News Archives - April 2009


"The Center" Closes Temporarily
4/30/2009
The Center at 401 E. College Street, Coleman will be closed for all activities at least until
May 13th as a precaution, due to the Swine Flu virus.


DOMINO TOURNAMENT AT HOLIDAY HILL
4/30/2009  (Contributed)

A domino tournament was held at Holiday Hill on Monday, April 27. There were a total of 16 participants in groups of four battling for trophies, ribbons, and of course, bragging rights. Winners in the 1st place team category are: Mary Watson and CA Barr, Betty McClellan and Louise Dwight, Christine Turner and Essie Bissel, and Lucille Barr and Lola Dixon. 2nd place category winners are: Eddie Mae Barker and Lucille Martin, Ron Hill and Merrill Conway, Martha Goolsby and Willene Davis and Beulah Morgan and Charlene Grider. Congratulations to all participants.   Photos courtesy of Greg Whitten, Administrator of Holiday Hill.


UIL Schedules Altered Due to Swine Flu
4/29/2009

AUSTIN, TX— On the recommendation of Dr. David Lakey, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and in consultation with Texas Education Agency Commissioner Robert Scott, the University Interscholastic League is altering its schedule of events due to the outbreak of the swine flu in Texas. Effective immediately, all UIL interscholastic competition is suspended until May 11.

“The health and safety of our student activity participants is of the utmost importance,” said UIL Executive Director Dr. Charles Breithaupt. “Taking every possible precaution to prevent the further spreading of this disease is an important contribution to the welfare of our great state, and altering the schedule of our events is a way to keep our participants safe.”

As this is a fluid situation, the UIL tentatively releases a schedule for UIL regional and state events affected by this situation.
SOFTBALL TIMELINE
No interschool games will take place until May 11 for either softball or baseball. Below is an altered playoff schedule for both sports.
Bi District Deadline                              May 16  (1 game or 2 out of 3)  
Area Deadline                                     May 19 (1 game only)
Regional Quarterfinal Deadline          May 23  (1 game or 2 out of 3)
Regional Semifinal Deadline              May 26 (1 game only)
Regional Final Deadline                     May 30  (1 game or 2 out of 3)
State Tournament                               June 4-6


Information About Swine Flu
Submitted By: Christin Burris, CEA-FCS

4/30/2009

The recent publicity surrounding cases of swine flu in the U.S. and Mexico has raised the awareness of employees and prompted questions about appropriate workplace cautions. The following information, taken from the Center for Disease Control's website, is provided to address some of these questions and to provide a resource for further investigation by concerned employees.  Flu vaccines administered in fall 2008 and winter 2009 do not protect against swine flu so it is important to minimize exposure and practice good health habits to reduce your chances of becoming ill.
Here are some examples of steps you can take to manage your risk of infection:
1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or carry a small-size, alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use it often. You can purchase alcohol-based hand sanitizer at any local pharmacy or grocery store.
2. Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose and eyes.
3. Don't eat, drink or smoke after others.
4. Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve so viruses are trapped in the fabric of your clothing and so you do not contaminate your hands. If you cough into a tissue, throw it in a wastebasket immediately. Don't lay it on a surface that others might touch. Wash or sanitize your hands as soon as possible.
5. Avoid close contact with people who are ill and stay home when you are sick.
6. Avoid areas where large groups of people will be gathering.
Simple actions such as these can reduce the chances of you contracting this and other illnesses. Further information specific to swine flu can be found at the following URL's:
Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
Texas Department of State Health Services: www.dshs.state.tx.us\swineflu 
Texas Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN):
http://texashelp.tamu.edu/004-natural/disease-and-epidemic.php 

We will continue to keep you informed as further information becomes available. Here is some additional information from the Texas Department of State Health Services Website:
Key Facts about Swine Influenza (Swine Flu)
What is Swine Influenza?
Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to outbreaks in humans. The classical swine flu virus (an influenza type A H1N1 virus) was first isolated from a pig in 1930.
Can humans catch swine flu?
Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred. Most commonly, these cases occur in persons with direct exposure to pigs (e.g. children near pigs at a fair or workers in the swine industry). In addition, there have been documented cases of one person spreading swine flu to others. For example, an outbreak of apparent swine flu infection in pigs in Wisconsin in 1988 resulted in multiple human infections, and, although no community outbreak resulted, there was antibody evidence of virus transmission from the patient to health care workers who had close contact with the patient.
How common is swine flu infection in humans?
In the past, CDC received reports of approximately one human swine influenza virus infection every one to two years in the U.S., but from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases of human infection with swine influenza have been reported.
What are the symptoms of swine flu in humans?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
How does swine flu spread?
Influenza viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs, such as in pig barns and livestock exhibits housing pigs at fairs. Human-to-human transmission of swine flu can also occur. This is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
How can human infections with swine influenza be diagnosed?

To diagnose swine influenza A infection, a respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness (when an infected person is most likely to be shedding virus). However, some persons, especially children, may shed virus for 10 days or longer. Identification as a swine flu influenza A virus requires sending the specimen to CDC for laboratory testing.


NOTICE - Census Process Begins
4/30/2009
The census process has begun in Coleman County. There are Census Bureau employees driving around the county finding exact locations of houses.  They may drive up to your house to obtain its exact location. 


4/30/2009
FINALLY!  Construction progress at Holiday Hill is underway.  Ronnie Varner of Goode Construction from San Angelo is powering a big maintainer on the front circle drive.  Once the old asphalt is removed and new is put in place, the circle drive on the home will be back open.


Good Neighbor TEEA Club Meets Friday, May 1
4/30/2009
Danella McBrayer gave the program "Herbs--Grow Them and Use Them" to the Good Neighbor TEEA Club Friday morning, April 17. She discussed common herbs and gave tips on growing them and their upkeep. These could be used in the kitchen for cooking, in the home and garden for smell and beauty, and for health. She displayed a wide assortment of these herbs and passed them around to be seen and smelled.

President Mary Frances Smith called the meeting to order. Barbara Cropp led the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag and to the Texas flag. Betty Griffin led the creed and the prayer. Thought for the day: "In order to learn to feel content, we must make a daily efforrt to think good thoughts." Members answered roll with "Were you in 4-H or FFA?" Peggy Willetts gave the treasurer's report.

Delegate Anna Jenkins reported on the April 8 association meeting. County historical trips were set up for May 7 for Good Neighbor Club and May 12 for Gouldbusk Homemakers. Volunteers were still needed for the state convention in September in San Angelo. Instructions for the County Cultural Arts Contest coming up May 13 were given.

Christin Burris, FCS agent, announced one applicant had submitted a 4-H record book for the county 4-H scholarship. This would be submitted to the TEEA scholarship committee for judging in the near future. She also discussed a volunteer program called Silver Lining. This is a program where TEEA and/or 4-H groups go into nursing homes and volunteer their services.

Attending were Christin Burris, agent, and guest Danella McBrayer, and members Ola Jean Alderson, Nina Childress, Shari Craig, Barbara Cropp, Helen Cross, Kay Dyer, Betty Griffin, Ann Jenkins, Jean Langford, Dorothy McDonald, Dora Newman, Mary Frances Smith, Peggy Willetts. Hostess was Shari Craig.

Program for the next meeting will be "Hints by Heloise" by Lynn Corbett. This will be Friday morning,
May 1st at 9:00am
in the Coleman County State Bank clubroom. You are invited to join us then.


Info from Coleman ISD on Swine Flu
4/30/2009
As you have probably heard on the news, there is concern about a swine flu pandemic. At this time there is no reason to panic, but every reason to increase our efforts on prevention. Coleman ISD is doing everything it can to prevent illness in our community by taking proactive steps, which include education on prevention, daily communication with the Texas Department of Health, extra precautions in the cleanliness of our campus's and more access to hand sanitizers in the classrooms.

You can find more information at www.webmd.com  or you can call 1-888-777-5320.
We ask that you please keep your children home if they have fever of 99 degrees or more, and if they develop a fever at school you will be asked to pick them up as soon as possible. Children should not return to school until they are fever free for a minimum of 24 hours, without the aid of medication.

We encourage you to review good hand washing techniques with your children.
Please remember your physician is your best source of information.


Early Voting Ends May 5th
4/30/2009
At 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 29 106 voters have personally appeared at City Hall for Early Voting.  It continues thru May 5, 2009 at 200 W. Live Oak St., in City Hall Council Chambers.


HIGH SCHOOL TRACK AND FIELD
UIL hoping to still hold regional track meets
By Danny Davis     AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The high school track and field season may have been resuscitated.

Hours after announcing Wednesday that it was canceling this year's regional track meets, the UIL reversed course and officials now are checking into the availability of potential regional sites.

A new regional and state meet plan is hoped to be in place by Friday, UIL athletic director Cliff Odenwald said.

"It's been wild, to say the least," Odenwald said of the UIL's busy Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, the UIL suspended all sports events until May 11 because of the swine flu outbreak. Track and field was the hardest hit sport. Regional track meets — originally scheduled for this weekend to determine qualifiers for the state meet — were canceled altogether.

But Odenwald said late Wednesday afternoon that the UIL's original plan was tentative, and that officials had decided to review it.

Odenwald said he was optimistic that regional track meets would be rescheduled.

Under the initial UIL plan, state track meet entrants were to be decided based on results from their already-completed district track meets.
TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE CLICK HERE.


Miss Texas Comes to Coleman
4/30/2009
Tuesday, May 5, 2009, Miss Texas 2008 Rebecca Robinson will be making a visit to Coleman ISD.  Rebecca is 24 years of age, and her hometown is Buffalo, Texas.  She represented Longview in the Miss Texas Pageant.  Rebecca is a graduate of Texas A&M with a major in Spanish and a minor in Comparative Cultural Studies.  Rebecca has been dancing since the age of 5 and is multi-talented in that she also sings.  She will speak to over 100,000 students this year, through the Texas Cares for Children program.  Rebecca's platform is VIVA TEXAS!  Building Bridges through Bilingual Education


From the KTXS Website:
UPDATE * UPDATE * UPDATE

4/30/2009

Wednesday evening, UIL Executive Director Charles Breithaupt told KTXS Sports Director Bryan Keating that regional track competition WILL be rescheduled. However, the meet will not be held until after May 11.


Eagle Scout Ceremonies
4/29/2009       (Contributed)

Proud Scoutmaster, Drew Hubbard (left), accompanies scouters to their Eagle Board of Review in Abilene, March 19, 2009. Receiving the Eagle Rank were Duston Crawford, Michael Watson, and Troy Hubbard. The Eagle Ceremony for Duston Crawford will be at the First Baptist Church, May 30th, 2 pm; Michael Watson's will be at First Methodist, June 28th, 2 pm; and Troy Hubbard's will be at Central Baptist, June 14th, 2 pm. All family & friends are invited to attend!


CCMC BOARD MEETING
4/29/2009

The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met in their regular meeting at 12 Noon on Thursday, April 23, 2009, and addressed a short agenda.

Board president Mark Griffis presented Lisa Eldred, head cook in the Dietary Department with a certificate designating her as CCMC Employee of the 2nd Quarter of 2009, along with a day off with pay.

CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley presented the March financial statement to the board, stating that the finances of the hospital were in good shape at this time, but cautioning them that the summer months were coming up when the patient census would be down.

In other business, the board approved credentialing of the Night Hawk Radiology group, and renewed the Commercial Auto, General Liability, and Boiler and Machinery policy.

The next scheduled regular meeting of the CCMC Board of Directors will be at Noon on May 28,2009


Crepe Myrtle Trees Donated to Santa Anna City Park
4/27/2009      (Contributed)
Travelers’ Treasures Ironworks and Nursery in Santa Anna has donated twenty-five Crepe Myrtle trees to the city park in memory of the recent loss of other Santa Anna “treasures”. Coleman County Telephone Coop will provide the equipment and operator to dig the holes for the trees. Santa Anna Park and Armory Committee is pleased to receive the gift of the six-foot tall trees to add spring color to our local park.

Those memorialized include: Lois E. Mendoza, Dwight Zirkle, Virgil Lancaster, Temp Fiveash, Mike Hosch, Rex Turney, Jake and Sammie McCreary, Billy Joe Harvey, Sam Jacobs, Charlotte Moseley, Corine Eubank, Leland Thompson, Billy Bible, Lee Brashear, Jurita Benge, Will Free, Amelia and Alejandro DeLeon, Loyd Taylor, Dink and Marie Wristen, Billie Guthrie, Tommy Davis, Margaret and Harry Crews, Dwight and DeeDee Hudson, Ken Bowker, and Franklin Lewis.

Planting a tree in a City park or other City-owned land is a special way to honor a loved one and provides a gift to the whole community. Memorial trees are an age old tradition throughout the world, symbolizing life, growth and hope for the future. Trees have always been recognized as Nature's best gift to humankind. The Park and Armory Committee extends it sincere appreciation to Travelers’ Treasures Ironworks and Nursery and the Telephone Coop for this wonderful gift.


Early Voting Continues
4/29/2009
At 5:00pm Monday, April 27, 2009 there had been 31 early voters for the City of Coleman Election.

Early voting is being conducted at City Hall, 200 W. Live Oak St. in the Council Chambers.

Early voting ends at 7:00pm Tuesday, May 5, 2009.

General Election Day will be Saturday, May 9, 2009 from 7a.m. to 7p.m. at 200 W. Live Oak St., in the Council Chambers.


Coleman County Commissioners’ Court SPECIAL MEETING
4/29/2009

Notice of Meeting
2nd Floor Coleman County Courthouse, City of Coleman
Tuesday, April 30, 2009 at 9:00 am
AGENDA

1. Call the Meeting to Order
2. Approve minutes from prior meeting (s)
3. Conduct any necessary old business
4. Receive any visitors not on the Agenda
5. Approve contracting with Eagle Construction for Emergency Haz-Mat Cleanup, tabled from previous meeting
6. Approve petition for discontinuance, abandonment and vacating of public road(CR 194)
7. Approve Hiring the Firm of Allison, Bass and Associates, LLP for completion of Coleman County’s re-districting plan for 2011
8. Approve Update on Commissioners’ Court Meeting with Texas Historical Commission
9. Approve current bills for payment and authorize transfer of funds if necessary
10. Adjourn the meeting


Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Mother's Day and Father's Day Raffles

4/29/2009

The Sacred Heart Catholic Church is having a raffle.  Contact Mickey Holl oway at cell # 325-214-0534 or contact the church office at 325-625-5773 and speak to Delia Dela Rosa. The raffle will be held on May 12th, Mother’s Day at the 11:00 mass and will be selling tickets until Saturday, May 9th.  Tickets are $2.00 each or 6 for $10.00.   Items being raffled are :

For Mom
Win a
Massage by Carlos Sanchez of “A Unique Massage” ($50. 00 Value donated by Carlos Sanchez) and $50 Gift Certificate to Bath & Body Works
(Donated by Richard & Mickey Holloway)

For Mom or Dad
Our Lady of Guadalupe picture frame

Originated in Italy.  Frame is Copper Leafed with Velvet mat and pure Silver engraving of Our Lady of Guadalupe  ($160 value donated by Sacred Heart Catholic Church)

For Dad
Win
2 tickets for Texas Rangers Baseball Game
  ($80.00 Value donated by Carlos Sanchez)  and  $50 Gift Certificate to Wal-Mart (Donated by Richard & Mickey Holloway).


Rickey Payne Retires from TxDOT
Public Invited to Retirement Party THURSDAY

4/29/2009

Rickey Payne has worked for the Texas Department of Transportation in Coleman for almost 30 years. His co-workers invite the public to stop by the TxDOT office from 1:00pm to 3:00pm Thursday, April 30th, to wish Rickey well. All former TxDOT co-workers are especially invited to attend. The TxDOT office is next door to Dollar General on South Commercial Avenue. Rickey retires from the state, but doesn't totally retire. He'll work across the street for the Coleman schools.  (Colemannews.com photos are from a recent lunch his co-workers held for him.)


Art Show for CISD Art Students
4/29/2009
Danna Dawson, Art teacher for CISD, and her students are planning an Art show for Thursday, April 30th, from 6-8 p.m. at the Heritage Hall Museum. Every art student will have a piece of their artwork from this school year on display. The public is invited and the students will be serving punch and cookies.


Five Texas Teens Receive Texas Lyceum Leadership Award
4/28/2009

Scholarship honors go to Texas seniors demonstrating outstanding leadership qualities through community service.
(DALLAS) The Texas Lyceum, the statewide non-profit, non-partisan leadership group focused on identifying the next generation of top Texas leaders, announced its Leadership Award scholarships for 2009.
“We are pleased to honor these five outstanding Texas students with the Lyceum Leadership Scholarship Awards,” said Lyceum President Jay Rutherford. “We had many students apply for our scholarship awards which makes our selection process even more challenging.”
“However, this group of five students was truly outstanding, not only with respect to their academic achievements, which are considerable, but also in their commitment to giving back to their communities - a trait the Lyceum honors and fosters with our own members.”
Each of the following award honorees will receive a $2,000 scholarship:
**
Coleman High School High senior Nicole Lynn Heath, the daughter of Jan of William Heath of Coleman, Texas, was awarded the Texas Lyceum Leadership Award for demonstrating her leadership qualities as Student Council President and in 4-H Club, basketball, track and cheerleading. Ms. Heath serves as a Supportive Peer Volunteer at Coleman High. In that role, she assists her peers facing mental and emotional challenges. She will attend Texas A&M University in the fall and plans to study biomedical science.
**Tidehaven High School senior Kirby Jean Hickl, the daughter of Patrick and Cheryl Hickl of El Maton, Texas, was awarded the Texas Lyceum scholarship for her outstanding involvement in community service through the FAA. Miss Hickl also participates in high school tennis, volleyball, cross-country, and choir. In addition, Ms. Hickl plays piano at her church. She will be attending Tarleton University in the fall and plans to major in Animal Science.
**Wylie High School senior Joshua Light, the son of Joey and Karen of Abilene, Texas, was awarded the Lyceum scholarship for demonstrating his leadership capacity as Student Council President during both his junior and senior years and his participation in UIL activities, football, soccer and church. Mr. Light will attend Texas A&M University and major in chemical engineering.
**Sabinal High School senior Danielle Rucker, the daughter of Debbie Braden of Sabinal, Texas. Ms. Rucker was selected for demonstrating her leadership skills as senior class president, varsity basketball captain, and varsity cheerleading captain and as a volunteer for hurricane relief mission work along the Texas coast through her church. Ms. Rucker, who serves as President of the Sabinal High National Honor Society, plans to attend Texas State University at San Marcos in the fall to study business and communications.
**Harmony High School senior, Katherine "Katie" Brianne Wilson, is the daughter of Gary and Veleria Wilson of Gilmer, Texas. Ms. Wilson was awarded the scholarship for displaying her leadership qualities through her involvement in her school, including serving as Student Council President and as cheerleading captain. Along with being elected Miss Harmony this year by her teachers, Ms. Wilson lettered in basketball, volleyball, softball and track. Ms. Wilson will be attending the University of Texas at Austin and plans to earn her degree in business and accounting.
The Texas Lyceum Leadership Award recipients are selected on the basis of leadership, academic record, honors, a personal essay, letters of recommendation, potential to succeed, and participation in school and community service. Lyceum Leadership Award applicants must be Texas residents and carry an average 3.0 GPA. The award can only go to students who are graduating from high school in the year in which the scholarship is awarded and they must attend an accredited Texas college or university. For more information about the Texas Lyceum Leadership Award please go to www.texaslyceum.org and see "scholarships."

About the Lyceum
The Texas Lyceum, a non-profit, non-partisan group, is a premier statewide leadership organization focused on identifying the next generation of top Texas leaders. The Lyceum consists of 96 men and women from throughout the state, who begin their six-year term while under the age of 46, and have demonstrated leadership in their community and profession, together with a deep commitment to Texas.

In 2008, the Lyceum conducted the second annual Texas Lyceum Poll, an independent survey of Texan’s attitudes about issues facing the state and the nation, and held its 24th Annual Public Conference in Austin entitled The 2009 Stimulus Package: What’s in it (or not) for Texas?

The Lyceum has an impressive list of former members who are serving or have served in public office including: President George W. Bush, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, Governor Rick Perry, former Texas Comptroller John Sharp, Texas State Senators Rodney Ellis and Kirk Watson, Houston Mayor Bill White, Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett, and former Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.

The Texas Lyceum acts as a catalyst to bring together diverse opinions and expertise to focus on national and state issues, and seeks to emphasize constructive private sector, public sector, and individual responses to the issues.

To accomplish these purposes, the Lyceum conducts periodic public forums, publishes the Lyceum Journal, produces The Texas Lyceum Poll, and convenes programs for the Directors to explore and discuss key economic and social issues of the state and nation. For more information visit: http://www.texaslyceum.org/.


Class of 1969 Reunion
4/27/2009

The Coleman Class of '69 has their 40th Class Reunion planned for Sept. 11-13, beginning with the Homecoming game between Coleman and Hawley. Every class member that has not been contacted by O'Lene Stone, please be there! We want to see you and go over old times!! We also invite any member of the Coleman Classes of 1966-1968 and any member of the Coleman Classes of 1970-1972 to also come join us at the Homecoming game. We would love to see you after all of these years. These are the class members that we attended school with from our Freshman year through 1969. We made many friends from a lot of these classes, and we would love to visit with you about old times.

If you need more information about the our class reunion schedule, you need to contact O'Lene Stone at: olene.stone@sbcglobal.net !! She will be glad to hear from you!!
God Bless,
Danny Ray-Coleman Class of '69
GO BLUECATS!!


IT IS TIME FOR CHANGE
4/27/2009
     (Contributed)
It is time for change in our community. April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention month. We as a community need to stand up and speak out about Sexual Assault. According to Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA) only 20 percent of rapes are ever reported to police. The numbers of sexual assaults reported to police in our very own community are alarming. In 2008 alone there were 14 incidents of sexual assault reported to the Coleman Police Department and 3 incidents of sexual assault reported the Coleman County Sheriff’s Office. If this is only 20 percent of the actual sexual assaults that are occurring in our community, then we as a community have a serious problem.

Our Community needs to support victims and survivors. How we treat people who have been the target of sexual aggression lays the foundation for a community that either tolerates abuse or declares a firm "No!" to sexual assault.


WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE JUST BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED
• Get to a safe place.
• Contact someone who can help you: a friend, the police (911), The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter & Sexual Assault Program (325 643-2699) or (888-313-2699).
• Do not shower, drink or eat, clean, or change your clothes. These activities destroy important evidence in the event that you decide to prosecute the assailant.
• Get medical attention. You may have hidden injuries and may want to explore options for preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.
• Write down everything that you remember happening, with as much detail as possible. This can help with your own healing process and in any legal action you might decide to take.


FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
After a sexual assault a person needs to:
• Feel safe.
• Be believed.
• Obtain medical assistance.
• Know she or he was not at fault.
• If you know someone who has been assaulted and you have questions about getting them help, call The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter & Sexual Assault Program (325 643-2699) or (888-313-2699). 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP:

• Listen without making judgments. Try simply to understand the survivor’s feelings.
• Be there and give comfort. The survivor may need to talk a lot, possibly at odd hours at the beginning. Be there as much as you can and encourage the survivor to talk to others.
• Encourage the person to seek professional help.
• Be patient. Don’t try to rush the healing process or “make it better.”
• Accept the person’s choice of what to do about the rape. Ask what is needed, help the survivor list some options, then encourage independent decision-making, even if you disagree. It is very important that the survivor make decisions and have them respected.
• Put aside your feelings and get support for yourself. It may be too overwhelming to deal with your angry feelings on top of the victim’s. If you have strong angry feelings or feelings of blame toward the survivor, talk to a friend or call the hotline at The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter & Sexual Assault Program (325 643-2699) or (888-313-2699). 24 hours a day, seven days a week.


Thanks from the Meadors!
4/27/2009
On behalf of Lee and Darlene Meador & Central Baptist Church, we would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to the City of Coleman and the surrounding areas for helping the Meador Family during the loss of their home due to a house fire. Thank you to each and every person or business that donated goods, made a monetary donation, sent cards, made calls, made a visit to the family, etc. A very special "thank you" is also extended to the local news media for helping us to get the word of the Meador Family's loss to the public. During a tragedy such as this, can make everyone appreciate how important it is to have a community that helps in so many ways. We may not have the "luxurious" of larger towns, but the smallness of Coleman can surely make one aware of how many people in Coleman are sincere and always eager to help a family in need.

Again, our sincerest appreciation to all of you from The Meador Family and Central Baptist Church.


Decontamination Drill Held at CCMC
4/27/2009    by Sue Titsworth
We hope it never happens here in Coleman County, but just in case it does, it’s comforting to know that the proper people are being trained to deal with it.

I’m talking about a disaster of major magnitude – not only tornado, flood, fire, and earthquake, but hazardous waste spills, terrorism (yes, it could happen even here in our county), and major acts of a violent nature.

Last Thursday many CCMC employees, along with EMS, Fire Department personnel, and First Responders had a day of training (one of many they have had in the past few years). This one took place here at CCMC. Disaster plans were discussed, the “white suits” (personal protection equipment that enable our people to help those who have been contaminated by hazardous chemicals, highly contagious disease, etc. without becoming contaminated themselves.) were donned. The decontamination shower was set up, and drills were held.

These programs go on all through the country, and have since 9/11. They are designed to prepare us to deal with disasters that we pray will never happen.


COLEMAN BIKE CLUB PARTICIPATES IN
MUENSTER, TEXAS BIKE RIDE

4/27/2009  (Contributed)

Among 2,000 total participants, local bike enthusiasts are pictured above with their miles of completion in the recent ride thru the beautiful rolling hills of Muenster, Texas. Paul Reynolds/60 miles, Becki Reynolds/22 miles, Barbara Hubbard/60 miles, Drew Hubbard/60 miles. The Coleman bike riders have a fun ride every Thursday at 5 pm leaving from the hospital parking lot in which everyone is invited and encourage to ride at your own pace! What's next?? The Bike Club will be participating in their choice of 16, 32, or 60 miles at the Bangs Mayfest on Saturday, May 2nd!


BURN BAN LIFTED
4/27/2009
Judge Jimmie Hobbs has temporarily lifted the Burn Ban for Coleman County, as of 9:00am Monday morning, due to the rains in the area.


Fine Arts League Members in Ballinger Show
4/27/2009
     (Contributed)

Several members were entered into the annual Miniature Show in Ballinger. The show concluded Saturday April 25 with Sherrell Hazlewood being awarded the People’s Choice, “Texas Prairie Talk”; Theda Rhea (below left) received an honorable mention with her “Navajo Grandmother”. Ginger Test’s (below right) 2 watercolor paintings sold. Marian Johnson also entered three paintings. There was a total of 52 paintings entered. Mejo Okon, San Angelo, was judge for the event.

Two Texas Blue Bunny Books were sold. The Bunny Book project is the fund-raiser for the Fiesta Juried Art Show in October ‘09. 100 first edition Texas Blue Bunny Books were donated by Sherrell Hazlewood for the fund-raising project 2009.

For your Blue Bunny Book, contact Lois McCarty, project chair, 325-625-2352 or Sherrell/Theda Rhea 325-625-4687.  www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com


Early Voting Begins
4/27/2009
Reminder that the Early Voting by personal appearance has begun for the City of Coleman Election.

If you reside in the City limits of Coleman you may vote early between April 27 and May 5. Hours for April 27 thru May 1, are 8 a.m. - 12 noon, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday, May 4, and Tuesday May 5, are extended hours: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

You must have your voter registration card or some other form of identification such as a drivers license in order to vote.


CHS Senior Parents to Meet Tuesday
4/27/2009
The CHS Senior parents will have a meeting on Tuesday, April 28th at 6:00. The meeting will be held at the Coleman Elementary Kindergarten Commons Area. We encourage all Senior parents to attend. For more info, you may call Debbie Jameson at 625-1040 or Lee McKelvain at 625-3071.


8TH GRADE PARENTS,
4/26/2009

We will have a meeting Wednesday April 29th at 5:15pm at D. Q. to make arrangements for the Graduation Party.  Parents you need to show up!  We have a lot of planning to do.  Also, if you have not paid your $30...fee for the party, you need to do so as soon as possible!  You need to drop your money off at Encompass, 300 Commercial Ave. between the hours of 7:45am-12:00 or 1:00-5:00 to Landa King or Misty Brooks.  If you have questions you can call Landa or Misty at 325-625-5555 or Maricela Morris at 325-214-2330.
 
THANK YOU!
MARICELA MORRIS
LANDA KING & MISTY BROOKS


Humane Society Gets New Sign
4/26/2009
Thanks to Bonnie West-Hennig (and her sidekick, Bill), the Humane Society building at 108 East Pecan is taking on a new look. It is no longer the “old CarQuest building.” It is now officially the Humane Society of Coleman County Thrift Store.
Bonnie and Bill are responsible for the wonderful new sign that has been painted on the building by American Sign & Awning out of Abilene. The cat and dog graphics are the greatest, and we can’t wait to show off even more of the art work on the interior walls. Opening day won’t be too far away!


Bonnie has always been one of the Humane Society’s staunchest supporters over the years. But she has really stepped up to the plate with the financial assistance she has given us at 108. Bonnie personally lined up the painters to see to it that the interior was brightened up with a coat of paint and has worked with Dobbins Electric to see to it that the wiring and lighting is up to snuff at 108.
The thrift store at 109 West Pecan has already been very successful, thanks to the generosity of all those who donate items to the store and those who shop with us, with a special thanks to Coleman County State Bank for the use of the building. It’s this kind of interest and involvement by members of our community that makes us glad to be in Coleman.
Keep an eye out for the announcement of our relocation to the new East Pecan location. We are looking forward to all that room to display our treasures!


Cleaning up Coleman!
4/26/2009   by Kim E. Horne, Colemannews.com
The West Central Texas Inter-Local Task Force got one more drug dealer off the streets Sunday evening. Around 6:30 pm on Sunday they arrested Casey Don Niedecken of Winters, Texas for the possession of  Methamphetamines. He was arrested on the 700 block of W. 2nd. Coleman Police assisted with the arrest.


Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club learns about raising Pecan Trees
4/26/2009

The Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club met at the Gouldbusk Community Center on April 9th at 1pm. Luther Dunlap, County Agent, gave a presentation on "Caring for Pecan Trees" The talk was very informative, and for those of us that have pecan trees or plan on having pecan trees will help a lot with the success of the enterprise.

Those present were: Lynn Corbett, Betty Duus, Sharon Greenlee, Geneva Harris, Virginia Jamison, Wanda Jewell, Dean Lanier, Danella McBrayer, Pat Pool, Sue Ragsdale, Pat Vance, Mona Wilson, Deborah Yates, and Christin Burris, Extension Agent. Also attending were Jean Langford and Helen Cross from the Good Neighbor Club, Luther Dunlap who gave the program and Kay Allen a guest. Prior to the meeting starting we enjoyed a light lunch, prepared for us by Pat Vance and Sharon Greenlee, which was delicious. After Luther's presentation, we had a short business meeting. We would love to have anyone who would like to join us come to our next meeting. It will be at the home of Mona Wilson at 1pm on May 14th. Lynn Corbett will be presenting a program entitled" Paving the Path to Wellness". Hope to see you there.


Chamber Honors Citizens of the Year
4/25/2009

The annual Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Banquet was well attended Friday night at the Bill Franklin Center. A traditional highlight of the banquet is when various citizens are recognized for their efforts on behalf of the community. This year's honorees include:

Citizen of the Year - Janie Popnoe

Rural Citizen of the Year - Dokie Bledsoe

Teacher of the Year - Cindy Dockter

New Horizon Award
- Darla Wise (Pictured below with family)


Potential For Stormy Weather
4/26/2009
We need rain, badly, and there is rain in the forecast. However, the rain may bring some unwanted guests such as hail, high wind and possible tornadoes. The greatest threat of storms will be from Sunday afternoon through Monday. Storms will likely carry over into Tuesday.

The weather pattern will be active Sunday through Tuesday so use the following links to monitor the weather often.


Good Luck to the CHS Academic UIL Regional Qualifiers.  They will be competing Saturday April 25th at Odessa College. 
The students competing are Reid Needham, Erik Villeda, Heather Pope, Reece Halfmann, Cheyenne Turner, and Landon Brown.


Trotter Harris participated in his first 4-H shotgun competition at the Brownwood Extravaganza this past Saturday. 
He shot well and brought home a 2nd place plaque in the Jr. Division at 9 yrs old. 
Good shooting Trotter!!


The Cleveland Cemetery Association 47th Annual Meeting will be Saturday, April 25, 2009 at 10:00am at the Cleveland Cemetery Chapel.


Co-Ed  Softball Tournament in Coleman
4/24/2009
Coleman Co-Ed Softball Tournament
May 8 and 9 at the Coleman Softball field, Men will hit with 28" bats and girls will hit with Regular Bats, 44 Cord Ball will be used. First and Second Place T-Shirts will be awarded. For more information call 325-220-1223 or 325 220 -1065 First 10 Teams will be accepted.


Dietary Supplements-Buyer Beware!
4/24/2009 Contributed by : Christin Burris, CEA_FCS

Numerous products are sold for their touted benefits in nutrition and in the prevention and treatment of disease. In 2003, Americans spent $18.8 billion on supplements and about half (170 million) of Americans take some kind of dietary supplement. Before taking any supplement, consider some things first.
1. Dietary supplements do not undergo testing by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), nor independent safety review as do new prescription and/or over-the counter drugs, so beware of manufacturers health claims not backed by science.
2. A supplement may not contain either the ingredients listed on the product label or in the amount indicated.
3. No guarantee ensures the purity of the supplement. Other harmful additives not listed on the label may be included. Unfortunately, it is not clear which supplements are effective and without risk. Be skeptical about any supplements that promise magical results. Supplements promising magic results are not a reliable substitute.
What can you do to ensure a healthy lifestyle?
1. Eat a healthful meals which includes all the nutrients (carbohydrates, protein and fat), vitamins, minerals and water needed for good health (go to USDA MyPyramid.gov),
2. Exercise or increase daily activities from 45 minutes to an hour,
3. Get plenty of rest and relaxation, and
4. Take physician-prescribed drugs and/or supplements.
What questions should be answered before taking any supplement?
1. Are the health claims from a reliable source, or a qualified professional? (Advertising and information from *.com* websites are not always reliable sources.)
2. Do the claims sound too good to be true?
3. Are there any long-term studies showing the products are safe and work as advertised?
4. Do the benefits outweigh the costs and risks, or are there too many unknowns?
5. Is the manufacturer reliable? Is the item certified by US Pharmacopeia (USP)?
6. Ask your physician or a registered dietitian: *Do I need a dietary supplement?
An Example: St. John's Wort, an herbal treatment popularly used to self-treat depression, is an example of a dietary supplement that may cause problems.
Potential Advantages include:
1. Cost less money than prescription, anti-depression medications.
2. Seems more natural and self-empowering to use an herbal product.
Disadvantages include:

1. The active ingredient(s) are present in variable and unmeasured dosages depending on preparation.
2. St. John's Wort has not been an effective treatment for depression in independent studies.
3. Common side effects include as follows: dry mouth, dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and fatigue.
4. May interact with other drugs and make them less effective (e.g. birth control pills, antidepressants).
5. May discourage better treatments for depression.
The websites below may help you decide whether or not to take a dietary supplement. They are not intended to replace information from your healthcare professional:
* Office of Dietary supplements: http://ods.od.nih.gov/ 
* U.S. Pharmacopeia: http://www.usp.org/ 
* National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: http://nccam.nih.gov/ 
Contact Christin Burris, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Family & Consumer Sciences County agent at 325-625-4519, for more information.
Prepared by Kelly Vaughan, BS, Texas A&M University Dietetic Intern, and Mary Kinney Bielamowicz, PhD, RD, LD, Professor and Nutrition Specialist, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Texas A&M University System, Spring, 2009.


Silver Valley Homecoming and Cemetery Decoration
4/24/2009

Sunday May 3, 2009
The New Silver Valley is 100 years old this year, 2009. We will have a slide show, showing some pictures of the bank, and some of the other buildings before they were torn down. If you are an ex-resident, student, teacher, friend or pastor of Silver Valley, you won't want to miss this special time of sharing, food, fun, and reminiscing about the good old days.
Schedule of Events
9:45 AM........10:15 AM     Cemetery Decoration
10:15 AM......11:15 AM     Registration at Community Center
11:15 AM......12:00 Noon  Singing and Business Meeting
12:00 Noon....1:15 PM      Lunch--- Bring a covered Dish - Drinks and dishes will be provided
1:15 PM........????????    Visiting


March for Babies
4/24/2009    (Contributed)
The annual March for Babies will be held Saturday, April 25th in Abilene at the RedbudPark. Registration will start at 9:30 A.M. and the walk will begin at 10:30 A.M.  You can help by donating your time to walk or your money!
Why March for Babies?
Because the March of Dimes champions the needs of moms and babies in our community and across the nation.  The money we raise for March for Babies will help:
- support all-important research offering preventions and solutions for babies born too soon or with birth defects
- educate women on things they can do to increase their chances of having a healthy baby
- provide comfort and information to families with a newborn in intensive care
- push for newborn screening and health insurance for all pregnant women and children

Won't you please help me in this worthy cause? Contributing to my walk online is fast, easy and secure. You can donate directly from my personal webpage with a credit card or PayPal. If you prefer, I can also accept cash or check. Just click the appropriate box on my webpage.
My personal web page address for donations is ...
http://www.marchforbabies.org/christinb
or     http://www.marchforbabies.org/codyburris
Would you like to see what March for Babies is and why I'm walking?

Click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5P_dFD0J47I  to see the video.

The March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.  For more information call the Abilene Division at 325-672-0566.


2009 Coleman Chamber of Commerce Banquet -  TONIGHT
4/24/2009
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture & Tourist Bureau will host its Annual Banquet on
Friday, April 24, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center. The theme for this years Banquet is “Camo & Diamonds.” Entertainment will be provided by Revolution of Abilene. Donnie Neff will provide the dinner music and Daniel Stovall will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Please come join us for a fun filled evening. Chairpersons for the 2009 Chamber Banquet are: Dokie Bledsoe and Nina Childress.

The Director’s of the Coleman Rodeo Association will cook the meal. The menu will consist of sirloin steak, grilled chicken breast, and all the trimmings.  Tickets are now on sale at the Chamber of Commerce Office or from any Chamber Director for $14.00. Chamber Directors to contact are: Dr. Darron Atwood, Sandra Barr, Dokie Bledsoe, Nina Childress, Danyelle Hemphill, Kim Horne, Charlotte Johns, Kevin McMahon, Cathy Allen, Crystal Rae, Kathy Turner, and Darla Wise.

The 2009 Citizen of the Year, Rural Citizen of the Year, New Horizon of the Year, and Teacher of the Year Award winners will be announced during the program.

A
silent auction & live auction will be held again this year. Various items donated by merchants will help enable the Chamber to defray cost for the Banquet. Items will include gift certificates, merchandise, and goody bags show casing our merchant’s best goodies. The proceeds from the auction will also help the Chamber of Commerce purse future activities throughout the year.

Everyone is encouraged to attend the Chamber of Commerce Banquet for an evening of pleasure. You do not have to be a Chamber Member in order to attend. We are asking business members to encourage their employees to attend the banquet. Attendance by your employees will represent your business while showing the employee that they are an integral part of your business.  For more information concerning the Banquet, please call the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office at 325-625-2163.


Attention CHS Junior Class (Class of 2010) Parents!!
 4/24/2009

 A meeting is scheduled for this
Sunday (April 26th) at 3:00
at the FCNB clubroom. We will be finalizing plans and prize shopping for After-Prom Party. Please try to attend if you are interested in helping shop or plan.
 
 If you have no interest in planning but would like to help out at the party, we will need parents to work at the many planned activities throughout the night. The party begins immediately following CHS Prom on May 9th - 12:30-5:30 am.
 
 Please call Tammy Swening, Viki Hambright, Karen Nanny or Molly Norris to sign up to help.


BOIL WATER NOTIFICATION LIFTED
City of Santa Anna - April 23, 2009       (Contributed)

The boil water notice as issued on April 21, 2009 has been lifted, and the citizens of Santa Anna should resume use of the public water supply in the normal manner. We have extreme confidence that your water supply is safe and its integrity was not compromised during this period.

A major water leak in the City’s water distribution system caused low water pressure and water outages throughout Santa Anna. Rules and Regulations for Public Water Systems, as governed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, require a public notification to boil water if the pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch within the distribution system. This is a precautionary measure, not a statement that the water has been contaminated. All water testing, beginning immediately after the incident and thereafter, confirms that the chloramine residuals were more than adequate and never violated the TCEQ standards. Subsequent testing of microbiological samples by an approved independent laboratory also confirms that no harmful organisms are, or were, found to be present. The City did not experience any regulatory violations during this event and all measures and activities were coordinated and approved by the TCEQ.

We realize that this has been an inconvenience to our citizens, but the requirement is intended as a safeguard and the officials and staff of the City of Santa Anna are dedicated to bringing our citizens a water supply of superior quality.
Sam Oswood, Director of Public Works


Lisa Dees and her paint horse, Justa Feature, won high point for Youth 14-18 during the 2008 show season for the Permian Basin Paint Horse Club (PBHC). PBHC awarded Lisa with a belt buckle, a cooler, tack bags, a hay bag, and show bags. Horse and rider are trained by Carolyn Rabon. Lisa is a sophmore at Coleman High School.


April 16th 2009 Krystal was inducted into Gamma Beta Phi National Honor Society at Hardin Simmons University in Abilene.  The ceremony was attended by Krystal's husband Patrick Pence and daughter Sadie. Parents Rex & Tonya Gulley, Grandparents Bobby & Gayla McCullough and Aunt Ava Scott all of Coleman County


The 1st graders went to the San Angelo Nature Center yesterday. They learned about snakes, spiders, and the Hissing Roach from Madagascar. They got to watch a bobcat get fed as well as Walter the alligator. Some of the kids even got to get up close and personal with some of the animals. Blake Greaves got to know Frank the python (eek!) and Baily Dawson adorned Pancake the lizard. The students also got to take a nature hike where they learned about different plants and some wildlife.  They observed bobcat, deer, & raccoon tracks.  After that, the children enjoyed a picnic lunch at the park.


Monday night at the CISD School Board meeting, Superintendent Royce Young and CISD Board President Dr. Mike Edington
present outgoing board member Brent McMillan a plaque of appreciation for his service to the school district.  
He served two terms for a total of six years.


Aggie Moms Honor Future A&M Students
4/23/2009
Coleman County Aggie Moms Club President, Renea McMillan, honors county High School seniors who have been accepted to A&M University.  Pictured are
Cole Hubbard (Coleman High School), Meagan Ogden (Coleman High School), and Nicole Heath
(Coleman High School)  who were treated to dinner at the recent Aggie Muster Ceremony held at the Bill Franklin Center.  Not pictured, but also accepted to A&M University, was Reece Halfmann (Coleman High School).  Aggie Muster is one of the oldest Aggie traditions held worldwide every April 21st to fellowship with current friends and a memorial to past Aggies.  Proceeds from the dinner benefit the Aggie Moms Scholarship Fund.


HOT, HOT, HOT Sauce, That is!
4/21/2009

The hot sauce contest that was held last year during the Rodeo will have it's 2nd event this year on the courthouse lawn on the Saturday of the Rodeo Parade.  The 2nd annual hot sauce contest has been named "Hot, Hot, Hot Sauce, That is!"

Entry fee is $15 and an official container will be provided. Winners of the "Hot" and "Mild" sauce divisions will each receive $300. 

On that day, the Jr. Rodeo Association will be selling hamburger plates downtown and there will be two local bands, Barbed Wire and 4-Barrel, playing on the lawn. 


Drug Bust in Coleman County Wednesday Afternoon
4/23/2009

On Wednesday morning, April 22, law enforcement officers arrested 4 individuals near the intersection of Hwy 67 and 206 south of Coleman following a high-speed chase by Coleman County sheriff's deputies. On information obtained by the West Central Texas Inter-local Crime Task Force, officers went to a suspected drug-buy location.  A chase ensued and the following were arrested: 
Heather Cox, 27 of Odessa, Texas and Billy Don Lowery, 35 of Midland, Texas were both charged with possession of a controlled substance and posted $30,000 bonds. 

Thomas J. Lamura, 23 of San Angelo, is charged with possession of a controlled substance, aggravated assault on a Public Servant, evading arrest and destruction of evidence.  His bonds totals $55,000.

Allen E. Heldenbrand, 22 of San Angelo, is charged with possession of a controlled substance and destruction of evidence.  His bonds totals $35,000. 

Involved in the arrest were the West Central Texas Inter-local Crime Task Force, Coleman County Sheriff's department, Coleman Police Dept., and Runnels County Sheriff's Dept.


Coleman ISD Foundation Scholarships Offered
4/22/2009
Coleman ISD Foundation will again be offering scholarships to Coleman High School seniors.  Scholarships are presented each year to worthy students who are well-rounded and have always participated in school activities.  Character and integrity, as well as leadership abilities are a factor in how scholarships are considered.  While above average grades are a factor, the CISD Foundation board wishes to aid students who are achievers at all facets of their school activities.  Coleman ISD Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing and improving the quality of academic achievement both for teachers and students within all levels of Coleman schools.  Applications for scholarships are available from high school counselor, Lorene Halfmann.  Applications must be received by May 1st as this has been set as the deadline to be considered.


Coleman County Farm Bureau Announce Scholarships Available
4/22/2009

The local Coleman County Farm Bureau Scholarship application is available. The applicant must be the son or daughter of a current Coleman County Farm Bureau member. The applicant must also be a confirmed senior in high school. You are not required to be entering agricultural field of studies; however, you are required to type a 300 word essay on an agricultural topic. For additional information, applications, and eligibility requirements please contact Coleman County Farm Bureau at 325-625-2361. This application must be returned no later than May 1, 2009.


First Saturday Gospel Sing
4/22/2009
May 2, 2009
Trinity United Methodist Church
1609 S. Concho at 6:00 p.m.
Old-time Gospel and Stamps. Bring your voice and sing-a-long. Singing by soloists and groups welcome.  We'll take turns making joyful music together.  Call Carla Billings 625-5302.


REMINDER - TAKS BELL SCHEDULE at CHS
4/22/2009
CHS will have a revised bell schedule during TAKS testing next week.  From April 27 through April 30, the bells will be as follows: 
BREAKFAST   7:40 - 7:55
TAKS Testing 8:00 - 9:55
1st Period      10:00 - 10:34
2nd Period     10:38 - 11:12
3rd Period      11:16 - 11:50
4th Period      11:54 - 12:28
LUNCH          12:28 - 12:58

5th Period          1:02 - 1:36
6th Period          1:40 - 2:14
7th Period          2:18 - 2:52
8th Period          2:56 - 3:30
Remember to encourage your student to do his/her best and follow the schools recommendations for rest and nourishment on their testing days.  Note that breakfast will be served from 7:40 - 7:55 each morning.

TAKS Testing Schedule for ALL LEVELS is as follows:

(According to the CISD calendar)

Monday, April 27
10th Grade Social Studies
LAT 10th Grade Math
Exit Level Math
Tuesday, April 28
3rd Grade Math
4th Grade Math
6th Grade Math
7th Grade Math
10th Grade Math
LAT 10th Grade ELA
Exit level ELA Re-test
Wednesday, April 29
4th Grade Reading
3rd Grade Reading Re-test
5th Grade Reading Re-test
6th Grade Reading
7th Grade Reading
8th Grade Reading Re-test
Exit level Math
Math Re-test
Thursday, April 30
5th Grade Science
8th Grade Science
9th Grade Math
10th Grade Science
Exit Level Science
Exit Level Science Re-test
Friday, May 1

8th Grade Social Studies
LAT Math


Burn Ban Reinstated
4/22/2009
Judge Jimmie Hobbs has reinstated the Burn Ban for Coleman County as of Wednesday morning.  High winds and low humidity returning to the area is the stated reason. 


BOIL WATER NOTIFICATION
CITY OF SANTA ANNA
4/21/2009

Due to conditions which have occurred recently in the water system, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has required the system to notify all customers to boil their water prior to consumption.   To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and ice-making should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes. In lieu of boiling, you may purchase bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source. When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, water system officials will notify you.

If you have questions regarding this matter you may contact Sam Oswood or Arlene Haynes at 348-3403


$100.00 Wal-Mart Gift Card
4/21/2009

Several students going to Washington D.C. in June are selling chances to win a $100.00 Wal-Mart Gift Card. It is $1.00 for 1 chance and $5.00 for 6 chances. If you would like to buy a chance to win, please call Stephanie at 625-2784 or Marcella at 214-2330. The drawing will be held Monday, May 11th. Thank you for supporting the Washington D.C. trip.


FCCLA Attend State Conference
4/21/2009
Coleman High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America attended the State Conference in Corpus Christi on April 15-18, 2008. The chapter members were among approximately 3,500 delegates attending the three-day conference. The youth developed theme “Find Your Treasure with FCCLA” was carried out through tracks and general sessions. Members learned to strategically plan ways to become actively involved in issues facing today’s youth including decision-making, goal setting, and career preparation.

STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition) are competitive events in which members participated in during the state meeting. These events allowed members to showcase their life skills in different areas of competition. Also, the new officer team for 2009-2010 was elected to lead the state to greater heights.

Winning fifth place in STAR Events was Shaina Thompson and Amy Fowler in Life Event Planning, Senior Division. Samantha Yebra, Kayla Barnett, and Emilie Jimenez
(Pictured right) placed 17th in Chapter Service Project, Senior Division. Both teams competed against teams from all over the state and in different classifications.

Coleman FCCLA members competed in Leadership Enhancement Opportunities which are individual competitions testing the students knowledge in different areas. Coleman FCCLA member competed in Job Interview. Receiving gold certificates were Shania Thompson, Jessica Cleland, Mohini Bhakta, Emilie Jimenez, and Jay Delgadillo. Receiving silver certificates were Samantha Yebra and Amy Fowler.

Kelsey Puckett, Kassidy Dean, Angelina Marks, and Kayla Barnett served as Room Consultants for STAR Event Competition. Nancy Cruz,  Tabitha Terrell, and Sonya Cruz
(Pictured right)
helped judge STAR Events .

Ronald Brown and Richard Holloway from Coleman were recognized as State Honorary FCCLA Members which is the highest honor given an individual from FCCLA. Mr. Brown and Mr. Holloway have contributed many hours and support to Coleman FCCLA members.

Bonnie Brown, Coleman FCCLA Advisor, was recognized as a Master Advisor for her work with the local chapter.

FCCLA is a dynamic youth organization that has the family as its central focus. FCCLA is considered the “best kept secret”. The leadership skills gained from FCCLA can and will be beneficial for many years to come. All activities focus on family, career, and community leadership. FCCLA members will utilize knowledge gained through leadership experiences to develop a solid foundation for the future.


Heath Awarded "Teens Serving Texas Award"
4/21/2009
Miss Nicole Heath, a senior at Coleman High School, has been selected by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) for the Teens  Serving Texas Award.
(Colemannews.com photo)

This prestigious award was designed to recognize Texas high school seniors who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of community service, leadership and personal accomplishments.

More than 150 students were nominated by their high school principals based on their overall academic grade point average, pursuit of advanced diploma, and other evidence of exceptional service to the community.  Each student nominee completed an application that included reference letters, a personal goals essay and documentation of their contribution to the community.  From this group of outstanding leaders, five were chosen to receive the Teens Serving Texas Award and $500 unrestricted scholarship. 

As a winner of the TASSP Teens Serving Texas Award, Nicole Heath will be invited to the TASSP Summer Workshop in Austin on June 11, 2009, to receive her award in front of 2,100 TASSP principals. 


Casie Swening, a member of the Coleman 4H Club, placed 3rd with her meat goat at the Star of Texas Livestock Show in Austin which made her eligible for the sale. In addition to this she was awarded Reserve Champion Showmanship and received a jacket. Casie also made the sale at the San Antonio and Houston Livestock Shows.


Santa Anna Church Gets Painted
4/21/2009
This past Saturday, April 18th, the High School Choir from Bay Area Christian School painted the outside of the New Saint Willow Baptist Church in Santa Anna. Bay Area Christian School is located in League City just South of Houston between Pasadena and Texas City. The choir had recently competed at Hardin Simmons University and the School's Administrator is Freddie Cullins who grew up in Santa Anna and graduated from Santa Anna High School in 1964. Cullins was joined by his wife Ellen who is the Choir Director, 19 students, and two other sponsors from the school.
Cullins contacted Santa Anna's First Baptist Church pastor Bruce Hess and wanted to know of a good mission project in the area for the choir. Brother Bruce suggested the Saint Willow Church and the work was on.

The New Saint Willow Baptist Church located on Hwy 283 South in Santa Anna was started as a place for worship when the old Saint Willow church was getting crowded and in need of repair. The Church is pastored by Reverend Vernon G. Jones. Reverend Jones and his wife Martha have been traveling several times a week from Brady over the last year or so to work on the new church building. The new building construction has been lead by carpenter Danny Hernandez who has donated much of his time to the project.

The choir stopped for a barbeque lunch prepared by several members of the church in the original church building with the new found use for the building as a possible kitchen and dining area for the church. The choir also performed to church members in the new church after lunch.

The choir finished painting the Church in the afternoon and spent Saturday night at Lake Brownwood's Heart of Texas Baptist Encampment and Conference Center. On Sunday morning Cullins was guest preacher at First Baptist Church and the Choir put on a puppet show and sang for some of the elementary Sunday school classes. They also sang for the congregation during the morning worship service. 

New Saint Willow Baptist Church sign erected by the Bay Area Christian School Choir members. Pictured are L-R Joseph Coleman, Danny Walton, Bay Area Christian School Administrator, Freddie Cullins, Church Pastor Reverend Vernon G. Jones and his wife, Martha Jones, Patricia Coleman, Reverend L. E. Pope, and Joe Coleman.


DAR HISTORY ESSAY WINNERS
4/21/2009

On Saturday, April 18, the Captain William Buckner Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution honored the winners of the history essay contest with a luncheon at Sara's Neighborhood Cafe.

Students from Coleman Junior High 8th grade participated in the contest. The topic of the essay, which was given by the National Headquarters of the DAR, was "What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our war torn nation in 1863? How are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our country today?" (Eighth graders across the nation were able to participate in this contest.)

The first and second place winners read her essay at the luncheon, and then each was presented with a certificate. The first place winner also received a medal. The third place winner was unable to attend. Parents of these winners, B. P. and Beverly Casselberry, and Peggy Brown attended with their daughters. Also in attendance were judges of the contest, Alice Hemphill and Ann Watson.

The winners are:
1st place: Sarah Casselberry, daughter of B. P. and Beverly Casselberry; 2nd place: Courtney Brown
, daughter of Randall and Peggy Brown; 3rd place: Brianna Horn, daughter of Rebecca Leone. Copies of each essay will be printed in the newspaper for all to appreciate and enjoy.

The eighth grade history teacher is Ms. Joy Thompson. She is taking her students to Washington, D.C. for a first hand look at our history and government. Courtney Brown will be one of those going. She told the members at the luncheon about the fund-raising and received a donation from the DAR.


Sarita Short won 2nd place in the lightweight finewool class at the 2009 Houston Livestock Show. She received $4,000 for her lamb in the auction. Sarita is a 4th grader at Panther Creek Elementary and is the daughter of Michael and Jennifer Short of Voss. Holding her ribbon is her brother, James Short, who placed 7th in the middleweight finewool class.


CJHS Awards Students of the Month
4/21/2009
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for March.
Students of the month are:
  Jolyn Zarate - 6th grade girl
  Brandon Barrios - 6th grade boy
  Shayla Carter - 7th grade girl
  Justin Hensley - 7th grade boy
  Ashton West - 8th grade girl
  Ethan Morris - 8th grade boy
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.


Elementary Entertained by Magician
4/20/2009  (Contributed by Becky Jackson)

Coleman Elementary students were entertained by Harlan Rhoades the Magician on Monday, April 20th in the High School Auditorium.  Pre-K thru second grade students heard the importance of reading as he performed many magic tricks.  Students in grades three through five heard the importance of paying attention, perspiration, persistence, and patience when taking the TAKS test next week.  A few of the students were given an opportunity to assist during the show.  Pictured are Ginny Arnold, Morgan Zea, and Paul Rosales.


BARBARIAN FESTIVAL TALENT CONTEST DEADLINE APRIL 30TH
4/20/2009

Only a few days left to get your registration in for the Barbarian Festival Talent Show. The deadline is Thursday, April 30. You could perform on stage at the Barbarian Festival on
June 13th
– but only if you get your registration form in by the deadline. Don’t have the form? You can get it on line at http://www.barbarianfestival.net  or call Talent Show Coordinator Mary Dunn at 254-725-7136.

The Talent Contest, the first held at the Barbarian Festival, will be a competition between Solo and Duet Vocalists and Small Groups that can perform with CD or acoustic guitar accompaniment. No electric guitars, equipment or amplifiers. The top finalists will perform live on the stage at the Barbarian Festival.

Contest participants will be judged in two categories “14 to Adult” and “13 and Under”.

More details on the contest and the registration form can be found on the Barbarian Festival’s website, http://www.barbarianfestival.net. You can also get more information on the contest and have a registration form mailed to you by calling Talent Contest Coordinator Mary Dunn at 254-725-7136. Registration fee is $25.00 and goes toward the prize money awarded to the contest winners.

The Barbarian Festival, held the second Saturday each June in conjunction with Project Pride and Robert Howard Days, features a Car Show, Antique Tractor Show, Games, Kids Booths, Craft Booths, Antiques & Collectibles, Food, Petting Zoo, Live Music and other family attractions.

This year’s festival will be held at a new location -- on the large lot immediately north of the Dollar General store. The new location provides ample space for all the booths and events.


2009-10 DOG MAYOR ROCKY JOE PURIFOY
4/20/2009

Rocky, owned by Terry Purifoy, ran a winning campaign, spending many hours at the Shoppin’ Baskit schmoozing with voters. Mike Faries, Terry’s fiancé, was always on hand as the deputy campaign manager.   Rocky Joe, with his 764 votes, even outpaced the last Dog Mayor Duke Ransberger’s vote, which we didn’t think was possible! Tuff Mann, owned by Jo Mann, will serve as Mayor Pro Tem with his impressive runner-up total of 510 votes.  Rocky is a 2-year old Rat Terrier/Chihuahua mix who is looking forward to his duties representing the Humane Society’s spay/neuter program. Congratulations, Rocky! 

The Humane Society gained $1,325 for its spay/neuter program as a result of this campaign. Thank you to all who “voted” in this fun event


4-H Shotgun Club Begins Season
4/20/2009
Members of the Coleman County 4-H Shotgun Club started their 2009 shooting season at the McCulloch County 4-H Shoot in Brady, TX on Saturday, April 18, 2009.
Pictured
: Front row, L-R: Coco Smith, 1st place Novice Skeet, 2nd place Novice 5-Stand, High Overall Novice Shooter winning a belt buckle, and David Wakefield participating in Novice Trap, Skeet and 5-Stand. Back row, L-R: Brent Ogden, 2nd place Intermediate 5-Stand, 3rd place Intermediate Trap. Jansen Merrill, 1st place Intermediate Trap, 2nd place Intermediate Skeet. Walt Arnold, 1st place Novice Trap.


Mt. View Cemetery Association of Coleman County
4/20/2009

Annual Meeting and Workday on Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the cemetery.  Workday starts about 8:30 a.m.  Lunch about Noon under the Gussie Jennings Pavilion.  Business Meeting about 12:45. 
SPECIAL PRESENTATION BY Anne Shelton

- RIP Guardian Program Coordinator
- Cemetery Preservation Programs
- Texas Historical Commission
We hope you will join us!   Mt. View Cemetery Association, Board of Directors & Officers


CURB-SIDE BULK PICK UP AVAILABLE
4/20/2009

On the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month, the sanitation company will pick up 1 -3 bulk items curbside. Bulk items include furniture, appliances, a sack of leaves or small limbs, and brush. Brush must be bundled in three-ft. lengths or less. Appliances must have Freon removed. You must call 1-800-350-3024 to be placed on the list for bulk pick up.


Tim Manley of Wind Clean Corp. handed Zac Allen from the Coleman County Foundation a check for $8,000.  Manley states that the funds were from the Corporation and employees and said that they are very proud to be a part of this community. 


These students from Santa Anna High School were named to the Academic All-State Team by the Texas Six-man Coaches Association: 
L to R: Adeliada Dean, E. J. Ramsey, and Molly Pritchard


Bus Stops
4/20/2009

There has been a concern raised with Colemannews.com about drivers not stopping when School buses are stopped on the side of the highway with their lights flashing.  Parents are having to help stop traffic while their children board the bus; they should not have to do this.  PLEASE watch for flashing lights on school buses and STOP
when they are flashing, for the safety of our school children


BURN BAN LIFTED
4/17/2009
Judge Jimmie Hobbs has reported to Colemannews.com that the Burn Ban has been lifted temporarily.  He also said that it will probably be re-instated early next week.


Mayor Nick Poldrack presented Doodie Taylor-Knox with a plaque for appreciation of her work on behalf of the Coleman Public Library renovation projects. Mrs. Knox has been instrumental in writing grants for the library projects. The award was presented during the Council meeting Thursday night at the Library where the Council received a guided tour.


Cowboy Culture Celebration to honor Dublin’s unique heritage
4/17/2009      (Contributed)

Dublin, Texas — Western heritage aficionados across the state will celebrate the rich culture of Dublin in the first Cowboy Culture Celebration, to be held April 24 and 25. Visitors to this unique event will enjoy the small town’s breadth of western history, with exciting activities for young and old. From an actual cattle drive to a ranch rodeo, and from shopping to horsemanship clinics, the activity-packed two day event will also include a country and western dance with music by Jake Hooker and The Outsiders.

Celebrated cowboy poet and musician Red Steagall will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshall, and visitors will choose from activities such as square dancing; a ladies’ luncheon and fashion show; bean cook-off; horseshoe tournament and museum tours, all located in downtown Dublin. Also, western vendors for shopping and cowboy mounted shooting will take place downtown. The Dublin City Park Arena will host a ranch horse competition, the Ft. Hood Mounted Calvary, mutton busting, kids’ rodeo and a ranch rodeo. A trail ride will take place outside of town. A chuckwagon dinner will remind visitors of the cattle drives of years’ past.  
FOR MORE INFORMATION
CLICK HERE !!!


Art League Views Mural
4/17/2009

The Fine Arts League members enjoyed their visit to the home of Carolyn Merriman to view a Christian mural created by Judia Terry, artist/muralist. Judia gave a brief history on how the mural evolved. Afterwards, the members returned to the First Coleman National Bank Club room for meeting and refreshments.

Sherrell Hazlewood, President, presided over the meeting which included discussions of Danna Dawson’s presentation of her students’ show April 30th at Heritage Hall; a new undertaking, “FALCC Membership Show” to be held at the Library July 21-25, 2009, chaired by Bill & Sue Shields (more on this later – great things going on);

Committees were announced for the FIESTA JURIED ART SHOW October 2-3, 2009. The committees will begin the preparations for the JAS. Volunteers are still needed for the work to be done to prepare for this Event. The Fiesta Juried Show is in place of the annual Open Fiesta Show held the past 18 years during the Chamber’s Fiesta de la Paloma dove Festival. The Fine Arts League Fiesta Juried Art Show 2009 will be held at Market Square downtown 414 Commercial Ave. Susan Mansell is the Juror.

The May 21 meeting will be the last until the September meeting . A pot-luck dinner is planned, wear your May Bonnet, come “create and play” with Lois McCarty’s hands-on project and enjoy the fellowship of the Fine Arts League members. Guests are invited and encouraged to become a part of the Art League in whatever capacity desired – there is a place for you!


Track Meet Postponed to Tomorrow -  TIMES SET
4/17/2009

The district track meet scheduled for today in Comanche has been moved to Saturday, April 18th. 
TIMES FOR TRACK MEET EVENTS WILL BE 1 HOUR LATER THAN ON THE ORIGINAL SCHEDULE, which means the first field events will begin at 10:15am tomorrow.

The softball and baseball games scheduled for Saturday will be played next week.  SEE INFO BELOW:
SOFTBALL GAME IN BRADY MOVED  TO Monday, April 20th at 5:00.
BASEBALL GAME IN BRADY MOVED  TO
Saturday, April 25th at 12:00noon.


CITY OF SANTA ANNA SETS CITY-WIDE CLEAN UP DATE
4/17/2009

A city-wide clean up day will be held on Saturday, April 18
from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. A large roll-off container will be located in the 1100 block of Wallis Avenue. Bring your accumulated trash, limbs, leaves, furniture, lumber, and appliances (refrigerators and air conditioners must have a sticker or tag showing that the Freon has been removed). Items Not Accepted – gasoline, liquid paint, batteries, tires (unless the sidewalls have been cut out) ammunition, medical waste, auto engines, pesticides, chemicals from photo labs, oil/oil filters, etc.   If you have questions, please call City Hall at 348-3403.


 RAIN REPORTS
R
ain report 2 miles north of Rockwood - 3 inches!
7 miles NE of Coleman  -  .70 inches.
Rain at the Sammie & Imogene Powers farm near the
Coleman-Brown Co. line - 1.7 inches


CBPA Meet Monday
4/17/2009
There will be a short meeting of the Coleman Business People's Association on Monday, April 20th at 5:30pm in the Chamber of Commerce. We need to discuss and decide on a logo and a title for our Hot Sauce Event held on Saturday, June 20 after the Rodeo Parade. We need everyone's input. If you can not be at the meeting but have an idea that we can discuss, please email the Chamber with your idea and those that can be there will discuss it. Email us at chamber@colemantexas.org

We hope to see many of you there with your great ideas!


In regards to the letter to the editor,
4/17/2009
I have talked to several people who witnessed murder trial of Mr. Pence and they stated the defense countered every testimony the prosecution had. I did not know Mr. Weaver nor do I know Mr. Pence, I feel for the Weaver family but I do not feel that someone should publicly come out and criticize the jury for doing their job, and if the prosecution had a problem with any of the jury members I am sure they would of not allowed them to be on the jury. They went on the evidence given. I understand the anger when you lose a close friend, but I wonder if the roles were reversed if Mr. Taylor would be praising the jury, and saying justice has been served.
Scott N. Northway


Santa Anna Cemetery Association POSTPONES Clean-Up
4/17/2009
The Clean-up day planned for the Santa Anna Cemetery has been postponed due to the weather.


Three teams from Shapes will participate in the Walk Across Texas and were at the kick-off Thursday night. Christa McWhorter, Juliann Page, Jeanene Pricer, and Vanessa Croft representing Shapes.  Kristen Burris gave instructions to the group.  So far, twenty teams have signed up to walk. 


WE STILL NEED YOU!   -   CEMETERY ASSOCIATION
POSTPONED TO LATER DATE DUE TO WEATHER.

4/17/2009

THE SANTA ANNA CEMETERY ASSOCIATION AND RESTORATION COMMITTEE HAVE COMBINED EFFORTS TO MAKE NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS.  We appreciate all the work that was done on our first workday on April the 4th but there us still a lot of work to do.
The Cemetery Association and Restoration Committee need you to come and be a part of the Community Workday:
Saturday April 18, 2009  - POSTPONED
Santa Anna Cemetery

8:30 A.M. till ????
Sandwiches, Chips, dessert and drinks will be provided.
We ask you bring any of the following yard tools if you have them, if not come anyway. Shovels, Rakes, Weed Eaters, Loppers, Machetes Chain Saws, Hand Saws and any other lawn equipment you might have EXCEPT Mowers. There is no electricity available at the cemetery, so tools must be gas powered or battery powered.
We will divide into small groups and work in different areas. Carl Langford and Wamon Upchurch will assist you in the direction to go. Should you have any questions, please call:
Carl Langford 325-348-3789
James Pelton 325-348-3458
Elaine Black 325-641-9314


Novice Volunteer Fire Dept. Barbeque
4/17/2009
Saturday, April 18th, 2009
Novice School Cafeteria from 5 - 8 pm
Goat, Brisket, Sausage, Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Beans, Cornbread, Drink and Dessert!
$7.00 for Adults & $4.00 for children under 12
Homemade dessert auction and drawing for nice raffle prizes. Raffle tickets are 6 for $5.00


ONE WEEK AWAY FROM HOME PREPARES HIGH
SCHOOL STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE AUDITIONS

Texas Arts Project's Advanced Camp in Austin, Texas June 28 - July 3
4/16/2009
   (Contributed)
Austin, TX - April 12, 2009 - Let Texas Arts Project prepare you for college. Spend one week this summer gearing up for college scholarship and entrance auditions. If you plan to audition for BFA Acting or Musical Theatre programs upon high school graduation, do not miss this opportunity to become one of the top competitors! We accept current high school students.


People don't realize what it takes to get into a good BFA program. Let us help you understand the process and prepare for the experience. The staff at Texas Arts Project has been training students for college auditions for over a decade. David Valdes, head of the program, helped former students garner entrances into the most prestigious theatre schools in the country including: Juilliard, Florida State, Northwestern, Carnegie Melon, and Webster Universities. Aaron Moten, current Juilliard student, will assist the team this summer.

At Texas Arts Project's Advanced Camp, students spend six hours a day with professional artists and educators intensely working on songs and monologues for auditions. Extra time is spent with current college BFA students who have recently been through the process. Workshops are held daily guiding students through the audition process including how to talk to recruiters and how to represent themselves. Additional workshops include how to apply for scholarships, ARTS competition and the process of Unified Auditions. Advanced Camp culminates with a mock audition in front of invited guest artists and educators.

About Texas Arts Project (TAP) TAP Camp hosts a number of summer programs at St. Stephen's Episcopal School in Austin, Texas. Day camps in visual and performing arts are offered for ages 5 and up. Boarding camps for musical theatre and acting are offered for ages 9 and up and filmmaking is offered for ages 13 and up. A combination of excellent teaching, exciting direction and a quality product enhances skill, encourages cooperative work, and nurtures self-confidence.
When: June 28 - July 3, 2009
Where: St. Stephen's Episcopal School (Austin, Texas)
What: Week-long sleep-away college prep camp
Who
: Current high school students
For more information, visit www.TexasArtsProject.com  or call 512-914-1738.


TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE WEST TEXAS
BROWNWOOD HOSTED ITS 1st HIGH
SCHOOL WELDING COMPETITION

4/16/2009

Brownwood, 25 March, 2009 – TSTC West Texas Brownwood held their 1st Welding Competition on Wednesday, March 24, 2009. Area high schools attending the competition included: Coleman, Comanche, Priddy, and Rising Star. The schools competed in three categories: group project, metal art, and on-site welding. Taking top honors in Group Project was Priddy ISD with their Hydraulic Squeeze Shoot. Comanche ISD won second place with their Trailer. Winning first place for the on-site welding competition was Cody Seider from Priddy. Receiving second place was Michael Hall from Comanche. In the Individual Project category, first place went to
Brody Tibbetts
from Coleman, and Comanche’s Jacob Vaughn won second place. Lincoln Electric representatives were present to demonstrate new equipment and to judge the competitions along with representatives from LoadCraft.  First and second place trophies were given out in the following categories: Group Projects, Individual Project, and On-site Welding.  AirGas in Brownwood generously donated numerous prizes with the top prize a Miller Performance welding helmet valued at $400. Congratulations to all!

The average starting salary for welders in Texas is $12 to $18 an hour. Currently, TSTC West Texas has more applicants than classroom space and is the only structural welding program within a 100 mile radius. For more information about the welding program offerings at TSTC West Texas contact Derek Little 325-641-3933.


Traffic Light Repair Questionable
4/16/2009

You may have noticed that the downtown traffic lights on Commercial Avenue are not working.  City manager Larry Weise has said that they are having a difficult time getting parts for the control panel and relays.  Factory parts have not been available for several years now; city workers have found used parts or "engineered" ways to make the lights continue working.  Part of the problem is the fact that moisture get into the units through the unsealed bases and fixtures causing failures.  The mechanical components in the panel are also worn and it is almost impossible to time the delays between the light changes correctly.  A study on the options available and their cost is being done.  Included for consideration is the unique pedestrian traffic at College and Commercial. 


Scammers Calling Coleman Residents
4/16/2009
Coleman residents have been receiving phone calls from a company calling itself "PUBLISHING Clearing House."  A name similar to the legitimate service, but not them.  If you receive a call  that you have won a large sum of money and they will be there today to give it to you...do NOT give them any of your information.  Instead of giving them your bank, credit card, etc. numbers, ASK THEM for their information.  Get their phone numbers, names, supervisor names, address of business, etc.  Send this information to Colemannews and we will forward it to the authorities.  

One resident reports that the individual called back after she hung up on them and asked her questions such as, "Did you enter a sweepstakes in January of this year?"  They had her name, address, phone number as though she had sent it to them, which she had not.

**Remember to never give out your personal information over the phone to someone that calls you, and never reply to an email that requests for that information.**


Life Skills Class on Field Trip
4/16/2009
The Coleman I.S.D. Life skills class and sponsors went to the Fantastic Field day at Tarleton State University on April 8, 2009.  The theme this year was Operation Hoo-Rah, and had the whole group pumped before they even got there!  While there, the group did many different events, including pie throwing, water guns, a 50 yard dash, and the always fun cha-cha slide. Afterwards, the group went to La Fiesta Mexican food restaurant there in Stephenville, and ate lunch.  After posing for a quick photo in Stephenville’s park, the group headed back to Coleman.
Tarleton’s Kinesiology class puts the Fantastic Field day on each year to try out adapted activities for special needs children.  This year 300 students from different schools attended this fun filled day.

Pictured above are: Front- Nick Allen, Bryan Wright, Tara Brixey, John, Trista Connelly,
Mrs. Edington, Cory Flannagan, Angel Sullens, Back- Tabitha Terrell, Dalton DeLeon,
Jamal Agbor, Marcus, Mrs. Hester, Lacey Bouldin, Stephanie Campbell,
Mary Garza, Mrs. Webb, Mrs. Johnson, Mrs. Mayo, and Mrs. Neff.


Letter to the Editor:
4/16/2009          By Ben Taylor

This letter is addressed to all the Coleman County people who receive a jury summons.

I was at the courthouse last week for the murder trial. I was in hopes justice would be served and I was sadly mistaken. I was able to be in the courtroom Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and listened to all of the statements, testimonies, etc. We have finally got a D.A. who is trying to "take out the trash", if you will. The D.A. had evidence which should have been enough for a GUILTY verdict. The evidence of our local police as well as the Texas Rangers should have been a no brainer, "Guilty." For some reason there was doubt in some of the jurors, for whatever reasons I did not see. Our local police and D.A. are working together to try to clean up our town of drugs, theft, murder, and the list goes on. It is our job as citizens to help our elected officials put these kind of criminals away. From what I saw in the courtroom last week, they were let down. We also need to think of our families in Coleman, do we want to let this keep going on or do we want to put a stop to it. If these criminals keep getting off with just a slap on the wrist, they are just going to keep doing it and the word is going to get out, "you can get away with murder in Coleman."

Josh "Trebark" Weaver was a very good friend of mine who I will never see again. I have heard the expression, "wrong place, wrong time," but in my opinion, this was murder.


CISD Board Meeting - Monday, April 20th
4/16/2009

DATE: Monday, April 20, 2009
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office, 300 West Pecan
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Personnel – Consider Accepting Resignations from Personnel
2. Consider Approving Staff Development Waiver and Early Release Waiver for the 2009-2010 School Year
3. Consider Accepting Bid on Additional Digital Video Surveillance Equipment
4. Consider Approving Student Insurance for 2009-2010 School Year
5. Consider Approving Local Policy Update 85 on First Reading
6. Amend the Budget
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Tax Ratification Election
INFORMATION ITEMS
:
1. TASB/Region 14 ESC Spring Workshop
2. Legislative Update
3. Check Payments

4. Financial Statement


The Texas Heat American Pitbull Terrier Club of Abilene, Texas recently attended the Cajun Country American Dog Breeders Association Sanctioned Conformation Dog Show in Liberty, Texas on March 22.   Vaughn's "Cabela" won her class in the 12 to 18 females and also won BEST OF OPPOSITE. 
Cabela is owned and shown by Mandy Watts.

Mandy also won Judges Choice with Watts "DoubleSnort" in a class of 25 dogs. He also won three 2nd place ribbons in 18 to 24 male.  DoubleSnort is owned by Mona Watts.


Coleman's Kindergarten classes took a field trip to the Abilene Zoo on Thursday morning.  Lunch was to be eaten at Nelson Park, but the
rain cut their trip a little short.  However, they were able to get completely through the zoo before the heavy rain hit.
Feeding the giraffe's seemed to be their favorite part!


"TEA Party" in Coleman
4/16/2009
Mrs. Ruth Sellers read  to the gathered crowd of 15-20 people an explanation of why the "TEA Parties" are being held all over the country.  After that the group sang "God Bless America."  The picture above is only part of the "partiers," as several others walked up after the photo was taken.  (TEA stands for "Taxed Enough Already" and follows about 235 years after the original "Boston Tea Party.")


2009 CROP CERTIFICATION DEADLINE
4/16/2009

Curtis L. Garrett, CED for the Coleman County Farm Service Agency, reminds producers of the May 1, 2009
deadline to report all small grain acreage (wheat, oats, barley, etc) or other fall seeded crop acreage to the FSA office. Failure to report all cropland and crops may result in ineligibility for some programs.

Additionally, producers who have short-rated some of their insured acreage and had previously reported those acres as intended for harvest as grain, need to revise your acreage report to reflect the appropriate intended use. A copy of the “Summary of Coverage” from your crop insurance needs to be provided for short-rated acres.

Late filed acreage report fees will be assessed for acreage reports filed after the May 1st deadline.

Final Planting Dates for crops in Coleman County are Cotton and Grain Sorghum is June 20th, Sorghum forages for grazing is also June 20th and Sorghum forages for hay is July 5th . Please contact the office for final planting dates of other crops you intend to plant.

Please call 325-625-4197, extension 2 to schedule an appointment to report your acreage. The Coleman County FSA office is located at 118 North Concho Street in Coleman.


CBC Bake Sale
4/16/2009

The youth group of Central Baptist Church will be having a bake sale on Saturday, April 18th. Don't go home hungry after shopping all the great garage sales during the City-Wide Garage Sale weekend. You can pick up some great treats during the bake sale which will take place at two different locations. The locations are Shoppin Baskit and El Taquito. Sales begin at 8:00 a.m. and will be in business until all goodies are sold. Come by and support the CBC Youth Group, a local youth ministry, and get some great treats, too! Funds will be used for future youth trips and outings.

If anyone is interested in donating baked goods, you may contact Adrian Flores at 214-0561, Veronica Flores at 214-0050 or Debbie Jameson at 625-1040. Your donations and support is greatly appreciated.


Escapee Caught
4/15/2009

Collin Taylor "Bo" Stembridge was arrested today with the charge of Felony Escape.  Chief of Police Jay Moses pulled Stembridge over knowing he was wanted in Lee County for "Failure to appear, possession of a controlled substance - cocaine."  While Chief Moses was attempting to arraign him at the Justice of the Peace office, Stembridge, who was handcuffed, fled on foot from the courthouse.  The Sheriff's department, Coleman police, EMS, and city workers set out to find him.  While running Stembridge lost his shoes and was therefore bare-footed.  Stembridge was apprehended about 3:15pm on N. Colorado St. by Constable Joe Watson and Officer Tia Beasley.  Escape charges are a 3rd degree felony


Note from Bowen Drug Store
4/15/2009
Jim Stokes, owner of Bowen Drug, had a serious stroke on Tuesday morning and was airlifted to Abilene to Hendrick Medical Center.

The store will remain open Monday through Friday 8-5 for the present time and
a pharmacist will be on duty.  We will be closed on Saturday until further notice.


Heritage Hall Receives New Windows
4/15/2009

Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society received a grant from the Friends of Coleman Foundation to install three new windows in the dining room at Heritage Hall. The windows were purchased from Home Depot in Brownwood and installed by two Home Depot employees and "Team Depot" volunteers Laron McCloud and Craig Seger and volunteer James Green, all from Brownwood. The old window (right
) photo shows one of the windows that had blown in during a prior windstorm and we used good old duct tape to put in back in the frame and secure it until the new windows arrived


Santa Anna UIL Qualifies for Regional Competition
4/15/2009
Santa Anna High School hosted the District 14-A UIL Academic Meet on March 28 at Santa Anna High School. Congratulations go out to all Santa Anna High School students who participated and qualified at the District Meet. The regional qualifiers will compete again April 25th at the Region II-A UIL Academic Meet at Abilene Christian University.
The regional qualifying participants are:
Lincoln Douglas Debate; 1st – Aspyn King, 2nd – Stevie Vanvoast, 3rd – Makaylah Morris
Poetry Interpretation; 3rd – E.J. Ramsey
Feature Writing; 3rd – Kelsie Tobin
Prose Interpretation; 3rd – Molly Pritchard
Social Studies; 1st – Jonathan Holland

Santa Anna High School District UIL Participants are:
Back row: Shawn Robertson, Frank Moreno, Dillan Whitley, E.J. Ramsey, Jimmy Ellerbe, Kelsie Tobin, Amber Musick, Richard Ramsey; Middle Row: Peyton Morris, Spencer Gilbreath, Makaylah Morris, Aspyn King, Molly Pritchard, Lauren Denis, Stevie Vanvoast, Marina Benge, Front Row: Adelaida Dean, Kianna Albritton, Maria Segura, Jonathan Holland, 
Caylie Robinett, Derek Tabner, Sarah Pelton, Alana Kuykendall


Panther Creek Honor Rolls for 5th Six Weeks
 


Block One Flea Market With County-Wide Garage Sale
4/15/2009
Coleman County Humane Society is sponsoring a county-wide garage sale this weekend "Friday & Saturday."  We have about 30 to 40 garage sales around Coleman and some of the merchants are participating with sidewalk sales.  The Block One Flea Market has s
everal outside vendors for this weekend.   We are also having the Dog Mayor Election.  We have Rocky, Tuff, Dottie, & Lil Abner running for Dog Mayor. Some of the candidates are campaigning real strong.  Come by the Flea Market around 2 or 3 to see who wins.  The Human Society Thrift Store at 107 W. Pecan is having a big sale, as well as their spot at the Flea Market. Higginbothams in Coleman donated lots of new merchandise and it will be on sale for the Humane Society at both the Flea Market and at the Thrift Store, come and take advantage of the bargains on this new merchandise they have donated.


Southern Gospel Music in Bangs Saturday
4/15/2009

On Saturday, April 18, 2009 Central Texas Gospel Sing and First Baptist Church of Bangs will be continuing in their 10th year of presenting Southern gospel music to Central Texas. The concert will be at First Baptist Church of Bangs and will begin at 6 PM. Admission is free with a love offering taken.

Featured for this concert will be Master’s Way Quartet from the area of Rockdale, Texas. The group is comprised of Scott Williams (lead) and Diane Hill (alto) who were members of Southern gospel trio, Master's Song. Other group members were previously with HisWay Quartet--Dana Edwards (baritone), Jacob Williams (bass) and Bob Stewart on piano.

4 X Grace from Brownwood as well as Barbara Blanton, and the Randy Ethridge Family from Early, and Pure Grace from Bangs, will also be a part of this evening of Southern Gospel praise and worship.

For more information contact Emmett Mathews at 325-752-7234 or Bangs First Baptist church at 325-752-6724.


"TEA Party" in Coleman
4/15/2009
Mrs. Ruth Sellers has informed Colemannews.com that there will indeed be a "TEA Party" this evening at 5:30pm in front of the Post Office, since it's a federal building.  All those interested are invited to attend. 

TEA stands for "Taxed Enough Already" and follows about 235 years after the original "Boston Tea Party."


Believe in the Blue  -  Tips for peaceful bedtimes
4/15/2009
1.  Set a time for bedtime. Try to have bedtime at the same time every night. Be as consistent as you can and offer gentle reminders as bedtime nears.
2.  Establish a bedtime routine. And try to do the same routine each night. Take a bath, read a book, talk abut the day, name the best part of the day or any other quiet activity that signals the bedtime routine has begun.
3.  Use a special bedtime comfort. Have a special pillow, blanket, stuffed animal, soft music or night light that’s especially for bedtime use.
4.  If possible, give choices for the routine. “Would you like to sleep with your bear or bunny tonight?” “Which book would you like to read tonight?”
5.  Remember to watch the clock. Don’t start longer games, books, or movies before bed as it may cause arguments about wanting to finish them. Also, keep more physical activities for earlier in the evening and quieter activities for closer to bedtime.
http://www.believeintheblue.org/believeintheblue/tips.htm
Distributed by the Coleman County Child Welfare Board


It's Time to Walk Across Texas Again!
4/15/2009      By Christin Burris, CEA-FCS

Don't forget our Walk Across Texas Campaign will begin Sunday, April 19th, so get out your walking shoes. We will have a Kickoff this Thursday evening, April 16th, at the courthouse at 6:00 p.m. Come & find out just what to do to walk your way across Texas right here in Coleman County. We will also walk around the courthouse parking area 5 times to make our first bonus mile. If you can't make it to the Kick Off, you can still be on a team. If you are a team captain, please bring your forms to the Kick Off if possible. We will also be recognizing the Gouldbusk team who won last year's Walk Across Texas.  For more information, call Christin Burris at the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519, or look up Walk Across Texas on the internet at http://walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu


Focus on Fitness
Let’s Walk!

4/15/2009      by Linda Hyde, Fitness Instructor
Everyone knows that exercise is good for us for a number of health-related reasons, but “time” always gets in the way, and often we get distracted by something that seems more important at the moment. That brings me to the topic of walking. Walking is a simple activity; it doesn’t require any special equipment; it doesn’t take too much time; and it doesn’t cost anything. Walking provides many rewards that far outweigh the effort. For example, walking strengthens the heart, increases circulation, aids in flexibility, strengthens bones, decreases stress, improves sleep, reduces risks of diseases including diabetes, and raises cognitive function. Also, walking burns calories, so you may lose weight.

Right now is a great time to focus on getting up off the couch and making an effort to increase your physical activity with a healthy walk around the block. All it takes is a “just do it” attitude and about 30 minutes of your day. You’ll be surprised at how much better you’ll feel afterwards.

Gather some friends and/or family members together and form a team of eight….then sign up for Walk Across Texas (call 625-4519), and join the fun of seeing which local team can rack up the most miles during this 8-week initiative. Take advantage of the school track, our local park, or that forgotten treadmill you’ve stashed away. You’ll not only get the many benefits listed above, but you’ll be interacting with others who can keep you accountable to continue the practice for long-term results. Once you’ve conquered your habit of “not moving”, you can move on to maintaining this newly formed habit of walking or take up some added physical activities like cycling, golfing, or swimming. This….right now…..could be a life-changing moment.

The Walk Across Texas Kickoff Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, at 6PM in the courthouse. The actual start date to count your miles is Sunday, April 19
.   So, come on…….let’s walk!
**********************************************************************
Send your health- or fitness-related questions to Focusonyourfitness@hotmail.com. Answers will be published in future issues.


NEED MONEY FOR COLLEGE?
WE CAN HELP!!!!   HURRY DEADLINE APPROACHING!!
~ Circle “C” Cattlewomen ~
Scholarships for 2009
4/14/2009

The local organization of Texas Cattlewomen has announced their scholarships for 2009; (1) scholarship in the amount of $1000 and (1) scholarship in the amount of $500. For qualified graduating seniors or recent graduates of a Coleman County high school and enrolled full-time (or plan to enroll full-time) in a University and pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study ( 1. agriculture 2. agricultural communications, 3. ranch management, 4. pre-veterinary medicine,
5. food and nutrition). To obtain an application, please visit your high school counselor/senior advisor or contact Jill Atwood at 325-625-9231 or via e-mail @ dtatwood@wildblue.net.
 Application deadline is Monday, May 4, 2009.


Legacy Outfitters
4/14/2009

Legacy Outfitters monthly meeting will be Monday, April 20. It will be held at the Early Lions Club building at 6:30 pm. Steve Blake, our speaker this month, will be sharing about a local gun museum and displaying some of these firearms at the meeting. The cook team has a great meal planned.


Fires Near Hwy 206  -  Contained
4/14/2009 
Around 3:50pm Tuesday, a fire was reported on St. Hwy 206.  What appeared to be several fires were burning along the railroad tracks south and east of the Coleman Country Club.  The largest fire was east of St Hwy 206.  Units from the Coleman Fire Department were on the scene and contained the fire.


Alzheimer’s Support Group to Meet Thursday, April 16th
4/14/2009

The Alzheimer’s Support Group of Coleman County monthly meeting to be at the Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Department (N. Second Street, turn North at the SA Bank) on Thursday, March 16th, at 6pm. Everyone is invited to hear from Social Worker, Jill Locks as she relates services available. If you have questions, please call Family Health Clinic at 325 348 3566.


Pence Sentencing Set
4/14/2009

Judge John Weeks has set the date for Patrick Eugene Pence's sentencing as Wednesday, May 13, 2009.


Tuesday afternoon, the Coleman Elementary School 2nd Graders took the bus to the CISD Administration Building to sing for the Superintendent and staff.  They were led by the music teacher, Missy Smith.


CJHS Awards "It Pays to be Present"
4/14/2009
Winner of the “It Pays To Be Present” drawing held this past week at Coleman Junior High is 8th grader Sarah Casselberry. 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.


CHS FCCLA members gave their "Bullying" presentation to the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Directors during their monthly meeting on Monday, April 13th.  Samantha Yebra, Emilie Jimenez, and Kayla Barnett will compete this Friday in the State Competition at Corpus Christi having received 6th at the Region meeting.  FCCLA sponsor Bonnie Brown was also present.


Coleman 4-H to Help Local Food Bank
4/14/2009
Coleman 4-H will have their monthly meeting at
6:00pm on Tuesday, April 14 in the Bill Franklin Center.  The community service project for the month will be canned foods. This is to help re-stock the shelves at the food bank.


TEEA Scholarship Offered To 4-H Members
4/13/2009        By: Christin Burris, CEA-FCS

The Texas Extension Education Association of Coleman County would like to announce they will award a $1000 scholarship to a deserving 4-H member. To be eligible, the 4-H member (boy or girl): must have completed or be in their third year of 4-H; must excel in home economics, leadership and personal development through 4-H; must plan to attend college in fall or spring following judging; may attend college of their choice; and must not have passed their 19th birthday by January 1 of the current year.

Items that need to be submitted for scholarship consideration are:
1) Application Form, 2) 4-H Record Book, and 3) High School Transcript.
These items are due to the County Extension Office by
April 15, 2009.


Application forms may be picked up at the County Extension Office (2nd floor, County Courthouse). If you have any questions, contact Christin Burris, CEA-FCS at 325-625-4519.


Coleman County Retired Teachers
4/13/2009  (contributed)

The Coleman County Retired Teachers will meet on Thursday, April 16, at 11:30am at Hidalgo's Cafe #2.  We will have two outstanding speakers.  Shannon Cloud, CPS Specialist II, will explain "Go Blue Day" and help raise awareness about child abuse and neglect.  A blue ribbon  is the international symbol for Child Abuse Prevention.  The color blue was chosen to represent the bruised and battered bodies of the thousands of children that are abused everyday.

Dr. David Pate, a retired research chemist, will tell how teachers encouraged and enabled him to succeed in his profession. 

Bennett and Sue Ragsdale will give a report on the State Convention they are attending in Dallas on April 14th - 16th.  Spring Leadership Training is May 7th at Brownwood ISD Administration Building.  Incoming committee chairman and officers are urged to attend this meeting.  A report must be made of those attending by April 16th.  Retired teachers are urged to attend and any interested persons are welcome.


ANNUAL COUNTY-WIDE GARAGE SALE SET FOR APRIL 17-18
4/13/2009

The Humane Society is sponsoring the
5th Annual County-Wide Garage Sale and Flea Market the weekend of April 17-18
.  It brings visitors to Coleman and Coleman County to search for garage sale and flea market bargains as well as to shop at our many fine antique stores and dine at our restaurants. We encourage everyone to plan a garage sale that weekend.

As usual, we will prepare Coleman and Santa Anna maps with addresses of the garage sales. Get your address and the time of your sale on the map by calling Linda at 325-625-3743 or drop by the thrift store on Thursday through Saturday to fill out the form. There is a $5 fee to appear on the map. We repeat that the income from your garage sale is your own. We do not expect you to donate your garage sale proceeds to the Humane Society as we’ve heard some folks think! If you want to donate any unsold garage sale items, we will be happy to take these donations at our thrift store.

If you do not want to have a sale at your home or if you live too far out to have a successful garage sale, please ask Linda about renting a table. We will have tables at the Block One Flea Market and inside and outside our Humane Society buildings at 108-110 East Pecan. Vendors are also welcome.

Downtown businesses are encouraged to plan sidewalk sales. Nonprofit organizations might want to plan a fundraising event for that weekend too.  A special children’s dress-up event is being planned. The kids will have a great time. And their pets too! We will be letting you know more about that in a few days.

And don’t forget the Dog Mayor campaign is in full swing. The Dog Mayor will be announced garage sale weekend. The candidates will appreciate your vote, and it’s never too late to file. Pick up your filing application at the thrift store. 


Consumer Decision Making Practice Canceled!
4/13/2009

We will not be having Consumer Decision Making Practice on Tuesday night, April 14th, due to the Coleman 4-H Club meeting.

Practice will take place next week on
Tuesday, April 21st at 6:00 P.M.
  This will be the last practice before the District Contest so please make an effort to attend!  If you need any more study guides or have any questions, contact Christin Burris at 325-625-4519 or come by the office on the second floor of the courthouse.


Developing Healthy Eating Habits in Preschoolers
4/13/2009
     Submitted By: Christin Burris, CEA-FCS, Coleman County

Written By: Sharon Robinson, PhD, RD
Associate Professor and Extension Nutrition Specialist
Texas AgriLife Extension Service
Sometimes when parents are dealing with feeding their three year old, it's either a matter of maintaining strict control or preventing a free for all. Some parents are looking for help when it comes todeveloping healthy eating habits in preschoolers. A new resource, MyPyramid for Preschoolers offers sound research based tips and guidelines for parents and care givers. MyPyramid for Preschoolers can be found at www.MyPyramid.gov .

MyPyramid for Preschoolers allows a parent to enter their child's name, gender, age, and activity level. Generated is a handout of about how much food from each food group needs to be offered daily to a typical healthy child the same gender, age and physical activity as theirs. Habits that parents should incorporate are:
* Set a good example,
* Offer a variety of foods,
* Help children know when they've had enough,
* Follow a meal and snack schedule,
* Make mealtime a family time,
* Cope with picky eating, and
* Help children eat new foods.
The MyPyramid for Preschoolers website offers more information on incorporating these tips so that you can help your child grow physically and developmentally. To learn more about feeding the young child contact your county Texas AgriLife Extension agent. 


Holiday Hill Groundbreaking Ceremony
4/13/2009
The long awaited 20-bed Alzheimer’s addition for Holiday Hill is finally here. The nursing home  conducted a groundbreaking ceremony on the West Lawn of the home on Monday.   Construction of the new Alzheimer Care Facility is anticipated to take approximately 9 months. They hope to be completed by January of 2010. 

Guests and dignitaries attending included: Mary Griffis and Amy Hinds from the Chamber of Commerce, City Manager Larry Weise and Bob Ray from the City offices, Coleman Police Dept. Chief Jay Moses, Reeve Scott from Coleman County State Bank in Abilene, Doug Langley Administrator of Coleman County Medical Center, representatives from the construction company receiving the bid, and residents and nursing staff from Holiday Hill. 

Patricia Butler (USDA- Rural Development, Brownwood), Greg Whitten (H.H. Administrator), Shelley Robinett (Director of Nurses), Mayor Nick Poldrack, Paul Rheinlander (Architect from Rheinlander and Associates in Austin), Patrick Justiss (Coleman County State Bank), and Holiday Hill Board members: Randy Turner, Becky Reynolds, Jo Tyson - President, Curtis Skelton - Secretary, Cathy Allen, Barbara Langley, and Ann Watson.


 Coleman High School Honor Roll and Attendance for 5th Six Weeks
 

Town and Country Garden Club
4/13/2009  (Contributed)

The Coleman Town and Country Garden Club met on Tuesday, April 7, at the Miller Building. President Eileen Morris welcomed everyone. The program speaker, Bruce Kreitler, was introduced; he is from the Broken Willow Tree Service in Abilene. He is certified for all tree services including appraisals.

The topic for the program was the “Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Trees.” Bruce discussed proper maintenance and feeding of trees, especially emphasizing NOT to use weed and feed around trees. He answered our many questions about our trees, ending with a long list of recommended trees for Abilene and Coleman.  The horticulture exhibit, presented by Nancy Baker, was several small zinnias for members to take home. Sher Dunaway presented the beautiful artistic design of the new approved flower show “parallel design”.

A pilgrimage to the Flowercade in Ft Worth on April 25th was met with approval and several signed up to go.  Coleman, along with Cross Plains, is responsible for the Fall District Convention on October 30 and 31. The theme will be “Tea in a Country Garden”; committees have been organized for the event.   Katherine Hollis was the hostess, filling us with veggie pizza and yummy brownie-pecan pie.


Saverance Awarded First Runner-Up
4/13/2009
Peyton Saverance competed in the Miss Houston pageant during Easter weekend and was awarded first runner-up out of 37 contestants. She competed in interview, swimsuit presentation & fitness, evening gown presentation, and top 5 onstage "fishbowl" question. The Miss Houston pageant is produced by one of the premier recruiters for the Miss Texas USA pageant, Denise O'Brian of Baystar Productions, Inc. Peyton is the daughter of Dewayne & Luana Saverance and currently is a sophomore Consumer Science & Merchandising major at the University of Houston.


SPECIAL APRIL PROGRAM FOR ARTS LEAGUE
4/13/2009

The Fine Arts League members will be given a treat at Thursday evening’s (April 16) program. Dollie Sparkman, in charge of April program, has made arrangements for members to go to the home of Carolyn Merriman to see the mural created by Arts League member, Judia Terry. The group will meet at 6 pm sharp at 1505 Hillcrest. Visitors may contact Dollie (325-625-2175) for directions and instructions.

After the visit to see the mural, the group will return to the First Coleman National Bank Club room for meeting and refreshments.

The Texas Blue Bunny Book by SLH will be available for sale at the meeting. Sherrell Hazlewood, President of the League, has generously donated the first edition of 100 to the Fine Arts League. The first edition books are to sell at $20 each with $10 each profit from the sales to be used as a fundraiser for the Fiesta Juried Art Show October 2-3, 2009. You may call or email Lois McCarty (fund-raiser chair) to reserve your copy(ies) at 325-625-2352 or
ste.john@verizon.com.


Coleman City Council Agenda
4/13/2009

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2009, 5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Library, 401 Commercial Ave., Coleman, Texas
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. Council will consider on the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1105 amending City Ordinance No. 720 and 761 establishing a Fire Department for the City of Coleman; amending certain sections of Article 5.02 and Article 5.03 Fire Department of the City of Coleman Code of Ordinances and establishing an effective date. 
NEW BUSINESS:

1. Council will receive the First Quarter 2009 Occupancy Tax Report from the Chamber of Commerce.
2. Council will consider a request from Chief of Police Moses to transfer funds from the TxDOT STEPS revenues account # 100-3384-07 to reimburse grant related expenses to account #100-5100-07 salaries and account # 5170-07 equipment.
3. Council will consider authorizing the City secretary to request proposals for depository services for city funds for a two year period beginning May 1, 2009.
4. Council will consider new facts and/or findings related to employee health insurance plan.


Coleman Co. Departments Assist on Large Brown County Fire
4/10/2009

Fire departments from Lake Brownwood, Early, Coleman, Burkett, Echo, Santa Anna and fire crews from the Texas Forest Service fought a large blaze near Grosvenor, near the Coleman and Brown County line.

The latest information from the Forest Service concerning this fire was released late Thursday night, as follows:  Grosvenor Fire - Texas Forest Service has dispatched a task force and supervisors to this fire that is located off FM 585 at CR 110 north of Bangs. There are several structures threatened. This fire is estimated at over 1,000 acres and is about 5% contained. One structure has been confirmed lost and an additional 35 are threatened.


The First Baptist Church TeamKIDS did their part in keeping Coleman beautiful during their Wednesday night meeting time.  TeamKIDS picked up trash in the blocks around the church.  They were treated to ice cream cones after much hand washing!


FFA Horse Judging to Compete in State Contest
4/10/2009
The Coleman FFA Horse Judging team won the Area IV Horse Judging Contest out of 45 teams in Stephenville on April 8 and will advance to the state contest in Lubbock on April 18. Members of the team are (in order from left to right below)
Casie Swening, Gary Heath, Reagan Barr and Lisa Dees
. Lisa was the 4th high individual in the contest and Casie was the 6th high individual. The team has had a very successful season. They were 4th at San Angelo, 4th at Waco, 16th at the Tarleton Invitational and 9th at West Texas A&M University. We would like to wish them the very best of luck in their quest to win a state title.


Visit Quilt Show This Weekend
4/10/2009

The Heritage Hall will present their quilt show starting Friday April 3, and running until the end of May.

They will be open on Fridays from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm and Saturdays 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Everyone is encouraged to attend. Please, come out and support these ladies who have worked so hard for our community.

If you would like to volunteer your time to work the show please, contact Maxine Cope at 625-4345. There are over 60 quilts on display with some very unique designs. 

Also included in the collection are several "wedding ring" quilts; one with a couples' name embroidered.  Some quilts are new, and some are old...come and enjoy what others have loved for many years.


WITH SPRING COMES BUNNIES!!
4/10/2009

Those of you who have been curious about the Texas Blue Bunny creator are about to get the chance to purchase one of his first edition!  Sherrell Hazlewood is the creator of the Texas Blue Bunny stories and paintings, and President of the Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.  The books are for sale by the Fine Arts League members. Only the first 100 will be for sale now at $20 each, so call Lois McCarty, Fundraiser chair, 325-625-2352 or email her at ste.john@verizon.net or you may contact Theda or Sherrell for your copy: 325-625-4687  slh@Texasbluebunny.us or Theda@thedarhea.com
  

The Fine Arts League appreciates the generosity of the artist and looks forward to seeing many blue bunnies out in the countryside. Books will be available for purchase at the monthly art league meeting April 16.  Members and guests Be there and get your TEXAS BLUE BUNNY BOOK.


Easter at Gouldbusk UMC
4/10/2009
Following a wonderful revival celebration with Rev. Bob Weathers this week, the congregation of Gouldbusk United Methodist Church will continue to observe the Easter season. There will be a Good Friday service featuring Rev. Dianne Cree beginning at 7:00pm on Friday, April 10. Easter Sunrise Service will begin at 7:00AM on Sunday, April 12. The message will be brought by Rev. Cree and special music will be presented by Mayce Nanny. Following services, there will be fellowship and breakfast and an egg hunt for the children. Everyone is invited to attend these services


Pence Trial Ends in Plea Agreement
10:45pm 4/9/2009

After 12 hours of deliberation, a Coleman County jury of five women and seven men could not reach a unanimous verdict in the murder trial of Patrick Eugene Pence. 

Instead, a plea agreement was reached at 10:20pm Thursday night.  Pence pled guilty to a lesser offense of Aggravated Assault by causing bodily injury.  According to Judge John Weeks, this represents a 2nd degree felony, punishable by two to 20 years in prison.  However, Pence did apply for probation and is eligible for probation, Weeks said.  Pence waived the right for a jury to sentence him so sentencing will be done by Judge Weeks in approximately 30 days.  Pence will remain free until sentencing.


It's Up to the Jury Now
4/9/2009
The five women and seven men who have heard the evidence in the murder trial of Patrick Eugene Pence are now in the jury room to decide his fate.

Our Colemannews.com reporter said closing statements ended at 10:18am and the jury door closed at 10:22am. The courtroom is full as interested citizens await the verdict.

Pence is charged with the 2007 stabbing death of Joshua Todd Weaver at the Salt-n-Pepper Bar and Grill in Coleman. 


Coleman Firemen Act Quickly to Stop Spreading Fire
4/9/2009
Updated at 2:30pm -
Firemen were mopping up the scene, spraying water on still smoldering grass, trees and posts.  We talked to Richard Hensley of the Coleman Fire Department who said the cause of the fire is likely going to be sparks caused by electrical lines arcing amongst trees in the high wind.  Winds were gusty between 30 and 40mph from the west.  Kudos to Coleman firemen who saved one house in the path of the fire along with two small storage buildings.  Firemen also protected and saved a house to the north of the fire.  Two sheds burned in the blaze, one had old tires which caused the dark black smoke.  The fire burned about a half a city block between Perry Street on the west, Mountain Street on the east and Park Street to the south.  The fire was reported shortly after 1:00pm


BASS TOURNAMENT at LAKE IVIE
4/10/2009
Courtney Moore is having a bass tournament at Lake O.H. Ivie on
Saturday May 2, 2009 to help raise funds for her People to People Student Ambassador trip to Europe this summer.   Entry forms are located at the following businesses in Santa Anna: LoneStar Restaurant, Allsups, & The Hunting Store. In Coleman @ Cooper Supply, Higginbotham's, Johnson's Feed Barn, Davis Feed & Seed, & William's Tire Store. For more information call 325-636-4478.    Any help will be greatly appreciated!!!


ANNUAL WALK FOR HUNGER EVENT UPCOMING
4/9/2009
The annual Walk for Hunger benefitting Loaves & Fishes Food Ministries will be held on
Saturday, May 2nd, 2009, in the Coleman City Park. All churches, organizations, businesses, and individuals are invited to participate in this annual event. You may select individual (s) or groups to represent you in this walk.

Sponsor sheets for monetary pledges will be available at area churches and businesses, as well as Loaves & Fishes Food Ministries on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday mornings. If further information is needed please call 325/625-2060 (leave a message if no answer) or 325/636-3733 if immediate information is needed.

The purpose of the walk is to raise funds necessary to continue the operation of Loaves & Fishes Food Ministries in their efforts to assist those in need in Coleman County with supplemental food items and hot meals twice weekly for their families. This need is continually growing, especially with the economy crunch now faced by our state and our nation.
 

Come join us at 8:30 a.m. in Coleman City Park on the morning of Saturday, May 2nd, for a great walk as well as fellowship with your neighbors in Coleman Count


PC Cheerleaders Raffling Gift Basket
4/9/2009
The Panther Creek HS Cheerleaders are raffling off a Mother's Day Gift Basket. Items in the gift basket include: one month free workout at Shapes for Women, one month free tanning at Shapes for Women, $30 gift certificate from Alley Cuts, Color Me Sexy shampoo and conditioner, assorted Merle Norman lip, eye, & cheek products and more.

Retail value of the items included is $250-$300. Drawing will be held on Friday, May 8th. Raffle tickets can be purchased at Merle Norman Cosmetics or see a PCHS cheerleader.


Coleman PD Reports March Statistics
4/9/2009
The following statistics for the month of March were released this morning by Coleman Chief of Police, Jay Moses:
Offenses
Criminal Mischief-4; Child Protective Service cases-3; Burglaries-8; Forgeries-2; Recovered Stolen Vehicle-1; Terroristic Threat-1; Theft-3; Credit Card Abuse-1; Aggravated Assault-1; Dog Bite-1; Identification Theft-2.
Arrests
Warrants-22; Public Intoxication-1; Driving While Intoxicated-1; Criminal Mischief-1; No Driver License-1; Forgery-1.
Motor Vehicle Crash Investigations
1 no-injury crash
Tickets Issued
Animal Control-1 ticket issued with 2 charges filed
School Resource Officer-8 tickets issued with 9 charges filed
Police Department-55 tickets issued with 69 charges filed
Warnings Issued
Animal Control-1
Police Department-22
Animal Control

Calls for Service-53
Dogs Picked Up-21
Cats Picket Up-8
Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-9


Defense Rests in Pence Trial
4/8/2009

The lawyers in the Coleman County trial of Patrick Eugene Pence, charged with the murder of Joshua Todd Weaver, will give their final arguments at 9:00am on Thursday.  Today the defense continued with their testimony from witnesses that included a private investigator from Abilene, John Reed, and two other witnesses.  Cross-examining for the state today was Abilene's Assistant District Attorney Jim Hicks.  Pence then took the stand in his own defense at 1:00pm and was dismissed from the stand at 3:10.  The final witness of the trial was Texas Ranger Nick Hanna, a rebuttal witness for the state.  At 3:50pm he was dismissed from the stand, and both sides "rested." 

At 9:00am Thursday, the official charge will be read to the jury and final arguments will be given by both sides.   The case will then be given to the jury for deliberation.


NETWORK LUNCHEON IN BALLINGER
4/8/2009
     (Contributed)

The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce hosted one of four network luncheons being held in April sponsored by Texas Midwest Community Network. The luncheon presentation and discussion focused on “Moving Forward in Times of Uncertainty”.

During the luncheon community representatives from neighboring cities offered comments on the current local economic conditions. Attendees discussed ways to be prepared to turn sudden losses in employment and sales tax revenues into opportunities for the future. The group also received a recap on value-added programs and activities conducted by TMCN.

Cities represented at the luncheon included Ballinger, Bronte, Coleman, Eden, Robert Lee, San Angelo and Winters. The meal was catered by Gordon Hays Bar-B-Q.

Texas Midwest Community Network is a one-of-a-kind regional organization founded in 1994 for economic development, tourism development, regional awareness & promotion, and legislative awareness. It is an organization of “communities working together to accomplish what one community cannot do alone.” For more information about TMCN call 325-795-8626 or 800-845-3563 or visit www.texasmidwest.org


HOLY WEEK ACTIVITIES IN SANTA ANNA
4/8/2009

Holy week services in Santa Anna will commence with joint services by the First Methodist and Presbyterian Churches on Maundy Thursday, April 9. Rev. Kathy Munroe, pastor of Santa Anna Presbyterian Church will conduct the 7:00 pm services at the Presbyterian Church on Thursday. Then on Friday at 7:00 pm Rev. Paul Steven, pastor at First Methodist, will conduct Good Friday Services at the First Methodist Church.

Easter Morning Sunrise Service, sponsored by the Santa Anna Ministerial Alliance, will be conducted at the lighted cross on the east mountain at 7:00 am, followed by a free breakfast for the worshipers at the Old Armory Community Center.

In case of inclement weather, the Sunrise Services will be conducted inside the Community Center with breakfast to follow.


CJHS Paper Mache Winners
4/8/2009

Coleman Junior High’s Art Department recently announced 6th grade Paper Mache winners. Pictured left to right: First place – Eeyore by Tamara Gray, Second place – Mr. Peanut by Makahla Brewer, Third Place – Spongebob by Jacey Pannell (not pictured), and Honorable Mention - Despereaux by Kaylee Needham. Danna Dawson, Art Teacher for CJH and CHS offers her congratulations and comments on the outstanding work of these students. The winning projects will be on display at the Coleman Public Library.


Leaday Baptist Invites the Public to Easter Services
4/8/2009
Everyone is invited to attend the Leaday Baptist Church Easter Sunday service.
Sunday school will be at 10:15am with church service at 11:00am.

Following the service a meal will be enjoyed at the Fellowship Hall. It will be "pot luck" with members bringing the food. Visitors, just come and enjoy the day.


Annual Food Drive - Thanks!
4/8/2009
Curves of Coleman members generously donated a total of 1,556 lbs of non-perishable food items to Loaves and Fishes during the month of March as part of the Curves International 11th Annual Food Drive. Members of the 7th Grade National Junior Honor Society helped transport the groceries from the Curves club to Loaves and Fishes on Thursday, April 2. Linda Hyde extends a grateful "Thanks" to all who participated in making donations, as well as to the NJHS members for their much-needed muscle power.
Pictured below
with some of the boxes prepared for delivery (beginning upper left and clockwise) are James Stephenson, Brent Ogden, Justin Hensley, Kyle Card, Tyler Henderson, Gatlin Baker, Jansen Merrill, Jayce Simmons, and James Stamper.


NOVICE ISD in School on Friday!
4/8/2009
Novice will hold school on Friday as a bad-weather make-up day.  The day will follow the normal time schedule


Shoppin' Baskit' Market Manager to be Honored Friday
Public Invited to Attend

4/7/2009 (contributed)

We would like to ask the people of Coleman County to come by Shoppin' Baskit on Friday, April 10, from 11:00am until 2:00pm,
for cake and punch to join us in giving thanks to our market manager and friend, Roger Cooper.

Roger is moving to the next stage in his life, retirement, after 12 years as our market manager at the Shoppin' Baskit and 40 years in the business (and he still has all of his fingers)! He is from the rare breed that still believes "the customer is always right" and because of this talent, he has earned the trust and respect of his customers. HE WILL BE MISSED !

Do you think that Roger will miss rising at 3:00am and driving 45 miles one-way to work (he lives in Baird)? Do you think that he will miss working in that cold cutting room where it is about 50 degrees all year long? I'm not real sure that he will miss unloading and stacking those hundreds of cases of 60lb boxes of turkeys! I can't answer these questions, but I can say for sure that he has left more with us than he has taken from us. We hope that he misses us just a little bit.

We hope that Roger has the time of his life, spending time with his lovely wife of 43 years, Linda, fishin', golfin', huntin' and just sittin. I could go on, but we just want to say "good luck" and kick it to the corner.

From all of us at the store - HAVE FUN ROGER B. COOPER - You will be missed and remembered!


AGENDA SPECIAL CALLED MEETING
COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL

4/7/2009
200 WEST LIVEOAK
5:00 P.M.
THURSDAY, April 9, 2009
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will designate an Employee Health Insurance Provider for the City of Coleman.


Coleman ISD Foundation Scholarships to be Offered
4/7/2009

The Coleman ISD Foundation will again be offering scholarships to Coleman High School seniors. Scholarships are presented each year to worthy students who are well-rounded and have always participated in school activities.

Character and integrity, as well as leadership abilities, are a factor in how scholarships are considered. While above average grades are a factor, the CISD Foundation board wishes to aid students who are achievers in all facets of their school activities.

Coleman ISD Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing and improving the quality of academic achievement, both for teachers and students within all levels of Coleman schools.

Applications for scholarships are available from high school counselor, Lorene Halfmann.
Applications must be received by the May 1st deadline in order to be considered.


ATTENTION PARENTS!!!
4/7/2009
PANTHER CREEK CISD WILL BE DISMISSING SCHOOL AT 12:30 PM ON APRIL 9TH, 2009.

PANTHER CREEK CISD WILL NOT BE IN SCHOOL APRIL 10TH, 2009 DUE TO GOOD FRIDAY. SCHOOL WILL RESUME ON MONDAY, APRIL 13TH AT REGULAR TIME.

PARENTS, PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PANTHER CREEK BUSES WILL BE RUNNING EARLY ON THURSDAY(4/9). PLEASE MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR YOUR CHILDREN.


The State Rests in Pence Case
4/7/2009
At 4:10pm on Tuesday, District Attorney Heath Hemphill declared the state's case "rested." Testimony continued on Tuesday with Officer Les Cogdill answering questions in reference to his investigation. He went to the stand at 3:50pm Monday and was released at 10:27am on Tuesday. (The trial was halted at 5:00pm on Monday and began at 9:00am this morning.) Following him was a state's witness, then an expert in trace evidence - in particular an expert in finding holes, cuts, tears, and defects in cloth - from the Austin State Crime Lab. She gave testimony as to the results of her examination of Patrick Pence's pants and shirt. She stated that she found no cuts, tears, holes or other defects on his clothes. Following her was another state's witness and a second professional. J.K. Towensend-Parchman, M.D. with the Dallas County Medical Examiner's office testified on the autopsy findings. The manner of death was declared to be "homicide" by that office. Following the questioning of one more witness, D.A. Hemphill rested the state's case at 4:10pm.

The defense attorney Jeff Johnson's first witness was Officer Les Cogdill. At 4:30 another witness was called, and was still on the stand when the judge halted the trial for the day at 5:00pm. The defense will continue at 9:00am on Wednesday.


Pence Trial Begins
4/6/2009

At 2:35pm Monday, April 6th the 5 women, 7 men jury was seated for the Coleman County trial of Patrick Eugene Pence. He is charged in the 2007 stabbing death of Joshua Todd Weaver. After opening statements by the state, represented by District Attorney Heath Hemphill, and the defense lawyer Jeff Johnson, the first witness was called to the stand at 3:15pm. Brian Tompkins, presently a patrol officer with the Brownwood Police Department, was the first officer on the scene the night of the incident. He gave testimony as to the part he played in the investigation during the early morning hours of February 10, 2007. He gave names of witnesses he spoke with in the parking lot of the Salt-n-Pepper Bar and Grill. He also brought with him evidence he had obtained, Pence's pants and shirt. Mr. Johnson cross-examined Officer Tompkins bringing about one correction in his testimony. Following this, the judge explained that the "Rule of Witnesses" had been invoked. This means that anyone testifying in the trial may not be in the courtroom during other testimonies.

The state's second witness, Detective Sgt. Les Cogdill, went to the stand at 3:50pm. He was the detective in charge of the investigation after he got to the scene of the incident. Photos he had taken during the investigation were admitted into evidence. After some questioning by D.A. Hemphill, Cogdill played the recorded statement that was given by Patrick Pence on the night in question. At 5:00pm on Monday, the completion of this recording ended the testimony for the day. Mr. Cogdill will continue on the stand on Tuesday morning at 9:00am.


Jury Selection Still in Process Monday Afternoon
4/6/2009

The jury selection process is continuing after lunch on Monday in the trial of Patrick Eugene Pence. 


The Quilt Show at Heritage Hall began last Friday. There are over 60 quilts on display. Locals have loaned their family and homemade quilts. There are very interesting stories that go along with many of them. This exhibit will continue through the end of May. They are open Friday and Sat. from 10:00am to 4:00pm.


There was a large crowd at The County General Store on Saturday.  They had numerous sales going on throughout the store, as well as prizes and give-aways. They also had a Hummingbird attracting seminar and a Predator call seminar. They were kind enough to let the Jr. High kids who are raising money for their trip to Washington D.C. have a hot dog roast and bake sale. Wow! Downtown Coleman was busy with all that excitement. Many people had a hard time finding a place to park. County General Store says "Thanks" to all who made it out on Saturday.

The County General Store hosted a "Predator Call" Seminar on Saturday and Sunday. Gerald Stewart owner of Hunter's Specialties talked to the crowd on techniques of attracting varmints. 

The County General Store hosted a seminar on "How to attract Humming birds" on Saturday.  It was "standing room only" watching Dan and Kathy Brown of Christoval, Texas talk about attracting humming birds.  Their business is Brown Ranch Hummer House Texas Gems.  You can view their web site at www.hummerhouse.com 


CHS Art Students Compete
4/6/2009     (Contributed)
The first Region 15 VASE (Visual Arts Scholarship Event) was held in San Angelo at Central High School on Feb. 7th. This is a U.I.L. competition for Art.  CHS had four student participate: (Pictured above from left to right) Jessica Cleland, Kalie Diaz, Stephanie Campbell, and Casie Swening. All four were interviewed by judges and three received Superior ratings of 4, and one receiving a 3. The 4-ratings received medals and were close to going to the next level which would have been state.


Basket Drawing Winners
4/6/2009  (contributed)

On April 3rd, principal Paula Ringo drew the winning names for the 3 baskets given away by several Jr. High students who are going to Washington DC in June. Congratulations to the basket winners: Sharon Watson, Rita Bhakta and Dawn Fish. Present at the drawing were: Jon Bopp, Ethan Morris, Dalton Gentry, Ms. Ringo, Shelton Zarate, Brady Jones, Sydni Stevenson and Courtney Brown. Thank you to all who donated items for the baskets and to all who entered in the drawing.


Early Registration for Coleman ISD Pre-K and Kindergarten
4/6/2009
Coleman Elementary School will hold early registration for students entering Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten in August 2009. To be eligible for Kindergarten, a child must be 5 years of age by September 1, 2009. To be eligible for Pre-Kindergarten, a child must be 4 years of age by September 1, 2009, and qualify for the free or reduced lunch program or qualify as a Limited English Proficiency student. The person registering the child must have a valid driver’s license. Parents must bring the child’s immunization record, social security card, and birth certificate. The birth certificate must be the official courthouse document from the county in which the child was born. The certificate issued at the hospital with the child’s footprints is not a birth certificate. Official birth certificates can be obtained at the Coleman County Courthouse regardless of the county the child was born in. Early registration will run from April 1, 2009 through May 27, 2009
, from 8:00-3:00 each day in the Elementary School Office.


Walk Across Texas! Time Again
4/6/2009    By Christin Burris, CEA-FCS
It's time to get out those walking shoes and get back into shape, again! Actually, I have already seen many of you out there walking and exercising. Spring is a wonderful time to stretch those muscles, tone up, and slim down.

Walk Across Texas! will begin soon, as we have a big Kickoff on Thursday, April 16 at the courthouse at 6:00 p.m. Come and find out just what to do to walk your way across Texas. Then we will plan to walk around the courthouse parking area 5 times to make our first mile. If you can't make it to the Kick Off, you can still be on a team. Walk Across Texas will actually begin on
Sunday, April 19, but the mile walked at the Kick-off is a bonus mile.

Walk Across Texas! Is a fun and flexible way to exercise. Just get on a team with seven other people B friends, neighbors, coworkers, or family members - and start walking, jogging or even biking. You can walk together or individually, outside, on a treadmill, or stationery bicycle, any way that fits your schedule and lifestyle. You keep track of your miles, to see if you and your teammates can walk the 800 miles Across Texas@ in 8 weeks. Report your totals to your team captain and see how your team measures up! By the end of the 8-week Walk Across Texas! Program, you will have a healthy habit that will last a lifetime. Some of the benefits of Walk Across Texas! Include fitness, cardiovascular health, weight control, prevention of disease, stress reduction, quality time spent with friends and family, and fun! And there is no charge for walking or participating in Walk Across Texas!

Last year, we had 8 teams and walked a grand total of 8,194.47 miles. That=s more than 10 times across Texas. Let=s see if we can beat that this year! Many of you have already been walking for some time. You can still join a team and count the miles you walk, ride, or jog. We have several teams already eager to compete.

For more information, call Christin Burris at the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519, or look up Walk Across Texas! on the internet at http://walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu


Trinity United Methodist Church - Maundy Services
4/6/2009

The Trinity United Methodist Church at 1609 S. Concho will be holding Maundy Services on Thursday, April 9th at 7:00pm.  If you need a ride to the church, please call Carla Billings at 625-5302.


Keep Coleman Beautiful had their Annul "Trash Off" on Saturday.
Members of Keep Coleman Beautiful and local volunteers came out and helped clean up Coleman.

Members of the St. Marks Episcopal Church also made Saturday their Clean up day!
Members came out to work in the yard, polish brass, and make Palm Crosses


$1 a Bag Sale
4/5/2009

The book/bake sale this year was amazing! With over $2,000.00 collected in the first two days. Our $1 a bag sale will be the week of April 7th - 11th
.  All the books you can get in a bag will only be $1.  The library will furnish the bags.

All the books will be taken down April 14th or 15th.  On April 16th the City Council will hold their meeting in the Tillman Community Room so we will be getting ready for that.

Also, the Library will be closed April 10th for Good Friday.


Coleman Murder Trial Begins
4/5/2009
The trial of Patrick Eugene Pence will begin Monday, April 6, 2009, in the Coleman County Courthouse.  Pence is charged with first degree felony murder in connection with the death of Joshua Todd Weaver at the Salt-N-Pepper Bar and Grill in the early morning hours of Saturday, February 10, 2007.   Pence is alleged to have stabbed Weaver at the club located in north Coleman.


McCorkle Wins 2009 San Antonio Skillathon
4/5/2009  (Contributed)
Kelby McCorkle (center), Coleman FFA, Coleman, TX won 1st place in the Swine Skillathon at the 2009 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, winning a belt buckle and a $10,000 scholarship. 2nd place is Miles Vann (left of Kelby), Wellman FFA, Wellman, TX, winning a plaque and a $10,000 scholarship. 3rd place is Travis Rocha (right of Kelby), Sandra Day OConnor FFA, San Antonio, TX, winning a plaque. 4th place is Cade Schwartz (left of Miles), Wall FFA, San Angelo, TX, winning a plaque. 5th place is Jordan Wilborn, (right of Travis), Bishop FFA, Bishop, TX, winning a plaque.


David Nanny - Educator of the Year
4/5/2009
David Nanny has been named by the administration of Warren High School in San Antonio as Educator of the Year. Earl Warren High School is a part of Northside Independent School District and has an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students with a faculty of 176 and 8 administrators. Mr. Nanny is a 1996 graduate of Panther Creek High School and continued on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts Education from Angelo State University in 2001. David began his teaching career in 2002 as Director of Theater at Jack C. Jordan Middle School in NISD. In 2003 he moved to Earl Warren High School to become Assistant Theater Director and Technical Theater Director. In the spring of 2008, David was promoted to Director of Theater Arts and named Fine Arts Department Coordinator. While at Warren, he has seen much success in the Theater Department including two district championships in One-Act Play. David is also actively involved in theater outside of the classroom. As an employee of Murder Mystery Players, Inc., he continues to cultivate his art by performing in several plays throughout the year. He has also helped Fiesta 'Cornyation' to raise more than $20,000 for charities and scholarships. David credits Glenda Cash, his drama teacher at Panther Creek, with preparing him for success. Mrs. Cash always encouraged him to use his God-given talents and to follow his dreams.  In an impressive ceremony on March 19, Dr. John Folks, Superintendent of Schools for Northside Independent School District presented the award to David. Present for the presentation were proud parents Dwight and Terrye Nanny of Gouldbusk


Attention Bluecat Band Parents
4/5/2009
We will be having a meeting on Monday, April 6th at 5:30pm in the band hall...just one more meeting after this one and the year will be over so try and attend.


Coleman Aggie Moms to Award Scholarships
4/5/2009
Coleman Aggie Moms will award three scholarships in April. To qualify, a student must have completed 24 hours at A&M, have a 2.50 GPA and be a full time student.

Deadline for applications is April 10, 2009.

To obtain an application, please contact Margie Dodson at 325-382-4693.


TDCJ to House Two More Coleman County Criminals
4/3/2009

District Court was held on Thursday, April 2, 2009. Judge John Weeks presided. District Attorney Heath Hemphill brought several cases before the court:
 - Ricardo Martinez appeared represented by his attorney, Brian Chavez of Odessa. Mr. Martinez pled guilty to Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon and received 6 years TDCJ.
 - Kelsey Carter appeared represented by her attorney, Jenny Henley of Abilene. Ms. Carter pled guilty to Evading Arrest in a Vehicle and received 18 months in a State Jail Facility.

Attorneys were appointed on the following cases:
Anthony Brashear - Theft
Terry Bob Parks - Possession of Controlled Subst.
Bryce Evan Armstrong - Possession of Controlled Subst.

Arraignment was waived by Brownwood attorney Fred Franklin on the following cases:
John Paul Dobbins- Injury to a Child

Brendy Jo Price - Possession of Controlled Substance and Forgery


CONSUMER ALERT
4/3/2009

Coleman County Telephone Cooperative, Inc. would like to advise consumers in this area of a telephone scam that has been going on for at least two weeks.

Customers have reported being contacted by a person indicating he was a representative of Publishing (not Publishers) Clearing House, and that they had won a large sum of money. In order to collect their prize money, customers are being asked to send an insurance fee through a bank account withdrawal or Western Union; and are also asked to provide personal information such as name, address, age, etc. A call-back number is given to verify the authenticity of the call; but when called, you reach the same person who originally placed the call.

When customers refused to give any personal information, the caller became rude and threatening.

THIS IS A SCAM that has been reported to the Office of the Attorney General. If you receive such a call, please do not give out any personal information and report it immediately to you local telephone company.

If you have any questions about this alert, you may contact the office of Coleman County Telephone Cooperative, Inc. at 325-348-3124.


Coleman UIL Competitors Qualify for Regional
4/3/2009

The Coleman High School UIL students competed at the district meet this week. Results are:
Individual Science -   
     1st Place - Reece Halfmann
     1st Place - team of Reece Halfmann, Erik Villeda, Landon Brown, Kelby McCorkle
Literary Criticism -
     6th Place - Lisa Dees
Editorial Writing -
     6th Place - Erin Strickland
Math -
     1st Place - Reece Halfmann
Number Sense  - 
     3rd Place  -  Cheyenne Turner
     3rd Place -  Erik Villeda
     2nd Place Team of Cheyenne Turner, Erik Villeda and Reece Halfmann
Computer Applications  - 
     2nd Place  -  Heather Pope
     4th Place  -  Kenna Cornelius
     5th Place  -  Reid Needham
Ready  Writing  -
 
     4th Place  -  Lisa Dees
     6th Place  -  Slade Stevenson
The following students will be competing at the Regional Competition in Odessa on Saturday, April 25, 2009.  Reece Halfmann, Erik Villeda, Landon Brown, Kelby McCorkle, Heather Pope, and Cheyenne Turner.


Santa Anna Horse Judging Team Goes to Area Competition
4/3/2009
The Santa Anna Horse Judging Team had a successful run last week as they participated in two contests. They traveled to Weatherford College Wednesday, the 25th, where they placed 10th out of 51 teams. The next morning they went to the Tarleton State University Invitational Judging Contest. The team placed 4th out of 200 teams. Senior member Fausto Maldonado said they are looking forward to the Area IV judging contest on April 8th and a chance to advance to state at Texas Tech. The other team members are Kody Krause, Laken Herrod, Wes Tucker, and Danny Trowbridge.


Property of the Month Program Begins
4/3/2009 by Liz Hughes

Keep Coleman Beautiful's "Property of the Month" Program began April 1, 2009. Four properties have been chosen for the month of April to receive this designation. From the North Ward of Coleman, the property of Jarvis Wood at 218 Gray Street was selected. In the East Ward, the property of Marjorie Crain at 210 East Fourth Street was selected. The South Ward selection was the property of James and Dorothy Vineyard at 211 Miami Street, and the West Ward selection was the property of E.C. and Janette Shipman at 1206 Hillcrest Road.

Congratulations are in order for these property owners for helping to Keep Coleman Beautiful! Take the time to drive by and see these properties.

Many thanks are due the three citizens that volunteered to serve on the Property of the Month Selection Committee for April. Don Liles, Linda Hyde and Lisa Watson all volunteered their time (and gasoline!) to drive the streets of Coleman to make the selections. All of them said that they really enjoyed the time spent and that our city has many properties that could receive the Property of the Month designation this year.

Remember you may nominate your property or that of a neighbor for this designation and you may also serve on the committee that selects the properties. This program is all about getting involved in the clean up and beautification of your city. Email chamber@colemantexas.org or call Liz Hughes at 625-2975 (evenings are best).

Judging for the Keep Coleman Beautiful Property of the Month Program, the home of Jarvis Wood at 218 Gray Street was North Ward’s home for the month of April.  A sign is placed in the yard showing Keep Coleman Beautiful, Property of the Month. This will remain for the month of April. 

Chosen as Keep Coleman Beautiful Property of the Month from the East Ward was the home of Marjorie Crain located at 210 East Fourth Street. The yellow sign with green lettering can be seen in the front yard which reads, “Keep Coleman Beautiful.” The sign will remain for the month of April.

Judges for the Keep Coleman Beautiful Property of the Month from the West Ward chose the home of E.C. and Janette Shipman located at 1206 Hillcrest Road. A sign denoting the choice which reads, “Keep Coleman Beautiful” Property of the Month (of April) can be seen as you drive by.

South Ward was also represented with the Keep Coleman Beautiful Property of the Month home. James and Dorothy Vineyard, located at 211 Miami St was the one chosen for the month of April. A sign denoting the recognition of the home can be seen, which reads “Keep Coleman Beautiful” Property of the Month

The three judging the Keep Coleman Beautiful Property of the Month home, in each of the four wards in the City of Coleman were (l-r) Lisa Watson, Linda Hyde and Don Liles. The judges did say the decision was difficult as there are many beautiful homes and yards in the city.  Many thanks were expressed to these for their efforts and choices.


Panther Creek District UIL Academic Meet Results
4/3/2009

Panther Creek High School attended the District 14 – A UIL Academic Meet March 28 at Santa Anna High School.

The Calculator Applications team won first place. Individually, Benton Warren, junior, placed 1st, Jammie Pruitt, junior, placed 4th, and Garey Guthrie, senior, placed 6th. In Mathematics, Elizabeth Tapia, senior, placed 4th and is an alternate to regional, and CoJo Bowman, sophomore, placed 5th in Number Sense. These teams were all coached by Mr. Jerry Bodine.
Elizabeth Tapia placed second in Accounting and is a regional qualifier in that event. Jared Romine, freshman, placed 4th in Computer Applications and is an alternate to regional. These teams were coached by Mr. Mark Romine.  Charley Bowman, junior, won first place in News Writing; Jessica Jamison, sophomore, placed 2nd in Spelling and Vocabulary; and Jorie Nanny, freshman, placed third in Ready Writing. These three girls all qualified for regional. Cassie Philpot, junior, placed 4th in Literary Criticism and is an alternate to regionals. Trevor Smith, sophomore, won fourth place in Poetry Interpretation and is also an alternate to regionals. Courtney Moore, freshman, placed 5th in Prose Interpretation, and John Warren, senior, placed 5th in Social Studies. These teams were all coached by Mrs. Jennifer Short.

The regional qualifiers will compete again April 25 at the Region II-A UIL Academic Meet at Abilene Christian University.

Panther Creek High school regional qualifiers
Elizabeth Tapia, 2nd Place Accounting; Charley Bowman 1st Place News Writing; Jorie Nanny, 3rd Place Ready Writing; Jammie Pruitt, 4th Place Calculator Applications and 1st Place team. Benton Warren, 1st Place Calculator Applications and 1st Place Team; Jerry Bodine, Coach; Garey Guthrie, 6th Place Calculator Applications and 1st Place Team; Jennifer Short, Coach; Jessica Jamison, 2nd Place Spelling; Mark Romine, Coach.


 

8th Grade Parents,
4/3/2009
We will meet TODAY at
DQ at 5:30 to make final arrangements for the Jr. High dance fund-raiser that will be held Saturday, April 4th at the Jr..High cafeteria.


SCHEDULE OF HOLY WEEK SERVICES AT
ST MARK’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
4/2/2009
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, corner of Neches and Cedar, announces its schedule for Holy Week and Easter services. Everyone is invited to join with the members of St. Mark’s in these glorious services.
PALM SUNDAY: 11:00 a.m.
Procession of the Liturgy of the Palms
and Holy Eucharist
WEDNESDAY IN HOLY WEEK: 7:00 p.m.
Tenebrae – a service of darkness
MAUNDY THURSDAY: 7:00 p.m.
The Agape Meal in the Mission
Hall – a light supper of fruit, cheese,
meatless soup, and wine
GOOD FRIDAY:
12:00 noon
Stations of the Cross in the Garden
7:00 p.m.
Veneration of the Cross and Mass
of the Pre-sanctified
EASTER SUNDAY: 11:00 a.m.
Festival Eucharist


Holy Week at First United Methodist Coleman and
Novice United Methodist
4/2/2009
April 5th  -  Palm Sunday - Jim Olney will present "Simon Peter the Fisherman" during the morning worship.  Children will process into the morning worship with palm branches.
April 9th  -  Maundy Thursday -  A service of Holy Communion, 6:00pm, First UMC Coleman. Maundy Thursday, also known as "Holy Thursday" is the Thursday of Passion Week, one day before Good Friday ( The Thursday before Easter).  Maundy Thursday is the name given to the day on which Jesus celebrated the Passover with His disciples, known as the Last Supper.  Joint Service.
April 10th  -  Good Friday  -  A Service of Darkness, 6:00pm, Joint Service at Novice UMC.  Good Friday is the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday.  It is traditionally the day on which Jesus was crucified.  Why is Good Friday referred to as "good?"  What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good (see Matthew chapters 26-27).   However, the results of Christ's death are very good!  Romans 5:8, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this:  While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  First Peter 3:18 tells us, "For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.  He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit."
April 12th  -  Easter  -
9:30am, Novice UMC
11:00am, First United Methodist Church Coleman, Easter Egg Hunt after morning worship.


Historical Commission to Meet in Novice Tonight
4/2/2009
The Coleman County Historical Commission will meet in Novice on Thursday, April 2nd for their April Program We will meet at the Novice Community Center. Gathering will begin at 6:30pm and opening will be at 7:00pm.
Order of business will be:
Opening - invocation - introductions
Reading of the minutes - Sec. Sue Frizzell
Chairman's Report - Tex Wright
Officers' Report - Commission Officers
Introduction of Speaker (s)
History of Novice (Novice is celebrating their 100th birthday in 2009)
Questions and answers
Closing
All guests and members are invited - All officers are expected


FIESTA JURIED ART SHOW OCTOBER, 2009
4/2/2009
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County is presenting the Fiesta Show in 2009 as a Juried Show. The prospectus and entry forms for the show can be found on the website of www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com .

A good response is expected as the “Call for Artists” has brought in several requests for the rules of entry. For a prospectus by mail, you may email a request to theda@thedarhea.com or send an SASE to Fine Arts League, PO Box 376, Coleman, Texas. 76834.


The Juror for the Fiesta Show will be Susan Mansell of Ballinger, Texas.   “Susan Mansell, a fourth generation Texan, studied art at Southwest Texas and Angelo State University and took up watercolor in the mid-90’s. Her main emphasis is on transparent watercolor.

Mansell’s work has been shown in numerous national and regional shows such as the National Watercolor Society, Transparent Watercolor Society of America, Watercolor West, Texas Watercolor Society, Southwestern Watercolor Society, Western Federation of Watercolor Societies and many more. >From 2000-2009, she has won over 30 awards. Most recent awards have been: 2009 Texas Watercolor Society’s Herwick Award, 2007 Best of Show in the Stars of Texas and also San Angelo’s Fiesta in Realism, Award of Excellence in the 2006 Western Federation Societies Annual Exhibition, SWS 2006 Award of Merit.

A past-President of the Creative Arts Club of Abilene, Texas, and an associate member of American Watercolor society and the National Watercolor Society, Mansell is a signature member, Purple Sage status, of the Texas Watercolor Society (TWS), The Transparent Watercolor Society of America (TWSA), Southwestern Watercolor Society (SWS), Western Federation of Watercolor Societies (WFWS), and Watercolor West (WW).

Her work is included in private collections, corporate offices, Splash 9, Watercolor Secrets, and Splash 10”.



Parental Involvement Contributes to Children's Academic Success

4/6/2009
Submitted by: Christin Burris, County Extension Agent
Family & Consumer Sciences
Written by: Stephen Green, Ph.D.
Caregivers, teachers, peers, extended family, media, heredity, and the environment all contribute to a child's development; however, parents (if present) are the most powerful influence in the lives of their children. Parental involvement not only shapes development during the initial years of life, but also during the adolescent and adult years.

Given this important role, to what extent should parents be involved in their children's development? According to the National PTA, "Parental involvement is the participation of parents in every facet of the education and development of children from birth to adulthood, recognizing that parents are the primary influence in their children's lives." Parents have a tremendous responsibility to be involved with their children both inside and outside the home.

Decades of research have demonstrated that the more involved parents are in their children's development, the greater chance children have to succeed, particularly in their academic performance. Consistently, researchers have discovered that greater parental involvement in a child's education is associated with:
* higher student grades and test scores,
* better attendance,
* higher rates of homework completion,
* more positive student attitudes and behavior,
* higher graduation rates, and
* greater enrollment rates in post-secondary education.
When parents are involved, children achieve more regardless of their socioeconomic level, ethnic/racial background, or the parents' educational level  (Henderson & Mapp, 2002).

As recent research on early brain development has shown, positive parental involvement needs to begin long before children enter into formal schooling arrangements. The early years of a child's life are critically important for healthy brain development, attachment formation, and language acquisition. When parents become actively involved with their children at an early age, they lay a foundation for learning that will benefit children for the rest of their lives.

 



April - Child Abuse Prevention Month

4/2/2009    (Contributed)
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Texas and across the nation. It is a time to focus on ways to not only protect children from abusive environments, but more importantly to prevent abuse from ever occurring.

Unfortunately, child abuse and neglect exists in our state and will not go away by simply ignoring it. It’s up to each of us to arm ourselves with the facts, learn the warning signs and watch out for our most innocent Texans. It’s up to all of us to prevent a child from becoming another heartbreaking statistic.

Story of the Blue Ribbon
The Blue Ribbon Child Abuse Prevention Campaign had its early beginnings following the death of a very young child. In the spring of 1989, Bonnie Finney, a Virginia grandmother received the devastating news that her beloved grandson had died of injuries inflicted by his parents. In an expression of her grief and outrage, this grandmother did something that has given us a symbol, around which we rally for the cause of child abuse prevention.

She tied a blue ribbon to the antenna of her van as a way to remember “the bruised and battered body of her grandson” and to alert her community to the tragedy of child abuse.

In Bonnie’s own words: The blue ribbon serves as a constant reminder to fight for protection of our children. Please wear a blue ribbon. Put one on your car. Give one to your friends. Tell them what it means. You may save a child’s life!

Her simple idea, to wear or display a blue ribbon to show support for her child abuse prevention was picked up by grassroots organizations across the country.

The act of one grandmother thousands of miles away leads us to this day. Just think what could happen if each one of us helped to spread the word to a few of the people that we come in contact with each day. The groundswell of support that would follow just might be enough to move us towards the day when our homes and communities are completely safe.

 



APPLICATION FOR BALLOT BY MAIL IN THE CITY ELECTION

4/2/2009

If you wish to receive a ballot by mail for the City of Coleman Election to be held Saturday, May 9, 2009 please contact Sue Burleson, City Secretary, 625-4116 from 8-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

You may qualify to receive a ballot by mail if you meet the one of the following criteria:
1. 65 years of age or older
2. Disability
3. Confinement in Jail
4. Expected Absence from the City

In order to qualify as expected absence from the city (above item #4) you must expect to be absent from the city on election day and during the period of early voting by personal appearance or for the remainder of the period after you submit your application.
YOUR BALLOT MUST BE MAILED TO AN ADDRESS OUTSIDE THE CITY.

 


 

Burkett VFD Meets Sunday
4/2/2009
The Burkett Volunteer Fire Department will have a meeting at 4:00pm on Sunday, April 5, 2009
at the Burkett Fire Station. All members are encouraged to attend. It's also time to pay your annual dues!

 


The Santa Anna band officers won several trophies at the Cisco Band Festival on March 26th. They came home with the following honors:  Sweepstakes Trophy (First division ratings in concert and sightreading), Best overall band trophy, and sixty-five solo and ensemble medals.


F & L Feed Store - Grand Opening Saturday
4/2/2009
A new feed store has opened in Coleman this week at the corner of N. Neches and Apple St.  Owners are Jackie and Sherry Furgeson and Keith and Alicia Lewis.  Their hours will be Monday through Friday 8:00am - 5:30pm and on Saturdays from 8:00am to 3:30pm.  This Saturday they will be serving hot dogs and drinks to their customers and will have the "Heart of Texas Dutch Oven Society" on the grounds cooking their own "brand" of  goodies.  The F&L Feed Store's inventory will include:  coastal hay, minerals, medications and wormers for livestock.  Alsok equine show supplies, including halters and lead ropes will be available.  They will carry Bryant Grain, Red Chain and Gorman Milling products.  Their available feed will include food for:  rabbits, chicken, cats, dogs, deer, fish, cattle, horses, goats, sheep, pigs.  They said the only feed they're sure to not have is "Kangaroo food!"  But they could probably find something for them to eat if need be!    Join them for their Grand Opening Saturday, April 4th. 


Igloo in Santa Anna!
4/2/2009  (contributed)

Mrs. Stewarts’ Pre-K class in Santa Anna Elementary was learning about winter. She started to tell the class about Eskimos and Igloos. She decided to build one! It took a lot of milk jugs - over 135! All the students brought the milk jugs from home. Friends and co- workers also brought milk jugs. They started in January and in February the class was full of jugs. In March they finally got enough to finish the igloo - just in time before winter was over. The students love it. The igloo is used as a reading center. Now that it is April, they are about to take it down and talk about recycling. A parent had a great idea of using milk jugs for Easter baskets for their upcoming Easter Egg Hunt and that is exactly what they plan to do.


Holy Week Revival at Gouldbusk United Methodist Church
4/2/2009

Gouldbusk United Methodist Church will be holding a revival celebrating the Easter season.  The Rev. Bob Weathers of Fort Worth will be delivering his powerful messages beginning on Palm Sunday, April 5 continuing through Wednesday night, April 8
with each service beginning at 7:00pm.  There will be special music each night.  Sunday night will feature '4 His Glory,' a wonderful group from Cross Plains.  Monday night our home-grown talent will be featured.  Bob Turner and a trio made up of Candace Beal, Sarah Beal and Mona Wilson will provide the music portion of the service.  Mark Romine of FBC will bring the special music on Tuesday night and Barbara Brown will provide the final nights' music.  Following the service on Wednesday night, there will be a time of fellowship and refreshments in the Fellowship Hall. 

The people of Gouldbusk United Methodist would like to invite everyone to join us in this celebration of Holy Week.


Panther Creek High school district UIL participants:
4/2/2009

Fred Blackwell, Stephen Hoelscher, John Warren, Benton Warren, Ethan Griffin, Garey Guthrie, Jared Romine, CoJo Bowman, Trevor Smith, Lexie Ewing, Jorie Nanny, Julie Reed, Casie Philpot, Daneé Machuta, Jessica Jamison, Marlaina Diaz, Elizabeth Tapia, Measha Escobar, Jammie Pruitt, Courtney Moore, Charley Bowman, Stephannie Bledsoe.


Coleman Junior High Bands Compete in
Cisco Junior College Music Festival
4/1/2009

On March 25th and 26th, the Coleman 6th Grade and Junior High Bands traveled to Cisco Junior College to perform in the CJC Music Festival. The festival included Concert Contest, Sightreading Contest, and a Solo competition. Sightreading is a portion of the contest in which the band is given a piece of music that they have never seen nor played. The director is given 7 minutes to explain as much about the piece as possible and students are only allowed to ask certain questions. After the explanation time is over, the band plays the piece. They are judged both on the director’s explanation and the band’s performance of the piece. Both bands performed in all three events. The 6th Grade received Division II’s for both Concert and Sightreading. The Junior High Band received a Division II for the Concert and a Division I for Sightreading.  In the Solo Contest, 57 students competed. Out of these 42 received Division I Solo Medals!!

Division I Solo Medalists—6th Grade Woodwinds
Mikayla Mayo, Ashton Tibbetts, Dakotah Stringer, Cesilia Clemens, Kaylee Needham, Marcela Surita, and Jacey Pannell
Tamara Gray, Savannah Vasquez, Kaci Cook, Courtlyn Barker, Makahla Brewer, and Destiney Windham
Samantha Martin, Riley James, Tia Meredith, Ryan Walker, Briana Espitia

Division I Solo Medalists—6th Grade Brass
Paige Kirkpatrick, Ashleigh Farmer, Bo Beal, Nathan Taylor, and Andrew Stovall
Carl Morris, Matthew Anderson, Jessica Phares, and Kaci Williams

Division I Solo Medalists—7th/8th Grade Band
Nathan Christmas, Emily Earl, Jodi Cleland, Bryan Diaz, Chris Diaz, Aspen McConathy, Vallari Escobar, and Shaila Lewis
Brianna Horn, Autum White, Justin Brixey, Dakotah Nation, Victoria Garcia, Megan Dority, and Erika Solis

All of the 6th Grade and Junior High Band students did a great job! We are proud of their work and are looking forward to a great ending on the semester!!!


NICOLE HEATH SELECTED AS FINALIST FOR
2009 COCA-COLA SCHOLARSHIP

4/1/2009
   (contributed)
Coleman Youth Among 252 High School Seniors That Make a Difference
.
Nicole Heath, an outstanding senior from Coleman High School has demonstrated the academic excellence, school leadership and community involvement to earn a finalist spot in the 21st Class of the Coca-Cola Scholars program. She was selected as a finalist from more than 2,100 semifinalists by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and will start college next fall with the help of the Abilene Coca-Cola Bottling Company and The Coca-Cola Company.
Nicole is one of 252 high school seniors selected nationwide to compete for a cash scholarship from the Coca-Cola Foundation. On April 2, she will join other finalist as they travel to Atlanta, international headquarters for The Coca-Cola Company, to compete for 52 four-year college scholarships of $20,000 and 200 four-year scholarships of $10,000. Over the four day weekend, the finalist will interview with a National Selection Committee, tour local landmarks, meet with former Coca-Cola Scholars and participate in a range of activities including a community service project. Additionally, the 2009 Class of Coca-Cola Scholars will be recognized at a banquet in their honor attended by representatives from the Coca-Cola System, educators, local dignitaries and friends of the Scholars Foundation.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation is one of the most-recognized and respected achievement based corporate-sponsored scholarships in America. It was created in 1986 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Coca-Cola and to establish a legacy for the education of tomorrow’s leaders through college scholarships. The program is open to all high school seniors in the United States from 26,000 high schools.


To Restore or Not
Either Way, County Courthouse Needs Costly Repairs

4/1/2009

The County Commissioners' meeting on Tuesday morning began with a presentation from Larry Irsik from ArchiTexas, Inc. This is the firm the commissioners hired to do the Master Plan required by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) for the process of looking into the possible restoration of the Coleman County Courthouse. Mr. Irsik went into detail on how the THC receives and distributes funding for the restoration of courthouses, and discussed the legislative connection to the funding approval. He then shared a bit of the history of the construction in 1884 and rebuilding of the courthouse in the 1950's. His presentation then moved to the existing site conditions, which was a long list of problems the courthouse presently has, including:
Exterior: Lack of curb ramps, sidewalks in disrepair, exterior cracking of the building, exposed conduit, windows needing rehabilitation or replacement, sealants failing, mortar missing, roof flashing issues, and low slope of roof leading to deterioration.
Interior: Cracks in walls, plaster deteriorating, and probably asbestos in flooring and piping.
Building Code: Exit signs must be illuminated, fire alarm detection, change in handrails, sprinkler system, stair wells need to be enclosed, and the steps outside are uneven.
Accessibility: Americans with Disabilities Act regulations - restrooms, drinking fountains, ramps, and handrails.

In looking at the costs of the restoration versus getting the problems fixed (and many others not mentioned above), it was amazing to see the difference in what the county would be responsible for paying. The cost for the County for the restoration would be almost 1/2 of the amount the county would have to pay in repairing and upgrading the present courthouse as is.
Restoration:
$5,066,527
+  200,000 (4th floor renovation and addition)
$5,266,527

The THC would cover 85% of this total cost = $4,476,548
Coleman County would cover 15% of this - $ 979,979

Maintenance and upgrading the present courthouse as is:
$1,866,985
Coleman County would be responsible for 100% of this amount.

Mr. Irsik mentioned that included in the estimate above is a 3% increase for inflation and changes that may be made to the plan. He also mentioned several of the updates and restoration pieces that would be included: courtroom re-floored with reconditioned pine from some other old building, a pressed metal ceiling, period lighting (but with dimming capabilities for presentations), an audio-visual system with many new technological capabilities. He also discussed the importance of contracting local craftsmen and construction companies to help stimulate Coleman's growth.

What's Next?

Commissioners did not vote on the presentation. Coleman County Judge Jimmie Hobbs and the Commissioners will meet with the THC in Austin to further discuss whether the project is viable.


4-H Clothing Project
4/1/2009

Just a reminder that we will be having our 4-H Clothing Project interest meeting Thursday, April 2nd at 4:30 P.M. in the Extension Office (2nd floor of Courthouse). If you can't make the meeting, but would like to be involved in the project please contact Christin Burris at 325-625-4519.


WE NEED YOU!
4/1/2009

THE SANTA ANNA CEMETERY ASSOCIATION AND RESTORATION COMMITTEE HAVE COMBINED EFFORTS TO MAKE NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS.
The Cemetery Association and Restoration Committee need you to come and be a part of the Community Workday:
Saturday April 4, 2009

Rain date or additional work date April 18th, 2009
Santa Anna Cemetery
8:30 A.M. till ????
Sandwiches, Chips, dessert and drinks will be provided.

We ask you bring any of the following yard tools if you have them, if not come anyway. Shovels, Rakes, Weed Eaters, Loppers, Machetes Chain Saws, Hand Saws and any other lawn equipment you might have EXCEPT Mowers. There is no electricity available at the cemetery, so tools must be gas powered or battery powered.

We will divide into small groups and work in different areas.  Carl Langford and Wamon Upchurch will assist you in the direction to go. Should you have any questions, please call:
Carl Langford 325-348-3789
James Pelton 325-348-3458
Elaine Black 325-641-9314


PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF COLEMAN
4/1/2009
Notice is hereby given that the City of Coleman, Texas
will receive bids for lease of approximately 35 acres of land known as the Landfill Farm Property located adjacent to the City of Coleman Municipal Landfill, for agriculture farming purposes only. Specifications are available at the office of the City Secretary, 200 W. Liveoak St., Coleman, Texas. Bids must be sealed and in the office of the City Secretary no later than 4:00 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2009 or the bid will be returned to the bidder un-opened.

Bids will be opened that same day during regular Council Meeting. The City of Coleman reserves the right to reject any and all bids or to accept the bid most advantageous to the City of Coleman.


County General Store to Hold Seminars
4/1/2009
Saturday April 4th at 10:00 am, Mr. Dan Brown of The Hummer House located in Christoval, Texas will present a seminar on "attracting Hummingbirds". Dan has been feeding Hummingbirds on his ranch for over 50 years. Dan has so many Hummingbirds that Texas Parks and Wildlife use his ranch to trap and band the birds for research purposes. This will be a very exciting and informative session. The seminar will be held at County General Store 113 West Street, Coleman, Texas.

At 2:00 PM Saturday Mr. Gerald Stewart of Johnny Stewart Game Calls will present a seminar on "calling predators". Mr Stewart has over 50 years experience in calling predators. This will also be a great informative session for hunters. This seminar will also be held at County General Store.

We would like to invite anyone interested to attend one or both of these seminars. They are free of charge. We look forward to seeing you
!


All of the members of the SANTA ANNA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT would like to thank Shannon Enriquez, the “Double H Family Restaurant” for providing all the food and drinks and all the employees who gave up their salary and tips to make Sunday’s Fund Raiser for the Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Department such a success. Everyone’s sacrifices are GREATLY APPRECIATED!!
THANK YOU!

David Huggins Fire Chief                     Shyler Farley Fireman
Harold Fahrlender Asst Chief               Johnnie Frausto Fireman
Steve Malaer Captain                          Ramiro Guerrero Fireman
Terry Taylor Captain                           Tommy Headrick Fireman
Ron Reece Asst Captain                    Dickie Horner Fireman
Jeramy McGee Asst Captain              William Loyd Fireman
Clint Day President                            Roger Matthew Fireman
Donald Strickland Vice President        James Morris Fireman
Bruce Hess Chaplin                           John Morris Fireman
Freddie Dodson Asst Chaplin             Josh Newton Fireman
Edith Dodson Reporter                       Tim Perry Fireman
Ross Bradley Fireman                       Martin Petroff Fireman
Zack Carter Fireman                          Richard Rankin Fireman
Jason Dane Fireman                          T.J. Taylor Fireman
Roddy Dean Fireman                         Jason Titsworth Fireman
Earl Ellis Fireman                              Eddie York Fireman

 

Big Blue Band Happenings
4/1/2009
The Big Blue Band Program has a busy schedule ahead of them for the remainder of the Spring Semester. The High School Band will perform at UIL Concert/Sightreading Contest at Brownwood High School on Wednesday, April 15th. Their Concert is scheduled for 8:30am followed by Sightreading. Their Spring Trip is scheduled for May 22nd-24th. All Payments for this trip are due by April 15th.

The Junior High Trip (6th, 7th, and 8th) will be on Saturday, May 16th. All Payments for this trip are due by April 20th.

All three bands will hold their final spring concert on May 5th at 7pm in the High School Auditorium. The concert will be free of admission and open to everyone! Come out and support your Coleman Big Blue Band!!


We have been Spammed at Central Baptist Church!!
4/1/2009

Sunday evening at our monthly birthday and anniversary fellowship, we had a different ingredient for our occasional covered dish contest. The contestant's had to use "Spam" in their dish. We had 35 people and quite a few from our youth, sampling our recipes. Funny thing is from the 14 spam dishes brought, no recipe was the same. We even had a "no spam allowed dish". Not one person left hungry. Recipes were creative; spam pizza, spam casserole's all the way to spam fajita's just to name a few. Winning recipe was from Darlene Meador, recipe is as follows.

Spam Cheese Dip
1 box Velveeta Cheese
1 can Rotel Tomato (mild)
1/2 can Spam (finely chopped and fried crisp)
heat til melted and keep it warm in crock-pot

Congratulations Darlene on winning the grand prize of...you guessed it...Spam! Hmmm I wonder what ingredient will be required in our next cookoff.

I want to take this opportunity to invite everyone to church...starts at 10:45am every Sunday. Main ingredient there is Love for Jesus:) We'd love to have you. God Bless!!!


Chamber Requesting Nominations for
2009 Community Special Awards - DEADLINE April 3

4/1/2009

Nominations for 2009 Citizen of the Year, Rural Citizen of the Year, New Horizon Award, and Teacher of the Year Award are being accepted now at the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office. The New Horizon Award is for any person between the age of 20 – 45, residing in Coleman or Coleman County. Nominations for Teacher of the Year are for any teacher teaching in Coleman County Schools. Winner of the four awards will be announced at the Annual Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on Friday, April 24, 2009.

Nominations should be mailed or turned in at the Coleman Chamber of Commerce by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3rd which is the deadline to submit names for consideration by the selection committee.

Notation should be made on the outside of the sealed envelopes stating which award the nominated person is being named to receive. Unopened envelopes will be given to the selection committee for their decisions.

Mailing address of the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office is P.O. Box 796, Coleman, Texas 76834 or please come by the Chamber Office for a nomination form.


More information concerning the banquet on April 24th will be announced at a later date.