News Archives - June 2009

Commissioners Discuss "In-Kind" Work
6/30/2009

On Tuesday morning, Elias H. Rmeile from the Texas Department of Transportation met with the Coleman County commissioners on acceptable projects for in-kind work credit. This credit is required by TxDOT in association with the Waldrip Bridge restoration project. Coleman County must come up with approximately $82,000 of work in drainage corrections or safety features on county roads. Judge Jimmie Hobbs and the commissioners have taken photos of possible projects and asked Mr. Rmeile about the TxDOT's requirements for them. The project does have to be approved by McCullough County also, since 25% of the Waldrip Bridge is in that county. Mr. Rmeile stated that they are in about the same stage of approval as Coleman County. The commissioners will be listing possible sites for the in-kind work and the projected cost of each to be presented to TxDOT at a later date.

Also discussed in the commissioners' court meeting was the possible restoration of some of the District Clerk's books from previous decades. Jo Chapman, District Clerk, mentioned they had found 9 books that could be taken apart and each page could be "sleeved" after being digitally recorded on CD or microfilm. These books have some of the earliest records of land descriptions and minutes of commissioners' meetings. The court approved this restoration process. Kay LeMay then presented the Annual Review of the Coleman County Investment Policy. It was approved as is, with no changes to be made at this time. Current bills were approved for payment and the meeting was adjourned.


 

More Barnett Get Togethers
6/30/2009

May 02, 2009 most of Claude and Elda Barnett’s kids made the trip to Coleman, for the family meeting.  This year Nell and I came in early Friday so we could help put more rock on the cemetery lot.   Nell, Roland, Billy, Annie, Riley and I had the rock spread in no time and before any rain. Richard, Donna, and Claudia came in Saturday around noon, just in time to go eat. Nell, Richard, Donna, Claudia, Riley and I went to Tiffany's for a very nice lunch. Brenda drove up just after we returned to the house. Soon after the others were here and ready for the meeting. We had a nice meeting and now know what we are eating at the family reunion, when we are having Thanksgiving and Christmas and where we are having our meeting next year and when.

 

At this years meeting was Nell Hopper, Roland, Jean Barnett, Claudia Kemp, Richard, Donna Barnett, Brenda Barnett, Billy, Annie Brown, Ricky, Joanne Barnett, Casey Lobstein, Rinn and Riley Barnett. After the meeting we all went to Hidalgo's for a great meal. Thanks to Tiffany's and Hidalgo's for cooking and cleaning for us.  After the meeting some of the girls, Nell, Claudia, Donna, Joanne, Annie and I went to Annie's for our slumber party. We played games, talked and went to bed around 2:00 am. We had a great time, thanks Annie for letting us use your house, and running Billy out. Billy stayed at Randall's house with Riley, Ricky, Rinn, and Richard. You will have to ask them what they did. Richard and Billy was at  Annie's early Sunday morning for coffee and a breakfast loaf Nell had made. Everyone made it home safe in God's hands.


Later in May the boys had their fishing trip at the Bend. This year was Roland, Randall, Ray, Nathan, Chad, Ricky, and Rinn. They did catch lots of fish and had a great time. Annie, Billy, Richard and Donna went on a cruise during the fishing trip and on Saturday after they got home they had a fish fry at Randall's. At the fish fry was Nell, Marty Hopper, Roland, Jean Barnett, Randall Barnett, Ray, Brenda, Nathan, Chad, Christy, Brogan, Cara Barnett, Annie, Billy, Richie, Kelli, Zachary, Brandon, Jacob Brown, Bryan and Eric Lucas, Candace and Tommy Smith, Ricky, Joanne, Oren Barnett, Casey Lobstein, and Riley Barnett.


The family reunion was great this year. It was hot but we still enjoyed seeing each other. Some arrived at the park on Thursday just to relax and enjoy the quite. It did not take long for the quite to turn to noise on Friday when the family began to arrive. By noon most were there and unpacked. Nell brought chicken, potato salad, and slaw for lunch. The young ones were off to the pool as soon as it opened and the games were out and being played like always. Bocce ball, cards, dominos, horse shoes, dices, blokus, operation, and water games to name a few games played this year. There is always lots of talking and laughing. Friday night we had hot dogs for supper like always. Up early for breakfast Saturday morning. We had eggs, sausage, bacon, gravy, biscuits, tortillas, milk, juice. After breakfast the kids were waiting for the pool to open, the older ones were playing games, others were talking, and others were wondering why they were sitting in the heat when they could be home under the AC. Saturday noon we had pile-on (taco salad). Beef, chips, lettuce, onion, cheese, olives, beans, sour cream, and tea or lemon aid to drink. You put on what you want and enjoy your pile-on. After clean up was Texas hold-em, Brandy was first one out, Ricky won, Randall was 2nd, and Donna was 3rd. There was 19 playing and they all had fun even the ones that didn't win.The water games were fun for all, Donna brought water guns and when the kids could get the guns back from the adults they had a good time running and playing with them. They also played with water balloons and bobbed for apples. Aaron was the first to put his head under water and come up with an apple. He really knew how to bob for apples. Supper was leftovers, like always there was lots of leftovers. Some times our meals are not very organizes and takes awhile before everyone comes to eat, with some on trails, some playing games and others at the pool. After supper we sat and watched a deer eating the food the little ones had dropped on the ground and the apples from the apple bobbing. He was a happy deer with all the food and not worried about us watching him. Sunday morning breakfast was eggs, bacon, sausage, tortillas, sweet rolls, milk, and juice. Everyone packs up early and leaves for home. All had a great time and was home safe.


At this years reunion was Nell, Marty Hopper, Roland Barnett, Raemma, Kyle Card, Erikha Barnett, Claudia Kemp, Beth, Christina Boatman, Mitchell Priddis, Josh DeMoss, Ryan Griffin, Richard, Donna, Richard Jr. Barnett, Serena, Dustin, Anna Irons, Christopher Barnett, Randall Barnett, Ray, Brenda, Nathan, Chad, Christy, Brogan, Cara Barnett, Annie, Billy, Richie, Kelli, Zachary, Brandon, Jacob Brown, Eric Lucas, Candace and Tommy Smith, Ricky, Joanne Barnett, Cheri and Jerry Briseno, Casey, Bucky Lobstein, Brandy, Brittney, AJ, JR Ranjel, Rinn Barnett, Heather, Sammy, Chloe Portillo, Vince, Kelly, Aaron, EmmaLee Barnett, Riley Barnett, Roger, Kendra, Taylor Barnett, Travis Brixey, Mary Bishop, Nicky Bishop, Blue, Jamie, and Mackenize Belz.

 


 

Rainfall Reports  -  6/30/09
Here at West 4th St, 2.4 inches!!!
--2.5 in of rain Margret Matthews 2.7 miles S of Burkett
--As of 7:15am Lance & Christine Connelly at Echo, have had 2.6 in of rain.
--8 miles NE of Coleman - 1.5 inches.
--2.00 inches of rain was measured this morning at Silver Valley.
--3.7 inches of west of Silver Valley at the Calk's.


 

Dear CHS Band Members,
6/30/2009

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. This year is the year we are allowed to advance from Region to Area and even to State! Because of this we want to get in as many practices before school as possible!!! 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.

We are looking forward to a great school year!!!
Jerry Everett            Liz Braquet
Band Director            Assistant Band Director
325-642-4115            325-998-6605

Flag Camp
July 21st – 23rd       9am-4pm
Drumline Camp
July 21st-23rd          8am-Noon
Summer Band (All Band Members)
August 3rd-6th (Monday-Thursday) 5:00 pm Equipment Checkout
                                                   6-9 pm - Rehearsal
August 10th-13th (Monday-Thursday) 6-9pm - Rehearsal
August 14th (Friday)                        Tentative Party Date
August 17th-20th (Monday-Thursday 6-9 pm - Rehearsal
**Please note that the rehearsals are one hour longer than last year, HOWEVER you are getting FRIDAYS off!**
Other Information

August 24th - School STARTS/Booster Meeting 6:30pm
August 27th - First Football Game (Only 3 School Days to Get Ready!!

 


 

Dear Editor:
6/30/2009

Recently, I was in a car accident on Liveoak Street. I was not injured very badly, but my car was pushed up on to a sidewalk and into a tree. There were pictures of it on the website. My concern is that if there had been any kids playing on the sidewalk, my car could have killed them, and I am writing to encourage people to keep their kids in the back yard to play if possible. I have seen kids playing in that neighborhood close to the street. Please consider this, parents.
Anne Holland
Coleman, Tx


 

Matthew 25 Ministries at The Cross Host Local
6/30/2009
Bro. Danny Ray of Coleman received some good news from a long time friend of his from Australia, Angelica Frances Tremblay, that she and her friend Gloria Dyer are coming to Coleman for a week to visit with Bro. Danny, meet his family & friends, and to minister & sing while they are both here. Danny will have to pick up Angelica and Gloria from the Abilene Regional Airport on July 6th and bring them to Coleman. They will both be here through the 12th.

Angelica Frances has four top selling Contemporary Gospel albums in the United Kingdom and has just finished writing her first book. Angelica is originally from New Zealand and she is a descendant of seven Morai Tribe chiefs of New Zealand. Gloria Dyer is an Australian Aboriginal from the Noongar Tribe near Perth, Australia. Both of these women sing and minister the gospel. They will be appearing with Bro. Danny at "Matthew 25 Ministries-The Cross" on Tuesday, July 7th at 7pm. Angelica and Bro. Danny will have their CDs for sale that night, and Angelica is bringing t-shirts and other items from Australia to sell.

Please come out and support these two singing ministries, and to meet Bro. Danny, Angelica Frances, and Gloria Dyer while these two ladies are here from July 6-12th.
Thanks and God Bless You, Bro. Danny Ray.

 



HATS, BOOTS & STILETTOS EXHIBIT OPENS AT COLEMAN MUSEUM

6/29/2009

The special exhibit of decorated footwear, awesome stilettos and vintage hats, is open at Coleman Museum, Friday's and Saturday's 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, at 400 W. College. The exhibit will be open July and August. Everyone is encouraged to take the time to visit the exhibit and also the Museum collections. There are many very interesting and unique items on exhibit and you will certainly find something that makes you say "Oh, I remember my mom had one of those!" or maybe grandma or grandpa.
Admission to the exhibit and museum is free, but your donations are greatly appreciated. The Coleman Museum is a project of Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society and is recognized by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and is supported by your donations.

The Coleman Museum is supported by members and volunteers donating their time and expertise to make the Coleman Museum a venue for special exhibits and local history preservation. If you are interested in becoming a member or can volunteer three hours per month as a Museum docent contact Maxine Cope, Museum Director, at 625-4345, and become a partner in preserving our history.

The Coleman Museum is a project of Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society and is recognized by the IRS as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and is supported by your donations.

 


 

Watercolor Workshop by Jo Beck
6/29/2009

Professional artist Jo Beck, from Clifton, Texas, will be holding a watercolor workshop on
Wednesday, July 29th through Friday, July 31st, at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College, Coleman
. Workshop fee is $150 for all three days.

Jo taught art in the Indianapolis schools and workshops in Florida, she also has designed needlework books for June Grigg Designs in Atlanta Georgia. She has exhibited in art shows in Indiana, Florida, Georgia and Texas. Jo has received numerous awards for her wonderful watercolor paintings, including Best of Show at the Fine Arts League Fiesta Shows in 2007 and 2008 and Jurors Choice Award in 2008 at the Fine Arts League Juried Show, also the Brownwood Stars of Texas Show Purchase Award in 2004.

Spots are still available for this outstanding opportunity to learn from an award winning professional artist. A deposit of $75 is required by July 6th to confirm your attendance, please mail your deposit along with your name, address and phone number to CHAPS, 114 E. College, Coleman, TX 76834. Contact Kay Mitchell at 625-1140 or Kathy Andrews at 624-5544 for more information. CALL today and let us know you are coming!

 


 

BattleCry at The Cross needs your help!
6/29/2009

July 4th (10am-2pm) BattleCry teens will be selling hamburgers for $5 a bag (includes hamburger, veggies, condiments, chips, cookies & a cola) at the Shoppin Baskit.

Samantha, Paul, Kameryn, Andrew, Shonda, Amy, Kimberly, Kim, Jennifer and Tulissia will be doing several fundraisers and asking for donations. This years goal is to send 50 people to San Antonio, Texas on Feb. 26th & 27th of 2010 to BattleCry’s Acquire The Fire event.

The cost is approximately $200 per person which includes tickets, travel, meals and motel. We need your help, we see the changes in these teens and the impact BattleCry has for their lives, teaching these teens there is a better way through Christ. Will you consider sponsoring a teen?

BattleCry at the Cross is an outreach of Matthew 25 Ministries.

Please send donations to:
BattleCry @ The Cross
PO Box 1003
Coleman TX 76834


 

Loaves and Fishes Food Ministry Serving Coleman County
6/29/2009
Loaves and Fishes Food Ministry is a ministry operating under the non-profit organization Christian Family Ministries of Coleman County. This ministry provides supplemental non-perishable food items and hot meals to those who are in need of assistance in Coleman County. Our mission is to provide these services to individuals and families who do not qualify for other assistance and their income is insufficient to provide food for their families. We provide this ministry with Christian love and support to feed the hungry and the poor.


Hot meals are prepared and served every Tuesday and Thursday, 11:15 a.m. through 1:00 p.m., to qualified clients. Participants that cannot come to the facility have their meals delivered by volunteers. The food pantry provides non-perishable food items every Monday, 9:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m., to qualified clients. Boxes of non-perishable food items are delivered to those who cannot pick them up at the facility every second Monday of the month. There will be a thrift store opening soon that will provide good household items for sale at very reasonable prices.


We also serve as a host site for Angel Food Ministries in Coleman. This is an independent ministry that is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing grocery relief to communities throughout the U.S. The program began in 1994 and provides a medium sized box of food for $30 (retail value of $50 - $80). Food orders and distribution is handled by the staff of volunteers at Loaves and Fishes. Angel Food Ministries makes a monthly donation to Loaves and Fishes as the host site.


Each client is required to fill out an application with Loaves and Fishes before receiving any assistance. They must show good reason for requesting assistance with groceries. Once an applicant is qualified, the application is good for two (2) years, unless the applicant’s status changes before that time. The applicant must re-apply in two (2) years to continue receiving assistance. No one is denied food the first time they apply. This is especially true for emergencies such as those displaced from their homes, etc.


Loaves and Fishes was founded in December, 1986, by a group led by Graham Bevel. The organization started out as a soup kitchen in January, 1987, growing into serving complete hot meals. The additional service of supplemental non-perishable food items were then provided from the Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church.


Loaves and Fishes began occupancy of the current facility at 519 W. Pecan Street in 1990. Graham Bevel served as the first administrator in 1993. Leta Gaither, the current administrator, became an active volunteer with the organization in 1996 and served as Graham’s assistant. Graham passed away in 2001. Leta was appointed as administrator in 2002 and continues to serve in that position.


The Christian Family Ministries of Coleman County was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 2006. Loaves and Fishes is the primary ministry serving over 200 families per month with non-perishable food items and over 900 meals per month.

A Client Story
A young woman with three children arrived at Loaves and Fishes one day while we were preparing and serving our hot meals. She seemed very quiet and reserved. When asked if we could help her in any way, tears came to her eyes and she said, “My husband has left us and taken everything with him. We have no food, only a few clothes, and no pots, pans or dishes. I don’t know where to go, but a friend told me to come here to see if we can get some help.”

 

After talking awhile, she advised she was still in the house with utilities, but did not know where to go. She was looking for a job, but had not been successful. We immediately advised that we could help her with a supply of food to get her started, and then we sat down and talked further about her problems. We had recently had items dropped at our site and were able to find a few pots and pans, as well as dishes, cutlery, a few linens and other items to help the family through their transition. We also discussed possibilities of where she might get a job quickly, and the subject of a church came up. She needed a church that provided a good child activity group for her children. We immediately gave her names of churches that we personally know have good activity groups for children and she was very thankful.

 

About a week later, we were once again faced with a tearful mother, but this time it was tears of joy. She had been able to find a job, as well as a person to care for her small ones while she was working, and had visited one of the churches that had a youth group and was happy with it. She continues to come to our site when she needs help, but each time again thankfully says, “I don’t know what I would have done if you had not taken the time to visit with me the day I came in here. I will always remember all of you, and what you did for me. And if I am ever able to get my life back in order, I want to help you in any way I can.”

How You Can Help
Volunteers are needed for meal deliveries, food deliveries, food handling and distribution at the facility, meal preparation, and facility maintenance.

 

We rely solely on monetary donations from church outreach, businesses, and individuals as well as fundraisers to benefit Loaves and Fishes. (i.e. food drives, bake sales, raffles, carnivals, etc.) We have an urgent need for cash donations. We had to shut down our hot meals ministry July 1 because of insufficient funds. Through the generosity of the people of Coleman County, we hope to collect enough cash donations in July and August to allow the hot meal ministry to reopen September 1. All donations are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible! If you would like to mail your donation, please send to Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries, P.O. Box 105, Coleman, TX 76834.

 

Hours of Operation
Hot Meals – Tuesday and Thursday, 11:15 a.m. through 1:00 p.m.
Food Pantry – Mondays, 9:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m. (Closed every 5th Monday in a month.)
Angel Food Ministries - Food boxes can be ordered monthly. Please call Leta Gaither at (325) 625-2060 or (325) 636-3733 to request ordering information. AFM Food Boxes are available for order by anyone, regardless of your financial situation, with no application or pre-approval required.

 


 

Information on Use of Fireworks
6/29/2009

The Coleman County Sheriff's department has received information from the Texas Department of Transportation reminding citizens that it is ILLEGAL to discharge or use fireworks of any kind on all state highways, in state right-of-ways, or in roadside parks. 

 

Also, there is a Coleman city ordinance that prohibits the use of any fireworks within the city limits.

 


 

Coleman City Council Agenda
6/29/2009

THURSDAY, July 2, 2009, 5:00pm
Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the Regular Council Meeting held on June 18, 2009.
NEW BUSINESS:

1. Council will consider Resolution No. 09-06 authorizing the exchange of real property owned by the City of Coleman (5.088 acre tract out of M. Benites survey # 670) for real property owned by James Bishop (Lot 3 Block 9 Phillips First Edition).
2. Council will conduct a tour of improvements at the Coleman Municipal Air Port
.


 

A Seminar for Elected and Appointed Governmental Officials was conducted at the Coleman Public Library Friday, June 26. The seminar as co-sponsored by the City of Coleman and Shotts, Pardue, Trevino and Guevara LLP, Attorneys at Law, from Lubbock, Texas. Pictured on the left is Jean Shotts and to his right is Mike Guevarra, attorneys who conducted the workshop.
Attendees were from Coleman, Eastland, Santa Anna, Stamford and Cranfills Gap.
Those attending from Coleman were Mayor Pro Tem John Plummer, Councilman Harold Skelton, City Manager Larry Weise and City Secretary Sue Burleson. 


 

Update on Motorcycle Accident

6/29/2009

On Saturday, June 27, 2009, at 10:25am, a two-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of South Colorado and East 4th Street. A 1987 BMW K-100 Motorcycle was traveling north on South Colorado Street. The driver of the motorcycle was Clint Hughes a 44 year old male of Coleman and the passenger on the motorcycle was Robbie Miller a 49 year old female of Coleman. Traveling west on East 4th Street was Ashley Bremiller, an 18 year old female of Coleman, driving a 2002 Ford Mustang. The Ford Mustang driven by Bremiller pulled out from East 4th Street onto South Colorado Street in front of the Motorcycle driven by Hughes. Hughes took evasive action and laid the motorcycle down, and the motorcycle slid into the Ford Mustang. Both the driver of the motorcycle Hughes and the passenger on the motorcycle Miller where thrown off the motorcycle. Bremiller was not injured. Both Hughes and Miller were injured and taken to the hospital. Bremiller received a citation for Failed to Yield R.O.W. at Yield Intersection.

 


 

J. W. Harris Does It Again !!
Wins Reno, Nevada Bull Riding

6/28/2009

Your world champion bull rider, and local favorite, J. W. Harris, won the Coleman PRCA Rodeo bull riding last week. This week, he claims the championship at Reno, Nevada which was worth a check for $17,214.

PRCA Cowboys and WPRA Cowgirls are in the midst of the busy rodeo season, traveling across the country hoping to earn their share of the money during the time known as Cowboy Christmas.

 



The James Hopper Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Matthew Allen at the Panther Creek graduation ceremony on May 22, 2009. Matthew is the son of Donny and Gloria Allen. Pictured are Matthew Allen and Edwina and Lloyd Hopper.

Scholarship Announcement
6/29/2009

The Community Foundation of Abilene is pleased to announce that the following seniors from the Coleman area have received scholarships. Matthew Allen, a Panther Creek graduate, received the James Hopper Memorial Scholarship and Cole Hubbard, a graduate of Coleman High School, and John Warren, a Panther Creek graduate, both received the Zach Moore Memorial Scholarship.

Matthew Allen is son of Donny and Gloria Allen of Voss. He plans to study ranch and feedlot operations at Clarendon College. This scholarship designated for a Panther Creek student was established by Edwina and Loyd Hopper in memory of their son James Hopper, a student at Panther Creek when he died as a result of an automobile accident.

Cole Hubbard (right) and John Warren both received the Zach Moore Memorial Scholarship Awards. This scholarship was established by the parents of Zach Moore, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Moore of Coleman, for a graduate from Panther Creek High School and a graduate of Coleman High School. Cole Hubbard, graduate from Coleman High School, son of Barbara and Drew Hubbard, will attend Texas A&M this fall and plans to study biology to obtain a degree in Physical Therapy. John Warren, graduate from Panther Creek, son of LeAn and Dan Warren of Valera, plans to attend New Mexico Military Institute and study Criminal Justice/Military Science.

This year the Community Foundation of Abilene awarded over $144,000 to approximately 51 Big Country area seniors. Many of the scholarships have been established by donors in memory of loved ones or to benefit graduates of local high schools. “The memories of special people are commemorated through scholarships established at the Community Foundation. As a lasting legacy, each scholarship enables our future leaders to pursue their dreams,” said Katie Alford, CFA President. The student recipients have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, community service, talents, and special interests, in accordance with the criteria for each scholarship


The Zach Moore Memorial Scholarship was awarded to John Warren at the Panther Creek graduation ceremony on May 22, 2009. John is the son of Dan and LeAnn Warren.


 

National? International? – Flavor in Juried Art Show 09!
6/29/2009
To date, the Fine Arts League has received inquiries concerning the Fiesta Fine Art Show planned for October 2-3, 2009. The emails have caused quite a ‘stir’ in the Fine Arts League membership. Needless to say, the national/international interest was unexpected, but welcomed.

An email from a Pakistan artist, graduate of the National College of Arts, Lahore, Pakistan, was received requesting explanations needed to enter the 2009 Juried Art Show. It seems the Pakistani people are not allowed to ship “burned” (those with information recorded) CD's out of the country! An alternate way to submit the images of the paintings was found and hopefully the artist will be FREE to enter our Show!

A second email came from an Armenian citizen who currently lives in Utah. He has some paintings to sell and hoped the Fiesta Art Show might provide an opportunity to sell some of his work. He sent his web-site to view his work!

A South Korean artist, studying painting at a Kansas University and wants to submit her work to the 2009 Fiesta Show! She will be traveling back to S. Korea for an art residency program and was concerned whether she would be considered a national or an international artist!

Lastly, an artist from British Columbia emailed a question – can he submit “semi-abstract colorful landscapes and full-sheet abstract watercolors.”

So looks as though the 2009 Fiesta Juried Fine Art Show will be one “outside the box”. Hopefully, these artists will have the FREEDOM and access to our “Texas kind of Welcome”. How blessed we are!

 


 

Accident Reported
10:31 AM 6/27/2009

At 10:25am Saturday morning, Coleman Fire and Ambulance units were sent to what was described as an accident with injuries at the corner of 4th and Colorado Streets in Coleman. An ambulance transferred one female patient to Coleman County Medical Center at 10:37am. 

 

The accident involved a Ford Mustang and a motorcycle.  The woman injured was on the motorcycle.  Names were not immediately available.

 

Preliminary information gathered at the scene shows the Mustang was going west on 4th and collided with the motorcycle in the middle of Colorado Street.


A man from Houston survived a crash in his 1999 Porsche Boxster Friday night on U.S. Highway 283 north of Coleman.  The wreck
happened in the road construction zone.  Richard Thomas Sheeren of Houston, Texas was the driver.



STOLEN VEHICLE - POLICE ASKING FOR YOUR HELP !!!

The Coleman Police Department has requested the Coleman residents watch for a
White 1994 Mercury Station Wagon with License Plate # R65-VGH.
Call 625-4114 if you see it.

 


Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Dept. Receives Grant
6/26/2009

Jere Freel with RISC Insurance Specialists and Evan Ryan with Fireman's Fund Insurance Company presented the Santa Anna VFD with a Heritage Grant in the amount of $20,170.  Equipment was purchased with the grant monies, including 10 SEBA breathing apparatus systems, radios, nozzels, a pump, and audio-visual equipment for training purposes.  Above are members of the fire department with Fire Chief David Huggins, Jere Freel, and Evan Ryan holding the large check.  Below are photos of some of the equipment furnished through the grant.

 


 

Hwy 153 Accident on Thursday - Update
6/26/2009

More information was obtained from Department of Public Safety Trooper Pat Salas on the accident that took place on Hwy 153 about 1/10th of a mile west of Coleman at 12:15pm on Thursday, June 25, 2009. 

 

A Coleman County John Deere Road-grader being driven by Danny Michael McKinzie (35 years old from Novice) was traveling eastbound on Hwy 153.  The vehicle was positioning to turn left into the County barn.  A 2nd vehicle was behind the road-grader waiting for him to turn, and a 3rd vehicle came up behind it.  Kyle Brandon Walker, 33 years old from Lubbock, was driving a Dodge pickup towing a boat/trailer and was also eastbound.  He drove up behind the 2nd vehicle and began to pass both the 2nd vehicle and the road-grader.  The collision occurred between the Dodge Pickup and the road-grader.  There was major damage to the Dodge pickup and the blade was dis-positioned on the grader, which sustained damage.  Coleman County Deputy Les Cogdill, the Coleman Fire Department, TxDOT, and the D.P.S. were all on the scene.  Walker refused treatment at the scene.   See more pictures below

 



Howard and Nina Childress were the winners of the John Deere Lawn Mower
raffled off by the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.  The winning
ticket was drawn during Saturday night's rodeo performance.  The Chamber Board would like to thank all those that purchased tickets for the fundraiser.  Pictured above are Board President Sandra Barr,Nina and Howard Childress, Board members Kim Horne and Charlotte Hickman, and Amy Hinds and Mary Griffis from the Chamber office.
 


 

The stop lights in downtown Coleman have been changed so that East-West
traffic has flashing red lights and North-South traffic has flashing
yellow lights.   Also, new Stop signs have been placed at those intersections.

 


 

Hot, Hot, Hot, Sauce That Is! 
6/26/2009
Winners of the hot sauce contest held Saturday after the parade were announced.  Jody Barr was winner of the Mild division. Ray Pritchard was winner of the Hot division.
People's Choice awards went to Siobhan Wilson and the Coleman County 4-H Shotgun Club. The Business People's Association would like to thank everyone that entered the contest this year, and they hope to see you again next year!  The Hot Sauce contest was sponsored by the Petal Patch, Grammers, and Wise X-Press, as well as the Business People's Association.


 

SUPPORT GROUP FOR THE BLIND
EVERY TUESDAY

6/26/2009

11 A.M. to 1 P.M.
HIGH-RISE DINING ROOM
Bring a sack lunch & drink!
Anyone visually impaired or totally blind is welcome. Build self-esteem! Gain knowledge of how to be independent!  For more information contact Martha Nell Nixon at 636-4395.

 


 

Warrenfeltz Pled Guilty in District Court
6/25/2009
On September 20, 2008 Brittany Warrenfeltz (age 19) was arrested for the stabbing of Amber Culwell. She pled guilty before Judge Weeks on June 25, 2009 in District court  to a Second Degree Felony of Aggravated Assault.

 

Judge Weeks informed District Attorney Heath Hemphill and Defense Attorney Paul Jensen that in approximately one month the sentencing will take place. Taylor County Community supervision will handle the Pre-Sentencing investigation.
 


 

A two-vehicle accident occurred Thursday on Hwy 153 towards Hords Creek.  The collision happened when an eastbound pickup truck pulling a bass
boat on a trailer attempted to pass a county maintainer that was turning left into the county barn.  The sheriff's department, fire department
and D.P.S. were all on the scene. 

 


 

J.W. Harris Claims Coleman Rodeo Bull Riding Title
6/25/2009

You couldn't have written the script any better. J.W. Harris, defending world champion bull rider, riding in Coleman before his many fans and relatives, on Saturday night.

The challenger is a bull named Silent Image, who also got his start in rodeo in Coleman County where he was raised on the Taylor Ranch, a bull good enough to be at the Wrangler National Finals last year and on the PBR tour.

With the crowd going wild, Harris never faltered and rode Silent Image to a 90 point score. That eight seconds was worth $3,010 to Harris and will help his efforts to defend his world title in Vegas again in '09.

In all, the Coleman PRCA rodeo paid cowboys and cowgirls $81,065 this year. The winners of each event are as follows:

Bareback Riding - Zach Dishman - 83 points - $1,082.
Steer Wrestling - Seth Morgan - 4.9 seconds - $1,474
Team Roping - First Round - David Motes/Travis Woodard - 5.3 seconds - $882 each.
Team Roping - Second Round - Joel Bach and Allen Bach - 5.1 seconds - $882 each.
Team Roping - Average - Tie - David Motes and Travis Woodard and Robert Pixley and Joshua Sowell - 12.2 seconds on two head - $806 each.
Saddle Bronc Riding - Cody Demoss - 84 points - $1,286.
Tie-Down Roping - First Round - Justin Maass - 8.8 seconds - $891.
Tie-Down Roping - Second Round - Brad Hartt - 9.2 seconds - $891.
Tie-Down Roping - Average - Blake Huckabee - 19.0 seconds on two head - $891.
Barrel Racing - Cassie Moseley - 16.45 seconds - $1,518.
Bull Riding - J.W. Harris - 90 points - $3,010.


 

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
Scholarship Presented to
Audrey Casselberry at 2009 State 4-H Roundup

6/24/2009         By: David L. Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR

On Friday, June 12, 2009 during the Scholarship Awards Assembly at the State 4-H Roundup in College Station, Audrey Casselberry was presented with a 2009 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship Award in the amount of $15,000 (payable over a 4 year period). Audrey is the daughter of B.P. and Beverly Casselberry, and grand-daughter of Bill and Betty Casselberry of Coleman and John and Imogene Pearson of Levelland. Audrey will be attending Texas Tech University in Fall 2009. Congratulations Audrey!

 


 

VBS in Santa Anna
6/24/2009

COLEMAN COUNTY SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH IN SANTA ANNA INVITES CHILDREN TO CROCODILE DOCK VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: WHERE FEARLESS KIDS SHINE GOD’S LIGHT. 
SANTA ANNA, TX - A summer kids’ event called "Crocodile Dock" will be hosted at the Coleman County Seventh Day Adventist Church [142 CR 106, on the east side of Santa Anna Mountain] from July 6, 2009 to July 10, 2009
with a kids and parents program the morning of July 11, 2009. Kids jump into bayou fun at Crocodile Dock where they participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, dig into yummy treats, experience electrifying Bible adventures, collect Bible Memory Buddy cards to remind them of God’s Word, and create Bible Point crafts they’ll take home and play with all summer long. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through practicing “God Sightings”. Each day concludes at Firefly Finale—a celebration that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned. Family members and friends are encouraged to join in each week day, for this special time with the children at 8:35 PM.

Kids at "Crocodile Dock" will share God’s love in a hands-on mission project, helping children in need in the local area.

"Crocodile Dock" is for kids entering Kindergarten to entering 7th grade [ages 4-13 years old; 3 year olds may attend with an older brother or sister.] and will run from 6:30pm to 9:00pm each day.
VISIT OUR NEW WEB SITE AT http://www.santaannachurch.com/upcoming_events.htm 


 

“So many things, so little time” –
6/24/2009    (Contributed by Marian Johnson, Publicity, FALCC)

Membership ShowFine Arts League Members’ Show July 21-25 at Coleman Public Library.
All media accepted, no entrée fees, bring items to Library Saturday, July 18, during Library hours 9-12. Join and exhibit - Membership $15 per year. For information contact Bill & Sue Shields, Chair . 325-723-2056.

Watercolor Workshop by Jo Beck
July 29, 30, 31 (2-1/2) days – Heritage Hall 400 W. College. Registration and $75 deposit due July 6. Make check payable to Jo Beck and mail to Kay’s Garden 114 E. Pecan, Coleman, Tx 76834. 325-625-1140.

Ginger Test “Colorado Gold” workshop (intermediate & advanced students) in Southfork, Co. (Fun Valley) September 12-19. Deadline for entry and deposit WS $75 ; $100 Lodging Deposit due to Ginger July 10. For information contact Ginger 325-723-2035.

Fiesta de la Paloma Juried Fine Art Show (3rd)
– October 2-3. Send entries by CD - entry deadline Aug. 3. Send CD with entry fees to 1212 Commercial Ave., Coleman, Tx 76834. Show open 10-5 Friday with Awards Preview reception open to Public Friday evening 6-8. Show & Preview will be held at Market Hall 414 Commercial Ave., Coleman, Tx. 76834. For Show Prospectus email theda@thedarhea.com or call 325-625-4687 or mljdj@web-access.net.

 


 

CCMC BOARD MEETS IN REGULAR MEETING
6/24/2009

The Coleman County Medical Center met in their regular meeting on
June 19, 2009 with a lengthy agenda to address.

The Quality Assurance report was presented to the board by DON Melissa Gober, RN, who stated that the hospital had improved in almost all areas this last quarter.

Douglas Langley, CEO, gave the financial report for May, 2009, stating that the hospital continues to do well but again cautioned the board that historically the summer months are low patient census months.

Chris Schoenrock and Mark Schnobrich, both of Healthland, presented a PowerPoint presentation to the board on the Electronic Medical Record System soon to be purchased by CCMC.

In other business the board approved the purchase of a Bone Density Hip and Spine scan to be added to the new CT Scanner.

The board agreed that a lot at Lake Coleman belonging to the hospital will be put up for sale. It will be determined if the property will be put up for bid or sold outright.

The next regular meeting of the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors is scheduled for July 23, 2009.

 


 

Ice Cream and Music at the Feed Store
6/23/2009

Saturday June 27th, the Feed Store in downtown Santa Anna will be serving up ice cream and Gospel Music.  "Make your own" ice cream sundaes will be served in the courtyard at 6:00pm.  The Feed Store Seed Planters will begin entertaining at 7:00pm.  Everyone is invited to join in for a relaxing evening of fellowship. 


 

Bazooka Joe Placed 1st
6/23/2009
Bazooka Joe took 1st place this year in the Coleman Youth Major League Baseball Division. Coaches and parents that helped this year were Johnny Pricer, Mack Boyet, Cody Chambers, Jimmy Williams, Amy Chambers, Debra Boyet, Molly Norris, and Cody Norris. Players for Bazooka Joe are: Big John Langley (great leader, most improved batter, played second base, 12 yrs old), Felipe Ortiz (#1 pitcher, great athlete, 12 yrs old), Kyle Boyet (great kid, good attitude, made big improvement on batting, played outfield and #1 catcher, 11 yrs old), Allen Chambers, (played Short stop, 3rd base/catcher, and also pitched, lead-off batter, improved leadership, a quiet guy that I was never able to convince to “get loud”, 11 yrs old), Tyler Morgan, (played outfield, 3rd/short stop, catcher, pitcher, had some very key hits for our team, from the south part of the county, 11 yrs old), Alan Pricer (played outfield and second base, made one the best catches in the outfield for us to win a game, good work ethic, loves the game, 10 yrs old), Coby Williams (played outfield and short stop, batting made great improvement, 10 yrs old), Neil Bhakta (surprise on the team great lefty 1st base, great attitude, 10 yrs old) , Cord Norris (played outfield, short stop/3rd, catcher, pitcher, #1 leader on the team, great job son, 11 yrs old).

Overall we had a lot of individual talent, but most importantly we came together as a TEAM! Thanks for the season guys, remember use your mind, heart, feet and great things can happen…..Coach Norris.

 


 

THANK YOU COLEMAN COUNTY!
6/22/2009

The CCMC fundraiser last week was very well attended! We temporarily ran out of hamburgers, but soon had more patties sizzling on the grill – and sold them also! The Indian tacos were a great hit, too.

Thanks to the Coleman Chronicle and Democrat Voice for their advertising and putting my articles in the paper concerning the fundraiser and project for which the funds were being raised. Colemannews.com also did a great job of getting the word out to everyone. We really appreciate ya'll.

KSTA was just awesome – letting me come on air live to tell folks about the fundraiser, and promoting it every chance they got! Thanks, Leland!

We owe our thanks to Walker Funeral Home for furnishing their big tent for our use, as well and some of their chairs. The Elm Street Church of Christ also loaned us chairs so everyone who wanted to stay and eat with us had a place to sit. Shoppin’ Basket gave us a great deal on the hamburger meat for the Indian tacos, and we really appreciate that!

Also our thanks to the employees who helped set everything up, served the food, carhopped, and withstood the heat and the wind. You all did a great job! Paul Coghlan and Mike Smith really deserve a big THANK YOU for doing the cooking! They did a magnificent job!

Most of all, we appreciate everyone who took time out of their busy schedule to come to our fundraiser. Thanks to you, it was a great success!

 


 

"HATS, BOOTS & STILETTOS" Exhibit Opens
6/22/2009
       Contributed by Kathy Andrews

Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society's special exhibit at Heritage Hall titled "Hats, Boots & Stilettos" opens on Friday, June 26th and continues through August 22nd, Fridays and Saturdays during regular Museum hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Heritage Hall is located at 400 W. College in Coleman.

"Hats, Boots & Stilettos" is an exhibit of decorated and vintage footwear and vintage hats for men, women and children. Included are 54 hand painted boots on loan from West Texas Rehab, 10 of the boots were painted by Coleman artist and donated to West Texas Rehab to use at their events. Also, Fine Arts League members painted "stilettos" a few years ago to use during a fund raiser lunch and those are included in the exhibit. There are several vintage hat collections also, Kay Joffrion's 35 hat collection and Kim Horne's collection of 28 hats, both these collections are wonderful examples of ladies fashions in years past. Other collections have been loaned to the Museum for this exhibit and will be included in other articles in the following week.

If you have not taken the opportunity to visit the Museum, please do so in the next few weeks and see this outstanding exhibit, tour the Museum and visit the gift display. The members of CHAPS dedicate many hours to assure the continuation of a local History Museum and create special exhibits related to Coleman and Coleman County. The Museum and exhibit are free admission but your donations are greatly appreciated. CHAPS/Coleman Museum is designated by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and your donations are tax deductible.

 


 

COLEMAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATES TO WELCOME NEW DOCTOR!
6/22/2009

On (or about) August 1st, there will once again be three full-time doctors at Coleman Medical Associates. Dr. Paul Reynolds and Dr. Darron Atwood will be joined by Dr. Kody Yerger, who will fill the vacancy left when Dr. Bailey moved from Coleman.

With the addition of Dr. Yerger, Coleman Medical Associates will have three MDs, as well as a Nurse Practitioner (David Longley) and a Physician Assistant (Macy Knight).


 

Girl Scout Canoe Training Camp to Begin July 20
Girl Scouts of Central Texas Prepare for Race on the River

6/22/2009

San Angelo, Texas, June 17 – Ditch the same boring summer routine and make some new friends at a fun summer camp. Girl Scouts of Central Texas is encouraging all girls in grade 6 and up to attend a Canoe Training Camp beginning July 20-24 to prepare for the upcoming Girl Scout Race on the River event.

Attend this week-long summer camp and learn the basics of canoeing – from paddle strokes to rescuing a canoe in distress – for only $35 ($25 for currently registered Girl Scouts). Participants may choose between two sessions offered daily from July 20-24. The first session will be held from 6-7:30 p.m., and the second session will follow from 7:30-9 p.m. All participants will earn a patch for successfully completing the camp and will qualify for the race to be held on September 12, 2009

“The training these girls receive is remarkable. We had one girl learn how to swim just to be a part of the program and now she’s a fierce competitor. The race itself is a great opportunity for everyone to showcase their skill on the Concho at our Race on the River fundraiser,” says James Pidgeon, GSCTX Development Executive.

To support leadership opportunities available to Girl Scouts, become a Race on the River sponsor. Two-person canoe sponsorships begin at $250 and in-kind donations of goods and services are always welcome. For more information about the race or to support Girl Scouts of Central Texas, contact James Pidgeon at JamesP@gsctx.org or (325) 655-8961.

 


 


The Coleman County 4-H Shotgun Club competed again this past Saturday, June 20, 2009 at the Callahan County Fun Shoot. Trotter Harris placed 3rd in both the 5-Stand and Trap events. Trotter shoots in the Junior age division. Brent Ogden placed 2nd in Intermediate Skeet. Kelby McCorkle placed 3rd in skeet, trap, and 5-Stand. Jansen Merrill placed 1st in trap, 1st in skeet, and 2nd in 5-Stand. Jansen also won the Intermediate High Overall Award winning a belt buckle. The team has three shooting competitions left in their season. Next Saturday they travel to Ozona.


 

CLASS OF 1964 PLANS 45TH REUNION -
6/19/2009
Plans are underway for the 45th reunion of the CHS Class of 1964 the weekend of
October 23-24
. Details will be available closer to the date, but inquiries can be directed to Polly (Baulch) Salyards at bluecat6408@yahoo.com. Classmates - please reserve this date!

 


 

CCHC Cookbooks Still Available
6/16/2009

The Coleman County Historical Commission has announced that they still have "Sesquicentennial" Cookbooks available.  The cost of each book is $20 and can be purchased at:
Commercial Avenue Antique Mall
Chamber of Commerce
Heritage Hall
Humane Society Thrift Shop
Block One Flea Market


 

Now Available at Terry Studio – Order Yours Today
6/13/2009
Queens of The Coleman Rodeo Association
2009 Edition Poster

The 2009 Sesquicentennial Edition of the Rodeo Queens Poster is now available for purchase at Terry Studio, 216 Commercial Avenue in Coleman. This large 16 by 24 inch photographic poster shows images of all 68 queens of the past and present. Profits from the sale of this poster go the Coleman Rodeo Association. If you are a fan of the Coleman Rodeo, you need to add one of these posters to your collection.


St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Coleman
6/9/2009

Loretta Fulton, freelance writer previously employed at Abilene Reporter News, will be contributing stories this year about the 100th Anniversary of St. Mark's Episcopal Church of Coleman.  Click HERE
to read her full article and to find a history and timeline for the church's existence.  Thanks to Ralph Terry, of Terry Studios, for sharing his photos of the church. 


USDA SEEKS APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS TO
REPAIR RURAL HOUSING
6/25/2009
WASHINGTON, May 20, 2009 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA is accepting applications for grants to help low- and very-low-income rural residents repair their homes.

“Housing is a cornerstone of any thriving, stable community,” Vilsack said. “As the Obama administration works to ensure that people remain in their homes, it is more important than ever to make certain their homes are safe, energy efficient, livable dwellings.”

Housing Preservation Grants are provided to intermediaries such as town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and nonprofit and faith-based organizations. The grants are distributed to homeowners or owners of multi-family rental properties or cooperative dwellings who rent to low- and very-low-income people.

Grants can be used to weatherize and repair existing structures, install or improve plumbing or provide access to people with disabilities. For example, the Gateway Community Action Agency used a USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation grant in 2008 to make accessibility, weatherization and other improvements to William Reed’s home in Owingsville, Ky. Gateway added insulation, weather stripping, seals around doors and windows, an energy-saving shower head and more efficient light bulbs.

USDA may award up to $10 million in competitive grants through this notice. The grants to be awarded are part of USDA Rural Development’s annual budget and are not funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Applications are due by the close of business July 10, 2009. Applications may be accessed electronically at http://www.grants.gov . Also see the May 11, 2009, Federal Register, page 21775.

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development’s web site at
http://www.rurdev.usda.gov .  


Notice of Meeting - Coleman County Commissioners
6/29/2009
2nd Floor Coleman County Courthouse, City of Coleman
Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 9:00 am
Notice is hereby given that a Special Meeting of the Coleman County Commissioners’ Court will be held, at which time the following items will be discussed, considered, passed, or adopted to-wit:
AGENDA

1. Call the Meeting to Order
2. Receive any visitors not on the Agenda
3. Conduct any necessary old business
4. Approve minutes from prior meeting(s) (June 8th Regular Meeting, June 19th Special Meeting)
5. Elias H. Rmeile with TXDOT to discuss with commissioners’ acceptable projects for in-kind work credit.
6. Jo Chapman District Clerk – Restoration of District Clerk’s Books
7. Annual Review of Coleman County Investment Policy
8. Approve current bills for payment and authorize transfer of funds if necessary
9. Adjourn the meeting

 


 

Bondo Buddies - 20th Annual Fun Run
6/26/2009
The Bondo Buddies of Coleman will hold the 20th Annual Land of the Lakes Fun Run this Saturday, June 27, 2009. Check in begins at 8:00am and ends at 12:00pm. Entry fee is $10.00.

This year there will be additions to the event. The Evening Lions Club will have concessions including hamburgers and the Langley's will have their Snow-cone stand in the park. There will also be having JACKPOT for Horseshoes, washers, and Cowboy Golf. There will be a $5.00 charge per game, per team with the winners of each game splitting the Jackpot for that game.

The Bondo Buddies of Coleman want to invite everyone to come out to the City Park on Saturday to join in the fun and see some great vehicles!  


 

Glen Cove VFD Fundraiser Fish-Fry - Saturday
6/26/2009

There will be a fish-fry benefitting the Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Dept. on Saturday, June 27th
.  The fish-fry will begin at 6:00pm and will be held in Coleman on Tootsie's Market Square on the northeast corner of Concho and Walnut.  All proceeds will benefit the Glen Cove VFD.  $7.00 for Adults and $5.00 for 12-and-under.  Donations will also be accepted.  Serving will be from 6:00pm to around 9:00.

 


VISIT HUMANE SOCIETY DOGS AT ALCO THIS SATURDAY
6/24/2009     by Jo Ann Eddleman

The Humane Society will be at Alco on South Commercial in Coleman with several of our adoptable dogs on Saturday, June 27, from 9 to Too Hot!


Any dog adopted at this event will receive a 15% discount on the fee. Our usual fee for a mixed breed small dog is $65, $85 for large dogs. Coleman County residents and residents of adjacent counties are eligible for the discount.


This fee covers the spay/neuter, rabies shot, 7/1 canine disease shot, wormer and a collar. We lose money on our local adoptions, but we try to make up for the loss with higher adoption fees to outlying areas, the metro cities, and proceeds from our thrift store, of course.


You have to have a fenced yard to adopt. We expect our small dogs to be inside dogs, but we know that good potty habits are sometimes dependent on being able to go outside off-leash. We do make exceptions, for apartments maybe, but they are rare.


We never want to see a dog chained, but especially we do not want one of our adopted dogs chained. That is a reason for us to reclaim the dog, as explained in our Adoption Agreement. You can see our adoption agreement on our web site at www.HumaneSocietyCC.com

 
We have more dogs than we have fosters for right now, so we are hoping you will be in the market for a wonderful new addition to your family. As stated in our Agreement, we have a 10-day return policy if it turns out the new guy just does not adjust to his/her new surroundings. We keep $25 of the adoption fee in case of this return. We also are willing to take any adopted dog back even after the 10-day period, but without return of any of the fee.


Come by to visit even if you are not in the market for a new dog. We’ll have free lemonade and spay/neuter literature and applications for our discounted spay/neuter voucher.


June Immunization Clinic - Tuesday
6/22/2009
Texas Department of State Health Services  will hold an Immunization Clinic in Coleman on
Tuesday, June 23rd at 10-12 & 1:30-3:00.
United Christian and Presbyterian Church
1609 Commercial
Please Bring Child's immunization Records.  If child is on Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card.  For more information please call 325-754-4945.


COUNTY-WIDE 4-H / FFA STEER VALIDATION  -  TONIGHT
6/22/2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Coleman Livestock Auction
ATTENTION Coleman County 4-H and FFA Steer exhibitors!!!  STEER VALIDATION WILL TAKE PLACE ON Monday, June 22, 2009 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Coleman Livestock Auction.  Cost for tags are $7.00 each.

If you have any questions please contact the Coleman County Extension Office ( 325-625-4519) or your Ag Science Teacher.


First United Methodist Church donated from their outreach ministry $582 to the Coleman County Child Welfare Board for use in the Raindrop Closet.
The Raindrop Closet has items that caseworkers can pick up for children that are in foster care. Pictured left to right are board members Jo Jones,
Mona Wilson, Shannon Cloud - CPS representative, and Adam Comeaux.


 

Local CHS Student Attends Training
6/22/2009
Kelsey Puckett, Coleman High School senior, recently attended Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Officer Training at Canyon of the Eagles in Burnet. The theme of the training was “Breaking Boundaries FCCLA ‘09”. Officers from the five regions and the state officers attended the training. Kelsey is the Region II Vice President of Achievement.

Some of the training including time management, personality profiles, speaking skills, professionalism, and public relations. The officers practiced their skills at a reception and banquet.

While at the meeting plans were made for the region and state programs of work and meetings for 2009-2010. Kelsey served on the State Executive Council and Region Executive Council. She was on the state Membership Committee and region Achievement Committee.

Bonnie Brown, advisor, also attended the meeting.


 

Coleman Rodeo Parade Winners Announced
6/21/2009

The annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo Parade was held Saturday morning with well over 60 entries from all across the Big Country and Concho Valley. The following were named winners:
Out of Town Floats
1st Place - Novice Centennial Celebration
2nd Place - Suez Shrine Oriental Band
In-Town Floats
1st Place - Holiday Hill
2nd Place - Kiwanis Club
Decorated / Antique Vehicles - Local
1st Place - Carolyn Merriman
2nd Place - Monte Merriman
Decorated / Antique Vehicles - Out of Town
1st Place - Little George Haven's Cowboy Camp Meeting
2nd Place - Texas Fellowship of Cowboy Churches
Decorated Bicycles / Go Carts
1st Place - Pat DeBusk
2nd Place - Pat DeBusk
Walkers/Marching Groups/Clowns/Dancers/Bands
1st Place - Daniel Shamburger
2nd Place - Sue Niesen and Gypsy
Riding Clubs
1st Place - Lone Star Ladies
2nd Place - Coleman County Cowgirls
Individual Riders

1st Place - Arena Turner
2nd Place - Concho Valley Longhorn Riders


 

Camp Meeting Continues Evangelism
Ministry, Adds Nightly Arena Events

6/21/2009

True to tradition, the emphasis will be on evangelistic preaching, singing and Christian fellowship, but the program and facilities for the 43rd Little George Havens Cowboy Camp Meeting,
June 19-28,
have been expanded to further enhance the family experience with a western heritage flavor.
The camp meeting has been held at the campgrounds between Coleman and Santa Anna on Highway 84 since 1966. It was begun by Little George Havens, a native of the area who won fame as a movie actor and stunt man in Hollywood. After becoming a Christian and an evangelist, he began the camp meeting to continue the tradition of cowboys sharing their faith around the campfire.

Havens died in 1988, but his wife, Lucy, has continued the camp meetings and recently turned over the property to the Texas/American Fellowship of Cowboy Churches to carry on the tradition. She will continue to co-sponsor the annual event.

Though the emphasis is on evangelizing cowboys, the camp meeting this year will be a family event with daily activities for adults, children and youth, including prayer and Bible study, trail rides and various games.

Highlighting each day’s program will be worship under the tent at 7 p.m. Evangelists Jay Breland and Rick Ingle will kick off the preaching services on Friday and Saturday evenings, respectively, followed by pastors from TFCC churches, including Todd King of High Mesa Cowboy Church, Brownwood, and Sam Stone of Brushy Creek Cowboy Church, Putnam on Sunday; Greg Clemmer of Cowboy Heritage Church, Clyde, on Monday; Jimmy Holleman of Double N Cowboy Church, Dublin, on Tuesday; Gary Morgan of Cowboy Church of Ellis County on Wednesday; Jack Blease of Ridin’ for the Brand Cowboy Church, Sanger, on Thursday; Mike Morrow of Cross Brand Cowboy Church, Tyler, on Friday; Jeromy Connell of Heart of Texas Cowboy Church, Waco, on Saturday; and David Wilkerson of Ranchhouse Cowboy Church, Maypearl, and Ron Nolen, executive director of the TFCC, on Sunday.

A new feature this year, Tuesday through Friday, will be lighted arena events, including mutton busting for children, playday events, team roping, buckout and a full rodeo.

To encourage family attendance, 32 new RV hookups have been completed and will be available on a first come, first served basis and each has space for horse corral panels. A septic system dump station is also being installed.

Special events this year will include two trail rides originating in Goldthwaite and Abilene the week before the camp meeting and arriving at the camp on Friday afternoon.

Kent Battenfield, pastor of Mills County Cowboy Church, will lead the ride from Goldthwaite. He can be contacted at 325-648-2813. Sam Stone, pastor of Brushy Creek Cowboy Church, Putnam, will lead the wagons from Abilene. His phone is 325-662-3562.

A bronze statue of Little George Havens will be dedicated in special ceremonies at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 21.

 


 

County Commissioners Hear From Financial Consultant
Courthouse Project on Back Burner for Awhile
6/19/2009
Coleman County Commissioners spent over an hour Friday morning listening to and directing questions to Robert Henderson. Mr. Henderson is a representative of RBC Capital Markets of San Antonio.

Coleman County Judge Jimmie Hobbs previously met Henderson at a conference in Bastrop and asked him to visit with local officials regarding how the county could finance their portion of a courthouse renovation project. Henderson's background is that he has worked for RBC for 17 years and has assisted several area counties, such as Tom Green, McCulloch and Menard, with obtaining funding for various projects. Henderson works with other tax entities such as hospital districts and cities, teaches public finance and lectures on behalf of the Texas Association of Counties.

Henderson told Commissioners of four ways they could finance a project - tax notes, certificates of obligation, time warrants and voter general obligation. The avenue that he believes best meets Coleman County's needs are certificates of obligation. Highlights of issuing certificates of obligation are as follows:

* Commissioners pass a notice of intent to issue certificates of obligation
* They advertise their intent in the local newspaper twice
* Citizens could issue a petition against the issuance but would need 5% of voters to sign the petition to put it to a vote. Henderson has seen only one petition done in the last two decades.
* The county would need to have a credit analysis done to determine what bond rating they qualify for, BBB being the lowest, AAA being the highest. The higher the bond rating, the lower the interest rate.
* Once a bond rating is approved, the interest rate is fixed, not variable.
* Once sold, the bond sale goes to the Texas Attorney General's Office for final approval.

Henderson told commissioners the timetable is to plan for 30 days to sell the bonds and 30 days to close before the money would be in the bank. He estimated a 15 year debt would carry an interest rate of around 5%. He felt like Coleman County would not have trouble selling certificates of obligation in the market.

Is this something that must be done now?
The answer is no. At one point, when the county thought it may be in the running to receive funding from the Texas Historical Commission this year, there was more urgency. Once the Texas Legislature cut the funding for courthouse renovations in half, the money went to counties with projects already underway. The next round of funding is two years away.  Even considering issuing certificates of obligation is something which Judge Hobbs said may be considered in late 2010. Henderson said considering certificates of obligation is something that shouldn't be undertaken now. He will, however, put together a timeline for county officials to use for planning purposes.

Benny Flynn, a local citizen, asked several questions and told commissioners and the judge he would like to have more information to make a rational decision. He said he believes the county needs to rethink the functionality of the courthouse. He was concerned that some offices, currently in the courthouse, will be located elsewhere in an annex if the courthouse is renovated.

From previous news reports we've done, renovating the courthouse through a Texas Historical Commission grant would cost a little over $5 million. The county's part is roughly $900,000, the state's courthouse renovation funds would pay for 85 percent of the $5 million.

If the county undertook renovation of the courthouse itself, with no outside state funding, the cost is $1.9 million, based on a report from an architectural firm. Henderson did some quick figuring on that possibility and said the county tax rate would have to increase from the current 19 cents to 22 cents in order to pay for the renovation.


Class of 1999 Reunion - Reminder!
6/19/2009
The Class of '99 will be having their 10 year class reunion June 19th and 20th. They will have a meet and greet at Coleman Rodeo Dance Friday night, family fun and food at the City Park Saturday afternoon at 2:00, and a get together to reminisce Saturday evening.  Please help spread the word. If you have not received information or have not returned RSVP please contact Jacque Aldridge Rosales at jacquerosales4@aol.com or call Colemannews.com at 325-625-4050 for more information.  You may also contact Colemannews.com through the "Contact Us" link at the top of the page.


The Coleman Public Library had it's annual visitors from the Rodeo for the Reading Program.  Announcer Mike Mathis,
Rodeo Clown Cody Sosebee and 2009 Rodeo Queen Audrey Casselberry are shown below.


 

2009-2010 CHS Cheerleaders Casie Swening, Jackie Birdwell and Jacy Payne were serving drinks and hotdogs at Higginbotham's Grand Opening.

 

The newest member of the Chamber of Commerce is Higginbothams on Commercial Ave.  There was a ribbon cutting ceremony held at 10:00 Friday morning during their Grand Opening. Pictured above with the scissors is Rick Rosebeary, Manager, and to his left is Assistant Manager Lori Robinson.  Also shown are many of the employees of Higginbothams, Mary Griffis and Amy Hinds from the Chamber, several Chamber Board members and Mayor Nick Poldrack.


Coleman Youth Association Football League is extending the deadline for signup for two  divisions.
6/19/2009
Divisions still open are:
Flag Football – Pre k and Kindergarten                   Flag football
Mighty Mites – 1st and 2nd graders                            Pads
All other Divisions are full at this time.

The League will provide helmet, pads, game jersey and game pants and practice pants (for Mighty Mite Division) – all which will be turned back into the league at the end of the season.  Each child will be responsible for his own socks, cleats, and mouthpiece.  Birth certificates will be required for players who have not previously played for CYFL.

Sign up Fee is $50 for pads and $30 for flag.  Applications/signup can be obtained at Screen Art Graphics at 214 S. Colorado in Coleman, across from 1st  Baptist Church.  Deadline is extended until June 30th.  

Cody Norris, Michael Taylor, Jason Steffey and Jeff Hammonds will be serving on the Board during the 2009 Season.  It was determined that CYFL will remain in the West Texas Rural Youth Football League as it offers the best opportunity to play against similar size towns/schools including Clyde, Merkel, Jim Ned, Hawley, Anson, Hamlin and Eula.  It also offers the advantage of playing part of the scheduled games (at least 3 or 4) in Coleman on our home field.

The board has set the fees at the lowest possible cost to cover the basics including referees, insurance, field maintenance, and minor equipment purchases. 

Coaches will attend training from the Coleman High School football staff and basic offense an basic defense will be Coach Buzzard’s System.


Coleman City Council was "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" Thursday night at the council meeting. Pictures are Mayor Pro Tem John Plummer, Council woman Tracy Rankin, Councilman Harold Skelton and Mayor Nick Poldrack.

Mayor Pro Tem John Plummer, Councilman Harold Skelton and Mayor Nick Poldrack
proving that they are "Tough Enough to Wear Pink".

 

County Commissioners to Discuss Certificates to Possibly Fund Courthouse Renovation
6/19/2009
Coleman County Courthouse, City of Coleman
Friday, June 19, 2009 at 10:00 am
Notice of Assistance at Public Meeting: Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need special assistance or services are requested to contact Jimmie Hobbs at (325)625-4218 at least two (2) days prior to the meeting.
Notice is hereby given that a Special Meeting of the above named Commissioners’ Court will be held, at which time the following items will be discussed, considered, passed, or adopted to-wit:
AGENDA
1. Call the Meeting to Order
2. Robert Henderson with RBC Financial to discuss with Commissioners’ information on Certificates of Obligation
3. Burn Ban
4. Resolution (s) for Go Texan Rural Community Hometown Stars Program
5. Current bills for payment and authorize transfer of funds if necessary
6. Adjourn the meeting


 

And the Winner Is .....
6/18/2009
The name of Roy Hoover was drawn at 1:30 Thursday afternoon at Shoppin' Baskit to win a Father's Day gift basket from the Circle C Cattlewomen organization of Coleman County.

Thanks to Billie at Shoppin' Baskit' for drawing the winner for Circle C Cattlewomen!


 

Yarbrough Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison
6/18/2009
A six man six woman Coleman County jury has sentenced Charles Yarbrough to 20 years in prison. The sentencing came less than one hour after the jury was sent to deliberate Yarbrough's punishment.

After Judge John Weeks announced the verdict, there was a mixture of crying and happiness from representatives of both sides in the courtroom.

 

Yarbrough was then escorted from the courthouse by Sheriff Wade Turner and deputies Vickie Plummer and Les Cogdill to the Coleman County Jail.


Yarbrough was found guilty in October 2008 of Reckless Injury to a Child but the jury in the case could never decide a punishment. A new jury was picked this past Monday, heard testimony through Wednesday morning and made a decision by noon.


 

Yarbrough Case to Jury
6/18/2009

The prosecution ended it's closing arguments Thursday morning, and the Judge gave the jury their instructions in the punishment trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough.  At 11:20 the jury began deliberation on punishment for the "Reckless Injury to a Child" charge that Yarbrough was found guilty of in October of 2008. 

 

Yarbrough took the stand at 9:19am Thursday following three more character witnesses presented by the defense.  Yarbrough told the jury he had never had any other charges filed against him for family violence.  He gave his present situation with his family and work.  He also discussed the tragedy and how it had affected Lacey Nichols's family, as well as his own.  Yarbrough gave a description of his normal duties around his house at the time Lacey and her sisters were in his and his ex-wife's care.  He then gave his description of the events that occurred on the day Lacey was injured.  His testimony was that she choked on a toy while he was in the other room, and he was doing CPR when he called 9-1-1.  He said he continued CPR until the ambulance arrived.  He said he has never had any intention of hurting any child. 

 

In further testimony, Yarbrough stated that he would have no problem complying with any probation stipulations the jury might give to him.   He asked the jury to consider probation so he can continue to take care of his own two children, by continuing to work. 

 

When the state questioned Yarbrough, the original order that stated he could not see or have access to his own child was discussed.  He told Wes Mau that his lawyer, McCool, told him it had expired and it was okay for him to see his child.  Mau produced the order, which did not have an expiration date on it, but Yarbrough continued with what his lawyer had told him.  After further discussion of possible probation stipulations, the defense rested.  No state rebuttal witnesses were called and the final arguments were begun at 10:45am.

 

At 11:20am, the judge sent the jury to the jury room to deliberate Yarbrough's punishment.  Check back with Colemannews.com for further information later in the day.


 

STATE FAIR LAMB & GOAT VALIDATION
COUNTY-WIDE STEER VALIDATION
6/17/2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
COLEMAN LIVESTOCK AUCTION

4:00 PM to 7:00 PM - Steer Validation
6:00 PM - State Fair Lamb & Goat Validation

County-wide 4-H and FFA STEER Validation AND STATE FAIR Lamb & Goat Validation WILL BOTH TAKE PLACE ON Monday, June 22, 2009 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Coleman Livestock Auction.

STATE FAIR Lamb & Goat Validation will begin at 6:00 p.m. and Steer Validation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
COST: ALL tags are $7.00 each.

If you have any questions please contact the Coleman County Extension Office ( 325-625-4519) or your Ag Science Teacher.


 

Rodeo Week at Coleman Public Library
6/17/2009

Thursday, June 18th will be a busy day at the Coleman Public Library. (Colemannews.com photo from 2008 Rodeo Week at the Library.)

During registration for the Summer Reading Program kids were invited to sign up for the 1st Coleman Public Library “Stick Horse Rodeo”. There will be 3 age divisions: Toddlers – Kindergarten age, 1st – 3rd grades and 4th & 5th grades. The rodeo will be held in the Tillman Community Building starting at 2:00 p.m. Director Sue Dossey has asked all registered participants to come in early and receive your Contestant number. Events scheduled for the rodeo will be Bronc Riding, Barrel Racing, Pig Team Herding, Flag Race, Calf Roping, Boot Relay, Pole Bending and Stick Horse Balloon Bust. Winners of each event will receive a gold medallion. Those participating will receive their choice of a cowboy hat, belt buckle or a bandanna. There will also be door prize drawings for a girl and a boy.

Also on Thursday,
June 18th 3:00 p.m. visiting the library will be Coleman Rodeo Queen Audrey Casselberry, Professional Rodeo Announcer Mike Mathis, Rodeo Clown Cody Sosebee and Bull Fighters Clay Collins and Josh Rivinius. (SEE STORIES BELOW) One free ticket will be given to those attending the program only.


 

Day 3 - Yarbrough Trial
6/17/2009

The punishment phase of Charles Yarbrough's trial continued Wednesday morning with the state calling some medical specialists and a sister of Lacey Nichols, the victim who died in January of 2006. The first witness was Dr. Hernandez, Pediatric Neurologist at Cooks Children Hospital, who said his first impression was to notice the amount of bruising on Lacey Nichols body. After she was brought to the Cooks Hospital, he looked at all the imaging studies that were done on her and he stated they showed she was "brain dead." He testified that the injuries shown on the studies happened within minutes of a trauma, not earlier in the day. He stated he saw two injuries to the brain. Dr. Hernandez gave his personal diagnosis - that the injuries were caused by non-accidental trauma. He stated he saw no evidence of choking; and, choking cannot cause hemorrhaging of the brain, much less two subdural hematomas.

Lawyers for the defense then cross-examined Dr. Hernandez in reference to the CT scans from Coleman and Cook Children's Hospital. He questioned Hernandez about the differences in them, to which Hernandez said he felt the difference was due to the time-lapse between hospitals.

The state then called Dr. James Marshall, Pediatric Critical Care Physician at Cook Children's Hospital. On January 12, 2006 at 11:55am he pronounced Lacey Lynn Nichols dead. He said his team had prepared an operation room for her, but when she got there, they did not perform surgery because she had such a traumatic injury. It was his opinion that injuries like Lacey's would be noticed immediately after the incident happened. Dr. Marshall stated he has seen a brain injury show cause for CPR, but has never seen CPR cause a brain injury.

When the defense questioned Dr. Marshall, he was asked if he was able to eliminate choking in Lacey that could have caused injuries to the brain. Dr. Marshall stated he saw nothing that gave evidence to that, but said it could not be ruled out.  He then stated that he did not believe her particular brain injuries could have been caused by choking.

At this point the state called Dr. Hernandez back to the stand where he stated that he had not personally ever seen CPR cause subdural hematoma.
 
The final witness for the prosecution was Lacey's 17 year-old sister. She, Lacey and another sister lived with the Yarbroughs together. She said on the stand that at times she did not like living with them. She felt that her siblings did not get treated the same as the biological daughter. She had told her family advocate at one point, that she didn't like it in the home. She also stated that she personally never harmed Lacey.   Robert McCool, defense attorney, asked the sister about her relationship with Charles. She said she didn't think he was a bad person. He questioned her about a video on which she said she did like living there. She stated that she was concerned about some of their discipline techniques.

District Attorney Heath Hemphill completed the questioning by saying, "Any living environment was much better than the one you came from." She then said, "Yes, by far."

The State rested its case at 11:00am Wednesday.

 

After lunch on Wednesday the first witness called by the defense was Janna Yarbrough, Charles' ex-wife. She said they were divorced in 2006 due to the incident with Lacey. CPS took their own baby away during the investigation so she had to divorce Charles to get her baby back. When Lacey first came to live with them, she cried a lot, was still on a bottle and could not walk. She lived in the home 6-7 months. Janna said Charles treated the kids all equally, that he loved them like they were his own, and never lost his temper. She said Lacey fell a lot when she was trying to learn to walk. She had no idea how the bruises that were on the baby got there. She said the morning of her death, Charles was fine and his mood was normal. Janna testified that she called her case worker at New Horizons often to report any bumps and bruises Lacey received. McCool questioned her about an incident where Charles did shake Lacey one time, and Janna admitted that he had. He had said, "Stop crying Lacey, stop crying." She said they both knew it was wrong and that they should never do it again. She said it's been extremely hard on them because her daughter cannot see her dad. She stated that Charles always took all the kids hunting and fishing, and that they (Lacey and her sisters) had never done anything like that. McCool asked her if he'd ever slapped her; she replied that once she'd slapped him and he slapped her back. Police were called on that incident. McCool also asked her to comment on the sheriff's department being called out for an argument between Charles and his Dad. She admitted that had happened.

The state questioned Janna on the police and sheriff's visits to their home. He also questioned her on Charles' temper with Lacey, and referenced her testimony from the first trial. She was also questioned about her own daughter, of about the same age of Lacey, and whether she had the same amount of bruising from normal kid activities.

The New Horizons case worker was called to the stand by the defense, where he said that when he first obtained the Yarbroughs as Foster Parents, he was concerned about their young age. However, after he made visits to the home, he felt they were doing a good job. He said that Janna called him often to give him reports.

The state questioned the case worker about Charles' work and his being gone from home for several days at a time.

The defense then called Melinda McKinney, older sister of Yarbrough. She stated that he is her best friend, and they have one big happy family. She said she noticed that Lacey fell more often then most children when she was in the home. Janna was with the kids most of the time according to McKinney, and she believed that Charles would never hurt the kids. She also stated that her own boys love Charles.

The state questioned the sister about lies he had allegedly told an ex-girlfriend. McKinney stated that it's not Yarbrough's character to lie, it's not his character to injure a child, and she didn't believe it was his character to hit his wife.

Three more character witnesses were called to the stand that were not members of Charles' family. Each stated that he was truthful and honest. One said he was a peaceful and law-abiding citizen. One had known him all his life and never known him to lose his temper.

Charles' mother and father were separately called to the stand, and both of them discussed how they felt about Charles not being able to see his own children. They both feel it's been a tough time for Yarbrough. 

The trial resumes Thursday morning at 9:00am with the defense calling a medical specialist to the stand.

 


 

Meal after Parade Saturday
6/17/2009
Coleman Junior Rodeo Association will be serving a hamburger/hot dog meal immediately following the rodeo parade on Saturday, June 20th at the Coleman County Courthouse.  Cost will be
$6.00
for a hamburger, chips and drink, or two hot dogs, chips and drink.  Live music will be provided by 4Barrel and Barbwire.  The meal will be held in conjunction with the Coleman Business People's "Hot, Hot, Hot.....Hot Sauce That Is" contest.  Proceeds from the meal benefit Coleman Junior Rodeo Association's scholarship fund. 


 

Patricia Marchi, Barrel Racer and wife of world renown Ghilherme Marchi (ranked 2nd in the Built Ford Tough PBR Standings), went into the Chamber
Wednesday morning.  Pictured above are Mary Griffis, Patricia Marchi, Amy Hinds and Nina Childress. 
Patricia is riding barrels tonight in the slack. 
She and her husband live in Ferris, Texas with their 2 young children.
 


 

CCMC Fundraiser Thursday
6/17/2009
The CCMC Employees Activity Committee, with the help of many other hospital employees, will have their annual fundraiser on Thursday, June 18th from 11am to 1pm. You can get a tasty lunch – your choice of a hamburger, Indian taco, or two hot dogs, together with chips, dessert, and a drink for only $6.00 – and also help CCMC purchase some much needed equipment!  This is the fifth year for the fundraiser, and the proceeds from those first four fundraisers have helped purchase several pieces of equipment for the hospital. 

 

The project this year (and probably for the next two years also) is an expensive one – an Electronic Medical Records System. The whole system – there are five parts to it – runs in excess of $400,000.00. CCMC has received one grant so far, in the amount of $30,000.00, to apply toward the first part, and have another grant proposal pending. Most grants, if awarded, require matching funds (not dollar for dollar, necessarily, but usually anywhere from 20 to 50 percent) from the grant recipient. This system will be a requirement in three years. So this equipment is not an elective, but a “must have” in order to keep the hospital up to standards.

The Electronic Medical Records system make it possible to get accurate and complete information to all health care providers when they need it, and get it in an understandable way. Basically what that means is if you go to a specialist in Abilene or Dallas, or most any other place, this specialist can request your medical records (with your permission, of course) and it will be sent to him/her via a secure internet line. Every test, every illness, everything that is on your medical record will be available to the doctors who are treating you.

That’s a simplified version of the MHR system as it applies to getting your records to specialists. How does it work in if you are a patient in the hospital? Every thing that currently goes into your chart will go into the EMR system, which means it will be immediately available to the next shift of nurses and the doctors at the hospital. If you are transferred to another hospital, they will be able to pull up your complete medical chart.  CCMC will do one part of the system in 2009, one in 2010, and the others in 2011.


The fundraiser will be located on the corner of College and Frio (behind the hospital), and there will be a “to go” station as well as a station for those who wish to stay and eat. There will also be car hops who will take your order and bring it to you if you pull up on the College Street side.


 

Cody Sosebee Brings Fun and Laughs to Coleman PRCA Rodeo
6/16/2009

If you need a good laugh, then simply go to the Coleman PRCA Rodeo Thursday, Friday or Saturday night and watch Cody Sosebee be himself.

The Arkansas native is the barrelman and will provide the specialty acts at the rodeo.  A member of the PRCA since 2003, Sosebee has shot to the top of the rodeo world having worked the Cheyenne Frontier Days, Calgary Stampede, Dodge Prairie Circuit Finals, Wrangler ProRodeo Tour Summer Finale and the list goes on.

Famous for his flame shirts and baggy pants, Sosebee can just as easily show up in the arena as "someone else".


 

National Finals Bullfighter Clay Collins in Coleman This Week
6/16/2009

Clay Collins didn't dream of being in rodeo or as being a bullfighter. In fact, he didn't attend a rodeo until he was 21 years old.

He wanted to play baseball. In his senior year at a McDonough, Georgia high school, Collins had a .420 batting average and pitched three no-hitters.

Clay was eventually invited to a tryout with the Florida Marlins in 1995 where he was later cut, ending the baseball dream. But, like the old saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens.

After attending a rodeo with a friend, and on a dare, Clay began fighting bulls in practice pens. One thing led to the next and Clay moved into the PRCA in 1998 where he has been ever since.

Collins has worked the coveted Wrangler National Finals in Las Vegas the last two years, 2007 and 2008. This year, Clay has fought bulls in San Antonio, Houston, Kansas City and many places in between.

 

You may have seen Clay on NBC's Today Show with Matt Lauer in 2008 at RodeoHouston.

 

So come to the Coleman Rodeo Thursday, Friday and Saturday and be treated to the PRCA's best in the bullfighting business, Clay Collins. Just look for the red hat.  Learn more about WNFR Bullfighter Clay Collins at www.claycollins.net.

 

 


 

PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year Returns to Coleman
6/16/20009

The 72nd Coleman PRCA Rodeo will be produced by Smith Pro Rodeos. Stace Smith produces more PRCA Rodeos than any other stock contractor in the PRCA.

 

Smith has been named Stock Contractor of the Year in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008.

Stace Smith Pro Rodeos owns 321 head of horses in its bucking horse program. Of these, approximately 140 are of age and condition to be featured in rodeos.

 

Smith also owns 60 bulls currently featured in the PRCA and at PBR events.

 


 

 

Afternoon Update in Yarbrough Trial - Day 2
6/16/2009

Dr. Sisler with the Tarrant County medical Examiners Office was first on the stand Tuesday afternoon. When asked by the state, he testified in the Charles Yarbrough trial that the cause of death of 14-month old Lacey Nichols was blunt injury to the head and brain. It was his opinion that this was a non-accidental trauma. The medical examiner said he believed that this death had nothing to do with choking or accidental injuries. Bob McCool, defense attorney, then cross-examined Sisler and asked if it was possible that these injuries could have been accidental. Dr. Sisler said it might be possible but said it is an extreme rarity.

Next was Dr. Jayme Coffman, Pediatric Child Abuse Specialist at Cooks Children's Hospital. She reviewed over 30 bruises and injuries to the body. It was also her opinion that the injuries were non-accidental. She commented that chances of these injuries having been from a fall are "one in a million." Defense Attorney Wallace Olney asked Coffman whether she could say the injuries could "never" be attributed to accidental choking; her opinion was it was a high rarity that it could have been an accident. The trial will resume at 9:00am on Wednesday in the Coleman County courthouse. (See story below for Tuesday morning's report.)

 


 

School Board Honors Young - Resignations and Hires on Agenda
6/16/2009

Royce Young (left in picture) received a desk clock from the school board and its President Mike Edington Monday night for the 30 years of service to the school district. He has been a teacher, counselor, principal, and is presently the Superintendent. All board members were present for the June meeting with a fairly short agenda.

Resignations were accepted from Patrick Adams (H.S. History teacher), Josh Alcorn (H.S. History teacher/coach), Darlyne Ervin (Sr. English), Kay Parrot (1st grade), Debbie Roberts (6th Grade English), Steve Roberts (HS and Jr Hi Health/Coach), Shelly Taylor (H.S. Drama/Theater Arts) and Beau Shahan (hired at last board meeting but took another position).

Hired for next year were Anthony Beggs (Ag Science), Susan Carol Bennington (H.S. Counselor), LeeAnn Williams Bernard (6th English), Cynthia Brisco Beggs (Kindergarten) and Charlotte Purl (H.S. History). There are still several positions to be filled.

The CISD School Resource Officer, James O'Shields, gave his end-of-the-year report Monday night. He shared statistics on his activities for the year, including the 96.76% average attendance for CISD for the school year. He gave information on all the different types of charges and referrals he handled. He also thanked the board for the purchase of the additional cameras for the security system. They will provide more evidence in cases involving damage or theft of school property.

 

The enrollment for CISD was reported to be down 15 student from the year before, with a total of 971 students enrolled at the end of the year. Also, a Tax Ratification Election was discussed but no action was taken at this time.


 

Day 2 of Yarbrough Trial - Update
6/16/2009

District Attorney Heath Hemphill and Wes Mau, Assistant Attorney General from Austin, called several witnesses to the stand Tuesday morning. Among those giving testimonies today were a nurse that was on duty in the ER at Coleman County Medical Center the day that 14-month old Lacey Lynn Nichols was brought in and Dr. Darren Atwood, the doctor on call at that time. They both testified that they felt the bruising they saw was inconsistent with normal child activities. The last witness called before lunch was Chief of Police Jay Moses. He testified on the law enforcement activities that took place on the day in question. The trial continues Tuesday afternoon. 

CLICK HERE
to read the October 2008 articles over Charles Randal Yarbrough's original trial. October 13th was the latest article; scroll down to read articles beginning on October 3, 2008



 

National Nursing Assistant Week
6/16/2009

June 11-18th is National Nursing Assistant Week. In recognition of this, Holiday Hill would like to invite all Nursing Assistants in Coleman County area to a "Come and Go" Hamburger/Hotdog luncheon.

It takes a special person to do the work that you do. You are dedicated to helping people in many ways. Your efforts make a difference in people's lives every day. Your work is so valuable.

So, please join us on June 18, 2009 from 11:00am - 1:00pm at Holiday Hill (245 State Hwy 153 West), and give us the opportunity to show our appreciation for you.


 

Hot, Hot, Hot Sauce, That is!  Entries Due Thursday!
6/16/2009

There are still spots available in the Hot Sauce contest taking place Saturday after the Coleman Rodeo Parade.
 The Coleman Business People's Association is sponsoring this and entries are due by Thursday at 5:00pm to the Petal Patch at 310 S. Commercial Ave.  Cash prizes are $300 for each division - Hot or Mild.  There will also be a "People's Choice" award given.  All entrants will receive a t-shirt with the Hot, Hot, Hot Sauce logo! 

 

Pick up your containers and entry forms at Wise X-Press at 108 E. Liveoak and get your entry fee paid by Thursday at 5:00pm!


 

Vacation Bible School Continues at FBC
6/16/2009

There were 168 kids registered on Monday for the "Boomerang Express" VBS at the First Baptist Church in Coleman.  The activities continue through Friday, and anyone else wanting to attend (from K-6 next year) is still welcome to come to the Family Life Center to participate.  VBS is from 8:20 - 12:00noon. 


 

Coleman City Council to Meet Thursday
6/16/2009

THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2009, 5:00pm
Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARING (S):
Council will conduct a Public Hearing to allow for citizen input and answer questions concerning the 2008 City of Coleman Consumer Confidence Report for Drinking Water.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Council will consider on the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1106 amending Chapter 8: Offenses and Nuisances of the City of Coleman’s Code of Ordinances, Article 8.03 Junked and Abandoned Vehicles, adding the adoption of Chapter 683 of the Texas Transportation Code, amending Section 8.03.001 Definitions, Section 8.03.002 Abandoned Motor Vehicles and Section 8.03.003 (b) Abatement of Nuisance.
Council will consider on the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 1107 amending Chapter 8: Offenses and Nuisances of the City of Coleman’s Code of Ordinances Article 8.06 Nuisances, amending Section 8.06.002 Illustrative Enumeration and Section 8.06.004 Notice to Abate.
NEW BUSINESS
:
1. Council will consider approval for the purchase of a used digger truck for the Light Distribution Department.

 


"Walk Across Texas" Forms Due Friday
6/16/2009

Walk Across Texas has finally come to an end and to celebrate we are having a hamburger cook out at the Coleman City Park! Please come join us on Monday, June 22, 2009 at 6:00 P.M. Bring your team and your family! We will have food, fun, and prizes for the winning team! Also, please bring a lawn chair as there may not be enough seating in the lower area of the park. Please RSVP by Friday, June 19, 2009 at 325-625-4519.

All forms must be turned in to the Coleman County Extension Office by Friday, June 19, 2009. We must have them completed and turned in to process the results.

I have really enjoyed the competition this year and the great response in our community to this program! I hope we will have even better numbers next year!

If you have any additional questions please contact Christin Burris, CEA-FCS, at 325-625-4519 or cdburris@ag.tamu.edu


 

 

DON BEINSTEIN OF COLEMAN WINS “BEST ORPHANED VEHICLE”
6/16/2009

IN BARBARIAN FESTIVAL ANTIQUE & CLASSIC CAR & TRUCK SHOW Don Beinstein, of Coleman won “Best Orphaned Vehicle” in the in the Barbarian Festival Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show in Cross Plains this past Saturday.

Other Category winners: Coupe: Deverel Hays, Cross Plains; Sedan: Bill Lee, Cross Plains; Truck Pre-1964: Clarence & Nelda Evette, Comanche; Truck 1965-2009, Jack Sandifer, Cisco; Street Rod: Randy Claseice, Abilene; Hot Rod: Lee Thomas, Cross Plains; Classic: Larry Warren, Cisco; Convertible: Keali McClure, Cross Plains; Antique: Darv Foster, Brownwood; Unfinished: Toni Sprowles, Bangs. “People’s Choice” Award: Ron Werkwerth, Early. The “Best of Show” Winner: Ron Werkwerth from Early.

Talent Contest Winners: First place: Larissa Propest, niece of Steve and Kitty Propest of Cross Plains. Second place: Sarah Rogers, daughter of Kelly Atha of Cross Plains. Third place: Sky Franks, daughter of Amy Cox of Ranger. Fourth place: Ashley Hall, of Cross Plains. “People’s Choice’ Winner: Larissa Propest.

Tractor Show Winners: Letha Clark Black of Midlothian, “Best of Show” and Tyler Jobe of Clyde, ‘Most Unique”. Top 10 Tractors: Sam Simmons, Moran; David Goble, Cross Plains; Clarence Chambers, Brownwood; Brenda Simmons, Moran; George Sears, Zephyr; Cheryl Goble, Cross Plains and Stacey Jobe, Clyde. “Peoples Choice” Award: Brenda Simmons, Moran.


27 year old Jerry Olinger attempted to flee from Coleman Police Tuesday, June 16th afternoon around 4:30pm. When he finally pulled over at the intersection of
Hwy 206 and Hwy 283, Olinger was arrested for possession of marijuana and methamphetamines.


 

Children at Risk in Hot Cars
6/16/2009

Contributed by Christin Burris, CEA-FCS, Coleman County Extension Office
Texas AgriLife Extension agent, Christin Burris, reminds parents that summertime is almost here, and with the increase in temperatures, the danger of children dying from being left unattended in vehicles increases.
Temperatures in parked vehicles can rise very quickly. According to San Francisco State University’s department of geosciences, in just 10 minutes the temperature can increase by almost 20 degrees. A child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s, making children more vulnerable to a deadly condition known as hyperthermia or heat stroke. At a body temperature above 104 degrees, heat stroke can occur.
Although even mild outside temperatures can be dangerous, with Texas temperatures climbing into the upper 90s each day, the danger becomes even greater.
Janette Fennell, founder and president of the Kids and Cars program, reports that there have been six hyperthermia deaths nationally so far this year. Fortunately, there have been none in Texas so far in 2009. However, last year in Texas, there were nine vehicle heat-related deaths. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 42 deaths nationally last year. Texas leads the nation with the highest number of vehicle hyperthermia deaths – 52 for the years 1998-2008.
During this time period, more than half of the deaths were due to the child being ‘forgotten’ in the vehicle by the caregiver. Parents and care givers can take precautions to prevent these needless deaths by making sure that children are not left alone in vehicles and cannot have access to unlocked vehicles.
National Safe Kids reports that one-third of the heat-related deaths in 2000 were due to children becoming trapped in a vehicle they had crawled into.
Here are some safety tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
• Never leave infants or children in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are partially open.
• Do not let children play in an unattended vehicle. Teach them that a vehicle is not a play area.
• Make a habit of looking in the vehicle – front and back – before locking the door and walking away.
• If you are dropping a child off at childcare, and normally it’s your spouse or partner who drops them off, have your spouse or partner call you to make sure the drop went according to plan.
• Ask your childcare provider to call you if your child does not show up for childcare.
• Do things to remind yourself that a child is in the vehicle, such as writing yourself a note and putting the note where you will see it when you leave the vehicle; placing your purse, briefcase, or something else you need in the back seat so that you will have to check the back seat when you leave the vehicle. Another reminder is to keep an object in the car seat, such as a stuffed toy. When the child is buckled in, place the object where the driver will notice it when he or she is leaving the vehicle.
• Always lock vehicle doors and the trunk, and keep keys out of children’s reach.
• If a child is missing, check the vehicle first, including the trunk.
• If you see a child alone in a hot vehicle, call the police.
• If a child is in distress due to heat, get them out of the vehicle as quickly as possible. Cool the child rapidly. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

While there are already some electronic gadgets on the market to help prevent these needless tragedies, the best precaution is to be vigilant and follow these safety recommendations.

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin.
The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

 


 

Troy Hubbard Receives Eagle Scout Award
6/16/2009

An Eagle Scout ceremony was held Saturday morning at the Coleman City Park pavilion. Troy Hubbard, son of Drew and Barbara Hubbard of Coleman, is the latest in a long line of Eagle Scouts from Coleman.  Also participating in the ceremony were Steve Autry, Hayes Edington, James Cross, Randy Turner, Marcelino Felipe, Leslie Cross, and Lane Watson. 

 


 

News Release - City of Coleman's Code on Bicycle Riding
6/15/2009

A reminder to all citizens of Coleman that is is ILLEGAL to ride any bicycle on the sidewalks within the corporate limits of the city.  Following is the section in the City of Coleman's Code of Ordinances which addresses riding bicycles on the sidewalks of Coleman.

ARTICLE 12.06 BICYCLES
Sec. 12.06.001 Riding on sidewalks
It shall be unlawful to ride any bicycle on any sidewalk within the corporate limits of the city.

Sec. 12.06.002 Riding after dark
It shall be unlawful to ride or use any bicycle on the streets or alleys within the corporate limits of the city between sundown and dawn unless equipped with front and rear lights.

Sec. 12.06.003 Riders to follow traffic regulations
Any person riding or using a bicycle on the streets of the city shall ride or use same in accordance with the laws, ordinances and regulations governing the driving and use of motor vehicles in the streets and highways.

Sec. 12.06.004 Penalty

Any person found guilty of violating any section of this article shall be fined in accordance with the general penalty provision set forth in section 1.01.009 of this code. 

The City of Coleman appreciates your cooperation in following these rules and procedures.

 


 

Coleman County Choir - Sing Patriotic Christian Music
6/15/2009

Truitt Mitchell is organizing a Coleman County Choir to sing a patriotic Christian musical on Sunday, July 5. Coleman County Choir is sponsored by Coleman First United Methodist Church and pastor Mike Kerzee. It is open to all who love to sing! This patriotic performance will take place in the Family Life Center of Coleman First Baptist Church at 7:00pm. John Stanislaw is hosting pastor.

The program is entitled "A Patriotic Musical" by Sue C. Smith, Joel Lindsey and Russell Mauldin. Music includes "God Bless the U.S.A.," "This is our America," "America the Beautiful," "I love These Fifty States," "While There's Time," "In God We Still Trust," "You're a Grand Old Flag", and "Forever in Peace May You Wave." 

First practice will be
Wednesday, June 24 at 7:30pm in the Family Life Center. Music and CD's will be passed out at this time and future rehearsals will be determined.

Truitt may be contacted by phone at 325-784-9063 or email
truitt@pgrb.com
for further information

 


 

Jury Selected - Re-Trial Begins
6/15/2009

The prosecution and defense agreed upon a 6-men 6-women jury and the call of witnesses began at 3:10pm Monday, June 15th.  Charles Yarbrough is in the punishment phase for the Reckless Injury of a Child charge he received last October.  There was a mistrial declared by the judge originally when the jury could not agree upon punishment.  The trial is expected to last all week.

 


 

Members of the Coleman County 4-H Shotgun Club competed on Saturday, June 13, 2009 at the Taylor County Shoot. Pictured are: L – R: Trotter Harris, 2nd place Junior Trap, 4th place Junior 5-Stand. Jansen Merrill, 3rd place Intermediate 5-Stand, 4th place Intermediate Trap. Kelby McCorkle, 1st place Senior 1 Trap, 2nd place Senior 1 5-Stand, 3rd place Senior 1 Skeet. Kelby also won the High Overall Buckle for the Senior 1 age division. Also participating but not pictured were: David Wakefield, Coco Smith, and Brent Ogden 3rd place Intermediate skeet, 2nd place Intermediate 5-Stand, and 2nd place Intermediate trap.

 


Coleman High School students Zach Doyle, Tanner Brooks, Lisha Merkley, Reagan Barr and Eden Duqette recently volunteered for the West Texas Rehabilitation Center’s Camp Rehab.  The five paired with buddies to enjoy a day at the Abilene Zoo, Gymnastics Sports Center and Safety City.  They are shown with their buddies in the foam pit at the Gymnastics Sports Center in Abilene.


Gary Heath and Casie Swening competed at the 4H State Round-Up at Texas A&M on June 11th. They placed 1st in the Sheep and Goat Educational Presentation contest. Their talk was titled "Pregnancy Toxemia in Goats". They explained what pregnancy toxemia is, how to treat it, and how to prevent it. They then answered questions from the judges.


Casie Swening, Audrey Casselberry and Nicole Heath of the Coleman 4H Club competed at 4H State Round-Up at Texas A&M University on June 10th. Consumer Education contest is a competition where contestants are given 8 classes of 4 like products of different brands and a scenario and must rank the products from best to least choice according to criteria in the scenario. They are also required to give the reasons why they selected the order to a judge on 2 of the classes. There were 40 teams with a total of 160 individuals. The Coleman team placed 4th overall. Audrey placed 9th high individual overall, while Nicole tied for 2nd highest in reasons and Casie tied for 4th high in reason


 

 

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in May 2009
6/15/2009
Investigations: Theft-4; Criminal Mischief-3; Burglaries-5; Failure to Leave Information-1; Hindering Secured Creditor-1; Assault-3; Vandalism-1; Attempted Suicide-1; Arson-1.

Arrests: Warrants-10; Possession of Marihuana-1; Driving While Intoxicated-1; Disorderly Conduct-1; Criminal Mischief-1; Public Intoxication-3; Burglary of Habitation-1.

Motor Vehicle Crashes: No Injury-2; With Injury-3.

Tickets Issued: Animal Control- 1 ticket issued with 1 charge filed; Code Enforcement-2 tickets issued with 4 charges filed; School Resource Officer-10 tickets issued with 10 charges filed; Coleman Police Department-72 tickets issued with 86 charges filed.

Warnings Issued: Animal Control-1; Police Department-9.

Animal Control: Calls for Service-69; Dogs Picked Up-15; Cats Picked Up-5; Other Animals Picked Up-14 (1 snake, 4 skunks, 3 opossums, 5 raccoons, and 1 duck); Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-11.


 

Rodeo T-Shirts and Caps Available
6/15/2009

The Coleman Rodeo Association t-shirts and caps are now available for purchase at the Chamber of Commerce office in Coleman.  They come in black, charcoal gray, and pink.  T-shirts sized XS to XL are $10.00, 2X-3XL are $12.00.  Coleman Rodeo caps are $10.00.  "Tough Enough to  Wear Pink" caps are $15.00.  The pink bracelets are $3.00 and for every one sold, Coleman Rodeo Association will donate $1.00 to Breast Cancer Research.


 

72nd Annual Coleman Rodeo Parade - Saturday
6/15/2009
The 72nd Annual Coleman Rodeo Parade will be held at 10:00am Saturday, June 20, 2009. Line up time will be 9:15am at the South end of Commercial Avenue at United Christian & Presbyterian Church.

Free rodeo tickets
will be given to each member of riding clubs if they are riding in the Grand Entry, Saturday night, June 20th. These tickets will be given at the rodeo grounds to each individual who participates.  Rodeo Food Concessions will be available at the rodeo grounds.


 

Chamber Fundraiser Drawing Saturday
6/15/2009
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture & Tourist Bureau Fundraiser for the John Deere LA115 18 HP 42” Deck Lawnmower has been extended to Saturday, June 20th. The Lawnmower will be given away
during the 72nd Annual PRCA Coleman Rodeo
Saturday night. Tickets are on sale now at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce office or from any Chamber Director. Tickets will also be for sale each night of the Coleman Rodeo.

Must be 18 years of age and agree to be responsible to pay tax liabilities and tax, title, and license.

 


 

 

Punishment Phase for Yarbrough
6/15/2009

On October 10, 2008 Charles Randal Yarbrough was found guilty of Reckless Injury to a Child in the death of Lacey Lynn Nichols. On October 13th the punishment phase of his original trial was declared a mistrial. A new jury will be selected today, Monday, June 15, to hear evidence in the case being presented this week in 42nd District Court in Coleman.

 



72nd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo This Week
6/15/2009 

The Coleman Rodeo Association has announced that Stace Smith Pro Rodeos will be stock contractor this year and the rodeo will be in the "Heartland Series." Cowboys coming to these rodeos can qualify for the "Heartland Series" finals in October in Waco, Texas.

 

The week will begin with the annual breakfast on the Courthouse Square on Tuesday, June 16th beginning at 7:00am. Breakfast will be served by the Coleman County Cowgirls and is free, but the girls will accept any donations for their efforts.

Wednesday the 17th will have steer roping at 9:00am and the first round of slack at 6:00pm. These are free to the public so feel free to come out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Thursday the 18th will be the first performance beginning at 8:00pm. As in previous years, Thursday night's performance will be "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" night. Everyone, including the cowboys and cowgirls, are encouraged to wear pink to support the event.
At 7:15pm come see the Kids Mutton Bustin' **

Friday the 19th
7:15pm - Kids Mutton Bustin **
8:00pm - Rodeo Performance
9:00pm - Dance with the
Bart Crow Band followed by Johnny Cooper.

Saturday the 20th will have several events downtown near the courthouse:
10:00am - Old time Rodeo parade in downtown Coleman on Commercial Avenue.
             - "Hot, Hot, Hot...sauce, that is!" contest - on the courthouse square.
             - Jr. Rodeo Association will be cooking hamburgers.
             - 4Barrel and Barbwire, local bands, will both perform on the courthouse square.

3:00pm - Coleman Rodeo Grounds - 1st Annual Exceptional Kids Rodeo
7:15pm - Kids Mutton Bustin **
8:00pm - Last Chance to see the best Rodeo in West Central Texas and dance to the sounds of
Sonny Burgess and the Richard Travis Band at 10:00pm.

**Also Kids Mutton Bustin' will be held each night, Thursday - Saturday, at 7:15pm. Entry forms are available at Johnson Feed Barn, Davis Farm and Ranch, or www.colemanrodeo.com. The winner of each performance will receive a hand-crafted silver belt buckle.


 

Goldsboro Man Named Horseman of the Year
6/15/2009
Bob Lowe has been training horses since 1957. He has 14 horses in training right now, for a variety of disciplines. He trains them for barrel racing, roping, all-around performance or for working cattle.

Bob was honored, indeed surprised recently, when he was named 2008 Horseman of the Year by the Clovis Livestock Association. Clovis, New Mexico is home to the biggest horse sale in the southwestern U.S.

The honor is given only once a year to a person who has enhanced the horse industry. Through his lifetime of hard work training horses, Bob Lowe has definitely enhanced the industry.

Bob is quick to point out that his wife, Julienne, is an excellent horsewoman and rides and trains horses with him at their ranch in Goldsboro, in northwestern Coleman County.

Bob also wants to publicly thank Coleman County State Bank for supporting him in his business.


 

Bluecat Basketball Camp Begins Today
6/15/2009

Bluecat Boy's Basketball Camp will start at 1:00p.m. Monday, June 15, 2009. Campers may turn registration forms into the Coleman ISD Administration Office or bring the registration forms the first day of camp. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact Coach C.J. Villegas at 325-669-2420. 


Sign up to Win "Beef for Father's Day" Basket
6/15/2009

The Circle C Cattlewomen's Gift Basket giveaway will be a "Beef for Father's Day" basket of goodies.  Go by Shoppin' Baskit to sign up to win.  Item included in the basket will be:
4 Tickets to Coleman PRCA Rodeo - Good any night
4 Tickets to Sonny Burgess Saturday Night after Rodeo
2 Rodeo T-shirts
$25 Gift Certificate to Shoppin Baskit
4 Gift Cards for Kid's Meals at Dairy Queen
Weber Specialty Grilling Spices
Items for Dad's Perfect Barbeque
$10.00 Gift Certificate to County General Store

BEEF.... It's what's for dinner!


Burkett VFD Says "Thank you!"
6/14/2009
The members of the Burkett Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank everyone who helped to make our first BBQ a success! We had ample food, lots of people and a great time. It’s the fund raisers and donations that keep the VFDs operational. Thank you!

“THANK YOU” to the following businesses who donated goods and/or services for the drawings:
The Country General Store        Coleman Flea Market
The Corral                                Bowen Drug
Coleman Country Club              Pasta Primavera
Best Fried Chicken                  Shoppin Baskit
Dairy Queen                           Watson Jet Lube
Tiffany’s                                 The Peddle Patch
Coleman C-DV                         William’s Tire
Earl Smith Jewelers                 Tyson Pharmacy
Grammers                               Mel’s Flower
ALCO                                     Cooper Supply
Car Quest                               Johnson’s Implement
O’Reilly’s                                Johnson Feed Barn
Higginbotham/Radio Shack      F & L Feed
West Texas Gas                     Big O’s – Valera

“THANK YOU” to all the ladies who baked items for the Bake Sale and to the attendees who bought them! Everything was well received and there was some haggling over a few items! Your continued support is appreciated!


 

Thanks!!

6/13/2009

We would like to thank everyone who bought from our bake sale. It was a great success. Thank you so much!! 
Coleman Cowboys Cheerleaders

 


 

Coleman Cowboys Football Team and Coleman Cowboys Cheer Squad
6/13/2009
We will participate in the rodeo parade Saturday, June 20, 2009 @ 9:00 a.m. Please be present at the corner of East Tenth and Commercial to get on the trailer. Any questions call Coach Hurtado. 325-625-9216 or 325-220-1252.


Vail's License Suspended
6/12/2009

The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Office Standards and Education (TCLEOSE) has suspended the Law Enforcement license of Steven Vail for the remainder of his deferred adjudication. Vail received probation beginning on March 13th and was placed on community supervision for a period of 12 months. The Austin office of Timothy Braaten, Executive Director of TCLEOSE, stated that the commission signed the agreed upon order of suspension on Thursday, June 11, 2009.


Audrey Casselberry, daughter of B.P. and Beverly Casselberry, is the 2009 Coleman Rodeo Queen.  She is also one of theColeman County Cowgirls Equestrian drill team (pictured below).  They will be performing each night during the rodeo.


Three CHS Students in FCA All-Star Football Classic
6/12/2009

Seniors Colton Buzzard, Meagan Ogden and Jamal Agbor (below) were chosen to participate in the 10th annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes Myrle Greathouse All-Star Football Classic, to be held Saturday, June 13, 2009 in Abilene’s Shotwell Stadium at 2:00PM.

They were selected from a group of 133 area student/athletes to participate in the game, which benefits the Big Country Area Office of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Representing more than 50 area schools, the rosters for the North and South squads were announced at a Press Conference on Saturday, February 7th, 2009 at Beltway Park Baptist Church in Abilene, Texas. The young All-Stars were nominated by their head coach and cheerleading sponsor for the game, which features schools from an approximate 100-mile radius of Abilene covering 36 counties.


Its summer time! Alisha Merkley is selling vegetables in front of Sara's Neighborhood on North Neches. These are home grown and she welcomes anyone else that wants to sell their fresh produce to bring them on down to Sara's. She is selling them on consignment.


The Coleman Rodeo Association donated $500 to the Coleman County EMS and $500 to the Coleman County First Responders.
The money was donated in appreciation for all the hard work the EMS and First Responders do during Rodeo time.
Pictured: Rodeo Association VP-Lanham Horne, Secretary- Heath Hemphill, First Responder President-John Gregg,
EMT-Russell Thomas, and President-Ted Taylor


 

 

55 from the Top 15 of the Heartland Series Coming to Coleman Rodeo
6/11/2009
In looking at the Heartland Series standings of the PRCA, there are 55 cowboys coming to Coleman that are ranked in the Top 15 of their events. 31of them are ranked in the Top 15 in the race for the National Finals. Having 31 world-ranked cowboys attend the Coleman PRCA Rodeo will make it a very entertaining weekend!  There are 373 entries this year.

Guy Allen (right) is one of the Steer Roping entries. He is presently ranked 9th in the World. The Santa Anna native recently won the event in Stephenville at the Cowboy Capital of the World Pro Rodeo.

 

Cory McFadden (left), Coleman resident, is entered to compete in the bull riding, along with another Coleman favorite, reigning Champion Bull Rider J.W. Harris (below), from May, Texas.  Harris is presently ranked 1st in the Heartland Series and 2nd in the World rankings.  Watch Colemannews.com for more information on contestants coming to the 72nd Coleman PRCA Rodeo.
 


Donor Wall at Expo Center - Tiles Still Available
6/11/2009
The Donor Wall for the Expo Center has been constructed and the tiles are in place. Caroline Skelton graciously donated her time and talents with calligraphy to letter the tiles. The wall is beautiful and gives credit to the donors. Blank tiles are still for sale. Donations go to the ongoing expenses and upkeep of the CCYAC facilities. Donations are tax deductible. Tiles come in three sizes and may be paid out over a four year period with a signed pledge sheet. To purchase a tile, contact Henry Dodson at 325-382-4693 or Sarah Beal at 325-785-4291.
Below is a list of donors that currently have tiles on the wall:

Travis & Millie Goree
Coleman County Foundation
MKB Foundation
Coleman County Livestock Show Association
The Fasken Foundation
Ted & Sonjia Taylor, Ben & Meredith Taylor
LCRA
Coleman Veterinary Clinic
Jim & Sue Brusenhan
Dodge Jones Foundation
Steve & Cindy Hall
Kent & Carla Finley
Heath & Danyelle Hemphill
City of Coleman
Coleman County
         Electric Cooperative
Bob & Jo Tyson
Joe & Faye Faries
Coleman County Extension
        Education Association
Payton Mayes
Coleman Lions Club
Joe Ed Wise
Jerry K. & Ruth Ann Taylor
Bill & Bonnie Hennig
William & Carla Fair
Jimmy & Brenda Smith
Frances Richardson
Bob & Ann Turner
Bernice Lee
Richard R. Lee, Jr.
Curtis & Joy Skelton
Chris & Cindy Jamison
Ron & Sandi Carroll
Coleman County Farm Bureau
Sherman & Tammy Smith
David & Vicki Stewart
Dick & Virginia Jamison
Lynn & Patricia Owens
Novice Livestock Association
Raye King
Steve & Sarah Beal
Cindy & Doc Dockter
Dona Triplitt
Lyndon & Sue Key
E. Dale & Arletta Herring
Jimmie Jamison
Beal Appliance, Abilene, TX
David & Tracy Barnett
Wayne & Betty McClure


CHS Class of 1989 20 Year Reunion
6/11/2009
Just a reminder for all CHS 1989 graduates. We will be celebrating our 20 year reunion on
Saturday, June 20 at the Coleman City Park Pavillion from 12-6. Bring your swimsuits, fishing equipment, and any sports equipment for a great time. We will have burgers, hot dogs, and fixings. Bring your family and all your great memories for a great day!! For more information, contact Maribeth Kirby-Mayo at madismom33@hotmail.com or Jim Sprinkles at
jdsprinkles@yahoo.com.


"It's all about the Weather"
6/11/2009

The Heartland Harmonizer Barbershop Chorus will present their Annual Spring Show “Its all about the Weather” featuring guest Barbershop Quartet from San Angelo, Texas “Vocal Fusion” and "The Heartland Harmonizers Barbershop Chorus."  This will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2009 at 6:59pm at the Brownwood High School Auditorium, Brownwood, Texas.  Cost is $10 per person. 
Afterglow at Prima Pasta in Early, Texas.

Tickets may be purchased at:
Brownwood Chamber of Commerce
Bangs Drug Mart, Bangs, TX
Early Chamber of Commerce
Lehlands Portable Bldgs, Early, TX
From any Chorus Member


COLEMAN Clean-up Day TODAY
6/11/2009
There will be a Clean up day on Thursday, June 11, 2009 in order to get our community in "tip - top" shape for the 72nd Annual PRCA Rodeo.

Meet at the Courthouse at 5:30pm with any tools or anything you might need to work with. Contact your youth group, or any other group that might be willing to help.

This will be a great effort to make our community a great place to be during our Rodeo that will be on June 18 - 20, 2009. 
We will see you there!



2009 Coleman County Team Roping Placings (After Three Head)

6/10/2009
Below are the names and times of the ten team ropers that will be competing for the county team roping championship at this year's rodeo. The times and places shown are the after three head. They will all come back and rope their fourth head Thursday night at the rodeo to see who is the "champion".

--Top 10 Teams to Compete at Rodeo on Thursday Night (June 18th) to determine Champions

 Placing After 3         Header                  Heeler                 Time on 3 Head

1st                          Kyle Ribble           Jake Knight                     22.98

2nd                         McCade Miller       Sonny Pate                     24.26

3rd                         Joe Stoker             Sonny Pate                     26.31

4th                         Tracy Saunders     Charles Coates                27.00

5th                         Josh Espenhover   River Dillard                     27.73

6th                         Sonny Ehr             Sonny Pate                     28.23

7th                         Sonny Ehr             Marc Sanderson, Sr.       28.31

8th                         Rodie Goodwin     Sonny Pate                     29.21

9th                         McCade Miller       Miles Miller                     30.04

10th                       Keith Clearman      Miles Miller                     32.29


CISD School Board to Meet Monday
6/10/2009
DATE: Monday, June 15, 2009
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office, 300 West Pecan
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS.
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 et seq., AND FOR THE REASONS STATED IN THE CODE.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Personnel – Consider Accepting Resignations from Personnel
2. Personnel – Consider Hiring Personnel
3. Amend the Budget
BOARD REPORT:
1. School Resource Officer End of Year Report
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Tax Ratification Election
INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Check Payments
2. 2008-2009 Final Enrollment
3. Budget Workshop Meeting
4. Summer Projects
5. Financial Statement


Thank you from Coleman ISD
6/10/2009

Coleman ISD would like to thank all those who helped make our Memorial Day Celebration successful. So many gave their time, memories, collections, talents, and so much more. We would like to say a special thanks to Heritage Hall for opening their doors for our exhibit.

We feel our students in Coleman have gained a deeper appreciation for our country and the freedoms available to them as citizens. They have also gained a new appreciation for those veterans who currently serve and those who have served and given their lives for our freedoms through the events of the day.


Coleman Kiwanis Hear Art League Program
6/10/2009
  by Marian Johnson
The Kiwanis Club met Tuesday, June 9, to hear a power point program by Sherrell Hazlewood, Fine Arts League President.

The program was informative and provided the members with a ‘bird’s eye’ view of the activities of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County entitled ‘No Artist Left Behind 101”.

Hazlewood is a retired CISD Spanish teacher who is generously giving of his “free time” and computer knowledge and skills to the Arts for Coleman County. He presented his recently published Texas Blue Bunny book which is being sold by the Art League for funds to support the upcoming 2009 Fiesta Juried Art Show.

Sherrell has also presented the program to the Rotary Club and the Public Library Summer Reading program for the children.

The Fine Arts League appreciates these opportunities to provide information on the Arts in Coleman County. The 2009 Fiesta Juried Art Show will take place at 414 Commercial Ave., “Market Hall” on October 2-3, 2009; a preview reception will be open to public Friday evening.

Some 125-150 paintings are expected to be submitted for entry for judging. Approximately 70-75 of those paintings will be “juried in” by Juror, Susan Mansell, to hang in the show.

Inquiries on entering the show have been received from Korea, Armenia, and Pakistan!! (And the good ole US of A.).


Panther Creek 20 years and Counting Reunion
6/10/2009

The Panther Creek reunion will be June 19th and 20th at Hords Creek Lake.

Anyone interested in helping cook on Friday night come on out to the lake. We will be out there Friday night cooking meats and setting everything up.

If you want to bring a meat to cook on Friday night for the noon meal on Saturday, please do so.

We will have a hot dog roast on Friday night. If you want to come out on Friday night bring stuff for hot dogs for you and yours. Bring your own drinks and food for Friday night.

FOOD LIST FOR NOON MEAL ON SATURDAY JUNE 20, 2009
Class of 1987, 1991, 1996, 2001-bring snack/finger foods
Class of 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003-bring a dessert
Class of 1989, 1994, 1997, 1999, 2002-bring a side dish
Class of 1990,1992, 1995, 2000-bring a salad
Class of 2004-2009 -if you can bring something just bring it, no food will be turned down!
Remember to bring your own drinks for you and your family. Don’t forget lawn chairs and items for your family to spend the day at the lake.

The Panther Creek graduates would like to invite people from the last few years of Talpa-Centennial and Mozelle High Schools to join us at the reunion. There are spaces for up to 12 RV’s. You need to contact Lindi Elkin at 325-636-4430 if you would like to bring a RV. There is tent camping available at this site also.


HUMANE SOCIETY NEEDS FOSTER HOMES
6/10/2009    By Jo Ann Eddleman
We hear it pretty often. “I just couldn’t do what you do.”
Is this your gut response when the idea of fostering a dog for the Humane Society comes up?

The Humane Society of Coleman County does not have a shelter of its own where we can keep the strays we rescue and the dogs we take from the city shelters in Coleman and Santa Anna. The Society can only take in as many dogs as it has a place to keep them until they are adopted. The best place is, of course, a foster home where the scared and confused little guys can be a part of a caring family until we can find them a forever home.

Only as a last resort do we keep dogs in a community pen where we have some dog houses and shelter from the heat and cold until a foster home opens up.

We don’t know what we would do without the foster homes we have. Thank you, Nita and Ed Kay, Nelda Copley, Linda Laws, Melinda and Addie Vasquez, Betty Wilkerson, Liz Dority and Crystal Kincaid. We have these seven—the most we’ve ever had—plus my own home, and we survive the sad but joyful parting that comes when our little charges find a new home.

How do we do it? Is it easy? Don’t we get too attached to the dogs we foster to let them go to new homes? It’s simply a matter of putting the needs of the unfortunate pup before our personal feelings. If we put ourselves and our feelings first, none of the nearly 400 dogs we’ve fostered and placed since we began the effort in 2004 would be making their new families soooo happy instead of the unthinkable alternative.

Did we want to keep everyone of them? Yes. But the satisfaction of finding a new home and meeting the new family far outweighs the passing feeling of loss. And there’s always a new friend waiting in the wings.

We still have to turn down more dogs than we would like because we don’t have a place to put them. We finally have two fosters who will take large dogs, so we are able to take a large dog or two now. Dakota (pictured) is just about the best dog we’ve had, but they’re all special in their own way. We still have to face the fact that it is harder to place the large dogs, so that means we still have to be selective in which dogs we accept.

If you have a fenced yard and you can open your heart and your home to foster a dog—maybe not all the time but every once in a while—please give us a call. We promise it will make you feel good.


Correction on Softball All-District Selections
6/10/2009   

Colemannews.com received a correction on the All-District 8-AA softball selections.  Below is the corrected honors:
1st Team:
Pitcher – Eden Duquette
Infield – Rynn Norris, Jessica Morales, Carissa Zarate
Outfield – Erin Strickland

2nd Team:
Outfield – Sarah Slayton
Honorable Mention:
Ashley Grissom
Cheyenne Turner
Laiken Barnett


Alzheimer’s Support Group to Meet Thursday, June 11th
6/10/2009

The Alzheimer’s Support Group of Coleman County monthly meeting to be at the Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Department (N. Second Street, turn North at the SA Bank) on Thursday, June 11th, at 6pm. Topic this month is behaviors and behavior management. If you have questions, please call Family Health Clinic @ 325 348 3566.


Class of '54 Meet Saturday, June 13th
6/9/2009  (contributed)
The Coleman High School Class of 1954 will begin it's 55th Anniversary at 9:30am, Saturday. The class will gather at Heritage Hall with lots of hugs, hellos, registration and placement of early pictures of the attendees, and a light brunch. This will be followed with a welcome and reorganization of class members who are departed. The class will enjoy music from their era, and have a time for informal visiting prior and after the catered lunch by Big O's. at 12:00.  After lunch, the class's picture will be made followed by each class member given the opportunity to tell their life's experiences.  The rest of the afternoon will be open for the class members to visit the town, old school buildings that are still standing, or just sit and visit.  Supper will be served at 6:00.  Goodbyes will follow with the Class of '54 hoping to see one another soon.


Wreck at Corner of Blanco and Liveoak
6/9/2009
Around 6:15pm Tuesday evening an accident occurred at the corner of Blanco and Liveoak streets. Two vehicles were involved. The driver of the white car was transported to Coleman County Medical Center by ambulance with unknown injuries. The driver of the truck was not reporting any injury immediately following the accident. Names were not available at the time of this report.
 


Coleman County Livestock Show Committee to Meet - TONIGHT
6/9/2009
The Coleman County Livestock Show will hold a committee meeting on
Tuesday, June 9th at 6:00 pm at the Bill Franklin Center.   The 2010 Livestock Show will be discussed.  All interested persons are encouraged to attend. The Coleman County Livestock Show will hold a committee meeting on Tuesday, June 9th at 6:00 pm at the Bill Franklin Center. The 2010 Livestock Show will be discussed. All interested persons are encouraged to attend.


Eden Duquette has been selected from the Big Country All-Star Committee to participate in the Big Country All-Star Softball Exhibition game on Tuesday, June 9, 2009 in Abilene, Texas. The game is at 7pm at ACU and will have girls from the area.


Coleman P.D. Foot-chase Monday in South Coleman
6/9/2009

According to Coleman Police Sgt. Anthony Smith, around 3:15pm Monday officers from the Coleman Police Department found themselves in pursuit of a subject on foot. Brady Perkins, of Brown County, was in the process of being contacted by police at a residence in the 100 block of Roselawn. They wanted to question him in regard to a Brown County incident. Upon seeing the police, Perkins ran from the residence and crossed Santa Anna Avenue. Law enforcement officers set up a perimeter and then Sgt. Carmack and "Iraqi" went to work. Iraqi (Carmack's trained dog) picked up Perkins scent and found him hiding in a shed under a mattress in the 100 block of Santa Anna Ave. Brady Perkins was arraigned and charged with evading arrest. Brown County officials picked up Perkins on Tuesday and transferred him into their custody, charging him with Bond Forfeiture from a previous arrest.


CJHS Office to Close for Summer
6/9/2009
The Coleman Junior High office will be closed from June 15th thru August 3rd. If your student has not received a report card, he/she may owe a charge to the school such as textbook fines, library fines, or cafeteria fines. These report cards will be available (after fine is paid) at the administration office after
June 12th
. The office is located at 300 West Pecan.


Coleman Business Chosen to Refurbish Car of Country Entertainer
6/9/2009
Ferlin Husky has sold over 20 million records during his career. Hits such as "Wings of a Dove" and "Gone" propelled him to stardom in the 1960's. From movie roles to national television, Husky has traveled the world.

Now, one of Husky's classic automobiles is temporarily in Coleman at Saverance Paint and Body. The Cadillac, recently obtained by Tracy Pitcox of Brady, will be displayed at the Heart of Texas Country Music Museum in Brady. Saverance will refinish the silver and repaint the auto.

To learn more about the life and music of Ferlin Husky, check out his website at
http://www.ferlinhusky.com/. 


Service Interruptions for Coleman County Telephone Customers
6/9/2009

Beginning Tuesday, June 9th through Friday, June 12th, Coleman County Telephone Cooperative, Inc. will be performing some equipment upgrades in the Mozelle (357) exchange. Customers in this exchange could experience interruptions in their telephone service during this time period.

The areas that will be specifically affected are Elm Creek and Concho Park. Customers in these areas will experience periodic interruptions of service, which could last up to 4 hours. When the upgrades are complete the service should return to normal.

If you have any questions, or your service is out for longer than 4 hours, please contact Coleman County Telephone at 348-3124.

Customers in the other exchanges serviced by CCTC should not experience any outages due to these upgrades.


CHS Office to Close for Summer -
Pick up Diplomas and Other Paperwork This Week

6/9/2009
The Coleman High School office will be closed from June 12th to August 3rd. for the summer. Any graduating senior that has not picked up their
diploma needs to come pick it up before Friday, June 12th. If your child will need a proof of enrollment for driver's license
purposes during the summer, that will also have to be picked up  before Friday, June 12th. Watch Colemannews.com for information concerning fish camp, registration, fall schedule pick up, etc.  Have a great summer!


Ginger Test, winner in San Angelo Art Show
6/8/2009

Ginger Test, member of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, received an honorable mention award for her watercolor painting, “Winter Camp” in the Fiesta in Realism Art Show in San Angelo. Ginger is a talented painter, lecturer and workshop teacher who lives in Novice.

Ginger is teaching a one-day workshop June 20th in Comanche. For information call Ginger at 325-723-2035 to reserve your place in the workshop.

Locally, Ginger will be teaching each Wednesday starting June 10, from 10 to 1 at Kay’s Garden. $20 per session. For information, call Kay 325-625-1140.


CCMC ANNUAL FUNDRAISER ON JUNE 18th!
6/8/2009    (Sue Titsworth)
The CCMC Employees Activity Committee, with the help of many other hospital employees, will have their annual fundraiser on Thursday, June 18th
from 11am to 1pm. You can get a tasty lunch – your choice of a hamburger, Indian taco, or two hot dogs, together with chips, dessert, and a drink for only $6.00 – and also help CCMC purchase some much needed equipment! This is the fifth year for the fundraiser, and the proceeds from those first four fundraisers have helped purchase several pieces of equipment for the hospital.

The project this year (and probably for the next two years also) is an expensive one – an Electronic Medical Records System. The whole system – there are five parts to it – runs in excess of $400,000.00. CCMC has received one grant so far, in the amount of $30,000.00, to apply toward the first part, and have another grant proposal pending. Most grants, if awarded, require matching funds (not dollar for dollar, necessarily, but usually anywhere from 20 to 50 percent) from the grant recipient. This system will be a requirement in three years. So this equipment is not an elective, but a “must have” in order to keep the hospital up to standards.

The Electronic Medical Records system make it possible to get accurate and complete information to all health care providers when they need it, and get it in an understandable way. Basically what that means is if you go to a specialist in Abilene or Dallas, or most any other place, this specialist can request your medical records (with your permission, of course) and it will be sent to him/her via a secure internet line. Every test, every illness, everything that is on your medical record will be available to the doctors who are treating you.

That’s a simplified version of the MHR system as it applies to getting your records to specialists. How does it work in if you are a patient in the hospital? Every thing that currently goes into your chart will go into the EMR system, which means it will be immediately available to the next shift of nurses and the doctors at the hospital. If you are transferred to another hospital, they will be able to pull up your complete medical chart.  CCMC will do one part of the system in 2009, one in 2010, and the others in 2011.

The fundraiser will be located on the corner of College and Frio (behind the hospital), and there will be a “to go” station as well as a station for those who wish to stay and eat. There will also be car hops who will take your order and bring it to you if you pull up on the College Street side.


CHS CLASS OF '69 SCHEDULES REUNION, SEEKS CLASSMATES
6/8/2009

Members of the Coleman High School Class of 1969 will hold their 40th anniversary class reunion September 11-13
in Coleman.

Contact information is needed for these former classmates: Mary Lou Balderama, Vicky Barnett Herman, Doris Blaine Carlisle, Louis Bolton, Dorothy Calhoun, Rebecca Camargo Castilla, Betty Cardenas, Alex Flores, Keary Forbes, Larry Gandy, Mike Griffith, Allan Hughes, Jeanette Kimbrell Keeney, Margie Koenig, Connie Lackey, Barbara Langley Teague, Sharon McDorman Finelli, Gary Metts, Linda Metts, Ann Miller Clausen, Jackie Miller, Mary Ann Mistrot, James Moore, Rhonda Morris, Reba Ray, Beverly Tucker Newman, Donna Turner, Gwen Wheeler, Mary Whittington, Paula Wilson, Dan Wimberly and David Wright.

Mailing addresses or email addresses for any of these CHS Class of '69 members may be provided to O'Lene Stone in San Antonio at 210-824-5294 or olene.stone@sbcglobal.net, or to Mary Stewart Griffis in Coleman at 325-625-4522 or markmary87@yahoo.com.


Commissioners Meet - Discuss Illegal Dumping in County
6/8/2009
The commissioners were all present on Monday, June 8th at the courthouse for their regular meeting. In one discussion, of "In-kind Work" necessary for the Waldrip Bridge Restoration Project, the need for trash to be cleaned from county roads became apparent. Many of the county roads have been used for illegal dumping of household trash and items, such as sofas, mattresses, TV's and bagged trash. The commissioners all reported they had roads with trash under bridges or just thrown beside the road. "Mud-dogging" also was discussed and is a problem. Several people have been caught and Justice of the Peace Nance Campbell stated the fines can range from $250 - $500, depending on the amount of damage done to the road. Campbell also stated that illegal dumping fines were assessed according to the weight of the garbage. He noted that there is a point where the weight exceeds his jurisdiction and the illegal dumping charge is turned over to the County Court.

This reporter drove to one of the sites mentioned in the commissioners meeting and took pictures of SEPARATE items dumped along a 2-mile strip of a dirt road. Below are those photos; click on a picture to view a larger image.   If you see someone dumping ANYTHING on the side of any road in our County, report it to the sheriff's office. 

Also on the commissioners agenda were several short-discussion items that were approved: the revised contract with Eagle Construction and Environmental Services, LLC for Haz-Mat cleanup; election equipment software system upgrade; contract for internet services between ACS Government Record Services and Coleman County Clerk's office; and current bills for payment. A regulation to restrict fireworks in unincorporated areas/specified areas received no motion, therefore was not approved.


District 8-AA All District Softball Honors Announced
6/8/2009
The District 8-AA Softball honors were announced Monday, June 8th following the Early Longhorn's participation in the state tournament last weekend.  Congratulations to all these Bluekatts for their honors and for a great season! 
CORRECTIONS ABOVE !!


Truck & Tractor Pull in Gustine
6/8/2009
The Gustine Rodeo Club will be hosting a TTTPA sanctioned Truck & Tractor Pull, Saturday, June 20, 2009 at the Gustine Rodeo Arena in Gustine, TX.

There will be a free Kiddie Tractor Pull beginning at 6:30 pm for age divisions 3&4, 5&6, & 7&8. Pit Party from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Any entries for the Local Farm Tractor, Gas & Diesel categories can register 6:00-800 pm. $30 per hook. TTTPA Pull Start Time 8:00 pm with local entries following.

Admission is $10.00 per person. 10 & under free. Concessions available.


Upcoming Special Exhibit at Heritage Hall - "Hats, Boots & Stilettos"
6/8/2009  by Kathy Andrews

Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society (CHAPS) members are busy getting ready for the next special exhibit at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College. The exhibit "Hats, Boots & Stilettos" will be an exhibit of vintage or unique head gear for men, women or children, and decorated footwear. On exhibit will be the painted boots from West Texas Rehab, some of you may remember that several years ago, September 2000, some members of the Fine Arts League of Coleman accepted the challenge to paint boots for West Texas Rehab. Those boots along with others from that collection will be displayed.

If you have hats, boots or shoes you would like to include in this exhibit, please take them by the Coleman Museum, this Friday or Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, or by Kay's Garden other days.
Deadline to enter is Saturday, June 13th
. Dig out grandma's bonnet or Sunday Go To Meeting hat, grandpa's cowboy hat, or maybe your own one of a kind head topper and bring it to be a part of this exhibit, footwear may be old, new, painted, decorated or just interesting.

The exhibit "Hats, Boots & Stilettos" will open on Friday, June 26th and continue through August 22nd. Hours for the exhibit will be during regular Museum hours, Friday's and Saturday's 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.


Texas Blue Bunny” Presented to Library Summer Reading Group
6/8/2009

Fine Arts League President, Sherrell Hazlewood, explained the “history” of his creation of the Texas Blue Bunny to the Library Summer Reading Group, Wednesday June 3. Some of Sherrell’s Texas Blue Bunny paintings as well as the new first edition of the Texas Blue Bunny book were also shown. Also, on exhibit was a painted quilt, “Texas Quilt”, created by the Fine Arts League members which was won by Virginia Jamison in 1995.


Vandals Damage Signs in Valera
6/8/2009

Even a very tiny community can't escape lawlessness. Sunday, June 7, between the hours of 12:30am and 5:00am, both lighted signs at The Grazin' Patch and The Fudge Pump in Valera were damaged.

According to the owner, obscene gestures were spelled out on one of the signs. All of the lighting fixtures were shattered in both signs and much more damage done to the sign in front of the cafe.

If you have any information regarding this incident, contact the Coleman County Sheriff's Department which is investigating the vandalism.


4 His Glory Performs in Coleman
6/8/2009

The gospel group 4 His Glory performed Saturday night to a receptive crowd at Trinity United Methodist Church in Coleman.

The group, from Cross Plains, is available for concerts and singing in our area. For more information, contact Carla Billings at 625-5302.


New CT Scanner Purchase Approved at CCMC Meeting
6/8/2009

The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met in their regular meeting at 12 Noon on May 28, 2009 and addressed a short agenda.

CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley gave the financial report for April, 2009, and advised the board that while the figures were currently very good, the summer months historically have shown a low census and may not show any gain.

In other business, the board approved the purchase of a CT scanner which will also have the capacity to do hip and spine bone density scans. They also authorized Langley to purchase a new nurse call system at a price not to exceed $45,000. The board also approved increasing the monthly vehicle expense for Langley.

The Electronic Medical Records system was discussed, and it was decided to have Healthland come to the next board meeting (which will be June, 22nd) and give the board more information about this system.

In his administrative report, Langley advised the board that Congressman Mike Conaway presented Coleman County Medical Center with a U.S. flag which had been flown over the Capitol building in honor of the hospital.


County Commissioners Meet Monday
6/5/2009

Coleman County Commissioners will meet at 9:00am Monday, June 8
, in the County Courthouse to address the following agenda items.
1. Call the Meeting to Order
2. Conduct any necessary old business
3. Receive any visitors not on the Agenda
4. Approve minutes from prior meeting (s)
5. Approve revised contract with Eagle Construction and Environmental Services, LLC for Emergency Haz-Mat Cleanup (John Pearce)
6. Approve Purchasing Resolution for County Commissioners’
7. Approve Election Equipment System Upgrade (Stacey Mendoza, County Election Administrator)
8. Approve Contract for Internet Services between ACS Government Record Services and Coleman County Clerk (Stacey Mendoza, County Clerk)
9. Approve Precinct 4 selling old Road Grader and purchasing another (Alan Davis)
10. Approve Regulation of Restricted Fireworks in unincorporated areas/specified areas
11. Discuss Identification of In-Kind Work for Waldrip Bridge Restoration Project
12. Approve current bills for payment and authorize transfer of funds if necessary
13. Adjourn the meeting


COLEMAN COUNTY FSA IS HOLDING A
PRODUCER MEETING ON ACRE

6/5/2009

The Coleman County Farm Service Agency is holding a producer meeting to discuss the new ACRE (Average Crop Revenue Election) program.

 ACRE is a new optional farm program that producers with farms that are currently eligible to be enrolled in DCP may elect to participate in instead of the current DCP program. Once a farm is enrolled into the ACRE program it must stay in the ACRE program until 2012. Producers who elect to enroll a farm in ACRE will give up all their counter-cyclical payments under DCP, as well as 20% of their direct payment, and a 30 percent reduction in their marketing loan rate.

Producers who are interested should plan to attend a meeting presented by the Coleman County FSA Office and AgriLife Extension on
June 24, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall located at 500 W. Liveoak Street in Coleman, Texas at 9:00 am. Other topics covered during the meeting will be the new Disaster Programs, NAP, DCP signup, and 2009 COC election.


Panther Creek Reunion Coming Up
6/05/2009
We are planning a Panther Creek "20 years and counting" reunion for
June 20, 2009.
It will be at Hords Creek Lake. It is going to be pot luck, bring your stuff for your family to spend the day at the lake. We will work out who will bring a vegetable, desert or meat dish at a later date. Bring drinks for you and your family. We will try and get a volleyball net, have horse shoes, washer pitching, cards, dominoes, games. There is talk of having a slow pitch softball tournament. If you know where someone is that might be interested let them know and have them join Facebook or send in their contact information.

You can e-mail Lindi Elkin at looharleyloo@yahoo.com or Jamie McClure Tang at jamie.tang@cengage.com.   Come join the Panther Creek 20 years and counting reunion group on Facebook.com.


City Council Tours Facilities
6/5/2009    by Larry Weise

Coleman City Council members John Plummer, Tracy Rankin, Mayor Poldrack, and City Manager Larry Weise are shown interacting with Public Works Director Bob Ray and Parks Department Supervisor Chipper Anderson (not shown) related to the new filtration and treatment equipment recently installed at the Municipal Swimming Pool. With the placement of this equipment, the city has invested about $65,000 in recent upgrades in the pool. Since summer of 2008, the pool has been totally relined with state-of-the-art materials, remodeling completed on the showers and housing facilities, the filtration system replaced, and new pumps installed for the treatment system. The result is a pool that is safe, clean and attractive. The City Council understands the importance of our pool and parks as they enhance the quality of life for families in the City of Coleman.  This investment reflects the Council’s commitment to maintaining quality facilities for our community.

Plant Operator Thomas Watson is shown explaining the function of the clarifier in the treatment process. The plant treats an average of about 4000,000 gallons of waste water per day.
The treated water is released into Hords Creek and/or used to irrigate the 57 acre
coastal farm at the site. The Coleman WWTP has a history of surpassing the
specifications set by TCEQ for the effluent water, and has been used as a model by
that agency for efficient operations. Council members shown in the photograph are
Tracy Rankin, John Plummer, Harold Skelton and PWD Bob Ray.


Thank you from CJHS Students !
6/4/2009
Some of our Coleman Jr. High students were trying to raise money for a Washington D.C. trip in June 2009. These students have succeeded in raising their money! These students are very excited to be given this opportunity to learn about our country and visit some of our landmarks, in a way that they will probably never get to experience in their lifetime again. Ethan Morris, Shelton Zarate, Dalton Gentry, Jon Bopp, Brady Jones, Sydni Stevenson and Courtney Brown would like to thank everybody who showed their support during their fund-raising. These students were very excited for all the items and monetary donations that were donated by our local businesses. Please have these students in your prayers on June 14th through the 18th. as they head off to Washington D. C.!

Thank you again for all of your support!
Ethan Morris, Shelton Zarate, Dalton Gentry, Jon Bopp, Brady Jones, Sydni Stevenson and Courtney Brown.

List of Businesses
Allstate
Coleman County State Bank
Country General Store
Stephanie Jamison
First Coleman National Bank
Brenda Honea
Bowen Drug Store
Tracy Allen
Coleman County Telephone Cooperation
Casey Watson
Owl Drug Store
Hefner Plastics
Unique Massage
La Donna Bolton
Grammer's
All Family and Friends
Home Video
Hickman's Advertising
Williams Tire Store
Big O's
Prima Pasta
Carolina's Steak House


Coleman County Youth Activity Center News
6/4/2009
  
Submitted by Sarah Beal CCYAC Secretary
Honorariums:
In honor of Henry and Margie Dodson by Fran Sonnenberg
Donations:
Travis & Millie Goree
William & Carla Fair
Beal Appliance, Abilene, TX
Michael & Synda Smith
John & Tina Hensley- banding machine
Gouldbusk Homemakers Club
Wayne & Betty McClure
Dubar Seed
Memorials
:
In memory of Kaye Franklin by Retamay Gaines, Berva Dawn & Babette Taylor, Henry & Margie Dodson, Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Neal, Sarah Beal, Travis & Millie Goree, Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill, Shoppin Baskit, Karen & Pete Renick, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Jan Rabon by Berva Dawn & Babette Taylor
In memory of Bob Rutherford by Steve & Sarah Beal, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Sharon Koenig by Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Neal
In memory of Brandon Dillard by Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Neal
In memory of Neille Starnes by Coleman County Medical Center Hospital Auxiliary, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Don & Neille Starnes by Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill
In memory of Jake Hausenfluke by Ben & Debbie Scott, Thad & Shirley Sansing, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Bob Grider by Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill
In memory of Billie Puckett by Melba Baugh, Virginia Jamison, Helen R. Todd, Rick & Kaye McKee, Steve & Sarah Beal, Mr. & Mrs. Thad Sansing, James & Charlotte Baker, Johnny Todd, James & Wanda Dieterich, Larry & Diane Smith, Johnny & Martha Burkey, Henry & Margie Dodson, Janet Barker, Mr. & Mrs. David Watson, Sammy & Lou Ann Pate, Don & Marian Johnson, Ben & Debbie Scott, Ronald & Lexia Bagley, Clifford & Jerri Ann Chambers, Brent & Renea McMillan, Bobbie Edington, Bob & Sylvia Edington, Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill, Davey & Lorri Thweatt, Skip & Susan Casey, Travis & Millie Goree, Phil & Gwen Huggins
In memory of Patsy Bartley by Steve & Sarah Beal, Rick & Kaye McKee, Patricia & Lynn Owens
In memory of Doris Matthews by Steve & Sarah Beal, Bob & Ann Turner, Rick & Kaye McKee
In memory of Billy & Patsy Bartley by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Clifford L. Horn by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Howard Stephenson by Lynn & Trisha Owens, Bowen Drug Store/James C. Stokes, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Clarence & Annie Mitchell by Richard & Clarice Hambright
In memory of Joe Hambright by Richard & Clarice Hambright
In memory of Garvis Boyle by Bowen Drug Store/James C. Stokes
In memory of W. B. Bludworth by Bowen Drug Store/James C. Stokes
In memory of Patricia Johnson by Bowen Drug Store/James C. Stokes, Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Adrian Gordon by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Charlotte Mosley by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Felix & Betty Schmidt by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Bobbie Dodson by Coleman County State Bank, Steve & Sarah Beal, Larry & Elaine Robinson, Lynn & Trisha Owens, Larry & Donna Seymore, Thad & Shirley Sansing, Mark & Beatrice Phillips, Fran Sonnenberg, Mary Lou Fuller, Edna Sparks, Ken & Helen Smith, Mark & Teresa Smith & Family, Darrell Tapley, Jim & Gloria Tapley, Nancy Whitworth, Gary & Nita Tapley, The Dick Koenig Family, Phil & Gwen Huggins,
In memory of Buck McGonagill by Steve, Sarah and Candace Beal
In memory of Margaret McGonagill by Steve & Sarah Beal, Candace Beal
In memory of Buck & Margaret McGonagill by The Dan Taylor Family
In memory of Effie Lee Ratliff by Larry & Elaine Robinson
In memory of Joe Greer by Rick & Kaye McKee
In memory of Mrs. Harry (Margaret) Crews by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of James F. Hunter by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of John D. Rhone by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Inus Underwood by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of John Hensley by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Dr. William R. Jones by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Judy Robinson Rasbury by Rick & Kaye McKee, Patricia & Lynn Owens
In memory of Mrs. James (Elise) West by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Glenn Cullins by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Mary Funderburg by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Belle Farris by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Gerald Welch by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Doil Boothe by James C. Stokes/ Bowen Drug Store
In memory of Lena Wallis by Bowen Drug Store/James C. Stokes, Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill, Skip & Susan Casey, Stan & Alana Brudney
In memory of Ruth Locke by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of James Reed by Bowen Drug Store/ James C. Stokes
In memory of Marie Mills by Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill
In memory of David Flynn by Thad & Shirley Sansing

Donations and memorials are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible as the Coleman County Youth Activity Center is a 501 (3) c organization as designated by the Internal Revenue Service. Donations can be sent to Patricia Owens at First Coleman National Bank, P. O. Box 552, Coleman, TX 76834 or to Coleman County Youth Activity Center, P. O. Box 766, Coleman, TX 76834.


Identity theft scam targets insurance customers
6/4/2009      (contributed)

Alert: Counterfeit checks made to appear as if they're from Farmers Insurance, Mid-Century Insurance, Foremost Insurance or other insurance organizations continue to be circulated throughout the United States. The counterfeit check and accompanying letter are an identity theft scam. These checks and letters are sent randomly to consumers. Farmers customers are not the only consumers targeted.

If you receive a check, please call your agent immediately. The check is a counterfeit and not to be cashed. Also, do
not to call the phone number listed on the letter; shred
the letter and check. The letter informs recipients that they have possibly won a lottery prize. The check is made payable to the recipient for about $4,000.

If recipients read the letter carefully, they'll discover that the check lures them to call the cellular phone number listed and divulge personal banking information. Usually the phone number's area code is 778 (Vancouver, Canada) or another area code in Ottawa, Canada.

This scam has been in place for more than 20 years. It originates in Canada, mails from a Canadian address and includes, Canadian phones. The mailing addresses are fake.

Federal and local law enforcement, along with U.S. Post Office officials, are aware of this scam.


SUMMER ART FUN
6/4/2009  Contributed
Summer’s fun, but it’s really fun if it’s “creative”. Two fun, creative events are planned for the summer for art and artists and us wanna-bees. All are welcome and invited.

Number One: is the Membership Show in July which promises to be one of the most fun, no stress, just art. Just become a member of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County and bring 3 of your creations to the Coleman Library July 18 from 9 to noon. All media is accepted – Including painting in oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylics. Also, sculpture, collage, photography, jewelry (your creations), quilting, clay and fabric painting. No entry fees, no prizes. A Plus is: you may sell some your work!

Number Two: is a watercolor class each Wednesday taught by Ginger Test starting June 10th from 10-1 . Classes will be a Kay’s Garden for $20 per class. Just come, paint, get your work critiqued, relax and have some creative fun. Bring sack lunch.

Personal note: granddaughter, Allie Holdridge (age 12 in July), sent me the schedule for summer classes at ASU and the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art. She is trying to decide which ones she could take this summer. The schedule included 1st grade through “over 50” which I took interest in. Classes included everything from Microsoft Office to Horsemanship! From Watercolor to Clay. From geometry to snakes and sign language.

Why can’t we have classes in the summer to supplement our interests? Well, guess what, we can. Take advantage of what we do have – you’ll be amazed how much better the world looks through ‘creative eyes’. (Would help if they were younger!)


Property of the Month Recipients Named for June
6/3/2009    by Liz Hughes

As Keep Coleman Beautiful's Property of the Month program continues into the summer months it seems that more and more beautiful properties are "sprouting up," which makes it more of a challenge to make selections for the month. This is a great problem! Our citizens are taking pride in the way their properties look and it is very exciting to hear positive comments from folks about the changes that have emerged.

The June 2009 Property of the Month selections have been made. Property of the Month for the North Ward is 1316 Peach Street, the home of Ike and Carolyn Ratliff. The West Ward selection is 1300 Hillcrest, the home of Chester and Thelma Sides. The South Ward selection is 1416 San Marcos Street, the home of Thad and Shirley Sansing and the East Ward selection is 215 East College, the home of Terry and Karen Langley. 
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINDA HYDE.


Congratulations to these citizens for Keeping Coleman Beautiful! Please drive by these lovely properties to see what a great job these citizens have done.

Many thanks are in order for the citizens that served their community in making the POM selection! The task is not an easy one! Making selections for the North and West Wards were Evelyn Phillips, Wanda Shaw and Jackie Carey. The South Ward and East Ward selection committee was Mark Griffis, Linda Hyde and Don Liles.

Quite a few nominations have been received for Propery of the Month and they will be passed on from month to month to the next selections committees for consideration. Please don't give up if you have nominated a property! Citizens, keep the nominations coming and your willingness to serve on a selection committee would also be greatly appreciated. Please volunteer or send nominations to chamber@colemantexas.org. You may also call Liz Hughes at 625-2975 (evenings are best).


Letter to the Editor:
6/4/2009

Last week I experienced a minor emergency in my business location that warranted a call to the Fire Department.  I detected the scent of burning plastic, or wire, but was unable to determine where it was coming from until smoke started coming from the ceiling.  A call to 911 resulted in an immediate response from our local Fire Department and the Chief of Police.  to my relief, the problem turned out to be a faulty fluorescent lighting ballast, and a fire was deterred when the Fire Department personnel disabled the light fixture.  I'd like to publicly thank, and commend, my neighbors, Dr. and Patsy Thompson, for their assistance, as well as our local emergency personnel for their prompt and courteous action.
Sincerely,
Linda Hyde


Glen Cove VFD to Meet
6/3/2009
The Glen Cove VFD will hold their monthly meeting
Saturday, June 13, 2009 at the Glen Cove Baptist Church. Pot luck meal will begin at 6:00 pm with the regular meeting following at 7:00 pm. Final planning for the Fish Fry fund raiser will be made. All members and friends are invited and encouraged to attend.


RAIN REPORTS
**We got an inch of rain here in Silver Valley !!!!  Awesome!

The coolest part of it is that it filled up our new
250 gallon rain barrel with our new gutters!!!  -  Anita Calk
** 1.5 inches 8 miles NE of Coleman near Hwy 206

The Farmers Market is Back
6/3/2009

Saturday, June 6th is opening day for the 2009 Brownwood Area Farmers Market season.
Our local farmers’ market hours have changed to Wednesday and Saturday 9am to 2pm. The location is the same, under the Austin Avenue Overpass at Avenues A and Brady.

By buying your fruits, vegetables, meats and eggs at the Farmers' Markets, you are supporting local agriculture, as all the vendors are local to this area. That means you are also getting the very freshest produce possible as many crops are picked and brought to market within 24 hours.

At each market, you can meet the farmers and learn how they grow their crops, where they come from, what is in season, and why they choose to farm. In addition, you can get to know local artisans, and bakers. A day at the farmers’ market will get your excited about making healthy food choices by building a sense of connection to the people who grow our food

The Brownwood Area Farmers’ Market will be hosting a special event on Saturday June 13th. Be sure to mark your calendar! The event, From Market to Menu, will feature cooking demonstrations and taste testing of items available at the market by the Turtle Restaurant. The demonstrations will be at 11am and 1pm. This event is made possible by a grant from GoTexan.

The Brownwood area is unique, in that we have growers and folks who want fresh items but have had a hard time making the market grow. We are always looking to expand so folks with have a greater variety of items from which to select. Help keep the market alive in Brownwood!

For more information on the Farmers’ Market, visit www.keepbrownwoodbeautiful.org  and click on the famers’ market link or call 641-0533.


Circle “C” Cattlewomen Award
2009 Excellence in Agriculture Scholarships

6/3/2009

The local Texas cattlewomen organization - Circle “C” Cattlewomen - would like to announce that Matthew Allen (left) and Molly Pritchard (right
) have been selected as the 2009 Excellence in Agriculture scholarship recipients. Matthew is a 2009 Panther Creek High School graduate and will receive a $1000 scholarship. Matthew will attend Clarendon College in the fall and is pursuing a degree in ranch and feedlot business. Molly is a 2009 Santa Anna High School graduate and will receive a $500. She will attend Tarleton State University in the fall as a pre-veterinary major. These graduates are to be commended for their outstanding leadership and scholastic efforts. Congratulations …we are proud of you and wish you all the best in your educational endeavors.


Abilene Civic Center Holds Special Event
6/2/2009
Event Title: Test Drive Your Seat
Date: June 17th, 2009
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Abilene Civic Center
Details: Celebrity Attractions and the Abilene Cultural Arts Council invite you to join them on stage at the Civic Center for a very special reception with beverages appetizers and a special presentation by Celebrity Attractions president Larry Payton. This event, held June 17th from 5pm-7pm at the Civic Center, gives potential season subscribers the opportunity to stand on the stage and look across the entire auditorium at seats marked “AVAILABLE” for the 2009-2010 Best of Broadway season.

Subscribe on site and leave this special event knowing exactly where you will sit for all four Broadway shows in the 2009-2010 Best of Broadway season: THE RAT PACK IS BACK, THE TEN TENORS HOLIDAY PROGRAM, THE WIZARD OF OZ, and TUNA DOES VEGAS. All four national tours are making their Abilene debut this season! Please RSVP by Wednesday, June 10th by either calling (325)-677-1161 or by email at bestofbroadway@celebrityattractions.com . Season tickets range from $137-$193.


"Quilts Then & Now"
Closed - Winner Announced

6/2/2009
Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society's special quilt exhibit "Quilts Then & Now" at Heritage Hall closed on Saturday, May 30th.  There were many beautiful quilts from across the county included in the exhibit.  Visitors were asked to vote on their favorite quilt to select a "People's Choice" award.  The quilt that received that honor is owned by Yvonne Sims of Coleman, it is a beautiful yellow and purple pieced quilt with appliquéd butterflies in each square and a wonderful pillow cover of the same design completes the set.  Congratulations to Yvonne!

Anyone who has not picked up their quilt must do so on Friday or Saturday, June 5th and 6th, during regular museum hours of 10:00am to 4:00pm.

Thank you to each and everyone who graciously allowed us to exhibit your quilts during April and May.  There were many visitors from Coleman and also a number from out of town, we appreciate all of you also!


72nd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo Coming Soon
6/2/2009 

The Coleman Rodeo Association has announced that Stace Smith Pro Rodeos will be stock contractor this year and the rodeo will be in the "Heartland Series." Cowboys coming to these rodeos can qualify for the "Heartland Series" finals in October in Waco, Texas.   Flyers have been distributed around town (left); more information may be obtained at www.colemanrodeo.com.

The week will begin with the annual breakfast on the Courthouse Square on
Tuesday, June 16th beginning at 7:00am. Breakfast will be served by the Coleman County Cowgirls and is free, but the girls will accept any donations for their efforts.

Wednesday the 17th will have steer roping at 9:00am and the first round of slack at 6:00pm. These are free to the public so feel free to come out and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Thursday the 18th will be the first performance beginning at 8:00pm. As in previous years, Thursday night's performance will be "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" night. Everyone, including the cowboys and cowgirls, are encouraged to wear pink to support the event.
At 7:15pm come see the Kids Mutton Bustin' **

Friday the 19th
7:15pm - Kids Mutton Bustin **
8:00pm - Rodeo Performance
9:00pm - Dance with the
Bart Crow Band followed by Johnny Cooper.

Saturday the 20th will have several events downtown near the courthouse:
10:00am - Old time Rodeo parade in downtown Coleman on Commercial Avenue.
             - "Hot, Hot, Hot...sauce, that is!" contest - on the courthouse square.
             - Jr. Rodeo Association will be cooking hamburgers.
             - 4Barrel and Barbwire, local bands, will both perform on the courthouse square.

3:00pm - Coleman Rodeo Grounds - 1st Annual Exceptional Kids Rodeo
7:15pm - Kids Mutton Bustin **
8:00pm - Last Chance to see the best Rodeo in West Central Texas and dance to the sounds of
Sonny Burgess and the Richard Travis Band at 10:00pm.

**Also Kids Mutton Bustin' will be held each night, Thursday - Saturday, at 7:15pm. Entry forms are available at Johnson Feed Barn, Davis Farm and Ranch, or www.colemanrodeo.com. The winner of each performance will receive a hand-crafted silver belt buckle.
 
MUTTON BUSTIN' ENTRY FORMS


District Court Sends Two to TDCJ
6/2/2009
An update to a story Colemannews.com brought you on April 15, 2009. Collin Taylor Stembridge (right) was arrested and charged with Felony Escape when he broke free from Police custody and fled on foot. He was apprehended a short time later by local law enforcement. On Thursday, May 28th, 2009 Collin Taylor Stembridge pled guilty in District Court to a 3rd degree felony of Escape. He was sent to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for 4 years.

Joining him at TDCJ is Daniel Davis (left). He will be spending the next 4 years in prison for a charge of Retaliation. Mr. Davis had been placed on probation in 2003. After probation violations were proven, the District Attorney asked that his probation be revoked. Judge Johns Weeks agreed and sentenced him to serve 4 years in TDCJ.


FUMC Observed Memorial Sunday
6/2/2009
Memorial Sunday was observed Sunday, May 24 at First United Methodist Church in Coleman. Presentation of the colors was done by Lane Watson and Wesley Willis, members of Boy Scout Troop 221.  The choir opened with "Welcome Home Soldier," followed by pastor Mike Kerzee leading the pledge of allegiance.
  Presiding was Mike Edington, lay leader. 

A special dedication service was held by the pastor honoring church members who served in World War II and served in wars of recent years.  Following historical background of these wars, Kenneth Newman presented a plaque with the names of these members.

Special music was sung by the choir led by director Truitt Mitchell at various times during the service.  This included "America the Beautiful," "Over There," "Blades of Grass and Pure White Stone," "When Johnny Comes Marching Home" and "Welcome Home Soldier Finale."

Sermon by the pastor was "A Full Measure of Devotion."  Special closing was the playing of "Taps" by Truitt Mitchell on his trumpet.


First Saturday Gospel Singing - June 6th
6/2/2009

The Trinity United Methodist Church will hold it's First Saturday Gospel Sing at 6:00pm June 6th.  TUMC is located at 1609 S. Concho in Coleman.  The featured group will be "Four His Glory" with members from Cross Plains and Santa Anna.  There will be an open mike with an "old fashioned sing" for all to enjoy.  Call Carla Billings at 625-5302 for more information.


Fire on Santa Anna Ave - Welding Truck
6/1/2009
A fire on Santa Anna Avenue this evening caused some concern for emergency personnel.  A welding truck was in flames, with the danger of the tanks exploding.   The fire department was able to put out the fire, but there were some explosions during the process.  No injuries have been reported. 


Gouldbusk Rodeo Association to Meet
6/1/2009
The Gouldbusk Rodeo Association will have a meeting on Sunday, June 7th at 6:00 pm at the arena. Summer events will be discussed. All interested persons are encouraged to attend. Cookies and tea will be served. For more information call: Aaron Loyd.


City Council Agenda
6/1/2009
THURSDAY, June 4, 2009, 5:00pm,
Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Council will consider approval of the minutes from the regular meeting of May 21, 2009.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider on the first reading of Ordinance No.1106 amending Chapter 8 Offenses and Nuisances, of the City of Coleman’s Code of Ordinances, Article 8.03 Junked and Abandoned Vehicles, adding the adoption of Chapter 683 of the Texas Transportation Code, amending Section 8.03.001 Definitions, Section 8.03.002 Abandoned Motor Vehicles and Section 8.03 003 (b) Abatement of Nuisance.
2. Council will consider on the first reading of Ordinance No.1107 amending Chapter 8 Offenses and Nuisances of the City of Coleman’s Code of Ordinances, Article 8.06 Nuisances, amending Section 8.06.002 Illustrative Enumeration and Section 8.06.004 Notice to Abate.
3. Council will receive the 3 month mini audit for the Interim Budget ending September 30, 2008.
4. Council will conduct a tour of the Municipal Swimming Pool and the Waste Water Treatment Plant.
 


Subject Held on Several Charges
6/1/2009
Last Wednesday, May 27th, 2009, DPS Trooper James Arnwine pulled over a 1994 Cadillac on Hwy 67 for driving at a high rate of speed.  When Trooper Arnwine attempted to retain the subject's identification he realized that the ID presented was someone else's information.  The subject was arrested for failure to identify.  Upon arrest,  Trooper Arnwine discovered 14.5 grams of crack cocaine, 4.5 oz. marijuana, and a stolen handgun in the vehicle.  The subject was taken to Runnels  County Jail.  The Coleman County District Attorney's office has filed to seize the vehicle used by the subject.


BELOW ARE AWARDS PRESENTED AT CJHS MAY 29, 2009
8th grade Honor Award Students. L-R: Valedictorian -  Charlie Thomas, Salutatorian – Dakotah Nation, Third High Point Student – Savannah Longley, Fourth  High Point Student – Courtney Brown, Fifth High Point Student – Jon Bopp.

Students of the year were recognized at the awards program on May 29, 2009. Pictured L-R: 6th grade girl of the year – Ashlyn De La Garza, 6th grade boy of the year – Pedro Jimenez, 7th grade girl of the year – Aspen McConathy, 7th grade boy of the year – Jansen Merrill, 8th grade girl of the year – Courtney Brown,
 8th grade boy of the year – Charlie Thomas.

At the awards program held May 29, 2009, the $100.00 Pays to be Present check was given to Don Kirkpatrick, an 8th grader at CJHS. This award was provided by the Student Council and was awarded for year long perfect attendance.

 Pictured is Missy Broeker, 6th grader at Coleman Junior High School. Missy won the $25 for the 6th Six Weeks Pays to be Present drawing which is sponsored by the
CJHS Student Council.
 


Fraser Sworn-in as President Pro Tempore of Texas Senate
6/1/2009

Austin -- State Senator Troy Fraser (R-Horseshoe Bay) was sworn in as President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate on Monday June 1, 2009.  As President Pro-Tempore, Fraser is third in line for the Governor's seat and will be given the responsibility over the next 18 months to serve in that capacity in the event that Governor Rick Perry and Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst are out of the state.

"I am honored to serve as President Pro-Tempore and have the opportunity to serve as Governor when needed," Fraser said. "My tenure as President Pro-Tempore is a tribute to my parents - who worked three jobs to ensure that their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren had more opportunities they then had."

Fraser spoke at length about his family and friends and how each of those relationships have impacted his life. He talked of the sacrifice that he and fellow Senators make to serve the people of Texas and quoted Albert Schweitzer by saying "You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it's a little thing, do something for others."

"The Texas Senate is the greatest institution and deliberative body in the world," Fraser said. "Through the years, we have all come to understand our relationships with each other are bigger than any single issue. Even in times of disagreement, we are always able to work together to move forward for the good of this great state. "

"Our individual success is also our collective success," said Fraser. "We should take great pride in what we have managed to do and what we will continue to do during this interim as we study and prepare for the next legislative session."  Go to http://www.fraser.senate.state.tx.us/ for more information on Senator Troy Fraser.


Hayes Edington Graduates from West Point
6/1/2009
Cadet Duwayne "Hayes" Edington graduated May 23rd with a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Military Academy at Michie Stadium in West Point, New York.  While at the academy, he served on the honor committee from the company level up to the regimental staff, and for 3 years was on the Skeet and Trap Team.  During his 48 months at West Point, Hayes concentrated his studies in Military History.  Major Baka administered the oath as he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within the Armor branch.  Hayes will report to Ft. Campbell, KY with the 101st Airborne Division for his first assignment.

The U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates addressed 970 West Point graduates.  After all cadets had received their diplomas and shook the hand of Secretary Gates, they launched their white hats into the sky.  As they hugged and scattered, West Point's new officers faced their futures.

The mission of the U.S. Military Academy is to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the Nation as an officer in the United States Army. 

Those attending the graduating ceremony were:  Sandra Edington; Jimmy Hemphill; Jennifer, Drew Barbara, Cole and Troy Hubbard all of Coleman; Charlie Hemphill of Amarillo; Jim and Jamie Pool of Stephenville; Aaron Dobbins of College Station; and Jerry and Ruth Ann Taylor of Raymondville.

 


BARBARIAN FESTIVAL – FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY ON JUNE 13
6/1/2009

Just a few days until this year’s Barbarian Festival in Cross Plains on Saturday, June 13th. The festivities start at 9:00 a.m. Bring the kids and enjoy games, pony rides, an exotic petting zoo, duck pond, and lots more - even those inflatable bouncing houses the kids love to jump in and on.

Stroll through craft booths, antiques and collectibles, as well as, purses, candles, woodcrafts, birdhouses and other decorative items. Enjoy barbeque, turkey legs, funnel cakes, ice cream and other tasty treats.

If you haven’t turned in your registration form, but want to be apart of the Barbarian Festival, you still have a day or two – until Monday, June 8th. Hurry. Call Gaye at 254-725-4961 to reserve a booth for your group or business! Booth space starts at only $35.00.
--Choose your favorites in the Talent Contest, as talent contest performers take the state at 10:00 am. and 1:30 p.m.
--Take a look the antique automobiles, classic cars, fine rides, hot rods, street rods, and trucks in the Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show.
--Browse through old John Deeres, Farmalls, Internationals, Minneapolis Molines and other antique tractors in the Antique Tractor Show.
--Take a chance on any of the many prizes that benefit the Terry Jane McWilliams Wyatt Scholarship Fund. Stop by Texas Heritage Bank in Cross Plains now to see the display of prizes and gift certificates and then purchase your tickets at the festival. Each ticket entitles you to a vote in the “People’s Choice” category for the Talent Show, Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show and Antique Tractor Show.
--Winners of the Talent Contest, Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show and the Antique Tractor Show will be announced from the stage at 4:00 p.m.
--Enjoy live music with the band “Class of 57”, a group that has delighted Barbarian Festival audiences with Rock and Roll, Country, Elvis and a variety of music. They’ll perform on the stage at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2:30 p.m.
--Bring your motorcycle. The Heart of Texas Hot Sun Riders from Brownwood, part of the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA), will hold a “Blessing of the Bikes” at 1 p.m.
--Check out the 911 Emergency Call Simulator at the festival in the Callahan County Sheriff's Department booth.

The Barbarian Festival is in a new location this year - the large lot next to Dollar General on Hwy 206, just north of Hwy 36, in Cross Plains, with lots of space for all the booths, games, food, live music and all kinds of fun! Get more details on the Barbarian Festival online at our website, www.BarbarianFestival.net.   The Barbarian Festival, now in its 11th year, is held the second Saturday in June in Cross Plains, Texas, in conjunction with Robert Howard Days, a celebration of Robert Howard, creator of Conan the Barbarian. Howard lived most of this life in Cross Plains.


Gouldbusk Homemakers' Club takes bus tour of Coleman County
6/1/2009    (Contributed)
The Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club took a "points of interest" bus tour of Coleman County. Along with our County Extension Agent Christin Burris and Retamay Gaines who went along to narrate the tour. We saw what was left of Camp Colorado and the above ground graves at Trickham. We saw some areas that had obviously had much more rain than our dry area of the county. After leaving Trickham we traveled down to our part of the county and Mona Wilson took over narrating about the little town of Gouldbusk. If you've never heard Mona talk about Gouldbusk you should try to catch up with her and get the tour. After that we traveled over to O.H. Ivie and saw the dam and the little church of Leaday. We ate lunch at the Elm Creek Village restaurant. The food there is hearty and plentiful. The service is definitely with a smile. After lunch we had a guided tour of downtown Voss. Virginia Jamison, who went to school at Voss, took care of that part of the narration. It's amazing to those of us from somewhere else just how many fascinating stories there are about seemingly non-existent, but once thriving communities. After Voss we traveled up to Valera, so that some of the ladies could indulge in pie at Big "O's" and then on to Hordes Creek Lake. The whole park is such a beautiful area. After that it was back to Coleman and the end of our day. We had a wonderful driver who was willing to cater to our every whim and we thank the people at CARR for a wonderful ride. 


CISD Employees Recognized for Service
6/1/2009

The Coleman ISD staff and Board of Trustees were honored with a staff appreciation breakfast on Saturday, May 30th bringing to a close the 2008-2009 school year. Royce Young, Superintendent of Schools, addressed the staff and thanked them for their hard work during the past school year.

Mr. Young then recognized the personnel for their years of service at Coleman ISD. Those employed for
5 years with CISD were Zach Edington, Jennifer Hinds, Glynda Mayo, Maria Ramon, Vanessa Richards, and Debbie Rosales. Employees recognized for 10 years with CISD were Cindy Dean and Kristi Greaves. Cynthia Connelly, Lanita Fritsch, Bob Lindsay, Pam Pannell, and Angelita Stephenson were recognized for their 15 years of service. Kay Lynn Evans, Adela Flores, Karen Huff, Mary Ann Gallegos, Sherrie Love, Ray Nunez, Carrie Payne, and Jim Watson were recognized for 20 years of service. Lorrie Payne and Shelly Taylor were recognized for 25 years of service. Special recognition was given to Paulette Connelly for her 35
years of service with Coleman ISD.

Mr. Young wished everyone an enjoyable summer and said he looked forward to seeing everyone back on campus in August.

 


Coleman 4-H Meet June 2nd - TUESDAY
6/1/2009
Coleman 4-H will have their monthly on Tuesday, June 2 at 6:00 pm in the meeting room at the Bill Franklin Center.