News Archives - October 2008  

RESULTS OF THE FIESTA DE LA PALOMA CONTESTS are posted on the FIESTA-2008 page on this site. 
CLICK ON THE BUTTON below to view the results of all FIESTA contests.

Biggest Early Voting Day of All Friday
10/31/2008
Stacey Mendoza, Coleman County Clerk, reports a total of 272 votes were cast on Friday, the final day of early voting. With 186 absentee ballots, that makes a grand total of 2,340 early votes cast in Coleman County.

Letter to the Editor
10/31/2008
When you vote, you’re choosing the person you want to hold a particular office. The new voting machines make certain that vote is counted the way YOU intend it to be counted.

If you choose to vote a “straight ticket”, that’s the only vote you need to make … unless there’s a proposition on the ballot that needs a “yes” or “no” vote.

If you skip the option to vote a “straight ticket”, then you’ve automatically chosen to vote for individual candidates running for each office; and all you have to do is mark the ballot for the person of your choice.

The last page you’ll see is entitled “Ballot Summary Page”. It lists all the people you’ve voted for and even tells you when you’ve not voted for any of the candidates running for a particular office.

Read that summary page carefully. If the list shows you’ve voted for someone you didn’t want, or failed to vote for someone you did, you can go back and change that vote by following the instructions on the screen. If you have trouble doing so, ask one of the clerks for help: they’ll be happy to help you without intruding on the privacy of ballot box.

Only after the “Ballot Summary Page” suits you … only when the list reads the way YOU want it to read … should you punch the red button that says “cast ballot”. Then you can walk away knowing that you’ve done your civic duty and done it the way you intended.

Nancy Emmert, Secretary/Treasurer
Coleman County Republicans

Lasagna Luncheon
10/31/2008
United Christian and Presbyterian Church will again be having their Lasagna Luncheon on Sunday, November 2.  It will be served from 11:30 to 2:00 at 1609 Commercial Ave. .  Tickets are available at the door or from any member at $6.00 each or $3.00 for children 10 and under.  Take-outs will be taken at the East 9th entrance to the church or by calling 325-625-2642.

Texas Legislative Committee Convenes on Deer Industry
10/31/2008 (submitted)
SAN ANTONIO — The Joint Select Legislative Committee on the Breeding of White-tailed and Mule Deer recently held its first hearing in Austin, Texas, and members of the Texas Deer Association (TDA) played pivotal roles. The meeting was a historic first for the Texas deer industry and shines a spotlight on the deer industry’s impressive growth and impact on the Texas economy.

State Representative Harvey Hilderbran (R-Kerrville) was elected by fellow committee members to serve as chairman of the 10-person appointed committee. The committee heard testimony from Texas deer industry experts as well as from various authorities across the country. The stated mission of the committee is to review barriers that might prevent the breeding industry from operating in the most efficient, effective manner and investigate opportunities that could improve or enhance the industry in Texas. Other legislators appointed to the committee by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst are Senator Kenneth ‘Kim’ Brimer (R-Fort Worth) and Senator Craig Estes (R-Wichita Falls), House Speaker Tom Craddick appointees are Rep. Hilderbran and Rep. Tracy King (D-Batesville).

“We have overwhelming public support for hunting and deer propagation in Texas, and we have an opportunity with this committee to focus on the deer industry, identify barriers to our growth, reduce land fragmentation and protect our hunting and conservation interests throughout the state,” says Rep. Hilderbran. “I look forward to working with the Texas Deer Association, Texas Wildlife Association and other organizations across the state to move deer breeding forward and to create recommendations which could lead to positive legislation in January.”

“Our committee is working with breeders, hunters, and preservationists to ensure deer breeding continues to benefit all Texans. The impact of deer breeding profits our state’s rural, urban, and suburban areas; last year the industry bolstered over half a billion dollars to our state's economy" adds Senator Brimer. "We want to make certain our habitat and other natural resources are protected and the industry can continue to develop and prosper in Texas.”

Leading the testimony was Dr. James C. Kroll, co-founder of the Texas Deer Association, as well as founder and current director of the Institute for White-tailed Deer Management and Research Center for The College of Forestry at Stephen F. Austin State University.

“With the unbridled expansion of urban sprawl, American farmers and ranchers are the most endangered species today,” warned Dr. Kroll, who explained the ongoing loss of profitability in traditional agricultural has compelled many landowners to seek out alternative land uses for the land. “Raising deer has become an extremely profitable solution and it only requires a few acres so it’s a lucrative option for land owners of various means throughout Texas.”

The committee questioned Dr. Kroll on topics such as disease research, role of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department within the deer breeding industry, private property land rights, animal testing and other topics. Among the other witnesses to address the committee were: Clayton Wolf of Texas Parks Wildlife Department; Dr. Bob Hillman of Texas Animal Health Commission; Shawn Schafer, executive director of the North American Deer Farmers Association; Kirby Brown of the Texas Wildlife Association, Joe Trammell, president of the Whitetails of Oklahoma; Bob Zaglin, certified wildlife biologist and wildlife coordinator at Southwest Texas Junior College; Dr. Becky Brewer, Oklahoma State Veterinarian, and other industry experts.

As the state’s only non-profit organization solely dedicated to Texas deer, the Texas Deer Association provided strong representation for the industry with Dr. Scott W. Bugai, D.V.M., of Seguin; Joseph Warren Bluntzer Jr. of Lometa, Dr. Richard Cain of St. Jo; and Amanda Lasater of Mason making up nearly one-third of the committee. Dr. Bugai and Bluntzer were appointed to the committee by Governor Rick Perry, Dr. Cain by Lt. Governor David Dewhurst and Lasater was appointed by House Speaker Tom Craddick. Other public appointees to the committee are William Eikenhorst, D.V.M., and Lee Bass.

“Deer breeding accounts for thousands of jobs in small towns across the state, so we are happy to work closely with the committee in developing greater efficiencies within the industry and in creating new opportunities for growth,” says Karl Kinsel, executive director of the Texas Deer Association.

The committee originated through landmark legislation (S.B. 573), authored by Sen. Brimer and sponsored in the House by Rep. Hilderbran in the past 80th Legislative Session, and could have significant implications for the future of the deer breeding industry which generated more than $650 million for the Texas economy last year.

The TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through better habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA produces a full-color bimonthly publication, Tracks Magazine, which updates TDA members on current industry news, deer genetics and game management issues. The TDA also hosts an annual convention and trade show every August featuring fund-raising auctions, a deer auction, golf tournament and other events.

For membership information about the Texas Deer Association, visit www.texasdeerassociation.com  or call 210.767.8300.

CHAPS 3rd ANNUAL GUN SHOW THIS WEEKEND
10/31/2008   by Kathy Andrews 
Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society will be sponsoring the "3rd Annual Gun & Knife Show" Saturday, November 1, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 2, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The gun show will be held at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College. The show is presented by Wild Weasel Productions as a fund raiser for Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society. Everyone is welcome, there is more than just guns and knives. There are vendors with ammo, jewelry, coins, western memorabilia, military memorabilia and much more. The Windhams will be there with their hamburger wagon, stop by and enjoy a real old fashion hamburger and come see us at the gun show!

Can you remember ??? 
10/30/2008   (Contributed by Drew Hubbard)
Five years ago ...  if we made the playoffs we got lucky...
Fans were always mad and calling for someone's head; an official; a coach; or a school board member...
Kids were embarrassed to be on the Football team...
We were considered the 'doormat' of the District...

Than a new era began...
A winning Tradition began...We make the playoffs...
Fans were excited about the new success... no more lynch mobs
Kids are proud to be Bluecats...from first grade to Seniors in High School..
We have become a team to reckon with; week end and week out...

After watching the Brady game Friday night I was reminded of that excitement we as fans used to have..
That excitement that spilled over to our kids and Players...
That support for the kids and program...

Bluecat Boosters...have we become complacent?
God Forbid...have we become like the Early Longhorn Fans? 
Take a lesson from the Brady fans before its too late...
`
Come Friday night to Early!
Pack out the stands!
Chant and cheer for your players and Coaches!
When we make the first downs...stand and join in!
When the Cheerleaders starts a chant or cheer...join in!
When a big play is made...let our players know about it!
When we get ripped off by the officials...act with class!

I want everyone in Texas to know about the Coleman Bluecats...for the good things!
A tough Team to play and beat!
Great Fans!
Classy Folks from a Great Place to live!
Gooooooo Bigggggg Blueeeeee!
Drew Hubbard
Booster Club President!

Team Cade Fundraiser at CJHS
10/30/2008
Below are pictures for the Coleman Junior High Student Council fundraiser for Team Cade. Team Cade is an organization that raises money for juvenile diabetes research. The group is lead by Cade Needham, a five year old diabetic. The CJHS student council chose TEAMCADE and JDF as their primary fundraising campaign this year because most of the junior high kids know Cade. He's a big BLUECAT fan and is always at all the sporting events. CJHS wanted to help Cade raise money to take to the "big walk" in Austin on October 4th. For the entire week before the walk, the students of CJHS competing in money raising events and competitions such as the mummy wrap contest, the straws and tape contest and the art contest. In one short week, the students of CJHS raised enough money to put TEAM CADE over their goal of $3000. The students raised $500 for TEAM CADE!

Box Top Champs!
10/30/2008
Jett Allen and Walt Arnold are seen displaying the 6800 Box Tops collected by Coleman Elementary students. Classes compete each six weeks to collect the most Box Tops and the winning class receives free ice cream cones from the Coleman Dairy Queen. Box Tops are then sent into General Mills and we receive 10 cents for each one. This means we will receive $680 that will be used to purchase books for our school library. Community members are encouraged to save their box tops and send them into the school to help raise funds for our library.

Texas Country Reporter TV Show to Feature Coleman Ladies
10/30/2008
A few months ago, Bob Phillips, who hosts Texas Country Reporter, interviewed a group of ladies who meet daily at Owl Drug Store. Texas Country Reporter has notified one of the ladies that their story will run on the weekend of November 1st throughout Texas. Locally, the television show airs on KTXS 12 at 6:30pm on Saturday, November 1st. For those with satellite, the show is also broadcast nationally on RFD-TV.

Trick or Treat for Rehab HUGE SUCCESS !!
10/29/2008
The 8th 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 $2367.19. The proceeds will be presented to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center in January at the annual telethon.

Pictured are CHS student council members who participated:
Front: Blake Hammonds, Meagan Ogden, Amber Hunter, Tara Brixey, Taylor Armstrong, Kenna Cornelius, Erin Strickland
Middle: Kelby McCorkle, Mohini Bhatka, Tabitha Terrell, Shelbie DeLeon, Nancy Cruz, Sonya Cruz, Amanda Gober
Back: Reece Halfmann, Wayne Worsham, Nnehkai Agbor, Jacy Payne, Casie Swening, Cole Hubbard, Nicole Heath, Audrey Casselberry, Morgan Schumann, Jackie Birdwell, Gary Heath, Lura Rylant, Brody Tibbetts, Trey Casey, Rynn Norris, Jessica Morales

4-H Achievement Banquet 2008
10/29/2008
The 2008 Coleman County 4-H Achievement Banquet was held Sunday, September 28, 2008 at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Coleman. 4-Hers from all over Coleman County came to receive awards for their accomplishments of the past year. Guest speaker for the banquet was Darci Owens, a former Reagan County 4-Her. Darci has participated in Food & Nutrition Clothing, Shooting Sports, Livestock Judging, Record Books, Consumer Decision making and served as an office on the County 4-H Council. Currently, Darci is working toward her Master*s Degree in Animal Science with a Focus in Food Science and Microbiology at Angelo State University. Darci encouraged 4-H members to set their goals high and they will always succeed in life.

Each year, 4-H members are recognized for projects they have participated in as well as being recognized for advancing to District and State Competitions.

Silver Star, I Dare You, and Gold Star Awards are presented to 4-H members who qualify and who apply for these awards, each having completed a 4-H Record Book.

The Silver Star Award, the highest award that can be presented to a Junior or Intermediate age  4-Her was awarded to Shelbi Greaves and Courtney Brown.
 
The I Dare You Award, recognizing character and leadership was presented to
Casie Swening.

The Gold Star Award, which is the highest award that can be achieved by a senior 4-H members was presented to Gary Heath and Audrey Casselberry.  These awards were selected by a judging panel of County Extension Agents from a nearby county, based on their applications and 4-H Record books.
 
Members of the Coleman 4-H Council annually choose recipients of the *Friend of 4-H and Outstanding Adult Leader Awards. This year, the Friend of 4-H Awards was presented to Lance McWhorter for his continued support to the 4-H program by helping with the Coleman County Livestock Sale.

Outstanding Adult Leader Awards were presented to Beverly Casselberry and Jennifer Short.

We are proud of our Coleman County youth and the organization that gives them so many opportunities to learn and grow. If you would like to learn more information about the 4-H program in Coleman County, please contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag at the Coleman County Extension Office at 325-625-4519, or come by the office on the second floor of the County Courthouse.

Nate Slayton Receives Scholarship
10/29/2008
Nate Slayton, 5 year old Kindergarten student at Coleman Elementary, and his family have received a financial aid scholarship from the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Nate is the son of Buddy and Kerry Slayton and the big brother of Bode. The Slayton family was among 81 families in the United States and Canada to receive the 2008 Preschool Age Financial Aid Scholarship.

Nate was diagnosed as profoundly deaf just after his 4th birthday and has since received 2 Cochlear Implants. Nate has been attending audio/verbal therapy every week for the past 18 months at Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth. Nate has excelled in his therapy and is progressing in his audio/verbal training. Having a “deaf-hearing” child requires a lot of work, education, research and expense. The Alexander Graham Bell Association steps up to compensate for some expenses for those children with hearing loss who use spoken language to communicate. The journey for Nate and his family will continue, but the support of organizations as the Alexander Graham Bell Association will make the ride a little smoother. For more information: www.agbell.org  ; www.nidcd.nih.gov ; www.deaftexas.org

Structural Architect in Town Wednesday
10/29/2008
Juan Carlos Araiza, Ph.D. is a Senior Consultant for Sparks Engineering, Inc., a firm working with the  ArchiTexas firm to complete the Master Plan of the courthouse renovation project.   He was in town Wednesday afternoon to perform a structural inspection of the courthouse.  He was evaluating the shape of the older portions of the courthouse and finding out how the old structure is connected to the newer facade added in 1952.  Mr. Araiza bored a 5" hole into the outer brick wall and used a tiny camera to find where the original limestone is located and what shape it is in.  Colemannews.com was able to look through the eyepiece, and saw that the outer brick does not appear to be mortared to the original limestone wall.  Mr. Araiza is pictured above drilling the hole through the brick.  Pictured left is a photo of the inside of the original limestone wall.

Medical Board Restricts License of Donald Delmer Pope, M.D., of Brownwood
10/29/2008
A panel of the Texas Medical Board temporarily restricted the license of Donald Delmer Pope, M.D., license #F4386, of Brownwood.

The temporary suspension hearing took place Monday, October 27, under the Board’s authority, granted by S.B. 104 of the 78th Legislature, to suspend or restrict a physician’s license without notice when it determines the physician’s continuation in practice would constitute a continuing threat to the public welfare.

The action was based Dr. Pope’s guilty plea to a felony charge of aggravated sexual assault of a female under 14, and his receiving eight years of deferred adjudication as a sex offender. The restriction requires that Dr. Pope have no contact with any female patient under 17 and that he have an independent medical evaluation, follow the evaluating psychiatrist’s recommendations and submit the treating psychiatrist’s reports to the board.

The temporary restriction is effective immediately and remains in effect until the board takes further action.

Buzzard and Hambright Receive Honors
10/29/2008
The Abilene Reporter News has named two Coleman Bluecats in their Player of the Week honors. The comments from the Reporter News are as follows:
Colton Buzzard, QB, Sr., Coleman -- In an otherwise disappointing night, Buzzard hit 23 of 34 passes for 294 yards and three touchdowns in a 49-22 loss to Brady.  The loss was the second straight for the Bluecats, who suddenly find themselves at 2-2 in District 8-2A and hoping to nab the league's third playoff spot. Receiving Honorable Mention Big Country Player of the Week was Trent Hambright, WR, Jr., Coleman (three catches for 88 yards and a touchdown vs. Brady).  Congrats Bluecats!!!

Meat Processors Ready for Hunting Season and Deer Donations
10/28/2008
Meat processors across the state are gearing up to welcome hunters from far and wide. With the general hunting season for white-tailed deer set to start November 1, 2008 in the majority of Texas counties, many meat processors will not only assist hunters with their custom processing needs, but will also provide an outlet to donate extra venison through the Texas Hunters for the Hungry program.

Last hunting season, hunters donated more than 178,000 pounds of meat to the Texas Hunters for the Hungry program through 98 participating meat processors in 71 counties. Coleman County donations totaled 8,320 pounds last season.

Venison continues to be a welcome protein source at food pantries, soup kitchens, churches, and shelters. The donated meat helps agencies stretch their budgets and is a favorite among their recipients. Individuals and families that receive the meat are excited to be able to supplement their meals with venison; many go for months without any meat at all.

Be part of the solution to hunger. For a complete list of participating meat processors, visit www.tacaa.org/hunters.htm . Interested hunters can take legally harvested deer to a participating meat processor, who will process and package the meat for a nominal fee to help cover basic costs. Meat processors make arrangements with local food assistance agencies to distribute the meat to people in the community who need food. In Coleman County, deer can be donated at Halls Custom Packing in Coleman.

If the processor you use is not on the list, encourage them to join by contacting program staff during business hours Monday - Friday at (800) 992-9767, extension 506.  Monetary donations to support the program are always welcome. See the website for details.

The Cross is asking for help from the Community
10/28/2008
The Cross is asking for help from the Community for the Free Thanks-Giving Feast at Noon  on Thanksgiving Day - Nov. 27th @ The Cross
The Cross needs the following:
People needed before Thanksgiving Day
organizers, (Contact Now!)
donations/funds
donations/food (below a list of food items)
decorators/decorations
handouts distributor
dressing makers (contact before Nov. 8th)
cookers
People needed Thanksgiving Day
1. greeters
2. servers
3. takeout
4. deliverers
5. cleaners (to clean up after-wards).
(List of ingredients needed before Nov. 8th)
cold items
25 turkeys
16 lbs of chicken thighs
Rolls lots! (20n pkgs. Frozen yeast rolls)
Butter 4 pkgs.
3 Gal. Milk
2 containers sour cream
12 dozen eggs
pie crusts
Produce
50 lbs. Potatoes
6 pkgs celery
16 yellow onions
8 bunches of onions
Canned goods
3 gallons Allen’s Green Beans
9 cans Cream of Mushroom
10 cans cranberry sauce
16 cans of Campbell's cream of mushroom soup
16 cans of Campbell's cream of chicken soup
40 cans of Swanson's chicken broth
6 cans apple, cherry. peach
15 big cans yams
Misc.
56 pkgs of Gladiola Yellow Cornbread Mix (unsweet)
corn starch
1 container of poultry seasoning
3 bags marshmallows
3 bags brown sugar
List of misc. items needed.
divided plates
cups
forks
spoons
cake plates
table covering
takeout containers
35 heavy metal pans
heavy tin foil
The Free Thanks-Giving Feast is:
For people that want give Thanks to GOD for all HE has given us.
For people that want to give to others on Thanksgiving Day.
For people that do not want to be alone on Thanksgiving Day.
For people that want to join others in a joyous time on Thanksgiving Day.
If you work on Thanksgiving please list Business name, how many will be working and contact number.  The Cross.  Open Sun-Wed 10AM-4PM  325-625-1002  www.mt25.net   mt25@verizon.net
The Cross. PO Box 1003. Coleman TX 76834

Coleman County Historical Commission Presentation
Thursday, November 6
10/28/2008
As some of you know, in 2008 Coleman County has been celebrating its 150th birthday. In conjunction with this, the Coleman County Historical Commission has been promoting programs about the different communities located in the community.

One of the first of these programs was a program brought to us by Judy Bryan of Rockwood. She with great effort persuaded several of the older citizens of the community to come and tell the rest of the world what it was like to grow up in Rockwood, Texas. If you missed this program you missed a laugh fest as some of the stories told were comical and worth listening to. Ms. Bryan prompted these speakers and the audience helped by asking questions for an evening of great fun as well as great learning about the southern part of Coleman County.

Another program about the southern part of the county was held in Trickham. Felton Martin, The historian of Trickham, Texas, brought a very interesting program about Trickham, Texas and its beginning before Coleman County was Coleman County. Settlers along Mukewater Creek farmed and provided hay for the original Camp Colorado. The people who settled here had their share of Indian troubles, but the community kept growing and helping with the growth of Coleman County.   The people of Burkett hosted a program in their community center. Many of the older citizens came together to answer questions about the early days of a thriving community on the northeastern edge of Coleman County. Stories were told about rustlers, people who tried to ford the creek in high water, and the many businesses located in Downtown Burkett.

Other stories of Silver Valley, Coleman, the Seventh Day Adventist Cemetery, and others have made up the years programs. These were all our benefit and knowledge about our home.  If you missed these speakers this year, you should plan to be at the gathering on Thursday, November 6th, when we pay tribute to those who have made such great effort to educate us about their part of Coleman County.

We plan to have a speaker with us for the evening that will be of interest to all Coleman County citizens who are interested in the past and the future.   All members are being asked to bring a covered dish to supplement the feast.
The evening will start about 6:30PM, come and bring a friend.   Heritage Hall, 400 College, Coleman, Texas

Mother and Daughter Donate to "Locks of Love"
10/28/2008
Melissa Porter and her daughter Karlie are sending their hair to an organization that provides to children in need.  We want to acknowledge their kindness and hope their thoughtfulness will inspire others to follow suit.  For more information on the "Locks of Love" organization, click on the link:   www.locksoflove.org

Locks of Love is a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. They meet a unique need for children by using donated hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Their mission is to return a sense of self, confidence and normalcy to children suffering from hair loss by utilizing donated ponytails to provide the highest quality hair prosthetics to financially disadvantaged children. The children receive hair prostheses free of charge or on a sliding scale, based on financial need.

Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Coleman to Host Program on
Monitoring Rangelands and Stocking Rates
10/28/2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Coleman - The Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Coleman County will be conducting a Rangeland Monitoring Program beginning at 1:30 pm at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Coleman on Thursday, October 30th, 2008. We will meet at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall for around an hour and then travel to Hemphill Ranch for observations and field trip.  Dr. Allan McGinty ,Professor and Extension Range Specialist from the AgriLife Research and Extension Center in San Angelo, TX will be the featured guest speaker. Range Monitoring is very important. Efficient utilization of forages and proper stocking rates will impact supplemental feeding needs. In today’s economy many ranchers face great risks. Managing your range lands and maintaining good range health we can reduce these risks.

We are asking that you RSVP for the program so we can have a head count as to how many may attend. If you have any questions or concerns about the program you may contact the Coleman County Extension Office at (325) 625-4519

Political Research in Elementary Class
10/27/2008
Coleman Elementary 5th grade computer class has been researching politics. They chose students to represent the democratic and republican presidential candidates. During morning assembly on Monday, the Democrats presented their speeches. Jude John as Barack Obama, Miranda Norris as Michelle Obama, Adrian Flores as Joe Biden, and Heaven Bedell as Jill Biden. All fifth grade students have participated in researching all the candidates and making campaign posters. The Republican candidates will present their speeches next Monday during morning assembly Nov. 3. Third, Fourth, and Fifth grade students will cast their vote for their favorite candidate on election day at the elementary school. Fifth grade students also sold red, white, and blue beads as well as patriotic cheekers as a fund raiser for their class and to promote patriotism in our school.

Scholastic Book Fair at Coleman Schools
10/27/2008
Coleman Elementary-Jr. High Library will be hosting a Scholastic book fair on Oct. 27-31 in the library. Times for Mon.-Thurs. will be 8:00 AM until 3”45 PM. The fair will close at 12:30 on Friday. (We will close from 12:30-1:00 for lunch each day)

We will have no family night at the book fair this fall. However, all parents, grandparents, etc. are invited to visit the book fair during regular school hours. We would like to see parents take part in the selection of your child’s reading materials. For more information about Scholastic Book Fairs, log on to www.scholastic.com .

If you choose to send a check for payment, please use Coleman ISD as the payee.

All proceeds of the book fair go towards the purchase of new library books for our PK-8 students.  

County Football Scores
10/25/2008
Brady 49, Coleman 22
Panther Creek 60, Paint Rock 32
Highland 62, Novice 0
Robert Lee 64, Santa Anna 14

Reunion of Santa  Anna Class of 1958
10/25/2008
The class reunion of Santa Anna High's Class of '58 celebrated their 50th Homecoming Oct. 17th and 18th. There were 18 class members and their families returning throughout the weekend, but only 15 of the Classmates managed to arrive to ride the float in the parade on Friday afternoon.   The class had lots of fun decorating the float, visiting during and after the ballgame, and again on Saturday. The class members who were unable to be in Santa Anna were sorely missed.   Carolyn Woods Stone put together a great memory book for the class members. The group really enjoyed the books and said they couldn't thank her enough.  Appreciation also went out to the class sponsor of this class, Mr. Roy Matthews now of Bangs, Texas for taking the time to meet with the class and ride on the float with them. In the picture you will see the true Mountaineer Spirit of Charlie Fleming attired in the complete Mountaineer gear.   Ex-student of the year, Bobby Joe Densman of Abilene, Texas gave a wonderful speech about the school life of the class and ended by playing the song "Lost in the 50's tonight"   The group missed being able to share their fun and fellowship with those classmates who were unable to attend.   Appreciation goes to Donald Fellows for providing the tractor to pull the float and to Hillery Rutherford for driving.

Big CHS Reunion Very Successful
10/24/2008
The "Big Coleman High School Reunion" on October 10 and 11, 2008 was a great success and was thoroughly enjoyed by classmates of 1941 through 1962. Theme for the reunion was based on the sesquicentennial celebration this year for Coleman County.

A golf tourney held Friday (the 10th) at the Coleman Country Club benefitted the scholarship fund for the class of 1959. Assisting were Glenna McKee Smith and Bob Tyson with special help from Fred Stewart of the class of 1957. Eleven golfers participated and several hole sponsors added to the till. The 3 man team of Bob Holtz (Class of 1949), Pat Debusk (class of 1959) and Ken Sparkman (class of 1959) shot a record 11 under par, 61. Also, Debusk won the longest drive and Holtz won closest to the pin with 5' 2 1/5".

Registration and visitation while enjoying a light breakfast filled Saturday morning, the 11th. The class of 1958 had 29 members attending and the one coming the farthest distance was Harvey Whitehead of Wasilla, Alaska. When asked about Sarah Palin, he said Alaska was in a win-win situation...she would either be the new vice president of the United States or be welcomed back home as governor of Alaska.

Big-O really outdid himself by providing a great brisket and sausage lunch with all the trimmings. His crew worked liked a well-oiled machine and did a wonderful job of quickly feeding over 200 hungry people.

A very special recognized reunion guest was Mrs. Juanita Blanton Scott, a former longtime CHS biology teacher. At age 91, she still looks good and enjoyed visiting with former students who were very glad to see her.

Mistress of Ceremonies was the 2008 reunion chairperson, Jeanie Coats Bell of the 1953 class, and a welcome was given by Nick Poldrack, the City of Coleman Mayor. Entertainment was provided by the talented Heartland Harmonizers, a barber shop vocal group, that included several from Coleman. Class photos were made by Ralph and Judia Terry of Terry Studio. The Pledge to the US Flag, singing of the National Anthem, blessing of the food and singing of the Alma Mater was included in the program.

It is hoped many more classes will join the big reunion next year so that it may continue to be a great gathering time for all former Coleman High School students. If your class does not have a 'selected representative', elect a person before next year so your class can be included in the fun!

West Texas Bike Fest Roars into Coleman
10/24/2008
The gates opened at noon  Friday for the West Texas Bike Fest at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. As Coleman County continues to celebrate its 150th birthday, Surfing Cowboy Productions brings motorcycle enthusiasts from a wide area to our community.

Participants will take part in a poker run, bike games, bike show and enjoy live music all day Saturday, til 1:00am.

There will be numerous vendors catering to every biker's needs.

So, if you hear the roar of motorcycles through town this weekend, it's the West Texas Bike Fest going on at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

Admission is $20 per person at the gate.

Holiday Hill Halloween Carnival Tonight
10/25/2008  (contributed)
It would make the Residents and Staff of Holiday Hill Nursing Home "HAPPY" to see you at their 3rd Annual Halloween Carnival. Toto is a 7 month old Chihuahua that has been coming to HH since he was 8 weeks old. He is loved by all the residents and staff and has put, "Many Smiles" on "Many Faces." 

He comes to work, everyday, with owner Raylene Watson.

Be sure and mark on your calendar, October 25th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. There is going to be many games, with lots of great prizes, and a Haunted Courtyard. So come and join in the fun and put a smile on your face as TOTO has. Hope to see you there!!!
The Residents and Staff of Holiday Hill

Letter to the Editor
As Chairman of the Coleman County Democratic Party, I have been asked a similar question by three different voters in reference to the present election. As such, I think this bears addressing, whether an individual votes Democratic or Republican, since the concept “one person, one vote” is not partisan, but American.

The essence of the question is this: “If a person punches the button ‘Straight Ticket’, and then also punches the button for Barack Obama, is the vote negated and thrown out?”

As I understand this issue, this is correct, no matter the Party or single candidate. These INFERNAL VOTING MACHINES with which we have been saddled are not like the simple, uncomplicated paper ballots we used to have. Just as good old Nora and Bob oats have been ‘improved’ till they aren’t worth spit, we have ‘improved’ our voting process. And our County Commissioners and Clerk have had to work overtime to deal with the fallout, bless their hearts.

In the many years I worked counting ballots, the main guideline was, “What is the intent of the voter?” In the above-mentioned question, it is clear: The voter wants to vote for all the Democrats running, especially Obama.

With the new machines that count inside a little black box, there is no way the “intent of the voter” is considered. It is all a matter of how the machine is programmed---and only the manufacturers of the machines and Almighty God know what that is.

Here is the response I received to my email to the Texas Secretary of State:

We are aware that incorrect information has been circulating around the state via an email forward. The chain email is inaccurate, as it states that you must vote for the candidate of your choice for U.S. president, and then vote straight party. We note that doing this would not have any effect at all. It would merely be a straight party vote for all candidates of the party you selected.

On the contrary, if you have been instructed to vote straight party, and then vote for U.S. President, there would be a problem. If you did this, the electronic systems would interpret that to mean you are deselecting that candidate from the party vote. Please note that the screen will clearly show you are removing a vote in that circumstance.

Important note: If you cast a straight party vote for any party with ballot access in Texas (i.e., Republican, Democratic, or Libertarian), your vote for president will be included and counted.
We hope this information is helpful.

In short, if you wish to vote a straight ticket, you may do that. Punch ONLY the straight ticket button—Democratic or Republican. If you vote straight ticket, DO NOT punch any single candidate name, Democratic or Republican.

If you wish to vote in every race or in selected races, you may do that. Punch the buttons for those individuals for whom you wish to vote. DO NOT punch either straight ticket button.

If you have questions about this or any issue concerning the election call the Texas election people at 1.800.252.VOTE (8683) or you can contact the Clerk’s office, 625-2889.
Respectfully Submitted,
Montie Guthrie

Texas Gardening 101
10/23/2008      By Ernie Yates
Winter is upon us and if the weather man is correct you probably should have you tender plants indoors by the time you read this article. Temperatures are predicted to get into the high 30’s with possible frost in some areas. A bit early for our part of the state but our earliest freeze was recorded in San Angelo was October 18, 1948. Abilene’s earliest was October 10th 1940. I don’t think those records are in jeopardy but it does look like we may get close. If you have never had a container garden, fall is a good time to begin. Using the black plastic containers that shrubs come in from the nursery in one to five gallon sizes work great. Even better are the old syrup containers ranchers have around that they have fed to their livestock. The black color absorbs heat and make them a better choice in the fall and winter that using them in the summer. Several good size holes need to be cut or drilled in the bottom for drainage. Nursery containers already have holes so they again are a good choice. I like to line the bottom with a layer of rocks for drainage. Fill the container with good potting soil preferably and you will want to add nitrogen if not already included. Place the pots in a sunny area on the southern side of a building to protect them from the strong north winds.
Fall containers can be used to grow a variety of vegetables that can provide greens all winter. It is too late for many garden veggies but most leafy vegetables that are cold tolerate do very well. You can plant lettuce, spinach, turnips, and other greens as well as onions, radishes, chives, and cilantro. Most cool and cold weather crops will do well. You can thin the items after they begin growing and place in other pots. During extremely cold periods of below 25 degrees you will want to cover the plants with an old blanket. While many of the plants can tolerate even lower temperatures it is a good safe guard and just takes a minute to protect those that don’t like the extreme cold weather. You will be surprised at the amount of fresh greens and other vegetables that a few containers can produce and also enjoy the quality of your own “home grown” produce.
We live in the cotton belt of Texas but I venture many of us fail to take advantage of a bi-product of cotton that can provide many short and long term benefits to the home gardener. Cotton seed is an excellent fertilizer and is also organic. It can provide a long term, slow release addition of nutrients to the soil. Cottonseed meal, which is simply ground cotton seeds, can provide up to 7% nitrogen, 2% phosphorus, and 1 percent potassium. While fairly low in fertilizer it can make an immediate difference in your lawn and gardens. It also provides many other benefits that include the addition of compost material to the soil and one I like is that worms love it. Worms grow larger and healthier on cotton seed meal and their manure is one of the best fertilizers available. Worms will also aerate the soil and keep it loose which also is great for your plants. By keeping your worms well fed and happy they will continue to fertilize your lawn and gardens naturally and help keep the soil loose and supple. Cotton seed meal and other cotton bi- products can found at most garden centers in our part of the state and you will find they are less expensive than chemical fertilizers or prepared soil products.
While on the topic of fertilizer I should mention the use of natural fertilizers. Due to the high cost of fertilizers many farmers and ranchers are now relooking at the use of natural fertilizers. Manure fertilizers are slower acting but also are longer acting as available nutrients stay in the soil longer as manure breaks down. This is an advantage as it does not provide a rush of nutrients and then is gone and will help the plants over a longer period of time. It also adds other nutrients to the soil not generally found in commercial fertilizers and serve to add organic materials back into the soil. Many types of animal manure can be used but some come with “issues”. Some bring with it seeds that can germinate into weeds that will need to be controlled. The use of aged manure can help reduce this problem and many are using manure that is generated by their own live stock so they are not introducing new weeds. Manure from dairies can be obtained and can be less seed infested depending on the type and quality of hay they are fed. Other manures that can be used are sheep, goat, horse, chicken and others. Some are limited quantity, can be especially “hot” so in all cases the manure should not be used fresh but allowed to break down. If you are worried about weeds, sheep and goat manure is your best bets as they seeds are broken down in these animals digestive process. Many nurseries and garden centers are beginning to carry a wider variety of natural manures.
Direct your comments or questions to this paper or email edyfish@centex.net. Don’t forget to get your 2009 Master Gardener Calendars at the Coleman or Brady Extension Offices or the Coleman Chronicle & DV offices.

Stew Supper at FUMC
10/23/2008
Nothing is better than home-cooked stew, homemade cornbread and desserts made with love by ladies from the church!

On Friday, October 24th, you can experience all of this wonderful food first-hand at the First United Methodist Church of Coleman at 500 W. Liveoak in the fellowship hall.  The meal will be served from 5 pm to 7 pm and will consist of stew, cornbread, desserts and drinks.  Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 10 years of age.

You will also experience friendly fellowship, wonderful atmosphere and you won't have to clean the kitchen after supper!

Come join us for a heartwarming meal on Friday, October 24, 2008 at First United Methodist Church of Coleman.

PC Elementary Fall Festival Raffle
10/23/2008
Panther Creek elementary students will be selling raffle tickets for a “Backyard Retreat” to be given away at their Fall Festival on October 25, 2008. The “Retreat” consists of a Garden Treasures Living 8’ x 8’ steel Gazebo with insect netting, two rattan chairs, and a wrought iron table. This beautiful set would be a wonderful addition to any yard.

To purchase the $2.00 raffle tickets, please see any elementary student or call 325-357-4449 for more information. You do not have to be present to win.

PANTHER CREEK FALL FESTIVAL
10/23/2008
Panther Creek CISD will be having their annual Fall Festival on Saturday, October 25th, beginning at 6:00 pm. Elementary, Junior High, and 9th graders will have games and booths in the Activity Building. Elementary will also be having the Country Store where you can buy lots of homemade goodies, and the Ice Cream Shop which will be in the cafeteria. Sophomores will have the Cake Walk again this year in the Activity Building, and the Juniors will be having the concession stand in the cafeteria. The Senior class would like to remind everyone that Bingo will begin at 8:00 pm. We hope to see you there!

Halloween Carnival at FUMC THIS SATURDAY
10/23/2008
How many of you like to play Yahtzee? The Halloween Carnival at First United Methodist Church of Coleman will have a game of Halloween Yahtzee for everyone to play on Saturday, October 25th.

If you aren't sure what kind of game Yahtzee is, it is a dice game. We have 5 large dice that you will have a chance to roll 3 times. If you get a 5-of-a-kind (which is 5 dice with the same number), a full-house (3 dice with one number, 2 dice with another number), or a straight (1,2,3,4,5 etc), then you will get a large prize. If you get 3 or 4 of a kind or a small straight (1,2,3,4 etc), then you will get a small prize. If you just have fun rolling the dice, then you will receive candy for a prize.

We will also have Bingo, Monster Mouth Golf, Basketball Shoot, Football Throw, Milk Jug Toss (not really what it sounds like), Frog Pond, Ping Pong Shootout, a Cookie Decoration Station, Cookie/Cupcake Walk, Ring Toss and Guessing Games. Cost of the carnival is 10 tickets for $1.00.

Come join us for some fun on Saturday, October 25, from 6 pm to 8 pm at First United Methodist Church of Coleman at 500 W. Liveoak in the fellowship hall!

Pre-K Can and Cell Phone Drive
10/23/2008
Coleman Elementary School Pre-Kindergarten classes are holding a “Can and Cell Phone Drive” through out this school year. Please save your aluminum cans, bag them and bring to the school. Cans will be sold and funds will go to funding a small developmental playground for the three and four year old Pre-Kindergarten and Special Education students at Coleman Elementary School. Also, we are collecting used cell phones to sell for recycling and those funds will be used for the playground. The cell phones can be brought to the Elementary office or taken to the collection box at the Coleman Public library. These projects help us receive funds and are good for the environment. The energy saved from recycling just one aluminum drink can is enough to power a 100-watt bulb for 20 hours or a TV for two hours. The playground is being built close to the Pre-K portable building so the students have easy access to the playground. Some equipment has been purchased and installed, such as a small swing set with two regular swings and a handicapped swing, a balance beam, satellite climber, playground drum, duck spring rider, crawl tube and a sand box. These pieces of equipment were purchased with funds from the school, bake sale proceeds, donations, a grant from Farmer’s Insurance and sales of recycled phones and cans. For more information, contact Sarah Beal, Pre-K teacher at 325-625-3546.

Coleman County Classic Lamb/Goat Show
10/23/2008
Coleman County will host a Lamb and Goat Show on Saturday, October 25, 2008 at the Expo Center at the Rodeo grounds. 
TCLA Sanctioned Lamb Show A & B - Both Shows Jackpot
JMGSC Meat Goat Show A & B - Both Shows Jackpot
Showmanship Show A & B - Both Shows Jackpot
Entry Fees:  $20 per head, per show
Deadline: Was October 17th, late entries will be accepted at check-in
Late Fees: $10 per head per show late fee after October 17th.
Lamb Show:  Standard TCLA payback
SCHEDULE:
Saturday, October 25th
9:00am - Weight cards due, all shows
10:00am - 1st show begins (both lambs and goats)
JUDGES:
Jessop Yeaman - Lamb Show A, Goat Show B
Kris Edes - Goat Show A, Lamb Show B
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call Brent McMillan
Call 325-625-3623, 325-625-4161, 325-214-0026
Concession stand provided by Coleman County 4-H Club

Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club Meeting
10/22/2008
The Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club held their monthly meeting on October 9th at the Methodist Church Fellowship Hall in Gouldbusk. The hostess for the meeting was Virginia Jamison. We started the meeting with refreshments; they were as always delicious. Those present were Lynn Corbett, Virginia Jamison, Wanda Jewell, Dean Lanier, Danella McBrayer, Rebecca Meyer, Pat Pool, Vicki Stewart, Berva Dawn Taylor, Pat Vance, Mona Wilson, and Deborah Yates. Jean Langford from the Coleman Good Neighbor club was also present. Danella McBrayer, our new club president, called the meeting to order shortly after 1pm. We all joined in reciting the creed, prayer and pledges to both the flag and the Texas flag. We had a short business meeting, where cookbook sales and Fiesta were discussed as well as a discussion about the up-coming Thanksgiving Dinner for the Gouldbusk Community that we host each year to raise funds for the upkeep of the community center. This year we will also have a program after the dinner briefly telling the history of Gouldbusk. We are hoping that many of our long time area families will present their own little slice of community history from the perspective of their family ties to the community. Did you know that the Gouldbusk Homemaker's Club is the oldest one in our County. It has been in continuous operation for the last 85 years. Watch for an article in the next few weeks giving you a history as well as an update on this club and what exactly we are all about. We hope that if you have or have ever had any ties to the Gouldbusk community that you will consider joining us on November 23rd at 12 noon for good food and fellowship. Our club will be providing the turkeys, hams and many trimmings all we ask is that you bring either a salad, vegetable or dessert and your appetites.

Following the business meeting Danella McBrayer, who is taking the master gardener class, gave us a program entitled "Cooking with Herbs" She has an extensive herb garden and uses fresh herbs in all her cooking. She also filled us in on some of the medicinal uses of herbs.

Next months meeting will be at the home of Mike and Lynn Corbett on November 13th at 1pm. There will be 2 short programs at the meeting. Geneva Harris will present the first program. She will be showing us how to fold napkins. Lynn Corbett will be sharing some of the tips and insights passed along by Heloise at the State Convention in Corpus Christi last month. We would love to see any who would like to join us there for a time of good food and friendly conversation.

West Texas Bike Fest
10/22/2008
On the Grounds of the Bill Franklin Center
October 24 - 25, 2008
Gates open Friday at 12:00 Noon (Rain or Shine)
$20.00 per person at the gate
Poker Run
Bike Games
Bike Show
Live Music Friday Night 'til 12 midnight, Live Music All day Saturday, Don't forget your tent & chairs, No RV Hookups

Ranger's "VIP Package" to be Raffled by Bluecat Booster Club
10/21/2008
Are you interested in round-trip for 2 on American Airlines ( from DFW or Abilene to Arizona), hotel accommodations, and the exciting opportunity to meet the players during training camp this March?!! Get your $10 raffle ticket at any Bluecat Varsity game, Hubbard Insurance Agency (across from the Dairy Queen), the Coleman Doctors' Clinic, or you can mail it payable to Bluecat Booster Club, 1819 S. Commercial Ave, Coleman, TX 76834. Drawing will be held February 6th during the Varsity boys basketball game.

Commissioner Staples Welcomes Santa Anna to GO TEXAN Rural Community Program
10/21/2008
AUSTIN - Commissioner Todd Staples is pleased to announce that Santa Anna, Texas has become the newest member of the GO TEXAN Rural Community Program, a Texas Department of Agriculture initiative to market rural Texas.
"The voice of rural Texas continues to be heard thanks to the hard work of its proud citizens," Commissioner Staples said. "Rural Texas is vital to the overall health of our state's economy, and with the success of our united Rural Community Program members, we can be assured of future rewards for all of Texas."
The GO TEXAN Rural Community Program is a free, member-based program providing resources and expertise to rural communities, businesses and organizations committed to the economic strength of rural Texas. Certified members have access to ongoing reimbursable grants to help promote local events that encourage tourism as well as to special, one-time grant programs to assist in other community development efforts.
"Rural Texas has so much to offer," Commissioner Staples said. "Every dollar spent on preservation, beautification, new business development and tourism in rural Texas creates jobs and generates income, adding to the state's economy."
Rural Texas covers approximately 80 percent of the state's total land area. Retirees are increasingly drawn to smaller rural communities with access to urban services, and rural entrepreneurialism is a growing trend. By 2040, the population in Texas' rural counties is projected to increase by more than 20 percent.
"As rural Texas continues to grow, the preservation and celebration of our rural roots remains important," Commissioner Staples added. "We appreciate every member of the GO TEXAN Rural Community Program. Together, we preserve the past, celebrate the present and anticipate the future of rural Texas."
For more information on the GO TEXAN Rural Community Program, visit www.gotexan.org .

CISD School Board Meeting
10/21/2008
The Coleman Independent Schools Board of Trustees met on Monday night in the administration building. All board members were present, as were Superintendent Royce Young, Curriculum Director Lorrie Payne, and all three principals - Richard Holloway, Paula Ringo, and Becky Jackson.

High school principal Richard Holloway gave a short report on the progress of the Vision 20-20 One-to-One grant for the laptop computers for high school students. He spoke of the meeting in Austin that was attended by several Coleman ISD faculty, administrators and school board members. Jody Payne, school board member, commented on the professionalism Coleman faculty and staff exhibited when they presented information to members of other school districts. Presentations by Dell and Mac will be attended by the high school faculty to help them decide which type of laptop to purchase. Mr. Holloway says the intended date of distribution of the laptops to CHS students is February 12, 2009.

A hearing was held on the FIRST Report (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas). Mr. Young reported that Coleman ISD received a rating of 78, which is a rating of "Superior". The "Passing" rating is 55, so he feels Coleman did quite well. This rated is based on 26 indicators which mostly have to do with the financial operations of the school district from the 2006-2007 school year.

Action items included board approval of the Drug Testing Policy, which Mr. Holloway explained as the board looked over the written policy, and the endorsing of a resolution agreeing with the Texas Association of Rural Schools on the core Principles of School Finance. The drug policy was described in detail and included information on the random choosing of students, baseline testing, and UIL's testing of performance enhancing drugs. The board approved this policy. The resolution approved by the board will be presented to the State Representatives in discussion of school finance laws. Mr. Young stated that the system is now less equitable than before for rural school districts. He said that if something isn't changed, "We at CISD will have to make tough decisions on what our focus will be in the future." The CISD School Board unanimously approved the endorsement of this resolution.

Other items of discussion were the TASB/TASA Joint Annual Convention, the 2008 TASB Fall Legal Seminar in November, an abandoned property near the school campus that the school may obtain, the new telephone system purchased through the E-rate Grant, the new school bus recently purchased, and hand rails that will be placed in the Varsity Gym.

The ARK Observes National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
10/21/2008
This year marks the 21st commemoration of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (NDVAM. The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter has several important Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) events scheduled for the next two weeks, which will serve to bring awareness to the seriousness and prevalence of domestic violence. Among the activities planned are the Empty Shoes Displays to commemorate the reported domestic violence homicide victims in Brown, Coleman and Comanche counties in the last ten years.  Beside each "empty shoe" is information about the 7 women and 1 child who died. Visitors may obtain a purple ribbon to wear to raise awareness of domestic violence and brochures on The ARK's services that include information on domestic violence. The dates and locations of these displays are as follows: October 20-22, Brown County Courthouse; October 20-23, Coleman County Courthouse; October 27-29, Comanche Police Dept.; and October 29th, TSTC West Texas. 

There will also be a DVAM Balloon Release Memorial Ceremony to raise awareness of domestic violence-October 28 at 6:00 pm on the southwest corner of the Traffic-T. The public is invited to attend and participate and we encourage all DV victims’ families, survivors of DV and those who support the cause of ending domestic violence to attend, as well. For additional information on The ARK/DVAM efforts please call 325-643-2699.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity for communities to break the silence that surrounds issues of this violent crime. Providing education and raising awareness are key components to cultivating support for survivors in our community.

We encourage everyone to wear or display a purple ribbon to raise awareness about domestic violence. In addition to the demonstration of support for victims, survivors and advocates; the display of purple ribbons throughout a community conveys a powerful message that there is no place for domestic violence in the homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, or schools of its citizens.

Domestic violence is a serious, widespread social problem. Seventy-four percent of all Texans have either themselves, a family member and/or a friend experienced some form of domestic violence. Eighty percent of all Texans believe it is never appropriate to remain in an abusive relationship. However, research has shown that women face a seventy-five percent increase in being killed during the time that they leave their abuser. This demonstrates that Texas needs more information on domestic violence. The reported incidents of domestic violence in 2006 by county were: Brown County – 277 incidents, Coleman County – 40 incidents and Comanche County – 82 incidents. There were eight deaths recorded as domestic violence in the tri-county area in the last ten years.  In fiscal year 07-08, The ARK served 77 Adult and 102 Child Residents for a total of 2702 Shelter Days. For the same fiscal year we served 151 Adult and 101 Child Non-Resident for a total of 682 days served. That is an average of 15 Resident and 21 Non-Resident per month for a total average of 36 clients served per month. We also had 3094 information calls and 1657 Crisis calls.

We would like to remind our communities that they must speak out in a unified voice to combat domestic violence. We would like to challenge all people in the community to support The ARK and partner organizations that provide many programs and support services to victims and families in crisis.

If you or someone you know needs assistance due to domestic violence, contact The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter on the 24 Hour Crisis Line at 325-643-2699 (local) or 1-888-313-2699 (Toll Free).

COME PLAY BINGO
10/21/2008
At the Panther Creek Fall Festival on Saturday, October 25, 2008!   Bingo will begin at 8:00p.m. There will be hourly prizes ranging from iPod shuffles, digital cameras, DVD players, flat screen TV’s, and SO MUCH MORE!! We hope to see you there!  THE PANTHER CREEK SENIOR CLASS OF 2009

Coleman County Youth Activity Center News
10/21/2008 Submitted by Sarah Beal
Donations: David Stewart/ GE Appliance Division- refrigerator
Honorariums:
In honor of Henry Dodson by Bob & Ann Turner
Memorials:
In memory of John “DeDe” Rhone by Trisha (Puckett) & Lynn Owens, Paul & Billie Puckett, Janet Barker, Ben & Debbie Scott, Thad & Shirley Sansing
In memory of Johnny Baugh by Bob & Ann Turner, Michael, Synda & Colton Smith, Joseph & Janet Johnson, Steve & Sarah Beal, Jay & Tammy Davis, Ben & Debbie Scott, John & Dorcia Holtz, Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham/Coleman Veterinary Clinic
In memory of Eugene (Chubby) Brooks by David & Billie Jean Wright
In memory of Don E. Starnes by Bob & Ann Turner, Joseph & Janet Johnson, Winifred Byrd, Jim & Margie Eaton
In memory of Luther McCrary by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Manuel Gutierrez by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Richard L. Vaughn by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of William “Bill” Stephenson by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of James Oscar Koenig by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Debbie Walthall Gates by Bob & Ann Turner, John & Dorcia Holtz
In memory of Lucy Whittington by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Arthur Doose, Jr. by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Johnson by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of Curtis E. Martin by Bob & Ann Turner
In memory of David Flynn by James C. Stokes/Bowen Drug Store, Jay & Tammy Davis, Ben & Debbie Scott
In memory of Barbara Strickland by James C. Stokes/Bowen Drug Store, Jay & Tammy Davis, Mr. & Mrs. Sumter Weatherred, Thad & Shirley Sansing
In memory of Fred Watson by James C. Stokes/Bowen Drug Store,
In memory of Odie Griffith by James C. Stokes/Bowen Drug Store, Ben & Debbie Scott
In memory of Hurshell Dunn by Linda, Wesley & Denise Dority
In memory of Leonard Johnson by Jay & Tammy Davis, Hank & Darla Wise
In memory of Dana Rideout by Henry & Margie Dodson, Lynn & Patricia Owens, Phil & Judy Chambers, Ben & Debbie Scott, Bill & Ginger Sneed
In memory of Brandon Dillard by Steve & Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Lynn & Patricia Owens
In memory of Cliff Horn by Lynn & Patricia Owens
In memory of Gerry Meador by Coleman High School Class of 1946
In memory of Macey Watson Casey by Mr. & Mrs. Sumter Weatherred
In memory of Gene Tongate by Bill & Ginger Sneed
In memory of Rankin McIver by Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham/Coleman Veterinary Clinic
In memory of Winnie Jones by Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham/Coleman Veterinary Clinic
In memory of Inus Underwood by Dr. & Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. & Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn & James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham/Coleman Veterinary Clinic

The Coleman County Youth Activity Center has been a busy place with the following events being held there: Sesquicentennial Heroes Day Events, Fiesta de la Paloma with an antique tractor pull, lawn mower pull and races, car show, cook-off and team roping, Coleman County Farm Bureau Convention, wedding receptions, class reunions, 4-H meetings, county lamb and goat validation, Dove Festival, Wildlife Committee meeting, CCYAC board meetings and a Sanctioned Lamb and Goat show and Motorcycle Rally to be held this coming weekend. To book the facilities for your event, call the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce at 325-625-2163. Check out our web-site at www.ccyac.org  for more information and pictures of the facilities.

Coleman County Youth Activity Center is a non-profit organization that depends on the rental fees of the facilities and donations. Funds are needed to pay off the “Expo Center” note and for utilities, insurance and maintenance. A “Donor Wall” for those donating $1000 and more will be put in place inside the front door of the Expo Center very soon. Donations and memorials can be sent to Coleman County Youth Activity Center, P O Box 766 or to Patricia Owens at First Coleman National Bank, P O Box 552, Coleman, TX 76834. Donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated.

Pasta Primavera Open !
10/21/2008
Community leaders were invited to try Coleman's newest restaurant Monday night.  Pasta Primavera will open for business today for lunch.  Their menu consists of wonderful Italian food, Shrimp, Salmon, Steaks as well as a Pizzeria.  Their hours of business are Sunday 10:30am till 9:00pm,  Tues - Thurs 10:30am till 9:00pm, and Friday and Saturday 10:30am till 10:00pm

Exit Level TAKS Testing This Week
10/21/2008
The high schools of Texas, including Coleman High School, will be administering the TAKS tests to some students this week.  Today the Math Exit Level ELA Retest is being given.  Wednesday the Math Exit Level Test for only those students needing to retest will be given, and on Thursday, the Science Exit Level Retest will be administered.   For the entire TAKS testing schedule CLICK HERE.

Man killed by train in Abilene Identified, Services Set
By Doug Myers  (Updated 01:22 p.m., October 20, 2008)
                         (Courtesy of Abilene Reporter News)
A man killed when he was struck from behind by a train near the intersection of South 1st Street and Treadaway Boulevard on Saturday has been identified as 30-year-old Edward Rose of Talpa. Talpa is located in Coleman County about 60 miles south of Abilene and 15 miles east of Ballinger.  “He (Rose) was walking east on the tracks when the eastbound train struck him,” Assistant Police Chief Stan Standridge said this morning. “The engineer indicated Mr. Rose made no response to the train’s whistles — perhaps due to earphones.”  Standridge said Rose is “reported to always wear earphones.”  The man was walking east along the railroad tracks as the eastbound train approached about 6:30 p.m.

The fatality is the second involving a train this year and sixth since 2006 in Abilene.  About 16 trains pass through Abilene daily at a speed of up to 70 miles per hour, according to Reporter-News files.

Visitation is set for 6-7:00pm Tuesday at Walker Funeral Home in Coleman. Services for Rose will be at 11am Wednesday at Glen Cove Cemetery Pavilion in Coleman. 

Details of the service can be found on the following link:
 http://www.colemannews.com/Obituaries.htm 

Humane Society - Halloween
10/20/2008
Get ready to get that doggie (or whatever other pet you may have) all dressed up for Halloween! The Humane Society is sponsoring a Halloween Costume Contest for all the pets and their owners on Friday, October 31. The contest is being held in cooperation with the Coleman Business Peoples Association downtown trick or treat event between 4 and 6pm that same day. Prizes will be awarded for the Best Costume for a pet and for Best Costume for Pet with Owner. All participants will receive gifts and treats. Come by the gazebo at Pecan and Commercial to sign up for the contest. We’ll be there starting at 3:30, and we’ll take your picture too!

TOWN AND COUNTRY GARDEN CLUB FLOWER SHOW RESULTS
10/20/2008
The Miller Building was filled with sights and sounds of a celebration on Saturday, October 4, during the Garden Club’s salute to Coleman County’s Sesquicentennial and Fiesta de la Paloma. The theme “Westward the Women” was depicted in six classes of design and seven classes of horticulture, all named for pioneer women who played a vital role in Coleman County, circa 1858. It was especially rewarding to have such an enthusiastic crowd of visitors who came not only from Coleman County, but also surrounding areas, and as far away as the Metroplex. Show co-chairmen Jane Padgitt and Nan Markland express their sincere thanks 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.

The show was judged by a panel of National Garden Club accredited judges according to the “Standard System of Awarding”, and resulted in awards as follows:
Design Division
Class 1 “Martha Pinchem Morris”, design to have a show of water: 1st – Alice Hemphill; 2nd –Eileen Morris; 3rd – Becky Greaves; Honorable Mention – Sher Dunaway.
Class 2 “Mabel Doss Day, Cattle Queen of the Fence Cutting Wars”: 1st – Eileen Morris; 2nd – Jane Padgitt; 3rd –Sher Dunaway; Honorable Mention – Sue Shields.
Class 3 “Elizabeth St. Clair”, wreath suitable for farm/ranch gate: 1st – Alice Hemphill; 2nd – Pat Pool; 3rd –Sher Dunaway; Honorable Mention – Danella McBrayer.
Class 4 “Margaret Sheen Callan, The Bride”, a miniature design, all fresh plant material: 1st – Jane Padgitt; 2nd – Sher Dunaway; 3rd – Karen Renick; Honorable Mention – Eileen Morris.
Class 5 “Florence Wise Vane, hotelier”, a miniature design, fresh and/or dried plant material: 1st –Eileen Morris; 2nd – Caroline Skelton; 3rd – Janie Popnoe; Honorable Mention – Sue Shields.
Class 6 “Indian Women of Central Texas”, a miniature design, all dried plant material: 1st – Alice Hemphill; 2nd – Carol Scott; 3rd – Sue Brusenhan; Honorable Mention – Nancy Baker.

Horticulture Division
Exhibitors’ total points earned in Horticulture Sections 1 thru 7 are Eileen Morris (65), Carol Scott (50, Mona Wilson (41), Myrtie Beaver (40), Karen Renick (33), Caroline Skelton (20), and Alice Hemphill (11).

Special Awards
Designers Choice Award (offered for Classes 1, 2, and 3): Eileen Morris
Petite Award (offered for Classes 4, 5, and 6): Jane Padgitt
Horticulture Excellence: Caroline Skelton (maidenhair fern)
Arboreal Award: Eileen Morris (Japanese bitter orange)
Horticulture Awards of Merit: Annuals – Carol Scott (cosmos); Perennials – Karen Renick (wood fern); Vines – Myrtie Beaver (English ivy); Cactus – Eileen Morris (barrel cactus); Containers – Myrtie Beaver (arrowhead plant)
Sweepstakes Award (exhibitor earning largest number of points): Eileen Morris

Educational Exhibits received special recognition from the judges: Sher Dunaway’s exhibit “Early Day Grasses and Forbs” was beautifully displayed on a large poster; and Jane Padgitt’s three exhibits, “Coleman County Cure-Alls”, “Historic, Archaic, Obsolete, Humorous Phrases and Words”, and “Mabel Day’s Letter” describing flora, fauna and neighbors on her ranch, circa 1879”.

Mayor Proclamation - This is Chamber of Commerce Week!
10/20/2008
Mayor Nick Poldrack has declared the week of October 20-24th as Chamber of Commerce Week in the City of Coleman and Coleman County.  Read the full proclamation by clicking HERE!

Coleman Medical Associates, P.A. Offering LAST Flu Vaccination Clinic
10/20/2008
Coleman Medical Associates will be offering flu vaccines…
Wednesday, October 22nd from 12:00-1:00 pm
Registration will not begin until 12:00pm
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 12:00 pm Monday).

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.

JO BECK, DEMO FOR FALCC
10/20/2008
Jo Beck, Clifton, Texas artist, “performed” for the Fine Arts League of Coleman County Thursday evening, October 16, 2008, at the First Coleman National Bank Club room (Thanks to the bank for their allowing the League to use the Club room each month).   Jo gave new insight to creativity with her examples of how to “make art” in a different way- from texturing to stamping, and “paper doll cut-outs”, etc. She exhibited several of her paintings using different media on various surfaces. It was great fun. Jo is an artist with a style and personality to match her work.   Jo plans to come back in the Spring and teach a workshop at Heritage Hall. Contact Kay Mitchell for more information.

After the demonstration, refreshments with a Halloween theme , prepared by Tammy Jo Turner were served. Theda Rhea, Vice-President conducted the business session. Officers for 2009 were nominated and elected and will be installed at the December meeting. PRESIDENT: Sherrell Hazlewood, VICE-PRESIDENT: Virginia Bethke; SECRETARY: Robin Black, TREASURER: Dollie Sparkman; PARLIAMENTARIAN: Linda Wright; TELEPHONE: Theda Rhea; PUBLICITY: Marian Johnson.

The Mini-Christmas Tree competition was discussed and information will be announced soon. A Kid’s Art Day is early next year. Contact Robin Black, Community Projects, chair.  The “A Taste of History” Cook book fund-raiser was reported as a great success. Chaired by Lois McCarty, the books were created, ordered and sold with a positive result. Thanks to all who sold and bought this keepsake of the 150th birthday of our County.  Members attending in addition to those mentioned above were: Ted & Martha Shelton (Brownwood); Sharon Dick (Bangs); Charlotte Gardner; Danna Dawson, Bill Shields; Kay Mitchell; guests :Marcie Nickolas (Shelton’s daughter); Bill Beck (Jo’s hustand), Sylvia Herring (Santa Anna); new member Karen Burnett.
The November meeting will be on Thursday 20th.

Legacy Outfitters Meeting
10/20/2008
Our next Legacy Outfitters Meeting will be one you don't want to miss!!  Oct. 20 at Early Lions Club Building at 6:30  Tommy Faught, past Texas Parks and Wildlife "World Champion Deer Caller" will be giving a rattling and calling demonstration.  All who come will receive a bottle of deer hunting scent, and other door prizes like rattling horns and grunt calls will be given away!   Make plans to attend.

Santa Anna City Council Meeting TODAY
10/20/2008
According to a news release from the City of Santa Anna, the City Council meeting, scheduled for Monday, October 13th, was postponed until TODAY, Monday, October 20th. The location will be City Hall at 709 Wallis Avenue.

CJHS "It Pays to be Present"
10/17/2008
Winner of the “It Pays To Be Present” drawing this past week at Coleman Junior High School is 7th grader Jayce Simmons. A drawing for $25.00 is held each six weeks period. To be eligible for the drawing, a student must not miss a single day of school during this period. The $25.00 is provided by the Student Council at Coleman Junior High School. A grand prize drawing for $100.00 is held at the end of the school year. This amount is also provided by the student council.

CJH Students of the Month
10/17/2008
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for September.
Students of the month are:
  Shelbi Greaves - 6th grade girl
  Nathan Taylor - 6th grade boy
  Shaila Bishop - 7th grade girl
  Jayce Simmons - 7th grade boy
  Courtney Brown - 8th grade girl
  Dusty Henderson - 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.

Tax Freeze Initiative in the Upcoming Election
10/16/2008
Residents of the county are wanting to understand the tax freeze initiative on the ballot for November 4th. This initiative would essentially freeze the taxes of those over 65 or disabled. The topic is a little more complicated than that, however.

First of all, this "freeze" would apply only to Homestead exemptions of persons older than 65 years of age and disabled persons. These eligible properties account for 1,142 of the 16,883 taxable properties in the county - about 6.8% of the properties. They are about 41% of the Homesteaded taxable properties. Also, this applies only to the Coleman County "General" and "Road and Bridge" taxes on Homesteads, not to mineral, personal property, or land taxes.

If the initiative passes, the eligible persons would have a "tax ceiling" created. The amount of taxes paid for next year would be the maximum amount those persons could be assessed in future years. One change that may affect this "ceiling" is an addition built onto the existing home. This portion of the house would be taxable at the current rate and would establish a new "ceiling." A second change that could affect the tax assessed is if the county LOWERS the tax rate. The tax could then be lower than the established "ceiling." Then if the tax rate is raised again in subsequent years, the tax could go up, but NOT above the established maximum tax ceiling.

The county presently has a local 10% exemption rate on both the general and road taxes, totaling a 20% county-assessed exemption rate, with a minimum of $5,000. The present state tax law also adds $3,000 to the 20% amount. If the new tax law passes, then individuals' tax exemptions would be decided by the county officials. If the county decides to keep the local exemptions, the $3,000 would NOT be added. If the county chooses to lower these percents, the $3,000 would still not apply. The county could, however, allow the $3,000 state exemption and have no added local exemptions.

What this comes down to is - - the county officials will know that if the county's budget increases, additional monies would need to be obtained somewhere. Taxes could be raised for the other 93.2% of the taxable properties OR the tax rates for the mineral, personal property, and land taxes could be raised. An immediate option is - - the county could actually lower or remove the local exemptions and allow only the $3,000 state exemption for next year, assessing more taxes next year, and thereby establishing a "tax ceiling" higher than what qualified individuals are paying this year.

All in all, it's a complicated issue. Please understand this initiative before you vote in this election, whether voting early or on November 4th.

Stake Driving Ceremony
10/16/2008   (contributed)
A small group gathered under tents (which is quite appropriate) during the rain (Monday) for the stake driving ceremony at The Cross. Thus joining a movement held in every county in Texas, which includes 254 counties, sometime between sundown Oct. 13 to sundown Oct. 14.
Based on the Holy Scripture Isaiah 54:2
“Enlarge the place of your tent,
And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings;
Do not spare;
Lengthen your cords,
And strengthen your stakes.”
Leading the ceremony was Barry Wilson and James Allen. Staking out this land as “God’s Country”. The purpose of this ceremony is for claiming Coleman County Texas to the glory of God and declares God’s ownership to our land.  Anyone wishing to join these two men in prayer for our country, please call: James Allen at 325-214-0292 or Barry Wilson 325-625-1002

4-H Poinsettia Orders Being Taken
10/16/2008
Coleman 4-H is selling Poinsettias for a fund raiser. If anyone would like to purchase any - call (325)625-4519 and place an order by the end of the month.

Agenda for CISD School Board Meeting Monday
10/16/2008
DATE: Monday, October 20, 2008
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office, 300 West Pecan
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
HEARING:
1. Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) Report
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Consider Approving Drug Testing Policy
2. Consider Endorsing Resolution Agreeing with the Texas Association of Rural Schools on the Core Principles of School Finance
BOARD REPORT:
1. TASB/TASA Joint Annual Convention
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. 2008 TASB Fall Legal Seminar, November 20th, Abilene
2. Christmas Party
INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Check Payments
2. Abandoned Property
3. New Telephone System
4. New Bus
5. Varsity Gym Hand Rails

FFA Greenhand Camp
10/15/2008  (contributed)
First year members of the Coleman FFA participated in Greenhand Camp in Graham on September 23, 2008. Students learned leadership skills and more about the FFA association while meeting other members from across the area. Members that attended are Jonathan McPherson, Cameron Kubala, Trey Blake, Billy Faries, Tyler Johnson, Logan Owens, Cody Cogdill, Gabby Roberts, Troy Hubbard, Peyton Cody and Marcus Hurtado, Laney Fulbright, Rayla Rice, Jennifer Wright, Austin Hubbard, Taylor Baum, Chanie Barker, Cheyenne Gammage, Laiken Barnett and Reagan Barr who assisted with the camp as the Big Country District Vice-President.

The 2008-2009 National Junior Honor Society officers were recently elected. They are Charlie Thomas, President, Sarah Casselberry, Secretary, Miranda Brooks, Vice-President, Courtney Brown, Historian. Congratulations to the new NJHS officers.

To the taxpayers of Panther Creek Consolidated Independent School District,
10/16/2008  (contributed)
As many of you have seen in your recent tax statements Panther Creek CISD will be holding a tax ratification election (TRE). This election will determine the tax rate for the 08-09 school year. Below are some facts concerning the upcoming TRE and Panther Creek CISD:
- This is NOT a tax hike. The tax rate for Panther Creek CISD was $1.50 in 05-06. It was $1.37 in 06-07. Last year the rate was again lowered. We were able to set the rate at $1.17 due to the disaster declaration in Coleman County. A passed TRE will keep the rate the same. The only way it could ever go higher is if a bond were to be passed.
- The only three ways that a school can generate money is through the passing of a bond, increased enrollment, or through an increase in taxes.
- Panther Creek is one of 109 school districts in the state holding a tax ratification election.* These districts range in size from small, rural PK-8 districts to large, urban 5-A districts.
- There were 15 tax ratification elections held in 2006 and another 120 in 2007.*
- Voting FOR ratifies the adopted tax rate of $1.17. Voting AGAINST rolls back the tax rate to $1.04. Please see sample ballot.
- Following the election on Nov. 4th, new tax notices will be sent out as soon as possible. Taxpayers will still be eligible for a 2% reduction if paid in November and 1% reduction if paid in December. Half payments can be paid in November.
- Panther Creek CISD is a Recognized District with both campuses Recognized by the Texas Education Agency.
- Panther Creek CISD received a Superior rating on the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas.

If you have any questions about this election, please call (325)357-4449 or come by. I would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Dwin Nanny, Superintendent
Panther Creek CISD

Texas Gardening 101
10/15/2008  By Ernie Yates
If you got your fall garden in before the recent rains it should be flourishing by now. Most of the vegetables we plant in the fall are of the leafy or bulb variety. Generally most of these vegetables are either eaten fresh or frozen for later. Some are canned such as beets and sweet peas. Many of us in the older generation know how to can and freeze vegetables and even some meats and fish. We older Americans came from a generation where these practices were commonplace and usually essential if the family was to have the variety of foods necessary for good health. Regrettably many of our younger adults have no knowledge of canning or freezing or for that matter how to grow fresh vegetables. As time goes on this lost knowledge could become a problem.

Some time ago I commented that growing gardens was not something that would result in saving money but was usually done for personal enjoyment and quality of the produce that was grown. With the economic downturn, increases in food prices and quality questions, this may no longer be the case. Recently on a radio program there was a discussion of the changes that may be needed in our society if food prices continue to rise. The commentator pointed out that society may need to go back to the old ways of growing and canning much of our own food. While this is not usually practical in large cities, city folks without space for a garden can take advantage of the seasonal fruits and vegetables to stock their pantries with everything from jellies to green beans. The commentator also said that single parent households have a difficult time finding time to preserve vegetables even if they had the skill to do so. I recently polled some folks mostly over 50 years of age at a meeting and over 80% knew how to can and freeze vegetables and fresh fruit. These same folks estimated that less than 10% of young people under 40 would know how to perform these practices. While this is not a scientific poll I would hope it is not accurate but it is probably not far from the real numbers.

So what can we do to help encourage more young people to get involved in gardening and preserving fresh fruits and vegetables? If we have children and grandchildren we can involve them in the process. When the young people are home, look for an opportunity to let them help can some vegetables or make some jelly. Even if everything is out of season go buy a can of frozen orange juice or fresh oranges and make some marmalade or orange jelly. It also makes for great kitchen talk and a great rainy day activity. Give your adult children brochures available at the County Extension Offices on canning and preserving along with a jar or two of things you have preserved. Once they see the quality of “home grown” they may get involved. Young children love to see things grow. Let them help plant something in the garden or in the house. Give them some flower seeds to plant and encourage educators to include gardening in their curriculum. Programs like Junior Master Gardeners are provided for educators to take advantage of in their class planning. There is a sense of pride we feel when we can eat something we grew, “put up” and shared with others. If you have gotten out of the habit of preserving foods, now might be a good time to get started again.

Now is a good time of year to get cuttings for propagation. I find that winter is a great time to use the “gallon bag” technique I wrote about several weeks ago. Roses, citrus and other evergreen plants do particularly well in the house through the winter months. You also want to begin moving your plants inside that are not winter hardy. Be sure to check for pests like aphids, scale mites, and mealy bugs. Treat them before you bring them inside with oil or soap spray. Make sure your Christmas cactus gets at least 12 hours of darkness each day for six to eight weeks if you want the best blooms. This is also a good time to transplant evergreens but don’t wait until it freezes as the plants need a few weeks to get established. Be sure to water them good and don’t forget that your trees and shrubs need a good watering going into the fall. We sometimes forget our watering responsibilities with the cool weather.

It is still not too late to plant some fall vegetables. Spinach and various other greens will still do well. If you have had trouble with getting spinach to germinate try this trick. Put the seeds in a small bowl and cover with water and place in the refrigerator overnight. Plant the seeds the next day. It tricks the seeds into thinking it is cool and time to grow. You can also obtain seedlings for many fall vegetables which is a good choice at this time.

In the new master gardener calendar it lists many helpful gardening hints. On the October 2009 page it suggest adding some oil to a pail of sand and place your garden tools in it. It will keep them head up and prevent them from rusting. This can be helpful as we enter winter and our tools are in the shed for an extended period. You can get your copy of the new calendar for $5.00 at the Coleman County Extension Office in the Courthouse and also the Coleman Chronicle & DV office. Send your comments or questions to this paper or edyfish@centex.net.

***A slow soaking rain fell in the Santa Anna area Monday night. On the Tex Wright Plantation, a total of 1.1 inches fell.  Add- 2/10 inch of rain for Tuesday night.
Total of 1.3 for the session.
***.80 inch 5 mi. SW of Santa Anna.
***At 209 W 4th we had 3/4 inch of rain.

Fall Plans for the Coleman  Business People
10/14/2008
Big plans are in store for the fall season in Coleman.
1.  "Happy Harvest" - The CBP will host this downtown "trick-or-treat" event on Halloween evening again, from 4:00-6:00pm. Businesses are asked to let the Chamber know if you are participating, to be placed on a map to be printed for parents.
2.  Hunter's BBQ and the Gun & Knife Show - October 31st is the date for the BBQ, and the G & K Show will be held at Heritage Hall on October 31st and November 1st.
3. Fall Decorating Contest - Residents are asked to enter their homes before November 14th and judging will take place on November 21st. More information on entering will be announced later. Judging will be based on the "view from the street."

CCCWB Raffle Winner Announced
10/15/2008
The Coleman County Child Welfare Board held a raffle on the day of the Fiesta, Oct. 4, 2008, and the lucky winner was Bonnie Brown. She won a $25.00 gift certificate from Big O's in Valera, TX.  The CCCWB thanks everyone who bought tickets. The money goes toward helping foster parents who are housing Coleman County children.

CHS Class of 1977, 1978 and 1979 Share 30th Class Reunion This Weekend!
10/15/2008
All ex-classmates of the Class of ' 77, ' 78, and ' 79 are personally invited to a 30th class reunion this weekend.

The class reunion begins this Friday night when the mighty Coleman Bluecats face the Bangs Dragons in Bangs, Texas. Following the game, a "get together" will be held at the home of Sherman and Tammy (Baugh) Smith. The remainder of the reunion will be held at the Bill Franklin Center located at the rodeo grounds. On Saturday, a noon meal will be served. Local classmates are asked to bring some type of dessert. The afternoon will include visiting and catching up. Ralph Terry is scheduled to take group photos at 5:00. Mr. Terry will also be taking candid shots throughout the afternoon. An evening meal will be served around 6:00. The band, "DoubleShot" will begin playing at 8:00 p.m. and end at 1:00 a.m.

We encourage everyone from the three CHS classes to plan on attending this special class reunion. All former teachers are also invited to attend and share a meal with their former students. Also, if you are from another class and would like to come and see some "old" friends, our door is open to you.

We hope to see all of you at the CHS 30th Class Reunion this weekend!

For more info, you may contact Henry Villanueva at hvill5927@msn.com or 432- 853-9478, or Debbie Jameson at debjameson@yahoo.com, or 325-625-1040.

P.C. Youngsters Visit Coleman Fire Department
10/15/2008  (contributed)
Panther Creek’s Pre-Kindergarten through 2nd grades visited the Coleman Fire Department on Wednesday, October 8th. The firemen gave a wonderful presentation for the students. Some of the highlights of the presentation were the Firepup, the thermal imaging machine, and smoke detector use. Fire Safety rules were reinforced by the firemen, who dressed in full gear, and showed the different types of equipment on the fire truck. Our Coleman Firemen went above and beyond the call of duty once again with an exciting and memorable field trip! Thanks again for a wonderful time.

4-H Horse Club Meeting
10/15/2008
There will be a 4-H Horse Club meeting on Saturday, October 18, 2008, at 5:00 p.m. at the home of Weda Pyburn. Participants are asked to bring your horse. Weather permitting, we will be going on a trail ride. Afterwards, there will be a hamburger supper.

All interested youth and adults are welcome to attend. If you need directions or have any questions you can contact the Co. Extension Office 625-4519.

Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department Organizing
10/14/2008
All residents of Glen Cove and the surrounding area and all interested parties are invited to a preliminary organization meeting at the Glen Cove Baptist Church at 5:00pm on Saturday, October 18. Sandwiches and snacks will be served. A representative from the Texas Forest Service and area volunteer fire departments will be there to give an overview and answer questions regarding the possible formation of a volunteer fire department at Glen Cove. Glen Cove is located 15 miles west of Coleman on Highway 153 and FM 2805.

The Villeda family has opened a second Hidalgo's Cafe in Coleman, Texas.  The Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony took place Tuesday morning.   Amy Hinds, Kim Horne, Armando and Irma Villeda (owners) their son Christian, Jose Jimenez, Dora Padilla, Josephine Galvan, Edith Rodarte, Nina Childress, and Mary Griffis (Director of the Chamber). Hidalgo's 2 is located on the Hwy 84 Bypass.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Parish Festival
10/14/2008
The Sacred Heart Parish will be holding its annual Festival on Sunday, October 19, 2008. A meal will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. consisting of Beef Brisket (Cooked Mexican Home-style) Spanish Rice, beans, salad and flour tortillas, including drinks and dessert for $7.00 for adults and $4.00 for a child’s plate, take out’s will be available. A concession stand will be open from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and will be serving Grilled burgers, cold drinks and candy.

Other events of the day will include: Games for all ages, Bingo, Country Store, Silent Auction, Cake Walk, and Horseshoe Tournament.

A raffle will also be held with prizes to include:
1st – 42” High Definition Flat Panel TV
2nd – 1/3 of a side of Beef
3rd - DVD/VCR Combo Player

Tickets prices are $5.00 per ticket or 5 tickets for $20.00; you need not be present to win. Tickets can be purchased the day of the festival or from church members.   We would like to invite the whole community out on Sunday, October 19, 2008 for a fun-filled day and a great meal.

CHS ALL A HONOR ROLL 1ST SIX WEEKS
10/15/2008
9TH GRADE
Landon Brown
Reid Needham

10th GRADE
Lisa Dees
Ross Jackson
Kelby McCorkle
Erin Strickland

11TH GRADE
Reagan Barr
Gary Heath
Kelsey Puckett
Slade Stevenson
Casie Swening

12TH GRADE
Lacey Bouldin
Tara Brixey
Colton Buzzard
Audrey Casselberry
Kenna Cornelius
Sonya Cruz
Shelbie DeLeon
Glen Edington
Reece Halfmann
Nicole Heath
Cole Hubbard
Meagan Ogden
Cheyenne Turner
Caleb Walker

Bluecat and Mountaineer Bands at UIL Saturday, October 18
10/14/2008
On Saturday, October 11th, the Coleman High School Bluecat Band marched in the San Angelo Marching Festival. They received a Division One for their performance. Directors for the Bluecat Band are Jerry Everett and Liz Braquet. Drum Major for this year’s band is Junior Angelina Jones. The band’s show features music from Chicago; Make Me Smile, Saturday in the Park, and 25 or 6 to 4.

The Coleman Bluecat and Santa Anna Mountaineer Bands will compete this Saturday at the Region 7 - West Zone- UIL Marching Contest at Brady.

The Class "A" bands start the day. Santa Anna is band #6 to perform at 11:15am.

The Class "AA" bands play during the afternoon. Coleman is band #20 to perform at 3:40pm.

If you are unable to attend the contest KNEL radio in Brady is broadcasting the performances live on 95.3 KNEL-FM/1490 AM.  You may also listen live via the internet.  The website is www.knelradio.com; then click on “Click here to listen to high school football” and select “UIL.”

Click on the following link to see the schedule for the entire day.
UIL Marching Contest Schedule

Mistrial Declared in Yarbrough Trial
10/13/2008
A mistrial was declared in the punishment phase of Charles Yarbrough's trial. The jury was charged with deciding the punishment to be assessed to Charles Randal Yarbrough on his 2nd Degree felony conviction of "Reckless Injury to a Child." They went into the jury room at 10:55am this morning and came out at 3:45pm declaring the impossibility of coming to a unanimous decision. By the jury not being able to sentence Yarbrough, this means that a new trial for his punishment could take place. This would require all the evidence and testimony presented this past week to be re-presented to the new jury.

District Attorney Joe Lee Rose stated, "The jury had several tough decisions in this case." He said they would look at everything, talk to the judge and the defense lawyers, and decide on what step to take next and when. The defense lawyer, Mr. Robert McCool said, "We are obviously disappointed with the verdict and it is unfortunate when we can't come to a resolution in a trial. Trials take a toll on the client and his family." He said they would regroup and see what to do, but will be in discussions with the prosecution and judge.

Yarbrough Sentencing Phase Underway
10/13/2008
Today is a holiday for many, but not the jury deciding the sentencing for Charles Randal Yarbrough. The murder trial of Yarbrough resumed at 9:00 this morning in the Coleman County Courthouse.  Defense attorneys presented several character witnesses on behalf of Yarbrough, including family, former teachers, coaches and school administrators at Panther Creek where Yarbrough was a student.  Yarbrough himself also took the stand asking for probation.  The final witness for the defense was a retired probation officer for Taylor County. 

Prosecution admitted back into evidence all the evidence from the trial.  In closing statements, prosecutors Joe Lee Rose and Wes Mau pleaded with the jury to speak for Lacey Lynn Nichols and render a sentence that is just.  The jury went into deliberations at 10:55 this morning to decide Yarbrough's sentence.

Friday evening Yarbrough was found guilty of the lesser Capital Murder charge of reckless injury to a child in the death of Lacey Lynn Nichols on January 9, 2006 in Coleman, a 2nd Degree Felony. The second charge of Murder was declared a mistrial.

CHS Classes of 77-79 to Gather This Weekend
10/13/2008
You are invited to a 30th Class Reunion, which is being hosted by the CHS Class of 1978.  The reunion is scheduled for October 17th and 18th.  The Agenda for the weekend is available by clicking on the button below.  Hope you can make it!  For more info, contact Debbie Jameson (Class of 1979) at 625-1040.   

TEAM CADE PARTICIPATES IN WALK TO CURE DIABETES
10/13/2008
Team Cade, consisting of Needham family and friends, walked in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's annual Walk to Cure Diabetes. This year, we walked at the Dell Diamond in Austin (Round Rock), TX.

Cade Needham was diagnosed with type I, or juvenile diabetes in August of 2007 at age 4. He now knows that blood sugar checks and insulin injections are a part of our every day life. The reason we raise money for JDRF and participate in the Walk is to help with research to someday find a cure for this disease, where Cade won't have to do 'pokey' and 'stick' so many, many times every day.

The Walk to Cure Diabetes is held every year, in every state, in at least 20 cities per state. You can pick your spot to walk, anywhere you want. This year we had to work around an open football date, since Cade's big brother Reid participates in Friday night football activities. The Round Rock Express' mascot led the way as we wound through the parking lot. 3000 people and about 500 dogs followed the trail he blazed.

Along the way, cheerleaders from Austin area schools cheered us on, applauding and yelling, “Find a cure!” Volunteers would toss cold bottled water through the air. As we entered the baseball stadium for the end of the walk, we passed by reporters and news cameras, interviewing walkers about life with diabetes. We walked around the concourse to the finish line, and the kids spotted the playground! However, I'm proud to say that Cade walked the entire 2 miles, holding his cousins' hands. Coca cola donated bottled water, powerade, and soft drinks. Chipotle restaurant donated lunch. Everything you needed was right there, at no cost, and the weather was absolutely perfect!
We again want to thank everyone who donated to Team Cade's efforts this year. Family, friends, and even people we don't know helped us to meet our goal. We want to mention that we received two donations in memory of Bret Atchley of Midland. We walked for him, too. Our goal this year was to raise $3000. We turned in a grand total of $3413.50. That's $851.50 more than last year!!! Each year, our goal will go up, so be ready!
We want to give special recognition to Coleman Junior High. The Student Council at CJH dedicated the week of September 29-October 3 as Team Cade week. They had 4 days of activities that would also serve as fund raisers for JDRF. They sold mini pumpkins and had a pumpkin toss contest, had an art contest, had team contests to build a straw tower, had a mummy wrap contest, and a pass the hat day. They had lots of fun with it, but in four short days, these 6th, 7th, and 8th graders in our fine city raised a total of $523.50!! That says a lot for the young people in this community. Our hats go off to them. Thank you CJH, Student Council, and Sponsor Bridget Wakefield for a job very well done. You are the reason we met our goal.
Thank you, Coleman, for supporting us again in the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes. Until next year.............The Needhams

TEAM CADE consisted of Natalee Needham and Cade Needham,Dakota Cooke, Keri Cooke, Autum White, Kaylee Needham, Joshua Needham, Lori Needham, Judy Needham, Connie Watson, Andy Needham, Reid Needham, Jack Needham, Murry Williams, and Jim Needham

Kid's Day at the Museum Cancelled
10-13-2008
The "Kid's Day" at the Museum on Saturday, October 18th has been cancelled due to a lack of participation. Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society members encourage all the children in Coleman County to make a Christmas ornament on their own and bring it to the Museum by November 8th, we still plan to have a special "Children of Coleman County" Christmas tree exhibit during the special Sesquicentennial Christmas Exhibit during the month of December. The ornaments may be taken to the Museum on any Friday or Saturday from now until November 8th. For more information or questions you may contact Kathy Andrews at 625-2142.

Commissioner's Court to Meet Tuesday
10/13/2008
Coleman County Commissioners will meet at 9:00am Tuesday, October 14, to consider the following business:

* Elmer Nickel / Elmer's Appliance Repair to discuss bill for air-conditioner repair at the County Jail during the first part of the summer
* Publish quarterly condensed statement of accounts for the quarter ending September 30, 2008
* Discuss/approve bi-weekly and monthly payments for the 2008-2009 fiscal year
* Kay LeMay, County Treasurer, to discuss Retirement Plan Benefits for 2009
* Jamie Trammell, County Tax Assessor/Collector, to discuss purchase of a computer desk for her office
* County Clerk's yearly financial updates to the office of the Attorney General of invoices submitted and computerized
* District Clerk's yearly financial updates to the office of the Attorney General of invoices submitted and computerized
* Pay bills and adjourn

Coleman County Farm Bureau 2008 County Convention
10/13/2008
The annual meeting of the Coleman County Farm Bureau membership will be held Tuesday, October 14, 2008, and all members are encouraged to attend. A dinner will be served at 6:30pm at the Bill Franklin Center with a program and business meeting to follow. There is no charge to attend. There will be a dessert and salad contest.

This year’s guest speaker is the current President of Texas Farm Bureau, Kenneth Dierschke. Mr. Dierschke has been farming in Wall (Tom Green County) since 1974. He is committed to the important issues affecting agriculture today. It is important that we continue to take steps to improve the effectiveness of our organization in representing agriculture. Our role in this process includes adopting policies for the coming year. Please call the office if you have any questions (325)625-2361. Please join us at our county convention October 14th!

Coleman Farm Bureau Board Members:   Ben Taylor, Dick Jamison, Dan Sealy, Harold Phillips, Mike Calk, Wayne McClure, Andrew Young, Chris Jamison, Lyndon Key, Thomas Rutherford and Keith Phillips.

Coleman County Retired Teachers to Meet Thursday
10/13/2008
The Coleman County Retired Teachers will meet Thursday, October 16 at Hidalgos #2, or the new Hidalgos at 11:30. Please bring any books you might have for the children's book distribution. A Memorial Service for members, Eunice King and Hurschel Dunn will be given. The nominating committee for 2009 year will be presented. The program will be brought by Pastor Louise Strength.

All retired teachers are encouraged to come and be a part of the organization. If you are a retired school personnel, teacher, aide, bus driver, cafeteria worker, or just a person who is interested in the organization, we encourage you to join. For information call Virginia Jameson, president 325-357-4708,or Vicki Cardinas, local membership chairman at 325-625-7618.

Adult Flu Clinic in Novice
10/13/2008
Texas Department of State Health Services Adult Flu Clinic
Tuesday, October 14th
Time 9:30 – 1:30
Novice
Novice School
265 E Ward
If on Medicare or Medicaid please bring card. For more information or appointment please call 325/754-4945.

Coleman County Wind Farm Project Meeting to be Held
10/10/2008
There will be a community meeting at the Panther Creek school cafeteria at 1:00pm on Saturday, October 18th to discuss the possibility of a wind farm project in the southern Coleman county area. Any landowners interested in learning more about wind farms are welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Stephanie Jamison (325) 214-0373 or Chris Jamison (325) 636-7028 or (325) 625-4252.

Coleman Jr. High Students Fundraisers Planned
10/10/2008 (contributed)
The Coleman 7th and 8th grade students are trying to go to Washington D.C. in June 2009! We will be doing a variety of fundraisers. However, we would love the community's help in getting us there. The trip will cost each student $1000.00. We are going to need all the help that we can get. If anyone would like to donate to our trip please send a check or cash to the Coleman Junior High School. This is for a nonprofit organization called www.closeup.org  so donations are tax deductible. For more information, contact Coleman Junior High School.

Man Injured in Santa Anna Motorcycle Wreck
10/10/2008
A man, driving a motorcycle, crashed his cycle in Santa Anna Thursday evening.

According to Santa Anna Police, the man was not a local resident. He was traveling west on Highway 84 toward Coleman when he lost control on the curve near the Santa Anna Dairy Queen.

The man skidded across the road and struck a tree. He was flown by Air Evac helicopter to Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene and from there to a Lubbock hospital. Santa Anna police say the man had eaten in Santa Anna and was driving back to Coleman where he was staying in a hotel. 

Clyde Teen Killed in Callahan County Crash
10/10/2008
Kimberly Rae Ayers, 18, of Clyde, died in a two vehicle crash which happened at 11:25pm Thursday night on Highway 36, one mile west of U.S. 283 in Callahan County. The body was taken to Bailey Funeral Home in Clyde.

Ayers was driving west on Highway 36 when her vehicle apparently crossed the center stripe into the eastbound lane, striking a 2004 International truck-tractor head-on. Driver of the truck was John William Gorka, 43, of May, Texas. The crash was investigated by DPS Trooper Joel Timms of Baird.

Ribbon Cutting for Hidalgo's Newest Location
10/10/2008
There will be a ribbon cutting at 11:00am on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at the new Hidalgo's Cafe #2. The Cafe is located on the Hwy 84 Bypass near Best Western/Coleman Inn.
It is the old Shiloh Restaurant and China King Building. Everyone come and help us celebrate our newest business in Coleman.

Matthew 25 Plans Stake Driving Ceremony Monday
10/10/2008 (contributed)
A stake driving ceremony is to be held at The Cross (end of West Liveoak St) in Coleman Texas at 6:30pm on Oct. 13th.

This movement is to be held in every county in Texas, which includes 254 counties, sometime between sundown Oct. 13th to sundown Oct. 14th.

The purpose of this ceremony is for claiming Coleman County, Texas to the glory of God and declares God’s ownership to our land.

The public of all Coleman County is invited to come and take part or witness this event.

For more information contact: James Allen at 325-214-0292 or Barry Wilson 325-625-1002.

Jury Finds Charles Randal Yarbrough Guilty of Count One
Mistrial Declared on Second Count
10/10/2008
An eight woman, four man Coleman County jury found Charles Randal Yarbrough guilty Friday evening of the lesser Capital Murder charge of reckless injury to a child in the death of Lacey Lynn Nichols on January 9, 2006 in Coleman. This is a 2nd Degree Felony.  The second charge of Murder was declared a mistrial. Nichols died while in the foster care of Yarbrough.

After the verdict was read, Yarbrough showed no emotion, nor did his family. Yarbrough was not taken into custody by Coleman County Sheriff Wade Turner since he was not found guilty of intentionally causing injury to a child, the greater capital murder charge. The jury went into deliberations at 10:43am Friday morning and returned their verdict at 8:15pm, making it an 8 1/2 hour deliberation.

The sentencing portion of the trial will be held on Monday, October 13, 2008 in Coleman County District Court.  The trial lasted one week.

Citizen Voices Support for Stacey Mendoza
10/9/2008
Please vote to keep Stacey Mendoza as our County Clerk in the upcoming election.

Since her appointment to that position last year, Stacey has made great strides toward streamlining functions of the office; and, in less than one year, the results are already apparent.

Perhaps it is her background in the banking community, combined with natural leadership qualities, that has enabled her to move so decisively. She’s mastered legalities and implemented new technologies; and more changes are on the way. She and her staff have made it easier and less stressful for citizens and public officials to interact with the office of County Clerk .

It’s not often voters get a chance to “try out” a person in public office before electing her. We’ve had that chance and, in my opinion, the trial’s been successful. Stacey’s proven she has the desire to serve citizens of Coleman County and the competence to serve them well.

I’m going to vote for Stacey Mendoza , Republican, as County Clerk . I hope you will, too.
Nancy Emmert

Planning and Zoning Commission to Meet
10/9/2008
The City of Coleman Planning and Zoning Commission will meet at 9:00am Tuesday, October 14, in the Conference Room at Coleman City Hall.

* The Commission will consider a request from Carolyn Merriman to change the zoning from residential to commercial at 202 5th Avenue for the purpose of a bed and breakfast.

Testimony Ends at Noon on Thursday in Yarbrough Trial
10/9/2008
The final witness called by the defense team completed his testimony around 12:15pm. The day's witnesses included: Dr. John Plunkett of Minnesota, a paid consultant; a cousin of Charles Yarbrough's ex-wife; and Mr. George Isaac, a forensic dentist from El Paso, Texas. Dr. Plunkett's testimony was described in a previous story. Mr. Isaac's testimony was in reference to the methodology he uses in matching bite marks to dental models of individuals and his findings using the information provided to him in this case. Following his testimony and cross-examination by the prosecution, the defense then "rested" their case and the prosecution stated they would have no rebuttal witnesses to add. The judge then told the jury that they would see no more evidence or testimony.

The trial will continue on Friday morning with final arguments given by both the prosecution and defense; the jury will then go into deliberation of the charges against Charles Randal Yarbrough in the death of Lacey Lynn Nichols

Minnesota Doctor Testifies in Yarbrough Murder Trial
10/9/2008
The murder trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough, 24, of Coleman, continued Thursday morning in the Coleman County Courthouse. Yarbrough is accused of causing the death of Lacey Lynn Nichols, 15 months old, while she was under foster care at the Yarbrough home.

The defense attorney called Dr. John Plunkett of Minnesota, a former coroner, now a consultant. He testified as to his opinions, and disagreed with some of the reports on the case made by doctors and pathologists at Coleman County Medical Center and Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth. 

Dr. Plunkett also said the infant's injuries could have been caused by a "short fall", but it was rare for that to happen. Plunkett testified that, in his opinion, the injuries were not caused by shaking.

Dr. Plunkett agreed that the number of bruises on the infant was greater than normal for falls that typical 15 month-old babies have.

Judge John Weeks took a break in the trial at 10:25 to allow preparation of audio and video aides for the next phase of the trial.  Testimony had resumed at 10:50am.  A dentist was testifying as of 11:20am.

Yarbrough Trial - Wednesday Afternoon
10/8/2008
Lead Attorney Wes Mau, Assistant Attorney General from Austin, completed his questioning of Charles Randal Yarbrough Wednesday afternoon around 2:00pm.

The day's testimony by the defendant had included a discussion of his family ties in Coleman County, his education and work experience, and his present living circumstances. He was questioned about the process of having foster children placed in the home and the training necessary before that happens. There was testimony on the relationship between the foster siblings upon arrival to his home, and how that may have changed over time. Discussion of the weekend before, and the day of the injury to the infant, took most of Yarbrough's time on the stand. The defense had him give detailed descriptions of his memory of January 9, 2006, the day of the hospitalization of Lacey Lynn Nichols. Mr. Mau cross-examined Yarbrough questioning him on the discrepancies in his statements to different individuals regarding the events of that Monday, January 9th. Yarbrough reiterated his statement of not knowing what might have caused her head and brain injury.

The defense then called character witnesses from the Coleman community to the stand. These included a pastor from a local church, a cousin, and three friends and acquaintances. The attorneys then discussed that 12 more witnesses were to be called for this purpose. Since their testimony was to be similar to those already given, the prosecuting attorney agreed to consent that twelve more individuals would attest to his character. The final witness for the defense was unavailable on Wednesday, so the trial will continue on Thursday morning at 9:00am.

Day Three of the Coleman Capital Murder Trial - Morning Session
10/8/2008
On day three of the capital murder trial of Charles Yarbrough, the Texas Ranger that had previously testified was called back to the stand by the defendant's lawyer.  He was questioned about the evidence that was retrieved on January 9, 2006.  Then the Family Advocate in charge of the placement of the foster children in the Yarbrough's care was called to the stand.  He gave testimony as to the training Yarbrough and his wife received prior to having children placed in their home.  He also answered questions about his experiences with the family during the period of time between placement and the hospitalization of the infant.  The final witness of the morning was the defendant, Charles Randal Yarbrough.  His testimony began at 10:00am and he was still on the stand being cross-examined when the judge stopped the trial for lunch break.  Yarbrough will continue his testimony this afternoon.

State Rests Its Case in Coleman Murder Trail
Defense Calling Witnesses Today
10/8/2008
The Tuesday afternoon session of the capital murder trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough in Coleman began with the testimony of the Pediatric Neurologist that evaluated Lacey Lynn Nichols at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth. Nichols had been transferred from Coleman County Medical Center on January 9, 2006.  He discussed his report of the infant's neurological condition and answered questions regarding her symptoms and prognosis.

The second witness was a doctor from the same hospital that specializes in Critical Care of children. He discussed his Intensive Care evaluation of the infant and his diagnosis. The two pediatric doctors from Cook Children's Hospital agreed to "non-accidental trauma" causing death.  They testified Lacey had "no brain activity" upon arrival to their facility.  The defense questioned the second doctor's "causal" statement of her injuries.

The doctors were followed by a Texas Ranger that investigated the incident surrounding Lacey's injury and subsequent death. He was questioned about his findings and report.

A DPS officer was then questioned about an interview of Charles Yarbrough. The last witness on the stand was an ex-girlfriend of the defendant who testified about some statements he had made to her.

The State rested at 4:36pm on Tuesday. The defense witnesses began their testimony at 9:00am Wednesday.   Defendant Charles Yarbrough was on the witness stand as of 10:00am this morning.

Stew Supper Planned at Coleman FUMC
10/8/2008
The First United Methodist Church of Coleman at 500 W. Liveoak will have a Stew Supper on Friday, October 24, 2008, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Come visit with us before the Coleman-Brady football game.

The menu will consist of stew, cornbread, desserts and drinks. Cost of the meal is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 10 years old. The church also promises friendly fellowship, wonderful atmosphere and they will clean the kitchen when the meal is through.

Voting Equipment Test Scheduled
10/8/2008
According to Stacey Mendoza, Coleman County Clerk, a public testing of the County's voting equipment, for the November 4th General Election, will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, October 15th, in the County Clerk's Office.

Halloween Carnival at FUMC
10/7/2008
The weather is getting cooler and it's getting darker earlier at night. Fall is in the air and that means that it is getting closer to Halloween! And Halloween means costumes, candy and fun!

This year, have some fun with your children! You don't even have to wait for Halloween night todo it! Just get your calendar down off the wall and make a note on Saturday, October 25th, 2008.Put down "Halloween Carnival, First United Methodist Church of Coleman, 500 W. Liveoak, 6 pm to 8 pm, games, prizes, fun". Then hang it back up where you can see it clearly from every angle of the room.

The Youth of the First United Methodist Church of Coleman, 500 W. Liveoak, will host a Halloween Carnival on Saturday, October 25, 2008 from 6 pm to 8 pm in the fellowship hall. Games will include Bingo, Halloween Yahtzee, Basketball Shoot, Football Throw, Cookie/Cupcake Walk, Ping Pong Shootout, Frog Pond, Monster Mouth Golf, Milk Jug Toss, Cookie Decoration Station, Ring Toss and Guessing Games. Cost for the Carnival is 10 tickets for $1.00.

There will also be costume contests at 6:30 and 7:30 during the evening as well as contests for ages 4-10 and 11 & up.

Children don't have to be the only ones having fun this Halloween! Come and play with them and us on Saturday, October 25, at First United Methodist Church, Coleman.

City and Rural Rides Holds "1st Transit Bus Roadeo"
10/7/2008
City And Rural Rides held it’s 1st Transit Bus Roadeo on September 27, 2008, at the Coleman I.S.D. parking lot. There were 34 contestants from eleven surrounding counties competing in the Bus Roadeo competition. Drivers competed in driving skills course, preventive maintenance, wheelchair securement, and written examination. There was approximately 115 people in attendance.

1st place went to Felix Vitandi, a resident of Coleman, Texas. 2nd place went to Corkey Langford, from Ranger, Texas, and 3rd place went to Audrey Helm of Comanche, Texas.

The 3 top Winners will represent City And Rural Rides at the next Statewide Competition to be held in Dallas, Texas. City And Rural Rides is the Public Transportation provider for Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Comanche, Eastland, Erath, Nolan, Runnels, Rural Taylor, Shackelford, and Stephens counties. The agency employs 70 staff members and completed 227,225 one way trips from September of 2007 to August of 2008. C.A.R.R. is operated by Central Texas Rural Transit District.
1st place- Felix Vitandi, Coleman
2nd place- Carlton Langford, Eastland
3rd place- Audrey Helm, Comanche

Coleman Medical Associates, P.A. Offering Flu Vaccination Clinic
10/7/2008
Coleman Medical Associates will be offering flu vaccines…
**Monday, October 13th from 12:00-1:00 pm
Registration will not begin until 12:00pm

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 12:00 pm Monday).

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.

Murder Trail Update - Tuesday Morning
10/7/2008
Coleman Police and Tarrant County medical examiners shared the witness stand Tuesday morning in the capital murder trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough, 24,  of Coleman. Yarbrough is accused of causing the death of 15 month old Lacey Lynn Nichols on or about January 9, 2006. 

Testimony came from a Coleman police officer who obtained the first statement from Yarbrough and who clarified the accuracy of pictures of the Yarbrough home entered into evidence. A picture of a small toy was also entered into evidence.

The Coleman Police Chief testified as to how the search of the Yarbrough home was carried out on January 9, 2006.

A Coleman dentist verified teeth impression molds he took of six individuals, including family members of the defendant.  A Tarrant County Medical Examiner then presented a slide show depicting his analysis and evaluation of a bite mark found on the infant.

Another medical examiner, who witnessed the autopsy of the infant, gave his forensic report, discussed findings and declared the cause of death to be "blunt injury of the head and brain".

The trial was scheduled to reconvene at 1:15pm this afternoon.

Murder Trial Moves into Day Two
Medical Examiner Among Morning Testimony
10/7/2008
An eight woman, four man jury began hearing testimony Monday morning in the Coleman County Courthouse in the capital murder trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough, 24. Yarbrough is accused in the death of infant Lacey Lynn Nichols on or about January 9, 2006 in Coleman.

Coleman County District Attorney Joe Lee Rose called witnesses including the foster mother of the infant, a friend of the foster mother, a MHMR nurse and an emergency medical technician who responded to the 911 call on January 9, 2006 concerning the infant.

Monday afternoon, the murder trial continued with the questioning of several nurses, the attending doctor from the Coleman County Medical Center, and the policeman that got the first statement from the accused.

After lunch, the jury was shown pictures that were taken of the infant, while one nurse gave her description of what was being seen. Three other nurses then gave their own descriptions of the injuries they saw on the infant girl, and and medical procedures that were administered during her emergency room care in the Coleman hospital. The attending doctor then gave his diagnostic procedures, methods and thought processes he used in coming to the conclusions he gave on the stand. The last witness called on Monday for the prosecution was the officer that obtained the original statement from the accused.

The officer's testimony resumed at 9:00am this morning.  A medical examiner was testifying as of noon.

Dale Byerly and Kevin Hill Inducted into Howard Payne Sports Hall of Fame
10/8/2008
The Howard Payne University Sports Hall of Fame is comprised of 105 male and female HPU athletes. Two of the most recent have ties to Coleman.

Dale Byerly graduated from Coleman high school in 1958 as Valedictorian of his class. There he was an All-State quarterback, All-Region in basketball, and won the state championship in the one-mile three years in a row.

Byerly attended Howard Payne in the Fall of 1958 where he was a four-year starter at quarterback for the Yellow Jackets. During his time on the football field for Howard Payne he led the Lone Star Conference in total yards and earned Second-Team All-Conference and Honorable Mention Little All-American honors.

Byerly also excelled of the field being named to the Alpha Chi National Honor Society, Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society, and Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities.

After graduation from Howard Payne in 1962 he had coaching stints in Brownwood and Quanah high schools in Texas. He then began work with the Cancer Society in Texas before becoming the assistant Director of the Heart Association of Texas. He then went on to become the state director of the Indiana Heart Association. Today he lives in Dayton, Tennessee with his wife, Lynn and is a member of the Rotary Club and his local church.

Kevin Hill is a 1989 graduate of Albany high school where he was a multiple all-district selection in football. A four year letterman on the Yellow Jacket football, he was a two-time All-Conference wide receiver helping Howard Payne to two conference titles. In his senior year of 1992 he led the nation in receiving with 99 catches, at the time setting a school and conference record. That season he also earned NAIA All-American honors.

Hill also was a member of the Howard Payne tennis team his junior and senior years. His senior year was apart of the conference championship team and was names 2nd-team All-Conference

Before graduation he was honored on the Howard Payne Dean’s List his senior year.

After graduation from Howard Payne in December of 1993, Hill went on to coach football at Early, Dalhart, Comfort, Coleman, Baird, and Albany, also serving as high school principal at Coleman, Baird, and Albany. He was also honored to helped coach the Big Country FCA All-Star football game in 2008.

He is currently the high school assistant principal at Albany high school and lives there with his wife Kim and their four kids.

Tom Jones Tribute & Dinner Postponed
10/6/2008
Coleman Heritage, Arts & Preservation Society (CHAPS) announces the postponement of the "Tom Jones Tribute & Dinner" scheduled for Friday, October 10th, 2008. Due to lack of tickets sales the decision has been made to reschedule this event until the spring. If you have purchased tickets at the Chamber of Commerce office, you may return the ticket and receive a refund. CHAPS board members, Morris Williams, and all the local people singing at the "Tribute" will continue to work on the details of the event and promise an unforgettable dinner and concert in the spring 2009.

Bluecat Boosters Meet Tonight
10/8/2008
Everyone is invited to the Bluecat Booster Club meeting at 7:45pm tonight, Wednesday, October 8, at the Armored Cat. A short business meeting will be followed by the game film victory over Comanche. Bring your lawn chair and get back in the groove after the bye week.

2008 Homecoming nominees for Santa Anna High School:  Kendra Coleman and Molly Pritchard , Adelaida Dean and Layken DeLeon
Homecoming will be held October 17th

Mountaineer Class of 1958 to Reunite
10/8/2008 (contributed)
The Santa Anna High School Class of 1958 will have their 50th year Reunion during the Santa Anna Homecoming. They will be riding on a Float in the Homecoming Parade Friday. Afterwards they will be meeting at the Fire Hall Annex until the pre-game activities.

The Ex-Student of the year is Bobby Densman, from the class of 1958. He will be honored during the pre-game show. The class will return back to the Fire Hall Annex to visit after the game. Everyone that attended school with this class has a Special Invitation to come by & visit with the class. Saturday afternoon, the group will return to the Fire Hall Annex for even more visiting. Please stop by & visit awhile.

Lamb and Goat Validation Date Set
10/8/2008 (by Luther Dunlap, County Agent)
State Lamb and Goat Validation will be at 1:30pm Saturday, October 18, 2008 at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

All 4-H and FFA exhibitors planning to exhibit lambs or goats during the 2009 stock show year need to bring their animals to the Coleman Rodeo Grounds on this day for validation. The committees will be in place and ready to start at 1:30 p.m. For state validation records, we will need parent (or guardian) and exhibitor signatures.

Cost for county tags are $3.00 each, State Tags are $7.00 each. In the event that a parent will be unable to attend with their child's project being state validated, a parent/guardian must sign a Waiver in
order for the animals to be state validated.

If you have any questions, please call the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519 or contact your Ag Science Teacher.

Attention Coleman Band Parents !
10/8/2008
Band Parents: Remember Cookie Dough must be picked up from 3:30 until 6pm today! We have no cold storage and are not able to keep it overnight. Please call 325-625-2156 if you have questions.

Santa Anna Homecoming Plans Announced
10/7/2008 (courtesy of James Pelton - santaannanews.com)
Look for plenty of Mountaineers to return to their old stomping ground next week for Homecoming 2008.  Plans are listed below.

Wednesday, October 15:
Booster Club Tailgate Party @ 7:30 - Gym Parking Lot

Friday, October 17:
Parade sponsored by the Ex Student's Association @ 2:00 - Downtown
Pep Rally @ 2:30 - Football Field
Spaghetti Supper - Cost by donation @ 5:00 - First United Methodist Church - All Homecomers' Welcome!
Pre-Game Recognition of Coming Home Queen/King, Ex-Student of the Year @ 7:00 - Come Early!
Football Game @ 7:30
Halftime Show and SAHS Homecoming Queen announced at halftime

Saturday, October 18:
Ex Student's Association Annual Meeting:
Registration @ 9:00 - High School Lobby
Coffee, Juice, & Donuts @ 9:00 - Cafeteria
Business Meeting @ 10:00 - High School Auditorium

Booster Club Lunch @ 11:30 - Cafeteria

Class of 88 Reunion @ 12:00 - Old Simmons Feed building

For more information about the Ex Students Association activities see www.SantaAnnaMountaineers.org or contact one of the officers: President - Betsy McIver, First Vice President - Tom Guthrie, Second Vice President - James Curtis, or Secretary Treasurer - Ross Bradley.

The Ex-Students Association will not be having a dance this year but encourages you to go to the Santa Anna Monthly Dance. See below for more information.

The Country and Western band "Burnin' Daylight will perform at the Armory on Saturday October 18th for the Santa Anna Monthly Dance.

7:00-10:00 pm - Old Armory Building
$5.00 per person
"Burnin’ Daylight" Country Western Band Featuring:
Derwin Isham-Bass
Gene Williams-Lead
Jim Keeney-Steel Guitar
Wallace Reid-Rhythm
Paul Dominguez-Drummer
303 S. Houston Street
Gene Williams 254-445-4426
Wallace Reid 254-879-3882
*No Smoking & No Alcohol
*4-H will have a snack bar (all proceeds for snacks benefit the 4-H Club)

Santa Anna Ex Student's Association Names 2008 Homecoming Honorees
from Class of 1988 and Class of 1958
10/7/2008 (contributed by James Pelton of www.santaannanews.com )

The 2008 Coming Home Queen from the SAHS Class of 1988 is Stephanie Hartman Edwards.

Stephanie attended Santa Anna schools from kindergarten through graduation. During her four years in high school, she was a member of the SAHS band, a twirler for two years, drum major for two years and was a member of the tennis team. Upon graduation, Stephanie moved to San Angelo where she attended Angelo State university before moving to the Dallas/Fort Worth area in 1990 where she continued her education at the University of Texas in Arlington.

In the spring of 1991, she did a field placement course through UTA where she volunteered for Child Protective Services. When the field placement ended, she was offered and accepted a full time position as a Case Aid for Child Protective Services while continuing to attend college courses to pursue her degree in Social Work.


Stephanie received a Bachelors Degree in Social Work in 1997 and was an investigator for Child Protective Services in Dallas County for the next year. In 1998, Stephanie transferred to the Coleman County Child Protective Services office and moved back to Santa Anna. She was a Case Worker in Coleman, Runnels, Brown and Comanche Counties until December 2007 when she accepted a position in the Abilene Child Protective Services Regional offices as a Program Specialist with the Family Group Decision Making Program.

Stephanie continues to reside in Santa Anna and commutes to cover about a dozen counties in her Child Protective Services work. Stephanie has one daughter, Hannah who is an 8th grader at Santa Anna Jr. High, carrying on the tradition of Proud Mountaineers for the Hartman family. Stephanie is married to James Edwards. She is actively involved in the First Baptist Church in Santa Anna and the Santa Anna Booster Club.

The 2008 Coming Home King from the SAHS Class of 1988 is Jeremy Hartman.

Jeremy attended Santa Anna schools from kindergarten through graduation, and was the valedictorian of the class of '88.

After high school, Jeremy attended Texas Tech University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with bachelors degrees in communications and political science. While at Tech, he was a member of several academic honor societies and was the highest ranking graduate of the Telecommunications degree program in 1992.

He attended Law School at the University of Texas, graduating in 1995. After graduation, he stayed in Austin and began working for the Texas Attorney General's Office. Jeremy was employed as an Assistant Attorney General for four years, working in the Law Enforcement Defense and Habeas Corpus Divisions.

In 1999, he became a staff attorney for the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, which is Texas' highest court for criminal cases. He has been with the Court for ten years, and continues to live in Austin.

Stephanie and Jeremy are both 3rd generation Santa Anna High graduates.


The 2008 Ex Student of the Year from the SAHS Class of 1958 is Bobby Joe Densman.

Bobby Joe graduated from Santa Anna High School and spent the next 8 years searching for something to hang his future on. In 1966, Bobby moved to Abilene, Texas, after joining the Abilene Fire Department. Upon his completion of Recruit School, he served as a firefighter until; he was promoted to Senior Fire Fighter in 1969, when he took a step up in to Apparatus Engineer, which, for you citizens, is commonly known as the "fire truck driver". In 1975, after much study, Bobby tested for and received the rank of Lieutenant. Bobby chose to move into the Training Division in 1986, training many recruits over the next 8 years - many of which are now Lieutenant and Captains in their own right. He has had a rescue tool named after him, which is called the Densman Strap. It is used as an aid in the fire service to assist the firefighter in removing victims from hazardous areas. Bobby retired from the Abilene Fire Department in 1994.
 

After 2 years of retirement, (and after playing golf everyday) Bobby joined the Governors’ Division of Emergency Management as one of (9) Regional Liaison Officers for the State of Texas. Bobby assisted local and county governments in creating disaster plans for their areas and obtain needed essentials during disasters. He assisted in the Houston and Del Rio floods and many other major disasters over the next 7 years. Bobby’s last assignment was part of the recovery team for the space shuttle disaster.

Bobby has 4 grown children whose careers range from Teacher to Preacher, Legal Assistant to Chef. Bobby is the proud Grandfather of 6 natural grandchildren, 4 more by marriage and 1 by choice.

Bobby and Sharon live in the community of Buffalo Gap, Texas, population 463. They are members of the First Baptist Church.

The honorees will be recognized in pregame ceremonies before the Homecoming football game on Friday October 17th and during the Santa Anna Ex Students Association Annual Meeting at the SAHS Auditorium on Saturday October the 18th.

Santa Anna Class of ' 88 to Gather
10/7/2008 (by James Pelton)
The SAHS class of 1988 will get together for their 20th reunion, in connection with Santa Anna High School Homecoming. The class will meet for lunch at 12 noon on Saturday, October 18, at the old Simmons Feed store on Wallis Ave in Santa Anna. The class of 1988 has established a memorial scholarship in honor of Cynthia (Garrett) Philpot. Scholarship funds may be donated at a table set up at the Homecoming game on Friday, where fundraising items will also be sold, and on Saturday morning at the Ex-Student’s registration and business meeting.

Rainfall Reports
10/6/2008
As usual, when it rains, we want your reports. A needed and widespread rain fell Sunday night into Monday morning across Coleman County. Send your rainfall reports to mail@colemannews.com.

* Tex Wright - 1.50 inches as of 7:30am at the base of the Santa Anna Mountain
* Bill Garrett - 1.70 inches 5 miles southwest of Santa Anna
* 6 miles NE of Coleman just off Hwy 206 - 1.50 inches as of 8:30am
* Hords Creek Lake - 1.68 inches Sunday night and Monday morning
* Royce Young - 1.90 inches in north Coleman County
* 1 1/8“ rain in Trickham.
* We had 2.10 inches of rain last night at Silver Valley and a lot of lightening.

Miss Coleman County for 2008-2009 Crowned
10/5/2008
The Reigning Miss Coleman County Meagan Ogden crowned the new Miss Coleman County at the Fiesta de la Paloma on Saturday -  Miss Rachelle McKinnon, grand-daughter of Nell and Arnold Lefevere and Senior at Coleman High School.  

Seven girls from Coleman County vied for the honor.  1st Runner-Up was  Lexie Ewing, daughter of Cindy Hanigan and Monty Ewing and Senior at Panther Creek High School.  2nd Runner-Up was McKenzie Spake, daughter of Festus and Sandra Spake and Junior at Coleman High School.  Ranee Taylor spoke on behalf of the Pageant Committee asking that girls from 8th grade to next year's Seniors consider being in the Scholarship Pageant next year.  It's not too early to be planning !!!

Coleman Grad Becomes Police Cadet
10/5/2008       (Contributed)
Tom Sloan (pictured below), a 2001 Coleman High School graduate, graduated from the Austin Capitol Area Council of Government's Police Academy with a ceremony in the State Capitol Oct. 2. Sloan was hired by Round Rock Police Department in February as a police cadet. During the academy he received the Director's Award for achieving a final grade point average above 90 and a 91 on the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education licensing examination. Officer Sloan will now go through a four-month field training officer program with Round Rock Police Department prior to becoming a full-time patrol officer.

1st Annual Fiesta de la Paloma Roping Results
10/5/2008 (Contributed)
There was a total of 160 teams in the #9 and the #11 Fiesta de la Paloma team roping. A total of over $4,400 in cash and prizes was given to the team ropers in both events. The winners of both ropings were given a breast collar from Coats Saddlery and cash prizes.
Winners were as follow:
#9 Roping
Fast time in round one: Larry McConathy and Colton Lee with a time of 9:03
1st- Jake Belcher and Jake Knight
2nd- Wesley Troyer and Jimmy Chambers
3rd- Larry McConathy and Tracy Sanders
4th- Ross Burdick and Brady Burdick
#11 Roping
Fast time in round one: Tracy Sanders and Mark Sanderson Jr. with a time of 7.25
1st- Keith Clearman and Mark Sanderson Sr
2nd- Jake Stephenson and Mark Sanderson Sr.
3rd- Mitch Birdwell and Sampson Jackson
4th- Colton McConathy and Mark Sanderson Sr.
Cody Bob and Shana Everett did a great job gather volunteers and putting on the event and we would like to give them a big thanks for all that they did. We also had several volunteers that showed up unasked and helped when we really needed them and we would like to thank them- Mark Brown, King Mayes, and Becky Morgan. We also want to thank the recruited help of Ronnie Sill, Brent Hemphill, Justin and Tricia Kimmel, Fuzz Rae, and Danyelle Darnell.

Meeting for Students Interested in Washington DC Trip
10/04/2008
The Washington D.C. Trip will be on June 14, 2009. All 7th and 8th graders at Coleman that are interested can sign up. We will have a parent meeting for the Washington trip on October 6th at 6:30pm in the Junior High Library.

Jury Chosen in Coleman County Murder Trial
10/3/2008
A panel of eight women and four men will hear testimony beginning at 9:00am Monday in the Coleman County Courthouse in the trial of Charles Randal Yarbrough, 24. Jury selection began Thursday afternoon and continued Friday until 12 jurors and one alternate were selected at 2:30pm.

Yarbrough faces two counts of capital murder and stands accused of causing the death of infant Lacey Lynn Nichols on or about January 9, 2006.

500 Coleman County residents received a jury summons to appear for possible selection to hear the case.

Congressman Mike Conaway Votes "For" Bailout Plan
Plan Passes, President Signs into Law
10/3/2008
Congressman Mike Conaway, who represents Coleman County in the U.S. House of Representatives voted Friday in favor of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. Earlier in the week, he had voted against the first version presented by the House. He made the following statement following passage of the bill which President Bush signed into law Friday afternoon. The vote passed 263-171.

“Today’s vote was the hardest I have taken in my nearly four years of being a Member of Congress. For the past week, I have listened to the concerns of thousands of West Texans, the large majority coming out opposed to the legislation, and with good reason. I voted against the bill on Monday because there were several key pieces missing in the grand puzzle that is this financial rescue package. I do not believe that such massive government action is the best answer to the current problems on Wall Street. However, I know that we must act quickly to restore investor and lender confidence and return our great nation to the most thriving economy in the world.

“There are two key amendments added by the Senate to the today’s bill that improved the rescue plan. One amendment increases the FDIC insurance limits, which will help calm bank depositors’ anxiety about the safety of their bank accounts. The other amendments are unrelated to the overall plan, but are positive issues such as a one-year patch to the Alternative Minimum Tax, sales tax deductions, and disaster relief for Texas hurricane victims. While these tax amendments made the overall bill easier to vote for, they were not my final determining factors.

“After the vote on Monday, the stock market reacted very negatively to the defeat. Confidence in the short term lending facilities, particularly commercial paper markets and overnight lending between banks, had to be addressed. The rescue plan’s focus on the mortgage backed securities problems is an attempt to restore confidence in short and medium-term lending, which is the lifeblood of our economy. While we cannot be positive that this plan will work to restore that confidence, I am positive that inaction is not an option.

“Above all else, I voted for this plan because I believe the threats to our economy are real and grave. This financial crisis will negatively affect everyone in this country if no action is taken, and it is my steadfast hope that this legislation will calm the fear and uncertainty that have gripped our lending markets and enable us to implement deeper structural reforms that prevent a crisis of this magnitude from ever reoccurring.”

Statistics for Coleman Police Department: September 2008
10/3/2008
Offenses: Criminal Trespass-1, Burglaries-6, Criminal Mischief-5, Theft-8, Assault-3, Aggravated Assault-1, Suicide-1
Arrests: Warrants-33, Driving While License Invalid-1, Public Intoxication-3, No Driver License-1
Motor Vehicle Accidents: No Injury-10, With Injury-3
Tickets Issued: Police-70 tickets issued with 85 charges filed, Animal Control-3 tickets issued with 3 charges filed, Code Enforcement-6 tickets issued with 6 charges filed, School Resource Officer-1 ticket issued with 1 charge filed
Warnings Issued: Police-23, Animal Control-1, Code Enforcement-3
Animal Control: Calls for Service-95, Dogs Picked Up-27, Cats Picked Up-6, Other Animals Picked Up-3 (1 opossum and 2 skunks), dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-1

Team Cade Walk TOMORROW!
10/3/2008
Team Cade will be walking in the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's annual Walk to Cure Diabetes TOMORROW, October 4, at the Dell Diamond in Austin. You still have time to donate! Help us find a cure for type I diabetes by logging on to www.jdrf.org  - in the walk section, click on search and look for Cade Needham. Follow the donation instructions from there. We just found out you can watch the walk LIVE on a webcast at www.myFOXaustin.com . The walk starts at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow and will be re-broadcast at 7 p.m. We'll wave at the cameras!

CLASS OF ’63 REUNION
10/3/2008
The Coleman High School Class of l963 will have its 45th reunion October 4, 2008. It will be held in the Parrish Hall of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, corner of Cedar and Neches, Coleman, TX. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. with visitation and snacks. A class picture will be made in the afternoon. Class members will want to visit the Fiesta activities during the day. The evening meal, catered by classmate, Severn Mayo, will be served at 5:00 p.m. ($35 per couple or $25 single).

Central Baptist Church hosts Coleman High School "Homework Night"
10/2/2008  (contributed)
The local churches are opening their doors each month to "Homework Night" for Coleman High School students. "The bar was set high last month!" said Orvin Feliciano, pastor of Central Baptist Church. The First United Methodist Church hosted homework night in September and served homemade lasagna! Central Baptist members were excited to serve "Mexican stack-up" and homemade tortillas! "The kids came in hungry from football practice and basketball practice and it was a nice opportunity to get to know the kids!" continued Pastor Feliciano. The students are required to stay a minimum of 45 minutes and had teachers, Patrick Adams and Lorene Halfmann, on hand to help with homework problems. In return eighty (80!) students earned a homework pass to be used this six weeks!

Adam Dobbins Wins 5K in Brownwood
10/2/2008
Adam Dobbins placed first in the Brownwood Reunion 5K (3.1 mile) run, completing the run in 17minutes, 25 seconds. Adam is on the Hardin-Simmons University cross country and track team, where he is a sophomore student. He also runs 5K’s on weekends that the HSU team is not competing. Adam is a 2007 graduate of Coleman High School and was a member of Team Extreme during their bike trip to California this past summer. He is the son of Les and Diana Dobbins and the grandson of John and Nell Walthall, Christine Dobbins, and the late Leslie Dobbins Sr.

Miss Coleman County Pageant Judges Named
10/2/2008
Three judges will help choose Miss Coleman County 2008 Saturday at the Fiesta de la Paloma.
Leslie Barr Janca, a former Miss Coleman County and CHS graduate, was born and raised in Coleman, Texas, where most of her family still lives today. She majored in Journalism at Texas A&M University, where she met her husband I.G. Leslie and I.G. live in Georgetown, Texas, and have two sons: Sam, who attended Texas Tech University for two years on a baseball scholarship before transferring this year to Angelo State University to play for the Rams; and George, a 6th Grader in Georgetown, who plays sports and shows goats. Both boys are avid hunters.

Leslie worked several years in the news media, before embarking on a 21-year career in nonprofit management, first with Texas Rural Communities, a statewide nonprofit organization located in Austin, Texas, and since 2000, as program director for The Georgetown Project in Georgetown, Texas.

Melissa Wisener-Farr is the daughter of Gerald T. and Brenda Wisener of Coleman. She currently resides in San Angelo with her husband, Mr. Britt Wayne Farr, and is employed at the Angelo State University – Small Business Development Center.

Melissa was born and raised in the Houston area where she gained pageantry and modeling experience during her teen years. Some of her accomplishments include District Lions Club Queen 1984, Miss East Texas National Teen-Ager Pageant 1984 Finalist, Miss Sealy 1983, Austin County Fair Queen Runner Up 1983, Miss South Texas 1983 Contestant, and Austin County Farm Bureau Queen 1983.

She graduated from the Houston Barbizon School of Modeling where training included runway, photo posing for fashion and commercial print and TV commercials.

Gail McMillan is from Abilene. She and her husband, Tony, have five children and nine very special grandchildren. Gail is the coordinator for the West Texas Fair & Rodeo Queen Pageant and Chairman of the Western Art Show and Sale for Western Heritage Classic held each May.

She is a long time member of Abilene Writers Guild and serves as its Treasurer.

She is also a member of Mesquite Storytellers of Abilene, Los Aficionados for Grace Museum and volunteers at Hendrick Hospital. She co-teaches a Bible class at Hillcrest Church of Christ. Reading is a favorite past time as well as her interests in American Quarter Horses and Australian Shepherd dogs.

Texas Senators Vote "Yes" on Bailout/Economic Rescue Plan
10/1/2008
The United States Senate Wednesday night passed, by a wide margin, their version of economic bailout legislation. Our two Texas senators, Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn,  said yes. For official comments from both senators, click on the following links.
 
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison - comments made before the Senate

Senator John Cornyn - statement on the bailout - includes outline of what's in the bill

Want to Read all 451 pages or a summary? - link to Senate Banking Committee site
 
List of how the rest of the Senate voted