News Archives - November 2008  

Free "Thanks-Giving" Feast at Noon on Thanksgiving Day
11/26/2008
Don't want to be alone on Thanksgiving.
Or just don't want to cook?
Or just want to share Thanksgiving with others?
Want to give to others, come join us!
Everyone is invited to:
Free Thanks-Giving Feast at The Cross
Thanksgiving Day at Noon
Smoked Turkeys
Homemade Dressing
Real Mashed Potatoes
Candied Yams
Green Bean Casserole
Cobblers, Cakes & Pies
Working? We do take-outs just let us know how many.
The Cross: In Coleman go down to the end of Commercial & make a left at the Courthouse & go to the end of W. Liveoak, follow the driveway up (unless you like to take the stairs).
Contact Info: (325)-625-1002 The Cross, PO Box 1003, Coleman, TX 76834; www.mt25.net 
Everyone is welcome - bring your friends & family!  To Give Thanks!

BOIL WATER NOTIFICATION LIFTED
City of Santa Anna,  November 26, 2008
The boil water notice as issued on November 24, 2008 has been lifted, and the citizens of Santa Anna should resume use of the public water supply in the normal manner. We have extreme confidence that your water supply is safe and its integrity was not compromised during this period.

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

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

Historical Commission NEEDS ACTIVE Members
11/25/2008
Coleman County’s Historical Commission (CCHC) needs active commission members to serve for the 2009-2010 term beginning in January 2009. The commission must meet a minimum of four times per year and works with community members to “protect and preserve the state’s historic and prehistoric resources for the use, education, economic benefit, and enjoyment of present and future generations”.

Don’t quit reading yet. You need to know why you should be interested.

This is not a demanding duty, but it is serious business. Commission members should serve as leaders and coordinators. Texas Historical Commission staff in Austin is always there to help and sponsors an annual conference with great workshops. The 2009 conference will be held April 15-17 at the Lakeway Hotel and Conference Center on Lake Travis.

Texas ranks second in the U.S. in the number of cultural and heritage travelers visiting the state and local economies benefit from these tourists who spend almost $30 more per day and stay longer than the average traveler.

Why do we need a local commission? What does it mean to the people of Coleman County? We have historic/prehistoric resources in the county that could draw in more tourism dollars. Tourists buy gas, groceries and restaurant meals. They buy gifts and medicine and auto parts. They stay in local motels and Bed & Breakfasts.

All these businesses employ people and advertise. The businesses and their employees buy gas, groceries, meals, gifts, medicine, auto parts, hardware, automobiles and houses. They buy clothes and get their clothes cleaned and their oil changed, their hurts fixed, their taxes done, and they insure their houses, buy natural gas, electricity, phone service and television reception. In short, when we get more tourism, we all benefit. When you help make your commission effective, you help your business.

We have a rich and exciting history with Indian attacks, floods, train robberies, cattle drives, hangings, shootings, and more. We have many interesting and diverse historic/prehistoric resources that, if developed, could draw visitors to the county. But, without your help, these resources are at best wasted and at worst, will disappear.  If you want to make a difference, contact one of the CCHC nominating committee members: Maxine Cope, Roger Nelson or James Winstead.

Coleman Man Wins BIG !!!
11/25/2008
(Austin) - Gary Crump of Coleman has 2.4 million new reasons to be thankful this year.  Last week he walked into the Elkins Cut Rate, 616 N. Neches, and purchased a Monthly Bonus ticket from the Texas Lottery®, one of his favorite games.   He uncovered each square, but his numbers weren't coming up.  Then near the bottom of the ticket a dollar bill symbol appeared.  Crump had scratched his way to the top prize of $10,000 per month for 20 years, not to exceed $2,400,000. 

He looked closely at the ticket for awhile and said, "Huh. I guess I'm going to retire."  After convincing his wife that the ticket might be a winner, the two went back to the store to try to validate the prize.  They say everyone in the store recognized the winning tone coming from the store's terminal.   It didn't take long for the word to spread.  "People at work knew by the time I got back," said Crump.  "Word travels fast in a small town," said Texas Lottery Commission Deputy Executive Director Gary Grief.  "We join Mr. Crump's friends and neighbors in congratulating him, and we hope his winnings will help make this holiday season extra-special for him and his family."

Crump claimed the third of four top prizes offered in the Monthly Bonus, game number 839.   Odds of winning any prize are one in 3.80, including break-even prizes.  For selling the winning ticket, the Elkins Cut Rate is eligible for a retailer bonus of $10,000.  Tuesday night's Mega Millions® jackpot is worth an estimated $96 million.  Wednesday's Lotto Texas® jackpot is worth an estimated $10 million.  For more information on the Texas Lottery, please visit the official website at http://www.txlottery.org.

Auction at Circle C Cattlewomen's New Years Eve Gala
11/25/2008
Here are just a few items that will be auctioned off at this years Cattle Women's New Years Eve Gala! There will be a live and silent auction. Auction items are donated by Cattle Women Members, local business and out of town businesses. ALL proceeds to benefit Circle C Cattlewomen's "Excellence in Agriculture " scholarships, as well as the Coleman County Jr. Livestock Show. If you would like to donate an item to the auction please, call Danyelle Hemphill 325-636-7680, monetary donations are welcome.

Operation Christmas Child Success
11/25/2008
Beverly Humes, from Coggin Ave. Baptist Church in Brownwood, brought a trailer that was half full to pick up boxes in Coleman for Operation Christmas Child. It was only half full because she had already taken one full load to Abilene of over 900 boxes.  Coleman itself is sending 276 shoe boxes. These boxes will go to remote countries of the world to give needy children the blessings of Christmas. Operation Christmas Child is a program offered through the Franklin Graham ministry of Samaritan's Purse. Franklin Graham is the son of Evangelist Billy Graham.  Pictured and helping Amy Hinds in the pictures is Leonard Greer.  Thank you to Coleman for a job well done!!!

Fundraiser
11/24/2008
There is an account open at First Coleman National Bank in the name of Cutter Cody.  He has had surgery and will be in the hospital for another 6-8 weeks at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth.  Cutter is the son of Richard and Dolly Cody.  Anyone interested in donating to the fund can do so at FCNB.  Thank you!

Danna Dawson Presents Program
11/24/2008 (Contributed)
Danna Dawson, Art teacher at CISD, presented a program for the Fine Arts League Meeting November 20th at the First Coleman National Bank Clubroom. Danna's program included the instructions she gives her students from the beginning drawing through the completion of the work, including perspective, values, design, color, etc. She presented some examples of the work of the students which were indicative of good prospects for some excellent artists coming out of CISD. The Fine Arts League members support the efforts made by the school and Danna to expose the youth to the arts. A youth art show will be sponsored by the League in February of next year.

Good Neighbor TEEA Club Meeting
11/24/2008
Sylvia Herring presented the program on porcelain painting - its early history right to modern times - at the Good Neighbor TEEA Club on Friday morning, November 21.  On display were several items she had painted.  This was a fascinating display of triangles, tiles, a pitcher, different sizes of plates and a picture on an easel.  She illustrated basic art shapes to create drawings.  She also used special shapes such as a heart to make roses and a lazy 6 to create butterflies and hummingbirds.  Tracing a pattern using graphite paper on china was also demonstrated.  This was certain a very talented and creative presentation by a very enthusiastic lady.  The triangle items were given as door prizes.

President Mary Frances Smith called the meeting to order.  Dorothy McDonald led the pledge of allegiance to the U.S. flag and the pledge to the Texas flag.  Helen Cross led the creed and the prayer.  The president led Thought for the Day:  "Live each day as if it were your last."  Members answered roll call with "What did you do on your birthday or what are you going to do on your birthday?" 

Peggy  Willetts gave the treasurer's report.  The group voted to give $500 to the Coleman County 4-H scholarship fund.  Report of the last association meeting was given by Shari Craig.  Programs coming up in 2009 were listed.  Changes in the next year's budget were announced.  The commissioners' luncheon was scheduled for December 8th.  The association Christmas salad luncheon will be December 10th at 11:30am following the regular meeting at 10:00am. 

The president asked for volunteers for the District Consumer Training for Agents to be held on February 28th at the Bill Franklin Center.  Reservations have been made for the Good Neighbor Christmas Party at Pasta Primavera December 5th.  Eating time will be 11:00am.  Members are to meet at the clubroom and go as a group. 

Hostess was Dorothy McDonald.  Guests were Sylvia Herring and Doris McCullough and Key Dyer.  Members attending were Nina Childress, Lena Clevenger, Shari Craig, Barbara Cropp, Helen Cross, Betty Griffin, Anna Jenkins, Jean Langford, Dora Newman, Mary Frances Smith, Peggy Willetts.  Kay Dyer was welcomed as a new member. 

Nancy Jones Leaving Community Foundation of Abilene
11/24/2008
Nancy Jones, the only chief executive the Community Foundation of Abilene has had in its 22 years, is leaving effective March 1.  Jones will become President of the Community Foundation of North Texas, based in Fort Worth. She and her husband, Ross Jones, will split time between Fort Worth and property they own in Coleman County.   Paul Cannon, chairman of the board of trustees, assured donors that the Community Foundation of Abilene will continue to operate as usual after Jones’ departure. In the coming weeks, the board will begin the process of identifying a successor, Cannon said.  “As far as the future is concerned, Nancy has helped us build a strong, capable professional staff to continue the work of the foundation,” he said.  Cannon noted that Jones has been a tremendous asset to the community and the community foundation and will take with her the board’s best wishes for success in her new position.   “We regret her leaving, but, of course, are happy for her as she faces this new challenge in her career,” Cannon said.   The community foundation administers unrestricted, designated and donor-advised funds. Grants issued from the proceeds benefit Abilene citizens and organizations covering a wide range of interests such as health care, children’s issues, and the arts. Grants total more than $4.5 million each year.  The Community Foundation of Abilene has assets of approximately $80 million, compared to the approximately $140 million in assets managed by the North Texas foundation.  Ann Louden, vice chair of the board of directors of the North Texas foundation and chair of its search committee, said Jones was the perfect choice to lead the foundation.  “The respect and esteem Nancy has earned in the world of community foundations is what first drew us to her,” Louden said. “By any measure, her achievements and experience put her in a category all her own.”

Jones taught in the School of Business at McMurry University from 1984 to 1986, when she became president of the Community Foundation of Abilene. Prior to moving to Abilene, she taught in the Business School at San Diego State University, was a consultant with Coopers & Lybrand in New York and Temple, Barke & Sloan of Boston.  Jones earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from the University of Southern California and a doctor of business administration from the University of Kentucky. She served on the Texas Tech University System board of regents from 1997 to 2003 and was vice chair from 2001-2003. She is involved in numerous organizations, both locally and nationally. Jones is a member of the national advisory board of the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women’s Health and is on the executive committee of the Texas Tech University Foundation.  She has been a consultant and facilitator for more than 30 community foundations across the United States and is a faculty member for the Center for Community Foundation Excellence, Council on Foundations, Washington, D.C.

Coleman Country Club Christmas Party - December 6th
11/24/2008  (Contributed by Sujo McKee)
The Coleman Country Club would like to extend a special invitation to all members and their families for the annual White Elephant Christmas Party. The party will be held Saturday, December 6th at 7pm at the Coleman Country Club’s Clubhouse. Every member is also welcome to invite a non-member and their families as well.

All members are encouraged to bring an unmarked, wrapped gift ($10 maximum) for the Chinese gift game, your beverage of choice and a finger food snack. In addition to the gift game, food and fun, music will also be provided. Please mark your calendars and make plans to attend this year’s Christmas party! RSVP to SuJo at 625-3690 or for any questions.

Congratulations are in order for Coleman Country Club member, Wes Adams, for scoring a hole in one on October 17th. Adams aced hole #8 at Coleman Country Club with Tom Burns, David Fritsch, and Ken Smith as witnesses.

The Club would also like to welcome new members to the membership, Tony Windham and Cody Fikes as well as the return of Ray Roberts to the Club.

For more information on the Coleman Country Club, please visit the website at www.colemancountryclub.com  or call the pro-shop at 625-2922.

Grandson of Coleman Residents Receives Award
11/24/2008
PV2 Josh Rivera was chosen by his Commanding Officer to participate in the German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency. This is the most sought after award to achieve and only one of the few approved foreign awards.
To earn an award one must complete the following requirements:
1) Evaluation report from the Commanding Officer recognizing the soldier's physical and moral standards.
2) First Aid Course...Combat Life Saver
3) German Sports Tests ( time limit determined by age category)
a) 100m timed sprint
b) 3k (1.85) mile run
c) Measured high jump and long jump
d) 200 m timed swim
e) Measured shot put
4) 25m Marksmanship (9mm pistol only)
5) 30K Road March in BDU's boots, and 75lb ruck sack
PV2 Rivera was awarded several gold and one silver metal for his excellent military proficiency and has been authorized to wear the Badge decoration on his Class A's.  Rivera was also presented with a coin ( Rock of the Marne) of excellence by his Command Sergeant Major.   PV2 Rivera is the son of SSG Jeff and Elvia Rivera of Ft. Hood, Texas and grandson of Robert and Maria Salazar of Santa Anna, Texas.

Citywide Toy Drive Gearing Up
11/24/2008
The Citywide Toy Drive will begin taking applications from parents who need a little assistance providing Christmas toys for their children. There are toys for newborns up to 10 years of age.

Applications will be taken from Monday, December 1 until Friday, December 12. The applications will be at the First United Methodist Church which is located at the corner of Liveoak and Neches Streets in Coleman. Enter the door that directs you to the office. Volunteers will be at this location from 2-4 pm Monday through Friday of those two weeks to assist parents with the applications. Social Security cards for the children must be presented at the time the application is turned in. We will have to stress this because individuals in the past have tried to use fraudulent numbers.

The toy distribution date will be Friday, December 19. The toys must be picked up by the parent /guardian on that Friday between 5:00 - 6:00 pm at St. Mark's Episcopal Church. St. Mark's is located at 609 S. Neches St. in Coleman.   Please arrange to have someone there to pick up your toys. We do not have workers to deliver toys.

Donations of new or gently used toys and children's books are welcomed and may be dropped off at the Coleman County Electric Co-Op on North Highway 84 or at the Coleman Chamber of Commerce at 218 Commercial. Also, monetary gifts are accepted year round at the Coleman County State Bank at 118 W. Pecan. Just note that the gift is for the Citywide Toy Drive.

Do you feel lucky???
11/24/2008
One man did when he went into Elkins Cut Rate last week. An unidentified man made his daily purchase at Elkins last week and got the surprise of his life when he scratched off his lottery ticket and found he was the winner!   This scratch off ticket says that he won 2.4 million dollars, which could turn out to be $10,000 a month for the next 20 years!    Elkins will receive a percentage of the winning amount. Elkins Cut Rate is located at 616 N. Neches St.   Pictured right is Elkins Cut Rate owner Melvin Lawrence holding the scratch off game.

Fall Decorating Contest Winners Announced
11/24/2008
Winners of the Fall Decorating contest are as follows.
Vicky Cook ------- 1st place of $50, 908 S. Colorado (corner of 2nd & Colorado)
Drew & Barbara Hubbard ------- 2nd place of $25.00, 500 Western Dr., (Display is facing Walnut)
Thank you to all who participated, Coleman Business People's Assoc.

Encompass Home Health - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
11/24/2008
Encompass Home Health, located at 300 Commercial Ave, held a ribbon cutting ceremony and reception this morning.  Attending were, left to right, Amy Hinds (Chamber), Tracy Dunaway, (Home Health Aide), Landa King (Billing Specialist), Debbie Tewksbury (Aide), Jeannie Dolberry (Director of Nursing), David Smith (guest), Nancy Nicholson (Marketing) Misty Brooks (LVN), Kim Pratt ( Administrator), Neely Felux (RN), Kim Horne (Chamber Board) and Rachelle McKinnon (Miss Coleman County.  Not pictured is employee Shelley Robinett, RN. 

Lets Party! 
11/23/2008
The Circle C Cattlewomen are working hard to make this years New Years Eve Gala the best party ever!  Saturday many of the members came together to work on table center pieces for the Gala.  Tickets are selling fast!  Come ring in the New Year in style with the Circle C Cattle Women!  The Cattle Women want to thank Needham Surveyors for letting them have use of their office to work. 

Allen Pricer shot this 10 point buck on his grandmother's property south of Gouldbusk.  Allen is a nine-year-old fourth grader at Panther Creek Elementary.  (photo courtesy Jeanene Pricer)

Scott Bird of Trickham killed this 12 point buck Tuesday,  November 11th at the McIver Ranch. (photo courtesy of Diana Bird)

McCaslin shot this 10 pt.  11/08 just SW of Coleman near Valera. He is 10 yrs. old and was hunting with his Dad, Everett. (Photo courtesy of Paula Burkett)

AGGIE MOMS ANNUAL SIDEWALK BAKE SALE
11/22/2008
Just in time for your Thanksgiving guests!  The Aggie Moms will once again be baking up delicious breads, pies, casseroles, cakes, and goodies!  The sidewalk sale will be Monday, November 24th, 7:30am until noon, in front of Taylor Real Estate (downtown).  If you have a favorite dish to request early, please call Barbara at 625-2234 or email staff.hubbardinsurance@hotmail.com.  All proceeds are used for scholarships for Coleman County kids attending A&M University. 

Gouldbusk Community Thanksgiving Dinner
11/22/2008
It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner again. The ladies of the Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club would like to invite each and every person who has ever or is a part of the Gouldbusk Community to come and join us for a great time of good food and fellowship at the Gouldbusk Community Center on Sunday November 23rd at 12 noon. Come hungry and come early. As usual we will have a great spread laid out. We will have Turkey and Ham as well as dressing and hot rolls. Drinks will also be provided. All we ask is that each family attending bring a dish, a salad, a vegetable or a dessert. This year will be special as Coleman County as a whole celebrates it's sesquicentennial we at Gouldbusk are celebrating the history of our area. Founded in 1903, Gouldbusk too has a rich history. Mona Wilson will be presenting a program telling about the community. After she is finished those present will be asked to contribute their own families slice of Gouldbusk history. We are hoping that many there will help make this a truly special occasion. If you have ever been a part of the community of Gouldbusk we would truly love to have you join us for this feast and share your Thanksgiving with us. Pastor Alan Wallace of the Gouldbusk Baptist Church, will be providing music at the dinner.  Remember, come early and come hungry. See you there!  Click HERE for more information about the Homemaker's Club and for history of Gouldbusk.

Heritage Hall Museum - Toy Exhibit
11/21/2008 (By Kim E. Horne)
One of favorite exhibits at The Heritage Hall is Dan Taylor’s toy exhibit. Let me give you a little background on Dan. He is a bit of a museum exhibit himself.

Dan Taylor, Doole, Texas, entered his first rodeo competition at age 12. In 1942, at age 18, he joined the Cowboy Turtles Association and was issued card #64. At that time, Taylor was the youngest professional roper in the world. He won the calf roping at Ellensburg, Washington, in 1948; the average at Boston Garden, 1949; and finished fourth in the world standings in 1951.   In 1954, Taylor was named RCA Calf Roping Director and served through 1956. He was named Timed Event Chute Boss at the 1965 NFR, a position he continued through 1973. He returned as the NFR Timed Event Chute Boss in 1978-1979. He ran "Chute 9" at Cheyenne Frontier Days and was honored for more than 50 years of service in 1996. The Senior Steer Ropers named Taylor "The Master Chute Boss." He served as President of the PRCA in 1986-87. Dan is also in the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Rodeo Hall of Fame. If you ever get the opportunity to sit and visit with Mr. Taylor, I highly recommend it. He is a rare wealth of knowledge and history!   I could talk to him for hours and never tire of his stories.

Dan donated his childhood toys to the Heritage Hall this year. He has saved these toys since 1924. There is a bear on rollers in the exhibit. Maxine was telling me it was sway-backed because Dan said he use to ride it as a kid! I laughed because I could never imagine Dan being the same age as my daughter! But I figured as a youngster he would ride just about anything just to pretend that it was a horse! Maxine also went on to tell me that his wife Berva, also a wealth of knowledge and history, looked at Dan and said, “Dan, I thought you were poor growing up. There are a lot of toys here!”   Dan replied, “Toys were not that expensive!”  Dan’s mother, Mrs. Babb Taylor, made all the doll clothes and quilts. There is also an old toy steam engine in the collection. It ran off of coal! If you know the Taylor’s - come and see this exhibit! Very interesting! Bring your kids out! They may have never seen a toy that was not made of plastic or required a battery!
The Heritage Hall is located 400 W. College. They are opened Saturdays 10 to 4.

AGENDA for Special Called City Council Meeting
11/21/2008
CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL ROOM, 5:00 P.M., TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2008
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider on the first reading of Ordinance No. 1100 a variance for Joseph Johnson for property located at 1400 S. Commercial Ave., Coleman, Texas.
2. Council will consider on the first reading of Ordinance No. 1101 a variance for Mary Morse for property located at 1501 Brazos St., Coleman, Texas.

“The Mystery of Indian Hill”
11/21/2008
Hello, we are currently the sixth grade students of Ballinger Junior High and we are reading “Island of the Blue Dolphins” in our Reading Class.  This book focuses on a tribe of Indians living off the coast of California on the island of San Nicolas.  This book is based on the true story of the “Lone Woman of San Nicolas”. We have decided that for our project for this book, we are going to investigate and learn about our own unique Indian history in our own town.  We have chosen the disappearance of the Indian Chief statue that was placed in Ballinger City Park by Mr. Elmer Shepherd purchased from Wirt Franklin Oil and Gas Refinery in Ardmore, Oklahoma in 1939. We, as students, will be talking to our local community members to gather as much information as possible. We are asking for anyone with any information or pictures dealing with the purchase as well as the disappearance of the Indian Chief to please send the information to Ballinger Junior High, C/O Cinnamon Carter, PO Box 231, Ballinger, TX 76821. Stay Tuned to see what we find!

Cub Scouts and KSTA Radio team up to 'Scout for Food'
PLACE FOOD ITEMS ON PORCHES BY SUNRISE TOMORROW !!!
11/21/2008
The Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries is depending on donations from the Coleman community to supplement food supplies for needy families. To make sure there is enough food to go around this holiday season, Cub Scouts Pack 226 has partnered with KSTA 1000 AM, who has in turn partnered with some of its advertisers to collect food for Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries.

Residents of Coleman are also urged to place non-perishable food items on their front porches by sunrise on Saturday, Nov. 22, as the Cub Scouts will go door-to-door collecting food.

Cub Scout sponsor Tina Rhoades says the "Scouting for Food" drive is one of the highlights of the Cub Scouting year.  "They boys enjoy it," she said. "They like doing it because they feel like they're doing it for a good cause.  They collect hundreds of pounds of food for the residents of Coleman each year."

"We are proud to be a part of the 'Scouting for Food' drive," said KSTA Station Manager Leland Acker. "Seeing how enthusiastic the Cub Scouts are about this food drive makes me optimistic that we'll be able to collect a lot of food for Coleman residents. Ministries like Loaves and Fishes are a vital part of the Coleman community and we at KSTA are glad to play a part in helping out."  The food drive ends Nov. 22.

Youth Deer Hunt
11/20/2008     (Contributed)
On November 15th, 6 boys from the Happy Hill Farm (a school for At-Risk Children) in Granbury participated in a deer hunt. The boys ranged in ages from 12 to 17 years old. They were able to harvest 8 deer at the morning hunt and 7 deer at the afternoon hunt for a total harvest of 9 does and 6 bucks. This was the first time that any of the boys had harvested deer. The deer meat will be used at Happy Hill Farm to feed all the children at the school.

On the night before the hunt, the boys stayed in the camp house on the Carroll Ranch owned by Ron and Sandy Carroll and managed by Bill Garrett. The deer were harvested in the Hords Creek Lake area from the Womack Ranch owned by Glen and Cheryl Womack of Odessa and Managed by John Johns of Talpa and from the Halfmann Ranch owned by Tommie and Lorene Halfmann of Talpa.

The Guides were Brian Statler - Happy Hill Farm Ag Teacher, Jacob Mills - Happy Hill Farm Athletic Director, Gary Heath - Coleman High Student Council, Game Warden James Brown from Callahan County, Game Wardens Travis Allen, Jarrett Barker and Captain Malcom Wilkes from Brown County and Game Warden William Heath from Coleman County.

Fall Decorating Contest  - DEADLINE to enter TODAY
11/20/2008
The Coleman Business People's Association is sponsoring a Fall Decorating Contest. This is a "view from the street" contest and we already have our judges ready and rarin' to come and judge your yard display. This contest is for the City of Coleman only.  To enter, please call the Chamber of Commerce at 625-2163. Deadline to enter your yard is November 20th. We will award three cash prizes: First place - $50.00; second place - $25.00; third place - $15.00.  Join in the fun - decorate your yard for fall!

Novice ISD Faces Uncertain Future
11/19/2008
Novice ISD is facing the possibility of closing at the end of this year. Low enrollment is at the root of the problem, even though there is currently 97 students enrolled. Public schools receive a certain amount of money per student from the State of Texas. Lower enrollment numbers mean less money the school district receives from the State. The amount sent to each district is based on the ADA (Average Daily Attendance).

Diana Dobbins, Principal of Novice ISD, reports that at present, one issue is the Pre-K numbers. There are currently 7 enrolled, but only 3 are "qualified" for ADA purposes, and they only count for 1/2 day, giving the district 1.5 Pre-K students for ADA. The school's enrollment number is close to being enough, but "close" makes it difficult to plan for next year. The school board has decided to open discussions with neighboring school districts about the possibility of consolidating, and to discuss a loan option with their local Bank.

There is hope on the horizon, with 7 new students enrolling last week following the Town Hall Meeting. However, another 6-8 students in the K-12 program are needed to ensure stability. The next meeting to discuss this matter will be held on Monday, December 15th.

SAHS Junior Class Tours Tarleton State University Campus
11/20/2008     (Contributed by Montie Guthrie)
Wednesday, November 19, twenty-three juniors from Santa Anna High School joined over 8000 Tarleton Texans at the Stephenville campus, going from classroom to classroom, dormitory to recreation building, and eating in the college dining hall to sample a slice of college life.

The juniors pulled out from SAHS promptly at 8:00a.m. to make the 85-mile ride to Stephenville, arriving at the TSU Student Center at 10:00am. There they met the tour guides, who took them to a presentation about college in general and Tarleton specifically given by University Admissions and Financial Aid Officers.

From that point, the class split into two groups and began the walking tour of the campus, visiting various buildings and getting a sense of college life in general. The new, multi-million dollar recreation facility with its various courts, exercise equipment, and free weights was a hit with everyone, as was the last stop on the tour—the brand new college dining hall. The SAHS juniors acquitted themselves very well at the all-you-can-eat facility where they enjoyed a sumptuous lunch of their choice of pizza, Mexican, Chinese, Italian, or comfort foods.

The Mountaineers then moved back to the Student Center, where they had a little time to check out the University Store and the ping-pong and pool tables. They enjoyed experiencing a taste of the “social” aspects of college life.

Loading back up on the old “yellow dog”, the students excitedly discussed their futures at the colleges or tech schools of their choice all the way back to SA.

CJHS Students Take Art Field Trip
11/20/2008
Danna Dawson, Coleman ISD art teacher, took her 6th grade art class on a day-long field trip to see Coleman's Art community.  They visited several art studios in town, including Marion Johnson's Pink Flamingo Art Studio at 1212 Commercial Ave. Shown in the pictures are Marion Johnson, Danna Dawson and CJHS 6th grade students while visiting the Pink Flamingo Art Studio. 

TREES, TREES, AND THEN TREES!
11/22/2008
The Mini-Christmas Tree Festival is on its way - The trees submitted for judging were anything but the usual. Materials used included tree limbs, wood, gum drops, lady’s pin, century plant seed pods, chicken wire, newspaper; coat hangers, tinsel, Styrofoam, gold leaves, wood, beads, sea shells, lolli-pops, barbed wire, buttons, copper wire, straw, metal, cactus, feathers, rocks and various other odd treasures.  Some 17 brave (artistic) souls conceived, created and submitted “trees” to the Annual Mini-Tree Festival sponsored by the Business People’s Association, the Coleman Chamber of Commerce and the Fine Arts League of Coleman County. Thanks to the Chamber for their help in receiving the trees.

The submissions were divided into two categories according to size. Judging was for their originality and presentation.
Entries into Category I and location of exhibit: height 10” – 15”
Brandon McPherson            “Original McPherson”            Bowen Drug
John Johns                          “West Texas Poor”              Chamber
Donna Seymore                                                            Commer. Ave Antique Mall
Veda Christian                     “It’s Christmas”                   Curves
Liz Hughes                          “He is born”                        Earle Smith Jewelry
Sue Frizzell                         “Sesquicentennial”              Co. General Store
Dokie Bledsoe                      “Burgandy Whimsy”           Grammers
Melissa Aaron                     “Sew me a Christmas”         Kay’s Garden
Ora Jane Anderson              “Lady of Hope”                    Mel’s Flowers
Janet Horton                       “Star Bright Tree”                 Shapes
Terrilyn Taylor                     “Santa’s Dream Vacation”     Terry’s Studio
Mary Anderson                   “Lolli P Tree”                       Tyson Pharmacy
Eric Joffrion                         “Buttons & Barbs”               Wise Express
Entries into Category 2 and location of exhibit: 3” – 18”
Veda Christian                   “Stone Tree”                         Chamber
Robin Black                       “Under the Texas Sun”          Co. General Store
Marian Johnson                  “Pink Flamingo’s Partridge in a Pear Tree”             Petal Patch
Winners in each category will be announced at the Christmas Parade Dec. 4. Prizes will be given for Category I only: First Place $100 Gift Cert; Second Place $75 Gift Cert; Third Places - 3 at $50 each Gift Cert.   Prizes for Category 2 will be ribbons only.
A People’s Choice Award $25 Gift Certificate will be given for the “tree” receiving the most votes. Visit each of the above businesses and then turn in your vote for People’s Choice to the Chamber Office.

FUMC to Present Christmas Musical
11/20/2008
Under the direction of Truitt Mitchell, the chancel choir of First United Methodist Church joined by other singer from the community will present the Christmas musical "Unspeakable Joy" by Lari Goss. This will take place Sunday, December 14 at 6:00pm in the church sanctuary, 500 W. Live Oak.

Soloists will be Garvin Cox, Bill Shields, Carolyn Merriman, Jody Cox, Leslie Cross, Sue Shields, Dixie Bible, Dianne Kerzee, K'Lynn Lefevre, Kristi Schultz, Kenneth Newman, and Candace Beal.

Following the presentation, refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall. Pastor Mike Kerzee invites everyone to join us for this presentation!

FCCLA Hosts Leadership Workshop
11/20/2008      (Contributed by Bonnie Brown)
Coleman High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America hosted a Leadership Workshop at Coleman High School recently. Region and state FCCLA officers conducted the student-led workshop focusing on Leadership Enhancement Opportunities and leadership sessions.

Leadership Enhancement Opportunities provide members a chance to compete individually by taking objective tests on FCCLA programs and activities. The areas of competition included Job Interview, Etiquette, Consumer Quiz, Consumer Math, Hospitality, Parliamentary Procedure Quiz, Step One Quiz, Interior Design, Culinary Arts, and Creed, Purpose, and Mission.

Region II officers attending the Coleman FCCLA Leadership Workshop were Vice President of STAR Events Rachelle McKinnon of Coleman, Vice President of Correspondence Darren Griffin of Blackwell, Vice President of Finance Marissa Griffin of Blackwell, Vice President of Membership Kacee Roberts of Robert Lee, Vice President of Parliamentary Law Mandy Rose of Cross Plains, State Vice President of Public Relations Nathania Cisnevoz of San Saba, and State Vice President of Achievement Ryan Rhodes of Breckenridge.

Coleman FCCLA members participating in the Leadership Enhancement Opportunity competition were as follows:
Etiquette – silver certificate – Shaina Thompson
Creed, Purpose, and Mission Statement –
Silver certificate – Kelsey Puckett, Kayla Barnett, and Lorena Vasquez.
Bronze certificate – Greg Brannon (Pictured above right)
Job Interview
Gold certificates – Emilie Jimenez, Lacey Bouldin, Rene Salas, Kassidy Dean, Cheyenne Casey, Eden Duquette, Mohini Bhakta, Santos Jimenez, Sonya Cruz, and Tabitha Terrell.
Silver certificates – Bambi Yebra, Arturo Avila, Amy Fowler, Samantha Yebra, Nancy Cruz, Laura Martinez, Tori Valdez, Adrianna Resendez, and Angelina Marks.
Bronze certificates - Shelby Scott, Jessica Dean, and Nikki Rush.
Also attending were Jared Vasconelles and Bonnie Brown, advisor.

4-H GOLD STAR WINNERS NAMED
11/19/2008     (contributed)
Two local 4-H members from Coleman County, were among 29 youth honored during the Texas AgriLife Extension Service District 7 4-H Gold Star Banquet.  The annual event was held on November 10, 2008 in San Angelo at the Cactus Hotel.

Coleman County 4-H honorees were Gary Heath, son of William and Jan Heath; and, Audrey Casselberry, daughter of B.P. and Beverly Casselberry all of Coleman. (Both are pictured below)

The Gold Star Award is the highest honor given by AgriLife Extension on the county level.  Winners are picked based on their personal development, leadership and achievement in 4-H projects, and on activities and contributions made to the 4-H program.

The Gold Star Banquet is sponsored each year in the 23-county district by AgriLife Extension and AEP Texas. 

HUMANE SOCIETY 2009 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE UNDERWAY
11/19/2008   (by Jo Ann Eddleman)
Perhaps you’ve had an occasion to call the Humane Society during the past year. Hopefully, it was to request a spay/neuter application for your family pet. Helping low-income families to pay for the vet costs involved in the altering of a pet to avoid more kittens and puppies is the primary mission of the Humane Society. No one who applies for a voucher is turned down. We pay up to 75% of the cost if verifiable government assistance is provided. We pay 50% regardless of financial need.
Perhaps you’ve called the Humane Society about taking your dog, cat, puppies or kittens. You may have been disappointed if the Humane Society was unable to help. No one wishes we could help every animal in need more than we do; but, unfortunately, we cannot be all things to everyone. Our Humane Society does not have a shelter and we are quite limited on how many dogs we can rescue, and we are not in a position to rescue cats at all. We will leave it up to you to imagine what kind of facility we would have to have to take in all the unwanted dogs and cats in the county, and still have a no-kill program.
We have four or five homes that are willing to foster the few dogs we are able to rescue. Most of those homes double-up and sometimes triple-up to keep the homeless critters till we can place them. We want to help them all, but we have our limitations. We can only hope you understand and know how hard it is for us to turn anyone down. That is why our rallying cry is SPAY/NEUTER YOUR PET!
However, we don’t turn everyone down, and we save most of the adoptable dogs that end up at the Coleman and Santa Anna city shelters.
What we need to keep us going on an emotional basis is your support through membership. Your membership helps us realize that even though we can’t solve all our homeless animal problems that our members appreciate what we do manage to do. We appreciate our members as the backbone of our organization.
If you haven’t received our membership letter, please pick up a membership application at our thrift store or join at our web site www.HumaneSocietyCC.com . Individuals and families can join for $10/ year and businesses for $25/year.

Night Launch of the Endeavour
11/19/2008     By Kathy Andrews
As many of you know, on Friday evening November 13th, NASA sent the Endeavour Space Shuttle up on a mission to space. This was the last night launch for the Shuttle program. We, Charles and his mother Bertha, and I were fortunate enough to be leaving Port Canaveral on the cruise ship Monarch of the Seas that evening. We left port at approximately 5:00 pm and the Endeavour lifted off around 7:55 pm at which time we were approximately 60 miles from the launch site. It was an amazing sight! It was pitch black and the moment the boosters fired there was an enormous orange glow on the horizon followed by the shuttle launching, as it gained altitude we could clearly see the space craft racing to space. As it gained altitude we could see sound waves on each side of the craft for just a moment. There were people from all over the world on the ship and many were lined up on three decks on the aft of the ship to watch the launch, as it lifted off there was a huge shout, with whistles and shouts of USA - USA, it was truly a "goosebump" moment!  It has been our dream to watch a shuttle launch and we were fortunate to have our vacation to start with the last night launch for the shuttle program, I wish everyone had been there - it was a wonder!

AGENDA, CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL
11/19/2008
THURSDAY, November 20, 2008 at 5:00pm at Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
OLD BUSINESS:
Council will consider a recommendation from the City Manager related to proposals submitted for salvaging the Municipal Light Plant. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will receive a report from Coleman Municipal Judge, Lisa Smith.
2. Council will consider the first reading of Ordinance 1099 to change the zoning from residential to commercial for a Bed and Breakfast establishment at 202 5th Ave.
3. Council will consider an Air Port Operations Contract for the Coleman Municipal Air Port.
4. Council will consider authorizing the city Secretary to transfer $20,000 from the Cemetery Capital Reserve Account #100-1010, to the current Cemetery Capital Budget, (#100-6400-05), for the purpose of purchasing a new Toro mower for the Cemetery.
ADDENDUM:  New Business
Council will consider Resolution 08-13 allowing for State Highways 153 and 206 to be closed temporarily on Thursday, December 4, 2008 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the purpose of the annual Christmas parade in downtown Coleman.

Eden Duquette signed a National Letter of Intent to play softball with Northwood University in Cedar Hill, Texas on Monday afternoon.  Coleman's own Sena Horne is their newly hired Head Softball Coach.  Pictured above are:  Sitting - Coach Sena Horne,  Eden Duquette and her mother, Lori Duquette.  Standing is Coleman  High's Softball Coach Steve Roberts.  Eden will have a combined Academic and Athletic Scholarship. 

Mel's Flower Shop Holds Open House Wednesday
11/19/2008
Mel's Flower Shop's new owner was front and center for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10:00am on  Wednesday, November 19, 2008.  Karen Burnett took over ownership a couple of months ago with Janice Hipsher as the Business Manager.  She has made many changes inside the store.  Click on the banner above for more information and pictures. 

Gouldbusk Homemakers Meet
11/18/2008
The Gouldbusk Homemakers Club met at the Gouldbusk Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, Thursday November 13th at 1pm. Hostess for the month was Lynn Corbett. Refreshments were enjoyed before the meeting was begun. The meeting was opened with a joint recitation of the creed, prayer, and pledges to the flags. At roll call each member present told what they would do or had done at their last birthday. Those present were: Lynn Corbett, Geneva Harris, Virginia Jamison, Wanda Jewell, Dean Lanier, Danella McBrayer, Rebecca Meyer, Pat Pool, Sue Ragsdale, Vicki Stewart, Berva Dawn Taylor, Pat Vance, and Deborah Yates. We also had 2 visitors, Betty Duus and Sharon Greenlee. After the business for the day was finished Geneva Harris gave a program on folding napkins which was much more entertaining than it sounds. Lynn Corbett gave a short presentation on "Tips from Heloise" that she had attended at the Corpus Christi Convention in September. Our next meeting will be our Christmas party at Berva Dawn Taylor's home in Doole. We will meet there for lunch, fellowship and a Chinese gift exchange on December 18th at 11:30am. We would love to see anyone who would like to join us there, just bring a dish and a gift for the exchange.

Mel's Flower Shop Holds Open House Today
11/19/2008
Mel's Flower Shop's new owner was front and center for the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 10:00am on  Wednesday, November 19, 2008.  Karen Burnett took over ownership a couple of months ago with Janice Hipsher as the Business Manager.  She has made many changes inside the store.  She is serving refreshments today, so stop by and check it out!    Click on the banner above for more information and pictures.  In attendance were:  Amy Hinds, Rachelle McKinnon (Miss Coleman County), Janice Hipsher, Karen Burnett, Kim Horne, and Mary Griffis.

There was a report of a car fire at the intersection of FM 1026 and HWY 67. The fire was reported to the Coleman Police Department at about 3 a.m. Nov. 16, 2008. At this time the cause of the fire is unknown. Colemannews.com will report more as the information becomes available.

DANNA DAWSON TO GIVE PROGRAM TO FALCC
11/18/2008
The November Program for the Fine Arts League will be given by Danna Dawson. She has lived in Texas for 17 years. Danna graduated from ASU in Jonesboro, AR and moved to Texas the next year. She has taught a variety of grades all over Texas- Kindergarten, First, Second, Third, Special Ed., Fifth, Sophomore English, and her favorite- ART. She hopes to go back to school and finish her Art degree some day- Danna states, “ It is a wonderful experience to be surrounded by so many wonderful artists in Coleman. Hopefully, I’ll be able to attend a lot of workshops and get back to my artwork.”

Danna and her husband, Tracy, have four children- Aaron is 19, Danielle is 12, Conner is 11, and Baily is 6. Aaron is a sophomore at the University of Arkansas. The other three are very involved in basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and art. Tracy is the Girls Basketball Coach at CISD. “We really love this town and are glad to be back in West Texas. “ And we are glad to have them!!

The Program will be at the First Coleman National Bank, Thursday November 20, at 6 pm in the Club Room 3rd floor. All members are encouraged to be present and visitors are welcome to come, meet our new art teacher, and share some of her art experiences with the children in ART class.

Chamber Plans 2 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
11/17/2008
There will be a ribbon cutting for Mel's Flower Shop on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008 at 10:00am. Mel's is located at 215 S. Commercial. Come and join us as we share this exciting moment with the new owner, Karen Burnett.

There will be a ribbon cutting for Encompass Health Care (formerly United) on Monday, Nov. 24, 2008 at 10:00am. Encompass is located at 300 S. Commercial Ave. Come join in the celebration of their new location.

Santa Anna Book Fair - This Week
11/17/2008
The Santa Anna ISD will be hosting a Scholastic Book Fair this week November 17th-21st in the school library. The Book Fair will be open to all students from 8:00 a.m. until 3:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday. It will close daily from 12:30-1:00 for lunch. On Friday November 21st, the fair will close at 12:00. There will be no sales after this time. Parents are welcome to attend Monday-Thursday from 2:30-3:00 daily!!   If you choose to write a check and send it with your child please make checks payable to “Scholastic Book Fair”.  All proceeds from the book fair will go towards the purchase of books for the Santa Anna ISD library.

Coach Villegas to Meet with Parents
11/17/2008
There will be a High School Boy’s Basketball Meeting Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 6p.m. in the New High School Gym.  All parent’s and guardians are asked to attend the meeting.

Coleman County Prayer and Praise Meeting
11/18/2008
This month's COLEMAN COUNTY, "COUNTY- WIDE PRAYER & PRAISE MEETING" will be held on Thursday, November 20th, from 7:00 to 8:00pm, hosted by the First Baptist Church located at 201 S. Lee Street in Santa Anna. This will be the 11th Prayer & Praise gathering we have had in our County. Bruce Hess is the Pastor of the First Baptist Church and he is excited that his church is sponsoring this month's meeting. We have heard good reports of things that are happening in our county as the result of these prayer and praise services.

So Y'all come!! Bring friends and family to pray for our County and Communities, and to sing praise to our wonderful God! All are invited to stay for fellowship and light refreshments in the social hall after the service.

BBQ Dinner on December 7th to Benefit Victim of Auto Accident
11/18/2008   (Contributed)
You know the great food, now you can help with a great cause. On December 7th, the wait and cook staff of the HH Family Dining Restaurant in Santa Anna, TX will host a Benefit for Christina Enriquez. They will be serving a BBQ dinner with all the trimmings including  tea/coffee for $6.00 a plate. Also due to a generous donation, there will also be a raffle of an antique buffet. The buffet may be seen  during business hours at the HH Family Dining Restaurant in Santa  Anna. The raffle will be $5.00 a ticket or 5/$20.00. On November 10, 2008 Ms. Christina Enriquez was the innocent  victim of a traffic accident at the intersection of Santa Anna Ave. and Hwy. 83 in Coleman, TX. She was broadsided by a drunk driver on her way to work. Ms. Enriquez is the single mom of a little girl and works for a financial institution in Coleman. As a result of the accident she was taken to Abilene for surgery and will be off of work for several weeks. The benefit will assist with medical bills and help her to provide  Christmas for her young daughter.

Ring in the New Year!
Circle C Cattlewomen’s New Year’s Eve Gala
11/18/2008
As a finale to Coleman County’s Sesquicentennial year, the Circle C Cattlewomen are hosting their New Year’s Eve Gala at the Bill Franklin Center on December 31, 2008. The event will include an outstanding steak dinner provided by Home Creek Cookin’ and will be followed by dancing to the music of the Metheny Brothers. The Metheny Brothers are icons in the south Texas area, bringing the best in western swing dance music in the style of Ray Price and Johnny Bush. They are elite pickers with plenty of fiddle and steel guitar. There will also be silent and live auctions, with an emphasis on very special western items. The auctions will benefit Circle C Cattlewomen’s “Excellence in Agriculture” scholarships, as well as premiums for beef exhibitors at the Coleman County Junior Livestock Show and beef entries in the 4-H Food Show.
Tickets are $30.00 per person and are available at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce or from any Circle C Cattlewomen member. Tickets are limited, so do not delay! This is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the New Year in a great atmosphere with family and friends and stay right here in Coleman. Any questions may be directed to the Chamber of Commerce at (325) 625-2163.

DID YOU KNOW......?
11/18/2008    (by Kim E. Horne)
Did you know there is a first class Museum right here in the Big Country? Coleman's own Heritage Hall is right here in our wonderful little town!   The Heritage Hall was donated to the group in 2005. This ambitious group of ladies worked diligently to open the doors of the museum February 2008.

The first time I walked into Heritage Hall I could not believe Coleman had such an undiscovered gem! This is a very upscale, classy, well organized and well put together museum!  Every time I step in the lovely old church I feel such a pride in Coleman!  I encourage you to take the time and look at your history! Starting today I will periodically be doing in-depth stories on some of the museum's unique artifacts. These items are all donated by people who have a connection to Coleman. Donations are always welcome! What you may think is trash could be Heritage Hall's treasures. Just today Maxine Cope and I dug threw some discarded trash bags of a recently sold older home in Coleman. We found a gold mine!  

Heritage Hall is located at 400 W. College. Their hours are Saturdays 10:00am to 4:00pm. They will be having a Christmas reception on December 6th from 2:00 to 4:00pm.

Heritage Hall Museum - Baby's Dress
11/18/2008     (by Kim E. Horne)
Heritage Hall has many interesting artifacts. One item I would like to feature is a small girls dress. A friend of mine told me to take a look at this. The story touched her. This small dress was worn by Myrtle Tyson. She was born to Marion and Susie Tyson. They were from the Santa Anna area. Myrtle died on her first birthday on May 24, 1884. The family kept this dress well preserved all these years. A relative later decided he wanted to donate it, but did not know where to take the dress, so he took it to Coleman City Hall a few years ago and then donated it to the Heritage Hall. The portrait is believed to be Myrtle in the dress. This man donated other memorabilia to the city as well, and it is also on display at the museum. If you have any other information about Myrtle Tyson please, fell free to tell me. I will get you in touch with one of the Ladies at Heritage Hall.

Operation Christmas Child Plans Underway
11/18/2008
Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations worldwide through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God’s love.

A shoe box filled with small toys and other gifts can open hurting hearts to God’s love. Instructional brochures and shoe boxes are available through Amy Hinds at the Coleman Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about Operation Shoe Box, please contact Amy at 325-625-2163 during the day or 325-625-4622 in the evening.   This is a great family project that will live in the hearts of the kids that receive the gifts for years to come.   The deadline to get these boxes to Amy is Friday, November 21st.

Jordan Dean, age 16, of Santa Anna got this 10 point buck while hunting north of Santa Anna with his Dad, Roddy Dean

Trent Smith got this nice 10 point buck in the Valera area on opening morning.  He is a sophomore at Panther Creek, and the son of Mark and Teresa Smith.

CISD Board Meeting Agenda
11/17/2008
DATE: Monday, November 17, 2008
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office,  300 West Pecan
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Consider Approving Updated CISD Technology Plan for 2007-2010
2. Consider Approving TASB Localized Policy Update 84
3. Amend the Budge
BOARD REPORT:
1. Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS) Report
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. School Finance Report from TASA Meeting of November 12, 2008
INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. December Board Meeting Date
2. Christmas Party
3. Check Payments

National Collegiate Signing Day at CHS
11/17/2008
The Bluecat Booster Club invites all Bluecat fans to Coleman High School on Monday, November 17th, at 1:30pm as we support our very own, Eden Duquette, as she signs her letter of intent to play collegiate softball!    Refreshments will be served!

Panther Creek Yearbook On Sale Now
11/19/2008
The 2009 Panther Creek Yearbook is currently being offered for sale. Orders may be placed by contacting a Panther Creek yearbook staff member or online through the school store at www.panthercountry.net . The cost of the yearbook is $35.00 and the order deadline is December 15, 2008. Preserve this year in history by getting your yearbook today. They are also excellent for coffee table books, waiting rooms and sales tools for real estate. For more information contact Mark Romine, yearbook adviser at 325-357-4449 or mark.romine@panthercountry.net.

FALCC Member Making Art for Breast Cancer Research (contributed)
11/15/2008
Adam Sparkman, grandson of our Dollie Sparkman, is making his mark with the very special artwork he creates. Adam’s work was admitted into the Juried Art Show in Coleman (Juror, Colorado artist Tom Lockhart) in May, 2008. His special treatment of the colors and his subjects is something to behold and gives a feeling it comes from the heart.

Adam, son of Bill & Nellie Sparkman, works for Kroger Grocery in College Station. When the management saw his painting of “My Ladies and the Rose” and read his accompanying story, they invited him to present prints of his work to the public for donations to the Breast Cancer campaign. Each weekend in October, Adam set up his station and presented the art to the public in the store. His sales proceeds went to benefit the Breast Cancer Research foundation.

We are proud of this young man. His compassion to those who are ill is inspiring to us all. Keep up the good work, Adam.

Dawson to Give Program to Fine Arts League
11/15/2008
New member, Danna Dawson, art teacher, CISD, will be presenting the program for the monthly meeting of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, on Thursday evening, Nov. 20, 6 pm at the First Coleman National Bank club room 3rd floor. You are invited.

The Mini Christmas Tree Festival entry date has been extended until Wed. Nov. 19, at noon after which the trees will be judged for prizes. Deliver your “tree” to the Chamber of Commerce before noon on Wednesday, with entry information. No fee charged. The trees will all be placed in businesses for public display. (photo of one of the entries shown to the right).
The ‘tree’ winners will be announced at the Christmas Parade downtown Dec. 4.

Other upcoming activities for the League include the Annual Christmas Party at noon in the home of Ginger & Terry Test, December 6; League Christmas Party, Dec. 18, First Coleman National Bank; Donated Art for the Rehab Telethon Auction at the Abilene Civic Center Jan. 17; (“KAS”) Kids Art Show at the Library in February, 2009.

For further information, you may call Theda Rhea, acting president at 325-625-4687 or email her at theda@thedarhea.com

PANTHER CREEK CISD
2ND SIX WEEKS
HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL
A HONOR ROLL
9TH GRADE
NIKKI EWING
COURTNEY MOORE
KELTON POWELL
JARED ROMINE
KATIE STRAACH
10TH GRADE
NONE
11TH GRADE
CASSIE PHILPOT
12TH GRADE
WILL COPLEY
BRITTANY MORRIS
GENEVIEVE SIMS
ELIZABETH TAPIA
JOHN WARREN

A/B HONOR ROLL
9TH GRADE
STEPHANNIE BLEDSOE
MEASHA ESCOBAR
JORIE NANNY
10TH GRADE
COJO BOWMAN
TRENT SMITH
TREVOR SMITH
11TH GRADE
FRED BLACKWELL
CHARLEY BOWMAN
ETHAN GRIFFIN
STEPHEN HOELSCHER
JAMMIE PRUITT
LESLYE SORBELLO
MATT TURNEY
12TH GRADE
MATT ALLEN
MARLAINA DIAZ
LEXIE EWING
MALLORY FELTY
SHELDON LOWE
DANEE’ MACHUTA
HEATHER POPE
JAKE STEWART

PANTHER CREEK CISD
2ND SIX WEEKS
JUNIOR HIGH HONOR ROLL
A HONOR ROLL
6TH GRADE
MORGAN FEITSHANS
TAYLAR HAMMOND
JOHNATHAN LAWS
ZANE McMAHON
7TH GRADE
KRISTEN MOORE
MARY ANN TAPIA
8TH GRADE
NONE

A/B HONOR ROLL
6TH GRADE
ZANE JAMISON
NICOLAS PARRA
7TH GRADE
MATTHEW LOWRY
MEGAN MARKS
PAULA MATA
JAMES SHORT
8TH GRADE
JESSICA LAWS


PANTHER CREEK CISD
2ND SIX WEEKS
ELEMENTARY HONOR ROLL
A HONOR ROLL
1ST GRADE
MICHAEL LOWRY
GLENDA PARRA
2ND GRADE
TYLER SPARKS
ZADIE WILLIAMSON
3RD GRADE
JAVIAN PARRA
4TH GRADE
ALLEN PRICER
5TH GRADE
NONE

A/B HONOR ROLL
1ST GRADE
RYLEE HAMMOND
XAVIER NINO
ARIEL NORIA
2ND GRADE
BRAYAN AVILA
ANGELA CORLEY
ETHAN STRAACH
ALEXANDER TORRES
3RD GRADE
AVERY BALL
HUNTER HAMMOND
TROTTER HARRIS
EMILY HOELSCHER
MARK LOYD
NATHAN McMAHON
4TH GRADE
COLTON MOORE
RYLIE PHILPOT
SARITA SHORT
JACOB SPRINGER
5TH GRADE
KELLY LOYD

COLEMAN HIGH SCHOOL
2ND SIX WEEKS  08-09
ALL A HONOR ROLL
9th GRADE
Landon Brown
Cheyenne Casey
Kassidy Dean
Reid Needham
Leanna Roberts
Nick Thompson
10th GRADE
Lisa Dees
Amanda Gober
Ross Jackson
Kelby McCorkle
Erin Strickland
11th GRADE
Reagan Barr
Zach Doyle
Morgan Hurtado
Emilie Jimenez
Angelina Jones
Garret Mendoza
Lisha Merkley
Kelsey Puckett
Keagan Slayton
Slade Stevenson
Casie Swening
Michael Watson
12th GRADE
Carlos Barrios
Lacey Bouldin
Colton Buzzard
Kenna Cornelius
Sonya Cruz
Shelbie DeLeon
Eden Duquette
Glen Edington
Reece Halfmann
Cole Hubbard
Meagan Ogden
Rene Salas
Cheyenne Turner

CHS PERFECT ATTENDANCE
2nd SIX WEEKS 2008-2009
9TH GRADE
Jonathan Amador
Chanie Barker
Laiken Barnett
Landon Brown
Cheyenne Casey
Sara Clawson
Cody Cogdill
Kassidy Dean
Billy Faries
Bryauna Guerrero
Luis Gutierrez
Patrick Hollis
Johnathan Horn
Brooks Jones
Cameron Kubala
Ryan Kuehler
Luis Landaverde
Reid Needham
Jesse Oliver
Logan Owens
Andrew Perez
Leanna Roberts
Lura Rylant
Nick Thompson
Abel Vazquez
Erik Villeda
Lane Watson
Wayne Worsham

10TH GRADE
Travis Brixey
Clint Coleman
Kalie Diaz
Marcelino Felipe
Vicky Frausto
Senquae Garza
Deisy Gutierrez
Chase Huddle
Ross Jackson
Leo Jameson
Colt Jamison
Jorge Jimenez
Santos Jimenez
Samantha Kelly
Kelby McCorkle
Tanner Mills
Drey Richards
Austen Roberts
Kyle Russell
Candace Smith
Erin Strickland
Brody Tibbetts
Matt Wickson

11TH GRADE
Anthony Beltran
J.R. Bruce
Cynthia Garza
Gary Heath
Aretha Holloway
Dallas Horton
Manny Jimenez
Emilie Jimenez
Angelina Jones
Lisha Merkley
Omar Olguin
Nathan Rogers
Peyton Schumann
Jordan Smith
Slade Stevenson
Casie Swening
Tory Valdez
Miguel Vazquez
Griselda Villeda
Michael Watson
Tyler Williams

12TH GRADE
Jamal Agbor
Arturo Avila
Tiffani Baker
Mohini Bhakta
Kenna Cornelius
Dalton DeLeon
Shelbie DeLeon
Jay Delgadillo
Deven Densman
Jake Duquette
Glen Edington
Jonathan Estes
Reece Halfmann
Austen Henson
Cole Hubbard
Amber Hunter
D’Nea King
Ray Rodriguez
Rene Salas
Travis Suggs
Wonda Sullens
Tabitha Terrell
Cheyenne Turner
Caleb Walker

Wreck Victim Back Home
11/14/2008
Just a note to let everyone know that Christina Enriquez came home on Thursday. She is doing well and also wants to say Thank You to all that helped her.
Thank You,
Shannon Enriquez

Star Tigers Claim Bi-District Title
11/14/2008
A total of 164 points were scored Thursday night in the 6-Man playoff game between Panther Creek and Star.  Unfortunately for our county Panthers, Star won the game, 98-66 to advance to the next round of the playoffs.  For the Panthers, great improvement was shown this year, advancing into the post-season for the first time in while.

Daughters Say "Thank You"
11/13/2008
We would like to THANK the Coleman Police Department, Emergency Personnel and Coleman Fire Department for taking prompt care of our moms on Tuesday afternoon after hitting a deer on their way home from Abilene. Also, thank you Dr Hayes and nurses for making a uncomfortable experience in the emergency room a peaceful one. We are grateful for the work all of you do. We ask that everyone please be observant for deer when traveling day or night.

We would also like to THANK Jason and Shelby Baugh from Ovalo, Texas for stopping to help.  We couldn't thank you enough for taking time to help at a time of need. All are okay and at home. Thanks again.

Thank you again,
Kemp, Becky, Chelsey and Keagan Slayton
Barbara and Kaneesha Graves

A Mother Says "Thank You" to Emergency Personnel
11/13/2008
I would like to extend my thanks to all of Coleman Police Department, DPS office, Sheriff's Department, Fire Department and EMT's. My thanks also goes to the staff at Coleman Medical. The doctors and nurses were absolutely wonderful.

My name is Shannon Enriquez of Santa Anna. My daughter is Christina Enriquez that was driving the little red car that got hit by the intoxicated driver in the accident on Monday. She suffered a broken leg, burns, scrapes, cuts and bruises. She is currently in Abilene at Hendricks Medical Center. She had surgery that night on her leg. She is in great hands and is doing well.

Richard Hensley, of the Coleman Fire Department, is my brother and was on the scene that day. I know my daughter felt better knowing he was there and rode with her to the ER. The people that assist on these accidents probably don't get to hear thank you much and don't hear of much recognition, but I want you to know that I am forever indebted to you. It meant a great deal to me to see them all working so hard to help my daughter. I know that my baby girl is still with me today due to the work of these men and women. And once again I say THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of my heart.
Thanks,
Shannon Enriquez
(Double H Family Dining)

CJHS Students of the Month
11/13/2008
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for October.
Students of the month are:
  Ashlyn DelaGarza - 6th grade girl
  Carl Morris - 6th grade boy
  Danielle Dawson - 7th grade girl
  Colton M. Smith - 7th grade boy
  Miranda Brooks - 8th grade girl
  Charlie Thomas - 8th grade boy
To be a student of the month, a student must be nominated by his or her teachers. To be nominated, students must be hard workers, act respectfully to teachers and peers in the classroom and in the hallway, and exhibit good behavior when involved in extra-curricular activities.  Members of the National Junior Honor Society vote on nominees from each grade level.  The male and female students from each grade who receive the most votes are the students of the month.

Alzheimer’s Support Group to Meet TODAY
11/13/2008
The Alzheimer’s Support Group of Coleman County monthly meeting to be at the Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Department (North Second Street, turn North at the SA Bank) on Thursday, November 13th at 6pm. Presentation on medications used in Alzheimer's disease - are we treating the disease or the symptoms? Everyone is invited to attend. If you have questions, please call Peggy Hensley 325 348 3566

Warm Up Saturday Night in Novice
11/13/2008
Folks in northwest Coleman County have come to expect the Novice Volunteer Fire Department Chili & Stew Supper. It is this coming Saturday, November 15th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Community Center in Novice.

The menu will be all beef chili and stew, beans, cornbread, dessert, and tea or coffee. Cost is $6.00 for adults; $3.00 for children 12 and under. There will be a raffle for a Wal-Mart $200 Gift Certificate and a cake auction.

Please keep in mind that proceeds help keep fire fighting equipment ready for the Novice area communities so all support will be greatly appreciated.

COLEMAN MUSEUM SESQUICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
11/12/2008  
The Coleman Museum is beginning preparation for it's Christmas Celebration and Open House. All Coleman residents are invited to join with the Coleman Museum to make this celebration a special "150 Year Birthday". As a part of the special event during the month of December, the Museum has received special ornaments from approximately 150 counties in Texas to be included on a special "Counties of Texas" tree. Also, we would like to have a "Coleman County" tree and a "Kid's of Coleman County" tree in the exhibit. Everyone is invited to make an ornament to be hung on these special trees. The ornaments can be handcrafted, or made from "store bought" ornaments, with added materials, each ornament must be equipped to hang on the tree, there is no size limitations. Ornaments must be received by November 15th. All ornaments will become the property of the Coleman Museum and will become a part of the permanent collection of the Museum. For more information you may call 625-1140 or 624-5544.

MINI CHRISTMAS TREE TIME AGAIN
11/12/2008
The 6th Annual Mini Christmas Tree Festival will be held once again sponsored by the Fine Arts League, Coleman Chamber of Commerce, and Coleman Business People's Association.  Registration forms will be available at the Chamber Nov. 1. Registration of the "trees" will be November 13th, at the Chamber office. 9-12 and 1-5pm.   NO ENTRY FEE REQUIRED.  Judging of the trees will be November 17th. After the judging, the tree exhibits will be placed in downtown merchants' businesses for public viewing. WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT THE CHRISTMAS PARADE DECEMBER 4.
Rules for entry: Category One
1. Trees must be hand-crafted from any reasonable material (wood, fabric, wire, tree limbs, metal, glass, Styrofoam (covered with any material), ceramic and use your imagination!
2. Tree must be sturdy and free-standing. 10" minimum height - 15" maximum height (excluding topper).
3. No lights
4. One tree per individual, group or organization. Fine Arts League members are not eligible to enter Category One.
5. Trees will be judged on originality and presentation.
6. PRIZES:
First Place $100
Second Place $ 75
Third Place - 3 @ $50 - GIFT CERTIFICATES will be awarded from Coleman Business of winner's choice.

Rules for entry: Category Two
Crafting rules above apply to this category EXCEPT:
1. Trees can be 3" to 18" including topper
2. Anyone can enter (including Art League members)
3. Ribbons, Only (no gift certificates)
For more information, contact Robin Black, at 325-636-8818 or email to Robinblack.tx@netzero.com

Scouts Help with Veterans Day Service
11/12/2008  (contributed)
Members of Cub Scout Pack 226 and Boy Scout Troop 221 participated in the special Veterans Day service on November 9th at First United Methodist Church. Cub Scouts -- Brogan Faries, Remington Hernandez, Tyler Ransberger. Michael Watson and Lane Watson. Michael and Lane presented the United States Flag and the Methodist Flag.

Remington led the Pledge of Allegiance. Brogan, Remington and Tyler participated in the presentation of the flags of each of the branches of service - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard as Veterans from each branch of service came forward for recognition assisted by Michael and Lane. Many thanks to the scouts for their assistance in this service.

To the Editor:
11/12/2008
I would like to send out a thank-you to all the students, faculty, and staff that contributed to our Veterans Day assembly this year, and a very big thank-you to the veterans and soldiers who attended the assembly. Thanks to everyone who participated and attended! I would also like to publicly acknowledge Marine Corps Veteran Mr. Dan Jones, whose name we accidentally left off of the role-call list this year. Thank you for your service, Mr. Jones, and for attending our little ceremony. I’ve already added you to the list for next year!

For those who don’t know, every year Santa Anna High School puts on a Veterans Day program to honor our troops. We encourage Coleman County community members to submit to us the names and information of their loved ones who are Veterans and soldiers so we can publicly acknowledge them in this assembly. To make sure your loved one makes the list next year, please contact caitlyn.tidwell@netxv.net and I will send you a form to fill out and return. Next year, we will try to put out more information about the program, and we will attempt to do so further in advance.
Thanks,
Caitlyn Tidwell   (Santa Anna High School Speech and Drama Department)

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS Agenda
11/12/2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
9:00 A.M.
CONFERENCE ROOM  CITY HALL
NEW BUSINESS:
1.  Commission will consider a request from Joseph Johnson for a 10 foot variance on S. Concho St., W. 8th St. and W. 7th Street for property located at 1400 S. Commercial Ave., Coleman, Texas, legal description Clow 2 Addn. Town of Coleman, Block No. 24, Lot All.
ADDENDUM
2. Commission will consider a request from Mary Morse for a 12.01 ft x 117 ft. variance on E. 8th St. for property located at 1501 Brazos, Coleman, Texas, legal description Stobaugh Addition, Block No. 27, Lot No. 2.

The Republican candidates joined our morning assembly to give speeches before the Tuesday election. Sarah Palin - Elizabeth Baum, Todd Palin - Cord Norris, John McCain - Kyle Boyet, Cindy McCain - Ashlee Whitten.

The Democratic candidates also gave speeches to our morning assembly. The candidates and their spouses were:  Joe Biden - Adrian Flores, Jill Biden - Heaven Bedell, Michelle Obama - Miranda Norris, Barack Obama - Jude John. 

The Panther Creek Junior High Sweetheart and Beau were announced recently during halftime of the game against Zephyr.
Jessica Laws and Austin Lewis were chosen by their peers for his honor.

30th Class Reunion
11/12/2008   (Submitted by Debbie (Dobbins) Jameson, CHS Class of 1979)
The Coleman High School classes of 1977, 1978 & 1979 celebrated their 29th, 30th and 31st anniversary class reunion on October 17th and 18th, 2008. The reunion weekend began with a football game on Friday night. Following the football game, Sherman and Tammy (Baugh) Smith hosted a get-together at their home.

The reunion continued on Saturday with a noon meal and an evening meal. Thanks to Henry Villanueava. Henry was the chief cook and the meals were wonderful!! During the noon meal and throughout Saturday afternoon, ex-classmates visited and were able to see some classmates who haven’t been seen in a very long time. Some of the classmates had other obligations on Saturday, but some took the time to drop in for a few minutes.

Teachers who attended the reunion were Coach Howard Childress and his wife Nina, and Lorene Halfmann. It was fun to watch Coach Childress and Mrs. Halfmann try to remember who was who. Thank you Coach and Mrs. Halfmann for taking the time to visit with us!! We enjoyed seeing the both of you!

Also, an “In Memory Of” table was displayed which showed photographs of all lost classmates and all lost teachers.

Saturday evening following the evening meal, the live band “Double Shott” entertained the classmates. The music was a mix of oldies from the 70’s and the 80’s, combined with today’s music. The music was enjoyed by all. Also on Saturday night, Malinda Smith Carter chose “Classmate Awards”. Later in the evening, the awards were presented by Malinda Smith Carter and Debbie Dobbins Jameson.

Below are the “Classmate Awards” given:

Class of 1977-Juan Guerrero-“Traveled the Furthest”, “Most Changed”, “Least Changed” and “Most Grandchildren”…Juan was the only one able to attend the reunion that evening….Thanks Juan!!

Class of 1978- “Most Changed”: Rusty Ryan (Getting older has certainly agreed with Rusty!)
“Traveled Furthest”: Shelly (Winburne) Eason-Austin, Texas
“Most Grandchildren”: Joe Villegas
“Youngest Child”: Ted & Rosa (Martinez) Dean-Ted & Rosa have a four-year-old son.
“Least Changed”: Rosa (Martinez) Dean

Class of 1979- “Most Changed”: Donald Steffey (Age has agreed with Donald also!)
“Traveled Furthest”: Colette (Hunt) Tabor-Levelland, Texas
“Most Grandchildren”: Lisa (Baker) Milligan-Lisa has ten grandchildren!!
“Youngest Child”: Kyle Wood-Kyle has an 8th grader.
“Least Changed”: Colette (Hunt) Tabor

Ex-classmates, who were not present for the class group photo, but who attended the class reunion over the weekend are listed below:

Class of 1977- Bob Ray, Jody Graham Winstead and Frank Bartek

Class of 1978: Rusty Ryan, Rick Tisdale, Monte Coleman, Sherman Smith and D’Ann (Kemp) Tisdale

Class of 1979: Debbie (Baucom) Jones, Trey Bowers, Rick McDonald, Kyle Wood, Mark & Viki (Johnson) Hambright, Tammy (Baugh) Smith and Richard Holloway

Another great reunion came to an end late Saturday night and everyone made it back home safely. The reunion was enjoyed by many and all look forward to the next one! Several have mentioned that the next reunion be held in San Antonio, Texas. What a great idea! Hope to see all of you in 2013, if not sooner!

ATTENDING WERE:
Rosa Martinez Dean-78, Tracy Whitfield Rankin-78, Tami Wood McCulloch-78, Evyonne Moore Curry-78, Shelly Winburne Eason-78, Malinda Smith Carter-78, Jean Luna Guerrero-79, Debbie Brooks Burdick-79, Leann Williams Bernard-79, Leslie Barr Janca-79

Henry Villanueva-78, Joe Villegas-78, Dolores Martinez Lozana-78, Ted Dean-78, Terri Hubbard Densman-78, Ross Burdick-78, Debbie Willets McKee-78, Camille Craddock Reed-78, James Roy Winstead-78, Debbie Dobbins Jameson-79, Donald Steffey-79, Lisa Baker Milligan-79, Charles Sanchez-79, Colette Hunt Tabor-79, Chris Holguin-79, Juan Guerrero-77

Gov. Perry Launches Texas Veterans Leadership Program
11/11/2008
Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have a new tool at their disposal to help them find employment. Gov. Rick Perry announced the creation of the Texas Veterans Leadership Program. You can learn more by clicking HERE.

Women of Distinction Deadline Approaching
11/10/2008
Austin, Texas, November 10—Nominations for this spring’s Women of Distinction events in Killeen and San Angelo will close on November 30. The coveted award honors women who have distinguished themselves as outstanding members of their community and who can serve as role models to all Girl Scouts, girls and adults alike.

“Women of Distinction events allow Girl Scouts to formally recognize women who illustrate the values of Girl Scouting: courage, confidence and character,” says Etta Moore, CEO for the Girl Scouts of Central Texas. “Their accomplishments motivate volunteers to remain committed to our girls’ futures and inspire girls to set and achieve ambitious goals. Together this is how we build strong communities.”

Central Texans are strongly encouraged to nominate women leaders from their community as Women of Distinction. Past honorees have excelled in the areas of business, education, government, communications, health care, sports, volunteer services, multicultural activities, and Girl Scouting.

Nomination forms can be completed online at www.gsctx.org  or downloaded as a PDF from the Web site. Forms are also available in all Girl Scouts of Central Texas offices. To request forms by mail, call (800) 733-0011.

The Killeen event serves Bell, Bosque, Brazos, Coryell, Falls, Leon, Limestone, Madison, McLennan and Robertson Counties and nominations should be sent to the Bluebonnet Program Center in Waco or emailed to AnnO@gsctx.org. The San Angelo event serves Coke, Concho, Irion, Mason, Menard, Runnels, Schleicher, Sterling, Sutton and Tom Green Counties and nominations should be sent to the El Camino Program Center in San Angelo or emailed to JamesP@gsctx.org .

For more information about Women of Distinction events, visit www.gsctx.org  or call the Girl Scouts of Central Texas headquarters at (800) 733-0011.

COUNTY-WIDE SWINE VALIDATION
11/10/2008
Just a reminder for 4-H and FFA exhibitors - County-wide Swine Validation begins tomorrow, Tuesday, November 11th at 4:00 p.m. at the Coleman Rodeo grounds.  Cost for State tags is $7.00 each and county tags will be $3.00 each.

The remaining validation dates are:
Thursday, November 13th, 4:00 p.m., Coleman School Farm
Saturday, November 15th, 8:0 a.m., Santa Anna High School Ag Farm

     Note:  1.  You may validate on any of the above listed dates. 
               2.  If you arrive in a low-profile trailer, you will be asked to unload in order to validate your animals.
               3.  Sat., Nov. 15th is the last day to validate your pig for the county show.

If you have any questions, contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag or your Ag Science teacher.

WEST TEXAS CENTERS MENTAL HEALTH CLINICS SHARE KINDNESS
11/10/2008
West Texas Centers for MHMR’s 15 Mental Health Clinics will act as outposts for the Center’s weeklong celebration of World Kindness Week. The non-profit Random Acts of Kindness Foundation was formed in 1995 as an outreach program to inspire people to practice kindness by providing ideas, guidance and resources to others through its website: www.actsofkindness.org . World Kindness Week is celebrated November 10-16. It has been proven that acts of kindness improve one’s mental and physical health, said West Texas Centers for MHMR CEO Shelley Smith.

West Texas Centers for MHMR will bring the international group’s message home to West Texas by sponsoring daily activities, including coffee and donuts in the clinic lobby on Monday and punch and goodies in the clinic lobby on Friday. Each goody bag will include a list of kind tips and sweet sayings that can be used to spread kindness.

Mental Health clinics can be found at: 215 NW 1st, Andrews; 211 N. Main, Lamesa; 702 Hobbs Hwy, Seminole; 411 S. Avenue C, Post; 319 Runnels, Big Spring; 505 Chestnut, Colorado City; 1401 Hailey, Ste C-1, Sweetwater; 700 Daggett, #4, Pecos; 126 State, Winters; 909 25th Street, Ste 102, Snyder; 502 W. Broadway, Brownfield; 809 S. Burleson, McCamey; 1200 N. Main, Monahans; 203 E. Halley, Kermit; and 412 W. 5th, Denver City.

For more information, call Amy Vidal at 432 263-0007. West Texas Centers for MHMR provides mental health and mental retardation services to consumers in 23 rural counties in West Texas.

4-H Quick Notes
11/10/2008     By: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag
4-H CLUB MEETING ***  CHANGES   ***
Due to scheduling conflicts, the following 4-H clubs have moved meeting dates as listed below:
SANTA ANNA 4-H CLUB - has moved to Thursday, November 13, 5:30 p.m. at the Santa Anna Armory.
PANTHER CREEK 4-H CLUB - has moved to Friday, November 14th , from 8:55 to 9:30 a.m. (during Study Lab) in the Homemaking Room at Panther Creek School.
If you have any questions about the meetings, please contact your club leader or the County Extension Office(625-4519).

Santa Anna Junior High Football Beau and Sweetheart: 
Marcus Valencia and Carlee Coats

Santa Anna band Sweetheart and Beau: 
Joanie Dean and Derek Tabner

Two Car Accident Monday Afternoon
11/10/2008
There was a 2-car wreck located at the intersection of HWY 84 and the east end of Santa Anna Avenue at approximately 2:10 p.m. Monday afternoon.  A green Dodge pickup and a small red Ford collided.  Details are unknown at this time as well as injuries.  EMS, The Coleman Fire Dept., City Police, the Sheriff's Dept. as well as DPS were all on the scene.  Names have not been released at this time. 

Town Hall Meeting in Novice TODAY
11/10/2008
There will be a Town Hall Meeting on Monday, November 10, 2008 at 6:30pm in the Novice High School Gym. The public is invited to attend this meeting relating to the future of the Novice Independent School District. Items to be addressed:
1.  Decline in student enrollment.
2.  Impact of the loss in State Funding as a result of declining enrollment and implications for the 2009-10 school year.
3.  Overall financial condition of the District.
4.  Board Options for Consolidation of the District.
5.  Impact on school taxes as a result of school consolidation.
There will be a Question and Answer session.  Please call 325-625-4068 for further information.

Coleman Career Center
11/9/2008
English as Second Language (ESL) Classes will begin Monday, November 10, 2008 from 5:30 p.m. ~ 7:00 p.m.  The Coleman Career Center is pleased to announce the start of the English as Second Language (ESL) Classes, beginning on Monday, November 10, 2008. The ESL Classes will be available from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays, following CISD’s schedule. The Welding Classes and CNA Training schedule will be announced at a future date. Please contact the Coleman Career Center at 625-2658 for more information or to register.

Special Meeting to Canvass Votes
11/9/2008
Notice is hereby given that a SPECIAL meeting of the above named Commissioners' Court will be held on Wednesday, the 12th day of November, 2008, AT 8:00am in the County Courthouse, Coleman County, Texas, at which time the following subjects will be discussed, to-wit:
 * Discuss/Approve
Canvass Votes from the November 4, 2008 General Election.

Nathan and Megan Taylor went to a NRA Match on the 1st of November.
They both shot three - 40 animal matches, one each with a scoped .22 rifle, cowboy action .22 rifle, and a .357 cowboy action rifle. They both brought home metals, hat pins, 5 in a row pins, and match winner pins.

Cattle Brucellosis Tests Still Required for Change of Ownership in Texas
11/7/2008   By Carla Everett
Selling or buying cattle?  A cattle brucellosis, or Bang's test is still required for changing ownership of adult cattle in Texas, says Dr. Bob Hillman, Texas state veterinarian.  For many years, Texas ranchers and livestock health officials worked to eradicate cattle brucellosis, a bacterial disease that can cause cows to abort, deliver weak calves, or produce less milk.
 
"We have enjoyed Class "Free" status for cattle brucellosis since February 2008, but testing is still required at livestock markets, special sales and private treaty sales, for at least two years, said Dr. Hillman.  "This testing requirement is part of the national brucellosis program standard, and it assures that a state is clearly free of the disease and that we can quickly identify and deal with reintroduced or yet undetected infection."  Slaughter testing surveillance will continue across the country for an indefinite period, to ensure that the disease is completely eradicated from cattle herds in Texas and other states.
 
Dr. Hillman noted that cattle which are sexually intact and 18 months of age or older must be tested prior to sale.  The test requires a small blood sample from the animal, collected by an accredited veterinarian, or TAHC or USDA personnel. A chute-side test is conducted at livestock markets on sale days, with laboratory confirmation by the State-Federal laboratory. 
 
For private treaty or special sales, an accredited, private veterinary practitioner can draw the blood sample and submit the blood sample to the State-Federal laboratory, where the test will be run.  Cattle owners should allow at least four days for private testing, to allow for shipping the blood sample to the laboratory, testing of the samples and receiving the test results that will be recorded on the document that will accompany the animal to the sale.
 
"Texas was the last state to achieve cattle brucellosis free status, but there is no guarantee we can maintain this status, if we aren't vigilant," said Dr. Hillman.  He stressed that the continued testing will identify potential cases of cattle brucellosis that weren't detected during the eradication effort.  Brucellosis status can be lost, if two infected herds are detected within a two-year period.  It is essential that we continue to follow the national standards for the brucellosis program.  Montana recently lost its brucellosis-free status, due to exposure to infected wildlife in the Greater Yellowstone Area, and widespread testing must be conducted to regain the ranking.
 
"Eradicating a disease is a livestock health victory, and that makes vigilance even more important now," said Dr. Hillman.  "Don't risk buying infection.  Ensure that the breeding cattle you buy have been tested."
 
Dr. Hillman also reminds cattle owners, especially those in the eastern portions of the state, that heifers should be vaccinated against cattle brucellosis, particularly if they will be used as breeding animals. Accredited veterinarians can administer the RB-51 vaccine to heifers between the ages of four and 12 months to provide lifelong protecting against the disease. 

Buster Hensley Honored For 10-Year Service
11/7/2008
Richard “Buster” Hensley, became a full time fireman with the Coleman Fire Department Oct. 16, 1998. This started his second employment with the City of Coleman. He was previously a driver with the Coleman Fire Department from 1989 to 1994.

Buster became Supervisor of the Coleman Fire Department in 2000 upon Billy G. Baker’s retirement.

In his years with the Fire Department he has attended numerous workshops and schools and received certificates in Firefighter Basic, Instructor Intermediate, Municipal Firemen’s Training School and Creative Leadership Workshop for Supervisors.

Buster provided key leadership for the successful effort to gain the ISO Rating of 3 for the City of Coleman. He is the city’s designated Homeland Security Emergency Response Officer and serves as a key link in the coordinating area wide emergency response, planning and training. Buster has demonstrated excellent success in bringing grant funds into the city and county emergency systems.

EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
11/7/2008    (contributed by Barbara Hubbard)
Troy Hubbard, a freshman at Coleman High School, along with volunteers from Troop 221 recently completed his Eagle Scout service project.  Several weeks went into planning the clean up and upgrade of the public camping area at Lake Santa Anna.  As the project got underway early Saturday morning, people from Brownwood and Lake Brownwood came to enjoy the trails around the lake; however, took the time to joined in on the clean up efforts. Fifteen large trash bags of debris were cleaned up, four trailer loads of brush were removed, and campfire rings were rebuilt.  An old tire was found (and boys being boys) was quickly transformed into a swing!  "The lake is quite beautiful with the incredible number of ducks that are here," said Scout Master, Drew Hubbard.  Special thanks to all volunteers who helped make this project successful!  A scouting campout at the lake is now being planned (with continued clean up on the agenda too!)

CITY OF COLEMAN WORKS TO KEEP COLEMAN BEAUTIFUL
11/7/2008
The City of Coleman’s street sweeper was caught in action on Walnut Street.

Street Department personnel operated the sweeper on a regular basis sweeping both city and TxDOT right-of-way with in the City Limits. This effort represents just one aspect of the City’s commitment to keeping Coleman beautiful.

Moving on up!
11/7/2008
Sara's Neighborhood has moved to 1116 Neches...( Berry's Fina Building). Hot delicious foods are the topic of conversation there. Sara's is now serving a light breakfast, coffee, hot or frozen casseroles, and has a convenient drive through. Sara's also sells gas and diesel, so when you are fueling up - stop in and grab a quick bite to eat.

Commissioners' Court to Meet on Monday
11/7/2008
Notice is hereby given that a REGULAR meeting of the above named Commissioners' Court will be held on Monday, the 10th day of November, 2008, AT 9:00 A.M. in the County Courthouse, Coleman County, Texas, at which time the following subjects will be discussed, to-wit:
Discuss/Approve:
1.  Tower Lease
2.  Glen Gove Volunteer Fire Department to build building to house Fire Trucks next door to the Glen Cove Community Center
3.  Resolution requesting Texas Legislature and Texas Congressional Delegation to improve quality of life for Families of Texas and promote good stewardship of our country's energy supplies and natural resources
4.  To adopt an order regulating certain fireworks in the unincorporated areas of the county under drought conditions
5.  New Computer for the District Clerk's office
Discuss:
1.  District Clerk discussion of financial record update, continued from previous meeting
Discuss/Approve:
1.  The current bills for payment and authorize the transfer of funds if necessary

Free Cowboy Breakfast
11/7/2008
Free Cowboy Breakfast on Sunday mornings 7:30 AM Starting Nov-9-08.  Free Breakfast at The Cross (Make a left at the Courthouse & go to the end of W. Liveoak). Hosted by James Allen & Barry Wilson .

Veteran's Service at FUMC
11/7/2008
Each of you, Veterans of all wars and military conflicts and members of our community family, are invited to attend a very special Veterans Day service this Sunday, November 9th at the First United Methodist Church of Coleman at 500 W. Liveoak St.

You will be welcomed into the foyer of the church beginning at 9:30 a.m. by members of the Chapel Class, many of whom are Veterans themselves. Everyone will be asked to register and all Veterans will be asked to list their branch of service, war or conflict fought and years served. Also, special displays will be in place to honor our Veterans.

The morning worship service will begin at 11:00 a.m. The flag of the United States of America will be presented as well as flags from each of the different branches of service including the US Army, US Navy, US Air Force, US Marine Corp and US Coast Guard. Presentation of the flags will be led by members of Cub Scout Pack 226. A time of special recognition and introduction of Veterans according to their branch of service will be given. Patriotic music will be presented by the Chancel Choir under the direction of Truitt Mitchell. Special guest speaker will be Lt. Gen. Terry Scott, US Army (Ret.).

Following the morning worship, a chicken spaghetti luncheon will be served in the fellowship hall for all attending. Please come and join us at First United Methodist Church, Coleman, this Sunday, November 9th, for this very special service to honor our Veterans of all ages.

Fall Decorating Contest
11/6/2008
The Coleman Business People's Association is sponsoring a Fall Decorating Contest. This is a "view from the street" contest and we already have our judges ready and rarin' to come and judge your yard display. This contest is for the City of Coleman only.  To enter, please call the Chamber of Commerce at 625-2163. Deadline to enter your yard is November 20th. We will award three cash prizes: First place - $50.00; second place - $25.00; third place - $15.00.  Join in the fun - decorate your yard for fall!

Need some help?
11/6/2008
In Coleman, Texas - friends help friends!  Bolton Steel Erectors helped haul roofing material to the top of the high rise building.  JMJ Roofing is roofing the high rise building and needed the help of Bolton's Crane to lift the heavy materials to the top of the tall building.  "Guy's Bolton's crane reaches well over 125 feet," says Sammy Bolton.  "With extenders the crane can reach up to 175 feet."  It was a site not commonly seen in Coleman, and onlookers enjoyed the "break" in their usual morning routine.

Veterans Day Ceremony Being Held at Santa Anna High
11/6/2008
Santa Anna High School is holding its annual commemorative Veterans Day ceremony at 10:00am on Tuesday, November 11, in the gym at Santa Anna High School. Students will be calling out the names of veterans who live in or have family in the community. If someone knows of a veteran whom they would like to have recognized, they may email caitlyn.tidwell@netxv.net with the veteran’s name, branch of service, rank, number of years served, honors received, and relations in the Coleman County area, or come by Santa Anna High School to fill out a form. Everyone is welcome to attend the ceremony.

PUBLIC HEARING SET ON STREET CLOSURE in Santa Anna
11/6/2008
At its regular meeting on Monday, November 10, 2008, the City Council of the City of Santa Anna will hold a public hearing to hear comments for or against street closure of Mahoney Avenue between Bowers Street and Perry Street and of Perry Street between Mahoney Avenue and Sparks Avenue. All citizens of the City of Santa Anna are welcome to participate. The council meets at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. Maps of the area to be discussed are available at City Hall. If you have any questions, please call City Hall at 325-348-3403

AGENDA - Coleman City Council
11/6/2008
THURSDAY, November 6, 2008, 5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Hall.  200 W. Liveoak.  Coleman, Texas
RECOGNITION OF STAFF:
1. David Harrison, Departmental Supervisor for the Light Distribution Department, will receive a 10 service year pin.
2. Fire Chief, Richard Hensley, will receive a 10 year service pin.
RECEIPT OF BIDS:
1. Council will consider Request for Proposals for a Salvage Contract on the Municipal Power Plant.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will receive the Quarterly Occupancy Tax report from the Chamber of Commerce for the 3rd quarter of 2008.
2. Council will consider a proposal from a member of Keep Coleman Beautiful for a “Property of the Month” award program.
3. Council will consider a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission to change the zoning from residential to commercial for a Bed and Breakfast Establishment at 202 5th Ave.
4. Council will consider approval of employee uniform service bid to Cintas.
5. Council will consider alternative meeting dates for January, 2009.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
1. West Central Texas Council of Governments Annual Meeting.

Lord's Acre This Saturday in Santa Anna
11/6/2008
The Santa Anna First United Methodist Church Lord’s Acre will be Saturday, November 8, 9-6 at the Santa Anna Armory.
CHILI AND FIXINS DESERT, DRINK - Until all gone.  *Silent Auction*   *Plants*   *County Store*   *Crafts*  *Bakery*   *Rummage*   *Concessions and More*   Please Come!

15th Annual Holiday Fair Saturday, November 8th!!
11/6/2008
I hope you will all mark your calendars for this years Extension Homemakers 15th annual Holiday Fair on Saturday November 8th at the Catholic Church parish hall, 201 San Saba, in Coleman from 9a.m. to 3p.m. As many of you are already aware, the Fair gives us an opportunity to raise funds for the 4H scholarships that we present each year to any deserving Coleman County student at the same time as it gives you opportunity to start or finish this years Christmas shopping, see old friends and enjoy a delicious meal. As always we will be serving stew and cornbread with drink and dessert for just $5.00. Tickets for lunch will be available for purchase from the Chamber of Commerce prior to the day or at the door as you enter. Lunch will be served from 11am 'til 2pm. Once again takeouts are available. There will be various non-profit organizations with booths featuring gifts as well as baked goods and information. If you are a non-profit organization who would like to have a booth at the fair please contact the extension office at 625-4519. Some of the non-profit organizations that have responded so far have been: the Guadalupe Society, the Hospital Auxiliary, the Humane Society and the Coleman Bluecat Boosters. We are still waiting to hear from some of our other regulars.

The theme for this year's Holiday Fair will be "Olde Tyme Christmas" in keeping with the sesquicentennial we are celebrating this year in Coleman County. We will have a small token for everyone who attends.

As always we will be having a program for you to attend but this year it will be following lunch. This year's program will be presented by Jim Cavanaugh; a retired FBI agent, at 1 p.m. He will be detailing some of his experiences in the Brownwood area over his very extensive career. I had the pleasure of hearing him speak this past summer and his talk was absolutely enthralling.  We will also be giving away a door prize each hour. These door prizes are being donated by the non-profit organizations participating in the fair. You must be present to win. We appreciate the support of all the people of Coleman County attending the Holiday Fair. So do make plans to join us for a wonderful Holiday Fair, Saturday November 8th.

Glen Cove Residents To Meet on Organization of Fire Department
11/6/2008
A new Volunteer Fire Department for Glen Cove was recently organized.  Officers elected were Bill Paul, Sr. - President, Doug Miller - Vice President, Nelda Copley - Secretary/Treasurer, Ricky Davis - Fire Chief, and Gerald Pond - Assistant Fire Chief. 

The next PUBLIC meeting will be held on Saturday, November 8th at 5:00pm at the Glen Cove Baptist Church to hear an update on the progress made on the formation of the new fire department.  Sandwiches and snacks will be served and all residents of Glen Cove and the surrounding area and other interested parties are invited to attend.  Glen Cove is located 15 miles west of Coleman on Highway 153 and FM 2805.

S.A. Ex-Students' Association Raffle Glider
11/6/2008
The Santa Anna Ex Students Association will be accepting $5 donations for a chance to win a wooden glider donated by Gary Patterson of Coleman County Woodshop. A drawing will be held at the last home football game.  Need not be present to win and delivery can be arranged.  Donations will be used for scholarships awarded to SAHS graduating Seniors.  

For more information contact one of the officers: President - Betsy Jones, First Vice President - Tom Guthrie, Second Vice President - James Curtis, Secretary/Treasurer - Ross Bradley or Past President - James Pelton.

It's Fall Festival Time at Novice !!!
11/6/2008
It is Fall Festival time at Novice ISD this Saturday, November 8. The festivities start at 6:00 p.m. with the crowning of the Fall Festival King and Queen for elementary, junior high, and high school. Nominees pictured above are: front row (L to R) Hailey Barnett, Ryan White, Scott McCoy, Brooke Tiner, Trinity Toothaker, Donald White, James McMillan, Cassie Ring; middle row: Jack Shapland, Edmund Tamez, Hannah Estes, Ashley Watson, Cailie Perkins, Lance Holmquest, Katie Lara, Kimberly Estes; back row: Anthony Sanchez, Josh Escobar, Sarah Holmquest, Amber Blackshear, Danny Norway, Marry Brumley, Tracey Pond, James Garza

After the Coronation, the booths will open with Bingo, cake walk, car smash, pie throw, football toss, face painting, jail house, dart throw, coloring hair, ring toss, Digging for Treasure, fishing pond, octopus throw, concession stand, and raffles of many wonderful items.   Each class will have one of the booths. The students and faculty encourage everyone to come out to Novice this Saturday and enjoy a wholesome, fun, family evening.

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in October 2008
11/5/2008
Investigations: Theft-7, Burglary-3, Disorderly Conduct-1, Forgery-1, Possession of Dangerous Drugs-1, Missing Person-1, Criminal Mischief-13, Child Protective Cases-2, Assault Family Violence-7, Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle-1, Identity Theft-1, Hit and Run-2, Terroristic Threat-1, Arson-1
Arrests: Warrants-9, Disorderly Conduct-2, Resisting Arrest-1, Assault-1, Public Intoxication-5, Assault on Public Servant-1
Motor Vehicle Crashes: No Injury-9, With Injury-2
Tickets Issued: Code Enforcement-5 tickets issued with 5 charges filed School Resource Officer-3 tickets issued with 4 charges filed Police Department-56 tickets issued with 68 charges filed.
Warnings Issued: Code Enforcement-2, Police Department-16
Animal Control: Calls for Service-74, Dogs Picked Up-11, Cats Picked Up-14, Other Animals Picked Up-6 (1 Raccoon, 1 opossum, and 4 skunks), Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-16.

Local Students Compete in
Black-Powder Turkey Shoot
11/5/2008
Nathan and Megan Taylor went to a black-powder turkey shoot the end of October. Nathan won 2 seconds in the Jr. Division and shot very well against the men's in the men's division. Megan won the Sub-jr matches and received a 3rd place in the Jr match. She also won all 3 of the ladies matches. Both kids did very well in the primitive match bring home 3rd and 4th places. The awards they received where metals and gift cards.

Statement on Re-Election to Texas Senate
11/5/2008
“I made the decision to run for re-election because there is still opportunity to make positive changes to state policy. These changes will make it easier for Texans to raise and educate their families and to enjoy the benefits of the free enterprise system.

"Since being elected to the Texas Senate, I have tried to listen to my constituents and respond to their concerns. I appreciate being able to return to the Legislature to work on making this state even better.

"While our state has not been dramatically impacted by the national financial crisis, we are starting to see a negative impact - on both businesses and individuals. My focus during the 81st Legislative Session will be on the preservation and creation of new jobs. I will continue to promote policies that will allow our state to be the best place to live and work in the nation.

"I want to thank everyone who voted to allow me to continue to represent them in the Texas Senate. As always, I am honored to serve the people of Senate District 24."
John Cornyn

4-H NEWS
11/4/2008   (By: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag)
2009 MAJOR STOCK SHOW SIGN-UP
All 4-H Exhibitors planning to show livestock in a major shows for 2009 need to come by the County Extension Office to enter. Major stock shows include: Odessa, Ft. Worth, San Antonio, Houston, San Angelo, and Austin. ALSO - Bring all necessary information (i.e., parents and 4-Hers* signatures, SS# and payment) that will need to be completed on these forms. We have printed our books from the internet (there are no books are being mailed out this year except Ft. Worth). If you have any questions concerning these stock shows, contact the Coleman County Extension Office 325-625-4519.
Note: NEW THIS YEAR ..... Ft. Worth Stock Show Entry Deadline is early - November 14th. Please come by the Extension Office and pick up entry forms and work sheet for all the major stock shows. Additional stock show information is available at the following web sites:
Odessa (Sand Hills Stock Show & Rodeo) http://www.sandhillsstockshowandrodeo.com 
Ft. Worth (Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show) www.fwssr.com 
San Antonio Livestock Exposition www.sarodeo.com 
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo www.hlsr.com  or www.rodeohouston.com 
San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo www.sanangelorodeo.com
Star of Texas (Austin) www.staroftexas.org 
SWINE VALIDATION SET FOR NOVEMBER
Attention 4-H and FFA Swine Exhibitors..... All county and state swine projects must be validated on one these dates to be eligible to show at the county show. The schedule is as follows:
Tuesday November 11, 4:00 p.m.
Coleman Rodeo Grounds
Coleman 4-H, Novice and Panther Creek
Thursday November 13, 4:00 p.m.
Coleman School Farm
Coleman FFA
Saturday November 15, 8:00 a.m.
Santa Anna Show Barn
Santa Anna FFA and Santa Anna 4-H, AND all others who may have missed one of the other dates.
Please keep in mind - Saturday, Nov. 15th is the LAST DAY TO VALIDATE COUNTY PIGS.
PLEASE NOTE: ANY PIGS ARRIVING IN LOW PROFILE TRAILERS WILL BE ASK TO UNLOAD.
Cost for County Tags is $3.00 each. State Tags are $7.00 each. If you have any questions, please contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag at the Extension Office at 325-625-4519 or your Ag Science Teacher.
4-H CLUB MEETINGS
Santa Anna 4-H Club - Thursday, November 13, 2008, 5:30 PM, Santa Anna Armory
Coleman 4-H Club - Tuesday, November 11, 2008, 6 PM, Bill Franklin Center Members are asked to bring CANNED or DRY GOODS for donation to food drive.
Panther Creek 4-H Club - has moved to Friday, November 14th , from 8:55 to 9:30 a.m. (during Study Lab) in the Homemaking Room at Panther Creek School.
District SHEEP & GOAT CLINIC
Saturday, December 6, 2008
San Angelo, TX
The District 7 Sheep & Goat Project Development Committee will be hosting a SHEEP & GOAT CLINIC on Saturday, December 6, 2008 at the Tom Green County 4-H Building in San Angelo, TX. Registration is from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. Showmanship Clinic will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. Instructors will be: Jess Yeaman, Chad Coburn, Steve Sturtz, Ross Benson, Luther Dunlap, and Michael Palmer.
A Brisket Sandwich LUNCH will be served from 12:00 to 12:45. Cost for lunch is $5.00.
There will also be a JACKPOT SHOWMANSHIP SHOW at 1:00 p.m. Entry fee is $5.00 per person. Age divisions include: Junior (8 to 10 years of age), Intermediate (11 to 13 years of age) , and Senior (14 to 18 years of age).

J. E. Stevens Co. Says Goodbye
11/4/2008
After 119 years and six generations in the hardware and furniture business in Coleman, J.E. Stevens Company has sold.

Stevens has been purchased by Higginbothams headquartered in Comanche.  Higginbothams is 125 years old and began as a general mercantile store in DeLeon, Texas. According to their website, Higginbothams owns and operates a total of 45 stores throughout west, central and east Texas.

According to Janet Johnson, all current employees will be staying with the store. November 24th is the last official day as Stevens. Stevens will actually close at 10am Saturday, November 22nd, to begin the inventory process. Higginbothams will open on Tuesday, November 25th.

"We've enjoyed working here and making lots of friends over the years," Johnson said. The Johnsons say they plan to continue living in Coleman County.  Joe and Janet plan to host a Customer Appreciation Reception from 2:00pm to 5:00pm on Friday, November 21st. They invite all their friends and customers to stop by and visit.

Local Election Results for Coleman County
11/4/2008
District Attorney, 42nd Judicial District
Heath Hemphill  -  3,056 votes

County Attorney
Write-in - Joe Lee Rose - 336 votes

Sheriff
Wade Turner  - 3,058 votes

County Clerk - Unexpired Term
Stacey Mendoza -  2,816 votes - 77.53%
Priscilla Phillips  -   816 votes  -  22.47%

Tax Assessor-Collector
Jamie Trammell -  2,270 votes

County Commissioner, Precinct No. 1
Mark Williams -  567 votes - 67.02%
James Allen -     279 votes - 32.98%

County Commissioner, Precinct No. 3
Mike Barker       -  366 votes - 44.36%
Mike Stephenson- 459 votes - 55.64%

Constable
Joe D. Watson  -  3,071 votes

Proposition  -  Coleman County  (Tax Freeze)
For         2,325 votes  -  77.84%
Against    662 votes   -  22.16%

Panther Creek ISD Board of Trustees General Election (1 contested race)
Place 5
Jay Dalton     -  314 votes - 72.18%
Robert Williamson - 121 votes - 27.82%

Panther Creek ISD Special Election
Proposition of $1.17 per $100 valuation tax rate
For  -      249 votes - 49.60%
Against - 253 votes - 50.40%

LOCAL RESULTS in the National, State, and District Election Results
11/4/2008
President/ Vice President
John McCain/Sarah Palin  -  3,011  -  81.33%
Barack Obama/Joe Biden -     643  -  21.63%
Bob Barr/Wayne A. Root  -       43  -   1.16%
Write-in   (Chuck Baldwin - 3) ( Alan Keyes - 1) (Ralph Nader - 1)

US Senator
John Cornyn  -  2,858  -  79.99%
Rick Noriega -     651  -  18.22%
Yvonne Adams Schick - 64  - 1.79%

US Representative, District 11
Mike Conaway - 2,938  -  91.41%
John R. Strohm - 276  -    8.59%

Railroad Commissioner
Michael L. Williams  -  2,533  -  72.50%
Mark Thompson  -  846  -  24.21%
David Floyd  -  115  -  3.29%

Chief Justice, Supreme Court
Wallace B. Jefferson  -  2,540  -  73.62%
Jim Jordan  -  791  -  22.93%
Tom Oxford  -  119  -  3.45%

Justice, Supreme Court, Place 7
Dale Wainwright  -  2,474  -  71.79%
Sam Houston  -  865  -  25.10%
David G. Smith  -  107  -  3.11%

Justice, Supreme Court, Place 8
Phil Johnson  -  2,600  -  75.25%
Linda Reyna Yanez   -  729  -  21.10%
Drew Shirley  -  126  -  3.65%

Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3
Tom Price  -  2,425  -  71.03%
Susan Strawn  -  897  -  26.27%
Matthew E. Eilers  -  92  -  2.69%

Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 4
Paul Womack  -  2,551  -  74.66%
J.R. Molina  -  737  -  21.57%
Dave Howard  -  129  -  3.78%

Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 9
Cathy Cochran  -  2,767  -  89.87%
William Bryan Strange, III  -  312  -  10.13%

State Senator, District 24
Troy Fraser  -  2,906  -  90.53%
Bill Oliver  -  304  -  9.47%

State Representative, District 53
Harvey Hilderbran  -  2,832  -  89.93%
Brian W. Holk  -  317  -  10.07%

Justice, 11 Court of Appeals District, Place 2
Rick Strange  -  2,918 votes

District Judge, 42nd Judicial District
John Weeks  -  2,978 votes

Daughters of the Republic of Texas to Meet
11/4/2008  PRESS RELEASE
The Heart of Texas Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) will hold its next meeting on Monday, 10 November in the relocated and restored Curtis Field Control Tower at the Heart of Texas Historical Museum in Brady, Texas. The meeting will begin at 4:00 PM, is open to the public, and no reservations are required.

This month the program will focus on honoring the birthday of Stephen F. Austin, “The Father of Texas”. Austin started the original colony of 300 American families on the Brazos River in 1821. Our capital city, Austin, is named in his honor. During the time that Texas was a republic (1836 – 1845) Austin served as its first Secretary of State, but died before Texas became the 28th state to join the United States. Austin is buried in the State Cemetery in Austin, Texas.

Carol Herring of Santa Anna will present an additional program celebrating, DRT Founder’s Day. The founding of the DRT took place in Galveston, Texas on 6 November1891. At that meeting, the surviving members of the Texas Veterans Association passed the legacy of the Texian Republic to the DRT, which vowed to keep the memory and spirit of early Texas alive for the coming generations. Herring will discuss the “The Cradle” and its condition before and after Hurricane Ike.

This newly formed chapter is open to the public and welcomes visitors and any who are interested in joining or merely learning more about the organization. The Heart of Texas chapter includes members from Brady, Horseshoe Bay, Mason, Menard, Rochelle, Santa Anna, and Voca. Additional information is available from the president, Sharon Purcell at 325-597-2887.

Human Society Contest Winners
11/4/2008    (Article and Pictures contributed by Humane Society)
The winners of the Best Pet Only Costume and Best Pet with Owner Costume were hard to choose! So many great ideas! Pirates. Firemen. Hotdogs. Little Pink Ladies. But when the decision was finally made, the Farmer with her Cow (above) and the Incredible Hulk came out on top. Addie Vasquez and her German Shepherd mix, Kaiser, were all decked out in overalls, straw hat and spots. Kaiser had a good time greeting all the trick-or-treaters at the Gazebo. The Hulk (above) (also known as Heavy and owned by Josie Bolton) made a late appearance and caught the eye of the judges with his unique hand-painted Hulk look. The blue plaid boxer shorts set it all off as the friendly English Bulldog posed for his picture.

The Humane Society would like to say a big THANK YOU for those who participated in our costume contest. We must give a special nod to our Hobo (pictured right) who was there in his black leather and red bandana. Hobo, a Lhasa Apso, was rescued by the Humane Society earlier this year with one eye out of its socket and mostly blind in the other. Cindy and Paul Coghlan didn’t mind at all, and Hobo is now a popular regular on the brisket cook-off circuit. A thank you as well to the Rafter L minis (pictured below), owned by Linda Laws and handled by Terrie Eldred, who were a big hit with the kids.

Voting Update
11/4/2008
There has been a steady stream of voters at various polling places around Coleman County this morning. Voting judges put a tally on a sheet of paper on the front door at various times during the day. Here are the 3:30pm reports from Coleman boxes:

Precinct 1 - 202 - Courthouse
Precinct 2 - 200 - Santa Anna Community Center Armory
Precinct 2E - 68 - United Christian Presbyterian Church
Precinct 3 - 202 - Concho Baptist Church
Precinct 4 - 208 - Courthouse

Novice School Annual Fall Festival to be held on November 8
11/4/2008
Come join us for the festivities at the Annual Fall Festival held in the Hornet gym. There will be games, cakewalk, bingo and much more. The King and Queen Coronation starts at 6:00 p.m. the festival will follow.

South Coleman County Volunteer Fire Department Meeting Saturday
11/4/2008
The South Coleman County Volunteer Fire Department will meet on Saturday, November 8th at the Voss Community Center.  The meal will be Beef Stew.  All members are asked to bring a dessert.  Visitors are invited and welcome!

Get your Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Checked!
11/4/2008
Coleman Health Care Center at 2713 S. Commercial will be checking Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar on Thursday, November 6th from 10:00am to 11:00am.  There is no charge for this service to the community.

Cub Scouts and KSTA Radio team up to 'Scout for Food'
11/3/2008
With Thanksgiving less than a month a way, the Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries is depending on donations from the Coleman community to supplement food supplies for needy families. To make sure there is enough food to go around this holiday season, Cub Scouts Pack 226 has partnered with KSTA 1000 AM, who has in turn partnered with some of its advertisers to collect food for Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries.

Today through November 21, residents who wish to donate to the "Scouting for Food" food drive may take their donations to Mel's Flower Shop at 215 Commercial, Grammer's Department Store at 106 Commercial, County General Store on the west side of the courthouse square, or may donate at the Shoppin' Baskit at 113 West College. All businesses will have a designated spot to place the donations.

Residents of Coleman are also urged to place non-perishable food items on their front porches by sunrise on Saturday, Nov. 22, as the Cub Scouts will go door-to-door collecting food.

Cub Scout sponsor Tina Rhoades says the "Scouting for Food" drive is one of the highlights of the Cub Scouting year.

"They boys enjoy it," she said. "They like doing it because they feel like they're doing it for a good cause.

"They collect hundreds of pounds of food for the residents of Coleman each year."

"We are proud to be a part of the 'Scouting for Food' drive," said KSTA Station Manager Leland Acker. "Seeing how enthusiastic the Cub Scouts are about this food drive makes me optimistic that we'll be able to collect a lot of food for Coleman residents. Ministries like Loaves and Fishes are a vital part of the Coleman community and we at KSTA are glad to play a part in helping out."

KSTA will take the food drive to the streets with a series of live broadcasts later this month. Updates and additional information will be broadcast over KSTA for the next few weeks. The food drive ends Nov. 22.

Rapid Responder Program Installed at CISD
11/3/2008
The Coleman Independent School District has installed the award-winning Rapid Responder crisis management system to help district security and first responders protect students and staff during various types of emergencies. Rapid Responder by Prepared Response Inc. provides police, fire and other first responders with secure and instant access to critical campus information including floor plans, aerial and 360 degree imagery and other information via a laptop computer. All of the district’s elementary, middle, high school and administration facilities will be protected by the program. Several emergency preparedness training classes will also be conducted for the district by Prepared Response. The district paid for the system and training through a U.S. Department of Education grant.

All Coleman ISD campuses have compiled information to better assist first responders in the event of an emergency situation. They have also conducted fire, tornado and lock down drills. In addition to preparing faculty and students in case of any of these events, these drills give school personnel an opportunity to critique current procedures in order ensure that Coleman ISD has the safest environment possible for students and faculty.

“Coleman ISD is excited to ‘roll out’ this new program,” said Royce Young, Coleman ISD superintendent. “A great deal of time and effort has been given to this project so that we can continually provide instant, current, and useful information to our first responders in an emergency situation. When an incident happens, time is of the essence. During a crisis is no time to have to make up emergency plans. This program brings all of our first responders and key district personnel together and communicates instantly the information everyone needs to deal with an incident.”

Rapid Responder has been used successfully during a campus shooting, bomb threats, lock downs and other emergency situations on school campuses throughout the country. The solution is certified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s SAFETY Act as a “Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology.” Rapid Responder is being used in 12 states with over 5,000 end users including more than 500 public safety agencies and 275 school districts. This system was recognized in the Harvard/Noblis Innovations Award in Homeland Security that was presented to the State of Washington in September 2007 and is endorsed by he National Sheriff’s Association.

Vandals Strike Coleman High School
11/3/2008
The Coleman High School campus, the armory and the bus barn were vandalized sometime Saturday night. The high school was toilet papered, the buses had windows broken out and Bluecat signs between the high school campus and the armory were ripped in half.

If you have any information related to this crime, please contact high school principal Richard Holloway at 625-2156 or Coleman Police at 625-4114.

Thank You Party On Thursday
11/3/2008
Again we would like to remind everyone of the evening of thank you’s for those who have shared their experiences, knowledge, and time with the county during this Sesquicentennial year. 150 years, 1858 through 2008, however you say it, it is a long time and lots of changes have come about for Coleman County.

From horses, oxen, and mules pulling plows, row binders, sleds and other farm equipment to the big 10 row plows behind the Big John Deere Tractors, some of our citizens have seen the development of the airplane to rockets taking men to the moon. Some of these citizens have shared their times with the Coleman County Historical Commission this year. We will honor those who have told us about the development of communities, those who have told us about communities that used to be and those who have told us about the development of schools, libraries, and businesses.

On Thursday evening, November 6th, starting about 6:30pm a covered dish supper will be put out and lots of Coleman County citizens will say THANKS to the many people who have taken a bit of their time to tell us stories of the past. We would like for you and yours to come out to Heritage Hall, 400 College in Coleman and help us say thanks to these citizens.  A well known speaker has been asked to do the honors at the podium. I know that a majority of you will enjoy the subject matter of this speaker’s thank you message.

4-H Record Book Training Opportunity
11/3/2008
Saturday, November 8, 2008
2 p.m. - First Coleman National Bank
Hospitality Room
On Saturday, November 8, 2008, Beverly Casselberry, 4-H Adult Volunteer, will be presenting a 4-H Record Book Workshop at the First Coleman National Bank Hospitality Room, beginning at 2:00 p.m.  Please R.S.V.P. to the County Extension Office at 625-4519 so that enough educational materials can be printed. Please bring to the meeting a date book or calendar (something that you'll keep up with all year long).  This meeting will last approximately 1 hour.

Keeping records of your 4-H experiences is a great way to hold on to your memories about your project work in 4-H. This is also a great way to develop skills in communication, organize your time, documents, evaluate your own efforts, set goals and keeping track of your 4-H finances and progress.   Records are like journals - your progress, your unique story and pictures and an important part of your life.

If you would like to know more about the 4-H Record Book process, please attend this meeting on Saturday, Nov. 8th at 2 pm. at the First Coleman National Bank Hospitality Room.   More details regarding record book forms can be found on the Texas 4-H website http://texas4-h.tamu.edu/youth/recordkeeping.html

Sara's Neighborhood RE-Opening Tuesday
11/3/2008
Sara's Neighborhood was most recently located in Tracy's Place on Commercial Ave.  Sara has moved her restaurant to 1116 N. Neches in the Berry Marketing building.  She is re-opening tomorrow, Tuesday, November 4th in her new location.  She has lowered her meal prices and expanded her hours.  Click on her banner below for more information and her weekly menu. 

ELECTION DAY TOMORROW !!
11/3/2008
Election Day Polling Locations:
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse 100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx
Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, Tx
Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian Church - 1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, Tx
Precinct 3 – Concho Baptist Church Fellowship Hall - 1700 S. Concho St. – Coleman, Tx
Precinct 4 – West Wing, Coleman County Courthouse - 100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

County Proposition on the Ballot
FOR or AGAINST - The County of Coleman establishing a limitation on the amount of ad valorem taxes imposed on the residential homestead of a person who is disabled or is sixty-five (65) years of age or older and receives a residential homestead exemption, as authorized by Article VIII, Section 1-b(h) of the Texas Constitution formerly known as Proposition 13, now codified in Texas Tax Code Section.

No Injuries in Wreck Sunday
11/2/2008
Around 1:00 pm. Sunday, November 2, 2008 a 2-car accident occurred on the corner of West 3rd and Concho. A Chevrolet Minivan and a Chevrolet pickup collided. No injuries were reported and officers have not released names of the drivers.  

County Football Scores
11/2/2008
Early 32, Coleman 20
Novice 88, Moran 40
Richland Springs 70, Santa Anna 0
Zephyr 55, Panther Creek 54