News Archives - October 2007

County Clerk Submits Resignation
1:28 PM 10/31/2007
Coleman County Clerk, Jo Ann Hale, submitted her letter of resignation during a County Commissioner meeting this morning.

In the letter, Hale said her resignation is effective November 30, 2007. "I have enjoyed working for the county for the last 20 years, 10 years as a deputy clerk and 10 years as County Clerk. I need more time at home with my family," Hale said.

In a statement to Colemannews.com from Jimmie Hobbs, County Judge, he said the County Commissioner's Court will decide on a procedure for appointing a replacement at their November 13th meeting. Whoever is appointed by Commissioners will have to meet the same requirement as any other elected official at the County level. This appointed position will last only until the end of 2008.

A general election for this position will be held in 2008 with the term beginning in January 2009. Persons interested in running for the Coleman County Clerk's position should file for the office between December 3, 2007 and January 2, 2008.

Vandals Strike Downtown Businesses
10/31/2007
Business owners in downtown Coleman arrived this morning to find their stores had been hit overnight by vandals.
Among those affected were Earle Smith Jewelers where one of their front windows was broken, Bowen Drug where a glass in one of their front doors was broken and Coleman Video where a shoe print is apparent on their glass door which was shattered but not broken out.  

Coleman Police tell Colemannews.com El Taquito and The Huddle were broken into, there were three reports of vehicle burglaries and one report of yard decorations being stolen.

Attention Farmers - Sign-Up Time for Programs
10/31/2007
The Coleman County Farm Service Agency office is requesting producers to please make an appointment to sign up for current programs. Appointments are used to maximize time so that producers may be assisted more efficiently.

Two programs of interest right now are the Livestock Compensation Program and Crop Disaster Program.

Under the Livestock Compensation Program, producers can apply to receive compensation for feed and livestock losses occurring between January 1, 2005 and February 28, 2007, due to a natural disaster.

The Crop Disaster Program provides benefits to farmers who suffered quantity and quality losses to 2005, 2006 or 2007 crops.

For your benefit, we have posted all the guidelines for both programs on the Farm and Ranch page here on Colemannews.com.

Free Thanksgiving Feast Planned at The Cross
10/30/2007
Matthew 25 Ministries will once again offer a free Thanksgiving Day meal at noon on Thursday, November 22. In preparation for the meal, the ministry has several needs you can help with: organizers, decorators/decorations, handouts distributer, donations/funds, donations/food, dressing makers (before Thanksgiving), turkeys donated, cookers, greeters, servers, takeout deliverers and cleaners (to clean up afterwards).

If you would like to help, call 325-625-1002. The website is www.mt25.net.

Former Panther Creek Students Receive ASU Scholarships
10/29/2007
Three Panther Creek High School graduates have been awarded $500 Alan Davis Memorial Scholarships at Angelo State University for the 2007-08 academic year.

The recipients are Taya Davis, a freshman marketing major, and Clayton and Jayton VanPelt, both freshman undeclared majors.

The Alan Davis Memorial Scholarships are awarded annually to worthy Coleman County high school graduates attending ASU. The endowment was established in 1992 in memory of the late Alan Davis, a 1981 Coleman High School graduate and 1985 graduate of Angelo State.

At Panther Creek High, Davis was on the National Honor Roll and elected to Who’s Who Among American High School Students. She was also active in the National Honor Society and student council, served as yearbook editor and drill team captain, and participated in basketball.

Clayton VanPelt was active in the National Honor Society and served as student council president, yearbook senior editor and class treasurer. He also participated in UIL One Act Play, Computer Applications, Number Sense and Science, and played basketball.

Jayton VanPelt participated in a variety of FFA activities, including dairy judging and serving as an FFA officer. He also was class president for two years, participated in UIL One Act Play and Literary Criticism, and was an all-district linebacker in 2005-06.

Local Kids Enjoy Youth Hunt
10/29/2007
The 3rd Annual Coleman County Youth Hunt was held Saturday in northern Coleman County on property belonging to Hemphill Land and Cattle.

The hunt started as an idea of Heath Hemphill, John Casey and County Game Warden Randall Brown who wanted to give kids a chance to go hunting, some who might otherwise not have the opportunity. It is designed to help them appreciate and understand hunting, even though they may not become hunters, and help continue growing young hunters for the future.  Hunting is a major industry for Coleman County.

Hemphill Land and Cattle donated the land and hunting lodge. Several local merchants and individuals donated money and food for breakfast and lunch.

Steve Hall at Hall's Processing donated half the processing of the deer.  Donations paid for the other half of the processing which allowed the kids to take home meat from the deer they killed Saturday. 

We caught up with the bunch after the morning hunt. For one young man, it was his first hunt ever. For two others, it was only their second time on a hunting trip while others were a bit more experienced. They were excited, to say the least.  Seven deer were taken during the morning shoot.

Following the morning hunt and breakfast, Game Warden Randall Brown gave a gun safety lesson and they practiced shooting at the gun range. In the afternoon, they kids were taken to a stock pond and caught lots of perch.

Police Investigating Vandalism / Fire at Local Business
10/29/2007
At approximately 6:00am Sunday, the Coleman Police Department was notified that a car was on fire at D & R Automotive on Colorado Street. The Coleman Fire Department was notified and promptly extinguished the blaze.

Police Sgt. Brian Tompkins, a state certified arson investigator, was called to assist Detective Sgt. Les Cogdill with the investigation.

Two other vehicles were damaged when the vandals used a brake caliper to smash several window glasses. The case is still under investigation at this time.

Wreck Saturday Night Sends One to Hospital
10/28/2007
A trip from Canyon Lake to Abilene ended in Coleman County for a 17 year-old student. According to Chris Delgado, Department of Public Safety Trooper, Ross Lee Weller was taken by ambulance to Coleman County Medical Center. He was still being evaluated as of late Saturday night.

The wreck happened at approximately 7:50pm 3.3 miles north of Coleman on U.S. Highway 84, the Abilene highway. Weller was driving a 2000 blue Dodge Ram 1500.

According to Trooper Delgado, Weller apparently fell asleep at the wheel, ran off the east side of the road, swerved across Highway 84 to the west side of the highway where he crossed the ditch, went up an embankment, through a fence and rolled into a thicket of trees. Delgado said Weller flagged down a passing motorist that happened to be off duty County Game Warden William Heath and his son, Gary, who summoned help. Meanwhile, the pickup caught on fire and started a grass fire in the pasture which was extinguished by the Coleman Fire Department. 

On the scene were the Coleman County Sheriff's Department, Coleman Fire Department, DPS, Coleman County Medical Center ambulance personnel and Terry's Towing wrecker service employees who removed the pickup from the pasture.  The burned truck is shown being loaded on the wrecker.

Santa Anna High School Band Competes in Belton
10/27/2007
The Santa Anna Mountaineer Band traveled to Belton Saturday morning to compete in the Area Marching Band Contest. They were a Top-6 Finalist out of 13 bands but will not be advancing to the next level. Congratulations to the Mountaineer Band on a great job!

Holiday Hill Residents Raise Money for Cancer Research
10/27/2007
Three residents at Holiday Hill Nursing Home wanted to do something for Cancer Awareness Month in October. With help from Vanessa and Sylvia Molina, a Cancer Walk was held Friday morning at Holiday Hill. Around 50 people gathered to do their part in the fight against cancer. Thelma Lucas, Lena Wallis and Christine Turner suggested the walk and helped make the pink ribbons worn by participants.

At 10:30, the group left the front door of Holiday Hill and made two walks around the complex. Those in wheelchairs were pushed by employees. There were cancer survivors who walked and others who just wanted to raise awareness and money. The Alliance for Women and Children, based in Abilene, was present. There was also information given out concerning Proposition 15 on the ballot in November, a proposition about cancer being supported by the American Cancer Society, Texas Medical Association and others. 

Team Cade Walks to Cure Diabetes
10/27/2007 (contributed)
Team Cade participated in the Walk to Cure Diabetes on October 20 at Trinity Park in Fort Worth. The Walk is sponsored by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation to support research that will aid in finding a cure for juvenile, or type I diabetes.

Cade Needham, age 4, was diagnosed with the disease on August 12, 2007. On that day, we were supposed to attend a Texas Rangers game as the start of our vacation, but instead ended up in an ambulance going to Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, where Cade spent 3 days. During those 3 days, we were educated as to what diabetes is and how to manage it. Since that time, Cade has adjusted and gotten used to the 4x daily finger pricks to check his blood sugar, and the daily insulin injections needed to keep him healthy. When we learned of the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes, we jumped at the chance to raise money to one day find a cure for diabetes, so it will become a thing of the past.

JDRF did a wonderful job putting on the Walk. There were many sponsors who provided fruit, yogurt, coffee and water. Six Flags brought Sylvester, Bugs Bunny, and Tweety Bird out to see and take pictures with the kids, and the Fort Worth Fire Department led the way as our walk started. Mid way through, JDRF had blown up air castles and obstacle courses for the kids to play on. Cousins BBQ donated thousands of BBQ sandwiches and chips for our lunch. God helped us out with the weather – it was pleasant, not too hot and not too cold.

Nearly one hundred people donated money to Team Cade. As a result, we turned in a grand total of $2562 to JDRF. They told us that for first time walkers, that was an excellent result. That means next year we have to top it! Thank you to everyone who donated funds, and a special thank you goes out to Coleman Junior High. The students themselves passed the 'chili bucket' during lunch (over several weeks) to collect their spare change to donate to JDRF for Team Cade. Cade's brother Reid is an 8th grader at CJH. They collected a total of $107.12. Great job, CJHS, and THANK YOU!

Look for New Voter Cards in December
10/26/2007
According to Jamie Trammell, Coleman County Tax Assessor-Collector and Voter Registrar, new voter registration cards will be mailed out in December.

Please check your old card and let them know if you have any changes to name, address, P.O. Box, or if you have moved. They need to make changes before November 14 to be in time for the mass mail out.

Call 625-2153 or mail to 100 W. Liveoak, Suite 104, Coleman, Texas 76834 with any changes you have.

Sheriff Turner Releases Weekly Report
10/26/2007
The Coleman County Sheriff’s Dept. received 43 calls for service the week of October 17-23. Calls were as follows:

Welfare Concern – 1; Motorist Assist – 1; Reckless Driver – 1; Runaway – 1; Missing Juvenile – 1; Suspicious Activity – 1; Criminal Mischief – 2; Noise Disturbance at Lake Coleman – 1; Theft – 3; Recover Stolen Item at Roadside Park – 1; Burglary of Habitation – 1; Aggravated Assault – 1; Road Hazard – 1; Accident – 1; Livestock out on roadway – 7; Civil Dispute – 1; Civil Service Process – 7; Prisoner Transport to C.C.M.C. – 3; Prisoner Transport to District Court – 2; Prisoner Arrested out of District Court – 1; M.H.M.R. Transport to San Angelo – 1; Male Prisoner Transport to TDCJ Middleton Unit – 1; Female Prisoner Transport to State Jail Gatesville Unit – 1; Female Prisoner Transport to San Angelo Co. Jail on Federal Warrants – 2.

We are currently housing 7 inmates in the Coleman County Jail and they are as follows:
1 – Work Program; 1 – Sentenced to State Jail awaiting transport conformation.; 1 – Sentenced to Drug Rehab awaiting transport conformation.; 1 – Serving sentence out of County Court.; 3 – Awaiting District Court Dispositions.

We are housing 5 inmates in the Runnels County Jail at this time. All 5 are awaiting District Court Dispositions and 1 is also being held on a blue warrant from TDCJ.  

We received an e-mail from Arletta O'Shields who works at the Federal Land Bank Association office, next door to Colemannews.com. The e-mail said "we would like to show you something and see if you could get a picture of it, maybe".

Needless to say, we got up a big curious and went next door and saw something very unique, to say the least. Arletta's office is on the south side of the building. On the window of her office is the almost perfect imprint of a bird, like a smudge mark. In talking with Arletta, she said it wasn't there yesterday but when Scott Ogden pulled into work Thursday morning, he

 noticed it. The picture above was taken from inside Arletta's office, looking out toward Walnut Street. This picture above was taken from the outside of the office looking in. The first thought that comes to mind was a bird flew into the window but the picture doesn't do it justice. On close inspection, you can actually see fine details, especially on the tail feathers. There were no signs of feathers under the window outside, no bird either.

Coleman Police Make Arrest in Stabbing Investigation
10/25/2007
One man has been arrested in connection with a stabbing which happened last weekend in Coleman. According to Sgt. Les Cogdill of Coleman PD, on Saturday, October 20, at 2:25am, the Coleman Police Department was dispatched to the 500 block of Vale Street in reference to a stabbing. When officers arrived on scene, they found two males that had been stabbed. One of the males was taken to Coleman County Medical Center by private vehicle. The other male was transported to Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene by Air Vac.

Patricio Marcelino Seballos, 20 years of age from Coleman,  was identified as one of the suspects in this case. Patricio Seballos was arrested on Sunday, October 21, for two counts of aggravated assault. Seballos is currently in Coleman County Jail. Bond was set at $25,000.00 on each charge, Cogdill said.

Rehab Fundraiser a Big Success
10/24/2007
The 7th Annual Trick or Treat for Rehab was a huge success thanks to the residents of the Coleman community. The contributions gathered came to a grand total of $1,947.20. The proceeds will be presented to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center in January at the annual telethon.

Rodeo Association Elects Queen / Officers
10/24/2007
The membership of the Coleman Rodeo Association met Tuesday night and elected officers, directors and a queen for the 2008 rodeo.

Officers include: Ted Taylor - President; Lanham Horne - Vice-President; Heath Hemphill - Secretary; Billy Paul Casselberry - Treasurer.

New directors are: Mark Williams, Dan Hohmann, Ben Taylor, John Tibbetts, Harold Skelton and Denny Altum.  The queen for the 2008 rodeo will be Paige Barnett.

Poster Contest Winners Named
10/24/2007
Coleman County Telephone Cooperative, Inc. recently sponsored a fire prevention poster contest in the Santa Anna and Panther Creek elementary schools. The theme for the posters was “Practice Your Escape Plan.”   Pictured are the winners in each age division.

From Santa Anna Elementary, winner in the under 6 age group was Kayden Russell, son of Brandi Martin.
Jaylie Jones, winner in the 6-8 years age group, is the daughter of Ray and Betsy Jones.
The 9-12 age group winner was Pricilla Smith, daughter of Steve and Lauwanna Smith.
From Panther Creek Elementary, two winners were selected from the 6-8 age group. They were Nathan McMahon, son of Lorie McMahon and also, Cody Hamblin, son of Cathy Hamblin.
The winner in the 9-12 age group was Chariti Warren, daughter of Dan & Lean Warren.

Each winner at Santa Anna was presented with a bag of prizes, which included a $10 gift certificate, by Leanna Jones, office manager of the Cooperative. The Panther Creek winners were presented the same prizes by Gay Abernathy, facility network specialist for the Cooperative.

The Cooperative congratulates all the winners and expresses appreciation to all those students who participated. The contest helped the students to realize the importance of practicing an escape plan, in case there is ever a fire in their home or school. Some of the posters will be on display at the Cooperative headquarters in Santa Anna for the next two weeks.

Coleman County Telephone Cooperative also provided trick-or-treat bags and a brochure on fire safety to each elementary student at both schools. The Cooperative will have some “treats” for elementary students who would like to stop by the office from 3:00 - 5:00 P.M. on October 31st.

Know Your Neighbor - Ellen West at Sunnie's in Santa Anna
10/24/2007
If you walk into Sunnie's in downtown Santa Anna expecting to see someone named Sunnie, you probably won't. Who you will see, however, is Ellen West, owner. Ellen was born in deep south Louisiana, in the town of Abbeville. "I'm Cajun to the bone," she said. It seems her heritage plays right into what she does now. More about the store name later.

Ellen and husband Charles West got acquainted with Coleman County when they bought a ranch near Silver Valley in 1994. At the time, they lived in Shreveport, Louisiana where Charles operated his own business and Ellen sold commercial and industrial insurance, which she hated. They would commute most weekends to their ranch and friends would visit. They sold the Silver Valley property and partnered with a friend on another piece of land here. That land was sold, Charles and Ellen bought south of Santa Anna, recently built a home there and are mostly moved in.

The Wine
Ellen had never operated a retail store. Charles bought the Sunnie's location as an investment. It was full of junk but after lots of hard work, it became an antique store. "We always had a bunch of antiques and went into the antique business," Ellen said. But the real attraction to Sunnie's was yet to come. Ellen had contacts through the Texas Department of Agriculture who suggested she promote Texas Wines and Texas products in her store, too. "I have loved wine all my life. I had never been into Texas wines but I'm sold on them now," Ellen said. She believes Texas wines are interesting. You will find 39 different Texas wines and one from California. The one from California happens to be from the Fess Parker vineyard, the man who was Davy Crockett on television 50 years ago. Ellen met Fess at a wine tasting in Buffalo Gap, liked his product and offers it at Sunnie's.

More Than the Wine
Sunnie's offers an eclectic mix of antiques, a large offering of cookbooks, unique jewelry and much more. "I keep finding things I like and I want other people to like, I guess," Ellen said. "I love my store and I love good food and wine." Speaking of food, Ellen grows much of what she and Charles enjoy from okra for gumbo to peppers and onions. They buy shrimp from South Texas. "Food and cooking all goes along with the wine. I love good food and wine, we eat for pleasure." 

The Name
Before we forget it, the business is named after Ellen's dog, a seven year-old yellow Lab who used to come to the store, until he began terrorizing neighborhood cats from outside the back door.

The Hours and Upcoming Wine Tasting
Sunnie's is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00am to about 6:00pm and is located in downtown Santa Anna on the south side of the street, look for the yellow sign on the sidewalk.

Sunnie's will host a wine tasting on November 30th and December 1st. As of this writing, it is known that Pillar Bluff will be the featured wine on December 1.

Round-Up for Rehab is Wednesday in Coleman
10/24/2007
Enjoy beans and cornbread straight from the Chuckwagon while supporting the West Texas Rehab Center at Coleman Livestock Auction on Wednesday, October 31.

Local ranchers, ag-related and community businesses, along with Rehab friends come together once again to support the Center’s mission to improve the quality of life for those served regardless of financial circumstances. Providing services since 1953, the Rehab continues to serve over 20,000 children and adults each year with outpatient rehabilitative care. Last year, approximately 150 individuals from the Coleman area experienced the Rehab Center first hand as patients.

Since its inception in 1960, the Round-Up for Rehab program has provided more than $10 million in helping those who have turned to the Center for assistance. The Coleman sale is one of nine special Round-Up for Rehab auctions and promises to provide a unique, fun experience.

Everyone is invited to come out to the auction barn on Wednesday, October 31st, at 11:30 a.m. and enjoy a meal of beans, cornbread and cobbler prepared by the Rehab’s own Chuckwagon. The auction then kicks-off at 1:00 pm, with items of interest for all. Livestock, ag-related and general merchandise, crafts and baked goods will be offered with a round of lively, friendly bidding.

Local chairmen and Rehab friends heading up the 2007 Coleman County Round-Up program are Bobbie Edington, Bob & Sylvia Edington, Dan Edington, Mike Edington, Maureen Hickman, Wayne McClure, Jay Davis, Tommy Sloan, Heath & Danielle Hemphill, Randy & Kathy Turner, Andrew Young, Scott Ogden, and Jim Gill. Others with key roles in this year’s program are general chairmen Mike Alexander and Randy Carson of Abilene, Jody Frey of San Angelo and Bob Helmers of Christoval. They join with other volunteers to ask the people of West Texas to help Rehab meet the outpatient rehabilitation needs of all who turn to the Center for assistance in overcoming the disabling effects of illness or injury.

For more information about the Rehab Center call WTRC-Abilene at 325-793-3507. Coleman area residents wishing to donate animals, merchandise, baked goods or needing information on the local sale, contact the Coleman Livestock Auction at 325-625-4191.

Fund Raising Opportunity!
10/24/2007 (contributed)
Does your organization need to earn some extra money? The Coleman County First Responders host the snack bar at the monthly Country Western Musical at the Senior Center. We will continue the snack bar through December, but need someone to take it over in January of 2008.

If your organization would be interested in taking over the snack bar, please call Evyonne Curry (325-625-2791), John Gregg (325-625-4334), Kenny Moore (325-625-3237) or Jeff Roberts (325-625-2214) for more information on who to contact and how to get started.

To the Parents of Panther Creek CISD Students
10/24/2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007, the science lab had a small chemical fire. We evacuated the buildings. As a precautionary measure, we dismissed school early and sent the students home. We would like to assure all parents and guardians that their children were kept safe. We will resume school at usual time Wednesday morning.  Thank you for your understanding of this situation.

Panther Creek CISD Administration

Sheriff’s Department Uses DNA Evidence to Solve Cattle Theft
10/23/2007 (courtesy Coleman County Attorney's Office)
Old fashioned cattle theft has met up with technology and the result is an arrest and conviction.

According to Heath Hemphill, Coleman County Attorney, on May 24, 2007, Mr. and Mrs. T. L. Rhodes of Midland, Texas reported three calves, weighing approximately 300 lbs., to be missing from their property located in Coleman County. Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes reside in Midland but own and operate approximately 500 acres in Coleman County near County Roads 130 and 119. The case was assigned to Deputy Vickie Plummer of the Coleman County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Plummer was told by Mr. Rhodes that the calves were last seen in April and still could not be found. Deputy Plummer advised Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Investigator, Joe Roberts, of the theft and began her investigation of the case.

Information received by Deputy Plummer lead her to believe that the cattle might have been sold at the Brownwood Cattle Auction. The Auction Company was contacted regarding the investigation and it was determined that three calves, matching the description of those missing, may have been consigned to the auction on April 10, 2007. Deputy Plummer worked with the auction company to determine which buyers had purchased the suspect calves and their destination. The Deputy learned that two of the calves were purchased by Capitol Land and Livestock of Schwertner, Texas, and the other calf was purchased by an individual in Rising Star, Texas.

Because Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes still owned the bull and cows which the calves were out of, it was determined that DNA evidence could be used to trace these three calves back to the Rhodes herd. The individual from Rising Star, who had purchased one of the calves, was contacted by Deputy Plummer and consented to have the calf DNA tested. Sheriff Wade Turner and Deputy Plummer took possession of the calf and transported it to Coleman Veterinary Clinic where doctors Mike Edington and Johnny Needham assisted in obtaining blood samples used for the DNA testing. Pictures and evidence for permanent identification of the calf were also obtained. Samples of blood were also taken from the calf’s sire and dam. These blood samples were forwarded with the DNA kit to DNA Solutions of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. June 29, 2007, Dr. Brandt G. Cassidy of DNA Solutions contacted Deputy Plummer to inform her that the DNA samples produced a positive match linking the cow, bull and calf. Meanwhile, Deputy Plummer had developed a suspect in the case. The case was presented to the County Attorney’s Office, charges were filed, and a warrant was issued.

On July 19, 2007, Deputy Plummer, working in connection with Investigator Roberts of TSCRA, interviewed Bennie Bible who, after being presented with the evidence against him, confessed to the theft of the three calves. County Attorney Heath Hemphill has confirmed that Mr. Bible plead guilty in County Court on October 9, 2007, was assessed a $500.00 fine, court costs and sixty (60) days in the County Jail. The County Attorney also confirmed that full restitution, being the value of the calves, cost of DNA testing, and veterinary expenses of Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes may also be forthcoming.  

Court Cases Reported by District Attorney
10/23/2007 (submitted by DA's Office)
The following cases were presented by District Attorney Joe Lee Rose to the Honorable John Weeks, 42nd District Judge, on Thursday, May 3, 2007, at 2:00 P.M.:

1. Cause No. 1984 – Michael Lee Varnadore, Felony D.W.I. Varnadore pled guilty and was sentenced to two years confinement in the Institutional Division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and was ordered to pay court costs.
2. Cause No. 1895 – William Lee Isbell, Jr., Possession of Controlled Substance. Isbell pled guilty and was sentenced to two years confinement in a State Jail Facility, probated for five years, and was ordered to pay a $1,500.00 fine, court costs, lab fees, community supervision fees, and 120 hours community service.
3. Cause No. 1981 – Andrew David Dixon, Possession of Controlled Substance. Arraignment was rescheduled for May 31, 2007, at 2:00 P.M.
4. Cause No. 1983 – Ynasio Guerrero, Jr., Endangering a Child. Dana Smith was retained as defense counsel, and arraignment was waived.
5. Cause No. 4278 – State of Texas vs. $3,892.00 U.S. Currency and miscellaneous contraband. District Attorney Rose presented a forfeiture judgment to Judge Weeks requesting that a portion of the contraband be awarded to local law enforcement. The request was granted.

Cases were presented by District Attorney Joe Lee Rose to the January Term Coleman County Grand Jury on May 15, 2007. True bills were returned in the following cases:

1. Cause No. 1985 – Lauriano Rico Huera, Felony D.W.I.;
2. Cause No. 1986 – Dustin James Beal, Failure to Register as Sex Offender;
3. Cause No. 1987 – Dennis Wayne Morgan, Aggravated Sexual Assault;
4. Cause No. 1988 – Irma Valdez, Theft;
5. Cause No. 1990 – Jason Paul Norris, Felony D.W.I.;
6. Cause No. 1992 – Shannon Slayton, Burglary of a Habitation; and
7. Cause No. 1993 – Ynasio Guerrero, Jr., Aggravated Assault.

True Bills were also returned in two additional cases, the names of which are being withheld pending arrest. Three cases were given No Bills.

Ribbon Cutting Held at Countywide Insurance in Santa Anna
10/23/2007 (story courtesy Tex Wright)
The Countywide Insurance Santa Anna Office has been officially opened.

On Thursday Countywide hosted the Santa Anna Chamber of Commerce monthly breakfast. Over 30 of the local business people came by for eggs, fruit and/or sweets.
A ribbon cutting was held early so that many of the businesses could participate as owner Alicia Sanders cut the ribbon.

Chamber president Nancy Wylie brought a pair of shears that had been used through most of the 20th century to be used to cut the ribbon.
Countywide has been in business in Santa Anna for many years, but recently moved to the new facilities at 1106 Wallis (corner of Wallis and 7th St).

Open house was held all day with visitors, new and old customers dropping by for coffee and snacks.
Agents were available to discuss insurance needs with anyone who needed their assistance.
Tex Wright, inspector and office manager, hosted the events with owner Alicia Sanders, Pat Wright, Agent, Esther Tabor, agent and Kathy Yarbrough, Clerk, from the home (Coleman) office pitching in to help make this an enjoyable event for the people of Santa Anna.

Your friends at Countywide offer a big Thank You to those who came by. It made this a very special day for all.

Fine Arts League Has Program by Cathi Ball
10/23/2007 (by Marian Johnson)
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County enjoyed a program by Cathi Ball last Thursday.  Cathi founded an outside mural painting project for Eastland in which large paintings have been done and placed in 42 different locations in the City. The paintings are by famous artists. Example is the 500 gal. oil tank copied from the famous Andy Warhol Tomato Soup can painting .

Cathi presented an entertaining program dealing with sketching in sketchbooks anywhere and everywhere to practice drawing and use later for paintings. Her sketchbooks contained drawings from all over the world that she had done in their travels.

15 members of the art league and 4 guests enjoyed the program and refreshments. Millie Martin, President, opened the meeting with reports given by committee chairs. The program for November will be a fun “hands-on” activity. Visitors are always welcome to the Art League programs.  Pictured above is Cathi, right, enjoying one of Tammy Jo Turner's famous horses.

City is Widening Bridges for Better Safety
10/22/2007
You may have noticed the City of Coleman Street Department working on bridges around town lately. Bridges on West 5th, West 7th and 5th Avenue have been narrow and a safety hazard in the past. Now, as pictured below, the bridges are wider for safer passage down the street.

City crews also uncovered a clogged drainage pipe and opened it up to allow better water flow through the central part of town.

Steve and Mike Gray Honored at City Meeting
10/22/2007
Between the two of them, they have 45 years of service to the City of Coleman. They were honored for their loyal service at the recent meeting of the Coleman City Council.

Steve Gray began working in the Coleman City Cemetery in 1982 and was promoted to supervisor in 1997.

Mike Gray has been in the City Street Department for the past 20 years. Mike takes care of the mosquito spraying in Coleman but also has other certifications in solid waste management. Mike is also a member of the Coleman Fire Department.

City Receives Bids on Power Line Construction
10/22/2007
The City of Coleman received two bids from companies interested in building 1.8 miles of electrical lines in the Wind Clean and Industrial Park area. The upgrade is necessary to provide enough electricity for the expansion at Wind Clean.
One of the bids was $64,500 from Bird Electric of Eastland. The other bid was $65,000 from A.H. Construction of San Angelo. The City Council approved the low bid from Bird Electric, on the condition the bid meet the job criteria advertised by the City.

In other business, the City of Coleman will be advertising for bids for liability and property insurance.

Coleman Elementary Students to Participate in Red Ribbon Week
10/22/2007
Red Ribbon Week activities will take place next week at Coleman Elementary School. Here is the list:

Friday - October 26th Team Up Against Drugs Day Wear blue and white. All students will receive Twizzlers with a drug free message on it.

Tuesday - October 30th
Miss Texas Presentation - "Drugs and Alcohol Awareness" for 4th and 5th grade students.

Coleman High School Red Ribbon Week 2007
“Today is the day we make choices for tomorrow! – Say NO to drugs!”
10/22/2007
Students at Coleman High will be participating in numerous events for the rest of October, including Red Ribbon Week, as seen below:

Friday – October 26th
Drug Free message on breakfast sack – Guess the language in the office (Winner drawn from correct answers will receive gift certificate from local eatery)

Bracelet drawing – if the winner is wearing their bracelet, they will win a gift certificate from local eatery

Dress in costume – “Scare Away the Longhorns”

Statistical Announcement

Saturday – October 27th
Assist with Youth Football Games Concession Stand
12:00, 2:00, 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday – October 30th
Miss Texas presentation – “Drug & Alcohol Awareness”
1:05 p.m. High School Auditorium

Wednesday – October 31st
Round-up for Rehab Auction – senior student council members assist with Chuckwagon Lunch

Troop 221 Court of Honor
10/19/2007
Guests and parents were recently treated to an emotional ceremony as Coleman Troop 221 honors and retires an American flag at their recent Court of Honor. Members include Dustin Crawford, Dalton Faries, Marcelino Felipe, Troy Hubbard, Hunter Johnson, Taylor Baum, Johnathan McPherson, Brandon McPherson, Michael Watson, Lane Watson, Austin Hubbard, Dillon Dority, and Scout Advisor, Drew Hubbard.

Tough Enough to Wear Pink Raises Over $300
10/19/2007 (courtesy Karen Barr, CHS)
The Coleman High School Student Council would like to thank all of those of you who were “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” on Tuesday, October 16th in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Your efforts raised $313.94 that will be sent to Cancer Services Network in Abilene. This organization provides monetary assistance to patients who are receiving treatment for cancer.

Spreading the Word About Inflammatory Breast Cancer
10/19/2007
A Coleman native, currently battling breast cancer, can be found on the NBC Today Show website. Connie Whitney has submitted her story about IBC or inflammatory breast cancer. You can link to the page HERE.  Connie is on the middle row of pictures with the red bow in her hair. 

Weekly SO Report 10-10-07 thru 10-16-07
10/18/2007 (submitted by County Sheriff Wade Turner)
The Sheriff’s Office received 40 calls for service in addition to routine patrol and ongoing investigations this week. The calls are as follows:
Stranded Motorist – 2; Report of Stolen Car – 1; Civil Disputes – 3; Theft – 1; Criminal Mischief – 1; Harassing Phone Calls – 1; Domestic Disturbance – 1; Suspicious Activity - 1; Livestock Out on Roadway – 7; Missing Cow – 1; Dog attacked and injured neighbors dog – 1; Civil Process Service – 6; Control Burn – 1; Warrant Service – 1; Sex Offender Registration – 3; Assist Child Protective Services – 1; Prisoner Transport to C.C.M.C. – 6; Prisoner Transport to Runnels Co. Jail – 1 Prisoner Transport to Doctor in San Angelo from Runnels Co. – 1.

On October 11, Deputy Arrieta escorted Panther Creek Students and Teachers on a tour of the Courthouse. The students were able to see the workings of all the different agencies within the Courthouse including the courtroom and meet the Officials working there. There were about 20 in the tour.

We are currently housing 10 inmates in the Coleman County Jail at this time. They are as follows: 1 – Work Program; 1 – Sentenced to State Jail awaiting transport conformation; 1 – Sentenced to TDCJ awaiting transport conformation; 1 – Sentenced to Drug Rehab awaiting transport conformation; 2 – Serving Sentences out of County Court; 1 – Awaiting County Court Disposition; 3 – Awaiting District Court Dispositions. We are housing 5 inmates in the Runnels County Jail due to over population at this time. All 5 are awaiting District Court Dispositions, 1 is also being held on a Blue Warrant for Parole Violations.

Coleman ISD is Superior on Financial Rating System
10/18/2007 (courtesy Coleman ISD)
The Coleman ISD Board of trustees met in regular session Monday night to consider several agenda items. First on the agenda was a hearing for the district’s Financial Rating System of Texas (First Report). This information is required to be given to the public as a report card of the district and includes 21 indicators involving percentage of taxes collected, fund balance, audit reports, percentage spent on instruction, pupil/teacher ratios, investments, etc. The district received a Superior Achievement being in compliance with all 21 indicators. Royce Young, Superintendent, advised the board that the state was raising the bar for the next school year and it would be much more difficult to achieve superior ratings in the future. “We will do the best we can to continue this high achievement and set our goals to continue to strive for a superior rating," he added.

The board accepted the resignation of Jesse Lotspeich who has served as assistant part-time band director for the last several years. Young explained that normally the district is hesitant about letting teachers out of a contract once the school year has begun but there were reasons why he felt that an exception should be made in this case. First, Mr. Lotspeich had family medical reasons that necessitated him locating closer to his family, the high school principal and head band director both felt that the position could be covered by other personnel, and it was a part-time position. The board accepted the resignation and, for the time being, will not attempt to replace the position.

The board accepted the recommendation of Lorrie Payne, Curriculum director, for the persons appointed to the textbook committee. K-5 math textbooks will be adopted and those serving on the committee will be Sandra Edington, Jennifer Hinds, Sherrie Love, Vanessa Richards, Ranee Taylor, and Tammy Davis.

In other action, the board accepted the low bid for 2008 F250 Super Duty pickup from Bledsoe Ford of $24,850. This is with the trade in of a van that the school is disposing of and will be used primarily by the Coleman ISD Agriculture and Vocational Department. Young explained that the old pickup had left the FFA department stranded more than once on the side of the road.

The board nominated Vicki Hambright as a candidate for the Coleman County Tax Appraisal District. Actual election will be later in the year.

Superintendent Young presented update 81 to the board for adoption and talked about some of the provisions included in the board policy that was primarily a result of the 80th Legislature. Board training provisions, expanded criminal history background checks with fingerprinting for personnel, dating violence instruction, new P.E. requirements, and expression of religious viewpoints were just some of the changes noted in this update.

The final action item was budget amendments that include the purchase of additional electronic defibrillators (AEDS) for each of the campuses to be available for use in medical emergencies as required by the state. The district allocated an additional $5,000 for this purchase.

Information and discussion items include the possible disposal of property and real estate owned by the district. This involves the building currently occupied by Loaves and Fishes. The roof is bad on the building and would cost the district about $20,000 to re-roof. The district does not use any of the building and receives no financial compensation for the lease. Loaves and Fishes managing director had approached the superintendent about the possible acquisition of the building so it would better enable the non-profit organization to seek grants for upkeep and repair. Superintendent Young has spoken to the district’s attorneys and was told that the school had one option and that was to put it up for bid after first making a board resolution that the district no longer needed it for educational purposes. This issue could very well be on the November agenda for action.

Another information item included the taxing of Goods in Public Transit. Young explained that this resolution must be made before January and he recommended to the board that this resolution be made so as not to lose already existing revenue. Inaction on this item could eventually result in a loss of revenue already existing and he emphasized that this is not an additional tax. It is only to keep what we already have that probably would not be made up by the state.

The board heard a report on ongoing maintenance upgrades to include panels added to the bleachers at Hufford Field to insure safety for youngsters, the completion of the marquee at the high school, and the completion of the new seats at the Junior High Gym.

As required by TEA, Superintendent Young gave a report on Highly Qualified Teachers which Coleman reports as being in 100% compliance. This is based on certification, workshops, and college hours.

Mike Edington, Sue Sloan, Vicki Hambright, Jody Payne, Brent McMillan, and John Casey reported that the Annual TASB/TASA joint convention just attended in Dallas was informative and valuable to their roles as board members for the Coleman Independent School District.

The Moving Wall Makes Brief Stop in Santa Anna
10/18/2007
The U.S. Flag was flying proudly Wednesday throughout Santa Anna. When it was discovered that The Moving Wall, a replica of the Vietnam Memorial, would be traveling through Santa Anna, in route to Early, local citizens wanted to pay their respect. It was arranged for the truck and trailer transporting The Moving Wall to stop for a while in downtown Santa Anna. On the east side of Santa Anna, a large number of patriotic riders on their motorcycles led The Moving Wall to Early where it will be on display for the public to view from today through Monday, October 22nd.

Kudos to the folks in Santa Anna for showing their patriotism and respect for those who served our nation in Vietnam.

Miss Texas in Coleman October 30th
10/18/2007
Molly Hazlett, 20, of Centerville, Texas is Miss Texas 2007 and will be in Coleman on Tuesday, October 30, to present a Drug and Alcohol Awareness program to students.

Becoming an entrepreneur at age 15 by opening her own dance studio, Molly has performed with Ballet Dallas, the St. Louis Ballet, in the off-Broadway production of "Slide" and was an All-Star Cheerleader.

From coordinating relief after Hurricane Katrina to helping the Children's Miracle Network, Molly stays busy. Oh, she is also a junior at Sam Houston State University. Her platform is Drug & Alcohol Awareness which she will share with Coleman students on the 30th.

Jeromy Watson Begins Duties at Coleman County SO
10/16/2007
Coleman County Sheriff Wade Turner wants to inform everyone of the employment of Jeromy Watson, as a new Deputy Sheriff with the Coleman County Sheriff's Dept. Jeromy began his duties on October 8th, 2007.

Jeromy was born and raised in Coleman County and is the son of Joe and Sharron Watson. He attended the West Central Texas Law Enforcement Academy and graduated in 2003. He was then employed with the Mills County Sheriff's Dept. as a Deputy Sheriff until accepting employment with the Coleman Police Dept. in 2005.


"We are glad to have Jeromy and feel that he will make a good officer, and look forward to working with him," Turner said. With the employment of Jeromy, the Coleman Sheriff's Dept. is now at full allocated strength. 
 

Update on Stormie
10/16/2007 (submitted by Sarah Beal)
Stormie Bingham is a four year-old bundle of joy. She always has a smile on her face and greets everyone she sees. She is in the Pre-Kindergarten class at Coleman Elementary School. Stormie was born with Cystic Kidney disease and last year her kidneys ceased to function. She now undergoes dialysis every night while she sleeps. She is doing very well. She will eventually have a kidney transplant. She goes to Cook’s Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth for medical care.


Over the last year, the Pre-Kindergarten classes have been collecting pop tabs from aluminum cans and selling these to raise funds for Stormie and her family to use when they go for medical care and stay at the Ronald McDonald House. The first night cost $25 and consecutive nights are $15.

We have been amazed at the care and outpouring from the community. Coleman Elementary students regularly bring in tabs for Stormie. Leonard Greer has collected and donated over 3 large popcorn gift tins, himself. He is very proud that he is able to help the little girl. The BMW women at First Baptist have collected tabs, also. We have received tabs from Brady, Santa Anna Elementary, and Austin to name a few other places. We are still collecting. Tabs may be dropped off at the Elementary School or the Chamber of Commerce. The last load that was taken to the recycling center was 151 pounds and we got $82 for the account. We have received more and will be taking them when there is an opportunity. A big thanks goes to all contributors.

Grand Opening Held in Santa Anna
10/16/2007 (story by Tex Wright)
Saturday afternoon a large group gathered to help celebrate the opening of Serenity Massage.

Leann Donham (shown cutting the ribbon), assisted by husband Stephen and son Dakota, hosted many clients, friends, and relatives at the Grand Opening of Serenity Massage. The business has been open about three weeks and is being patronized by many of the local population. Leann has been in business in another location for nearly a year.

This is not your standard place of business, being run by Leann, who at age 21, is the youngest business owner in Santa Anna. Serenity is a fully equipped shop offering massage from head to toe, using lubricants of many different aromas.

Hydro-therapy, Spa Therapy, and standard massage therapy are just a few of the many special treatments offered here.

The motto of the business is: “When you just need to get away” This is the reason you would want to come by and see Leann Donham at SERENITY MASSAGE.

Mrs. Donham wishes to say “Thanks” to all her clients and friends who came by on Saturday.

Thank You
10/16/2007
The Board of Directors and Staff of the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau would like to thank you, the citizens of Coleman County, and all the volunteers, for your contributions to the Coleman County Fiesta de la Paloma. All of you are appreciated more than could possibly be expressed. People like you make accomplishing the impossible easy, fun and successful. Also, a special thanks to all the merchants and individuals who donated prizes to the Fiesta. Without your kindness and understanding, our Fiesta would not have been possible.
Sincerely,
Michael Taylor, President
Sandra Barr, Executive Vice-President
Dr. Darron Atwood, Executive Vice-President
Dokie Bledsoe
Nina Childress
Gene Christian
Danyelle Hemphill
Rodney Ivy
Charlotte Johns
Kevin McMahon
Crystal Rae
Darla Wise
Mary Griffis, Executive Director
Amy Hinds, Secretary

Thanks for Supporting the Can Drive
10/16/2007 (submitted by Sarah Beal)
The Coleman Elementary Pre-Kindergarten and Special Education classes want to thank everyone that donated aluminum cans to our “Can Drive” at the school. We filled up the trailer and sold 273 pounds of cans for $112.10. We also received $20 in donations for our playground project. We will still take cans, if you have cans to donate to the cause. Bring the cans to the Elementary school and we will gladly accept them. Commercial playground equipment is expensive so more funds are needed for the project.

Mrs. Elizabeth Edington’s students have helped by bagging, crushing cans and collecting cans after ballgames at Hufford Field.

Our playground project consists of building a small, developmental playground for the forty 3 & 4 year old students and the special education students on the Elementary campus. The Pre-K students are housed in a portable building behind the Elementary school. The playground is quite a distance from the classrooms for small and handicapped students. The busy school parking lot must be crossed to gain access to the existing playground. There are no restroom facilities nearby so students have to be taken back to the main building in emergencies. Also, this playground is shared with older children so safety is an issue. Building a playground closer to the classrooms makes good sense and has been a dream for awhile. Early childhood specialist , physical and occupational therapists and playground equipment companies were consulted on the equipment needs. The new playground is to be built just North of the Pre-K portable building. So far, the school has purchased a small swing set and a crawl tube. Special Education has purchased a handicapped swing and a playground drum. The school maintenance staff will begin construction very soon. One grant application has been filed and others will be completed as they become available.

Lucille Hunter Honored
10/16/2007
Lucille Hunter was honored by the Dunson Class of First United Methodist Church with a luncheon at the Dressing Up restaurant in Kay's Garden. Lucille will soon be moving to Abilene.

The luncheon was held October 5 and concluded with the group singing Happy Birthday to Lucille whose birthday was the next day.

Attending were members Shirley Adams, Peggy Brown, Carmen Cox, Pat Cox, Helen Cross, Retamay Gaines, Raye King, Dora Newman, Joy Slack, Charlene Snodgrass, Sue Sorrels, Billie Williams, Retha Yates, Willene Davis, Ann Hargett, Marie Hudson and guests Nancy McKinney, Mary Jo Dozier, Ola Jean Alderson, Dorothy Webster, Iris Conway and Linda Burns.

Libraries are Still Very Important
10/16/2007 (courtesy Coleman Public Library)
The internet complements libraries, but it doesn't replace them. School libraries and librarians improve test scores. Libraries aren't just books. The work of librarians involves guiding and educating users on how to find information in whatever the format. Libraries can preserve the book experience. Libraries can be surprisingly helpful for news collections and archives. Not everyone can afford books, even in America. Old books are valuable. They are part of the cultural and historical memory that must be preserved. Have you visited your library this week?

Rainfall Reports
10/15/2007
A line of thunderstorms developed along a cold front around 3:30 Monday morning and delivered welcomed rain to Coleman County.  We received the following reports.

* Everett and Elaine Vermillion at Lake Ivie got 1.00 of rain Monday morning.
* Colemannews.com Office - .60
* Linda and Wayne Wright - near Glen Cove - .40
* Bill Garrett - 5 mi. SW of Santa Anna - 1.00 between 6am and 7am
* The Goodgions in Comanche, Texas - 1.00

Coleman FCCLA Hosts Fall Workshop
10/15/2007
Coleman Family, Career and Community Leaders of America hosted the Fall Leadership Workshop on Tuesday, October 9.

FCCLA Region II and state officers conducted the workshop with sessions on financial literacy, community service and leadership. Over 180 FCCLA members attended from Coleman, Brady, Eula, Wall, Bangs, Eden, Brownwood Middle School, Blackwell, San Saba and Robert Lee.

Coleman FCCLA members participated in Leadership Enhancement Opportunities and took objective tests over Job Interview or the Creed.

Those receiving certificates are as follows:
 

Bronze Certificates
Stormie Mackey and Tulissia Sturges (right)

Silver Certificates
Krystal Dunn, Cala Norris, Sadie Mackey, Shaina Thompson, Andrea Meador, Wonda Sullens, Amy Fowler, Samantha Yebra, Collene Baker, Greg Brannon, Tanner Brooks, Ruth Cruz, Kelsey Puckett, Ranee Cupps, Luke Lofton, Rachelle McKinnon, Adrianna Resendez, Destiny Rader, Mohini Bhakta, Amanda Chandler, Kayla Barnett, Tabitha Terrell, Laura Martinez, Shelby Scott and Nikki Rush.

Gold Certificates
Chrysten McNiel, Morgan Hurtado, Jay Delgadillo, Marcus Diaz, Amanda Reyna, Nancy Cruz, Sonya Cruz, Carina Landaverde, Lorena Vasquez and Gabby McKenzie.

Coleman Library Caters to Kids
10/15/2007
Friends of the Coleman County Foundation awarded a $500 grant to the Friends of the Coleman Public Library this past December. Virginia Jamison, Friends President, is pleased to announce that on August 27, new shelving and furniture were installed in the new Children's Easy Section. Library staff and volunteers worked hard to move books and get the section ready for children to enjoy. With this accomplished, all the books bought are on display and ready for check out.  Among the books purchased were "Gloria the Cow" by Paul Maar, "Too Tall Thomas Rides Grub Line" by James Rice, "Why Cowboys Need a Pardner" by Laurie Knowlton, "Lasso Lou and Cowboy McCoy" by Barbara Failing, "Snakes Alive" by Karmala Wilson and many, many more.

Coleman County Youth Activity Center News
10/15/2007 (Submitted by Sarah Beal)
The construction of the “Expo Center” activity building on the grounds of the Youth Activity Center is moving right along. Workers have been on site for several weeks. The frame, outside sheet metal, roof, and insulation are in place. Dirt was hauled into the structure this past week. It took 38 bellydump truckloads to fill the floor inside the structure. A bulldozer was used to distribute the loads evenly. Bricklayers have been working on the restroom and wash rack walls. Electricians and plumbers have been working, also. Coleman ISD donated a set of bleachers for the building. Go by and take a look, the building is quite impressive. It blends in well with the Franklin Center and really dwarfs the horse barn. The road from the entrance was paved but will need a “cure” time before it can be driven on. Work is continuing on the new entrance.

Activities at the Franklin Community Center have included 4-H Club Back-to-School Bash, 4-H meetings, shooting sports meetings, CCYAC board meetings, Sesquicentennial meeting, Circle C Cattle Women meeting, Hurtado Wedding reception, class reunion and Fiesta Lalapalooza concert on the dance slab.

Donations
Mike & Casey Ray-use of trucks to haul dirt for Expo Center; Joe Pat Hemphill- dirt for center; Jackie & Lanham Horne-dozer work inside Expo Center; Dale & Dusty Greaves-dozer work to load dirt for Center; Coleman ISD-bleachers

Memorials
In memory of Cynthia Lynn Garrett Philpot by Bill & Elaine Moore and Family, Dan Taylor Family, William D. & Geneva Garrett, Lynn & Trisha Owens, Bill & Ginger Sneed, Scott & Sheila Ogden, Gouldbusk Homemakers Club, Coleman County 4-H Council; In memory of Glen Wilson by Dan Taylor Family; In memory of Lynn Stephenson by Dan Taylor Family, David & Karen Huff, Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham, Mike & Tanya Barker; In memory of Olive Flynn by Dan Taylor Family, Stan & Alana Brudney, Lynn & Trisha Owens, Don & Marian Johnson, Brett & Barbara Autry, Mike & Tanya Barker, Kit & Donna Pace, Bowen Drug Store/Jim Stokes; In memory of June Schaffner by Taylor Real Estate Sales, Ted & Sonjia Taylor, Lang & Ann Martin; In memory of Betty Day by Lynn & Trisha Owens, by Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham; In memory of Avis Poldrack by Lynn & Trisha Owens; In memory of Sherri Taliaferro by Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham; In memory of Martha Autry by Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham; In memory of Tommy Holland by Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham, Bill & Ginger Sneed, Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill; In memory of Randall Ivy by Coleman Veterinary Clinic/Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham, Mike & Tanya Barker, Joe Pat & Alice Hemphill; In memory of Glenn Crosby by Bobbie, Shirley & Henry Dodson; In memory of Jack Cosby by Ben & Debbie Scott; In memory of Tommy Allen by Ben & Debbie Scott; In memory of Cynthia Blanton by Ben & Debbie Scott, Henry & Margie Dodson; In memory of Fred Knowles, Jr. by Mike & Tanya Barker, Bill & Ginger Sneed, Henry & Margie Dodson, Charles & Barbara Wright, Steve, Sarah & Candace Beal; In memory of Oma Jean Harlan by Mike & Tanya Barker; In memory of Jean Horne by Bill & Ginger Sneed, Leslie, Helen & Charlese Walters; In memory of Curly Wright by Don & Marian Johnson; In memory of Billie Marie Miller by Susan R. Allen, Lembo & Kelly Allen, Zac, Cathy & Abbi Allen; In memory of Clyde D. Allen by Bowen Drug Store/Jim Stokes; In memory of Luberta Preas by Bowen Drug Store/Jim Stokes; In memory of Barbara Gaye Martin by Bowen Drug Stoke/Jim Stokes.

Funds are always needed for the CCYAC. The “Expo Center” is not paid for and there are ongoing utility, insurance and maintenance costs that must be met. The Coleman County Youth Activity Center is a non-profit organization. We do not receive support from local, state or national government. We do not receive tax monies so this facility will not make your taxes increase. The facility was built to provide a nice place for community events and youth character building activities. A few rocks remain to be sold in the “Wall of Honor”. If interested in making a donation, memorials, or purchasing a “Rock”, contact Henry Dodson at Coleman County State Bank, P. O. Box 940, Coleman, TX 76834 or Trisha Owens at First Coleman National Bank, P. O. Box 552, Coleman, TX 76834. To rent the Bill Franklin Community Center, call the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce at 325-625-2163. Visit our web link from the Chamber web-site at www.colemantexas.org  and click on the Franklin Center for information and pictures of the facility.

First Baptist Silverthreads Return From Glorieta, New Mexico
10/14/2007 (by Herma Jean Johnson)
At 1:26 P.M. on Sunday September 30, the First Baptist Church van, followed by two cars, left Coleman for a six day retreat to the encampment in Glorieta, New Mexico. A total of sixteen brave young hearts with silverthreads in their hair, that is most were silverthreaded, left Coleman. They journeyed to Abilene for their first stop at Sam's for fuel and a break.

The group continued on to Clovis, New Mexico where they found a beautiful new Comfort Inn awaiting them for the night. This motel had opened the last of May and was really a restful, nice place to stay. After a continental breakfast, the group loaded up and was off to Las Vegas, New Mexico where they stopped for a delicious lunch. This dinner has a variety of food choices and everyone seemed to pick their favorite.  The scenery had changed from the flat plains of New Mexico to the wonderful cool mountains by this time.

As the group arrived at Glorieta, rooms were awaiting them and after our leader, Rick Marshall, got us all checked in we found our way to the Chaparral where we were to stay during our visit. Time was allowed to unpack and take a little rest before we went to the dining room where dinner was served. Now, the meals at Glorieta are something to behold. Three BIG meals are served a day by volunteers from all over the United States. There is a variety of food from which to choose and every diet can be addressed from them. The dessert bar was something to behold at the lunch and dinner meals.

We were in our beds early as the rooms have no televisions in them and it is a time for rest and reflection of our beliefs. There was one big TV in the gathering room where we were able to catch up on the news and, of course, the men watched the sports there when time allowed. We were delighted to find our cell phones operated from our rooms, so we could call home as necessary.

The next morning we went to the main building after eating a sufficient breakfast and began our days of worship and learning. Workshops were given every morning and there were some on two of the afternoons. One afternoon was left open for sightseeing, etc.

Keith Wiggington of Altus, Oklahoma was they Bible study leader each morning. He is a "fireball" for Christ and was delightful and moving in his teaching everyday. Workshops were in a variety of subjects and each of us were able to choose which ones we wanted to attend. The dulcimer classes were given again this year, and they played for the crowd the last night we met. It is amazing how quickly they were able to play this instrument. At night we had speakers, lots of singing and there was a pianist. Irene Martin from Mississippi was simply awesome. A men's quartet from Arkansas proved to be outstanding also. One night we had amateur night. Our fearless leader, Rick Marshall, started the night with a song to "His Group", "Old People". Several didn't know Rick could sing and it was ended to a standing ovation from "His Group" !

The group went to the National Park surrounding Santa Fe ski area and enjoyed the beautiful sights and the trees which were not in full display yet, but still breathtaking. Several of the group took the ski lift to the top on Wednesday afternoon where they could see four counties, and the scenes were outstanding.

A trip to the Prayer Garden at Glorieta by several members of the group was inspiring.

On Friday, after breakfast, we began our journey back to Texas and home.  One car went to Amarillo and home while the other one and the church van went to Clovis where they were to spend the night again. After talking, they decided to come on to Coleman as it was around two when they got to Clovis. Rooms were cancelled and everyone came on home to their own beds for the night.

Members of the Silverthreads attending were Rick Marshall, who we all thank for making this trip a memory not to be forgotten, R.C. and Betty Atchley, Wanda and Jack Cockrell, Dean and Susie Bass, Ileta "BoBo" Bourland, Sammie Chambers, Corene Adams, Juanell Stiles, Lorene Rutherford, Carole Burroughs, Lorena Cullins, Norma White and Herma Jean Johnson.

See You at the Pole Report
10/14/2007 (picture and story from Matthew 25 Ministries)
At “See You At The Pole” in Coleman there were 55 High School and six Jr. High students that joined their generation of faith on Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 7:00am.

Thanks to youth ministers Matt French of Central Baptist Church, Michel Tollison of Concho Baptist Church, Bernadette Allen of The Center and Youth Leader Carlie Shirk of The Cross for this years See You at the Pole in Coleman!

From See You At The Pole
“It's tough being a Christian student today. We're forced to make a lot of choices about who we are, and who we're not.
We're supposed to be deciding on our future, when the present is hard enough to deal with.

See You at the Pole™ isn't about groups, grades, clothes, or churches. It's about praying. It's about all of us coming together and laying aside all the labels for one day, simply to call out to God, just as Jesus did in John 17 and say, "Lord, may we be one in you--whether jocks, preps, geeks, Pentecostals, Baptists, Catholics, freshmen, or seniors--may the world believe that You are real and have sent us to touch other through you, regardless of the dividing lines drawn by a broken world!"  So are you in? Are you ready whatever group you're in, to join us in the circle?

Join your generation of faith at the Next “See You At The Pole” Wednesday, September 24, 2008 at 7 a.m., GATHER at your school flagpole, UNITE in the name of the One Who died to save you, and PRAY for your school, friends, and families. COME TOGETHER, just as Jesus prayed we would.”

See You At The Pole is not just a once a year event!   For more information on See You At The Pole go to www.syatp.com.

We are also looking for leaders for the National Day of Prayer www.ndptf.org/schools  May 1st 2008.  For more Photos of “See You At The Pole” got to www.mt25.net.

Faith & Victory March ’07 Biggest Yet
10/14/2007 (photo and story submitted by Matthew 25 Ministries)
Over 120 attended this year’s Faith & Victory March held on September 22nd. There were eight teams made up from the following ministries, organizations, churches & families:

Walkers - The Cross, Daymon & Shelia Nicholas ; The Center, Scotty & Heather Olinger; The Sr. Center, Don & Destiny Liles; Central Baptist, Rev. Alec Rivera & Matt French; Emmanuel Baptist, Adrian Flores & Boyd Diaz; Truevine Baptist, Wilma Bailey; Abundant Life Minstries, Bill Johnson; Brazos Street Mission, Louise Strength; The Boatright family & friends, Peggy Boatright; The Boatright Family & Friends Teens, Weston & Kendra Boatright and Yachad Band, Bernie & Kerrie Pope.

Workers: Maxine Cope, Grace Crum, Malinda Carter, Billy Bennett, Patrick Bennett, Carlie Shirk, Roy Chesney, Connie Taylor.

Just outside the auditorium was the Faith & Victory Memory Wall. “This wall was built in memory of those that have lost their lives, families and friends as the result of drugs or alcohol. Write down the name of those that are in jail, in prison or in the grave, because of addictions, the ones that have sacrificed their family for their addiction. For those that are a slave to sin, that do not know true freedom. We pray for those that grieve and mourn that have lost family, friends and loved ones, as a result of drugs.” “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15

The Faith & Victory March began in the auditorium with Yachad’s anointed music. Tears welled up as memories of those lost to addictions filled our hearts.

The Rally challenged everyone with: “Are you part of the problem or part of the solution?” Being Hurt 2. Being Broke 3. Being Free 4. Being Cursed 5. Being Strong 6. Being Faithful (Who you gonna serve?) For the speech in it’s entirety go to www.mt25.net.

Rally: Speakers Barry & Mo Wilson, Sis Ann Carter and Holly Stovall did the “Roller Coaster”!

For more photos go to www.mt25.net/photos.  Thanks to all that participated, prayed and helped!

Very Busy Week for County S.O.
10/12/2007 (courtesy Sheriff Wade Turner)
The Coleman County Sheriff's Department report has been released for the period October 3 through October 10. In addition to routine patrol and investigations we had 42 calls for service this past week and they are as follows:

Civil Process – 5; Criminal Trespass – 1; Dispute between tenant and landlord – 1; Theft – 1; Warrant Service – 3; Civil Dispute – 1; Runaway – 2; Stranded Motorist - 2; Telephone Harassment - 1; Livestock out on roadway – 8; Assisted Coleman P.D. with Assault Case – 1; Assisted D.P.S. with accident – 1; Prisoner Transport to CCMC – 8; MHMR Transport to Abilene – 1; Prisoner Transport from TDCJ Middleton Unit to District Court– 1; Prisoner Transport from Runnels County to District Court – 1; Prisoner Transport to TDCJ Middleton Unit – 1; Prisoner Transport to Runnels County – 1; Provided Bailiff for District Court - 1; Provided Bailiff for County Court – 1.

Deputy Plummer attended Law Update classes in Comanche on 10-9-07. Deputy Watson, Deputy Jones and Sheriff Turner attended Law Update classes on Wednesday 10-10-07 in Santa Anna.

We are currently housing 11 inmates in the Coleman County Jail - 1 – Work Program; 2 – Serving Sentences out of County Court; 2 – Serving Sentences out of District Court; 1 – Sentenced to TDCJ awaiting transport confirmation.; 1 – Sentenced to State Jail awaiting transport confirmation; 1 – Sentenced to Substance Abuse Rehab waiting transport confirmation.; 3 – Waiting for District Court dispositions.

We are housing 5 inmates in Runnels County at this time - 4 – Waiting District Court dispositions; 1 – Being held on a Blue Warrant as well as waiting District Court disposition.

Four Students Honored at Novice Homecoming
10/12/2007
A senior and a freshman were honored at the recent Novice School Homecoming.

The Novice High School Homecoming Sweetheart is a Senior, Angelina Casares, the daughter of Rachel Castillo and granddaughter of Fransisca Reyna.

Football Hero is a Freshmen, Josh Arispe, the son of Theresa Arispe.

The 2007 Novice High School Homecoming Queen is a Senior, Megan Holmquest, the daughter of Terry and Amy Holmquest.

The Homecoming King is a Senior, Caleb Pringle, the son of Kristy Brown and grandson of Kathy Pringle.

Crimestoppers Crime of the Week
10/11/2007
Between Friday, September 7, 2007 and Monday, September 10, 2007, person of persons unknown removed a 1999-2000 model Honda Ranch Foreman 4-wheeler from a hangar at the airport. The 4-wheeler is bright yellow in color and has had some special modifications done to it.

If you have any information regarding this theft or the current location of the 4-wheeler, please call Crime Stoppers at 636-7777.

If your information leads to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for this offense, you could be eligible for a cash reward of up to $ 1,000.00.

Remember you may remain anonymous. Call Coleman County Crime Stoppers at 636-7777.

Influenza Season is Looming Ahead
Will you be Ready??
10/10/2007
(NOTE:  We have received the following news releases concerning Flu Shots available in Coleman and Santa Anna, submitted by Coleman Medical Associates and Hensley Family Health Clinic in Santa Anna)

Coleman Medical Associates will be offering flu vaccines:

Monday, October 15th from 5:00-6:00 pm
Wednesday, October 17th from 5:00-6:00 pm
Saturday, October 20th from 8:00-9:00 am.

Please note that we must strictly adhere to this time schedule due to our Rural Health Clinic designation (we will not be able to administer vaccines prior to 5:00pm - Monday/Wednesday - or after 9:00am – Saturday).

The flu vaccine will be offered free of charge to Medicare patients. Please bring your Medicare insurance card with you to the clinic and our office will take care of billing your Medicare claim. 
Private insurance and self-pay patients will be required to pay $20.00 for the vaccine at the time of visit.

The clinic is located at 310 S. Pecos St. (2nd Floor of Coleman County Medical Center). If you have any questions, please contact the clinic at 625-3533.

Santa Anna
Influenza immunizations (flu shots) should be taken before the predicted onset of flu viruses. The body needs approximately two weeks to get ready and build up its defenses. Generally we begin to see illness in December and January. The immunity usually will last for 4-6 months.

The Pneumonia Vaccine is specific for the pneumococcal bacteria which is one of the more lethal strains of bacteria that causes pneumonia. It is recommended to be taken every 5 years by persons over 65 or those who have other health problems. The pneumonia shot can be taken any time of the year -

According to this years recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) the flu vaccine is recommended for all, including children and healthy teens and adults. Most importantly, those over 65 and/or with chronic illnesses should be vaccinated. Both flu and pneumonia immunizations are covered 100% by Medicare.

As a reminder, adult Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td) immunization boosters should be received every 10 years. This might be a time to update your immunizations.

We began our vaccination program on Monday, October 1st, 1-4pm. No appointment is needed

Margaret “Peggy” Hensley, RNCS--Family Nurse Practitioner Family Health Clinic ” Santa Anna 105 N. Second Street.

The Huddle Arcade Holds Grand Opening
10/10/2007
The Huddle Arcade had its Grand Opening Saturday, October 6, during the Fiesta. The results of prizes won were as follows: Connie Withers - big stuffed giraffe; Devin Griffin - DVD player; Scotty (Hobie) Olinger - 13" TV.

The operators say the paintball gallery is new and was a big hit and new games will arrive any week now.

Brief Meeting Tuesday for County Commissioners
10/9/2007
Coleman County Commissioners covered their business quickly Tuesday morning. With no visitors present, Commissioners proceeded through their agenda and took the following actions:

* Approved the Texas Association of Counties Risk Management Pool and designated Kay LeMay, County Treasurer, as Pool Coordinator. By joining the pool, the county should see better rates on insurance.
* The monthly MHMR report was read by Jimmie Hobbs, County Judge
* Commissioners appointed Judge Hobbs as the County board member on the Coleman County Tax Appraisal District Board
* Commissioners approved a request by Santa Anna ISD requesting tax sale property be taken off the roles and given to Santa Anna ISD by resolution
* Commissioners approved publishing the county's condensed statement of accounts 

Thank You - From the Family of Ethan Morris
10/9/2007
We are very happy to announce that Ethan Morris is home and doing very well. Ethan broke his femur in four different places and had to undergo four surgeries and two blood transfusions. According to his doctor he has about a year recovery and one surgery left to go, to remove the plate and screws in his leg. The good news is that once his leg heals he can continue his regular activities with out permanent damage.

  We would like to thank everybody for the gifts, candy, cards and most important your prayers! We will never forget the love and generosity that we received from our friends and our family. There are so many things that I would love to share with everybody to let you know what kind of kids and people live in our communities. Ethan was overwhelmed when he received his touchdown football from the game that he was injured from with all the names of his teammates. The high school players raised money for some of the expenses for us and they didn't stop there, they came to the hospital and brought Ethan a big banner and a jersey with his number that everybody signed. Thank you for showing my son that he is a part of your team and with lots of support will be playing football for the Coleman Blue Cat in the future! You will always hold a special place in our hearts.

I would love to thank everybody individually for what you did for us, but there are so many of you that I would be afraid to leave someone out. But I would like to say thank you to all of our friends, family, Coleman and Hendricks hospital staff, the coaches and the Coleman school for all our your help and support.

Roger, Maricela, Ethan #33, Carl, and Matthew Morris

Still Time to Support Team Cade
in Walk to Cure Diabetes
10/9/2007
The Needham family and friends will be walking as 'Team Cade' in the Walk to Cure Diabetes on October 20 in Fort Worth. The Walk is sponsored by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Cade Needham was diagnosed with type I, or juvenile diabetes, on August 12, 2007. He spent 3 days in Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth. During that time, he and his family were educated on the day to day care for diabetes. Cade has to check his blood sugar by poking his finger at least 4 times a day. He also has to take insulin injections daily.

The number of Americans with type I diabetes numbers approximately 3 million. There are more than 13,000 children diagnosed with type I diabetes in the United States each year. That's 13,000 more children each year having to poke their fingers and take insulin injections, in addition to the 3 million that do it already.

There is a way you can help! We are accepting donations for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. JDRF gave more than $122 million to diabetes research in 2006. More than 80% of their yearly expenditures goes directly to research. This is the first time EVER that scientists are predicting a cure for diabetes well within Cade's lifetime, but in order to continue their progress, they need funds. Imagine – no more finger pricks or injections!

If you would like to make a donation, you have several options. You can donate online by going to www.jdrf.org,  click support a walker, and search for Cade Needham. Follow the directions on the screen from there. If you prefer to write a check, please make it out directly to JDRF and mail it to us at the address at the bottom of the article. We will present these donations to JDRF on the day of our walk – October 20. Thank you so much to all those who have donated and signed up to walk with Team Cade. Together we can all make a difference.

Sincerely,

Jack, Lori, Reid and Cade Needham
510 Dallas
Coleman, TX 76834
jlrcneedham@verizon.net  

Interesting Program on Santa Anna Given
at Historical Commission Meeting
10/8/2007 (by Tex Wright)
The October meeting of the Coleman County Historical Commission was held in Santa Anna. We met in the Phone Company Meeting room at 801 Wallis.  Chairman Eric Joffrion opened the meeting at 7:00Pm. He then called on Russ Fisher to give the invocation. Since the secretary was absent there was no reading of the minutes. Chairman Joffrion said we would have a mass reading of minutes missed one of these days.

The Chairman brought forth two pieces of state Historical Commission business. The first of these dealt with widening of Hwy 283 and rebuilding of the bridges and culverts north of Coleman. The commission agreed that there was no significant historical interest in these areas and decided to tell the state to go ahead with their work.

The next item was the reexamination of the Jim Ned bridge on CR 140(?) . This was simply an update and required no action by the commission.

The next item of business was an update on the Coleman County Sesquicentennial part in 2008. Clyde Severance of the Coleman 150 group gave the update and talked about some of the plans of the group and the need of help from any Coleman County Citizen of anyone with knowledge about the different areas of the county.

After this small amount of commission business, Chairman Joffrion introduced the speaker, Mr. Lane Guthrie of Santa Anna.  Mr. Guthrie’s first action was to ask every outside. He then pointed out the points of the Sand plant operation and the “Cut” where the mining ceased.

Mr. Guthrie, upon returning to the meeting room, gave some facts and explained about the operation.
In 1904 a sample of the limestone from the Santa Anna Mountain was entered in the St. Louis Exposition (world’s fair). This Limestone was judged to be the best example of limestone at that time. This gave much acclaim to “the Mountains” of Santa Anna.
The sand mining began in 1911. The operation ceases before WWII, and started again in 1946. It ceased finally in 1964 when the plant was sold to a company in the northern states. The sand was very popular as it was about 98% pure silica. Sand was shipped from this plant to many states and Mexico.  At this time the group watched an old home movie that had been put on DVD about the operation of the sand plant.

Mr. Guthrie then talked about the glass plant that opened here in 1930. It had several owners over the period of its operation. The only one he could state for a fact was a Mr. Knapp and a Mr. Coleman. The plant employed 60 people and produced up to 52,000 bottles per day.  Mr. Guthrie said that he wasn’t sure of some of the facts in this information. As this was during the depression and milk bottles sold for $6.00 to $8.00 each.  The Santa Anna plant turned out milk bottles, vinegar bottles, and beer bottles (at the end prohibition).  Other items known to have been made in the plant were: a glass cane and an insulator, both owned locally, and small glass flowers. The glass flowers were made from excess melted glass at the end of the work day.  Mr. Guthrie talked about and explained many other points of the glass work, and from a collectors view point, the glass production.

Tex and Pat Wright provided a snack table and drinks, all done in Halloween style. About 20 people were present.

Coleman PD Statistics for September
10/8/2007
The following statistics for September have been released by Jay Moses, Coleman Police Chief.

Investigations
Assault-3; Burglaries-2; Theft-7; Criminal Mischief-4; Forgery-2; Sexual Assault-1; Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle-2; Terroristic Threat-2; Driving While Intoxicated-1; Hit and Run-1; Incident Report-1.

Arrests
Public Intoxication-5; Driving While Intoxicated (Minor)-1; Warrants-13; Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle-1; Possession of Controlled Substance-1; Possession of Marihuana-1; Possession of Weapon-1; Evading Arrest-1; Fictitious License Plates-1.

Accidents Investigated
No Injury-1; With Injuries-3.

Citations Issued
Police Department-53 citations issued with 68 charges filed; School Resource Officer -4 citations issued with 4 charges filed

Warnings Issued
Police Department-25; Animal Control-3.

Animal Control
Calls for Service-82; Dogs Picked Up-17; Cats Picked Up-23; Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-10; Other Animals Picked Up-3 ( 1 snake, 2 opossums).

Fiesta Art Show - Another Huge Success
10/8/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
The 16th Show was a total success entries, visiting artists, show visitors, painting sales, hat sales, and fun. Statistics are being tabulated and will appear later, but for now, the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, Inc., has once again pulled it off with fine aplomb and style. New members were there with sleeves rolled up and ready to make the show the success it turned out to be.

Honor Flight Network Honors Veterans
10/8/2007
We wanted to pass along the following information concerning the Honor Flight Network, a special flight for our heroes to see their memorials with honor. In another 5 to 10 years, almost all of our World War II veterans will be gone. Approximately 1,200 of them die each day. The youngest WWII veteran is now 79 years old.

Every World War II veteran flies free and no donations are accepted from a World War II veteran. You can click on the following link to learn more about the Honor Flight Network and also print out applications if you would like to honor your special veteran.  The link is:

http://www.honorflight.org/index.htm

Town and Country Garden Club Flower Results
10/8/2007
Results have been given of the Town and Country Garden Club’s annual flower show, held during Coleman’s Fiesta de la Paloma on October 6, and judged by a panel of National Garden Club accredited judges according to the “Standard System of Awarding”, are as follows:


Design Division
Class 1 (Panel Design): 1st – Pat Pool; 2nd – Jane Padgitt; 3rd – Sher Dunaway; Fourth Place – Danella McBrayer.

Class 2 (Framed Spatial Design): 1st – Alice Hemphill; 2nd – Eileen Morris; 3rd – Nan Markland; 4th – Sue Brusenhan.

Class 3 (Wreaths): 1st – Kaye Franklin; 2nd – Nan Markland; 3rd – Connie Howard; 4th – Nancy Baker.

Class 4 (Miniature Design all fresh plant material): 1st – Jane Padgitt; 2nd – Alice Hemphill; 3rd – Nan Markland; 4th – Carol Scott.

Class 5 (Miniature Design fresh and/or dried plant material): 1st – Kaye Franklin; 2nd – Eileen Morris; 3rd – Marna Anders; 4th – Caroline Skelton.

Class 6 (Miniature Design all dried plant material): 1st – Becky Greaves; 2nd – Eileen Morris; 3rd – Marna Anders; 4th – Nan Markland.

Horticulture Division
Exhibitors’ total points earned in Horticulture Sections 1 thru 7 are Pat Pool (61), Eileen Morris (46), Jane Padgitt (45), Kaye Franklin (41), Carol Scott (25), Sue Brusenhan (15), Nan Markland (5), Danella McBrayer (5), Caroline Skelton (5), and Connie Howard (3).

Special Awards
Sweepstakes Award (exhibitor earning largest number of combined points): Pat Pool.
Designers Choice Award (offered for Classes 1, 2, and 3): Alice Hemphill.
Petite Award (offered for Classes 4, 5, and 6): Kaye Franklin.
Arboreal Award: Eileen Morris.
Horticulture Excellence: Caroline Skelton.
Horticulture Awards of Merit: Annuals - Eileen Morris; Perennials – Pat Pool; Containers – Caroline Skelton.

The judges gave special recognition for the Educational Exhibit “La Paloma: The dove…its habitat” depicting nesting materials, food plots and economic impact of the dove in Coleman County and Texas. Members of the Education Exhibit Committee are Sher Dunaway, Kristi Greaves and Sue Brusenhan. Also receiving special recognition was Jane Padgitt for her Educational Exhibit of “Origami Doves”.

Special thanks to the flower show co-chairmen Jane Padgitt and Nan Markland for their many hours of labor and planning that went into making this such an outstanding show, to all the Town and Country Garden Club members who participated in the show, and especially to the community who continue to support the Club by their attendance and interest our shows.

World Championship Ice Cream Freeze-Off Winners Announced
10/7/2007
Forty people competed Saturday for top prize money and bragging rights in the World Championship Ice Cream Freeze-Off, part of the Fiesta de la Paloma. I guess you could say the judges went bananas over the top two winners.  When the paddles stopped turning and rock salt was gone, the following winners were named:
1st Place - World Champion Ice Cream Freeze-Off Winner - Karen Morris of Santa Anna with her Banana Split entry
2nd Place - David Justice of Santa Anna with a Banana Nut entry
3rd Place - Tanya Barker of Coleman with a Butter Pecan recipe
4th Place - Lindsay Hensley of Stephenville with a Butterfinger recipe

Santa Anna and Coleman Cookers Dominate Fiesta
10/7/2007
The Coleman County Courthouse was surrounded by cookers Saturday, all competing in various cook-offs, be it dove, brisket or pinto bean. The Best Cook Site award went to Atmos Energy.  After the judges tasted the offerings, the following results were announced:

Brisket Cook-off
1st - Mike Barker of Coleman
2nd - Nathan Wise of Santa Anna
3rd - Monty Garner of Coleman

Dove Cook-off
1st - Josh Daniel and Candice Dockery of Santa Anna
2nd - Jeff Tibbetts of Coleman
3rd - Benny Mendoza of Coleman

Pinto Bean Cook-off
1st - Denny Altum of Coleman
2nd - Ryan Richie
3rd - Mary Watson of Coleman

Classic Car Show Winners Named at Fiesta
10/7/2007
There were numerous categories and winners declared Saturday at the Fiesta de la Paloma Car Show. Results are as follows:

Best Antique - A 1949 MG by Joe Webb of Coleman
Best Classic - A 1957 Chevy by Larry Musik of Clyde
Best Muscle Car - Brenda and Pete Traylor of Coleman
Best Street Rod - A 1934 Chevy by Eddie Baugh of Clyde
Best Convertible - A 1956 Ford by Ken Young of Brady
Best Original - A 1956 Chevy by Eugene Dryer of Gatesville
Best Truck (Early) - A 1966 Chevy by Dave Rush of Coleman
Best Truck (Late) - A 2006 Chevy by David Cross of Coleman
Best Engine - 1957 Chevy by James Reid of Teague
Best Paint - 1938 Chevy Coup by Bill Picken of Lometa
Best Interior - 02 PT Cruiser by Frankie Salazar of Brownwood
Best Unfinished - A 1967 Nova SS by Danny Marney of Bangs
Best in Show - The 1956 Chevy by Eugene Dyer
People's Choice - The 1929 Mercedes by Ed Eldred
Sponsor's Choice - The 1999 Pontiac Grand Am GT by Saul Torres

Motorcycle Show
Late Model Original - '02 Harley owned by Julie Ewing
Late Model Custom - Honda owned by Pete Furry
Best Paint - 2001 Honda by Darrel Burns
Best Engine - '04 Iron Horse by Monty Ewing
Best of Show - '04 Iron Horse by Monty Ewing

Pet Show Winners Named
10/7/2007
The Fiesta de la Paloma Pet Show brought out all types and sizes of entries on Saturday. Here are the official results:

Best of Show - Fanci - Diann Dillingham

Small Dogs
1st Place - Fanci - Diann Dillingham
2nd Place - Tucker - Courtland Baker
3rd Place - Chico - Erlene Barker
Best Dressed - Tiny - Kay Dyer
A Face Only an Owner Could Love - Tips - Carley Shirk

Cats
1st Place - Calico Daisy - Vickie Black
2nd Place - Tuxy - Arena Grace Turner
Best Dressed - Tuxy - Arena Grace Turner
A Face Only an Owner Could Love - Daisy - Vickie Black

Meagan Ogden Chosen Miss Coleman County
10/6/2007
Meagan Ogden, a junior at Coleman High School, will reign as Miss Coleman County for the next year. She was selected Saturday afternoon during the Fiesta de la Paloma.

First runner-up was Rachelle McKinnon, a CHS student. Second runner-up was Sara Smith, also a CHS student.

Pacu Catch Confirmed
10/7/2007
We talked with Randall Brown, Coleman County Game Warden, who said the fish Jesse Mills Jr. caught in Hords Creek last week was a red bellied Pacu. A picture of the fish can be seen further down the page.  The findings were made by two separate Parks and Wildlife offices.

Author Considers Coleman for Her Book
10/5/2007
If you see a vibrant redhead around Coleman the next couple of days, asking questions, laughing and having a good time, it's probably Lou Ann Dean.

Like a West Texas whirlwind, this transplanted Oklahoman East Texas girl, blew into Coleman Thursday afternoon and was greeted by many members of the local Fine Art community. A well attended reception was held at the Pink Flamingo Art Studio, Marian Johnson's place, on Commercial Avenue.

Lou Ann is on a quest to find the "50 Best Small Art Towns in Texas", which is the name of a book she plans to publish next spring. "I wanted to go and see and meet the people, find out about them, it's the people that make the town an art town," Dean said.

She said the book is the first in a series of art town books so she is working her way across Texas in response to over 180 people who contacted her, saying their town is one of the 50 best. 

Her schedule is a busy one during her two days in Coleman County but this writer and author wouldn't have it any other way. The welcome event Thursday was sponsored by the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce and Fine Arts League of Coleman County.

City Honors Three Employees
10/5/2007
Three city employees were honored Thursday evening by the Coleman City Council for their loyal and dedicated service to the community.

Gary Payne received his 20 year service pin, having started work with the City in 1987 in the Street Department. In the fall of 1989, Gary attended the Abilene Fire Academy and began his work with the Coleman Fire Department as a driver/operator in February 1990. In October 2000, he was appointed as the Fire Marshal for the city. He completed Fire Investigator School in 2001 and Fire Inspector School in 2002. "Gary is the kind of employee everybody wants to have. He is very punctual, does his work and takes pride in a job well done," said Mayor Nick Poldrack.
Gary is also Assistant Fire Chief. 

Phil Chambers received his 15 year service pin, having become a patrol officer for the City August 26, 1992. In July 2001 he was promoted to Sergeant. He has a Masters Peace Officers Certificate and an Instructors Certification. "He has received over 1,000 hours of law enforcement training. Phil Chambers is a loyal and dedicated member of the Coleman Police Department," Poldrack said.

Mona Watts, the City Animal Control Officer, was unable to attend the meeting but was honored by Mayor Poldrack for her five years of loyal and dedicated service. "She has worked hard to keep the Coleman Animal Shelter up-to-date and state certified. She is a hard worker and excels each month in removing animals found running loose in the City of Coleman," Poldrack said.

Students of the Month Named at Coleman Junior High
10/5/2007
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for September.
Kirstie Jamison - 6th grade girl
Colten M. Smith - 6th grade boy

Autum White - 7th grade girl
Colton Gayle - 7th grade boy

Gabby Roberts - 8th grade girl
Landon Brown - 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.

To the People of Coleman,
10/4/2007
We owe you our deepest thanks for Saturday’s Harvest for Hayden. We were blown away when we initially heard this event was being planned, and completely humbled when we saw pictures and heard how many people attended. Your generosity and care is remarkable. Each of you that attended this event, prayed for Hayden or just had us on your mind have made such a difference in our lives during this trying time. Though we may not know you personally, please know that we thank God for you and your kindness.

This past weekend we learned first hand from each of you what it means to “love your neighbor” and to help them when they are in need. We cannot wait to teach Hayden this and many other life lessons. Our hope is that one day he will be able to learn this important value through hearing stories and seeing pictures of Harvest for Hayden. And since the stories are already being told to him at his bedside, we don’t think it should be a problem!

The gift that was raised through this tremendous event was unbelievable! It is still hard to wrap our minds around. You all have helped us more than you know. Feeling secure while being displaced from your home for an unknown amount of time is a precious gift. Thank you to each of you for your generosity.

And to the organizers and volunteers – there are too many of you for us to thank individually, but please know we are so grateful to you for making this possible. What a phenomenal idea! We so appreciate the time and energy put into organizing Harvest for Hayden. We also thank each vendor that provided merchandise or food.

We will never forget the gift each of you gave to our family. We are so grateful to you all. We pray God’s blessings on each of you. Hayden can’t wait for his first visit to Coleman to meet all the wonderful people who love him so much.

Much love and thanks,
Ryan, Johnna and Hayden Hensley

Green Ribbons for Ethan at Coleman Junior High
10/4/2007
The students and teachers at Coleman Junior High are wearing Green Ribbons for Ethan Morris and hope the rest of the community will join them. Ethan was injured during a junior high football game last week, a broken femur, underwent surgery and has a long road of rehab ahead of him.

Members of the Bluecat Varsity Football Team took up a collection amongst themselves, autographed a varsity jersey and presented it to Ethan at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene.

According to information from the Bluecat Booster Club, you can send a card to Ethan at his mailing address, 4694 FM 503, Valera, Texas 76884.

We Love You Ethan !!

A Fish Story, With Teeth !
10/3/2007
Jesse Mills, Jr. has a favorite fishing hole on Hords Creek, east of Coleman. Last year, he pulled a 38 pound yellow catfish from the hole so when he and Buster Hensley set out drop lines Tuesday, they never expected to catch what Jesse landed late Wednesday afternoon.

Jesse, owner of JMJ Roofing Company in Coleman, and son Tyler, were checking their lines when Jesse pulled what he first thought was a giant perch out of the water. "I went to take the hook out and saw its mouth and dropped it real quick," Mills said. This fish wasn't a perch, it had teeth and looked more like a Piranha! "He was pretty active, he didn't want to be towed in," Mills said.

After landing the fish, Mills knew he had something odd so he found Randall Brown, Coleman County Game Warden. Brown's first guess was that Mills had caught a Pacu, a common name used to refer to several species of South American freshwater fish that are closely related to the Piranha. Our Google search says they are mainly herbivores or vegetarians but the fish Jesse caught liked shrimp, which is what he had baited his line with Tuesday. Our search also says Pacu will eat small fish, insects and meat on fishing lures.

Brown took some pictures and e-mailed them to his associates in Brownwood for positive identification. He speculates that it is possible someone had the fish in an aquarium, it got too large and they disposed of the fish in the creek. "That's the first one anybody has ever brought to me," Brown said.

The fish was 14" long and weighed an estimated 2 1/2 pounds. Mills said he caught it in about 4 1/2 feet of water, water he doesn't plan to wade into again.  For now, the fish goes in the freezer for keeping.

CONAWAY ANNOUNCES GRANT FOR COLEMAN FIRE DEPARTMENT
10/3/2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Mike Conaway (TX-11) announced that the Coleman Fire Department was granted $41,729 from the 2007 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program Award administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The grant is to be used for safety and operations.

“Congress recognizes the importance that first responders’ play in keeping our communities safe. Firefighter grants are vital to our nation’s fire departments and we will continue to work closely with the fire service community to help meet their needs,” said Conaway.

According to Richard Hensley, Coleman Fire Chief, the money will help pay for two Thermal Imaging Cameras and training materials, part of the department's five-year plan that identifies the most important needs of the department. The cameras will provide basic firefighter safety while the training materials help meet statutory requirements.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists local fire departments to purchase firefighting equipment, fund fire fighter health and safety programs, enhance emergency medical service programs, and conduct fire education programs throughout the United States.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Programs is administered by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration.

County Sheriff's Report for Week of 9/26 - 10/2
10/3/2007 (courtesy Wade Turner, Coleman County Sheriff)
The Coleman County Sheriff’s office received 34 calls for service in addition to ongoing investigations currently being conducted. Those calls included:
Telephone Harassment – 2; Child Locked in Vehicle – 1; Domestic Disturbances – 3; Theft – 1; Burglary of Motor Vehicle – 1; Death Notifications – 2; Welfare Concern - 1; Livestock on Roadway – 3; Civil Standby – 1; Service of Civil Process - 9; Trespassing – 1; Neighbors dogs attacking caller’s pets – 1; Warrant Service – 1; Prisoner Transport from Runnels Co. to Doctor in San Angelo – 1; Prisoner Transport from County Jail to CCMC – 5; D.P.S. Assist with female transport – 1.

Deputy Arrieta gave two presentations this past week to the Novice School. The first one was on 9-27-07 to the 6th thru 8th grades and then on 10-02-07 to the 9th thru 12th grades. He discussed duties of a Deputy Sheriff, following rules in the classroom and in society as well as Education Laws. His patrol vehicle was on display for those in attendance to see.  Deputy Brixey attended a Criminal Law Update on 10-01-07 in Runnels County.

We currently are housing 9 inmates in the Coleman County Jail.
1 – work program; 1 – sentenced to TDCJ awaiting transport confirmation; 1 – sentenced to State Jail awaiting transport confirmation; 1 – sentenced to Substance Abuse Rehab awaiting transport conformation; 2 – serving sentences out of District Court; 3 – Waiting District Court dispositions. We are housing 4 inmates in Runnels County at this time. All 4 are awaiting District Court dispositions.

CCMC Board Accepts Donation from Ladies Auxiliary
10/3/2007 (by Sue Titsworth, CCMC)
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met at 5:00pm Thursday, September 27, 2007, with a full agenda to address.

Two members of the CCMC Ladies Auxiliary, LaNell Jacoby and Lora Fields, presented board president Mark Griffis with a check in the amount of $4,920.00 with which to purchase six chair sleeper chairs for use when family members stay with their loved one in their hospital room.

CEO Douglas Langley presented the financial report, advising the board that while the patient census was slightly less than last year, the outpatient census was up in certain areas.

Langley also gave a report on the status of plans to update some of the equipment in the radiology department.

In other business, the board approved renewal of the Directors and Officers Liability Insurance, heard reports on Department manuals from Jenny Carnes, Physical Therapist, and Cindy Coghlan, Director of Medical Records, and approved the contract on purchase of the property adjacent to the back of the hospital.

The board also held a discussion concerning possible future plans for the hospital, but no action was taken.

The next regular meeting of the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors is scheduled at 5:00pm on Thursday, October 25,  in the CCMC Board Conference Room.

Gouldbusk Homemakers Meet
10/3/2007
The Gouldbusk chapter of the Texas Extension Education Association met Thursday, September 20, at the Gouldbusk Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

Those present were: Danella McBrayer, Vicki Stewart, Pat Pool, Mona Wilson, Berva Dawn Taylor, Pat Vance, Virginia Jamison, Deborah Yates and Lynn Corbett. After a brief business meeting where new officers were elected and final plans were made for the fiesta to take place on Saturday October 6th, the meeting was adjourned to the home of Tommie Yarbrough in Gouldbusk.

There we received a fascinating presentation on Depression glass. After the presentation we were able to examine samples of the glass. We learned that it was made during the period after the stock market crash until the united states entered the second world war. there are many colors of the glass including pink, yellow, green, amber, cobalt blue and deep red. There is also crystal and Fostoria, a milky green. The whole presentation was very informative and many questions were asked and answered. following the presentation refreshments were served by Deborah Yates our Hostess for the month. Our next meeting will be October 11th at 1:30pm at the home of Harvard and Danella McBrayer. we will be having a program on herbs. We would love anyone who is interested to come. You can contact any one of our members for directions to Danella's home.
as has been my practice for the last year I am including a recipe for one of the snacks that was served at our meeting:

CHEESE CRISPS

2 cups flour
2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (8oz)
2 cups rice krispies
2 sticks butter / margarine
1 tsp. Tabasco
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
3/4 tsp. salt

Soften butter and blend with Tabasco and cheese. mix flour salt and cayenne pepper, add Rice Krispies, combine with cheese mixture and form into small balls. place on cookie sheet and flatten with a fork. (crisps should be about 1-1 and 1/2 inches across. Cook at 300 degrees for 30 minutes and enjoy!

Art Class Pictures on Display at Santa Anna Library
10/2/2007 (by Tex Wright)
The Santa Anna Library is at the present time displaying some of the art work by a group of students from the summer classes at Sassy’s.
These students are from 6 to 16 years of age, and have produced art that would qualify to be in most art shows across the state.
Students with art displayed are: Madison Wise – age 6, Kendal Wise – age 7, Ryan Walker – age 10, Jed Anderson – age 10, Dara Wise – age 15, Kolby Moon – age 16.

Girl Scouts Help the Habitat at Hords Creek Lake
10/2/2007
A group of Girl Scouts from San Angelo and Brownie Scouts from Coleman worked last Saturday at Hords Creek Lake to improve the habitat for the wildlife there.

Girl Scout Troops 5036 and 5070, made up of 7th through 9th grade Cadets from San Angelo, and Coleman Brownie Troop 71 gathered at a group shelter and learned about what the Corps of Engineers (which operates Hords Creek Lake) does and its purpose. Last Saturday was Public Lands Day which is set aside for volunteers to help their area.

After the meeting, the first stop was a wildlife food plot in a park area across the lake dam. They were given bags filled with barley, oat, rye and clover seeds and made their way across the plowed ground, spreading the seeds by hand. Park Rangers told the girls this would provide food and shelter for deer and other wildlife, large and small.

The next stop was building a quail habitat, a sanctuary out of cinder blocks with wooden pallets for roofs. The girls also helped plant native Texas plants in flower beds at the lake office.

Organizing the effort was Anna McKinney, a part-time Park Ranger at Hords Creek and Wildlife Science major at Angelo State University. 

Cabbage Patch Kids
10/2/2007 (contributed by Vanessa Richards)
Every year the Coleman 3rd graders are given a young cabbage plant from Bonnie Plants. The students are encouraged to care for the plant over the summer. The student with the biggest cabbage will have their name entered in a drawing for a $1000 scholarship. They are competing with kids all over the state of Texas.

Funeral Services Set for Longtime Coleman Business Leader
10/1/2007
Funeral services for Clyde (Tommy) Allen will be held at 2:00pm Wednesday at the United Christian and Presbyterian Church in Coleman.  Mr. Allen passed away at his residence Saturday, September 29, at the age of 90.

After volunteering for the U.S. Navy in 1942 and serving until 1945, he returned to his hometown of Coleman and joined his father in their insurance business, Allen and Allen.

Mr. Allen was on the Board of Directors of Holiday Hill Nursing Home for 55 years, serving as secretary for most of that time. He helped found the Coleman County Foundation and was instrumental in re-organizing the local hospital, serving as the first chairman of the Coleman County Medical Center board.

Memorials can be made to the Coleman County Foundation, P.O. Box 700, Coleman, Texas 76834, Holiday Hill Nursing Home, 245 State Highway 153,

 Coleman, Texas 76834 or the United Christian and Presbyterian Church, 1609 S. Commercial, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Proclamation - It's Texas Extension Education Week
10/1/2007
Coleman County Commissioners have signed a proclamation making October 1 through 6 as Texas Extension Education Week in Coleman County.

The proclamation was presented last Friday by Debbie Hailey, County Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences. The week will promote family as the core of the society. The week's campaign is entitled "TEEA - Working Together".

The goal is for individuals who share and care to foster communication, love and understanding within each family and strengthen their communities.

Cooper Supply Honored as Small Business of the Year in Fort Worth
10/1/2007
Cooper Supply Incorporated, which started in Coleman in 1983, has been named Small Business of the Year in the Fort Worth Business Press/Plains Capital Family Business Awards. Here is an excerpt from the article, written by Amy Keen:

"When Bill and Sharron Paul opened their first polyethylene pipe store in Coleman, Texas, in 1983, they likely couldn't have foreseen that, just a few hours' drive northeast, their family business would hit another boom: the Barnett Shale natural-gas play.

Only nine years later, the couple would open a second location for Cooper Supply Inc., at 2524 Minnis Drive in Haltom City. There, the Pauls and their two children sell polyvinyl chloride pipes and fittings for water and sewer systems and polyethylene pipes and fittings for gas gathering and distribution.

The company also has recently opened a third location, in Corpus Christi, says Stephanie Paul, who, works as co-general manager with her brother, Bill Paul Jr.  The founders, Bill Paul Sr. and Sharron Paul, are president and secretary-treasurer, respectively. (shown front left in the photo)

"My dad was national sales manager for Phillips Drisco Pipe in the 1960's," says Stephanie Paul, "and when he retired from there, he took his knowledge of polyethylene pipe and products with him. His No. 1 customer, when he was a sales executive there, kept asking him every year to leave and join him in his business, and my dad kept saying, 'No'. But finally, that customer wore him down, and after my dad retired, he and Clomer Cooper started the business. They named the business after Clomer, and after he died, we've kept that as the name of the company as a way to honor his memory."

Cooper would have been proud to see that the company has remained in his partner's hands and expanded to three locations statewide, Stephanie Paul says.

"We really consider ourselves a family team," she adds. "We've only got 22 employees in all three locations, so we all wear a lot of hats. Bill and Sharon are great mentors for that. They've passed along a lot of knowledge to all our employees in the business."

Cooper supply has grown as an emphatic presence in the industry, with memberships in both the Southern Gas Association and the American Gas Association. The company also participates in such events as the Texas Petroleum Expo and Annual Meeting.

The article goes on to say Cooper Supply has grown significantly in the past three years, and that their customers are really loyal.   We congratulate the Paul family on this honor.

Three Bridges in County Rate Below Recommendations
10/1/2007
In light of the bridge collapse earlier this year in Minneapolis, Minnesota, states were given directives to inspect all their bridges.

In a report given Friday morning by the Texas Department of Transportation, County Commissioners were told there are three bridges in Coleman County that have ratings below recommendations.

One is the long span Waldrop Bridge which connects Coleman and McCulloch County over the Colorado River near Rockwood. It has been closed to public traffic for some time and several people opposed its closing. The original cost estimate to repair the structure was $750,00 although it would likely be more now.

Another bridge which needs attention is on County Road 108 off Farm Road 1176 northeast of Santa Anna while the third is on County Road 182 off Highway 206.

Brian Raschke of the Texas Department of Transportation told Commissioners the cost to fix the bridges on County Road 108 and 182 would be roughly $500,000 which would not have to be funded by the county.

Since the County doesn't have to foot the bill to repair the structures, it is possible the Waldrop Bridge project may come back to the table.

Camp Colorado Bridge Project on Hold
Back to the Drawing Board
10/1/2007
Just when the County and Texas Department of Transportation thought they had the Camp Colorado bridge project figured out, the Texas Historical Commission said wait just a minute.

In their meeting Friday morning, Coleman County Commissioners heard from Brian Raschke and staff from the Brownwood office of the Texas Department of Transportation. Earlier this year, County Commissioners had decided to close the bridge, leave it in place and build a new bridge just to the south. The current structure was built in 1923. According to a report by the Department of Transportation, the bridge is "an excellent example of a riveted/bolt-connected, Pratt through Parallel-Chord truss bridge in the State of Texas" and is a historical bridge.

When the plan was submitted to the Texas Historical Commission, they objected to just leaving the old bridge in place and out of use. The bridge is inspected every two years, some structural issues have come up and it can't handle two way traffic. 

Commissioners were told that it is possible to rehab the old structure but the cost was deemed too high in previous meetings.

The ball now seems to be back in the County's court. A cost analysis will be done by the state to determine repair costs of the structure to see if is feasible to continue using the bridge while still building the new bridge down the creek to the south. The new bridge would be 24 ft. wide and able to handle two-way traffic. Raschke told Commissioners to be thinking about what they want to do.   

CHS Junior Class Parents to Sponsor Cake Walk at Fiesta Saturday
10/1/2007
The CHS Junior Class Parents will have a cake walk at the Fiesta on Saturday, October 6th. The cost will be 50 cents per walk. All proceeds and donations will go towards the "After Prom Alcohol/Drug Free Celebration" which is hosted by the Junior parents.

All Junior parents are asked to donate at least two baked items. Parents may drop off their baked goods at "Tracy's Place" at downtown Coleman on Friday, Oct. 5th between 12:00 and 5:00, or they may bring their baked goods to the booth on Saturday morning by 8:30. Also, Junior parents are asked to volunteer their time to work the booth. Junior parents will be contacted by phone for donations and work time.

For more info, you may contact Debbie Jameson at 625-1040 after 1:00.

Fiesta Car Show is Saturday
10/1/2007
One of the events at Fiesta de la Paloma is the Classic Car Show. There will be categories for Commercial, Antiques, Motorcycle, Street Rods, Antique Motorcycle, Original, Classic and People's Choice.
Deadline for entries is 10:00am Saturday, October 6 in downtown Coleman. Entry fee is $20.00. Check-in time starts at 9:00am in front of the High Rise on Commercial Avenue. Judging starts at 12:00 noon. Winners will be announced around 4:30pm under the Big Top Tent.

64 Attend Bryson Reunion
10/1/2007
The descendents of J.E. & Kate Bryson held a reunion at Hords Creek Lake September 21 –23. Those attending were Norman & Annabelle Adian of Dale. James Adian & Barbara Mullins of Taylor & Christopher Mullins of Bangs. Betty Mae Starr of Bryan. Mary Nell Redding of Three Rivers. Wayland & Kay Adian of Howe. Doug & Jennifer Cox of Bryan. Kristi, Garrett & Hunter Jones of Forney. Fay Barbian, Susan Neil, Norma Petrenak & Grain Carroll of Abilene. Wendell Carroll, wife & children of Tuscola. Creath Mercer of Odessa. Robert Mercer of Valera. Danny Mercer of Hensley, AR & Mike Virgin of Odessa. Doris Maedgen of Valera & Vicki Cardinas of Coleman. Edgar & LaRue Crosby of Liberty Hill. Delores & Eddie Stewart of Clyde. Gloria & Rondoe Smith of Stephenville. Shirley Bush, Brittni, Christopher, Carlee, Zoee & Kylan Colleps of Arlington. Melissa McClure & Kathy Vialpando of Arlington. Jamie McClure Tang & Joe Heath of Arlington. Barbara Dill, Shawn, Lana, Bryson & Wacy Dill of Dublin. Rodney & Rosie Hardy of Wimberly. Marneice & Donnie Roberts of Midland. Pat Brannon of Royse City. Randy, Kim & Michael Hardy of Anson. Jo Fenton & Jesse Moore of Coleman. Cindi & Larry Johnson of Midland. Kallena, Joaquin & Molly Abalos of Midland. Also visiting was Anita Kading of Coleman.