News Archives - July 2008

2008 Disaster Buy In Announced
7/30/2008                                       
USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) will allow producers who would otherwise be ineligible for the new disaster assistance programs to become eligible by paying a fee as required by the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (the 2008 Act).

The 2008 Act requires producers who wish to participate in the new disaster programs to have crop insurance or non-insured crop disaster assistance (NAP) coverage for the land for which assistance is being requested, and for all farms in all counties in which they have an interest. Since the 2008 Act was enacted after the application periods had closed for those programs, producers who did not have such coverage could not comply with this requirement in order to be eligible for the new disaster programs. However, the 2008 Act authorizes a waiver that allows producers to pay a fee, called a "buy-in" fee, to be eligible for this new disaster assistance.

Every producer whose crops, including grazing lands, are not fully covered by crop insurance or NAP may take advantage of this one-time opportunity. The buy-in fee is due no later than Sept. 16, 2008, 90 days after the date of enactment, as required by the 2008 Act. Those who miss this opportunity will not be eligible for disaster assistance. Producers are also reminded that the payment of the applicable buy-in fee does not afford the producer crop insurance or NAP coverage; it only affords eligibility for the 2008 disaster programs.

The crop insurance and NAP coverage requirements will be waived in 2008 for producers who did not obtain crop insurance or NAP coverage by the applicable sales closing date, if the producer files an application for waiver and pays a buy-in fee in an amount equal to the 2008 applicable NAP coverage or catastrophic risk protection plan fee for the crop or grazing lands.

Producers who meet the definition of “Socially Disadvantaged, Limited Resource," or "Beginning Farmer or Rancher," do not have to meet the Risk Management Purchase Requirement, and, therefore, are not required to pay the buy-in fee.

The buy-in fee for 2008 eligibility only for either the catastrophic risk protection insurance (CAT) or NAP is $100 per crop, but not more than $300 per producer per administrative county, or $900 total per producer for all counties less any previously paid fees for CAT and/or NAP. Producers can contact their local administrative FSA County Office to file the application for waiver and pay the applicable fees.

The applicable buy-in form must be completed and applicable fees paid by Sept. 16, 2008. Payment of the applicable fees will allow the producer to be eligible for benefits for losses under Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments (SURE) Program, Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP), Tree Assistance Program (TAP), and Emergency Assistance Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP).

The 2008 Act authorizes funds to be used to make payments to farmers and ranchers incurring eligible crop production/quality losses under the SURE Program, grazing losses under LFP, livestock death losses under LIP, and losses suffered by producers of livestock, honeybees, and farm-raised fish under ELAP. The 2008 Act also authorizes TAP.

To be eligible for SURE, TAP, and ELAP, producers must meet the Risk Management Purchase Requirement by purchasing at least the CAT level of crop insurance for all insurable crops and/or NAP coverage for non-insurable crops. To be eligible for LFP, producers must meet the Risk Management Purchase Requirement by purchasing or obtaining for the grazing land incurring the losses where assistance is being requested, a policy or plan of insurance under the Federal Crop Insurance Act, including pilot programs such as the Pasture, Rangeland, Forage Program (PRF) or NAP coverage by filing the required paperwork and paying the administrative fee by the applicable State filing deadline. The Risk Management Purchase Requirement does not apply to LIP.

The SURE program will be available to eligible producers on farms in disaster counties, designated by the Secretary, including contiguous counties that have incurred crop production losses and/or crop quality losses during the crop year. However, Congress determined that payments would not occur until the calculation at the end of the marketing year.

It also will be available to any farm where, during the calendar year, the total loss of production on the farm, because of weather, is greater than 50 percent of the normal production of the farm.

The LFP program will be available to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses for eligible livestock, because of drought on land that is either native or improved pastureland with permanent vegetative cover or planted to a crop specifically for providing grazing. The LFP program will also be available to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses for eligible livestock, because of fire on rangeland managed by a Federal agency, if the eligible livestock producer is prohibited from grazing the normal permitted livestock on the managed rangeland.

The LIP program will be available to eligible livestock producers on farms that have incurred livestock death losses in excess of normal mortality, because of adverse weather, as determined by the Secretary during the calendar year, including losses because of hurricanes, floods, blizzards, disease, wildfires, extreme heat and extreme cold.

The TAP program provides assistance to orchardists and eligible nursery tree growers who produce nursery, ornamental, fruit, nut or Christmas trees for commercial sale that lost trees, bushes, or vines, because of a natural disaster, as determined by the Secretary.

The ELAP program will provide emergency relief to producers of livestock, honey bees and farm-raised fish, because of losses from adverse weather or other conditions, such as blizzards and wildfires, as determined by the Secretary.

Because Congress did not provide a rulemaking exception for these programs, FSA must first publish a proposed rule seeking public comment, followed by a final rule. FSA is working to develop detailed regulations and software for these programs. Sign up for these programs is not expected to be held until this winter.

Junior High Cheerleaders Selling Ads for Bluecat Football Program
7/29/2008
The 2008-2009 Coleman Jr. High Cheerleaders are selling ads for the Bluecat varsity football program. They would like your support. If they have not been by your business and you would like to advertise in the program, please call 325-625-5239 and they will come by your place of business. 

Ad prices are as follows:  Business card size - $15.00, 1/4 page - $25.00, 1/2 page - $50.00, and full page - $100.00.  DEADLINE IS AUGUST 9th.

Gouldbusk Ranch Rodeo
7/24/2008
Saturday, August 9th 2008
Rodeo starts at 7:00
Deadline to enter: August 1st
Events:
Team penning
Doctoring
Branding
Wild Cow Milking
Trailer Loading
*Bonus Jackpot Hide Race* Winner Takes All
$400 to enter - 4 man team with a 5th as an alternate
To enter or for information contact Aaron Loyd (325)357-4918.

Local Scholarship Recipients
7/31/2008
Paige Barnett and Kolton Titsworth are the 2008 Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association scholarship recipients. Michael Jewel, CCJRA President, is shown presenting the scholarships during the Saturday night performance of the rodeo. Paige and Kolton will both be attending Tarleton State University in the fall.

By Split Vote, Commissioners Approve Courthouse Master Plan
7/31/2008
Two County Commissioners voted for, two commissioners voted against, and the County Judge broke the tie by voting for a Master Plan to be done on the Coleman County Courthouse.

The vote didn't come without suspense and bickering between elected officials. The issue was whether to spend $50,000 to hire ArchiTexas, an Austin-based architecture, planning and historic preservation firm, to study the Coleman County Courthouse to see what it will cost to renovate the facility. The Master Plan is required in order for the County to pursue funds from the State of Texas which has a courthouse renovation program. A group of county citizens have been working on a plan to not only bring the courthouse up to standards but to see the structure returned to its original look prior to the early 1950's when the current version was built. Whether the County renovates or not, the Master Plan, which will take six months to do, will give county officials a complete report on the current condition of the existing courthouse, what repairs are needed and what costs are involved.

Commissioner Mike Barker made the motion to spend the money for the Master Plan but there was no second. What followed, however, was lively discussion between Commissioners and the County Judge and from members of the audience who were there in support of the Master Plan. Judge Hobbs called for a second to Barker's motion but again, nothing, but more debate. Finally, upon asking for a second again, Commissioner Billy Don McCrary voted yes, Commissioners Jim Porter and Alan Davis adamantly voted against and County Judge Jimmie Hobbs broke the tie paving the way for Coleman County to hire ArchiTexas to conduct a Master Plan on the Courthouse.

As we've reported before, many Texas counties have taken advantage of a courthouse renovation program offered by the State of Texas whereby the state picks up 85% of the tab to renovate. McCulloch County in Brady is undergoing a renovation project right now. ArchiTexas will complete the Master Plan of the Coleman County Courthouse and present it to the state for approval. If approved, the Coleman County Courthouse could get a face lift.

Sheep and Goat Day
Contributed by Luther Dunlap
7/30/2008
SAN ANGELO – Factors facing the sheep and goat industry, both pro and con, will be the focus of the 35th annual Sheep and Goat Field Day at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center at San Angelo.
The event will start with registration at 8 a.m. Sept. 4 at the center which is located just north of San Angelo on U.S. Highway 87, according to Dr. John Walker, AgriLife Research resident director of research at the center.
This year’s field day is dedicated to Dr. Billy Warrick, Texas AgriLife Extension Service agronomist headquartered at the center, who retires effective Aug. 31 after a 32 year AgriLife Extension career, Walker said.
Key topics to be covered include:
– New Tools for Reducing Predation, Michael Bodenchuk, state director, Wildlife Services, San Antonio.
– Comparison of Dorper and Rambouillet Sheep, Dr. Dan Waldron, Texas AgriLife Research geneticist, San Angelo.
– Mid-morning break featuring a lamb tasting from animals fed a diet of 30 percent juniper.
– Juniper as an Alternative Roughage Source in Sheep Rations, Jillian Benavidez, AgriLife Research assistant, San Angelo.
– Poor 2008 Lamb/Kid Crops – Why?, Dr. Frank Craddock, AgriLife Extension sheep and goat specialist, San Angelo.
– Targeted Grazing, Dr. Erika Campbell, postdoctoral AgriLife Research associate and Walker.
– Controlling Pricklypear with Fire and Herbivory, Dr. Charles “Butch” Taylor, AgriLife Research superintendent, Sonora.
A catered lunch will be served followed by Dr. Hudson Glimp, University of Nevada, Reno professor emeritus, speaking on changes in the U. S. sheep industry and making the transition from tradition.
The field day will conclude with industry updates and an optional field tour scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
Three Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units will be available for those with a private applicators license.
For more information, contact the center at 325-653-4576.

Dodson Retires Today at Coleman Co. State Bank
New Officers Announced for CCSB
7/30/2008
Henry Dodson is retiring from Coleman County State Bank as their President on July 31, 2008. The bank's Board of Directors elected Reave Scott to succeed Dodson. Also elected was Patrick Justiss as Executive Vice President of the bank.

Dodson has been with the CCSB for 20 years, serving as President for nine of those. Henry will continue to serve on the bank’s Board of Directors, as well as President of the Coleman County Youth Activity Center. Henry and his wife, Margie, have two children, Lezlie, and husband Mike Cunningham of Burleson, and Dr. Cole Dodson of Bryan. They also have two grandsons, Conner and Kyle Cunningham of Burleson.

Reave Scott is the son of Ben and Debbie Scott of Coleman. Reave has, for the past four years, been Branch President of Coleman County State Bank's Abilene Branch, Abilene Banking Center. Scott's wife, Stephanie, teaches in the Wylie I.S.D. and they have two daughters, Kinsley and Ella. Scott will continue at CCSB in Abilene and will have an office in Coleman. He is also a member of the CCSB Board of Directors.

Patrick Justiss has been Vice-President and commercial lender at Abilene Banking Center for four years. He will serve as Senior Lender for the bank. He and his wife are moving to Coleman where she will teach 4th grade. They have two daughters, Erin and Kennedy.

High School Students Take Trip to Europe
7/30/2008
Recently two Coleman High School Students, Zach Doyle and Lisa Dees, traveled to England and France with the People to People Student Ambassador group from San Angelo. President Eisenhower founded this organization in 1956 with the mission of promoting world peace through increased understanding between the citizens for the world.

The group departed San Angelo for London on Friday, June 20, 2008 and arrived there on Saturday, June 21, to begin their educational adventure. Zack and Lisa, along with the entire group experienced history first hand, learned about another culture, and took part in a service project making bracelets the United Kingdom Sailing Academy sells to raise money to help disabled children attend the academy.

The students experienced WWII in much of their travels. They toured Chislehurst Caves where people in England stayed during the intense bombing of their cities by Germany. They were at Normandy Beach American Cemetery and Memorial on July 3, placing American flags on many graves.

The students toured the Tower of London seeing the Crown Jewels. They witnessed the precisely choreographed Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

The travelers enjoyed a tour of the Globe Theater in London, and in Stratford-upon-Avon, they toured the birthplace of one of the world's most celebrated playwrights, William Shakespeare.

A favorite stop for many in the group was the medieval Warwick Castle. They learned of medieval battle preparations and culture. They spent the night in a tented medieval village on the castle grounds.

The group spent two days at the United Kingdom Sailing Academy learning to kayak, windsurf, and sail.

They investigated the mysterious prehistoric site of Stonehenge part of which dates back to 3000 B.C.
While in England, the students spent several nights in English homes with host families immersing themselves in the English culture and life styles.

The group went on to France to not only experience Normandy Beach, but also Mont St. Michael, the Eiffel Tower, and the world famous Musee du Louvre. They returned home to San Angelo July 8, exhausted but changed individuals because of this educational opportunity. Zach is a junior at Coleman High School and the son of Jenny Kading. Lisa is a sophomore at Coleman High School and the daughter of Ral and Laura Dees.

An Ambulance Service Q & A
7/30/2008
Coleman County Medical Center CEO/Administrator Doug Langley was asked several questions at the recent Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force meeting concerning the ambulance service.

1. Why do we need three ambulances? In answer to that question, Mr. Langley gave the following example: If one ambulance is in the shop being worked on (and this is pretty often, because two of the three ambulances are in excess of ten years old) and another ambulance is making a transfer to Abilene, without the third ambulance we could not answer 911 calls during such times.

2. Why do the ambulances continue to run while the attendants are in the restaurant eating? Under state regulations, the fluids and drugs that are in the ambulance must be kept within a certain temperature range which requires the ambulance box air conditioner to be running while they are eating lunch. If you drop by the ambulance shed across from the hospital, you will see the ambulance boxes are plugged into electrical lines in order for the air conditioner to keep the on-board fluids and drugs at the right temperature.

Joyriding is not permitted by the District, and the EMS attendants are constantly told that if they are found joyriding, it will cost them their job.

Mr. Langley further stated “I understand that the public needs to know why certain things are done the way they are, and we want to keep the public informed regarding our method of operation. I would like to commend the men and women that are staffing our EMS Service here in Coleman. They put in long hours and are always available for call back without any complaints. We need to thank these young men and women for the fine service they are providing this community. With that said, we are happy to answer any issues that you have with regard to our method of operations. Thank you for your support”.

Hospital Board Report
7/30/2008
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met in their regularly scheduled board meeting last Thursday and took care of the following items.

CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley gave the board a report on the financials for June, 2008, stating that they are about normal for the summer months.

The board then went over the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year, which begins on October 1, 2008. The CCMC board will hold a Public Hearing on the projected budget for FY 2008 - 2009 at noon on August 11, 2008

Board President Mark Griffis appointed Ken Gifford, Douglas Langley, and Patty Eubank to serve on the Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force. The board also voted to rescind the decision to close the ambulance service on October 1, 2008, in order to allow the Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force enough time to find a solution for funding the ambulance service. If a viable solution is not found, the board will again vote on closing the service.

In other business, CEO Douglas Langley received authorization from the board to purchase three scopes at a cost of $50,000, and a CR unit to go with the PAC System, also at a cost of $50,000, and to finance these purchases through a note. The board also approved a $50,000 grant from ORCA to replace a boiler and air handlers, and to pay an additional $10,000 to complete this purchase.

The next regular meeting of the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors will be at 5 PM on August 28, 2008.

Management of Santa Anna Armory/Community Center Assumed by City
7/28/2008
At the July City Council meeting the council took action to return the management of the Santa Anna Armory/Community Center to the city as of September 1. If you wish to reserve the building for a date which falls on or after September 1, please call City Hall at 325-348-3403.

Coleman Livestock Sale from Wednesday, July 30th
7/25/2008
Cattle receipts totaled 1,627 at the July 30th sale at the Coleman Livestock Auction.  That compares to 2,184 a week ago, and 1,276 a year ago.

Compared to last week, feeder steers under 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher, 400wt 7.00 higher, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 lower.  Feeder heifers under 500lbs 1.00-3.00 higher, over 500lbs steady to 1.00 higher.  Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-3.00 higher.  Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady.  Trade was good.  Demand was good. 

COLEMAN ISD 2008-2009 "New Hires"
7/25/2008
Following is a list of the new employees hired this summer by the Coleman ISD School Board. Remember, students, school begins on August 25, 2008!
Listed By Campus:
Alcorn Josh                  High School             World History Teacher/Boys' Coach
Brink Edwin                  High School             Govt. & Economics Teacher/Boys' Coach
Dawson Danna             HS/JH                      Art Teacher (JH/HS)
Dawson Tracy              HS/JH                      Head Girls Basketball Coach/PE Teacher (JH/HS)
Ervin Darlyne                High School             English I & IV Teacher
Mares Heather              High School             Algebra Teacher
Mason Sarah                High School             Desktop Publishing, Web Mastering, Yearbook
Ryan Suzanne              High School             Senior Skills, Biology
Villegas C.J.                High School             Head Boys Basketball Coach/US HistoryTeacher
Arnwine Shella            Jr. High                    6th Grade Math Teacher/Girls' Coach
Bledsoe Amy              Jr. High                    7th Grade Reading Teacher
Fitzpatrick Steffany     Jr. High                    8th Grade Math Teacher
Ivy Lindsay                 Jr. High                    7th Grade English Teacher
Titus Kaylann             Jr. High                    6th Grade Reading Teacher/Girls' Coach
Edington Mandi           Elementary              4th Grade Teacher
Justiss Tess               Elementary              4th Grade Teacher
Loyd Whitney             Elementary               Kindergarten Teacher

And the Look at Coleman County Last 150 Years Moves On
  -  Next Stop Burkett, Texas
7/30/2008
At our last program held in Trickham, Texas, some 50 people heard Felton Martin tell the story and stories about Trickham, the Cheatham store, The tombs in the middle of the street, and other things of interest about this original Coleman County town.  We learned that settlers had settled in the area and started ranching and farming in the 1840’s. Records show that when Camp Colorado was placed on the Colorado River, they purchased their hay and grain from farmers and ranchers already settled in the area.  We had many descendents of area settlers, two of them descending from Cheatham of the original store, attending, asking questions, and telling stories that they had heard.   Thanks Felton for an excellent program.
Our next program, Aug. 7, 2008, will be held in Burkett. Sue Frizzell will present the program in the Burkett Community Center.  In case you don’t know where this is, just go to the post office and turn right. More directions, time, etc will be upcoming in the near future. Watch your local news source.

Weddings Then & Now Exhibit at Coleman Museum
by Kathy Andrews
7/30/2008
Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society's (CHAPS) special exhibit of the beautiful vintage and not so vintage wedding dresses at the Coleman Museum opens on Friday, August 1, during regular museum hours of Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will continue through August 30th. The Coleman Museum is located at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College, please use the patio entrance on the southwest side of the facility.

This exhibit includes the wedding dresses of Mrs. J.A.B. Miller, June Bowen, Billie Marie Miller, and Amy Hinds, just to name a few. Some of the dresses were worn by mother then daughter, what a great honor for these young women. There is a variety of styles and my goodness, those young women were tiny! A great big thank you to each and everyone that has graciously loaned these precious dresses to the museum for this exhibit. Everyone is encouraged to go by and see this outstanding exhibit and support your local museum.
The Coleman Museum and Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society is supported solely by donations. Your continued support by attending each special exhibit and by making donations is greatly appreciated. CHAPS is designated by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax deductible.

They're Here!
7/30/2008
The Fine Arts League Sesquicentennial Cookbooks have arrived!! And they're keepers. If you have ordered or want to order a cookbook call Cookbook "Chief Editor" Lois McCarty 325-625-2352 or email her at ste.john@verizon.net.  Thanks to all who participated in selling and purchasing advertising, submitting stories and recipes, and all the work done in the 'background' to make this happen. This is a fund-raiser and your purchases of the Cookbook ($15) will help with the League's work in presenting the arts to the Coleman County community A big thanks to Lois and Millie for their efforts in this project.
Marian Johnson,
Publicity
Fine Arts League

7/30/2008
Team Extreme 2.0 was captured by a Coleman native as they passed the Texas/New Mexico border yesterday. So far the boys are doing well and still smiling.

Junior High Cheerleaders Selling Ads for Bluecat Football Program
7/29/2008
The 2008-2009 Coleman Jr. High Cheerleaders are selling ads for the Bluecat varsity football program. They would like your support. If they have not been by your business and you would like to advertise in the program, please call 325-625-5239 and they will come by your place of business. 

Ad prices are as follows:  Business card size - $15.00, 1/4 page - $25.00, 1/2 page - $50.00, and full page - $100.00. 

Pictured below, they are:  Front Row - Shaila Lewis, Kirstie Jamison, and Vallari Escobar,  Back Row - Tiara Rosalez, Raedin Diaz, Ashton West, Aspen McConathy, and Autumn White. 

APPLE PIES ARE NEEDED
7/28/2008
Seems not many are interested in winning $100.00.  That's the prize for the best Apple Pie baked by a Coleman County resident!  At this time, we only have 5 entries, which means each of these has a 1 in 5 chance of winning the money!!  If you can't bake, but know someone whose pies are killers, then encourage them to enter.  All entries have to be in by August 7th.  Call the Chamber of Commerce to enter at 625-2163.

Matthew 25 to Sponsor Food Booth August 9th
7/28/2008
Matthew 25 Ministries will be sponsoring the food booth for the afternoon activities at the Expo Center on August 9th. Proceeds from sales will go to "Battle Cry at the Cross", a community wide youth ministry. Come out and enjoy all the activities beginning at 1:00pm on August 9th.

A fun afternoon is planned for the county heroes and the whole county will have a great time participating in various activities. This is an event sponsored by the County Sesquicentennial committee, and everyone is encouraged to attend the morning parade, then the afternoon activities at the Expo Center.

Extreme Team 2.0 On Schedule
7/29/2008
Even though the first day was riddled with flats and blow-outs, the bicyclers appear to be back on schedule Tuesday morning. Reports are that they stayed in Stamford the first night, and in Crosbyton last night. A Lubbock TV station interviewed them during that stop.  Volunteers along the way have been very helpful. The plan for today is to travel from Lubbock to Clovis, New Mexico. We hope to have more information later this morning. Please continue to pray for their safety.   Picture is courtesy of Diana Dobbins from Sunday afternoon on their way out of town. 

A Bit of the Past from Santa Anna
7/28/2008
Recently, while cleaning out a storage room, a member of the city crew discovered three books containing city council minutes of the City of Santa Anna during its earliest days. They are faded and yellow, but still readable. The following minutes are from the very first meeting on June 7, 1906. We thought they might of interest to some of you.

Be it remembered that at the first called meeting of the city council of the city of Santa Anna, held in Stockard’s Hall on the 7th day of June A.D. 1906, there were present the following officers, to wit:
S. J. Pieratt, Mayor presiding. L. V. Stockard, Miles Wofford, Fred W. Turner, V. L. Grady and John E. Hall, Aldermen. E. M. Critz was by the mayor appointed Secretary pro tem.
A resolution was passed entitled ‘A resolution to appoint the following officers of the city, to wit: City Secretary, City Attorney, City Treasurer, and City Health Physician.’ providing for the appointment of Burgess Weaver, City Secretary, E. M. Critz, City Attorney, V. L. Grady, City Treasurer, and Dr. Newt Long, City Health Physician.
Lots were cast to determine the lengths of the terms of office of the aldermen, and said lot resulted as follows: L. V. Stockard and Miles Wofford, were chosen for the long term ending on the first regular meeting after the election of city officers in April, A.D. 1908; and V. L. Grady, John E. Hall, and Fred W. Turner were chosen for the short term, ending on the first regular meeting after the election of city officers in April A.D. 1907.
The following resolution was passed and adopted, entitled ‘A resolution to fix the time for the regular meetings of the City Council of the city of Santa Anna.’ By the provision of which the time for the regular meetings was fixed on the second Tuesday in each month at 5 o’clock, p.m. or as early thereafter as practicable.
There being no further business to come before the council, it adjourned.
Attest:
E. M. Critz
Secretary pro tem
Approved, this 12th day of June A.D., 1906.
S. J. Pieratt
Mayor of the City of Santa Anna

Special County Commissioners Meeting
7/28/2008
Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the Coleman County Commissioners' Court will be held on the 31st day of July 2008, AT 9:00am in the County Courthouse, Coleman County, Texas, at which time the following subjects will be discussed/approved, to-wit:
1.  Don Morris Insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield/TAC - 2009 Health Insurance.
2.  The Hiring of Architexas, Architectural Firm of Austin to develop a Master Plan for the Restoration of the Coleman County Courthouse.
3.  Texas Residential Construction Commission - County Inspection Program.
4.  Travis Rhodes, General Manager for the Coleman County Special Utility District.
5.  Consider authorizing Grantworks, Inc. to prepare application(s) for Texas Community Development Block Grant Program-Community Development Fund.
6.  Coleman County Firefighters Association to seek possible funding for each Fire Department within the County.
7.  Coleman County Historical Commission (CCHC) tentative budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
8.  The current bills for payment and authorize the transfer of funds if necessary.

City Councilman Attends Conference
7/28/2008
Harold Skelton, City Councilman for the West Ward, was in Austin, July 25-26, 2008 to attend the Newly Elected City Officials’ Orientation. The meeting provided an opportunity for newly elected city officials to voluntarily enhance their knowledge of city government and sharpen their leadership skills. In addition, the orientation offered an opportunity to visit with elected officials from across Texas to learn how other cities are coping with similar challenges.
During this event, attendees were offered sessions on topics such as open government, financial responsibilities, council/staff relations, ethical government, and media relations. A special presentation on “The Importance of Building a Sense of Community” was provided by TML Past President Dr. Gary McCaleb, Vice President of the University and Executive Director of the Center for Building Community, Abilene Christian University.
Elected officials from all over the state attended the Newly Elected City Officials’ Orientation, which was sponsored by the Texas Municipal League and the Association of Mayors, Council members and Commissioners, an affiliate of the Texas Municipal League. The League is a voluntary association of more than 1100 Texas cities. The City of Coleman is a member of the Texas Municipal League.

Hospital Board Votes To Continue Ambulance Service Past October 1st ... But
7/26/2008
When the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met Thursday evening, they voted to rescind their previous action to close the county ambulance service October 1st because it's losing money.

The vote to continue operation is contingent, however, on the recently appointed Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force finding a long-term solution to funding the service. The Task Force held its first meeting Thursday at noon. You can find a report on their meeting below.

Water Line Repaired
7/25/2008
The City of Coleman has successfully made the necessary repairs to the Lake Coleman water line. The water conservation request has been lifted and you may resume you normal water activities. Water quality is not an issue—there is no need to boil water. The City would like to thank the citizens for their cooperation.

Council Conditionally Reinstates Ambulance Funding
7/25/2008
The Coleman City Council met Thursday evening and acted to re-instate a $3,500 per month supplement to support the Coleman County Medical Center ambulance service, but with two conditions. The reinstatement is conditional on the hospital not closing the ambulance service October 1st, as has been announced, and that positive progress is made by the task force appointed to find a long-term solution to the financially ailing ambulance service.

In a related item, Councilman John Plummer and City Attorney Steve Autry were appointed to represent the City on the ambulance task force. They also appointed Terry Scott, conditional upon his acceptance of the appointment.

Coleman ISD Board of Trustees Meets in Regular Session
7/23/2008  (contributed)
The Coleman ISD Board of Trustees met in regular session Monday night to handle the school’s business. Resignations were accepted from Dusty Ervin and Jodi Jarvis, both elementary teachers. Superintendent Young informed the board that he had previously accepted the resignations of Denise Gayle, Junior High Teacher, and Gary Gayle, High School Teacher and Coach. The resignation of Anna Smith, elementary teacher, had also been accepted by Young. Teachers hired at Monday night’s meeting included Josh Alcorn, High School History and Coach, Edwin Brink, High School Social Studies and Coach, Amy Bledsoe, Junior High Reading Teacher, Johnette Ervin, High School English teacher, Lindsay Ivy, Junior High English, and Terese Justiss and Whitney Loyd both Elementary teachers. Young stated that with the latest additions, staff for Coleman ISD for the 2008-2009 school year was complete.

In other action, the board approved selling the surplus property located on South Nueces Street that is currently occupied by the Loaves and Fishes Group. Christian Family Ministries of Coleman County submitted the lone bid for $1,000 and the board accepted this bid.

The board accepted The Fleet Insurance Proposal from State Farm Insurance in the amount of $11,204 and the fuel bid from Berry Marketing.

The Student Code of Conduct was approved for the 2008-2009 school year with Young explaining that it was prepared by Texas Association of School Boards for legal compliance.

Sue Sloan was appointed as the district’s delegate to the 2008 TASB Delegate Assembly with Mike Edington as alternate. Also, the board appointed Sue Sloan and Mark Martinez to the Countywide Ambulance service Task Force that will meet at noon, Friday, July 25 at the Hospital boardroom.

In final action, the board approved the budget amendments for the month and received a preliminary accountability preview on the school’s academic data tables. Young reminded the board members to mark their calendar for the TASB/TASA Joint Annual Convention to be held in Dallas on September 26-28.

Superintendent Young also informed the board that the Budget Hearing will be held at the August Board Meeting on August 25. The New Teacher luncheon will be held on August 15 and the Back to School Staff Luncheon will be held on August 22. Young also told the board that sidewalk demolition and reconstruction at the high school had begun. The board then adjourned for a break before tackling the budget workshop. More information on the proposed 2008-2009 budget will be communicated to the public in the near future.

Speakers from the Texas Historical Commission Speak at County Commission’s Meeting
7/22/2008    by Ralph Terry
Sharon Fleming, A.I.A., Associate Director of the Texas Historical Commission's Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, and Mark Cowan, Project Reviewer and Architect with the Courthouse Preservation Program, were the guest speakers at the Coleman County Commissioners' Court on Monday morning. County Judge Jimmie Hobbs and the four Coleman County Commissioners, Jim Porter, Billy McCrary, Mike Barker and Alan Davis were in attendance.

Mrs. Fleming gave a very informative presentation of the history of the Texas Courthouse Preservation Program, especially concerning the possible restoration of the courthouse in Coleman County. The first step for Coleman County is to develop a courthouse restoration master plan, done by an architectural firm specializing in this type of preservation. This plan is a very detailed architectural and use survey, looking into all aspects of the building housing the county government, the way it is used and can be made most efficient. The master plan usually takes six months or more to complete. Once this master plan has been submitted and approved, a point system is used to determine the priority of each restoration project. The county cannot move forward in this program without first developing a courthouse master plan, which would help determine the best direction for Coleman County … whether to restore the present 1952 courthouse, restore the 1884 courthouse, or do nothing.

122 of 133 master plans have been approved by the state and 65 courthouses have been restored since the program began in 1999. These grants are awarded every two years, with the state funding 85% of the cost. The deadline from the next round of grants will be in the fall of 2009. When the project is approved, the THC will allocate 85% of the funding cost to restore the courthouse.

The goal of this program is not only to restore a courthouse historically, while helping to achieve an economically efficient building, but also to make it technologically useful into the foreseeable future. A number of interested Coleman County residents were in attendance. For more information about this important Texas Preservation Program go to the program website at: http://www.thc.state.tx.us/courthouses/chthcpp.shtml

Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force Holds First Meeting
7/26/2008
A committee, appointed to find a way to make the county ambulance service financially sound, met for the first time at noon Thursday in the Coleman County Medical Center conference room.

The committee is made up of members of the Coleman City Council, County Commissioners, EDC, Chamber of Commerce, Hospital Board, Coleman School Board and other citizens appointed, totaling a dozen. Also present were Doug Langley, CEO of Coleman County Medical Center, Larry Weise, Coleman City Manager and Royce Young, Coleman School Superintendent.

Temporarily presiding over the meeting was Steve Autry, City Attorney. Autry told the group the process may take a while, and that the committee has no authority. What they determine after the study is done will be presented to the governing bodies for their consideration.

Task force members appointed Terry Scott as chairman and Steve Autry as secretary. Scott recommended a starting point be for each member to write down all questions they have concerning the service, a list of what data and information they need, and bring that to the next meeting.

Scott recommended considering every possible option and study how counties of similar size fund their ambulance service, a broad-based look at the service.

As a matter of background, the ambulance service has been operated by Coleman County Medical Center for many years. In the past, local funeral homes provided the service until they could not longer afford to. There have been other companies which contracted to run the service but each pulled out. Financial problems with ambulance services are common, especially in rural areas, but even large cities struggle too. Most are subsidized in one way or another.

The service is currently subsidized by the County, City of Coleman and grants. In the fiscal year which ended September 30, 2007, the County contributed $34,375 while the City of Coleman contributed $37,500. Grants totaled $14,933 for a grand total of $86,808 in subsidies. At the end of the '07 fiscal year, the service lost $51,818. In fact, the service has cost Coleman County Medical Center over $1 million in losses dating back to the late 1990's. The task force was presented a detailed report on expenses and monthly statistics.

In general remarks presented to the task force, Langley wrote "the Coleman County Hospital District is pleased to run the ambulance service for the City and County. From partial research of counties who run the same size ambulance service, our service is run cheaper than the other counties. However, we are unable to continue to sustain the losses. We would be pleased to continue to operate the ambulance service after satisfactory funding is found."

The next meeting of the Task Force is set for noon, August 8th, at the hospital conference room.

FFA Chapter Awards
7/25/2008
The Honorary Member inducted into the Coleman FFA Chapter this year was Sherman Smith. He received his honor from outgoing president, Sarah Lofton.

Proficiency award winners at the 2008 Coleman FFA Year-End Hamburger Feed included: Nicole Heath – Emerging Agricultural Technology, Amber Hunter-Agricultural Communications, Kelby McCorkle-Swine Production, Brody Tibbetts-Specialty Animal Production, Casie Swening – Agricultural Services, J.D. Crowder-Environmental Science and Natural Resources Mgmt., Reece Halfmann-Small Animal Production and Care, Chad Robison-Dairy Production, Jackie Birdwell-Equine Science, Reagan Barr-Agricultural Education, Gary Heath-Agricultural Processing, Paige Barnett-Food Science and Technology, Zach Doyle-Poultry Production, Meagan Ogden-Home or Community Development, Peyton Schumann-Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance, Kolton Titsworth-Agricultural Sales, Drew Jackson-Diversified Livestock Production, Hayden Wise-Wildlife Production and Mgmt., Sarah Lofton-Outdoor Recreation and Audrey Casselberry-Diversified Livestock Production.

Incoming Coleman FFA officers for the 2008-2009 school year are: Amber Hunter-Treasurer, Casie Swening – Reporter, Reagan Barr – Sentinel and Big Country District Vice-President, Gary Heath – Parliamentarian, Meagan Ogden – Vice-President, Nicole Heath – President, and Audrey Casselberry – Secretary.

The big winners at the 2008 Coleman FFA Year-End Hamburger Feed were: Kelby McCorkle – Star Greenhand, Amber Hunter – Star Lone Star, Reagan Barr – Star Chapter, Meagan Ogden – Star Lone Star, Nicole Heath – Star Lone Star, Kolton Titsworth – Star Lone Star, and Reece Halfmann – Star Lone Star.

Coleman High School Cheerleaders
7/25/2008  (contributed by Mickey Holloway)
The Coleman High School Cheerleaders attended the UCA Cheerleading camp in San Angelo at Angelo State University on July 7th – 10th. The girls started off the camp by doing a home pom (dance) routine and received third place in this category. The girls also received a superior in the chant category the first evening of evaluations. The superior award is the highest award given during the evaluations. On the second day the girls did a great job and received a superior in the cheer category. On the second night the jump off was held. The jump off consists of performing your best jump. There were about 40-50 girls who competed and overall Reagan Barr was the “Jump off Queen”. On day three, the girls participated in the Sports Rally that morning and the top prize for this event was the beach ball. This award was based on the team that demonstrated the most spirit during the competition including costuming, participation and overall demeanor. The girls did a great job and won this award. During the Sports Rally, a game was played where two members of our squad listened to sports themes of different sports and Dylan Buzzard was the overall winner of “Name that Tune”. They also received a superior in the extreme routine (dance) evaluation that evening. On the last evening of camp, Shelbie Deleon and Meagan Ogden competed for All-Star Cheerleader. The girls trying out have to show their best jump, and perform a cheer and the extreme routine where they are evaluated by the UCA staff. This award is given on the final day of camp and was awarded to Shelbie and Meagan. On the final day of camp the girls competed in the Camp Championship. The camp championship is based on the squad that performs the camp cheer and extreme routine (dance) and an overall champion is awarded. The Coleman High School Cheerleaders won both of the events and were named Camp Champs in both the cheer and extreme routine (dance). The girls also won the spirit stick every time it was given and brought the spirit stick home with them on the final day. On the final day, Shelbie Deleon and Meagan Ogden were given applications from the UCA staff, to join their family as a UCA cheerleader. They were given an application and upon filling it out they are given an opportunity to attend a tryout and a chance to become part of the UCA staff. This is a great honor. Kalie Diaz (pictured below) who is our mascot this year did a great job at camp as well. She won the superior award and received a trophy on the final day of camp for her performance throughout the week. She also received the spirit stick several times while at camp. Kalie spent a lot of her time with the mascots, where they were given ideas about skits and other fun things. She participated in the mascot follies on the last day, where all the mascots performed a very entertaining skit for the audience. Overall the girls did a great job. “They are something to brag about”. “I was very proud of all these young ladies and they performed well the entire camp”. This is a great group of young ladies and I am going to enjoy working with them this year. I want to thank the parents of these young ladies for allowing me the opportunity to share this time with their daughters and enjoy their company. I look forward to a great year and appreciate all the support I have gotten from the parents thus far.

Santa Anna Reading Club Visits Computer Lab
7/25/2008  (Contributed)
On Thursday July 24th, the Reading Club of the Santa Anna Library visited the Santa Anna Computer Lab, which is a part of the Library system, and is operated by Volunteers.  They learned about the lab and its uses in a small town. They also watched a video in conjunction with a story read by Betty Key.  In the picture around the table from the left side of the picture:  Johanna Govea, Courtney Liska, (kneeling) Jr. Leader, Trace Garrett, Ivan Olguin, Kaylie Shields, Betty Key Adult leader, Jim Spillman Adult leader, Russ Fisher Adult Leader (also Mayor of Santa Anna), Alice Spillman Adult Leader (Chairperson of the Library Board), Jessie Jones, Josh Jones, Matthew Libby, Payton Morris Jr. Leader, Loren Prichard (sitting on floor) Jr. Leader.

Those visiting were the Pre K through 2nd grade participants. Another group of older participants will visit at a later date.  Mr. Spillman and Mayor Fisher are also volunteers at the Computer Lab. The Lab is open to the public on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons. It is always looked over by one or more Adult volunteers who have a basic knowledge of the operation of computers.

HERO PARADE ... HONORING OUR VOLUNTEERS
7/24/2008  (contributed)
Are you a volunteer? Then you are a hero. You do what must be done--no matter the cost. As a volunteer you model so many traits for us to applaud and cheer.  So for those of you who volunteer at the hospital, nursing home, library, Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, school..... there will be a place just for you in the upcoming Heroes Parade, Saturday, August 9th.  Please come and let us "toot our horn" for you as the hero you truly are. Many of you will have to decide which float you will ride on as you serve our community in so many different capacities. Just know that there will be a place on the Volunteers Float if you like. Call Carla Billings, 625-5302 for a seat or just come hop on.

COLEMAN COUNTY TO BE REPRESENTED AT
FORT WORTH HUNTER’S EXTRAVAGANZA
7/24/2008
*******Promotional Items Needed By Wednesday, August 13th
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau and the Wildlife Appreciation Committee will have a booth at the 2008 Hunter’s Extravaganza in Fort Worth on August 15th, 16th, and 17th at the Will Rogers Convention Center.

This is an excellent economic opportunity to promote the industry of hunting in Coleman County. There will be approximately 1,700 booths and around 25,000 people in attendance.

Anyone wishing to send promotional material to be distributed please contact the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office at (325) 625-2163 or chamber@colemantexas.org  by Wednesday, August 13th.

COLEMAN COUNTY TO BE REPRESENTED AT
FORT WORTH HUNTER’S EXTRAVAGANZA
7/24/2008
*******Promotional Items Needed By Wednesday, August 13th
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau and the Wildlife Appreciation Committee will have a booth at the 2008 Hunter’s Extravaganza in Fort Worth on August 15th, 16th, and 17th at the Will Rogers Convention Center.

This is an excellent economic opportunity to promote the industry of hunting in Coleman County. There will be approximately 1,700 booths and around 25,000 people in attendance.

Anyone wishing to send promotional material to be distributed please contact the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office at (325) 625-2163 or chamber@colemantexas.org  by Wednesday, August 13th.

August 9th Sesquicentennial Heroes Day Honoring Churches in the County
7/24/2008
There are registered with the Chamber of Commerce in Coleman, 51 churches in Coleman County. We want to honor these churches, large or small on the Heroes Day. Many of the churches do not have a phone number given, and the pastors of several do not have phone numbers in directories.  Because of this, we are publicly and officially inviting every church to be in the parade on August 9th.  We will be lining up at the old Taylor Motor Co. used-car lot just West of the Fellowship Baptist Church by 9:30 a.m. on that Saturday morning. Please have a sign with your church's name on your entry. Cars, pickups, or a float, if that is what you want to have, is great. All Pastors and Leaders in your church ie: Sunday School Teachers, Deacons, Elders, Youth Leaders, etc... whomever you consider an integral part of your ministry are invited to attend.  Come and be a part of this Historic Event as Coleman honors her Heroes from all over the county.

The Church is an important part of Coleman County History, and the Sesquicentennial Committee wants to be sure this history is recognized in the future of the county by honoring each church in this manner. Remember if you are an established church for 100+ years or a church group that has been recently established, you are a part of our future history. If you will be participating in the parade, please let the Chamber of Commerce in Coleman know at 625-2136 by Thursday August 7 so places can be assigned for the parade.

Coleman FFA at State Convention
7/24/2008
The Coleman FFA Chapter was well represented at the State FFA Convention in Lubbock during the week of July 14-18. Local students attended sessions throughout the week conducted by the State FFA officers. The students were  Amber Hunter, Nicole Heath, Reagan Barr, Jackie Birdwell, Casie Swening, Meagan Ogden; bottom row – Reece Halfmann, Gary Heath, Kelby McCorkle. The group we accompanied by advisor Cindy Dockter and Karen Barr. The week was highlighted with a concert by the Eli Young Band and Johnnie Cooper. Reagan Barr also served on the courtesy corp throughout the week for being the Big Country District FFA Vice-President.

FBC Announces Summer Hours
7/22/2008
First Baptist Church would like to announce summer hours for the Family Life Center walking track. The track opens on Monday, July 28. The hours will be:
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, Friday
We invite the community to come walk in the cool. Twelve times around the blue walking track equals one mile.

August 9th Activities for "Heroes Day"
7/21/2008 (contributed)
August 9th will be a big day in Coleman County as we honor all County Heroes with a big parade in the morning. In the afternoon beginning at 1:00pm, the rodeo grounds and new EXPO CENTER will be the site for an afternoon full of various races, entertainment and fun activities for ALL AGES AND ALL COUNTY RESIDENTS AND THEIR GUESTS!!

Four of the activities that will be open to those present are the Arm-Wrestling, the Horseshoe Pitch, the Watermelon Eating and Watermelon Seed-Spitting Contests.

In the ARM WRESTLING BOTH MEN AND WOMEN WILL HAVE SEPARATE EVENTS, and there will be a $1.00 entry fee for each wrestle, with the overall winner of EACH of the men's and women's tournaments to be awarded 70% of the total entry fees.    The other 30% will go to the Sesquicentennial Fund.

The HORSESHOE PITCH will also have separate entries for men and women.  That event will also have a $1.00 entry fee for each round with the pot being awarded the same as above. 

The WATERMELON-EATING contest will pit all adults and teens, 13 years up at a cost of $.50, and then the kids under 13 will be in a separate contest at the same $.50 cost.   Winners in this contest will receive First, Second, and Third place Ribbons for the COUNTY WATERMELON EATERS !! The money received in this contest will help defray the cost of the watermelons.

SAVE YOUR SEEDS, we will then have a seed-spitting contest with Ribbons going the First, Second and Third place for the longest distance seeds are spit !!!   Adults, Children and Teens are entered in this contest competing against each other....NO CHARGE FOR THIS CONTEST !!

These are just FOUR of the fun activities that will be found on the afternoon of August 9th at the EXPO CENTER AREA. Come out and enjoy the new building and take part in the COUNTY-WIDE ACTIVITIES..... More information on other activities to come !!  THESE ARE THE ONLY CONTESTS WHERE AN ADMITTANCE TO AN ACTIVITY IS CHARGED. THE OTHER ACTIVITIES WILL BE FREE!

Grass Fires Keep Local Firemen Active
7/19/2008
Three separate fires since noon Friday have kept local firemen very busy. The first fire started around noon on Friday just northwest of the City of Coleman. According to the Coleman Fire Department, the fire was started by a railroad contractor who was mulching brush when the mulcher caught fire and spread to the grass. By the time firemen could bring the blaze under control, an estimated 140 acres had burned. Firemen returned to the scene and mopped up hot spots Saturday morning.

The second fire was small, reported at 12:20pm Saturday on 5th Avenue between 13th and 14th streets, confined to the ditch on the west side of the road. The cause is unknown.

The third grass fire was reported at 4:50pm Saturday on FM 2131, the Shields Highway, south of Coleman. Firemen said a man was burning trash and it got away from him. Coleman used two trucks and Santa Anna sent two units to keep the fire from jumping the railroad tracks. It is not known at this time how many acres burned.

City Council Meeting from Thursday
7/18/2008
The Coleman City Council met Thursday with a short agenda. All Council members were present except Harold Skelton. City Manager, Larry Weise spoke about the submission of an application to the ORCA to receive funds for sewer infrastructure development. Mayor Poldrack then opened the new business agenda. Chamber of Commerce director Mary Griffis presented the Quarterly Occupancy Tax Report, which the Council accepted. Mary also spoke about the many out-of-town visitors to the Chamber and their positive comments about how nice Coleman looks to them. She thanked the Council members for all they do in this respect. The second item of business was the first reading of an ordinance to change the speed limit to 55mph in the area near FM1274 and Sunrise Street for the duration of TxDOT construction. The Council approved this item on first reading. The third and fourth items were in relation to authorizing the Mayor to appoint the City Manager as Fair Housing/Equal Opportunity/Section 504 Standards Officer AND Labor Standards Officer to meet the requirements for the ORCA grant application. The Council approved the authorization. Larry Weise then gave his report, including mention of the recent informal meeting about the solution of the ambulance service situation, as given to them in a memorandum. He informed the council members about the need to appoint members from the council to this Task Force committee, if they choose to participate. He also discussed the possibility of asking the council to reinstate their part of the funding to the hospital for the ambulance service temporarily, as long as progress is being made towards a solution. There will be a special called meeting next week for the council to discuss and/or approve these items.

Congressman Mike Conaway in Coleman for "Heroes Day"
7/16/2008
Congressman Mike Conaway will be in Coleman on August 9th to take part in our "Heroes Day" activities. 

Serving in his second term in the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Mike Conaway represents the 11th Congressional District of Texas. Mike currently serves on the House Agriculture, Armed Services, Budget and Republican Policy Committees. A native Texan, Mike grew up in Odessa and graduated from Odessa Permian High School in 1966 after playing on Permian's first state championship football team. He earned a BBA degree in Accounting from Texas A & M University-Commerce in 1970. After serving in the Army at Fort Hood, Mike resumed his career with Price Waterhouse & Co. he returned to the Permian Basin with Price Waterhouse and settled in Midland where he later worked with George W. Bush as the Chief Financial Officer for Bush Exploration. An ordained deacon in the Baptist Church, Mike and Suzanne have four children and seven grandchildren.

Spraying for Mosquitoes
7/18/2008 (contributed)
City of Coleman Health and Sanitation employees Rich Morgan and Mike Gray are busy each evening from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. spraying the town for mosquitoes. Remember that mosquitoes breed in water therefore empty any containers of water you might have to help rid the town of mosquitoes.

AN OPEN LETTER FROM THE MAYOR TO THE CITIZENS OF SANTA ANNA
7/17/2008
Dear Fellow Citizens:
When Santa Anna completed the new water line in Nov. 2006, the engineering firm of Jacobs and Martin, Ltd. evaluated the ½ million gallon water tank atop the east mountain. They found it needs rehabilitation. The cost of this is estimated at $75,000 to $100,000. This would give us another 10-15 years of serviceable life to the tank. The city does not have the money for this project.

The engineers have recommended that we pursue a grant to construct a new tank which will give us 35-50 years of service. Your city council concurs with this recommendation. We now have contacted Randolph, Gilreath & Associates, Inc., who wrote the grant request for the new water line.

The major requirement in obtaining a new grant is verification that the majority (51%) of our citizens’ per capita income is at or below the U.S.-determined poverty level. In order to gather this information, the city must conduct a door-to-door, city-wide survey, much like the U. S. Census, to gather current information from our citizens. This survey must be completed by September 1st.

I am asking the citizens of Santa Anna to volunteer to help in gathering this information. Training and materials will be provided. If you can assist us in this endeavor, please call City Hall at 348-3403. We need to begin this survey by August 1st.  

I appreciate your willingness to help Santa Anna continue to be the place we call home.
Sincerely,
Russell E. Fisher, Mayor

Class of 1978 Reunion
7/15/2008
The class of 1978 is having their class reunion on October 18th at the Bill Franklin Center. We the class of '78 are inviting the class of '77 and '79 to attend. We are planning to meet at the football game in Bangs on Friday night and then meeting at the Bill Franklin Center on Saturday. Please contact me, Henry Villanueva, on my cell phone 432 853 9478 or by email hvill5927@msn.com  Anyone from the class of '77 contact Bobby De La Rosa and the class of '79 contact Debbie Jameson there in Coleman. We are celebrating our 30 year reunion.

Letter to All Coleman High School Band Members
7/10/2008
Dear Band Member,
Greetings from the Band Hall! I hope your summer has gone well. Mine, like yours, has gone way too fast. The schedule for summer band is listed below. Please be aware that these are mandatory practices. Jobs and vacations are not excusable absences. If you remember, you were reminded of this before school let out in May. Inform your employers as soon as possible of this schedule. Athletic practices will be over by 1pm so there will be no conflicts with our rehearsals. Our practice will happen indoors in the High School Band Hall. If you know of someone who was planning on being in band that I did not know about, please pass along the following schedule. Please contact me if you have questions or cannot make a practice.  I am looking forward to a great school year!!!
Jerry Everett,  Band Director
Flag/Drumline Camp
July 21st–23rd    9am-2pm
Summer Band (All Band Members)
August 4          6:00 pm Equipment Checkout
                       7-9 pm Rehearsal
August 5-8       7-9 pm Rehearsal
August 18-21    7-9 pm Rehearsal
August 22        TBA Party
Other Information
August 25        School STARTS/Booster Meeting 6:30pm
August 28        First Football Game (Only 3 School Days to Get Ready!!)

Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community Homecoming
7/14/2008
On Saturday, July 26, 2008, there will be a Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community homecoming, a Brown Ranch Cemetery Association meeting, and the dedication of the new Sparks Cemetery Pavilion.
Schedule of Events:
10:00am Registration Opens Harmony Baptist Church
12:00 noon Lunch
1:00pm Meeting of the Cemetery Association
2:00pm Dedication of the Pavilion Brown Ranch Cemetery
All families and other interested in the Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community, the Cemetery Association, and the dedication are welcome to attend.
Any questions, contact: Lana Dalton 325-357-4560

County Ambulance Service Faces Uncertain Future
7/10/2008
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors have voted unanimously to discontinue providing ambulance service October 1, 2008. However, if county residents can come together to find a solution to make the ambulance service operate on at least a break-even basis, the hospital is willing to continue offering ambulance service. Coleman County Medical Center has initiated a committee, made up of county residents, charged with the task of finding a solution to the problem. By law, the hospital is not required to provide ambulance service. You can read an Attorney General opinion on the matter by copying and pasting the following link into your browser:   http://www.oag.state.tx.us/opinions/opinions/50abbott/op/2006/htm/ga0472.htm

Thursday morning, Colemannews.com sat down with Doug Langley, CEO of Coleman County Medical Center, to discuss the ambulance issue. We asked the following questions.

1.) How many ambulances does CCMC operate?
Langley: three - model years are 1996, 1998 and 2003. The 1996 and 1998 models stay in the shop a lot and will soon need to be replaced.
2.) How many ambulance employees are there?
Langley: 10-13, depends on scheduling and whether some part-time employees are used.
3.) What is the problem with the ambulance service?
Langley: When you look at the ambulance service, it has been a problem for Coleman County since the 1990's. Even before that, the funeral homes said it was a problem for them too. (note - each funeral home in Coleman County used to provide ambulance service prior to the 1990's). We have lots of square miles to cover and not that many paying clients. On average, we make two or three runs a day. The hospital debt has been created by the ambulance service. We harming the ability of the hospital to function as it should because of the ambulance service.
From October 2007 through May 2008, of 783 calls made, 263 did not pay. Only 84 were self pay while the rest were primarily Medicare and Medicaid payments.
Mr. Langley provided the following figures showing how much money the ambulance service lost in each of the following years:
2007 - $51,818
2006 - $1,409
2005 - $125,975
2004 - $247, 307
2003 - $119,121
2002 - $116,338
2001 - $195,129
Total - $857,097 of losses since 2001 - Langley said the total losses dating back to 1998 is over $1,000,000.

The analysis for the ambulance service for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007 showed gross revenues of $1,017,807. Take out bad debt of $768,086 and total net revenues from patients amounted to $249,721.

Other revenue included $34,375 in subsidy from Coleman County, $37,500 in subsidy from the City of Coleman and $14,933 in grants which all totals $86,808. The hospital won't receive any subsidy payment from the City of Coleman from July through October of this year.

Expenses - Salary, payroll taxes, gas, oil, maintenance and several other expenses totaled $363,134.

Langley - We don't mind running it, but we need to at least break even. We have to have some help. All rural districts need subsidies.

4.) What are the options?
Langley:  1. Operate a volunteer ambulance service. 2. Raise hospital district taxes which may not be the best deal. 3. The city and county to subsidize at a higher level. 4. For an emergency tax district which would cover expenses for ambulance and all fire departments in the county. A tax district would require a petition be circulated with enough valid signatures, presented to County Commissioners and an election called.

Mr. Langley hopes the committee formed to tackle the problem can meet one day next week. "We're just going to step back and let the committee function and find a way to resolve this thing," Langley said. Our thanks to Mr. Langley for taking time to talk with us about this issue.

Food Booth Opportunity
7/21/2008
Any county service organization who would like to sponsor the Sesquicentennial food booth at the August 9th afternoon activities (Expo Center) is invited to contact either Herma Jean Johnson at 625-2340 or the Chamber of Commerce 625-2136 this week. The first organization to call will be awarded this opportunity. SO, if you have an organization that needs a money-making project, this is a good opportunity.

Coleman County Jr. Rodeo Underway
7/25/2008  (contributed)
The 2008 Coleman County Junior Rodeo will be held Friday and Saturday nights, July 25th and 26th, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. Books open at 6 p.m. each night with rodeo action beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for students. Ages for participation are 19 and under. The two-night event is jackpotted each night. All Around Buckles will be given in each age division.
Events are:
Cowgirls - 10 and under: Barrels, Poles, Break-Away
Cowgirls - 11-15: Barrels, Poles, Break-Away, Goat Tying
Cowgirls - 16-19: Barrels, Poles, Break-Away, Goat Tying
Cowboys - 10 and Under: Barrels, Poles, Break-Away, Steers
Cowboys - 11-15: Tie Down, Break-Away, Ribbon Roping, Jr. Bulls
Cowboys - 16-19: Tie Down, Break-Away, Ribbon Roping, Sr. Bulls
Team Roping is open to all ages thru 19.
The Coleman County Jr. Rodeo Association is a non-profit organization which presents a scholarship to a Coleman County senior who is a CCJRA member. The 2008 recipient will be announced at the Saturday night performance. For more information, contact: Michael Jewell - 325-625-2390; Mitch Birdwell - 325-625-1121; David Barnett - 325-625-1879; or Mark Smith - 325-636-7443.

The 2007 CCJRA Queen is Jackie Birdwell, daughter of Mitch and Bobbi Birdwell. She will be participating in the grand entry each night.

The following story is run with permission from the Abilene Reporter-News and reporter Celinda Emison.
NTSB issues report on fatal airplane crash
By Celinda Emison
Originally published 10:48 a.m., July 17, 2008
Updated 10:48 a.m., July 17, 2008
A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board, indicates that B.J. Carnes crashed his single engine airplane while attempting to perform his final stunt for a crowd of about 1,200 during a celebration at the T-Bone Ranch outside of Valera.

Carnes, 38, according to the report, had planned to fly his Shannon RV-8, a home built airplane, on three low altitude passes during the celebration and he was to end each pass with a pull up.

“During the pull up from the third pass, the airplane was seen to roll to the left, followed by a steep dive into a car parking area,” the report states. “The airplane turned approximately 270 degrees from the start of the pull-up until it impacted the ground.”

Carnes, a Brownwood firefighter, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The NTSB report shows that Carnes was conducting a personal flight according to federal regulations, but without a flight plan. The report indicates Carnes flew from the Brownwood Regional Airport to the Coleman Municipal Airport on July 3. He then drove from Coleman to the private ranch in Valera, where he had been asked to perform a flyover during the Independence Day celebration at the ranch. The report indicates that Carnes looked over the area and then flew over as well.

On July 5, Carnes flew back to the Coleman airport, drove to the performance area at the ranch and then went back to the airport to retrieve his airplane. The accident occurred at 8 p.m. about 20 minutes after he took off from the Coleman airport.

The report does not list a probable cause and does not indicate that there was any engine malfunction, even though some witnesses at the scene reported hearing the engine quit on the plane before the crash occurred.

The report indicates Carnes was flying in good weather conditions. NTSB officials said there are some regulations regarding flying over large crowds, but would not speculate on this specific case, since it is still under investigation.

The preliminary NTSB report is typically issued within five days of the accident.

“Depending on the complexity of the case, it could take nine months to a year before the case is completely closed,” said Jason Aguilera, air safety investigator for the NTSB in Arlington.

Once the investigation is completed, the factual report is issued. After the factual report is released, then five NTSB board members in Washington, D.C. review the case and issue the probable cause.

“We do not speculate on what caused the accident because we only report fact,” Aguilera said.

Probable causes of aviation accidents could range from pilot error to unknown, he said.

The NTSB is a federal agency that investigates all aviation accidents in the U.S.

The Coleman Fire Department, Valera Volunteer Fire Department, DPS and Coleman County Sheriff’s Office were called to the scene. The ranch was evacuated and closed off by the DPS.

Last week Carnes was honored with a full firefighters funeral in Brownwood. Hundreds of residents lined the streets as Carnes’ body was taken from Brownwood to the Bangs Cemetery where he was buried.
Click Here to see the story on the Abilene Reporter News website.

Hospital Administrator Speaks to CBPA and KCB
7/16/2008
Doug Langley, Hospital Administrator of Coleman County Medical Center, was guest speaker on Tuesday at the joint meeting of the Coleman Business People's Association and the Keep Coleman Beautiful organization.

The purpose of this meeting was to get information to the community on the recent decision by the Hospital Board to end ambulance service on October 1, 2008. This decision was based on the amount of monetary loss the hospital experienced due to the lack of payment for ambulance services. State law does not mandate that any particular entity provide ambulance service to residents. The City Council, the County Commissioners, and the Hospital Board do not want to lose service, but none of them are legally obligated to provide it.

Mr. Langley discussed comparisons between Coleman County's economic situation and several other counties similar to ours. Ambulance services appear to be difficult to maintain and subsidize in most of these counties. Several pay up to 80% of the costs of their ambulance services. Since the expenses of our local service were about $360,000 in 2007, Coleman County Commissioners would have to provide $288,000 to cover 80% of those costs. Their actual subsidies for 2007 were $34,375. Since the community cannot expect the County to provide those monies - at the current tax rate - a committee is being formed to research possible solutions to keep ambulance service in Coleman County. "We want high quality service, but what can we afford as a county," asked Larry Weise, City Manager. Weise is recommending to the city council on Thursday to reinstate the ambulance's subsidy, dropped earlier, as long as progress is made towards a solution.

This committee will be made up of 13 members from the City, County, and Hospital boards, and several other community leaders. Their charge will be to come up with a way to have ambulance service in Coleman County, without burdening any one entity. They will research similar situations in the state and try to find a long-term solution so that this issue does not arise again in the years to come. Colemannews.com will stay in touch with this committee once they begin their task and keep you informed of progress made in this matter.

Fleming of the THC to Speak at Commissioners' Court
7/15/2008 (Contributed)
Sharon Fleming, Director of the Texas Historical Commission, will be the guest speaker of the Coleman County Commissioners' Court next Monday, July 21st at 11:00am in the Courtroom. All persons interested in the Restoration of the Courthouse to its former grandeur should attend. The Coleman County Courthouse is the fourth oldest Courthouse in Texas that has not been restored.
(The original 1884 Coleman County Courthouse 1939 photo Courtesy TXDoT.)
Fleming will be joined by Project Reviewer, Mark Cowan. They will discuss the possibilities for restoration, funding from the State through the Texas Historical Commission, and many of the Courthouses that have already undergone this rewarding experience. The favorable economic impact that restorations have brought to other County Seats will also be covered.

The first step for Coleman is to develop a Master Plan for the Restoration. Once the Master Plan has been submitted and approved, a point system is used to determine the priority of each restoration project. When the project is approved, the THC will allocate 85% of the funding cost, and the project can usually start within 6 months.

To see Courthouses of Texas, go to:  http://www.texasescapes.com/Texas_architecture/TexasCourthouses.htm

AGENDA SPECIAL CALLED MEETING
7/24/2008
COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL, 200 WEST LIVEOAK, 5:00 P.M., THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2008
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider participation in and the appointment of representatives to the Countywide Ambulance Service Task Force.  
2. Council will consider reinstating supplemental funding, to the Hospital District for Ambulance Service in the amount of $3,500. per month, starting in August 2008.

Circle C Cattlewomen Beef Raffle Winner
7/18/2008
Circle C Cattlewomen Teresa Triplett and Tricia Kimmel recently drew the name of the winner of Circle C Cattlewomen's Beef Raffle. The winner was announced to be Louann Fisher of Santa Anna. Louann will receive half a beef (about 400 lbs.), which was donated by Hemphill Land and Cattle from right here in Coleman. Proceeds will benefit Circle C Cattlewomen's "Excellence in Agriculture" youth scholarship fund. Congratulations to our winner. And remember......"Beef, It's What's for Dinner!"

Coleman Livestock Sale from Wednesday, July 23rd
7/25/2008
Cattle receipts totaled 2,184 at the July 23rd sale at the Coleman Livestock Auction.  That compares to 2,291 a week ago, and 1,024 a year ago.

Compared to last week, feeder steers under 500 lbs were steady, over 500 lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher.  Feeder heifers were steady.  Slaughter cows and bulls were steady.  Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 higher.  Trade was good.  Demand was good.  Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report for July 23rd.

Coleman Livestock Sale from Wednesday, July 16th
7/17/2008
Cattle receipts totaled 2,291 at the July 16th sale at Coleman Livestock Auction.  That compares to 1,702 a week ago, and 1,432 a year ago. 

Compared to July 9th, feeder steer under 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 lower; over 500lbs were steady.  Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 lower; over 500lbs steady to firm.  Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 lower.  Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady.  Trade and demand were both good.  Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report for July 16th.

Concho Baptist Church VBS
7/18/2008
The games are set and ready to run at Concho Baptist Church! (Corner of 10th and Concho) It's time for the VBS Good News Games! Grab your equipment and tie up your shoes for the event of the summer!!! The event will take place July 21st to July 25th from 6:30pm to 8:45pm. For more information or to save your seat at the stadium, call 625-2409!

ARE YOU AN APPLE PIE BAKER?
7/15/2008
Do you have a secret or special recipe, or are you the best Apple Pie maker in Coleman County? If so, hone up on your baking skills and be ready to enter the Coleman County Sesquicentennial Best Apple Pie Contest on Saturday, August 9. This will be a contest open to ALL Coleman County residents during the festivities on August 9th to determine the best apple pie baker. The winner will receive a CASH prize of $100.00.  Enter by calling 625-2340, or calling the Chamber Office or just going by there.  Needed are your name, phone number, and community you are representing, and the name of your pie recipe.  All recipes need to be entered by Thursday August 7.  Let’s have pies from the entire county entered for this event.  All pies will be used in an Apple Pie Eating contest. The winning pie will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Sesquicentennial Fund.

Denny Fulbright Interns With Aaron Watson
7/15/2008 (contributed)
Denny Fulbright, 16 year old of Coleman, has had the privilege of being selected as an Intern for Aaron Watson, a Texas County Music Artist. Denny traveled to Corpus Christi to the Brewster Street Ice house on July 10th and met with Aaron and his band. Denny assisted Clint, Aaron's Promotional Product Manager, mingling with the fans, gathering information, and giving away merchandise to promote Aaron's Fan Club.

After the concert Danny got to hang out and get more acquainted with Aaron and his band members. Denny was asked to go to Houston Raceway on the 11th, and Nazareth, TX on the 12th, but was unable to go due to prior music engagements. Denny will be continuing his internship with Aaron Watson on July 25th in College Station and July 26th in New Braunfels. On the 26th Denny will be jamming with Aaron and his band at a friend's house in College Station.

Denny was accompanied by his mother Penni. Denny's parents are DL and Penni Fulbright. Denny would like to thank his family and friends for all the encouragement. A special thanks to Rick and Jan Sikes, and his parents DL and Penni for the continued encouragement and directing him the right way.

Arrests Made Wednesday Morning
7/16/2008
Two adults were arrested Wednesday morning in a parking lot on North Neches by the Coleman County Sheriff's Department and the West Central Texas Inter-local Crime Task Force. The arrest was instigated by information received by the Task Force several days ago. The preliminary charge is a State Jail Felony for possession of a controlled substance, marijuana. They have already posted bond and been released from the Coleman County Jail. Names have not yet been released by the sheriff's department.

Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community Homecoming
7/14/2008
On Saturday, July 26, 2008, there will be a Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community homecoming, a Brown Ranch Cemetery Association meeting, and the dedication of the new Sparks Cemetery Pavilion.
Schedule of Events:
10:00am Registration Opens Harmony Baptist Church
12:00 noon Lunch
1:00pm Meeting of the Cemetery Association
2:00pm Dedication of the Pavilion Brown Ranch Cemetery
All families and other interested in the Brown Ranch School and Fisk Community, the Cemetery Association, and the dedication are welcome to attend.
Any questions, contact: Lana Dalton 325-357-4560

Bluekatts Earn All-State Honors
7/14/2008
Three Coleman High Schools softball players have earned All-State Honors from the Texas Sports Writers Association: Rynn Norris - 1st Team, Amanda Gober - 2nd Team, and Carissa Zarate - Honorable Mention. These girls were part of a very successful CHS playoff softball team.

(Pictured left are Zarate, Norris, and Gober)

Several CHS girls are playing this weekend in the High School Eligible Softball Tournament in Brownwood. The tournament begins on Thursday. Check back here for more information later in the week. Congratulations to our CHS All-State Honorees!

Welcome To the Coleman Public Library’s Satellite Go Center
7/13/2008
The Coleman Public Library "Satellite Go Center" OPENED on Tuesday, July 15th at 10:00am. The library has three nice computers and are hoping for a big interest throughout the community. Below is information about the grant and rules regarding the center and computers.
The Coleman Public Library was awarded a grant by United Ways of Texas to support activities which increase access to college admissions and financial aid information to students who do not have access to necessary resources. Grant activities will be carried out in accordance with the proposal submitted by the Coleman Public Library and it collaborative partners. The grant allowed for the purchase and installation of three (3) computers and two (2) printers. It is the intent of the United Ways of Texas to provide a clearing house of information. In accordance with the grant, the following rules will apply to the grant equipment:

• All grant equipment including the three (3) computers and two (2) printers will be used during the duration of the grant for activities which encourage obtaining internet based college readiness resources and tools free-of-charge to local students, parents and community members.
• The grant and GO Center will provide students, parents, and community members with access to information about higher education, while also reaching out those who may not have previously considered continuing their education beyond high school.
• The Coleman Public Library GO Center provides a place for local residents, students, parents, and educators to explore options for the future that will lead to a substantial and sustained increase in college-going rates and numbers among the populations who we serve.
• The three computers and/or printers can be used for the following purposes:
1. College research and application,
2. Check and send personal e-mail dealing with colleges including applications, scholarships, and educational financial information,
3. Scholarships research and application,
4. Financial Aid/FASA research and application,
5. Career Exploration,
6. SAT/ACT research, application, and practice testing, and
7. College online classes including test grades.
To provide these important objectives, the following rules must be followed:
1. Please be familiar with the Coleman Public Library’s “Internet Access Policy and Statement of Responsibility. “ This policy states
• Parents are advised to supervise their child’s internet session.
• It is the responsibility of the user, parent, guardian, or caregiver to determine what is appropriate.
• The Coleman Public Library assumes no responsibility for the use of the internet by children.
• The Coleman Public Library cannot control access to information by users, including children, which you personally find offensive, controversial, or inappropriate.
• Please be advised that not all sources on the internet provide accurate, complete, or current information. The information as provided by the GO Center grant has been professionally researched and supplied by the very best organizations in the State of Texas; however, information can change before websites are updated. It is our suggestion you check continually for any changes or updates in each website you visit.
• Any harm done to the computers by a patron or user of the GO Center will result in the patron or user being financially responsible.
• Parents /Guardians are responsible for any damage done by their children.
• Any misuse of the computer or internet will result in the loss of computer privileges.
• Illegal activity will be reported to the police.
2. Upon your first use of the GO Center, please request your packet of information. This packet is a one-time offer and must be maintained and stored by each user.
3. You must sign in and out of each GO Center with your first and last names and time of day.
4. Please accurately record your time spent in each center.
5. The Library Staff reserves the right to monitor a user’s access.
6. The Library Staff cannot provide “in-depth” computer training, but may be able to offer some assistance depending on staff’s availability.
7. During busy times, the Library Staff may impose a time limit due to shortage of available computers with priority given to those who are constructively utilizing the computers.
8. No games.
9. No chatting or instant messaging.
10. Please turn off your cell phone or place on vibrate. Use cell phone outside.
11. Do NOT attempt to modify or gain access to files, passwords, or data on the computers.
12. Do NOT print onto your own paper using the library’s printers.
13. Do NOT Log-off, Shutdown, or Restart any computer.
14. You must pay for all pages printed as fees are used to cover the cost of the ink cartridges.
Have you tried? ... For information for students who are seeking scholarships try http://www.fastweb.com Fill out the online information questionnaire and have this site provide you with personalized scholarship matching and financial information. In addition, the site will allow you to search and compare colleges that are right for you. The site also provides you with scholarship strategy tips, tools and tips to help you pay for college, and information for jobs and internships for students.

Thoroughbred Causes Double-Takes in Coleman
7/11/2008
Pat Robinson of Abilene says it's common for her to be stopped at a red light and look over at the vehicle sitting next to her to see someone using their camera phone to take a picture.

The reason people are doing double-takes is because of Pat's new ride which is a Thoroughbred Motorsports Stallion motorcycle. Pat, daughter of Bro. Paul and Anita Smith of Coleman, said she bought the new cycle in Oklahoma City a few days ago and heads have been turning ever since. People are naturally curious. The motorcycle has two wheels in the back and one in front, a regular steering wheel like you have in a car, a 5 speed transmission, cruise control, air conditioner and heater, radio and a cd player which is in the small trunk. And did we mention it is powered by a 150hp Ford motor?

Just the short time we spent looking at the trike, it created lots of attention at our office. You can read more about the Stallion motorcycle at: http://www.thoroughbred-motorsports.com/

Beau Mayo Wins Fishing Trip
7/11/2008
Beau Mayo of Coleman was the lucky winner of the "2-Person Fishing Trip" with Mike Stuard of "Mr. Whisker's Guide Service", and two BBQ meals at "Big O's" in Valera which was being raffled off by Ashley and Jeremy Jameson. The package was valued at more than $250.00. Beau purchased one ticket for $5.00 while at J.E. Stevens a few weeks ago from Jeremy.  A total of 79 raffle tickets were sold up until Wednesday night, which was the deadline. A total of $395.00 was earned from the raffle. An overall total earned, for the mission trip, was a little over $1,700!!   A very special "thank you" goes out to Mike Stuard and Lynn Owens for your very generous donation. Also, a very special "thank you" to those of you who purchased a raffle ticket, mailed personal donations or quietly dropped your extra change in the change jars that were placed around Coleman. Without your generous donations, the mission trip to Brooklyn, NY would not have been possible! The Jameson Family-Rex, Debbie, Ashley and Jeremy sincerely sends special appreciation to all of you! Please keep Ashley and Jeremy in your prayers as they go on this journey. The mission trip to New York is scheduled for July 12th - July 19th.  Congratulations to Beau!!! Just call us when you have your fish-fry and we'll be there!! We hope that you enjoy your winnings!! Pictured in the photo left to right are Jeremy Jameson, Beau Mayo and Ashley Jameson.

Coleman Fire Department in Attendance
7/10/2008
The death of B.J. Carnes last weekend in a plane crash in Coleman County has deeply touched many people in our local community and several towns around us, especially Brownwood. Carnes, a Brownwood fireman, was laid to rest Wednesday in Bangs. Being a fireman, Carnes had a large extended family of firefighters, including those in Coleman. Gary Payne, Fire Marshal of the Coleman Fire Department, said that representatives of the Coleman Fire Department were in attendance at the funeral service for Carnes. Richard Hensley, David Martinez, and Volunteer Bryan Erwin took a Coleman Fire Engine to honor the fallen hero. Please keep the Carnes family in your prayers.

NEWS RELEASE: FSA ACCEPTING EMERGENCY LOAN APPLICATIONS
7/8/2008
Available to Coleman County for the following Designations:
1. Disaster Declaration #S2677 – Damages and Losses caused by fires and high winds that occurred January 1, 2008 and continuing. Applications are for Production and Physical Losses. Final day to apply for this Declaration is January 15, 2009.
2. Disaster Declaration S2686 – Damages and Losses caused by hail on May 14, 2008. Applications are for Production and Physical Losses. Final day to apply for this Declaration is February 27, 2009.  Coleman County was declared eligible for Farm Service Agency (FSA) disaster Emergency loans. Generally, that means that farmers who have lost at least 30 percent of their production due to loss listed on these declarations during this time period and continuing are eligible for FSA loans. Proceeds from crop insurance are taken into consideration when determining eligibility. FSA Farm Loan Manager, CYNTHIA P. KRUGER, is urging farmers who are interested in receiving an emergency loan to submit their applications into FSA as soon as possible. Ms. Kruger said, “We hope farmers will get their applications in early rather than waiting until near the deadlines. The longer they wait, the more chance there is for long delays. If the applications come in early, we can avoid backlogs and speed up the process.”   The FSA office is located at 119 West Street, Coleman, TX. The telephone number is (325) 625-2290.

Do You Still Have All That Zucchini?
7/8/2008
There wasn’t a big turnout of “farmers” on our first weekend at the Farmers Market, but there were quite a few looking for the fresh produce. So, everyone is encouraged to bring their fresh garden produce to the Block One Flea Market each Friday and Saturday during the growing season. There will always be customers!  Curbside spaces will be available at the corner of Pecan and San Saba. Call Sue at 625-3743 for information. A $5 donation to the Humane Society for each space will be appreciated!

COLEMAN MUSEUM AUGUST EXHIBIT UPDATE
7/8/2008 (Contributed by Kathy Andrews )
A special exhibit at the Coleman Museum for the month of August will be "Weddings Then and Now". This exhibit will showcase vintage and not so vintage wedding dresses from Coleman and the surrounding area. Anyone can place a dress in the exhibit, there is no entry fee and it is not restricted to Coleman and Coleman County. Those in Abilene, Brownwood, Bangs, and the surrounding areas are invited to come be a part of this unique exhibit. All dresses must be taken to the Museum at 400 W. College, in Coleman, no later than July 21st, during regular Museum hours of Fridays and Saturdays 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. or any other day by contacting Kay Mitchell at 625-1140, Kathy Andrews at 624-5544 or Maxine Cope at 625-4345, and we will be happy to make arrangements to accept the wedding dress. Please include the name of the owner, the wedding date and location, and any other interesting information relating to the dress, also include your name, address and phone number. The Museum is in need of mannequins or dress forms to exhibit the dresses, if you have one or more to loan for this exhibit, it will certainly be appreciated.
The last week of the exhibit there will be a "Bridal Fair" which will include a bridal bouquet competition for local and area florist, with cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Each florist will draw for the dress or dresses to design a bouquet for. This competition is open to florist in Abilene area, Brownwood area and of course Coleman and Coleman County florist.
This will be a unique and very interesting exhibit and everyone is encouraged to take out your mother's, grandmother's or even your own wedding dress and bring it to the Museum for this special exhibit.

Hero's Parade in Coleman
7/7/2008 (Contributed)
Honoring Coleman County heroes - big, small, old, or young - is what the day of August 9th will be in Coleman County. Plans have been in the stirring for quite some time and now it's time to get serious about the different activities that are lined up.

Right now a list of honorees include: the fire departments from all 9 county units, the hospital (nurses, doctors, employees), nursing home employees, EMS personnel, all City Police departments, Sheriff's office and their personnel, teachers from all county schools. Also included will be county sports heroes, from all county schools, that either advanced in the playoffs or qualified for area, regional, or state tournaments. We also want to include students advancing in UIL Academic events, and our renown Rodeo cowboys and cowgirls.

Activities in the making for all county residents are: (1.) An apple pie bake-off with a pie-eating contest with our county peace officers following the judging. (2.) A watermelon-eating contest for the kiddos (3.) A bubble gum blowing contest for different age groups (4) Arm wrestling contest - men and women (5.) Wheel chair races, stretcher races, water (hose) races, etc.

We want this to be a day where all county residents will be involved and a part of the various activities, so if you have a hero not listed or an activity that you would like to see happen contact a Sesquicentennial Committee member or the Coleman Chamber of Commerce office. Kick off on the 9th of August will be a Parade of Heroes with our own Congressman Mike Conaway in attendance. Mr. Conaway's office notified us that he will be here for the entire day to enjoy the festivities and visit with Coleman County residents. SO, mark your calendar for this day - the last big event before school begins in our great county!

FINE ARTS LEAGUE SESQUICENTENNIAL COOKBOOK
7/7/2008
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County, under the direction of co-chairs, Lois McCarty and Millie Martin, is publishing it’s first cookbook, “A Taste of History.”

The SPECIAL SESQUICENTENNIAL EDITION of recipes and tid-bits of history will be ready for purchase soon. Early orders can be made by sending your check ($15) to Fine Arts League( “memo cookbook”) to Lois McCarty 1104 Galveston. For more information call Lois at 325-625-2352. This cookbook promises to be a “keeper” with Coleman County recipes and interesting stories of the settlers of the County. The League is dedicating the cookbook to Millie Martin, whose painting appears on the cover.  The proceeds will be used to fund and promote arts for all ages in Coleman County.

Sesquicentennial Christmas Event at Coleman Museum
7/1/2008
In celebration of Coleman County's Sesquicentennial, Coleman Museum will have a very special Christmas event at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College. Morris Williams is the event coordinator and is busy with details to make this a very memorable event.

Morris Williams was born and raised in Coleman County and has lived in Jackson County for the past twenty years. Morris has graciously volunteered his time and expertise to make this a memorable event.

The event will showcase handcrafted Christmas ornaments from artist from each of the 254 counties in Texas. Each ornament will depict a unique, significant, or recognizable aspect of the county where the artist lives. Morris has received commitments to make ornaments from a number of counties, including one made by an artist that has made one for the Governor and also, another who has made one for the White House. The ornaments will hang with honor on a large Christmas tree located in the auditorium of Heritage Hall, throughout the holiday season. In addition to the ornaments from across the state, all Coleman County residents are invited to create an ornament to hang on a Coleman County tree to be placed alongside the larger tree. A reception is being planned for all the participating artists and their invited guest, the date to be announced later.

This event is to commemorate the Coleman County Sesquicentennial, to honor and recognize all 254 counties of Texas, to acknowledge the artist from across the State, and to foster a greater appreciation of the visual arts.

This is not a juried art show, and its success relies upon the participation and cooperation of volunteer artists. Ornaments must be submitted by October 1, 2008.  Contact Morris Williams at 361-7827332, email  mwilliams@louiseisd.org ; or Kathy Andrews at 325-624-5544 email andrews1@web-access.net   for general rules for this event.

FSA REMINDS PRODUCERS OF LIVESTOCK
DISASTER PROGRAM DEADLINE JULY 18, 2008
7/18/2008
Curtis L. Garrett, Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Coleman County would like to remind livestock producers that July 18, 2008, is the final date to enroll in the 2005–2007 Livestock Compensation Program (LCP) and Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). Signup began on September 10, 2007, for the two programs that provide aid to livestock producers who suffered eligible livestock or livestock feed losses between January 1, 2005 and December 30, 2007 because of a natural disaster.
Please call the Coleman County FSA office to schedule an appointment to complete the LCP or LIP application at 325-625-4197, extension #2 or 118 North Concho Street, Coleman, Texas 76834.
More information about LCP and LIP is available online at: http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov . For more information on FSA programs, visit your local USDA Service Center or the agency's Web site, http://www.fsa.usda.gov .

Texas Deer Association Hosts 10th Annual Convention
7/11/2008
SAN ANTONIO - Celebrating 10 successful years of representing the Texas deer industry, the Texas Deer Association (TDA) announces its 10th Annual Texas Deer Association¹s Convention & Trade Show will be held on August 21, 2008, through August 23, 2008, at the Westin La Cantera Resort & Hotel in San Antonio. The 10th Annual TDA Convention & Trade Show attracts thousands of deer enthusiasts from around the state, and brings together the heart of the Texas deer industry under one roof. The annual TDA convention features exhibitors from around the hunting and deer industries, fund-raising auctions that include whitetail and exotic hunts, hunting equipment and firearms; and other exciting events, such as the 2008 Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction, educational seminars on deer management, golf tournament, casino night and much more.

³The convention is the largest TDA event of the year and our 10th annual event promises to be the biggest ever,² says Karl Kinsel, executive director for the Texas Deer Association. ³In addition to the auctions and other great activities, the convention serves as the premium gathering for the state¹s finest deer breeders and ranch owners in the industry. Thousands of industry professionals will be in attendance and the opportunities for networking with the best the industry has to offer and for newcomers to learn about deer and wildlife are truly limitless.² Since it was established in 1999, the Texas Deer Association has successfully worked to increase quality hunting experiences for all Texas hunters and to advocate wise management practices, promote research and technology regarding improvements to deer herds through the practice of controlled breeding and genetic improvements. As OProud Stewards of Texas Deer,¹ the TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds and growing the deer industry.

In addition to legislative efforts to help the industry, the TDA provides a year-round public education campaign for its members and other deer enthusiasts, which includes a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, that provides updates on current industry news, deer genetics, land management, ranching and game management issues. ³Once deer enthusiasts know that one of TDA¹s primary goals is to increase quality hunting opportunities, they are eager to support us and we welcome their attendance at this year¹s convention,² adds Kinsel. ³If you are a deer enthusiast, the annual TDA Convention & Trade Show is one event you won¹t want to miss.² To learn more about the Texas Deer Association or for membership information, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com  or call 210.767.8300.

Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, the Texas Deer Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of Texas deer herds, and to developing ways to improve deer quality in Texas. For more information on the Texas Deer Association, call 210.767.8300 or visit www.texasdeerassociation.com

CHS Student receives Landon Scholarship
7/10/2008
Matt Strickland, a 2008 Coleman High School graduate, was notified by Wells Fargo Private Client Services of San Angelo that he is a 2008 recipient of the James C. and Katherine B. Landon Scholarship.

The Landon Scholarship, established by Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Landon, benefits deserving students who plan to attend or are attending Texas A&M University. The scholarship provides $2,200.00 for one semester and is awarded for undergraduate studies at Texas A&M’s main campus in College Station, as well as the campus located in Galveston. The recipients are chosen based on academic achievements, extra-curricular and community involvement, and reason for attending Texas A&M.

Matt will be attending Texas A&M in College Station in the fall and majoring in Biomedical Sciences. Eleven other area high school graduates also received scholarships in addition to five current Texas A&M students.

Coleman County Sheriff’s Dept. Activity Report June 25th – July 9th
7/9/2008
In addition to ongoing investigations and countywide patrols, the Sheriff’s Dept. responded to 67 calls for service or activities that are listed as follows:  17 Calls for cattle on the highway, 1 Investigation of Aircraft Accident, 1 Report of stray dog, 1 Report of man laying in highway FM1176, 2 Suspicious person investigations, 1 Bailiff for County Court, 1 Bailiff for District Court , 2 Traffic Contacts, 1 Assist DPS with Criminal Arrest, 2 Calls to investigate man walking on highway, 1 Death Inquest at Lake Ivie, 1 Report of reckless driver, 1 Inmate transported to TDCJ, 1 Welfare check FM 503, 2 Inmates transported to Runnels County Jail, 1 Call to investigate (3) dead horses CR 312, 5 Calls to investigate thefts at Hords Creek Lake, 1 Call to view tree placed in gate entrance, 1 Death inquest CR 482, 1 Call to assist FD with grass fire – Lake Ivie, 1 Service of Civil Process, 1 Assist in removal of truck from cattle auction, 1 Criminal Trespass CR 127, 1 Investigation of reported intoxicated driver on US 84 North, 2 Assist stranded motorist , 1 Assist Coleman PD with Aggravated Assault call,
2 Civil Disturbance, 1 Call on Domestic Violence, 1 Assist Drug Task Force, 1 Investigation of subject throwing fireworks at vehicle, 1 Investigation of Vicious Dog, 1 Call to check on abandoned vehicle.

We are currently holding 11 inmates in the Coleman County Jail charged with or convicted of the following charges: 1 charged with (2) counts of aggravated assault, 1 charged with Poss. of Controlled Substance, Criminal Trespass, and Blue Warrant, 1 sentenced to TDCJ, 1 charged with evading arrest, FTA, Aggravated Assault, and Class A Assault, 1 charged with Manufacturing or Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Blue Warrant, 1 charged with Aggravated Assault, 1 charged with MTR on Possession of Marijuana, 1 sentenced to TDCJ, 1 charged with possession of a controlled substance MTR, 1 charged with Burglary of a Building, 1 charged with Aggravated Robbery.

We are currently holding 6 inmates in the Runnels County jail due to overpopulation of the
Coleman County jail: 1 charged with Terroristic Threat and Blue Warrant, 1 charged with Manufacturing or Delivery of a Controlled Substance, 1 charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Marijuana, 1 charged with Motion to Revoke – Retaliation, 1 charged with Criminal Mischief, 1 serving sentence for Assault Family Violence.

DIRECT & COUNTER-CYCLICAL PAYMENT SIGNUP UNDERWAY IN NEW FARM BILL
7/3/2008
Curtis L. Garrett, Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Coleman County says that signup begins immediately for the 2008 Direct and Counter-cyclical Payment Program (DCP) which helps delivers certainty for the crop year and the option of a timely advance payment.  Contracts are available today at USDA Service Centers and signup will continue until September 30, 2008. USDA’s DCP readiness follows the June 12 availability of marketing assistance loan and loan deficiency payment (LDP) provisions, within three weeks of commodity title enactment.  "Within weeks of its becoming law, we began to put a farm bill into the field and out into the country," said Garrett. “USDA does what its employees do best: putting words into action and delivering results.” Producers can fill out their 2008 DCP contract at any USDA Service Center. Producers can also sign-up online. They can choose payment options, assign crop shares and sign and submit their contracts from any computer with Internet access. They can also view and print submitted contract options.

USDA computes DCP payments using base acres and payment yields established for each farm. Eligible producers receive direct payments at rates established by statute regardless of market prices. For 2008, eligible producers may request to receive an advance payment of 22 percent of the direct payment for each commodity associated with the farm. USDA will issue advance direct payments as soon as practical after enrollment. Final direct payments will be issued after October 1, 2008. Counter-cyclical payments vary depending on market prices, and are issued only when the effective price for a commodity is below its target price (which takes into account the direct payment rate, market price and loan rate).  Since 2002, USDA has issued approximately $40 billion in DCP payments to America's agricultural producers. Participants must submit the completed DCP contract by September 30, 2008. Applications filed after this date will not be approved.  The online, electronic DCP (or eDCP) service saves producers time, reduces paperwork and speeds contract processing at USDA Farm Service Agency offices. It is available to all producers who are eligible to participate in DCP and who obtain eAuthentication accounts.  The electronic service is available by going to http://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/edcp  and clicking on "Access eDCP Service." To access the service, producers must have an active USDA eAuthentication Level 2 account. To get a Level 2 account, producers must complete an online registration form at http://www.eauth.egov.usda.gov  and then visit the local USDA Service Center to verify their identity. The service has strict security measures to protect participants' private information. Only authorized federal employees have access to information producers submit electronically. For more information about DCP, which will include a fact sheet, go to the DCP Web page at:   http://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/webapp?area=home&subject=dccp&topic=landing .

New DPS Officer in Town 
His Wife to Teach/Coach in Coleman ISD
7/8/2008
A new DPS Trooper is on duty in Coleman County. James Arnwine and his wife, Shella, and sons recently moved here from Rankin. James began his service at the Coleman County DPS office on July 1st.

James graduated from Roby H.S. and attended Howard College in Big Spring before moving on to the DPS Academy in Austin. He began his Department of Public Safety career in Snyder in 1999. He was transferred to Midland, then moved to Rankin in 2003.

Shella graduated from Odom HS and taught in Crane while the couple lived in Rankin. She will be coaching and teaching in Coleman Junior High School. James and Shella have 2 sons, Jayden and Jace.

When asked, "Why Coleman?" James commented about a trip he and his wife took that brought them through Coleman. They thought it was a beautiful town and when the opportunity opened up, he requested a transfer. We welcome the Arnwine family to Coleman!

Wind Clean Corp Employees Complete Class at TSTC
7/9/2008
On top of a hectic work schedule, these employees with Wind Clean Corp made time to participate in a four week “Fast Track” Manufacturing Skill Standards Council Class at Texas State Technical College in Brownwood, TX. Tim Manley [Vice President of Wind Clean Corp] stated, “It is imperative that any employee be willing to garner new skills or fine-tune existing ones. We feel that our working relationship with Texas Workforce Solutions, Coleman Career Center and numerous other affiliations will only enhance the skill base each employee brings to Wind Clean, making the entire scenario a Win-Win situation for us, the employees and the Community.” Pictured below in order from Left to Right are Felix Ortiz, Ben Flynn, Gary Miller, Michael Adams and Randal Parton.

Learn To Swim Program Going Great!
7/9/2008
Third year Instructor, Jennifer Hubbard, is teaching the Learn to Swim program. Jennifer currently has 78 students working hard to learn each swimming concept with the final day of class to be this Friday. "I am just as excited about Friday's "test day" as each of my students!" said Jennifer. She currently teaches eight levels of classes to children of all ages. Session II will begin Tuesday, July 15th, for a new group of kids and continue thru July 25th. Jennifer, a Junior at Texas A&M University, is a Speech Therapy major.

Chamber of Commerce Receives Foundation Check
7/9/2008
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce received a check in the amount of $5000.00 from the Coleman County Foundation to purchase new board room furniture. Michael Taylor presented the check on behalf of the Coleman County Foundation to Sandra Barr, Chamber of Commerce Board President.

FAA Finishes Investigation of Valera Plane Crash
7/7/2008
Coleman County Sheriff Wade Turner tells Colemannews.com that the Federal Aviation Administration has completed its on-site investigation of a plane crash which happened shortly after 8:00pm Saturday night at a July 4th celebration in Valera. The FAA will compile its findings and try to determine what caused a small airplane, piloted by B. J. Carnes of Brownwood, to crash. It is not known when the final report will be issued but it could be a few months.

The plane, an RV-8 homebuilt model, with a red, white and blue paint scheme, had made two previous passes over the celebration prior to the one which ended in tragedy.   FAA records show the plane was built in 2005. 

Lake Ivie Baptist Association Missions Team
7/7/2008
     The Lake Ivie Baptist Association sent a missions team to Allende, Mexico the last week of June.  Of the ten member team, three were from Coleman County.  Pictured are Gilbert Ortiz from the Primera Iglesia Bautista of Coleman, Colette Tabor from Fellowship Baptist Church in Coleman, and Myra Dean from the First Baptist Church of Santa Anna. 
     Mr. Ortiz served as the interpreter for the group and he taught about creation from the bible to adults and children that attended the evening bible studies.  Mrs. Tabor helped the children with crafts that depicted God's creation of the world and everything in it.  She also helped cook meals for the group the few times they did not eat with the Mexican families at their homes.  Myra was very busy playing soccer and basketball with the children as well as helping with crafts and anything else that was needed. 
     The people of Allende and the surrounding small villages are kind, gentle, generous people.  Despite their poverty they wanted to give to the missionaries and thank them for coming to Mexico.  Mr. Ortiz, Mrs. Tabor, and Miss Dean have all been on mission trips to this area of Mexico in the past.  They pray that it will be in God's plans for them to go back again.  To see pictures of the recent mission trip to Mexico and learn about future plans of the lake Ivie Baptist Association, check out the website at:  www.lakeiviebaptist.com.

Ordinance 1093 Passed by City Council
7/7/2008
In the July 3, 2008 Council meeting the City Council passed Ordinance 1093 which relates to the charges at the Convenience Center. The Convenience shall be available to the certified garbage customers of the City of Coleman free of charge one time each calendar quarter which shall permit up to a maximum not to exceed the capacity of a 5 ft x 16 x 4 foot utility trailer (12 cubic yards) or its equivalent. This is limited to one designated residence per quarter. A $5.00 gate fee will be charged to enter the Convenience Center area. The City of Coleman garbage customers must present their City of Coleman utility bill showing their respective garbage charge to the landfill attendant to be eligible to participate in this program. A picture identification, such as a driver’s license, must also be presented at the time of dumping. The customer will be responsible for the unloading of their garbage.  This ordinance became effective 7-3-08.  (Click HERE for a copy of the rate schedule.)

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in June 2008
7/7/2008
Investigations: Aggravated Assault-2, Possession of Prohibited Weapon-1, Burglary-6, Theft-6, Assault-4, , Criminal Mischief-5, Suicide-2, Interference with Child Custody-1.  Arrests: Assault-2, Aggravated Robbery-2, Warrants-14, Minor in Possession of Alcohol-3, Public Intoxication-1, Driving While Intoxicated-1.  Accidents: No Injury-3.  Tickets Issued: Environmental/Code Enforcement-4 tickets issued with 4 charges filed, Police Department-65 tickets issued with 87 charges filed.  Warnings Issued: Police Department-23.  Animal Control: Calls for Service-120, Dogs Picked Up-28, Cats Picked Up-29, Other Animals Picked Up-9 (2 Raccoons, 2 Snakes, 1 Skunk, 2 Opossums, and 2 Goats), Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-9.

Heroes Parade in Coleman
7/7/2008 (Contributed)
Honoring Coleman County heroes - big, small, old, or young - is what the day of August 9th will be in Coleman County. Plans have been in the stirring for quite some time and now it's time to get serious about the different activities that are lined up.

Right now a list of honorees include: the fire departments from all 9 county units, the hospital (nurses, doctors, employees), nursing home employees, EMS personnel, all City Police departments, Sheriff's office and their personnel, teachers from all county schools. Also included will be county sports heroes, from all county schools, that either advanced in the playoffs or qualified for area, regional, or state tournaments. We also want to include students advancing in UIL Academic events, and our renown Rodeo cowboys and cowgirls.

Activities in the making for all county residents are: (1.) An apple pie bake-off with a pie-eating contest with our county peace officers following the judging. (2.) A watermelon-eating contest for the kiddos (3.) A bubble gum blowing contest for different age groups (4) Arm wrestling contest - men and women (5.) Wheel chair races, stretcher races, water (hose) races, etc.

We want this to be a day where all county residents will be involved and a part of the various activities, so if you have a hero not listed or an activity that you would like to see happen contact a Sesquicentennial Committee member or the Coleman Chamber of Commerce office. Kick off on the 9th of August will be a Parade of Heroes with our own Congressman Mike Conaway in attendance. Mr. Conaway's office notified us that he will be here for the entire day to enjoy the festivities and visit with Coleman County residents. SO, mark your calendar for this day - the last big event before school begins in our great county!

American Deer & Wildlife Alliance Announces Youth Bow Clinic
7/11/2008 (Contributed)
     AUSTIN, Texas – Kids ages six to 15 are invited to attend the Austin Bow Hunting & Archery Clinic sponsored by the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance (ADWA) and the Texas Deer Association. The event will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2008 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Archery Country, Austin’s oldest archery store. All equipment will be provided.

“We are so excited to host this event for kids, as it ties into our mission to promote safe hunting, education, and getting kids outdoors,” say Annie Jones, director of operations for ADWA. “The Texas Deer Association is our co-sponsor for the event. One of the primary goals of the TDA is to increase hunting opportunities in the state and helping to expose kids to the archery and bow hunting is a big step in that process. We really appreciate their support.” 

In addition to learning to shot the bow, the event will feature raffles and gifts such as The Game Gurney by Hunting’s-a-Drag, a great item for this upcoming bow hunting season. The Game Gurney helps hunters move their trophy and handles large game up to 440 pounds, it also reduces resistance a minimum of 50 percent or greater depending on conditions. Please visit www.gamesled.com  for more great features.

Another featured raffle item will be special Rite in the Rain kits that include a bow hunting journal, a Cordura pouch and a pen. These unique journals are made from all-weather writing paper that shed water in any weather condition and they ensure a hunter’s journal survives the elements. For more information, visit www.riteintherain.com .

ADWA will also be giving away Frisbees donated by the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA), the largest clay target shooting organization in the world. Please learn more about the ATA and their many other youth events at www.shootata.com .  Cost of the event is only $5 and space is limited. Call ADWA to reserve space today at 877-528-7100.   "ADWA exists to promote our members and the industry as a whole—when we combine resources, we ensure the continued growth of the wildlife industry nationwide, and youth education will preserve outdoor sports for future generations,” adds Jones.  For more information on the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, please go to www.deerwildlifealliance.org .

Headquartered in Georgetown, Texas, the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth of the deer and wildlife industry, and to help educate consumers and the youth on the conservation issues which effect deer and wildlife as well as the industry. For more information on the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, call 877.528.7100 or visit www.deerwildlifealliance.org .

Coleman Livestock Sale from Wednesday, July 9th
7/10/2008
Cattle receipts totaled 1,702 at the July 9th sale at Coleman Livestock Auction.  That compares to 1,907 a year ago.  There was no sale last week due to the July 4th holiday. 

Compared to June 25th, feeder steer under 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher; over 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 higher.  Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher; over 500lbs steady to 1.00 higher.  Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-4.00 higher.  Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to 100.00 higher.  Trade and demand were both good.  Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report for July 9th.

Awards Given for the Summer Reading Program
7/7/2008 (contributed)
The Coleman Public Library held it's Awards Day for the Summer Reading Program Friday, June 27, 2008. Theme for the reading program this year "2008 Texas Reading Club Julilee: 1958-2008" and the first Teen Program "Game on! TTR.08." Sponsoring the Reading Program are the Texas State Library and the Friends of the Coleman Public Library.
140 kids completed the reading program and each received a reading certificate and coupons from local sponsors: free Ice Cream cone from Dairy Queen, personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut, and a free swim pass from the City of Coleman. Two new sponsors this year: a free movie rental from Movie Gallery and a free pretzel from The Huddle. The Coleman Public Library Summer Reading Program Committee members wish to express their Thank You to all the sponsors for their support of the library program.
Sandra Rose was in charge of the Morning Programs. 209 children attended all four programs for an average of 52 for each program. This year Sandra included stories, crafts and on June 11th a special guest, "Mother Goose," read to the children. Prize drawings were held at the end of each program. Other volunteers who helped with the morning programs are: Christa McWhorter, Cathy Allen, Sandra Spake, McKenzi Spake, Nichole Strength, Kathy Wheeler and Carolyn McClellan.
Mona Wilson and Virginia Jamison were in charge of the afternoon programs. They entertained the youngsters with informative programs given by Reta Mae Gains - "Early Times in Texas," Louise Strength - "How to make soap," Zac Allen - "Cowboy Attire," Tex Wright - "Early Santa Anna History," Denny Fullbright sang songs and TKO students put on a "Coleman Historoy Skit." 503 attended all four programs with an average of 126 each program. Other volunteers who helped with the afternoon programs were: Christa McWorter, Carolyn McClellan, Sandra Spake, McKenzi Spake, Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Carol Scott and Lynn Corbett.   Grand Prize drawings included all the names of children completing the morning and afternoon classes. The winner received a $50 gift card to Hastings Store.
Morning Grand Prize winner: Ilsy Villanueva.  Afternoon Grand Prize winner: Micah Shambuger.
"Game on! TTR-08" the first Teen Reading Program ever sponsored by the Texas State Library was a great success this year. Sara and Candace Beal did a great job of providing an informative program presented by Dr. Paul Reynolds on nutrition, diet and exercise and a Bana jousting contest. Friends provided a pizza lunch on Game Day. 19 youths attended both programs. Friends also provided prizes at the end of each program. The teens were challenged to attend both programs and the reader with most hours received a special prize. Andrea Meador received an I-pod for reading 133 hours. A special prize goes to the Top Reader in grades 1st - 5th: Top Reader this year was Paige Gray for reading 200 books.  
Committee members for the 2008 Summer Reading program were Friends President Virginia Jamison, Advisory Board Chairman Mona Wilson, Advisory Board member Sandra Rose, Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Christa McWhorter, and Nichole Strength.

Small Plane Crashes near Valera
7/6/2008
A large July 4th celebration, attended annually by hundreds of Coleman County area residents, was cancelled when a small plane, part of the opening ceremony, crashed into parked vehicles in a nearby grassy parking area.

The tragedy happened on the T-Bone Ranch, just west of Valera, in western Coleman County. The pilot, Benny Jack Carnes, in his middle 30's, of Brownwood, was the lone fatality. His body was removed from the wreckage early Sunday morning and sent to Dallas for an autopsy.  No one on the ground was injured but several people were close by.  Many people were eyewitness to the crash. 

The singing of the National Anthem had just taken place. The plane, believed to be an RV-8, a homebuilt model, with a red, white and blue paint scheme, had made two previous passes over the celebration prior to the one which ended in tragedy.

National Transportation and Safety Board investigators will conduct the investigation. They were expected to arrive on-site around 10:30am Sunday.  The results of these type of investigations typically aren't known for several months.

FUMC Hires New Pastor
7/3/2008
First United Methodist Church in Coleman has a new Pastor.  Pastor Mike Kerzee will be in the pulpit this Sunday at 11:00 for his introductory sermon.  Mike, wife Dianne and their three children come from Copperas Cove where Mike was Pastor at the Pidcoke United Methodist Church for the last five years. Mike is a people person with a strong interest in evangelism and outreach. His style of ministry is very traditional.  He will be on the Shield of Faith radio program Sunday morning at 8:00 A.M. on KSTA 1000 AM.  Please come by the church and meet Mike and his Family and give them a big "Coleman Welcome."

Head Start Accepting Applications For 2008-2009 School Year
7/2/2008
Coleman Head Start is currently accepting applications for children 3 and 4 years old.  Please come by 720 W 10th St. or call 625-2594 to fill out an application. Head Start recruits children with disabilities. The following items are required to complete the application:
Proof of income
W-2 or tax return for 2007
Child support (if applicable)
Social Security Income (if applicable)
Proof of college grants (if applicable)
Proof of TANF (letter)
Proof of Child's Age (birth certificate, Medicaid card, baptism record, etc...)
Current Immunization Records
Documents related to Child's Disability (if applicable)

Fine Arts League of Coleman County Library Mural Project
7/3/2008
     In the fall of 2007, the Coleman Public Library Renovation Committee and Sue Dossey, Coleman Public Librarian, with approval from the Coleman Public Library Advisory Board met with members of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County about a series of murals to be placed in the refurbished Annex Room of the library. Kathy Andrews, Community Projects Chairman, and Kay Mitchell, Project Co-Chairman, planned the concept with other league members.
     The first project included the whimsical mural in the Easy Reading Section. The Fine Arts League supervised the mural but local children did all painting. The mural is all kinds of animals that anyone would find on any of our local ranches. However, the use of color was left up to the individual child. Therefore, you will see a purple cow, a purple flying pig, and even a blue goat.
     The second completion was a group of three paintings also hanging in the new Easy Reading Section. These delightful and colorful art works are meant to stimulate and encourage the young reader to open their minds to a creative and whimsical world. This grouping enhances the children’s mural but leaves even more to the child imagination. Members working on this phase of the project included Millie Martin, Marian Johnson, Sherrell Hazelwood, and Tammy Jo Turner.
     The biggest mural was planned as a “Sesquicentennial “ art project for the community. The five-panel mural depicts the old Coleman Courthouse, Texas flag, local wildlife, cowboys, and a buffalo Indian legend. In addition, the background is an abstract of important influences of earlier days including the train and cattle trail drives, and county oilfields.
     Members working on the mural, beginning with the decision of what the subject would be, drawing the preliminary sketch, and finally the painting of the mural were Kathy Andrews, Virginia Bethke, Robin Black, Sherrell Hazelwood, Marian Johnson, Millie Martin, Kay Mitchell, Bob Murchison, Ted Shelton, Bill Shields, and Ginger Test.
     With assistance of City of Coleman employee, Rene Payne, Ralph Terry very expertly hung the mural that is now on exhibit in the Annex Room of the Coleman Library.

City Council Meets with Short Agenda Thursday
7/4/2008
The Coleman City Council met Thursday afternoon with a short agenda, allowing everyone to begin their holiday weekend. All were present except Rodney Cole. The Council approved the two consent items for the Convenience Center's Operational Rules and a variance at 712 W. 5th Street to build a carport. The council also discussed 2 new business items: Authorization of four signatures for the Texas Community Development Block Grant Fund and approval of the Sesquicentennial Committee's Hero's Parade to be held on August 9th. City Manager Larry Weise gave his report with no comments or questions from the council. Councilman Harold Skelton reminded everyone that the new Rail District Board's first meeting will be Wednesday, July 9th at the Chamber. He encouraged anyone interested to attend. Mayor Nick Poldrack then commented that he thought the city of Coleman was participating very well in all the Sesquicentennial events being held this year and there had been a very positive attitude around town.

FBC Youth Visit New Mexico
7/3/2008 (contributed)
As First Baptist Youth enjoyed the beauty of the mountains surrounding Glorieta, New Mexico, ONE excited camper conquered the "fear of bears" and was rewarded with an unusual "crown" of glory! This group took part in backpacking into the mountains, spending the night in tents, and returning to camp the next morning. Back row: John Casey, Shannon Peffley, Kyle Peffley. Front row: Jeremy Jameson, Sydni Stevenson, Tara Brixey, Duston Crawford. 

Fred Boettcher - Big Money Winner at Reno
7/3/2008
Fred Boettcher competed in the 89th Reno Rodeo this year and was the champion bull rider. Fred is from Rice Lake, Wisconsin and is the brother of Tammy Jo Turner of Coleman.

You can read the story about the Reno Rodeo at: http://www.prorodeo.com/Story.aspx?xu=1228 See full results of the Reno Rodeo at: http://www.prorodeo.org/Results.aspx?xu=256761.
See Boettcher's 10th ranking in the world standings at: http://www.prorodeo.org/Standings.aspx?xu=1 (Click on the Bull Riding link.)  

Boettcher also won the Bull Riding event at the recent "West of the Pecos Rodeo" in Pecos, Tx. Here are the results of his event: Bull riding: 1. Fred Boettcher, 90 points on Carr Pro Rodeo’s Hood Figure, $4,489; 2. (tie) Souli Shanklin and L.J. Jenkins, 87, $2,992 each; 4. Luke Haught, 86, $1,646; 5. Kanin Asay, 84, $1,047; 6. Dustin Larsen, 82, $748; 7. Ardie Maier, 81, $599; 8. (tie) Chance Smart, Shawn Hogg and Donald Francis, 80, $150 each.

4-H Shotgun Club in Midland
7/7/2008
The 4-H Shotgun Club competed in Midland on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the District VI Shoot. Kelby McCorkle placed 2nd in Senior 1 skeet, 6th in Senior 1 trap and had the highest trap and skeet scores combined to win the HOA (High Over All) award for the Senior Division and received a belt buckle. Brent Ogden placed 2nd in Intermediate sporting clays, 3rd in Intermediate skeet, and 6th in Intermediate trap. Jansen Merrill placed 1st in Intermediate trap, 1st in Intermediate sporting clays, and 2nd in Intermediate skeet. Jansen had the highest scores in trap, skeet, and sporting clays combined to win the HAA (High All Around) award for the Intermediate division and received a belt buckle.

The District VI shoot also allows counties to compete in team competition. The teams must consist of shooters from the same county and age division. Brent and Jansen competed as a two man team and won 1st place in both the skeet and trap events.

The shooters will end their season this week July 10-12 at the Texas 4-H Shotgun Shootout in San Angelo, TX. The Club would like to thank everyone who purchased their “Hot Shot” hot sauce last week to help defray costs to finish their season. We appreciate your support!

VBS Planned AT First United Methodist Church
7/9/2008
Hey dudes and dudettes! Are you ready for some fun at the “beach”? Are you ready to learn about God and surfing all at the same time?!

“Beach Party: Surfin’ Through the Scriptures” is the theme for VBS at First United Methodist Church of Coleman, 500 W. Liveoak, which will be held beginning on Monday, July 14th and ending Friday, July 18th from 6 pm to 9 pm each evening. Flame’ the Flamingo will be here to introduce everyone to the latest surfer lingo, and the VBS theme through the music, crafts, snacks, games, science experiments and Bible stories.

We will begin each evening with sandwiches and drinks in the fellowship hall for children who come between 5:15 and 5:45 p.m. Then we will move to the sanctuary to get ready for the Opening Assembly at 6:00 p.m. VBS will be from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each evening.

Max and Sam are our assembly leaders this summer. They are reopening a surf shack that has been closed for many years. They meet Flame’ the Flamingo who has been separated from her flock and appears at the surf shack for some help. They will also introduce you to the legendary surfer, Sandy Castle, who will teach you, via video, how to surf on the turf and apply surfing tips to the Bible story lessons and daily Beach Be-Attitudes. Sandy will have you up and out of your seats as you learn classic surfer moves.

On Friday evening at approximately 8:30 p.m., we will perform in the Final Celebration where you will show your parents and friends the songs you have learned and tell them about the Bible stories you were taught during the week. Following the performance, a visitation time will be held in the fellowship hall of the church where you can pick up the crafts you have made during the week.

Come “catch a wave” with us this summer at First United Methodist Church during the week of July 14th through July 18th.

We’d love to “surf through the Scriptures” with you!

AGENDA CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL
7/15/2008
THURSDAY, July 17, 2008, 5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak
PUBLIC HEARING (S):
Council will conduct a Public Hearing allowing for public comments and/or questions regarding a planned submission of an application to the Office of Rural Community Affairs (ORCA) for sewer infrastructure development.
NEW BUSINESS:
1.  Council will consider accepting and approving the Quarterly Occupancy Tax Report from the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce.
2.  Council will consider on the first reading Ordinance No.1095 establishing a temporary speed limit of 55 MPH with in the established City Limit from RM 388+1.150 (near FM 1274) to RM 350+1,254 (near Sunrise Street), with an effective starting date of August 2008, for the propose of public safety in conjunction with a TXDOT construction project.
3.  Council will consider authorizing the Mayor to appoint the City Manager as the Fair Housing/Equal Opportunity/Section 504 Standards Officer for the City of Coleman in relationship to ORCA Contract #728099.
4.  Council will consider authorizing the Mayor to appoint the City Manager as the Labor Standards Officer in relation to ORCA Contract #728099.

Junior Rodeo Association Meeting TONIGHT
7/17/2008
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will be having a meeting on July 17th to make final plans for our Junior Rodeo schedule on the 25th & 26th of July. Please make plans to attend this important meeting for work schedules and clean up days. There will be a pizza supper before starting at 6:30 pm at the Bill Franklin Center. If you are interested in joining our organization, please come to see what we are all about. If you have any questions, contact any Junior Rodeo member.

4-H HORSE CLUB MEETING TONIGHT
7/17/2008
Members of the 4-H Horse Club will have a meeting on Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Double C Arena in Coleman. There will be a short meeting and then riding practice. Members should bring their horses to ride.   If you are interested in the 4-H Horse Program, please feel free to attend or contact the Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag at the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519.

Coleman Youth Football League Updates
7/4/2008
Sign up for the Coleman Youth Football League will continue until July 15th. Coleman Youth Football League plans to participate in the Merkel Football League this year, which includes other small town Pee Wee Teams such as Hawley, Eula, and Clyde. At least half of the scheduled games will be played in Coleman.

Applications can be obtained and turned in at Screen Art Graphics at 214 S. Colorado. Cost of registration is $70 for all divisions except Flag Football which will be $35. Financial assistance is available with board approval.  For more information, please call Cody Norris at 325-636-8344 or Jeff Hammonds at Screen Art Graphics 625-2508.

Divisions are determined by the child’s age as of August 1st. They are as follow:
Flag Football - 4-6 year olds
Mighty Mite Football - 7-8 year olds
Junior Pee Wee - 9-10 year olds
Pee Wee - 11-12 year olds

KCB AND CBPA Will Meet Tonight
7/11/2008
There will be a joint meeting of the Keep Coleman Beautiful Organization and the Coleman Business People's Association on Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at 5:30 P.M. in the Chamber Boardroom.   Everyone is invited to attend this very important meeting.

Santa Anna EDC Meeting
7/7/2008
Santa Anna Economic Development Corporation will hold a Special Called Meeting (Public Forum) on Monday, July 14th at 3:00pm. They will meet at the Santa Anna Fire Hall Annex located at 302 North 2nd Street.

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2010 PARENTS!!!!
7/9/2008
There will be a meeting on Monday, July 14, at 7:30 pm at Coleman Dairy Queen to discuss a fundraiser opportunity (concession stand) for the weekend of July 19th & 20th. Anyone who is available to help with this specific fundraiser is invited to attend in order to work out details. If you have any questions please contact Tammy Swening at mswening@web-access.net or 325-214-0638 or Molly Norris at norris5@web-access.net or 325-636-3556.

CBC Deconstructs Old Youth House
7/2/2008
Much needed "de-construction" began on the Central Baptist Church "Old Youth House" (located behind the church) which was located at the corner of West Mesquite and South Pecos. The deconstruction began half way through the week of the 16th of June and was completed on June 28th. That's less than two weeks, and this was done strictly on a part-time basis! Also, keep in mind it was solely done by four very hard-working men who put their minds to completing the project! The house was around 1,000 square feet in size and is suspected to have been built in the 1920's.
The Central Baptist Church "Old Youth House" had grown to be an eye-sore to the neighbors and the members of CBC for many years, but with much endurance the "Old Youth House" came down. Although there were many young lives changed in the old house through many teen meetings, the mixed emotions were felt by those who observed the work. There are many parents in Coleman who can say that their now young adults grew closer to God through the meetings in this old house. Many teachers and youth pastors contributed numerous hours in the "Old Youth House". Due to time moving so quickly, time brings about change and this is one change that needed to be done. This change will be a positive influence not only to the church but also to the neighborhood where the house remained for more than 80 years. There are already some ideas about what to do with the newly cleaned and empty property. Possibilities such as a new, sanded volleyball court, a play area for the younger children and maybe even a BBQ pit or two.

A huge "thank you" goes out to Robert Wilson, Rex Jameson, Drew Hubbard and Robert Thomas. Thank you for all your hard work! We appreciate everything that you have done! You have not only beautified our church, but also the City of Coleman.

Guys 'n' Gals
7/1/2008
Connect (or re-connect) with your daughter, granddaughter, niece, or other favorite young lady in your life! Enjoy activities such as archery, sports, fishing, boating, wood crafts, camping, outdoor cooking and more, as you:   Create memories!   Explore new adventures together!   Share experiences with others!   Discover that there IS life outside of the mall and away from the TV and computer!   BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY...Have Fun!    $10.00 registration fee per person (if not already a registered Girl Scout) will pay for the entire year! We will meet every month. First meeting will be at Camp Wood Lake (Lake Brownwood) on Saturday, July 12, from 10am-2pm. Bring a sack lunch and your fishing license if you want to fish. We will fish, do archery and have a great time!

To register, call: Lynda Glenn, Program Specialist, Girls Scouts of Central Texas, (325) 646-1516, or come by our office at: 1200 Avenue D, Brownwood, TX.

Coleman Diabetes Group Meeting
7/1/2008
The Coleman Diabetes Group will meet the first Monday in July on July 7th at the Coleman Senior Center at 6:30 pm. Also we will meet the first Monday in August on August 4th at the same place at the same time. Denice Rogers leads the group. All are welcome to come as there is no fee.

South County VFD to Meet Saturday
7/7/2008
Our South Coleman County VFD will be meeting on Saturday, July 12 at 7 p.m. at the Voss Community Center. They encourage the firemen and women to come to the next meeting. There will be information to refresh their memory on the fire trucks, water pumps, how to start the pump, where proper equipment is housed, and how to start the trucks for those who have forgotten. The meal will be “serve yourself tacos” and ice cream. Those who can are asked to bring a cake, cookies, or your choice of ice cream. We will be discussing the department’s entry in the upcoming Heroes Parade in August. Everyone that is interested in the fire department is welcome and encouraged to come out.

Trickham, Texas - Where Coleman County Began
7/3/2008
Many years ago when the west was wild and cattle were still being driven north to the railroads, one of the stops along the way was the town of Trickham, Texas.   On Thursday July 10th Felton Martin, the son of two early day area school teachers, will bring his many notes and stories on the Trickham area and the history and review the history and tall tales of the area.  Due to the 4th of July events, this program has been pushed back to Thursday the 10th of July.   The town of Trickham has many things of historical significance to view, so plan to be in Trickham, visit the tombs that were originally in the main street, the hand made historical markers, the state markers, and even the cemetery has some very notable graves. There are some of the oldest graves in this part of Texas in this cemetery.  SO – be in Trickham Texas on July 10th about 6:30pm at the Trickham School (Community Center) for one of the more interesting programs presented during the Sesquicentennial year.  To get to the Trickham Community Center go south from Santa Anna on FM1176.  When you arrive in Trickham the road will bend to the left. You will see the Trickham Church and the Community Center on your right.

Coleman County Electric Cooperative
Annual Mtg. Friday Night in Ballinger
7/3/2008--Contributed--
Coleman County Electric Cooperative will have its 70th Annual Membership Meeting on July 11th at the Ballinger High School. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., with the Business Meeting at 7:00 p.m. Along with the Annual Reports presented by the President and General Manager, we will have Bob Bryant, the CEO of Golden Spread Electric Cooperative, Inc., to speak and report on power generation issues. Coleman County Electric Cooperative joined Golden Spread Electric Cooperative, Inc. in November 2003. Golden Spread Electric Cooperative is a generation and transmission cooperative comprised of 16 electric distribution cooperatives. We plan to have homemade ice cream and cookies prepared and served by the Ballinger County 4H’ers. Attendance gifts will be given to each member registering, as well as attendance gifts for the kids. There will also be the usual prize drawings for the adults and and children. As you know a couple of years ago we made some changes in the ballot procedure. We would just like to remind you that if you mail your ballot or you bring your ballot to the meeting, be sure and vote for the directors of your choice, put the ballot in the envelope and sign the outside of the envelope. The signature must be on the outside of the envelope for your vote to be counted. Please mark July 11 on your calendars and make plans to attend this year’s meeting in Ballinger. Come and enjoy the fellowship with your fellow members while participating in the business activities of your own Cooperative.

Gouldbusk Open Rodeo
 7/7/2008
 Saturday, July 12th, 2008
 Books open at 7:00 p.m.
 Events at 8:00 p.m.
 Events:
 Barrels, poles, flags, ribbon roping, breakaway, tie-down, steer riding
 Age divisions:
 10 and under
 11-13
 14-18
 19 and over
 For more information call Aaron Loyd at 325-357-4918

Last chance for purchasing a raffle ticket.....
7/7/2008
Wednesday, July 9th, is your last chance to purchase a raffle ticket for a "2-Person Fishing Trip", from Mr. Whisker's Guide Service, owned and operated by Mike Stuard. Along with a great fishing trip, you will win two BBQ meals from Mr. Lynn Owens at Big O's. The winner and his or her guest can stop in at Big O's, have a great meal and finish off the evening with a great fishing trip. All the winner has to bring to the fishing trip is an ice chest to carry all those great catches!! Mike provides all that you will need!  Don't miss your last chance to purchase a raffle ticket!!  All proceeds go to Ashley and Jeremy Jameson's mission trip to Brooklyn, NY, where they will be assisting with a week long Vacation Bible School at Park Slope Baptist Church.  Ashley and Jeremy extend their appreciation to all who have already purchased a raffle ticket. The drawing will be held on Thursday, July 10th. The winner will be contacted by phone on Thursday evening.  If you would like to purchase a raffle ticket for your chance to win this great fishing trip along with a meal for two at Big O's, please call 325-625-1040 or 325-214-1685.

International COLEMAN Reunion
7/5/2008 (contributed)
Many towns have reunions attended by folks with a tie to that community. But Coleman, Texas is going to do something a little different today. They are inviting everyone in the world named Coleman to come over to Coleman, Coleman County, Texas this 5th of July for the first ever Annual International Reunion of The Family Coleman. After all, both the County and the City were named for a Coleman, Robert M. Coleman, one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

The idea started a few years ago when a visitor from England stopped in Coleman. His last name was Coleman and he was visiting towns all over the world named ‘Coleman’. He wasn’t the first ‘Coleman’ to stop in town because of the name. But, as far as anyone there knows, he sure qualified as the one who traveled farthest. Eric Joffrion, an antiques mall owner in Coleman, commented that there are folks all over the world named Coleman and we should help get them together. There it was. The seed was planted and things started happening.

Steve Hayes, who donates free time for the Chamber of Commerce website, volunteered to get the project on line (http://www.reunion.colemantexas.org/); Mary Griffis, Chamber Manager, and Amy Hinds, Chamber Secretary, volunteered to field phone calls; and the Coleman Heritage, Arts and Preservation Society (CHAPS) offered the use Heritage Hall, which houses the Coleman Museum, as headquarters. Heritage Hall is located at 400 W. College Avenue, Coleman, Texas 76834. CHAPS designated one room in the museum as the ‘Coleman’ Room, according to Museum Director Maxine Cope, to recognize 'All Things Coleman'- companies, actors, heroes, etc. “We want to include everything that we can” Cope said, “and I encourage all reunion attendees to bring along anything that might add to the exhibits in this new addition”. Old photographs, products, books, magazine articles, newspaper stories, etc. will be considered for inclusion in the Family Coleman section. A committee will be made of Family Coleman members to oversee the development of this section.

How big is this going to be? One local pundit quipped, “Well, since we’ve never had one before, this will be the biggest one we’ve ever had. And my guess is it won’t be as big as next year’s.” Joffrion says that since it is about and for Colemans, it’ll be as big as they make it.

Heritage Hall will open for reunion registration 9 a.m. Saturday, July 05, 2008. A small registration fee of only $10 per attendee (no charge for those under age 12 or 65 and over) will help cover reunion registration with name tag, dedication ceremony, all-day visitation (snacks included) and Saturday night genealogy presentation. So, if you are a Coleman, if you’re descended from a Coleman, or just like to be around Colemans – head on over to Coleman, in Coleman County, Texas on July 5th.

COLEMAN MUSEUM SPECIAL AUGUST EXHIBIT
7/3/2008
A special exhibit "Weddings Then & Now" is planned for August at the Coleman Museum. Wedding dresses from the past will be exhibited along with bridal bouquet creations from the local florist.

If you have a vintage wedding dress you would like to exhibit you may take it to the museum between July 1st and July 21st, during regular museum hours of Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, other days or times call Kay at 625-1140 or Kathy at 624-5544 to make arrangements to deliver the dress.

If you have information about the dress such as who it belonged to, the date of the dress, where the wedding was performed, or any other pertinent or interesting information about the dress, please provide that information . Also, your name and phone number must be included with the information.

The last week of the exhibit there will be a "Bridal Fair" with a bridal bouquet competition with cash awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Each florist entering the competition will draw for the gowns they are to design a bouquet for.  The Coleman Museum is located at Heritage Hall 400 W. College.

7/3/2008
Emergency units responded to a wreck at the corner of Walnut and Commercial at 12:30 Thursday. Traffic was diverted for a short time. There were no apparent injuries.

Rainfall Reports
B & Anita Phelps East of Coleman received an additional 1.4 inches of rain Monday
Bill Garrett, Monday morning 2.30 inches 5 mi. SW of Santa Anna.
.60 in the rain gauge at the Wright Place, Santa Anna at 8:00am Sunday.
B & Anita Phelps, East of Coleman, received a total of 1.3 inches of rain by Noon Sunday.
Larry Guthrie, 3 mi. NW of Grosvenor (east Coleman Co.), 6.2 inches as of 9:00am Monday.

BOYS RANCH HUNT SUCCESS DESPITE RAIN
7/1/2008   by Margret Matthews
The 1st Annual THF-West Texas Boys Ranch hog hunt took place the weekend of June 27 thru the 29th. First Shot Outfitters (Mike& Monica Wyatt) were gracious enough to host this event at their beautiful lodge north of Coleman. Six boys came from the ranch along with 3 house parents. After a hamburger & hot dog lunch & some recreation time with the video games, the boys & hunters went off to sight in rifles; talk strategy & pair off to get ready to hunt. The much needed rain Saturday afternoon and evening scattered the hunters and shortened the evening hunt. One of the boys still managed to get a pig on the ground during the storm Saturday afternoon. After getting back to the lodge, sharing stories, pictures with the pig & lucky hunter, the hungry boys enjoyed a wonderful evening meal & shared stories. Sunday morning the soggy conditions called for a change of plans, so all the boys went as one group and after a lengthy spot and stalk we were within 100 yards of a group of 50 pigs. A volley of shots rang out and pigs were running in every direction the boys gave them a couple of more rounds before the dust settled all of the boys, at least had a shot at a pig. Sunday morning after returning to the lodge and eating breakfast, the boys and house parents were treated to gifts provided by members of the THF ( www.texashuntingforum.com ). The hunt was the brainchild of J.R Robinson of Frisco a former student at the WTBR, who said he just wanted to do more than right a check this year to the school. Every person and business involved went over and above to make this hunt a complete success and a real pleasure to be involved in.

A big THANK YOU to all of the sponsors who made this possible: Mike & Monica Wyatt of First Shot Outfitters
(http://www.wingshootingdestinations.com/Wingshooting/USA/Texas_Dove_Hunting/FirstShotOutfitters/) J.P Greeson owner of texashuntingforum.com, Benny & Sarah Kirtley of Sarah's place in Coleman, Tim & Margret Matthews of Pecan Bayou Outfitters, J.R. Robinson of Frisco, Mike, Roy, Kent, and Jerry from Lone Star Trail Outfitters ( www.lonestartrailoutfitters.com ), and all the members of the THF who sent food and prizes. Dennis Stroebel of Shoppin Baskit in Coleman, and Mike Barker of Buddy's Qwik Stop in Coleman. THANK YOU to ALL the people who put time into coming and all the help they contributed during this event, from cooking, to cleaning to just helping. Next year's hunt is already in the works for early March, and there's hope that it will be even bigger and better than this year. Thanks to all of those who showed these kids, from diversified backgrounds, that someone cares. God Bless each and every one of ya'll. (Pictured right - Guide Tim Matthews and Ricky.)

Increased Enforcement by Coleman Police Department
7/1/2008
The Coleman Police Department will be continuing their participation in the Texas state-wide holiday traffic enforcement program. The Texas STEP, Specific Traffic Enforcement Program, is designed to "Save Lives". Off-duty Officers from across the state will be working to enforce the speed, restraint (seat belts), and DWI laws.  This increased enforcement period will run from June 30 - July 6, 2008.  Please slow down, buckle up, and don't drink and drive. THE LIFE YOU SAVE MAY BE YOUR OWN!

AGENDA CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL
7/1/2008
THURSDAY, July 3, 2008
5:00 P.M. Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak
CONSENT AGENDA:
1. Council will consider on the second and final reading Ordinance No. 1093 amending Ordinance No. 1069 “Convenience Center” of the City’s Code of Ordinances and establishing an effective date.
2. Council will consider on the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1094 amending Ordinance No. 1072, Zoning Ordinance, to allow for a variance at 712 W. 5th Street in order to build a carport.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider authorizing the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, City Manager and the City Secretary to sign Resolution 08-12 which is required for implementation of the Texas Community Development Block Grant Fund, Contract No. 728099.
2. Council will consider a request from the Coleman County Sesquicentennial Committee to sponsor a Hero’s Parade in the City of Coleman, on Saturday, August 9, 2008.