News Archives - March 2007

Youth Art Month Celebrated at Coleman County State Bank
3/21/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman, Fine Arts League)
Fine Arts League PAPP (Private Art in Public Places) chair, Pat Slate, has placed the exhibit for Youth Art Month at Coleman County State Bank.

Several pieces of art by Coleman County Youth including Bailey Stokes and Emma Dyer are displayed in the bank’s lobby. Bailey’s work is a wonderful youthful effort of "Tiger", "Deer", and "Bobcat".
Emma’s paintings bring forth questions which is what meaningful art is supposed to do. The "Hear, See, and Speak" painting has to be inspected closely to see the meaning and how the artist wished to express it. Her other work includes, "The Veil" and "Thinking Aside". Thanks to these young artists for their efforts and allowing their work to be enjoyed by all.

Say Hello to the Santa Anna Foundation!!
Two Organizations Unite
3/20/2007 (contributed)
The Santa Anna Ex-Students Association and the Santa Anna Foundation have joined forces for the benefit of Santa Anna and the surrounding area. While the Ex-Students Association has long served Mountaineers and former Mountaineers alike, sponsoring one of Texas’ longest running annual Homecomings since 1953, it only began giving scholarships to SAHS graduates about ten years ago. Similarly, the Santa Anna Foundation has made charitable grants to community projects—most notably our civic center and city park-- as well as giving scholarships to graduates from Panther Creek, Santa Anna, and CAP High schools for about the same amount of time. It was a natural fit for the two groups to unite in their efforts to support the growth and prosperity of our community.

The coming together of these two organizations necessitated some reworking of the by-laws of the Foundation to enhance the scope of its scholarship giving. The by-laws now state that the purposes of the Santa Anna Foundation are:
• to support the Santa Anna Historical Development Organization in preserving local history,
• to assist the Santa Anna Ex-Students Association in their scholarship program and other educational programs,
• to promote economic and community development in the town of Santa Anna,
• other special projects as needed.

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the foundation is an independent public charity. All donations qualify for the maximum deduction for charitable contributions under IRS Regulations. Foundations like The Santa Anna Foundation enable donors to set up a charitable fund that supports specific causes they care about. A cash gift by check is the usual method for making a charitable contribution. For gifts of $250 and more, givers must have written confirmation from the Foundation because canceled checks are no longer proof of a deductible gift. Cancelled checks are acceptable for gifts of less than $250.

If you want to make a gift as a memorial in the name of a deceased Mountaineer, or if your class wants to make a special scholarship, if you want to set up a family endowment, or if you are thinking about having the work you have done here go on after you are gone, you may take your contributions at Santa Anna National Bank and deposit them into the Santa Anna Foundation account. Together we will make Santa Anna better.

Coleman School Board Considers Personnel
Accepts Several Resignations
3/20/2007
In session Monday night, the Coleman School Board unanimously approved hiring teachers at each school campus as recommended by the principals.
The board also accepted the resignations of Scott Bishop, Darrin Hogue, Jim Epley, Daryl Krug, R. Dale Pectol and Annette Shely, all effective at the end of the school year. The resignation of Mike Royce was previously accepted, effective March 2nd.
In other business, the board heard a presentation from Lorene Halfmann, high school counselor, and two CHS students on the recent Career Day held in Early and sponsored by Coleman, Santa Anna, Panther Creek, Novice, Early and Bangs school district.
The board will consider cancelling the May election during the April meeting. There are no contested races for school board this year.
Royce Young, superintendent, brought the board information on football uniforms and possible costs involved but no action was taken as of this time. He also briefly touched on summer projects which include bidding several roofing projects and doing some work on the high school parking lot.

Wreck Injures Three Coleman Teens, One Seriously
3/19/2007 (courtesy Sergeant Les Cogdill, Coleman PD)
At 6:01pm Saturday, March 17, the Coleman Police Department received a 911 call in reference to a major accident in the 100 Block of Santa Anna Avenue (FM 568) in south Coleman.

A red Dodge pickup, driven by Jake Hargett, 17, of Coleman, was traveling eastbound on Santa Anna Avenue. A red Chevrolet pickup, driven by Robert Curtis Yates III, 18, of Coleman, was traveling westbound on Santa Anna Avenue. Also in the vehicle with Yates was Colby Chambers, 19, of Coleman. Chambers was trapped in the vehicle until freed by the Coleman Fire Department and Coleman County Medical Center EMS. Chambers was transported to Coleman County Medical Center and later flown by helicopter to Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo where he remained Sunday night. Yates and Hargett were taken to Coleman County Medical Center by family members and later released from the hospital.

This accident is still under investigation by the Coleman Police Department. Assisting at the scene were the Coleman County Sheriff's Office, Coleman Fire Department, Coleman County Medical Center EMS, and Department of Public Safety troopers from Coleman and Runnels counties.

Update on Shilo Harris
3/19/2007
A family member of Shilo Harris passed along an update on his condition. The update says the prayers are working, Shilo had a good weekend, he was awake and could shake his head yes or no in answer to questions. His wife, Kathreyn, and mother, Teresa, put their hand on his cheek and he hugged it with his shoulder. Skin graphs on his face are doing well, the ventilator has been turned off for now, his kidneys are improving, all in all some good news from the weekend and family members are feeling better about the situation. He is still in ICU at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.  He was injured when an IED exploded in Iraq.

Don't forget there is a way to communicate with the Harris family through the following website for Shilo:

http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/inputSiteName.do?method=search&siteName=sgtshiloharris.

Dog Mayor Endorsement Announced
3/19/2007
Thor and Freyja Hagen heartily endorse Kaiser Vasquez for Dog Mayor 2007. Thor Hagen says "As a fellow German Shepherd, I know that Kaiser has the hard-work ethic and loyalty to his community that are necessary in a great Dog Mayor". Freyja states that "Kaiser has an inspirational bark for less fortunate canines and is a superb role model to puppies everywhere. We wag our tails for Kaiser!".

Ben, please forward this message to Kaiser's Campaign Manager for her use.

Thank you,

Lars Hagen
Press Secretary for Thor & Freyja Hagen

Wreck at Valera
Investigation Continues in Coleman Wreck
Coleman Woman Injured in Wreck Near Lawn
3/18/2007
Saturday was a bad day for wrecks involving Coleman County people.

A two-vehicle crash in Valera Saturday night sent two Coleman County residents to area hospitals. According to Chris Delgado, Coleman County DPS Trooper, he was notified of the wreck around 8:45 pm. The wreck occurred at the intersection of US Hwy 67 and FM 503, the caution light at Big O's BBQ.

The driver of the car was Marsha Gayle Turney, 51, of Santa Anna. Eyewitnesses at the scene told Colemannews.com she was driving West on 67 attempting to turn left onto FM 503. Turney's car was struck from behind by a pickup driven by Keith Wayne Copley, 46, of Talpa.

Turney was transported by ambulance to Coleman County Medical Center and later flown by helicopter to an area hospital. Copley was taken by private vehicle to Coleman County Medical Center.

A report on an accident on Santa Anna Avenue is found at the top of the news page.

A third wreck Saturday also involved a Coleman woman. Crystal Jennings, sister of Doris McCullough of Coleman, was involved in an accident with a pickup just south of Lawn and was taken to an Abilene hospital for treatment.  We were notified at 10:30am Sunday that she returned home from the hospital around midnight Saturday night, sore, but otherwise okay.  The family in the other vehicle wasn't hurt.

March of Dimes Money Drive Concludes at Panther Creek
3/17/2007 (contributed)
A money drive campaign was held for two weeks at Panther Creek CISD with all classes, Pre-k to 12, participating for March of Dimes. The competition ended on March 15 with the total amount collected $322.47 The winning class was the sophomores who received a pizza party. They raised $145.11, an awesome job for the March of Dimes.

The class consists of John Warren, Liz Tapia, Danee Machuta, Tracey Pond, Paulina Badillo, Chelsea Penny, Mallory Felty, Julia Hefner, Griffin Otts
Clayton Wilson, Sheldon Lowe, Travis Suggs, Will Copley, Mrs. Baker-sponsor, Coach Avants - sponsor

City Council Hears Request from CHAPS
Discovers Discrepancy in City Ordinance in the Process
3/16/2007 (by Randy Turner)
A request from the Coleman Heritage, Arts and Preservation Society (CHAPS) for one-third of the funds generated by the hotel/motel occupancy tax uncovered a discrepancy in a city ordinance.

Doodie Taylor-Knox made the presentation on behalf of CHAPS citing City of Coleman Ordinance, Article 11.02, which states that "1/3 of the hotel/motel occupancy tax collected shall be allocated for the county museum and transmitted to said entity by the city secretary". CHAPS now operates the Coleman Museum and has transferred the artifacts from the old museum location at City Park to Heritage Hall, the former First Presbyterian Church. CHAPS is in the process of getting museum pieces ready for public viewing.

In preparing for this agenda item, City Manager Larry Weise discovered a problem. On July 1, 1997 the City Council passed an ordinance which gave 100% of the hotel/motel tax to the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce for them to administer. "We do have a current discrepancy, we do need to clarify this policy," Weise told the Council.

It is believed a consultant, hired in 2005 to codify the city's ordinances to bring them into current law, somehow missed the Council action from 1997 which didn't transfer to what the current ordinance says.

The amount of money generated by the hotel/motel tax so far this fiscal year amounts to about $37,000, Weise said. The tax was first established as a 2% tax in June 1977. By April 1986 the amount of the tax had increased to 7%.

The Council's action was to take no action at this time. There seemed to be a spirit of cooperation between the entities involved and a willingness to work together. With budget time approaching for the City, it was suggested that possible support for CHAPS be considered in the budget cycle while it is determined how the ordinance discrepancy should be fixed.

It was noted that both organizations work diligently to promote Coleman County.

More City Council Notes and Actions
3/16/2007
The Coleman City Council, in session Thursday, March 15th, acted on the following items:

* Passed on first reading Ordinance 1072 by a 4-0 vote. The ordinance provides for the regulation of land uses within the City; providing standards for the size, height, set back and occupancy of structures; establishing zoning districts within the city; providing for regulations within such districts; providing for existence of non-conforming uses and their abandonment; imposing criminal penalties for non-compliance; providing a severability clause and providing for the publication of the caption and penalty.

* Council received an update from Doodie Taylor-Knox on the progress of renovations and grants at the City Library. She told the Council the library is waiting to see if they are awarded a grant on March 19th from the Tocker Foundation to help complete Phase 2. The library is also ready to begin Phase 3 which is the Tillman building, adjacent to the library, where the historic LaFrance fire truck is stored. In addition to finding a new home for the fire truck for the expansion to proceed, the library requested the city help provide labor for electrical work and venting as a part of the grant application process. The city provided labor for Phase 2 of the library improvements as time and work schedules allowed.

* Council awarded a janitorial contract to Gayle Johnson of Gouldbusk to provide cleaning services at City Hall. She had the low bid of $374 per month.

Panther Creek Students "Jump Rope for Heart"
3/16/2007 (by Mark Romine)
In an award's ceremony Panther Creek Elementary students were honored for their participation in Jump Rope for Heart. The students raised $400. This money went to the American Heart Association.

Helping were Alicia Cody, Jacob Springer, Zane Jamison, Trotter Harris, Allen Pricer, Nico Parra, Nathan McMahon, Caleb Grant, James McMillan, Rylie Philpot.

CHS Students are Playing "The Stock Market Game"
Doing a Great Job in the Process
3/15/2007
Two teams of students from Coleman High are participating in The Stock Market Game. They started in February and will trade for about another month. Starting with a virtual cash account of $100,000, students strive to create the best-performing portfolio using a live trading simulation.

In building a portfolio, students research and evaluate stocks and make decisions based on what they have learned. To determine why certain stocks perform the way they do, or why the broader market has moved up or down, they need to understand how the economy works. And to calculate their returns, they need to do the math.

The Coleman teams are in the West Central Texas stock market game with approximately 275 other teams.

As of Thursday, March 15th, one of the Coleman teams is in 2nd place, the other in 35th place out of 275 teams. Clarendon High School is currently in first place. The headquarters for the project is in Waco.

The students in the class are Kendra Boatright, Michael Bowers, Estaban Cervantes, Cassie Cisneroz, Steven Conway, Matt Dillard, Kimberly Lawhon, Kara Maner, Jesse Mata, Ben Phillips, Kelsey Valencia, and Christian Young. Darlene Webb is the Math Models project instructor.

The program is made possible by the support of more than 600 securities firms, combined with essential grassroots support in schools and communities. It is the only stock market simulation supported by the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq Stock Market.

The Stock Market Game™ is a trademark of the Foundation for Investor Education, a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing and providing learning resources for investors of all ages, raising the level of investor awareness in the U.S., supporting research programs, and advocating the advancement of investor education.

CHS Student / Faculty Member Receive Awards
3/15/2007
Coleman High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America attended the Region II Leadership Meeting in San Angelo on March 2-3, 2007. The youth developed theme “Tune In To FCCLA” was carried out through tracks and general sessions.

STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition) are competitive events in which members participated in during the state meeting. These events allowed members to showcase their life skills in different areas of competition. Also, the new officer team for 2007-2008 was elected to lead the region to greater heights.

Winning fourth place was Vanessa Clark in Chapter Service Project. Vanessa did a No Bullying Week project for the elementary school. She will compete at state competition in April at Dallas.  Coleman FCCLA members were actively involved during the meeting in helping conduct the STAR Event competition and serving as voting delegate for the House of Delegates meeting.

Sharon Watson received honorary membership in the Region II FCCLA for her support of the local chapter. Honorary Membership is awarded to persons who are not active members of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. Honorary membership is the highest award given by the association. Individuals receiving this award have rendered outstanding services in helping to advance the Family and Consumer Sciences Program.

Attending from Coleman were Vanessa Clark, Morgan Hurtado, Zoe Paul, Krystal Dunn, Cala Norris, Carina Landaverde, Greg Brannon, Jay Delgadillo, and Bonnie Brown, advisor.

Eastern Star Honors Coleman Teachers
3/15/2007 (courtesy Eastern Star)
Cakes, cookies, chips and dips, fruits and more goodies were delivered to the lounges of the Elementary, Junior High and High School teachers on Tuesday, March 13th, by members of Chapter #360, Order of the Eastern Star.

This is another project of the chapter to show their appreciation to the people who help rear and educate the children of Coleman. Our teachers deserve to be treated with such appreciation and this is only one small way to show how very much we care. We all say a big "Thank You" for all you do.

Members of the Eastern Star.

Duke, for Dog Mayor of Coleman
3/15/2007 (submitted)
Hi, my name is Duke and I am seeking your vote for Coleman's Dog Mayor. If elected, my master, Bruce Ransberger, and I plan to attend all the functions that are included as Dog Mayor of Coleman. I was the first big dog to run for Mayor but I am a gentle and loving dog. Bruce and I will be coming to see you if we can or you can vote at Block One Flea Market or Commercial Avenue Antiques Mall. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Duke Ransberger

Ginger Test, Demonstrator for Juried Art Show
3/15/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Co-Chair, Juried Show)
Ginger Test, artist, will be one of the thirteen demonstrators for the Juried Art Show in April. Ginger is an avid photographer and gathers her inspiration from nature. She has photographed scenes from Hawaii to Washington, D.C. and from Maryland to the Texas Gulf Coast. Her love of art dates back as far as her memory when her aunt encouraged her by giving her a set of oil paints.

Ginger has taught art since 1982 and instructs in transparent watercolor only. Her paintings reflect her love of color and design. Ginger’s favorite subjects to capture in paint include flowers, landscapes, animals, churches and western scenes. She loves to share her skill with her students and makes an annual pilgrimage to South Fork, Co., where she conducts the 5-day Colorado Gold Watercolor Workshop . For information about her classes and workshops, call Ginger at 325-723-2035.

The Fine Arts League of Coleman County is pleased to welcome the public to the demonstrations Sunday afternoon April 29 from 2-6 pm; Monday April 30 10-4; Tuesday May 1, 10-4.

A.C.U. Students of Madagascar Featured at Coleman Chamber Banquet
3/14/2007 (contributed)
Singing for the Coleman Chamber of Commerce banquet on March 30th will be Abilene Christian University students from Madagascar. These students have been selected by their country to attend the university on a presidential scholarship. Now juniors, they have successfully completed courses for degrees in different areas of study. Today, you would find it difficult to pick these students out as being different than any other university student. They are young men and women growing and maturing in their subjects and lives. The difference is that they have definite goals to return to their country to share what they have learned here in America. In the meantime, they have adjusted to America and blessed the lives of those around them with their dedication to their studies and respect for those around them. These students come from all over the isle of Madagascar and together share beautiful music in a way that thrills ones’ heart. It is a rare blessing to hear them perform as they are shy about doing what comes so natural to them.”

Another Santa Anna City Employee Resigns
3/14/2007
Colemannews.com learned Tuesday that Wanda Campbell, part-time office worker and accountant at Santa Anna City Hall, resigned after the city council meeting Monday night. We were unable to reach Campbell for comment.

Santa Anna Jump Rope for Heart Raises over $3,500
3/14/2007
Santa Anna Elementary held its "Jump Rope for Heart" event, benefiting the American Heart Association, on Friday, March 9th. Approximately 130 students from kindergarten through 6th grade participated.

Various individual rope-jumping skills were performed by the students, from kindergarten through 3rd grade with ribbons and medals awarded to the winners. Students from the 4th, 5th and 6th grade were divided into teams and competed against each other for team trophies and individual trophies.

Outstanding Individual winners: Zach Diaz and Hannah Hartman

Kindergarten winners were: Ivan Olguin, Brock Beal, Kamri Yancy and Kaylie Shields.

First grade winners were: Hayden Anderson, Lohn Worthington, Madilyn Kuykendall and Mia Whaley.

Second grade winners were: Noah Garza, Blane Beal, Breanna Michon and Delaynee Absher.

Third grade winners were: Jacob Gibson, Fabian Suarez, Maddison Sturgeon and Taylor Libby.

Fourth grade winners were: Kolby Bland, Lucas Diaz, Kristen Yancy and Taylor Hogue.

Fifth grade winners were: Caitlyn Murray, Heather Wetsel, Ryan Sellers and Anthony Lopez.

Sixth grade winners were: Fernando Lopez, Charity Holland, Hannah Hartman and Dylan Bland.

After the team competition, the following parents competed in a jump-off, representing their child's class.

K-Chanda Rice, 1-Pam Worthington, 2-Dennis Absher, 3-Tara Bradley, 4-Terese Isbell, 5-Shannon Robertson, and 6-Linda Rice. The winning parent was Pam Worthington representing first grade.

Over $3,500 was collected with all proceeds going to the American Heart Association.

Attention Coleman County Youth Artists !
3/14/2007 (courtesy Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.)

March is “National Youth Art Recognition Month.” The Fine Arts League of Coleman County would like to do an exhibit of Coleman County Youth artists.

Youth from sixth (6th) grade level to twelfth (12th) grade level are eligible to display their work. There is no charge for this activity.

These paintings will be displayed Monday, March 19th through Thursday April 5th at the First Coleman National Bank, the Coleman County State Bank and the Library. Should there not be enough entries for the three places those they have will be displayed at the two banks. The paintings may be picked up on Friday April 6, 3:00 at the Art Building.

Bring your paintings and show everyone that Coleman County may have some professional artists in the making.

Thunderstorms Bring Rain/ Wrecks/ Fire
3/13/2007
Coleman County emergency units were busy during the noon hour today at two wrecks and a fire.

Lightning apparently struck a tank battery on County Road 154 northwest of Echo. Firemen were at the scene, smoke could be seen from Coleman.

Just before noon, two single vehicle wrecks happened within a tenth of a mile of each other on Highway 84 just southeast of town. One of the wrecks was on the overpass bridge (above) involving a red pickup truck. One person was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Terry's Towing is seen loading the pickup onto the wrecker.

The other accident was on the Santa Anna side of the overpass bridge where a pickup ran through a fence but no injuries were reported.

Santa Anna City Council Meeting Attracts Large Crowd
City Secretary / Director of Public Works Keep Their Jobs
3/13/2007 by Randy Turner
Around 40 people attended the Santa Anna City Council meeting Monday night. Most were there for the evaluation of Lori Beal, City Secretary, and Sam Oswood, Director of Public Works. There was plenty of tension in the air but three Santa Anna police officers stationed around the meeting area kept the peace throughout the evening.

The Council went into closed session at 6:10pm to evaluate the Public Works Director and other city employees. At 6:48pm, Wanda Campbell was called into the closed session but came out at 6:57pm. At 7:02pm, the Council returned to open session at which point they voted to continue the employment of Oswood as Director of Public Works but his performance will be re-evaluated in 90 days.

When it came time for the Council to evaluate the job performance of the City Secretary, Beal requested that her evaluation be done in open session, which it was. Beal had a large number of family and friends there to support her. During the course of the evaluation, Beal's job performance was questioned, primarily by Curtis Fellers, Mayor Pro-Tem, and John Morris, Councilman. "That job is the most critical job in the city.  That's why I made my recommendation we replace Mrs. Beal," Fellers said.

Beal has held the position since late last year, taking over a job held by Cindy Pelton for over nine years. The job is multi-faceted, from handling paperwork for Municipal Court to water and utility payments. Oswood responded to questions from the Council saying Beal has improved in her performance tremendously and is very dedicated to what she is doing.

Angie Gomez of Brownwood, representing the League of United Latin American Citizens, urged the Council to give Beal another opportunity. Gomez questioned whether the Council had given Beal verbal or written warnings pertaining to her job performance, whether she was given a job description and whether she received any training for the position.

At 7:29pm, the Council went back into closed session to consult with their attorney. At 7:52pm, they returned to open session where the Council voted 3-2 to retain Beal for a 90 day period. Council members Bell, Spillman and Wylie voted for the motion, Morris and Fellers voted against. As a part of the motion, the Council directed all future complaints from city personnel and from citizens be given, in writing, to Oswood for consideration by the Council. Oswood was instructed to give a monthly report on Beal's job performance along with reports on other applicable employees.

Burn Ban Lifted For Time Being
3/13/2007
County Judge Jimmie Hobbs didn't waste any time Monday in lifting the burn ban in Coleman County. Thanks to rain Sunday and Monday, the ban is no longer in effect but Hobbs reserves the right to reinstate the ban as conditions warrant.

Coleman School Board Approves Program Change
Looking to Cut Personnel Expense
3/13/2007
Due to Program Changes, the Coleman Independent School District Board of Trustees, with the recommendation of Superintendent Royce Young, approved a program change to eliminate a position in special education.

The board also approved a program change to eliminate one professional certified position from the District Alternative Education Program. The board followed this action by making a motion that Junior High and High School Special Education as the employment areas affected by this reduction in force. Also, the board determined SAC and DAEP programs as the employment areas affected by this reduction in force.

Superintendent Young will follow these actions by using board adopted policy to apply written criteria to eliminate specific personnel positions in these areas. Program changes are necessary due to new special education laws that promote students be mainstreamed into regular education classrooms. Discipline programs are also being streamlined with less need for personnel in the district alternative education program.

Young noted that the biggest costs in a school district are in personnel and "we are at a point where every dollar counts as we simply do not get as much funding from the state as in the past. Also, the district is down about 30 students over last year that equates to about $4200 per student."

In addition to identifying areas that are overstaffed, there will be some positions not replaced as teachers leave the district or retire. "Our goal is to cut around $200,000 in personnel from the 2007-2008 budget," Young added.

Santa Anna City Council Approves 2007-2008 City Budget
3/13/2007
The city budget was approved Monday night by the Santa Anna City Council. Revenues are budgeted to total $858,297. Expenditures are budgeted at $856,210.

During a Public Hearing on the budget, a few citizens asked brief questions and copies of the budget were made available to those who wished to have a copy.

Sam Oswood, Director of Public Works, recommended the Council do a quarterly review of the budget as the fiscal year progresses.

Seven Candidates Seek Election in Santa Anna
3/13/2007
There will be three candidates for Mayor and four candidates for City Council on the ballot in May in Santa Anna.

Candidates for Mayor - Ross Bradley, John Pearce, Russell Fisher

Candidates for City Council - Cindy Pelton, Harold Fahrlender, Curtis Fellers (incumbent), Jim Spillman (incumbent).

Coleman City Council Positions Contested
No School Board Race
3/13/2007
Monday at 5:00pm was the deadline for prospective candidates to file for city council and school board positions.

No new names entered the city election. For West Ward Council, C.E. (Bill) Casselberry, incumbent, will be opposed by Harold Skelton. For East Ward Council, Rodney Cole, incumbent, will be opposed by Billie Mercer. Mayor Nick Poldrack is unopposed.

For Coleman School Board, there is no contested race. Dr. Mike Edington, current board president, filed for re-election Monday to Place 6 on the board. Viki Hambright, incumbent, filed previously for Place 7.

Local Youth Place at Houston Livestock Show
3/13/2007 (contributed)
Coleman County meat goats were represented at the Houston Livestock Junior Meat Goat Sale by Nancy Meyers, a Junior at Panther Creek High School, and Casie Swening, a Freshman at Coleman High School.

Nancy placed 1st in Class 1 light-weight and Casie placed 2nd in Class 4 medium-weight market goats. Both are members of the Coleman County 4H Club.

How Do You Spell Success?
3/13/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman, Fine Arts League)
The success of any new venture can often be gauged by the number of people of various talents and skills who are involved. If this be true, then the Fine Arts League of Coleman County, "Flight of the Dragonflies" Juried Art Show 2007, is already a success.

After sixteen years in the open "Fiesta Art Show", the members of the Art League, families, friends, business people, the citizens of the county, organizations, and people from all walks of life have become involved (in one way or another) in creating the environment for success of this coming event at The Bill Franklin Center.

Many have expressed it in different ways, all of which are most welcome and appreciated. From "How can I help?", "I want to come see", to donation of items for the silent auction, docent volunteers, as well as $ donations to help get the project underway. With this type of attitude from all involved and from those who will attend, how can it not be a success? You are invited to attend any or all the events during the week of April 24 - May 2. Free and entertaining!

Donations to date: Bill & Bonnie Hennig, Kaye Franklin, Bob & Ann Turner, Don Johnson, attorney, Steve Autry, attorney, Marian Overstreet, attorney, Friends of the Foundation (grant), Joe & Janet Johnson - J. E. Stevens Co. , Bob & Jo Tyson - Tyson Pharmacy, Jim Stokes - Bowen Drug, Jim & Linda Caldwell - Owl Drug, Bucky & Judy Duvall, Lois & Rodney McCarty, Marjorie Cloud, Abilene West Texas Rehab auction coordinator, Lynn & Trisha Owen - Big O’s - Valera, Mary Jo Dozier - ‘honoring the Fun Bunch’ & CCMC Aux., Charles Chesshir - Liveoak Real Estate - "in memory of Billie Marie Miller", Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, James & Jo Ellen Barr, Dennis & Mary Ann Stroebel - Shoppin’ Basket - food items.

Also, our thanks and appreciation to: Democrat Voice - for publishing our news articles; First Coleman National Bank - For use of Club Room for monthly meetings; Coleman County State Bank - For use of their building for Annual Fiesta Show; Randy Turner - Colemannews.com for news coverage & advertising banner; Billie Mercer - Colemanindependent.net for news coverage and docent/Volunteers.

Local Artist Has Work in International Juried Art Exhibition
3/13/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Fine Arts League Publicity Chairman)
Fine Arts League member, Sher Dunaway, has had artwork entitled, "Tuxedo" and "And Not a Drop to Drink" (photography) accepted in the Red River Valley Exhibition held at the Red River Valley Museum in Vernon, Texas. This is the fifth exhibition to be held at the Museum.

The awards Judge for this year’s show is Tony Saladino, who is an award winning artist, author and judge from Hurst, Texas. His work is included in many private and public collections Mr. Saladino has taught at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Kennedy Center for the Arts and the Oxbow Summer School of Art, Saugatuck, MI. He is listed in Who’s Whos in the South and Southwest and Who’s Who in American Art. Galleries representing Mr. Saladino are located in Kentucky, Texas, and Arkansas.

The opening of the current exhibition will be May 4, 2007 and will continue through June 29, 2007. The Red River Valley Museum promotes and supports excellence and diversity in arts education. The museum is open free to the public, Tuesdays through Sundays 1-5 pm.

The sixth annual exhibit will be held in May and June of 2008 with entry slides due February 5, 2008. Any artist interested in entering the show should send an SASE to: Red River Valley National Juried Art Exhibition, Red River Valley Museum, 4600 College Drive, PO Box 2004, Vernon, Texas. 76385.

Congratulations to Sher and her award- winning photography. Pictured is Tuxedo.

Camp Quality News
3/13/2007
I wish send a thank you to Tommie Roberts and the rest of the members of Tops Club #332 for allowing me to come to their meeting and talking about Camp Quality. This is a fine group of ladies that are well respected throughout the community and I was truly blessed with meeting those of you I did not already know. Thank you, too, for your donations to Camp Quality. You have helped make a difference in the life of a special child and their family. God bless you each and everyone.

Amanda Straach
3005 Southpark Drive
Coleman, Texas 76834
325-625-2825
ajsminis@verizon.net

Letter to the Editor
To Coleman County Citizens
3/12/2007
Eminent Domain bills are currently being considered in the Texas Legislature.

Imagine all you’ve worked for simply disappearing one day. The land your family has worked for generations, sold for pittance, simply because the law favors that entity that had the power to take that land at your expense.

Unfortunately, that’s exactly how eminent domain can and is being used all across this state. And your land could be next.

While condemnation does have a purpose in true public projects, too often it is yielded as a club. Instead of a last resort when offers fail, it is used to force families to sell out or face costly court battle.

That is simply unacceptable.

Our state legislature should write laws ensuring highest and best use appraisals in condemnation matters. Condemning entities should be forced to consider land replacement costs rather than some randomly assessed market value. And the numbers of condemning entities in this state—which currently number in the thousands—should be curbed. When it comes to eminent domain proceedings, private property owners are playing against a stacked deck. Laws need to be passed to ensure a level playing field.

Please call your Texas State legislator and tell them you support - House Bill 2006 by Rep. Beverly Woolley.

Board of Directors
Coleman County Farm Bureau

Coleman School Board President Files for Re-election
3/12/2007
Dr. Mike Edington has filed for Place 6 on the Coleman School Board.

Rainfall Reports Welcomed
3/12/2007
If you have a rainfall report you would like to brag about, send it to us at mail@colemannews.com.
 
*  Helen & Harold Bragg- 1.50 in Glen Cove

*  Carl and Patricia Lehman - 1.90 in Brownwood

*  Linda and Wayne Wright - 1.57 in Glen Cove

* Tex Wright in Santa Anna - .48

* Roy Goodgion in Comanche, Tx - 1.00

*  Bill Garrett - 5 miles SW of Santa Anna - .50

*  Thomas Rutherford - Whon - 1.70

Look at the current Doppler radar HERE.

Coleman Police Blotter March 9th and 10th
3/10/2007 (courtesy Coleman PD)
In a report from the Coleman Police Department, officers were called to a possible altercation between individuals in north Coleman on Post Street. Upon officers arrival, no subjects were found, however, officers could hear a loud noise coming from the Shiloh Apartments located behind the Best Western Hotel. Officers proceeded to check out the loud noise which was found to be loud music. When Sgt. Brian Tompkins and Officer Jeromy Watson made contact with individuals at the apartment, one subject began to flee on foot and was subdued by Officer Watson. After the suspect was detained, it was found that the 26 year-old white male subject was in possession of marijuana. This subject was placed under arrest and charged with Possession of Marijuana Under Two Ounces and Resisting Arrest.

After identifying numerous other persons at the residence, it was found that two other people were wanted by the Coleman Police Department. Sgt. Tompkins and Officer Watson arrested Zachary Jimmy Brooks, 21 year old white male of Coleman, for a Capias Pro Fine warrant.

Also placed under arrest was Jose Cervantes, 20 year old white male of Coleman, for a Capias Pro Fine warrant in reference to Disorderly Conduct. All three subjects are being held in the Coleman City Jail.

Throughout the course of the evening, police responded to domestic violence, burglary, and nuisance violation calls. To report any suspicious activity please call the Coleman Police Department at 325.625.4114.

Thanks
3/9/2007
Stormie Bingham and family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and help with her illness. She is home from Cook Children's Hospital and doing wonderfully. She will continue to make frequent trips to her doctor's. Please continue to pray for her, she has a long road ahead of her.  Thank you again,
The Family of Stormie Bingham

Tibbett's Address Given
3/9/2007
As we reported earlier, Jeff and Darla Tibbetts have returned home from the hospital and have a long recovery period in front of them. If you care to send them a card, the address is 901 County Road 194, Coleman, Tx 76834.

Students of the Month Named at Novice
3/9/2007
Students of the month have been chosen at Novice Elementary, Junior High and High School.

The elementary student of the month is Lance Holmquest, a 5th grader.

He is the son of Terry and Amy Holmquest of Novice.

The junior high student of the month is Josh Arispe, an 8th grader.

He is the son of Jerry and Teresa Arispe of Winters.

The high school student of the month is Ashley Belk, a senior.

She is from Winters, daughter of Sonya Belk.

CHS Spanish Club Has Annual Spring Trip
3/9/2007 (by Sherrell Hazlewood)
The Coleman High School Spanish Club traveled to San Antonio on Sat., March 3 for their annual Spring trip. Sixteen members of the Club accompanied by nine adults visited the Whitte Museum, downtown San Antonio and El Mercado. The visit to Whitte Museum included a special Vaquero Exhibit which was appropriate for the Spanish Club visitors. The group also took advantage of the historical re-enactments being held at the Alamo throughout the day.

The group spent the night at Hawthorne Suites in San Antonio after a very busy day. They returned to Coleman on Sunday March 4. Adults assisting with the Spanish Club trip were Mr. and Mrs. Pedro Flores, Mr. and Mrs. Simon Martinez, Coach and Mrs. Mike Nunez, driver, Rick Brinson, Spanish Club sponsor Sherrell Hazlewood and wife, Theda. The Coleman High School Spanish Club represented Coleman High School in a very positive way. The well organized event was enjoyed by both students and adults.

Photo: Left to right:

Front row: Coach Mike Nunez, Arturo Avila, Tanner Brooks, Spanish Club President, Rosa Avila, Club Sponsor, Sherrell Hazlewood, Theda Rhea, Luis Lugo.

Back row: Simon Martinez, Pedro Flores, Jeremy Jamison, J. R. Bruce, Devon Densman, Monica Jimenez, Kimberly Lawhon, Emilie Jimenez, Patricia Galvan, Club Secretary, Kandys Mills, Amy Fowler, Stephanie Whier, Michael Mayo, Stephanie Cambell, Rosa Martinez, Marilou Nunez, Adela Flores (not pictured).

Daisy Duke Wants Your Vote for Dog Mayor
3/9/2007
Hi, there. My name is Daisy Duke and I am the lucky dog living with Nancy Grimes. Though I don't have a particular pedigree, it is pretty evident I have an immediate Jack Russell relative and there is a wire-hair terrier very close by.

My previous humans didn't keep me in a safe place, so the nice Animal Control lady picked me up off a busy street and took me to the City Pound. I was glad to be in a place with good food and clean water. However, I did not know about the reservation limitation at this Doggy Hotel. My time had expired more than once, but I was just so friendly and so cute, they just could not send me over the Rainbow Bridge to Doggy Heaven.

My picture appeared in the newspaper as a featured pound stray and caught Nancy's eye. At that time my name was Happy and I grinned all the time at anyone who came to see me and my doggy friends in hopes someone would give me a good Forever Home. As soon as our eyes met, Nancy knew I was for her and she took me home that very day about two years ago and re-named me Daisy Duke.

To be a responsible pet owner, we visited the vet for me to be spayed, only to find out I was "in a family way", SURPRISE! About three weeks later, I became a "mom" to four beautiful puppies and raised them until Nancy found them all good homes.

Now, however, life is sooooooooo good. I have a great fenced yard and cat buddies to play with. Those squirrels can really run fast, but I keep trying to catch one. Maybe one day I am allowed to "run the neighborhood" every day for a while and am a welcomed visitor to many homes on Rio Grande Street.

I love all people and would be honored to represent Coleman as its official Dog Mayor. But best of all, your $1.00 votes will go to the Coleman County Humane Society to pay for more spay and neutering expenses of local pet owners.  Nancy and I are planning a walking campaign to meet as many of you as we can. However, should we miss seeing you, please go to the Flea Market on East Pecan Street and vote for me.. The Friendliest Dog in the Friendliest Town in Texas.

Thanks a lot,
Daisy Duke (and Nancy too)

Slate of Candidates for Dog Mayor Grows
3/9/2007 (contributed)
Two new candidates have announced for Dog Mayor this week. Both bring something special to the race.

Ruffles Frizzell (left), managed by Sue Frizzell, hopes you will see beyond her physical disability. She plans on representing the physically challenged dogs that have a much harder time finding a new home in this dog eat dog world. Ruffles survived an unfortunate encounter with a car and although it was feared she might have brain damage in addition to the loss of an eye, she has rebounded and is in top form. “Ruffles—a tough little lady for a tough job!”

Misty Dawn Watts (right), a 6-year old Boston Terrier, brings her pedigree to the contest. She is not high-minded about it however. In a statement furnished by her campaign manager, Amanda Watts, Misty states: “I, Misty, promise to do my best as your dog mayor to provide you with as many loving and caring kisses as you need. I will do my best to help all my little or big furry friends of any color, shape, or size to get the attention they deserve. This is why I think I should be your dog mayor 2007.”

A Meet the Candidates rally is planned for Saturday, March 24, from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Block One Flea Market, 301 E. Pecan in Coleman. Refreshments and doggie treats will be available, and each candidate will be putting forth their best paw to impress the voters. Bring your pet to help you size up the candidates!
It is never too late to sign up to be a candidate. Call the Humane Society at 625-4724 and leave a message, or drop by the flea market to pick up your filing statement.

Please visit the Humane Society web site www.HumaneSocietyCC.com  to meet the slate of eight candidates to date. The election results will be announced during the Garage Sale weekend on April 14.     

Learn to Control Your Blood Sugar
3/8/2007 (by Debbie Hailey)
Are you interested in learning more about diabetes and how to be in control of your blood sugar? Texas Cooperative Extension, in collaboration with Coleman Medical Associates and Hensley Family Health Clinic, is hosting a diabetes education series entitled "Do Well Be Well with Diabetes", to help provide people living with diabetes with quality information on self care and eating delicious, nutritious foods! You, too, can learn how to do well and be well with diabetes. There are three Saturday classes left.

Join us this Saturday morning, March 10, from 10:00 till noon, at the Santa Anna Fire Station Community Room, for lessons on Nutrition Labels and Eating Out. There will be a minimal $10.00 fee, to pay for instructional materials (one charge per family). For more information, call Debbie Hailey at the County Extension Office, at 625-4519.

Jeff and Darla are Home
3/8/2007
Jeff and Darla Tibbetts were released from the hospital Thursday and arrived home in the early afternoon. They are both doing as well as can be expected following injuries in a wreck last Friday night near Glen Cove.  It will be a long recovery for them both. "Neither of them will be able to do much of anything for a while but we thank the Good Lord for watching over all of them. Thank you again to everyone for all the thoughts, prayers and help," said Eileen Tibbetts, Jeff's mom.

Emergency Issues
3/8/2007 (By John Pearce, Emergency Management Coordinator for Coleman County)
This is Storm Awareness Week all over the state. The forecast I am seeing shows no storms for us this week but we still need to be prepared. Our schools are having practice tornado drills and this is a very important step in protecting our youth at school during a tornado. They need our complete support in these exercises.

As you all are aware, Sunday is the start of Daylight Saving Time. I just want all of you to be aware that the youth riding school buses will be getting on the bus in the dark. Be careful as you drive to work and watch for the youth standing beside the road and stop when the red lights are flashing on the school buses.

Parents and guardians need to try to have light colored clothing or something reflective on the young people as they are heading to school either by bus or walking. When people are in a hurry to get to work or the coffee shop, it is hard to see people on the side of the road in dark clothing. The issue of walking on the side of the road applies to those that jog, head to school or just out walking for their health. Wearing dark clothing at night and walking on the side of the road does not lend itself to a long healthy life.

Also remember it is dry and fires are a constant threat to our county. Be careful with fire, with your cigarettes and with anything that causes sparks. The house you save may be your own.

Are You a Registered Voter?
3/08/2007
This reminder that the final date to register to vote in the May city and school elections is April 12th. Registration is handled in the County Courthouse, Voter Registrar is Jamie Trammell, Tax Assessor-Collector.

Abundant Life Church Announces New Coleman Service
3/8/2007
The Abundant Life Church of Brownwood has expanded its ministry to include a Sunday evening service in Coleman. Pastors Rick and Cindy McClure say their heart is to see Central Texas transformed by preaching the uncompromising Word of God. Abundant Life Church is non-denominational that will accept you just as you are and preaches messages relevant to the 21st Century with inspiring contemporary worship.

The services will be held at 213 South Pecos (across from Coleman County Medical Center) at 6:00pm each Sunday. For more information, call 325-643-4738. Services at Abundant Life Church in Brownwood are Sunday morning at 9:00am and 10:30am.

Ribbon Cutting Held at Local Business
3/7/2007
Coleman residents Gene and Veda Christian took an idea and ran with it. The result is Gene and Veda's Country Place, the former Bodoodles building, on Highway 84 in north Coleman. The business is designed for families to gather for reunions, birthday parties, showers or other get-togethers. There are nicely decorated rooms with tables and chairs, a kitchen and toward the back of the building there is even a stage. There is seating for 40 in the front and another 50 can be seated in the meeting room. Veda says you can rent the whole building or just a few rooms. There is a room set aside for games too. The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce welcomed the new business Tuesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 3:00pm.

County-Wide Garage Sale Weekend Coming Up!
3/7/2007 (contributed)
The Humane Society is sponsoring the 3rd annual County-Wide Garage Sale and Flea Market next month. The dates are Friday and Saturday, April 13 and 14. Block One Flea Market will also be open on Sunday, April 15.

Plan now for your spring cleaning garage sale. If you want your address on our garage sale map, leave a message on our hotline at 625-4724 or call Linda at 625-3743. A $5 donation for this service supports the Humane Society spay/neuter program. The map is available to garage salers at the flea market. We will also post the addresses on our web site at www.HumaneSocietyCC.com.

The Humane Society heavily advertises this weekend across the Big Country via newspaper ads, radio, TV calendars, Internet and flyers in an effort to bring people to Coleman County for a weekend of bargain shopping. The Humane Society has a flea market booth and we also raffle a barbecue grill.

Our thanks go to Cooper Supply for providing a top-of-the-line Designer Series Char-Broil grill this year. It is a beauty! Tickets will be available through all Humane Society board members and at the Shoppin’ Baskit on March 30 and 31, and April 6 and 7. Second prize will be a voucher for a free spay/neuter for your pet.

This year we are adding a pet adopt-a-thon where we will show off our rescued dogs. Pepper (pictured) hopes to meet you there if she’s not adopted before then. We are also inviting other area rescue groups to join us with their dogs. It should be a barking good time! We will also have barbecue, drinks, and live music.

Business owners and other nonprofits are urged to plan a special sale or event for the weekend. Crafters and vendors can take advantage of a $10 table space at the flea market to show off their wares, plus the Santa Anna Retail Merchants Association is planning on getting involved as well.
Join in! Help the Humane Society make this a county-wide event that will grow from year to year and make Coleman a destination for bargain hunters on the second weekend of April every year. We have over 50,000 sq. ft. of antiques and flea market space in our county. We have a lot to offer!

If you have items to donate to the Humane Society’s booth, please leave a message on the hotline number 625-4724 or drop items off at the flea market at 301 E. Pecan, Thursday-Saturday, 9-5.

Coleman County Youth Activity Center News
3/7/2007 (Submitted by Sarah Beal)
The Bill Franklin Center is being reserved and many events are on the books. Some of the recent events include the Coleman County Livestock Show and Sale, CCYAC board meetings, Coleman Rodeo Association meeting, a wedding reception, 4-H Shooting Sports and Coleman High School TAKS tests. Many of the “Rocks” on the Wall of Honor have been purchased. There are a few rocks left that may be purchased. Contact Henry Dodson at Coleman County State Bank at 325-625-2172, if interested. Plans are moving along on the entrance and the barn projects. Demolition of the barn has begun, as the tin roof of the brick barn was removed last week. A replacement building has been ordered and construction of the entrance has started. There will be a lot of construction activity going on at the Coleman County Youth Activity Center over the next few months. Funding is still needed for these projects and donations are greatly appreciated.

Recent donations to the center are as follows: Jerry K. and Ruth Ann Taylor, Bennett and Sue Ragsdale, Ron and Sandi Carroll, Coleman County Wildlife Committee, Michael and Synda Smith.

Memorials:
In memory of Bill Laws by Don and Marion Johnson, Bowen Drug Store / Jim Stokes, Dr. and Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. and Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn and James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham, Bob and Ann Turner
In memory of Pauline Powers by Bowen Drug Store/Jim Stokes
In memory of Lem Allen by Bill and Ginger Sneed, Dr. and Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. and Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn and James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham, Tom and Vivian Miller, Jeff and Ashlee Miller, Ryan Miller
In memory of Clarence and Annie B. Mitchell by Richard E. and Clarice D. Hambright
In memory of Joe Hambright by Richard E. and Clarice D. Hambright
In memory of Eddie Lois Pittard by Virginia Jamison
In memory of Nell Carroll by Donald and Mary Williams
In memory of Marcia Morris by Dr. and Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. and Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn and James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham
In memory of John Walker by Dr. and Mrs. R. M. Edington, Dr. and Mrs. Mark Swening, Dr. Sharilyn and James Nall, Dr. Johnny Needham
In memory of Frances Henderson by Santa Anna ISD
In memory of Audie Cathey by Don and Marian Johnson
In memory of Dr. H. E. Howard by Dan Howard
In memory of Richard R. Lee by Dan Howard
In memory of Zeno Hemphill by Dan Howard
In memory of Faye Merrill by James and Jody Barr
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Joe K. Cervenka by Bob and Ann Turner
In memory of Wallace McKee by Bob and Ann Turner
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Smith, Jr. by Bob and Ann Turner
In memory of Matthew Pearce by Bob and Ann Turner
In memory of Faye Wheeler by Virginia Jamison, Steve and Sarah Beal
In memory of Claudean Cervenka by Phil, Sammie, Donna, Alfreda and Tina Chambers In memory of Georgia Lynn Dalton by Lynn and Trisha Owens, Chris and Cindy Jamison, Steve and Sarah Beal, Curtis and Joy Skelton, Ben and Debbie Scott, Gouldbusk 42 Club
In memory of Eugenia Pittard by Lynn and Trisha Owens, Chris and Cindy Jamison, Steve and Sarah Beal, Curtis and Joy Skelton, Ben and Debbie Scott, Henry and Margie Dodson, James Stokes/Bowen Drug Store
In memory of Pam Waynick by Henry and Margie Dodson, David and Tracy Barnett
In memory of Laura Johnson by Lynn and Trisha Owens
In memory of Kathleen Marie Manley by Henry and Margie Dodson
In memory of Mamie Evans by Lynn and Trisha Owens, Don and Marian Johnson
In memory of Billie Marie Miller by Lynn and Trisha Owens, David and Tracy Barnett, Don and Marian Johnson
In memory of Joshua Trebark Weaver by David and Tracy Barnett
In memory of Tae Gann by James C. Stokes / Bowen Drug Store

Honorariums:
In honor of Rodney and Debbie Ivy by Jimmy and Nell Lane
In honor of Coleman Veterinary Clinic by Jimmy and Nell Lane
In honor of the O. J. Johnson Family by Virginia Jamison

Donations may be sent to Trisha Owens at First Coleman National Bank. P. O. Box 552, Coleman, TX 76834, or to Henry Dodson at Coleman County State Bank, P. O. Box 940, Coleman, TX 76834.

Thanks, From Paul Wheat
3/6/2007
There are no words that could possibly express my thanks and gratitude to all who came to my aide during my recent fire. To our heroic firemen and emergency personnel, I salute you. Your untiring efforts under impossible conditions prevented further damage to the neighborhood. To my wonderful neighbors, friends and family, I will never forget your every act of kindness, compassion and love. Thanks again for all you have done.
Paul Wheat

Bicycling from Denver to Costa Rica
3/6/2007 (contributed)
Friday, March 2nd, a few Coleman citizens enjoyed meeting five young men bicycling from their hometown of Denver, Colorado. It took three weeks to reach Coleman, however, their final destination is Costa Rica and they hope to be there toward the end of May. Chamber Secretary, Amy Hinds, was first to enjoy talking to Jason, Paul, Caleb, Tyler, and Amos and find out their ambitious goal of reaching Costa Rica on bicycles! She then placed a call to Central Baptist Church member, Barbara Hubbard, hoping to find a youth house or fellowship hall for these young men to spend the night out of the cold weather. "What a neat opportunity for our church members to minister," said Barbara. "We have had a Church Family Breakfast scheduled for about a month - and now we'll be sharing it with these kids from Colorado," Hubbard said.
The five young men were first treated to the graciousness of Amy Hinds. As Amy washed their clothes, she allowed the young men the "luxury" of warm showers. They then brought their belongings and bicycles into the fellowship hall of Central Baptist Church for the night. The next morning the breakfast feast was prepared by Pastor, Bill Schoneman, and Youth Pastor, Matt French. Hot pancakes dripping with butter and syrup, thick delicious bacon and fluffy scrambled eggs were served, finished off with juice, milk and hot coffee. The members of Central Baptist Church enjoyed learning all about the Colorado Band. They call themselves, the "Origami" Band (which is the art of paper birds). The five young men will meet up with the three females in the band as the girls fly into Costa Rica where the Band is planning to stay for a month. Paul stated that Coleman truly is the "Friendliest Town in Texas". Ahhhhh, how sweet! We were certainly thankful the Lord had our paths cross. We wrapped-up the remaining bacon and the guys put it in their bags. About 9:30am, they were refreshed and ready to continue their journey. Another member of the group was asked if they would return to Colorado by bicycle. Paul was quick to state that he would be flying commercial. If you'd like to keep up with their adventure, visit them at thebikegang@gmail.com.   

Silent Auction Planned at Juried Art Show
3/6/2007 (by Marian Johnson, Publicity Chairman)
Silent Auction Item - what is it? Beautiful green glass pitcher for wine? The Silent Auction will be held during the Juried Art Show April 25-May 2 at the Bill Franklin Center.

Other items include art work, carved wooden lamp, and crystal. Collectible items are being sought. Call Virginia Bethke, chair of the Silent Auction event, if you have an item to donate. Fine Arts League of Coleman County, Inc.

Jo Ellen Barr and Marian Johnson, Gamma Chi Master Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.

A program was presented by Marian Johnson giving calendar of events surrounding the Juried Art Show April 25 - May 2, 2007. The Artists’ Demonstrations were of interest to the group which will be on Sunday afternoon April 29, 2-6pm, Monday April 30,10-4 and Tuesday May 1, 10-4. which are FREE. The public is invited to attend.

History in the Stones
3/6/2007 by Randy Turner
The story starts decades ago when a sand plant operated on the Santa Anna Mountain. Kids growing up in Santa Anna would explore the peak and spent lots of time up there. They saw a large rock with an Indian chief carved in it, an eagle carved into another rock. Interesting stuff, but they were kids and moved on to something else.

Fast forward to the middle 1990's, some of those same kids have long since grown up, still live in Santa Anna, still friends. Montie Guthrie and Rod Musick started wondering and talking about where the big rock with the likeness of Chief Santana might be. They started investigating and learned the rock had been moved to the base of the sand plant in the late 1950's or early 1960's. The plant was sold and closed in the 60's but through talking to former employees, the owners of the plant, a husband and wife, were found in Arkansas, still in possession of the big Indian rock but not the eagle, it had been broken. The large rock, all 4,076 pounds of it, was brought back to its home in Santa Anna.

Fast forward again to February 2007 where the man responsible for the beautiful carvings in stone was honored by the Santa Anna Historical Development Organization. T.T. Perry was a stone mason. He also carved headstones for a funeral home in Brownwood. But in the winter, when the weather wouldn't permit him to lay stones, he would carve artistic designs into rocks. A few of these stones remain such as the building now occupied by Sunny's in downtown Santa Anna and various other pieces here and there including some buildings in Salado.

In recognition of Perry's legacy of work, the two ton rock with the Indian head carved in it now sits outside the front entrance to the Santa Anna Community Center (armory) along with other works by Perry. An interpretive sign (shown above) has also been placed at the site for future generations to appreciate the history in the stones.

Guthrie noted that the Coleman County Historical Commission has been very supportive of the project to honor Perry. Grants from the Coleman County Foundation and Texas Commission on Humanities also made the display possible. The Bass family also donated several stones made by Perry. Read more about it at www.santaannatex.org.

Camp Quality Needs Volunteers
3/6/2007 (contributed by Amanda Straach)
Camp Quality is a camp for kids for Cancer. Camp will be this summer in July and will be held in Tyler, Texas. We are in need of volunteers, so if you are interested, you can go to www.tx.campqualityusa.com and download an application. This is a wonderful opportunity for college students to earn extra credits.

I have already started receiving donations to take to camp with me to help sponsor these amazing young people. The number of campers has gone from 13 in 2004 to 31 last year. The estimated cost per child is $1100. This camp is offered to the children at no cost to the family, so anything you are able to contribute helps us reach our goal in providing a wonderful week of fun and relaxation not having to worry about when the next treatment will be.

This camp is staffed completely by volunteers ranging, from RN’s, LVN’s, people like me, moms, dads, grads and even grannies! If you are willing to spend the week with us, we promise you a week of fun and life-long friendships; not only with the campers but with other volunteers as well.

I will be posting another update on Camp Quality as soon as our “Things We Need List” is available.

You may contact me directly: Amanda Straach, 3005 Southpark Drive, Coleman, Texas 76834. Call 325-625-2825 or e-mail ajsminis@verizon.net.

Storm Spotter Training Well Attended
3/6/2007
Around 40 people attended Storm Spotter Training Monday night at the Coleman County Courthouse. Mary Keiser and Julie States with the National Weather Service in San Angelo presented the program. Topics included basic and advanced spotter training reminding spotters what to look for in the cloud formations that would indicate severe weather, especially tornadoes. Speaking of Tornadoes, a chart was presented which showed 32 tornadoes reported in Coleman County since 1959. Nationally, the number one weather killer is flash flooding followed by lightning. Attendees last night included emergency management officials, numerous members of the Coleman Fire Department and many interested local citizens.

Out With the Old, Preparing for The New
3/5/2007
Demolition has started on a building which has been a fixture for generations in Coleman.

The old livestock show barn at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds is coming down to make room for a new structure to be erected this spring and summer. Roofing crews started removing tin from the roof of the old barn Thursday. The picture shown was taken Friday morning as workers neared completion on the south end of the barn.


The new building will be very large, 160 feet by 175 feet, and stand nearly 30 feet tall at the peak of the roof. It will be an insulated metal building, large enough to house the stock show but available to attract area events such as county fair, arts and crafts shows and equine events to name a few. The estimated completion date is mid-summer.

3rd Annual Flea Market / Countywide Garage Sale Planned in April
3/5/2007 (contributed)
The Humane Society of Coleman County is sponsoring the 3rd annual flea market and county-wide garage sale on April 13 and 14. Everyone is encouraged to plan their spring garage sale for those days and take advantage of all the area-wide advertising that the Humane Society will be doing. Anyone wanting to donate items to the Humane Society flea market booth should call Sue or Linda at 325-625-3743.

Panther Creek Students Honored
3/5/2007 (by Mark Romine)
An awards assembly was held on February 27th to recognize Panther Creek Elementary students who participated in the District UIL meet. The following students received awards.

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 4th
Ready writing - Paula Mata 4th, Mary Tapia 6th
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 Parra 5th
Oral Reading - Zane McMahon 2nd, Nico Parra 6th

3rd Grade
Ready Writing - Jessi Loyd 4th
Music Memory - 3rd team-Esmeralda Olivares, Kelly Loyd, Priscilla Smith, Brianna Coalson

Website Created for Shilo Harris
3/5/2007
We have been notified by a family member that a website has been made for Shilo Harris. It has a guestbook for people to sign and pictures of him. Click HERE to go to the site.

“Who Are You?”
3/5/2007 (by Ed Pineiro)
Following a soft tap at my door a diminutive, white-haired women wearing a pink smock peered around the corner of my room…peering at me owlishly behind cataract glasses. A halo of soft curls framed her soft features and a hint of a smile touched her lips as she asked in a distinctive British accent, “Who are you?” “Ed Pineiro” I replied, wondering why she asked. Not to be satisfied she asked again, “But, ah, what is it you do?” Wondering what this was all about, but enjoying this bit of a distraction from the unrelenting pain and monotony of the hospital routine I murmured, “I’m an anesthetist.”

Her eyes blinking even faster now as her discomfort became even more evident she persisted, “But, I mean, are you someone?” At this juncture I managed to laugh out loud in spite of the pain and asked her what she meant. She went on to hold up a single envelope in one hand and a rubber band-wrapped bundle of 17 cards in the other. “It’s this, sir,” she went on. “Every day since you’ve been here you have received cards and letters in numbers like this and in all the years I’ve been here I’ve never seen anyone receive as many cards and emails as you have.  Are you a celebrity?”

Now, knowing what she meant, I grinned broadly at her and replied with an expanding feeling of warmth in my chest, “I’m a Colemanite.” I then proceeded to tell her all about the “Friendliest Town in Texas” and the wonderful folks who live there. Told her about the inhabitants of Coleman who don’t look the other way as you walk down the sidewalk or drive down the street, they make eye contact and wave at you. A place where going to the Post Office, the grocery store, the hardware store or even the Dollar Store was a social event as one must always allow time to run the errands you had in mind as well as visit with everyone you met. I told her of the love of fellow man, the churches who worship and pray together, of the thousands of prayers which had been offered on my behalf.

During my rather lengthy discourse the rather shy grin on her face began to grow and soon she was broadly grinning from ear to ear. At this point the orthopedic surgeon (one of the most eminent orthopedic surgeons in the South I might add who is not only very busy and is also very much a type “A” personality) strode into my room, his lab coat flapping in the wake of his entrance. Before he could get one word out the Pink Lady began telling him all about the fact his patient was a “Colemanite” and proceeded to fill him in on the nefarious facts as she understood them. Would you believe he stood there, legs akimbo and arms crossed in front of his chest, as he listened until she finally wound to a mumbled word here and there, clearly embarrassed at her outburst. With that this great man who had been caring for me for two weeks and had been involved in nearly eight hours of surgery on me turned, extended his hands, clasped mine in his saying, “Now I understand why every nurse on the orthopedic trauma unit has commented upon your spirit and personality. You come from a town of good people.”

So folks, if you’ve managed to read this far I’d like to answer the question asked in the title of this article: “Who Are You?” I’m a Colemanite and danged well proud of it!

Note: We are happy to report that Ed Pineiro is now back home in Coleman but still has a long road to recovery following a motorcycle accident last month.

Update on House Moving Picture
3/5/2007
Last week we published the picture (left) of a house being moved through Coleman. We have received additional information on the interesting history of the old house. J. King House Moving Contractors from Zephyr were transporting the house for Randall and Mary Jordan of California. It was being moved from Baird to the Valera area where it will be restored.  Original history received on the house is that it was built in 1895 and was owned and lived-in by Texas cowboy, Robert Estes.

Santa Anna One-Act Play Performed Tuesday Night
3/5/2007 (contributed)
The Santa Anna High School One-Act Play, entitled "The Women of Lockerbie", will be presented to the public at 7:00pm Tuesday, March 6th, in the high school auditorium.

The play is set December 21, 1995, the 7-year anniversary of the crash of Pan-Am Flight 103. Desserts will be available for purchase after the performance. Please come out and enjoy the show and support the students.

Cast members include Jarod Jones, Leeanda Bennett, Molly Pritchard, Becca Fellers, Heather McMillan, Adelaida Dean, Caylie Robinett and Terrence Jackson. Crew members are Sierra Herrod, Brittany Morris, Michelle Wetsel, Monica Cortez.

Gouldbusk Club to Meet Thursday
3/5/2007 (by Lynn Corbett)
The Gouldbusk Texas Extension Education Association (Gouldbusk Homemakers Club) met on February 8th at the home of Dick and Virginia Jamison. Virginia was hostess for the meeting. Members present were Danella McBrayer, Pat Pool, Lynn Corbett, Sue Ragsdale, Virginia Jamison, Mona Wilson, Geneva Garrett, Vicki Stewart and Berva Dawn Taylor. Berva Dawn Taylor called the meeting to order at 1:30pm. As always we opened with the pledges to the United States and Texas flags, our creed and prayer. During roll call we each had to say something nice about the person who was sitting directly to our right. Nobody had any difficulty coming up with compliments for their neighbor. Virginia said it best when she commented that the best thing about our club is that as soon as you come to a meeting you have an immediate group of friends. We would like to extend an invitation to anyone in the community, whether you've lived here all your life or just moved in, if you would like to get involved with a group of hard working, fun loving ladies, please feel free to join us for a meeting. We would love to have you.
The minutes from the December meeting were read and approved. The treasurer's report was also approved as read.
Mona Wilson gave a report on the success of the concession stand at the county stock show in January. She also asked the group to think of innovative ideas for next years concession stand. We so appreciate all the folks who patronized our concession stand. Your support as always is greatly appreciated. We also appreciated all the positive comments we received regarding the Sunday lunch this year.
We discussed the upcoming walk across Texas campaign that will begin in march. Last year our club fielded two teams. There were 16 teams in the county and our teams took first and second place, so we will be looking forward to the challenge again this year. We were all asked to attend a meeting to discuss plans for Retamay Gaines 90th birthday party held on March 2nd at the United Methodist Church in Coleman.
We also discussed preliminary plans for the Extension Education summer camp that we are hosting in Brownwood this year. The theme will be "Life's Better at the Beach". We also had a short discussion on whether or not we wanted to do an additional fundraiser this year and what, if any, ideas we had for fun day this year. We will discuss both these subjects again next month. As we didn't have a program this month, we spent the rest of our club time visiting with each other and eating the delicious food provided by Virginia.

Sunday Update on Tibbetts Family
3/4/2007
Eileen Tibbetts, mother of Jeff Tibbetts, shared the following update on Jeff and Darla and their family injured in a wreck Friday night near Glen Cove.
"Brody is expected to be released today from the hospital, Darla had surgery Saturday morning to repair her broken leg and Jeff will go in for surgery this morning for his broken leg. They are expected to be released later in the week. Our baby girl, Carlie, was uninjured in the accident. Ashton, DeLesa and Adam are all doing fine. They are all a little stiff and sore but otherwise in good condition. We would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers and for all the help and visits."

FFA Horse Judging Team Competes at San Angelo
3/3/2007
The Coleman FFA Horse Judging Team recently competed at the San Angelo Livestock Show on February 24th.

The team finished in 5th place while Reagan Barr ended up 1st high point individual and Paige Barnett was 5th high point individual.

Members of the team are from left Reagan Barr, Kolton Titsworth, Paige Barnett, Gary Heath and Casie Swening. The team will compete next at the Tarleton Invitational in Stephenville on March 22.

Wreck Kills One, Injures Seven
3/3/2007
A two vehicle crash a little after 7:00pm Friday night has resulted in the death of a Talpa area man and injuries to a Coleman family.

The wreck happened on U.S. Highway 153 west of Glen Cove. According to Chris Delgado, DPS Trooper, a pickup driven by Ed Pinnell, in his late 60's of the Talpa area, was traveling east on Highway 153. For an unknown reason, Pinnell apparently turned onto a county road in front of a vehicle traveling west, a vehicle occupied by Jeff and Darla Tibbetts and family.

Mr. Pinnell was flown by helicopter to Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo then flown to Seton Medical Center in Austin where he died at 3:10am Saturday morning, Delgado said.

Those in the Tibbetts vehicle include Jeff and Darla, four of their children and Adam Vasquez who were in route to New Mexico on a ski trip, friends say. As of 8:30am Saturday, according to information from friends and a family member, Darla and Brody were the only two still in the hospital, both at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Brody was being held for observation, Darla was to undergo surgery on her leg. All others have been treated and released with minor injuries.

Bentley Fundraiser a Big Success
3/3/2007 (contributed)
A bake sale was held Friday morning in front of Owl Drug Store to benefit Teresa Bentley, mother of Shilo Harris who is the Coleman soldier injured two weeks ago in Iraq.

Traci Fulbright, who organized the event, gave us the following information: "Due to the generous donations from some of the wonderful cooks in our town and the patrons of our bake sale, it was a huge success. All together, including a generous donation from the First Baptist Church, we raised almost $1300.00 for Teresa and her family. I would like to thank all of the people that stopped by and shared their concerns, prayers and money. It is times like this that makes me glad to live in a small town. I would also like to relay my thanks to all of the cooks that provided me with the goodies that were sold."

Address Available for Shilo Harris
3/2/2007
Many of you have been asking about an address where you can send cards and get-wells to Shilo Harris. Kathreyn, Shilo's wife, e-mailed us and gave us the following information:

Kathreyn Harris
Powless Guest House
3298 George C. Beach
Ft. Sam Houston, TX 78234-7569

Kathreyn noted that Shilo still has not had surgery as of yet and "we are doing okay".

Report on City Council Meeting
3/2/2007
The Coleman City Council met Thursday evening with all members present and Mayor Nick Poldrack presiding.

The Council spent most of the meeting in closed session conducting the annual evaluation of the City Manager's job performance. From 5:31pm to 7:18pm, the Council met with City Manager Larry Weise. City Attorney Steve Autry was also a part of the meeting. Back in open session, no further action was taken on the job evaluation.

Two public hearings were held, no one attended to speak for or against either one. The first hearing was on Ordinance 1072 providing for regulation of land uses within the city. The second hearing regarded reestablishment of a Juvenile Curfew.

The Council received five bids from people interested in providing janitorial services for City Hall. Bids came from Al's Maintenance Service of Santa Anna, Janis Wells, Matthew French and Billy Anderson of Coleman and Gail Johnson of Gouldbusk. Upon recommendation of the City Manager, the bids will be studied by city staff and references checked before a final decision is made at the next council meeting.

The Council voted 4-0 to advertise for bids to replace hail-damaged metal roofs on several city owned buildings. Councilman C.E. Casselberry requested that the Council be made aware of how much insurance money the City received prior to granting the bids.  Weise said he will provide that information to the Councilat the next meeting.

The Council voted 4-0 to authorize City Secretary Sue Burleson to advertise for bids for Depository Service for a two year period. Currently, the city banks at Coleman County State Bank.

The Council voted 4-0 to appoint Randy Turner to the Coleman E.D.C. board.

In the City Manager's report, Larry Weise reported on lake levels. The city's primary water supply, Lake Coleman, is six feet below spillway level. He also reported Lake Ivie being 23 feet below full. Weise also said that 4,000 to 5,000 old tires have been removed from the city limits thanks to recent efforts to clean-up tire dumps in the city limits.

Coleman Police Blotter From Thursday, March 1
3/2/2007
In a report from the Coleman Police Department, at approximately 8:00am Thursday morning, Chief Jay Moses served two Capias Pro-Fine Warrants on Gilbert Lynn Espitia, 26 year-old white male of Coleman. Espitia was presented with one warrant for No Driver's License and a second warrant for No Seat Belt. Espitia was detained and placed in the Coleman City Jail.

At approximately 8:30am Thursday morning, Chief Jay Moses served warrants on 23 year-old white female Christina Maebeth Donham. Donham was served one warrant in reference to Failure To Maintain Financial Responsibility and another warrant for Expired Registration. Donham appeared before Coleman Municipal Court Judge Lisa Smith where she agreed to complete 96 hours of community service in lieu of payment.

Thursday afternoon, officers observed several subjects attempting to discard used tires at a location on the north side of Coleman. Officers followed the subjects to a residence in the 900 block of North Blanco where Officer Michelle Sheedy identified a subject wanted by the Coleman Police Department. Officer Sheedy apprehended 19 year-old white male of Coleman, Robert Lucian Miller. Miller was wanted by the Coleman P.D. for a Capias Pro-Fine Warrant for No Valid Drivers License. Miller is being held in the Coleman City Jail at this time.

Wanted - Bids to Run Concession Stand
3/2/2007
The Coleman Youth Association is accepting bids for operation of the Concessions Stand at the Coleman Baseball/Softball fields during the upcoming baseball/softball season. The operating contract states the following:

• The contract with Coca-Cola will be honored as stated between CYA and Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Abilene.
• The operating schedule will be for regular season play and will not include district tournaments, if applicable.
• Free sno-cones will be provided to all players (t-ball, baseball, and softball) following each game.
• The concession stand will be kept clean and in proper working condition during the season and at the end of the contract period.
• Minimum bid is set at $1500
• CYA provides $0.00 in start up money.

All interested parties should submit bids to Molly Norris, in writing, at 600 FM 3425, Coleman, Texas 76834 no later than March 15, 2007. If you have questions or need further information, please contact Lee Wayne West at Screen Art Graphics 625-2508.

A Longhorn Follow-Up
3/2/2007 by Randy Turner
I have discovered over the past couple of days that the story on the Longhorn struck a chord, apparently many of you also love beautiful bovines. Two people have written to share more information about the Longhorn I featured in the picture. His name is Whitey and he belongs to a man in Bangs but apparently others claim him too. He is 17 years-old and walked from Texas to Montana in a cattle drive when he was three years-old.  I'll probably always look for him when I drive by.
 

Another Coleman County Deputy Moves On
3/1/2007
The Coleman County Sheriff's Department said goodbye Wednesday to Deputy James Morris. James leaves law enforcement after a 13 year stint with the department. "James was an excellent hand, I sure hate to lose him but I wish him the best," said Wade Turner, Sheriff. Morris accepted a higher paying job in the oilfield business, Turner said. Danny Arrieta Jr., Coleman's newest deputy, said he was very proud to have been a co-worker, partner and friend with Morris. "I will truly miss him and so will the Coleman County Sheriff's Office. James is a top-notch deputy who is full of knowledge and sincerely loves this county," Arrieta said. Sheriff Turner begins the process to replace Morris immediately.

New Hospital Board Member Sworn-In
Administrator's Contract Renewed
3/1/2007 (by Sue Titsworth)
The Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors met Monday, February 26, in the CCMC Board Conference Room, with all members present, and a full agenda to address.

In the first order of business, Board Secretary Virginia Jamison swore in Linda Laws, who is filling the unexpired term left by the death of her husband Bill Laws.  (see picture left)

The Medical Staff advised that the search for a third physician is underway. In the meantime, the medical staff will be looking at using mid-level providers to assist with the patient load.

CEO/Administrator Douglas Langley presented the financial report to the board, stating that the charges for this time of year are comparable to the previous year’s level, with only a slight reduction in ambulance and emergency room use. Langley also advised the board that Parrish, Moody, Fikes, the CPA firm used by the hospital, will be assisting with some research and updating some financial information.

In other business, the board approved the renewal of Employee Health Insurance with Unicare, and also approved renewal of the Workers Compensation and Medical Professional Liability through the Texas Hospital Insurance Exchange.

Langley presented the Cardiac Rehabilitation manual to the board for their approval. There will be another manual presented for the board’s approval at each regular board meeting, in compliance with state regulations.

At 6:05 P.M., the board went into closed session to consider renewal of a personnel contract. At 6:10 P.M. Board president Mark Griffis reconvened the open session, and motion was made and approved to renew the hospital administrator’s contract for three years.

The next regular meeting of the Coleman County Medical Center Board of Directors is scheduled for 5:00pm on March 22nd in the hospital Board Conference room.

City of Coleman Seeking Part-Time Dispatcher
3/1/2007
Crossing the news desk this morning was a message that the City of Coleman is seeking applicants for a part time position (24 hrs. per week) as dispatcher/clerk at the Maintenance Shop. For more information and complete job requirements and responsibilities contact Matthew (Chipper) Anderson, City Building Inspector at 325-625-2621. Applications are at City Hall, 200 W. Live Oak Street in Coleman. The City of Coleman is an Equal Opportunity Employer and pre-employment drug testing, back x-ray and physical are required.

Future of Historic Camp Colorado Bridge Discussed
3/1/2007
Records suggest the Camp Colorado Bridge was erected in its current location in 1923. Located on County Road 140 in eastern Coleman County, the bridge is "an excellent example of a riveted/bolt-connected, Pratt Through-Parallel-Chord truss bridge in the State of Texas", according to a report by the Department of Transportation. During a statewide inventory of metal truss bridges in 1995, the bridge was found to exhibit sufficient structural integrity and engineering complexity when compared with other similar bridge types and was determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.

A condition assessment was performed on the structure in September 2005. As you would expect, the nearly 100 year old bridge needs some rehab. In session Wednesday morning, County Commissioners heard a report from Brian Raschke with the Texas Department of Transportation. "The need for the replacement has become apparent during previous inspections due to a nonstandard rail and the insufficient load carrying capacity. Although there is a low water crossing (just south of the bridge), there are usually several times throughout the year when this location cannot be crossed. When the low water crossing becomes inaccessible, the detour for this location becomes 15 miles for overweight and/or over width vehicles. This route also sees a higher traffic count during hunting seasons and there are several overweight and/or agricultural/ranching equipment vehicles that utilize the low water crossing detour," according to the report. Raschke presented six alternatives for County Commissioners to consider.

1. No Build - do nothing as it is currently in fair condition - not a reasonable course of action

2. Rehab for Continued Two-Way Traffic - not a reasonable or prudent alternative

3. Rehab for Continued Vehicular Use as Part of a One-Way Pair - Erect a second structure designed to carry legal loads and rehab the old bridge - this is a viable option and further investigation is warranted

4. Rehab for Use as a Pedestrian Structure - Without limiting the width of the walkway, structure cannot be rehabilitated without affecting the historical integrity of the 100-ft Warren truss.

5. Left in Place as a Monument - The bridge is in good condition but cannot carry the minimum loading required for this location. The County would be responsible for obtaining additional right-of-way for the new structure parallel to the old one. Leave the bridge as an example of the engineering accomplished in the 1920's. This is a viable option, according to engineers.

6. New Structure on Current Alignment - build a new bridge where the old one is now.

The state's most preferred option was to rehab the bridge as part of a one-way pair (# 3 above), followed by # 5, left in place as a monument with the third option being to relocate the 80-ft half-hip bridge to another location as a pedestrian structure. County Commissioners have a lot to consider, did not make a decision, but the item will be on the next Commission agenda for their next meeting on Monday, March 12th. 

Coleman Police Blotter February 27 - March 1
3/1/2007 (submitted by Coleman PD)
According to the Coleman Police Department, the end of February proved to be a productive time period. Tuesday, February 27, at approximately 11:30 p.m., officers located and apprehended 23 year old white male Daniel Lewis Hale of Coleman. Hale was wanted out of Brazoria County on several accounts of Theft by Check and Assault charges.

At 3:45 p.m. on Wednesday, February 28, Coleman P.D. served two warrants to 18 year old white male Jerry Ned Woodcox Jr. of Coleman. Both warrants were for Failure To Attend School. Woodcox was traveling with 22 year old white male Richard Flores Jr. of Coleman. Flores was charged with Driving With License Invalid and also placed under arrest.

Early this morning at approximately 2:00 a.m., police observed a vehicle leaving Memory Lake. After making contact with the driver of the vehicle, it was determined that the subject was Driving While Intoxicated. The driver was a white male in his early 30's and a resident of Coleman. This subject was placed under arrest and charged with DWI - !st Offense Class B Misdemeanor.
Remember to contact the Coleman Police Department at 325-625-4114 if you suspect suspicious activity in your neighborhood.