Shilo Harris Moved to San Antonio
2/28/2007
A family member of Shilo Harris tells Colemannews.com that Shilo has been transferred from Germany to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio and is in ICU. The trip was rough on him otherwise he is "fairly stable", they tell us. His parents and wife Katheryn are still with him. We hope to find out soon how mail can be sent to him. Meanwhile, see a related story down the page on the bake sale being planned this Friday at Owl Drug Store to raise funds for Shilo's mother, Teresa, to help offset expenses.  Teresa is employed at Owl Drug.

Amy Simmons Named to Dean's List at TWU
2/28/2007
Texas Woman’s University has released its dean’s list for the fall 2006 semester and it includes Amy Simmons of Coleman. Amy had a 4.0 GPA in Health Studies. Undergraduate students who complete at least 12 graded credit hours and achieve the minimum grade point average, as determined by their particular college or school, are eligible for the dean’s list.

Wreck Claims One Life
2/27/2007
A wreck involving two cars was reported at 10:55am Tuesday morning in Coleman where Santa Anna Avenue intersects with Highway 84.

 According to DPS Trooper Pat Salas, the driver of a 1996 Ford Taurus was William Frank Rutherford, 85, of Santa Anna. He was going west on Farm to Market Road 568 and drove onto U.S. Highway 84 where he was hit by a brown 2002 Buick Century which was going south. The Buick was driven by Alexandro Cortez, 72, of Coleman. A passenger in the Cortez car was Guadalupe Cortez, 75. 

All three were taken to Coleman County Medical Center where Mr. Rutherford later passed away.  His services are pending with Henderson Funeral Home of Santa Anna.  Pictured are both vehicles, one already loaded on a Terry's Towing wrecker.  Salas was assisted at the scene by the Coleman Fire Department, Coleman Police Department, EMS and Coleman County Sheriff's Department.

County 4-Her Exhibits Grand Champion Rabbits in San Angelo
2/27/2007
Courtney Brown, Coleman County 4-H, exhibited the Grand Champion pen of three market rabbits at the San Angelo Stock Show on February 24th.

She also won Grand Champion commercial breeds with her junior doe.

 All of these rabbits were raised by Courtney.

Now This is Texas
2/27/2007
Okay, I'll admit it, I love Texas Longhorns. I didn't say "the" Texas Longhorns, I'm talking about cattle although I certainly have nothing against the institution of higher education three hours to our south. You can ask my wife, I've been trying for over a year to get a good picture of a Longhorn which sometimes grazes in a pasture just northwest of Coleman on the Hargett place. I've never been able to get the picture I wanted but have tried numerous times. I had been to Santa Anna Monday morning working on a news story which will find its way to the news page as soon as I write it. Coming out of Santa Anna on Highway 84 back to Coleman I drove past the west side of the Santa Anna Mountain where sits an old historical building, complete with official Texas historical marker. And standing under a mesquite tree next to the building were a Longhorn and a Hereford. I thought, my gosh, if there was ever a picture of Texas, this has to be it. An old historic Coleman County building, with a Texas Historical Marker, majestic Santa Anna Peak in the background, mesquite tree, Longhorn and a Hereford standing next to each other, barbed wire fence and cactus. So I pulled over, looked both ways, made a big u-turn right in the middle of 84 and drove back to the spot where I had found the perfect Texas picture. I grabbed my camera, walked up to the fence and told the Longhorn and Hereford to smile because I was about to make them famous.  So here you have it folks, an authentic Texas picture from an authentic historical spot near Santa Anna and all because I like Longhorns.

Dark Horse Candidate Files for Dog Mayor
2/27/2007 (contributed)
We have a write-in candidate announcing her candidacy for Dog Mayor! It seems the kitties feel they are not getting fair representation! Kitty’s personal message follows:

“My name is Any Kitty Who Needs A Home, and I am what you might call a dark horse candidate for Dog Mayor. Honestly, I will not be able to make public appearances, as I disappeared, along with most of my family, shortly after this picture was taken.

(Kitty was abandoned and had made the City Park her home.) “My campaign slogan: A bowl of water, a little food, and a gentle hand for one and all!”

Since Kitty, if elected, would not be available for her mayoral duties and appearances, Kitty’s campaign manager, Regina Brite has agreed that Kitty would swing her support to the canine candidate that gets the most votes.
Consequently, Sue Frizzell, the Dog Mayor campaign coordinator for the Humane Society, has made an executive decision to allow Kitty to announce as a write-in candidate for Dog Mayor even though she doesn’t strictly meet candidate qualifications.

PLEASE SPAY/NEUTER YOUR CATS! Call the Humane Society at 625-4724 for an application for your discounted spay/neuter voucher or pick up the brochure/application at the Shoppin’ Baskit’s Community Bulletin Board or at Santa Anna City Hall.
Vote for your Dog Mayor candidate at the Block One Flea Market or at other locations set up by the candidates. See the Humane Society’s web site at www.HumaneSocietyCC.com  for the voting locations.

Art Exhibit at FCNB
2/27/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County has a new art exhibit up in the lobby of First Coleman National Bank.

This exhibit is a part of the "Private Art in Public Places" (PAPP) that is presented to the public by members of the Art League.

Artists represented in the bank are: Sherrell Hazlewood, Theda Rhea, Lois McCarty and Pat Slate. Stop by the bank and see the art work of these talented people.

Pee Wee Football Update
2/27/2007 (contributed)
The roster for the Coleman County Pee Wee football that is going to play in the Brownwood league is filling up fast.  So, if your child is planning to play, he needs to sign up as soon as possible. You can call Raul Hurtado @ 625-9216 or Mario Hurtado @ 214-0097.

New Glass for Heritage Hall
2/27/2007
Heritage Hall, former Presbyterian Church and now home to the Coleman Museum, is receiving some outside attention. A long awaited project has begun to put double-pane UV protective glass on the outside of the beautiful stained glass windows to protect and preserve them. Steffey Construction of Abilene started installing windows Monday afternoon over close to 60 stained glasses in the structure. The project would not have been possible without a grant last year of almost $9,000 from the Coleman County Foundation. Volunteers have spent many hours working on the building and working in the museum to display the items formerly housed at the City Park. By the way, Heritage Hall is available to rent for meetings and events and has its very own website at www.colemanheritagehall.com. Pictured is Randy Steffey sizing up a window on the west side of the building.

Coleman High Cheerleaders Chosen Monday
2/27/2007
Cheerleader tryouts were held Monday at Coleman High School and the following young ladies where chosen to lead the cheers for the Bluecats for the 2007-2008 school year. Sarah Lofton, Shelbie DeLeon, Nicole Heath, Meagan Ogden, Reagan Barr, Angelina Jones, Rynn Norris and Jaylon Welch. Mascot will be Eden Duquette.

Coleman Graduate Now Texas A&M National Honor Society Inductee
2/26/2007
Congratulations to Jennifer Hubbard for an excellent first semester at Texas A&M University. Her Distinguished Academic Honors qualified her for admission into the prestigious National Honor Society, Phi Eta Sigma. Other organizations she is involved in include WHOOP (Women Helping Other People) in which she has helped earn the "Keep Brazos Beautiful" Award; HOSTS (Helping Out Students to Succeed) in which she mentors elementary students in Bryan every Tuesday; and she is a member of Aggie Access which helps students from rural schools succeed at Texas A&M. Jennifer is pursuing a degree in Speech Therapy and is the daughter of Drew and Barbara Hubbard of Coleman.

Coleman PD Welcomes New Officer
2/26/2007
The Coleman Police Department's newest patrol officer was sworn-in to duty by City Secretary Sue Burleson at 10:00am Monday at City Hall.

Robert Guevara, 29, comes to Coleman from Anthony, Texas which is located on the Texas and New Mexico border near El Paso. He was an officer with the Anthony Police Department for the past 10 months and was a Reserve Deputy for the Hudspeth County Sheriff's Office for three years.  Robert is married to Rachel and they have four children.

Pictured above, left to right: Jay Moses, Police Chief, Guevara and Sue Burleson, City Secretary.

Coleman Artists Take Part in Brownwood Juried Show
2/26/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
Coleman County Fine Arts League members participated in the Stars of Texas Juried Art Show on February 6th.

Sherrell Hazlewood (Spanish instructor at Coleman High School) is shown demonstrating "Texas Blue Bunnies" to young people touring the Brownwood show. He also exhibited some 20 of his art works in acrylics depicting his "Painted Tall Tales".

Country Club Introduces Website
2/26/2007
The Coleman Country Club invites you to check out their new website, www.colemancountryclub.com.  It is still in its infancy and more will be added as time goes by but it does contain basic information about the golf course, club house, pool and fees to use the facility.

Shilo Harris Update
2/25/2007
A brief word Sunday afternoon from a family member is that Shilo Harris continues to improve at a hospital in Germany and may leave Germany Tuesday.

Shilo was injured a week ago, three of his fellow soldiers killed, in a blast while on patrol in Iraq. He was going to be sent to San Antonio to a burn unit last week but had a brief set-back and was kept in Germany until strong enough to travel to Texas.

"Gus" Files for Dog Mayor
2/25/2007 (by Barbara Hubbard)
This is Gus, a BLUE heeler, for all you BLUEcat fans out there! You know Gus is TRUE BLUE by the Bluecat flag proudly displayed at his home AND Gus will travel in the royal Bluecat Bug (of course), says campaign manager, Barbara Hubbard. "We adopted Gus when he was five months old and have enjoyed his fun loving personality every day. We will proudly represent Coleman and support the Humane Society. Just remember...."Gus, Gus, a BLUE heeler MUST - for Dog Mayor"!

If you'd like to vote for Gus, or if you have a candidate of your own and need a sign up sheet, drop by Hubbard Insurance Agency across from the Dairy Queen in Coleman.

March Designated as Chamber
2007 Membership Drive Month
2/25/2007 (contributed)
Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau will devote the month of March to a Membership Drive.

Chamber Directors will be making personal contacts during the month of March to enroll more individuals, business firms and organizations. Directors are: Sandra Barr, Gene Christian, Dokie Bledsoe, Charlotte Johns, Michael Taylor, Rodney Ivy, Danyelle Hemphill, Nina Childress, Dr. Darron Atwood, Michael Autry, Darla Wise, Crystal Rae, and Executive Director Mary Griffis.

The Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who invest their time and money in a community development program, working together to improve the economic, civic and cultural well being of the county.

Any citizen interested in helping develop Coleman and Coleman County is eligible to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce. The dues structure is designed to permit even the smallest business to be a member. Work of the Chamber of Commerce is financed by investments of members who support it on the basis of their ability and their interest in Coleman and Coleman County’s progress.

The Chamber is composed of committee workers, directors, and officers who serve with pay. One Chamber executive and one staff member who devote their full time to the Chamber are the only paid employees. Executive Director Mary Griffis encourages citizens in Coleman and Coleman County to participate in the Membership Drive. She states, “It is very important for the community to work together as a whole.”

Sandra Barr, Darla Wise, and Rodney Ivy are Chairpersons for the 2007 Membership Drive.

Local Man Lends a Helping Hand
2/25/2007 (contributed)
When times get tough for people in Coleman, everyone tries to lend a helping hand. There is one in our community that sometimes gets unnoticed that has responded in a big way. All of us have seen him around town and most of us know his name. His name is Leonard Greer. He heard that everyone needed to collect the tabs off of cans, so he set out to do just that. Leonard is turning in every tab from every can that he finds just for Stormie to use the Ronald McDonald House. The pre-school teachers thought that it was time to say thank you to someone who rarely gets a thank you. Sarah Beal (right) and Elizabeth Edington (left) presented Leonard with a framed certificate recognizing him as the “Best Community Helper”. Leonard loves to help. You will find him opening doors for the ladies, sweeping the sidewalks, and picking up trash every where he goes. As a community we should all recognize Leonard as one who does his best to keep our community clean. When you see Leonard, you might let him know that you are proud of all that he does for us. In addition, we would like to challenge each one of you to collect as many tabs as Leonard does for Stormie.

"Mama Bear and Baby Bear?"
2/25/2007 (Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County is sponsoring the First Juried Art Show ("Flight of the Dragonflies") April 28, May 2, 2007. A part of the activities will be a fund-raiser in the form of a Silent Auction. Artists/Artisans can come up with some great fun ‘stuf’ as well collectibles and art work.

This photo shows an example of some of the items being gathered by the members (and friends). Mama Bear Chair, rattan chair, suitable for covered porch or sun room. Baby Bear Chair is a child’s one-of-a-kind wooden chair, decorated with colorful fabric and embellished with pearls! (Signed by the artist). Perfect in a little girl’s room.

The Silent Auction will run during the week of the Art Show. Also, during the show week, Ann Templeton, New Mexico artist, will teach a workshop April 25,26,27. Come out and watch the Free demonstrations by area artists on hand from April 29 - May 1. Mark your calendar for the week of April 25, - May 2, 2007.

Wind Causes Damage, Spreads Grass Fires
2/25/2007
One of the worst wind and dust storms in recent memory blew through much of Texas Saturday. Coleman County wasn't spared as dust filled the air by late morning and stayed until the wind settled Saturday night. Several grass fires were reported but apparently were contained before they got out of hand. Around 6:00pm Saturday, Santa Anna and Coleman units fought a fire on County Road 278 southwest of Santa Anna. A small grass fire was put out around dark on FM 2805 and County Road 416 between Valera and Talpa. Saturday morning Coleman County units assisted on fires near Novice.


Anything not fastened down probably blew down or blew away. Even things you thought were secure weren't. Around 10:30am Saturday the high wind took off part of the garage roof at Janie Banta's house on East 6th (pictured above).

The wind was even worse in Lubbock as some Coleman students who attend Texas Tech discovered. The high wind pushed trees over at the residence shared by Kimbo Knox and Tiphani Hambright. Pictured right are vehicles in the driveway and the tree and part of the house on them. The girls were not hurt and had their "guns up" afterwards (below). Kimbo, Tedye and Tiphani. 

Fire Destroys Paul Wheat's Home
2/24/2007
The Coleman Fire Department was called around 10:00 o'clock Saturday morning to the Paul Wheat residence at 700 High Road in Coleman.

Firemen arrived to find flames venting through the roof of the house. According to Gary Payne with the department, the fire apparently started in the attic and quickly spread. The roof of the home caved in leaving the walls standing. Paul was not at home at the time but did arrive at the scene later and is okay.   The cause was under investigation.

We give credit to the Coleman Fire Department for an amazing job containing the fire to just one house with wind in excess of 40mph. Several homes in the area turned on sprinkler systems in their yards to wet the grass to hopefully prevent a spark from starting another fire.
Photo at left courtesy of James Winstead.

Coleman Youth Football League Joins Newly Formed Youth Association
2/23/2007 (contributed)
The Coleman Youth Football League, which has organized Youth Football in Coleman for the past five years, has joined with the newly formed Coleman Youth Association. As in past years, sign- up for the upcoming Fall 2007 Football Season will be held this Spring (usually the last couple of weeks of school).

There is currently a 3rd-4th grade team being formed that will participate in the Brownwood Pee Wee Football League. This team is not associated with the Coleman Youth Football League/Coleman Youth Association.

If you have any questions or need more information regarding Coleman Youth Football, please contact Lee Wayne West at Screen Art Graphics, 625-2508.

Keep Collecting Those Pop Tabs
2/23/2007 (contributed)
The Coleman Pre-K classes would like to thank everyone for collecting pop tabs for Stormie. We really appreciate the whole community and surrounding communities who helped raise pop tabs. We have collected 33 pounds so far which will help the family with their stay at the Ronald McDonald House.

Unfortunately, Stormie will have more stays at the Ronald McDonald House. So, everyone please keep collecting pop tabs for us. You can bring them to the Coleman Elementary office.

Sgt. Shilo Harris to Stay in Germany
2/23/2007
Family members tell Colemannews.com that plans to bring injured soldier Sgt. Shilo Harris to Texas have changed.

We were notified Thursday afternoon that Shilo is being moved to a burn center in Germany, unable to be moved to Texas due to pneumonia and other complications. His wife, Katheryn, was to fly to Germany today (Thursday). His mother, Teresa Bentley of Coleman, is being flown by the U.S. Government to Germany Friday.

Many of you have asked how you can help. According to Cathy Allen at Owl Drug Store, a fund has been set up in Teresa Bentley's name at Coleman County State Bank. (Teresa is employed at Owl Drug) There are also donation cans at Owl Drug and First Coleman National Bank. Money raised will be used for future travel expenses incurred by Teresa.

First Rabies Case of 2007 Reported in Coleman County
2/23/2007
A skunk has tested positive for rabies on property 8 miles east of Talpa. According to a report from the Texas Department of State Health Services, the positive results were reported February 16th. On February 15th, the property owner heard their three dogs barking. She found a skunk in the dog house fighting with the dogs. The skunk was gotten out of the dog house and shot. It was taken to a veterinarian to submit for rabies testing. There was no human exposure but three exposed dogs are currently being vaccinated for rabies. They have been given rabies boosters and isolated for 45 days. There were five positive rabies cases involving skunks in Coleman County in 2006.

Cooperative Effort Leads to Success in Tire Disposal Issue
Donations Welcome to Help Clean-Up the Mess
2/22/2007 (by Shana Everett)
Keep Coleman Beautiful, Coleman County, the City of Coleman, and Coleman ISD are working together and making things happen in the effort to rid Coleman of tire dump sites. The tire issue has been in the forefront for a number of months now, as citizens and entities come together to get serious about addressing the issue of various tire dump sites across the city.

Keep Coleman Beautiful is largely responsible for bringing public attention to this issue, and has been working diligently to come up with some sort of solution. In a special called meeting on Tuesday, February 20th, the organization voted to establish an account at Coleman County State Bank and actively seek donations for the disposal fees that will be necessary to eliminate the tires from the dump sites. The organization also voted to donate $1000 of its own funds to the account, in hopes that other organizations and private citizens will do the same.

Coleman County is also participating in a large way to address the problem. The County had recently received grant funds from Concho Valley Resource Conservation and Development Area specifically for tire disposal. The Concho Valley RC&D Area is part of the Texas and National Associations of RC&D Councils, with the purpose of RC&D being to promote conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources; to improve the general level of economic activity and to enhance the environmental and standard of living in all communities. The County is using funds from the grant to assist in the removal of approximately 4000 tires from the primary dump site on the north side of town. That process is underway now. Students from the Coleman ISD student work program, under the direction of Bob Ray, are providing the labor necessary to load the tires into the disposal trailers. The City of Coleman is providing the equipment and operators to move the large piles of tires and assist the students with loading them into the trailers.

The removal of these 4000 or so tires will certainly make a dent in the problem, but there remains a large number remaining to deal with. Continued cooperative efforts by these various organizations and entities, as well as public support, will be extremely important in seeing this project through. Those who are interested in donating to the Keep Coleman Beautiful tire disposal fund can do so at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce or at City Hall. Any questions may be directed to Shana Everett at City Hall at (325) 625-5114.

Credit Where Credit is Due
2/22/2007
If you haven't seen it, then you can't fully appreciate the scope of the job being done to rid Coleman of several tire dumps on the west side of town near the intersection of Overall and Gray Streets.
Coleman ISD work program students, under the direction of Bob Ray, are lending a hand in cleaning up a tire dump site by loading tires into the disposal trucks.

Pictured L-R are: Harry Boyer, Vincent Valencia, Michael Espitia, Michael Dyer, Creston Olinger, and Seth Beal.  Thanks guys for all your hard work.  They loaded approximately 1,000 tires in the first truck.

Man Charged with Murder Now Out of Jail
2/21/2007
According to Wade Turner, Coleman County Sheriff, the man charged with murder at a Coleman bar has bonded out of jail.

Patrick Eugene Pence, 34, of Coleman, posted a $50,000 bond around 6:00pm Saturday, February 17th, and was released from Coleman County Jail, Turner said.

Pence was arrested Saturday, February 10th, and charged with first degree felony murder in connection with the death of Joshua Todd Weaver at Salt -N- Pepper Bar and Grill in the early morning hours of Saturday, February 10th.

CHS Student Council Gives Money to Rehab
2/21/2007
Due to predicted inclement weather in January, the CHS Student Council was unable to attend the annual West Texas Rehabilitation Center’s Telethon.
They did, however, meet up with Marjorie Cloud, Rehab Donor Relations representative, for a check presentation. $1600 was presented to the Rehab on behalf of the citizens of Coleman from the monies gathered during the Trick or Treat for Rehab.

Pictured left to right are Kamber Royce, Meagan Dunnam, Marjorie Cloud, Amanda Brewer, Lauren Golson, Delesa Monroe, Katie Nixon.

Sgt. Shilo Harris Injured in Iraq
2/20/2007
The War in Iraq has hit close to home today. Colemannews.com has learned that Coleman soldier, Sgt. Shilo Harris, has been severely injured in Iraq.

According to his mother, Teresa Bentley, Shilo's unit was apparently hit by an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) killing three of the soldiers in the Humvee they were in. Teresa said Shilo was burned in the blast and was transported to Germany for treatment but he will be sent to San Antonio for further treatment in a burn center. Teresa was unclear on when the attack happened due to the time difference involved.

Shilo is married to the former Katheryn Phillips of Coleman. Your prayers are definitely needed during this time. We will pass along more information as we get it in the days ahead.

Coleman School Board Approves Administrator Contracts
2/20/2007
The Coleman School Board met for their regular meeting on Monday night and acted on the contracts of school administrators. Principal’s Richard Holloway, Paula Ringo, and Becky Jackson along with Athletic Directors Barbara Cox and Rusty Buzzard were given one year extensions on two year contracts. Business Manager Karen Huff, Technology Director Paul Martin, Curriculum Director Lorrie Payne, and High School Assistant Principal Curtis Martin were given contract extensions.

In other board action: Approved a waiver for an additional 3 staff development days and six early release days on the 2007-2008 calendar, certified textbook selections enabling the curriculum director to submit orders for 6-12 math textbooks this spring, tabled approval of allowing the boy’s AD to order new football uniforms for next year pending budget analysis, heard a report on the playoff games that have been scheduled in the new gym, and heard an update on legislative proposals in Austin.

Burn Ban in Effect
2/20/2007
As of 8:00am Tuesday morning, Jimmie Hobbs, County Judge, reinstated the Burn Ban in Coleman County until further notice.

Grass Fire Blackens Acreage North of Novice
2/20/2007
A grass fire burned an estimated 750 acres Monday afternoon just north of Novice in northern Coleman County. According to Gary Payne with the Coleman Fire Department, the fire started along Highway 84 about a half-mile north of the Novice Park and spread to land east of the highway. No structures were burned. Coleman, Novice, Lawn and Tuscola departments responded to the call around 1:30pm. The fire was under control by around 4:00pm.

Police Blotter February 16-18
2/20/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
According to the Coleman Police Department, two people were arrested over the weekend. At approximately 1:45 a.m. Sunday morning, a twenty year old female from Brownwood was arrested and charged with DWI 1st with an Open Container. This subject posted a $1000 bond Sunday afternoon and was released.
Sunday evening at 11:30pm, police located and apprehended Steven Daniel Row, 21 year old white male of Coleman, on warrant service. Row was brought in to the Coleman City Jail where he was booked and paid fines in the amount of $590.00 and released.

Dumped Dog Latest Candidate to File for Dog Mayor 2007
2/20/2007 (submitted)
Kaiser Vasquez considers himself one lucky dog. He was taken in by Adria Vasquez and her kind family about two years ago when he was found on their country road—emaciated and without any identification. Speaking on behalf of Kaiser, Adria, his campaign manager, says, “If Kaiser is elected Dog Mayor by the good people of Coleman, he would like to spend his term discouraging pet owners from abandoning their unwanted animals in the same manner.”

Although he has a distinguished German Shepherd background, Kaiser also lays claim to a cow dog instinct that will keep him on the heels of voters until they cast their votes for him and his cause. He expects to use his well-honed herding skills to round up a winning amount of $1 votes before the April 14 election results are counted.

His campaign slogan is: Vote for Kaiser—a good ol’ country dog with an honest country heart!

Votes for Kaiser or any of the other announced candidates—Duke Ransberger, Daisy Duke Grimes, and Humphrey “Longhaul” Cole—can be cast at the Block One Flea Market or with their individual campaign managers. Other voting locations will be announced during the campaign.

All civic-minded dogs in the County are encouraged to file as a candidate for Dog Mayor at the Flea Market, 301 E. Pecan, in Coleman. There is no filing deadline. Friends, owners, relatives and supporters in general are encouraged to pad the voting box all they want to up until the last minute! Multiple votes for multiple candidates are encouraged! The election results will be announced on Saturday afternoon, April 14, during the Humane Society sponsored County-Wide Garage Sale and Flea Market weekend. All votes/dollars are tax-deductible and proceeds from the election will benefit the Humane Society’s spay/neuter program.

For more information on the candidates and how to vote, visit the Humane Society’s web site at www.HumaneSocietyCC.com  or leave a message on the hotline at 625-4724. Votes can also be cast with a credit card donation on the web site.

Coleman's First Rodeo Queen Passes Away
2/19/2007
Billie Marie Miller, a well known rancher in Coleman County, passed away at Coleman County Medical Center Monday at the age of 84. She grew up on a ranch in Coleman County and was the first rodeo queen for the Coleman PRCA rodeo in 1937 and again in 1939.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm Wednesday at First United Methodist Church.

Hospice Fund Drive Is a Success
Most Successful Campaign Ever
2/19/2007 (contributed)
On February 14th, Hospice of the Big Country's Fund Drive in Coleman, "Hearts Remembered", came to an end.

It is impossible to thank all who were involved but appreciation is expressed to the First Coleman National Bank for the use of their lobby, the Chronicle & DV newspaper, Billie Mercer, Randy Turner and KSTA for their outstanding publicity.

As a result of the generosity of so many, this was the most successful "Hearts Remembered" we have ever had.  A total of $2,480 was donated from the Coleman area.

Hospice of the Big Country was founded under the philosophy that the terminally ill have the right to die on their own terms, and pain free. They provide care for both cancerous and non-cancerous diagnoses. Funds raised from the event will help H.O.B.C. continue its commitment to provide the best possible end-of-life care to anyone with a terminal diagnosis, regardless of their ability to pay.

If you need further information, please contact Hospice of the Big Country's main office at (325) 793-5450 or 4601 Hartford Street, Abilene, TX 79605.

Santa Anna Native Chosen as Marion ISD Superintendent
2/19/2007
Bangs school superintendent James Hartman is the lone finalist for the position of superintendent for Class 3A Marion ISD.

Hartman, son of Eddie and Mary Ann Hartman and a graduate of Santa Anna High School, helped the Bangs ISD pass a $9 million dollar bond to build a new high school. Last month, the Bangs school board voted 4-3 against extending Hartman's current three-year contract by another year. In a published report by the Seguin Gazette, Hartman said he believed the vote "reinforced my view that there was a difference of philosophy among some board members."

Marion is a rural 3-A school between Seguin, San Antonio and New Braunfels. "We look forward to extremely good relationships and continuing a tradition of student success for Marion," Hartman said.

House Numbers and Street Signs
2/19/2007 (contributed by John Pearce, Emergency Management Coordinator for Coleman Co.)
House numbers and street signs are a very important item in times of emergency. I get very frustrated when I am trying to find someone’s house and there is no number on the house or street name available. Sometimes the number is there but not visible from the street. It is imperative when one has the possibility of an emergency that their house be clearly numbered.

When an emergency vehicle is summoned be sure that your house number is visible from the street, that you have the house number stenciled on the curb at the edge of your drive way and that your porch light is on. This will make the response time a little better and might save your life in the long run. Everyone in the county needs to be sure that their 911 house designation is in place and clearly visible from the street, road or state highway.

Street and county road name signs along with stop and yield signs are not present on every intersection on our city streets or county roads. This problem is being addressed by local governments as well as the state but it will take time to rectify. Again, if you have an emergency of any kind, give precise directions to your location, being aware that in some cases the house number, street name or road number is not available.

For every ones safety when driving down the street or county road that one be aware of uncontrolled intersections and be careful going through those intersections. Some of those intersections are more hazardous than others and there is no clear understanding who has the right-of-way.

So be careful, drive safely and be sure that your house is clearly numbered. Who knows, Publishers’ Clearing House® might be looking for you and without a house number CLEARLY visible you might not be found.

Camp Quality News
2/19/2007 (by Amanda Straach)
I have to begin by telling you thank you. Together, Coleman and Coleman County residents donated close to $6000 ! That means that we were able to sponsor and send six kids to camp at no cost to them and their families.

In 2004, Camp Qualities first year to Texas, I went as a companion and we had 13 children. In 2005 I went as a Dorm Mom and took $600 donations and there were 16 children. Last year, we had 31 children to attend camp. That means that the word about Camp Quality is getting out to the children and their parents letting them know that there are people who are willing to help to give the children some time to just be kids not worrying about their next treatment or their stays in the hospital. It also means that the parents know that they can send their child or children to camp to have fun like the children who aren't sick.

The parents role in this is something I hope never to experience. But as much as I am comforted in knowing that we are giving the children a week of fun, I also find gratitude in knowing that the parents get a much needed rest.

It is getting close to time for camp and that means that I will be hitting the pavement in hopes to generate donations once again.

We are always in need of volunteers so if you or someone you know wants to be a companion you can go to www.tx.campqualityusa.com  for more information and an application. This is a great opportunity for college kids to earn extra credits. Help me get the word out to everyone. If you have a child in college, mention this to them so that they and their friends can get involved.

You can send donations to:
Camp Quality
c/o Amanda Straach
3005 South Park Drive
Coleman, Texas 76834
325-625-2825
ajsminis@verizon.net

Stars Shine Bright on Saturday Night
Shi Brudney Wins Talent Contest
2/18/2007
The teens of Coleman County and a couple from out of town proved Saturday night that there is plenty of talent to be found. American Idol, move over, Coleman's Search 4 the Stars showcased almost 20 singers and dancers Saturday night in the Coleman High School Auditorium. The event was a fundraiser for the C.H. Hale Scholarship Fund, headed by Barbara Brown of Coleman. The C.H. Hale Prostate Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization and the scholarships go to Coleman County students who intend to pursue a degree in the field of health.
A panel of judges had their work cut out but when the final announcement was made the winner was Shi Brudney who did a dance routine that thrilled the judges.

In second place was Denny Fulbright who played the guitar, accompanied on rhythm guitar by Rick Sikes, and sang an old Johnny Cash tune called Tennessee Flat Top Box.

In third place was another dance routine to the Hot Honey Rag by Chrysten McNiel, Gabrielle McKenzie and Kyle Mayo.

Barbara Brown wishes to thank everyone was a part of making the show a big success and urges everyone to remember the next fundraiser, the Walk for a Cure event, on May 12th.

Top Picture:  Gabrielle McKenzie, Kyle Mayor, Chrysten McNiel, Denny Fulbright and Shi Brudney.
Bottom Picture - Denny Fulbright

Curfew Ordinance, Profiling, Electricity
All Before City Council Thursday Evening
2/16/2007
The Coleman City Council met Thursday evening and heard a presentation from Steve Moffett of McCord Engineering regarding the status of Wholesale Electric Contracts affecting the City of Coleman. The Council spent over one hour behind closed doors discussing the issue with Moffett, the City Attorney, City Manager and City Secretary. It was decided on a 4-0 vote that the City of Coleman pursue a long term generation portfolio contract option offered by American Electric Power. The Council should receive a report within four to six weeks on the contract offer.

The Juvenile Curfew Ordinance has been on the books for many years in Coleman. Larry Weise, City Manager, told the Council that curfew ordinances should be reviewed and readopted every three years. Jay Moses, Chief of Police, told the Council the current ordinance was difficult for the public and police department to understand and hard to enforce. In a 4-0 vote, the Council instructed Moses, Weise and Steve Autry, City Attorney, to make recommendations on possible changes and address the Council at a later date when a public hearing will be held.

The Council also spent time in closed session before voting 4-0 to accept the Access Agreement at Lake Scarborough between the City of Coleman and Christopher Childrens' Limited Partnership.  Tom Christopher owns property on the north side of Lake Scarborough. According to Larry Weise, City Manager, the agreement allows the landowner access to his property off the Lake Scarborough Road and allows him to build a gate in the existing property line.

Also in a 4-0 vote, the Council approved the annual Racial Profiling Report given by Sgt. Les Cogdill of the Coleman Police Department. Cogdill reported that Coleman PD in 2006 made 1,255 stops of which 459 were female and 796 were male. Of the 1,255 stops, 33 were African-American, 3 were Asian, 196 were Hispanic, 3 were Native Americans and 1,020 were Caucasian. Searches conducted included 3.03% African-American, 0% Asian, 4.61% Caucasian, 9.18% Hispanic and 0% for Native American.

The Council also passed a motion 4-0 to accept a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission to rewrite the Zoning Ordinance. The old one has been in use since 1940.

Vinny Van-Go Good as New
2/16/2007 (by Marian Johnson)
Thursday, at their meeting at the Pink Flamingo Art Studio, the Jr. Art League( teen members) of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, patched, painted, and glittered Vinny van-go, the Dragonfly, to bring him back to his original grandeur.

The dragonfly was created by the Fine Arts League members several years ago with paper mache’, plaster and many feet of masking tape and then placed on a welded iron frame for stability.. "Vinny" has a long history, having traveled many miles during his tenure as the mascot of the Fine Arts League. He is always present at the Fiesta Fine Art Show in October.

Now Vinny is getting ready for his debut at the "Flight of the Dragonflies Juried Fine Art Show" April 28, 2007, at the Franklin Center. The JAL members also will assist with the events of the show. JAL Sponsor, Virginia Bethke, is also co-chair of the Juried Art Show.

Pictured at work on the wings of the dragonfly are: Louis Lugo, Marcos Aaron, Emma Dyer, Iris Bemdull, Mollie Gore, Carrie Benedict (JAL President). Iris is an exchange student from Saxony, Germany.

Coleman Healthcare Crowns King and Queen
2/16/2007 (contributed)
The King and Queen for 2007 at Coleman Healthcare Center was announced this week.

Harold McCarrell was named King while Joyce Whisenhunt was crowned Queen.

Check Your Peanut Butter
2/16/2007
A salmonella outbreak, which has sickened almost 300 people in 39 states, is said to be caused by tainted peanut butter. According to federal health officials, if you have a jar of Peter Pan or Great Value peanut butter, you should look for product code "2111". ConAgra Foods said the tainted peanut butter was traced to its plant in Sylvester, Georgia. ConAgra has told consumers to throw-away the jars with the 2111 product code. Lids from the jars can be returned to the grocer for a refund, the company said.

Central Baptist Youth Valentine's Dinner a Success
2/16/2007 (by Barbara Hubbard)
The Youth looked sharp with their red carnation flowers against crisp white shirts and black pants. It added to the beautiful atmosphere created by one of Coleman's own, Cinnamon Carter. The guests were treated to quiet piano music by Cole Hubbard and great guitar strumming by youth leader, Matt French. A great big Thank You to all who enjoyed the delicious meal and helped these great kids with summer camp funds. The Youth look forward to serving you again on Valentine's Day 2008!

Update on Ed Pineiro
2/15/2007
Coleman resident Ed Pineiro, injured last week in a wreck in Coleman, is now at Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth. Those wishing to send correspondence may do so to:

Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital
1301 Pennsylvania Avenue
Ed Pineiro, Room 2597
Fort Worth, Texas 76104

The Harris website also has a link on their home page to e-mail a hospital patient. Click HERE to go there, it's on the right hand side under Happenings.

A friend of Ed told Colemannews.com he underwent surgery Wednesday on his broken leg and faces more surgery in a few days.  All thoughts and prayers are greatly appreciated.

BEWARE of the Ultra Lottery Commission Scam
2/15/2007
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Such is the case with the Ultra Lottery Commission which is circulating through the area. According to information provided by County Attorney Heath Hemphill, those who receive the Ultra Lottery Commission are told they were selected through a computer ballot system to win $65,000, along with 24 other international winners. A so-called "assistance check" in the amount of $2,996.10 is enclosed to enable the recipient to "finance the international clearance fees". The check itself appears real, down to the water marks and special security measures.

Recipients are asked to finalize the claim by contacting a "claim agent" whose name is listed on the notification, supposedly with Puritan Financial Management Group in Winnepeg, MB. Hemphill said if you receive the Ultra Lottery Commission Scam in the mail, write void on the check, shred the check and shred the letter.

King and Queen of Holiday Hill Chosen
2/15/2007
A Valentine's Day tradition was carried out Wednesday at Holiday Hill Care Center in Coleman. The Valentine King for 2007 is Clyde Dempsey. The Valentine Queen is Bobbie McMinn. Other honors were: Lady in Waiting - Jo Alford; Gentleman of the Court - Bill Stephenson; Duchess - Jean McHorse; Duke - Virgil Lancaster; King and Queen of Staff Members - Ruth Jordan and Aaron Burkey.


A reception with snacks followed the ceremony.  Pictured are King Clyde Dempsey and Queen Bobbie McMinn.

Santa Anna Valentine Coronation Winners
2/14/2007
Little Mr. & Miss Valentine - Sudie Puckett and Coy Taylor

Prince & Princess Valentine - Kynedi Bradley and Jacob Gibson

King & Queen Valentine - Kourtney Guerrero and Zachery Dia

2007 Coleman Country Club Tournament Schedule Released
New Member Incentive Plan Announced
2/14/2007 (by Sujo McKee)
The Coleman Country Club is proud to announce their 2007 tournament schedule. The tournament season will kick off March 17-18 with the Spring Fling Three-Person Tournament followed by a one day 27-hole three person scramble on March 31st. The Couples Scramble will be April 14-15 and the all popular Four-Person Scramble will be held the first weekend in May (May 5-6). The Club will host the Flynn Invitational on June 1-3 and the Rodeo Tournament June 16th with an A.M. start. Later that day, teeing off after lunch will be a 27-hole two person scramble. The Three-Person Scramble will be July 21-22. For the second year, the Club will host a One-Person Scramble August 11-12. The Member-Guest Tournament will be August 25-26 and rounding out the year will be the Club Championship September 22-23. The first paid entries will be used to fill the limited number of spots in each tournament so don’t delay. For more information, contact the Country Club at 325-625-2922 or 325-214-0486.

An exciting opportunity now exists for members of the Country Club. As an incentive to help grow membership in the Club, any member who recruits a new member to join the Country Club can receive $50 up to two times a year per member. Membership benefits in the Club include unlimited golf and fishing, swimming pool access and a discount on rental of the clubhouse. Unlimited golf access for member’s school-age children can also be an especially useful resource in developing their child’s golf skills. In addition to hard work and dedication, these skills could result in a college scholarship.

Golf courses are a recreational asset to any community and Coleman is lucky to have a Club that is dedicated to improving its course for the betterment of its members and the community. Anyone interested in joining the Country Club can call Lang Martin at
325-636-7475 for additional information.

At this time, the Club is also proud to welcome its newest members, David Strickland, Jr., Wayne Kuykendall, Kevin McMann and Tom Mann.

Coleman School Board Incumbent Files for Office
2/13/2007
Viki Hambright, who currently represents Place 7 on the Coleman School Board, filed for re-election Tuesday afternoon.

Harold Skelton Files for City Council
2/13/2007
A second race has developed for Coleman City Council. Harold R. Skelton, who operates an Income Tax Service business in Coleman, filed Tuesday morning for West Ward, opposing C.E. "Bill" Casselberry, incumbent.  Monday, Rodney Cole, incumbent, and Billie Mercer filed for the East Ward council position. 

The public is reminded that voting in the City Council election is "at large" meaning you do not have to live in that ward to vote for a particular candidate. For example, you may live in the South Ward but will be able to vote for the candidate of your choice in the East or West Ward.

Tornado Season Approaches
2/13/2007 (by John Pearce, Emergency Management Coordinator, Coleman Co.)
Tornado season has started. Just ask the people in central Florida that did not want to be close to the coast and close to hurricanes. In my rounds around the county, I have noticed that there are still a lot of storm shelters in place. Most of them need some repair and in some cases need to be removed for safety purposes.

If repair of one’s existing shelter is possible, it is my suggestion that these shelters be put back into use. Make it water proof and safe from spiders, snakes and scorpions so one would feel free to use it in time of danger. The only way to truly be safe in a tornado is to be sheltered out of the way of flying debris.

If, on the other hand, you do not have an underground shelter here are some suggestions that might help you to get a shelter installed. There are plans available in the Extension Office for building underground shelters. There are also steel and fiberglass shelters pre-built that can be installed in one or two days. People that install septic tanks can take the existing tank they have for sale, modifying it after it is in the ground, making it a very adequate shelter. It is a water proof shelter and can have access from the top. Stairs can be installed and the top modified for entrance down into the shelter. One can also bury a shipping container and use it for a root cellar, wine cellar or simply as a quiet room as well as a storm shelter. Steel safe rooms that are based on research conducted by Texas Tech University Wind Engineering Research Center and endorsed by FEMA in Publication 320 are available as well. .

It seems that we are having more and stronger tornados. So, it is my suggestion and hope that we are able to better shelter ourselves. Remember, modular homes are not the place to be during a tornado. No place above ground is really safe. Make plans now on where to seek shelter if tornadoes do hit our county.