AND THE ROADWAY WAS DRY. THIS CRASH IS UNDER INVESTIGATION BY TROOPER MICHAEL GRAY.

Names needed for military Christmas project
10/26/2009 
The First Baptist Church led by the Unity Sunday School Class is packing boxes to be sent to our service people in Iraq and Afghanistan. These boxes will be shipped in the next few weeks so they will arrive by Christmas. The class is in need of mailing addresses for these military heroes. We are asking if any of you have names and addresses of soldiers in Iraq or Afghanistan to please send or take them to the office of the First Baptist Church. Military in these two countries will receive priority mailing with military in other countries or aboard ships being considered next. Please take names by the office, entry back of building, OR mail them to Church at P.O.Box 983, Coleman, Tx. 76834.

COOKIE DOUGH DELIVERY TIME IS HERE!!
10/26/2009 
  The kids did a GREAT job selling this year and we would like to thank you for helping them with this fundraiser!!! The Cookie Dough Fundraiser Products will be delivered to the school on Tuesday, October 27th. They will be available for you/your student to pick them up after school on that day. Please realize that these products will need to be delivered to the customers who ordered them that day or you will need to find freezer space to keep the product cold. DO NOT give the product to the customer without FIRST receiving their money or them having pre-paid. When your child picks up their cookie dough they need to make sure the products they have match what was ordered (they will get their original order form back).
  After you make sure all their products are there they can sign them out and take them. Please make sure that if you have any discrepancies to let us know so we can fix them. If your child normally rides the bus, it may be a good idea to make other arrangements for that day. They will be allowed to come to the band hall earlier that day to pick their orders up but many of them sold a large amount of cookie dough and may not be able to carry it all by themselves on the bus. If you are unable to make other arrangements please let us know and we will work to accommodate their needs. We will be at the band hall for Cookie Dough Pickup until 6pm.
  We understand that this may interrupt plans you have already made but your dedication and sacrifice helps the Coleman Band Program be what it is. THANK YOU!
If you have ANY questions or concerns please call or stop by the band hall. We are here for you!
  Sincerely,
  Jerry Everett
  Band Director
  325-625-2156 ext. 206
  Liz Braquet,
  Assistant Band Director
  325-625-2156 ext. 219

Coleman County Football Scores
10/24/2009
Coleman 24     Brady 61
Santa Anna 54     Robert Lee 38
Panther Creek 60     Paint Rock 14
Novice 0     Highland 58

Coleman Elementary and Junior High Book Fair Scheduled
10/23/2009 
  Coleman Elem.-Jr. High Library will be hosting a Scholastic Book Fair on Oct. 26-30. Hours for the book fair will be from 8:00-3:40 on Monday-Thursday, closing for lunch from 12:30-1:05. On Friday, the book fair will be open from 8:00-12:30.
  For a preview, go to our special web page at http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/bluecats
  Parents are welcome to come to the book fair at any time during the school day. Special family times will be on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 7:30-8:00. The public is invited to attend the book fair at any time.
  Credit cards will be accepted. Checks should be made out to C.I.S.D. Please remember to add tax if you are sending a check with your child.
  Proceeds from the book fair will go towards the purchase of new library books.

Class of 1964 Reunion
10/23-24/2009
October 23-24, 2009 - Coleman High School Class of 1964 - 45th Reunion.
If you have any questions regarding this, contact Polly (Baulch) Salyards (432) 366-7651

COLEMAN COUNTY FSA NEWS
10/23/2009
APPOINTMENTS
The Coleman County FSA office is requesting producers to please make an appointment to sign up for all programs. Appointments are used to maximize time so that producers may be assisted more efficiently. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please call 325-625-4197, extension #2 to schedule an appointment.
2009 COUNTY COMMITTEE ELECTIONS
Election Time Table
November 6 – Election ballots mailed to eligible voters
December 7 – Final date to return ballots to FSA Office
January 1 – Elected Committee members takes office
  The Coleman County FSA election held in December will choose a representative from Local Administrative Area (LAA) 3 to serve on the County Committee. This area in Coleman County is located south of US Highway 153 (Glen Cove) and west of FM Highway 2131 (Shields) to the county line. Nominees for the COC position are:
  Sue Ewing has been nominated in LAA #3, Coleman, to serve as COC member for 2010-2012. Ms. Ewing resides in Coleman County, LAA #3 and has produced wheat, oats, grain sorghum, cotton, sudan, coastal, and livestock. Ms. Ewing has been involved in agriculture for 28 years. Ms. Ewing has served as an Advisor to the Coleman County Committee since 2002. Ms. Ewing is willing to serve if elected.
  Greg Wilson has been nominated in LAA #3, Coleman, to serve as COC member for 2010-2012. Mr. Wilson resides in Coleman County, LAA #3 and has produced wheat, oats, grain sorghum, cotton, sudan and livestock. Mr. Wilson has been involved in agriculture for 27 years. Mr. Wilson has served on the Ballinger Coop Board of Directors from 2003 to 2006 as well as serving as a COC Member from 2007 - 2009. Mr. Wilson is willing to serve if elected.
  The election of agricultural producers to FSA county committees is important to ALL farmers and ranchers with large or small operations. It is crucial that every eligible producer take part in this election because County Committees are a direct link between the farm community and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Forms and fact sheets regarding the COC election process are available at: www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/webapp?area=newsroom&subject=landing&topic=cce.
Vote and make a difference!
LIVESTOCK FORAGE DISASTER PROGRAM
  Coleman County producers are eligible for assistance under the new Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) for the 2009 year. LFP compensates eligible livestock producers who suffer grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought conditions or due to fire on federally managed land.
  In order to qualify for program benefits, the LFP applicant must have purchased coverage through FSA’s Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) or through the Pasture Rangeland and Forage Insurance (PRF-RI) program offered through the Risk Management Agency (RMA).
  For the 2009 year, applications must be filed no later than 30 days after the end of the calendar year in which the grazing losses occurred. Additional information about LFP is available at www.fsa.usda.gov or just give us a call at the office.
FARM STORAGE FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM CHANGES
  The Farm Storage Facility Loan (FSFL) program allows producers of eligible commodities to obtain low-interest financing to build or upgrade farm storage and handling facilities. The new maximum principle amount of a loan through FSFL is $500,000. Participants are required to provide a minimum down payment of 15 percent, with CCC providing a loan for the remaining 85 percent of the net cost of the eligible storage facility and permanent drying and handling equipment. New loan terms of 7, 10, or 12 years are available depending on the amount of the loan. Interest rates for each term rate may be different and are based on the rate which CCC borrows from the Treasury. Commodities eligible for FSFL’s are corn, grain sorghum, rice, soybeans, oats, peanuts, wheat, barley, hay, renewable biomass, fruits, and vegetables.
MARKETING ASSISTANCE LOANS
  A Marketing Assistance Loan (MAL) is available for producers who share in the risk of producing a crop. To be eligible, a producer must maintain beneficial interest in the crop from harvest through the earlier of the date the loan is repaid or CCC takes title to the commodity. Beneficial interest means retaining the ability to make decisions about the commodity; responsibility for loss or damage to the commodity; and title to the commodity. Once beneficial interest in a commodity is lost, the commodity is ineligible for loan – even if the producer regains beneficial interest.
ACREAGE SPOT CHECK DETERMINATIONS AND NOTIFICATION
  Each year the Farm Service Agency spot checks acreage reports. Acreage reports are an important part of farm program participation. Spot checks are completed to ensure accurate reports are used in farm program computations. FSA will check acreage reports for a selected number of farms in each state. All acreage determinations will be completed using the FSA Geographic Information System official acreages. After farms are spot checked, a Notice of Determined Acreage will be sent to the farm Operator. Producer notifications will be issued by the FSA as spot checks are completed. Questions concerning determined acres should be directed to your local FSA office for further explanation
2009 DCP/ACRE FARM PROGRAM SIGN-UP
  Signup has begun for the 2010 DCP/ACRE program. Beginning October 1, producers could begin signing up for the 2010 program. Producers who wish to signup for 2010 should first contact the FSA Office to schedule an appointment to complete their DCP/ACRE contract.
INSURANCE REQUIREMENT FOR GRAZING CROPS
  If you wish to maintain eligibility for Livestock Disaster Programs, you must insure your grazing acres through either NAP or the Federal crop insurance rainfall policies. Please keep this in mind and watch the NAP and FCIC closing dates to be sure that you don’t miss out on eligibility.
FINAL DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR 2009 DCP
  Enrolled producers can expect their final direct payments to be deposited directly into their personal bank accounts sometime during the next two weeks.
FSA SIGNATURE POLICY
Using the correct signature when doing business with FSA can save time and prevent a delay in program benefits. The following are FSA signature guidelines:
• A married woman shall sign her given name: Mrs. Mary Doe, not Mrs. John Doe
• For a minor, FSA requires the minor’s signature and one from an eligible parent. Note, by signing the applicable document, the parent is liable for actions of the minor and may be liable for refunds, liquidated damages, etc.
• When signing on one’s behalf the signature must agree with the name typed or printed on the form, or be a variation that does not cause the name and signature to be in disagreement. Example – John W. Smith is on the form. The signature may be John W. Smith or J.W. Smith or J. Smith. Or Mary J. Smith may be signed as Mrs. Mary Joe Smith, M. J. Smith, Mary Smith, etc.
• FAXED signatures will be accepted for certain forms and other documents provided the acceptable program forms are approved for FAXED signatures. Producers are responsible for the successful transmission and receipt of FAXED information. Example of documents NOT approved for FAXED signatures include: Promissory notes, Assignment of payments, Joint Payment authorizations, NAP actual production history and approved yield records, Acknowledgement of commodity certificate purchases, Financing statements, UCC financing statements.
• Spouses may sign documents on behalf of each other for FSA and CCC programs in which either has an interest, unless written notification denying a spouse this authority has been provided to the county office.
• Spouses shall not sign on behalf of each other as an authorized signature for partnerships, joint ventures, corporations, or other similar entities.
• Spouses may sign on behalf of each other’s individual interest in a partnership, unless notification denying a spouse that authority is provided to the county office.
• Acceptable signatures for general partnerships, joint ventures, corporations, estates, and trusts shall consist of an indicator “by” or “for” the individuals name, individual’s name and capacity, or individual’s name, capacity, and name of entity.

Coleman Cowboys advance to third round in TYFL playoffs
10/23/2009
Coleman Cowboys (5th & 6th grade) advance to the third round of the TYFL playoffs.  They will face Brady this Saturday at 2:30 in Zephyr.  A win will advance them to the championship game on the 31st at Gordon Wood Stadium in Brownwood. 
Game 1:  Cowboys 24  Brownwood Maroon 16
Game 2:  Cowboys 22  Comanche 6
Game 3:  Cowboys 44  Brownwood Silver
Game 4:  Cowboys 0    Brownwood White 14
Playoffs
Round 1:  Bye
Round 2:  Cowboys 24  Brownwood Maroon 18

9th Annual Trick or Treat for Rehab this Tuesday
10/23/2009
The 9th Annual Trick or Treat for Rehab will be held Tuesday, October 27th from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.. Coleman High School student council members will be going door to door collecting donations for the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. The students will have proper identification with them.

Coleman Pre-K visits the Coleman Fire Department
10/22/2009
Coleman Elementary Pre-K classes went on a field trip to the Coleman Fire Station on Thursday, October 22, 2009. They heard a presentation on fire safety from Buster Hensley. Students and teachers crawled through a smoke filled room to practice getting under the smoke. They got to climb into a fire truck (which the four year olds said was a huge truck). They got to meet “Fire Pup” and see fire fighting tools. Mr. Hensley and Mrs. Beal even slid down the fire pole for them. Students received a packet on fire safety, jr. fire fighter badges and helmets from the fire department to make “Fire Safety Week” more fun and memorable.

Coleman High School Institutes New Award Program for Students
10/22/2009
   Coleman High School has a new award program in place to recognize   student leaders each six weeks.
   The criteria to be recognized is no failures but does not have to  be in the top of the class, no ISS/DAEP or disciplinary referrals and  teacher recommended.  The teachers are looking for students that are  respectful, good citizens, not usually or necessarily recognized for  other achievements or awards, someone willing to go above and beyond  what is asked of them and shows initiative.
   The teachers nominate a boy and girl from each class - these  students are recognized as the Bluecat Pride.  The students that have  the most votes are the Bluecat Elite.
   For the first six weeks, the Bluecat Elite are: seniors - Reagan  Barr and Peyton Schumann; juniors - Victoria Cruz and Edgar Barrios;  sophomores - Kassidy Dean and Wayne Worsham; and freshmen - Nancy  Barrios and Don Kirkpatrick.
   The Bluecat Elite are honored at a lunch with superintendent Royce  Young and receive a Student Leadership certificate and gift card to  an eating establishment in Coleman.

Texas Department of State Health Services Will hold an
Immunization Clinic In Coleman Tuesday, November 24th!
10/22/2009
10-12 & 1:30-3
United Christian and Presbyterian Church
1609 Commercial
Please Bring Child's immunization Records. If child is on Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card. For more information please call 325-754-4945

Emmanuel Baptist Church Youth Revival to be Held Saturday, October 31st
10/19/2009
Contributed
  A Youth Revival will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Saturday, October 31st from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The subject will be: Abstinence. The church is located at the corner of 12th and Clow Streets in Coleman.
  We encourage you to come to a fun-filled night of activities, skits, spirit-filled teachings, music, games and plenty of food.  There will be plays, food, snacks, candy, clips, music performances, speeches, games, etc.
God bless you and hope to see you there!

New Laws for Texas Drivers
10/19/2009
Submitted by Christine Flynn
  Before we leave the house we check to see if we have the necessities – wallet, cell phone, and keys. While cell phones are a necessity to most of us, there are growing statistics of cell phone usage resulting in car accidents. The State Legislature has recognized concerns by passing new laws for Texas drivers.
  As of September 1st, House Bills 55 and 662 will change the way drivers use their cell phones. House Bill 55 prohibits drivers from using their cell phones in a school zone unless the vehicle is stopped or a hand -free device is used. However, each city and county is responsible to post a sign at the beginning of a school zone to notify drivers. House Bill 662 prohibits drivers under the age of 18 to use their cell phones without a hands-free device. Violating these new laws will result in fines up to $200.
  Not only are our cell phones just good for talking anymore. Now we can access our e-mails, the Internet, and text others. According to AAA’s agenda on their website, AAA aims to ban texting while driving in all states by 2013. Studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirm that cell phone usages while driving are related to car accidents reporting in 2008 “nearly 6,000 people died in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver and more than half a million were injured.”
  There are other laws that the state has passed including required seat belts for all occupants of a vehicle, child seat booster restrictions, and limited number of passengers and night driving for teens in their first licensed year. Some of these violations have fines up to $500. For more information on these new laws, go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website www.txdps.state.tx.us/. Be safe out there!

Novice's Fall Festival Planned for November 7th
10/19/2009
Novice will be having their annual Fall Festival on Saturday, November 7, 2009.  The festivities will begin at 6:00 in the High School Gym with the presentation of Fall Festival King and Queen.  At 6:30 the booths and activities will be opening up that include Cake Walk, a raffle for a picnic table, and the ever popular Bingo.  It's a great place to bring your kids and it's a wonderful fund raiser for the kids of Novice ISD.  We would really encourage everyone to come out and enjoy all of the festivities that we have to offer! 

FUMC Hosting Lord’s Acre Saturday from 9am to 2 pm
10/19/2009
  Members at Coleman First United Methodist Church invite you to their first ever Lord's Acre Day on Saturday, October 24 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
  Stew and cornbread will be served from 11:00 to 2:00. Come and listen to entertainment while you eat lunch. Tickets are now on sale for adults $5.00 and children $2.00 under 12.
  A country market will feature baked foods, arts and crafts. A silent auction will be held at the same time. Half of proceeds will go to Meals on Wheels, the Senior Center, and Loaves and Fishes. The other half will go towards a special church project.
  Bingo will be sponsored by the youth to help finance a mission trip. Cub Scout pack 226 will be selling packaged popcorn to support their program.
  Chairman Lee Ann Morton and Pastor Mike Kerzee invite you to come and have fun and support these worthy causes.

Former County Residents Observe 50th Wedding Anniversary on September 19
10/19/2009
--Contributed--
   Kenneth and Betty Shields chose to observe their 50th wedding  anniversary quietly at home on Saturday, September 19, 2009. On  Sunday they accepted the invitation to the home of their son, Keith  and wife, Liz, to enjoy their favorite card game, Phase-10, as well  as an afternoon and evening of TV - football, ending with two of their favorite teams competing.
   On Saturday, October 3, while enroute to a bowling tournament,  they were joined by daughter, Jo Ellen and fiance, Bryan, for  breakfast and visiting at The Iron  Skillet at Weatherford, in recognition of the earlier anniversary.
   Kenneth and Betty were married on Saturday, September 19, 1959, by Rev. V.D. Walters, in the home of Kenneth’s Aunt Maggie and Uncle Walter Strickland at Cross Plains, TX.
   Kenneth was born in the Sealy Hospital at Santa Anna, TX to the late Dave O. and Mary (Leonard) Shields. He attended school at Whon where he grew up and Santa Anna, except for a short time when the family lived at Colorado City, TX.
   Betty was born at home, in Leaday, TX, to the late Lester R. and Marie (Bell) Arnold. She attended the Coleman schools, except for the first semester of her junior year when the family lived in Odessa, TX where she attended Odessa High. She graduated with the Coleman High School Class of 1958.
   At age 19, Kenneth began his career in the oilfield, with Birdwell Well Servicing Co., and worked on various oilfield-related jobs in Coleman, as well as City of Coleman Sanitation Dept. and Gandy’s Dairies, as retail-route salesman and assistant wholesale-route salesman. In March, 1972, the family moved to Snyder, TX where he began his career with The Permian Corporation. After 30 years and 9 months as transport driver and/or relief-gauger, he retired in January, 2003 as lead-driver.
   At age 13, Betty became actively engaged as a baby-sitter. Once in high school, she began working as a waitress or car-hop, at times, at the local drive-in restaurants, after school and weekends, and at the downtown restaurants during summer vacations. After her marriage she continued this occupation, part-time, as necessary. In 1977, she accepted a position as nurse-aide in a nursing home and knew right away that was “her calling”. After receiving her nurse-aide certification, she attended classes at TSTI in Sweetwater, in 1982 and earned her medication-aide certification. She worked as nurse-aide/medication-aide until 1993 when she began private care, retiring in October 2000 due to mounting health issues.
   After retiring, Kenneth found time to resume his favorite hobby, bowling, which had been on hold for several years due to his work schedule. Along with league bowling he has become a participant in tournament-bowling, and together they are able to enjoy, long-delayed, sightseeing as they travel to these events.
   Both enjoy TV-football and reading the Chronicle and Democrat-Voice to keep informed of hometown news. Betty also enjoys crochet, Texas Crossword, Guideposts, and as always, Country Music.
   The couple has been blessed with four grandchildren, Christopher (now deceased) and Matthew Shields, and Tommy and Callie-Jo Butler. During their marriage they have lived in Coleman, Abilene, Snyder, Spur and Merkel (since 1975).

Big Blue Band receives Division I rating
10/19/2009
The Big Blue Band received a Division I rating on Saturday at UIL Region Marching Contest. The qualifies them for the Area Marching Contest in Georgetown this Saturday, October 24th. As soon as we know details, we will get them out to the public. In the meantime, THERE WILL BE AN EMERGENCY BAND BOOSTER MEETING TONIGHT (MONDAY, OCTOBER 19TH) AT 5:30 IN THE HIGH SCHOOL BAND HALL. All band parents are highly encouraged to attend!!

Church's Centennial Celebration draws enthusiastic crowd
10/19/2009
 The 100th anniversary of the Church celebration turned out just perfect. My father stayed up till 2am last night cooking all of the briskets and the older woman of the congregation cooked so many sides and deserts I didn’t get to try them all. I left service early to make sure the woman setting things up had it under control and realized the meat hadn’t been cut yet. I found Pastor Frasier’s electric knife and made way.
 After the fourth brisket was cut James showed up and took over for me. Friday I painted on the church in preparation for the celebration and James mentioned I got paint everywhere. I just wanted to point out that paint was already there before I painted. Our normal congregation on Sundays is around 15 people and more than 80 people showed up to celebrate. We had anticipated 100 people so when we were cleaning up Pastor Frasier mentioned we had enough food to do something next Sunday, I told him that wouldn’t be a good idea because next week was not a bi-week for the Cowboys. He laughed.
 We had a few guest speakers and one was full of jokes. Everyone got enough to eat and left on a good note and a full belly. It’s now almost 3pm by the time we got all the tables and chairs put away and the extra food stored. I plan to lay on the sofa and relax the remainder of the day. Here are a few pictures and thank everyone who came. It was a beautiful day to be outside.

Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club hears about "Beekeeping" and Breast CancerAwareness
10/17/2009
  The Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club held their monthly meeting at the Gouldbusk Community Center on October 8th. Club members present were: Lynn Corbett, Charlotte Fenton, Geneva Garrett, Sharon Greenlee, Geneva Harris, Wanda Jewell, Danella McBrayer, Pat Pool, Lynn Thompson, Pat Vance, and Deborah Yates.
  We also had 4 visitors: Wanda Dietrich, Reta Smith, Sarah Tisdale and Ernie Yates. Christin Burris, our county extension agent was also present. Geneva Garrett gave a brief program on "Breast Cancer Awareness" in memory of her daughter Cynthia Philpot, as October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.
  Following her presentation was a second presentation by Ernie Yates on "Beekeeping" We learned some interesting fact about bees. Thanks to both these individuals who gave of their time to educate us. After the programs we had a short business meeting. We adjourned at 3pm. Next months meeting will be at the home of Jimmy and Pat Pool on November 12th at 1pm. Shari Craig will be presenting a double program on "Food Garnishing and gifts from table to Tub". We would love to have anyone interested in either or both of these subjects to come check us out. We always look forward to having visitors so please feel free to call any of our members for directions.

Class of 1964 45th Reunion Next Week
10/17/2009
The CHS Class of 1964 will meet in Coleman October 23-24 for their 45th Reunion. Registration will be held at the City Park from 6-9 on Friday night, 10/23, with the Saturday activities being held at the Public Library. For more information, contact Poly (Baulch) Salyards at 432-638-4516.

Panther Creek and Santa Anna dominate, Coleman and Novice slip
10/16/2009
Coleman 14 Bangs 21
Santa Anna 48 Eden 0
Panther Creek 64 Brookesmith 14
Novice 38 Hermleight 79

Christian Fellowship Center open with new schedule
10/16/2009
401 E. College Street, (325) 625-1277
 'The Center' is open with a new schedule, new pricing, and new age groups. Please note the changes in schedule, age groups and pricing. The Current Schedule (effective immediately):
  Friday night 7-8:30 Family Night skating – youths admitted with an adult family member present. (First 20 persons receive free admission, for a limited time only.)  Friday night 8:30-10:00 Junior High only – skating, checkers, chess, nerf football etc. (First 20 persons receive free admission, for a limited time only.) Saturday night 7:30-11:00 JH & HS (JH students must be at least 13 to attend the Saturday night session) – skating, games and tournaments.
  The entry fee for The Center is now $3.00 + $1.00 for skate rental,  However…there are ways to earn free entry into The Center. Youth may earn a voucher for Friday or Saturday night for skating and games by doing any one or more of the following:
1) Receiving an A on their school report card in one of their four core classes (Math, Science, English & Social Studies). Bring your report card to The Center.
2) Receiving all four A’s in their core classes gets them in free for the following 6 weeks!
3) Receiving two B’s in their core classes gets them a single voucher.
4) Attending Wednesday night bible study at any participating local Christian church.
5) Attending Sunday morning/evening youth bible study at any participating local Christian church.
6) Volunteering a set number of hours at a local organization (food pantry, etc…).
  Ask your youth group/bible study leaders to contact us to receive your vouchers. If you are volunteering in the community, ask the group you are volunteering with to contact us for vouchers.
  For additional information please contact Craig Allen, 325-220-0191; or Bernadette Allen 325-220-3558

Coleman's newest police officer sworn in today
10/16/2009
The newest member of the Coleman Police Department is Officer Sam Alderman. Sam was sworn into office today as a local Police Officer by Sue Burleson, City Secretary. He is shown in the photo with Chief of Police Jay Moses. Sam , 36 years of age, is from Comanche, Texas. He has just completed the law enforcement academy and this is his first job as a police officer. He is fulfilling a long time dream of being in law enforcement.

Miranda Norris wins "It Pays To Be Present"
10/16/2009 
Winner of the “It Pays To Be Present” drawing held this past week at Coleman Junior High is 6th grader Miranda Norris.
  A drawing for $25.00 is held each six weeks period. To be eligible for the drawing, a student must not miss a single day of school during this period. The $25.00 is provided by the student council at Coleman Junior High School. A grand prize drawing for $100.00 is held at the end of the school year. This amount is also provided by the student council.
  Presenting the check to Miranda is Student Council President, Adam Rodriquez.

Coleman County Foundation Accepting Grant Proposals
9/30/2009
  The Coleman County Foundation will accept grant proposals through November 2nd for its next grant cycle. The Foundation’s grants are awarded on a competitive basis. Nonprofit groups and community groups that support cultural, civic, educational, and human service activities in Coleman County are eligible to apply.
  Copies of the Foundation’s grant guidelines can be obtained from the Coleman Chamber of Commerce or by calling Courtney Jackson, Grants Director at the Community Foundation of Abilene, at 325-676-3883 or cjackson@abilene.com.
  Proposals may be mailed to the Coleman County Foundation: P.O. Box 700, Coleman, Texas 76834 or hand-delivered to the Coleman Chamber of Commerce at 218 Commercial Avenue. Grant proposals are due no later than the close of business on November 2nd. Grants will be awarded in early December.
  The Coleman County Foundation was established in 1999 to help Coleman County residents give back to their community. Over the past 10 years, the Foundation has awarded more than $461,000 in grants to agencies in Coleman County. For more information about the Coleman County Foundation, please follow the following banner:

CJHS Students of the Month Announced
10/16/2009
  Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for September.
  Students of the month are:
Bailey Garrett - 6th grade girl
Allen Chambers – 6th grade boy
Kaci Cook – 7th grade girl
Pedro Jimenez – 7th grade boy
Vallari Escobar – 8th grade girl
Jansen Merrill - 8th grade boy
(A picture is included)
  To be a student of the month, a student must be nominated by his or her teachers. To be nominated, students must be hard workers, act respectfully to teachers and peers in the classroom and in the hallway, and exhibit good behavior when involved in extra-curricular activities. Members of the National Junior Honor Society vote on nominees from each grade level. The male and female students from each grade who receive the most votes are the students of the month.

Find Out What’s New With Medicare & How To Apply for X-tra Help
10/16/2009
  Rick Diaz with the Area Agency on Aging out of Abilene, Texas will be at the Coleman Senior Center next Monday, October 19th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. He will be visiting with the seniors one-on-one about their Medicare Part D options for 2010.
  During the lunch hour Rick will be hosting Medicare Bingo. Please be sure to bring your Medicare card and drug list for 2010. Come find out what’s new with Medicare and how to apply for extra help.

Bake sale for Fire Department this Saturday
10/16/2009
There will be a bake sale Sat. Oct. 17th at 9:00 a.m. at the Shopping Basket. This will be the 3rd annual bake sale held for the Coleman Volunteer Fire Department. This years bake sale will be held in the memory of Rena Payne. Rena was the mother of Coleman Fire Marshall Gary Payne. She passed away Sept. 11th, 2009. We will be selling Big O's Bar B Q sandwiches along with many other goodies. If you would like to place an order you can call Rosa at 254-768-9152 or Raylene at 325-636-7850 and we will deliver. Let's show our support for this, "GREAT TEAM" of Heroes!!!

Late evening car chase ends across Runnels County
10/15/2009
 The Coleman Police Department received a single call about a suspected drunk driver heading south on North Neches. Sgt. Smith responded to the call and spotted the suspect heading west on Walnut Street. As Sgt. Smith attempted to pull over the white minivan, the suspect punched the gas and continued west up the hill and onto the Winter's Highway (153). The minivan reached high speeds, and reportedly swerved several times (displaying signs of intoxicated driving). As the car showed no signs of slowing down, and the suspect grew closer to Runnels county line, police dispatchers called in Runnels police for aid. Luckily, although the suspect did cross over into Runnels county, the suspect pulled over voluntarily and the Coleman PD arrested the suspect. The suspect was then administered a breathalyzer, where Officer Berry stated that he believed the suspect was indeed intoxicated..
  The Coleman Police Department confirmed that the man did have a Coleman address on his license. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

City Council approves several new items of business
10/15/2009
  The City of Coleman Council met today in a regular meeting to discuss and approve several agenda items. After brining the meeting to order, the council reviewed several new business items including the Lone Star Action Plan for the Coleman Library, street closings for the Sacred Heart Church, a proclamation presented by The Ark, and finally, the approval of the EDC budget.
  First, the Council reviewed the Lone Star Plan of Action for the Coleman Library. The Lone Star Plan of Action is grant that funds public libraries in Texas. The State awarded the Coleman Library approximately $5,385.00. The Library requested $1,795.00 for PlayAways, a new easy-to-use audio all-in-one unit (similar to an iPod), $1,795.00 to update the DVD collection, and $1,795.00 to udpate the adult non-fiction materials. The council unanimously approved the item.
  The Sacred Heart Catholic Church is hosting its annual Fall Festival this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. In order to host it properly, Sacred Heart requested that portions of Pecan, Llano, San Saba, and College Streets be closed. The council quickly approved the request.
  The Council then heard from Joan Blizzard of The Ark, which is an advocate organization dedicated to preventing and educating the public on family violence and sexual abuse. The council reviewed the proclamation and approved it. The council will provide a written publication of the proclamation in the near future.
  The council briefly reviewed the Economic Development Council's annual budget. Larry Robinson, the EDC President, was not in attendance to present the budget. However, the City Council moved forward and unanimously approved the EDC budget.
  Finally, those in attendance, along with the council, toured the financial and business division of the City of Coleman, where they were presented with a day-to-day breakdown of how the financial division operates.
Upon completion of the tour, those in attendance, along with the council, returned to the Council Chambers where Mayor Nick Poldrack and City Manager Larry Wise offered their final words and adjourned.

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE COLEMAN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
10/15/2009
DATE: Monday, October 19, 2009
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office
300 West Pecan
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS.
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 et seq., AND FOR THE REASONS STATED IN THE CODE.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Canvass the Tax Ratification Special Election of October 10, 2009
2. Consider Approving 2010 ELA Textbook Adoption Committee
3. Consider Approving Coleman Elementary School Campus Improvement Plan for 2009-2010
4. Consider Approving Local District Policy Update 86
BOARD REPORT:
1. Highly Qualified Teacher Report
2. TASB/TASA Joint Annual Convention
Coleman Independent School District
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
October 19, 2009
Page 2
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. 2009 TASB Fall Legal Seminar, Abilene, November 17, 2009
2. December Board Meeting Date
3. Christmas Party
INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Check Payments
2. Financial Statement
ADJOURN:
Royce A. Young, Superintendent
Coleman Independent School District

A special thanks!
10/15/2009
Holiday Hill would like to say THANKS to Charles Stafford of Coleman for his wonderful donation of a brand new Midland (all hazards weather alert radio).

Attention Band Parents:
10/15/2009
If you ordered a Band Booster Parent T-Shirt they are in! Please come by the band hall to pick them up. Don’t forget, the Big Blue Band marches in Brady on Saturday at 3:20pm. Come on out and support your Coleman Big Blue Band!

Parent Information Meeting
10/15/2009
The Coleman ISD Administration will hold a parent information meeting to address concerns and questions parents may have about the CSCOPE Curriculum. After having completed six weeks with our new curriculum, we would like the opportunity to share some of our successes with parents as well as answer some of the questions they may have. We will also give parents the opportunity to experience a 5E model lesson which is the format for the CSCOPE lessons. The meeting will be held on October 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the K-8 Cafeteria.

Coleman PD Discusses Traffic Safety Concerns During Lunchtime at CHS
10/15/2009
(A special assembly was called yesterday at CHS Wednesday in the auditorium and all high school students were asked to attend. Officer Kelly Barclay and Chief of Police Jay Moses visited with the students and read the following statement to them.)
 The reason the Coleman Police Department was at the High School yesterday (Wednesday) was to discuss concerns that we have about traffic safety during lunch time. Since school started this year the Coleman Police Department has had numerous telephone calls from citizens in our community about unsafe driving by Coleman High School students during lunch time.
 The majority of the callers have been complaining about high speeds and illegal passing of vehicles on Concho Street and North Neches. Recently, traffic citations have been issued for speeds in excess of 30 or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit. Also, police officers have observed illegal passing on Concho and North Neches.
 The Coleman Police Department believes that good citizens when informed of their legal responsibilities will voluntarily comply with the law.
  Speed: The maximum speed limit on Concho, 5th Avenue from 15th Street to West Walnut, North Neches from West Walnut to past the railroad overpass, and a large portion of East and West Walnut is 30 miles per hour.
 Passing: It is illegal to pass within 100 feet of an intersection. On the roads students are driving, Concho, 5th Avenue, West & East Walnut, and North Neches, no part of the traveled portion of these roads allow drivers to pass.
 Seat belts: It is now required to wear a seat belt regardless of seating position. You must wear the belt in the front and back seat.
 Cell phones: The driver of a vehicle can’t talk on the cell  phone in the school zone area during school hours.
 Stop signs: Must come to a complete stop at stop signs.
Our goal during lunch time is that each student obeys the law and drives in a safe manner. We hope by making you aware of what is required of you while driving a vehicle at lunch that you will set an example and drive safely. We want you and the citizens of Coleman to have a safe school year.
(It was reported that an hour after this assembly, one high school student was stopped for speeding.) If any parent of a student who receives a citation would like to view the recording of the incident (all stops are recorded), he/she may call the police department.

A SUCCESSFUL 2009 ART SHOW ONCE AGAIN
Submitted by Marian Johnson
10/15/2009
  Because of the generous support of the community in Patron Donations, entry fees for artwork, sale of the Blue Bunny Book, and sales of artwork, $3650 in awards were given. Entries of 102 paintings were received, of which 70 by 37 artists were chosen to hang in the 2009 Fiesta Juried Art Show by Juror, Susan Mansell.
  The finale of the show was a powerpoint presentation by Sherrell Hazlewood, President, of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, with a critique by Susan Mansell. Fun and educational. After 2 days of Show, paint-outs by artists and reception, the guest book contained almost 200 who registered!! (with a number who missed the book).
  The Texas Commission on the Arts has awarded the Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.,Inc., $1000 Grant!
  The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) has awarded the first round of Arts Respond grants, a new category providing project support for arts organizations. TCA received 205 applications for Arts Respond from 159 organizations in 49 Texas communities. Seven panels of experts evaluated and scored the applications, and the Commission ultimately chose to invest grant funds in 197 projects. (FINE ARTS LEAGUE OF COLEMAN COUNTY CO.,INC., WAS ONE OF THEM!
  Susan Combs, Comptroller of Texas Commission on the Arts, states Texas is blessed with a diverse economy, and with so many high-profile companies calling Texas home, it can be tough to look past the oil derricks, (I would add wind farms) and pine forests to recognize the valuable economic contributions ARTS makes in our state. Texas cities and small communities alike boast art traditions that enhance their regions culturally and economically. Those Texas cities recognize the economic uplift a vibrant arts community can provide. Arts play a vital role in enhancing and maintaining a city or regions quality of life an essential element businesses see in a city when looking to relocate. Also, Arts play a vital role in Texas economic development, I encourage all Texans to support sound arts policy and their local artistic communities. Take advantage of the artistic resources and know you're enriching yourself and your community.
  Investment in Economic Development:
  Support of the arts helps stimulate economic development in the state. The availability of cultural resources and opportunities helps attract businesses to Texas. Additionally, the arts play a role in attracting tourists to Texas, helping tourism, a $53.8 billion industry, become one of the state’s third largest industry.
  TCA grants give arts organizations a seal of approval that can help them obtain broader support. Received a TCA grant indicates to other organizations and potential donors that the grantee’s project or organization meets the agency’s standards and qualifications for grant eligibility. TCA grants act as a catalyst that can help organizations obtain additional funding from other private, local, state, regional and national resources.
  Economic development projects are those that use art to diversify local economies, generate revenue and attract visitors and investment. This program is designed for projects that focus on cultural tourism and related activities such as festivals, gallery walks, and art fairs.

Car accident, 3rd and Concho
10/14/2008
  Around 3:20 p.m., dispatch called both EMS and the Fire Department to the scene of a vehicular accident involving two cars with one injury on 3rd and Concho. Two pick ups collided, after one darted through a yield sign, resulting in a t-bone collision. One driver was transported to the Coleman Medical Center.

Cloudy, Rainy Weather Gives County a Good Soaking
10/14/2008
By Karen Allen
  I’ve not heard one person complain about all the rain we’ve been getting, but I have heard more than one say they’d like to see a little sunshine - just a little...The rains have been nice, coming every few days it seems. I think area farms and ranches could use some running water though, so hopefully that will come too.
  I was not able to get a report from Official City of Coleman Weatherman Steve Autry. The Poldracks on W. Mesquite got approximately two inches since last Thursday, possibly a little less, but a very nice total nonetheless.
  At Whon, Thomas and Trudi Rutherford received 1.10 last week and more this past Monday (we’re not sure of the exact amount). Further south at Trickham, Elvis Cozart reported 1.70 last week and another .80 Monday which, added to the .45 he got on October 4th makes a month- to-date total of 2.95.
  Tex Wright in Santa Anna reports 1.90 last week and for Monday, .20 rain and fog mixture. He says on Wednesday there was no moisture in the gauge, but about 2” of fog in the air.  It was foggy here in Coleman too.
  Helen Laws at Valera received 1.50 last Thursday and .70 Monday but she was in agreement that more is needed.
 Up at Novice, Raylene Plummer reported 1.70 last Thursday added to .30 Monday for a two-inch total during the past 7-day period. Jess and Juanita Jackson’s gauge at Silver Valley read 1.94 on the 9th of October, .08 on the 12th, .30 on the 13th and .08 on the 14th. Richard Halfmann at Lake Ivie has received 1.20 last week; .60 on Monday and .20 on Tuesday, so they’ve had a good two inches in the past week too.I was not able to contact everyone for this report, but I hope you all got rain.
  The weekend is supposed to be beautiful with highs in the 70’s and lows in the 50’s, which in my opinion is just about perfect weather. The grass and weeds are still growing, so I guess we’ll all have to keep mowing a little longer...

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in September 2009
10/14/2008
Submitted by Police Chief Jay Moses
Investigations
Criminal Mischief-5
Vehicle Theft-1
False Report-2
Unattended Child-1
Attempted Suicide-1
Assault-1
Disorderly Conduct-1
Information Report-2
Burglary-6
Harassment-1
Sexual Assault-1
Unauthorized Use Motor Vehicle-1
Forgery-2
Runaway-1
Theft-4
Death Inquest-3
Child Protective Service Investigation-1
Arrests
Possession of Marihuana-4
Assault-2
Warrants-5
Public Intoxication-3
Disorderly Conduct-6
Sexual Assault-1
Motor Vehicle Crashes
No Injury-5
Tickets Issued
Environment/Code Enforcement-9 tickets issued with 9 charges filed
School Resource Officer-3 tickets issued with 3 charges filed
Police Department-64 tickets issued with 73 charges filed
Warnings Issued
Police Department-26
Animal Control
Calls for Service-88
Dogs Picked Up-42
Cats Picked Up-18
Other Animals Picked Up-6
Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-4

Coleman Public Library offers Live, Online Tutoring for Students of All Ages from Tutor.com
10/14/2008
  Help for adults writing resumes, job searching or going back to school  October 14, 2009 - Coleman Public Library has expanded our popular online tutoring program, Live Homework Help® to include more services for every member of our community. The Student Center, College Center and Career Center from Tutor.com includes live, one-to-one tutoring, a real-time writing center and 24/7 access to worksheets, videos and tutorials in just about any subject. The live, online tutoring and resume writing service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The hours for individual tutoring and homework help remains 3 – 10 pm every day. Services in Spanish are available during the same hours. The service is completely free for our community. To access the service please visit the library’s website at www.colemanlibrary.com .
  Help for K-12 Students, College Students and Adults
  Last school year alone a increase in use of nearly 66% of students completed one-to-one homework help and tutoring sessions using Live Homework Help®. This school year, students of all ages as well as job seekers can find the help they need. Tutor.com has a network of over 2,000 certified tutors as well as career specialists who are ready to help with just about any question you may have. Here’s the type of help students and adults can get in each of the new centers.
  • Student Center: Students can get help with homework, test preparation, skills and concepts they are learning in class and standardized test preparation and college entrance exams. Subjects include math, science, social studies and English.
  • College Center: Besides subject-specific help, students can prepare for the GED and get resume help or prepare for graduate school entrance exams.
  • Career Center: Adults going back to school can get subject-specific help, prepare for the GED, get resume help or prepare for the citizenship exam.
Each center also includes real-time writing assistance from English tutors or career specialists for adults working on resumes. Students and job seekers get immediate feedback, writing tips and strategies as well as proofreading. Need help at midnight? No problem. Each center includes 24/7 access to thousands of resources including study guides, worksheets, videos and more in math, science, social studies, English, resume writing, GED prep, Citizenship exam prep and more.
  To access the site through the Coleman Public Library site code: Go to Library Services. Then go to the Live Homework Help. Access is through the BCLS web site: www.bclstx.org. Click on the Live Homework Help by the smiley face, about halfway down the page. Patrons sign in using their library’s location code…coleman * Note: must be in lower case.*
  About Tutor.com:
  Tutor.com is an award-winning online homework help and learning service that connects students to a certified tutor for one-to-one help. Tutor.com is offered at over 1,800 public libraries across the country and is available statewide in Alaska, Alabama, Kansas and Rhode Island. Our network of over 2,000 expert tutors have conducted over 4.5 million sessions.

Devon Mitchell, Author at Age 12!!
10/14/2008
Submitted by Marian Johnson
  Devon Mitchell has written and published her first children's book entitled "The Candy Dragon". It's subject, the Candy Dragon, experiences the adventures of starting to school. Devon aspired to becoming an author of children's books at the early age of 8, when, at Christmas, she presented her family with a rough draft of the soon -to- be published "The Candy Dragon".
  Devon will attend her first book signing in Las Vegas, Nevada, October 24, 2009 at the AARP National Conven-tion. Devon is the daughter of Dr. Darren Mitchell and Dr. Robyn Mitchell of Reno, Nevada. The proud grandparents are Boyd and Kay Mitchell of Lake Coleman, Texas.
  Illustrations for the book were drawn by Catherine Barth of Austin and painted by her grandmother, Ginger Test, well-known watercolorist of Novice, Texas. Kay Mitchell is an accomplished stained glass artist, whose studio is at 114 E. Elm, Coleman, Texas. ( Does one suspect artistic DNA in both these girls?) Ginger and Kay are members of the Fine Arts League of Coleman Co., Inc.
  "The Candy Dragon" is available for sale at Kay's Garden in Coleman and on the following web-sites: www.authorhouuse.com, www.amazon.com , www.barnesandnoble.com, www.barnesandnoble.com.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Parish Festival
10/14/2008
  The Sacred Heart Parish will be holding its annual Festival on Sunday, October 18, 2009, located at 201 San Saba Street (Parish Hall). A meal will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. consisting of Beef Fajita’s, Spanish Rice, Beans and Salad, including drinks and dessert for $7.00 for adults and $4.00 for a child’s plate, take out’s will be available. A concession stand will open all Afternoon.
  Other events of the day will include: Games, Bingo, Country Store, Silent Auction, Cake Walk, and Horseshoe Tournament, Cow Patty Bingo and Much More.
  A raffle will also be held with prizes to include:
TV, Wii Console, ½ Beef, Tom Tom and IPod Shuffle
Tickets prices are $5.00 per ticket or 5 tickets for $20.00; you need not be present to win. Tickets can be purchased the day of the festival or from church members.
  We would like to invite the whole community out on Sunday, October 18, 2009 for a fun-filled day and a great meal. For questions, please call (325) 625-5773
 

1995 CHS Graduate Receives Promotion on September 14th To Chief Petty Officer (E-7)
10/14/2008
  On September 14, 2009 in Norfolk, Virginia Matthew Henderson was promoted to the rank Chief Petty Officer (E-7). Matthew is a 1995 graduate of Coleman High School and the son of Pat and Patricia Henderson of Coleman.
  His Chief’s Anchors were pinned on by his wife Anissa, mother, and father during his pinning ceremony onboard USS Gonzalez (DDG-66). Matthew entered the U.S. Navy on August 20, 1998 as an Operations Specialist. He has served at sea on USS Cowpens (CG-63), USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), USS Ticonderoga (CG-47), and USS Gonzalez (DDG-66) and on shore as an instructor at Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center San Diego. Matthew’s promotion is a pinnacle in his career.

County Commissioners review extensive agenda
10/14/2008
by Christine Flynn
 On Tuesday morning the Commissioners’ Court met to deliberate an extensive agenda. The highlights from the meeting included the proclamation of Domestic Violence and Drug Abuse Awareness month, a presentation from members of the Water Conservation District and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and other matters that was considered for approval.
 Joan Blisard with The Ark visited to provide information of their service for victims of domestic violence. The Court then designated October as Domestic Violence Awareness month in Coleman County. The Ark provides 24 hour service through a shelter and a crisis phone line (1-888-313-2699). The week of October 23rd to October 31st was also chosen as Red Ribbon Week to support drug and substance abuse awareness. Each color of ribbon-pink, purple and red will be seen around our county this month to signify important causes.
 The Commissioners were notified by Jim Hudson, of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and Jerry Allen Board Member of the Central Colorado Soil and Water Conservation District that the district has been awarded a grant for $336,000 for each of the next two years to upgrade and repair many soil and water conservation dams throughout the county. According to Hudson, 81 Coleman County structures are eligible for repair, maintenance, and upgrade of both the structures and the fences associated with the various reservoirs. The grant requires “in kind" participation from the local government and the commissioners agreed to provide “in kind” labor and equipment necessary to meet the requirements of the grant. Judge Hobbs and the Commissioners will work with Hudson, the Central Colorado Soil and Conservation District and landowners to coordinate the projects to provide the best results for the landowners and the prevention of flooding and erosion. The plan of action and the prioritization will be discussed in more detail at the next scheduled meeting.
 At the last meeting the Model Sub-Division Rule was reviewed and discussed. It was agreed that at the current meeting it would be decided if Coleman County would adopt the rules. With a few more clarifications, the Court approved the rule.
 Other matters that were considered and approved included the Healthy County Reward Money program, a submission of the master plan for the courthouse restoration, and a new auditor contract with Reed, McKee & Co. of San Angelo.
 The next Commissioners’ Court will meet on Friday, October 30th at 9:00AM.

Coleman Fire Department visits Tuesday School
10/13/2008
  Firefighters from the Coleman Fire Department visited the Elm Street Church of Christ Tuesday School today to teach some youngsters about the importance of fire safety. Fire educators believe exposing children to fire safety at an early age not only helps prevent fire accidents, but helps familiarize children with firefighters in the case of a future encounter. For more information about the Coleman Fire Department, visit www.colemanfire.com.

Tonight: Final Night of Girls Fall League
10/13/2008
Tonight is the final night of the Girls Fall Basketball League. Games are played in the CHS Varsity Gym.
5:40 Coleman JV/ V vs Mason
6:25 Mason vs. Blackwell - 20 min
7:05 Blackwell vs. Coleman - 20 min
7:30 Coleman vs. Mason - 20 min
7:55 Coleman JV/V vs. Blackwell - 20 min

Revival services beginning this Sunday!
10/13/2008
  The “Great” Concho Baptist Church would like to invite everyone to their Revival Services beginning this Sunday, October 18th. Come and enjoy a time of special music from our talented musicians followed by a time of preaching with Bro. Clark Bosher. He is a dynamic speaker and is guaranteed to bless your heart. Come and see what the Lord has in store for you!
  Services will be at 10:45 and 6pm on Sunday and then Monday thru Wednesday at 7pm. Concho Baptist Church is located on the corner of 10th and Concho. Please call the church office at 625-2409 for more details. We hope to see you there!

Lucky driver walks away from rainy day accident
10/13/2008
  Today, around 9:15 a.m., a Coleman driver ran off the road near the Hillcrest Church of Christ, after a car resting on the side of the road pulled out quickly in front of the driver and then sped off. The driver slid off the right side of the road and clipped a road sign. The driver sustained no injuries. The car, which darted in front of the driver, has not been identified.

Coleman Cross Country Meet Cancelled
10/13/2008
The Cross Country Meet scheduled for this afternoon, Tuesday, in Goldthwaite has been postponed until tomorrow, Wednesday, October 14th. The Coleman high school and junior high cross country teams are scheduled to participate in the meet.

CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
10/13/2008
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2009, 5:00 P.M., Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the regular meeting held October 1, 2009. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
RECOGNITION OF STAFF: (NONE)
HEARING OF VISITORS CONCERNING MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA:
PUBLIC HEARING (S): (NONE)
RECEIPT OF BIDS: (NONE)
CONSENT AGENDA: (NONE)
OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider approving the Lone Star Plan of Action for the Coleman Library. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
2. Council will consider a request from Sacred Heart Church to close portions of Pecan, Llano, San Saba, and College Streets for their Fall Festival to be held on Sunday, October 18, 2009. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
3. Council will consider a proclamation as presented by The Ark in relation to Family Violence Month. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
4. Council will consider approval of the 2009/10 EDC budget. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
5. Council will conduct a tour of the City’s Finance and Business Division. Council may take action deemed necessary.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN

Coleman High announces honor roll, perfect attendance
10/13/2008
  Coleman High School recently announced its "A" honor roll, "A-B" honor roll, and perfect attendance for the first six weeks. Please click the following link for the results: click here!

Panther Creek Homecoming King and Queen
10/13/2008
The 2009 Panther Creek Homecoming Queen and King are Cassie Lea Philpot and Ethan Wayne Griffin.

Cassie is the daughter of the late Cynthia Lynn (Garrett) Philpot and Wayne Philpot, stepdaughter of Wendy Philpot.

Ethan is the son of Kristi and Bryan Griffin.

The Ultimate Hike
10/12/2009
Submitted by Harold & Caroline Skelton
  Caroline and I left Thursday afternoon, the 1st of October, 2009, at 5 PM for a much-anticipated hike up Guadalupe Peak in far west Texas. We arrived in Pecos, Texas at 9:30 PM that night and were up and on the road by 5:30 AM the next morning. After 100 miles to the NW, we arrived at the Visitor’s Center of the Guadalupe National Park at 8:00 AM (CDT). Unfortunately, this little part of Texas is in the Mountain Standard Time, which meant that it was only 7:00 AM their time. The Center did not open until 8:00 AM their time. We used this time to pack our packs with water, eats, first aid kit, etc. Finally at the allotted time, we arrived at the Pine Springs Trailhead and embarked on our journey at 8:28 AM (our time). In the brochure we received from the National Park Service, US Dept of the Interior, it states in part that “the hike up Guadalupe Peak is a rewarding, although very strenuous 8 ½ mile hike with a 3,000 foot elevation gain. It will take from 6 to 8 hours to complete the round trip hike. The hike provides fantastic views from the highest point in the state of Texas (8,749’). It also introduces hikers to several of the park’s ecosystems including the high desert and the high elevation forests.”
  How did we get to this point in our lives that we wanted to torture ourselves on such a grueling endeavor? As many of you know, I began 2008 with a weight of over 325 pounds and very poor physical shape. After a year and a half of dieting and exercising, I have dropped over 100 of those pounds and have endured a strenuous walking program averaging 12 miles per week for the last year or so. I “thought” this had prepared me for the hike we were about to undertake. Caroline has always been in good physical shape, so she too felt she was ready for the task at hand.
  At mile marker 0 you will see me armed to the hilt with my walking utensils ready for the task. On the way up the mountain, we encountered extreme walking and climbing obstacles and after a couple of miles we came to a bridge across a very high cliff. As the brochure had stated, we thought we were almost there, but actually had only traveled half of the trip. From the bridge we entered the high mountain pine forest and traversed the terrain in a switch-back system of trails. After literally dozens of these switch-backs, we arrived at another false peak and had some time to catch our breaths and relax our muscles before the final assault on the mountain. At this point we were several hundred feet above El Capitan, as the picture will attest. Finally, after 5 hours of climbing, we reached the highest point in Texas, the top of Guadalupe Peak. There were 10 other hikers at the peak when we arrived and after greeting and introducing each other as to where we were from and why we had come, Caroline and I sat down for a much needed lunch and water break. As you can tell from the picture of us leaning on the monument at the top, we are indeed at the top of the world as far as Texas is concerned. To the Southwest, far below us, are the salt flats of West Texas toward El Paso.
  After about 30 minutes at the top, we began our descent in a very positive mood knowing that it was all downhill from here. Little did we know that it would be more difficult to control our muscles in a 4.2 mile downhill hike than it was in an uphill hike. About half way, I knew I was in serious trouble. The large muscles of my legs were like jello. With frequent rest stops and careful placement of my walking stick, I was able to reach the bottom without any mishaps. Caroline breezed through the downhill stage and emerged without much pain or discomfort. Finally after a 3 hour descent, we reached the car. In all, the 8 ½ mile hike took us 8 ½ hours to complete.
  As we look back on our experience, we realize that we need to train in a different sort of way. It just so happens that Martin Street to the south of Walnut Street presents just the sort of uphill/downhill terrain that we need. Since we have a Big Bend experience planned for next year, you will see us going up and down Martin Street at least once per week in preparation for the next gigantic hike.

Y me? Concert & youth rally
10/12/2009
  Win a Free Wii, Xbox 360, mp3 player & more… Prizes given away each hour! Cost $1 to register. Must be present to Win! Plus Games, Free Burgers.
  For Grades 6-12: Bands: Chronic Frailty, Redemption Cry Plus General C. Listen to the bands on myspace.com/crybattle. Sat. Oct 17th 2-6pm @ The Cross. Go to the Courthouse make a left @ the end of W. Liveoak St.

Coleman ISD, Santa Anna ISD, Panther Creek CISD, and Novice ISD receive $965,000 “Target Tech Texas (T3) Collaborative Grant”
10/12/2009
Submitted by Doodie Taylor-Knox
  The Texas Education Agency (TEA) recently announced the award of a $965,000 “Target Tech Texas (T3) Collaborative Grant” to Coleman ISD, Santa Anna ISD, Panther Creek CISD, and Novice ISD. The purpose of this grant is to implement programs that will stimulate the use of educational technology to improve teaching and learning. The grant required high-need schools to collaborate and develop relationships so that the schools are not working in isolation, but instead are searching out and identifying common needs, goals, and resolutions to create broader participation within the community to help move the schools toward 21st Century classrooms as envisioned by the Long-Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2020 (LRPT).
  To achieve this goal, the local schools must assess their technology needs and implement programs that make substantial progress in meeting certain requirements. Priorities of the grant include providing students with advanced technologies, educational technology programs and practices, and well-trained teachers trained to use innovative teaching strategies designed to engage students and promote critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and college and career readiness. Benefits of this collaboration take advantage of the economy of scale, in which the cost per student served decreases as the number of students served increases. Each school receives more direct access to the experience, expertise, and resources of each of the collaborating partners. For this grant, each campus will move toward full integration of IT in “regular” instruction and extend the various opportunities for each student to learn the material in a manner that best aligns with their individual learning style. While all subjects will be included, the major core content area focus will be in math/science. With the award of prior technology grants including the Cycle 1 and Cycle 2 Vision 2020 grant, Coleman ISD can provide assistance in critical areas such as professional development and training, leadership, and technical support to the other schools.
  With the unique collaboration of the four county schools, another important partner for the collaboration is the Coleman Public Library. Involvement of the Coleman Public Library will be to provide off-campus site for wireless accessibility for students and families, technology training for county teachers and county residents, career development and job training. With a prior collaboration in the TIF Distance Learning Lab, the partners have established an ongoing use to offer various technology classes for their employees and/or local residents. The library has a strong support system of volunteers trained in technology training and have agreed to assist in the project in the training of local residents in the use of technology and some software. The location of the library and its recent renovation to include the Tillman Training Room is imperative to off-campus training for local teachers, residents and those participants in GED and career training.
  Local superintendents and school technology representatives will be attending an information and resource conference October 13 and 14 in Austin. Coleman ISD will serve as fiscal agent. Paul Martin, Technology Director, Coleman ISD, will serve as grant coordinator.

AGENDA SANTA ANNA CITY COUNCIL MEETING
10/12/2009
OCTOBER 12, 2009 5:OO P.M.
CITY HALL 709 WALLIS AVE, SANTA ANNA, TEXAS
1. Call to order and roll call
2. Invocation
3. Citizens’ Open Forum*
(please complete speaker registration form and turn it in at the staff table)
4. Consent Agenda
All items listed under Item 4, Consent Agenda, are considered to be routine by the city council and will be enacted by one motion. There will not be separate discussion of these items. If discussion is desired, that item will be removed from the consent agenda and will be considered separately.
a. Approval of minutes of September 14, 2009 regular meeting (BLUE)
b. Financial Report - City Treasurer Wanda Campbell - (YELLOW)
c. Police Department Report - Chief Carlos Torres - (WHITE)
d. Animal Control Officer Report - Harold Musick (GREEN)
e. Municipal Court Report - Judge Anna Jones - (PINK)
f. Report - Director of Public Works Sam Oswood
5. Action Items:
a. Discuss, consider and/or act on reguest from Santa Anna Retail Merchants Association for funds from the Hotel/Motel Tax for the “Two Nights of Christmas in a Small Town” to be held in December 2009
b. Montie Guthrie - use of armory
c. Hear report from Richard Horner concerning Houston and Parker Streets - consider any action recommended
d. Approve installation of plug-ins and operation of 25 Christmas decorations along Wallis Ave. - Harold Fahrlender
e. Approval of Claims and Accounts - Expenses by Vendor Summary (GREEN)
f. Consider approval of EDC action on the following:
1) $2,500.00 grant to Double H Convenience Store
2) $2,500.00 loan to Rockin’ R-5 Steakhouse
g. Consider permission to open new Community Development Block Grant checking account
h. Approve Resolution 101209 for signatures for CDBG: (WHITE)
Nancy Wylie, Mayor Harold Fahrlender, Councilmember
Wanda Campbell, Treasurer Shannon Enriquez, Councilmember
i. Consider Ordinance 101209-1 CITY OF SANTA ANNA ANIMAL CONTROL (YELLOW)
j. Consider Ordinance 101209-2 ....ENACTING THE APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE....(BLUE)
k. Set City holidays (WHITE)
l. Mayor will appoint Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Santa Anna
m. Hear from John Morris concerning conduct of the mayor, city councilmembers and city employees - consider any action recommended
n. Discuss enforcement of water cut-off schedule and reconnect fee
6. Adjourn

Bluekatt Fall Basketball League Cancelled!
10/12/2009
Blackwell had to cancel so the Bluekatts will not play tonight. The other 4 games between Winters, Cross Plains, Cisco and Brownwood will be played as scheduled beginning at 5:00 p.m..

10/12/2009 * Manny Dancy was elected 2009 Homecoming King at the Santa Anna Homecoming Pep Rally , Friday, Oct. 9th. He is the son of Johnny Kirven and a senior at Santa Anna High School.

Santa Anna Class of 1959 makes $1180 donation
10/12/2009
At Saturday's 2009 Annual meeting of the Santa Anna Ex Student Association's Annual Homecoming, the Class of 1959 presented the Association a $1180 donation in memory of fellow classmates Max Price, Donald Ray, Brown Brooke, Jean Smith, Jerry Herring, and Roy Paine.

Big Blue Band Preparing for UIL
10/12/2009
The Coleman High School Big Blue Band will travel to Brady this Saturday, October 17th, for the UIL Region Marching Contest. The Band will march at Bulldog Stadium at 3:20pm in the hopes of receiving a Division I rating. The 2009 marching season is an “Advancement Year” for class 2A and if the Big Blue Band pulls off a Division I they will advance to the Area Competition the following week in Georgetown. Should you not be able to travel, KNEL 93.5FM or 1490 AM out of Brady will be broadcasting the event live on the radio. Either way, the Band would love your support so please come out to Brady or tune in to the radio and cheer on your Coleman High School Big Blue Band as they take the field at 3:20pm!!

Coleman Humane Society hosts costume event
10/12/2009
The Humane Society's new mascot, Big Cody, will be welcoming pets to the Costume event on the 30th. He'll bring some of his friends who still need a home too.

10/12/2009 * Santa Anna's 2009 Homecoming Queen is Heather McMillan, daughter of Todd and Sherry McMillan of Santa Anna, Texas. She is a senior at Santa Anna High School.

Rising Star Roping Association to host trail ride Oct. 24
10/12/2009
The Rising Star Roping Association will host a trail ride Saturday, October 24. The trail ride will be held at the Carpenter Ranch, located southeast of Rising Star. Going south on Hwy. 183, drive 2½ miles and turn east on CR 436 (Amity Cemetery Rd); go approximately 1½ miles and turn right through the cattle guard.

Riders will pull out at 10 a.m. and return to headquarters at noon for a cookout before the afternoon trail ride. Cost for the trail ride and meal is $20 for non-members and $15 for Rising Star Roping Club Association members.

For more information about the trail ride, please contact Jim Carpenter (325) 642-6106 or Connie Harding at (254) 643-4101 or (254) 643-0035. The event is limited to a certain number of riders, so call soon to reserve your spot. Current Coggins required. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled.

County Teams Tack on Big Win Weekend
10/11/2009
Coleman beat Dublin 33 to 7 (Picture by StricksPics)
Santa Anna crushed Veribest 48-0 in a homecoming shutdown
Panther Creek stomped Lohn 64-13.
The Novice Hornets had another rough loss this weekend, 132 to 86.

Coleman and Panther Creek pass tax ratification elections
10/11/2009
 On October 10th, 2009, both Coleman and Panther Creek School Districts successfully passed their special tax ratification elections. Coleman passed its election with 219 for, 61 against, while Panther Creek past its election 103 for, 11 against.

3rd Annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat Event will be held October 30, 2009
10/10/2009
  The 3rd Annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat Event will be held on Friday, October 30, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at participating businesses. All children and their parents are invited to come to downtown Coleman for a fun time. In addition, this year, we are adding two new features. In conjunction with the Humane Society, who will have a pet judging costume contest, we will have a "best dressed costume" judging at the Gazebo on the corner of Commercial and Pecan. In order for your costume to be judged, you will have to check in at the gazebo before 5:15 p.m. so that the judges can see you.
  Also, this year we are sponsoring a Trick or Trunk event. What this means is that anyone that wants to come to the courthouse square in their car between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on that day can treat trick-or-treaters from candy in their trunk. We are asking for wrapped candy only. This will be a great way to get to see the kids in their costumes and to hand out candy. We urge everyone in the county or city to come and have fun with us in downtown Coleman.
  For Christmas, the annual Christmas parade will be held on December 3 on Commercial Street. The theme this year is "Christmas in Coleman." We urge all organizations, clubs, churches and interested persons to make an entry in this parade. Let your imagination be your guide in decorating floats, trucks, cars, bicycles and walkers. There will be judging and prizes awarded.
  On that same night, we will have the windows in downtown judged. If you want to have your windows judged, we must know by noon on December 1st. Please call the Chamber of Commerce at 625-2163 to enter your windows for judging.
  To add to our Christmas enthusiasm, we will have a home decoration contest, sponsored by the Coleman Business People's Association. To enter your yard, please call the Chamber with your address no later than noon on December 18th. There will be three cash prizes awarded. This is within the City Limits of Coleman, only.

Special Tax Ratification Election TODAY!
10/10/2009
The Coleman Independent School District will host a special tax ratification election today from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. to help aid the ailing district budget. For more information on the election, please watch the YouTube interviews (click here) with CISD Superintendent Royce Young.

Coleman Medical Associates is Out of Flu Vaccine!!!
10/9/2009
The Chronicle & Democrat-Voice has been informed by Coleman Medical Associates that they are out of flu vaccine. The flu clinic times advertised for Tuesday, October 13th and Thursday, October 15th have been cancelled.

Notice of the Meeting of the Commissioners Court of Coleman County, Texas, for October 13, 2009
10/9/2009
  Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the above named Court will be held at 9:00 a.m., October 13, 2009, with the meeting to be held in the COMMISSIONERS' COURTROOM, at the Coleman County Courthouse 100 Liveoak Street, Coleman, Texas, to begin on October 13, 2009, at 9:00 a.m. and continue thereafter until such business of the Court has been completed in accordance with Article 81.005 of the Local Government Code of the State of Texas. The following items of business will be discussed, to-wit:
Call the meeting to order
  Invocation
  Public Comments and Announcements
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow pubic comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of the Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)
1. Consider approval of minutes of September 30, 2009.
2. Consider approval of petition for discontinuance, abandonment and vacation of a public road; being County Road 401 in Precinct 3, presented by Paul Jensen.
3. Consider approval of a Proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Coleman County, Texas, presented by Joan Blisard with The Ark.
4. Presentation of proposed operations and management maintenance of the Flood Prevention sights, presented by Jim Hudson & Jerry Allen with the Central Colorado Soil and Water Conservation District and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
5. Consider approval of a Proclamation declaring October 23-31, 2009 as Red Ribbon Week in Coleman County, Texas in support of Texas Red Ribbon Campaign.
6. Receive and approve report of Coleman’s Healthy County Reward Money for taking part in the Path Adventure, by Executive Sponsor for Healthy County, Christine Connelly
7. Consider approval of County Attorney, Joe Lee Rose, conducting a private law practice from his County Attorney office.
8. Consider approval of bid specifications to be published for purchase of Loader for Precinct 2; presented by Precinct 2 Commissioner, Billy Don McCrary
9. Consider approval of bid specifications to be published for purchase/trade of vehicle for Sheriff’s Department; presented by Sheriff’s Department
10. Consider approval of Homeland Security Grant
11. Consider approval of contract with Reed, McKee & Co. PC of San Angelo, Texas to conduct Coleman County Audit for 2008 and 2009
12. Consider approval of Resolution in support of Restoration of the Coleman County Courthouse
13. Consider approval of Inter-local agreement between West Central Texas Council of Governments 911 Department and Coleman County
14. Consider approval of the 2010 Holiday Schedule
15. Consider approval of Policy change for reimbursement of meal expenses for day meetings to be effective, October 1, 2009
16. Consider approval of Order setting Days, Times and Locations of Commissioners’ Court Meetings for 2009-2010 Fiscal Year.
17. Consider approval of proposed Model Sub-Division Rules/order adopting Rules of Coleman County, Texas for on-site Sewage Facilities, with considerations of Public Comments PUBLIC HEARING
18. Consider approval of publishing quarterly condensed statement of accounts for 4th quarter of the fiscal year
19. Consider approval of current bills for payment and authorize transfer of funds if necessary.
Agenda items may be considered, deliberated, and/or acted upon in a different order than set forth above.
Adjournment

Kile Sentenced to Life in Prison and a $10,000 Fine
10/9/2009
By Kim Horne
Day 3 - wednesday
  Day 3 of the Edward Kile trial began on Wednesday morning at 9:00. First to be called by the defense was Kile’s long time friend, Jarvis George. George began telling how he had heard of James Smith’s death. He was afraid that Smith and Harmes had been in a wreck, and he went to Kile’s house to tell him about it. He said Kile was calm and asked what hospital Harmes was in. Police later called George to talk to Kile when Kile would not come out of the house.
  Next the defense called Edward Kile. After 45-minutes of listening to Kile’s life history, the defense began to ask him about he and Sandra’s relationship. Kile stated that yes, they had a turbulent history together. They had broken up Thanksgiving of 2007. He believed the trip to Mexico in late December gave him hope for their on-again, off-again relationship. He stated the day they got back from Mexico, December 30th, he was going to the local bar. Sandra stated that she was going with some friends. When Kile got to the bar he saw Sandra with her friends and after a while he bought Sandra a beer and began to talk to her. He told Sandra that James Smith was there. Sandra began to talk to Smith. When Kile approached, Sandra whispered something in Smith’s ear and left. Kile began to talk to Smith and Kile stated, “Please, don’t go over there. I love her.”
  Kile said after that point he does not remember much. He went on to state, “It was like I was in a dream. Like I was watching a movie.” He did say he remembered going over the fence at Harmes’ house. He could not remember how the large wire spool had been moved. He also did not remember stabbing the pickup tires. He remembers going into the house. He says he went into the den and said to James, “Bet you did not expect to see me?” James said, “We were just talking about you.”
  Kile told the jury that he then saw Smith move and heard a shot and saw Sandra move and heard a shot. He remembers Sandra telling him to run and go to Mexico, she’d find him later. He also remembers Sandra asking him where she had been shot. He then says the next thing he knows, he’s sitting in his car and can see rocks and he is crying and he throws the gun out the window. He also remembered a cop telling him today was his lucky day and for him to go home.  He remembered nothing after that until Jarvis came to his house and then he went back to bed. When he woke he got to thinking maybe what he thought he had dreamed was in fact real so he drove by Sandra’s house. He saw the Police tape and returned home to find his gun gone. It was then he realized what he had done. He began to take pills and drink rubbing alcohol and peroxide. Kile kept telling the court, “It wasn’t me! It was like a dream!” He did later admit to Hemphill that he was angry and jealous that night.
  The defense then rested and Hemphill called Dr.Brinkman, a psychologist from Abilene, as a rebuttal witness. Brinkman testified that Kile was sane at the time of the murder. He based this determination on the audio tapes of both Kile and Harmes’ interviews. He read all the reports and he also talked to Kile in his office about the events. Brinkman said Kile was aware of his actions.
  Closing arguments were given. The jury was sent to deliberate at 2:13 p.m. They made their decision at 2:25 p.m. They found Kile guilty of murder and after deliberating again for 40 minutes, the jury came back and gave Kile Life in Prison and a $10,000 fine.
  Judge Wheeler gave Kile a chance to speak to the court. Kile told the court he was sorry for the pain he had caused to all families involved and to friends. He went on to say he still felt like he was not guilty. He said it took three people to make this happen. He said he forgave the jury and the prosecution but they were going to have to answer for their actions.

SANTA ANNA FEED STORE GOSPEL CONCERT
10/9/2009
The FEEDSTORE SEED PLANTERS will host their last concert of the year on October 17. The ice cream sundae bar will open at 6:00. Music will start at 7:00. Watch for upcoming holiday events at the FEED STORE.

Panther Creek Honor Rolls Announced
10/9/2009
Click here for the honor roll results for Panther Creek High School, Junior High, and Elementary School.

Author hosts book signing TODAY at Commercial Avenue Antiques Mall
10/9/2009
  Ronald Ray, author of GRENADES, GUITARS, GUTS & GLORY, will be signing books Friday at Commercial Avenue Antiques Mall from 10 a.m. till about 2 p.m., before heading out to the Novice Homecoming.
  The book is an entertaining history of Mr. Ray’s World War II military experiences. He wrote the book at the urging of, and with the help of, his daughter, Gina Ray.
  Mr. Ray said that he wanted to write a book that was more than “just war stories”. It is a sometimes touching, sometimes exciting, and sometimes downright funny yarn that starts with he and other Coleman County draftees catching a bus in Coleman headed for the Houston Induction Center.
  It takes you through his training, war in the Pacific, great stories of his occupation duties in Japan and adjustments to civilian life.
  Everyone is invited to come down to meet and visit with Mr. Ray, ask questions about the book or his experiences, or just say ‘thank you’ to one of our remaining WWII vets.
  A special invitation is offered to all our veterans to come down, enjoy coffee and maybe swap a few tales. Grenades, Guitars, Guts and Glory: World War II, There at 18--Told at 81 is released by author SGT Ronold Ray with Gina Ray.
 

Bake Sale Hosted for Coleman Fire Department
10/8/2009
  There will be a bake sale Sat. Oct. 17th around 9:00 a.m. at the Shopping Basket. All proceeds will go to the Coleman Fire Department. This years bake sale will be held in memory of Rena Payne. Rena was the mother of Fire Marshall Gary Payne. She passed away Sept. 11, 2009. If you would like to donate and need someone to pick it up call Raylene at 325-636-7850 and someone will be glad to pick it up. There will also be a number of people baking for those of you that want to donate cake mixes, eggs etc. You can also bring your donations to 707 or 709 West Elm. Lets show our Fire Department how much we appreciate them! Thank You!

(Left to Right: Jackie Smith...Coming Home King, Belinda Washington...Coming Home Queen, Buddy Wylie...Ex-Student of the Year)

Santa Anna Ex-Students Assoc. 2009 Homecoming Honorees
Submitted by Beck Martin
10/8/2009
  The Santa Anna Ex-Students Association has announced the 2009 Homecoming honorees from the Class of 1959 and the Class of 1989. The honorees will be recognized in pre-game ceremonies before the Homecoming football game on Friday, October 9th and during the ex-student association meeting on Saturday, October 10th.
  For biographies of the honorees, click here!

Big Blue Band to perform at USSB Festival
10/8/2009
  The Big Blue Band will perform at the USSB Marching Festival at Early Stadium in Early, TX THIS Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 6:15pm. The following Saturday, October 17, 2009 the Band will march at UIL Region Marching Contest at Bulldog Stadium in Brady, TX at 3:20pm. The kids have worked very hard for the past 3 months in order to prepare for these contests. Please come out and support you Coleman High School Big Blue Band!!!

State 4-H / FFA Lamb and Goat Validation will be Oct. 24
10/8/2009
State 4-H / FFA Lamb and Goat Validation will be Saturday, October 24, 2009, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.
  All 4-H and FFA exhibitors planning to exhibit lambs or goats during the 2010 stock show year need to bring their animals to the Coleman Rodeo Grounds on this day for validation. The committees will be in place and ready to start at 1:30 p.m. For state validation records, we will need parent (or guardian) and exhibitor signatures.
  Cost for county tags are $3.00 each, State Tags are $7.00 each. In the event that a parent will be unable to attend with their child's project being state validated, a parent/guardian must sign a Waiver in order for the animals to be state validated.
  If you have any questions, please call the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519 or contact your Ag Science Teacher.

AGENDA COLEMAN EDC, INC. REGULAR BOARD MEETING
10/8/2009
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD ROOM
218 SOUTH COMMERCIAL COLEMAN, TEXAS 4:00 PM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2009
CALL TO ORDER:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
  1. EDC Board will consider approval of minutes from the Tuesday, September 8, 2009 regular meeting. Directors may take any action deemed necessary.
REGULAR BOARD MEETING:
  1. EDC Board will consider information as presented by a representative with the law firm of Shotts, Pardue, Trevino & Guevara LLP relating to economic development process and law. Directors may take any action deemed appropriate.
  2. EDC Board will consider financial reports as presented by Harold Skelton. Directors may take any action deemed necessary.
  3. EDC Board will consider accepting the resignation of Randy Turner from the EDC Board of Directors and recommendations to the City Council to fill this vacancy. Directors may take any action deemed necessary.
  4. EDC Board will consider recommendations to present to City Council related to the EDC Directors Position and operations. Directors may take any action deemed necessary.
  5. EDC Board will receive recommendations from the Coleman Chamber of Commerce relating to support services for EDC. Directors may take any action deemed necessary.
  6. EDC Board will consider reports and comments from Board members.
Directors may take any action deemed necessary. EDC Board reserves the right to enter executive session related to any agenda item in accordance with conditions set forth in section 551 of the Texas Government code.
EXECUTIVE SCESSION:
  1. EDC Board will consider information related to business and commercial prospects with which the EDC Board has ongoing negotiations relating to relocation, expansion and/or to stay in the area, pursuant to Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.
  EDC Board to reconvene in open session and take any action relative to economic development negotiations pursuant to Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.