News Archives - February 2010

COLEMAN PUBLIC LIBRARY BAKE SALE AROUND THE CORNER!
2/24/2010
The festivities begin with a special preview book sale for Friends of the Library members Thurs. March 4th and Friday, March 5th 5PM to 7PM. Don’t worry if you have not yet had the chance to join the Friends of the Library, you will have the opportunity to sign up then and earn an extra discount on your purchase. The book sale will officially begin on Friday, March 4th from 9AM to 5PM and continue on Saturday from 9AM to 1PM. The delicious bake goods and hot dog lunch sale will also coincide with the book sale on Friday.

This annual fundraiser helps to purchase supplies for the children’s summer reading program and also any needs of the library throughout the year. The library will be accepting donated books for the sale during the next two weeks until the sale. Please come out and support the Coleman Public Library with a book and a delicious treat.

Coleman 4-H Meeting Change
3/1/2010
The Coleman 4-H Club will have their monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 2nd at 6:30 at the Bill Franklin Center. This meeting was originally scheduled for March 9th.

Coleman Business People Call for "March Madness" Participation
3/1/2010
The Coleman Business People Association will launch its first annual "March Madness" from March 15th-March 26th to encourage shopping in Coleman. March Madness revolves around promoting shopping with local businesses and any purchase of $25 or more automatically enters participants for a chance at three great prizes.

The contest is simple: For every $25.00 shoppers spend at a participating business, shoppers will receive one entry in our "March Madness" contest, $50.00 gets two entries, $75.00 three entries and $100.00 nets four entries and the cap on tickets for one purchase, even if it is over $100.00. March Madness shoppers are eligible every time they shop in Coleman from March 15 -26 and spend at least $25.00.

On March 26 the Coleman Business People's Association will pick up all the entries from participating businesses and plan on drawing each prize on the Courthouse lawn on Saturday, March 27 with the celebration starting at 7:00 p.m. with music and food. People do not need to be present at the drawing to win. The contest will be short, sweet, and to the point.

The prizes are as follows:
Top prize: 52" big screen television
2nd prize: $250.00 Coleman bucks
3rd prize: $100.00 Coleman bucks

Of course, to make the contest possible March Madness needs local business to participate. In order to be a participating business, we are asking for $30.00 from you. For this amount of money, you will receive an official "March Madness" poster for your door or window, a roll of tickets and a ticket box for entries, press coverage from local media, and hopefully enthusiastic shoppers! So far, The Owl Drug Store, The Petal Patch, The Shoppin' Baskit, Chronicle & Democrat-Voice, ColemanNews.com, and Wise X-Press are participating.

If you would like to be a part of March Madness please let us know by March 5. Contact Coleman Business representatives at stevens@web-access.net, darlawise@yahoo.com, or you can mail us at Coleman Chamber of Commerce, 218 Commercial, Coleman, Texas. You can call the Chamber at 625-2163 or Darla Wise at 625-5100,. We will deliver your Madness packet and pick up your payment during the week of March 8th.

Coleman is a great town with a great future when we all work together! We hope we can count on your support to help make this an annual event. Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of the first March Madness!

EASTLAND COUNTY FATAL CRASH
3/1/2010
SENIOR TROOPER SPARKY DEAN
ONE PERSON WAS KILLED AND THREE INJURED IN A THREE-VEHICLE CRASH OCCURRING FRIDAY EVENING AT 5:34 P.M. THE CRASH OCCURRED ON IH-20 NEAR MILE MARKER 340 IN EASTLAND COUNTY.

DECEASED;
1. SYLVIA JUANITA PEREZ, 49 YEARS OF AGE FROM ROCKWALL, TEXAS WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT 7:05 P.M. BY DOCTOR LUND AT ABILENE REGIONAL HOSPITAL. PEREZ WAS WEARING A SEAT BELT AND WAS A PASSENGER IN THE 2005 NISSAN.
INJURED;
1. KYLA SHAE KINSEY, 31 YEARS OF AGE FROM STERLING CITY, TEXAS WAS TREATED AND RELEASED FROM EASTLAND MEMORIAL HOSPITAL.
2. KATHY SMITH, 54 YEARS OF AGE FROM STERLING CITY, TEXAS WAS TREATED AND RELEASED FROM EASTLAND MEMORIAL HOSPITAL.
3. CRAIG ALAN REYNERSON, 65 YEARS OF AGE FROM ROCKWALL, TEXAS WAS TREATED AND RELEASED FROM EASTLAND MEMORIAL HOSPITAL.
VEHICLES INVOLVED;
1. UNKNOWN VEHICLE (LEFT THE SCENE OF THE CRASH)
2. 2005 NISSAN, DRIVEN BY CRAIG ALAN REYNERSON OF ROCKWALL, TEXAS
3. 2007 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN DRIVEN BY KYLA SHAE KINSEY OF STERLING CITY, TEXAS.
SYNOPSIS;
FRIDAY, AT 5:34 P.M., ONE PERSON WAS KILLED AND THREE WERE INJURED IN A THREE-VEHICLE CRASH OCCURRING ON IH-20 MILE MARKER 340 IN EASTLAND COUNTY. AN UNKNOWN VEHICLE AND A 2005 NISSAN WERE TRAVELING WEST BOUND ON IH-20. THE UNKNOWN VEHICLE CUT OFF THE NISSAN, RUNNING THE NISSAN OFF OF THE ROADWAY. THE NISSAN WENT INTO THE CENTER MEDIAN AND ON INTO THE EAST BOUND LANE OF TRAVEL, WHERE IT STRUCK THE LEFT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE 2007 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. THE UNKNOWN VEHICLE FLED THE SCENE OF THE CRASH.

THE WEATHER AND ROAD WAS CLOUDY AND DRY.

THIS CRASH IS BEING INVESTIGATED BY TEXAS HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPER SHANNON MAUNEY.

First Saturday Gospel Singing
3/1/2010
March 6th 6:00 pm, Trinity United Methodist, 1609 S. Concho St. Come and enjoy the blessing of music. Different folks show up each month to sing and play for the Lord. So don't miss out on this celebration. Whatever your style, all are welcome to participate. Just come on, the door is open. Call Carla Billings for more info 625-5302

Hambright re-files for Coleman ISD Board of Trustees
3/1/2010
Viki Hambright, who is currently serving on the Coleman ISD Board of Trustees, has filed her candidacy for Place 7 for the May 8, 2010 Coleman ISD School Trustee Election.

Dates Announced for 2010 Coleman PRCA Rodeo
3/1/2010
June 17, 18 and 19 are the dates for the 73rd edition of the Coleman PRCA Rodeo.

Coleman will welcome back the top stock contractor in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Stace Smith Pro Rodeos.

Smith produces more rodeos than any other stock contractor in the PRCA. He has been named Stock Contractor of the Year, every year, since 2004.

Pro Rodeo Sports News, the official magazine of the PRCA, recently listed the money paid to contestants in each sanctioned rodeo in 2009. Out of 89 PRCA rodeos in Texas last year, Coleman was 19th on the list of added money paid, surpassing many larger cities.
For this reason, Coleman attracts cowboys and cowgirls who routinely compete at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

In addition to prize money, the Coleman Rodeo Association will once again award hand-made custom spurs to event winners.

The Friday night dance will feature country music recording artists Josh Abbott Band and Kyle Park. The Saturday night dance will feature rodeo favorite Sonny Burgess.

In keeping with local tradition, you can expect the return of the Coleman County Cowgirl breakfast on Tuesday morning during rodeo week.

The annual parade will make its way down Commercial Avenue at 10:00am Saturday, June 19.

Other events include the Special Rodeo for Children to be held on June 19th and the Coleman County Team Roping scheduled for Sunday, June 6.

You can also find more information at www.colemanrodeo.com or check out Coleman PRCA Rodeo on Facebook and become a fan.

Gas Prices Rise 6.1 cents across Texas
3/1/2010
Texas, TX, March 1- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have risen 6.1 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.54/g today. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.70/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 75.4 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 6.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 4.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 78.7 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

"Average gasoline prices have increased nearly ten cents over the last week for much of the United States. With warmer weather approaching, prices will climb even further", said Patrick DeHaan, GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst. "A major reason for the rise is that refiners will soon begin maintenance to prepare for the summer driving season, cutting into supply. Some areas of the country are already moving towards more expensive, cleaner burning summer fuels, boosting prices at the pump", he adds.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Courtney Brown won Grand Champion of Commercial Rabbits

Coleman Student Brings Home Grand Championship from San Angelo Stock Show
3/1/2010
Courtney Brown won Grand Champion of Commercial Rabbits at the San Angelo Livestock Show on February 26, 2010. Her rabbit was also the Best of Breed Californian Rabbits.

Kassidy Barker brought home 2nd place out of 60+ entries with her middle class Hamp from her first trip to the Ft. Worth Stock Show. Kassidy is the granddaughter of Pati and Gary Barton, great granddaughter of Loweta Pope, daughter of Heather and Casey Barker and is a Freshman at Early High School.

Gouldbusk Homemakers Club hosts baby shower at their regular monthly meeting
3/1/2010
The Gouldbusk homemaker's club met on February 17th at the Gouldbusk Baptist church at 1pm. They started the meeting at 1pm and during roll call each lady present told about their first love. It was surprising how many of the ladies could remember not only the name of the boy, but the grade they were in at the time.

Those present were: Lynn Corbett, Geneva Harris, Virginia Jamison, Wanda Jewell, Dean Lanier, Danella McBrayer, Rebecca Meyer, Pat Pool, Sue Ragsdale, Lynn Thompson, Pat Vance, Caroline Wilson, and Mona Wilson. Guests present were Anna Jenkins from the Good Neighbor Club who gave the program as well as Christin Burris, CEA/FCS agent and Nancy Baker, secretary for the extension office.

After a short business meeting during which delegate nominees for the upcoming spring district meeting were decided on as well as hostesses for the rest of this years meetings. At 1:20pm Anna Jenkins gave her program entitled "Making a difference in the world, protecting our natural resources". She gave us several quizzes, and explained the answers. At 2:10pm we adjourned the meeting and had refreshments followed by the baby shower.

Geneva Harris, who always does a wonderful job with food, whether for the concession stand, the commissioner's luncheon or our thanksgiving celebration in Gouldbusk was the hostess, so you know the food was wonderful, thanks Geneva! Christin got many nice gifts and we all had a good time visiting with her. The afternoon wrapped up by 3:15pm.

Next month's meeting will be at the Gouldbusk Methodist Church on Thursday March11th at 1pm and Virginia Jamison will be our hostess. The program for March will be "Connecting Generations" which will be given by Lynn Corbett. If anyone would like to attend we would love to have you. Hope to see you there!

REMINDER: Little League Coaches Meeting 6:00 Monday
2/27/2010
There will be a mandatory Little League coaches meeting for t-ball, 10 and under, and 12 and under, on Monday March 1, 6:00 at Screen Art Graphics. Will be discussing start dates and draft times. For more info., or if you can not attend but are interested in coaching, please call Michael Taylor at 325-636-3922 or 325-625-1217.

Diabetes Screen and Classes on March 6th
2/27/2010
There will be a free diabetic screening Saturday, March 6 at the Community Health Clinic 802 Needham from 8 am to 11 am. If you want to be tested, you need to be fasting drink nothing but water and/or black coffee. Drink nothing with any calories. You can be tested for diabetes and have your blood pressure taken.

Please call 625-5130 and register for this if you plan to come.

Diabetes classes will begin on Tuesdays, March 9, March 16 and March 23 at 6:30 to 7:30 at the Community Health Clinic 802 Needham. Please register for these classes at 625-5130. For more information on the screening or the classes call 625-5130.

CYA Softball Meeting Will Be Wednesday, 5:30
2/27/2010
Coleman Youth Association Softball meeting will be held Wednesday, March 3rd at 5:30 p.m. at Screen Art Graphics at 214 S. Colorado. All parents and coaches are urged to attend. For more information, contact Carrie Holloway at 636-3268 or Joe Zarate at 636-3292.

Bluecats play Eastland Today!
2/27/2010
Varsity Baseball will be playing at Eastland at 1:00 on February 27th.

Freshmen-Anthony Thomas (Honorable Mention); Sophomore-Reid Needham (2nd Team); Junior-Colt Jamison (Honorable Mention); Junior-Travis Brixey (Honorable Mention); Senior-Andrew Isom (Honorable Mention); Senior-Trent Hambright (2nd Team)

2009-2010 District 8-AA All District Basketball Team
2/26/2010
District MVP: Sr. Westin Wilhelm Comanche
Offensive MVP: Sr. Zach Jones Brady
Defensive MVP: Sr. Marcus Smith Bangs
Newcomer of the Year: Soph. Jakob Damstra Dublin
Co-Coaches of the Year: Hollis Moore Brady
Jeff Thomason Comanche

1st Team
Jr. Matt Simons Bangs
Soph. Braden Williams Bangs
Sr. Mackenzie Hirt Brady
Sr. Dylan Jacoby Brady
Sr. Cody Biggs Comanche
Sr. Josh Feaster Comanche
Jr. Jonathan Pringle Dublin
Soph. Hunter Turner Dublin
Sr. Thomas Aly Early
Jr. Tucker Cromer San Saba

2nd Team
Sr. DJ Rios Bangs
Sr. Isaac Brown Bangs
Jr. Chaney McBee Brady
Sr. Toby Sopher Brady
Sr. Trent Hambright Coleman
Soph. Reid Needham Coleman
Jr. Ty Weaver Comanche
Sr. Jerick Roberts Comanche
Jr. Brandon Childs Early
Jr. Chase Key San Saba

Honorable Mention (Coleman only)
Fresh. Anthony Thomas Coleman
Jr. Travis Brixey Coleman
Jr. Colt Jamison Coleman
Sr. Andrew Isom Coleman

Rural energy forum in Brady, Texas

RURAL ENERGY FOR AMERICA FORUM
2/26/2010
The purpose of this forum is to provide information about the availability of grants and loans for Agricultural Producers and Rural Small Businesses under the 9007 Rural Energy for America Program administered by Rural Development.

WHEN: Thursday, March 4, 2010
WHERE: Ed Davenport Civic Center 100 Country Club Road Brady, TX
TIME: 10:00 am

For more information please contact any of the following Rural Development Offices: Abilene (325) 690-6162 ext 4, Brownwood (325) 643-1585 ext 4, or Ozona (325) 392-2301 ext 4.

Keep Watch for MARCH MADNESS!
2/26/2010
Do you think college basketball is the only thing exciting going on in March? Think again! The Coleman Business People's Association is hosting their own version of March Madness by giving away a 52" Flat screen High Definition Television!

The Coleman Business People will release the official rules early next week, but the contest will go something like this: when you shop with participating merchants around town and spend more than $25 you get 1 ticket, if you spend $50 you get 2 tickets, $75 you get 3 tickets, and finally, if you spend $100 or over you're eligible for 4 tickets toward a brand new flatscreen television! Each ticket will be entered into a raffle and announced at a public celebration.

What's the catch? There is no catch. You spend money as usual with local businesses and you get rewarded for your loyalty and daily purchases. The contest will not be a long, drawn out process because March Madess will only last for TWO WEEKS!

Easy to enter? Yes. Local contest? Yeppers. Short, sweet, to the point? Of course. Mad? Absolutely.

Keep watch in the newspaper and colemannews.com for more.

Coleman High School Announces Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance
2/26/2010
9TH GRADE
Jon Bopp
Courtney Brown
Sarah Casselberry
Savannah Longley
Charlie Thomas

10TH GRADE
Landon Brown
Erik Villeda

11TH GRADE
Victoria Cruz
Ross Jackson
Kelby McCorkle
Erin Strickland

12TH GRADE
Reagan Barr
Ranee Cupps
Lisa Dees
Zach Doyle
Cynthia Garza
Gary Heath
Andrew Isom
Jeff Lefevre
Beau Mayo
Lisha Merkley
Annie Mills
Rynn Norris
Jacy Payne
Kelsey Puckett
Adrianna Resendez
Peyton Schumann
Keagan Slayton
Jordan Smith
Ana Solis
Slade Stevenson
Casie Swening
Tori Valdez
Michael Watson

Click here for A/B Honor Roll Results and Perfect Attendance...

Bluecat Band Meeting Scheduled for Monday
2/26/2010
Bluecat band parents will be having a meeting on Monday March 1st.. at 5:30pm in the band hall. All parents of band students grades 6th through 12th are invited to attend.

New National Honor Society Members

CHS ANNOUNCES NEW NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY MEMBERS
2/25/2010
Coleman High School held its annual National Honor Society Ceremony where five students were inducted to the 2009-2010 membership. New members, featured left to right, are as follows: Victoria Cruz, Erin Strickland, Rynn Norris, Lisa Dees, and Kelby McCorkle. The National Honor Society is a highly selective honor society around the country that selects members based not only on grades but community service and leadership.

NHS Officers
The officers for the 2009-2010 year are President Lisha Merkley, Vice-President Casie Swening, Secretary Reagan Barr, Treasurer Slade Stevenson, and Parliamentarian Gary Heath.

Diabetes Group to Meet Monday at 6:30 p.m.
2/25/2010
The Coleman Diabetes Group will meet Monday (March 1) at 6:30 p.m. at Community Health Clinic, 802 Needham St. All are invited to come if you have diabetes or have a family member with diabetes. There will be a screening on March 6th at the Clinic and more information will follow.

Jared Romine placed 2nd in Computer Applications

Romine places 2nd in U.I.L. Wylie Classic
2/25/2010
Jared Romine placed 2nd in Computer Applications at the Wylie Valentine Classic UIL Academic Meet February 13. He is a sophomore at Panther Creek High School, and he is coached by Mr. Mark Romine.

Coleman Creativity Alive and Well
2/25/2010
Snowman Contest Brings in over 100 entries
by Evan Autry

Oddly enough, maybe it's a good snow that sparks a fire of creativity in Coleman, Texas. The Coleman newspaper and ColemanNews.com received a slew of creative photographs featuring beautiful snowy landscapes, action shots of animals enjoying the winter weather, cute kiddos, and of course, finely sculpted snowmen.

The enthusiastic response from the public illustrates just a small sampling of creative talent that thrives in our community. Furthermore, it also demonstrates the public's willingness to participate in community events. While it may be a stretch to relate snowman building or amateur photography to voting or community discourse, I believe Coleman is thirsty for creative solutions to community development and rebirth. Please visit www.colemannow.info for opportunities to stay engaged with Coleman's budding future.

The Coleman Chronicle & DV would like to thank everyone for their submissions. We received unique creations that ranged from Cowboy Snowpokes to a "Snow Serpent." We wish that we could award everyone with a gift or special acknowledgment, but with 103 entries we might not only go bankrupt but we may also run out of paper. Your participation means a lot to our business, city, and county.

The following winners were judged on their creativity, originality, and craftsmanship. First place receives a cash prize of $50 from the Coleman Chronicle & DV, second place receives a $25 gift certificate to Shoppin' Baskit, and third place receives a Owl Burger, Homemade Onion Rings, and Old Fashion Malt for 2 to Owl Drug Store. Honorable mentions and other entries can be found on our website www.colemannews.com in our "Faces in the Crowd" section sponsored by First Coleman National Bank.

Alas...the winners are...click here

BIG COUNTRY FRIENDS OF THE NRA BANQUET SET FOR MAY 1ST
2/25/2010
It's that time! The second " BIG COUNTRY FRIENDS OF THE NRA" BANQUET is scheduled for May 1st, 2010. Our first one in 2009 was a big hit with everyone involved.

The food was great, the settings were restaurant class and the whole evening was terrific. Lots of prizes went home with happy people as well as those who enjoyed the live and silent auctions.

The Big Country Friends of the NRA already have the dinner tickets and pre-event raffle tickets.

This year the raffle will feature two firearms:
Taurus "Judge" revolver.
DPMS .223 Rifle.

As soon as I have posters I will put them up in Santa Anna and will arrange for a local merchant to handle them.
I look forward to seeing you all there again this year.

God Bless Texas
Rick Hochmann

Commissioners Opt for All Inclusive Sewage Policy; Retain Watson as Constable
2/25/2010
The Commissioner’s Court was called to order at 9AM Monday morning by Judge Jimmy Hobbs. County Clerk, Stacey Mendoza recited last meeting minutes and the Court approved them. The meeting was designated the public hearing for the proposed on-site sewage facility policy. The Court has been working to pass the policy for a few months. The purpose is to ensure safe ground water and promote public health for the Coleman County community. Local industry professionals and citizens attended the meeting to ask Charles McDonald representing TECQ, questions.

The Court opted for the all inclusive policy, which strictly enforces home and business owners to file for a permit to install any new sewage facilities. Following an application of a permit with a $375 fee, an evaluation and inspection by a TECQ official will be mandatory. This rule applies to new and any alteration to an existing sewage system. A concerned and long time resident of the community, Mr. Rutherford asked “If my home’s sewage system was built more than 40 years ago and everything is currently working fine, does this policy apply to me?” McDonald confirmed this policy is targeted to new systems or systems in need of repair. The main signs of a failing system include leakage, odor, and obstruction.

Home and business owners are encouraged to learn more about this policy by visiting www.tceq.state.tx.us under on-site sewage facility. The actual rules and policy is located online for the public to view and even print. McDonald has also advised he is available for questions. The Court unanimously approved to proceed for final authorization which is to go into effective immediately.

The Court continued the meeting with the remainder on the agenda.

At the last meeting, Randy Hooker with Prepaid Legal Service presented Identity Theft to the Court. Upon consideration, the Court decided to turn down the offer. Next, February 21-27 was proclaimed as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Coleman County. The Court continues to work with John Pearce to prepare the mobile emergency unit.

The Courtroom needs new blinds. There have been complaints from officials that in the afternoons during court sessions. The sunshine coming through makes it difficult to read their documents. The research resulted in a bid of custom fit blinds and installation for $1,600. The Court approved to proceed with ordering the new blinds.

The Court was also accepting proposals for Insurance Coverage for Coleman County. Bill Paul Casselberry from Southwestern Life Insurance proposed the same plan the County has had. The only positive change is the rate has decreased $3,100 due to Coleman County being a loyal customer. The Court did not receive any other bids and approved to continue coverage.

There have not been any bids on the sale of the election equipment. Stacey plans to send a notice to surrounding counties making them aware that it is available for sale.

The final objective on the meeting’s agenda was to appoint a person to the Constable position in place of Joe Watson as he has resigned to run for County Judge. Applications were reviewed and considered, however, the Commissioners voted to keep Joe Watson as Constable until the November election. If an individual is interested in running for Constable position they must submit as a write-in candidate. For more information, visit www.sos.state.tx.us

The meeting adjourned with paying of bills. The next Commissioner’s Court meeting is March 8th at 9AM.

COLEMAN 4-H IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
2/25/2010
Clothing Project Meeting
Saturday, February 27, 2010 10:00 a.m. Bill Franklin Center

Once again, 4-Hers have an opportunity to work with fun sewing projects. This week we will make a Tea Towel Apron which is a very simple project. We have already purchased the items you will need to
make your project and we will have *kits* ready for you. If you have not paid for your kit, please remember to bring your $5.00. Please remember to bring your portable sewing machine and your basic sewing kit.

If you have not had an opportunity to join us, please call the Extension Office at 625-4519 and let us know you*re interested.

4-H Photography Project
We're getting ready to start the Photography project again this year! I know some of you attended meetings in the fall, however, if you didn't have a chance to join us, this project is still open to you.

The District 4-H Photography Contest is right around the corner. We will need you turn in entries by April 7th to our office. Be thinking what categories you might want to enter. All photos must have been
taken from January 1, 2009 to present. There are Color and Black & White categories for the following divisions: People, Animals, Still-Life, Landscape, Plant/Flora, Architectural Elements, Special/Creative Effects (All Media), Theme: The Four Seasons of Texas.

We would like to know how many 4-Hers are interested in this project. Please contact the County Extension Office at 625-4519 and sign up.

OTHER PROJECTS / DISTRICT ROUNDUP ACTIVITIES COMING UP
Livestock Judging, Educational Presentations, Share-The-Fun and Senior
Fashion Show are some other projects that will be taking place soon. If
you would like to be involved in any of these projects please contact
our office at 625-4519.

Casie Swening and Angel Barrios

CHS Art Students Medal in U.I.L. Competition
2/25/2010
Casie Swening and Angel Barrios competed in the U.I.L. VASE (Visual Arts Scholastic Event) in San Angelo on Feb. 6. Both students medaled in their division and Casie advanced to the state level. Her artwork will be in the State VASE in Houston competition in April.

Three Men Charged With Poaching on King Ranch
2/25/2010
RAYMONDVILLE — A Willacy County grand jury has returned indictments against three Valley men charged with illegally killing a deer on the King Ranch.

Named in the indictments, which were based on an investigation made by South Texas Game Wardens William Plumas and Ira Zuniga, were Rene Efrain Flores, 67, a retired Willacy County resident; Carlos Carmen Garza, 71, a retired engineer and Willacy County landowner and Jesus Raymundo Valdez, 29, a McAllen attorney. All were charged with taking a wildlife resource (white-tailed deer) without consent of the landowner, a state jail felony. In addition, Flores was indicted on a Class C misdemeanor charge of not tagging a deer; Garza with unlawful possession of a firearm, a third-degree felony and Valdez with criminal trespass, a Class B misdemeanor.

Games Wardens became involved in the case on Dec. 12 when Plumas received a telephone call from an area rancher who reported seeing two men on the Norias Division of the King Ranch in the process of lifting a dead eight-point buck across a fence to two other men. The landowner and one of his hunting guides stopped and talked to the men with the deer, but left after they refused to say where they had shot the buck.

Working with a King Ranch security officer and a deputy constable, the two wardens found blood on the roadway where the witnesses had seen the deer being loaded into the back of a pickup. The wardens were able to follow drag marks and blood to the fence, where they also found blood and hair. Checking inside the fence, they officers found more blood as well as the point where the deer had been standing when shot.

The citizen who initially contacted Plumas identified one of the men he had seen and described the vehicle the deer had been placed in. A short time later, the wardens and other officers located the vehicle and interviewed its occupants — three men and a juvenile.

An untagged buck was found in the bed of the pickup truck, along with two bolt-action rifles and a semi-automatic pistol. The deer and weapons were confiscated while the three adults were released pending further investigation.

All three defendants are free on personal recognizance pending an arraignment hearing. The case will be handled by Willacy County District Attorney Bernard W. Ammerman.

While the tip in this case came directly to a game warden, anyone with information concerning a game law violation is urged to contact Operation Game Thief, the state’s wildlife "crime-stoppers" program. The OGT program operates a 24-hour, toll-free hotline to report crimes, 800-792-GAME 800-792-GAME. Rewards of up to $1,000 may be paid to callers, who may remain anonymous. Rewards and hotline operations are entirely funded with private donations. For more information, visit http://www.ogttx.com/.

“Write Winning Grants”
2/25/2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010, Heritage Hall, 400 West College, Coleman, Texas, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Don’t miss an opportunity to increase your skills in writing and submitting grant proposals. Join us for an evening of fun as you learn the basic components of a grant proposal, successful approaches to conveying your need, and the do’s and don’ts of grant writing for public and private foundations.

RSVP if attending by Friday, March 5 to:
Courtney Jackson 325-676-3883 or cjackson@abilene.com, $10.00—Includes materials and snacks.

Jr. Rodeo Association to Meet This Thursday
2/24/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will meet Thursday, February 25th at 6:30 at Hidalgos in the meeting room. All who are interested in participating in or helping with this year's Junior Rodeo are invited to attend.

Little League Coaches Meeting 6:00 Monday
2/24/2010
There will be a mandatory Little League coaches meeting for t-ball, 10 and under, and 12 and under, on Monday March 1, 6:00 at Screen Art Graphics. Will be discussing start dates and draft times. For more info., or if you can not attend but are interested in coaching, please call Michael Taylor at 325-636-3922 or 325-625-1217.

The Center at 401E College St will be closed this weekend
2/24/2010
The Center at 401E College St will be closed this weekend 2/26 & 2/27. Come see us next weekend!

Remember that we are now open on Friday nights for 2 skating sessions. 7:00-8:30 is Family night. Come as a family and have some fun. Youth must come with an adult to this session. 8:30-10:00 is for Junior High only.

Saturday nights we are open for one session. 7:30-11:00 for ages 13 thru High School. Pricing is now $3.00 entry fee + $1.00 Skate Rental.

Remember you can earn FREE vouchers for the entry fee to come to The Center by earning A's & B's in your core classes (Math, Science, Social Studies and English). Bring your report card to The Center for validation and free vouchers! You can also earn free vouchers by attending bible study at a local Christian church. Stop by The Center during one of the above sessions for details.

Coleman High School FCCLA competes at regionals
2/24/2010
Coleman High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America attended the Region II Leadership Meeting in Granbury on February 4-6, 2010. The youth-developed theme “Beyond the Limits” was carried out through tracks and general sessions.

STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition) are competitive events in which members participated in during the state meeting. These events allowed members to showcase their life skills in different areas of competition. Also, the new officer team for 2010-2011 was elected to lead the region to greater heights.

Kelsey Puckett, Region II Vice President of Achievement, carried out her duties for the meeting and presided over the second general session.

Results of the STAR Event Competition are as follows:
STAR Events
Junior Division
Focus on Children – 1st place – Sarah Casselberry, Haylee Diaz, and Tiara Rosalez – Health Fair project with elementary students.
Focus on Children – 2nd place – Megan Dority and Shelbi Newton – Hands Off-No Bullying project with elementary students.
Illustrated Talk – 1st place – Sydni Stevenson – Nutrition Vacation presentation.

Senior Division
Illustrated Talk - 6th place – Bryauna Guerrero and Gabby Roberts – Fetal Alcohol Syndrome presentation
Chapter Showcase Display – 5th place – Sarah Jackson, Destiny Rader, and Shaina Thompson – FCCLA program of work presentation

All teams will compete at state competition in April at Dallas.

Leadership Enhancement Opportunities Competition provides members with a chance to showcase their knowledge in an area of FCCLA or Family and Consumer Sciences. Results of the LEO Competition are as follows:
Gold certificate
Job Interview – Mikey Hardin Stewart, and Savannah Longley
Etiquette – Cheyenne Casey
Silver certificate
Job Interview – Manuel Cruz, Cynthia Garza, Angel Duffy Padilla, and Morgan Schumann
Creed – Latisha Berniard
Bronze Certificate – Etiquette – Nikki Rush

Sarah Casselberry, Nikki Rush, Morgan Schumann, Latisha Berniard, Sarah Jackson, Country Burke, Adrianna Resendez, and Sydni Stevenson were recognized for completing all five units of Power of One. Power of One is an individual achievement program to improve in five areas of your life.

Ranee Cupps, Nikki Rush, and Morgan Schumann were recognized for serving on the public relations Connection Team. They were responsible for taking pictures for a slide show presentation of the meeting.

Morgan Schumann served as the voting delegate.

Community Service Project was for Cook’s Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth. Nikki Rush was recognized for her recent stay at Cook’s.

Karen Nanny was honored as Region II Honorary Member for her support of FCCLA through the past few years.

Coleman FCCLA received the Treasurer’s Award for having the most pre-registered from a 2A school.

Coleman FCCLA received a plaque for having the most FCCLA projects for the year.

Melvin Adams from the Harlem Globetrotters was the keynote speaker. He challenged the students to pursue their dreams while at the same time doing it with character.

Bonnie Brown brought greetings on behalf of the State FCCLA Board of Directors.

Accompanying Coleman FCCLA was Tammy Casey.

FCCLA is a dynamic youth organization that has the family as its central focus. FCCLA is considered the “best kept secret”. The leadership skills gained from FCCLA can and will be beneficial for many years to come. All activities focus on family, career, and community leadership. FCCLA members will utilize knowledge gained through leadership experiences to develop a solid foundation for the future.

L to R: King and Queen - Kayden Isbell and Jaylie Jones; Prince and Princess - David Little and Faryn Crossley; Little Mr. and Miss Valentine - Jacob Jimenez and Ellie McIver.

Santa Anna Elementary Valentine Coronation Honorees:
2/24/2010
Santa Anna Elementary expresses appreciation to all those who contributed to this year’s Valentine Coronation. Once again it was a great success due to all the hard work by everyone involved. The school raised $5,454.00!

(Submitted by Debbie Bacon and Becky Martin)

Immunization Clinic H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccine March 23rd
2/24/2010
Texas Department of State Health Services will hold an Immunization Clinic H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccine Available to all in Coleman, Tuesday, March 23rd 10-12 & 1:30-3 at the United Christian and Presbyterian Church on 1609 Commercial. Please Bring Child's immunization Records. If child is on Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card. For more information please call 325-754-4945

2 to Go!...Two Fine Arts League members are on the GO!
2/24/2010
Ginger Test, watercolorist from Novice is busy, but especially so with her new exhibit in Abilene. Ginger is one of three artisans with work a the Abilene Frame & Art in the River Oaks Gallery. The show will be up March 1 through March 26 with a reception March 5th 6:30-8 pm. The Gallery is located at 3301 S. 14th Street, Suite 26B.

Another busy League member is Kay Mitchell. Besides creating beautiful stained
Glass jewelry and other items at her studio, Kay’s Garden, last week she went to Ballinger and presented their Art Group with a full-blown program – kilns and all! A fun time and lunch was had by all.

Marian Johnson, Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co., Inc.

www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

CHS National Honor Society ceremony Wednesday
2/23/2010
Coleman High School's annual induction ceremony for the Chapter of the National Honor Society will be Wednesday, February 24th at 10:30 a.m. (changed from 9:00 a.m.) in the high school auditorium. Five students were selected for membership and will be inducted during the ceremony.

There will be a reception immediately following the ceremony for all members, family and friends.

Playoff Games Scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 25th
2/23/2010
Coleman ISD is the site for the Boys’ 2A Area Basketball Playoff game between the Wall Hawks and the Eastland Mavericks Thursday, February 25th. The game starts at 7:00 p.m. and will be played in the CHS Varsity Gym.

ational Junior Honor Society announces members
2/23/2010
The Induction ceremony for the 2009-2010 National Junior Honor Society was held at 9:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium on Tuesday, February 23, 2010. The new inductees are pictured below: Front row - Briana Espitia, Alexandria Dodgen, Briana Dennis, Ashlyn DeLaGarza, Ashley Coleman, Alexa Bordelon, Courtlyn Barker, and Marissa Vega. Back row - Shelbi Greaves, Kaylee Needham, Nathan Taylor, Andrew Stovall, John Langley, Raj Bhakta, Pedro Jimenez, Victoria Garcia, and Heather Kitchen.

This year’s officers for NJHS are: Vallari Escobar – Historian, Jayce Simmons – Secretary, Jansen Merrill – Vice President, and Aspen McConathy – President.

Women of Sacred Heart hosts Cheese Enchilada Dinner
2/23/2010
During this Lenten Season the Women of Sacred Heart will be hosting a Cheese Enchilada Dinner on Friday, February 26th and Friday, March 12th. The dinner will be open to the community.

Dine-In will start at 7:00p.m. right after mass until 8:30p.m.
Dine-In Plate consist of 3 cheese enchiladas, rice, beans, salad, dessert and drink.

Carry-Out Plates will consist of 3 Cheese enchiladas, rice, beans and salad.
Carry-Out Trays will have 1 dozen Cheese enchiladas, rice and beans.

Carry-Out can be purchased and picked up starting at 5:00 p.m.

Adults $6
Children $3
To Go Trays $15

We ask if you are planning on purchasing "To Go" Trays to call in advance to place your order. Mandy 726-9268 or Gracie 214-4117

Public Service Announcement from The City of Coleman
2/23/2010
Allied Waste will not send garbage trucks to Coleman today, Tuesday February 23, 2010, due to the bad road conditions.

The schedule for the garbage collection this week will be:

Tuesday route will be on Wednesday
Wednesday route will be on Thursday
Thursday route will be on Friday
Friday route will be on Saturday

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

SANTA ANNA CITY COUNCIL SCHEDULES BUDGET HEARING
2/23/2010
The Santa Anna City Council will meet in regular session on Monday, March 8, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall, 709 Wallis Ave., Santa Anna. One item on the agenda will be a budget hearing for the city’s proposed 2010-2011 budget. Copies of the proposed budget are available at City Hall.

Travel is discouraged today!
2/23/2010
If at all possible, please postpone travel until later today or until tomorrow after the frozen roadways melt.

Traffic is moving slowly, but the Texas Highway Patrol is reporting numerous minor crashes and vehicles stuck in ditches due to the accumulated snow on area roadways. At this time, west of Abilene has more snow accumulated on roadways, but all areas of the Big Country have a significant amount of snow.

Just a reminder that elevated structures such as bridges will freeze first for those that have emergencies and have to drive in this treacherous conditions. Allow extra following distance, slow down and leave the cruise control off!

Sparky Dean, Senior Trooper
Texas Highway Patrol/Education
Texas Department of Public Safety

Presenting the check to Jaquan is Student Council
Vice-President, Tiana Thomas.

Jaquan Hemphill takes home "It Pays to be Present"
2/23/2010
Winner of the “It Pays to be Present” drawing held this past week at Coleman Junior High School is 7th grader Jaquan Hemphill.

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.

The Senior Coleman Bluekatts and their parents were recognized at their last home basketball game on February 9th. Seniors (L-R) are Rynn Norris, Jacy Payne, Carissa Zarate and Jessica Morales.
Photo by StricksPics

Coleman Humane Society attends "Fur Ball"
2/23/2010
Several members of the Humane Society took their dogs to the Abilene Fur Ball last Saturday. The popular Fur Ball is an annual fundraiser for Rescue the Animals. Humane Society mascot Big Cody and his friend Asha posed with a cute friend they met at the Ball. Big Cody was showing off in his Elvis costume, but Asha took the large dog costume prize with her impersonation of Lucy Arnaz from I Love Lucy. Asha’s owner, Carrie Branaman of Winters, was Lucy’s neighbor, Ethel Mertz. Sue Frizzell keeps an eye on Cody.

Sarah Lynn Walston of Brady received DTR award
Front Row, left to right: Bill Purcell, Sharon Purcell, Jullya Walston, Sarah Lynn Walston, Shelly Perkins, DRT Historian and Coach Bean. Back Row, left to right: DRT Members: Mabel Jones, Jerry Wilkinson, Nancy Evridge, Principal Hawkins, Arlene Garey and Julia Harrison.

Heart of Texas DTR award Brady student for essay on Texas History
2/23/2010
The Heart of Texas Chapter of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas were pleased to present a Certificate and monetary award to Sarah Lynn Walston, a seventh grade student at the Brady Middle School. Coach Bean is her seventh grade teacher who encouraged her. Helping to congratulate her, she is shown with Principal Hawkins and Coach Bean of Brady Middle School. Sarah is the winner of the DRT Annual Essay contest. She is the daughter of Jullya Walston, and the granddaughter of Bill and Sharon Purcell, also of Brady.

The subject of Sarah’s essay was John Salmon “Rip” Ford, 1815 – 1897 -- an early settler in Texas during the years of the Republic, 1836 – 1845. He served in the Army of the Republic, and later became a doctor, a lawyer and a newspaper publisher. He served in the Republic of Texas Congress and also in the Senate of the State of Texas. He was a charter member of the Texas State Historical Association. He is buried in San Antonio, Texas.

Of local interest, in 1849, “Rip” joined Robert Neighbors, a Texas Indian Agent, and the two of them conducted the Neighbors Expedition. The objective of this expedition was to discover and map an ‘upper route’ from San Antonio to El Paso which would also pass through Austin and Waco, Texas. Leaving Waco in March, the route passed along the Colorado River, which follows the northern boundary of McCulloch County, Brady Creek and the Brady Mountains. This route was considered safer than the ‘lower route’ that went generally along the path of modern day I-10.

The DRT would also like to remind everyone that March is “Texas History Month”. On March 2, 1836, the Texas Declaration of Independence was adopted by a convention, which was held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. On March 6 of that year Santa Anna captured the Alamo after a 13-day siege and all its defenders were killed. By March 15 of that year, the provisional government of Texas was adopted at Washington-on-the-Brazos, the Republic’s first Capitol. An additional massacre would occur during March of that year. Colonel James Fannin and over 300 Texians surrendered but were then executed near the town of Goliad Texas. Goliad State Park memorializes those who died there.

Coleman Senior Citizen center possibly closed tomorrow
2/22/2010
Possible chance the Coleman Senior may be closed on Tuesday, February 23, 2010. We will be sending out shelf stable meals to all our Home Delivered clients today. If the schools close due to the weather then we will be closed. If the schools just open late, we will open at 9:00 a.m. This way we will have lunch ready for the Congrete meals at 11:30 a.m.

Class of 1960 Hosting Planning Session March 13th
2/22/2010
The C.H.S. class of 1960 is having first organizational planning session on March 13th at 10 a.m. in the First Coleman National Bank community room. The classes who should have representatives present are 1939 through 1965.

First week of early voting totals 246 voters
2/22/2010

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATION
Early Voting Polling Location:
Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St., Coleman, Tx

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 thru Friday, February 19, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Monday, February 22, 2010 thru Friday February 26, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Election Day Polling Locations: Tuesday, March 2, 2010 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center
303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, Tx

Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian Church
1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 3 – Concho Baptist Church Fellowship Hall
1700 S. Concho St. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 4 – West Wing, Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

Absentee ballot instructions:

Voters can request an application for ballot by mail by calling the County Clerk's office at 325.625.2889. Phone request for the applications will be accepted thru Friday February 12, 2010. Once Early voting begins request for the application can only be received by mail, fax or email. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 16th. Applications for a ballot by mail must be submitted to the Early Voting Clerk; Stacey Mendoza by Tuesday, February 23, 2010. Applications can be returned to the early voting clerk by mail, fax or email. Prior to the first day of early voting and application can be filled out at the County Clerk's office and returned to the County Clerks office in person.

Mailing address: 100 Liveoak Street, Suite 105, Coleman,
Tx 76834 Fax# 325.625.2889 email: cclerk@web-access.net

Once the completed application is returned to the Early voting Clerk, a paper ballot will be mailed to voter. Completed absentee ballots must be received by mail to the early voting clerk by 7:00 pm on Tuesday, March 2, 2010.

To be eligible to vote early by mail in Texas, you must: be 65 years or older; be disabled; be out of the county on election day and during the period for early voting by personal appearance; or be confined in jail, but otherwise eligible.

For more information or to print an application please see the Secretary of State's website:http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/reqabbm.shtml or you may call the County Clerk's Office at 325.625.2889.

Austin Plane Crash Aftermath Captured by Newspaper
2/22/2010
In case you missed it...
The Chronicle and DV captured the aftermath of a plane that crashed into a Internal Revenue Service building in Austin, Texas last Thursday (February 18th). The video was recorded from an iPhone and uploaded onto Facebook with the "VideoUp" application. For other breaking news headlines or information about Coleman and Texas news, sign up for a Facebook account and become a fan of the Coleman Chronicle and Democrat-Voice.

Statement by Gov. Perry
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry issued the following statement regarding the plane crash in Austin:

“In true Texas form, first responders and everyday citizens responded to today’s plane crash with selfless acts of heroism, securing the area, evacuating the building and controlling the fire, and are to be commended. My office continues to communicate with local, state and federal officials on this incident, which is currently an open criminal investigation. With details still emerging, it is important to refrain from speculation and let the law enforcement experts determine what exactly unfolded.”

Texas Gas Prices Rise of the Weekend
2/22/2010
Texas, TX, February 22- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have risen 4.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.47/g today. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.65/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 73.1 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 8.5 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 6.9 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 75.4 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Coleman Youth Basketball Team Wins 1st Place in Tournament
2/22/2010
6 Players out of the Coleman Youth basketball little dribblers 5th and 6th division played in a tournament last weekend and ended up in first.

The players are... Front (Left To Right) Kase Gayle, Bryson Hammonds, and Cayden Steffy. Back (Left To Right) Conner Dawson, Corder Norris, and Thomas Hurtado. Head Coach Cody Norris and Asst. Coach-Kyler Gayle were not pictured.

They won their last game against Hawley's 6th grade team 40-18. They finished this tournament undefeated and we just wanted everyone to know that they should be proud of the effort these boys put in and good luck to them in all the following tournaments they have. Good job boys. (''1-2-3 Better Together'' is our motto).

ORDER OF ELECTION FOR SANTA ANNA ISD
2/22/2010
An election is hereby ordered to be held on May 8th, 2010 for the purpose of: School Trustee Election

Applications for a place on the ballot shall be filed by: March 8th, 2010

Early voting by personal appearance will be conducted each weekday at: 701 Bowie Street, Santa Anna, TX 76878 between the hours of 8:00am and 3:00pm beginning on April 26th, 2010 and ending on May 4th 2010.

Applications for ballot by mail shall be mailed to:

Katrina Guerrero
701 Bowie Street
Santa Anna, TX 76878

Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on April 30th, 2010.

Incumbents Paul Martin, Grady McIver, & Roger Guerrero Jr. have re-filed. Lois Harper has also filed her application for place on the Santa Anna ISD Trustee ballot.

Search for the Stars competitors

AREA YOUTH COMPETE IN 'SEARCH FOR THE STARS' TALENT SHOW
By Christine Flynn
2/22/2010
The Search 4 the Stars talent competition brought out a huge crowd to the Coleman High School auditorium last night. The contestants came from Coleman County and surrounding cities including Sweetwater, Albany, and Santa Anna. The talent competition is held each year to benefit the C.H. Hale Prostate Cancer Foundation, Inc. scholarship. The program is sponsored by businesses, restaurants, and local community supporters in Coleman. Proceeds from the event will go to a scholarship that will be awarded in the spring to a deserving senior pursuing an education in the medical field.

The program began with “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” sang by Mrs. Barbara Brown and her daughter, Quinton Cash. Mr. Zac Allen of the Coleman County Foundation was the MC for the night.

The competition was divided into two groups—Junior and Senior divisions and then into categories of dancing and singing. The crowd was enthusiastic and cheered on each contestant on stage. The courage and confidence each young star had on stage was such a delight to watch. The performances ranged from pop to country to hip hop. They showcased their talents through song and dance. Some of the senior division individuals also performed with a musical instrument such as a guitar. Last Call, a group of three high schoolers performed a country medley with a full ensemble band—guitar, bass, and drums.

The difficult task of judging went to Joe Haynes, manager of KSTA, Truitt Mitchell, teacher from Santa Anna, and Quinton Cash, a realtor from Austin, TX and founder of Austin Diner’s Club. The contestants were judged based upon skill, audience reception, and other factors.

The winners of the Search 4 the Stars talent competition were awarded trophies. The winners were:

Junior Division:
Song
1st--Angel Gloria from Brady
2nd--Annaliesse Espinoza from Sweetwater
3rd--Jewels Harmes from Coleman
Dance and other Talent
1st--The Jam Brothers from Coleman
2nd--Lexi Taff from Cisco
3rd--Tie with Riley James and Sierra Jaurequi both of Coleman

Senior Division:
Song
1st--Zachary Webb from Brownwood
2nd--Last Call from Coleman
3rd--Karlie Harrell from Sweetwater
Dance and other Talent
1st--Devan Nunez of Coleman
2nd--Lacy Pierce of Tuscola
3rd--no third place

In between the talent selections there were also adults who sang. Many door prizes were offered from meals at local restaurants to a travel luggage from JCPenny. Volunteers were also recognized for their time and efforts including Mrs. Brown who plans for this event each year. The event is dear to Mrs. Brown’s heart as she honors her father who did not know that he had prostate cancer until he was being treated for a stroke. Her mission is to bring awareness of the disease and for people to “take charge of your own health.” Another event coming up on May 8th is the 8th annual Walk for the Cure Cancer Walk. The walk will begin at the Coleman Courthouse.

CHS National Honor Society ceremony Feb. 24th
2/22/2010
Coleman High School's annual induction ceremony for the Chapter of the National Honor Society will be Wednesday, February 24th at 9:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Five students were selected for membership and will be inducted during the ceremony.

There will be a reception immediately following the ceremony for all members, family and friends.

Mark your calendars for the annual Coleman Public Library book and bake sale!
2/22/2010
The festivities begin with a special preview book sale for Friends of the Library members Thurs. March 4th and Friday, March 5th 5PM to 7PM. Don’t worry if you have not yet had the chance to join the Friends of the Library, you will have the opportunity to sign up then and earn an extra discount on your purchase. The book sale will officially begin on Friday, March 4th from 9AM to 5PM and continue on Saturday from 9AM to 1PM. The delicious bake goods and hot dog lunch sale will also coincide with the book sale on Friday.

This annual fundraiser helps to purchase supplies for the children’s summer reading program and also any needs of the library throughout the year. The library will be accepting donated books for the sale during the next two weeks until the sale. Please come out and support the Coleman Public Library with a book and a delicious treat.

Rankin Files for Candidacy
2/20/2010
Tracy Rankin, who is currently serving as the City's Place 1 North Ward Councilwoman, has filed her candidacy for the position once again. Mrs. Rankin is employed with the local Farm Service Agency as a Program Technician.

Scouts Jamboree Coming Soon - Volunteers Needed!
2/20/2010
Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts will converge on Flat Rock Park at Hord's Creek Lake April 23-25 for a Centennial Jamboree and Family Camp.

Scouts, leaders and families from all over Texas Trails Council, plus some neighboring councils, will be in attendance. Visitors are welcome; entry fee will be $10 per person for the day. Concessions will be available.

The event will have a Jamboree flavor, with separate fun and action events for Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.

I am responsible for creating an obstacle course for ages 6 to 12. I am in need of some materials for the course. Below are the ideas I have for obstacles. I'm open to suggestions on these or others.

(1) Rope swing
(2) Balance beam, using 1 x 12 planks and cinder blocks
(3) Something to crawl through. It could be a length of pipe, tractor tires lashed together or a framework covered with tarps or blankets.
(4) A short climbing wall (about 6 feet) with netting they can use for grip.
(5) A winding course through trees or around other obstacles.
(6) A sand pile to climb over. One idea: Have a playground slide (or two) embedded in the sand where they have to CLIMB UP (boys love doing that), then slide or roll down the opposite side.

The main things I need to find are materials for the tunnel, netting for the climbing wall (and a structure to put it over), sand for the pile and slide(s) (just the slide part, not the ladder) for the sand pile.

If anyone can help with these items, please contact Carl Kieke in Abilene: (325) 673-3552 (call anytime before midnight; I'm a "night owl"); kiekec@suddenlink.net; 1417 N. 7th Apt. 2, Abilene 79601-4948. (I would appreciate any quick response; otherwise, I'll be worrying!)

Arrests Made in Coleman County Drug Roundup
2/19/2010 by Kim E. Horne
Around 7:30am Friday law enforcement officers from nine agencies fanned out over Coleman and Santa Anna, serving felony and misdemeanor warrants on at least 27 defendants.

The defendants were named in sealed Grand Jury indictments, charging them with deliveries of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, marijuana, hydrocodone, methadone and oxycontin.

The West Central Texas Interlocal Crime Task Force began an undercover investigation over a year ago. They were assisted by Coleman County's District Attorney's Office, the Coleman County Sheriff's Department, and the Coleman Police Department. Also assisting in the Friday morning roundup were the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Santa Anna Police Department, Coleman Lake Warden, and the Taylor County Sheriff's Department.

One of the subjects arrested was Patrick Eugene Pence, who is on probation for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon in the death of Joshua Todd Weaver. Pence will be charged with three more felony offenses and has a pending motion to revoke his probation.

District Attorney Heath Hemphill stated, "Today's arrests will have a positive affect in Coleman County. It's important to know this is just the first phase and more cases will move forward from information gained through today's arrests."

Arrested Friday morning: John Tony Baker, Larry Wayne Durham, Michael Shane Branch, Mary Louise Dixon, Judy Ann Donaghue, Leigh Marie Donaghue, Robert Lee Edwards, Jr., Mary Eliz Miller, Selma Joe Mills, Derrek Gene Monroe, Greggory Owen Myers, Patti Jo O'Brien, Patrick Eugene Pence, Joshua Anthony Roberson, Lakisha Jenae Stembridge, Carl Lynn Squyres Jr., Judy Massey Strength, and Willie Lee Thomas.

Additional arrests: Sheila Harrington, Jackie Wayne Barnett, Sherrod Smith, Josue Perez.

CHS National Honor Society Ceremony Next Wednesday
2/19/2010
Coleman High School's annual induction ceremony for the Chapter of the National Honor Society will be Wednesday, February 24th at 9:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Five students were selected for membership and will be inducted during the ceremony.

There will be a reception immediately following the ceremony for all members, family and friends.

CYA Baseball & Softball Sign-ups
Going On NOW...
2/19/2010
Coleman Youth Association Baseball and Softball sign-ups are going on NOW! The deadline is Friday, February 26th at 5:00 p.m. Turn applications in to Screen Art Graphics at 214 S. Colorado.
The fee is $40 and boys and girls ages 5-12 may sign up. Pick up applications at Screen Art Graphics or Coleman Elementary School. For more information, contact Lee Wayne West at 625-2508.

Early Voting Totals
2/19/2010
County Clerk Stacey Mendoza reported that there were 67 early voters on Thursday for a total of 180 so far.

COUNCIL APPROVES 4B BALLOT INITIATIVE, TABLES 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT CITY PARK FOR FURTHER STUDY
2/19/2010
By Jo Ann Eddleman
In a unanimous vote Thursday evening, City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 1118, which places the repeal of the half-cent property relief sales tax and the adoption of a half-cent 4B economic development corporation sales tax option on the May 8 ballot.

City Manager Larry Weise advised Council that as a result of a citizens’ initiative that asked for the opportunity to vote on a Type 4B economic development corporation for Coleman, the ordinance had been drafted for their action. If the ballot initiative, promoted by ColemanNOW, is approved in May, the half-cent property tax relief tax would be reallocated to support the 4B corporation, leaving the total sales tax at the current 8.25%. Type 4B economic development corporations can spend the sales tax revenue on community development projects as well as municipal improvements and small business incentives.

Another proposed project to bring a festive 4th of July celebration to Coleman was presented by Collier Watson, representing the Coleman Rotary Club. Watson asked Council for the use of the City Park on July 2 to host a fun day extravaganza that would be capped off by a giant fireworks display at the end of the day.

Watson said the event would be a fundraiser for the Rotary Club with the $5 admission fee going to support the Club’s scholarship fund. The event could also serve as a fundraising opportunity for other civic and nonprofit organizations that would be invited to set up booths at the park on that day as well.
According to Watson, the Rotary Club envisions a pedestrians-only event at the park, with the closing of the highway in front of the park and guest parking on the auction barn site. Shuttles provided by CARR would also be available from downtown. The fireworks detonation would take place on the field next to the auction barn. The Travis Goree family, who have held a by-invitation-only 4th of July celebration at their Valera ranch for the past few years, will underwrite the fireworks display.

Although everyone thought it sounded like a great idea, City Manager Weise asked Council to table the request until he and the interested parties could get together and work out several details that would have to be taken into consideration before the city could commit to the use of the city park for the event.

Council was asked to consider the appointment of an interim councilman to fill the position left vacant by the resignation of South Ward Councilman and mayor pro tem John Plummer. Councilman Harold Skelton moved to appoint Wayne Moore to the position. Moore has served on the City Council in the past. However, South Ward council candidate Paul Kugle asked to speak to the matter before a vote was taken.

Kugle told Council he felt the appointment of Moore, who has also filed for the South Ward position, would give Moore an unfair advantage in the contested campaign to fill the vacancy. Kugle stated that since Council was not required to appoint an interim councilman, he believed it could continue to do the city’s business for the couple of months remaining before the May 8 election without appointing an interim councilman. Skelton’s motion to appoint Moore to an interim term died for lack of a second.
Council then chose to appoint Councilman Skelton as mayor pro tem.

In other business, Council agreed to signing a joint election agreement between the City, the Coleman ISD and Coleman County Medical Center for the May 8 election.

Council also approved the 2009 racial profiling report for Lake Coleman presented by the park police chief, Wallace Dobbins. A total of 14 contacts showed 12 being white and 2 African-American. There were no complaints for racial profiling.

The investment report presented to Council by the City Manager showed a total of $4,260,013 in various investment accounts as of December 31, 2009.

The auditing firm of Merritt, McLane and Hamby, CPA, was not present. The 2008/2009 audit report will be placed on a future agenda.

Coleman High School Recognized by the Just for the Kids Campaign for Higher Performing Schools in Texas
2/19/2010
The National Center for Educational Achievement’s (NCEA) Just for the Kids Campaign recently released this year’s Higher Performing Schools Lists. NCEA each year identifies schools whose students consistently achieved more academic growth based on TAKS. Coleman High School was recognized as a Higher Performing School and was invited to attend an event in Dallas which included a recognition ceremony. Key note speaker and presenter of the award was State Representative Diane Patrick. Attending and accepting for Coleman High School were Richard Holloway, Lorrie Payne, Carol Bennington, and Suzanne Ryan.

A full list of the Just for the Kids Higher Performing Schools is available at http://www.nc4ea.org

Coleman to Host More Playoff Games
2/18/2009
Coleman ISD will be hosting the boys' Class 1A Bi-District Basketball Playoff game between Eldorado and DeLeon on Tuesday, February 23rd. The game starts at 7:00 p.m. and will be played in the CHS Varsity Gym.

Bluekatt Softball Team in Abilene Tourney - Begins Today
2/18/2010
The Coleman Bluekatts are playing in the Abilene Ice Breaker high school softball tournament beginning Thursday, February 18th, at Redbud Park. The Bluekatts are in the Black bracket and will play on Field 4.
Thursday (02/18):
5:00 p.m. - Coleman vs. Albany
Friday (2/19):
9:00 a.m. - Coleman vs. Pampa
3:00 pm. - Coleman vs. Haskell
7:00 p.m. - Coleman vs Clyde
Saturday (2/20):
3:00 p.m. - Coleman vs. Breckenridge

Early Voting Totals
2/18/2010
Coleman County Clerk Stacey Mendoza has reported that there were 56 early voters yesterday, which gives a total of 113.

Jr. Class Parents Meet TONIGHT
2/18/2010
The Junior class parents (Class or 2011) will have a meeting today, Thursday, February 18th at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss fundraising and plans for the after prom celebration in May. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

Need $$$ for College?
Excellence in Agriculture ~ Circle “C” Cattlewomen Scholarships for 2010
2/18/2010
Do you need money for college? If so, the local organization of Texas Cattlewomen has two education scholarships to award to two eligible students for 2010; (1) scholarship in the amount of $1000 and (1) scholarship in the amount of $500.

For qualified graduating seniors or recent graduates of a Coleman County high school and enrolled full-time (or plan to enroll full-time) in a University and pursuing a degree in an agricultural field of study (1. agriculture 2. agricultural communications, 3. ranch management, 4. pre-veterinary medicine, 5. food and nutrition).

To obtain an application, please visit your high school counselor/senior advisor, visit www.colemannews.com to download an application and requirements for application, or contact Jill Atwood at 325-625-9231. Application deadline is Monday, March 22, 2010.

Coleman Junior High NJHS Induction Ceremony is Next Tuesday
2/18/2010
Coleman Junior High School's annual induction ceremony for the Coleman Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society will be Tuesday, February 23rd at 9:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Seventeen students were selected for membership and will be inducted during the ceremony.

To be eligible for membership consideration, students must have a cumulative grade point average of 90 or better. Additionally, potential members must meet high standards of leadership, service, citizenship, and character.

Leadership is based on participation in community or school activities, or election to an office. To meet the service requirement, the student must have been active in service projects in the school and community. Citizenship is measured by the student's participation in civic-related organizations and/or activities. Character is measured in terms of integrity, behavior, ethics, and cooperation with both students and faculty.

Friends of the Coleman County Foundation Accepting Grant Proposals
2/17/2010
The Friends of Coleman County Foundation will accept proposals through April 2, 2010 for its annual grant cycle. Nonprofit organizations and community groups that support cultural, civic, educational and human services activities in Coleman County may apply for a grant. Friends of the Foundation will consider funding for special projects, innovative programs, equipment and building needs. Grants generally range from $1,000 - $5,000 and are awarded on a competitive basis.

A grant writing workshop will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Courtney Jackson, Community Foundation of Abilene Grants Director will offer grant writers helpful tips and guidance in writing their grant proposals. More information regarding this workshop will be forth coming.

In 2005, the Friends of the Coleman County Foundation was established as a support arm of the Coleman County Foundation. The creation of “Friends” provides another grant opportunity for community agencies in addition to the grants from the Coleman County Foundation awarded each Fall.

Organizations interested in applying are required to obtain a copy of the grant guidelines from the Coleman Chamber of Commerce or by contacting Courtney Jackson at 325-676-3883 or cjackson@abilene.com.

Fine Arts League meeting will be Thursday
2/17/2010
The regular monthly Fine Arts League meeting will be Thursday Feb. 18 at 6 pm at the First Coleman National Bank Club room. Board meeting at 5 pm. The plans include a fun activity of showing your work and having a critique session on how or if it can be improved!! President, Sherrell Hazlewood in charge!! Sherrell will be demonstrating the “art of the Texas Blue Bunnies” in Brownwood Thursday for the Stars Juried Art Show. The show closes Saturday Feb 20th.

Several items on the agenda for Thursday’s meeting will be discussed and plans started for the Membership Show in July. (Bill Shields, Chair). Some ideas will be discussed for the highly anticipated Fiesta Juried Art Show in October. Types of fund-raising are on the list of things to be discussed – bring your ideas. Lois McCarty, Chair.

Refreshments will be served – guests and prospective members are always welcome.

In a single day, one can hear several comments on how the Arts (Fine Arts League) is enjoyed by many from different walks of life, locally and as far away as Oregon!. The positive attitude is contagious - In case you missed the Fine Arts League article in October, 2009, it is repeated in part below because of its relevance now:

From the Texas Commission on the Arts newsletter, Susan Combs, Comptroller: “Texas is blessed with diverse economy and with so many high-profile companies calling Texas home, it can be tough to look past the oil derricks, (wind turbines), to recognize the valuable economic contributions ARTS make in our state. Texas cities and small communities alike boast art traditions that enhance their regions culturally and economically. Those Texas cities recognize the economic uplift a vibrant arts community can provide. Arts play a vital role in enhancing and maintaining a city or region’s quality of life – an essential business element businesses see in a city when looking to relocate. Also, Arts play a vital role in Texas’ economic development. I encourage all Texans to support sound arts policy and their local artistic communities. Take advantage of artistic resources and know you’re enriching yourself and your community.

Investment in Economic Development: Support of the arts helps stimulate economic development in the state. The availability of cultural resources and opportunities helps attract businesses to Texas. Additionally, arts play a role in attracting tourists to Texas, helping promote tourism, a $53.8 billion industry (2009) become one of the state’s third largest industries. Economic Development projects are those that use art to diversify local economies, generate revenue and attract visitors and investment. “ (Texas Commission on the Arts newsletter.)

Marian Johnson, Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.
www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

BANK ROBBERY IN THE BIG COUNTRY
2/17/2010
Submitted by Sparky Dean, Senior Trooper
The Stamford Police, Texas Rangers and FBI continue to seek information on the robbery of the First National Bank of Stamford, Texas which occurred at 12:40 P.M. on Friday, February 5th, 2010. It is believed the man may have been from out of town.

Anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call the Stamford Police Department at 325-773-3647.

The following is a list of descriptors:

White male, approximately late 40s to early 60s with a “reddish” complexion (“weathered”)
Grey to white hair
Light-colored eyes with thick, light-colored eyebrows (grey or white)
Hallowed (sunken) cheeks; apparent cheekbones
Narrow nose
Thin lips
Tattoo on upper chest with faded green ink (design unknown)
May be left-handed (held the gun in his left hand)

Snowball fight at Holiday Hill!
2/17/2010
Snowball Fight at Holiday Hill! Some things never change. A little snow brings out the mischievous in all of us and nursing home folks are no different. Vanessa Molina, Activity Assistant is dodging a snowball thrown by the men while Charlene Grider, Betty McClellan, Polly Bartholomew and Wilene Davis look to reload.

Update: First Day of Early Voting Falls Short of 60
2/17/2010
Total for the end of day 1 of early voting was 57.

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATION
Early Voting Polling Location:
Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St., Coleman, Tx

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 thru Friday, February 19, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Monday, February 22, 2010 thru Friday February 26, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Election Day Polling Locations: Tuesday, March 2, 20107:00 am to 7:00 pm

Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center
303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, Tx

Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian Church
1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, Tx

Cycling from Austin to Anchorage for Cancer
2/16/2010
Jack Reynolds, a graduate of Coleman High School and a junior at the University of Texas has been selected to the Sense Corp Texas 4000 for Cancer cycling team. Jack, along with 49 other cyclist, will participate in the longest charity ride in the world. The team, made up of UT students, will leave Austin, Tx. on June 5, 2010 traveling 4,500 miles, averaging 75 miles a day, and arriving in Anchorage, AK. on August 13, 2010.

The mission of the team is to share HOPE, KNOWLEDGE, and CHARITY. They ride for HOPE. The cyclist ride for all those touched by cancer. They have also chosen someone special to dedicate their ride to. Jack had chosen his uncle Kelly Reeves who was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2007. Unfortunately Kelly passed away in November 2009. He was Jack’s biggest supporter and will be greatly m

They ride for KNOWLEDGE. All along the way, in large and small communities, the team will speak at various hospitals, community centers, and local churches discussing cancer prevention, the challenges of their trip, and encouraging everyone to get involved in the fight against cancer.

They ride for CHARITY. This is the seventh year of this charity ride. Every year the team sets a large goal of raising money for cancer research. This year the team’s goal is $225,000.00 with each cyclist raising $4,500.00. This money is donated to cancer research and education. Much of the money is given to the MD Anderson Cancer Research Center. If you would like to donate to a worthy cause on Jack’s behalf, you can go the website, http://texas40000.org and select "donate" or you can mail your donation to; Texas 4000 for Cancer, P.O. Box 202315 Dallas, Texas 75320-2315. Please write Jack’s name in the "fill" line so he can show his appreciation. The Sense Corp Texas 4000 for Cancer is a non-pr(c) 3 organization and all donation are tax-deductible. All donations must be received by March 20, 2

You can visit the website and learn more about the organization and get to know all the riders. Jack will be making a documentary of the trip for the organization. Jack will also be writing on his personal blog ,also found at http://texas4000.org . Many thanks to Jack’s friends and family who have shown such wonderful support and who have donated to this worthy cause. Jack is the son of Dr. Paul and Becki Reynolds.

SECOND CANDIDATE FILES FOR SOUTH WARD COUNCIL SEAT
2/16/2010
Wayne Moore, local resident at 213 Miami St., has filed for a place on the City of Coleman's Election ballot to represent South Ward Place 4 Councilman. Early voting begins Monday, April 26 and ends on Tuesday, May 4. Election Day is Sat., May 8, 2010.

Individuals have through Monday, March 8, 2010 to file for a place on the ballot.

PANTHER CREEK CISD ANNOUNCES 4th SIX WEEKS HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL
2/16/2010
A HONOR ROLL

9TH GRADE
CHELSEA LEWIS

10TH GRADE
NIKKI EWING
COURTNEY MOORE
JARED ROMINE
KATIE STRAACH

11TH GRADE
NONE

12TH GRADE
FRED BLACKWELL
ETHAN GRIFFIN
CASSIE PHILPOT
LACHELLE RUTLEDGE
BENTON WARREN

A/B HONOR ROLL

9TH GRADE
AUSTIN LEWIS
SCARLETT PYBURN

10TH GRADE
STEPHANNIE BLEDSOE
CHELSEY DAY
JORIE NANNY
KELTON POWELL
BETTY TORRES

11TH GRADE
TRENT SMITH

12TH GRADE
CHARLEY BOWMAN
JEREMI HAMMOND
STEPHEN HOELSCHER

CLICK HERE FOR JUNIOR HIGH AND ELEMENTARY RESULTS

Band Boosters to Host Dinner Concert March 8th
2/16/2010
Dear Band Parent/Guardian,

On March 8th the Coleman ISD Band Program along with the Coleman Band Boosters will be performing a Dinner Concert in the cafeteria. Each group (Beginning Band, Advanced Band, and High School Band) will perform while dinner is being served. We are asking each student to bring a food item. Please refer to the list below for your student’s item.

These items need to be delivered to the band hall before school on March 8th so that they may be stored properly for the Dinner Concert:

• 6th Grade—Dessert—Something cut into pieces or cookies (NO Pie)
• 7th Grade—Shredded Cheese (12 oz package or larger)
• 8th Grade—3 Finely Diced Tomatoes (Medium Size)
• 9th Grade—1 Shredded Head of Lettuce in baggy
• 10th Grade—Dessert—Something cut into pieces or cookies (NO Pie)
• 11th Grade—1 Tub of Sour Cream (16 oz)
• 12th Grade—3 Finely Chopped Onions and 1 Jar of Jalapeños

**Please bring all food items already prepped for serving in plastic baggies! This will save a huge amount of time, work, and storage space.**

LOW FAMILY DONATES CEREMONY BELL TO LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT
2/16/2010
Robert Low of Coleman, Texas put his carpentry skills to good use when he, his son (James Low, pictured above, right), and his daughter-in-law (Mary Low, pictures above, left) crafted a ceremonial firefighter bell for the Coleman Fire Department. The brass bell featured above rests on a custom wooden plaque and stand and displays a scene of three men fighting fire which reads, "The Bravest."

In the past, fire stations across America used bells to signify the beginning of a shift, call together brigades, sound alarms, and also determine a fire scene complete and signal a return to quarters. Today, such bells are used to begin meetings or to properly lay fellow firefighters to rest.

The new brass bell donated by the Low family is a timeless piece that represents firefighter history and tradition. To find out more about the history of the bell, click here and read about the "Bell Ceremony."

A warm thank you from the Coleman Fire Department to the Low Family.

SCHOOL BOARD TRUSTEES RE-HIRE ADMINISTRATORS; CALL JOINT ELECTION
2/16/2010
The Coleman Independent School District Board of Trustees met for a brief meeting yesterday to consider the re-hiring of school administrators and to call an official Board of Trustees election.

The Board of Trustees unanimously re-hired each of the following individuals: Richard Holloway – High School Principal, Paula Ringo – Jr. High School Principal, Becky Jackson – Elementary Principal, Barbara Cox – Girls’ Athletic Director, Rusty Buzzard – Boys’ Athletic Director, Karen Huff – Business Manager, Paul Martin – Technology Director, and Lorrie Payne – Curriculum Director.

The Board of Trustees also called an official election for Coleman School Board Trustees, whereas the announced a joint election agreement between the City of Coleman and Coleman Independent School District in early May.

The Board also discussed today's bi-district playoff games between San Saba Lady Dillos vs. Jim Ned Lady Indians and Irion County Lady Hornets vs. Evant Lady Elks and encourage everyone to attend.

COLEMAN TO HOST BI-DISTRICT GAMES TODAY
2/16/2010
Coleman ISD will be hosting two girls Class A Bi-District basketball playoff games today. Both games will be held in the CHS Varsity Gym.

Tuesday, February 16th
6:00 p.m. _ San Saba Lady Dillos vs. Jim Ned Lady Indians
8:00 p.m. – Irion County Lady Hornets vs. Evant Lady Elks

Coleman Youth Assoc. Baseball Meeting Will Be Wednesday Evening
2/15/2010
The CYA (Coleman Youth Association) will hold a Baseball meeting Wednesday evening, February 17th at 6:00 p.m. at Screen Art Graphics, 214 S. Colorado. This is a very important meeting to set up the board and the 2010 league and schedule.

For more information or if you cannot attend but want to be a part of the league, contact Lee Wayne West at 625-2508.

Coleman Elementary & Junior High Hosting Book Fair
2/15/2010
Coleman Elem.-Jr. High Library will be hosting a Scholastic Book Fair on Feb. 22-26. Hours for the book fair will be from 8:00-3:40 on Monday-Thursday, closing for lunch from 12:30-1:05. On Friday, the book fair will be open from 8:00-12:30.

For a preview, go to our special web page at http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/bluecats

Parents are welcome to come to the book fair at any time during the school day. Special family times will be on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from 7:30-8:00. The public is invited to attend the book fair at any time.

Credit cards will be accepted. Checks should be made out to C.I.S.D. Please remember to add tax if you are sending a check with your child.

Proceeds from the book fair will go towards the purchase of new library books.

AREA TALENT ON STAGE THIS SATURDAY
2/15/2010
-- Search 4 the Stars talent show, Coleman High School Auditorium, 6 p.m.
By Jo Ann Eddleman
It’s that time again! The 5th Annual SEARCH 4 THE STARS talent show will swing open the doors of the Coleman High School Auditorium this Saturday, February 20, at 6:00 p.m., for the enjoyment of all.

The annual talent show, sponsored by the C.H. Hale Prostate Cancer Foundation under the direction of Barbara Brown, offers anyone in the Big Country who has a talent they want to showcase a chance to perform—always to the delight of an appreciative audience.

Acts are grouped into two age divisions. Ages 5 – 12 will be in the Junior Division. The Senior Division is for ages 13 and up. Participants in each division will be judged in Song and Other Talent categories. Prizes will be given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners of each category in each division. Lip synching is allowed, but these acts are not eligible for prizes.

Search organizer Barbara Brown hopes anyone who has a talent will feel free to participate, “but we only give the prizes to performers who are students,” she explained.
Brown hopes that in addition to all the parents all the grandmas and grandpas will “get up off that couch and come out to support your kids,” she said. “It takes a lot of bravery for our kids to be able to do this. Let’s stand with them and show our support!”

Brown also said that outstanding people in the community will be recognized throughout the show.

Admission tickets are $5 each for ages 5 and up. The proceeds of the event support the C.H. Hale Prostate Cancer Foundation’s scholarship fund. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and contributions are tax deductible. Brown gives the scholarship to a deserving student at the end of the school year. Tickets are now on sale at the Shoppin’ Baskit, or they can be purchased at the door.

Although the “official” deadline for entries has passed, for more information about performing you may contact Barbara Brown at 325-625-3455 or Mickey Holloway at 325-214-0534.

TEXAS GAS PRICES REMAIN BELOW NATIONAL AVERAGE
2/15/2010
Texas, TX, February 15- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas moved just 1.8 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.43/g today. This compares with the national average that has fallen 2.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.62/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 62.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 15.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 11.9 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 67.6 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

"Gasoline prices will begin to slowly rise across much of the country as colder than average weather results in rising oil demand as temperatures plummet in key areas that warm their homes using heating oil", says GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst, Patrick DeHaan. "However, gasoline prices in the Midwest will buck the trend as stockpiles swell in the Great Lakes area." He goes on to mention that stockpiles grew last week to the highest levels since March 2008 in that area, resulting in lower prices as supply greatly outpaces demand.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Stars! Stars! Stars!
Updated 2/15/2010
by Marian Johnson
Several of the Fine Arts League of Coleman “Stars” were out Saturday for the Brownwood Depot for the “Paint-Out”. Artists sign up and 6 hours later have to have a Painting completed and ready to be bid upon and judged.

Those entered and painting were: Sherrell Hazlewood, President; Theda Rhea, Membership; Robin Black, Secretary; Ginger Test and Bill Shields, members. Dollie Sparkman was there for cheering the Stars on.

Marian Johnson, Publicity
www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION RAFFLES OFF RIFLE
2/13/2010
The Coleman County Firefighters Association raffled off a commemorative Vietnam M-14 Rifle plated in 24 kt gold to one lucky winner today in downtown Coleman. The Firefighters Association met at Shoppin’ Baskit where they announced Larry Hannan of Burkett, Texas as the lucky winner of the rifle.

Alvin Cleland supplied the rifle and Dennis Stroebel, owner of Shoppin’ Baskit, donated the rifle to the association for their fundraising efforts.

CITY COUNCIL DECIDES ON 4B; CONSIDERS 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT THE PARK
2/12/2010
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2010
5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Hall
200 W. Liveoak
Coleman, Texas

PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of minutes from the regular Council meeting held on February 4, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

RECOGNITION OF STAFF: (NONE)
HEARING OF VISITORS CONCERNING MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA:
PUBLIC HEARING (S): (NONE)
RECEIPT OF BIDS: (NONE)
CONSENT AGENDA:
OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)

NEW BUSINESS:
1 Council will consider a request from the Coleman Rotary Club to use the City Park for a fireworks extravaganza on Friday, July 2, 2010. Council my take any action deemed necessary.
2 Council will consider Ordinance 1118 calling a Special Election on May 8, 2010 for the purpose of abolishing the additional ½ percent sales tax currently being used for property tax reduction and the adoption of a ½ percent sales and use tax for economic development under Chapter 505 of the Texas Local Government Code, for the purpose of funding a Type B Economic Development Corporation for the City of Coleman. Council my take any action deemed necessary.
3 Council will receive for approval the 2009 Racial Profiling Report from the Lake Warden. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
4 Council will consider authorizing the Mayor to sign a joint election agreement between the City of Coleman, Coleman ISD, and Coleman County Medical Center for the May 8, 2010 election. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
5 Council will receive the 2008/2009 audit from Merritt, McLane and Hamby, CPA’s. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
6 Council will receive and consider for approval the City of Coleman’s Investment Report for the 4th quarter of 2009. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
7 Council will consider the appointment of an individual to fill the position vacated by Mayor Pro Tem Plummer for an interim period up to May 8, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
8 Council will elect a Mayor Pro Tem. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN:

COLEMAN ISD TO CLOSE EARLY MONDAY
2/12/2010
Coleman ISD will release all students early on Monday, February 15th so that the faculty and staff can receive inservice training Monday afternoon. Coleman High School will dismiss at 12:00 p.m., Coleman Jr. High and Coleman Elementary will dismiss at 12:25 p.m. Coleman Elementary will not have TKO on Monday.

The regular class schedule will resume Tuesday, February 16th.

SAMPLE BALLOTS AND EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS
2/12/2010
With early voting right around the corner, the Coleman County Clerk's office wanted to provide the public with a few sample ballots for the upcoming election. Below are sample ballots for the primary elections. On both the Democrat and Republican ballots, the only differences are for County Commissioners in each precinct and Precinct Chairman. The propositions, located on the back of the ballot, are very important this year, so pay close attention when reading your ballot.

Democrat Sample Ballot
Republican Sample Ballot

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATION
Early Voting Polling Location:
Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St., Coleman, Tx

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 thru Friday, February 19, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Monday, February 22, 2010 thru Friday February 26, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Election Day Polling Locations: Tuesday, March 2, 20107:00 am to 7:00 pm

Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center
303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, Tx

Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian Church
1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, Tx

Junior Class Parents Meeting Thursday, Feb. 18th
2/12/2010
The Junior class parents (Class or 2011) will have a meeting on Thursday, February 18th at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss fundraising and plans for the after prom celebration in May. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

MEN OF ST. MARK'S TO HOST SHROVE TUESDAY PANCAKE SUPPER
2/12/2010
Shrove Tuesday will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 16th at St. Mark's Episcopal church Mission Hall with a traditional Pancake Supper hosted by the men of the church. Serving time is 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. Adult tickets are $5.00 and children under 10 for $3.00. All proceeds will be divided between the Santa Anna Loaves and Fishes and the Coleman Food Pantry.

HISTORY OF SHROVE TUESDAY
Shrove Tuesday is the day before Lent starts: the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It's a day of penitence, to clean the soul, and a day of celebration a the last chance to feast before Lent begins.

Shrove Tuesday is sometimes called Pancake Day after the fried batter recipe traditionally eaten on this day.

But there's more to Shrove Tuesday than pigging out on pancakes. The pancakes themselves are part of an ancient custom with deeply religious roots.

Shrove Tuesday is a day of celebration as well as penitence, because it's the last day before Lent.

Lent is a time of abstinence, of giving things up. So Shrove Tuesday is the last chance to indulge yourself, and to use up the foods that aren't allowed in Lent.

During Lent there are many foods that some Christians - historically and today - would not eat: foods such as meat and fish, fats, eggs, and milky foods.

So that no food was wasted, families would have a feast on the shriving Tuesday, and eat up all the foods that wouldn't last the forty days of Lent without going off.

The need to eat up the fats gave rise to the French name Mardi Gras ('fat Tuesday'). Pancakes became associated with Shrove Tuesday as they were a dish that could use up all the eggs, fats and milk in the house with just the addition of flour.

INFLOWS ON TRACK TO BREAK 2009 TOTAL
2/12/2010
(FEBRUARY 11, 2010) – The new year has brought West Texas a wet winter and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Last year held a record low for total inflow for Lake J.B. Thomas, E.V. Spence Reservoir, and O.H. Ivie Reservoir at a total of only 14,737 acre-feet. Since January 28, 2010, CRMWD has recorded a total inflow of approximately 12,000 acre-feet, which is on track to breaking last year’s low inflow total. Since the rainfall began, Lake J.B. Thomas has gained 1,000 acre-feet, E.V. Spence Reservoir has gained 1,100 acre-feet, and O.H. Ivie Reservoir has gained 9,900 acre-feet. For any other information regarding the current conditions of the reservoirs contact Chris Wingert, Manager of Planning and Development, at 432-267-6341.

LITTLE DRIBBLERS TRAVELED TO EULA TO PLAY SIX GAMES!
2/12/2010
CYA Little Dribblers Boys 5th & 6th grade traveled to Eula to play six games with three teams representing Coleman. Competition included Hawley 5th grade, Hawley 6th grade, and Eula 5th & 6th grade combined. The three Coleman teams finished overall with a record of 4 wins and 2 losses. Twenty young men participated in this event.

Front Row: Cayden Steffey, Trey Sartain, Zachary Mason, Guy Watts, Gina Marks, Bryson Hammonds, Darrian Hunter, Kaleb Russell, Coby Williams, Jacob Mason Back Row: Josue Cruz, Neil Bhatka, Mason Monroe, Therron Jones, Jamie Graham, Cord Norris, Thomas Hurtado. Not pictured are Conner Dawson, Caleb Brandon, Riley Harris.

CCMC VALENTINE BASKET WON BY LOCAL WOMAN
2/12/2010
Submitted by Sue Titsworth
The weather was cold and snowy, and the roads were mushy. However that did not deter the CCMC Employees Activity Committee from their dedication to the Valentine Basket fundraiser. At exactly 4 o’clock on Thursday, February11th, 2010, at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Miss Coleman County, Lisha Merkley drew the winning ticket out of the hopper.

The winning ticket carried the name of Terry Vasquez of Coleman, and, as luck would have it, when we called the telephone number on the ticket, she and her young son, Daniel, just happened to be across the street!

The fundraiser was a great success, and raised a lot of money for our equipment fund. Thanks to all of you who purchased tickets for a good cause. We appreciate you all so much!

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY ANNOUNCES STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
2/12/2010
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for January.

Students of the month are:

Elizabeth Baum - 6th grade girl
Gabriel Roberts – 6th grade boy
Courtlyn Barker – 7th grade girl
Brandon Barrios – 7th grade boy
Aspen McConathy – 8th grade girl
Jayce Simmons - 8th grade boy
(A picture is included)

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.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP COMES TO COLEMAN MARCH 31ST
2/11/2010
The City of Coleman, Chamber of Commerce, and Coleman Economic Development Corporation along with the United States Department of Agriculture and Texas Department of Agriculture will host a Rural Development workshop on March 31st, 2010.

Anyone interested in attending the workshop may contact the Chamber of Commerce office by the March 26th deadline so that we can have a number of those attending. The workshop costs $20 for each individual attending and participating in the workshop.

The program will host an array of special guests and seminars focused on rural development in Texas. Board members from neighboring Economic Development Councils will speak on panels concerning both economic development and rural tourism.

The workshop costs $20 and features a networking luncheon. The Thursday event will be held at the Tillman Room in the Coleman Public Library. Community leaders, business owners, nonprofit participants, educators and interested citizens are encouraged to attend the workshop.

8:30 – 9:00 Registration
9:00 – 9:15 Welcome - City of Coleman
9:15 – 9:45 West Central Texas Council of Governments - Cindy Manak

9:45 – 10:00 USDA Rural Development- Patricia Butler

10:00 – 10:15 BREAK

10:15 – 10:45 Texas Department of Agriculture
Mendy Shugart – GO TEXAN program
Chandra Eggemeyer – Texas Capital Fund, Rural Economic Development

10:45 – 11:45 Panel Presentation – Rural Economic Development in Action
* Connie Seldon, City of Tye
* Rob Lindsey, City of Goldthwaite
* Jacci Stewart, City of Comanche

11:45 – 12:30 Networking Lunch

12:30 – 1:30 Panel Presentation – Tourism and Rural Community Development
* Kathy Keane – City of Eden
* Remelle Farrar – Knox County
* Trent McKnight – City of Throckmorton

1:30 - 2:00 Texas Parks & Wildlife - Shelly Plante

2:00 – 2:15 BREAK

2:15 – 3:00 When Hollywood Comes to Town
Carol Pirie, Texas Film Commission

3:00 – 3:30 “How to DRIVE Traffic to Your Community” and “Marketing
Your Community to Retirees”
Presented by Mary Lewis and Janet Ridgway of Texas Tee Golf
Tours and Where to RetireinTexas.com

Who: County Judges, Mayors, Economic Developers, Chambers of Commerce, City Services, Community Developers, Convention and Visitor Bureaus, Community Volunteers, Interested citizens……

When: Thursday, March 31st, 2010 - 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Where: The Tillman Community Room @ The Coleman Public Library, 406 Commercial Avenue, Coleman, TX 76834

Cost: $20.00 includes lunch and registration

Please RSVP by Friday, March 26th to the Coleman Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture @ Phone #325-625-2163 or e-mail: chamber@colemantexas.org

SNOW REPORTS & WEATHER UPDATES
2/11/2010
Snow Reports:
Burkett: Still snowing, accumulations of about 1 1/2". Roads are slushy and slick (Report form Susan Neves)
Silver Valley: Snow is around an 1" or slightly more around Silver Valley/Novice (Report from Mike Calk)
Weather Updates:
Coleman County Tax Assessor-Collectors office will close at 12:30 pm today, Thursday, due to weather conditions. Will open at 10:30 am Friday due to weather.

Santa Anna ISD will dismiss today, Thursday at 1:30 pm. Classes will resume on Friday at 10:00 am with buses running 2 hours later than normal.

Coleman ISD will dismiss all students at 1:00 p.m. today, Thursday, due to weather conditions. Buses will run early today. Please make arrangements to pick up your children early today. Classes will start at 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 12th. Buses will run 2 hours late Friday morning.

Have a snow report? Email us at mail@colemannews.com.

SPRING SHOOTING SPORTS TIME
2/11/2010
Attention - 4-Hers involved in Shooting Sports activities..... If you are interested in signing up for any of the upcoming matches (March Madness, Shooting Sports Extravaganza or the 3rd Annual Charlie Greenway Silhouette Match) you need to SIGN UP during Pistol Practice next Monday, February 15th. Deadlines are approaching fast, and we don't want to miss anyone. If you have questions, you may contact Meredith Taylor at 325-214-0551.

COLEMAN ISD DISMISSING AT 1 PM...TODAY
2/11/2010
Coleman ISD will dismiss all students at 1:00 p.m. today, Thursday, due to weather conditions. Buses will run early today. Please make arrangements to pick up your children early today.

Classes will start at 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 12th. Buses will run 2 hours late Friday morning.

COLEMAN SCHOOL BOARD MEETING TO CONSIDER JOINT ELECTION WITH CITY OF COLEMAN
2/11/2010
DATE: Monday, February 15, 2010
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office
300 West Pecan

THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS.
AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report

THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 et seq., AND FOR THE REASONS STATED IN THE CODE.

ACTION ITEMS:
1. Consider Joint Election Agreement between the City of Coleman, Texas, and Coleman Independent School District
2. Call the School Trustee Election
3. Consider Certifying Textbook Selections for the 2010-2011 School Year
4. Consider Approving Region XV Regional Day School Program for the Deaf Shared Services Arrangement Agreement
5. Consider Approving Localized Policy Update 87
6. Amend the Budget
Coleman Independent School District

Regular Meeting
February 15, 2010
Page 2
7. Executive Session – Texas Government Code Section 551.074 – Contract Renewal – Personnel:
A. Richard Holloway – High School Principal
B. Paula Ringo – Jr. High School Principal
C. Becky Jackson – Elementary Principal
D. Barbara Cox – Girls’ Athletic Director
E. Rusty Buzzard – Boys’ Athletic Director
F. Karen Huff – Business Manager
G. Paul Martin – Technology Director
H. Lorrie Payne – Curriculum Director

BOARD REPORT:
1. TCEA Conference Report
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Summer Leadership Institute/TASB Convention
2. March Board Meeting Date
INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Playoff Games in Varsity Gym
2. 2010 TASB Grassroots Meeting
3. Check Payments
4. Financial Statement

ADJOURN:
Royce A. Young, Superintendent
Coleman Independent School District

CDC, Inc. Annual Stockholders Meeting Next Thurs.
2/11/2010
The Annual Stockholders’ Meeting of the Coleman Development Company, Inc. will be held Thursday, February 18th at 12:00 p.m. in the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Boardroom.

All Stockholders are invited to attend this meeting.

WINTER WEATHER CREATING BAD ROAD CONDITIONS
2/11/2010
The Coleman Fire Department requested that we notify the public about the harsh road conditions around Coleman County. Captain David Martinez said, "The snow is pretty but its already getting slushy and we are getting reports that the overpasses are getting very slick and starting to ice." The Coleman Fire Department and other public safety units request that Colemanites stay at home as much as possible today to avoid accidents or wrecks.

The Chronicle & DV and ColemanNews.com will keep you updated on any school cancellations or updated weather conditions to our best ability. Join our Facebook fanpage and follow us on Twitter for further updates and breaking news.

Tornado Drill for Schools
2/11/2010
On Thursday, February 25th at 9:30 A.M.
February 21st – February 27th is Texas Severe Weather Awareness Week. Severe weather may strike with only a few minutes of advance warning. Do you have more than one way to receive a warning?

At approximately 9:30 a.m., on Thursday, February 25th, the National Weather Service in San Angelo encourages all schools to practice their tornado drills. We will transmit a special message about the drill through NOAA All Hazards Radio. Some of your local Radio and TV Stations, and Emergency Management offices may also carry this message.

We will transmit the message for the following counties: Throckmorton, Haskell, Fisher, Jones, Shackelford, Nolan, Taylor, Callahan, Sterling, Coke, Runnels, Coleman, Brown, Irion, Tom Green, Concho, McCulloch, San Saba, Crockett, Schleicher, Menard, Sutton, Kimble, and Mason counties.

For more information, please contact Hector Guerrero at hector.guerrero@noaa.gov or Buddy McIntyre at buddy.mcintyre@noaa.gov or you can call us at 325-944-9445.

In 2004, a tornado drill was conducted on March 3rd by many schools. Then on the following day, March 4th, a severe line of thunderstorms with tornadoes struck west central Texas and even hit a school and produced substantial damage. This drill proved extremely valuable and prepared many schools for this extreme severe weather event.

INCUMBENTS FILE FOR RE-ELECTION ON CCMC BOARD
2/11/2010
The candidate filing period for three places on the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors continues through March 8, 2010.

Incumbents Mark Griffis, Jackie Smith, and Linda Laws have all filed for re-election to the board.

Any interested party who would like to run for a place on the CCMC Board of Directors may file for election with Sue Titsworth in the CCMC Administration office Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 12 Noon and from 1 PM to 5 PM through March 8, 2010.

COLEMAN TO HOST BI-DISTRICT GAMES NEXT WEEK
2/11/2010
Coleman ISD will be hosting two girls Class A Bi-District basketball playoff games next week. Both games will be held in the CHS Varsity Gym.

Monday, February 15th
7:00 p.m. – Menard Lady Jackets vs. Goldthwaite Lady Eagles

Tuesday, February 16th
8:00 p.m. – Irion County Lady Hornets vs. Evant Lady Elks

Toy Safety – New laws combined with parent supervision help maintain safety
2/11/2010
If you received toys under the Christmas tree this year, hopefully they are a little safer. Effective February 2009, a new law went into effect that requires toy manufacturers to meet stricter safety standards, particularly for those things we can’t see, like lead and phthalate content. Still, the primary burden of safe play lies with the parent or care provider. “Careful toy selection and proper supervision of children at play is still – and always will be – the best way to protect children from toy-related injuries” (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2009).

Here are some tips that can help:
• Select age-appropriate toys. If you don’t have children in your own care to help you know what is age appropriate, you can see the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website (http://www.cpsc.gov/) for a list of age-appropriate toys for children birth through age 5 and ages 6 to 12. Use your own best judgment as well, and consider your child’s temperament, habits, and behavior whenever you buy a new toy. You may think that a child who’s advanced in comparison to their peers can handle toys meant for older kids. But the age levels for toys are determined by safety factors, not intelligence or maturity.

• Watch for choking hazards. Young children naturally use their mouths to explore the world around them. If you have children in your care who are age 3 or younger or one that is older but still mouths objects, do not allow them to play with anything that is 1.75 inch or smaller in diameter (that is, anything small enough to fit in a toilet paper tube) because it could be a choking hazard.
• Teach older children to put away their toys and help to make sure younger siblings do not play with things that are too small or inappropriate for their age.
• Check toys regularly to make sure that they aren’t broken or unusable. Throw away broken toys, or repair them right away.
• Store outdoor toys when they’re not in use so that they are not exposed to rain or snow.
• Keep toys clean. Some plastic toys can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but read the manufacturer’s directions first. Another option is to mix antibacterial soap or a mild dishwashing detergent with hot water in a spray bottle and use it to clean toys, rinsing them afterward.
• Read toy labels and be sure:
o Toys made of fabric are labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant.
o Stuffed toys are washable.
o Painted toys are covered with lead-free paint. Lead paint was not banned until 1978. Check to be sure your children aren’t playing with heirlooms covered in lead paint. Note: If you purchase used toys, they may not meet current safety standards.
o Art materials are labeled “nontoxic.”
o Crayons and paints say ASTM D-4236 on the package, which means that they’ve been evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
o Toys are not too loud. Check this by playing the noise – if it seems too loud to you, it probably is. If it is a toy that will be placed near the ear a lot (like a toy phone), consider covering the speaker with tape.

To report a product hazard or a product-related injury, write to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C. 20207; or call the toll-free hotline: 1-800-638-2772. A teletypewriter for the deaf is available at 301-595-7054.

May this be a year of safer toy manufacture and use as parents and manufacturers work together to keep children safe at play.
For more information, contact your Texas AgriLife Extension Service county agent, Christin Burris at 325-625-4519. For more information on toy safety, please see our HealthHints newsletter at http://fcs.tamu.edu/health/healthhints/2010/jan/toy-safety.pdf.

Written by Janet M. Pollard, MPH, AgriLife Extension Associate – Health, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas A&M System. January 2010.

Coleman Police Department Statistics for January 2010
2/10/2010
Investigations
Theft-7
Burglaries-4
Criminal Mischief-5
Assault-6
Aggravated Assault-1
Disorderly Conduct-2
Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle-1
Evading Arrest-1
Terroristic Threat-2
Criminal Trespass-1
Possession of Controlled Substance-1
Duty of Striking Unattended Vehicle-1
Child Protective Service Investigations-2

Arrests
Warrants-18
Assault-4
Public Intoxication-3

Motor Vehicle Crashes
No Injury-4
With Injury-2

Tickets Issued
Environmental/Code Enforcement-4 tickets issued with 4 charges filed
Police Department-35 tickets issued with 45 charges filed

Warnings Issued
Animal Control-2
School Resource Officer-10 warning letters sent to parents
Police Department-19

Animal Control
Calls for Service-70
Dogs Picked Up-16
Cats Picked Up-6
Other Animals Picked Up-3
Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-3

Four SAHS Juniors Added to National Honor Society
2/10/2010
Four Santa Anna High School students were inducted into the Arleigh Harris Chapter of the National Honor Society Wednesday, February 9, in the SAHS Auditorium in a ceremony attended by students, faculty, parents, and grandparents. The ceremony was marked by the Principal’s Charge from Chapter Sponsor, Principal David Robinett.

Inductees this year are Sarah Herrod, Loren Pritchard, Shawn Robertson, and Dillan Whitley. Current Members are Laken Herrod, Jordan Jewell, Kody Krause, Lauren Matthews, Heather McMillan, and Wes Tucker.

Sarah Herrod is the daughter of Johnny and Shannon Herrod. She has participated in all extra-curricular athletics, band, FFA, UIL, Student Council and has served SAHS as cheerleader. She has twice been elected vice-President of her class and is currently Student-Council Vice-President. Sarah has participated in food drives, assisted with Student Council adopt-a-grandparent at Holiday Hill Nursing Home, and she has volunteered with Vacation Bible School and summer youth rally at the Feedstore.

Loren Pritchard is the daughter of Mike and Mary Pritchard. Loren has participated in all extra-curricular athletics, UIL, Student Council, and in Debate, and has served the band as Clarinet Section Capitan for the past two years. Loren has volunteered in Vacation Bible School, Santa Anna Library Summer Reading Program, and is a member of the First Presbyterian Church where she is Youth Group Leader.

Shawn Robertson is the son of Shannon Robertson and Martin Robertson. Shawn has participated in football, band, One Act Play, Student Council, and Debate. He served as Sophomore Class President and is currently Student Council President. Shawn has worked with the Student Council at Holiday Hill Nursing Home, organized a benefit dance for the local Stock Show Committee, and helped clean the local show barn. He has worked at Line Shack Café this year washing dishes.

Dillan Whitley is the son of Mike and Keribeth Simmons. He has participated in Band, UIL academic competition, Debate, and One-act Play. He serves as band Trombone Section Capitan, Junior class Treasurer, and serves as member of the band loading crew. Dillan has volunteered helping the local Ex-Students Association and helped with last year’s Eighth Grade Graduation running the house lights.

National Honor Society is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. NHS serves to honor students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character-- traits that have been associated with the organization since it began in 1921. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but also challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and providing community service. The Santa Anna chapter was established in 1976 and named for long-time teacher and Elementary Principal Arleigh Harris.

Texas Bluebird Society encourages participation in the "Great Backyard Bird Count"
2/10/2010
This is Joan Hoyumpa. If you want a fun weekend during 12 - 15 Feb try this! You can do it from inside your warm house (looking out your windows) or go trekking around your property or neighborhood. It helps all the birds across America and beyond and you can be a beginner as well as a seasoned "birder". There is a DATA FORM available on line or you can mail your results to: Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Attn: GBBC to 159 Sapsucker Woods Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. TRY IT, YOU'LL LIKE IT ! Putting out some suet, bird seed of your choice, cracked corn, unfrozen warm water in a tub or bucket, or peanut butter and seeds pushed into a pine cone (if you live in the right area), or even just some crumbled up breadcrumbs or toast will help. If you don't have a bird feeder, just throw some food out on the ground for the birds. A great project for any of you girl scouts or boy scouts!

This is the information Cornell Lab of Ornithology is looking for:
1. Where did you make your observation (zip code, town, state or province), name of reporter, phone number (incase they have any questions)

2. Observation date and details: day & date, count time during each 24 hour period from midnight to 11:55pm of each day (AM, PM), how many people participated, skill of observer (fair, good, excellent), weather conditions for detecting birds in the habitats visited

3. Location type: apartment, feeders only, yard, large garden, hike, schoolyard, office, roadside, city/county park, federal land, farm, wastewater pond, industrial site, Audubon reserve, other nature reserve, commercial property

4. Habitat: deciduous woods, coniferous woods, scrub, grassland, agricultural, freshwater, salt water, rural, suburban, urban

5. BIRD COUNTS: record the species name of the bird and the highest number you observed (that you saw together at one time). IE. if you saw 2, then 5, then 3 birds of one kind----DO NOT ADD THEM TOGETHER. Only record 5, which was the highest number at one time.

The lab needs the full name ie white-crowned sparrow (not just sparrow). I hope you have a bird field guide- or a book of birds usually seen in your area before this Friday. You can probably find this on line somewhere too. Check out the Audubon Society for your area. Especially for those of you living where we are having really cold, wintry weather---your birds should really be hungry. YOU CAN HAVE FUN WHILE HELPING THE BIRDS OUT TOO.

ANYONE IN THE ROCKWOOD, TX OR WINGATE, TX AREA IS WELCOME TO COME JOIN ME. You can call me on my cell at (210-287-0649). I will be down in San Antonio, TX from now Wed. until very early Friday morning of 12 Feb. My e-mail is: soakmore@aol.com. That or our city phone: 210-349-0885 will work for today and tomorrow, Thursday. I do not have a computer at the ranch, so then you will have to try my cell or ranch phone: 325-785-4270 in Coleman County.

Joan Hoyumpa

Friends of the Coleman County Foundation Accepting Grant Proposals
2/10/2010
The Friends of Coleman County Foundation will accept proposals through April 2, 2010 for its annual grant cycle. Nonprofit organizations and community groups that support cultural, civic, educational and human services activities in Coleman County may apply for a grant. Friends of the Foundation will consider funding for special projects, innovative programs, equipment and building needs. Grants generally range from $1,000 - $5,000 and are awarded on a competitive basis.

A grant writing workshop will be held on Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Courtney Jackson, Community Foundation of Abilene Grants Director will offer grant writers helpful tips and guidance in writing their grant proposals. More information regarding this workshop will be forth coming.

In 2005, the Friends of the Coleman County Foundation was established as a support arm of the Coleman County Foundation. The creation of “Friends” provides another grant opportunity for community agencies in addition to the grants from the Coleman County Foundation awarded each Fall.

Organizations interested in applying are required to obtain a copy of the grant guidelines from the Coleman Chamber of Commerce or by contacting Courtney Jackson at 325-676-3883 or cjackson@abilene.com.

Contact:
Nancy Roberts
Community Foundation of Abilene
Marketing/Communications Director
(325) 676-3883

PUBLIC NOTICE FOR THE COUNTY OF COLEMAN PROPOSED ON-SITE SEWAGE FACILITY ORDER
2/10/2010
The County Commissioners of Coleman County will conduct a public hearing under the authority of Chapter 366 of the Texas Health & Safety Code to consider the regulation of on-site sewage facilities (including septic tanks) in Coleman County, Texas, to prevent possible pollution or injury to public health.

A copy of the proposed order is available for review at the County Judge’s Office, Coleman County Courthouse during normal business hours of 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Date: February 22, 2010
Time: 9:00 am
Location: Coleman County Commissioners Court Meeting Room, Coleman County Courthouse, Coleman, Texas
All interested parties are encouraged to attend and to participate in the public hearing.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF TEST OF AUTOMATIC TABULATING EQUIPMENT
2/10/2010
Notice is hereby given that the automatic tabulating equipment that will be used in the 2010 March Primary Election held on March 2, 2010 will be tested on February 12, 2010 at 1:00 pm at the Coleman County Courthouse, 100 Liveoak Street, Coleman, Texas 76834 to ascertain that it will accurately count the votes cast for all offices and on all measures.

_____________________________________
Signature of Officer

AVISO PUBLICO DE PROBAR
EL EQUIPO PARA TABULAR AUTOMATICAMENTE

Por lo presente se da aviso que el equipo para tabular automáticamente que se usará en la Elección 2010 March Primary Election que se llevará a cabo el March 2, 2010 se probará el (fecha) a las February 12, 2010 at 1:00 pm en Coleman County Courthouse, 100 Liveoak Street, Coleman, Texas 76834 para determinar si el equipo contará con exacitud los votos para todos los puestos oficiales y sobre todos los proyectos de ley.
____________________________________
Firma del/dela Oficial

LEADAY BAPTIST CANCELS SERVICES FEB. 14TH
2/10/2010
There will be no services at Leaday Baptist Church on Sunday, February 14. Regular services resume on February 21.

Band Booster to Host Valentine's Day Dance
2/10/2010
The Band Booster Parents are hosting a Jr. High Valentines Dance.. Friday Feb. 12th.. 7:30pm-11pm at the Jr. High lunch room. The live band will be Last Call.. $3.00 to get in and $1.00 each for drinks and candy.. Parents must come in to get students when they are picking them up..

Chamber Board Elects 2010 Officers; Names Committee Chairmen
2/9/2010
The new Officers of the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2010 are President, Sandra Barr, 1st Vice President, Dr. Darron Atwood, and 2nd Vice President, Nina Childress.

The responsibilities of the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors are as follows: The Chamber assists the Coleman Business People’s Association, Keep Coleman Beautiful, Coleman Development Company, Inc., Coleman EDC, Coleman County Livestock Association, the Coleman County Rural Rail District, and the Coleman Rodeo Association. The Chamber is a Visitor’s and Tourist Bureau. The Chamber also assists volunteer organizations to advance their goals and promote their events through the Calendar of Events, assist school districts in educational programs for the community, participates in ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings and welcome packages. The Chamber is a distributor of 15% of Occupancy Tax funds from the City Sales Tax. L Also, the Chamber assists landowners in leasing property for hunting, also supports and assists the Wildlife Committee Hunters’ BBQ and Hunters’ Extravaganza in Forth Worth. In addition to these activities, the Chamber sponsors several events throughout the year. The Chamber also assists the Coleman County Youth Activity Center Board of directors with the booking of the Bill Franklin Center and Expo Center.

The following persons were elected as chairperson for the new calendar year:
Membership Drive – Month of March – Greg Martin; Chamber Banquet – April 23, 2010 – Nina Childress and Bobby McGee; Fundraiser – to be announced – Dr. Darron Atwood; Fiesta de la Paloma – October 2, 2010 – All Chamber Directors; Christmas Activities – Month of December – All Chamber Directors assist the Coleman Business People’s Association; Budget Committee – Executive Board.

The Chamber of Commerce meets on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Chamber of Commerce Boardroom. The Chamber office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

BURKETT COMMUNITY DINNER
2/9/2010
The football games are over, life has settled down and hopefully, the weather is willing. It's time for the February Burkett Community Dinner! Come join us for a home cooked meal, maybe a game or two of dominoes and a nice visit with your neighbors.

The Burkett Community Dinner offers a buffet style - pot luck meal. We're talking about good, down home cooking! The Community Dinner is open to everyone, just load up your family, a covered dish and y'all come.

SATURDAY ~ February 13, 2010
6:00 PM
Burkett Christian Community Center

Coleman High School Class of 1980 Planning 30th Reunion
2/9/2010
The Coleman High School Class of 1980 is currently making plans for its 30th reunion to be held on Saturday, June 19th. Many classmates have already received a packet via either email or regular mail regarding the reunion details. Information is currently being requested for Ray Boshears, Dorothy Diaz, Brett Farley, Bruce Roberts, Carolyn Wright, Maria Castillo and Anita Farris Monroe. If you have any information regarding one of these classmates, please email Leslie Newman Cross at ljcross118@verizon.net or call 325-625-3857 after 5 pm. Also, please send information, if you were a member of the Coleman High School Class of 1980 at any time, not necessarily just at Graduation, and you would like to be a part of this 30th reunion or if you have not received an information packet.

COMMISSIONERS DEED BACK LAND TO NOVICE ISD; LOOK TO HIRE NEW CONSTABLE
2/9/2010
The Commissioners’ Court met Monday morning at 9:00AM to consider approval of pending matters. Before the matters are discussed, County Clerk, Stacey Mendoza read aloud the minutes from the last meeting on January 28th. The Court unanimously approved the minutes and Judge Hobbs commenced the meeting.

First, the Sheriff’s office asked the Court for approval on their submission of 2009 Annual Racial Profiling report. The report is required by the state and verified statistics such as 74 total citation only vehicle stops were made. Each stop was recorded with the ethnicity of the driver. There were no searches conducted in these stops and no allegations of racial profiling occurred. The report was approved for submission by the Court.

In another issue the Court discussed was the need to advertise for proposals for insurance coverage for Coleman County for this year. The Court agreed to ask the Chronicle and Democratic-Voice to run consecutively ads for bids.

At the last meeting County Clerk Stacey Mendoza introduced a new option for conducting voting including electronic poll books which would do away with hardcopy paper lists. However, since then she has discovered that the Secretary of State has not yet confirmed approval of this method. Therefore, the Court agreed with her decision to continue with the current method until further notice.

County Clerk Mendoza also asked the Court to reconsider the prior decision to allow Hart, the previous electronic voting equipment company to buy back the equipment due to the low rate. Instead she inquired for permission to advertise the sale to other counties for a better rate. The Court approved both requests.

Charles McDonald from the TECQ also attended the meeting to notify the Court the status of their authorization to become an official agent under guidance of the on-site sewage and wastewater policy. The County followed the procedures necessary with the Texas Water Board and is approved by them; however, the TECQ also has a process to complete before the County is granted their authorization. TECQ agent, McDonald informed the Court of the next actions to take to oblige TECQ’s qualifications and authorization is expected to be granted by next month. Please remember it is now in ordinance to apply for a permit with the County Clerk’s office before any new installation, repair, or alteration can begin of on-site sewage or septic tank facility. Stay tuned for notice of the public hearing if you should have questions of this policy.

The Novice ISD also requested approval from the County to relinquish tax entities of Lot 9, Block 21 an original town site of the City of Novice to be deeded back to the school district. The lot has been for sale for awhile and there have been no interest. The school district will also ask the hospital district for the same request. Commissioner Billy Don McCreary initiated the approval and the Court agreed.

The next objective of the meeting was to consider and review the applicants for the County Constable position. Several applicants were received by the deadline last Friday and the Court agreed to review the candidates in detail the next two weeks. At the end of the month scheduled meeting the Court will reconvene, discuss their opinions, and come to a decision of next steps.

Judge Hobbs also asked for an update on the in-kind work project completed for the federal grant of to repair many soiled and dams throughout the county. The Commissioners reported they have completed $50,000 worth of in-kind work. They continue to clean up and build new fencing around the dams.

The meeting came to a close with the review of payments and expenses. The Court will reconvene on Monday, February 22nd at 9:00AM. The public is welcome to attend.

Straight From The Heart Blood Drive
2/9/2010
Blood . . . It’s yours to give so donate straight from the heart. It’s time for the annual Straight From the Heart Blood Drive. All donors will be entered into a monthly drawing for the chance to win an autographed George Strait jacket. You’ll also be entered into daily drawings for tickets to the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo, midway passes and pairs of blue jeans. All donors will be entered into grand prize drawings for the chance to win, a $150 gift card from Mr. Boots, a pair of ML Leddy Vaquero leather hand made boots or a boot dye job courtesy of Ernie’s Shoe Shine. Donors will also get the limited edition Straight From the Heart T-Shirt. (as long as supplies last)

Straight From The Heart Blood Drive

Tuesday, February 16th

3 pm – 7:30 pm

Bloodmobile @ Senior Center,

916 S. Concho in Coleman

To make an appointment, go online, www.bloodhero.com. Enter Sponsor Code: coleman or call United Blood Services toll free. That number is 1-800-756-0024.

VALENTINE SPECIAL - FREE!
2/9/2010
Bring your sweetheart...neighbor...friend...or relative - Saturday, February 13th, 6:00 pm! It'll be a wonderful dinner and a fabulous speaker, David Crain! David travels nationwide using music, humor, and a very direct approach to reach people of all ages! Pastor John Stanislaw invites everyone to come to the First Baptist Church - whether you're a church member or not, EVERYONE is invited! Please call the church office at 625-3559 and we'll save you a seat!

As a speaker, David's message is always delivered in a way that entertains while drawing the listener into a deeper relationship with Christ. He shares stories from his own life as they relate to scripture that make the Gospel come alive!

If you've already made plans for Saturday, then join us for two more services with David Crain on Sunday, February 14th at 10:55 a.m. & 5:00 p.m. David is a high-energy musician and speaker who will inspire and challenge you as he uses his gift of music to encourage and uplift you as well.

Seeing Stars??
2/9/2010
Several members of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County were amongst the ones “Seeing Stars” last week at the opening of the “Stars of Texas Juried Art Show” in Brownwood. The Stars show is one of the best in the area, if not the State. Juror was John Hartley.

There were 356 entries – the artwork is hand-delivered to be judged. 119 were ‘accepted’ into this prestigious show some of which call Coleman and the Fine Arts League ‘home. Those artists whose work was chosen to be exhibited were:
Jane Fullerton (won honorable mention for her painting “The Painter”)

Sharon Dick, Llano Sunrise (Pastel); Sher Dunaway, “Oh, Bull” photography; Sherrell Hazlewood, “Prairie Peppermint Picnic”, acrylic; Theda Rhea “Shi Naasha (Navajo ‘I am going’) charcoal/pastel.

Marian Johnson, Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.
www.finearts@fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

County Clerk's Office to Close on Feb. 12th
2/8/2010
The Coleman County Clerk’s Office will be closed from12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. On Friday, February 12, 2010 so that employees can attend an Election Poll Worker Training.

North Coleman Baptist Valentine's Banquet
2/8/2010
North Coleman Baptist will having a Valentine's Banquet, Sunday 2-14 at 5pm. There will be special music by Martin & Elaine Thomas. Everyone's invited.

Coleman I.S.D. 2010 Board of Trustees Election
2/8/2010
The Coleman ISD 2010 Board of Trustees Election will be held in conjunction with the City of Coleman election on May 8, 2010.

Coleman I.S.D. Board of Trustees, Place 6 and Place 7 will be on the ballot.

Application for a place on the ballot may be obtained at the Coleman I.S.D. Administration Offices at 300 W. Pecan, Coleman, Texas 76834 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

February 6, 2010 – First day to file an application for a place on the ballot.
March 8, 2010 – Deadline to file an application for a place on the ballot.
April 8, 2010 – Last day to register to vote for May 8th election.
April 26, 2010 – First day of early voting by personal appearance.
May 4, 2010 – Last day of early voting by personal appearance.
May 8, 2010 – Election Day

Early voting and Election Day voting will be held at the City of Coleman offices, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas 76834

TDP STATEMENT ON DEMOCRATIC DEBATE
2/8/2010
Below is a statement from Texas Democratic Party Chairman Boyd Richie, in anticipation of this evening’s Democratic Gubernatorial debate:

“Unlike the two 'no solutions' Republican Gubernatorial debates, tonight Texans will see Democratic candidates discuss the need to meet tough challenges and move Texas forward.

“Like most Texans, Democrats understand the need to reduce the dropout rate, get traffic moving again, and rein in the cost of college tuition, utilities and homeowners insurance. These concerns affect Texas families every day, and meeting these challenges is the key to our economic future.

“In their twenty years in statewide office and two debates this year, two Republican career politicians have shown Texans how their political ambition gets in the way of working hard to solve problems. Democrats are ready to put an end to politics as usual in Austin so we can get to work on real solutions to allow our state to fulfill its true potential.”

FIRST CANDIDATE FILES FOR SOUTH WARD CITY COUNCIL POSITION
2/8/2010
The first to enter the City Council race is Paul Kugle of 613 E. 10th St. Mr. Kugle is a candidate for the South Ward Place 4 position on the City Council. Candidates may file until Monday, March 8, 2010 for place on the ballot.

TEXAS GAS PRICES DIP BELOW NATIONAL AVERAGE
2/8/2010
Texas, TX, February 8- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have fallen 2.1 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.46/g today. This compares with the national average that has stayed flat, moving just 0.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.66/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 65.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 11.0 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 6.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 76.1 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Panther Creek Graduate Named “Airman of the Year”
2/8/2010
. . . for 29th Attack Squadron at Holloman AFB, NM Senior Airman Jon Turney, was recently selected as Airman of the Year for the 29th Attack Squadron at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, where he serves as an instructor. Jon has been a member of the Air Force since December 11, 2006 and has received several commendations for his outstanding performance of supporting troops from the air.

Jon is a graduate of Panther Creek High School - Class of 2003, and attended Angelo State University before joining the Air Force. He currently resides in New Mexico with his wife Haley, and his son Rex. They are expecting their second son this summer. Jon is the son of Mark and Marsha Turney, brother to Matt Turney and grandson of Edith Turney and the late Rex Turney of Santa Anna and Lovera Strickland and the late Jack Strickland of Burkett.

YOUTH ART SHOW – THEY DID IT AGAIN!
2/8/2010
Some 40+ people (Fine Arts League members, moms, dads, grandmoms and dads, sisters, brothers, friends) gathered Thursday afternoon at the Coleman Library to celebrate the 2nd Annual Youth Art Show. Awards certificates, photos of the artwork submitted, and art supplies (to be delivered next week) were presented to 10 participants by Show Co-Chair, Robin Black and Danna Dawson, (school art instructor).

Categories included: K-7th grades
1st – Baile Jones
2nd – Cade Garrett
3rd - Savannah Vasquez

8th – 12th Grades
1st – Rynn Norris
2nd – Adam Jiminez
3rd – Edgar Barios

Sculpture
1st – Brent Ogden
2nd – Ashlyn De la Garza
3rd – Skylar Burfield

A total of 88 pieces of creation was exhibited. To the delight of the crowd a “Tall Texas Blue Bunny” Trophy (paper mache’) was presented to Best of Show winner, Nathan Taylor. Small paper mache’ blue steer tropies were also awarded.

The YAS is sponsored by the Fine Arts League of Coleman County and partially funded by the Coleman Foundation. Thanks also to the Library and Library Staff for all the assistance and preparation for the show. See ya Next Year!

YAS ENTRIES SHOWS INTEREST IN THE ARTS

The Fine Arts League sponsored Youth Art Show (YAS) has concludedits second annual show. The interest and the number of entries from all grades was astounding. The League members who put this show together -Robin Black and Danna Dawson - are to be commended for their efforts and the wonderful turnout of "artists". Encourage your youth to explore the world of art, music, theatre which will in turn broaden their horizons for a better world.

Entries by Grade are as follows: Thanks to all of you for your participation.

Kindergarten:Arena Turner, whose Mom is equine artist, Tammy Jo Turner 2nd Grade: Sheridan Brooks, Baily Dawson; 4th Grade: Cade Garrett (winner of 2nd place in K-7- "Longhorn at Sunset"); 5th Grade: Skylar Burfield (winner of 3rd in Sculpture-"Hot Air Balloon"); Megan Taylor, Haile Navarro; 6th Grade: Dakota Taylor, Bailey Garrett, Allen Chambers, Kyle Boyet, Kyle Builta, Brooklyn Guerrero, Bailey Garrett, Conner Dawson, Mason Burkey, Elizabeth Baum, Kyle Builton, Chase Taylor, Ashlee Whitton, 7th Grade: Ted Dobbins, Kaci Cook, Savannah Metzger, Jolyn Zarate, Bethany Brann, Alexa Brann, Savannah Vasquez (winner 3rd K-7th Grade - "Flower"), Wesley Barnett, Nathan Taylor (Winner BEST OF SHOW - " Truck"), Ashlyn de la Garza (winner 2nd in Sculpture-"Turkey Bird"), Baile Jones (winner 1st place in K-7- "Two Eyes"), Nikki Gray, Heather Kitchens, Royce Harris, Cecilia Clemens, Natalia Pena, Ryon Walker, ShaLoren Goulet, Juaquan Hemphill, Andrew Stovall, Briana Dennis; 8th Grade: Justin Hensley, Hunter Gremmage, Brent Ogden (winner of 1st in Sculpture- "Blue Spiney Fish"), David Martin, Benjamin Kerzee; 9th Grade: Anthony Thomas, Don Kirkpatrick, 10th Grade: Lura Rylant, Ashley Grissolm, Colton McConathy, Laiken Barentt, Lewis Guiterrez, 11th Grade: Travis Brixey, Rhett Aldrich, Shi Brudney, Erin Strickland, James Duffy, 12th Grade: Garrett Mendoza, Rynn Norris (winner of 1st Place in 8-12 grades - "Ballerina"), Jacey Payne, Adam Jimenez (winner of 2nd place in 8-12 grades - "Couple"), Edgar Barios (winner of 3rd place in 8-12 grades - "Self portrait"), Trent Hambright, Casie Swening, Carissa Zarate.

Congratulations to one and all from the Fine Arts League of Coleman County.

Marian Johnson, Publicity
This Youth Art Show was partially funded by the Coleman Foundation.
www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.

GRASSROOTS GROUP MAKES ITS CASE FOR COLEMAN’S FUTURE
--Council hears arguments for a 4B economic development corporation in Coleman
By Jo Ann Eddleman
ColemanNOW representative Evan Autry opened his comments to City Council Thursday by asking “naysayers” and “they did it” advocates to step aside and let the voters decide what is best for Coleman’s future. ColemanNOW represents a grassroots effort to get City Council to vote to place a 4B economic development initiative on the May ballot.

“The fact that this is a grassroots effort is integral to the success of this movement,” Autry said. “We are here to inspire and revive our community spirit and reach out to empower voices that are seldom heard.”
Autry presented Council with an informal straw poll that has been circulated by ColemanNOW over the past couple of weeks indicating there is widespread interest in having the opportunity to vote for a 4B economic development corporation in Coleman.

A Type 4B economic development corporation allows communities to plan and fund community development projects and quality of life improvements with a half-cent local sales tax. The existing Type 4A economic development corporation, which was approved by voters in 1990, is limited by state law to activities that revolve around identifying, bringing and retaining manufacturing jobs in Coleman.

Autry pointed to his handout for examples of short-term and long-term projects that could be addressed under a 4B EDC. These projects and detailed information about 4B corporations can be accessed on www.ColemanNOW.info.
Autry chose to focus his presentation on what he believes should be the town’s immediate objective—becoming a Certified Retirement Community in the Go Texan program sponsored by the Texas Department of Agriculture.

The Go Texan program allows qualifying communities to be included in the program’s extensive advertising campaign that encourages retirees and potential retirees to make their homes in rural Texas communities the department has identified as a Texas Certified Retirement Community. “Statistics offered by the Agriculture Department,” Autry stressed, “indicate that a retiring couple can be expected to spend an average of $36,000 a year and pay $3,000 in state and local taxes.” Autry pointed out that one simple way a 4B corporation could encourage this effort would be by helping with the $5,000 application fee that is required.
Autry also discussed the help a 4B corporation could be to the Senior Center and the Meals on Wheels program.

Greg Martin and Doodie Taylor Knox also spoke to Council in support of the opportunity to vote on the issue. Martin, a Coleman native who moved his young family to Coleman from the Metroplex two years ago, expressed his appreciation for the work the Type 4A EDC has done in bringing jobs to Coleman. “However,” Martin said, “industry is no longer the sole driver of economic growth in a town.” He went on to say that services jobs were becoming as important if not more so than manufacturing jobs. Martin encouraged Council to place the option to add a Type 4B economic development corporation sales tax on the ballot to give voters the opportunity to make the decision on the merits of 4B projects for Coleman.

Knox addressed the poor state of the economy in Coleman by presenting the statistics she regularly uses in applying for various local grants. “We are a welfare county, and we need to find a way to help those who need help the most,” Knox said, as she pointed to the 29% of city residents who do not have high school diplomas and the 6.9% unemployment. Knox was enthused about the prospect of service and retail jobs that 4B projects would bring to town and was also excited about what an emphasis on tourism, in particular, hunting and fishing, could do for the area.

Knox expressed her belief that a sole emphasis on bringing industry to town would never allow Coleman to improve upon its 22% poverty rate because Coleman does not have the workforce or the access to water that is needed to support manufacturing facilities that could make a critical difference in the local economy.

Jo Ann Eddleman, a ColemanNOW organizer, told Council she thought they would have been impressed with the reaction she had seen as she asked for signatures on the straw poll petition. “People were quick to say they knew something has to happen to turn Coleman around and hoped the ColemanNOW effort to bring a 4B EDC to town was that something,” she said. Eddleman commented that, whereas the Type 4A EDC has the difficult job of attracting industry to Coleman, a 4B corporation could do some immediate small projects which would make a noticeable difference that people could latch onto and get excited about.

City Manager Larry Weise asked the standing-room-only audience at the Council meeting to express by show of hands how many were present for information only and how many were there in support of or were against the 4B issue. A majority were in favor of the 4B initiative.

Weise said he would have ballot language prepared for action by Council at the February 18 City Council meeting.

DAR Meeting at Robey House, Feb. 13th
2/8/2010
The Captain William Buckner Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will have their February 13, 2010 meeting at 2:00 P.M. at the Robey House at 202 Fifth Avenue. This Valentine meeting will be an Afternoon Tea and Tour of the historic Robey House. Hostesses will be Linda Burns and Retamay Gaines. The business meeting will be conducted by Regent Nell Walthall. All members, prospective members and guests are urged to attend and enjoy this patriotic program and seeing and hearing the history of this beautiful house.

COLEMAN EDC CONSIDERS LENGTHY AGENDA
2/7/2010
REGULAR BOARD MEETING
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD ROOM
218 SOUTH COMMERCIAL
COLEMAN, TEXAS
TUESDAY, February 9, 2010 at 4:00 P.M

Receive comments from guests on items not on the agenda.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. EDC Board will consider approval of minutes from the meeting on November 24, 2009, January 7, 2010, January 12, 2010. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

FINANCIAL REPORT

1. Consider monthly financial report from EDC’s financial services consultant, Harold Skelton. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

2. Consider the back pay and the resumption of payment of fees to Harold Skelton for the accounting work on the EDC’s finances. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

3. Presentation of EDC amended budget. The Board may take any

Action deemed necessary.

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

1. Consider proposal from Randy Long. The Board may take any action Deemed necessary.

2. Consider the wind damage on the EDC buildings at and near the airport. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

3. Discuss a prospective business interested in relocating to Coleman. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

4. Receive report on the Wind Tower Monitoring in the south part of Coleman County. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

5. Receive report from Evan Autry on a proposed separate 4B Economic Development Corporation in Coleman. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

6. Receive report from Bob Turner. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

7. Consider the status of the TxDot work in progress for the grant of matching funds for the two buildings at the airport. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

8. Consider the request for EDC ad in Hord’s Creek annual publication. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

9. Consider a plan for developing the annual plan for the City Council. The Board may take any action deemed necessary action.

10. Update on joint meeting of City Council/EDC to discuss EDC/Grant Writers position.

11. Receive comments from EDC Board Members.

EDC Board reserves the right to enter executive session related to any item on the agenda in accordance with conditions set forth in section 551.074 and 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

EDC Board will consider information related to business and commercial Prospects with which the EDC Board has on going negotiations relating to relocation, expansion and/or to stay in the area, pursuant to Section 551.074 and Section 551.087 which authorizes certain deliberations about officers, employees and consultants of the governmental body to be help in executive session of the Texas Government Code.

1. EDC Board to reconvene in open session and take any action relative to

Economic development negotiations to Section 551.074 and Section 551.087 of the Texas government Code.

ADJOURNMENT

Texas Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Deer Trafficking, Stolen Property
2/6/2010
AUSTIN — A four-year, multi-agency investigation that began when two Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Game Wardens received information about possible stolen property on two Northeast Texas ranches has ended with federal prison sentences for a father and son who pled guilty to transporting stolen property and wildlife trafficking.

Forty-nine-year-old James Dwayne Anderton and his 26-year-old son Jimmie Wallace Anderton, both of Quinlan in Hunt County, Texas were sentenced Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Sherman by Judge Marcia Crone.

"This case is an excellent example of a joint effort on the part of local, state and federal law enforcement," said Col. Pete Flores, TPWD’s law enforcement director. "We’re proud of the work our Game Wardens put in on this case, but everyone involved did a great job in pursuing a complicated investigation that not only resulted in the recovery of thousands of dollars worth of stolen property, it will help keep our Texas deer herd safe from disease by ending an illegal importation operation."

The elder Anderton drew 30 months in federal prison for interstate transportation of stolen property and was ordered to pay $180,952 restitution. His son will serve 27 months in federal prison for interstate transportation and will be jointly responsible for making restitution. In addition, both men got 12 months federal confinement for violations of the Federal Lacey Act involving the illegal transportation of deer across state lines. These sentences will be served concurrently with their other sentence, but they also face 36 months of supervised release following their discharge from prison.

Benjamin Tuggle, Regional Director for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, agrees with Col. Flores, adding, "We appreciate these kinds of collaborative efforts. It is all about wildlife conservation and to be successful we need to work together. All of the law enforcement agents working on this case are to be commended for their dedication and hard work."

The Andertons operate a turf grass and landscaping business and hold a TPWD permit to breed captive deer. In the spring of 2006 Game Wardens Dale Waters and Eric Collins were looking into some possible deer breeding violations when they received information that the Andertons might be in possession of stolen heavy equipment and trailers.

The wardens relayed this information to Texas Department of Public Safety Motor Vehicle Theft Division Sgts. John Murphy and Rex Wilemon, who drew up a search warrant executed on two pieces of land owned by the Andertons, one in Delta County and the other in Hunt County near Quinlan. Six Game Wardens and Sgt. Brad Chappell of the TPWD Special Operations Unit participated in the search, which resulted in the recovery of stolen farm machinery and construction equipment. Deputies with the Delta and Hunt county sheriff’s departments and members of the Northeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force also assisted in the search.

The two DPS investigators presented the findings from their stolen equipment investigation to FBI Special Agent Ken Paith who furthered the investigation and developed sufficient evidence to indict the Andertons on July 8, 2009 for interstate transportation of stolen property. Also indicted on the same charge was Timothy Shane Peavler, 37, of Lone Oak, Texas.

During this time Chappell received information that the Andertons had been unlawfully importing white-tailed deer from Arkansas. The Game Warden sergeant contacted U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Special Agent Mike Merida and began a joint investigation along with Little Rock-based Fish and Wildlife Special Agent Glen Pye and investigators with Arkansas Fish and Game Commission.

This cooperative effort eventually revealed the source of the deer the Andertons were illegally importing. Merida and Chappell determined the Andertons had paid more than $63,000 for at least 125 white-tailed deer and imported them to Texas in violation of a state statute which restricts deer importation.

The two officers eventually learned that the Andertons had hired people to travel to a deer breeder’s facility in northern Arkansas, load deer and return to Texas where they delivered the illegal cargo to both the Anderton’s properties.

Peavler pled guilty on July 27 last year to interstate transportation of stolen property and was sentenced to six months in federal prison and ordered to pay $42,403 restitution. The Andertons pled guilty Aug. 31.

"TPWD began limiting importation of live white-tailed deer and mule deer into Texas in the spring of 2002 due to concerns over potential spread of two diseases that could be devastating to our deer population, chronic wasting disease (CWD) and bovine tuberculosis," Flores said. "We have worked hard to prevent CWD from being introduced into Texas and so far our state has remained CWD free."

Assistant United States Attorney Randall Blake prosecuted the case.

Shorts Win at Fort Worth Stock Show
2/5/2010
FORT WORTH, TEXAS – James Short, an FFA member from Voss, exhibited a First Place Light Weight Fine Wool Wether Lamb in the Junior Wether Lamb Show at the 2010 legendary Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo January 30-31, 2010. Also, Sarita Short, an FFA member from Voss, exhibited a First Place Light Weight Fine Wool Wether Lamb in the Junior Wether Lamb Show. Junior show entries totaled over 10,000 at this year’s show which ends February 7.

“One of our Show’s main priorities is our commitment to the livestock industry and the agriculture leaders of tomorrow. Junior exhibitors learn many valuable life lessons during their years of showing livestock, which will serve them well throughout their lives,” stated Bradford S. Barnes, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s executive vice president and general manager. “We started out 114 years ago as a livestock show and our focus remains the same today.”

Winning exhibitors are awarded cash “premiums” – this year to exceed $89,985 – in addition to monies generated from the sale of animals in the show’s sale of champion steers, lambs, barrows and wether goats. Over 22,000 head of world-class livestock from across the country will be on exhibit throughout the 24-day run of the Show. Four national Shows will be hosted at the event. In addition, an impressive 17 livestock auctions will be conducted.

The Stock Show showcases the nation’s dynamic livestock industry to over 900,000 visitors mostly from the Metroplex and surrounding areas. Approximately 30% of visitors are from outside the Metroplex and other states as well as other countries. Besides livestock, the show includes educational exhibits designed to educate visitors on the livestock industry and provides 4 acres of shopping to suit most any taste.

Now in its 114th year, the legendary Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo features entertainment events for the entire family, including livestock shows, educational experiences and 30 exciting performances of the World’s Original Indoor Rodeo. For ticket information on any performance or Stock Show event, call 817-877-2420 or visit www.fwssr.com.

COMMISSIONERS COURT TO MEET FEB. 8TH
2/5/2010
February 8, 2010; 9:00 A.M.
Commissioners' Courtroom
Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak Street, 2nd Floor

Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the above named Court will be held on Monday, February 8, 2010, and begin at 9:00 am and continue thereafter until such business of the Court has been completed in accordance with Article 81.005 of the Local Government Code of the State of Texas. The following items of business will be discussed, to wit:

Agenda topics
Call to Order
Public Comments and Announcements
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow public comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of the Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)

Consider Approval of Minutes from the January 28, 2010 Meeting

Consider Approval of Applications submitted for the County Constable Position

Consider Approval of County Clerk accepting bids for sale of Electronic Voting machines no longer being used by the County

Consider Approval of request from Novice ISD that the other taxing entities holding an interest in Lot 9, Block 21, Original Town-site City of Novice, be deeded back to the school district

Consider Approval of Sheriff’s office Annual Racial Profiling Report

Consider approval of advertising for Proposals for Insurance Coverage for Coleman County

Consider approval of current bills for payment and transfer of funds if necessary

Adjournment County Judge

CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERS 4B EDC BALLOT OPTION
2/5/2010
By Jo Ann Eddleman
Coleman City Council and standing-room-only visitors heard from Evan Autry, representing the grassroots movement ColemanNOW at the Council meeting Thursday evening.
Autry presented the informal straw poll petition supporting a ballot initiative that had been circulated by ColemanNOW over the past few days. The poll reflected the general public’s interest in having a Type 4B community development corporation in Coleman in addition to the Type 4A industrial/manufacturing EDC that has been in existence since 1990.

After hearing from several supporters of the ColemanNOW 4B movement, City Manager Larry Weise thanked those who took the time to attend the meeting. He said he would have a draft of ballot language that would repeal the one-half cent property tax relief sales tax and allow the adoption of the same half-cent sales tax for the 4B economic development corporation for action by Council on the Feburary 18 agenda. The repeal of the half-cent property alleviation sales tax is required in order for the local sales tax to remain at 8.25%, the maximum allowed by the state.
The issue would be decided by Coleman voters at the May 8 city election if Council approves placing the 4B initiative on the ballot.

In other business Council accepted the resignation of South Ward Councilman and mayor pro tem John Plummer. Plummer’s resignation is effective immediately. Weise commented that at the next council meeting he would ask Council to either appoint an interim councilman for the 3 months remaining in Plummer’s term or “whatever the Council chooses to do” about the vacancy. According to the City Charter, when the unexpired term is less than one year the Council has the option to appoint a councilman to fill the term until the next regular election or leave the position open until an election.

Chief of Police Jay Moses presented the 2009 Racial Profiling Report that is required by the state. Moses’ statistics reflected that 86.6% of peace officer stops in 2009 were Caucasian. Another 4.2% were African-American and 8.5% were Hispanic. The remaining fractional percent was distributed among Native American and Asian ethnicities. These statistics include stops of people who are not Coleman residents. Council approved the report.

Moses also reported that the police department has received a $42,000 grant from the Criminal Justice Department for the purchase of additional digital equipment for police cars that will provide real-time video/audio records of police activities.

The Coleman EDC presented budget amendments that were occasioned by the recently approved hiring of Bob Turner as the marketing consultant for the EDC, as well as the increase in the cost of administrative services provided by the Chamber of Commerce staff.

Council approved the routine request for proposals for the health insurance plan for city employees and approved the sale of unused electrical infrastructure on Highway 153 to Coleman County Electric Cooperative for $32,240.

An executive session to consider competitive matters relating to public utilities ended with a motion in open session to allow City Manager Weise to initiate research into options available for the city’s electric service.

In concluding comments, the City Manager, Council and Mayor Poldrack complimented the Public Works employees and especially the Light Distribution crew who responded so quickly and ably to the repair of damages caused by the recent wind storm.

District Court addressed more drug violations
2/5/2010
The court heard a Motion to Revoke Probation on Eric Brian Selvidge. Selvidge had been placed on probation in for Possession of a Controlled Substance. A Motion to Revoke his probation was filed based upon Methamphetamine Use, unpaid child support, and non-reporting. After testimony by Selvidge and Probation Officer Todd Craft, Selvidge's probation was revoked and he was sentenced to 6 months state jail.

Karen Densman pled Guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance and was assessed 4 years deferred adjudication, $750.00 fine, court cost, attorney's fees and restitution.

TEXAS HISTORICAL MARKER DEDICATION set for COWBOYS' CHRISTMAS BALL and PIONEER HALL
2/5/2010
The Texas Cowboys' Christmas Ball Association is proud to announce that the Texas Historical Commission has designated the legendary Texas Cowboys' Christmas Ball and Pioneer Hall as an Official Texas Historical event and site to promote historic preservation and the celebration of Texas history.

The Historical Marker Dedication ceremony will be held in Pioneer Hall,2300 Avenue G,Anson,TX 79501, at 1pm on Saturday,March 6th. The public is invited and welcome.

The Ball originated in 1885 to honor area cowboys,their ladies and families. That first Ball was held in Anson's Star Hotel,which was later destroyed by fire. Pioneer Hall in Anson was built for the Ball with construction started in 1938 and completed in 1940. The Ball has been there ever since.

The Ball is memorialized by the famous Larry Chittenden poem "The Cowboys' Christmas Ball" (Ranch Verses,Knickerbocker Press/New York,1893), the poem put to music and published in the John and Alan Lomax classic book "Cowboy Songs and Other Ballads" (1910), the large 1930s mural in the US Post Office in Anson, and the 1936 water color painting by the late Maxine Walker Perini on permanent display in Abilene's Grace Museum, to name a few. It is also the acknowledged genesis for Michael Martin Murphey's annual "Cowboy Christmas" concerts throughout the US. Cowboy singer Murphey and his Rio Grande Band have played the Ball for the last 17 years.

The annual re-enactment of the 1885 Ball is always held the Thursday,Friday and Saturday nights before December 25th, and is open to the public.

The Texas Cowboys' Christmas Ball Association maintains Pioneer Hall and conducts the annual 3 day Cowboys' Christmas Ball. It is a non-profit corporation organized in 1937 under Texas law, an Internal Revenue Code section 501(3)(c) tax exempt public charity, and composed of non-paid members who volunteer their time,service and resources. The website is www.ansoncowboyschristmasball.com.

Suspect pleads guilty to 1st Degree Felony
2/4/2010
A jury was called in on Monday morning, February 1st to hear a case in which Tyrell Mitchel Harding was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methampetamine), a 1st Degree Felony. However, before a jury was selected, Mr. Harding pled "Guilty" and asked the Court to assess his punishment.

His attorney, Sam Mehaffey, asked the Court to do a Pre-Sentence Investigation on Mr. Harding before assessing punishment. The investigation was ordered and Mr. Harding will be sentenced in the coming weeks at a hearing. Both District Attorney Heath Hemphill and Mr. Mehaffey will be allowed to put on evidence at the hearing.

Mr. Harding also pled "True" to allegations in a Motion to Revoke Probation filed by the District Attorney's office. Mr. Harding had earlier been on probation on another case. He will also be assessed punishment on that case at the hearing.

Update: Shooting Suspect Surrenders to Authorities
2/4/2010
Submitted by Kim Horne
At approximately 1:10 p.m. today, Richard Earl Harris of Coleman surrendered himself to Sergeant Phil Chambers of the Coleman County Police Department. Mr. Harris allegedly shot Frederick Hemphill of Coleman last week, which was January 27th, 2010. Mr. Harris was booked into custody and arraigned before Justice of the Peace Nance Campbell. Mr. Harris posted a $15,000 bond and was released pending a court date. The Coleman Police Department would like to thank all efforts involved including Hays County Sheriff's Department.

IMPORTANT ELECTION DATES FOR CITY OF SANTA ANNA
2/4/2010
On May 8, 2010 the City of Santa Anna will hold an election for the purpose of electing three (3) full-term city council seats. Friday, February 5 is the first day to file for a place on the ballot. Monday, March 8 is the last day to file for a place on the ballot.

Applications for a place on the City of Santa Anna election ballot are available from City Secretary Arlene Haynes at Santa Anna City Hall, 709 Wallis Ave., Santa Anna, Texas 76878 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

First Saturday Gospel Singing
2/4/2010
February 6th
Trinity United Methodist
6:00:pm
1609 S. Concho
Open invitation for all singers and musicians.
Song leaders needed.
Singing is heart healthy.
So come sing along and exercise your soul and lungs.
Call Carla Billings for more info....625-5302

Dual Tennis Meet Cancelled
2/4/2010
Dual tennis practice meet today with Bangs has been cancelled.

Cross Plains Public Library named 2010 Finalist Best Small Library in America Award!
2/4/2010
The Cross Plains Public Library has been named as a 2010 finalist for the Library Journal’s “Best Small Library in America” Award. The library in Cross Plains, Texas, a town of 1068 people near Abilene and Brownwood, is not city or county owned. It is a not-for-profit library which services a population of 2,335 in and around Cross Plains and is financed primarily by donations. In 2009 their operating budget was $37,020. They did not let receiving less than 25% of it from the city, county and state combined stop them from offering a variety of programs to all ages throughout the community. Last year was a milestone for the little library that celebrated their 30th Anniversary and the Grand Opening of their Children’s Discovery Center which doubled their size. The library has one paid staff member, Library Director Linda Burns. They also have one part time employee, Gene Dillard, who is compensated by ACCESS – SSAI (Abilene Child Centered Education Support Services – Senior Service America, Inc). The rest of the work in the library is performed by a loyal group of volunteers who, in 2009, spent 1,552 hours supporting the library. Members of the library board (which operates as both a governing and advisory board) work long and hard to keep the library funded. The library, which is open 1-5pm Mon. – Fri., proudly owns collections and memorabilia of author, Robert E. Howard (Creator of Conan the Barbarian and many other works). This includes several original manuscripts and two letters to him written by his mother while he was away at school.

The Best Small Library in America Award, co-sponsored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, was founded to encourage and showcase the exemplary work of small libraries. The award honors those that most profoundly demonstrate outstanding service to populations of 25,000 or less. Members of the editorial board of Library Journal, librarians from around the country, and a representative from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, judged the nominations.

Sue Dossey of the Coleman Public Library made the nomination and Margaret Waring of the Comanche Public Library and John Pecoraro, Coordinator for the Big Country Library System, wrote supporting letters.

The winning library was the Glen Carbon Centennial Library with 15 librarians in Glen Carbon, Illinois, a town with a population of about 12,000. The other finalist is the Baker County Library District, Baker City, Oregon which serves 16,470 residents.

The Cross Plains Public Library was included in the book, Heart of the Community: The Libraries We Love: Treasured Libraries of America and Canada by Berkshire Publishing Group LLC., which included only 80 libraries from the U.S. and Canada. The Cross Plains Public Library has been known for some time as “the little library that could.” Obviously, they still can!

www.crosspalinslibrary.com cppl@windstream.net (254) 725-7722

Submitted by Library Board President – Judy Luter

Pictured above:
Charles Rodenberger - Board Member, Sue Bennett - volunteer, and Linda Burns- Library Director, Sitting with Sue Judy Luter Board Member

Junior Class to host basketball tournament fundraiser
2/4/2010
3 On 3 Basketball Tournament (Participants Must be 6'-2" and under)

3 Point and Free throw Shootout (Open - No height restriction)

Men and Women divisions

When: Saturday - February 27, 2010
Where: Coleman High School
Time: TBA
Deadline: February 22, 2010
Contact: 325-220-1252 or 325-220-1105
CHS Junior Class Benefit fundraiser

2010 YOUTH ART SHOW AWARDS TODAY!!
2/4/2010
The 2nd Annual Youth Art Show (YAS) presents artwork -88 pieces!! You are invited to attend the Awards Presentation at 4pm Thursday at the Coleman Library Annex. Best of Show, 1,2,3 in K-7 and 8-12 and Sculpture.

Marian Johnson,
Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co
www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

Update: Sending books to Tanzanian Schools
Submitted by Herma Jean Johnson
2/4/2010
We received two wonderful sets of encyclopedias, but need more non-fiction type books. The old childcraft encyclopedias are really needed for lower grade levels, and how-to books on gardening, cooking, repair work, etc. would be a blessing. So I'm asking for these types of books to be taken to the Humane Society Thrift Store Friday or Saturday all day, or to the Johnson Implement before noon on Saturday. The Schools being built in Tanzania are in dire need of such books. Look through your book collections and libraries today and share with the world. Books will be delivered at no cost from you, and then they will be delivered to the Houston area Sunday, February 7th. Please hurry and look through your books today! Questions? Call Herma Jean Johnson at 325-625-2340.

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH CHOSEN AT CJHS
2/3/2010
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for December.

Students of the month are:

Brooklyn Guerrero - 6th grade girl
Sean Dority – 6th grade boy
Natalia Pena – 7th grade girl
Jaquan Hemphill – 7th grade boy
Shaila Bishop – 8th grade girl
Justin Hensley - 8th grade boy
(A picture is included)

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.

OTHER SCHOOL NEWS...
The Safety City field trip for Coleman Elementary 3rd graders has been rescheduled for Wednesday, February 10th.

EARLY VOTING POLLING LOCATION
2/3/2010
Early Voting Polling Location:
Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St., Coleman, Tx

Tuesday, February 16, 2010 thru Friday, February 19, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Monday, February 22, 2010 thru Friday February 26, 2010 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Election Day Polling Locations: Tuesday, March 2, 20107:00 am to 7:00 pm

Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse

Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx
303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, Tx

Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian
Church

Precinct 3 – Concho Baptist Church Fellowship Hall
1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, Tx
1700 S. Concho St. – Coleman, Tx

Precinct 4 – West Wing, Coleman County Courthouse
100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, Tx

Absentee ballot instructions:

Voters can request an application for ballot by mail by calling the County Clerk's office at 325.625.2889. Phone request for the applications will be accepted thru Friday February 12, 2010. Once Early voting begins request for the application can only be received by mail, fax or email. Early voting will begin on Tuesday, February 16th. Applications for a ballot by mail must be submitted to the Early Voting Clerk; Stacey Mendoza by Tuesday, February 23, 2010. Applications can be returned to the early voting clerk by mail, fax or email. Prior to the first day of early voting and application can be filled out at the County Clerk's office and returned to the County Clerks office in person.

Mailing address: 100 Liveoak Street, Suite 105, Coleman,
Tx 76834 Fax# 325.625.2889 email: cclerk@web-access.net

Once the completed application is returned to the Early voting Clerk, a paper ballot will be mailed to voter. Completed absentee ballots must be received by mail to the early voting clerk by 7:00 pm on Tuesday, March 2, 2010.

To be eligible to vote early by mail in Texas, you must: be 65 years or older; be disabled; be out of the county on election day and during the period for early voting by personal appearance; or be confined in jail, but otherwise eligible.

For more information or to print an application please see the Secretary of State's website:http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/reqabbm.shtml or you may call the County Clerk's Office at 325.625.2889.

The Coleman County Clerk’s Office will be closed from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, February 12, 2010 So that employees can attend an Election Poll Worker Training.

CCMC BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION ON MAY 8TH
2/3/2010
The candidate filing period for three places on the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors begins on Monday, February 8, 2010 and will continue until March 8, 2010.

Mark Griffis, Linda Laws, and Jackie Smith currently hold these positions.

Any interested party who would like to run for a place on the CCMC Board of Directors may file for election with Sue Titsworth in the CCMC Administration office Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 12 Noon and from 1 PM to 5 PM through March 8, 2010.

Traditional Ash Wednesday Scheduled for Feb. 17th
2/3/2010
Pastor Mike Kerzee announces a traditional service of worship for Ash Wednesday, February 17. This will take place at 6:00 P. M. in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church at 500 W. Live Oak in Coleman.

The community is invited to this Ash Wednesday service. Come and begin the season of Lent with this observance.

National Honor Society Induction Ceremony
2/3/2010
Arleigh Harris Chapter of NHS at SAHS to Hold Induction Ceremony

Students demonstrating outstanding scholarship, service, leadership, and character at Santa Anna High School will be inducted into the National Honor Society on Tuesday, February 9, 2010. Juniors Sarah Herrod, Loren Pritchard, Shawn Robertson, and Dillan Whitley will be honored on their selection to this prestigious national organization at 10:15 am in the High School auditorium.

After current members describe the four qualities of membership, the inductees will be introduced and their qualifications for membership outlined. After receiving their charge to action by Principal and Chapter Sponsor David Robinett, the ceremony will be dismissed and all students will return to class.

WHAT: National Honor Society Induction Ceremony
Agenda:
• Description of the four qualities: scholarship, service, character, and leadership
• Recognition of new members
• Principal’s charge to the membership

WHEN: Tuesday, February 9, 2010, 10:15 a.m.

WHERE: Santa Anna High School Auditorium
701 Bowie Avenue, Santa Anna

WHO: Current members, new members, Chapter Sponsor—Principal David Robinett

ATTENTION: 4-H Families
2/3/2010
If you were part of the Sale at the 2010 County Stock Show, we have a listing of your buyers. Please come by or call the Extension Office 325-625-4519; and we will give you a copy of your list of buyers. This will help you to know who to write THANK YOU notes to. Bring your thank you notes to the Extension Office (when you've completed them) and we'll check your name off the list. When the checks arrive we will notify you and you may pick it up.

Local Cut Scouts "Rise" to the Occassion
2/3/2010
A warm "Thank You" from the residents of the Hi-Rise goes to Leslie, the Boy Scouts, Cub Scout Pack #226 and the parents who helped. Cleaning the windows offered the boys a chance to perform Community Service and left the windows sparkling clean.

MASONS HONOR MICHAEL TAYLOR
2/3/2010
by Christine Flynn
Periodically, the Masonic Lodge #496 honor someone in the community who they feel has contributed to the community selflessly. At the lodge Tuesday evening before their regular monthly dinner and meeting, the Masons recognized Michael Taylor.

After a delicious Mexican feast was enjoyed by members and guests, Baker Rudolph spoke about significant historical leaders in Texas history and told of their involvement as a Mason.

Following the presentation, Richard Hetzel spoke of the reasons for recognizing community leadership and contribution especially in Coleman. The Masons often host fundraisers and active members participate in community wide activities.

Hetzel then spoke of the recipient, Michael Taylor and awarded him a plaque. He grew up in Coleman and after graduating from Texas A&M and earning a ranch management education at Texas Christian University, he desired to come back to his hometown and raise a family in Coleman. Since then Michael has been an active member of the community and his wife Rainey is teaches at the elementary school. After his day job of co-running the family business and being a father of 3, he makes time to be a part of several organizations. He is a chairman of the deacons at the First Baptist Church. He is involved in the Coleman Rodeo Association, Chamber of Commerce, and the planning and zoning committee.

Stock show workday set for February 8th
2/3/2010
A workday has been scheduled at the Goree Expo Center for all exhibitors and their families to take down and put up the pens that were used at the Coleman County Livestock Show. The workday is set for Monday, February 8th at 6:00 pm . For more information or questions regarding this workday, contact Sarah Beal @ 325-785-4291.

7TH DAY ADVENTIST CLOSE CLOTHING CENTER
2/2/2010
NOTICE: EFFECTIVE 2/3/2010, CLOTHING AND HOUSEHOLD DONATIONS WILL NO LONGER BE ACCEPTED AT THE SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST COMMUNITY SERVICES, MORE COMMONLY CALLED “THE CLOTHING BUILDING”, AT 211 PECOS STREET IN COLEMAN, TX. THE BUILDING IS BEING CLOSED.

WE ARE SORRY FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE THAT THIS MAY CAUSE. POSSIBLE REOPENING AT A LATER DATE IS UNDER DISCUSSION. RESEARCH TO FIND ANOTHER LOCATION AND RESTRUCTURING OF THE OPERATING POLICIES IS CURRENTLY BEING PURSUED.

Burn Ban Off for Coleman County
2/2/2010
Due to recent rains, Coleman County Judge Jimmie Hobbs has rescinded the Burn Ban. You may do outside burning with extreme caution.

Notice of Election: Republican Party
2/2/2010
Notice is hereby given that the polling places listed below will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., March 2, 2010 for voting in a general primary election for the Republican Party to nominate Members of Congress, Members of the Legislature, and state, district, county and precinct officers; and for the purpose of electing county and precinct chairs.

Click here for more information....

"Hearts Remembered" Annual Fundraiser announced by WEST TEXAS REHAB'S Hospice of the Big Country
Coleman: Display in Lobby of FCNB(Feb. 8th-12th)
2/2/2010
$10 Donation = One Name . . . One Heart . . .

West Texas Rehab's Hospice of the Big Country will hold their 10th annual fundraiser in the lobby of First Coleman National Bank beginning Monday, Feb. 8th and ending Friday, Feb. 12th, 2010.

Held in conjunction with Valentine's Day, "Hearts Remembered" is designed to allow family and friends to publicly honor a special person in their life.

For a donation of $10, the name of the honored person is written on a red heart and displayed on the large clouds in the lobby of First Coleman National Bank.

Volunteers will be in the lobby of the bank to assist you from 10:00 a.m. to Noon each weekday starting Monday, February 8th and continuing through Friday, February 12th.
If these times are not convenient, you may pick up a form and envelope from the display table any time during banking hours and mail your donation.

Or if you prefer, you may clip and fill in the coupon that is published in each edition of the Coleman newspaper and mail with your check or money order.

Funds raised from this event will help Hospice of the Big Country continue their mission of providing the best hospice care possible, regardless of ability to pay, to the terminally ill in Abilene and eleven surrounding counties.

Founded in 1992, Hospice of the Big Country is a service of the West Texas Rehabilitation Center and is located at 4601 Hartford, Abilene, TX 79605.

If you need additional information about the fundraiser, contact Shronda Shannon in Abilene at (325) 793-5450 or sshannon@wtrc.com.

COLEMAN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER BOARD MEETING
2/2/2010
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met in their regular meeting on Thursday, January 28, 2010, at 12 Noon and took care of all items on the agenda despite holding the last half of the meeting in the dark due to the storm that went through Coleman during that time.

Serena Jenkins, LVN, was recognized as CCMC Employee of the First Quarter, 2010 by Board President Mark Griffis, and was presented with a certificate and a day off with pay.

In other business, the board approved the QA report and Credentialing report as presented by Director of Nurses Melissa Gober, RN, as well as the financial reports for both November and December, 2009 which were presented by CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley.

The board also approved the request by Langley to apply for the Capital Improvement Grant offered by the Texas Department of Rural Affairs. The grant proposal will request the replacement of an air
handler for the Surgical area of the hospital. The board also voted to purchase a Hydraulic stretcher, a Cardiac Monitor/Defibrillator, two portable suction pumps, and a Video System for the gastrointestinal scopes. All of these items are partially paid for by grants, and the hospital will pay the balance from the Equipment fund.

Douglas Langley also gave the board an update on the purchase of a new emergency generator, which should be here in a few weeks.

The next regular board meeting will be at Noon on February 25, 2010.

DRT OBSERVES FEBRUARY TEXAS HISTORY
2/2/2010
The Heart of Texas Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas will hold its next meeting on Monday, February 8, in the Striegler Military Complex at the Heart of Texas Historical Museum. The meeting will begin at 3:00 PM and is open to the public.

Following the business meeting, Clara Porter, of Menard, will present a program about the Texas Parks and Wildlife, and its renewed activities at the Presidio de San Saba located in Menard, Texas.

Many notable events have happened during the months of February in Texas. In 1828, while Texas was still a state of the Republic of Mexico, Freemasonry began when several Masons, including Stephen F. Austin, met at San Felipe de Austin to consider petitioning the Grand Lodge of Mexico to organize a lodge in Texas.

The DRT also reminds us to recall that on February 8, 1836, Davy Crockett and the Tennessee Volunteers arrived at the Alamo responding to the call to come to her defense. Jim Bowie had recently arrived from his scouting trip to Menard County where he was ambushed by Indians while looking for silver. (A Texas Centennial Marker is located on Calf Creek Road commemorating this event.) Col. William B. Travis was now in command of the defenders. By February 23, Santa Anna and his Mexican army had surrounded the Alamo, prompting Travis to, “draw a line in the sand” and write his famous letter declaring that, “I will never surrender or retreat.”

February also claims important information about the end of the Republic of Texas and its admission into the U.S. On December 29, 1845, the United States of America officially admitted Texas to the Union as its 28th state. However, it was not until February of 1836 that the state of Texas’ First Legislature was convened in Austin, thereby completing the process of annexation. On February 19, 1846, the Flag of the Republic was lowered at the State Capitol building. Governor James Pinckney Henderson formally took office and the Republic of Texas ceased to exist. Sam Houston and Thomas J. Rusk were elected to serve as the first U.S. Senators. This is the cause of the difference in opinions about the longevity of Texas as a Republic. February 19 is officially named the “State of Texas Anniversary Remembrance Day”.

The DRT welcomes visitors and inquiries. Auxiliary Memberships are available for those who are interested in the early history of Texas even though their ancestors were not residents during the time of the Republic, 1836-1845. Additional information is available from the president, Sharon Purcell, at 597-2887 in Brady, and from the registrar, Jerry Wilkinson, of Rochelle, at 243-5344.

CCMC EMPLOYEES ACTIVITY COMMITTEE FUNDRAISER
Win a Valentine Basket for your Sweetheart!
(Sue Titsworth)
2/2/2010
The CCMC Employees Activity Committee has put together a Valentine basket of goodies which includes a gift card to Perinis in Buffalo Gap, flowers from the Petal Patch, a $100 Visa gift card, and lots more! The tickets are $5.00 each or 3 for $12.00. This basket will make a great gift for your Valentine, or for yourself. If you have ever eaten at Perinis, you know how wonderful their food is, and I don’t know anyone who couldn’t put a $100 Visa card to good use. As for the flowers – and other goodies – they just add to the enjoyment of the whole thing!

Tickets are being sold by members of the Employees Activity Committee – Cindy Coghlan, Shirley Smith, Jeanie Guerrero, Maria Ortega Diaz, Marvin Hale, Barbara Langley, Raul Hurtado, Judy Espitia, and Sue Titsworth.

As always, the proceeds go to the CCMC Equipment Fund and the Activity Fund. The hospital is looking at replacing several expensive items this year which have nothing, yet everything, to do with patient care. Our generator is over 40 years old and is just about worn out, and this is what the hospital relies on when the electricity goes out to furnish light in the patient care area. A new air handler is needed in the surgical area, and those are just two of the high dollar items. Every dollar the Activity Committee can put into the equipment fund puts the hospital a dollar closer to being able to replace the old, worn out equipment.

The drawing will be held at 4 PM on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce.

COLEMAN 4-H STUDENTS MOVE FORWARD TO STATE
2/1/2010
This year 4-H started a new competition in the Food & Nutrition Project called Food Challenge. It is similar to the Iron Chef competition on TV. We had two teams compete in the District 7 contest. Our Intermediate team, Chariti Warren, Megan Taylor, Emily Roberts, & Cady Gentry, placed 2nd in their division and our Senior team, Samantha Dennis, Lachelle Rutledge, Sarah Casselberry, & Courtney Brown, placed 1st in their division and they will be moving on to the State Contest at 4-H Roundup in June. Congratulations on a job well done!

COUNCIL TO CONSIDER A RESIGNATION, RACIAL PROFILING REPORT, AND 4B EDC PROPOSAL
2/1/2010
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010
5:00 P.M. Coleman City Hall, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas

PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the January 21, 2010 regular meeting. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

RECOGNITION OF STAFF: (NONE)
HEARING OF VISITORS CONCERNING MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA:
PUBLIC HEARING (S): (NONE)
RECEIPT OF BIDS: (NONE)
CONSENT AGENDA:

OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will receive a letter of resignation from Mayor Pro Tem John Plummer. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

2. Council will receive and consider for approval the 2009 Racial Profiling Report from the Coleman Police Department. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

3. Council will consider approval of budget amendments for the Coleman EDC. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

4. Council will receive a straw poll presented by concerned citizens showing support for the formation of a 4B Economic Development Corporation. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

5. Council will consider authorizing the City Secretary to release a Request for Proposal (RFP) for employee health insurance for the City of Coleman. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

6. Council will receive information from the City Manager related to utility contract performance. Council reserves the right to enter into closed executive session under Section 551.086 of the Texas Government Code pursuant to public utility and competitive matters. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

7. Council will consider a proposal from the Coleman County Electric Cooperative to purchase 3,235 feet of electrical infrastructure on Highway 153. Council my take any action deemed necessary.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN:

ROCKWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER SUPPER
"IT'S ELECTION TIME AGAIN"
2/1/2010
The Community Center will again have their supper for you to meet the candidates running for Local Coleman County Offices.

Mark your calendar for the 2nd. Saturday, (February 13th) at 6:30 for a soup/stew supper. Those attending are asked to bring their favorite soup/stew, or anything good with soup.

Please Plan to Attend.

Central Baptist welcomes back Bro. David Jenkins
2/1/2010
The members of Central Baptist Church would like to invite everyone as they welcome back Bro. David Jenkins. Bro. David will be preaching at the church tonight Feb. 1st at 7pm. Everyone is welcome. If there are any questions please call 512-423-2113 or email at cbccoleman@gmail.com.

Obama Administration Names Appointees to USDA’s Farm Service Agency State Committee in Texas
2/1/2010
The Obama Administration today announced the individuals who will serve on the Texas Farm Service Agency State Committee. The State Committee members will oversee the activities of the agency, including carrying out the state agricultural conservation programs, resolving appeals from the agriculture community and helping to keep producers informed about FSA programs.

“These individuals will work with USDA to help farmers and ranchers build and maintain successful operations that produce the safe, nutritious food supply that America needs while spurring economic development in our nation’s rural communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “They bring the experience and passion necessary to help continue the Obama Administration's efforts to rebuild and revitalize rural America.”

The individuals appointed to serve on this committee include:
Jerry D. Glover (Chairperson)
Glover, from Muleshoe, Texas, has over 45 years of experience in Agriculture policy. Glover is a third generation farmer currently farming in Parmer County. He has received multiple awards, including the Heroes of American Agriculture Award by the American Corn Growers Association in 1996. He served from 1994-1996 as Chairman of Parmer County FSA Committee and served as the Executive Director of the Texas Corn Producers Board from 1996-1999. From 1997-2001, Glover served on the USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics (REE) Executive Advisory Committee. He is currently a board member for the Bailey County Farm Bureau.

Debra Barrett
Barrett, from Edroy, Texas, is a fourth generation cotton farmer, and has been farming cotton and grain sorghum since 1981. For the last six years, she has served as a member on the San Patricio County FSA Committee. In 2005, she received a USDA appointment to the Cotton Board. Ms. Barrett is a Director of South Texas Cotton and Grain Association and has participated in the National Cotton Council’s Cotton Leadership Program. She currently serves as the president of San Patricio County Drainage District and is a member of the Sinton Rotary Club.

Armando Mandujano
Mandujano, from Coyanosa, Texas, owns Mandujano Brothers, a partnership with his three brothers. The farming operation consists of 4,000 acres producing watermelons, cotton, onions, pumpkins, and peppers in Pecos and Reeves County. Mandujano has served as an advisor to the Pecos County FSA Committee. He was also a member of the Trans Pecos Cotton Growers Association. Mr. Mandujano received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Angelo State University and is fluent in Spanish.

Wesley Ratcliff
Ratcliff, from Oakwood, Texas, has been involved in agriculture for most of his life, and has owned and operated his current ranch for over 9 years. He served in the Army from 1963 to 1965. After leaving the Army, he worked as an aerospace engineer for NASA for four years. Mr. Ratcliff also was an Assistant Professor of Mathematics for Texas Southern University for several years. He has a Master’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Houston and Bachelor’s of Science degree from Prairie View University.

Glen A. Rod
Rod, from El Campo, Texas, owns and operates Rod Grass Farm LLC and Jones Creek Farm JV growing rice, row crops, and turf grass. He has served on the boards of the El Campo PCA, Rice Council, Rice Farmers Co-Op, and Turfgrass Producers of Texas. His accomplishments include being named Rice Farmer of the Year, Soybean Farmer of the Year, and Ag Man of the Year. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy from Texas A&M University.

USDA’s Farm Services Agency works to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural Americans. Some of the agency's efforts include facilitating income support, disaster assistance and conservation programs, providing operating loans for the procurement of farm equipment, seed and fertilizer, as well as offering ownership loans to help new and veteran producers purchase a farm. FSA also works to procure various commodities to benefit low-income families through domestic food assistance programs. The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture and natural resources and touches the life of every American. Reflecting President Obama's commitment to expanding economic opportunities in rural America, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and the USDA are working to enhance availability of broadband, promote the development of renewable energy, to conserve, maintain and improve our natural resources and environment, and promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply.

January 2010 is Wettest January Since 1992...
2/1/2010
By Karen Allen
Thanks to the hard rain we got last week, the City of Coleman official rainfall for the month of January was 2.59 according to weatherman Steve Autry, making it the wettest January since 1992 when we received 2.60.

Since that year, there was only one other January (2004) when we received more than two inches (2.18). Most Januarys we got only around a quarter to a half inch of rain.

Hopefully, we’ll start spring in good shape with another good chance of rain this week on Wednesday and Thursday...

Senior Center is in need of volunteers
2/1/2010
The Coleman Senior Center is in need of volunteers to deliver Meals on Wheels on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. We have 4 routes that we deliver to in the Coleman area. We have been paying someone to deliver the meals on these two days. We just don’t have the funds to continue doing so. If you are interested in helping us out please call the Senior Center at 325-625-4779.

Thank you to the community
2/1/2010
The Sledge Family & Coleman ISD Cafeteria Staff would like to thank the Coleman community for their thoughts & prayers for Selah.

Thanks to everyone who participated and donated to the Bake Sale; also the businesses in Coleman & the surrounding areas that allowed us to put donation containers at their locations.

Special thanks to Coleman ISD employees for their donations; also to Bob Turner & the Kay Bailey Hutchison staff for speeding up the passport process.

Thank you to Mrs. Evans' and Mrs. Pannell's 2nd grade classes for their get-well cards for Selah. The account is still set up at CCSB for continuing expenses.

Selah is still critical but is stable and has been transferred to the Children's Hospital in Trieste, Italy.
Carrie Holloway - 636-3268
Brenda Young - 214-1406
Marsha Ray - 726-9342

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE CITY OF COLEMAN
2/1/2010
The City of Coleman is opening the Convenience Center located on North Highway 84 Friday 2-5-10 and Saturday 2-6-10 for bringing storm debris. There will be no gate charge or disposal charge for storm debris. Regular items you choose to take to the convenience center, other than storm debris, will be charged as usual. Hours of operation will be 9:00 a.m. to Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Allied Waste has placed two 30 yard containers for storm debris only at 301 N. Colorado Street, across from the Public Works
Office at 304 N. Colorado Street for use by the public.

If you have electrical problems and your meter loop has been pulled away from your house, you will need to call an electrician to repair meter loops before the City will be able to reinstate your electricity. Please call the City of Coleman Public Works 625-2621 with any questions. After 5:00 p.m. or on the weekend you may call the Police Department, 625-4114.

UIL Released the 2010-2012 District Realignment
2/1/2010
Coleman's FOOTBALL district will be in Conference 2A, Division 2, Region 4,
District 13 which includes the following:
Coleman
Harper
Junction
Ozona
San Saba
Sonora

Coleman's BASKETBALL district will be in Conference 2A, Region 1, District 6
which includes the following:
Bangs
Coleman
Comanche
Dublin
Early
Hamilton
Hico
San Saba

See PDF document and changes here

Novice School Board swears in new board member
2/1/2010
The Novice ISD Board of Trustees held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, January 25. In recognition of School Board Appreciation Month, the elementary classes presented board members with posters and thank you cards. They were cute and greatly appreciated by the board.

Agenda items included:

- swearing in newly appointed board member, James (Jet) Taylor,
- approval of the district’s 2008-2009 audit,
- requesting that the city, county and hospital board deed property to the district rather than include it in a tax sale,
- approving the district’s low attendance waiver request for days when there were a significant number of absences due to the flu, and
- in lieu of a formal evaluation of the new superintendent, the board completed a survey on the district’s progress toward implementation of the Correlates of Effective Schools.

The superintendent’s report included:
- the district’s status as a PEG campus and the parent notifications that will follow,
- potential vendors for phone and technology services eligible for e-rate discounts in the 2010-2011 school year,
- current enrollment of 104 students in grades Pre-K – 12 with an ADA of 92.1 for the first semester,
- the district’s next benchmark exams for TAKS practice which are scheduled for the first week in February, and
- upcoming board training opportunities including a Team Building workshop for board members and superintendents to be held at Early High School on February 4.

4B COMMUNTY DEVELOPMENT MOVEMENT GAINS MOMENTUM
Submitted by Jo Ann Eddleman, representing ColemanNOW
2/1/2010
In the past few days many people across town, and county residents as well, have been signing an informal petition that signifies their interest in the city of Coleman stepping up to the plate to help itself when it comes to community development and improvements.

The petition, circulated by ColemanNOW, calls for the opportunity for city of Coleman voters to decide in the upcoming May election whether they want a Type 4B economic development corporation in addition to our Type 4A industrial/manufacturing corporation. Type 4B economic development corporations are often referred to as community development corporations. (Please log on to www.ColemanNOW.info for the details on what a Type 4B economic development corporation is, how it is managed, and what it can accomplish and has accomplished in other towns across Texas.)

There is a tendency to reflect on how great Coleman used to be when our economy was driven by a dynamic farming and oil economy. Downtown was humming, a parking spot was hard to find, jobs in the oilfield were plentiful, the town was clean, beautiful and rightfully proud of itself.

ColemanNOW believes that being aware of how Coleman once was is no reason to wring our hands and watch the town continue to deteriorate. This fond remembrance is a reason to act to restore that community and revive that community pride—a reason to act NOW.

Our grassroots message is that other small towns with Type 4B corporations have succeeded in reinventing themselves and bringing much needed commercial, retail and recreational businesses to town, enabling existing small businesses to stay in business, coming up with much needed municipal improvements, assisting nonprofits to expand their reach, and just improving the curb appeal of their towns in general. Coleman can do the same by electing to fund its own 4B economic/community development corporation.

What is our alternative? We cannot afford to just sit back and keep saying “we need a few more funerals;” or “they” run the town, as in “they” didn’t let WalMart move in; or “the Highway 67 bypass killed us.” How many other time-worn excuses, real or mythical, can we come up with? The time for excuses is over. We must get involved. We must be proactive. We must pull ourselves up by the bootstraps and start working on what Coleman can be NOW.

ColemanNOW is asking that voters in the city of Coleman be allowed in May to choose to have a half-cent sales tax to support a Type 4B community development corporation in addition to the half-cent sales tax we have had since 1990 that supports our Type 4A industrial/manufacturing economic development corporation (EDC).

To comply with state law, which limits the amount of our local sales tax, we will have to repeal the half-cent sales tax used for the property tax discount that has also been in effect since 1990. On the same ballot, we can adopt the equivalent half-cent sales tax, which can then be used to fund a Type 4B community development corporation. Our sales tax will remain at 8.25%, the maximum allowed by state law.

Is this too much to ask? ColemanNOW is convinced the voters in Coleman will think it is not too much to ask. It is simply a matter of everyone appreciating what is at stake. ColemanNOW is convinced our city property owners will be willing to reinvest that minimal tax relief they receive each year toward Coleman’s greater good. There is less than $5 a month in tax relief for the average property owner in Coleman that can be reinvested in Coleman’s future. At the same time, the non-property owners in town will no longer be subsidizing the property owners’ property tax relief every time they purchase a taxable item in Coleman. Everyone will be contributing to the overall good of Coleman to the benefit of all.

This initiative on the May 8 ballot can provide Coleman with the opportunity to make a game-changing decision to fund an effort to make Coleman all that it can be—starting NOW!

Let your City Council representative know you support having the opportunity to make this choice on the May 8 ballot! The subject will be on the agenda this Thursday.

Youth Art Show 2010
2/1/2010
The 2nd Annual Youth Art Show sponsored by the Fine Arts League of Coleman County is Up at the Library and ready to view starting Tuesday, February 2, 1-6 pm. The Exhibit contains 81 pieces of artwork with 7 sculptures and represents all media. Entries are from K-12th grades. 49 entries were from K-7 and 32 entries from 8-12grades.

*Special Art Supplies (with funds from the Coleman Foundation Grant ) were ordered for prizes for these hardworking artists and will be awarded Thursday, Feb. 4th, at 4 pm at the Library. Rumor has it that the Texas Blue Bunny will make an appearance?? Prizes will include Best of Show, 1st & 2nd places for grades K-7 and 1st & 2nd places for grades 8-12 with 1st & 2nd places for Sculpture.

Exhibit Schedule as follows:

Feb. 2 - Tuesday 1-6pm Exhibit Opens

Thursday Feb. 4th – 12-6pm with AWARDS PRESENTATION at 4 pm – be there!

Wednesday through Friday Feb. 3rd – 5th – 12-6 pm

Saturday –Feb. 6th – 9-12 (pick up art work)

Thanks to The Fine Arts League Community Projects Chair and the Youth Art Show Chair : Robin Black and Danna Dawson for another stellar Youth Art Show!!

Marian Johnson, Publicity

Fine Arts League of Coleman Co., Inc.

Projects of the Fine Arts League are partially funded by the Texas Commission on the Arts, the Coleman Foundation, and Coleman Lodger’s Tax.

* Thanks for the Art Supply Price discounts given by Jerry’s Artarama and Dick Blick Art Materials

www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

Diabetes group meets today!
2/1/2010
The Coleman Diabetes group will meet Monday Feb.1st at 802 Needham St. at Deniece Rogers Clinic at 6:39 pm.

All diabetics and their families are invited to this meeting.

SCURRY COUNTY FATAL CRASH
2/1/2010
NEWS RELEASE

ONE PERSON WAS KILLED IN A MOTORCYCLE CRASH SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT 4:12 P.M. THE CRASH OCCURRED ON COUNTY ROAD 370, 2.3 MILES WEST OF FARM MARKET ROAD 1606 IN SCURRY COUNTY.

DECEASED;
1. KURT ERIC DUNN, 43 YEARS OF AGE FROM COLORADO CITY, TEXAS WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT COGDELL MEMORIAL HOSPITAL IN SNYDER, TEXAS AT 5:08 P.M. BY DOCTOR FAGAN. THE BODY WAS TAKEN TO BELL-CYPERT-SEALE FUNERAL HOME IN SNYDER, TEXAS.

VEHICLE INVOLVED;
1. 2005 HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE DRIVEN BY KURT ERIC DUNN.

SYNOPSIS;
ONE PERSON WAS KILLED IN A MOTORCYCLE CRASH SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT 4:12 P.M. THE CRASH OCCURRED ON COUNTY ROAD 370, 2.3 MILES WEST OF FARM ROAD 1606 IN SCURRY COUNTY.

THE DRIVER OF THE MOTORCYCLE, KURT ERIC DUNN FROM COLORADO CITY, TEXAS WAS TRAVELING WEST AND LOST CONTROL IN THE MUD, THROWING HIM FROM THE MOTORCYCLE.

THE WEATHER WAS CLEAR/CLOUDY AND THE ROADWAY WAS MUD/GRAVEL.

THIS CRASH IS BEING INVESTIGATED BY TEXAS HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPER JASON MCMILLAN.

SENIOR TROOPER SPARKY DEAN