News Archives - July 2007

Coleman School Board Gets First Look at New Budget
Plenty of Positives Noted
7/31/2007
The Coleman School Board held a Budget Workshop Monday night and heard lots of positive news concerning the school district's finances.

Last year at this time, the picture was not pretty with a projected budget shortfall of $373,664. Through belt tightening and money management by administrators through last school year, the actual deficit is projected at $97,000. The final 2006-2007 budget numbers won't be complete until August 31st.

Looking ahead to the 2007-2008 Budget:
* Projected expenditures - $8,932,892
* Projected Revenues - $8,855,237
* Projected Deficit - $77,655

"This is a much healthier picture from a year ago," stated Royce Young, superintendent, in his report to the school board. "Many factors go into this, including but not limited to, energy conservation, enrollment numbers, average daily attendance by students and administrative oversight of purchases.

Reserve Funds
* The Coleman ISD has $2,272,808 in reserve funds. "This is a very healthy situation," Young said. The Texas Education Agency recommends school district's have three months of operating budget in reserve.

What is in the Budget?
* Mandatory step raises for teachers, counselors, diagnosticians and librarians plus $275 for each
* Pay scale raises for maintenance and custodial
* 2% raises for principals, athletic directors, technology director and central office staff, excluding superintendent
* Mandatory minimum wage increases for 6 of 9 cafeteria workers

Health Insurance Costs
*  Depending on the plan, coverage and who you are insuring, state health insurance plans have increased anywhere from $17 to $92.46 per month.  State and local contributions were not increased.  In some cases, despite the slight salary increases that were given, employees will actually take home less than last year.

"When you have student achievement and a budget you can live with, we've got a lot of things to be really proud of," Young told the board.

A Budget Hearing will be held at the regular school board meeting on August 27th.

Coleman School Officials Upbeat About Test Scores
7/31/2007
Major gains in TAKS test scores last spring leads Coleman school administrators to believe they will receive high marks when the district ratings are announced in mid-August.

Monday night at the Coleman School Board meeting, Royce Young, superintendent, went over an Accountability Preview with the board showing major gains and high test scores on each campus. "This is a very, very, very positive report," Young told the board. Teachers and students alike were complimented on their hard work during the previous school year. In other school board business:

* The board accepted a bid of $22,002 from Mac Anderson to purchase a portable classroom building, one of two the school advertised for sale. Moran ISD purchased the other one. Money from the sale of the buildings will help pay for new bleachers at the Junior High Gym.
* Mike Edington was appointed delegate, Brent McMillan alternate delegate, to the Texas Association of School Board's Convention Delegate Assembly in Dallas this fall.
* Approved the Student Code of Conduct.
* Approved Update 80 on first reading - the update is provided by the Texas Association of School Boards and contains the latest rules and regulations affecting schools.

Santa Anna Summer Reading Program Ends
7/30/2007 (contributed)
Pirates invaded the Santa Anna Library on Thursday. It was the final day of the summer reading club program.
Pirates found plenty of treasure. To get the picture, boys and girls made pirate hats, flags and telescopes.
Since this is a reading club, everyone was allowed to select a book from donations made to the Library over the past year. Since the Santa Anna Library operates primarily on donations, we wish to thank all who contributed to this effort.

The treasure hunt began with reading of the treasure maps. Three groups and leaders spread out about the downtown area. Beginners located their treasure behind a pile of wood. Juniors found treasure chest behind the old jail beneath a large tire and the seniors made a shocking discovery in a wooden coffin at the Coleman County Wood Shop.

Loot found in the chest was golden balloons, beads, gold coins, kazoos and eye patches. Since all good pirates share, all received their share of the loot.
 
After the hunt, using club rules and records turned in by the readers, the top 3 readers of each group were announced:
Beginners were Markayla Wise and Kaylie Shields.  Juniors were Chase McIver, Alexis Washington, and Delayne Absher.  Seniors were Ray Ann Shields, Garrett Dane, and Weston Shields.  Each of these selected their choice of the prizes on the Treasure Table.

All reading club records that were turned in were placed in a drawing for a small plastic swimming pool. The winner of the pool was Garrett Dane.

For several years, the Santa Anna Dairy Queen has honored the boys and girls with certificates for an ice cream cone. They came through again this year and it is much appreciated by the boys, girls and leaders of the program.

Surprise to everyone!!! Mr. and Mrs. Terry McIver awarded the children with certificates for pizza and a swim at the Coleman swimming pool.  Snacks were almost a disappointment because the club members love the hot popcorn that the Santa Anna National Bank sent earlier.

Adult volunteers who gave help were: Marie Silvis, Betty Key, Nancy Wylie, Ruth Ann McIver, Delma Blair, Paul Stephen, Judy Stephen, and Rush Fisher.

Junior leader were life savers! Those included Makaylah Morris, Christian Washington, Dara Wise, Hunter Musick, Courtlyn Liskla, Leaera Rambo, Vontazia Burfict, Payton Morris, Saydie Bradley, Aeron Smith, and Caleb Absher.

This program is possible because the City supports the library. People make donations of books and money, many people buy books ant the annual book sale held during Funtier Days, adults and young people volunteer their time and services, and local business people give their support.  We thank them all and all that help that were not mentioned.

Rainfall Report Received
7/30/2007
Rainfall was spotty across Coleman County over the weekend but some folks received some heavy downpours.
* Linda and Wayne Wright - Glen Cove - 1.60 (over Saturday and Sunday)
* Lance McWhorter - 1mi. NE of Centennial - 2.25 Sunday around noon

Early Morning Wreck Reported Near Trickham
7/30/2007
A wreck was reported at 5:40am Monday on FM 1176 near Trickham, south of Santa Anna. Initial reports are that the driver of a Dodge pickup struck and killed three cows. The driver was shaken but not injured, according to Coleman police dispatch.

Local Reckless Team Members Say Thanks!
7/29/2007
Amanda Gober, Carissa Zarate and Rynn Norris would like to thank everyone who helped support the Reckless Softball Team and their trip to Alabama for the ASA National Tournament by purchasing a raffle ticket. The drawing was held on Saturday at the Brownwood Rodeo Parade and the winners are as follow:

The 1st Place prize of the RCA 42-inch flat panel HD television was won by Ross Bradley of Santa Anna.

The 1st Place prize of the Remington .204 Ruger rifle was won by Rex Tackett of Brownwood.

The 3rd Place prize of the $100 Wal-Mart Gift Card was won by Johnny Marsh of Goldthwaite.

The team will be leaving for Alabama on Tuesday and the tournament will begin Thursday. Thanks again to all the fine folks and businesses of Coleman who helped support these girls!

Woman Dies From Injuries in Wreck Near Talpa
7/28/2007
Two sisters traveling from San Angelo back to their home in the Metroplex were involved in a wreck at 9:55am Saturday 3/10 of a mile west of Talpa on U.S. Highway 67.

Redbekah Goodner, 16, was the driver of a 2005 Hyundai SUV which was traveling east. According to Pat Salas, DPS Trooper, Goodner fell asleep, drove into the south ditch, overcorrected back onto the highway, then went back into the south ditch, through a fence and into a field where the vehicle overturned, landing upright.

The passenger in the right front seat, Sarah Goodner, 19, was thrown from the vehicle, flown to Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo where she was pronounced dead by Justice of the Peace Fred Buck.

Redbekah received what were said to be minor injuries, treated and released at Shannon. Seatbelts were worn by both occupants.  The young ladies are from Little Elm, Texas.

General Statement from the Coleman Police Department
7/27/2007 (Released by the Coleman PD Friday Afternoon)
To the citizens of Coleman, Texas:

The Coleman Police Department has received several calls over the last couple of days about people being sexually assaulted. The Coleman Police Department would like the citizens of Coleman to know that there was one sexual assault reported that happened on the east side of the City of Coleman.

There have been a total of five other sexual assaults of a child and or indecency with a child cases reported to the Coleman Police Department in the last week. All of these cases involve different suspects and the Coleman Police Department is actively working these cases. In all of these cases the suspects are known to the victim and their families.

In reference to the rumors that are going around town and in reference to all the calls that the Coleman Police Department is receiving, there is not a serial rapist.

If you are concerned or if you have any questions, you can call the Coleman Police Department at 325-625-4114 and request to speak with Detective Sergeant Les Cogdill or Chief of Police Jay Moses.

The New Phone Books are Here
7/27/2007
According to the folks at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, many people have been dropping by the Chamber asking for the Area Wide Phone Books. The Chamber was temporarily out but have a new supply. So, if you want an Area-Wide Phone Book, feel free to stop by the Coleman Chamber downtown.

Hospital Board Approves Budget for '07-'08
7/27/2007 (by Randy Turner)
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors spent the majority of their time Thursday evening talking about the new budget for 2007-2008. They held a budget hearing but no one from the public attended to speak. The tax rate will be set in August before the new budget begins October 1.

Projected expenses in the budget are $5,881,493. Administrator Doug Langley is projecting a gain of $80,000 revenue over expenses next year, if all goes well.

Langley told the board that Coleman is no different than most other small, rural hospitals in Texas, money is always going to be an issue. The hospital relies heavily on Medicare reimbursement because of an older population. Utility and insurance costs are projected to increase and wages will be increased some to stay competitive with other area hospitals. Expenses are expected to increase by about 4% next year so the hospital plans to offset that with a 5% hike in prices for the services they provide.

The hospital board also discussed proposed capital purchases for various departments over the next three years. Some equipment is old and needs to be replaced while advancement of technology will force the hospital to purchase equipment to keep up with the times.

The hospital will be without the services of a Chief Financial Officer, those duties now fall under the responsibility of the administrator.

News From the District Attorney's Office
7/26/2007
The following cases were presented by District Attorney Joe Lee Rose to the Honorable John Weeks, 42nd District Judge, on Thursday, February 8, 2007, at 2:00pm:

* Homero Richardo Hurtado, Possession of Marijuana. Hurtado pled guilty and was sentenced to two years confinement in a State Jail Facility, probated for four years, payment of a $500.00 fine, court costs, community supervision fees, lab fees, and 120 hours community service.

* Jonathan Weldon Womack, Felony D.W.I. Womack pled guilty and was sentenced to five years confinement in the Institutional Division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and was ordered to pay court costs and court-appointed attorney fees.

* Jonathan Weldon Womack, Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon. Womack pled guilty and was sentenced to five years confinement in the Institutional Division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, and was ordered to pay court costs and court-appointed attorney fees.

* Ramiro Flores, Retaliation. Arraignment was rescheduled for February 22, 2007, at 2:00 P.M.

* Tyrell Harding, Burglary of a Habitation. Alex Eyssen was appointed as defense counsel, and arraignment was waived.

* John Lewis Flores, Felony D.W.I. Arraignment was rescheduled for February 22, 2007, at 2:00 P.M.

* Samuel Bert Dixon, Felony D.W.I. Marian Overstreet was appointed as defense counsel, and arraignment was waived.

* Tambra Rene Liles, D.W.I. with Child Passenger. Patrick Howard was retained as defense counsel, and arraignment was waived.

* Jeffrey J. Easterling, Felony D.W.I. Arraignment was rescheduled for February 22, 2007, at 2:00 P.M.

* Charles Edward Salas, Aggravated Assault. Britt Thurman was appointed as defense counsel, and arraignment was waived.

Cases were presented by District Attorney Joe Lee Rose to the January Term Coleman County Grand Jury on February 20, 2007. True bills were returned in the following cases:

* Brady Scott Rice, Felony D.W.I.;
* Jason David Keeney, Possession of Controlled Substance;
* Darren Wayne Whitehead, Indecency with a Child;
* Susan Sherrise Deleon, Forgery;
* Susan Sherrise Deleon, Forgery;
* Susan Sherrise Deleon, Forgery;
* Susan Sherrise Deleon, Forgery;
* John Todd Bolds, Assault (Family Violence-enhanced);
* John Todd Bolds, Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon;
* Jay Dean Simmons, Aggravated Robbery;
* Lavell Crandal Robinson, Aggravated Robbery;
* Andrew David Dixon, Possession of Controlled Substance; and
* Ynasio Guerrero, Jr., Endangering a Child.

A True Bill was also returned in one additional case, the name of which is being withheld pending arrest. Two cases were given No Bills.

Texas Blue Bonnets to Texas Blue Bunnies!
7/26/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Coleman Co. Fine Arts League)
Fine Arts League member, Sherrell Hazlewood, has a knack of giving animals their own personality in a painting. In fact, he says, he prefers painting animals to people.

Although Sherrell has created various kinds of artwork over the years, his "Texas Blue Bunnies" series had their birth around 1987 when the Hazlewoods (wife is artist, Theda Rhea) moved back to Coleman. Seems as though everyone was painting blue bonnets. The feeling of kinship with illustrators of Uncle Remus, Winnie the Pooh, and Peter Rabbit led Sherrell into the world of a combination of "stories" illustrated with mostly animals. The rising star, though, was the "Texas Blue Bunny".


Hazlewood’s first Texas Blue Bunny painting was a field of Blue Bunnies intermixed with blue bonnets. The history of the origin of the Texas Blue Bunny is explained on Sherrell’s web site: http://www.texasbluebunny.us.

Currently, Hazlewood has created a "star piece" for the Coleman Public Library project sponsored by the Fine Arts League of Coleman County. On a large canvas sits a large, very matronly looking Blue Rabbit, be-spectacled, holding a book entitled "Famous Texas Blue Bunnies". She appears to have captured the attention of three little blue bunnies with her reading. In the distance is the majestic Santa Anna Mountain, so we know it took place in Coleman County!


The Library Project is in its second phase of art creations by the Fine Arts League members. Walls have been decorated by members as well as the children who come and enjoy the Library and its many wonderful young-people oriented programs.

Kathy Andrews is the chair for the Library project. It is hoped that the final work will be completed and up by the end of the year.

Hartman's Gather in Santa Anna
7/26/2007
The descendents of I.E. and Reba Hartman held their annual reunion Saturday, July 21, in the Santa Anna Community Center with 45 in attendance.

During the morning business meeting, it was decided to donate $200 to the Santa Anna Cemetery Association. A "White Elephant" auction was held with proceeds going toward auction expenses. Auctioneer Gary Hartman, with Stevie Hartman assisting, kept the bidding lively. Over $500 was raised.

The ever-popular M & M Guessing Contest was back with two divisions, 18 and under and 19 and over. Winner of the 18 and under division was Peyton Walker of Early while Cindy Boyle of Burkett won the 19 and over division.

Prizes were awarded for the following:
Oldest in attendance - Ruby Hartman of Santa Anna
Youngest in attendance - Hayden Hartman of Marion
Traveled the Longest Distance - Steve and Stevie Hartman of Opelousas, Louisiana

New to the reunion was the "box game". Out of 12 participants, James Hartman won $50. We expect a lot more participants next year after everyone saw how much fun it was.

Grandpa's Catering (aka Ronnie Hartman, Stanley Hartman, Terry and Jordan Mach) prepared the the meat for the evening meal which consisted of pork tenderloin, sausage and chicken tenders with all the trimmings. Peach, cherry and apple cobblers topped off the meal.

Those in attendance were:
Midlothian - Terry, Robin, Brittany and Jordan Mach
Odessa - Jonie and Sandy Hartman
Burkett - Cindy and Daryl Boyle
Bangs - Sandra and Harry Walker and Shannon Boyle
Early - Peyton and Raime Walker
Snyder - Mike, Donna, Travis and Brenna Hartman
Austin - Gary and Francine Hartman, Jeremy Hartman, Dale and Carol Reeves
Pflugerville - Jeffrey Hartman
New Braunfels - Debra Hough, Scotty, Jace and Jenna Walker
Opelousas, Louisiana - Steve and Stevie Hartman
Brownwood - Ronnie and Beth Hartman, Eddie and Mary Ann Hartman
Marion - James, Tanya, Maegan, Katie and Hayden Hartman
Santa Anna - Edd and Ruby Hartman, Stanley and Judy Hartman, Stephanie and Hannah Hartman

Granddaughter of Local Family "Digs" Turkey
7/25/2007
Katherine Stevens is the 22 year-old granddaughter of Clifford and Marie Stevens of Coleman. She is the daughter of Alan and Nancy Stevens of Flower Mound, Texas. Alan is a 1966 graduate of Coleman High and is a chemical engineer in the Metroplex. Katherine is a student at Southern Methodist University, majoring in geology and environmental chemistry. She and another young lady named Megan will be studying the geology of the Tethys realm of Turkey across the North Anatolian Fault. They will be with students from universities all over the U.S.

Their travels will take them to a Turkish earthquake research station, a coal mine facility and a hydroelectric dam. Katherine will also be involved in some geological digs, according to grandmother Marie.

Peyton Saverance Competes in Florida This Week
7/25/2007
Peyton Saverance will represent Coleman on the national stage next week. Peyton will compete for the title of National Teen American Queen, August 1st through 4th, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Peyton is the reigning Miss Coleman County, daughter of Dewayne and Luana Saverance of Coleman. We wish her the best.

Taylor Kids Excel in Shooting Competition
7/24/2007
The 2007 Shooting Sports Games were held this week in San Antonio. The Rifle, Pistol, Archery, and Muzzleloading 4-H Clubs were well represented. The kids that attended were Nathan Taylor, Megan Taylor, and Jayce Simmons (not available at picture time). Awards as follows:

Megan - Gold Medal for Clover Kids
             A Young Anglers Certificate of Achievement

Nathan - 1st Place 50 Yard Muzzleloading Rifle "A" Class
             1st Place 10 Meter Air Pistol "A" Class
             1st Place Smallbore Pistol Silhouette - Iron Sights "A" Class
             2nd Place Light Rifle "A" Class
             2nd Place Smallbore Pistol Bullseye "A" Class
             2nd Place 25 Yard Muzzleloading Rifle "A" Class
             3rd Place Muzzleloading Rifle Silhouette "A" Class
             3rd Place Smallbore Hunter Pistol Silhouette "A" Class
             4th Place Smallbore Rifle Silhouette "A" Class
             Muzzleloading Over All Junior - High Over All
             Pistol Over All Junior - High Over All

Rainfall Reports
*  Larry Guthrie - eastern Coleman County - 1.00 Monday night
*  B & Anita Phelps - 4.5 mi. East of Coleman - .50 followed by .60 for a total of 1.10
*  Tex Wright - Santa Anna - .60
*  Steve and Sarah Beal - 11 mi. south of Coleman - 1.50 Monday night

Coleman FFA Receives National Rating at Texas FFA Convention
7/24/2007
The Coleman FFA Chapter received the prestigious Gold Emblem rating at the 79th Annual Texas FFA Convention held July 10-13,2007 in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The Gold Emblem rating is only bestowed upon the top 10% of FFA chapters in Texas. Gold Emblem FFA chapters advance to the national level to be judged for the National FFA Chapter Rating.

The 2007 State FFA Convention was headquartered at the American Bank Center. Throughout the week, a record-breaking total of 10,321 members and guests registered at the convention, more than $2 million in scholarships was awarded and approximately 1,300 members received the state FFA degree, the highest degree of active membership bestowed by a state FFA association.

There are more than 62,000 active FFA members in Texas and an estimated 985 active FFA chapters. FFA programs teach skills in leadership, career development and personal growth. FFA gives students the opportunity to practically apply classroom knowledge to real-world experiences through local, state and national competitions. For more information about the Texas FFA Association visit www.texasffa.org.

Paige Barnett of the Coleman FFA Chapter Receives State Degree
7/24/2007
Paige Barnett, of the Coleman FFA chapter, was awarded the Lone Star FFA Degree at the 79th annual Texas FFA Convention July 10-13, 2007 in Corpus Christi. The Lone Star FFA Degree is the highest degree bestowed by the Texas FFA.

The Lone Star FFA Degree recognizes the members’ agricultural awareness, leadership, career development and active involvement in the FFA organization. Barnett was one of more than 1,300 FFA members receiving this esteemed degree.

The 2007 State FFA Convention was headquartered at the American Bank Center and approximately $2 million in scholarships were awarded.

Coleman County Eligible for Public Assistance Due to Flooding
Courtesy of FEMA
7/23/2007
According to John Pearce, Emergency Management and Flood Plain Coordinator for Coleman County, our county is eligible for Public Assistance funds due to June flooding.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that 16 additional Texas counties affected by flooding beginning June 16th and continuing are now eligible for Public Assistance (PA) funds to help repair and restore damaged infrastructure.

The newly eligible counties are: Archer, Baylor, Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Comanche, Erath, Hamilton, Jones, Llano, Mason, Mills, Montague, San Saba, Wichita and Wise. These 16 counties join 10 other Texas counties already eligible for PA funds.

Public Assistance funds are available to eligible applicants for debris removal and disposal, emergency services related to the disaster, and the repair or replacement of damaged public facilities such as roads, buildings and utilities. Eligible applicants for PA funds include state, county and local governments and some private non-profits such as educational and medical facilities. FEMA will provide 75 percent of the cost of eligible projects.

Examples of projects funded by the Public Assistance program include:

*  Public roads and bridges not on the Federal Aid System
*  Public water control facilities, including dams and drainage channels
*  Public utilities such as water treatment, sewage treatment and electrical; public buildings such as police and fire stations, libraries and public office buildings, including their vehicles and contents
*  Public parks and recreation facilities, including playgrounds, swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, ball fields and boat ramps

"Once a county is declared eligible, then federal assistance becomes available for publicly-owned property that was damaged by the flood," said Joan Haun, state coordinating officer for the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM). "It is very important that local governments apply in all cases of eligible need."

Sheriff Turner Attends Training Conference
7/23/2007
Coleman County Sheriff Wade Turner has just returned from the Sheriff's Association of Texas training conference that was held July 15-18 in Austin. There were over 1500 people in attendance. This year, the participants received training on a variety of topics including: Legislative updates, Fugitive Task Forces, Dynamics of Violence and Aggression, Search and Seizure in Schools, Gangs and the Internet, Emergency Management and Courthouse Security.

The Sheriff's Association provides training, legal/technical information and other critical resources to all Peace Officers in the State of Texas. SAT also provides scholarships to Peace Officers and their children who wish to continue their education.

Claud and Elda Barnett Family Gathering Invades Abilene State Park
7/23/2007 (contributed)
On July 6th the Barnett clan invaded the Abilene State Park for their reunion. It never takes long for the games to come out and playing to begin. With lots of talking and laughing, the noise is getting loud. Nell stopped off and picked up some chicken for dinner. The kids are waiting for the pool to open and the adults are ready to send them to the pool. Once they can swim across the pool and are older they can go to the pool by themselves and we won’t see them till they are hungry.

For supper on Friday we bring hot dog fixins and have a great meal, with hot dogs, chips, and tea.


Games are played until late, hiking the trail is the most fun after dark, so it is always late before we get to bed. There are always some that stay up later than others, Brandy, Beth, Serena, and Chrystell, got tired of walking the trails, so they went driving instead. They saw deer, raccoons and a possum. Brandy said the possum was really slow and she had to stop to keep from running over it. They got a little bored just driving so they decided to turn off the lights and drive. That was not a good idea.  Brandy could not see where she was driving, so they used flash lights. To me that is not a good idea either. They did make it back to camp safe. I guess God was watching over them.

Saturday morning everyone is up early to eat and have more fun. For breakfast we had eggs, sausage, biscuits, gravy, juice and milk. Time for a little fun before dinner. For dinner we had a fish fry with fish, chicken strips, fries, hush puppies, coleslaw and tea.

The auction is a great success bringing in over $400. 00. With the big money maker a samurai sword brought by Richie (Annie and Billy, brought the sword for Richie) and bought by Oren. Bucky and Kevin made a DVD of the family and it really went over big, making $165.00 for the reunion. It is so much fun to see what everyone brings and see how much some one will pay for it. All money from auction will go towards next year’s reunion. We are hoping for a bigger auction next year.

For supper we had sandwiches and all the fixings. Now time for Texas Hold'em, more games, more hiking and more talking. Late to bed again and knowing that tomorrow all will have to be packed up and drive home. But you know we can’t leave with out eating again. So Sunday morning for breakfast is sweet rolls, milk and juice, left over eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy.

It was another great reunion with Nell Hopper, Nathan Barnett, Casey Lobstein, Bucky Lobstein, Kevin Taylor , Rinn Barnett, Vince, Kelly, Aaron, and EmmaLee Barnett, Heather, Sammy and Chloe Portillo, Chrystell, Kristiana, and Kierra Cole of Abilene, Marty Hopper of Austin, Ira, Amy, Ethan, and Grayson Hopper of Clear Lake, MN., Roland, Jean, and Erikha Barnett of Silver Valley, Glenn and Claudia Kemp, Justin and Amanda Kemp, John, Annette, Mitchell, and Randall Priddis, Nathan Atchley, Beth, Christina, and Amber Boatman, Jessie Saville of Burkburnett, Richard and Donna Barnett, Richard Jr. Barnett, Mikey Reeves, Blaine and Serena Irons, Christopher Barnett of Wichita Falls, Randall Barnett of Guy, Ray and Brenda Barnett of Bronte, Chad, Christy, and Brogan Barnett of Paint Rock, Billy and Annie Brown, Ricky, Joanne, and Oren Barnett, Riley Barnett of Coleman, Justin and Rebekah Beckham, of Oklahoma City, OK, Chris and Kaylyn Page of Hazel, KY, R.J. and Addie Barnett of Brownwood, Cheri Briseno of Fort Worth, Brand, Brittney and AJ Lobstein Ranjel of Decatur.

Thank God for a wonderful time and a safe trip home.  

Camp Quality A Big Success
7/22/2007 (by Amanda Straach)
This year's camp was blessed with 37 campers, CQ's highest attendance since coming to Texas in 2003. Sunday started with our campers arriving and the rain was kind enough not to get us wet while we settled in for the week. The afternoon started with a magic show given by Chris Linn and his wife Brandy. The magic lasted into the early evening showing our kids how to do magic tricks. The evening was wound down with a Chinese New Year's dance to bring us into the week to come.

Monday camp started with re-acquainting of old friendships as well as new. Activities included parachute games, painting REAL horses, crafts, photography class, swimming, fishing and canoeing. Project Linus joined us during lunch to give each camper their own blanket. This evening was finished with an auction. Each camper received $680, (fake money) to spend on the toys.

Tuesday the day was beautiful. The morning started with relay games and then swimming, fishing and canoeing. The cooking class was a hit. The kids made "sushi" out of Twinkies and fruit roll ups. After rest period, the kids woke up to a monkey in the dining hall. Harmony the clown was here to show off her monkey, Abby, and make balloon animals for the kids. In the evening, we celebrated the Festival of the Campers. Many carnival games to choose from along with a bounce house and an inflatable adventure course. After an evening of Twinkie sushi and Popcycles, all would sleep well after this action filled day!

You can go to www.tx.campqualityusa.com  to view pictures of the week. I will be sending more updates as it comes available. Thanks for supporting such a wonderful organization. May God bless each and everyone.

Garden Club's Flower Show Workshop
7/21/2007 (contributed by Eileen Morris)
Town & Country Garden Club held a flower show workshop on Wednesday, July 18, at the home of Nan Markland. Instructors were Nan Markland and Jane Padgitt. The Club's annual flower show will be held in conjunction with the Fiesta de la Paloma in October. The purpose of the workshop was to familiarize members with Framed Spatial designs and Panel designs, two new categories that will be featured at this year's show.

Major Changes This Fall in Coleman Trash Collection
Residential Fees to Increase
7/20/2007
Residential garbage collection rates are going to increase by $2.00 per month October 6th and the way trash is collected in Coleman is going to change then too.

The Coleman City Council spent much of their two hour meeting Thursday considering a waste collection contract. With four companies bidding, the company city staff wanted, and the City Council chose on a 4-0 vote, was the one they are with now, Allied Waste Industries. The contract is for five years and goes into effect October 6th, subject to the approval of the contract by Steve Autry, City Attorney.  The average home owner will pay $2.00 more per month but commercial customers are not expected to see a rate increase at this time.

Major Change in Collection Planned
When the new waste collection contract goes into effect, Allied Waste intends to convert the entire city of Coleman to a side load system instead of a back load system. As it is now, two or three man crews get off the truck at each residence and physically load trash into the rear of the truck.

Beginning in October, residential customers will be provided large plastic trash receptacles which you will roll to your specified pickup point on your collection day. The driver of the trash truck pulls up to the container, activates an arm on the truck which picks up and dumps the container without the driver ever leaving the truck. It was pointed out that elderly residents will be provided assistance if needed. The driver will only pick up what is in the container.
The City of Coleman contract keeps the option of using Allied Waste rear-load crews during times of Citywide Cleanup.

Why the Change?
Several points were made by City Manager Larry Weise, points which were echoed by Cynthia Dove, a representative of Allied Waste.

* The side-load system is a cleaner and faster service - Less trash is lost out of the truck and the streets are cleaner
* It gives the city the ability to hold down long term costs
* It better regulates how much trash is picked up - some non-paying customers routinely put their trash at other people's pickup points
* Can keep personnel on the job better with fewer workers compensation issues
* The old rear load system is labor intensive, difficult and dirty
* Allied Waste has converted several cities they serve to the new system in the last 8 to 12 months resulting in more consistent service and less volume, according to Dove

The Bottom Line
Allied Waste promises an educational campaign about six weeks before the new service begins in October. You will be seeing information here on Colemannews.com and in the local newspaper designed to educate citizens on where the trash carts need to be placed, etc. Allied Waste has offered to bring the new poly-cart containers to display at City Hall prior to October so that customers can see what they look like.

City Employees Honored at City Council Meeting
7/20/2007
Three employees of the City of Coleman and a former City Council member were recognized Thursday evening for their service and dedication to the city.

A 10 year service pin was presented to Buddy Slayton who works in the Street Department. He has been a city employee since April, 1997.

A 10 year service pin was presented to Earl Johnson, maintenance supervisor at the Coleman City Park. Johnson has been employed by the city since May, 1997.

A 25 year service pin and plaque was given to Sue Dossey. She went to work at the Coleman Public Library in June of 1982 and was elevated to Librarian in 1986.

Bob Ray, now Public Works Director for the City of Coleman, was recognized with a service award plaque in appreciation for his nine years of service on the City Council from 1998 to 2007.

Mayor Nick Poldrack bragged on each employee for their dedicated service to the citizens of Coleman.

A Thank You from Slade Stevenson
7/19/2007
Well, it is finally here! I leave Monday, July 23rd for the iWitness Ministries Mission trip to Cologne, Germany. Without the help of God, the members of First Baptist Church, my family, and my friends, this endeavor would have been impossible. I tried to personally thank everyone that has been praying for me and donated money, but some people gave directly to the church. I want to be sure everyone knows how blessed my family and I are to belong to such a caring, Christian community. My "Lake Coleman Family" out-did themselves with their support and prayers. A special thanks to Dale Allison and Bob Gressett for their perseverance and hard word on my behalf. I feel truly blessed to be given the opportunity to spread God's word to non-believers!
Saved by Grace,
Slade Stevenson

Shooting Sports Grows in Popularity
Coleman County is Leading the Way
Local Shooting Range Being Planned
7/19/2007
You've been reading on our pages about several young men from Coleman County who have participated this summer in various Shotgun Shoots around the state. Shooting sports is growing, an industry springing up right here in our own back yard. The families of the young men from Coleman County, along with several other shooting enthusiasts from the county, are in the process of forming a non-profit shooting association. This association plans to build a shooting range for shotgun, rifle, archery and pistol lovers to use. The range will help promote the hunting industry for Coleman County and will allow the county to host various shooting competitions which brings people to our county.

In their last competition at the San Angelo Claybird Association this past Saturday, Hayden Wise, Kelby McCorkle, Brent Ogden and Jansen Merrill competed in the largest prize shotgun shoot offered for the statewide 4-H shooters. Coleman County was well presented.

Hayden Wise shoots in the Senior One age division. He won 1st place in International Skeet after a shoot-off with Logan Gaskins from Howard County. Hayden won 6th Place in Senior 1 International Trap as well as American Skeet. He was third high overall in the Senior 1 division receiving an Americase travel case for his shotgun.

Kelby McCorkle, Brent Ogden and Jansen Merrill compete in the Intermediate age division. This division had 36 participants.
Kelby took 6th place in International Skeet, 5th Place in Sporting Clays and was 5th high overall.
Brent won 6th place in Sporting Clays.
Jansen won 5th place in American Trap, 6th place in the 5 Stand Competition and was 7th high overall. Each of the four boys won a $100 gift card to Academy Sports.

These four boys have been traveling the state over the last several months representing Coleman County in Shooting Sports and going a great job!

KCB Meets and Plans Activities
Considers Assistance Program for Elderly and Disabled
7/19/2007 (by Shana Everett)
Keep Coleman Beautiful met Tuesday, July 17th to discuss current activities and to plan for new ones. The work day held on July14th was truly a success, as evidenced by the extensive media coverage. Since the work day, the organization has received numerous phone calls and even a “thank you” card for the work they performed on two properties in the City. Especially encouraging was the participation of the 4-H youth group, along with their sponsors. It was noted that the goal of Keep Coleman Beautiful is to inspire citizens to care for their own properties, and to encourage others to participate in beautifying our community through volunteer work.

Keep Coleman Beautiful does not want to be an organization of just discussing and complaining about problems. The organization aims to recognize an issue, develop a plan to deal with that issue, and then show up and implement that plan to ultimately solve the problem. The organization is getting wonderful results through this mindset. Coordinating these efforts with other organizations is also proving to be quite successful. It was also noted that there are several individuals throughout our City that perform tasks “behind the scenes” in helping to keep our City beautiful, most often without recognition or thanks. Whether it is someone who mows an abandoned lot next door to them in order to keep a neighborhood in good condition, or those who may mow a lawn for an elderly person, this is the spirit that Keep Coleman Beautiful hopes to foster.

The organization discussed continuation of the tire disposal program. The dump site on the east side of the City will continue to be targeted with the remaining funds in KCB’s Tire Disposal Fund. The next work day was set for Saturday, August 18th, and the work day will begin with some additional attention to the east side tire dump site.

Also discussed was the development of a cleanup assistance program for the elderly and/or disabled. The organization voted to move forward with this program. Some criteria were set as to what qualifications an applicant must meet. The idea is to create a “pool” of those properties that are truly in need of assistance, and coordinate with other civic and youth groups to provide that assistance. More details will be available and published next week. The Chamber of Commerce agreed to provide and accept applications for the program when it is implemented.

Ideas and plans for the Sesquicentennial celebration next year were next on the agenda, followed by the idea of purchasing some signage and T-shirts for the organization to publicize their work day events. These items will be researched a bit further and revisited at the next meeting on August 21st at 5:30 p.m.

Police Complete Fire Investigation
7/17/2007
Coleman Police have finalized their investigation of the fire that took the life of Virginia Farley last Saturday at her home at 115 Lloyd Lane. According to Brian Tompkins, a certified arson inspector and Patrol Sergeant for the Coleman PD, Farley died of smoke inhalation from a fire accidentally started by the victim smoking near an oxygen machine.  A state fire marshal assisted in the investigation.

Coleman County Youth Activity Center News
7/16/2007
Coleman County Youth Activity Center has been a busy place. Activities held recently include: a quinceanara, groundbreaking for the new “Expo” building, CCYAC board meetings, Coleman Rodeo Association Ladies night, Cowboy Camp at the Rodeo, an anniversary party, a benefit dance for the new “Expo Center”, a wedding reception, Chamber of Commerce meeting, and 4-H Shooting Sports practice. The dance benefit for the new “Expo Center” was a lot of fun. Justin Carroll and his band from Arlington kicked off the benefit with a great concert. Sonny Burgess was very personable and visited with everyone. He remembers playing for the Rodeo dance a few years ago. His band was very good and a lot of people enjoyed dancing to their music. Both bands were very complementary of the Franklin Center. It is hoped that we can sponsor another dance in the future for another fundraiser. This is a fun way to support our center
.
Donations are always needed and appreciated. The CCYAC is a non-profit organization that does not receive any tax monies or support from the county or government. These facilities are for rent for activities. The facilities may be rented by contacting the Coleman Chamber of Commerce at 325-625- 2163.

Recent donations have been received from the following:
Coleman County Farm Bureau, Payton Mayes- New York, New York, Grant from Coleman County Foundation, Novice Livestock Association, Jerry & Jonell Van Cleave-Ovalo, TX, Coleman 4-H Club, Cooper Supply-donation of pipe for new water line to horse barn, Jim & Sue Brusenhan, Grant from Dodge-Jones Foundation- Abilene, TX, Grant from Faskin Foundation-Midland, TX, Ron & Sandi Carroll-Mansfield, TX –donation of bands for barn dance benefit, Rob & Sharon Cheaney-Santa Anna, TX

Honorariums include:
In honor of Lynn “Big O” Owens on his 50th birthday by Steve & Sarah Beal, Candace Beal

Memorials include:
In memory of Glen Wilson from Steve & Sarah Beal, Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Leon Griffin from Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Bub & Patsy Miller from Bucky & Judy Duvall, In memory of Jesse Reams by Bill & Elaine Moore & Family, In memory of Glen Thomas by Bennett & Sue Ragsdale, Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Bill Laws by Bucky & Judy Duvall, In memory of Billie Marie Miller by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of James Dugan Gorman, Jr. by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Billie Guthrie by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of O. R. Lawlis by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Voncile Thomason by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Pamela Dee Waynick by Bob & Ann Turner, In memory of Archie Tucker by Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Neal, In memory of Geneva Andrews by Mr. & Mrs. Sandy Neal, In memory of Lee Roy Elkin by Bob & Ann Turner , In memory of Martha Autry by Don & Marian Johnson, Ben & Debbie Scott, Janet Barker, In memory of Norma Middleton by Lynn & Trisha Owens, In memory of Lynn Stephenson by Coleman Rodeo Association, Michael, , Synda & Colton Smith, Steve, Sarah & Candace Beal, Henry & Margie Dodson, David & Tracy Barnett, Bobbie Edington, Bob & Sylvia Edington, Dan Edington, James & Wanda Dieterich, Lynn & Trisha Owens, Johnny & Melba Baugh, Cody & Rebecca Meyer, E. Dale & Arletta Herring, Leslie Arnold, In memory of Sherri Lynn Taliaferro by Coleman Rodeo Association, Joe & Janet Johnson, Taylor Real Estate Sales/Ted & Sonjia Taylor, Lang & Ann Martin, In memory of E. W. & Eloise Scott by Terry & Carol Scott, In memory of Hugh Rains by James & Sarah Tisdale, Bobbie & Rodney Jones, Irma & Martin West, Charlotte Fenton.

Construction of the new “Expo Center” and entrance has been on hold because of the recent rainfall that we have received in the area. The building package is to be delivered on site next week. Donations and pledges are still needed to pay for this addition to the facility. Donations and pledges may be paid at first Coleman National Bank to Trisha Owens at P. O. Box 552, Coleman, TX 76834 or to Henry Dodson at Coleman County State Bank, P. O. Box 940, Coleman, TX 76834. Donations are tax deductible.

Amy Simmons on Dean's List at TWU
7/16/2007
Texas Woman's University in Denton has released its Dean's List for the Spring 2007 semester. Named to the list from Coleman is Amy Simmons in the area of Family Studies. Undergraduate students who complete at least 12 graded credit hours and achieve the minimum grade point average as determined by their particular college or school are eligible for the Dean's List. Amy achieved a 4.0 GPA.

Suggestions for Choosing a Quality Boarding Kennel
7/16/2007 (Submitted by Melissa E. Wisener-Farr)
Are you planning to go out of town for a summer vacation or holiday travel? There are a few boarding kennels that can give your pet quality care. Some of them promise your pet is attending a fun, safe atmosphere where they will play with other dogs and the environment will be much like a resort, camp, or country club for animals. What about your peace of mind? Are you certain your pet’s happiness, health and comfort are the priority of both the kennel owner and staff?

It is our responsibility to ensure our pets will receive the care they deserve. We must conduct research and follow our instincts. This helps determine whether or not a kennel owner is stating claims in a marketing effort to take your hard earned money while you are forced to leave your four legged family members behind. Following are tips taken directly from the Humane Society of the United States website to assist you in choosing a boarding facility for your little angels during your absence.

First, find out whether your state requires boarding kennel inspections. If it does, make sure the kennel you are considering displays a license or certificate showing that the kennel meets mandated standards.
Also ask whether the prospective kennel belongs to the American Boarding Kennels Association (719-667-1600), a trade association founded by kennel operators to promote professional standards of pet care. Besides requiring members to subscribe to a code of ethics, ABKA offers voluntary facility accreditation that indicates the facility has been inspected and meets ABKA standards of professionalism, safety, and quality of care. Check, too, with your Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been lodged against a kennel you are considering.
After selecting a few kennels, confirm that they can accommodate your pet for specific dates and can address your pet's special needs (if any). If you're satisfied, schedule a visit.
On your visit, ask to see all the places your pet may be taken. Pay particular attention to the following:

• Does the facility look and smell clean?
• Is there sufficient ventilation and light?
• Is a comfortable temperature maintained?
• Does the staff seem knowledgeable and caring?
• Are pets required to be current on their vaccinations, including the vaccine for canine kennel cough (Bordetella)? (Such a requirement helps protect your animal and others.)
• Does each dog have his own adequately sized indoor-outdoor run or an indoor run and a schedule for exercise?
• Are outdoor runs and exercise areas protected from wind, rain, and snow?
• Are resting boards and bedding provided to allow dogs to rest off the concrete floor?
• Are cats housed away from dogs?
• Is there enough space for cats to move around comfortably?
• Is there enough space between the litter box and food bowls?
• How often are pets fed?
• Can the owner bring a pet's special food?
• What veterinary services are available?
• Are other services available such as grooming, training, bathing?
• How are rates calculated?

Last but not least, trust your gut about the owner and her personality. Is she personable and professional? Most people who are compassionate about pets will appreciate your due diligence and be more than willing to communicate with you. They may prefer your pets to you, but the owner must acknowledge you as the primary caretaker and comfort you as well. I recently heard a veterinarian say, “The hardest part of taking care of animals is caring for their humans!”

Word of mouth is the best marketing tool, and recommendations from friends and family who know you and your pets will lead you in the right direction. You will enjoy your vacation to the fullest when you know without a doubt that your pet is happy at his home away from home. Bon voyage!

Woman Dies in Coleman House Fire
7/14/2007
A house fire late Saturday morning claimed the life of a Coleman woman. According to Coleman Police, Virginia Farley, 54, was the victim of the fire.  The cause of the fire is still unknown.  Firemen responded at 11:32am to 115 Lloyd Lane which is in the residential area off the Baird Highway on the far north side of town.

Coleman police and fire departments are conducting an investigation.

A State Fire Marshal from Anson will also investigate.

Keep Coleman Beautiful Lives Up to Its Name
7/14/2007
Around 10 adults and 5 students descended on a residence at the corner of South Concho and West Mesquite early Saturday morning to Keep Coleman Beautiful.

The adults went to work on a residence grown up in tall weeds and grass. The owner of the property is said to be in a nursing home in Brownwood. The pictures below tell the story.  

The students and two parents who helped were members of the Coleman 4-H Club. They took trash bags and picked up litter along Concho Street from Walnut southward.  They are shown below.

After the KCB volunteers finished at Concho and Mesquite, they went to the 500 block of South Frio and cleaned the tall growth of an old abandoned house.

Dulin Completes Communications School
7/14/2007
Richard L. Dulin, a dispatcher for the Coleman Police Department, successfully completed a 40 hour course in Basic Communications Friday, July 13. The course was conducted by the Concho Valley Council of Governments in San Angelo and approved by the State of Texas and certified by the Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education.

They Made It !
The goal has been obtained. Pictured left to right - Jack Reynolds, 17, Corbin Brooks, 17, Brent Sloan, 18 and Drew Jackson, 17, of Coleman, arrived at their destination in Port Aransas late Friday afternoon, completing their three day bicycle journey. The foursome left Elgin Wednesday morning and averaged 60 to 70 miles per day. Now the plan is to camp on the beach at Port Aransas for a couple days and rest those sore and aching muscles before coming home in the SUV. 

Tommy Alverson in Buffalo Gap July 21
7/13/2007
Colemannews.com and the West Texas Rehab Center are giving our readers a chance to win four tickets to the West Texas Family Picnic on Saturday, July 21, at Perini Ranch Steakhouse in Buffalo Gap. The picnic will feature the music of Texas County Music entertainer Tommy Alverson. Gates open at 6:30pm, the show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 for adults with kids 12 and under admitted free. Table sponsorships are $200 for a party of 10 including a banner of recognition.

CHS Cheerleaders Ready for the Upcoming Football Season
Win Several Awards at Camp
7/12/2007
The Bluecat cheerleaders have returned from camp at Angelo State University where they learned new cheers and competed against many squads all the way up to the 5A classification. They were awarded Camp Champ of dance, runner-up Camp Champ of Cheer, the Leadership Award and several superior ratings. Eden Duquette, Bluecat Mascot, was awarded several superior ribbons and a trophy. Sarah Lofton and Shelby Deleon were also chosen as Camp All-Stars.

School Board Accepts Resignations, Hires Two
7/12/2007
The Coleman School Board accepted three resignations and hired two in a brief meeting at 7:45am this morning.

Resignations were accepted from Tracy White who is moving to Slaton, Chad Martin who is going to DPS school and Elizabeth Proctor who previously accepted a job at Abilene Cooper.

The board hired Ral Dees who replaces Chad Martin at Coleman High teaching math. The board hired Olivia Clardy to teach reading in Junior High and to coach girl's sports with the understanding she will be accepted in the I Teach Texas alternative certification program. She has a degree from Texas Tech.

The CISD staff is now complete for the '07-'08 school year, well in advance of the first day of school on August 27th.

Local Hospital Gets Quality Improvement Award
7/12/2007 (by Sue Titsworth, CCMC)
Coleman County Medical Center has received the Texas Health Care Quality Improvement Achievement Award from TMF Health Quality Institute, the Medicare Quality Improvement Organization for Texas. TMF established the award program in partnership with Texas Hospital Association, Texas Medical Association, Texas Organization of Rural & Community Hospitals and Texas Osteopathic Medical Association.

The Texas Health Care Quality Improvement Award honors Texas hospitals that are performing quality initiatives aimed at improving outcomes in patient care by recognizing those hospitals that have improved their initial baseline performance on specific national quality measures related to heart attack, heart failure and pneumonia.

“To achieve this recognition, we initiated a quality improvement program with an interdisciplinary team, collected and submitted data over five quarters and had to demonstrate significant improvement on all ten of the quality measures that make up the appropriated care measure.” said CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley. “It was a significant amount of work, but well worth it because it was the right thing to do for our patients.”

Out of more than 390 eligible Texas hospitals, 25 have met the criteria and have been presented with the Texas Health Care Quality Improvement Award. Hospitals receiving these awards were recognized at a special ceremony in Austin on June 28th.

Childress Boys Bring Home the Gold
7/12/2007
Marcel, Michael and Matthew Childress competed in the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation, Region 10, Track and Field Meet in San Angelo on Saturday, July 7, at Angelo State University.

Marcel, 9, received a gold medal in the 4X100. Michael, 14, received a gold medal in the Shot Put and Discus. Matthew, 7, received a gold medal for the 50 meter dash, Long Jump and High Jump.

They are the sons of former Coleman Bluecat, Michael Childress, and grandsons of Coach Howard and Nina Childress of Coleman.

City Ordinance Against Tall Weeds and Grass
7/11/2007
Recent rains have contributed greatly to the significant number of properties across the City that are growing rampant with tall weeds and grass. Permitting tall weeds and grass to be present on a property contributes to the mosquito problem, provides harborage for rats, mice, snakes and other vermin, as well as presenting a fire hazard. Although it is understandable that constant rains have made it difficult to keep up with keeping properties mowed and in compliance with City ordinance, code enforcement personnel will be aggressively pursuing those properties that are sorely in need of attention.
 
Ordinance 6.02 contains the following: It shall be unlawful for any person to suffer or permit weeds or grass to grow upon a premises within the corporate limits of the city to a height greater than twelve (12) inches. Such premises shall include the parkway between the sidewalk and the curb or pavement; the right-of-way between any fence, wall or barrier and the curb or pavement; or the area between a fence, wall or barrier and within any abutting drainage channel easement to the top of such channel closest to the property. The existence of any such condition upon a premises is detrimental to the public health, safety and welfare and generally increases the risk of fire hazard within the city; therefore, such conditions are deemed to constitute a nuisance.

It is important for the public to understand that the City is addressing as many of these properties as possible, as quickly as possible. Any questions regarding Ordinance 6.02 and the enforcement of that Ordinance may be directed to City Hall at (325) 625-5114.

Fiesta de la Paloma Moved Back Downtown
7/11/2007
Earlier this year it was announced that the 2007 Fiesta de la Paloma would be held at the new Expo Center at the Rodeo Grounds. Plans have changed.
The Chamber of Commerce Board met with the Coleman County Youth Activity Center Board on Monday, July 9.  Rain has delayed the building process of the new Expo Center. Due to that fact, the Fiesta de la Paloma will be held in downtown Coleman for another year the first Saturday in October.
The Chamber Board is looking forward to holding the Fiesta in the new Expo Center in 2008.

Coleman Students Embark on Three Day Bike Ride
7/11/2007
The desire to accomplish something is why four young men from Coleman are going to ride their bicycles from Elgin to Port Aransas today through Friday. Jack Reynolds, Drew Jackson, Brent Sloan and Corbin Brooks have been training for over a month for a three day bike ride from Central Texas to the Gulf Coast. Decked out in their Kellogg's Cereal riding gear (hence their name Cereal Killers), the foursome left Coleman Tuesday afternoon for Austin. They planned to rise early this morning and drive to their starting point which is Elgin. Three will be riding bikes while one drives the support vehicle. They plan to alternate drivers so that all four are able to bike around 60 miles per day. We wish them good luck in their endeavor !
The Plan:
Drive from Austin to Elgin early Wednesday morning then ride bikes from Elgin to Columbus.
Thursday - Bike from Columbus to Cuero
Friday - Bike from Cuero to Port Aransas
Weekend - Return to Coleman, by auto 

Coleman Artist in Stamford Art Exhibit
7/11/2007 (by Marian Johnson)
The art work of Theda Rhea was once again a part of the Stamford Art Foundation s 34th Annual Invitational Art Exhibit & Sale. Thirty-five invited artists participated in the event, which benefits the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. The show opened on July 3rd and closed on July 7th. It is held in conjunction with Stamford’ s Texas Cowboy Reunion, the world s largest amateur rodeo.

Theda was one of 17 artists included in the Quick-draw competition in which the artists are given one hour to complete a painting. The paintings are then auctioned off as a fund raiser for the REHAB. Theda Rhea’ s painting of five-year-old cowboy model, Tate Williams, of Dallas, drew the top bid of artists working in this competition. The quick-draw is always a crowd pleaser, for which over 500 tickets were sold this year. It is one of the top benefits for the WTRC and Theda was very pleased to be associated with the event.

Theda Rhea is a Charter Member of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County and currently serves as FALCC Vice President.

McCorkle and Merrill Win in Shotgun Shoot
7/9/2007
Jansen Merrill and Kelby McCorkle participated in the District 6 Shotgun Shoot in Midland on Saturday. 7-7-07 proved to be a lucky day for these two Coleman County 4-H shotgun club members.

Kelby won first place in the five-stand competition and fourth place in both the trap and skeet events. He was also High All-Around for the intermediate division and won a belt buckle.

Jansen tied for fourth place and won his shoot-off to bring home 4th place in five-stand.

In addition to competing individually, Jansen and Kelby also competed as a two-man team winning both the trap and skeet events together. They shoot in the Intermediate (11-13) age division.
Pictured l-r:  Jansen Merrill and Kelby McCorkle
(photo courtesy Sherri Merrill)

The Celebration at The Cross is July 12-14
7/9/2007
The Celebration, a three day feast with music and ministry, will be held Thursday through Saturday, July 12-14. The location is the west end of West Liveoak Street in Coleman at The Cross.

5:00pm - Free meals
7:00pm - Ministry and music


Special guests on Saturday night, July 14, will be Unchained Ministries (shown above), a service oriented ministry dedicated to encouraging, uniting and supporting any adult and juvenile inmates, whether incarcerated in local facilities, state prisons, federal prisons, detention centers or training centers or as they are released. Their slogan is "Outlaws for Jesus, Stealing Souls from Satan".

For more information about Unchained Ministries, go to their website at http://www.unchainedlife.org.  For more information about Matthew 25 Ministries and The Celebration at the Cross, go to the website www.mt25.net. In case of rain, The Celebration will move inside the auditorium.

Awards Given for Summer Reading Program
133 Children Complete the Program
7/7/2007 (by Sue Dossey, Coleman Public Library)
A big crowd attended Awards Days June 29 at the Coleman Public Library to celebrate the end of the summer reading program. As children arrived they were presented their reading certificate and coupons from local business; City of Coleman – Free swim pass, Coleman Dairy Queen – Free ice-cream cone, and Coleman Pizza Hut – Free small pizza. Coleman Friends of the Library served finger foods for refreshments. Librarian Sue Dossey presented a brief program before final prizes and awards were given.

The 2007 program “Sail away with Books” was co-sponsored by the Texas State Library and Coleman Friends of the Library. Other local business that also contributed to the program this year were: City of Coleman, Coleman Pizza Hut, Coleman Dairy Queen, Coleman Kiwanis Club sponsored the July 20th special program with Brett Roberts and 1st Methodist Church donated 10 tickets for the Joe Scruggs concert Tuesday, July 24.

A total of 193 children registered and 133 completed the program. Sandra Rose was in charge of the morning programs. Children Toddler – Kindergarten ages enjoyed a story time, arts & crafts and other activities. Christa McWhorter a story reader for the pre-school ages. Pets of Drew & Barbara Hubbard, Gus & Dorie, gave a special program June 27th. Total attendance for all four programs 178 with an average of 45 attending each program.

Friends of the Library President Virginia Jamison was in charge of the afternoon program for children 1st – 5th grade. Game Warden, Randall Brown, Gus & Dorie, pets of Drew & Barbara Hubbard, and Jennifer Hubbard gave programs on boat safety, pet safety and swimming safety. Mona Wilson provided puppet shows and games for the kids to play. 400 attended all four programs with an average of 100 for each program. After each morning and afternoon program prizes were drawn to those who held winning tickets.

Committee members for the reading program were: Friends President Virginia Jamison, Friends Treasure Sandra Rose, Advisory Board Chairman Mary Morgan, Advisory Board member Mona Wilson, Cathy Allen, Jill Atwood, Christa McWhorter, Robin Black, Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Kim Horne and Peyton Saverance.

All during the month participants were able to enter their best guess in the “Guess the Whales” contest. The winner was Marissa Martinez. Marissa guessed 403 and there were 455 in the jar.

Coloring Contest, children showed off their coloring ability and the two winners selected were: Morning - Kirah Holloway; Afternoon - Annalissa Sanchez. Winners of these contest received a “Water Castle Play Center”.

The Grand Prize: Two tickets to Six Flags - Morning winner – Hannah Triggs; Afternoon winner – Ralene Pugh

Joe Scruggs Tickets: Arena Grace Turner, Konner Frusto, Colby Brown, Faith Hoover, Emily Moran, Mikaylo Mayo, Tori Staggs, Summer Flores, Emily Roberts

Afternoon readers had a contest for the most books read. Each top five reader received a t-shirt. Kelly Loyd was the top reader with 221 books. He received a portable DVD player. The other readers had a drawing for a “Water Castle Play Center.”
1st Grade:
Blair Phillips – 63 books
Gage Florez – 63
Bryanna Young – 34
Angelica Calfa – 28
Alan Yarbrough – 28

2nd Grade:
Lohn Isaac Worthington – 105 books
Marie Rosales – 48
Xavier Nunez – 45
Annalissa Sanches – 42
Tori Staggs – 40

3rd Grade:
Paige Gray – 180 books
Jessica Meador – 94
Zane Rosales – 55
Micah Shamburger – 49
Trey Sartin – 33

4th Grade:
Kelly Loyd – 221 books
Jessi Loyd – 117
Clair Nelson – 40
Victor Kyser – 39
Kimberly Surita – 33

5th Grade:
Alex Dodgen – 36 books
Paige Kirkpatrick – 34
Emily Roberts – 29
Tim Parks – 25
Mikayla Mayo – 23

Receiving certificates:
Jacob Diaz, Brock Bouldin, Brenitt Bates, Kirah Holloway, Dylon Weekes, Isaac Weeks, Hannah Triggs, Caleb Triggs, Everett McWhorter, Jacob Triggs, Kamdyn Holloway, Cade Needham, Colby Brown, Faith Hoover, Konner Frausto, Jammie Fruasto, Ryan Brooks Malaer, Kyndell Malaer, Kyndell Malaer, Joy Nelson, Samuel Nelson, Arena Grace Turner, Tony Calfa, Zach Calfa, Nicholas Meador, Sabrina Lawrence, MaKayla Wise, Anna Baum, Cayden Steffey, Anissa Woods, Josie Bolton, Tommy Croft, Trey Sartin, Hayes Harper, Matthew Stewart, Kash Woods, Seth Watson, Laura Phares, Jerod Roberts, Kolton Erwin, Jerimiah Gauna, Taylor Barnett, Elizabeth Baum, Coupe Bolton, Gabriel Roberts, Gino Marks, Corder Norris, Summer Parks, Angel Perez, Skye Jones, Aleesha Malott, Victoria Kyser, Kimberly Surita, Seth Hahn, Jasmine Wright, Alyssa Rohacek, Colton Christian, Emily Croft, Chantel Walker, Noah Stewart, Alexis Cohen, Christopher Lawhon, MaKenzie Farmer, Chris Perez, Skyler Croft, Marisa Martinez, Dalton James, Devin Kirkpatrick, Halie Phares, Marcela Surita, Ryan Walker, Tim Parks, Mikayla Mayo, Jolyn Zarate, Hunter Harper, Jessica Phares, Hayden Harper, Riley James, Emily Roberts, Ashleigh Farmer, Kaylee Needham, Heather Estrada, Alex Dodgen, Paige Kirkpatrick, Jed Anderson, Ralene Pugh, Raven DeRay, Alan Yarbrough, Brogen Faries, Bryanna Young, Terren Holloway, Hannah Birdwell, Nicole Cody, Katlynn Stamper, Madison Wise, Claire Nelson, Summer Flores, Jessica Meador, Kensi Bledsoe, Casey Bledsoe, Kelly Loyd, Jessi Loyd, Mark Loyd, Clark Nelson, Angelica Calfa, Lohn Isaac Worthington, Annalissa Sanchez, Gage Flores, Adrian Flores, Xavier Nunez, Caesar Nunez, Edgar Nunez, Emily Moran, Megan Moran, Hannah Rose, Micah Shamburger, Khutter Sanchez, Sulley Sanchez, Tori Staggs, Cheyenne Lucas, Ashley Lumpkin, Blair Phillips, Analise Flores, Gilbert Espitia Jr., Christian Espitia, Jaden Espitia, Marie Rosales, Paul L. Rosales, Zane Rosales, Kendra N. Flores, Paige Gray, Jaime Valdez Jr., Taylor Douglas, Massio Sanchez.

Plenty of Interest in Coleman County 150
Plans Underway for Sesquicentennial Celebration
7/6/2007
A little over 20 people attended a meeting Thursday night of the Coleman County Historical Commission. The purpose of the meeting was to hear ideas from an event planner in Brownwood, ideas which could be used as Coleman County gets ready to celebrate its 150th birthday in 2008.

Randee Green helped organize Brown County's Sesquicentennial Celebration last year. She shared with the group a long list of ideas which could be used to commemorate Coleman County's 150.

She went over ways to organize the event, ways to pay for the celebration and ways to promote the events.

There were representatives from various organizations in Coleman and leaders from Santa Anna in attendance.

It was announced that the next planning meeting, one in which many ideas will be discussed, will be held on July 24th at a time and location yet to be announced.

If you are involved in a service club or organization, please send a representative to the meeting. It would be great if every community in Coleman County was represented so that each community could plan an event to be shared and enjoyed during the course of 2008.

Coleman County was "born" on February 1, 1858 so that date in 2008 is likely going to be the official kickoff.

Bottom line - It will take everyone in Coleman County to make next year a special year as we reflect on 150 years of history.  Please be involved and bring your ideas to the July 24th meeting.

Minor Injuries to Two in Thursday Wreck
7/6/2007
A rain slick highway caused two young ladies from Goldthwaite to end up in the Coleman hospital following a wreck Thursday afternoon. It happened a little after 3:00pm on U.S. Highway 84 at the base of the hill near the roadside park between Coleman and Santa Anna.

Keisha Lynn Womack, 17, and Connie Baker, 19, were taken by ambulance to Coleman County Medical Center, treated and released, said Chris Delgado, Coleman County D.P.S. Trooper.

Delgado said they were going south and went from dry roadway onto wet roadway, hydroplaned, spun into the west ditch and overturned. "When you see a wall of water, get off the gas pedal and slow down," Delgado said. The car was a 1999 Plymouth Neon.  An employee of Terry's Towing is shown next to the damaged car.

Who Wants Coleman's Trash?
7/6/2007
The City of Coleman is nearing the end of a 10 year contract with Allied Waste to dispose of the town's trash. In session Thursday evening, the City Council opened four bids from companies interested in providing refuse services in Coleman for the next 10 years.

Bids came from Duncan Disposal of San Angelo, Abilene Environmental Landfill in Abilene, Allied Waste BFI of Texas (the current provider) and Knox Waste Service of Tye, Texas.

Larry Weise, City Manager, asked the Council to give city staff time to study the proposals then make a recommendation, perhaps at the next July meeting. Weise told the Council a decision would need to be made by August 1st.

Coleman Drinking Water Meets or Exceeds Standards
7/6/2007
Law requires the Coleman City Council to hold a Public Hearing each year for input on the city's drinking water supply. The hearing was held Thursday during the council meeting but no citizens appeared to speak on the matter. Larry Weise, City Manager, pointed out that Coleman's drinking water meets or exceeds all requirements and is something that is closely regulated.

City to Accommodate Expansion Plans of Local Business
7/6/2007
Leon Valley Inc. is a growing small industry in Coleman and needs more room. The Coleman City Council Thursday addressed two zoning requests to help LVI grow.

The Council approved a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission to change zoning from residential to commercial at the corner of Gray and Plum so that LVI can have additional storage space.

The Council also approved on first reading Ordinance 1078 vacating and releasing the utility easement on that portion of Gray Street between the north line of Peach and south line of Plum street. The City has agreed to move a water line and Verizon has agreed to cooperate with their telephone line in the area to allow LVI to construct a 30,000 square foot building. LVI plans to offer another product line and hire another 15 to 20 people in the process.

Novice Celebrates the 4th
7/6/2007
By all accounts, everyone had a blast Wednesday night in Novice. They celebrated Independence Day with a first class fireworks display that lasted well over an hour, enjoyed hotdogs, sodas and homemade ice cream, all for just $3.00.

Rodney Cole Named to EDC Board
7/6/2007
The Coleman City Council voted to place councilman Rodney Cole on the Coleman Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors.

Cole replaces Bob Ray who submitted his resignation from the Council earlier this year. One of the places on the EDC Board is held by a council member appointed by the council.  

City Landowner Makes Request  to Council
7/6/2007
One of the items facing the Coleman City Council Thursday was a request from Larry and Margaret Hughbanks for the city to abandon a 30 ft. alley near their property in the Claud Freeman addition near Riley Street in Coleman.

The Hughbanks have purchased 6 1/2 acres and made the request in an effort to clean up the area. Mrs. Hughbanks told the Council that the area is grown up in trees and illegal dumping takes place there. The City was concerned about totally abandoning the alley without keeping a utility easement.

The City Manager and City Attorney will look into the legalities and options and bring the information back to the Council at a future meeting.

DPS Investigates Two Wrecks
7/5/2007
Two accidents were investigated July 4th by Coleman County DPS Troopers Chris Delgado and Pat Salas. The good news, there were no injuries reported in either wreck. The following reports were given to Colemannews.com by DPS Trooper Chris Delgado.

Around 7:15am Wednesday, emergency units were sent to Fisk, about 10 miles south of Coleman on FM 1026, where a wreck had happened during the night. A 1993 GMC pickup truck, driven by Christopher Marc Culpepper, 19, of Coleman, hit a guardrail. The passenger was Sage Brooks, 19, of Coleman.

Rain apparently caused the second accident Wednesday on U.S. Highway 84 two-tenths of a mile north of Goldsboro near the Taylor County line. Jason Michael Hartis, 28, from Lubbock, was traveling north in a 2003 Ford Taurus when he hit a wet spot on the road, spun around and went backwards through a fence.

Rainfall Reports
7/4/2007
Rainfall was scattered Tuesday but some heavy amounts were recorded around the area. Doppler estimated rainfall showed over two inches along the Colorado River in southern Coleman County.

* Colemannews.com - .25 Monday through Tuesday
* Richard Throgmorton - .4.00 before 6:00am Tuesday
* Donna Goodgion - Comanche, Texas - 3.00 between 11:00am and 1:20pm Tuesday 

Passport Information
7/4/2007 (by Congressman Mike Conaway)
There have been several Coleman County residents that we know of who have had issues with obtaining passports in time for their trip.  We received the following information Tuesday from our U.S. Congressman, Mike Conaway.

"Last month, the U.S. Department of State announced that citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for, but not yet received, passports can temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through September 30, 2007. The federal government made this accommodation for air travel due to longer than expected processing times for passport applications in the face of record-breaking demand.

However, this rule does not apply to travel outside of North America. If you applied for a passport, and did not receive it in time for your overseas travel, you may be able to receive a refund for passport fees. To obtain a refund, each individual must write the State Department at the address below giving all information (passport #, name, address, social security number, travel date, expedite fees paid, home address, plus contact address and phone numbers). Refunds will be given for expedite fees only. If you have additional questions, you can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778."

Coleman PD Stats for June
7/4/2007
Coleman Police Chief Jay Moses has released the following statistics for the month of June for his department:

Investigations
Assault - 6; Burglaries - 4; Evading Arrest - 1; Identification Theft - 2; Criminal Mischief - 3; Theft -10; Forgery - 2; Violate Protective Order - 2; Child Protective Service Investigations - 2.

Arrests
Public Intoxication -3; Driving While License Invalid -4; Assault Family Violence -2; Warrants -18; Possession of Controlled Substance -2; Possession of Marihuana -2; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia -1; No Driver License -1; Driving While Intoxicated -1; Disorderly Conduct -2; Possession with Intent to Manufacture and Deliver -1; Interfer with Emergency Call -2.

Accidents Investigated
No Injury -9; Injury -3

Citations Filed
Animal Control - 1 citation with 1 violation filed; Police Department -79 citations with 94 charges filed

Warnings Issued
Animal Control -4; Police Department -16

Animal Control
Calls for Service -132; Dogs Picked Up -43; Cats Picked Up -31; Other Animals Picked Up -6 (3 opossums, 1 ferret, 1 horse, and 1 snake); Dead Animals removed from roadway or property -17.

Plane Crash Claims Life of CHS Grad
7/3/2007
Hugh Rains was a graduate of the Coleman High School Class of 1954. He was 72 years-old and an accomplished pilot. But something went wrong last Saturday at the Conway Municipal Airport in Conway, Arkansas. His Cessna 500 Citation, a small business jet piloted by Rains, crashed into a house near the runway, killing Rains and a 71 year-old woman in the house. The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration was on-site Sunday collecting evidence trying to figure out what happened. 

You can link to the Conway, Arkansas on-line newspaper HERE to read about the crash.
You can read the story from the Wichita Falls Times Record newspaper HERE.

No New Texas Traffic Laws
7/3/2007
Some incorrect information has been circulating concerning new traffic laws in Texas. We've received e-mails asking if new laws went into effect on July 1.

The Texas Department of Public Safety says no. You can read their statement HERE.

CJHS Cheerleaders Bring Home Awards
7/3/2007 (contributed)
Coleman Junior High cheerleaders recently attended UCA Cheerleader camp at ASU. The girls won trophies for "Most Improved Team" and third place in the "Camp Champs Extreme Dance Competition."

Leanna Roberts, CJH 8th grader, was selected as a member of the UCA All-Star Cheer Squad. Chanie Barker competed in the jump competition and made it to the semi-finals. Along with the two trophies, the girls won 4 Superior ribbons and 1 Excellent ribbon. All of these accolades were quite an accomplishment since the girls competed against schools with up to 20 members and teams from 5-A schools.

Scam in Coleman Noted by FCNB
7/3/2007
Another scam is going around town. FCNB had a customer receive a check along with a letter telling them they had won a lottery utility drawing. This was supposedly in connection with their utility company. The checks are in the amount of $2985.00 – they are told to deposit the check and they will soon receive the balance of their winnings. The check is from a company by the name of HI-FI Farm, Inc. There is such a company, but they are victims of identity theft. Do not deposit or cash these checks – turn them over to the authorities.

Also, once again, some of their customers have been receiving calls from individuals stating that First Coleman National Bank is having problems and need to verify their account numbers. Just a reminder to NEVER give out your account information. First Coleman National Bank is not having any problems and they would NOT need you to ever verify your account information over the phone.

Miss Fort Bend County Wins Miss Texas USA
Coleman's Peyton Saverance Competes Well
7/2/2007
The outcome wasn't what we had hoped for but Coleman County is certainly proud of Peyton Saverance who represented our county Sunday night in the Miss Texas USA Pageant in Laredo.

According to Peyton's mom, Luana, Peyton didn't make the top 16 but, all in all, felt she had a great competition. Peyton and her family would like to thank everyone who supported them in this endeavor. They would also like to say a special thank-you to sponsors Ben Flynn, Owl Drug Store and Noreta's Steak House. And yes, Peyton is already making plans to compete again next year!

25 year-old Crystle Stewart was crowned Miss Texas USA and will represent Texas at next year's Miss USA Pageant. She is a model and student of consumer science at the University of Houston. According to Luana, she has been first runner-up the last two years and has a lovely family.
Miss Houston, Brooke Daniels, was first runner-up followed by Miss Webb County, Ana Rodriquez, Miss Alamo City, Valerie Pro, and Miss River Oaks, Lauren Sapaugh.

Brick Thrown from Santa Anna Building Hits Vehicle
7/2/2007
Around 4:00 o'clock this morning, the driver of a vehicle going through Santa Anna had a shock when a brick hit the windshield. The brick was apparently hurled from the top of a building on Wallis Avenue. It shattered the windshield but fortunately the driver wasn't injured even though glass did go inside the vehicle.

Earlier this morning at 2:14am, Santa Anna police were notified that a car passing through downtown Santa Anna had been shot at. Santa Anna police discovered a paint ball gun had been used and did considerable damage to the side of the vehicle, even denting the door.

On Friday night, Santa Anna Dairy Queen was shot up with a BB gun.

Santa Anna police have not arrested anyone as of yet but have all three cases under investigation.

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