News Archives - February 2008

It Pays to be Present
2/29/2008
Winner of the “It Pays to be Present” drawing held this week at Coleman Junior High is sixth grader Brandon McPherson.

A drawing for $25.00 is held each six weeks period. To be eligible for the drawing, a student must not miss a single day of school during the period. The $25.00 is provided by the student council at Coleman Junior High School. A grand prize drawing for $100.00 is held at the end of the school year. This amount is also provided by the student council.

FALCC Member in Cheyenne Show
2/29/2008 (by Marian Johnson)
Fine Arts League member, B. Lancton (Fredericksburg), was recently accepted into the annual Western Spirit Art Show & Sale in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The Show opens March 1 through April 13 at the Frontier Days Old West Museum. It benefits the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum where “select western artists gather to exhibit premier art.” This is her first such show to enter.

B.’s watercolor painting “Layin’ Low” is of a small fawn (still with spots), nestled down in the grass and prickly pears. She has a BFA from Stephen F. Austin University. She has studied life drawing under Michael Roque Collins in Houston.

Lancton was not able to paint much during the 15-20 years she worked as a draftsman in the oil and gas business. Subsequently, B. decided to become a nurse and worked in a neurosurgical ICU. After realizing she had pushed art out of her life, she decided to bring it back and started painting again when she turned 50! Catherine Anderson, a wonderful watercolorist, who has a studio in Houston and Maine, later helped her start painting once again. She has been studying painting with John Fawcett since 2004, who is her mentor and good friend along with his wife, Elizabeth. She gives John credit for teaching her self-confidence and realizing she is not competing with other artists, she is competing with herself. “Am I a better artist than I was yesterday? Am I better than I was 5 minutes ago? That is what matters”, says B.

She still works in the medical field in a physician’s office in Fredericksburg 4 days a week. The days she has off, she PAINTS! “That extra day off allows me painting time and sanity has returned to my life - I’m an office nurse 4 days a week and a painter 3 days! However, in my mind I’m artist 100% of the time”!

Lancton had 3 paintings accepted into the Dragonfly Juried Art Show in Coleman 2007, and has plans for the upcoming “Dragonfly Journeys” Show in Coleman, May 2008.

Update on Early Voting
2/28/2008
As of Thursday morning, 894 early votes had been cast at the Coleman County Courthouse. Of those, 696 were Republican and 198 Democrat.  Early voting is winding down, through 5:00pm today (Thursday) and 8:00am to 5:00pm Friday.  The primary is this coming Tuesday.

Hawaii Here We Come !
2/28/2008
Honolulu, Hawaii - Two Coleman Bluecat football players have been chosen to play in the 2nd Annual Diamond Head Classic. Bluecat punter Jordan Robinson (31) and linebacker J.D. Crowder (52)will be part of Team Texas that will be coached by Brad Franchione of Blinn College.

Robinson and Crowder will spend a week sightseeing at Pearl Harbor and the famous North Shore. They will experience a Polynesian Picnic as well as a Hawaiian Luau. After soaking in some Hawaiian traditions, they will be competing in two football games as part of Team Texas before returning home. Both young men are excited about playing for Team Texas and the memories they'll remember for a lifetime.

Both of these young men are making plans for fundraisers very soon. Any donations will be greatly appreciated. If interested, please call 325-625-4245.

Update on Fire Victims
2/28/2008
Response has been good locally and from out-of-town from folks wanting to help Jack Davis, Edna McWhirter and their three children. Their home burned Monday in Coleman.
We are told that they now have plenty of clothing for their little girl, but the young boy (4-5T) and the middle boy (8-10) still need more clothing.

For more information, or if you can help, call (325) 726-9991, 726-9121, 625-2687 or 625-3189.

House Fire Destroys County Residence
2/27/2008
The home of Dewey and Veda Wilson is shown completely engulfed in flames. The call came some time after 6:00pm Wednesday evening. The fire was on CR 354 in the Fisk area, south of Coleman. In speaking with a family member of the Wilson's, everyone was able to get out of the house safely. The family would like to thank everyone on the scene for their help. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

CJHS Cheerleaders Named
2/27/2008
The following will be leading cheers at Coleman Junior High sporting events in 2008-2009:
Aspen McConathy, Vallari Escobar, Kirstie Jamison, Shaila Lewis, Raedin Diaz, Ashton West, Tiara Rosalez, Autum White.

District Basketball Honors for Santa Anna High School
2/27/2008
Congratulations to the following Mountaineers!

Terrence Jackson & Jordon Whaley----1st Team All-District

Juan Suarez, Demitrus Reese and Chris Tate - 2nd Team All-District

Demitrus Reese also chosen as the 1st alternate to play for the coaches ALL-STAR game this summer in Lubbock.

For the ladies
Sierra Herrod and Layken Deleon -- 2nd Team All District
Martika Whaley, Adelaida Dean and Molly Pritchard -- Honorable Mention
Kendra Coleman --- MVP defensive player
Sarah Herrod --- Newcomer of the Year

January Students of the Month Named at CJH
2/27/2008
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for January.

Students of the month are:

Aspen McConathy - 6th grade girl
Jayce Simmons - 6th grade boy
Ashton West - 7th grade girl
Shelton Zarate - 7th grade boy
Nnehkai Agbor - 8th grade girl
Angel Barrios - 8th grade boy

To be a student of the month, a student must be nominated by his or her teachers. To be nominated, students must be hard workers, act respectfully to teachers and peers in the classroom and in the hallway, and exhibit good behavior when involved in extra-curricular activities. Members of the National Junior Honor Society vote on nominees from each grade level. The male and female students from each grade who receive the most votes are the students of the month.

December Students of the Month Names at CJH
2/27/2008
Members of the Coleman Junior High School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently voted on students of the month for December.

Students of the month are:

Carley Cowden - 6th grade girl
Draven DelaGarza - 6th grade boy

Ginny Pannell - 7th grade girl
Ethan Morris - 7th grade boy

Leanna Roberts - 8th grade girl
Robbie Cowden - 8th grade boy

Coleman High FCCLA Helps Local Elementary Students
2/27/2008
Coleman Family, Career and Community Leaders of America recently held a Health Fair at Coleman Elementary. The Heath Fair helped educate the elementary children about eating habits, good nutrition, exercise, and cleanliness. The Health Fair was held during each of the P.E. classes. Stations were set up around the gym and the students rotated to each of the stations. The stations were Digestion, Fats and Sugars, Food Bingo, Exercise, Food Pyramid, and Germs.

At the Digestion station the students were taught the process of the digestion of food with food going from the mouth, to the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. After the children learned the process, they were split up into two groups; each with the name of part of the digestion process thing, and they raced to see who could put them in order the fastest.

At the Fats and Sugars station, the children were shown what five pounds of fat looked like and were informed of how much fat or sugar was in the food they might usually like. A donut with the amount of fat in the donut was placed on a plate. Other items of food were displayed to show the amount of fat and sugar content in the food. Some of the items were coke, chips, candy, and French fries. A correct serving of French fries was shown along with the amount most people eat.

At the Food Pyramid station a poster of the Food Pyramid was posted. The each section of the Food Pyramid, its colors, and what kinds of food group each section had in it was explained. The children got a Food Pyramid coloring sheet.

At the Exercise station, the students were taught that exercise helps keep them healthy. The high school students stressed too much television and computer and video games were not good for them. They led the students in a series of exercises.

At Food Pyramid Bingo, students played bingo finding foods in the different food groups. The winners of bingo received stickers.

At the Germ station, FCCLA members stressed that many times people get sick because hands are not washed thoroughly. The students were given some glo-germ to put on their hands. The lights were turned off and a black light was turned on to show the students where possible germs were from the glo-germ. The students were then instructed to wash their hands. After everyone washed their hands, the lights were once again turned off and the black light was turned on to see if their hands were cleaned. Some of them were amazed that they still hand germs on their hands. They were also shown the germs on the counter top in the bathroom.

FCCLA members responsible for the Health Fair were Nancy Cruz, Sonya Cruz, and Tabitha Terrell. FCCLA members and other Coleman High School students helping with the health fair were Family and Consumer Sciences Classes, Lisha Merkley, Zach Polk, Jay Delgadillo, Samantha Yebra, Marcus Diaz, Rene Salas, Mohini Bhakta, Mercdes Taylor, Colton Buzzard, Cala Norris, Nikki Rush, Angelina Marks, Jamal Agbor, Tori Valdez, Carina Landaverde, Morgan Hurtado, Eden Duquette, Krystal Dunn, Tanner Strickland, Laura Martinez, Stormie Mackey, Ryan Johnson, Gabby McKenzie, Halie Cassaday, Zoe Paul, Lorena Vasquez, Ranee Cupps, Kelsey Puckett, Cole Hubbard, Luke Lofton, and Arturo Avila.

Candidates Rally at Senior Center
2/26/2008
The room was filled with interested voters Tuesday night for the Kiwanis sponsored Candidates Rally held at the Senior Center.  Drew Hubbard was the MC for the event, and each candidate was allowed to stand and give his/her statement to the crowd.  For more pictures from the night's event, check our Faces in the Crowd page.

More Grass Fires
2/26/2008
Firemen were busy once again Tuesday afternoon as they battled grass fires north of Coleman.  According to the Coleman Fire Department, a small grass fire was reported on the Lake Coleman road but was taken care of quickly. A larger fire was reported on Highway 283 approximately seven miles north of Coleman but believed to be under control as of late evening.

Update on Fires
2/26/2008
Colemannews.com talked with the Coleman Fire Department this morning and got an update on the fires which happened Monday afternoon.

The grass fire which started on Santa Anna Avenue burned an estimated 500 acres. The cause has not been determined. Three barns were lost but seven houses were saved. It was a team effort between firemen, Coleman County SO, Coleman PD, other volunteers and homeowners. Many homeowners turned on sprinkler systems to protect their property. Firemen plan to return to the scene today to walk the perimeter of the fire to make sure everything is out.

Coleman, Burkett and Santa Anna fire departments have sent equipment to Callahan County to help our neighbors to the north in their efforts to control a grass fire.

The cause of the house fire on Blanco Street Monday afternoon was an electrical short, according to the fire department.

Help Needed for Family Affected by House Fire
2/26/2008
We have received word that the residents of the house that burned Monday afternoon at 415 North Blanco are in need of help. According to Karri Mitchell, the family was able to save only a few items. What wasn't damaged by fire received smoke damage. Jack Davis, Edna McWhirter and three children are in need of assistance, primarily clothing.

Sizes
Young boy - 4-5 T
Middle boy - 8-10
Oldest girl - 12-14
Man - 36
Woman - plus sizes

For more information, or if you can help, call (325) 726-9991, 726-9121, 625-2687 or 625-3189.

There will also be a bake sale from 8:00am to 2:00pm this Saturday, March 1, at Shoppin Baskit to benefit the family.

Your Volunteer Fire Departments Need You !
2/26/2008
If you have a little extra money you want to give to a worthy cause, how about your local volunteer fire department? They have limited funds to begin with and have even more need when they are fighting fires on a daily basis. Check with the department in your community.

Novice Students Receive Honors
2/26/2008
Congratulations to -

Lacye Briley, 17 year old junior at Novice High School, was named 2nd Team All-District. This is Lacye's first year to be named for All-District honors. Lacye has played varsity basketball for Novice for three years. This year, the Hornets and Lady Hornets were under the coaching of Timothy Howard.

Lacye is the daughter of Chad and Mincy Briley of Winter, TX.

Chris Liddell, 17 year old senior at Novice, was given the honor of being named an alternate for the All-Star game to be held later this year. Chris has played for the Hornets for two years and showed great improvements in his ability. Chris is the son of Annie Liddell of Winters, TX.

School Board Candidate Webinar Offers Information and Insight
2/26/2008
Want to run for a position on your local school board?

Area school board candidates and interested citizens can learn more about the demands and rewards of school board service by participating in a free Webinar presented by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). The workshop will be presented on the Internet on February 26, March 6, and March 24 from 7-8:30 p.m. CST.

The workshop will provide interested community members and individuals thinking about running for the board with a better understanding of what is involved in being elected and serving as a local trustee. Mark McHargue, a senior consultant with TASB and former school board member and election lawyer, will explain board members’ key responsibilities and outline the qualities necessary for effective service.

Topics to be covered include how serving as a board member can add value to the education process in your community, what it’s like to be a trustee, key responsibilities of the board, division of authority with staff, how to campaign constructively, and where to find more information about being a candidate. The workshop also will include interviews with other experienced school board members highlighting the many aspects of board service.

The workshop is open to anyone at no charge; however, registration is required. For details or to register, check the TASB Web Site at LTS.tasb.org/candidates. For more information, call Mark McHargue in TASB’s Leadership Team Services, 512.467.0222, extension 6163.

Early Voting Continues This Week
2/26/2008
Early voting continues this week at the Coleman County Courthouse. Going into Tuesday, a total of 680 early votes have been cast, 534 Republican, 146 Democrat.  You can vote between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm at the County Courthouse.

Fires Strike During High Wind
2/26/2008
Late Monday afternoon, area firemen were called on to protect life and property in a sight becoming too familiar, a grass fire.

This one started on Santa Anna Avenue on the southeast side of town and quickly spread to the south, threatening homes along the way, although we received no report of homes being damaged.  We hope to have an estimate of acres burned later this morning.

About the same time firemen were battling the grass fire, a mobile home on Blanco Street on Coleman's north side caught fire. No injuries were reported.

Fine Arts League February Program on Old Masters
2/25/2008 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
The Fine Arts League program Thursday Feb. 21, was presented by Robin Black. Black gave an interesting Power Point presentation on Old Masters, one in particular, Quentin Metsys (c.1465-1530).

“The Flemish Renaissance Painting was described as both enchanting and radical. The subject was a money lender (or banker) and his wife in their stall in a modern city where the artist worked. The woman is reading her devotional book and is not actively involved in the act of “money lending”. On the table are objects of value such as coins, a watch, a crystal .

This painting is one of the first representations of business in the history of art. It is also one of the first representations in which money exchange is relevant to the interpretation of the work of art. And it is one of the first works of art where the viewer is a borrower. ” Not too long after this painting was completed and signed by the artist, other artists started signing their works of art.

Members each chose a portion of the painting to copy on canvas boards.

Theda Rhea, vice president of the League, presided over the meeting. The Sesquicentennial cookbook project is nearing completion reported by chair, Lois McCarty; future community projects were expressed by chair, Robin Black; Library mural project is about to be revealed reported Bill Shields. The 2008 Juried Art Show, report given by Co-chair, Marian Johnson, is expecting a good show along with the Sesqui flavor and a “little blue bunny” mixed in. The deadline for entry into the Juried Show has been extended to March 10. For the Tom Lockhart workshop, contact chair, Ginger Test, 325-723-2035.

Eleven members and 2 guests enjoyed the program and meeting with refreshments provided by Theda Rhea and Dollie Sparkman. Other than those mentioned above, present were Ted and Martha Shelton, Brownwood, Ruth Ann Taylor, Raymondville, Beverly Gee, Linda Wright, Tammy Jo Turner, 2 guests from Colorado visiting the Shields.

The next monthly meeting and program will be March 20. Visitors are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Panther Creek Honor Rolls Released
2/25/2008
Honor Rolls for the 4th Six Weeks have been released at Panther Creek CISD and are as follows:
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
A Honor Roll
1st Grade - Zadie Williamson; 2nd Grade - 5th Grade - None.

A/B Honor Roll
1st Grade - Rankin Kiker, Klarrisa Ring, Tyler Sparks, Alexander Torres.
2nd Grade - Nancy Cody, Trotter Harris, Emily Hoelscher, Mark Loyd, Nathan McMahon
3rd Grade - Colton Moore, Rylie Philpot, Allen Pricer
4th Grade - None
5th Grade - Kimberly Estes, Zane McMahon, Nicolas Parra

JUNIOR HIGH
A Honor Roll
6th Grade - Kirsten Moore
7th Grade - None
8th Grade - Nikki Ewing, Courtney Moore, Jared Romine

A/B Honor Roll
6th Grade - Lauren Allen, Alicia Cody, Paula Mata
7th Grade - Jessica Laws, Scarlett Pyburn
8th Grade - Stephannie Bledsoe, Devin Griffin, Kelton Powell, Sloan Stewardson, Katie Straach, Betty Torres

HIGH SCHOOL
A Honor Roll
9th Grade - None
10th Grade - Lexie Ewing
11th Grade - Nicky Kwak, Heather Pope, Elizabeth Tapia, Cathy Zhou
12th Grade - Lisa Banfill, Jennifer Cavanaugh, Cheyenne Elkin, Nancy Meyer, Tyler Stewardson, Cera Suggs

A/B Honor Roll
9th Grade - Cojo Bowman
10th Grade - Cassie Philpot, Leslye Sorbello, Matt Turney, Benton Warren
11th Grade - Jake Stewart, John Warren
12th Grade - Kaley Craig, Dustin DeLeon, Elizabeth Jennings

City of Santa Anna Lifts Boil Water Notification
2/23/2008
The boil water notice issued February 19th in Santa Anna has been lifted. According to the City of Santa Anna, citizens can resume use of the public water supply in a normal manner. "We have extreme confidence that your water supply is safe and its integrity was not compromised during this period," in a statement from the news release.

A major water leak in the City's water distribution system caused low water pressure and water outages throughout Santa Anna. State regulations require the boil water notice when pressure drops below 20 pounds per square inch within the system. Testing of microbiological samples by an approved independent laboratory also confirm that no harmful organisms are, or were, found to be present.

"We realize this has been an inconvenience to our citizens, but the requirement is intended as a safeguard and the officials and staff of the City of Santa Anna are dedicated to bringing our citizens a water supply of superior quality," in a statement from Sam Oswood, Director of Public Works.

FCNB Drive-Thru to be Closed This Week
2/22/2008 (contributed)
Due to City repairs in the alleyway of First Coleman National Bank, our drive-in bank will be closed Monday February 25, Tuesday February 26, and Wednesday February 27. We will look forward to helping you in our lobby on those days. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank your for your patience.

Early Voting Totals
2-22-2008
Coleman County Clerk Stacey Mendoza reports that the early voting total as of 5:00 pm Friday is 572.

Shilo Harris - One Year Later - Part 2
2/22/2008
Part 2 of the story of Shilo Harris's road to recovery is available online. KWES TV in Midland/Odessa did a feature story on the Coleman soldier who was seriously injured one year ago in Iraq. You'll see the treatment he is going through and hear from he and his wife, Kathreyn.    The direct links are below for part 1 and 1.

Shilo's Road to Recovery (Part I)
http://www.kwes.com/Global/story.asp?s=7892980

Part II: Road to Recovery
http://www.kwes.com/Global/story.asp?s=7904158

Coleman Museum is now Open
2/22/2008 (by Kathy Andrews)
The Coleman Museum is "Singing a New Song" and it has been quite an endeavor to achieve.

Upon entering the Museum entrance on the southwest side of the building, there is an exhibit of musical instruments from local residents who have generously agreed to share them with everyone. Also, "singing" of some music from bygone eras from records, yes, some people still play those obsolete forms of music enjoyment.

The current museum rooms on the first floor are ready for visitors and we are excited about some of the finds, perplexed by some, and just plain curious about others. There are still several things that we have no clue as to what they are or where they came from, but, the exhibits are well done and everyone is invited to visit our local history museum in it's new facility.

Several events are scheduled in the next few months including an art exhibit by Ginger Test, professional artist and teacher from Novice in March, an open house in April, The Happy Creative Stitcher's Quilt Show in June, and other events not yet finalized. This is an exciting year for Coleman and the Coleman Museum.

Plans for future exhibits at the museum include a Military room, a Coleman room which will be for anything Coleman, including people, places and things, and an exhibit of pioneer family memorabilia and other exhibits as collections are donated or loaned. If you have items to donate or loan the museum please contact Maxine Cope at 625-4345, Kay Mitchell at 625-1140, Grace Crum at 625-3877 or Kathy Andrews at 624-5544, any of these ladies will be glad to make an appointment at the museum to bring your items. We ask that all contributions be related to Coleman and Coleman County.

The museum will be open Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. beginning Friday, February 22, 2008. Admission is free, but your donations are greatly appreciated as these are used in the daily operation and maintenance of the facility. CHAPS/Coleman Museum is designated by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax deductible.

Olinger Files for City Council
2/22/2008
Scotty Olinger filed Thursday for Place 4 South Ward position on the Coleman City Council. Olinger is a former City Inspector for the City of Coleman.

Early Voting Continues Strong
2/21/2008
As of 8:50am Thursday morning, a total of 317 early votes had been cast at the Coleman County Courthouse. There have been 233 Republican votes and 73 Democrat votes.

City Releases Information Regarding Poly Carts
2/21/2008 (from the City of Coleman)
Allied Waste, garbage collection agency for the City of Coleman, has requested that the citizens of Coleman be reminded of the following requirements in the use of the poly carts:

* On collection day, place the poly cart in front of your property, curbside or at the edge of the street by 6:00 a.m. You may remove it after the garbage has been collected and should remove it by 7:00 p.m. Place the poly cart with the handle way from the curb.
* Place your poly cart at least 3 feet away from a mailbox or other obstacles, 12 feet from a parked car, and avoid placing directly underneath low hanging branches or power lines. Your poly cart cannot be emptied if it is not easily accessed by the grabber arm of the collection truck! Allied Waste has notified City Hall that your garbage will not be picked up if does not meet these requirements.
* All food waste must be bagged.
* Poly carts are designed for household trash only. Do not fill with gravel, dirt or construction debris.
* Only what fits inside the container will be collected (i.e. Nothing placed beside or stacked on top of container. Do not overfill poly cart. Lid should close properly.

City of Coleman and Allied Waste thank you for your cooperation and assistance.

Dr. Barnes is Still Here!
2/21/2008
Dr. Robert Barnes, who has had a chiropractic practice in Coleman for 20 years, wants to dispel any rumors he has closed his office. That is not the case. Dr. Barnes is still in the same location at 206 West Pecan, across from the Post Office. He is open Monday and Thursday from 11:30am to 5:30pm. Dr. Barnes looks forward to continue serving this area.

Kim E. Horne Honored as Woman of Distinction
2/21/2008
Brownwood, Texas, February 20—The Girl Scouts of Central Texas is proud to announce this year’s Women of Distinction Honorees.

Kim Horne of Coleman County - (shown left) is a real estate agent with Taylor Real Estate Sales Inc.

Horne is active with the Texas Cattlewomen, Coleman Chapter - Circle C Cattlewomen, the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce and the Fine Arts League. A wife and mother, Horne has written for the Coleman Democratic Voice on Texas Gardening and often provides nature-based programs to civic organizations. Currently she is collaborating with the community to help clean up Coleman for all residents.

Margaret Carter of Brown County, a wife, mother and grandmother to two, spent many years in the field of social work, beginning in secretarial position and after graduating from Howard Payne University, as a social worker for Brownwood Regional Medical Center. A former Girl Scout, she has also been active with several charity organizations. For her many community involvements she was awarded the Goodwill Ambassador Award in 2004.

Candace Cooksey Fulton of Brown County is a reporter with the Brownwood Bulletin. For her writing she has received numerous awards from the Texas Press Association and West Texas Press Association. A mother, grandmother and former Girl Scout, Fulton is a storyteller for first and third graders, a member of the First United Methodist Church and has served on the committees for the Lyric Performing Arts Co. and Citizens for Coggin Park.

Jane Ellen Mayes Jamar of Brown County is a mother to four, grandmother to 14 and great-grandmother to 13. Through adulthood she has served as president for the Brownwood Women's Club, Brownwood Rotary Ann, Women of the Brownwood Country Club and Brownwood Garden Culture Club. She and her husband have owned many media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Currently she is partnering with her brother, Wendell Mayes Jr., to fund the new Art Gallery at Howard Payne University in memory of their parents.

Patti Clements Jordan of Brown County, a retired teacher, is committed to Brownwood and especially the improvement of education for Brownwood area children. Through her hands-on approach she once led a group of students as they worked to reopen the Brown County Museum of History. A former Girl Scout, she is active with First United Methodist Church, Greenleaf Cemetery Association, Lyric Theater Restoration Project and Preservation Partnership. She and husband, Tom, have three children and five grandchildren.

Carol Spratt of Brown County, currently a receptionist with Brownwood Independent School District, is the president of United Neighbors Involved to Improve. A wife, mother and grandmother, she has served on the boards of the Brown County Museum of History and the R.F. Hardin Museum. Spratt is a leader in the black community having been a Juneteenth Celebration coordinator and provider of Black History month displays for the public library and Howard Payne University. She has also received a certificate of appreciation from the NAACP.

Ada Turner of Brown County, a Tarleton State University graduate with high honors, is the Vice President of Citizens National Bank. Turner is a board member for the Brown County Adult Leaders Association, May ISD and the Brown County United Way. She is a 14-year volunteer with the Brown County 4-H. Turner is also a member of the Brownwood Board of Realtors, May Parent Teacher Club and Brownwood Chamber of Commerce. A graduate of Leadership Brownwood, she lives with her husband and daughters in May.

The Women of Distinction Luncheon will be held March 26 at the Mabee Conference Center. Tickets are $35 each and sponsorships begin at $250. To learn more, contact the Girl Scouts Heart of Texas Program Center at (325) 646-1516.

About the Girl Scouts of Central Texas:

The Girl Scouts of Central Texas, recently formed by combining the Bluebonnet, El Camino, Heart of Texas and Lone Star Councils, serves nearly 20,000 girls, ages 5-17 years, and more than 12,000 adult volunteers in 46 Central Texas counties. Headquartered in Austin, Girl Scouts of Central Texas has program centers in Brownwood, Killeen, San Angelo and Waco. As the largest organization with a commitment to girls, Girl Scouting offers an array of fun, educational programs focusing on art, science, technology, engineering, math, the environment and life skills. We build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. For more information about the Girl Scouts of Central Texas, visit www.gsctx.org.

Shilo Harris - One Year Later
2/20/2008
It was one year ago today when a Colemannews.com headline read "Sgt. Shilo Harris Injured in Iraq".  One year later, he is still recovering. A Midland TV station interviewed Shilo and wife Kathreyn and aired the first segment of the interview last night. You can watch the interview online by going to KWES TV 9's website which is www.kwes.com.  Near the center of their homepage is a list of stories, find "Shilo's Road to Recovery" and click on it to view.  The second part of the interview should air Thursday.

Burn Ban Reinstated for Coleman County
2/20/2008
Judge Jimmy Hobbs has re-issued the "Burn Ban" for Coleman County on Tuesday afternoon at 5:00pm.  The drying conditions and high winds makes this necessary. 

School Board Candidate Files
2/20/2008
John Casey has filed for re-election to Place 3 on the Coleman School Board.

New Director for Coleman Co. Farm Service Agency
2/19/2008
The Coleman County FSA Committee would like to announce that Curtis L. Garrett has recently accepted the position as the County Executive Director for the Coleman County FSA.

Curtis is a native of Coleman County, graduating from Panther Creek in 1992 then serving in the U S Air Force and later graduating from Angelo State University. Curtis began his career with the Farm Service Agency as a Farm Loan Officer in Jim Wells County in 2001 and from there served as the County Executive Director in Jones County beginning in April 2004. Curtis and his wife, Shawna, have two children, Payton age 3 and McCall who is 11 months old. Curtis and Shawna have farming and ranching interest in the Lohn area.

The COC and employees are excited about Curtis’ arrival and look forward to many years of working with him. The COC feels that Curtis will be a great asset to the Coleman County office, the customers we serve and the community. Curtis will assume his duties in the Coleman County office on February 19, 2008.

School Board Hears from Parents
Approves Administrative Contracts
Approves Uniform Purchases for Football / Band
2/19/2008
The Coleman ISD Board of trustees met Monday night and received comments from the community concerning the athletic program.  Dr. Mike Edington, board president, asked those who were not on the regular agenda if they would like to address the board. Dewayne Hunter spoke on behalf of others in attendance regarding the re-assignment of Head Girls Basketball Coach Diana Patton. Hunter said he and others were not happy with this decision and wanted to express this opinion to the board. Dr. Edington advised him that the board could not respond since this was not an agenda item. Superintendent Royce Young made a few comments regarding the administrative decision that was made. The board listened to remarks made by Duwayne Hunter, Tim Golson and Raeann Mills. Dr. Edington thanked them for their remarks and their concern in the matter.

The board entered executive session to consider contract renewal of Richard Holloway, High School Principal, Paula Ringo, Jr. High School Principal, Becky Jackson, Elementary Principal, Barbara Cox, Girl’s A.D., Rusty Buzzard, Boy’s A.D., Karen Huff, Business Manager, Paul Martin, Technology Director, and Lorrie Payne, Curriculum Director. Back in open session, the board approved extending all contracts.

The board approved a joint election agreement between the City of Coleman, Coleman ISD, and the Coleman County Medical Center.

Technology Director Paul Martin presented information to the board concerning E-Rate Vendors for 2008-2009 which were approved, pending E-Rate approval funding.

Supt. Young recommended that the board approve funding for the purchase of football uniforms and band uniforms for the 2008-2009 school year.  The board approved both of these purchases.

Localized Policy Update 82 was passed on first reading and budget amendments were approved.

The board heard the full audit of the school district from Reed, McKee and Co. of San Angelo. The audit was approved in January but, as you may recall,  inclement weather prevented the audit firm from making a presentation to the board until Monday night. As reported previously, the audit report for Coleman ISD was good and the accountants were very complimentary of the financial management of the district.

Young also advised the board that numerous play-off games had been held in the new CHS gym and those who had used the gym from out of town had praised the gym design as well as personnel who had worked so hard to make their play-off experience enjoyable.

Welcome Home Sargeant Travis Bryan Sanders!
2/19/2008 (contributed)
We are absolutely thrilled to tell everyone that our son, Sergeant Travis Bryan Sanders, is home! He will be in town for a little while before starting his civilian life to go back to school.

He has recently returned from his second deployment of 15 months in Iraq and came be home on Tuesday Feb. 12th!! Sergeant Sanders was a member of the 1st ID, 2nd Brigade Combat Team 1st Battalion 7th Field Artillery Division based out of Germany…The Big Red One.

Travis went to Coleman Schools from kindergarten until his tenth grade year, when we moved so he then graduated from Joshua High School, a suburb of Fort Worth, and he spent one year at Tarleton University in 2000 before 911, before he enlisted in the US Army to help his country. After boot camp in 2001 at Fort Sill Oklahoma, he flew directly to Germany that day, where he has been stationed between deployments to Iraq.

Sergeant Sanders signed up after 911 not thinking about where he would go in the Army, he just wanted to help his country and he became Our greatest hero…
He was the third generation of Sanders men in our family to serve their country in the United States Army and all 3 were stationed in Germany:
His Grandfather was in the Army, Sergeant Travis Sanders of Coleman, who owns Travis’ Furniture and Antiques, and was stationed in Germany during World War II.
His Dad, was Sergeant Travis G. Sanders, a Carpenter/Ceramic Tile setter of Coleman, was Special Forces (a Green Beret), during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany.
Sergeant Travis Bryan Sanders was a Gunner on the M109 A6 Paladin and saw two tours of Iraq. He has had many prayers from this community and the Coleman Churches.  Thank you all so much for your prayers.

Sergeant Sanders is the son of Pam and Travis Sanders of Coleman. He is the brother of Leigh Oxford and husband Alan of Coleman, the Uncle of Alexis Cohen/Oxford of Coleman and the Grandson of Travis and Wilma Sanders of Coleman.

Early Voting Underway
2/19/2008
One has to do some hard thinking to remember a time when we've had so many local candidates in the March Primary in Coleman County and so many contested races. You can begin voting your support for your favorite candidates today at the Coleman County Courthouse. Early voting hours will be 8:00am to 5:00pm.

A total of 15 candidates filed for office in Coleman County with five of the seven offices contested in the March 4th Primary. There are 10 Republican and 5 Democratic candidates.

County Sheriff - Incumbent Wade Turner and challenger Steve Vail both filed in the Republican Primary.

County Clerk - Incumbent Stacey Mendoza is on the Republican ballot while challenger Priscilla A. Phillips is on the Democratic ballot.

Precinct 1 County Commissioner - Incumbent Jim Porter will retire at the end of 2008 and did not seek re-election. Challenging for the job are Don Allen and Mark Williams in the Republican Primary and James Allen and Terry Gene Fortune in the Democratic Primary.

Precinct 3 County Commissioner - Incumbent Mike Barker and challenger John Puckett filed on the Republican ticket while challenger Mike Stephenson filed on the Democratic ticket.

District Attorney - Incumbent Joe Lee Rose and challenger Heath Hemphill both filed in the Republican Primary.

The two unopposed offices are County Constable where incumbent Joe Watson filed in the Republican Primary and Tax Assessor-Collector where incumbent Jamie Trammell filed in the Democratic Primary.

Remember, in the Primary, you have to pick one party to cast your vote, you can't split votes between parties until the General Election in November.

The Texas Secretary of State answers commonly asked questions concerning the Primary:

Voting in the Primary Elections
If you are a registered voter in the state of Texas, you will simply choose your party and vote in that party's primary. To explain, we do not register by party in Texas. One becomes "affiliated" with a party by voting in a party's primary and the affiliation lasts for that primary year. As an example, if a voter voted in the March 2006 primary or April 2006 runoff primary, the voter affiliated with that party for the rest of that year, but on December 31, 2006 the affiliation expired. The affiliation means that the person may not vote in another party’s primary or participate in another party’s convention or sign an independent candidate’s petition for place on the ballot if the independent candidate’s position appears on the primary ballot. Note that in the general election in November, a voter may vote for whomever he/she wishes, regardless of how or whether he/she voted in the primary or runoff primary election, since all candidates are on the same ballot.

Q: Can anybody vote early in person, or only those people who are going to be out of town on election day? What are the dates for voting early in person?

A: Any registered voter may vote early by personal appearance (in person). Early voting by personal appearance for the March 4, 2008 Primary Election begins on February 19, 2008 and ends on February 29, 2008.

There is plenty more voting information on-line and just a click away from Texas Secretary of State Phil Wilson HERE.

Tentative Bluecat Football Schedule Released
2/19/2008
Coleman Bluecat football fans will see Hufford Field only four times while traveling to six out of town stadiums, although the trips won't be as bad as they could be. We won't play a home game until the fourth game of the season.  The two long hauls, Olney and Rogers, are going to be played at neutral locations - Olney and Coleman in Cisco to begin the season on August 29th followed by Coleman and Rogers in Brownwood on a Saturday, not part of the Gordon Wood Classic (corrected from earlier), sorry for the mistake.  Again, this is a tentative schedule, but here it is as it stands now:

Aug. 29 vs. Olney @ Cisco

Sept. 6* vs. Rogers @ Brownwood (Saturday game)

Sept. 12 vs. Hawley @ Hawley

Sept. 19 vs. Colorado City @ Coleman

Sept. 26 vs. Comanche @ Comanche

Oct. 3 - Open

Oct 10 vs. Dublin @ Coleman

Oct. 17 vs. Bangs @ Bangs

Oct. 24 vs. Brady @ Coleman

Oct. 31 vs. Early @ Early

Nov. 7 vs. San Saba @ Coleman

Sabrina Martin Laurent Graduates from Texas A&M
2/18/2008
Sabrina Martin Laurent graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology on December 15th, 2007. Throughout her time at Texas A&M she was also a member of the Aggie Athletic Trainers Association working with the Aggie Football, Volleyball, Cross Country and Track teams as a Student Athletic Trainer. She is a licensed athletic trainer and certified EC-12 P.E. teacher and coach. Upon graduation Sabrina accepted a 5 week substitute position in Lubbock. Sabrina and her husband, Jim Don Laurent, have recently relocated to Dimmitt, Texas.  Sabrina is the daughter of Gay and Paul Martin of Santa Anna. Her grandparents are Ruby and Charles Hosch of Santa Anna and Felton and the late Bettie Martin of Trickham.

Colt Martin Graduates from TSTC
2/18/2008
Colt Martin graduated with honors from TSTC – Sweetwater on August 18, 2007 with a certification in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology. In order to receive a Certificate of Completion, students must pass an Industry Competency Exam and an EPA Section 608 exam core and either type 1, 2, or 3 or a universal exam comprised of all three types.
TSTC technical programs also require that students undergo a capstone experience before graduation. Colt accomplished this through placement in a co-operative education setting in industry and an internship and clinical experience with Precision Unlimited, Inc Heating in Abilene.  Colt lives in Abilene and has been a full time Precision Unlimited employee since August 2007.  Colt is the son of Paul and Gay Martin of Santa Anna. His grandparents are Ruby and Charles Hosch of Santa Anna and Felton and the late Bettie Martin of Trickham.

Hospice Fund Drive Is a Success
2/18/2008
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 year a total of $1,245 was donated from the Coleman area for the "Hearts Remembered" fundraiser.

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.

Once again, everyone involved in the fund drive expresses a very grateful "thank you"!

Historical Commission Holds Meeting
2/18/2008 (by Tex Wright)
The Coleman County Historical Commission met in the First Coleman National Bank Community room with much anticipation of the coming events scheduled.

Chairman Eric Joffrion called the meeting to order at 7:00pm. He then called for a reading of the minutes from the last meeting. Harold Claireborn made the motion that the reading of the minutes be forgone due to the heavy workload for the evening. Tex Wright seconded the motion. All others approved.

Chairman Joffrion then welcomed all visitors and members with a hearty “Welcome”. Committee reports were passed up due to the program and missing committee members.

Clyde Severance of the 150 Committee gave an update on the Sesquicentennial plans and activities. Many of the members and visitors commented on how great the “Birthday Party” had been the past Saturday (Feb 2).

Mr. Saverance said if all holds true, there will be 27 more events in this county to celebrate the 150th Birthday of Coleman County, each being better than the last. He said if anyone had ideas, thoughts, or general comments the 150 committee would like to hear from you.
Mr. Saverance told the group that the next event on schedule would be the “Spring Event”. This will consist of a parade of tractors, a tractor pull, and a folk type event. If anyone wants to show off your skills in quilting, churning, tanning, making soap or any other talents it took in 1858, please contact the committee member of your choice or come to the next meeting.
Remember! Mark March 29th on your calendar.

Montie Guthrie brought up the point that the 1st Christian Church of Santa Anna  was receiving some much needed repairs. A roofing company (JMJ) is putting a new roof on the Church and the parsonage. He also said that due to the efforts of the HDO, the church was being placed on the endangered places list with the Texas Historical commission.

Judge Jimmy Hobbs was welcomed to the podium. He said he would be very short because he wanted to hear what the group from Rockwood had to say.
Judge Hobbs spoke on the restoration of the courthouse, He said that the Texas Historical Commission had told him that they would fund up to 90% of the work and that the local courthouse would be high on the list due to the 1884 building date of the original building. After answering a few questions, Judge Hobbs took his seat in the audience.

Tex Wright then introduced Judy Bryan from Rockwood. She in turn introduced Faye Wise, Claudia Rutherford, Minnie Bray, Elec Cooper and his wife Rose Cooper.
Ms. Bryan gave a short history of the Rockwood area, the Waldrip Bridge, and the cattle drives through the area. Ms. Bryan said the Waldrip bridge was originally built in 1894 by the King Bridge Company using local labor to do the construction.
In 1906 a rise of 65 feet of water (5 foot over the bridge) washed away the bridge leaving only the piers standing in the river. The local residents were called on to rebuild the bridge.
In 1936 a 72 foot rise came down the river and again washed out the bridge. And again the local residents rebuilt the bridge.
The bridge is the longest span in the area, being 654 ½ feet in length. This gives Coleman County and the town of Rockwood bragging rights.
Ms. Bryan brought up another 1st for the area – the first paved road in the county was between Santa Anna and Waldrip.
Mrs. Faye Wise said she had been on the river near the Waldrip Bridge 61 years, coming there after her marriage. Mrs. Claudia Rutherford said she had been in the Rockwood area all her life.
Mr. Cooper and the ladies talked about events that had happened in Rockwood, answering questions from the audience and reminding each other of other happenings in the community.
Mrs. Wise said that when her husband graduated from high school in 1941 there were 41 graduates. It was heard in the back ground that there weren’t that many people in the town now.
A question was asked from the audience, “ What did kids do in Rockwood for fun?”. Mrs. Rutherford answered “We listened to the river bridge.”
Question: “You didn’t do any spooning by the bridge, did you”
Answer: “ That was the place.”
Mrs. Rutherford said “When I was a teenager, we had the new river bridge.” “We could go under it.” “That was the meeting place”
This was one of our longer meetings and among the most enjoyable. After much discussion, a motion was made to adjourn the meeting. A second was given and all approved, but the discussion went on.
Our next meeting will be March 6th in the same place. The Santa Anna Library will give the program on 101 years of reading material. The Library opened in March 1907. We will look forward to seeing you there.

Finally - Rain !
2/17/2008
Rainfall amounts will vary quite a lot across Coleman County due to the way the storm system evolved Friday. Storms were racing northward at 40-50mph as they passed over.
Here at the Colemannews.com office, we recorded a half inch.
Tex Wright at the base of the Santa Anna Mountain in Santa Anna reported a total of .55 and "little bitty" hail.
Bill Garrett, five miles southwest of Santa Anna, had .70.
If you have any rainfall amounts you want to report, send them to mail@colemannews.com.

2008-2009 CHS Cheerleaders
2/15/2008
The 2008-2009 school year cheerleading squad for Coleman High School was selected Friday afternoon. The cheerleaders for next year will be:  Casie Swening, Rynn Norris, Reagan Barr, Meagan Ogden, Shelbie DeLeon, Dylan Buzzard, Jackie Birdwell, Angelina Jones. Kalie Diaz will be the Bluecat mascot.

Heather McMillan Places 3rd at Fort Worth Stock Show
2/15/2008
Heather McMillan of Santa Anna 4-H placed 3rd with "Butterball", her light-weight Black OPB, at the historic Fort Worth Stock Show.

Ronnie Daniel (Daniel Farms) of Santa Anna and Lynn Loyd were the breeders. The McMillans - Todd, Sherry, Heather, Kenneth and Chris, wish to send a special "Thank You" to Ronnie and Lynn for all their help.

Volunteers Get Approval to Archive Old County Records
2/13/2008
Darryl and Ellen Trickler spoke to Coleman County Commissioners this week and received approval to begin archiving old county records. They plan to start in July or perhaps a little later.

The Trickler's are a part of the Genealogical Society of Utah. "We are an arm of the Mormon Church. We feel a need to bind our families together. Plus there are a lot of people who love genealogy," Mrs. Trickler said. They plan to use a digital camera to take images of older courthouse records. Following the guidelines of the Texas Archive Commission, they plan to look into birth, death, delayed births, marriage, military discharge, state census, deeds of trust and other records.

District Clerk Jo Dean Chapman spoke and voiced concern that some of the records are sealed and can't be viewed. The Trickler's agreed that they would work closely with county officials to image the appropriate files. The Genealogy Society of Utah is doing this at no charge to the county and will send a copy of their work to the county for local people to use. They have done similar work in San Angelo in Tom Green County and in Menard.

Garden Club Members Observe Arbor Day
2/14/2008 (contributed)
Town & Country Garden Club members recently gathered at Coleman City Park to commemorate National Arbor Day at the site of one of five native Texas redbud trees that have been planted by the Club as part of the Coleman County Sesquicentennial Redbud Trail project. 

Janie Popnoe, Redbud Project Chairman, Sue Brusenhan, Mona Wilson, Carol Scott,  Eileen Morris and Glorya Puckett.

Did you know: National Arbor Day, founded in Nebraska in 1872, is a nationally-celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care and is celebrated each year on the last Friday in April. The Garden Club got an early start this year since Texas gardeners are encouraged to plant trees either in late fall or early spring to avoid heat and drought conditions which often arrive by late April.

To those who have purchased Sesquicentennial redbud trees, the Garden Club reminds you to be sure to continue watering your newly planted trees about twice a month, depending on rainfall.

Four Appointed to Coleman Co. Historical Commission
2/14/2008
Coleman County Commissioners voted to appoint Sue Frizzell, Roger Nelson, James Winstead and Maxine Cope to the Coleman County Historical Commission. Three people have resigned from the Commission including Harold Claiborne, Wanda Ragsdale Cockrell and Don Mathis.

And the Winner Is.....
2/13/2008
.......Herma Jean Johnson! Congratulations to Herma Jean! She is the lucky winner of the Sweetheart Basket that was being raffled for Zach Doyle's trip to Europe in June. Again, thanks to each and everyone who contributed towards the basket, bought tickets, and even those special people who sold tickets for us. We are truly blessed to have such a network of wonderful people around us!

Sincerely, Zach, Jenny, & Todd

Update on Petition Submitted to County
2/14/2008
As we first reported on February 1st, County Commissioners were presented a petition by Joyce Smith requesting a property tax freeze for disabled homeowners and those at least 65 years old. The petition was found to have a valid number of signatures of registered voters in the county.

County Attorney Heath Hemphill has been looking into when an election could be held and told County Commissioners at their meeting this week that there are two permissible dates. The first is the second Tuesday in May (when other local elections are taking place) or the November general election date. "You have to call the election 62 days before you have it," Hemphill said. When Commissioners meet on the final day of this month, February 29, they will likely have this item on their agenda.

Bluecat Football Honors Keep Rolling In
2/13/2008
The 2007 Bluecat football season is long gone but that doesn't mean the honors have stopped coming for various members of the team.

CLICK HERE to see who has been honored by TexasHSFootball.com.

Sheriff’s Office Report on Calls for Service Week of 2-6-08 thru 2-13-08
2/13/2008 (courtesy Co. Sheriff Wade Turner)
There were 34 calls for service this past week in addition to routine patrol and ongoing investigations. They are as follows:

Service of Civil Process – 3, Civil Dispute over land – 1, Illegal Dumping – 1, Traffic Violations – 10, Reckless Driving – 1, Arrest – 1, Welfare Check – 1, Death Message Delivered – 1, Suspicious, Vehicle – 1, Assist DPS with Accident – 1, Motorist Assist – 1, Assist Justice of the Peace at Inquest – 1, Possible Fire – 1, Fire – 1, Traffic Control – 1, Suspicious Person – 1, Funeral Escort – 1, Transport Prisoner to ER – 1, Provided Security at CCMC for Prisoner – 2, Provided Bailiff for County Court – 1 , Provided Translator Service for Subject in County Court – 1, Transport MHMR Patient to Wichita Falls – 1.

The Coleman County Jail is currently housing our capacity of 13 male prisoners at this time.

1 – Charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Assault awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance awaiting District Court disposition. Subject also has a Blue Warrant from TDCJ awaiting TDCJ disposition.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a Building awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Sentenced to 90days out of County Court for DWI serving sentence.
1 – Charged with Murder and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon awaiting District Court Dispositions.
1 – With a Blue Warrant from TDCJ awaiting TDCJ disposition.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a habitation awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Sentenced to 5 years TDCJ and 9 months State Jail for Theft of a Firearm and Felon in Possession of a Firearm waiting transport conformation from TDCJ.
1 – Charged with Possession of Marijuana and Manufacture and Delivery of a Controlled Substance awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Felony Motion to Revoke Probation awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Assaults with Deadly Weapon Violation of Probation awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a Habitation Violation of Probation awaiting District Court disposition and also charged with Furnishing Alcohol to Minor awaiting County Court disposition.
1 – Charged with Aggravated Assault awaiting District Court disposition.

Jennifer Hubbard Selected for Leadership Program
2/13/2008
Texas A&M student, Jennifer Hubbard, was nominated and selected to attend the National LeaderShape Institute. This is the fifth year Texas A&M is privileged to sponsor sixty outstanding students from across the university. Jennifer will be sent to all all-paid intensive and energizing six-day program that teaches key leadership issues at Pineywoods Camp in Groveton, Texas. "This is a unique opportunity for Jennifer to interact with others from across the nation and embrace a healthy disregard for the impossible," says Emily Kimball, Aggie Access Program Coordinator.

Since its inception in 1986, The National LeaderShape Institute has had more than 20,000 young people from more than 500 different colleges, universities, corporations, and organizations from across America graduate from the program.
 

Jennifer, a 2006 Coleman graduate, is the daughter of Drew and Barbara Hubbard. Proud grandparents are Jerry & Jimmie Ruth Hubbard.

Police Investigate Aggravated Assault
2/13/2008
On Tuesday February 12, 2008 at approximately 6:41 PM, Coleman Police Department received a 911 call from 909 North Neches Street in reference to an assault that had happened at this location.

When the Coleman Police Department arrived at 909 North Neches Street, offficers found a man, later identified as Albert Diaz Rodriquez of Coleman, with injuries to his head and face. Another man, later identified as Welton Ray Watson Jr. of Coleman, was identified as a victim with cuts and a stab wound to the abdomen area.

Rodriquez was transported to Coleman County Medical Center by Coleman County EMS. Watson was taken to Coleman County Medical Center by a family member. According to Coleman Detective Seargent Les Cogdill, the case is still under investigation and more information will be released when the investigation is completed. The Police Department was assisted on the scene by Coleman County EMS and Coleman Fire Department.

Skelton Files for City Council
2/13/2008
According to Sue Burleson, Coleman City Secretary, Harold Skelton filed Tuesday morning for Place 2 (West Ward) on the Coleman City Council. Skelton is a Coleman tax accountant.  Incumbent Bill Casselberry resigned from the West Ward position last week.

Dear Editor
2/12/2008
Local politics is not always sweet--or comical. But occasionally, things come around in the conversation at the coffee shop that bear re-telling. And you just know--ONLY in Texas!

Recently I was speaking to one of our Democratic candidates after he had spent the day walking the streets of Coleman knocking on doors and campaigning. And this feller is no spring chicken--if you get my drift. He spent the afternoon walking, knocking, talking, and sweating. Said every time he pulled his Stetson off to wipe his bald head the sweat literally ran off. He came to a house with a fenced front yard and a big ole Black Lab dog sat there looking at him--kind of like "Come on in, Buddy. I dare you."

Well, this being Texas, and him being around dogs all his (considerable) life, he opened the gate and eased in and up the walk to the house. Of course---no one's home and there's the dog--BETWEEN him and the gate.

Well, he starts slowly walking back up the sidewalk to the gate, past that big ole Lab, who just sits there watching the whole proceeding. He finally gets to the gate, unlatches it, opens and eases around it, breathing for the first time since he went in. In that fleeting instant as he relaxes, that ole Lab comes up like a rocket and knocks that Democrat down as he flashes out that open gate!

Knowing this will never do, our candidate takes off after that (must be a Republican) Lab. One block...two blocks....three blocks! Finally, that dog begins to tire--not our candidate, though. To hear him tell it, he was still at full-tilt boogie when the dog tuckered out. Whatever. Anyway, the Lab sits down to rest and our candidate, who happened to go past his truck and snatch up a horse bridle and reins, wraps the bridle around the Lab's neck and looks back toward the house---THREE long blocks!

You guessed it--walk the dog back, get him in the yard and shut the gate. And that Lab looks up, wagging, with that big old Lab grin, like he was saying, "Thanks, Buddy. Come back and play any time!".

All in a day's campaigning in Texas.

Montie Guthrie

Thanks to the 2008 Coleman County Livestock Show Donors and Volunteers
2/12/2008
Producers Livestock Auction Company, Paul Reynolds, M.D., Robert Cheaney, Countywide Insurance, Earle Smith’s Jewelry, Coleman County State Bank, Johnson Implement Co., Coleman Veterinary Clinic, Richard Hetzel, Jim Hargett, Janie Brown Hemphill, E. Dale Herring, Kent Finley, James Hausenfluke, Scott & Myrtie Beaver, Sammy Pate, James & Jo Barr, Coleman Livestock Auction, Coleman Grain, Don Johnson, Sidney Burdick, W. Bennett Ragsdale, Kaye Franklin, Arthur Doose, Jr., Harold & Caroline Skelton, Dubar Corp., Tyson Pharmacy, Bob & Ann Turner, Hemphill Land & Cattle LTD, Ben J. Scott, Jimmie Jamison, Don Allen, D & R Automotive, Stephen Autry, Ingram Concrete, L.L.C., Coleman County Electric Coop., Circle C Cattlewomen, Liveoak Land and Real Estate, Big O’s, Central Texas Farm Credit, Mr. & Mrs. Charlie Avants, Grammer’s, Colemannews.com, Chronicle & DV, Mr. & Mrs. Burgess Stewardson, Curtis & Virginia Jamison, Don L. Wilkinson, Glen Scarborough Sherman & Tammy Smith, O. G. Lanier, Chris & Cindy Jamison, Steve & Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Rodney Ivy, Nathan Wise, Lance & Christa McWhorter, Brent & Renea McMillan, Dusty & Christie Greaves, Jennifer Short, Ross & Debbie Burdick, Chuck & Nancy Baker, Donna Triplitt, Lynn & Gail Loyd, Rick Smith, Ronnie Daniel, Wes Dockery, Cody Fikes, Josh Daniel, Jay & Willene Davis, Santa Anna National Bank, Bledsoe Ford, Coleman County Special Utility District, Heath & Danielle Hemphill, Bowen Drug Store/James Stokes, First Coleman National Bank, Hall’s Processing, Jo Ann Allen, Sandy & Barbara Neal, Kirby Vanover, Coleman County Farm Bureau, Williams Tire Store, Lanham & Kim Horne, Henry & Margie Dodson, Jack & Carole Horne, Henderson Funeral Home, Davis Farm & Ranch Supply, Johnson Feed Barn, Collier Watson-CPA, J. E. Stevens Co., Mr. & Mrs. Bill Merryman, Simmons Feed & Seed, Coleman County TEEA, Dan Edington and Granvil Burrow.

Two Candidates File for Re-Election
2/12/2008
Two local incumbents filed for re-election Monday, the first day to file for office.
For Coleman City Council, John Plummer filed for the South Ward seat. Plummer also currently serves as Mayor Pro-Tem.

For Coleman School Board, Jody Payne filed Monday for Place 1.

Christy Pickett Gallaher Graduates from UTPB
2/12/2008
Christy (Pickett) Gallaher received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Multidisciplinary Studies with EC-4 generalist teaching certification from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin on Saturday, December 15, 2007 in Odessa. Christy graduated with Cum Laude Honors, was named to the Dean’s List, and was also a member of the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society.  

Christy is a 2003 graduate of Coleman High School and is the daughter of Cathy and the late Terry Pickett. She currently resides in Midland with husband Michael Gallaher.

Want to Run for Local Office?
2/11/2008
If you want to run for Coleman City Council or School Board, Monday, February 11, was the first day to file for office. File for City Council at City Hall, file for School Board at the School Administration office.  March 10th is the last day to file.

County Commissioners Move Forward on Courthouse Renovation Project
2/11/2008
For many who live in Coleman County, they only know the county courthouse as it looks now. For others born prior to 1951, they remember what it used to look like, a majestic structure very similar to other area courthouses such as Albany and Brady. For quite some time, several local people have been studying the possibility of returning the County Courthouse to its original look while bringing it up-to-date.   The Coleman County courthouse is the 4th oldest in the state not to have been renovated as of yet.

Monday morning at the Coleman County Commissioners meeting, Zac Allen (shown above left) made a presentation to Commissioners on behalf of those interested in renovating the courthouse.  He has had extensive discussions with the Texas Historical Commission which has a division called the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, the largest preservation grant program ever initiated by a state government. Many counties in Texas have taken advantage of the program to renovate their courthouse. You can read more about the program HERE.

Basically, the state picks up 90% of the tab. The county is responsible for paying for the Master Plan which an exact cost isn't known yet but estimates of $50,000 were mentioned.  The state sends in a team to study data on the county courthouse. The county will also have to consider the cost to move county government offices to alternate sites while renovation is being done on the courthouse.   The cost of this is not yet known nor is a location.

"There is large community support for this project," said Allen. County Judge Jimmie Hobbs echoed Allen's statement saying over 170 signatures of support were recorded at the recent Sesquicentennial Birthday Party "and not one person was against it". Hobbs explained a new facility would obviously bring the courthouse up to standards with heating and air conditioning, electrical wiring and handicap accessibility.  "There is (state) money out there and we want to take advantage of it," Allen said. "I think it's doable, but it won't be easy," Hobbs added. It was also pointed out that all of the offices now in the Courthouse may not necessarily return to the Courthouse as some counties have built annexes nearby to house individual offices. This, however, is one of the reasons for the Master Plan.

The end result was that Commissioners gave approval for County Judge Hobbs to contact architectural firms who have experience in this type of renovation to investigate developing a Master Plan. 

Letter to the Editor
02/11/2008
We wanted to tell the people of Coleman County about the Heath Hemphill that we know running for Coleman County District Attorney. He did not ask or expect us to write this letter. This is a surprise to him too! Thank you for taking the time to read our letter.

I think Heath Hemphill will be a great District Attorney.
Six years ago, when our family moved to Coleman, I began to get to know Heath. Sometimes Heath took things way to serious (sorry Heath)! Now I realize that he just puts his heart into everything he does. What I want to tell you about is how quickly and organized he took care of my adoption. Heath asked me one day if I wanted to get my named changed and finish everything. Well, to make a long story short, Judge Quay Parker was retiring in Shackelford County and had one more day of work left in Albany. Judge Parker called me into his office to confirm what everyone was telling him. He told me he wished that every child in the State of Texas could have parents like mine and have a friend like Heath Hemphill. Well, it turned out to be a fun day, and we took pictures with the Judge, Heath, and
my parents. Thank you Heath for helping me and my family, I cannot even express my appreciation. Casey and I have loved Coleman and the people here. Heath has proven to be a good friend of mine who has offered honest advise regarding school, work, and family. He has good ideas and wants our community to be safe. Sarah Lofton

Heath has certainly supported me through six years growing up in Coleman County. I am blessed to have great friends and family. Heath has encouraged me in everything I do.  Heath was in Lubbock the last two years to see our football season end, always with an encouraging word. He took me to my first AGGIE football game where I learned that Texas A&M offers a lot more than football. We have worked together and had fun together. We talk a lot about how hard work and honesty will payoff in the end. Heath believes all of the people in Coleman County deserve to be safe. When Sarah and I leave for college in August, Heath will certainly be on speed dial. I support Heath Hemphill for Coleman County District Attorney. Casey Lofton

One-Day Spring Turkey Hunt / One-Day Dove Hunt to be Raffled Soon
2/10/2008 (courtesy Debbie Jameson)
The Coleman High School Junior Parents of the Class of 2009 are continuing their fundraiser for the “Hunting Package Raffle” through February. The drawing will be held early March. The hunting package is valued at over $2000.00 and anyone can purchase a chance at the cost of $10.00 per ticket. All proceeds will be used by the CHS Junior Parents in order to host an “After-Prom Alcohol/Drug Free Celebration” which will be held in May of 2008.

The combination One-Day Spring Turkey Hunt/One-Day Dove Hunt Hunting Package will consist of the following items, which have been graciously donated by the listed merchants below:

1) One-Day Spring Turkey Hunt donated by Hemphill Land & Cattle Company

2) One-Day Dove Hunt with meals and shells donated by Executive Outfitters-Ted Taylor

3) Feeder donated by Shoppin Basket Food Center-Dennis Stroebel

4) Standard Processing for 2008-2009 season donated by Hall’s Processing-Steve Hall

5) Five bags of corn donated by Davis Farm and Ranch Supply-Jay Davis

6) Twenty bags of corn/20 bags of Whole Milo donated by Coleman Grain-Tommy Saunders

7) Cooler donated by J.E. Stevens Company-Joe Johnson

8) $100 Gift Certificate for in-stock only Carhartt Clothing -Cooper Supply-Sharon Paul

9) $75.00 Gift Certificate donated by Bishops-Jake & Jeana Farrow

10) $50.00 Gas Gift Certificate donated by Buddy’s Quik Stop-Mike Barker

You only have few weeks to purchase a chance so don’t miss your chance to win this GREAT hunting package! This is not only a great hunting package but also includes free gas, food and clothing.

For more information, you may contact Debbie Jameson at 625-1040, Beverly Casselberry at 625-3627 or any other Coleman junior parent.

City Councilman Resigns
2/8/2008
C.E. "Bill" Casselberry, who represents the West Ward of Coleman, resigned from the Coleman City Council Thursday at their regular meeting. Citing health reasons in his household, Casselberry submitted his resignation, asked to be excused and left the meeting.

The City Council will meet again Monday to formally accept the resignation. Casselberry has more than a year left in his current term. According to Sue Burleson, City Secretary, the City Charter states there has to be a special election if someone has more than a year left in their term.

Time permits to incorporate the West Ward position into the regular city election which is coming up on May 10th.

In other business from the short meeting - the Council approved placing a proposition on the May 10th ballot to change the fiscal year of the City of Coleman to begin on October 1 of each calendar year and to end on September 30 of the following calendar year.

Another proposition on the ballot will be worded as follows: The City Manager, prior to September 1 of each year, shall prepare and submit to the Council, a budget covering the next fiscal year, which shall contain the information described below. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

Along with the propositions and the addition of the West Ward position to the ballot will be the North Ward and South Ward council positions. The Council appointed Sue Burleson as early voting judge, Kermit Sorrells as election day judge and Ronnie Busby as alternate election day judge.

Sheriff’s Report for the week of 1-30-08 thru 2-05-08
2/7/2008 (courtesy Co. Sheriff Wade Turner)
The Sheriff’s Office received 25 calls for service this past week in addition to routine patrol and ongoing investigations. They are as follows:

Arrests – 3; Recovered Stolen Guns – 2; Injury to a Child – 1; Criminal Mischief in Novice – 1; Trespassers – 1; Civil Dispute – 1; Criminal Mischief in County – 2; Theft – 3; Traffic Hazard – 1; Motorist Assist – 1; Illegal Burning in Novice – 1; Phone Harassment – 2; Domestic Disturbance – 1; Grass Fire in Novice – 1; Subject Setting off Fireworks – 1; Service of Civil Process – 2; Transport Prisoner to Dentist – 1.

We are currently housing 12 male prisoners in the Coleman County Jail at this time.

1 – Sentenced to 5 years TDCJ and 9 months State Jail for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Theft of a Firearm waiting transport conformation.
1 – Sentenced to 90days in County Jail for DWI serving sentence.
1 – Charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Assault awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance awaiting District Court disposition and subject also has a Blue Warrant from TDCJ.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a Habitation awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Charged with Murder and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – With a Blue Warrant from TDCJ awaiting TDCJ disposition.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a Habitation awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Charged with Possession of Marijuana and Manufacture and Delivery of a Controlled Substance awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Felony Motion to Revoke Probation awaiting District Court disposition.
1 – Charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon Violation of Probation awaiting District Court dispositions.
1 – Charged with Burglary of a Habitation Violation of Probation awaiting District Court disposition and charged with Furnishing Alcohol to Minors awaiting County Court disposition.

Coleman County Farm Bureau Celebrates Food Check-Off Week
2/7/2008
By the end of this week, most Americans will have earned enough disposable income to pay for their food for the entire year, according to Texas Farm Bureau. Coleman County Farm Bureau is celebrating the efforts of farmers and ranchers, and the continued affordability of food, during Food Check-Out Week, Feb. 3-9.

According to the most recent statistics compiled by the Agriculture Department’s Economic Research Service, American families and individuals spend, on average, just 9.9 percent of their disposable personal income for food. Applying the current statistic to the calendar year means the average U.S. household will have earned enough disposable income – the portion of income available for spending or saving after taxes are paid – to pay for its annual food supply this week.

America’s food supply remains the safest abundant and affordable, thanks to the hard-working farm and ranch families who produce it. Coleman County Farm Bureau is also concerned and aware that some Americans cannot afford to buy the food they need and will be making a donation to the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry in honor of Food Check-off week.

Texas Farm Bureau is a non-profit farm and ranch organization (www.txfb.org).  These are some of the goals of Farm Bureau:
• Achieve an economic climate that will improve net farm income
•Enhance public perception of agriculture
• Promote free and fair trade
• Preserve individual freedoms
• A smaller, more efficient federal government
• Work for strong local and state government
• Promote a fair tax system
• Balance the federal budget

SAFETY MESSAGE - Texas Winter Fire Season 2008
2/7/2008
During the 2006 Fire Season seven firefighters suffered severe burns on wildland fires. So far during the 2008 Fire Season three firefighters in the State have suffered burns fighting wildland fires. That being said extremely dangerous conditions exist when certain weather thresholds are crossed. With the situation as it stands now, we have near record amounts of freeze cured grasses across the state. La Nina weather conditions are bringing above normal temperatures and below normal rain for the western half of the state of Texas and regular frontal passages are bringing high winds and low relative humidity that cause explosive fire behavior

MAJOR HAZARDS AND RISKS that our firefighters face. Under RED FLAG conditions, they can expect erratic and intense FIRE BEHAVIOR and fast-moving flame fronts. With 30-mph winds, expect spread rates of 450 feet per minute (5 miles per hour) and average FLAME LENGTHS OF 18 FEET. This time of year, it is common for wind directions and speeds to switch suddenly when associated with a frontal passage. Any change in wind speed or direction will have an IMMEDIATE IMPACT on flame lengths and rates of spread in fine (grass) fuels.

Under these conditions the firefighters should ATTACK FROM THE BLACK whenever possible. Maintain situational awareness of weather, fire behavior, and other fire resources and maintain communications with all fire personnel and resources before, during, and after the fire.

The Texas Forest Service has ATTACK FROM THE BLACK wildland fire safety DVDs that are free to Texas fire departments. These can be ordered at the following email address: attackfromtheblack@tfs.tamu.edu.

Halfmann Earns Honors from Catholic Life Insurance
2/7/2008
SAN ANTONIO—A Lowake resident was recently honored by Catholic Life Insurance, the nation's eighth largest fraternal benefit society.

Werner Halfmann, FIC, was a leading producer of life insurance and retirement annuity sales for Catholic Life Insurance and earned the number one “Twelve Apostle” award.

Halfmann was honored for professional achievement in life insurance and related financial planning during a special awards ceremony held January 19, 2008, during the 2008 Leaders Conference. The three-day conference was held January 18-20, 2008, at the Lakeway Inn Conference Center in Austin, Texas.

Founded in 1901, Catholic Life Insurance is the nation's eighth largest fraternal life insurer. The San Antonio-based company offers life insurance, retirement annuities, IRAs and fraternal benefits to individuals, families, and businesses. The company is financially strong with assets exceeding $671 million and insurance-in-force surpassing $1.7 billion.

Statistics for Coleman Police Department for January 2008.
2/6/2008
Investigations: Criminal Mischief-2, Burglaries-7, Theft-7, Disorderly Conduct-1, Aggravated Assault-1, Forgery-1, Driving While Intoxicated-1, Possession of Controlled Substance-1, Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle-1, Child Protective Service Investigations-2, Harassment-1, Credit Card Abuse-1, Making Alcohol Available to Minor-1.
Arrests: Warrants-14, Public Intoxication-2, Minor In Possession of Alcohol-1, Assault Family Violence-3, Burglary of Building-1, Theft-1, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia-1, Evading Arrest-1.
Accidents: No Injury-11, With Injury-3.
Citations Issued: Animal Control-1 citation with 1 charge filed, School Resource Officer-9 citations with 9 charges filed, Police Department-58 citations with 65 charges filed.
Warnings Issued: Animal Control-2, Police Department-12.
Code Enforcement: 5 tickets issued, 1 warning issued,
Animal Control: Calls for Service-73, Dogs Picked Up-35, Cats Picked Up-8, Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-10.
Chamber Requesting Nominations for 2008 Community Special Awards
2/6/2008
Nominations for 2008 Citizen of the Year, Rural Citizen of the Year, New Horizon Award, and Teacher of the Year Award are being accepted now at the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office. The New Horizon Award is for any person between the age of 20 – 45, residing in Coleman or Coleman County. Nominations for Teacher of the Year are for any teacher teaching in Coleman County Schools. Winner of the four awards will be announced at the Annual Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Banquet on Friday, April 25, 2008.

Nominations should be mailed or turned in at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 31st which is the deadline to submit names for consideration by the election committee.

Notation should be made on the outside of the sealed envelopes stating which award the nominated person is being named to receive. Unopened envelopes will be given to the selection committee for their decisions.

Mailing address of the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Office is P.O. Box 796, Coleman, Texas 76834 or please come by the Chamber Office for a nomination form.

More information concerning the banquet on April 25th will be announced at a later date.

COTILLION EXPANSION PLANS
INCLUDE COLEMAN COUNTY
2/6/2008
(CHARLOTTE, NC)--- The NATIONAL LEAGUE OF JUNIOR COTILLIONS™ (NLJC), a program of etiquette, character education, and social dance training for middle and junior high school students, has announced plans to establish its National program in Coleman County.

Says Anne Colvin Winters, NLJC National Director, “We will be selecting a director for a local chapter who will receive complete training and an exclusive territory for expansion.”
The organization currently has directors operating hundreds of chapters in 34 states. Says Winters, “This program is making a positive impact on students across the nation and we are delighted to know that more young people in this area will have the opportunity for this vital training.” The program currently has active chapters statewide.
The purpose of the NLJC program is to give students instruction and practice in the courtesies that make life more pleasant for them and those around them. Students actively learn courtesies through a creative method employing role playing, skits, and games. Standard ballroom and line dancing is taught using nationally approved top 40 music.

In addition to the usual courtesies connected with dancing and etiquette, character instruction is also provided regarding the following: honor, respect, ethics, sportsmanship, acknowledgments of gifts, behavior at cultural and civic events, correspondence, inter-action in groups, introductions, paying and receiving compliments, receiving lines, table manners, instructional dinners, electronic etiquette, cell phone courtesy, and many other areas of social conduct.

The program, with headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, was established in 1979 and has licensed local cotillions nationwide. The cotillion includes monthly classes plus a Holly Ball and Spring Ball, and instructional three, five, and seven course dinners. Says Winters, “The program has met with equal success in metropolitan areas including Atlanta, Orlando, Minneapolis, Houston, and in small communities across the country. We believe it will be an important addition to the training of young people in this area.”

Applications or nominations for cotillion director are currently being received. For additional information call 1-800-633-7947, visit our award winning website at www.nljc.com , or email to cotillions@nljc.com .

Ash Wednesday - Service of Imposition of Ashes
2/6/2008
An Ash Wednesday service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Coleman at 7:00pm tonight, February 6th.

Ash Wednesday is a time we confront our own mortality and confess our sins before God within the community of faith.  The imposition of ashes is a powerful, non-verbal and experiential way of participating in the call to repentance and reconciliation.”

Bluecat Non-District Opponents Named
2/5/2008
The non-district opponents for the Coleman Bluecat football season have been announced. They are Olney, Rogers, Hawley and Colorado City. Olney is about 40 miles south of Wichita Falls. Rogers is southeast of Temple. We're a little more familiar with Hawley and Colorado City.

Coach Rusty Buzzard said the coaches in the new district, 8-AA, will meet this Thursday to work out the schedule.

Sara's Neighborhood Re-Opens
2/5/2008
Sara and Benny Kirtley have re-opened their popular eatery, Sara's Neighborhood, in downtown Coleman. The new location is now inside Tracy's Place at 113 Commercial Avenue. Sara says she will be open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 until 2:00 but is available for catering other special events.

Tuesday morning, directors of the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce brought the red ribbon and big scissors to officially welcome Sara's Neighborhood.

Order Your Sesquicentennial Keepsake Today
2/5/2008
If you haven't seen the Sesquicentennial keepsakes at the County Chamber of Commerce Office, stop by and take a look. While you are at it, order one, or two or three. The Sesquicentennial Committee will greatly appreciate it. Available for purchase are a Kleenex box, coasters (with and without backs), plaque and iron - all with the official Coleman County Sesquicentennial logo on them.

Former Coleman Resident Publishes Book
2/5/2008
Bob Lester was a police officer for 33 years. Some of those years were spent in Coleman, back in the 1970's. Bob has published his first book called "Pale Shades of Blue", an autobiography and memoirs of the people that impacted his life as a peace officer. "It contains stories of the human genre, the will to survive, to keep sanity and integrity when all seems lost. It is a book about life and the people who live it," Lester said.

If interested it can be purchased at the following address in the following two methods:

The publishers address is www.Lulu.com.  Go to the website, in the upper right hand corner is a search icon. In the first blank type in Pale Shades Of Blue, in the second blank place the word book by type of search. It will show that you can purchase a printed copy for $23.50 or a downloaded copy to your Word Document in PDF form for $25.00.

Hearts Remembered Underway at FCNB
Benefits Hospice of the Big Country
2/5/2008
Hospice of the Big Country will hold a local fundraiser through February 14 in the lobby of First Coleman National Bank.

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

For a donation of $10, an angel holding a large red heart with the honored person's name printed on it, will be displayed on the clouds in the lobby of First Coleman National Bank.

** Volunteers will be in the lobby of the bank to assist you from 10:00 to 12:00 a.m. each weekday starting Monday, February 4th and continuing through Thursday, February 14th.

** If these times are not convenient, you may pick up a form and envelope from the display table any time during banking hours and mail your donation.

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

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

Founded in 1992, Hospice of the Big Country is a service of the West Texas Rehabilitation Center and is located at 4601 Hartford St., Abilene, TX 79605. Contact Shronda Shannon in Abilene at (325) 793-5450 or sshannon@wtrc.com  if you need additional information.

Thank You for a Great Birthday Party
2/5/2008
If you missed the Coleman County Birthday Party on Saturday, you missed a great day. SuJo McKee, chairman of the birthday bash, wishes to thank the following list of businesses and individuals for contributing to the success of the day.

The Petal Patch, Coleman Chamber of Commerce, Danyelle Hemphill, Kim Horne, Kaye McKee, Melissa Baker, Kay Allen, Cathy Allen, Joe Watson, Mark and Mary Griffis, Amy Hinds, Joe & Debbie Hailey, Betty Bryan, Berva Dawn Taylor, Shelly Taylor, Sara Sue Kirtley, Candice Beal, Chris Jameson, Coleman 5th graders, CHS Student Council members, CHS Bluecat football team, Karen Barr, Panther Creek CISD, Heartland Harmonizers Barbershop Quartet, All the exhibitors, Sarah Beal, Randy & Kathy Turner, Clyde Saverance.

We would also like to add our thanks to Jody and Lorrie Payne and Concho Baptist Church for their assistance.  Thanks to everyone who came and made the day very special.

Are YOU Ready for Digital TV in 2009?
2/5/2008 (contributed by Congressman Randy Neugebauer)
While the transition from analog to digital television is a little more than one year away, it is important to ensure that information is readily accessible so you can prepare, if needed, for this upcoming change.

TV sets that currently receive programming through cable or satellite are not likely to be affected by the transition to digital. However, TV sets that rely on "over the air" broadcasting with an antenna (set-top or rooftop) to receive a signal will be affected by the cutoff of analog broadcasts in 2009. You will need to consider one of the following options:

Purchase a digital-to-analog converter box that plugs into an existing television. Congress established a coupon program to help offset the cost of acquiring a DTV converter box, which is expected to cost between $50 and $75. ALL households are eligible to apply for two $40 coupons, each of which may be used to purchase a converter box. This will allow you to continue watching FREE "over-the-air" television on an analog set.

Subscribe to a cable, satellite or telecommunications service provider if all desired local broadcast stations are carried by that service.

Purchase a new television set with a built in digital tuner.

Any of these steps will ensure that "over-the-air" television consumers will continue to receive programming. For more information about requesting your coupons, please call (888) 225-5322 or visit http://www.dtv.gov/. 

SPAY/NEUTER YOUR PET!
2/4/2008 -contributed-
First, let us thank you for responding to last week’s picture. Seymore, the boxer, was recognized and reclaimed by his owner. He is happy to be called MoJo again! And the young black lab was rescued from the City Shelter by the McIlvains.

Although we get much happiness and satisfaction from placing our rescues, your Humane Society’s primary mission is to help with the cost of spaying and neutering your pets. We realize that not everyone can f