News Archives - September 2006

And The Winner Is ...
9/30/2006 (photo by Tex Wright)
In conjunction with homecoming activities in Santa Anna Saturday, a drawing was held for approx $1250.00 worth of merchandise. All proceeds went to the Ethan Mendoza Fund. Ethan is an 8 year-old student at Santa Anna Elementary who was diagnosed over the summer with Encephalitis. He remains at Cook Children's Hospital in the Metroplex for physical therapy and rehabilitation. Ethan is the son of Sandi Watson of Santa Anna.
Pictured are:  Sarah Pelton (with ice cream cone) who drew the winning ticket, Wanda Campbell in charge of funds and reading the name on winning ticket and Shannon Stroebel of The Prairie Rose . The winner was Arnie Jamison of Brownwood. Thanks to everyone who helped raise much needed funds for Ethan.

Coleman High School Perfect Attendance 1st Six Weeks
9/29/2006
9th Grade:
Eta Agbor, Ricky Alanis, Anthony Beltran, Jennifer Brewer, J.R. Bruce, Jacob Cantu, Manny Dancy, Andrew Dean, Denny Fulbright, Tony Garcia, Cynthia Garza, Sarah Hailey, Trent Hambright, Aretha Holloway, Morgan Hurtado, Andrew Isom, Adam Jimenez, Emilie Jimenez, Zachary Johnson, Juli Lanham, Jeff Lefevre, Robert Lewallen, Patricia Martinez, Lisha Merkley, Omar Olguin, Destiny Rader, Chad Robison, Peyton Schumann, Keagan Slayton, Ana Solis, Shaina Thompson, Lorena Vasquez, Miguel Vazquez, Tyler Williams, Hayden Wise, Carissa Zarate

10th Grade:
Arturo Avila, Tiffani Baker, Carlos Barrios, Mohini Bhakta, Tara Brixey, Audrey Casselberry, Jessica Cleland, Stanley Cole, Kenna Cornelius, Duston Crawford, Nancy Cruz, Sonya Cruz, Nolan DeLeon, Deven Densman, Marlaina Diaz, Jake Duquette, Glen Edington, Reece Halfmann, Nicole Heath, Austen Henson, Cole Hubbard, Amber Hunter, Jeremy Jameson, Meagan Ogden, Chris Ramos, Rene Salas, Kalham Salazar, Tabitha Terrell, Cheyenne Turner, Caleb Walker

11th Grade:
Ashton Adian, Rebecca Baker, Tye Barnett, Kylie Bledsoe, Nolan Buford, Bronson Buzzard, Josh Christopherson, Shelton Cogdill, Steven Conway, J.D. Crowder, Krystal Dunn, Shaunita Gibson, Jeremy Gober, Lyle Hahn, Casey Lofton, Luke Lofton, Stormie Mackey, Cala Norris, Kyle Peffley, Geneva Perez, Martin Quinonez, Sara Smith, Matthew Strickland, Kolton Titsworth, , Pedro Valdez, Ashley Watts, Thomas Wells, Katlin Whatley, Annaette Williams, Brandon Worsham

12th Grade:
Luke Anderson, Chase Avants, Rosa Avila, Myles Baker, Carrie Benedict, April Brown, Wesley Christopherson, Taylor Davis, Cady Dean, Alli Diaz, Meagan Dunnam, Rikkie Fain, Spencer Fitzpatrick, Patricia Galvan, Kaneesha Graves, Bonnie Guerrero, Caitlin Hail, Kimberly Lawhon, Louis Lugo, Kandys Mills, Delesa Monroe, Katie Nixon, Ben Phillips, April Quinonez, Kamber Royce, J.P. Salas, Peyton Saverance, Brent Sloan, Nolan Tidwell, Stefanie White

CCMC Board Passes Tax Rate (Rate Same as Last Year)
9/29/2006 (by Sue Titsworth)
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met in their regular meeting at 5 o’clock Thursday evening in the CCMC Board Conference Room with a short agenda which took less than an hour to address.

The first order of business was to set the Property Tax rate, which was thirty-five cents per $100.00 of property evaluation last year. The board members unanimously approved that same rate this year.

In other business, CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley gave the financial report, stating that the first eleven months of the fiscal year is on target for where it was expected to be this time of year. There is a small gain of approximately $54,000 thus far. Expenses for this fiscal year are still running below last year’s expenses by $500,000.00.

Langley also gave a report to the board concerning the Bioterrorism equipment recently purchased by the hospital with Department of Homeland Security funds.

Board members approved the Indigent/Charity Policy of the hospital for the new fiscal year, and renewed a bank note.

Dietary Director Jeanie Guerrero and Housekeeping Director Maria Ortega appeared before the board, presenting their Policy and Procedure manuals for their respective departments.
 
The next regular meeting of the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors will be at 5 o’clock on October 26, 2006 in the Board Conference Room of the hospital.

Be Aware of Possible Phone Scam
Suspicious Call Made to Santa Anna
9/28/2006
COLEMAN COUNTY SHERIFF WADE TURNER IS CAUTIONING RESIDENTS IN THE COUNTY TO NOT GIVE OUT PERSONAL BANK ACCOUNT INFORMATION ON THE PHONE.

ACCORDING TO SHERIFF TURNER, THURSDAY NIGHT AROUND 7 O’CLOCK A SANTA ANNA WOMAN RECEIVED A CALL FROM SOMEONE ALLEGING TO REPRESENT A BANKING SERVICE. THE CALLER TOLD THE WOMAN THAT DUE TO A COMPUTER VIRUS, SHE NEEDED TO GIVE HER CHECKING ACCOUNT NUMBER TO THE CALLER IN ORDER TO SAVE AND PROTECT HER ACCOUNT. LUCKILY THE WOMAN DID NOT DIVULGE THE INFORMATION BUT DID CONTACT THE COLEMAN COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT.

SHERIFF TURNER ADVISES TO BE VERY CAREFUL ABOUT GIVING OUT PERSONAL ACCOUNT INFORMATION.

Coleman FFA Members Attend Camp
9/29/2006
First year members of the Coleman FFA participated in Greenhand Camp in Graham on September 19, 2006. Students learned leadership skills and more about the FFA association while meeting other members from across the area.

Members that attended are Jeff Lefevre, Carissa Zarate, Denny Fulbright, Casie Swening, Gary Heath, Chad Robison, Peyton Schumann, Reagan Barr and Tanner Brooks. Sarah Lofton also attended as the Big Country District Vice-President.

Coleman in 1939 on DVD
9/28/2006 by Randy Turner
I dropped by Ralph Terry Studio of Photography recently to ask Ralph a question or two about digital cameras. While the digital revolution is interesting, it didn't compare to what was playing on a television set in Terry Studio. Ralph and Judia have put together a DVD movie of Coleman, Texas in 1939. According to Ralph, a film was made in Coleman in 1939 as a fund-raiser for the Lions Club with the result being shown at the Dixie Theater. Talk about interesting, you can see our town the way it was almost 70 years ago. You can watch the workers at the Nehi Bottling Plant, see the old majestic Coleman County Courthouse, a bustling downtown on a Saturday afternoon, the Bluecats of 1939, Nunley's Tire Store, Coulson's Drug Store, the list goes on and on. The photographer did a great job of capturing lots of faces, many of whom have been identified but many who haven't. Ralph has also written a 50 page booklet to go along with the DVD describing each scene in the film. Each scene has been marked and can be accessed directly, without going through the whole movie. The DVD will sell for $20, proceeds will be used for research and upkeep of the websites devoted to the history of Coleman County at www.colemanhistory.com and history for the alumni of Coleman High School at www.colemanbluecats.com.  I might add that it is very emotional, it will pull at your heart as you recognize some of Coleman's past community leaders, most no longer with us. If you have lived long enough, you probably knew these people. For more information, call Ralph or Judia at 325-625-5317 or drop by 216 Commercial Avenue, downtown Coleman.

Pictured are Ralph Terry, left, and Roy Young of Burkett, trying to identify some of the faces and places in Coleman in 1939.

City Crew Replacing Water Mains
9/28/2006 (contributed)
City crews are working to replace water mains on First, Second and Third Streets in Coleman. The original 2” main lines will be replaced with 6” lines to alleviate low water pressure for residents and to provide increased water pressure for fire protection. Once the line is replaced, crews will hook existing water taps into the new lines in the areas mentioned.

City of Coleman Public Water Supply Receives Award
9/28/2006 (contributed)
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality recently implemented a program to recognize public water systems for the effort, dedication, and contribution they have made to the state and to protecting the public health of Texas Citizens. The City of Coleman’s public water supply received this award for the outstanding performance they demonstrated for the calendar year 2005. The purpose of the award is to recognize those water systems showing initiative to exceed minimum acceptable TCEQ standards, focus public attention on importance of water system enhancement activities, serve as an example to other water systems, and recognize those water systems that have voluntarily taken the extra steps to protect their public drinking water. The award will be displayed in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

Seating Installed, Court Being Installed
9/27/2006
Giant leaps toward completion are being made now in the new Coleman High School Gym. Since last Friday, seating has been installed. The picture shows the letters CHS spelled out in gray in the seats. Workers Tuesday were installing the hardwood court and worked until 8:00 o'clock Tuesday night. Previously, Coleman ISD announced that an Open House will be held sometime in October. It is a facility our town can be very proud of. Thanks to Randy Huggins, Project Manager for The ABD Group, Inc., for sharing his photos.  

New Mayor Appointed in Santa Anna
9/26/2006
The Santa Anna City Council met Monday evening and appointed one of its own to serve as Mayor. Tom Bell, a professor at Cisco Junior College in Abilene, will fill the term of Jean Findley who resigned the position last week. According to information from the assistant city secretary, another emergency meeting of the Council will be held at 5:00pm Wednesday, September 27. Council members will consider hiring personnel for the positions which become vacant tomorrow after numerous resignations recently by employees. The positions include Director of Public Works and those in charge of water and sewer services as well as city secretary.  The meeting Wednesday will convene at Santa Anna City Hall.

CJHS Science Studies Solar Noon
9/25/2006
On Friday, September 22, Mr. Gary Strickland led a group of students from his 6th period Science, Mrs. Kathy Turner's Algebra, and Mrs. Diana Dobbins' 7th Grade Advanced Math classes. The object of the activity was to calculate the circumference of the earth. Pictured is Kelby McCorkle using a level to make sure the metal rod was exactly upright. He and his classmates then measured the shadow of that rod every 3 minutes, for 15 minutes. The length of the shadow in relation to the length of the rod gives an angle of the sun's rays, which can be used to figure the exact latitude of the CJHS parking lot, which in turn can be used to calculate the circumference. Their calculations were within 134 miles of the accurate circumference of the earth, which would be about a 1% error. The activity will work only during Solar Noon, which was at 1:30 on the "Autumnal Equinox."

Humane Society Brochures Available
9/26/2006 (Contributed)
Linda Laws (right), a Humane Society board member and volunteer, distributed a supply of the new Humane Society spay/neuter brochure to the Coleman schools last week. Junior High principal Paula Ringo (left) accepts a supply for her students.

Panther Creek Crowns King and Queen
9/26/2006 (Story and photos by Mark Romine)
Panther Creek High School held homecoming activities Friday, September 22. Members of the Homecoming Court were: Shaina Brown, Kourtni Finlay, Taya Davis, Matt Barnhart, Frank Sikes and Clayton VanPelt.

Taya Davis and Frank Sikes were crowned Homecoming Queen and King.     

Novice Student Invited to Australia
9/26/2006 (Contributed)
My name is James Garza, I am a 15 year old sophomore at Novice High School. I have been invited to go to Australia with the People to People Association. I will have the chance to learn about the culture there, a chance to stay with a family there to learn about their way of living, get to go to school there and see how their way of learning is, get to swim in the Coral Reefs and many more things.

While there I will be given a High School credit. I am hoping to become a Student Ambassador and have the chance to meet the Governors and Mayors of Australia. I am trying to raise $400 for my application as soon as possible. So I am asking for a Helping Hand of a small donation of $10 or $20. If you can give a helping hand for me, please send it to:

James Garza, P.O. Box 367, Coleman, TX 76834 or call 325-625-5756 and we will come pick it up. Any donations will be put into my savings account until I get the full $400. Thank you, James Garza.

IT’S FIESTA ART SHOW TIME!
9/26/2006 (by Marian Johnson)
The 15th Fiesta de la Paloma Fine Art Show October 6 and 7, is destined to be the biggest, best ever. The Fine Arts League of Coleman County is expecting a large number of artists to bring their work from the surrounding counties and as far away as Del Rio. The Art League is setting up to start registering artwork Monday, Oct. 2 , 10 am- 7 pm in the Art Show Bldg., at 115 W. Pecan St., across from the Coleman County State Bank. Cash Awards: $500 Best of Show with over $2600 total cash awards to be given. Show Judge is Doug Prine, Nemo, Texas. October is National Art Month !

Novice High Homecoming Nominees Announced
9/26/2006 (by Heidi Gromatzsky)
The 2006 Novice High School Homecoming nominees are as follows: Seniors - Jose Moreno and Megan Sadler; Juniors - Caleb Pringle and Megan Holmquest; Sophmores - Billy Bennet and Lacye Briley; and Freshman - Brandon Hall and Amanda Scruggs.

Homecoming is set for October 6. The Hornets will be taking on Trent.

Faith and Victory March Held Saturday
9/26/2006 (Contributed)
Representatives from seven churches and ministries, in a show of unity and faith, came together September 23 at The Cross to march around (each group walked one mile) Coleman in prayer. There were over 40 people willing to make a stand, not afraid to say enough and willing to fight back in prayer. If you would like to join these people in a continued act of faith and prayer, contact mt25@verizon.net   or call 625-1002 and leave a message. Thanks to Brazos Street Mission, Central Baptist Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, Santa Anna FUMC, Wings as Eagles, The Center and The Cross.

Fire Damages Coleman Home
9/25/2006
A house fire Sunday morning during the 9 o'clock hour caused heavy damage to a home at 300 West Sixth Street in Coleman. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. It was a small wood frame structure, two vehicles in the attached garage and drive were not harmed. The house is near Hufford Field.  No injuries were reported.

Council Denies Rate Increase Proposal
9/25/2006
The Coleman City Council voted 4-0 last Thursday to approve Ordinance Number 1066 which denied a rate increase proposed by Atmos Energy. Atmos had filed the proposed increase with the City on May 31.

CHS Gym Work Continues
9/23/2006
Some new lettering has been added to the southwest and east sides of the new Coleman High School Gym. CHS is now prominent near the top of the building. On the inside, workers on Friday were preparing to install seating. The hardwood floor is scheduled for installation during the coming week.

Kerry Craig Chosen President of Sulphur Springs Kiwanis Club
9/23/2006
A former Coleman man is beginning a new term as president of the Sulphur Springs, Texas Golden K Kiwanis Club. Kerry Craig was installed on Tuesday, September 19. Installation was made by Jack Carlton, governor, Texas-Oklahoma District, Kiwanis International.

Previously, Kerry served three consecutive years as president of the club and became Lt. Governor for Division 32 last year. Kerry's wife, Kelley Craig, was installed for her third term as secretary of Sulphur Springs Golden Kiwanis.

Gov. Jack Carlton, Kerry Craig and outgoing Golden K President John Cooper.

Local Youth Chosen for Youth of Texas Program
9/22/2006 (Contributed to colemannews.com)
I have been chosen as a candidate in the 2006 Distinguished youth of Texas program to be held in November at the Renaissance hotel in Austin Texas. The Distinguished youth of Texas program is not a beauty pageant. It is an event designed to recognize girls who rank high academically or who have been acknowledged publicly for their leadership abilities or accomplishments. Little Miss of Texas and Young Miss of Texas will each receive a $1,000.00 educational savings bond in addition to a variety of awards and public appearances. Participating in this event is a very exciting and unique experience. Would you like to have a part in making this possible for me?

For this to be possible all girls must have sponsors to help pay for the participation fee ($350.00). I am not asking for the full amount but any contribution would be very helpful. Sponsors will be recognized at the event. If you have a business you would like to have recognized at this event and would like to be a sponsor please contact Wanda or David Kitchen at (325) 625-5524 or if you are an individual and would like to be a part of The Community of Coleman sponsor, again, please contact Wanda or David at the above number. Again thank you for helping make this possible for me, Heather.

Candace Beal Graduates from Tarleton State University
9/22/2006
Candace Leigh Beal graduated from Tarleton State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Services and Development with an emphasis in Agricultural Extension and Industries and a minor in Animal Science in the Wisdom Gym on the TSU campus. Candace completed her Internship this summer with the Coleman County Extension Office. She also holds an Associate degree in Animal Science from Howard College in Big Spring. Attending the ceremony in Stephenville were her parents, Steve and Sarah Beal, grandparents- Dick and Virginia Jamison of Voss, Frances Richardson of Santa Anna, brother-Daniel Beal and friend Mindy Estet of Dallas, Rick Beal of Santa Anna, Chris, Cindy, Colt, and Kirstie Jamison of Coleman, Gail Loyd and Erwin Loyd of Coleman. Friends and family gathered at the Beal home for a tropical themed graduation party on the evening of graduation day. Where to now? Candace and her mother are taking a trip to Disney World to celebrate.

Coleman Firemen Called to Dairy Queen Friday (And Not for a Blizzard)
9/22/2006
A faulty fan in the women's restroom caused heavy smoke to fill the Coleman Dairy Queen during the noon hour Friday. Two units from the Coleman Fire Department quickly brought the situation under control and used fans to remove the smoke from inside. No significant damage was done to the building, most of it limited to the ladies room, business carried on as usual after firemen left. No one was injured.
Pictured are a Coleman Fire Truck sitting in the parking lot on the Needham Street side of Dairy Queen and a look inside the ladies room at the fan that caused the commotion.

New Total - Coleman Rehab Sale Raises Almost $14,000.00
9/22/2006
From all outward appearances it was a normal sale day Wednesday at Coleman Livestock Auction. Inside cattle were being sold at a steady pace until about 1:00pm and that's when the regular sale stopped and the special sale started.

Wednesday was the annual benefit for the West Texas Rehab Center called Round-up for Rehab. It is a chance for farmers and ranchers in Coleman County to lend a helping hand to their fellow citizens who may need the services of the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. Donations of cakes, pies and handmade items filled the front office area of the auction barn and by the time the bidding had ended, $13,890 had been raised for Rehab.

A beautiful little young lady from Abilene was in attendance. Four-year-old Breanna Hodges, daughter of Ron and Fransuelle Hodges, has had cerebral palsy since she was nine-months-old. According to her mother, she couldn't walk or sit up at all at first. But, thanks to occupational and physical therapy at the West Texas Rehab Center, Breanna started walking with the aide of a walker at the age of three. In June 2005, Breanna underwent surgery at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth to lengthen tendons in her legs, to help her walk even better. Breanna attends Woodson Head-Start in Abilene. Many people have followed Breanna through her growth and treatment at West Texas Rehab and she brightens the room with her contagious smile. Breanna is shown paying a visit to the office  of Coleman Livestock Auction and saying hello to Bobbie Edington.

Coleman High School Student Council Officers continued a tradition of helping the West Texas Rehab Center at their annual Coleman fundraiser Wednesday. Pictured left to right are: Reece Halfmann, Meagan Ogden, Carina Landaverde, Katie Nixon, Meagan Dunnam, Amanda Brewer, Taylor Davis. They helped serve lunch at the Rehab Chuckwagon.

Ricka McKee Graduates from DPS Academy
Will Be Assigned to Patrol in Van Horn
9/21/2006
Ricka McKee of Coleman graduated September 15 from the 131st Training Academy of the Texas Department of Public Safety in Austin.
The 27-week school is the longest continuous training academy offered by any law enforcement agency in Texas, and one of the longest in the nation. The cadets entered the Academy in January and completed 1,214 hours of instruction, more than twice the training required by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education. Instruction covered more than 100 subjects, including counter-terrorism, traffic and criminal law, arrest and control procedures, accident reconstruction, first aid and Spanish. They also received extensive use of force, communication skills, firearms, driving, criminal interdiction, cultural diversity and physical fitness training.
 

Coleman Country Club News Flash
Ballroom Renovated
9/21/2006 (By Sujo McKee, Media Chairperson)
The Coleman Country Club held its Annual Stockholders meeting Tuesday, September 19th. Board of Directors were elected for the 2006-2007 year. They are as follows: Tim Parrott – President, SuJo McKee – Vice President, Lang Martin – Secretary/Treasurer, Tom Burns, Larry Rose, Gerald Bean, Nicky Knox and David Fritsch. A special thank you to the following members whose term expired this year: Monte Coleman, Ricky Baker and Jimmie Crowder.

Many improvements have been made at the Club throughout this year thanks to the countless donations of money, time and equipment by several of the members. A new tee box was constructed at hole 6, cart paths were repaired on several holes, and an air conditioning and heating unit was installed in the ballroom. The ballroom makes an excellent location for meetings and events and is open to the public for a nominal fee. The Club also purchased new tables and chairs for the room. With the addition of the air conditioning and heating unit, the ballroom will be available for events all year.

In addition to a few facelifts at the Club, new faces will also welcome golfers and swimmers. Mr. and Mrs. Jim Hughes are running the pro shop and serve hamburgers, sandwiches and hot dogs. They also have several unique golf items for purchase. Craig Duquette works hard to oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the course itself.

The Club recently held its annual Club Championship tournament. The 2006 Men’s Club Champion is Dylan Densman and the 2006 Women’s Club Champion is SuJo McKee. Ken Smith took the honors as the Net Champion. The club championship is a two-day tournament held toward the end of the summer and is open to all members. Members play 18 holes each day and the winner of the men’s and women’s division is determined by the two-day total. The Ladies Association hosted 9-hole scrambles every Thursday throughout the summer. A small portion of the entry fee goes to the association. The Ladies Association then donates the money or purchases items to help toward the improvement of the Country Club.

Anyone wishing to join the Country Club and enjoy the recreational activities of golf, fishing and swimming are encouraged to call the Country Club at 625-2922. New members are always welcome.

THANK YOU FCNB!
9/20/2006 (Contributed)
The Coleman Bluecat Booster Club extends a great big thank you to First Coleman National Bank for purchasing a covered trailer for the Coleman Athletic Department! This trailer has already been put to use carrying athletic equipment to the Friday game in Rotan. Our request went out for help in finding a new or used covered trailer, and the calls came in! Thanks to everyone for helping with this project. Mission accomplished!

Thank You
9/19/2006
The extended Mann family wishes to thank the Coleman community for their prayers, thoughts, kindness and support during our recent times of grief in the loss of Morris and Sue Mann. We especially thank Dr Paul Reynolds, Dr Michael Bailey and Dr Darron Atwood for their care of our parents. To the staff and nurses at Coleman County Medical Center, we deeply thank you for your comfort and care of our parents over the extended periods that each were under your watch. To Jeff Miller, Ann Hargett, and the members of Coleman's First United Methodist Church, you have given comfort and left memories to nurture our church experience and membership which was established as youth. To the employees of the Post Office and other citizens of Coleman and Coleman County, your kindness has assisted us to both endure and to continue our daily tasks and toils. Our parents settled in here early in their family life and were so proud of their community and its members. You are all special and your kindness is remembered.
The sons of Doc and Sue Mann

More Resignations in Santa Anna City Government
9/19/2006
In Monday's meeting of the Santa Anna City Council, Mayor Jean Findley and City Secretary Cindy Pelton read their resignations. This follows the resignation dated September 28th of Public Works Director Doug Watson and three other employees, including those who run the city's water and sewer treatment plants. The city is now left with two full-time employees, one being Police Chief Carlos Torres, and three part-time employees. In other business Monday night, the Santa Anna City Council voted to raise property taxes by 4.345% for a rate of $.7756 per $100 property valuation. A dozen or so citizens attended the meeting.

West Texas Rehabilitation Center Honors Bobbie Edington
9/19/2006
Bobbie Edington of Coleman Livestock Auction , along with her family, were honored Sunday, Sept. 17, by the West Texas Rehabilitation Center during its annual Round-Up Supper held to recognize chairmen and others supporting the Round-Up for Rehab fundraising program. Garland and Lana Richards hosted the event at historical Ft. Chadbourne. As part of the evening events, Woody Gilliland, the Center’s CEO presented Mrs. Edington the prestigious Harry Holt Award given each year to honor those in the agriculture community who support and communicate WTRC’s mission of service. The Harry Holt Award was created in honor of Mr. Holt, the “dean” of agricultural reporting for over 50 years in the Big Country. Harry was a long-time supporter of the Rehab Center through his gifts and service in the broadcasting field. Acclaimed for his extensive knowledge in the ranching and farming community, Harry was also a historian of sorts through an extraordinary memory of individuals and families within the area. Serving on the West Texas Rehab board for over 30 years, he exemplified the Rehab’s philosophy of “neighbor-helping neighbor”. Mrs. Edington and her late husband Dewayne were involved from the very beginning with the Round-Up program. Dewayne played a role in 1960 with the first Round-Up sale as an auctioneer. Bobbie and Dewayne, along with Cecil and Clara Sellers built the Coleman Auction barn in 1961, then hosted the first Coleman Rehab sale in August of that same year. In 1963, the Edington’s became sole owners of the Auction barn and kept the Rehab tradition as an annual event. With Dewayne’s death in 1993, Bobbie took over the business and today along with her sons, Bob and Dan and their families continue to host the Round-Up auction. Mrs. Edington and her family have established a 45-year tradition of quality service and integrity in serving the agricultural community. As a long-time supporter of the West Texas Rehab Center, Bobbie has passed down to her children and grandchildren the importance of service to others. The Round-Up program is an important element in the West Texas Rehabilitation’s fundraising efforts. Through corporate sponsorships, donations of livestock and agricultural products along with specialty items and cash gifts, 9 auctions are held throughout the area at local cattle auction barns. Since its inception, the event has raised over $10 million to support the Center’s mission of providing quality outpatient services each year to more than 20,000 children and adults, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Pictured Above:  Jerry Doty, Chairman of the Rehab Board, presents Bobbie the Harry Holt Award.

Coleman School Board Covers Short Agenda
9/19/2006
The Coleman ISD Board met in their regular monthly meeting on Monday and worked through a short agenda. The board approved a resolution to name the 4-H organization and adjunct faculty as an extracurricular organization with all the rights and privileges that any organization has in the school district. One budget amendment was presented and the board listened to a presentation by Lorrie Payne, curriculum director, on TAKS scores earned the previous year. Ms. Payne gave a detailed overview of not only all the scores for the three campuses but also how ratings are derived. The district as a whole is academically acceptable and the principals discussed programs and activities they were using to raise achievement and increase motivation, which will ultimately result in higher test scores. Four of the seven board members and the superintendent will be attending the TASB/TASA Joint annual convention in Houston on October 6-8. This convention and the workshops are provided help board members earn required hours needed for continued education. The fall legal conference in Abilene was also discussed with several members expressing a desire to attend.

Ballinger Artist Featured in Coleman
9/19/2006
The Fine Arts League members and guests were treated to a very informative demonstration by Ballinger Artist, Phyllis Poe, at the September 14, meeting in the Community Room of the First Coleman National Bank.. "Value Study, Under Painting" demo was done with a one-color palette, Burnt Sienna, turpentine and Q-tips! The program was enjoyed by members: Millie Martin, Program Chair, Beverly Gee, Marian Johnson, Charlotte Gardner, Theda Rhea, Raye King, Kay Mitchell, Kathy Andrews, Martha & Ted Shelton (Brownwood), Bill Shields , Dollie Sparkman and Lois McCarty. Guests present were: Phyllis Poe, demonstrator; Jean Hensley, Shirley Minzenmayer,, Billie Dawn King & Queba James, all of Ballinger, Sylvia Herring, Santa Anna, and Gloria Shuey. After refreshments Meeting continued with discussion of events and projects for the League and the 15th Fiesta de la Paloma Art Show/Sale October 6-7, 2006.

Martha Shelton, Brownwood, Phyllis Poe, Demonstrator, Ballinger, Jean Hensley, Ballinger, Dollie Sparkman, Coleman.

Santa Anna Public Works Director to Resign
9/19/2006
Doug Watson, Public Works Director for the City of Santa Anna, plans to resign effective September 28. In a letter to the citizens of Santa Anna, which Watson plans to put in the Santa Anna news section of the Coleman newspaper, Watson outlines his reasons for resigning. In an interview with Colemannews.com, Watson said he is not the only city employee leaving on September 28. He also named Chris Eldred, Water Plant Operator, Justin Watson, Maintenance Employee, and George Eldred, Maintenance Employee, as others who have submitted their resignations.

Coleman Career Center to Offer Academic/Job Skills Training
9/18/2006
Citizens of Coleman County will soon have the opportunity to develop or improve academic and job skills. The new Coleman Career Center should be ready to take students this fall. The Center represents the end product of several months of planning and developmental work by local business owners, educators and community leaders. The Center will offer interested persons a way to finish their high school diploma, gain additional academic skills or develop specific job skills.

At the heart of the new program is a software package called Workkeys, which was purchased in collaboration with the Coleman Business Alliance, Coleman ISD and the Workforce Center. This is an expansive program which has diagnostic capabilities to allow an individual to determine their particular skills and career possibilities. The software will identify specific skills gaps, allowing the student to develop a plan for improvement which is unique to that person. The software also allows an individual to identify particular skills and interest useful for career planning.

The training component of the curriculum is a software package called Keytrain. It will provide the individual the training needed to improve their skills in order to better qualify for jobs in the area. This package was purchased by the Workforce Center in Abilene. The Coleman Career Center will have a site license good for three years for this product. Additionally, the Career Center will be offering specific technical job skills training in areas identified by local employers.

The Career Center will be operated in cooperation with Coleman ISD, utilizing the computer lab in the Technology Annex Building. Specific job training classes will be made available through the high school in the near future. Coleman ISD staff or other skilled instructors will be available to work with students, once their individual programs are identified. Ann Watson and Sue Sloan will be working as volunteers to assist employers with plans to utilize the resources for employee growth and development. Bob Ray and Tommy Mac Connelly will be directly involved with assessments. Ann and Bob will be serving as Coordinators for this project.

The services of the Career Center are available to both individuals and businesses. Employers are encouraged to consider involving employees in this unique educational effort. Community leaders agree that work force enhancement will be a key in economic development for the future of Coleman County. The Coleman Business Alliance is a group of business leaders and volunteers interested in developing a local workforce with the skills required to seek employment with local businesses. Any interested business or individual is welcome and encouraged to participate. For additional information please contact any of the Executive Board Members, Tim Manley, Royce Young, or Patti Barton.

Basketball Court Scheduled for Installation Next Week in New Gym
9/15/2006
Construction on the new Coleman High School Gym is coming around the final turn and headed for the home stretch. The gym floor  is currently being used to store some of the building materials for the project, including the hardwood floor. According to Steve Evans with the Coleman ISD, the contractors had hoped to start putting the floor down next week but it has been postponed for one week. It should take 12 to 14 days to complete once work begins. School officials hope to have an open house in October.

Gas Prices Here Among the Highest in Texas
9/15/2006
The price for a gallon of gas continues to have everyone talking. When Colemannews.com first took pictures and published the gas prices in Coleman back in July it was because of the fact that they were the highest we had experienced in some time. Recent e-mails sent to us confirm continued interest in gas prices, not because they are as high as they were in July, but because Coleman gas prices are considerably higher than Abilene. The picture, at left, of the Fina gas price of $2.24 per gallon, was submitted on September 11. It was taken by a Colemannews.com reader near Big 5 Sporting Goods in Abilene. Even chain stores are charging drastically different prices.  As recently as Thursday evening, September 14, an Allsups Convenience Store on the Winters Freeway in Abilene was selling gas for $2.18 per gallon. Allsups on the north side of Coleman, above, was selling gas on Wednesday, September 13, for $2.54 per gallon, 36 cents per gallon more than the lowest prices currently being charged in Abilene.
 Yet another Colemannews.com reader has located some information on Texas gas prices from www.gasbuddy.com  and found that Coleman gas prices were among the highest in the state as of Thursday, September 14, as you can see on the map below.

                      

Home Owners Group Presents Donation to Fire Department
9/14/2006
A group of very appreciative home owners presented a check Wednesday in the amount of $1,500 to the Coleman Fire Department. The High Acres Home Owners Association is made up of 52 households whose homes were saved from the August grass fire that threatened the southwest side of town. Bill Casselberry, president of the association, at left, welcomed everyone and spoke highly of the heroic job done that day by local firemen. Charlotte Hickman, treasurer of the association, then presented the check to James Winstead, Coleman Fire Chief, below. "We will use this money for communications equipment, pagers and radios," Winstead said. Mayor Nick Poldrack urged everyone to follow the lead of the High Acres home-owners. "Whenever the fire department comes out to battle a blaze, make some type of donation to the department," Poldrack said. Fire departments all over the county continue to rely on contributions from the general public to help fund their operations and pay for upkeep of their vehicles. Previously, Holiday Hill Nursing Home raised over $1,200 for the Coleman Fire Department.

Seat Belt Check Done by CHS Student Council
9/14/2006 (Contributed by Karen Barr, CHS Student Council Advisor)
In the past 26 years, safety belts prevented 135,000 fatalities and 3.8 million injuries, saving $585 billion in medical and other costs. If all vehicle occupants had used safety belts during that period, nearly 315,000 deaths and 5.2 million injuries could have been prevented — and $913 billion in costs saved. [NHTSA, Economic Impact of Crashes, 2002]

The CHS Student Council conducted a seatbelt check Tuesday morning, September 12, throughout the campus entrances of CISD. Results are as follows:

TOTALS
Total Vehicles Checked 411
Adults:
Wearing seat belt 306
NOT wearing seat belt 81                                       
Students:
Wearing seat belt 219
NOT wearing seat belt 138
Children:
Wearing seat belt 54
NOT wearing seat belt 46

BY CAMPUS

Senior Parking Lot:       
Adults:
Wearing seat belt 30
NOT wearing seat belt 9
Students:
Wearing seat belt 25
NOT wearing seat belt 11

High School South:
Adults:
Wearing seat belt 83
NOT wearing seat belt 21
Students:
Wearing seat belt 69
NOT wearing seat belt 33
Children:
Wearing seat belt 17
NOT wearing seat belt 20

Junior High Parking Lot:
Adults:
Wearing seat belt 74
NOT wearing seat belt 21
Students:
Wearing seat belt 55
NOT wearing seat belt 30
Children:
Wearing seat belt 15
NOT wearing seat belt 6

Elementary:
NOT wearing seat belt 138
Children:
Wearing seat belt 54
NOT wearing seat belt 46

Classes Offered To Help People With Diabetes Plan Meals
9/12/2006 (Debbie Hailey, Extension Office)
For people with diabetes, maintaining healthy blood glucose levels is a matter of life and death. One way for people to better control their glucose levels is to eat healthful meals and snacks at regular times each day. To help local residents learn how to plan and prepare meals that can be enjoyed by people with and without diabetes, Texas Cooperative Extension is planning a four-part series of cooking classes called Cooking Well with Diabetes. The classes will be held at 5:30, September 25, October 3, 10, and 17, at the Senior Center, 916 S. Concho St. in Coleman. The series will include cooking demonstrations as well as discussions of research findings on diabetes. For instance, recent research has shown that people with diabetes can enjoy a wide range of foods - including sugars - in moderation. There will be a one-time Registration Fee of $15.00 for the series of classes, or $25.00 for a couple from the same household. This fee will be used for notebooks and hand-outs, and food to be prepared and served at each class. For more information on cooking with diabetes or on the Cooking Well with Diabetes series, contact Extension Agent Debbie Hailey, at 325-625-4519.

Gov. Perry Honors Man Known Locally with Star of Texas Award
9/12/2006
On Monday, September 11, the 5th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States, Texas Governor Rick Perry awarded the 2006 Star of Texas Award to 49 first responders for heroic sacrifice in the line of duty.
 Among those honored was Senior Officer Dave Dewain Erskine of the Austin Police Department. On Jan. 17, 2006, Motorcycle Officer Erskine was working traffic enforcement when he was involved in a traffic accident, causing severe damage to his shoulder, left knee, right thigh and crushing his right foot, requiring amputation.
The Star of Texas Award was created by the Texas Legislature in 2003 to honor Texas' first responders. Awards are issued annually for each peace officer, firefighter, and emergency medical first responder who is seriously injured or killed in the line of duty. "On behalf of 23 million Texans, I offer the salute of a people forever in your debt," Perry said. "As thousands of Texans who have had their prayers answered in their hour of need can testify, every peace officer, every fire fighter and every emergency medical team member has earned our respect and admiration."
Erskine is a 1982 graduate of Coleman High School.

Burn Ban Lifted
9/11/2006
In session this morning, Coleman County Commissioners voted to lift the burn ban effective immediately. Commissioners felt that recent rains have eased the threat for wildfires enough that outdoor burning can be allowed again. Commissioners also gave County Judge Jimmie Hobbs authority to declare the burn ban in effect again at his discretion if need be.

Not Interested
9/12/2006
In the recent Coleman City Council meeting, Larry Weise, City Manager, reported to the Council that he had been approached for the City to purchase the Rhone Office Building. The building is immediately east of City Hall across Concho Street. Weise did not recommend this purchase, feeling the city needs to use its funds to consolidate and renovate what it has now.

Honoring our Military
Send In Your Information
9/11/2006
At the recent business meeting at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, a need was cited for recognition of the young people of Coleman County who are in some branch of the military. It is and has always been because of these brave people that we are still a free, safe nation. The community needs to honor them for their dedication to freedom for all.

As a result of this need, a committee has been formed. Members of the committee are Herma Jean Johnson, Chairperson (625-2340), Colette Tabor (625-5895), Johnna Phillips (625-2625), Raylene Watson and Daniel Stovall. The group will be gathering names, rank and service of military members. If you have access to a service person's information, you are asked to contact one of these members.  Additional information will be needed such as: Parent's/Spouse's name and other information you might want to share. A phone number needs to be provided so the committee can communicate with you. Send or call your information to any of the names mentioned above or e-mail  tupy@web-access.net. 

A sign will be placed on the courthouse lawn listing the names of active military along with their branch of service. Other recognitions are still in the works. We want to make sure all know that Coleman County residents are proud of their service people.

City and Coop Reach Agreement on Southside Electricity Request
9/11/2006
The Coleman City Council voted 4-0 Thursday to accept a recommendation from the City Manager regarding electric utility service and infrastructure in the Countryside South Addition at the south end of town. Larry Weise, City Manager, recently met with Al Nunez of Coleman County Electric Coop and David Pinkerton, Light Distribution Supervisor for the City of Coleman, and reached an agreement that Weise felt would serve the best interest of all parties involved and honor the request of residents in the area. Previously, residents had requested to purchase electricity from Coleman County Electric Coop instead of the City. Weise recommended that the City allow for the purchase of 5 poles as proposed by the Coop for the agreed amount of $2,500. Weise understands that the primary infrastructure, by which the City currently supplies existing customers, will remain in place.

New Band Director Leads CHS for 2006
9/10/2006
The Coleman ISD has a new Band Director this year. Jerry Everett replaces Mike Brady at the helm of the Big Blue Band. Everett comes to Coleman from Early where he directed the Longhorn band to a Sweepstakes trophy. Everett is a graduate of Southwest Oklahoma State. He is assisted by Jesse Lotspeich. Pictured, left to right,  Lotspeich, Glynda Mayo (Flag Coordinator), Everett, and Chris Jones (Howard Payne Student -Percussion Specialist). The Big Blue Band is performing songs from Johnny Cash as their half-time show this season.

Your Pennies Can Help Local Museum
Big Move Begins Monday, September 11
9/7/2006
Penny jars to benefit the Coleman County Museum have been placed in businesses in Coleman. The C.H.A.P.S. (Coleman Heritage Arts Preservation Society) has taken on the tremendous task of moving the museum from the City Park to Heritage Hall (the former First Presbyterian Church) on College Avenue. Maxine Cope has been the person in charge and many volunteers and C.H.A.P.S. members have assisted. Members and volunteers have completed the packing, inventory and listing each of the 94 boxes and two rooms where items were too large to box. The rooms at Heritage Hall have had to have lighting, paint and flooring installed and it takes money to make improvements, pay for electricity, heating, cooling, water and insurance. C.H.A.P.S. is asking you put your extra pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters, even dollars, in the jars in the businesses throughout town. You'll help keep the local museum available to the public.

Plenty of Push-Ups
9/11/2006
The Coleman Bluecat Cheerleaders are shown finishing yet another set of push-ups Friday night during Coleman's victory over Winters. Each time the Bluecats score, the cheerleaders hit the turf and do push-ups for the amount of points on the scoreboard. Let's see now, 48 points in game one, 49 points in game two, that is plenty of sideline exercise!

Ginger Test Painting in Granbury Show
9/7/2006 (by Marian Johnson)
Ginger Test, artist and member of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, Inc., recently had a watercolor painting juried into the Rio Brazos Art Exhibition in Granbury. The exhibit will continue at the Langdon Cultural and Educational Center in Granbury until Sunday October, 22, 2006. The juror, Mark Davis, selected 50 paintings from 300 submissions to hang in the show. Painting: "Milissa", a watercolor, is a painting of one of Ginger’s students photographing the bluebonnets of the Hill Country.

Santa Anna Woman Dies in Bangs Wreck
9/6/2006
A fatal crash in Brown County Wednesday afternoon took the life of a Santa Anna woman. Ollie Odell Pembroke, 93, was pronounced dead at the scene. Funeral services are pending with Henderson Funeral Home. Injured in the crash was Bertha Leona-Cook Allen, 86, also of Santa Anna. She was flown to Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo by helicopter and was listed in critical condition Wednesday evening. According to a news release from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the two ladies were in a car that was involved in a crash with an 18-wheeler. The wreck happened about 4:30pm Wednesday in Brown County, just east of Bangs, on U.S. Highway 84/67. The driver of the truck was Eugene Barmore Skinner, Jr., 48, of San Antonio. He was not thought to be injured. The crash is being investigated by Trooper Thomas Nipper and assisted by Trooper Steve Tone and Sergeant Todd Jennings.

Library Expansion Underway
9/5/2006
If the Coleman Public Library isn't as quiet as a library should be, or if it occasionally smells like sawdust, please understand the library is simply going through growing pains. Phase One of a major expansion project has started in your downtown library. Thanks to a $10,000 grant from the MKB Foundation, a new Children's Library is being built in what is now a large meeting room where children's story time has been held in the past. A section of the front portion of the room has been set aside for the Children's Library while the rest of the room will continue to house a meeting room for Story Hour, an audio display, genealogy and the Woodward Texas History Collection. A partial list of improvements include carpet and wood for flooring, replacing front and back doors, replacing ceiling tiles, wiring for computer access, repairing bathrooms and making the front of the building more attractive. The Children's Library will also feature portable shelves. Phase Two of the project will include murals or designs for the walls, furnishings, area rugs and security camera. Future plans by the Friends of the Library include upgrading what is commonly called the Tillman Building where the old antique fire truck is now stored. The Advisory Board includes members Carol Scott and Mary Morgan along with Friends members Virginia Jameson, Sandra Rose, Chipper Anderson, Kim Horne, Zac Allen and Roger Nelson. Doodie Taylor-Knox is the grant writer for the library.

Drug Testing in Coleman ISD
9/3/2006
The Coleman ISD implemented a drug testing program this school year. In a recent meeting of the Coleman School Board, Richard Holloway, High School Principal, told the board 195 students on the high school campus, who are involved in extra-curricular activities, have been tested. This number included 98 male athletes, 81 female athletes, 82 band members as well as students in the FCCLA and FFA programs. Holloway stated that this was accomplished in a little over three hours time.

Theda Rhea, Coleman artist, and husband Sherrell Hazlewood, enjoy the reception at the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center. Theda had two paintings accepted into the prestigious national juried show.

Researching Boomerangs in Santa Anna
9/1/2006 (Contributed by Jan Heath)
Santa Anna students returned to school August 21st. During the first week, the senior physics class completed a research project about boomerangs. On Friday, they all went out to test their findings. Some of students are pictured at left: Ben McIver and Chris Morris release their boomerangs while Peyton Kuykendall and Rudy Enriquez offer some advice. The boomerangs were supplied to the school by the Coleman County Electric Cooperative.

Local Artist Accepted to Art Show
9/01/2006 (Contributed by Marian Johnson)
Ginger Test, Coleman Fine Arts League member, has had a painting," Milissa", accepted into the 10th Annual Rio Brazos Art Exhibition (RBAE). There were 300 submissions from all over the U.S. Juror, Mark Davis, chose 50 paintings to hang in the show. The Show will hang in the Concert Hall at the Langdon Center, Tarleton State University. The Opening Reception and Presentation of awards will be Sunday, October 8, and closes Sunday, October 22, 2006. Images of the accepted artwork for the 10th Annual RBAE will be posted to the Web-site by October 1, 2006. www.tarleton.edu/~langdoncenter.  Ginger is a well-known, popular workshop instructor and teaches in Texas as well as New Mexico. Her next workshop in Coleman will be September 9, from 9:30am to 3:30pm at Kay's Garden. Call 325-625-1140 for registration and supply list. The Class is $35.

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