News Archives - January 2007

Coleman 4th Grader Recovering From Broken Leg
1/31/2007
It was Labor Day 2006, almost five months ago, that an innocent accident during a game between children turned the lives of nine year-old Kaci Williams, her parents and siblings upside down.

"It had just finished raining and all the kids went outside to play," said Jimmy Williams, Kaci's father. "She was out there playing tag with friends, a boy tagged her, she slipped on the wet grass and fell and the boy landed on her leg." Kaci screamed in agony but Jimmy couldn't see any problem and by looking couldn't tell that her leg was broken. Kaci let her dad pick her up and once inside on the couch, when Kaci's foot turned black, he knew something was terribly wrong.

Jimmy called 911 and an ambulance rushed her to Coleman County Medical Center then transferred her to Brownwood Regional Medical Center. "We thought we were going to Brownwood for surgery," said Kristi Williams, Kaci's mother. Doctors, however, said she was too young for surgery. X-rays revealed a spiral or twist fracture of the upper femur, a rare place for such a large bone to break, Kristi was told. After diagnosis, it was determined by Dr. Strefling that Kaci would not be in just a leg cast, but a body cast from the toes of her right leg to her belly button to the knee of her left leg. And not the usual eight weeks, but three months. "When I heard body cast, it didn't register in my mind how big this cast was going to be," Kristi said. Kaci laid in traction for two days to let the swelling go down before the cast was put on. "The first time we saw her in the cast, it blows your mind to see your child like that," Kristi said. "I've given birth to two children, and you've never seen pain like what I saw her go through that Tuesday night when they changed her sheets in traction."

Things got better after the cast was put on. Kaci returned home and little brother Coby, 8, became Kaci's right leg, from opening the door to even fetching the bed pan, true love from a little brother. (Pictured right are Kaci and Coby, earlier this week)  Kristi said Summer Flores has been an extra special friend, by Kaci's side like her own private nurse. While homebound, Kaci has also become an expert at PlayStation 2, it is not recommended that you play her, unless you want to lose. Kaci has received great support from her many friends, from Robin Culwell and teachers at Coleman Elementary, especially Mrs. Cohea and Mrs. Jameson, who made sure Kaci kept up with her school work over the three months she missed. Kristi said the teachers are very protective as she makes her way down the halls of Coleman Elementary. Kaci is walking again but with a noticeable limp. Her right leg is about one inch shorter than her left but doctors say it won't always be that way. The prognosis is good and Kaci hopes to be back on a softball field at the shortstop position as soon as she can. Kristi said Coleman showed its true colors with all the support they were given through this ordeal.

Crime Stoppers Needs Your Help
Concerning Recent Santa Anna Crimes
2/1/2007
Over the past few months a number of break-ins have occurred to residences and vehicles in the Santa Anna area, as well as numerous acts of vandalism throughout the city.

The break-ins have resulted in the loss of electronic games, jewelry, purses and other miscellaneous items. The cases of vandalism include a school bus windshield, the side window of a vehicle in the west part of town and the destruction of numerous Christmas yard decorations.
Please report any information you might have on any of these or other incidents of crime in your area.

If your information leads to the arrest and indictment (or conviction) of the person or persons responsible, you could be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.
Call Coleman County Crimestoppers at 325-636-7777.

Drug Arrests Made in Coleman
1/31/2007 (courtesy WCTICTF)
On Jaunuary 22, 2007, Agents with the West Central Texas Interlocal Crime Task Force, assisted by the Coleman County Sheriff's Department and the Coleman Police Department, executed a search and arrest warrant at 916 Post Street in Coleman, Texas which is the residence of Timothy Don Keeney and Josie Martinez.

Several items of evidence were seized including approximately 116 grams of methamphetamine, a small amount of marijuana, several firearms, body armor, scales, packaging material, $3892.00 in U.S. Currency and several other items of drug paraphernalia.

Persons arrested at the scene included; Timothy Don Keeney, 33 years of age and charged with First Degree Felony Manufacture or Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Penalty Group One, To Wit: Methamphetamine, Third Degree Felony Possession of a Firearm, and Third Degree Felony Possession of Body Armor by a Felon; Josie Martinez, 30 years of age and charged with First Degree Felony Manufacture or Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Penalty Group One, To Wit: Methamphetamine, Third Degree Felony Possession of a Firearm, Third Degree Felony Possession of Body Armor by a Felon, and Class B Misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana; and Christopher Chad Chambers, 25 years of age and charged with First Degree Felony Manufacture or Delivery of a Controlled Substance in Penalty Group One, To Wit: Methamphetamine.

Timothy Don Keeney, Josie Martinez, and Christopher Chad Chambers were transported to and placed in the Coleman County Jail.  The approximate street value of the Methamphetamine is estimated to be $11,600.00.

State charges are being filed on these suspects and Federal charges are being considered at this time. According to the Coleman County Sheriff's Department, those charged had all bonded out of jail.

County Interested In Regional Public Defender Program
1/31/2007
There aren't many capital murder cases held in Coleman County. When such cases come along, they can be devastatingly expensive for county government. Attorney fees can range from $100,000 to $250,000, depending on the case.
That is why Coleman County Commissioners showed great interest in participating in a new Regional Public Defender Program, headquartered in Lubbock. Numerous counties from Regions 7 and 9 propose to pool their funds and hope to obtain grant money to pay for a staff of attorneys who will be assigned to capital murder cases.
"I think it's a heck of a deal for the county," said Jimmie Hobbs, County Judge. The cost to the county would be $734 the first year, up to $2,196 per year by year number five. Heath Hemphill, County Attorney, attended a recent meeting concerning the proposed program and said he personally thinks this would be money well spent, possibly saving the county many thousands of dollars if and when an expensive capital murder case is held here. A letter showing Coleman County's interest in the public defender program will be drafted and forwarded to the proper authorities.

County Commissioners Set Fees on Election Equipment
Approve Computer Purchase for Sheriff's Department
1/31/2007
Coleman County Commissioners have decided what fee to charge the city, hospital or school districts who request to use the county's election equipment. Commissioners listened to some research done on what other counties charge and came to an agreement to charge $300 for each piece of equipment requested for every election.

Using money in part from the county's capital improvement fund and from the county attorney's hot check collection fund, Commissioners gave approval for Sheriff Wade Turner to buy five new Dell laptop computers for his office which would give deputies up-to-date machines. The computers now being used are hand-me-downs from other county offices and are several years old. Turner hopes to include in next years budget money to purchase a law enforcement software program and a server to network the new computers.

Two Wrecks Caused by Ice This Morning
1/31/2007
Department of Public Safety troopers were called out early this morning in Coleman County to two accidents. The first wreck was reported at 4:19am on the Highway 84 overpass between Coleman and Santa Anna, the same location as two wrecks on the same day about two weeks ago. Early reports indicate a driver slid on slushy ice on the bridge and nearly went off the bridge except that the back wheels hooked over the guardrail, according to the DPS.

The second accident happened at 5:28am a few miles north of Coleman on Highway 283, the Baird highway, where a vehicle ran through a fence. According to Chris Delgado, DPS Trooper, Roger Cooper of Baird was traveling south toward Coleman when he slid on some ice, veered off the road and through a tall game fence. He was not injured and was able to drive his car from the scene.

Students of the Month at CJH
1/30/2007
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 (left to right)
Nancy Barrios - 6th grade girl
Zayne Riggins - 6th grade boy
Alice McKinney - 7th grade girl
Angel Barrios - 7th grade boy
Morgan Schumann - 8th grade girl
Brody Tibbetts - 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.

Coleman Home Damaged by Fire
1/30/2007
Coleman firemen responded to a house fire at 10:35pm Monday at 614 West Walnut Street. They arrived to find fire burning in a bathroom and a hallway. According to Darrell Walker, Assistant Fire Chief, the fire started in the bathroom. "More than likely, a towel was too close to a space heater," Walker said. "All in all, they were really lucky, everybody got out," Walker said. There were no injuries. The occupants are Bryan and Serena Jenkins.

 The call was answered by two trucks from the fire department, 15 firemen, Coleman Police and EMS.

Local Man Injured in Crash
1/30/2007
A well known Coleman County man was injured in a wreck which was reported at 2:02pm Monday. Hurschel Dunn was taken by ambulance to Coleman County Medical Center. According to Coleman Police, Dunn was in a 1995 white Ford pickup and attempted to cross U.S. Highway 84 (bypass), going west on Liveoak. Dunn's pickup was hit by a south bound Freightliner 18 wheeler. The impact spun Dunn's pickup into a City of Coleman utility department truck occupied by David Harrison and Kelly Smith. Harrison, Smith and the truck driver, who was from Nebraska, were not hurt. Police say Dunn was lucky, injuries caused mainly by the airbag.

CHS Students Take Honors at Brownwood
1/30/2007
A UIL Academic Meet was held Saturday, January 27, at Brownwood. The following Coleman High School students placed:
Number Sense - Grades 11-12 - Yue Yu, 2nd
Number Sense - Grades 9-10 - Cheyenne Turner, 3rd
Computer Applications - Katie Nixon, 1st; Delesa Monroe, 4th
Calculator Applications - Grades 9-10 - Reece Halfmann, 4th
News Writing - Taylor Norris, 1st
Science - Grades 9-10 - Reece Halfmann, 3rd
Mathematics - Yue Yu, 4th
Future contests where the students will compete are Haskell on February 3rd, Abilene Wylie on February 10th and the district meet in Wall on March 26th and 29th.

Cleanup Underway on City-Owned Properties
1/29/2007
A news story last week on Colemannews.com concerning the recent Keep Coleman Beautiful meeting drew response from our readers such as the following e-mail:

"Some things are just a matter of fate with a twist of irony. I enjoy reading the news from your site now that more and interesting articles are being posted more regularly. I found a strange interest in the article on keeping Coleman beautiful and all the rhetoric at the meeting and what the enforcement officer said. Next time you have some free time and are driving down Colorado Street between the tracks and the bypass, pay a little attention to the area between the power plant and the city barn. (shown above) All the out of commission wrecked cars, overgrown in weeds, vines, and littered with piles of just plain junk. Sure it is behind a fence, a see-through chain link fence, displaying a wreck and in the middle of the downtown area. How do you think John Q. Public is going to feel being cited for non-running cars, litter and overgrown weeds and paying the ticket to the city who has set a standard by example?" 

We checked with the City of Coleman and found they are well aware of the issue and are taking steps to clean up their own property. The yard on North Colorado, referred to above, is still "a work in progress", according to the City. The following information was released by the City concerning areas which they have already cleaned.

In the spirit of citywide cleanup, the City of Coleman has begun taking a hard look at City-owned properties to assess where improvement is needed, and is undertaking the task of getting the City yards cleaned up and organized.

The first task at hand has been the process of evaluating which vehicles and pieces of equipment are no longer functional or useful in the City’s fleet. In January, twelve vehicles and/or pieces of equipment were successfully auctioned online. The success of the process has the City looking to the internet as a means to dispose of even more items that are no longer needed or useful to the City. Doing so will eliminate unsightly equipment from City yards and free up space for organization of materials and equipment that are still useful.

General cleanup of the various City yards is also in process. The yard off of Guadalupe Street (shown left), where the City Pound is located, recently underwent some serious renovation, as a vast amount of tall grass, weeds, and brush was cleared to prepare an additional storage site for city supplies and equipment. The Street Department’s yard at the corner of East College and the Highway 84 Bypass (shown below) has also undergone a transformation. Tall weeds and grass were eliminated from the site, pipe racks were built for storage of pipe, and the yard has been reorganized.

Currently, items on all the city yards are being inventoried and sorted so that they can be stored in a more organized manner. Any pipe that may still be useful in laying or repairing water or sewer lines is being grouped and stacked accordingly. Metal items no longer needed are being sorted to be sold as scrap material.

The intent of the City is to do their part in the beautification and cleanup process here in Coleman. In asking property owners to take responsibility for the condition of their properties, the City is also addressing of the need for improvement “in their own house.”

Allsups Burglary Still Under Investigation
1/29/2007 (courtesy Coleman PD)
The Coleman Police Department is still investigating the Aggravated Robbery of Northside Allsup's which occurred Thursday night January 25th. Police are asking anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers at 636-7777. All calls will remain anonymous.

According to the Coleman Police Department, several arrests were made over the weekend. At approximately 10:00pm Saturday, police apprehended Jeffrey Jonathan Easterling, 36 year old white male of Coleman, for Driving While License Suspended. Easterling was placed in the Coleman City Jail where he made bond and was released on Sunday.

At 11:45pm Saturday, police served a warrant on Joseph Dela Rosa, 20 year old Hispanic male of Coleman. Dela Rosa was wanted by the Coleman County Sheriff's Office on a Motion To Revoke - Terroristic Threat warrant, bond was set at $2000. Dela Rosa is awaiting transport to the Coleman County Jail.

After a lengthy search late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, police located and arrested Harley Thomas Davidson, 23 year old white male of Coleman, for Public Intoxication. Davidson led approximately six officers on a foot search in the area of KSTA Radio Station, Bledsoe Ford and The Salt-n-Pepper Bar & Grill before being apprehended.

At 3:15am Monday morning police arrested Rex Dwayne Brooks, 27 year old white male of Coleman. Brooks was charged with Driving With Invalid License and placed in the Coleman City Jail, bond was set at $1000.

As a friendly reminder to the citizens of Coleman, the Coleman Police Department would like to encourage you to help keep Coleman beautiful and dispose of trash into the proper containers, keep your property clean and free of trash and debris and eliminate weeds and tall grass.

Hilderbran Files Bill to Remove Sporting Goods Tax
1/29/2007
Harvey Hilderbran, who represents Coleman County in the Texas House, has filed House Bill 6: The Texas Parks Restoration Act. In a news release to Colemannews.com, Hilderbran says the bill removes the cap on the sporting goods tax, which has been in place since 1993 to provide substantial funding to local parks. Though the sporting goods tax brings in about $105 million each year, the most recent appropriations bill only allocates $15.5 million for state parks and $5 million for local parks. Hilderbran filed similar legislation during the 2005 session.
You can look at 20 other pieces of legislation Hilderbran has authored on his House website HERE.

Local Cub Scouts Compete in Pinewood Derby
1/28/2007
Tigers, Wolves and Bear Scouts competed Saturday night in the Coleman School Cafeteria in the 2007 Pinewood Derby. Scouts start with a small piece of wood and, with help from adults, craft a car from the block of wood. The cars came in all shapes, designs and paint jobs. But the one thing they all had in common was weight, no more than five ounces. Some scouts used coins to add weight to reach the five ounce mark. Brackets were drawn and scouts went head to head until the top three places were determined. Pictured left to right are - First Place - Brogen Faries; Second Place - Tyler Ransberger; Third Place - Ryan Hohmann.

Tiger winners - Denton Allen, Austin Rosales, Eric Gomez, Devonte Roberson, Casey Bledsoe, Colt Richards, Ryan Hohmann, Chris Lawhon, Joey Amador, Ian Castillo.

Wolf winners - Matthew Willis, Gary Bagley, Brogen Faries, Robert Balderas, Zane Rosales, Jeremiah Guana, Zeke Adams and Tyler Ransberger.

Tiger bracket winners - Denton Allen, Ian Castillo, Chris Lawhon, Austin Rosales, Ryan Hohmann, Joey Amador

Wolf bracket winners - Matthew Willis, Jeremiah Guana, Tyler Ransberger, Zeke Adams, Robert Balderas, Brogen Faries

Pictured right is Chris Lawhon reacting to winning one of the heats during the Pinewood Derby as Finish Line Judge (and Coleman Chief of Police) Jay Moses points to the winner.

Coleman County TEEA Clubs Know Concessions
1/27/2007 (by Lynn Corbett)
The ladies from the Coleman Good Neighbor and Gouldbusk Homemaker Clubs manned the concession stand for the five days of the stock show the weekend of January 13th through the 16th. Everyone who was frozen to the bone on Sunday was especially grateful for the wonderful hot lunch served as well as the constant supply of snacks, coffee and hot chocolate. The monies we raise from the concession stand goes toward college scholarships we award each year. We want to thank everyone who enjoyed the food and for continuing to patronize our efforts each year. We would also like to thank the hardy souls who braved the weather, especially on Sunday, to make sure there was a hot meal and refreshments that day. A special thanks to the ladies who shopped on Thursday, set up on Friday and cooked Saturday through Tuesday. We couldn't have done it without you. Thanks also to the many members who provided home made pies, brownies and Rice Krispie treats.
Usually I try to add a recipe here for something delicious and home made, but since the majority if the cooking was done by Geneva Harris and her band of merry elves, I can only say, "if you enjoyed the delicious home cooked meals then go on down The Lunchbox Restaurant and check it out. You'll find the same excellent fare on a daily basis. I'm sure Geneva would love to see you there when she re-opens in February. Once again thanks for supporting our efforts at the stock show.

RJC Nursing Students To Do Rotation at CCMC
1/26/2007 (by Sue Titsworth, CCMC)
For the second year in a row, Coleman County Medical Center will provide a learning experience for some Ranger Junior College students who are eager to become Licensed Vocational Nurses.

Two classes of students visited CCMC Friday, took a tour of the facility, and listened attentively while Director of Nurses, Melissa Gober, explained Critical Access to them.

Ranger Junior College wants to expand the knowledge of these students by rotating them through a rural hospital where they can experience a little bit of everything. There will be a total of fifty-seven students rotating through CCMC, six to eight students at a time, beginning January 31st.

The LVN students will have instructors with them at all times, and will do nothing without supervision. It will be a learning experience for them since, unlike the large hospitals where nurses may specialize in a particular department, nurses in rural hospitals work anywhere they are needed – the Emergency Room, Labor and Delivery, Surgery – as well as taking care of patients on the floor.

NHS Ceremony Held at Santa Anna High
1/26/2007
The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organization recognizing outstanding high school students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built.
The Arleigh Harris Chapter of NHS at Santa Anna High School held its induction of new members on Thursday, January 25, in the High School auditorium. Current members Kendra Cannon, Priscilla Guerrero, and Michelle Wetsel conducted the candle-lighting ceremony explaining the four membership criteria.
New members inducted into the group include the following:
• Coriann Hoskins, Senior, the daughter of Hubert and Shawn Hoskins. Since coming to Santa Anna as a junior, Coriann has served her class as reporter and participated in basketball, volleyball, and yearbook. This year she was a Homecoming queen nominee. As a sophomore in her school in Ohio she was chosen most creative in her sculpture class. Coriann works part-time in Coleman in addition to her school activities.
• Becca Fellers, Junior, daughter of Curtis and Janice Fellers. Becca is a member of First Methodist Church and attends Baptist Youth Group. She participates in all school sports, UIL debate, one-act play, and she has been in Band. She led her JV teams as team captain. Becca has served her community volunteering at the Daycare Center and has given of her time to the school filming athletic events.
• Sierra Herrod, Junior, the daughter of Scotty and Wendy Herrod. Sierra attends First Baptist Church and is in Youth Group. She served her class working in concession stand and has volunteered in the local library summer reading program. She has served at charitable fund raisers. She has participated in cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, band, FFA, and in UIL for three years. She was team captain of her J-V Basketball team.
• Jarod Jones, Junior, son of Bud and Sandra Connolly and Wade and Leanna Jones. He has been a member of both 4-H and FFA and has participated in UIL for the past three years. Jarod served as class President and J-V football team captain. He has volunteered in charitable fundraisers, in 4-H, and in vacation bible school. Jarod is a member of First Baptist Church and is active in Youth Group.
• Samantha Sanchez, Junior, daughter of Lupe Sanchez and Caesar Padilla. She is a member of First Baptist Church, in the Youth Group. Samantha participates in volleyball, basketball, FFA, band, track, and tennis. Her service includes volunteering in the summer reading program, vacation bible school, and helping with charitable fundraisers. She was J-V basketball captain.
• Martika Whaley, Junior, daughter of Joe and Julie Whaley. She attends St. Willow Baptist Church. Martika has served her class twice as Class President and as Student Council Representative. She participates in volleyball, basketball, and track, as well as UIL debate. Martika has given of her time delivering food and clothing to needy families in the community.

Front row - left to right: Priscilla Guerrero (current member), Becca Fellers, Samantha Sanchez, Martika Whaley.
Back row - left to right: Kendra Cannon (current member), Sierra Herrod, Coriann Hoskins, Jarod Jones, and Michelle Wetsel (current member)

Allsups Convenience Store Robbed Thursday Night
1/26/2007 (courtesy Coleman PD)
According to the Coleman Police Department, Thursday night at 11:54 p.m., Coleman County 911 received a call from Northside Allsup's in reference to an aggravated robbery. Upon initial investigation it was learned that two male suspects had entered the business and one of the suspects showed the clerk a firearm. The suspect instructed the clerk to open the register. The clerk followed the directions of the men and an undisclosed amount of cash was taken by the robbers. After emptying the cash drawer, both suspects fled the scene prior to officers arrival. This incident is still under investigation.  Anyone with information leading to the arrest or indictment of the men involved, please call Coleman County Crimestoppers at 325-636-7777. All calls will remain anonymous.

Lift-a-Thon Attracts Large Crowd
1/26/2007
Thursday night at the Armory in Coleman, parents, grandparents and Bluecat fans turned out to watch a Lift-a-Thon, a powerlifting event to raise money for the athletic program.

Junior high and high school athletes participated, boys and girls. Proceeds will be used to buy more weight equipment. Judging by the strength of some of these young men and women, they need more weights as they continue, well, raising the bar (couldn't resist).

The squat competition was first and brought out some heavy lifters.  In the ladies division, Tiffani Baker (picture on the sports page) impressed the crowd by squatting 325 pounds.  For the guys, Jonathon Estes, a sophomore, brought the house down when he backed off the rack with 550 pounds on his back and completed the movement. Estes is shown above with the monster weight while Myles Baker serves as his spotter in case he had trouble getting the weight up, which he didn't. 

Police Blotter for January 22 - January 25
1/25/2007 (submitted by Coleman P.D.)
The Coleman Police Department has been very busy the last several days. Numerous calls of Loud Disturbances have been reported as well as Domestic Violence and Fight calls. The bad weather has subsided for the time being and people have apparently became more active.

Monday evening Coleman P.D. Officers Michelle Sheedy and Anthony Smith located and apprehended Lakisha Stembridge, 21 year old white female of Coleman, on a Drug Paraphernalia warrant issued by the City of Coleman. Stembridge is being held at the Coleman City Jail.

On Tuesday, January 23, one male juvenile was arrested for Failure to Attend School. That subject paid his fine and was released.

Wednesday also proved productive for the Coleman P.D. as police arrested Lance Kimberly, 36 year old white male of Coleman on County Warrants of 1) Tampering with Vin Numbers and 2) Theft. Kimberly was transported to the Coleman County Jail.

Thursday, Sgt. Brian Tompkins located Tiffanie J. Kirkpatrick, 25 year old white female of Coleman, and placed her under arrest for warrants from Eastland County in reference to Surety Bond Withdrawal - Dangerous Drugs $20,000 Bond. Kirkpatrick has been transported to the Eastland County Jail. Always here to serve you, the Coleman Police Department (325) 625-4114.

County Can Benefit From New / Used Car Registration
1/25/2007
The following news release was received from Jamie Trammell, Coleman County Tax Assessor-Collector.

"Just a reminder that when you buy a new or used vehicle, you have the right to designate which county is to receive the taxes, fees and other revenue collected as a result of the transaction.
Licensed motor vehicle dealers are required to apply for a certificate of title and registration for a motor vehicle in the county as directed by the purchaser.
The Coleman County Tax Assessor-Collector's office have the forms for "County of Title Issuance". Before you go out of town for a new or used vehicle, please drop by the courthouse and pick up form VTR-136 or download the form from the State's website which is www.texasonline.com.

Monster 13lb Bass Caught at Lake Scarborough
1/24/2007
Lake Scarborough, a few miles north of Coleman on Highway 283, may not be big enough to hold all the anglers who now know about a lunker bass taken from the lake earlier this month. But, thanks to Ray Sasser, outdoor writer for the Dallas Morning News, Lake Scarborough has been thrust into the spotlight. Colemannews.com has received permission from Ray to run his story so click HERE to read about an Abilene man who caught the fish of a lifetime.

The picture of David O'Keefe and his catch is courtesy of Danny Arrieta, new deputy sheriff in Coleman County, the deputy who answered the call to the lake. "On this specific afternoon, as normal I was prepared for any type of law enforcement call including civil matters, disturbances, or even a loose cattle call. To say the least I was not prepared to see my first monster bass," Arrieta said. "Upon receiving the the call I thought to myself, how in the world could someone get so excited about a fish, and much less requesting to photograph it?"
Deputy Arrieta arrived at the docking area of Lake Scarborough and met the still shaking angler and weighed the fish with two scales, digital and analog, with the results being 13.9 pounds. After the photos, the fish was released back into Lake Scarborough. Yes folks, he's out there waiting for you !!

Tire Dumps Still a Major Issue for KCB
1/24/2007 (submitted)
The Keep Coleman Beautiful meeting held January 23rd was well-attended. A good number of Keep Coleman Beautiful members were there, as well as a number of individuals from the City of Coleman. Alice Hemphill, President, welcomed guests and introduced the City’s new Environmental Enforcement Officer Michelle Sheedy. Officer Sheedy will be addressing and enforcing issues within the City that pertain to junked vehicles, litter, nuisances (junk and debris in particular) and illegal dumping. Officer Sheedy and Police Chief Jay Moses elaborated on some of the issues the City was encountering, and the efforts being put forth to encourage citizens to clean up their properties and bring them into compliance.

The meeting then moved into a discussion about dumped tires throughout the city, with one site on the north side of town being of particular concern. Discussed were the numbers of tires dumped at various locations (which easily surpass 10,000), the costs associated with disposing of those tires, and the need to be conscious of state laws that apply to tire disposal. Police Chief Jay Moses and Shana Everett informed those present that three substantial tire dump sites either have been, or are in the process of being, cleaned up thanks to cooperation from property owners. After a good bit of discussion on the subject, President Alice Hemphill suggested that a smaller group of members be organized to study the issue further, then report back to the rest of the KCB members. At that time, members will decide whether or not to take on the project of removing the dumped tires.

Beautification of the Courthouse was the next item of discussion. Members are interested in enhancing the eye appeal of the Courthouse as a focal point on Commercial Street. Several ideas were brought forth by various members, which included planting trees or flowering plants, and contacting a landscape specialist and/or the Extension Service for advice as to an aesthetic landscaping plan and what types of plants would be best-suited for such a project. Several members were going to research this idea further and get back to the members at the next meeting with more information.

Shana Everett also mentioned that the flower beds at the front entrance to the City Cemetery were in need of plants, and that the City would welcome an organization willing to assist in the maintenance of those flower beds. Any organization that would be interested may contact Shana Everett at City Hall at 625-5114.

The next scheduled meeting will be at 5:30pm on March 20th at the Chamber of Commerce.

Products Made Locally Shown on Martha Stewart Show
1/24/2007
The Martha Stewart Show, which aired on The CW  on Monday, January 22nd, featured a workout segment between Martha and her trainer. During the segment, they exercised with products made and distributed right here in Coleman. According to Jerry Hadden with Pioneer General Leathercraft, the MARV handle  was one of the products used, made by Mighty Molding (now in Eastland) and distributed by Pioneer General Leathercraft in Coleman. Information about the MARV (marketed as the Body Fit Travel Gym) can be found at www.therapyzone.com.  Pioneer General Leathercraft in Coleman is a warehouse and fulfillment center for them along with manufacturing some of their products. You can watch the segment at this link: http://garceworks.com/review/index.php?dir=MARV%20on%20Martha.

CHS Students to Compete in Academics
1/24/2007
Numerous students from Coleman will be in Brownwood Saturday, January 27, to compete in a UIL Academic Meet. Students and their events are as follows:

Number Sense - Chase Avants, Cheyenne Turner, Nolan Tidwell, Yue Yu, Chase Vanpelt; Current I & E - Sara Smith; Poetry - Kandys Mills; Prose - Sara Smith and Nolan Tidwell; Accounting - Rosa Avila, Marcus Diaz, Steffani White; Social Studies - Rosa Avila, Carrie Benedict, Tara Brixey, Steffani White, Tanner Brooks; Ready Writing - Amber Hunter; Headline Writing - Reece Halfmann; Computer Applications - Rowdy Mayo, Delesa Monroe, Katie Nixon; Mathematics - Chase Avants, Kassondra Bouldin, Jack Reynolds, Yue Yu, Robert Lewallen; Calculator Applications - Rosa Avila, Shaunie Gibson, Reece Halfmann, Steffani White, Chase Vanpelt; Science - Tanner Brooks, Marcus Diaz, Adria Vasquez, Carrie Benedict, Reece Halfmann, Jack Reynolds, Yue Yu. 

Local Kiwanians Hear From Their Lt. Gov.
1/24/2007
The meeting room at Hidalgo's Restaurant was packed Tuesday as the local Kiwanis Club welcomed Jimmy Jones (shown left) of Brownwood. Jones serves as Lt. Gov. of Division 12 in the Texas-Oklahoma District. Jones, a Ballinger native, spoke about the history of Kiwanis and the history of Kiwanis in Texas.
 
Kiwanis Quick Facts

* Kiwanis originated in 1915 in Detroit and is now 92 years old, headquartered in Indianapolis
* Kiwanis first came to Texas in 1918 when a club in Dallas organized
* The Coleman Kiwanis Club is 80 years old, forming in 1927.
* It was a men's organization only until 1987 when women were allowed to become members

Jones told the group that Coleman is a better place because of the success of the Kiwanis Club which is "here to serve our community and children in the community."
Officers of the local club this year are Michael Autry, president; Lance McWhorter, vice-president; Stephen Autry, secretary; Sue Dossey, treasurer; Jimmy Simpson, past president. The club welcomed many local guests and Kiwanians from Brownwood and Comanche.

School Board Extends Superintendent's Contract
1/23/2007
The Coleman School Board spent almost two hours in closed session Monday night for the annual superintendent's evaluation and contract. Back in open session, the board extended the contract of Royce Young by one year giving him a three year contract. They also discussed performance goals for the district and superintendent and discussed the challenges ahead in accountability and finances.

New Officers Elected at Junior Art League
1/23/2007 (by Marian Johnson)
The Junior Art League (JAL) had its first meeting for the current year with six members present. Officers were elected were Carrie Benedict, President; Emma Dyer, Vice-President/Membership; Ashton Adian, Secretary/Treasurer/Historian.
The group’s next meeting will be at 4:00pm February 15th at the Pink Flamingo Art Studio, 1212 Commercial Avenue. Call Art League Sponsor, Virginia Bethke, for information. Guests are invited and welcome.  Fun / work scheduled .

Coleman School Board Calls May Election
Approves 2007-2008 School Calendar
1/22/2007
The Coleman School Board met Monday night and set the school board election for Saturday, May 12th. Current board members, whose terms expire this year, are Mike Edington in Place 6 and Viki Hambright in Place 7.

The board also approved the school calendar for the 2007-2008 school year. The first day of school will be Monday, August 27th. Labor Day will be a school day, not a holiday, which is customary for universities but new for Coleman ISD. Thanksgiving will be observed November 21st through 23rd. The Christmas break is December 24th through January 6th with early release days on December 20th and 21st. Spring break in 2008 will be March 17th through 21st.

In other business, the board approved the Technology Plan for 2007-2010 as presented by Paul Martin. The plan includes standards to meet the "No Child Left Behind" guidelines and district plans for telecommunication services, TIF Grants, and other technology plans for the next three years. Budget amendments were approved, check payments were reviewed and board member continuing education was discussed. Royce Young, superintendent, has scheduled a three hour board training session in the near future with a board trainer from the Texas Association of School Boards.

The school board went into closed session shortly after 8:00pm for the superintendent's evaluation and contract. We'll report on that later.

Coleman School Board Recognized
1/22/2007
Members of the Coleman School Board received certificates Monday night from Royce Young, superintendent, recognizing their service to the school district. January is School Board Recognition Month in Texas.

Members of the board are, seated left to right: Sue Sloan, Dr. Mike Edington and Viki Hambright.
Standing, left to right: Cody Norris, John Casey, Jody Payne and Brent McMillan.

Coleman UIL Students Honored at Board Meeting
1/22/2007
The first item of business Monday night for the Coleman School Board was to recognize numerous Coleman Elementary and Junior High students who competed in UIL events in December. The results from the events were reported previously on Colemannews.com.

Pictured are two of the students who received medals from Viki Hambright, school board member. Sarita Short (left) is shown receiving a second place award for 2nd Grade Reading while Alex Dodgen (above) was honored for taking first place in 4th grade Number Sense. Board members Mike Edington and Sue Sloan are enjoying the moment.

Tax Appraisal Board Elects Officers
1/22/2007
The Coleman County Tax Appraisal Board of Directors met Monday morning and elected officers for 2007. Serving as chairman will be Paul Martin, Vice-Chairman is Bruce Pittard and Secretary is Viki Hambright. These are the same officers as 2006. The other board members are Kevin Allen and Jimmie Hobbs. The Board re-appointed Davey Thweatt as an Appraisal Review Board member and appointed Richard Johnson as Ag Board member for two years. The Board also approved a three year contract for Bill Jones, Chief Appraiser.

Reports were given on tax collections. Coleman County has a tax levy of $ 6,808,203 this fiscal year. At the end of December, 2006, the Tax Office had collected 73.62% of the total tax levy. Tax collections in November and December were running well ahead of last year, Jones said.  Jones reported the Tax Appraisal Office had $ 8,624.38 left in their budget which will be refunded to the various taxing entities in the county.

On-Line Vehicle Registration Now Available in Coleman County
1/22/2007
Coleman County joins 140 other counties in Texas that now offer vehicle registration on-line. Renewing your registration via the internet is becoming more popular with Texas motorists, according to Jamie Trammell, Coleman County Tax Assessor-Collector. "Vehicle owners are catching on to how simple it is to use the renewal services," said Trammell. "It makes it much easier for our County Tax Office, too. We can process the renewals during the time of day when our walk-in traffic is lighter, allowing us to provide better service for those who must come into the tax office to conduct other business," Trammell said. The service provides customers with the convenience of online vehicle registration renewal and change of address. Trammell said the service is easy to use and step-by-step instructions are provided. The website is www.texasonline.com.  The service is available to all Texas residents, regardless of their home county. Online users pay an additional $2.00 non-refundable fee plus a $1.00 mail-in charge. Current insurance is required and the vehicle must be currently registered in Texas. Customers can pay by MasterCard or Visa. There is no fee for change of address only.

Coleman Elementary School, A No Bullying Zone
1/22/2007 (submitted by Bonnie Brown)
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America at Coleman High School sponsored a “No Bullying” Week for Coleman Elementary. Vanessa Clark, Coleman FCCLA member, planned activities for the week. Greg Brannon and Vanessa talked to the elementary students about bullying and that it is not right. Officer James O’Shields, school resource officer, visited with the elementary students about bullying. The students were encouraged to wear yellow to signify no bullying.

The students traced and cut out paper hands and glued signed pledges of no bullying to the hands. The pledge is “I pledge not to bully, call anyone names, make fun of them, or hurt anyone’s feelings from now on.” The cutout hands with pledges were posted on the walls and doors around the school.

A door decorating contest was held and judged. The winners received certificates. The winners are as follows: Pre-Kindergarten – Sarah Beal; Kindergarten – Tammy Swening; 1st grade – Jenny Kading; 2nd grade – Sherrie Love; 3rd grade – Cindy Dean; 4th grade – Pam Cohea and 5th grade – Anna Smith.  Shown are students of Pam Cohea's fourth grade class.  At right, one of the decorated doors.

Rainfall Reports
1/20/2007
If you want to send rainfall reports to us, use mail@colemannews.com.  Here at our office, corner of Concho and Walnut, we have received .47 of an inch of rain between 3:00pm Friday and 5:30pm Saturday. 

*  Ken and Helen Smith in Valera - .85 since Tuesday
*  Tex Wright in Santa Anna - .90 as of 1:00pm Saturday
*  Anita Phelps, east of Coleman - 1.30
*  Jess Jackson, Silver Valley - 1.55 over a nine day period

Coleman Juvenile Reported Missing Returns Home Safely
1/20/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
In an update to Colemannews.com at 5:35pm Saturday, the Coleman Police Department reported that the juvenile girl, reported missing Friday night, has returned home safely.  At approximately 10:30 Friday night, a female subject called the Coleman P.D. to report that her juvenile granddaughter had left with a male subject to go to the store earlier in the evening and had not returned. Officers advised the grandmother to wait until midnight to see if the juvenile returned to her residence. The grandmother called back at midnight to inform the officers that her granddaughter had still not returned. Officers had the child entered into the Texas Crime Information System on a statewide broadcast as a missing juvenile.
In a report from the Coleman Police Department, at 6:00 p.m. Friday afternoon, Charles Corey Broeker, 30 years old, came into the Coleman P.D. to turn himself in on a warrant issued for a Class C Misdemeanor of Theft Under $50.00. Mr. Broeker made bond on the charge and was released from the Coleman City Jail.
Around 11:30pm Friday night, officers were dispatched to the 200 Blk of East 2nd in reference to a disturbance. Upon officers arrival one male subject was standing out side the residence and informed the officers that a couple (man and woman) were inside the residence arguing. Officer Jeromy Watson approached the residence to speak with the couple while Officer Anthony Smith spoke with the male subject outside. While attempting to retain information from the subject outside, it was known to Officer Smith that this subject was giving false information about himself. Officer Smith detained the subject and found a wallet with proper identification. After identifying the subject as Armando Gomez, a 32 year old Hispanic male, it was found that Gomez was wanted out of Tarrant County for a Felony Charge of Failure to Render Aid. Gomez was also charged with Failure To I.D. He is being detained at this time in the Coleman City Jail with no bond allowed.

Boutwell to Serve as Selection Juror
1/20/2007 (by Marian Johnson)
George Boutwell of Clifton, Texas, will serve as one of three selection jurors for the Coleman Juried Art Show, April 28- May 2, 2007. Selection will be from digital images.

George and his wife, Martha, live on a ranch near Clifton. His interests include Historic Preservation, old cars, fossil hunting, observation of wildlife and longhorn cattle.

Boutwell was Art Director for "Texas Highways Magazine" from 1966 to 1972 and became aware of the diversity of Texas during that time and this awareness has become the focus of his life’s work. He has recently finished a series for his calendar prints of old gas stations that are still in existence.

George has had many ‘one man shows’ and won awards all over Texas as well as Oklahoma City, Louisiana, Wyoming, and Florida. His paintings have appeared in "Texas Highways Magazine", "Southwest Art"; covers of the "Texas Veterinary Medical Journal", and University of Texas Law School Seminar Brochures. His work can be seen on his website at www.gboutwell.com.

In 2006, George Boutwell was given the title of the "Official Texas State Artist" by the Texas Commission on the Arts and the Texas State Legislature.

Boutwell has painted a house in Coleman, what is now the Victorian Manor at 601 West Walnut, at right.

The "Flight of the Dragonflies" Juried Art Show will include a workshop by Awards Juror, Ann Templeton, which will run April 25, 26 and 27 at the Franklin Center. The juried show officially opens Saturday April 28, 2007. Artists’ demonstrations will be open to the public Sunday afternoon, April 29, Monday April 30, and Tuesday, May 1, with Awards Reception Wednesday, May 2, 12:00 noon.

For information on the show events or to attend the workshop, contact Marian Johnson 325-357-4775 or Virginia Bethke 325-625-2291.

Trent Smith Wins New Award at Panther Creek Stock Show
1/19/2007
Last year the Panther Creek Stock Show lost a dear friend. Jeff "Buck" Buxkemper was a great supporter of the kids. In his memory, his daughter, Randi, a 2005 Panther Creek graduate (and previous champion pig shower in her own right) presented this year's champion with a jacket donated by Steve Hall, owner of Hall's Processing. In what will be an added annual prize, the first one went to Trent Smith who exhibited the Champion White OPB. Trent is an 8th grader, the son of Mark and Teresa Smith of Valera, grandson of Ken and Helen Smith of Valera and Joe and Geneva Harris of Coleman.

Coleman Police Blotter January 18-19
1/19/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
It appears that things are beginning to become somewhat busier at the Coleman Police Department. The ice and snow kept a large part of the community indoors. Yesterday, however, as the temperature was a little above freezing, people were becoming a little more active.
Yesterday morning, Atmos Energy called requesting an officer come to an address on the north side of town. Upon officer's arrival it was determined that a subject was stealing gas since the meter had been removed for non-payment. The individual had taken what appeared to be a radiator hose from a vehicle and connected the two gas pipes together on the outside of his residence. A charge of Theft Under $50 (Class C Misdemeanor) has been filed and a warrant has now been issued for the arrest of the person responsible.
At approximately 6:00 p.m. yesterday, a call was received in reference to a 25 year old black male that was intoxicated and had allegedly done damage to a family member's residence in a "fit of rage". As officers arrived, the male subject was detained until further questioning of the family members. It was then determined by officers that the man had committed two Class C Misdemeanor Offenses, 1) Assault Family Violence and 2) Disorderly Conduct. The subject was placed under arrest and is now in the City of Coleman Jail.
Last night, just before midnight, a call was taken by Coleman County dispatch in regards to a 16 year old white male that had assaulted a 12 year old white male and possibly broken his nose. This case is still under investigation.
Keep in mind that it is illegal to steal gas, water or electricity. Anyone caught stealing utilities can/will be prosecuted.
If you know of someone that is stealing utilities, please contact the Coleman Police Department at 325-625-4114.

City Council Holds Regular Meeting
1/18/2007
The Coleman City Council met at 5:00pm Thursday at City Hall for a regularly scheduled meeting and covered the following business:
* Voted 4-0 to grant a variance to Tye Pickett to build a carport on his property on West 3rd Street.
* Council heard from Jay Moses, Chief of Police, (pictured right) who wants to promote Brian Tompkins to the position of Sergeant. Moses told the Council it will not cost any additional money and that the PD still has one vacancy to fill.
* Council approved on a 4-0 vote the quarterly Occupancy Tax Report from Mary Griffis, Chamber of Commerce Manager.
* The Council spent considerable time pondering a contract with Local Government Services to pursue the recovery of unpaid franchise fees from Charter Communications, the former cable television provider in Coleman. Charter has assigned its local franchise over to Rapid Communications. The Council learned that the City really doesn't have a way to control the franchise, that is handled by the State. The Council decided to have Larry Weise, City Manager, see if Rapid Communications will pay the unpaid franchise fees left behind by Charter. If not, the City will contract with Local Government Services to recover the fees.
* The Council voted 4-0 to authorize the City Secretary to advertise for the city's employee health insurance.
* Richard Hensley made a presentation on behalf of the Coleman Fire Department. He told the Council the department responded to 662 calls for service in 2006. He brought the Council up-to-date on equipment. The local department is fortunate to have two relatively new front-line engines, an ' 03 model and an ' 05 model. Hensley said most of their equipment is new. He focused on some of the goals of the department in ' 07 which include increased training for all firemen, especially entry level positions, updating fire department by-laws, updating operational procedures and updating record keeping. The Coleman Fire Department has four paid firemen on staff and 29 volunteers.
* Larry Weise, City Manager, gave a positive financial report to the Council. The City is in the middle of its current budget cycle. Weise reported positive income against expenses and said "we are on track and if we can stay on track we will reach the end of the year in the black." Weise said the city's cash-on-hand at the end of December was $400,000 greater than December a year ago and investment funds are a half million dollars more than a year ago. The city now has a dedicated infrastructure fund and has been able to deposit $60,000 in that fund so far this budget year. Weise also reported the City will consider using E-Bay to sell equipment from the Municipal Light Plant as the process to dismantle the facility continues.
*  The meeting adjourned at 6:37pm.  All councilmen were present.  Bob Ray, Mayor Pro-Tem, presided in the absence of Mayor Nick Poldrack.

Snowgirl ?
1/18/2007
Did you know that all snowmen are not, well, men? Some are actually girls. Just ask four year old Abigail Allen, daughter of Zac and Cathy Allen of Coleman. Thanks to about three inches of snow Tuesday night, snowmen can be seen all over Coleman. Abigail, however, said hers is a ballerina snow girl.

She comes complete with a pink feather boa, carrot for a nose, chocolate covered cherries for eyes, sticks for arms, beads hanging on one of the arms, and one of her dad's old cowboy hats. So, don't take for granted that all these snowmen are men, they may be girls. Great job Abigail!

No Deal
1/18/2007
It is the type of emergency call you like to report. The Coleman Fire Department was called at mid-morning to a possible house fire in a residence at the corner of West 2nd and 5th Avenue.

They did a walk-through of the residence and could not find any sign of fire or smoke. They were there for about 10 minutes and returned to the fire station.

Burn Ban Lifted
1/18/2007
Jimmie Hobbs, County Judge,  has officially lifted the Burn Ban in Coleman County until further notice or until a wildfire threat again. Recent rain and the snow have certainly eased the threat of fire so it is permissible to do outdoor burning again in the county.

2007 Coleman County Stock Show Awards and Donors
1/18/2007 (Submitted by Sarah Beal, Stock Show Chairman)
Note: All the County Stock Show results are on the Farm and Ranch Page

Buckles
Jansen Merrill - Champion Steer buckle sponsored by Jay and Willene Davis
Jake Stephenson - Champion Lamb buckle sponsored by Santa Anna National Bank
Kinsey Holland - Champion Barrow buckle sponsored by Bledsoe Ford
Casie Swening - Champion Meat Goat buckle sponsored by Coleman County Special Utility District
Sarah Hailey - Champion Rabbit buckle sponsored by James & Jody Barr
Jansen Merrill - Jr. Steer Showmanship buckle (Carrie Morris Memorial) sponsored by Heath & Danielle Hemphill
Taylor Davis - Sr. Steer Showmanship buckle sponsored by Bowen Drug Store
Jake Stephenson - Sr. Lamb Showmanship buckle sponsored by First Coleman National Bank
Zayne Riggins - Jr. Lamb Showmanship buckle sponsored by Hall’s Processing
Amber Hunter - Sr. Barrow Showmanship buckle sponsored by Coleman County State Bank
Chase Huddle - Jr. Barrow Showmanship buckle sponsored by Sherman & Tammy Smith
Nancy Meyer - Sr. Meat Goat Showmanship buckle (Willard Allen Memorial) sponsored by Jo Ann Allen
Courtney Moore - Jr. Meat Goat Showmanship buckle sponsored by Sandy & Barbara Neal
Aaron Briley - Top Hand buckle sponsored by Alderman-Cave, Wendell Lee representative

Trophies
Taylor Davis - Reserve Champion Steer trophy sponsored by C. M. Huckabee
James Short - Reserve Champion Lamb trophy sponsored by Kirby Vanover
Peyton Kuykendall - Reserve Champion Barrow trophy sponsored by Coleman County Farm Bureau
Casie Swening - Reserve Champion Meatgoat trophy sponsored by Chris & Cindy Jamison
Sarah Holmquest - Reserve Champion Rabbit trophy sponsored by Sarah Beal
Tori Valdez - Champion Heifer trophy sponsored by Dona Triplitt (Ted Triplitt Memorial)
Mercedes Taylor - Champion American Steer trophy sponsored by Williams Tire Store
Jansen Merrill - Champion English Steer trophy sponsored by Horne Ranch Co.
Sierra Guerrero - Champion European Steer trophy sponsored by Henry & Margie Dodson
Daniella Escobar - Reserve Champion American Steer trophy sponsored by Wayne & Betty McClure
Taylor Davis - Reserve Champion English Steer trophy sponsored by Jack & Carole Horne
Dalton DeLeon - Reserve Champion European Steer trophy sponsored by Henderson Funeral Home
Jake Stephenson - Champion Finewool Lamb trophy sponsored by Davis Farm & Ranch Supply
Kylie Bledsoe - Champion Medium Wool Lamb trophy (Dr. Wesley Wise Memorial) sponsored by Santa Anna National Bank
Kylie Bledsoe - Champion Crossbred Lamb trophy sponsored by Johnson Feed Barn
Colton Smith - Champion Southdown Lamb trophy sponsored by Collier Watson
Kinsey Holland - Champion Hamp Barrow trophy sponsored by J. E. Stevens Co.
Corbin O’Dell - Champion Duroc Barrow trophy sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Bill Merryman
Aaron Briley - Champion WOPB Barrow trophy sponsored by Harold & Caroline Skelton
Brent Ogden - Champion Crossbred Barrow trophy sponsored by Simmons Feed & Seed
Kenneth McMillan - Champion BOPB Barrow trophy sponsored by Coleman County Electric Cooperative
Casie Swening - Champion Meat Goat Blanket (Joe Ed Wise Memorial) given by Nathan Wise

See Panther Creek Stock Show / Food  Show results on the Farm and Ranch Page

Grand Jury Cases Presented
1/17/2007 (submitted by Joe Lee Rose, District Attorney)
The following cases were presented by District Attorney Joe Lee Rose to the July Term Coleman County Grand Jury on November 28, 2006. True bills were returned in the following cases:
1. Cause No. 1941 – Tyrell Harding, Burglary of a Habitation
2. Cause No. 1942 – Kathy Lynn Wheeler, Burglary of a Building
3. Cause No. 1943 – Welton Ray Watson, Sr., Felony D.W.I.
4. Cause No. 1944 – Daniel Culver Conrath, Retaliation
5. Cause No. 1945 – John Lewis Flores, Possession of Controlled Substance
6. Cause No. 1946 – Tamela Ka Rosales, Burglary of a Habitation
7. Cause No. 1947 – Carl Dean Stewart, Jr., Possession of Controlled Substance
8. Cause No. 1948 – Shane Lee Stewart, Theft of Firearm
9. Cause No. 1949 – Robert Brett Farley, Possession of Controlled Substance
10. Cause No. 1950 – Robert Brett Farley, Burglary of a Building
11. Cause No. 1951 – Ramiro Flores, Retaliation
12. Cause No. 1952 – Richard Neil Hoover, Burglary of a Habitation
13. Cause No. 1953 – Philip Diaz Rosales, Jr., Felony D.W.I.
14. Cause No. 1954 – Willie Lee Thomas, Possession of Controlled Substance
15. Cause No. 1955 – Charles Edward Salas, Aggravated Assault
One case was passed by the Grand Jury.

Coleman Police Blotter January 15-16
1/16/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
Yesterday around noon played havoc for the Coleman Police Department. While working traffic on the north end of Coleman by Bledsoe Ford where a vehicle had already slid off the highway, Cpl. Brian Tompkins watched from inside his patrol car as a passenger vehicle that was attempting to slow down had lost control on the thick layer of ice and side-swiped the police cruiser. Neither Cpl. Tompkins or the driver of the other vehicle were injured and very minimal damage was done to the cars. Remember there are still patches of ice on the roadways and continue to use caution as more snow and rain approaches Coleman County.

Into the evening and overnight hours it was relatively quiet in Coleman. A couple of domestic disturbance calls that were settled by separation of parties and a few prowler calls were basically the extent of the evening.

It is extremely cold here in Coleman and across the state of Texas as winter is making it's presence known, if you are traveling any distance please remember to pack warm blankets or clothing and food and water in your vehicle. It doesn't take long for the inside of a vehicle to become very cold once the motor has been turned off. Please use caution, buckle up and stay safe as your out and about on the Texas roadways.

Major Coleman Industry is Expanding
1/16/2007
Wind Clean Corporation has started a major addition to their current facility with the ultimate goal to increase production by up to 40 percent. In an exclusive interview with Colemannews.com, Wind Clean Vice-President Tim Manley said a new building will be constructed over the top of the oldest part of the current building which is the north side nearest Airport Road. Once the new structure is in place, plans call for a step by step process to "demo out" the old structure underneath. "This will renovate and redesign our process flow, Manley said. Wind Clean receives the large tower sections produced by Trinity Industries from their facilities in Fort Worth and Tulsa. Wind Clean employees sand blast and paint the tower sections, install internal components and wiring and prepare the towers for shipment. The tower sections are then shipped to various locations where wind farms are being built. Many of them have been sent here in Texas, others to Oklahoma, some to Kansas. Wind Clean has orders for 700 towers in 2007 but with the expansion project they hope to complete 850-900 towers in 2008. Approximately 130 employees work at Wind Clean and part of the operation is 24 hours-a-day six days per week. Local contractors are being used to build the new addition. "They are making sure things are done right," Manley said. Mike Barker Construction is doing the dirt work, Guy Bolton is handling the construction while Bruce Adams is handling the electrical work. "They have all been excellent to work with," Manley said. The renovation is expected to be complete in July.

Fraser to Chair Business and Commerce Committee
1/15/2007
Austin -- State Senator Troy Fraser (R-Horseshoe Bay), who represents Coleman County in the Texas Senate, has been reappointed chairman of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce by Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst.
"I look forward to continuing the work of the Business and Commerce Committee," Fraser said. "This committee handles the flow of legislation related to electricity, insurance, telecommunications, banking, securities and lending issues, and business licensing and regulation. All of these issues are important as we continue to help Texas grow economically as our population grows."
In addition, Fraser has been named to the Senate Finance Committee. "Over the last two years our state has seen great financial success," Fraser said. "We must continue to be fiscally disciplined, setting clear priorities and remembering that it is the taxpayer's money."
Fraser was also renamed to the Senate Committee on State Affairs as well as the Senate Committee on International Relations and Trade.
Senator Fraser was elected in 1996 to serve Senate District 24, a 21-county region that is located in the geographic center of the state. Prior to his election to the Texas Senate in 1996, Senator Fraser served three terms in the Texas House of Representatives, from 1988 to 1992.

Report on Gouldbusk Homemakers Meeting
1/15/2007 (by Lynn Corbett)
The Gouldbusk Extension Education Association (Gouldbusk Homemakers Club) met at the home of Berva Dawn Taylor for our annual Christmas party. Everyone present was asked to bring a dish. Berva Dawn was our hostess for the meeting. Members present were Berva Dawn Taylor, Danella McBrayer, Pat Pool, Lynn Corbett, Virginia Jamison, Mona Wilson, Dean Lanier, Deborah Yates Wanda Jewell and her grand-daughter Jordan Jewell. The festivities commenced at 11:30am and we had prayer followed by good food. We did have a short business meeting where we discussed plans for the up-coming Coleman stock show, where we will once again be manning the concession stand. As this is a five day affair we decided once a gain not to have a formal January meeting. Our next meeting will be on February 8th in the home of Virginia Jamison at 1:30pm, We would love to have anyone interested in our club to join us there. As promised to the ladies who attended our commissioner's luncheon in December, I am adding one of the recipes used to prepare the most talked about dish for our Christmas party. I hope as many will like it and use it too.
Ham and Cheese quiche

1/2 cup cold butter
1 jar (5 ounces) process sharp cheddar cheese spread
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tblsp. cold water

filling:
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1/4 tsp. Salt
1/2 cup finely chopped fully cooked ham
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 tblsp. Minced fresh parsley (optional)

In a bowl cut butter and cheese spread into flour until well blended. Add water, toss with fork until a ball forms. Refrigerate for one hour. Press tablespoonfuls onto the bottom and up the sides of greased miniature muffin cups.

In a bowl beat egg, milk and salt together. Stir in the ham, cheese and parsley. Spoon a rounded teaspoonful into each shell. Bake at 350 degrees for 28-32 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes. Yields 2 dozen. Enjoy

As a variation you can add sausage as well or instead of the ham.

Coleman Police Blotter January 12 -14
1/15/2007
It was really a quiet weekend for the most part on the streets of Coleman. Only one accident to report within the city limits. The accident occurred at 7:37 p.m. Sunday night in reference to a vehicle hitting a utility pole in the area of 5th Avenue and Pecan. Upon officer arrival it was determined that the driver, a 41 year old white male, had left the scene and was walking south on 5th Avenue. Officer Dean Kilburn located the driver and he (the driver) refused medical treatment from EMS.
Officer Kilburn detected the smell of alcohol coming from the driver and placed him under arrest for the following charges 1) No Drivers License 2) Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility 3) Driving While Intoxicated ( 2nd Offense ) and 4) Fleeing the Scene of an Accident Over $200. The driver is being held at the City of Coleman Jail.
It was noted that the City of Coleman Electrical Department crew and Charter Communications were contacted to repair damages to the utility pole.
The Coleman Police Department received numerous calls over the weekend in reference to highway conditions related to the weather. We appreciate your concern for your safety and the safety of others. Remember, if you can't contact the Police Department or Sheriff's Office, you can also call the Texas Department of Transportation at 1-800-452-9292 for updated road conditions.

Order of the Eastern Star Meets Recently
1/14/2007 (by Sue Sorrells)
The regular meeting of the Eastern Star Chapter of Coleman was held on Jan.8 at the Masonic Hall. Sue Sorrells, Worthy Matron, and Kermit Sorrells, Worthy Patron, presided over the meeting.
A delicious supper, served by Dixie Bible and Pat Moore, was enjoyed by 18 members and visitors from Chapters in Brownwood and Santa Anna and from a chapter in Arkansas. The regular meeting was then held and an initiation was held for one new member. The members of Chapter #360 of Coleman welcomed Becky Bethel as a new member in Eastern Star. It is always a great pleasure for us to welcome a new member and we are working hard to make this a great chapter by serving our community. From the membership in Coleman, we would like to wish for everyone A Very Happy New Year!

Dalton DeLeon Wins Coleman Steer Show
1/13/2007
The Grand Champion Steer of the Coleman Chapter Show Saturday was exhibited by Dalton DeLeon, a Coleman sophomore.  The Reserve Champion award went to Taylor Davis, a CHS senior.
The Junior Showmanship award went to Jansen Merrill while the Senior Showmanship award was won by Taylor Davis. Other steer winners were:

English Breed Champion - Taylor Davis; Reserve Champion - Jansen Merrill

Exotics Champion - Dalton DeLeon; Exotics Reserve Champion - Tori Valdez

Tori also exhibited the only heifer in the show.

Courtney Brown Wins Chapter Rabbit Show
1/13/2007
Courtney Brown exhibited the Grand Champion pen of three rabbits Saturday at the Coleman Chapter Stock Show.

The Reserve Champion honors went to Sarah Hailey.  A total of seven exhibitors competed.  They will return for the County Show Sunday at 2:00pm.

Brody Tibbetts Wins Chapter Goat Show
1/13/2007
It was a clean sweep of Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Goat awards for Brody Tibbetts Saturday at the Coleman Chapter Stock Show.

Winning the Senior Goat Showmanship award was Ashley Matthews while Shelton Zarate won the Junior Goat Showmanship award.

Kylie Bledsoe Wins Chapter Lamb Show
1/13/2007
Kylie Bledsoe (left) exhibited the Grand Champion Lamb Saturday at the Coleman Chapter Show while James Short won Reserve Champion honors.

Carissa Zarate won Senior Showmanship while Jayce Simmons won Junior Showmanship. Other lamb results are as follows:
Champion Finewool - James Short; Reserve Champion Finewool Colton Smith.
Champion Finewool Cross - Kylie Bledsoe; Reserve Champion Finewool Cross - James Short
Champion Medium Wool - McKenzie Smith; Reserve Champion Medium Wool - James Short
Champion Southdown - Colton Smith

J.D. Crowder Wins Coleman Swine Show
1/13/2007
A crossbred hog shown by J. D. Crowder was the Overall Grand Champion of the Coleman Chapter Show Saturday morning.
Reserve Grand Champion honors went to Draven Delegarza. Crowder also won the Senior Showmanship trophy while Skylar Culwell won the Junior Showmanship award.

Other breed champions were as follows:

Champion Hamp - Sarah Wickson; Reserve Champion Hamp - Kelby McCorkle

Champion Duroc - J.D. Crowder; Reserve Champion Duroc - Kelby McCorkle

Champion White Other Pure Breed - Draven Delegarza; Reserve Champion White OPB - Kelby McCorkle

Champion Black Other Pure Breed - Gary Heath; Reserve Champion Black OPB - Kolton Titsworth

Champion Cross - J.D. Crowder; Reserve Champion Cross - David Cupps.  

Another Wreck in the Same Spot
1/12/2007
The Highway 84 overpass between Coleman and Santa Anna wasn't the place to drive Friday afternoon. There was a second wreck in the same place as the one early Friday afternoon. The second wreck was reported at 4:55pm and involved what was described as a blue Avon truck. The truck was licensed in Canada. Little more information is available at this time except there was no transport of the driver to the hospital. A large wrecker from Abilene had to be brought to the scene to remove the wreckage.

Major Wreck Sends One to Hospital
1/12/2007
One man was taken to Coleman County Medical Center by ambulance early Friday afternoon following a one vehicle rollover. The crash happened on the overpass between Coleman and Santa Anna. The truck is licensed in Colorado. Officials at the scene say the driver was traveling south, was on the overpass, went over the guard rail and rolled several times down the embankment. The driver was thrown out of the pickup about half way down the embankment. He was alert at the scene. The pickup, as you can see by the photo, was destroyed. Units from the Coleman Fire Department, Coleman Police Department and Coleman County Sheriff's Department responded. The wreck will be investigated by the Department of Public Safety.
Another accident happened early in the afternoon in Coleman at 9th and Commercial with an initial report of no serious injuries. We'll have more later as reports are received. The rain is causing slick roads, drive carefully and reduce speed.

Panther Creek Chapter Stock Show Held
1/12/2007
The annual Panther Creek Chapter Stock Show was held, an event which brings most of southern Coleman County together. Winning the lamb show early Friday afternoon was Nancy Meyer while Jake Stephenson captured reserve champion honors. The swine show was underway at 2:00pm, full results will be released as soon as this busy stock show weekend is over.
 

Ribbon Cutting Held for Performance Cellular
1/12/2007
Even though they have been in business since the first of November, Performance Cellular held their official Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting and grand opening Friday morning. Performance Cellular is located at 2112 South Commercial, across the street from Williams Tire Store. According to Johnna Barnes, owner, her store is an authorized CellularOne store. They pride themselves as a full service store. You can take care of all your needs from purchasing cellular service to getting new accessories for your phone. You can also make your payments in the store. Performance Cellular is open from 9:00am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday and 10:00am until 2:00pm on Saturday. Pictured are store employee Erika Salinaz and Johnna Barnes, owner.

Coleman Police Blotter January 11-12
1/12/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
Yesterday evening into the early morning hours things appeared to be docile throughout the city. Minor calls were reported such as attempted break-ins (while the homeowners were at work), reports of stolen bicycles, civil standbys and several emergency medical calls.
There was also a report from the Coleman Fire Department of a male subject burning trash in a barrel within the city limits. The subject was informed that 1) It is illegal to burn trash within the city limits and 2) Coleman County is still under a burn ban. The fire was extinguished by the subject.
At 7:49 a.m. this morning, Detective Les Cogdill apprehended Michael Earle Hiroms, a white male, wanted by the Coleman Police Department for a warrant of "Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility". Subject has been placed in the City of Coleman Jail.
Remember it is the law to buckle up and wear your seatbelt! An adult caught not wearing there seatbelt is punishable to a fine of $25 minimum up to the maximum of $50 plus court cost. Unrestrained children fines start at the minimum of $100 plus court cost. Please for the safety of you and your loved ones, BUCKLE UP!   Coleman Police Department

Panther Creek Students Compete at UIL
1/12/2007 (contributed)
Panther Creek Elementary students participated in the district UIL meet held in Santa Anna on December 5th and 7th. Results for Panther Creek students are as follows:
5th Grade
Listening –3rd team- Alicia Cody, Andrew Dyer, Paula Mata 6th,
Music Memory-3rd team -Alicia Cody, Mary Tapia 1st, Paula Mata 5th, Andrew Dyer 6th,
Spelling-3rd team-Jessica Smith, Alicia Cody, Mary Tapia
Maps, Graphs, and Charts-2nd team- Jessica Smith, Kirsten Moore 6th, Mary Tapia 5th
Ready writing-Paula Mata 4th, Mary Tapia 5th
Social Studies-1st team-Cassidy Frazier, Jessica Smith 1st, Alicia Cody 2nd
Oral reading-Kirsten Moore 4th
4th Grade
Ready Writing-Zane McMahon 4th, Nico Para 5th
Oral Reading-Zane McMahon 2nd, Nico Para 6th
3rd Grade
Ready Writing-Jessi Loyd 4th
 

Coleman Police Blotter, January 10-11
1/11/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
In the news from the Coleman Police Department, 18 year old Lacey Roxanne Culpepper was taken into custody on two Coleman Municipal Warrants for "Failure to Attend School" yesterday afternoon. Subject is being held at the Coleman Police Department at this time.
Last night a call came in to the Police Department in reference to "Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle". P.D. officers located the vehicle in question and spoke with both parties. The vehicle was later returned and no arrest were made.
Keep in mind that there is an 'Arctic Front' approaching Coleman and Central Texas which is sure to bring some extremely cold air and precipitation. Make sure that any outside animals have adequate protection from the elements or can be brought inside. Coleman Animal Control will be checking throughout the weekend to make sure that any animal(s) are taken care of properly.
Always here to serve you, The Coleman Police Department.....325-625-4114.
 

Residents vs. Staff - Chili Cook-off at Holiday Hill
1/11/2007
In a showdown between chili cooks Thursday morning at Holiday Hill Nursing Home, four residents put their chili making secrets to task against members of the staff. Colemannews.com was allowed a special behind the scenes look at the judges in action, no easy task for Chuck Baker, Rick Marshal and Rick Turner. With beads of sweat on their foreheads and a warm fuzzy feeling inside, they made their way from the secret chili room to the nurses desk to announce the winners.
First place, by a unanimous vote of the judges, went to Thelma Lucas, a resident at Holiday Hill. "It was nice and thick and reasonably hot" according to Marshal. Almost as good as first place was the second place entry by the nursing staff, "not as thick as Thelma's but it had a good flavor". In third, Sylvia Molina, activity director, who snuck in some chili Chipotle to add a sweet taste.

Pictured are: Front - Sylvia Molina and Thelma Lucas. Back - Stephanie Gentry, Shelly Robinett and Robin Longley.  At right, Rick Marshal, tasting one of the eight entries.

Results from the Sandhills Stock Show
1/11/2007 (courtesy Cindy Dockter, FFA Advisor)
Students from Coleman FFA competed January 5th at the Sandhills Stock Show in Odessa. Several of the students placed high enough in their division to make the sale.

Lambs - Class 1 - Colton Smith - 8th, James Short - 12th; Class 2 - James Stephenson - 7th, Kylie Bledsoe - 15th. James Short - 17th, Chelsey Bouldin - 18th; Class 3 - Kylie Bledsoe - 3rd (Sale); Class 4 - James Short - 4th (Sale); Kylie Bledsoe - 10th; Class 5 - Kylie Bledsoe - 2nd (Sale)

   Kylie Bledsoe                                                                                         James Short

Santa Anna Stock Show Results
1/11/2007
Here are the results of the Santa Anna Chapter Stock Show held last Saturday.
Steers -
Grand Champion and Senior Showmanship - Sierra Guerrero
Reserve Champion - Harley Anderson

Swine -
BOPB Breed Champion - Caitlyn Murray
Reserve Breed Champion - Brittany Morris

Cross Breed Champion - Colton Enriquez
Reserve Cross Breed Champion - Sierra Guerrero

Duroc Breed Champion - Jordan Washington
Duroc Reserve Champion - Alexis Washington

Hamp Breed Champion - Kindsey Holland
Hamp Reserve Champion - Peyton Kuykendall

WOPB Breed Champion - Layken DeLeon
WOPB Reserve Champion - Harlie Anderson

Grand Champion of the Swine Show - Layken DeLeon
Reserve Champion of the Swine Show - Colton Enriquez      Rebecka Melton and T.J. Taylor
Junior Showmanship Award - Christian Washington
Senior Showmanship Award - Sierra Guerrero

Goats -
Grand Champion - Madison Wise
Reserve Champion - Rebecka Melton

Lambs -
Grand Champion - Jarod Jones
Reserve Champion - Madison Wise

Rabbits -
Grand Champion - Heather McMillon
Reserve Champion - Sierra Herrod

Coleman Police Blotter for January 9-10
1/10/2007 (courtesy Coleman PD)
Yesterday afternoon a dog that was deemed vicious was taken into custody by Animal Control. This same dog bit a Coleman P.D. officer Saturday while it was being placed back in its own yard. Thankfully a helpful neighbor saw the altercation between the officer and the dog. The neighbor assisted placing the dog back in the yard. The dog owners were out of town over the weekend but were contacted by phone and advised of the situation. When the dog owners arrived back in Coleman, Animal Control along with P.D. officers took the dog into their possession.

Last night into the early morning hours it was peaceful on the streets of Coleman.

This morning after school was in session, Coleman P.D. assisted by the Coleman I.S.D. School Resource Officer served a warrant for 'Failure To Attend' on a 16 year old white male juvenile.
Remember, unless your child is sick or out on emergency leave, it is imperative that your child attend school. If your child is unable to attend school, please contact the school advising them that your child will not be attending for that day(s) and the reason for not being able to attend.

Keep in mind that the Coleman Police Department is always here to lend a helping hand. If you have a question that we can assist with, do not hesitate to call 325-625-4114.
 

County Emergency Manager Wants You To "Be Ready"
1/10/2007 (courtesy John Pearce, Coleman Co. Emergency Mgmt. Coordinator)
Weather is always with us and it looks like we will get some severe weather this weekend. When conditions get just right we are subject to ice storms that really do more damage than tornadoes because they affect a larger area. The ice that forms on trees and power lines can disrupt the flow of electricity to our homes and businesses. Electricity providers have to be commended for mitigating the amount of damage done by trees to our power lines. However, ice forming on the power lines could cause a great deal of hardship.
We cannot stop the ice but we can prepare for it. A lot that can be done depends on the individual situation. The greatest need during the time of a power outage is food, water and prescription medications. I recommend that you keep a two week supply of canned and dry foods on hand at all times as well as bottled water and prescription medications. Camping supplies help to provide a way to prepare food as well as keep one warm in cold weather.
If one has an all electric home then one needs to prepare accordingly. Prepare in a manner that is safe and does not present a fire hazard to you or the community you live in.
Going back to our days of Civil Defense I also recommend that you keep at least a half tank of fuel in your vehicles. If you have a generator of some sort remember that it can be shared but it also needs fuel and oil.
Most of all this is a time of neighbor helping neighbor. Be aware that the elderly, the young and people that have medical problems will be affected the most. Notify EMS if someone is in distress and needs help.
So, as your emergency management coordinator for Coleman County, please stay safe and stay prepared. If you have questions, do not hesitate to call me, John Pearce at 325-214-2641.

Coleman Humane Society Has Successful 2006
1/10/2007 (contributed)
Scruffy went from the City pound to looking longingly through the fence to being with his very own two boys in Lubbock, just in time for Christmas. Scruffy is one of the Humane Society’s 45 successful adoptions in 2006. See more of the 165 dogs who have found new homes since 2004 on our web site at www.HumaneSocietyCC.com.
 

Coleman Chamber Elects 2007 Directors
Committee Chairmen Named
1/10/2007 (courtesy Chamber of Commerce)
The Board of Directors of the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau met Monday, January 8 and elected new board members.

Directors present were Gene Christian, Michael Taylor, Dokie Bledsoe, Nina Childress, Sandra Barr, Charlotte Johns, Danyelle Hemphill, Michael Autry, Darla Wise, Nina Childress, Secretary Amy Hinds and Executive Director Mary Griffis.

President Gene Christian introduced the new Board of Directors. These included Michael Autry, Darla Wise and returning Directors, Danyelle Hemphill, Nina Childress, and Rodney Ivy. Crystal Rae was elected to serve the term after the resignation of a Board Member.

Officers for 2007 were elected and include Michael Taylor, President; Sandra Barr, 1st Vice-President; and Dr. Darron Atwood, 2nd Vice-President.

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

It Pays to be Present
1/9/2007
The winner of the “It Pays to be Present” drawing held last week at Coleman Junior High School is Edgar Barrios, an eighth grader.
A drawing for $25.00 is held each six weeks period. To be eligible for the drawing, a student must not miss a single day of school during this period. The $25.00 is provided by the Student Council at Coleman Junior High. 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.
 

Theft Cases Cleared Through County Court
1/9/2007
A Coleman man and Blanket woman responsible for separate thefts in Coleman are serving jail sentences.
Coleman County Attorney Heath Hemphill successfully prosecuted the cases in October which followed investigation by the Coleman Police Department dating back to February of 2006 in one case and July for the other.

Leslee Jo Reid, 25, of Blanket was found guilty of two incidents of Class B theft and Class A stealing unsigned checks in February 2006. The incidents run concurrently and involve 300 days in County Jail, a $100 fine plus court costs. Reid admitted to grabbing a purse belonging to a Coleman woman from a local clothing store downtown and taking another purse from a victim on West 2nd Street.

Benjamin Tyler Faries, 21, plead guilty to multiple counts of Class A Burglary of a Vehicle in July of 2006. Trial was waived and he was sentenced to 300 days in Coleman County Jail, a $100 fine and court costs of $266 on each case. In a sworn statement, Faries admitted to taking a cellphone from a car on High Road after midnight on July 13, taking a camera out of another car on College Avenue after midnight on July 8, and taking a checkbook from an unlocked car on Miami Street on July 15.
 

Coleman Police Blotter
1/9/2007 (courtesy Coleman PD)
Yesterday and overnight the Coleman Police Department responded to several calls within the City of Coleman. Calls were in reference to Domestic Violence, Criminal Mischief and Dogs at Large.
At approximately 5:00 yesterday afternoon, a call came in from a local business that store employees had detained a shoplifter. After officers arrived on scene, it was noted that a white female juvenile was arrested on charges of shoplifting and minor in possession of tobacco product.
Another call came in at 7:42 yesterday evening in reference to Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. The caller stated that the vehicle was taken by her juvenile son and was taking her vehicle to South Texas. Coleman P.D. officers spotted the car at 8:00, detained the vehicle and subdued the juvenile. After further investigation, it was known that the juvenile was in the possession of marijuana and was wanted by the Texas Youth Commission. The vehicle was released to the owner and charges of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle was dropped. The juvenile is being detained by the Coleman Police Department until transfer to Texas Youth Commission.
Several calls have recently been taken by the Coleman P.D. in reference to stolen vehicles and burglary of a motor vehicle, remember to always lock your vehicles regardless of where the vehicle(s) are parked and remove the keys.
If you suspect any suspicious activity in and about the community, please do not hesitate to contact the Coleman Police Department at 325-625-4114.

Coleman Career Center Opened Monday
1/9/2007
The Workforce Investment Act called for the creation of a nationwide network of One-Stop Career Centers that would provide support and assistance to job seekers and the local employer community.

The Coleman Center will offer interested persons a way to finish their high school diploma, gain additional academic skills or develop specific job training.

"The program we have here is to address the top priorities that the business community has here in Coleman. Specifically, we determined that our top priorities wer