Commissioner Staples Announces Additional $100,000 for Young Texas Farmers to Start, Expand Operations
5/1/2010
AUSTIN - In an effort to assist with the challenges associated with starting or expanding a farming or ranching operation in Texas, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced the availability of an additional $100,000 in grants through the Texas Department of Agriculture's Young Farmer Grant Program. The program, which has already awarded $100,000 to 13 eligible farmers this year, is designed to help young farmers enter or enhance a production agriculture career.

"As our population increases, we must do what we can to recruit new agriculture producers and assist current ones with expanding operations to meet the growing demand on our food and fiber supplies," Commissioner Staples said. "Starting a career in production agriculture is a huge financial investment, and through the Young Farmer Grant Program we can help give young farmers the capital they need to start or expand much-needed operations."

Young Farmer Grants are available to individuals who are at least 18, but younger than 46. Applicants must make dollar-for-dollar matching expenditures to sustain, create or expand the proposed projects. The individual grant limit per application is $10,000. The current application deadline is May 14.

In 2009, Commissioner Staples proposed, and the 81st Texas Legislature authorized, the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA) to establish the Young Farmer Grant Program. Figures from the 2007 Census of Agriculture show the average age of Texas farmers is increasing. Farmers ages 25 to 34 make up just 5 percent of Texas farmers, while farmers under 25 account for just 1 percent. The rising age of Texas farmers, combined with the small number of young people choosing farming as an occupation, raises concerns about whom will fill the gaps of providing food and fiber in the future.

In addition to the Young Farmer Grant Program, TAFA includes three programs designed for eligible applicants who wish to establish or enhance their farm or ranch operation, or establish agriculture-related businesses:

Agricultural Loan Guarantee: This program provides guarantees based on a tiered structure not to exceed $750,000 or 70 percent of the loan amount, whichever is less. The program also provides an interest rebate of up to $5,000 per year to eligible borrowers as part of the guarantee process.

Interest Rate Reduction: TAFA can facilitate commercial lending that may result in below-market interest rates. Eligible applicants must intend to use the proceeds under this program in a manner that will help foster the creation and expansion of a Texas agricultural business.

Young Farmer Interest Rate Reduction: Even more beneficial than the standard interest rate reduction program, the Young Farmer Interest Rate Reduction program offers young farmers greater rate reductions through TAFA. The program is open to any person at least 18, but younger than 46, who proposes to use the proceeds to help foster the creation and expansion of a Texas agricultural business.

For more information about the Young Farmer Grant and other TAFA programs, visit www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on Grants/Funding.

Statement by Gov. Rick Perry on Immigration and Border Security
5/1/2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today issued the following statement regarding border security, the recent debate over immigration policy in Washington and what has been implemented in Arizona:

“Texas has a rich history with Mexico, our largest trading partner, and we share more than 1,200 miles of border, more than any other state. As the debate on immigration reform intensifies, the focus must remain on border security and the federal government’s failure to adequately protect our borders. Securing our border is a federal responsibility, but it is a Texas problem, and it must be addressed before comprehensive immigration reform is discussed.

“Recently, there has been much debate over immigration policy in Washington and what has been implemented in Arizona. I fully recognize and support a state’s right and obligation to protect its citizens, but I have concerns with portions of the law passed in Arizona and believe it would not be the right direction for Texas.

“For example, some aspects of the law turn law enforcement officers into immigration officials by requiring them to determine immigration status during any lawful contact with a suspected alien, taking them away from their existing law enforcement duties, which are critical to keeping citizens safe. Our focus must continue to be on the criminal elements involved with conducting criminal acts against Texans and their property. I will continue to work with the legislative leadership to develop strategies that are appropriate for Texas.

“Securing the border has to be a top priority, which is why I have a standing request with the federal government for 1,000 Title 32 National Guardsmen who can support civilian law enforcement efforts to enhance border security in Texas. I have also requested predator drones be based in and operate over the Texas-Mexico border to provide essential information about criminal activity to law enforcement on the ground.

“Until the federal government brings the necessary resources to bear, we will continue to commit state funding and resources for additional border security efforts in order to protect our communities and legitimate cross border trade and travel, while enforcing the laws already on the books.”

Girl Scout Canoe Training Camp to Begin May 10
Girl Scouts of Central Texas prepare for annual Race on the River
4/30/2010
San Angelo, Texas, April 28 – Ditch the same boring summer routine and make some new friends at a fun summer camp. Girl Scouts of Central Texas is encouraging girls in grade 6 and up and adults to attend a Canoe Training Camp beginning May 10-13 to prepare for the upcoming Girl Scout Race on the River event.

Attend this four day summer camp and learn the basics of canoeing – from paddle strokes to rescuing a canoe in distress – for only $20. Participants may choose between two camps offered on May 10-13 and July 12-15 from 6-8 p.m. All participants will earn a patch for successfully completing the camp and will qualify for the race to be held on August 14.

“The training these girls receive is remarkable. We had two junior high girls rescue two young men who had accidentally tumped their canoe over while they were trying to race each other. It was a morale booster for sure (for the girls). I can’t wait to see what this year’s group will do,” says James Pidgeon, GSCTX Development Executive.

To support leadership opportunities available to Girl Scouts, become a Race on the River sponsor. Two-person canoe sponsorships begin at $250 and in-kind donations of goods and services are always welcome. For more information about the race or to support Girl Scouts of Central Texas, contact James Pidgeon at JamesP@gsctx.org or (325) 655-8961.

About the Girl Scouts of Central Texas:

Girl Scouts of Central Texas serves more than 21,000 girls in grades K-12 and nearly 12,000 adult volunteers in 46 Central Texas counties. Headquartered in Austin, Girl Scouts of Central Texas has program centers in Brownwood, Bryan, Killeen, San Angelo and Waco. Through outcomes-based leadership opportunities, girls discover their own potential, connect with others and take action to improve their communities.. Girl Scouting offers an array of fun, educational programs focusing on fine arts, science and technology, math, the environment, community service and life skills. Girl Scouts lead with courage, confidence and character, to make the world a better place. For more information, visit www.gsctx.org.

Santa Anna High Grad completes Naval basic training
4/30/2010
Coleman, TX 76834April 30, 2010(FHTNC)--Navy Seaman Jarod L. Jones, son of Sandra D. Connolly of Santa Anna, Texas and Ronald W. Jones of Santa Anna, Texas, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill.

During the eight-week program, Jones completed a variety of training which included classroom study and practical instruction on naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety. An emphasis was also placed on physical fitness.

The capstone event of boot camp is "Battle Stations". This exercise gives recruits the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the fleet. "Battle Stations" is designed to galvanize the basic warrior attributes of sacrifice, dedication, teamwork and endurance in each recruit through the practical application of basic Navy skills and the core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Its distinctly ''Navy'' flavor was designed to take into account what it means to be a Sailor.

Jones is a 2008 graduate of Santa Anna High School of Santa Anna, Texas.

Zac Allen Officially Accepts New Horizon Award
4/30/2010
Darla Wise, last year's Chamber of Commerce New Horizon Award Winner, presents Zac Alen with the New Horizon Award for 2009-2010. Zac was unable to attend last Friday's ceremony whereas his wife and daughter accepted the award on his behalf. Congratulations, Zac!

Clyde D. and Doris Allen Memory Care Center Dedication
4/30/2010
On Tuesday, April 27, Greg Whitten and Holiday Hill staff and board members welcomed a large audience to view the new memory care center with an open house and dedication ceremony. After serving punch, coffee, and treats, Board President Jo Tyson along with Greg Whitten unveiled the official "Clyde D. and Doris Allen Memory Care Center". Following the unveiling, the Chamber of Commerce hosted a formal ribbon cutting to honor the opening of the facility.

To view pictures of the dedication ceremony visit our "Faces in the Crowd" page sponsored by First Coleman National Bank or click here!

Three Local Business Women Attend Annual Convention in Las Vegas!
4/30/2010
Three local business owners recently attended the annual Merle Norman Cosmetics convention at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. Joan Jones, Juliann Page, and Jeanene Jones Pricer were in Las Vegas the week of April 19 for the yearly meeting.

While there, they attended meetings introducing the new products, and participated in several educational seminars. A highlight of the meeting was a session led by Patti Ramsey, one of the makeup artists for the television program "Dancing With the Stars." The show uses makeup from several cosmetic companies--Merle Norman being one of them.

The ladies invite everyone to come by the store and see what is new. You are also invited to visit Shapes workout center, and Alley Cuts Salon--all located at 306 Commercial in Coleman.

Band Parents Meeting to Determine New Officers
4/30/2010
Attention Bluecat Band Parents we will be having our last meeting of the school year on Monday May 3rd at 5:30pm in the band hall.. New Officers will be elected for the 2010-2011 school year.

2010 Funtier Day and World Championship Bison Cookoff
4/29/2010
The 2010 edition of Funtier Day and World Championship Bison Cookoff is just around the corner, and plans are full steam ahead for Santa Anna’s premier annual event. This year promises to be better than ever.

Entries have begun rolling in from cookers across Texas seeking to claim a piece of the $4000 prize money in the Fifteenth Annual World Championship Bison Cookoff. This year the event is sanctioned by Texas Bison Association and Lone Star Barbecue Society. Check us out on Facebook events!

Booth reservations are also coming in at a rapid clip for the arts and crafts show and sale. Interested vendors can reserve spaces inside the civic center or outside in the City Park, where events from volleyball competition to the favorite Santa Anna Fire Department water polo will also take place. Coordinators of the ever-popular annual event are looking for help from the community for someone to handle the Horseshoe Pitch.

Entertainment will be going all day Saturday, May 15th. The Texas Tornadoes from Abilene and local musicians Last Call are already on tap. If you or a friend of yours likes to ‘pick-and-grin’, why not contact 325.348.3535 and get on the playlist.

If you want a booth entry, please call Gay at (325) 348-3124 or Teri at 348-3535. To enter the cookoff call (325) 348-3826. If you would like to help with the event, planning, coordinating, or just picking up trash afterwards, call either of these numbers.

Come see Santa Anna strut its stuff!

FRIENDS OF THE NRA ANNUAL BANQUET AND AUCTION.
4/29/2010
Please join us Saturday May 1, 2010 at the Bill Franklin Center at 6 PM to celebrate family, friends, fun, and your Second Amendment freedom. There will be a live auction, a silent auction, and several other fun raffles, not only for firearms, but also for optics, art work, jewelry, knives, and furnishings. Pre-event raffle winners will take home a DPMS AR-15 and a Taurus Judge pistol. (Winners need not be present to win.) Banquet tickets are available for $25 per person at the Bargain House or Shoppin' Basket in Coleman. Tickets are also available from all "Friends" committee members or on line at
www.friendsofnra.org/events/tx

Included in the price of the banquet ticket is an opportunity to participate in several raffles as well as the silent auction, live auction and of course a BBQ supper catered by Sara's Neighborhood (served on china, not on paper plates.) This will be a fun time, suitable for families as well as firearm aficionados. Hope to see ya'll there.

Former Coleman Resident to Move Abroad to Pursue Missionary Work
4/29/2010
Jeremy Smith, a former Coleman resident and CHS alumnus, along with his wife, Kerbri, are selling everything they own and moving to Costa Rica to pursue their journey as Christian missionaries. Jeremy grew up in Coleman where he was an active athlete and attended the First Baptist Church. For the past ten years, Jeremy has been serving as a youth minister and worship leader in several different areas. He has also been an active Young Life leader, developing relationships with high school teens so that they may know the love of Christ. On Saturday, May 8, Jeremy and Kerbi will be holding an information meeting at Market Hall where they hope to join together with their friends and family. The following is an interview between Chronicle & DV (CDV) and Jeremy (JS).
 
CDV: What inspired you to become a missionary?
 
JS: I think that because I accepted Christ when I was 16 years old, I gravitate towards those kids who are in the same stage of life that I was in when my life changed so drastically. My passion is sharing Christ with Junior High and High School kids, and helping them grow to maturity as Christians. My wife and I began to pray about our future together, and over time, realized that we were called to do mission work abroad.
 
CDV: What do you hope to accomplish?
 
JS: Our hope is to move to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica and invest in the lives of the people living there. We want to build relationships with the youth, teach them about the love of Christ, and help them understand how that love transforms their lives. We are not going so that we can "change" them, we want to be used as tools to communicate God's love for them.
 
CDV: What called you to Costa Rica?
 
JS: Initially, we were open to go wherever God wanted us to go, and through prayer and hours of research, we discovered an organization called Alternative Missions. This organization's work in Costa Rica offered a very unique ministry as well as the opportunity to work with youth every day. During our time there, we will be running a Skate Park in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, which will act as an avenue to reach out to the kids who live there. Then, when we visited last August, we really saw and understood the need for Christ in this community, and knew that God could use us to reach the people there. We really like practical ministry.
 
CDV: How does your family and friends feel about your move?
 
JS: Our family is supportive and happy about our decision. For the past 8 years, I have been serving as a Youth Minister, and my family has been very supportive. Now that we are moving further away from home, their support is still strong, and we are so thankful for that! Even though they wish we were staying closer to home, they know that we are doing what God has called us to do.
 
 CDV: Do you plan to return to the United States?
 
 JS: Maybe someday! Kerbi and I are moving to Costa Rica until we feel that God has other plans for us elsewhere. That could be 1 year, 5 years, 10 years... but our hope is that remain flexible and available to serve him as long as we are needed there. We are committed to going long term, and ask that people join in supporting us for however long our stay in Costa Rica may be!
 
CDV: How has Coleman influenced who you are and your life choices?
 
JS: The people of Coleman have made me the man that I am today. I feel that I am following God's plan for my life because of so many people in Coleman who chose to invest in me. Coaches like Coach Cater, Coach Childress, and Coach Holloway, then teachers like Mrs. Scott, Mrs. Beal, and Mrs. Cardinas, who never gave up on me even when I was further behind than the other students in class. Mrs. Watson, Mrs. Brown, John Casey, Dr. Reynolds, Josh Watson and the people of First Baptist Church showed me the love of Christ even when I didn't know how to love myself, and because of their love for me, I began to understand God's love for me and his plan for my life. Also, the members of my family who have sacrificed so much so that I could take advantage of opportunities early in life. The people of Coleman have taught me to work hard, treat others with respect, and that once you are a Bluecat, no matter where you move, or which college you attend, you will always be a Bluecat. I am forever grateful to the people of Coleman, because without them, I wouldn't be the person I am today, doing the things that I am doing!
 ,.
 
CDV: Who is your most influential role model?
 
JS: I would have to say my grandfather. My Papa was a man who trusted his gut, worked harder than any man I have ever met, and loved his family with a passion that I still see working in us everyday. He taught me to be honest, to work hard and to do things the right way, and He loved Jesus. I hope that when my life is over that people can say I was like him.
 
 CDV: How can people help you accomplish your goals?
 
JS: Kerbi and I are going on faith and we are trusting in the Lord to provide for us through people like you. We are not supported by a big sending agency, so we have to raise our total financial support. That support consists of prayer and financial gifts. We realize that not everyone can give in the same way, but every $25 dollar a month commitment helps us accomplish our ultimate goal. We need one time gifts to help with the cost of moving, language school, and missionary training school, and we need monthly support that will maintain us long term while in Costa Rica. We also hope that people will keep up with us and our ministry, and if they are interested in doing so, they can visit our blog at www.10degreesabove.blogspot.com or allow us to add them to our email list so that they can receive e-newsletters periodically.
 
CDV: What do you need most?
 
JS: We need prayer and financial support. Right now we have about 15% of the financial support that we need, and plan to move to Costa Rica in late August to begin our first language school term. Right now , we need people to commit to support us through prayer and financial support. Saturday May 8th at 4pm we will be holding an information meeting at Market Hall. We are hosting this meeting so that the people of Coleman will have the chance to meet us, hear from us about the ministry, ask questions, and find out how they can support us. We want everyone to know that they can be a part of our work in Costa Rica. Anyone interested in learning more about our service is invited to attend!
 
CDV: What is your end all goal?
 
JS: Kerbi and I strive to listen to the Lord and we want to do His will. We pray that kids in Puerto Viejo hear the story of Jesus and we pray that they follow His will for their life, but our main goal is to listen to Him. We know that He will work in us and use us if will only let him.

To learn more about Jeremy and Kerbi's mission, click here!

TxDOT joins national partners to promote April 30 “No Phone Zone” Day
4/29/2010
AUSTIN—Motorists across Texas will see a new safety message this Friday on highway signs around the state—a message that encourages citizens to pay attention and eliminate distractions while driving.

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will use statewide signs to encourage drivers to give up texting or talking on cell phones while driving. Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) across Texas will read, “Make Your Vehicle a No Phone Zone,” or “Drive Now. Text or Talk Later.”

TxDOT is joining other national partners to promote Oprah Winfrey’s “No Phone Zone” Day, taking place on Friday.

Other transportation partners include the US Department of Transportation (DOT), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Governors’ Highway Safety Association (GHSA), the National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS), FocusDriven, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and RADD, the Entertainment Industry’s Voice for Road Safety.

Friday’s event will place special focus on texting and driving. Motorists who use hand-held devices are four times more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash.

Distracted driving resulted in 103,526 crashes in Texas in 2008. Motorists are considered distracted when the driver is talking or texting on a cell phone, conversing with passengers, eating, smoking, manipulating dashboard controls or reaching for something inside the vehicle.

“There were 524 deaths in Texas in 2008 because of driver distraction,” said Terry Pence, director of TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Program. “The statewide messages will remind drivers that April 30 is a no phone zone day, but we hope that all Texans will think about putting away the cell phones every time they get behind the wheel—not just on April 30.”

According to a 2008 NHTSA report, 5,870 people died and 515,000 were injured nationwide in crashes involving a distracted or inattentive driver. The under-20 age group had the highest number of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes—16 percent—with the 20-29 year-old group posting the next highest numbers at 12 percent.

And, a 2009 Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) study found that 44 percent of teens text while driving and 49 percent talk on a cell phone.

“This is a serious and growing problem,” Pence added. “Motorists who text while driving are six times more likely to crash than those who are paying attention—not texting or talking on a phone.”

In a recent statement, US Secretary Ray LaHood reinforced the importance of educating the public about the consequences of distracted driving.

“I’ve made it my mission at the DOT to end distracted driving. We know that if we can get people to put away cell phones and other electronic devices when they are behind the wheel, we can save thousands of lives and prevent hundreds of thousands of injuries every year,” LaHood said. “That’s why I’m proud to support and participate in Oprah’s ‘No Phone Zone’ Day.”

2010 Small Acreage Landowner Seminar
4/28/2010
The small acreage landowner is a growing segment in Texas agriculture. Per Ag Census statistics, 33% of all farms and ranches in Texas are ranked under 50 acres in size. The small acreage farm or ranch owner may have purchased their small acreage operation for many reasons – retirement, a source of alternate income, or to impart a life-style change. Small scale farmers/ranchers many times have found themselves in the need for education concerning enterprise choices, basic production guidelines, as well as advice on marketing strategies and agricultural legalities. These seminars are designed to address the issue of Texas rural lands being fragmented into smaller tracts, often involving owners who are interested in maintaining the property but lack the experience in land management.

Session I : Introduction to the program, Resource Inventories and Tax Valuations, USDA Farm Programs - May 7th
Session II: Weed and Brush Management - TBA
Session III: Wildlife Management on Small Acre Tracts - TBA
Session IV: Livestock Management Practices - TBA

For additional information, call the Coleman County Extension office 325-625-4519

Dates: May 7th, 2010
Time: 6:30pm
Location: First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall

Registration: There will be a $5.00 registration fee to fund snacks and printed material.

Make check payable to Ag Day Fund.

Hamburger Fundraiser is Saturday for Youth of Primera Iglesia Bautista
4/28/2010
The youth of Primera Iglesia Bautista will hold a Hamburger Fundraiser this Saturday, May 1st beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the corner of Commercial Ave. and Pecan St. at the gazebo.

A hamburger, chips and drink will be available for a donation. The youth are raising funds for a trip to the Hispanic Youth Congress. Make plans to come get a great hamburger meal this Saturday for lunch!

Colorful Species of Blackbird Migrate through Coleman County
Photos by Carolyn Hammonds
4/28/2010
Carolyn Hammonds, of Coleman, spotted a group of odd looking birds and decided to capture them with her camera lens. The bird pictured above are referred to as Yellow-Headed Blackbirds or formally Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus. The brightly colored blackbirds migrate from the upper-Midwest regions of the United States to warmer climates like Texas during the spring and summer months.

Holiday Hill Hosts Open House and Dedicates Memory Center
By Kim Horne
4/28/2010
“Holiday Hill’s expansion is nearing completion,” says Greg Whitten, Administrator of Holiday Hill.

Holiday Hill is soon to open its Alzheimer’s/Dementia care home. This new facility will be home to 20 plus residents who have Alzheimer’s or onset dementia.  It will also employ numerous highly trained Alzheimer and dementia care certified nurse's aides. These nurse's aides will be doing all the cooking, cleaning and assisting of the patients care. They will also be assisting in Activities that are focused on restoring memory and mobility.

“Our expectations of the new facility are that we are all excited about the new building and dealing with people that have Alzheimer’s. This will be a great new experience,” says CNA Leo Uresti. Michelle Estrada, also a CNA that will be joining the Center’s team, said she was “excited that every day would be a new day at the new center.”

Excitement of the “new” was the feelings of CNAs Nyca French and Robbie Cortez.

Reagan Barr, offices assistant, gave me a tour of the new center. She explained to me that the residents will have access to the courtyard and area. This area joins the dining room.  It will seat 30 plus people. There is also a conference room, beauty shop, community action center, and business office.

“Each bedroom is private and the residents will have their own window, closet, and secure storage for their medication,” said Reagan. “The goal of the center is to make the residents feel like they are at home.”

The whole facility is tastefully decorated in warm, neutral colors. The furniture is comfortable and plush. The whole facility has a warm and comfy feeling.

According to Greg Whitten, the center has received its Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Coleman. Jerry Wade, site superintendent of Arthur Construction of Wichita Falls and Bob Ray, Public Works Director for the City of Coleman, have certified that all inspections have been made and passed. This is the last formal step for Holiday Hill in submitting their paperwork to the State of Texas for bed licensure and certification including certifying for Alzheimer’s. This process will take a few weeks before Holiday Hill is ready for new residents for this new addition.

On Tuesday, April 27, Greg Whitten and Holiday Hill staff and board members welcomed a large audience to view the new memory care center with an open house and dedication ceremony. After serving punch, coffee, and treats, Board President Jo Tyson along with Greg Whitten unveiled the official "Clyde D. and Doris Allen Memory Care Center". Following the unveiling, the Chamber of Commerce hosted a formal ribbon cutting to honor the opening of the facility.

Leadership Enhancement Opportunities – Front Row – Kayla Barnett, Kelsey Puckett, Nikki Rush, Manuel Cruz, Latisha Berniard, Morgan Schumann, Angel Padilla. Back Row – Tony Garcia and Mikey Hardin Stewart

Coleman High FCCLA Attended State Leadership Meeting in Dallas
4/28/2010
Coleman High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America attended the State FCCLA Leadership Meeting in Dallas on April 7-10, 2010. The youth-developed theme “Beyond the Limits” was carried out through tracks and general sessions. Approximately 3,260 members, advisors, and guests attended the meeting. FCCLA is celebrating their 65th birthday.

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 2010-2011 was elected to lead the state to greater heights.

Winning third place was Shelbi Newton and Megan Dority, in Focus on Children, Junior Division for their No Bullying Project for the elementary and winning fourth place was Sarah Casselberry, Haylee Diaz, and Tiara Rosalez, in Focus on Children, Junior Division for their Health Fair Project for the elementary. Winning fifth place was Sydni Stevenson for her Nutrition Vacation in Illustrated Talk, Junior Division.

Coleman FCCLA members participated in Leadership Enhancement Opportunities, Job Interview, Creed, and Etiquette. They took objective test over their knowledge of job interviews and applications, FCCLA Creed, mission statement, and purposes, and on etiquette.

Receiving Gold Certificates were Kelsey Puckett, Manuel Cruz, and Kassidy Dean.

Receiving Silver Certificates were Kayla Barnett, Shaina Thompson, Latisha Berniard, Angel Padilla, Morgan Schumann, Mikey Hardin Stewart, Tony Garcia, and Cynthia Garza.

Receiving a Bronze Certificate was Nikki Rush.

Keynote speakers included Brett Eastburn, Brad McCoy, and Laurie Stewart. Coleman was recognized for being the chapter from Region II that brought the most boxes of toiletries for Buckner’s Children’s Home. Members from across the state raised $17,000 for Children’s Miracle Network and Coleman FCCLA raised and donated $730.

Ranee Cupps and Tammy Casey served as judges for STAR Events.

Karen Nanny was recognized as an State FCCLA Honorary Member.

Also attending were Zach Johnson and Bonnie Brown, advisor.

FCCLA is a dynamic youth organization that has the family as its central focus. FCCLA is considered the “best kept secret”. The leadership skills gained from FCCLA can and will be beneficial for many years to come. All activities focus on family, career, and community leadership. FCCLA members will utilize knowledge gained through leadership experiences to develop a solid foundation for the future.

STAR Event winners left to right Shelbi Newton, Megan Dority, Syndi Stevenson, Haylee Diaz, Tiara Rosalez, Sarah Casselberry

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
4/28/2010
Dear Editor,

Monday, early voting for the 4B funds began. As a rural citizen, I cannot vote in this election, but as a committed community activist and successful grant writer, I probably know better than any one the benefits of 4B funds. When citizens look at the Coleman Public Library and/or the Franklin Center and/or the Goree Expo Center, they see exactly how this community can benefit from grants and the leveraging of funds including donations, memorials, and in-kind services. Today’s grant world encourages and looks favorably upon collaborative partnerships and matching grants. This is what leveraging is all about. The more partners, the better! At this point, it is my opinion that 4B funds could be our best collaborative partner!

With Coleman’s rural classification, we are eligible for USDA/TDA Rural Development grants; however, these grants require matches. With our limited resources, sometimes these matches seem insurmountable and impossible for many of the needed projects. Some of the USDA/TDA grants I have campaigned for recently include Downtown Revitalization, Main Street, Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) program, the participation in a $100 million USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Program funding for public libraries, affordable housing, and a “Local Food” Funding which would benefit food banks, school cafeterias, and farmers markets. However, these grants require matching funds ranging from 15-75%. Our city cannot afford the totality of those matches! We have in the past, met some of the match requirement with in-kind labor and services and property. The availability of 4B funds can assist with making those matches. However, the success of our collaborative partnerships and relationships in renovating the library has now opened the doors for other more detailed and rewarding opportunities that will benefit more of Coleman.

How would we spend these extra funds? I have my personal opinion and ideas, but through the years, I know and respect that some of the best ideas come together through committees and listening. That is my first recommendation. We meet. We listen. We have a plan.

What are some of the ideas? One of our first priorities would have to be the improvement of infrastructure benefits like sewer and street repair. Even as a child, I remember living with the lack of good sewer. And who hasn’t complained about our potholes? But then, sometimes, potholes are better than just a gravel word. Regardless, these infrastructure matters are needed just to entice economic development opportunities to consider locating to Coleman.

Green spaces. Look at the benefits of the banks local landscaping efforts. . .the trees around the library. . .our park. What about neighborhood green spaces that benefits all ages? I know a perfect location for an outdoor art gallery. Plus, we have a town full of talented artist that could host continuing projects!

Lake development. Coleman is known as “Land of the lakes” and yet, we don’t really capitalize on that idea. RV hookups, dump sites, pavilions, and the list could go on. All of these could be additional money-producing incomes for the city. There could be more development of city property at Lake Coleman, Memory Lake, and even Scarborough. These are probably a Texas Parks and Wildlife grant, which is a great collaborative partner to have.
Tourism. There is no doubt that one of the major incomes for lots of county residents is hunting and fishing. Certainly local businesses benefit from this income, but we could benefit even more with a more active downtown and/or shopping opportunities for visitors. I know as one of those landowners how many more wives would accompany their husbands IF there was more for them to do or shop in Coleman. Local shopping isn’t our answer, but it is a need that should be better addressed.

These opportunities are wide and yes, even include new economic opportunities for local and regional entrepreneurship. In the funding world, the fairly new politically correct jargon is “globalization.” Now, the question to citizens of Coleman is how does rural Coleman fit into that imperative of a global economy. There is a report (Past Silos and Smokestacks: Transforming the Rural Economy in the Midwest) that promotes changing the business culture and recycling wealth. The reports encourages homegrown companies which “capital will be the critical ingredient for these new companies.” Coleman needs to get on this bandwagon and promote this idea of innovative entrepreneurship, which will benefit all the citizens of Coleman.

Your vote “For” the 4B proposition is a vote to bring Coleman into the 21st century. It is a vote for the future and belief in this community. It is a belief that we can and will do better not for us but for our children and future generations. When I started writing grants, the population of Coleman county was just under 10,000. Today, statistics reflect a population of 8, 577. Are we dying? I hope not, but we are sick and a band-aid is not going to solve our problems. We need a major change. It is my opinion 4B funds can help solve those problems and truly begin better efforts for enticing more industry to Coleman.

Doodie Taylor-Knox
2513 US Hwy 283
Coleman, Texas 76834

Court approves agency to help in collection of fines; NRCS celebrates their 75 years legacy
by Christine Flynn
4/28/2010
On Monday morning Judge Jimmy Hobbs called the Commissioners meeting to order with all members present. The minutes from the last meeting were recited by the County Clerk and they were approved.

The meeting began with a brief review of service available from Perdue, Brandon, Collins, and Mott LLP. Judge Hobbs and Justice of the Peace, Nance Campbell had been researching the possibility of this company helping to collect on overdue fees. The cost of service is added on top of the fine that is due. Several other counties around recommend their service and advised that they have seen improvement in the collection of fees. There is a 30 day trial period for the initial contract and cancellations are without penalty. Commissioner McCreary motioned to accept the contract and Commissioner Stephenson second the motion.

Then Jim Hudson from the Natural Resources Conservation Service was present to receive proclamation from the Court for their 75 years of service this year. The NRCS partners with citizens to conserve natural resources on private lands. Congress originally established this organization in 1935 and since then the program has expanded to handle the different environmental changes.

Most recently the NRCS and the County Commissioners partnered to repair and restore dams in the county including clearing trees and fence mending. As of to date the Commissioners have completed their in-kind work for this year and the next which was needed to qualify for a state grant. Jim Hudson took a moment to reflect on his 30 plus years with NRCS in Coleman County and stated, “This is the best County to work with and the best people to work with for their cause.”

Next, County Clerk, Stacey Mendoza informed the Court that she received the TXDOT certification of County Maintained Road Mileage and asked for confirmation. To date, TXDOT reported that in all precincts combined the total mileage is 766 miles. The Commissioners unanimously confirmed the total miles reported.

Previously in March a representative from Prepaid Legal Service presented a program for County employees to receive identity theft protection with their service. The Court offered the service to their employees but there was little interest. The company has returned to ask to present their service directly to the employees. The Court approved they would allow another visit but only on an individual basis.

Then the County Clerk presented the recent bid from Sterling County for one election equipment. The offer was accepted and she will continue to advertise what she has left.

The meeting continued with a presentation from Jeff Watson and David Chapman with Pathwayz Network Solutions based out of Ft. Worth. Currently, the CISD uses their service and has for 2 years. The service provides unified communication for the community through an updated telephone system. For instance, the Courthouse can be tied to other city offices. Calls can be transferred from office to office rather than with multiple phone lines. The cost of the service depends upon the features and options chosen. The representatives request for another date that they can show the Court and other city officials a full presentation of their product. The Court unanimously agreed that they have interest and would like to see a presentation soon. The next budget review is scheduled for August and any new additions must be considered.

Lastly, the Court reviewed the bills and payments. The next Commissioners’ Court is scheduled for May 10th at 9:00AM. The public is always welcome.

Coleman County Foundation Grants at Work with Matthew 25
4/28/2010
Matthew 25 Ministries was one of many recipients of grants awarded by the Coleman County Foundation at a special reception on December 10th, 2009 at the Coleman Public Library. We are happy to report the results from the help of this grant:

First, a two door commercial refrigerator was purchased and installed at The Cross. It is being utilized by the many programs Matthew 25 Ministries has here. This has been a real blessing!

Second, one of Matthew 25 Ministries very important programs is BattleCry @ The Cross, a teen program held every Saturday from 5pm to 7pm. On February 26-27, 2010 with the help of the CCF grant, Matthew 25 Ministries was able to take fifty people (fourteen adults and thirty-six teens) to BattleCry’s Acquire the Fire in San Antonio Texas!

Third, new paint! The CCF grant helped make it possible to have the old West Ward elementary buildings painted at The Cross. The recently completed paint project will prolong the use of the buildings, and it has made a big difference in their appearance!

Thank you Coleman County Foundation! Your help is making a positive impact in the communities you help support.

Emmanuel Baptist Youth Plans Mission Trip Team
4/28/10
Emmanuel Baptist Youth Mission Trip Team would like to thank all who have donated to our fundraisers for our Mission Trip to Los Angeles. Our youth have been working very hard. We need to raise $10,000 for our Mission Trip to LA on June 20th, and our youth have already raised $4,000 in just 4 weeks! Way to go team! We have a bake sale Friday April 30th at Walmart at 5:00pm to approx. 7:30pm. We also have a bake sale planned for May 1st at Shopping Basket starting at 10:00am till we sale out of baked items. We are also collecting donations of scrap metal on May 15th.

Please be praying for our team as we continue our fundraisers and also for when we are in LA. Calling out our names to the Father in prayer is the most important thing you can be doing for us now. We are confident that we will reach our team goal. Please commit our team to your prayer list. Boyd Diaz, Patty Watson, Joseph Ortiz, Brandy Watson, Katie Guy, Jennifer Rodriguez, Daniel Rodriguez, Alex Rodriguez, Bethany Diaz, Manuel Vasquez, Kalie Diaz, and Emilio Diaz. And again thank you for all of your continued support. For donations please call Boyd Diaz @ 325.642.0388 or Patty Watson @ 325.636.3892.

Letter to the Editor
4/28/10
Letter To the Editor:

This year the Boy Scouts of America celebrates it’s Centennial. The Texas Trails Council, B.S.A. consists of 17 ½ Counties of West Central Texas, from Sweetwater in the northwest, to Stephenville in the northeast, and south to Lampasas. On April 23, 24, and 25th the Texas Trails Council held its Centennial Camporee and Family Encampment at Flat Rock Park on Hords Creek Lake, in Coleman County. It was attended by over 900 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, volunteer leaders and family members.

On behalf of the Texas Trails Council I want to thank all of the volunteers and groups that helped make the event a success. This includes the Texas Dutch Oven Cooking Society of Brownwood, the Central Texas Gem and Mineral Society of Abilene, the Cross Timbers Radio Controlled Airplane Club of Stephenville, the Sahawe Indian Dancers of Uvalde, the Brownwood Amateur Radio Club, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Mills County State Bank for sponsoring the “guess the coins” event.

I hesitate to name any volunteers, there were so many wonderful people who worked at this event, but I want to thank a few who went far above the call of duty. This includes Wes and Lacy Alexander of Lampasas, who provided our medical services, and Roy Curbo of Brownwood, Chris Bell and Mike Beverly of Stephenville who spent days on site preparation.

Fred Spencer of Brownwood donated the time to produce all of the Camporee signs and banners, and Mike Bradle of Lampasas provided refreshments for all 900 people in attendance.

I especially want to thank the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers for graciously opening up the park a week early so that we could hold the event. The Corps personnel were instrumental in making the event the huge success that it was.

Thanks again to all who helped make this a truly memorable event.

Frank Griffin
Vice President of Program
Texas Trails Council
Camporee Chairman

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT From the CITY OF COLEMAN
4/27/10
The City of Coleman Light Plant at 301 N. Colorado St. is being demolished. Please use “CAUTION” while driving in this area of North Colorado Street, as half of the street will be blocked for approximately three months during demolition. Thank you for your cooperation.

Library Closed April 29th and 30th
4/27/10
The Coleman Public Library will be closed April 29 and April 30. The library staff will be attending a "Small library management" workshop in Abilene.

Panther Creek Sophomore Advances to State
4/27/2010
Jared Romine, PCHS sophomore, earned a first place ranking in Computer Applications at the Conference 1A Region 2 UIL Spring Meet on Saturday, April 24th. The competition, held at Abilene Christian University, required him to construct a Microsoft Access database with queries and table relationships.

Upon completion of the database, a report was created and the results of the queries were merged into Microsoft Word in the form of a simplified memorandum. Jared had only 30 minutes in which to complete his tasks and deliver two printouts. He scored 244 out of a possible 300 points, receiving a perfect score on one of his printouts.

Jared will travel to the University of Texas in Austin on May 8th to represent Panther Creek at the state UIL tournament. Jared is coached by his dad, Mark Romine.

Account opened for McCorkle family
4/27/2010
Friends of the Billy McCorkle family of Coleman have established an account at Coleman County State Bank to assist with medical fees and necessitated costs.

Mr. McCorkle was recently in the intensive care unit of an Abilene hospital for several weeks and then transferred to a rehabilitation center. Among his illnesses was a diagnosis of meningitis and diabetes. Mr. McCorkle is self-employed and uninsured. His length of recovery is unknown at this time.

The family sincerely thanks all who have prayed and shown acts of kindness and generosity. No matter how small your act may appear, it is accepted with heartfelt gratitude and embraced with loving thoughts. Please continue to ask for God’s blessings.

The bank has two locations: 118 W. Pecan Street in Coleman and 4609 Southwest Drive in Abilene. Extended hours are offered at the Abilene location with the bank lobby being open Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and the drive through window open Monday-Friday from 7:30 AM to 6 PM and Saturday 9 AM-1 PM.

Donations may also be mailed to the attention of Angelita Gonzales, Coleman County State Bank, P.O. Box 6483, Abilene, TX 79608 or to P.O. Box 940, Coleman, TX 76834.

Bake Sale Set for This Sunday for Billy McCorkle...
Contributed
4/27/2010
A Bake Sale will be held this Sunday, May 2nd at Shoppin’ Baskit to help defray medical expenses for the Billy McCorkle family. The benefit will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Anyone wishing to donate baked goods are welcome to bring them to the store that morning. For those wishing to make monetary donations, an account has been set up for Billy and his family at Coleman County State Bank.

Fund Set Up to Benefit Family of Leann Simmons
Contributed
4/27/2010
Leann Simmons, a fourth grader at Santa Anna Elementary, has been diagnosed with a large mass on her brain. She underwent surgery on Monday morning at Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth.
A fund to help the family with medical expenses has been set up at Santa Anna National Bank.
Leann is the daughter of Mike and Keribeth Simmons of Santa Anna and granddaughter of Barbara Simmons, also of Santa Anna.
 

Department of Health to Host Immunization Clinic
4/27/2010
The Texas Department of State Health Services will hold an immunization clinic for H1N1 Flu Vaccinations in Coleman on Tuesday, May 25, from 10-12 & 1:30-3 at the United Christian and Presbyterian Church located at 1609 Commercial Avenue. Please bring your child's immunization records. If the child is on Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card. For more information, please call 325-754-4945.

HUMANE SOCIETY ANNOUNCES RABIES CLINIC
AND FREE SPAY/NEUTER FOR 40/40 DOGS
-Contributed-
4/27/2010
The Humane Society will subsidize a rabies clinic on Saturday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Humane Society Thrift Store, 108 East Pecan, in Coleman. The rabies shots will be $8 per pet. Or, if you can provide verification of government assistance, the shot will be discounted to $5. Please bring your dogs on leash and your cats in carriers.

Coleman Veterinary Clinic will provide the vet services and will have other vaccinations available at their regular rates. If your pet needs a rattlesnake shot, please let us know so that enough of the serum will be available. Leave a message with your name and telephone number on the Humane Society message line 325-625-4724.

State law requires that dogs and cats receive a rabies vaccination by the time they are 4 months old. Please take advantage of this low rate. One case of rabies has been reported in the county this year and more can be expected. Skunks and raccoons are the primary carriers of rabies.

Also, at the same event the Humane Society will be signing up 40 dogs that weigh 40 lbs. and more for a free spay/neuter. You do not have to bring your dog if you are not bringing it for the rabies shot. You will be given a voucher for the free procedure.

The Humane Society makes every effort to reduce the number of homeless dogs in the county, and the large dogs have very large litters, most of which are not adoptable. When given away, the chances are enormous they will not be valued as a furry member of the family and will end up on the streets and at the city shelter. You just have to ask our animal control officer how many large breeds and large breed mixes she has to put down every month. Please help us reduce these numbers and sign up your large dog for a free spay/neuter voucher.

Large Bee Hive Found Near Santa Anna
Contributed by The Ridgeway Family
4/27/2010
We thought this was so amazing. We have never seen a hive like this before only on the Geographical Channel.

We live on the east side of the Santa Anna Lake. I contacted a Beekeeper late Monday morning and sent him pictures. After I spoke with him I went out to see the hive again and they were gone. I called him back and he stated that they were probably still nearby and if I saw them to contact him so he could remove them. He stated a hive like the one had some good honey!

I thought this would be something interesting for folks to see. I was glad our family got to experience this, even though we were scared!

Masons To Present Lamar Medal and Scholarships to County Students 
4/27/2010
Coleman Masonic Lodge #496 is going to present a Lamar Medal and Scholarship to a deserving senior from Coleman, Panther Creek, and Novice at the Mason's next scheduled meeting of May 4, 2010 beginning at 6:30 PM with a meal to follow.

Pictures taken by Vickie Plummer of the Coleman Sheriff's Department

Traffic Accident Occurs Saturday at Highway 84/FM 568
4/27/2010
A traffic accident occurred Saturday evening, April 24th at 10:41 p.m. at the intersection of Hwy. 84 and FM 568.

According to DPS officials, a red Pontiac G5 driven by Shaedin Johnson, 18, of Coleman was on FM 568 at the stop sign heading east bound. A white Dodge pickup driven by Jonathan Dean, 20, of Santa Anna was southbound on Hwy. 84. The Pontiac failed to yield the right-of-way at the stop sign and was struck by the Dodge.

As a result of the accident, the driver of the Pontiac was care flighted to University Medical Center in Lubbock.

Assisting at the scene were DPS Officer Pat Salas, the Coleman Police Dept., Coleman Fire Dept., Coleman County EMS, Coleman Sheriff's Department, and the Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Dept. This information was provided by DPS Officer Tyler Moses.

Come and eat Brunch and Lunch on Saturday with the Boy Scouts!
4/27/2010
The Boy Scouts will be having a combined Garage Sale and Hot Dog Special on Saturday, May 1st, at Monroe Auto Parts on the corner of Concho and Elm.

The Garage Sale will begin at 8:00 a.m. and continue until mid-afternoon. We have an abundant supply of stuffed animals and children's toys, children's clothes, adult clothes, a small girl's bicycle, pillows, household items, some dishes, and quite a few odds and ends.

The grill will fire up around 9 am with serving to begin about 9:30 a.m. and ending about 2:00 p.m. or whenever the crew runs out of hot dog supplies. The Hot Dog Special will consist of a hot dog with fixings, chips and a drink for $5.00.

All proceeds will go to send these scouts to summer camp at Camp Tonkawa in Buffalo Gap during the week of June 26th through July 3rd. Summer camp costs $190 per scout and $100 per adult camping with them. At least two adults must camp with the boys at all times.

Your support and encouragement of these scouts is greatly appreciated and extremely necessary if scouting is going to stay alive in Coleman County.

Come, shop and eat with us on Saturday!

2010-2011 Santa Anna Mountaineer Junior High Cheerleaders
4/27/2010
Top left to Right: Kassie Deleon & Taylor Hogue Bottom Left to Right: Bay-Leah Burton & Kynedi Bradley

2010-2011 Santa Anna Mountaineer Varsity Cheerleaders
4/26/2010
Aspyn King, Caitlan Pape, Ashley Gibson, Hannah Hartman, Bambi Yebra, Kourtney Guerrero, & Saydie Bradley

Early Voting Is Underway, Make Your Voice Heard
Submitted by Greg Martin
4/26/2010
Early voting is underway in Coleman and we have an opportunity as citizens to make sure our voices are heard on a very important topic this time around. Voting is always important, but this particular election seems just a little more important than others. It’s possible that I feel that way because this is the first time that I have involved myself in the process to such a large extent. However, I would like to think that I would feel the same even if today was the first I had heard about any of this.

There is an Ordinance on the ballot that will allow Coleman to create a 4B Economic Development Corporation. If politics or that sort of thing is something that you simply don’t pay attention to or something that you don’t particularly care about, I completely understand. I spent many years with the exact same perspective. But this year is different. It’s different for me, and I sincerely want it to be different for you as well.

The DV won’t give me enough space to cover all that I love about Coleman. A lot of it is specific to Coleman and a lot of it is simply an attribute of small towns in general. I’ve lived in the big city. Been there, done that. There’s a lot of benefit to it, but there is also something missing. What’s missing is the sense of community. No matter how hard you try to create it, it’s just not the same. For all that I love about this town, it’s pretty clear to me that it isn’t what it once was and, more importantly, it isn’t what it CAN BE! With the 4B, we will have a mechanism to do a much better job of implementing projects and initiatives that will allow Coleman to realize her potential.

The supporters of the 4B Ordinance have done a great job of getting the word out about this ballot item and http://www.colemannow.info has a wealth of information on the subject. However, I still hear some points of opposition. Opposing this ballot initiative is acceptable, that’s what the voting process is all about. However, as a supporter of this effort, I just feel that it is important to make sure that the various points of opposition are discussed. My hope is that if you are opposed, you have an open mind and would be willing to change your opinion if your concerns can be alleviated or addressed appropriately.

The biggest opposition I hear is that property taxes will go up. Technically, that’s not the case but that’s splitting hairs. An item called “property tax relief” will go away and, therefore, the net amount of property tax that you pay will go up slightly. For the average property in Coleman, the net will go up less than $50 per year and that has been well documented. I am no fan of additional taxation or expanded government but, to me, this is different. For the most part, my concerns about taxation and bloated government are related to Washington and, to a lesser degree, Austin. At the local level, I can be persuaded to support it when presented with the right reasons. The money that will fund the 4B will come from sales tax. There are projects that desperately need our attention and these simply won’t be funded if this type of money isn’t available. In addition, a large part of what a 4B can pursue falls into the area of grant-writing and matching funds. What this means is that quite a bit of the money that will be spent on these projects in Coleman will be money that comes in from outside of Coleman. The 4B funds, to some degree, will simply be the seed money or the catalyst that gets things started.

Another point of contention that I hear is that this is simply a power-grab by the City. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, the City Council will appoint Board Members to the 4B EDC. Yes, the City Council may have representatives on the Board. But, this initiative was conceived and developed completely by private citizens with no connection to the City. This was a grassroots effort that was eventually supported by the City. And, keep in mind, the City Council serves at the pleasure of us, the citizens. If City Hall attempts to turn the 4B EDC into an arm of the City, and does so in a way that displeases the voters, removing Council Members is as easy as heading to the voting booth. If the 4B EDC proves to be an ineffective body, corrective action is simply another ballot ordinance away.

Yet another objection I hear from time to time is that the 4B Board will consist of people that represent the “same people that run everything else in Coleman”. I’m not 100% sure how to even address this one, but I will try. It is true that there is a small group of people that seem to sit on more than one board or that are representatives of more than one governing organization. What it isn’t, though, is some orchestrated group that has decided to “control” things. The truth is… these people are on these boards because they have been asked. Or, because they are the only ones that volunteered for the job. Serving on the various organization boards is very time consuming, and somewhat thankless. My guess is that every board, council, or other organization in town would welcome, and would be improved by, a more diverse and more enthusiastic pool of volunteers and leaders to choose from.

Finally, I hear rumblings that we should simply replace the current 4A with a 4B. Again, I respectfully disagree. The 4A is about big projects. Almost by definition, it can’t possibly be successful a large percentage of the time. The industries that it tries to lure to Coleman have many other cities and towns competing for their plants and facilities and, usually, only one can be chosen. But, they must continue to try. With a 4A, businesses like Wind Clean and LVI would never look at Coleman. Without the 4A EDC, the current effort to bring in Mesquite Fuels would not be possible. Mesquite Fuels isn’t a done deal, by any means, but the prospects look good and it is a project that could create 60 permanent jobs in Coleman. In fact, it is my opinion that the 4B EDC (in addition to pursuing worthy stand-alone projects) will have the ability to serve as an effective table-setter for the 4A EDC. If you think of the 4A as a home run hitter, think of the 4B as the guys who hit singles and doubles so that there will be people on base when the home run hitter gets a swing at the plate. When the 4A gets an interested company to come take a serious look at Coleman, it would be great if many of the 4B projects were completed or underway. The town would look a lot more appealing to companies considering building plants or facilities.

In closing, my final appeal is simply that you get out and vote. If, after considering all the points on this issue, you remain opposed to the 4B initiative, then I encourage you to vote against it. It is my sincere hope, though, that after careful consideration you have decided that this 4B effort is something we need and is something that can be the first step in moving our town in a direction we all want it to go. If that is the case, vote FOR the 4B Ordinance. If we were in Chicago, I would encourage you to vote early and vote often. Since we aren’t in Chicago, my suggestion is to vote early and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

SAHS Latino students traveled to Brownwood April 9th to the Fifth Annual Career & College Recruitment Fair

SAHS Latino Students Travel to Career & College Recruitment Fair
4/26/2010
Twenty-two SAHS Latino students traveled to Brownwood April 9th to the Fifth Annual Career & College Recruitment Fair sponsored by the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute. There they joined with 800 more students to hear motivational speakers Jimmy Cabrera and Roy Juarez. Samantha Haynes of Texas Guaranteed Student Loan Corporation provided useful information on post-secondary student financial aid.

After the inspiring general session and the informative breakout sessions, the entire group reassembled in the auditorium of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church where 42 students received $68,500 in scholarships. Among the recipients were SAHS seniors Michael Lopez and Jacob Zapata. Lopez received a scholarship from Ranger College of $675 per semester for four semesters, amounting to $2500. Zapata received a scholarship valued at $250 to use at the school of his choice.

2010 CROP CERTIFICATION DEADLINE
4/26/2010
Curtis L. Garrett, CED for the Coleman County Farm Service Agency, reminds producers of the May 3, 2010 deadline to report all small grain acreage (wheat, oats, barley, etc) or other fall seeded crop acreage to the FSA office. Failure to report all cropland and crops may result in ineligibility for some programs.

Additionally, producers who have short-rated some of their insured acreage and had previously reported those acres as intended for harvest as grain, need to revise your acreage report to reflect the appropriate intended use. A copy of the “Summary of Coverage” from your crop insurance needs to be provided for short-rated acres.

Late filed acreage report fees will be assessed for acreage reports filed after the May 3rd deadline.

Final Planting Dates for crops in Coleman County are: Cotton, Grain Sorghum, and Sorghum Forage for grazing are June 20th and Sorghum Forages for hay is July 5th. Please contact the office for final planting dates of other crops you intend to plant.

Please call 325-625-4197, extension 2 to schedule an appointment to report your acreage. The Coleman County FSA office is located at 118 North Concho Street in Coleman.

Voss Cemetery Association’s annual Memorial Day, Saturday May 1
4/26/2010
Voss Cemetery Association’s annual Memorial Day will be Saturday (May 1) at the Voss Community Center.

Be sure to come - bring covered dishes/basket lunches. Lunch will be spread at noon. The business meeting will follow.

Donations are appreciated and can be mailed or brought that day. Hope to see you there - Voss Cemetery Assoc., Bob Turner, 40 County Road 340, Voss, TX 76888.

Silver Valley Homecoming and Cemetery Decoration This Sunday
4/26/2010
Schedule of Events
9:45 AM......10:15 AM
Cemetery Decoration and viewing of new pavilion
10:15 AM......11:15 AM
Registration at Community Center
11:15 AM......12:00 Noon
Singing & Business Meeting
12:00 Noon..... 1:15 PM
Lunch--- Bring a covered Dish - Drinks and dishes will be provided
1:15 PM........????????
Visiting

HUNDREDS OF BIG COUNTRY BOY SCOUTS GATHER AT HORDS CREEK LAKE
4/26/2010
In the early 1800’s a unique breed of man explored the mountains and rivers of the American West. The Mountain Men trapped the beaver, hunted bear and buffalo, and learned the skills of woodcraft from the Native Americans. The highlight of each year was the Rendezvous, where trappers and explorers would gather for a celebration of the years’ success, to trade skills and stories, and to prepare for the coming year.

In that tradition, the Texas Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America held the West Texas Rendezvous and Centennial Camporee on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 23 – 25, 2010. The Rendezvous and Camporee is designed to help Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, Venturing Crews, and Explorer Posts throughout West Texas to celebrate the BSA Centennial. Together we will celebrate the success of Scouting for the last hundred years, try Scouting Skills, renew old friendships and make new friends, and prepare for the future.

The Rendezvous and Camporee was held at Flatrock Park on Hords Creek Lake near Coleman, Texas. The Corps of Engineers has graciously agreed to open the park exclusively for the use of the Scouts.

Highlights of the event for the Boy Scouts included Troop competitions, including a Campsite Gate and camp gadget competition, Cobbler cook – off, and other Troop awards. Patrols will participate in competitions highlighting skills from the earliest days of Scouting through skills for the 21st century.

Cub Scouts enjoyed a Family Encampment alongside the Camporee site. Cubs and their families camped in an area adjacent to the Camporee site. They had the opportunity to participate in a variety of events, including archery, BB’s, and crafts. They also had the chance to see Boy Scouts in action and sample Scouting events.

Venturing Crews and Explorer Posts had the opportunity to demonstrate the specialty skill areas of their unit.

All Scouts participated in individual skill events, including a speed knot tying contest, photography contests for Cubs, Scouts, Venturers / Explorers, and Leaders, as well as participating in demonstrations and exhibits by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the military, and others.

The 2009 WEST TEXAS RENDEZVOUS AND CENTENNIAL CAMPOREE is the signature event for the celebration of the past and future of Scouting in West Texas, filled with fun, action, showmanship and excitement. More information on costs, contest rules, and even more exciting events will be coming soon.

Ice Cream Social at Downtown Garden
Win $100 to Shoppin' Baskit
Submitted by ColemanNow.info
4/26/2010
ColemanNOW will host an Early Voting week celebration TODAY--Monday (April 26)--at 5:30 p.m. at the Downtown Garden located behind Tootsie's Antiques on the corner of Walnut and Concho. The event will celebrate citizenship and voting with hot dogs and ice cream free for the public. ColemanNOW will also host a drawing for $100 to Shoppin' Baskit.

The Downtown Garden is a beautifully utilized green space to gather with friends. ColemanNOW asks you and your friends and family to join together for a discussion on the future of our community, development, and citizenship. ColemanNOW encourages everyone to vote FOR the 4B ordinance, but most importantly encourages everyone to get out and vote!

For more information click here for email us at colemannow2010@gmail.com

LOAVES & FISHES BUILDING GETTING A "FACE-LIFT"
4/26/2010
Activity was "fast and furious" around and inside the Loaves & Fishes Food Ministries building on Friday and Saturday, April 23rd & 24th. A group of approximately 25 people from the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in Richardson, Texas, along with about 10 additional people from the Episcopal Church and other areas in Coleman, began a major project of "fix-up", "clean up" on the building. The first step in getting a new face on the exterior, and a more pleasant atmosphere internally, was done in record time. Everyone was so excited and eager to work that these people completed work in two days that would have taken a single person to complete in 9 weeks.

The atmosphere was one of excitement, joy of completion of projects, and eagerness to continue the work to be done. Plans are pending for a return trip in a few months to complete the work in progress. The joining of people from all walks of life (many of whom were only acquainted with the others through this project) proved that you do not have to be a certain group or organization to complete a project in a caring, loving, exciting atmosphere. Loaves & Fishes volunteers are very excited about the progress made and are looking forward to completing the work in progress in the near future. Everyone is invited to drive by or come in to visit to see the progress made and the plans for the completion in the future.

Texas Gas Prices Move Up 1 Cent
4/26/2010
Texas, TX, April 26- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas moved just 1 cent per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.70/g today. This compares with the national average that has stayed flat, moving just 1.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.85/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 78.1 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 5.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 5.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 82.2 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

The late Dan Hoover home at 1016 S. Nueces burned Saturday morning. 
The fire started at around 6:30 a.m. and by 11:30 a.m., this was all 
that was left. The cause of the fire is unknown.

Join the Friends of NRA at the Bill Franklin Center
4/25/2010
Save the date of Saturday May 1, 2010. Join the Friends of NRA at the Bill Franklin Center at 6 PM to celebrate family, friends, fun, and your Second Amendment freedom. Live auction, silent auction, and raffle winners will take home firearms, optics, art work, jewelry, knives, and furnishings. Come join the fun and win the NRA gun of the year, a Kimber Model 84M Classic Select .308.

Pre-event raffle tickets are $10. Winners will take home a DPMS AR-15 and a Taurus Judge. Winners need not be present to win.

Banquet tickets are available for $25 per person at the Bargain House or Shoppin' Basket in Coleman. Tickets are also available from committee members or on line at
www.friendsofnra.org/events/tx

Included in the price of admission is an opportunity to participate in several raffles, silent auction, live auction and BBQ supper catered by Sara's Neighborhood. For more information or to volunteer please call Tom Hoysa 785-4465.

 Local resident captures natures beauty...and her beauties!
Submitted by Eula Culwell
4/25/2010
As we were coming home from the vets today had to stop and take picture of the beautiful blue bonnets on side of hwy 84.

If you haven't been north of Coleman take a drive this week-end and enjoy the scenery. Really pretty this time of year.

When we arrived home I caught another amazing site under my carport. As I was getting out a dove flew out of one of my of my old hanging baskets. Was going to put new flowers in but guess I will have to wait. One of Gods creatures decided it would be a good place for a nest to raise her young. I will keep a close eye on her and send results.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARD WINNER ANNOUNCED
"A Ticket to the Stars" hosts record showing
4/24/2010
The Coleman Chamber of Commerce, Tourism, and Agriculture hosted its annual banquet Friday, April 23, to honor Coleman's community leaders. The theme of this year's banquet was "A Ticket To the Stars" where attendees enjoyed an atmosphere decorated with a red carpet entryway, glitz, and glamour. Donnie Neff provided dinner music, Rex Tackett was the Master of Ceremonies, and Coleman Rodeo offered a wonderful meal. Before starting the award ceremony, the Chamber of Commerce, along with participating merchants and member businesses, hosted a silent auction to raise support funds for the Chamber.

Mary Griffis, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, was honored for her 25 years of service to the Chamber of Commerce. She is pictured above receiving her award and a surprise visit from her family. Mona Wilson introduced this year's Teacher of the Year, Sarah Beal, and Dokie Bledsoe announced the Rural Citizen of the Year, Doodie Taylor-Knox. Janie Popnoe introduced the Citizen of the Year, Douglas Langley, while the Chamber's New Horizon of the Year award took a slightly different approach. The New Horizon award went to Zac Allen, however, he was absent and accepted the award via speakerphone. Zac's wife Cathy and daughter Abigail were also in attendance to accept the award on Zac's behalf.

The night ended with a live auction where the Mr. Tackett auctioned off items ranging from a cowhide rug to a nice set of Yokohama tires. For pictures of last night's event, visit the "Faces in the Crowd" page sponsored by First Coleman National Bank by clicking here.

The Coleman Bluekatts won their last district game Friday night and ended with an 11-1 record in district.  The Katts are District 8-AA CO-DISTRICT CHAMPIONS!

City And Rural Rides – 2010 Outstanding Rural Transit System in Texas
4/24/2010
Local transit system, City And Rural Rides has been awarded the Texas Transit Association’s “2010 – Outstanding Rural Transit System in Texas”. The award was presented during the Annual Texas Transit Association Conference and Expo held in Corpus Christi, Texas on April 20, 2010. The Texas Transit Association which was organized in 1986, includes members composed of the metropolitan transit authorities, small urban transit districts, and rural transit districts in the State of Texas, as well as associate members of private and public entities from across the nation.

C.A.R.R. was selected from the 39 Rural Transit Districts serving areas with a population under 50,000. J.R. Salazar, General Manager stated, “We are so proud to receive this recognition from the Texas Transit Association whose membership includes representatives of Transit systems throughout the State. He added, “I would like to thank all of the staff of City And Rural Rides and our Board of Directors for their hard work, dedication, and efforts on behalf of our riders.”

City And Rural Rides provides Rural Public Transit service in eleven counties including: Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Comanche, Eastland, Erath, Nolan, Runnels, Shackelford, Stephens, and Rural Taylor counties. City And Rural Rides is operated by Central Texas Rural Transit District. For more information on services please call 1(800)710-2277 or visit C.A.R.R.’s web-site at www.cityandruralrides.com

Town & Country Garden Club Members Are Featured Speakers at Convention
Contributed
4/23/10
Jane Padgitt of Padgitt Ranch Pottery and Nan Markland, Master Flower Show Judge were the featured Speakers at District VIII Texas Garden Clubs, Inc. convention April 9-10, 2010 in Ozona, Texas. Garden club members traveled from Snyder, Breckenridge, Abilene, San Angelo and Del Rio to gather for educational opportunities to learn of Texas Garden Clubs interest in the district with State President Jacki Simmers of Midland presiding.

“In terra, veritas; in verdi, feritas, part 2 fini” (In earth, there is truth; in green, there is wildness) was the theme for the program. Inspired by plants and animals, Jane designs and makes the containers in her studio, completes them and then turns them over to Nan to do the flower designs.

Nan uses ranch plant materials such as rusted cable or skeletonized prickly pear cactus in conjunction with Hawaiian tropical flowers to highlight the uniqueness of the containers. It is always an adventure to see the program evolve. Two-sided duo designs were featured. Live demonstrations of principles and elements of design were explained and encouraged the members to explore their own artistic expression.
Coleman guests traveling to Ozona included Town and Country Garden Club president Sue Shields, Kathy Hollis, Don and Eileen Morris.

Jessica Doyle accepts check from Student Council member P.J. Hammonds

“It Pays to be Present” Winner Announced
4/23/10
Winner of the “It Pays to be Present” drawing held this past week at Coleman Junior High School is 6th grader Jessica Doyle.

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

Presenting the check to Jessica is Student Council Events Coordinator, P.J. Hammonds.

PUBLIC NOTICE FROM CITY OF COLEMAN
4/23/10
The City of Coleman Electrical Crew will be making some electrical upgrades on the North West side of Coleman on Monday April 26, 2010. The electric power will be off approximately 2 ½ hours from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your corporation.

Coleman Rural Development Workshop A History-Making Event
4/23/2010
Submitted by Doodie Taylor Knox
City of Coleman, Coleman Economic Development, Coleman Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, Texas Department of Agriculture and USDA – Rural Development hosted a “Workshop for Rural Community and Economic Development” on Wednesday, March 31 in the Tillman Community/Training Room at the Coleman Public Library. Over 90 people were registered and attended the event. Regional communities represented were Snyder, Throckmorton, Eden, Goldthwaite, Blanket, Early, Brownwood, Albany, Abilene, Comanche, Tye, Baird, Cross Plains, Eastland, Santa Anna, and Rising Star. While the workshop was intended as a regional effort, the participation of twenty-six Coleman County residents was a noted asset. Amy Lorance, Rural Economic Development, Texas Department of Agriculture, reported , “. . .never seen so many people from one community attend a workshop – FANTASTIC!”

Patricia Butler, area specialist with USDA – Rural Development, also complimented Coleman for their hard work and closed by saying, “We have never had such a good turnout.” The workshop was an important step in networking and seeking outside funding sources for grants and programs that will be beneficial for the economic development of Coleman and the possible use of 4-B funds to improve the quality of living for all Coleman residents.

----

Dear Editor,

Wow! The Workshop for Rural Community and Economic Development hosted at the Coleman Public Library on March 31 was a huge success. However, the biggest success was the participation and assistance from our local residents. A big huge thank you to Evan Autry for serving as Master of Ceremonies. His humor and words of wisdom are always refreshing! Another thank you to Larry Weise, City Manager, City of Coleman, for his inspirational morning prayer and Sandra Barr, President of the Coleman Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture, for assisting with the pledge of alliance. You know you have done something right when the head of the Texas Department of Agriculture comments, “It is good to be in the rural area where they still pray and say the pledge.”

We could not have been so successful if we had not had the wonderful assistance from the Chamber including Mary Griffis, Amy Hinds, and Nina Childress. Their diligence and expertise made this event a wonderful turnout.

Also assisting was Billy Thomas and LeMoine Knox. With Evan, these young citizens enthusiasm and spirit is beyond amazing. Our community is indeed fortunate to have such active young citizens.

As for the food, a big sigh of satisfaction of full stomachs goes out to Sara’s Neighborhood for the morning muffins, the box lunches, and the afternoon cookies. Her food was well received and praised for its originality.

This was the first major event that the new Promethean board was utilized. This board was made possible to the library through our collaborative partnership in the T-3 grant with the county school districts. Thank you Coleman ISD employees Paul Martin, Gay Martin, Steve Evans, and Lauren Evans for making sure the board was operational. Thank you John Mark Weatherred with Pearson for assisting in training of the board and last minute adjustments! The response to the library’s updated technology was held in awe by our neighbors including Abilene. The library appreciates the opportunity to participate in such rewarding and beneficial partnerships that benefit all the citizens of our county.

When we started this project we were told to anticipate between 40 and 50 people at the most. When our registration surpassed 60 people, we knew we had a success, but when the numbers reached over 80, we were overwhelmed with the interest and need. Amy Lorance with Rural Economic Development, Texas Department of Agriculture, reported,
“The folks from Albany asked me if they needed to have that many volunteers attend their workshop. I said yes, all our meetings are well attended by host community volunteers. They just looked at me and asked if I was serious.”

Twenty-six registered attendees and numerous volunteers that went unaccounted represented Coleman County. Thank you Coleman for making our workshop a history-making event for Texas Department of Agriculture. We look forward to providing more programs and events that will benefit our county.

Sue Dossey, Librarian, Coleman Public Library
& Doodie Taylor-Knox
402 Commercial Avenue
Coleman, Texas

Commissioners to Recognize NCRS and Approve Bid from Sterling County
Commissioners Court of Coleman County, Texas
4/23/2010
Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the above named court will be held on Monday, April 26, 2010, and begin at 9:00 am and continue thereafter until such business of the court has been completed and in accordance with Article 81.005 of the Local Government Code of the State of Texas. The following items of business will be discussed, to wit:

Agenda Topics
-Call the Meeting to Order
-Public Comments, Announcements, Visitors not on the agenda
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow public comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of said Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)

-Consider approval of any Old Business
-Consider approval of Minutes from the April 12, 2010
-Consider approval of Contract with Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott LLP to collect old fees for the county
-Consider approval of Proclamation Recognizing the NRCS and its place in history of helping Texas care for Texas Land. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service well celebrate its 75th Anniversary
-Consider approval of TXDOT certification of County Maintained Road Mileage
-Consider approval of Prepaid Legal Service to present program to employees
-Consider approval of bid from Sterling County for used election equipment
-Jeff Watson with Pathwayz Network Solutions presentation of telephone system
-Consider approval of current bills for payment and transfer of funds if necessary
-Adjournment

Pictured is left to right: C.A.R.R. Drivers competing at the 2010 TTA Bus Roadeo - Audrey Helm, Felix Vitandi, and Dale Moore

City and Rural Rides Driver takes 1st Place at Texas State Rodeo
4/23/2010
Felix Vitandi, local driver for City and Rural Rides earned First Place at the 2010 Texas Transit Association Bus Roadeo Competition. The driving competition was held Saturday, April 17th in Corpus Christi, Texas where he competed against the “best of the best” in the 25 foot paratransit bus category. City and Rural Rides entered three drivers to compete this year and were well represented. C.A.R.R. drivers Audrey Helm and Dale Moore placed 7th and 13th respectively. All three drivers finished in the top half of the driving competition.

Fun Bunch Hears from ColemanNOW Concerning 4B
4/23/2010
ColemanNOW representative Evan Autry joined the fun bunch at the Dairy Queen Thursday to answer questions about the upcoming vote on a 4B economic development corporation for Coleman. The bunch all seemed to support the ballot initiative, but many are residents of the county and cannot vote. However, Mary Williams came up with a new slogan for county supporters: "I can't vote, but I can promote!" County residents can serve on the 7-member board that will be appointed by City Council if the 4B ordinance passes.

U.S. ARMY HELICOPTERS LAND AT COLEMAN'S AIRPORT
4/23/2010
United States Army Apache Helicopters landed in Coleman yesterday at the Coleman Municipal Airport. Coleman resides within Ft. Hood's flight training path and the choppers most likely landed due to issues with visibility.

An excerpt on Apache Helicopters from Wikipedia.com says,
   "The AH-64 Apache is a four-blade, twin-engine attack helicopter with reverse-tricycle landing gear arrangement, and tandem cockpit for a crew of two. The Apache was developed as Model 77 by Hughes Helicopters for the United States Army's Advanced Attack Helicopter program to replace the AH-1 Cobra. First flown on 30 September 1975, the AH-64 features a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems. The Apache is armed with a 30-millimeter (1.2 in) M230 Chain Gun carried between the main landing gear, under the aircraft's forward fuselage. The AH-64 also carries a mixture of AGM-114 Hellfire and Hydra 70 rocket pods on four hardpoints mounted on stub-wing pylons. The AH-64 also features double- and triple-redundant aircraft systems to improve survivability for the aircraft and crew in combat, as well as improved crash survivability for the pilots.

   The U.S. Army selected the AH-64 over the Bell YAH-63 in 1976, awarding Hughes Helicopters a pre-production contract for two more aircraft. In 1982, the Army approved full production. McDonnell Douglas continued production and development after purchasing Hughes Helicopters from Summa Corporation in 1984. The first production AH-64D Apache Longbow, a greatly upgraded version of the original Apache, was delivered to the Army in March 1997. Presently, AH-64 production is continued by the Boeing Defense, Space & Security division; and over a thousand AH-64s have been produced so far.

   The U.S. Army is the primary operator of the AH-64, however it has also become the primary attack helicopter of several nations it has been exported to, including the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, and the Netherlands. U.S. AH-64s have served in conflicts in Panama, Persian Gulf War, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Israel has made active use of the Apache in its military conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza Strip; while several coalition allies have deployed their AH-64s in Afghanistan and Iraq."

Bluekatts Medal at the Zephyr Regional Qualifiers Track Meet
4/23/2010
Bluekatts Erin Strickland and Leanna Roberts competed in the Zephyr Regional Qualifiers Track Meet on April 22.  Erin won the gold in the high jump and Leanna won bronze in the long jump.  They will be competing in the 1-AA Regional Track Meet in Odessa on May 3-4.

Sarah Slayton, Zach Johnson, Ruth Cruz, Kayla Barnett, Michael Watson, Robert Lewallen, Denny Fulbright, Destiny Rader, Anthony Beltran, and Tyler Williams

Coleman High Band Earns Sweepstakes
4/23/2010
On Thursday, April 15th, the Coleman High School Big Blue Band, under the direction of Jerry Everett and Liz Braquet, traveled to Llano High School to participate in the Region VII UIL Concert & Sight Reading Contest. In the Concert portion of the contest the band played three prepared pieces for three judges. “Henderson Field” by Karl King, “Cascadia Celebrations” by Steve Hodges , and “Contempo” by Mike Story were performed and the band was given a Division I rating for their concert.

In Sight Reading the band is given a piece of music they have never seen and Mr. Everett had 7 minutes to talk them through the piece. The students are not allowed to talk or play and after the 7 minute period they perform the piece for the first time in front of three judges.

The band was also given a Division I rating for Sight Reading. These Division I ratings in Concert and Sight Reading combined with the Division I rating they earned for Marching Contest in the fall earned them the highly distinguished “Sweepstakes Award.” This is the highest award a Texas band can earn and the last Sweepstakes for a Coleman Band was given in 2006. The band has worked extremely hard this year and their work has paid off!!!

The band would like to thank everyone for your support and also invite you to come join us for our final Spring Concert on May 10th at 7:00pm in the High School Auditorium. This concert will feature the entire Coleman Band Program and is free to the public. Please come out and support your Coleman Big Blue Band!

Heritage Hall Gets a Facelift
4/22/2010
Heritage Hall located at 400 W. College gets a little spring facelift. Thanks to Steve Swening and Wayne Craker the facade of Heritage Hall is receiving a new coat of paint! The building has needed some sprucing up for some time and the board of directors of Heritage Hall/Coleman Museum decided the weather was wonderful and sought contractors to give the front of the building a new coat of paint.

There are several events scheduled over the next several months, one being a wedding in May, and thoughts were that this would be the perfect time. But, according to Steve, if you want it to rain just get him to do an outside job and it is sure to rain for several days. Of course it did last week and made the 4 day job strectch into this week, but he and Wayne have done an excellent job! Drive by and take a look, it looks great!

Heritage Hall is available on a fee basis for the public's use for weddings, receptions, reunions, meetings, conferences or other events, contact Kay Mitchell at 325-6251140 or Kathy Andrews at 325-624-5544 for more information.

CITY OF SANTA ANNA GENERAL CITY ELECTION CANCELLED
4/22/2010
At its April 12, 2010 meeting, the city council of the City of Santa Anna passed Ordinance 041210 – DECLARING UNOPPOSED CANDIDATES IN THE MAY 8, 2010 GENERAL CITY ELECTION ELECTED TO OFFICE, CANCELING THE ELECTION; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

Shannon Enriquez (incumbent), Richard Horner (incumbent) and Tim Humpert will be sworn in at the May 10, 2010 council meeting and assume their duties on Friday, May 14 (6th day after cancelled election.)

Attention CHS Senior Parents:
4/22/2010
There is still a limited number of Senior Ads available in the 2010 CHS Yearbook. Please contact Mrs. Mason at the High School for additional information. Orders need to be turned in by Friday, April 30th.

Landowners Asked to Attend Meetings Today & Tomorrow Concerning Economic Opportunity
Company proposes free mesquite clearing and possible power plant for Coleman
4/22/2010
Mesquite Fuels in cooperation with the Coleman Economic Development Corporation requests county landowners to attend meetings today and tomorrow for the opportunity to contract with Mesquite Fuels to remove mesquite timber free and to learn about an economic opportunity for Coleman County.

Mesquite Fuels, along with representatives of the Coleman EDC and other community leaders, will host two days of informational sessions. The first session is today (Thursday) at 11:30 a.m. and then again at 6:00 p.m. The second session will be held tomorrow (Friday) from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. The EDC invited a professional biologist to be in attendance to answer any questions regarding conservation, wildlife issues, or agricultural concerns.

If you are interested in finding out any information before attending, please visit www.mesquitefuels.com or call 972-871-2111.

Questions may also be addressed to the Coleman EDC by calling 325-625-3669.

Click here for Monday's full article and pictures...

Holiday Hill's Expansion Nearing Completion
By Kim Horne
4/22/2010
“Holiday Hill’s expansion is nearing completion,” says Greg Whitten, Administrator of Holiday Hill.

Holiday Hill is soon to open its Alzheimer’s/Dementia care home. This new facility will be home to 20 plus residents who have Alzheimer’s or onset dementia.  It will also employ numerous highly trained Alzheimer and dementia care certified nurse's aides. These nurse's aides will be doing all the cooking, cleaning and assisting of the patients care. They will also be assisting in Activities that are focused on restoring memory and mobility.

“Our expectations of the new facility are that we are all excited about the new building and dealing with people that have Alzheimer’s. This will be a great new experience,” says CNA Leo Uresti. Michelle Estrada, also a CNA that will be joining the Center’s team, said she was “excited that every day would be a new day at the new center.”

Excitement of the “new” was the feelings of CNAs Nyca French and Robbie Cortez.

Reagan Barr, offices assistant, gave me a tour of the new center. She explained to me that the residents will have access to the courtyard and area. This area joins the dining room.  It will seat 30 plus people. There is also a conference room, beauty shop, community action center, and business office.

“Each bedroom is private and the residents will have their own window, closet, and secure storage for their medication,” said Reagan. “The goal of the center is to make the residents feel like they are at home.”

The whole facility is tastefully decorated in warm, neutral colors. The furniture is comfortable and plush. The whole facility has a warm and comfy feeling.

According to Greg Whitten, the center has received its Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Coleman. Jerry Wade, site superintendent of Arthur Construction of Wichita Falls and Bob Ray, Public Works Director for the City of Coleman, have certified that all inspections have been made and passed. This is the last formal step for Holiday Hill in submitting their paperwork to the State of Texas for bed licensure and certification including certifying for Alzheimer’s. This process will take a few weeks before Holiday Hill is ready for new residents for this new addition.

This is a great opportunity for Holiday Hill and the community of Coleman. More residents mean more jobs, more people visiting residents means more money spent at local stores and restaurants. Hats off to Holiday Hill for their progression. They have a wonderful, loving, caring staff of people that have made this expansion possible.

Ryan Martin wins 1st in Golf at Regionals

COLEMAN HIGH SOPHOMORE BRINGS HOME REGION TITLE
4/22/2010
Ryan Martin, a CHS Sophomore, captured the Region 1-AA Golf Championship on Tuesday with a 4 under par total of 140 for the two day tournament. The event, held at Odessa’s Ratliff Ranch Golf Links, was contested in the shadow of the “Friday Night Light inspiring” Ratliff Stadium. Ryan worked a little “Mojo” of his own in climbing back from a self-inflicted 4 over par start on the first two holes. From that point on, though, he was firing on all cylinders. Over the final 34 holes of the event, Martin was an impressive 8 under par and made three clutch birdies down the stretch to secure the win.

Region 1 is a tough region to get out of, and the 2010 edition was no different. 4 players finished the event under par, and only 3 of them earned trips to Austin. Sonora’s Word Hudson and Alpine’s Ryder Skillern tied for 2nd at 142 with Hudson winning the sudden death playoff. Hudson advances to state along with the Sonora team, while Skillern heads to Austin in the 2nd Medalist slot. Wall, a strong area team, finished 2nd and will be heading to Austin as well. Garrett Smith of Wall posted an even par 144 to lead the Hawks.

Merkel’s Austin Hilburn fired an opening round 68 to take the early lead, but finished with a 78 on Day 2 to finish out of the running for a state berth. Muleshoe’s Tyson Turnbow, scorched the course on Tuesday with a 67, but found himself 1 shot out of a playoff for the 2nd place slot. His opening 76 proved to be too much to overcome.

The Bluecats team wrapped up a strong season with a 12th place finish in the team standings. CHS posted a 2-day total of 681, only 3 shots out of the top 10. CHS team scores were as follows:

Ryan Martin                 70    70    140
Garrett Mendoza          80    89   169
Johnnie (Trey) Casey   89    97   186
Andrew Isom               96    93    189
Brodie Tibbitts             93    99   192

The AA State Tournament will be held on May 10-11 on Austin’s Roy Kizer Golf Course.

Coleman's 4B Future:
A personal opinion on what to expect
by Evan Autry
4/22/2010
Most politicians know better than to divulge any concrete future plans or promises to their constituents. They make promises of grandeur, but rarely provide a clear path on how to achieve their goals. Perhaps you feel the same way about the 4B Economic Development Corporation on next week's ballot. For a moment, allow me to give you my personal opinion on how the direction of the next couple of years might look.

Coleman's response to the 4B Economic Development Corporation (EDC) on May 8 will be indicative of how our community feels about our economic future. If we are indeed unwilling to take any action as a community, we will continue to witness fewer businesses arriving and more businesses closing their doors (which as you may have guessed is directly correlated to population declines). Furthermore, if we remain apathetic or unwilling to give back monetarily to our community, we will also ensure our own downturn. I believe a 4B EDC will alleviate some of those looming possibilities.

I don't see the 4B EDC as a tax or just another movement, because I view it as the first step toward a change in our lifestyle. A 4B EDC provides Coleman with a consistently funded operating revenue to pursue both pragmatic and creative solutions to rural development. In order to identify development solutions, however, our community must participate in town hall meetings, strategic planning, and volunteering. Assuming that the measure passes, citizens will have from May until October to brainstorm about the development possibilities. During that time, people who are interested in serving on the 4B board will have the opportunity to express their interest in serving on the board.

The Coleman City Council—your elected representatives who want and expect to hear from you—will eventually appoint a 7 member Board of Directors. The Board of Directors, in my opinion, should shape their strategic moves based on the planning conducted in the prior months. In order to shape a strategic plan, the Board of Directors could create several committees led by individual directors, but composed of non-appointed citizens. This would not only bring a wealth of ideas and experiences to the table, but it would also allow more citizens to be directly involved. These committees could address grants and funding, branding and marketing, downtown and main street revitalization, or small business recruitment and retention.

I cannot personally begin to give an outline or strategic glimpse into what the 4B might be doing for two reasons: 1) There have been no town hall meetings geared toward what the citizens want since the Rural development report of 1999, and 2) I do not know who will be on the Board of Directors. I will, however, identify the two priorities and philosophies I feel that are important. First, I believe maximizing tax payer dollar will play a pivotal role in Coleman's future. Currently, individual organizations like the Coleman Public Library do a wonderful job at writing grants for their respective organization. However, Coleman needs a public entity to look out for our community's interest. By establishing a 4B EDC, we will create a representative body of citizens who actively look for and write grants in order to bring more state, federal, and non-profit money into our community. Such programs might include the Texas Main Street Program, USDA Community Facility grants, or the Texas Department of Agriculture Retirement Community grants.

I also believe that our community needs to focus on minimizing the outflow of dollars from our local economy or simply put: Keeping money IN Coleman. The 4B EDC could promote this is two ways. First, many 4B EDCs around Texas establish small business programs. These programs cater to helping existing businesses keep their doors open by giving low interest loans for projects ranging from technology to facade work. Furthermore, a 4B EDC can work on keeping money in Coleman by actively recruiting small retail and service businesses. These businesses would not only contribute to the local economy, but they would most likely offer a few extra jobs and attract more tourism and traffic.

4B EDCs across Texas adopt other missions such as encouraging tourism and travel, revitalizing downtown, funding local organizations that support community development, and addressing quality of life programs for young people, families, and retirees. However, one of the most important characteristic of a 4B EDC is collaborative efforts. The 4B EDC may act as a funding mechanism to bridge several groups. For instance, a 4B EDC can work alongside governing bodies like the City of Coleman to develop a masterplan or work with nonprofit groups like the Arts League to build a downtown arts district.

The movement for a 4B Economic Development Corporation is a pro-business, pro-community, pro-citizen movement. Voting for the 4B EDC symbolizes not only your willingness to give back to the community either directly or indirectly, but also your hope for our great community's future. If you have questions about what to expect, begin participating in the process because the future is literally wide-open.

I ask you to vote on May 8th for the 4B EDC for the sake of our community. If we do nothing, we certainly will reap the consequences. ColemanNOW will host an Ice Cream Social on Monday to celebrate citizenship and voting. We ask you to join us at the Downtown Garden located behind Tootsie's (corner of Walnut and Concho) for hot dogs and ice cream free to the public. Any questions you may have about the 4B, our representatives can answer.

For more information or contact information visit www.colemannow.info or join us on facebook by clicking here.

Food Manager 2-Day Certification Training on May 3rd & 4th
4/22/2010
Texas AgriLife Extension Service will be having a Food Manager 2-Day Certification Training on May 3rd & 4th in Brownwood from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M.
This training will teach managers about:
Food Safety & Sanitation
* Foodborne illnesses/outbreaks
* Types of contamination
* Food safety hazards
* Identifying foodborne illnesses
* Personal hygiene

Food Flow and HACCP
* Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point
* Purchasing and receiving food safely
* Keeping food safe during preparation

Managing the Operation
* Sanitary Facilities
* Pest Management
* Sanitation Regulations

This training will cost $110 and the registration deadline is Friday, April 23, 2010.
For more information or to register for this class please contact:
Chelsea Stevens, CEA-FCS Brown County at 325-646-7410 or Christin Burris, CEA-FCS Coleman County at 325-625-4519.

Junior Rodeo Association meeting has been changed
4/22/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association meeting has been changed. It was originally scheduled for Thursday, May 6th but due to conflicts with members and the Western Heritage Parade the meeting will now be Thursday May 13th at 6:30 p.m. in the Bill Franklin Center. No meal will be served. Hope to see you there.

Town and Country Garden Club Stays Busy in Spring
4/22/2010
The Town and Country Garden Club met Tuesday, April 4, at the Downtown Garden. There were thirteen members present, and we were so happy that Janie Popnoe was able to be with us. After a tour of the garden conducted by Brenda Stovall, members enjoyed refreshments furnished by those attending. Afterward, a short business meeting was held with president, Sue Shields, presiding. Old business included a thank you to members Eileen Morris and Sue Shields and helpers for the trimming of the pecan trees around the Miller Building.

Upcoming activities were noted, including the District Garden Club Show in Ozona April 10, a plant sale at the Abilene Expo April 17, the state meeting in Dallas April 25-28, a flower Show in Abilene May 1, the garden club's regular May meeting with a pilgrimage to Brownwood to the gardens of Novella Newman to look at lasagna gardening May 4, and a flower show in Stamford May 8.

Sue asked for volunteers to take responsibility for 6 meetings for the upcoming year and almost all meetings were taken care of. There was also discussion about when and where next year's pilgrimage would be.

The president read all correspondence including a note that state dues will be increased next year.Nan Markland made the motion for the club to pay the registration fee for the president as a delegate to the District Meeting.

The meeting was adjourned.

Lohn Reunion Scheduled for May 1
4/21/2010
Lohn will host their every five year reunion on May 1. Lohn will have the welcome mat out for all former students, residents and visitors. We invite everyone who ever lived in Lohn Valley to return for a great day.

Registration will begin inside the Tabernacle at 10:00 and the visiting will begin. There will be a Bar-B-Que lunch with all the trimmings served in the new school cafeteria. Mac’s is preparing the lunch for a cost of $8.00.

The old I. O. Marshall Store will open at 10:00 with displays honoring both living veterans and deceased veterans buried in the Lohn, Lohn Family, Pear Valley, Marion, Chaffin, and Pear Valley
cemeteries. There will be a variety of museum items on display for all to see and reminisce about. Brad and Shirley Ellis have made this an important part of our community. The Store will close at 2:00 for the program and reopen after the program.

At 2:00 there will be a program in the school cafetorium. During the program, various people from the community will be recognized, door prizes presented, and prizes given for special categories of visitors. A quilt made by the Lohn Valley Quilting Club in the early 1980’s will be auctioned during this program. The quilt has many Lohn Valley families’ names on it from that time. The quilt was donated by Tom Kluemper in memory of Dorothy Slaughter Kluemper.

After the program, music will begin in the Lohn Park provided by Lohn Exes. R. C. Willey’s band will provide music for dancing and listening. Fife ex, Kent Finlay, will be singing some of the songs he has written along with a Reunion song. Also entertaining will be Mike and Barbara Finlay. Chairs and tables will be available for visitors in the park.

COLEMAN HIGH 5TH SIX WEEKS HONOR ROLL AND PERFECT ATTENDANCE
4/21/2010
9TH GRADE
Nancy Barrios
Jon Bopp
Brianna Horn
Savannah Longley
Charlie Thomas

10TH GRADE
Landon Brown
Kassidy Dean
Bethany Stovall
Erik Villeda

11TH GRADE
Marcos Aaron
Victoria Cruz
Ross Jackson
Kelby McCorkle
Erin Strickland

12TH GRADE
Kayla Barnett
Reagan Barr
Tanner Brooks
Ranee Cupps
Lisa Dees
Zach Doyle
Cynthia Garza
Gary Heath
Dallas Horton
Andrew Isom
Jeff Lefevre
Beau Mayo
Lisha Merkley
Annie Mills
Rynn Norris
Jacy Payne
Kelsey Puckett
Peyton Schumann
Ana Solis
Slade Stevenson
Casie Swening
Tori Valdez
Lorena Vasquez
Michael Watson
Tyler Williams

CLICK HERE FOR THE A-B HONOR ROLL
CLICK HERE FOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE

Arlington Youth Group make Matthew 25 Ministries their mission trip.
4/21/2010
During Spring Break, Matthew 25 Ministries had its second Mission Trip at The Cross. The Episcopal Church of St. Peter and St. Paul from Arlington TX (seven teens and 2 adults) spent Sunday night through Wednesday morning during Spring Break with the BattleCry teens in worship and in work. They got a ton of work done including cooking, cleaning, working outside and taking down an old building. Five of our teens joined them every day in working, plus Adopted played each night. Our biggest night in Worship was Tuesday night with Adopted leading worship and Craig Allen of The Center speaking on Transformations. We watched the video and joined together in prayer for the community). A team of believers are praying for the community and things have been happening.

This mission trip had a spiritual impact in the lives of the Arlington youth group as they went back to Arlington with plans to pray for their community also. We appreciate, Tim, Joel, Cindy and Scott for putting this Mission Trip together for The Cross.

The Cross PO Box 1003 Coleman TX 76834
www.mt25.net
(325)625-1002
M-W 10-4
Outreaches Sat-Sun

Tips for People Who Work With Children:
Say Yes to Promoting Positive Sports
4/21/2010
Sports help build positive self-worth, teach cooperative play, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Sports teach children that trying one’s best to succeed is important. Children are the center and the reason why youth games are played.
Winning is an attitude. A “winning at all costs” attitude puts performance as the main concern, not children. Putting a “winning at all costs” emphasis on youth sports has several major drawbacks:

*Expects too much and leads to feelings of failure
*Does not prepare children to deal with loss in a healthy way
* Focuses on beating opponents, not on improving performance
*Focuses on losing as much as winning
* Takes the fun out of the game
*Allows only one winner—everyone else is a loser
Healthy Attitudes Toward Winning
• Emotional and physical well being of the child is the main focus
• Kids do better when individual performance is the goal
• Winning is important, not the most important goal
• Athletes, coaches, and parents can relax, enjoy the game, have fun, and appreciate performances of players on both teams

Information from A Resource Kit for Communities:
Provided by Coleman County Child Welfare Board

EARLY VOTING STARTS MONDAY, APRIL 26
4/21/2010
Early voting in City of Coleman, Coleman, Santa Anna and Novice school elections begins Monday, April 26th and will end on Tuesday, May 4th; election day being May 8th.

CITY OF COLEMAN; COLEMAN ISD BOARD
The City of Coleman and Coleman ISD are having joint elections with all voting taking place at Coleman City Hall.

The City of Coleman has two Council positions to fill - Place 1 (North Ward) and Place 4 (South Ward). Filing for re-election to Place 1 is incumbent Tracy Rankin, who has no opponent. For Place 4, which was held by John Plummer who resigned, are two candidates - Wayne Moore and Paul Kugle.

Also on the City of Coleman ballot will be a Proposition “Voting for or against the adoption of a one-half (1/2) of one percent Sales and Use Tax within the City of Coleman for economic development pursuant to Chapter 505 of the Texas Local Government Code and the repeal of the additional tax for property tax reduction previously adopted pursuant to Section 321.101(b) of the Texas Tax Code.

On the Coleman ISD Board of Trustees ballot will be incumbent Viki Hambright, who has no opponent and Clint Burkey and Mike Barker who are seeking the position held by long time board member Mike Edington, who did not seek re-election.

Early voting by personal appearance begins on Monday, April 26 and ends on Tuesday, May 4th. Applications for ballots by mail may be sent to (school) Karen Huff, PO Box 900, Coleman TX 76834 or to (city) Karen Langley at 200 West Liveoak. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on Friday, April 30, 2010.

Early voting by personal appearance will be conducted each weekday (April 26-May 4) at City Hall, 200 W. Live Oak St., between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Early voting on Monday, May 3 and Tuesday, May 4 will be conducted from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

On Election Day, May 8th) the polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at City Hall.

CLICK HERE for CITY OF COLEMAN SAMPLE BALLOT

SANTA ANNA ISD BOARD
Early voting by personal appearance in the Santa Anna ISD School Board election for three at-large positions will be conducted each weekday at: Santa Anna ISD Administration Bldg., 701 Bowie Street, Santa Anna, TX 76878, between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm beginning on April 26th, 2010 and ending on May 4th 2010.

Applications for ballot by mail should be mailed to: Katrina Guerrero, 701 Bowie Street, Santa Anna, TX 76878. Applications for ballots by mail must be received no later than the close of business on April 30th, 2010.

Incumbents Paul Martin, Grady McIver, and Roger Guerrero Jr. have filed for re-election to their respective positions. Lois Harper and Cindy Cozart have also filed application for a place on the Santa Anna ISD Trustee ballot.

Election Day will be Saturday, May 8th with voting taking place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Administration Bldg

NOVICE ISD BOARD
At Novice ISD, there are three at-large positions up for election. Four people are running for the three places: Mike Beets, Donna Chapman (Incumbent), Kerri Barnett (Incumbent) and Joseph E. (Jet) Taylor (Incumbent).

Early Voting will begin April 26, 2010 thru May 4th. Early voting location is 265 East Ward Street, Novice Texas, at the Novice Independent Schools Administration Office, Monday thru Friday, 8:00 AM till 4:00 PM. Election Day, May 8, election is at the Novice Community Center, located at 1351 Parker Street, Novice, Texas. Voting hours 7:00 AM till 7:00 PM.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE DAY IN COLEMAN COUNTY
4/21/2010
COLEMAN, TEXAS, April 21, 2010 – USDA Rural Development representatives will be in Coleman on Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at the Coleman County Commissioner’s Court Room, 100 West Live Oak, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon. Information will be provided about USDA Rural Development’s Housing, Community, and Business and Cooperative Programs.

USDA Rural Development works to ensure that rural citizens can participate fully in the global marketplace, by providing programs that assist rural Americans in building strong economics and to increase economic opportunities and improve their quality of life. Representatives will be available to answer individual questions and assist applicants with their applications in all program areas.

USDA Rural Development’s housing programs offer loans and grants to very low to moderate income households in towns and cities meeting certain population requirements. Loans are primarily used to help income eligible individuals or households purchase homes in rural area. Funds can be used to build, repair, and renovate a home, or to purchase and prepare sites, including providing water and sewage facilities. For very low income families who own homes in need of repair, the Home Repair Loan and Grant Program offers loans and grants for renovation. Money may be provided, for example, to repair a leaking roof; to construct a front-door ramp for someone using a wheelchair: make repairs to damaged or faulty wiring or to install a septic system for the home.

USDA Rural Developments’ community programs enhance the quality of life for rural Texans by providing funds to governmental entities, nonprofit organizations and Indian Tribes for essential community facilities and services. Funds may be used for a wide range of various community projects. These include, but are not limited, to projects such as those which will enlarge, improve or construct schools, libraries, farmers markets, medical clinics, assisted living centers, public buildings, community centers and fund new and improved water and wastewater facilities, Funds are also available for entities to purchase public safety equipment such as ambulances, firefighting equipment, and other emergency required implements.

Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in the economic stability of rural Texas. With USDA Rural Development’s Business Cooperative Programs, rural businesses can gain access to funds that normally would not be available to them. USDA Rural Development’s business and cooperative programs provide the needed capital to expand economic opportunities and development in rural areas throughout Texas by working with banks and community lenders. The Rural Energy for America Program offers grants, guaranteed loans, and combination grant/guaranteed loans to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements in rural areas.

We invite anyone who is interested in learning more about these or any of our programs to please come by and visit with us. For more information regarding USDA Rural Development programs, please contact the Brownwood Sub-Area Office at (325) 643-1585, ext. 4 or by visiting our website at www.rurdev.usda.gov/tx/.

Good Citizens and American History Essay Contest Winner Honored with Luncheon
4/21/2010
The winners of the Captain William Buckner Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizens and American History Essay Contest were honored on April 10, 2010. The local chapter treated the honoree's and their parents to a luncheon at Sara's Neighborhood Cafe.

Nell Walthall, Chapter Regent, welcomed all attendees, and voiced a prayer of thanks before the meal. Following the delicious meal, Ms. Walthall led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and the Texas flag.

The committe chairperson for the History Essay Contest, Carol Scott, and Good Citizens chairperson, Helen Smith were introduced, and Ms. Scott read the topic that was assigned by National Headquarters of the DAR for all students use in compiling their essay. This years topic was: Describe how you felt on May 10, 1869 when the golden spike was driven at Promontory Summit, Utah, to celebrate the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad. They could pretend that they were either a settler planning to use the train to travel to their new home in the west, an Irish or Chinese worker who helped build the line, or a Native American whose way of life was greatly affected by the railroad.

The first place winner, Sarita Short, of Panther Creek, daughter of Michael and Jennifer Short read her essay as a Native American, and was awarded a medal and certificate from the Captain William Buckner Chapter.

Runner up, Rylie Philpott, then was introduced and read her essay telling of the feelings of the wife of an Irish worker.
Cody Tovar was unable to attend, so Sarita Short read his essay of the experiences of an Irish worker.
Each essay was well received by the group. Certificates were awarded to Rylie and Cody, and pictures were taken of the winners.

Helen Smith read the qualities that a DAR Good Citizen must show in their lives. These are: Honor, Service to school and community, Courage and Leadership, and Patrotism to their country. The honors that have been achieved by the winners were read as each was introduced by Ms. Smith, and presented a Certificate and good citizens medal from the chapter.

These Good Citizens for 2009-2010 are: Cassie Philpot, of Panther Creek High School and daughter of Wayne and Wendy Philpot and the late Cynthia Philpot. Anthony Delgadillo, Novice High School, and his guardians are Cameron and Brooke Norris. Heather McMillan, Santa Anna High School, daughter of Todd and Sherry McMillan, and Lisa Dees of Coleman High School, the daughter of Ral and Laura Dees.

The Coleman Bluekatt softball team is all smiles after their 5-4 win over the Early Lady Longhorns Tuesday night.  The Katts are now 10-1 in district and are tied for the District Championship.  The Katts host San Saba this Friday at 4:30 p.m. for their final regular season game.

Art Shows for the Summer
4/21/2010
The Workshop planned by Tom Lockhart at Heritage Hall for April 23,24,25 has been post-poned due to a family illness. The workshop dates tba for a later date. Theda Rhea will be teaching a workshop next week in Raymondville. Theda has taught the Raymondville artists in Coleman several times at the invitation of Ruth Ann Taylor.

Show News:
The Ballinger Art Show will be April 24th. Several Fine Arts League members will be entered into the Mini Art Show at the Do-Art Studio/Gallery. The San Angelo Art Club's 25th Annual Fiesta in Realism entries are due June 2 with the opening of the show being June 5th at the Kendall Art Gallery.

The Fine Arts League Membership Show starts July 16 with entries due 16th & 17th . Show will run through July 24 at the Coleman Library. Breckenridge Fine Arts Center 19th Annual Juried Art Competition has an entry deadline of July 3rd. Rules and prospectus may be found on their web-site: www.breckenridgefineart.org

The Fine Arts League May 20th meeting will be a must for those who want to learn how to photograph their art work to send digital entries to juried shows. Sherrell Hazlewood, President of the League, will present the program at 6 pm First Coleman National Bank Club Room. The information will cover from taking the photos to burning the photos on CDs.

Robin Black is in charge of the evening's Pot Luck refreshments! Good time all around, so bring your 'pot' and learn how to take digital photos of artwork. Good time for new members and guests to 'get their feet wet'.

www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

Marian Johnson, Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.,Inc.

Coleman High Athletes Trek On to District
4/20/2010

Coleman's Trent Hambright (above, right) was named Honorable Mention in today's Abilene Reporter News Big Country Player of the Week. Hambright won District 8-2A titles in both the 110 meter and 300-meter hurdles. Dylan Hankins, a Coleman High sophomore, came in 4th in the 100m dash and qualifies as an alternate for regionals.

The following Lady Bluekatts qualified for the Regional Meet: (Left to Right) Jacy Payne (400m Relay), Carissa Zarate (400m Relay), Erin Strickland (High Jump), Jackie Birdwell (400m Relay), Ashton West (400m Relay, Alt.), Jessica Morales (Long jump, Alt.), Sarah Slayton (400m Relay, Alt.), Leanna Roberts (400m Relay, 100m, Long jump). For complete stats on the Bluekatts, click here!

Are You TOUGH ENOUGH to Wear Pink?
4/20/2010
The Coleman High School Student Council will host a "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" event tomorrow in order to raise awareness and funds for Cancer Network Services in Abilene. The Student Council asks any interested citizens and businesses to participate in a couple of ways.

First, they ask that everyone shows their support for cancer awareness by wearing pink. Secondly, they ask for interested businesses to participate in a fundraising event by paying $2 per person to wear jeans or "go casual" to work on Wednesday. Participating businesses and organizations include Coleman Independent School District, Coleman Chamber of Commerce, Coleman County Courthouse, Coleman County State Bank, First Coleman National Bank, and Panther Creek Independent School District.

The Student Council will pick up any donated funds from participants later in the week. Don't forget to wear pink!

Citizen of the Year To Be Announced at Chamber Banquet this Friday
4/20/2010
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture & Tourist Bureau’s annual banquet will be Friday night (April 23rd) at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center. Theme for this year’s banquet is “A Ticket to the Stars”. Donnie Neff will provide the dinner music and Rex Tackett is Master of Ceremonies. Please attend for a fun-filled evening. Nina Childress, Bobby and Karen McGee are the co-chairpersons for this year’s banquet.

Coleman Rodeo Association Directors will cook the meal, consisting of sirloin steak, grilled chicken breast, and all the trimmings.

Tickets are on sale at the Chamber of Commerce Office or from any Chamber Director for $14.00. Chamber Directors to contact are: Cathy Allen, Dr. Darron Atwood, Evan Autry, Sandra Barr, Nina Childress, Danyelle Hemphill, Kim Horne, Greg Martin, Bobby McGee, Kevin McMahon, Kathy Turner and Darla Wise.

The 2010 Citizen of the Year, Rural Citizen of the Year, New Horizon Award of the Year, and Teacher of the Year Award winners will be announced during the program.

A silent auction and live auction will be held again this year. Various items donated by merchants will help enable the Chamber to defray cost for the banquet. Items will include gift certificates, merchandise, and goody bags showcasing our merchants’ best goodies. Proceeds from the auction will also help the Chamber of Commerce fund future activities throughout the year.

Everyone is encouraged to attend the Chamber of Commerce banquet for an evening of pleasure. You do not have to be a Chamber member in order to attend. It is being asked that business members encourage their employees to attend the banquet. Attendance by your employees will represent your business while showing the employee that they are an integral part of your business.

For more information concerning the banquet, please call the Coleman Chamber of Commerce office at 325-625-2163.

8th Grade Class Parents Meeting on Wednesday, April 21
4/20/2010
The 8th grade Class Parents (Class of 2014) will have a meeting on Wednesday, April 21, at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Junior High library. We will discuss plans for after graduation activities. Please plan to attend.

Work Day Set for Saturday at Future Home of SA Museum/Visitor’s Center
Submitted by: Judy Meister
4/20/2010
The Santa Anna Economic Development Corporation has scheduled a work day for Saturday, April 24th at the old depot warehouse located downtown across the street from City Hall.

The depot is the future home of the Santa Anna Museum and Visitor's Center, and is sure to bring people to town in order to get a glimpse of the community's past as well as impress folks to stop as they are driving through.

This project is an important one and will have an enormous effect on our local tourist trade.

If you would like to be part of this endeavor, put on your grubbies and work gloves, bring along a sledge hammer, crow bar, or any other destructive type implement Saturday morning around 8 a.m.

Your time and effort is greatly needed and appreciated.

MISSION GROUP TO VISIT LOAVES & FISHES
4/20/2010
-Contributed-
Exciting times are coming to Loaves & Fishes Food Ministries. Mission Group from Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in Richardson, Texas, will be arriving on Thursday, April 23rd, to join forces with a mission team from St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Coleman to work on the Loaves and Fishes Food Ministries facility. A combined effort of volunteers will be working on both exterior and interior much-needed repairs to building and will be working on Friday and Saturday to achieve this goal.

All the volunteers at Loaves and Fishes are looking forward to their arrival, and we encourage everyone to greet them as they come into Coleman, or just stop by to encourage them in their endeavors. More information will be following concerning these efforts.

MEANDERINGS BY ANN
WILL WE BE PENNY WISE, POUND FOOLISH?
By Jo Ann Eddleman
4/20/2010
Voting on the Type 4B economic development sales tax is around the corner. Early voting starts April 26! Election day is May 8! ColemanNOW has been busy making sure that voters of Coleman know what is at stake at this election for Coleman’s present and for Coleman’s future. But, we understand there are still questions. And most of these questions appear to revolve around that nasty word “tax.”

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
4/20/2010
Dear Editor,

Owl Drug is offering a new Prescription Drug Takeback Program to safely dispose of prescription medications .

Patients of any pharmacy are invited to safely dispose of unused and expired medications at Owl Dug free of charge by simply bringing in the drugs in their original stock containers. Owl Drug is working with the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) through their Prescription Disposal Program to assure the drugs are disposed of in a safe and environmentally friendly way.

We welcome the community to come visit with our pharmacy professionals about any medications. We urge you to go through your medicine cabinets doing a thorough check of your prescription medications and take advantage of our Prescription Disposal Program April 19-24.

It's as simple as bringing your medications in and handing them to one of our pharmacists or pharmacy staff. We do the rest and you have the assurance that we have properly disposed of your medications.

We look forward to seeing you at Owl Drug.

Jim and Linda Caldwell
Pharmacists and Owners
Owl Drug
Coleman, Texas
325-625-2178

PANTHER CREEK CISD 5TH SIX WEEKS HONOR ROLL
4/20/2010

High School Honor Roll:
A HONOR ROLL

9TH GRADE
NONE

10TH GRADE
NIKKI EWING
COURTNEY MOORE
JARED ROMINE
KATIE STRAACH

11TH GRADE
NONE

12TH GRADE
FRED BLACKWELL
CHARLEY BOWMAN
ETHAN GRIFFIN
STEPHEN HOELSCHER
CASSIE PHILPOT
JAMMIE PRUITT
MATTHEW TURNEY

A/B HONOR ROLL

9TH GRADE
JESSICA LAWS
AUSTIN LEWIS
CHELSEA LEWIS
SCARLETT PYBURN

10TH GRADE
STEPHANNIE BLEDSOE
CHELSEY DAY
MEASHA ESCOBAR
BILLY FARIES
JORIE NANNY
KELTON POWELL
BETTY TORRES

11TH GRADE
COJO BOWMAN
JESSICA JAMISON
JULIE REED
TREVOR SMITH
TRENT SMITH

12TH GRADE
LACHELLE RUTLEDGE
BENTON WARREN

Click here for Junior High Results
Click here for Elementary Results

Coleman County Receives Wonderful April Showers
By Karen Allen
4/19/2010
I had to travel to Lubbock this past weekend and I worried a little about road conditions since I’d heard they had received record rainfall in the past few days...but as it turned out, the roads were fine and I had to use the wipers only on “intermittent” most of the way. There was a lot of water in the fields and bar ditches, but none covering the road...But the bluebonnets!! Gorgeous!

Coleman County has received varying amounts, from a little over an inch to over three inches, and maybe more.

The Poldracks on W. Mesquite St. in Coleman received a total of two inches.

Up at Silver Valley, Jess Jackson reported a total of 1.65, while Mike Calk in that area received 1.25 (Mike had heard of a man in the Bangs area who got about 5 inches!). Raylene Plummer at Novice recorded 1.20.

Jerry Bob McAlister recorded a total of 2.50 at the store in Burkett, while Nelda Copley at Glen Cove received almost 1.25 in all.
Further south in Santa Anna, Teresa Absher received 3.28. She reports a year-to-date total for 2010 through the end of March of 7.63, putting them ahead of last year at this time.

At the Rockwood Post Office, Cathy had heard reports of some flooding but no definite amounts, but she said the Trickham/Cleveland area had received 3.80 with some roads underwater.

Lake Ivie warden Richard Halfmann emailed totals for April 15th-17th of 1.25. Hords Creek Lake got a total of 1.98.

If you have a chance to go for a drive in Coleman County and the surrounding area, you’ll notice how green and lush everything is, and the bluebonnets are having a record year, in my estimation. Of course, the weeds in my yard are having a record year, too...so as soon as it’s dry enough, I’ll have to fire up the lawnmower.

WEST TEXAS RENDEZVOUS AND CENTENNIAL CAMPOREE
4/19/2010
In the early 1800’s a unique breed of man explored the mountains and rivers of the American West. The Mountain Men trapped the beaver, hunted bear and buffalo, and learned the skills of woodcraft from the Native Americans. The highlight of each year was the Rendezvous, where trappers and explorers would gather for a celebration of the years’ success, to trade skills and stories, and to prepare for the coming year.

In that tradition, the Texas Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America will hold the West Texas Rendezvous and Centennial Camporee on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, April 23 – 25, 2010. The Rendezvous and Camporee is designed to help Cub Scout Packs, Boy Scout Troops, Venturing Crews, and Explorer Posts throughout West Texas to celebrate the BSA Centennial. Together we will celebrate the success of Scouting for the last hundred years, try Scouting Skills, renew old friendships and make new friends, and prepare for the future.

The Rendezvous and Camporee will be held at Flatrock Park on Hords Creek Lake near Coleman, Texas. The Corps of Engineers has graciously agreed to open the park exclusively for the use of the Scouts.

Highlights of the event for the Boy Scouts will include Troop competitions, including a Campsite Gate and camp gadget competition, Cobbler cook – off, and other Troop awards. Patrols will participate in competitions highlighting skills from the earliest days of Scouting through skills for the 21st century.

Cub Scouts will enjoy a Family Encampment alongside the Camporee site. Cubs and their families will be encamped in an area adjacent to the Camporee site. They will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of events, including archery, BB’s, and crafts. They will also have the chance to see Boy Scouts in action and sample Scouting events.

Venturing Crews and Explorer Posts will have the opportunity to demonstrate the specialty skill areas of their unit.

All Scouts will be able to participate in individual skill events, including a speed knot tying contest, photography contests for Cubs, Scouts, Venturers / Explorers, and Leaders, as well as participating in demonstrations and exhibits by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the military, and others.

Plans also include presentations by local and State leaders and birthday cake for everyone.

The 2009 WEST TEXAS RENDEZVOUS AND CENTENNIAL CAMPOREE is the signature event for the celebration of the past and future of Scouting in West Texas, filled with fun, action, showmanship and excitement. More information on costs, contest rules, and even more exciting events will be coming soon. Make plans to be there!!

Holiday Hill Memory Care Set To Open
Open House Tuesday, April 27
4/19/2010
The long anticipated opening of a 15,500 square foot, 20 bed memory and dementia care addition at Holiday Hill is here. The Board of Directors of Holiday Hill Inc., of Coleman, Texas will host an Open House on Tuesday, April 27 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A dedication ceremony is planned for the new center beginning at 5:30 PM. The public is invited to attend. Holiday Hill is located at 245 HWY 153 on the Winters highway in Coleman.

Holiday Hill Inc. is currently licensed for 88 beds to serve the long term nursing needs of Coleman and the surrounding counties. They are expanding their services with 20 beds dedicated to Alzheimer’s dementia and memory care. The specialty care secure-access home will take a unique approach to increasing the Quality of Life issues individuals and families face with loved ones diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The care will be based on the Alzheimer’s Associations’ Standards of Practice and the CARES program. To learn more about Holiday Hill and the new addition, go to www.holidayhill.net.

Junior Class Parents meeting on Thursday, April 22
4/19/2010
The Junior Class Parents (Class of 2011) will have a meeting on Thursday, April 22, at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss plans for the After Prom Celebration on May 8th. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

Silver Valley Cemetery Association Announces a Work Day This Saturday
Contributed
4/19/2010
The Silver Valley Cemetery Association will have a workday at the cemetery, Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. in preparation for the annual homecoming and cemetery decoration that will be held Sunday, May 2, 2010.

Everyone is invited to attend. We will be cleaning up and painting our new pavilion; if you would like to help, bring a paintbrush and supplies and tools to clean up the cemetery.

Panther Creek UIL Contestants Honored
4/19/2010
The Gouldbusk Homemaker’s Club invited all the Panther Creek UIL contestants to a luncheon at the Voss Community Center on Monday, April 12. The club wanted to honor them for their interest and extra work involved in being in UIL events. About 50 students from elementary, junior high and high school were able to attend. Nine teachers and the bus driver also attended. They were served baked potatoes with taco meat or grilled chicken and all the fixings, spaghetti, toast, salad and desserts. Everyone had a great time.

Company Proposes Free Mesquite Clearing In Exchange For Land Utilization
Land Owners Asked to Attend, Possible Power Plant for Coleman
by Bob Turner, Coleman EDC Marketing Consultant
4/19/2010
Mesquite Fuels in cooperation with the Coleman Economic Development Corporation requests county landowners to attend meetings this Thursday or Friday at the Coleman Public Library for the opportunity to contract with Mesquite Fuels to remove mesquite timber free and to learn about an economic opportunity for Coleman County.

Mesquite Fuels and Agriculture, Inc. is a renewable energy company committed to the development, construction, and operation of co-generation facilities. Their program uses renewable biomass to generate energy used in the sale of electricity and steam within the U.S.

Mesquite Fuels started in Texas and works cooperatively with landowners to create renewable energy from biomass such as unwanted mesquite trees. The mesquite timber, which is freely harvested at each individual landowners request, goes through a clean burning process that converts biomass into electricity.

Regions rich with mesquite timber provide ample opportunity for biomass energy production. However, as Texas land is privately-owned, Mesquite Fuels proposes contracting with local land owners for free mesquite removal in exchange for their mesquite timber.

If local landowners take advantage of this opportunity, they will be provided with a Mesquite Fuels and Agriculture land manager who will work with each individual to lay out brush patterns, trees to be preserved, access to trees, strategic land and wildlife conservation, and other topic's necessary to allow input on the harvest process.

Furthermore, after touring several locations in the Big Country, Mesquite Fuels visited Coleman's Waste Water Facility where they expressed interest in constructing an energy plant. The Waste Water Facility, which produces recycled water used for irrigation, offers a highly attractive and practical site for Mesquite Fuels because water is needed to cool the energy plant. As timber can only be transported distances under 50 miles, plants must be near harvest region. For the preceding reasons, Coleman is a contender for site construction.

Mesquite Fuels along with representatives of the Coleman EDC and other community leaders will host two days of informational sessions. The first session is Thursday, April 22nd at 11:30 a.m. and then again at 6:00 p.m. The second session will be held Friday, April 23rd from 9:00 a.m. until 1 p.m. The EDC invited a professional biologist to be in attendance to answer any questions regarding conservation, wildlife issues, or agricultural concerns.

If you are interested in finding out any information before attending, please visit www.mesquitefuels.com or call 972-871-2111. Questions may also be addressed to the Coleman EDC by calling 325-625-3669.

Chamber of Commerce Hosts Ribbon Cutting for New Garden Center
4/19/2010
The Coleman Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Coleman's newest business last Friday. Garner's Garden and Produce center opened March 20th and offers a wide range of plants, gardening supplies, fresh produce, dry goods, crafts and gifts, and Sterling candles. Garner's Garden and Produce center is owned by Montie and Stephanie Garner of Coleman and is located on 1304 Highway 84 near Coleman Inn.

Cleveland Cemetery Association Annual Meeting will be Saturday, April 24
4/19/2010
The Cleveland Cemetery Association Annual Meeting will be Saturday, April 24, 2010 at 10 am at the Cleveland Cemetery Chapel. Officers are Charlie Ray Fleming, President, Bob Reese, Vice-President, Ernest Covey, 2nd Vice-President, Janice Fellers, Secretary-Treasurer. We are still in need of funds for the fence project across the front. All donation and memorial are much appreciated for they help maintain our cemetery. Any donation may be sent to P. O. Box 722, Santa Anna, TX 76878.

Texas Gas Price Increases 1.1 cents
4/19/2010
Texas, TX, April 19- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas moved just 1.1 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.72/g today. This compares with the national average that has stayed flat, moving just 1.1 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.87/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 76.5 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 5.9 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 6.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 83.5 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Annual Glen Cove Cemetery Meeting Scheduled May 1st
4/19/2010
The annual meeting of the Glen Cove Cemetery will be held on the first Saturday in May, May 1, 2010. Everyone who is interested is invited to attend. Remember to bring working tools to clean the family lots and any decorations that you would like to place. There will be a short business meeting at 11:30, followed by dinner-on-the-ground, so bring lots of your favorite foods and your lawn chairs to meet and fellowship with others who have family ties to the community. If you have any questions or correspondence, please contact Scott Beaver, 578 CR 446, Talpa, 76882, or call 32-5636-4356.

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE COLEMAN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
4/19/2010
DATE: Monday, April 19, 2010
TIME: 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office, 300 West Pecan
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS.

AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report
THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 et seq., AND FOR THE REASONS STATED IN THE CODE.

ACTION ITEMS:
1. Personnel – Consider Accepting Resignations from Personnel
2. Consider Approving Staff Development Waiver and Early Release Waiver for the 2010-2011 School Year
3. Amend the Budget

BOARD REPORT:
1. Grassroots Legislative Meeting

DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. June Board Meeting
Coleman Independent School District
Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
April 19, 2010

INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Online Legislative Update Training
2. TASB/Region 14 ESC Spring Workshop
3. TASB Summer Leadership Institute
3. Check Payments
4. Financial Statement

ADJOURN:
Royce A. Young, Superintendent
Coleman Independent School District

Chute Out Bull Ride & Team Roping next weekend
4/17/2010
The Gustine Rodeo Club along with our sponsors are proud to host the Chute Out Bull Ride & Team Roping next weekend, April 23 & 24. Main sponsors include Mix 30, Helena Chemical, Gustine Auto Service, Adcock Construction, Gores Agri-service, Texan Ag Services, & WE Fitness. The Chute Out Bull Ride performance will begin at 7:30 pm on Friday, April 23 at the Gustine Rodeo Arena. Open entry with two divisions. $500 added money to the 19 & Over & $200 added money 18 & Under (Novice). $100 Entry Fee. Pre-register (325) 330-1375. Payout based on number of entries. Roughstock provided by Harris Rodeo Livestock, Early, TX & 7 Rocking X Bucking Bulls, Priddy, TX. The Chute Out Team Roping will begin at 4 pm on Saturday, April 24. Books open at 2 pm. Pick 1; Draw 2. Enter up to 3 times. $500.00 Added Money, $45.00 per man entry fee. Payout based on number of entries. Chute Out admission is $5 with 8 & under free. For Vendor or entry forms contact Lori Glass (325) 330-1375 or grc_2009@live.com or www.gustinerodeoclubs.webs.com. Gustine is located 12 miles East of Comanche on Highway 36.

West Central Texas Council of Governments 9-1-1 Department Recognizes April as National 9-1-1 Education Month
Joins with national public safety leaders to promote 9-1-1 awareness and proper usage
4/17/2010
ABILENE, TEXAS – Today, the Regional 9-1-1 Program of West Central Texas Council of Governments (WCTCOG) began a month-long campaign to help Americans of all ages recognize the importance of 9-1-1 and the role they play in ensuring effective and efficient emergency response in times of crisis. Groups including the United States Congress and the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), a leading public safety association, have also recognized April as National 9-1-1 Education Month, and are encouraging the media, the 9-1-1 community, the wireless industry, and public information providers to engage in 9-1-1 awareness and education activities this month.

“For forty years, 9-1-1 has served as the vital link between the American public and emergency services,” said NENA CEO, Brian Fontes. “Public education and awareness initiatives throughout the years have contributed in large measure to the incredible and ongoing success of the emergency communications system as a whole. It is our hope that all groups interested in promoting and enhancing the safety and welfare of the public will help deliver critical 9-1-1 messages this month.”

As consumers utilize new communications technologies and devices, 9-1-1 education takes on an increased importance for everyone, but especially for children, teens, and parents. Joe Rogers, Director of the WCTCOG’s Regional 9-1-1 Program says: “It is vital that those who disseminate 9-1-1 information have the tools to educate the citizens that the 9-1-1 system serves, especially in light of an ever-evolving telecommunications market.”

NENA has also made a number of public safety educational resources for the media, 9-1-1 professionals, public educators, and citizens available via its National 9-1-1 Education Month webpage, http://www.nena.org/education/911-education-resources, including an E-Brochure entitled Making 9-1-1 Work for YOU!. The brochure is designed to provide essential information to the general public, children, teens, and parents about the 9-1-1 system and emergency response.

For more information about the WCTCOG Regional 9-1-1 Program, go to: http://www.wctcog.org/wctcog/911_index.php

Community Banks Part of the Solution, Not the Problem
By U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
4/17/2010
As our nation fights through an economic downturn, the worst since the Great Depression, we continue to see the effects this crisis has wrought on Americans. National unemployment continues to hover near 10 percent, its highest level in 26 years. Foreclosure rates are not abating. And while there are some signs of relief in the credit markets, small businesses and consumers are still struggling to obtain credit.

The crisis also remains at the forefront of consciousness because of the immense government intervention this Administration and the Democratic Congressional leadership have pushed through. Companies that were once titans of finance and business failed. As a result trillions of dollars in bailouts and spending packages have been poured into our financial markets and the economy as a whole to prop up these institutions, all in the name of market stabilization. It continues to this day, as evidenced by another $18 billion spending package enacted last month. This unprecedented amount of spending is sending our national debt spiraling out of control.

At the heart of this intervention is the notion that institutions can be “too big to fail,” our government’s policy to provide assistance to prevent the failure of large financial firms deemed systemically significant to our economy. This perverts free market capitalism and suggests that entities can “privatize” their profits, yet “socialize” their risks. This absolutely must end. The American taxpayers should not be forced to pay the gambling debts of failed risky bets made by large financial institutions.

In the coming weeks we will begin debate on financial regulatory reform legislation that would put into law this “too big to fail” mentality. It is absolutely wrong to tie the fate of the national and global economy to the fortunes of a relatively small number of giant financial firms.

Of particular concern is the effect that proposed financial regulatory reform legislation will have on our nation’s community banks. Community banks in Texas and across the country serve as the backbone of our economy. Community banks were making home and business loans to local customers, while the giant financial institutions were playing the derivative and subprime market. Local community banks provide the lending and deposit services for our nation’s small businesses so that they may continue to operate, invest, create jobs, and drive our economy. Credit from a community bank allows the West Texas exploration company to drill new wells to deliver the oil and gas that fuels our state and nation. Credit from a community bank in Texas allows the Austin area tech start up to create a new product line that could soon revolutionize the way the world communicates. It is this business lending that will help create jobs and grow our economy.

Tom Hoenig, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, said recently that our nation’s largest banks would be well-served to take lessons from our community banks. Why? Because community banks have been committed to providing the vital credit and services needed for small businesses to create the jobs that will lead our nation into recovery.

It is precisely this ability to foster bottom-up growth through small businesses that sets community banks apart from other financial institutions. Unlike the big financial institutions we see in the headlines for bailouts and bonuses, community banks do not pose systemic risk to our financial system, nor are they identified as primary contributors to our latest crisis.

However, our community banks would soon be subjected to a considerable amount of new costs and regulatory burdens as a result of this legislation, a burden that would hamper their ability to effectively provide depository and lending services to our American consumers and small businesses.

Community banks should not be punished as a result of this legislation. We should preserve and enhance our dual-banking system, rather than impose additional federal regulations that stifle their ability to serve their communities. This legislation would gear the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy to the large banks mainly in New York without any regard for the 6,800 regional and community banks located across our country. And that means the Fed will lack a fundamental understanding of what small businesses, families, and workers across Texas and throughout our nation are facing on a daily basis.

We should stop “too big to fail,” protect taxpayers from bailouts and only regulate what needs to be regulated. It’s when government tries to fix what isn’t broken that trouble begins.

Kay Bailey Hutchison is the senior U.S. Senator from Texas and is the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

HUMANE SOCIETY PARTICIPATES IN TOUR FOR LIFE EVENT
4/16/2010
-contributed-
The Humane Society happily accepted an invitation by Rescue the Animals to participate in a mobile adoption at WalMart in Abilene last Wednesday. North Shore Animal League America, headquartered in New York state, tours the United States each year in their mobile adoption rig to showcase pets that are on “death row” at animal shelters as well as rescued dogs and cats that have been saved by rescue groups.

The Humane Society took seven dogs to the Tour for Life 2010 event and adopted all seven. It was a fun time with many potential adopters taking advantage of the opportunity to meet adoptable dogs up close and personal. Animal control officers from several Big Country towns such as Anson, Eastland and Brownwood brought dogs and other humane societies and rescue groups were also present with cats and dogs.

Rescue the Animals, under the direction of its founder Paul Washburn, has been offered a store in the Abilene Mall to show rescued dogs and cats. Washburn has invited the Humane Society of Coleman County to participate by bringing adoptable pets to the mall store. The Humane Society is excited about this new opportunity to present its dogs and cats for adoption to new families.

Boy Scout Troop 221 Hosting Bake Sale and Garage Sale Saturday
“Work Zones Need Our Undivided Attention”
4/16/2010
Boy Scout Troop 221 will have a combined Bake Sale and Garage Sale - come rain or shine - on Saturday, April 17th beginning at 8 am at Monroe Auto Parts at the corner of Concho and Elm. The proceeds go to send 10 boys to summer camp. It will cost $190 each for them to go and $100 for each adult camping with them. Your support of the bake sale and garage sale and any donations you feel motivated to give are extremely appreciated!

TxDOT Observes National Work Zone Awareness Week April 19th - 23rd...
“Work Zones Need Our Undivided Attention”
4/16/2010
Austin - For many motorists, the first word that comes to mind when encountering a highway construction work zone is delay. The word that should come to mind is caution.

Each April, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) joins with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), national transportation associations and numerous other state DOTs for National Work Zone Aware-ness Week (NWZAW) to remember victims and to raise awareness of safety precautions for workers and motorists in work zones. This year, NWZAW will be observed April 19-23.

Work zones can be hazardous for motorists as well as highway crews working to improve Texas’ highways. TxDOT maintains approximately 80,000 miles of highway with more than 1,000 construction or maintenance projects underway at any given time. With so much construction, it is all too common for motorists to encounter work zones.

● In 2008, 175 people were killed in highway construction and maintenance zones in Texas.
● More than four out of every five work zone fatalities are motorists traveling through the work zone.
● Thirty-four percent of all work zone fatalities for 2008 were drug and alcohol-related.
● In 2008, 71 percent of work zone fatalities were male.
● One in three work zone crashes is a rear-end collision.

“Speed and inattention are the leading causes of work zone crashes,” said Fred Underwood, Texas Transpor-tation Commissioner. “Each of us has the power to protect and save lives. We just need to put our cell phones down, stop messing with the radio and focus on driving. As a result, we can reduce the number of fatalities that occur in work zones.”

Underwood said everyone should take responsibility for work zone safety, from engineers and planners to drivers and pedestrians. For more information about work zone safety or to download our newest Public Service Announcement, go to www.txdot.gov, search work zone.

COUNCIL APPROVES PAVING PROGRAM FOR 2010
4/16/2010
By Jo Ann Eddleman
Although it is not being called a formal paving policy, City Council received and approved a report presented by Public Works Director Bob Ray that outlines the paving projects that are anticipated in 2010. Ray and Street Department Supervisor Jody Payne told Council that the plan will address projects in each Ward as equally as possible. Streets that are broken up into paved and unpaved blocks will be a top priority. The paved sections are regularly damaged when the unpaved portions are being maintained. Paving the entire section should lead to overall savings, according to Ray.

Ray was also pleased to report that the city and the county were undertaking a joint project to sealcoat CR 402, the well-traveled county road off Fifth Avenue that leads to city-owned Memory Lake. Commissioner Alan Davis and Ray have worked together to share the costs involved in upgrading the road, with the county contributing $5,000 for milling and sealcoat rock and the city providing labor and asphalt.

The Department expects a significant uptick in its workload with the onset of the major infrastructure project that will begin laying pipe under city streets this year.

Payne said he was proud of the work his department is able to accomplish with the six employees assigned to the department. “We do the best we can with what we’ve got,” Payne said.

In addition to the ongoing street repair work, the Street Department is involved in maintaining and processing the necessary paperwork on convenience center activity; herbicide spraying; tree pruning; street sweeping; shredding along rights-of-way; maintaining the dams under the city’s control (Lake Coleman and Memory Lake); and contracting with Atmos for street repair occasioned by gas line work. The Atmos contract provides revenue to the Street Department in an amount up to $10,000 annually.

Ray concluded his comments by saying the Department’s budget has remained the same over the past few years, but costs continue to rise, meaning the Department has to remain flexible as to which and how many projects can be undertaken keeping fluctuating materials costs and budget constraints in mind.

City Manager Larry Weise presented his mid-year budget amendment requests occasioned by various revenues received through grants for the City Park and insurance claim payments received as a result of the windstorm. Weise told Council that general fund revenue has fallen short of budget projections for mid-year, lagging behind by approximately seven percent. However, Weise said that expenses have also been below projections. The same ratio of revenue to expense applies to the Enterprise (Utility) Fund, keeping the city in the black at mid-year. Council approved the budget amendments.

Weise also advised Council that after meetings with City Attorney Steve Autry, himself and the new owner of the old power plant a compromise has been reached that would allow the work to continue on the dismantling of the plant. The contracted salvage work that would remove the equipment and metal in the building and raze the building to slab has been in limbo while the city waited for a performance bond from the company that won the bid and paid $126,999 for the plant in order to salvage the parts.

Since a performance bond is not legally available to the owner of a building, the contract will be amended to provide a $100,000 performance deposit plus a $50,000 penalty fund to be placed in escrow by the owner. The completion date has been amended to reflect October 31, 2010. A $250 a day penalty will be incurred for each day the performance of the contract exceeds that date with a default date of January 1, 2011, at which time the $100,000 deposit would be forfeited.

In other business, Council approved Fine Arts League president Sherrill Hazelwood’s request that the League be allowed to use the sidewalks outside the Public Library for supervised activities such as chalk painting by area youngsters during the Juried Art Show in October.

In concluding comments, the City Manager advised the city did not receive a flood planning grant that would have paid 80% to 90% of the mandated emergency operating plan that is required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at Lake Coleman. Weise is requesting an extension of the time the city has to perform the work to spread the costs over two or three budget cycles.

Last Day to Mail Back 2010 Census Forms
Residents Urged to Act Today or Risk Visit from Census Workers in May
4/16/2010
Today marks the last day for residents across America to mail back their 2010 Census questionnaires. Households that return their forms after April 16 will likely be visited by census workers when they begin May 1 going door to door to collect census responses.

Residents are encouraged to mail back their 2010 Census forms today. Those who wait to mail back their forms should expect to be visited by census workers, who will visit homes in person to ensure an accurate count of every person living in the United States. Census takers, who are members of the community in which they are working, will visit a household up to six times, each time leaving a door hanger featuring a phone number. Residents can call the number on the hanger to schedule a visit and be counted.

“Now’s the time to clear off your kitchen table and stick that form in the mail,” U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert Groves said. “Residents who fail to mail back their forms today should be prepared to get a knock on their doors in May and July.”

Nationwide, about 68 percent of households have mailed back their census forms. In 2000, the mail participation rate was 72 percent.

Texas Aggie Muster is Wednesday, April 21st at 6:30 p.m.
4/16/2010
Former Students and Friends of Texas A&M will gather together in Coleman on Wednesday, April 21st for the annual Texas Aggie Muster to honor all Texas Aggies who have passed away within the last year. Muster activities, including happy hour, dinner and ceremony, will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center.

The meal will consist of ribeye steaks, potatoes, salad and dessert. The cost of dinner is $20.00 per person. Heath and Danyelle Hemphill are sponsoring the steaks in an effort to help raise money for the Aggie Moms’ Scholarship Fund. Aggie Moms are once again helping with decorations and will announce their scholarship winners.

For more information regarding the Texas Aggie Muster in Coleman, please contact Heath Hemphill at 325-625-1316.

Panther Creek on-act play will perform twice TODAY!
4/16/2010
Panther Creek will perform their one-act play twice Friday in the Activity Building. The first performance will be at 9:00 am, and the second performance will be at 5:30 pm. We welcome everyone to come see the show.

Tax Refund: Spend a Little, Save a Little
Submitted By: Christin Burris, CEA-FCS Coleman County
Written By: Kathleen Phillips, 979-845-2872
Contact(s): Dr. Joyce Cavanagh, 979-845-3859, JACavanagh@ag.tamu.edu
Nancy Granovsky, 979-845-1869, n-granovsky@tamu.edu
COLLEGE STATION - A new high-definition television set. A Carribbean cruise. Pay off bills. Lists are being made all across the nation now as Americans ponder how to spend a tax refund.

But financial planners encourage a different mix - one that allows some spending but also adds “Save” to the list.

“Sometimes when I am doing tax work, I’ll ask, what are you going to use your refund for, and a lot of people say paying bills, buying a car, or getting a car to get them to work if they have a car that is not reliable. A lot of people are just going to go out and spend it on whatever. Saving is not a very common answer,” said Dr. Joyce Cavanagh, a Texas AgriLife Extension Service family economics specialist.

She said people have been conditioned to thinking a refund comes in one check and thus can be used in one way - either spent or saved.

But now, people may select to receive their refund either in one lump sum or have it divided and distributed to as many as three accounts using Form 8888, according to the IRS.
“Realistically, you are not going to get most people -- particularly if they get a really large refund -- to save all of it,” Cavanagh said.

A tax preparer or individual simply designates on the form the account numbers and routing numbers for the refund to go to, she said. This may include checking or savings accounts or even mutual funds or a retirement account.

“People can feel like they can spend some, but there is a way to designate a certain amount of it to go to a vehicle where they are saving it,” Cavanagh added. “Because if it all gets deposited into the checking account, the likelihood of saving any of it is not as high as if you automatically designate part of it to go to a savings account to begin with.”

Nancy Granovsky, AgriLife Extension family economist, recommends having a “set-aside account” to deposit some of the refund to cover unexpected or occasional bills that otherwise don’t factor into monthly payments.

“People can look at the times during a year that require expenditures that put them in a bind,” she said. “Things like school supplies, car insurance premiums and holiday gifts, for example.”

But debt repayment is another consideration for tax refund use, Granovsky said.
“Think of it not just as paying off a debt but as a return on an investment. If you pay off a credit card with 22 percent interest, that is like earning a 22 percent return on the dollar,” she explained.

Overall, the family economists recommended, following three refund rules:
- Plan ahead before spending a refund.
- Devote a portion toward long-term financial security.
- Don’t “throw away” a portion of your money on loan fees just to get a quick refund.
Granovsky said family economists actually enjoy this season as it affords the opportunity to help people make better decisions on paying taxes and using possible refunds.
“Taxes come and taxes go,” she said. “But they can be an opportunity to look at our overall well-being and see how that tax money can work for us. That way, tax season is not something to dread.”

For more information about splitting tax refunds, see http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc152.html.

Bake Sale for Gabby Roberts on Saturday
4/16/2010
Gabby Roberts will be having a Bale Sale at Shoppin Baskit on Saturday, April 17th from 8am til 1pm. She will have lots of baked goodies, homemade tortillas and hot sauce. Thank you for supporting Gabby Roberts and making her trip possible.

Can 9-1-1 find you in an emergency? Help Us Help You!
4/15/2010
Governor Rick Perry has declared the week of April 11-17, 2010, Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Many times, the dedication, long hours, and hard work of the public safety telecommunicators go unnoticed. Telecommunicators handle emergency calls and many non-emergency situations for the residents not only in our own towns and counties but for travelers passing through our region.

You can help the 9-1-1 telecommunicators by being prepared for emergencies when they happen. Not only will it make their job easier, but being prepared will get help to you more quickly. Here are a couple of ways to help ensure you can be found quickly in an emergency:

• Your 9-1-1 address should be posted and visible from the road so that emergency responders can easily find you in case of an emergency. In an emergency, seconds can sometimes make a life-saving difference. Make sure your 9-1-1 address numbers are posted and are easy to see from the road. A well-marked location is much easier for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and medical personnel to find you when you need help.

• Help make sure your 9-1-1 address is correct. The phone company’s information for your 9-1-1 address is what will display on the 9-1-1 call center’s equipment. You can check with your phone company to make certain your correct physical address is listed in their records. If you are unsure of your correct 9-1-1 address, contact your local 9-1-1 addressing coordinator, city hall, or county judge’s office.

• If you are calling from a cell phone, know your location! Be prepared to provide your phone number and the exact location of your emergency. When giving directions, use county and city names, cross streets, mile markers, and landmarks.

Central Colorado SWCD Spring Fish Sale
4/15/2010
The Central Colorado Soil & Water Conservation District is selling Fish for stocking ponds. Fish available are Bluegill, Hybrid Bream, Red Ear, Bass, Channel Catfish, Crappie (Limited Supply) & Minnows. Grass Carp is available with Texas Parks & Wildlife Permit. This permit takes approximately 30 days to receive.

The sale will run April 12, 2010 thru May 21, 2010. Delivery will be May 26, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. in the Coleman City Park. For more information please call The Natural Resources Conservation Service at 325-625-4197 #3 or come by the office in the Horne Ag Building West of the Coleman County Courthouse.

Programs and services of the SWCD are offered on a nondiscriminatory basis without regards for race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, marital status or handicap.

Two Days Left to Mail Back 2010 Census Forms Residents Encouraged to Help Save up to $1.5 Billion in Taxpayer Money
4/15/2010
Today marks the two-day countdown for residents across America to mail back their 2010 Census questionnaires. Households that return their forms after Friday, April 16, will likely be visited by census workers, who begin May 1 going door to door to collect census responses.

Residents are encouraged to promptly mail back their forms, because doing so would reduce the cost of administering the census by $1.5 billion— funds that would be given back to taxpayers. After the 2000 Census, the Census Bureau was able to return $305 million in savings to the federal Treasury, because mail response rates exceeded expectations — a move the Census Bureau would like to repeat in 2010.

Each 1 percent increase in the national mail participation rate saves taxpayers $85 million by not sending census workers door to door from nonresponsive households. It costs 42 cents for people to mail back their form, compared with an average of $57 for census takers to visit each home and collect census data.

“Mailing back your form saves taxpayers money and ensures your community’s fair share of $400 billion in federal funds,” U.S. Census Bureau Director Robert Groves said. “Residents who miss the April 16 deadline should be prepared to get a knock on their doors between May and July.”

Nationwide, about 67 percent of households have mailed back their census forms. In 2000, the mail participation rate was 72 percent.

Emmanuel Baptist Youth Hosting YARD SALE & MORE
4/15/2010
Emmanuel Baptist Youth will be having a YARD SALE & BRISKET SANDWICH PLATES Saturday April 17, 2010 from 8:00am -2:00pm in the Emmanuel Baptist Church Parking lot on the corner of 12th St and Clow St...Please come help the youth raise money to go on a MISSION TRIP TO L.A.this summer!!!!

Local Soldier Receives Special Recognition, Returns Home Today
4/15/2010
Army Spec. Zachary T. Andrade was able to fly in the front seat of an AH-64D Apache Attach Helicopter in Iraq, something only an Apache Pilots normally get to experience.

"Just being in the actual cockpit with windows all around you and nothing blocking your view makes it feel like it's just you up there," Andrade said. "You can look out forever and see improvements we've made, like bridges we're building for the locals. It was nice to see that stuff."

Andrade said it can be frustrating not being able to fly on the Apache, which makes this program an excellent idea.

"I often feel isolated from other crew chiefs ... they get to fly on the helicopters they work on, so it's things like this that bring us all together," Andrade said. "Getting to fly up there and be a part of what the pilots do is not something we see every day. I wish we could do this more often."

Andrade, a mechanic is assigned to the 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas. The specialist has served in the military for five years.

He is the son of Richard A. Andrade, Timorah L. Andrade, both of Coleman Texas.

His wife, Jennifer, is the daughter of Vikki Nichols, and James Nichols, both of Williamson, Ga. Andrade is a 2003 graduate of Coleman High School. Zachary's family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and kind words.

Today, Zachary will return home from Iraq to Killeen, Texas.

Junior Class Parents meeting TODAY
4/15/2010
The Junior Class Parents (Class of 2011) will have a meeting TODAY, April 15, at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss plans for the After Prom Celebration on May 8th. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

Swening Sends Artwork to State Competition in Houston
4/15/2010
CHS Senior, Casie Swening’s artwork entitled ,“Headin South,” was chosen for the state VASE competition held in Houston each spring. Her piece was selected out of 24000 entries at the Regional level. VASE is largest high school Art competition in the United States right now.

Tax Assessor Collectors introduces new security policy, Texas Wildlife Service heightens fees
4/15/2010
The Commissioners’ Court presided for their regular meeting Monday morning, April 12th. Judge Jimmy Hobbs called the meeting to order and County Clerk Stacey Mendoza recalled the minutes from last meeting. Old business and previous meeting minutes were unanimously approved.

Jamie Trammell from the Coleman County Tax Assessor Collector’s office was present to introduce the new security policy to be enforced. The security policy involves payments specifically credit card payments taken. The reason for the change was to better protect the public with more restrictions on payment procedure and credit card data protection including shredding of the data disposed. The Tax Assessor Collector’s office filed the new policy with the Court.

Commissioner Mark Williams of Precinct 1 requested an equipment trade with Wilson Equipment Company. He asked to trade his current two road graders for their 2002 John Deere with a new transmission. Commissioner Williams added he has thoroughly researched his options and believes this is the best deal. The remaining cost is $23,000 comparative to a road grader cost as high as $100,000. The Court approved his request.
Another request came from Commissioner Mike Stephenson of Precinct 3 for consideration of approval for hiring a part-time employee as full time. Commissioner Stephenson request is within his financial plan as the Court considers this option in their annual budget. The Court approved the request.

For several weeks County Clerk Stacey Mendoza has advertised bids for sale of the used election equipment. The previous contract with the equipment company expired and she did not renew due to the high cost. Rather than selling back the equipment to the original company for a loss her advertisement attracted bids from several surrounding counties. After review of the bids, County Clerk Mendoza requested to accept bids from Young County and Mills County. This sale will rid of most of the equipment but she will still have some to continue to sell. The Court approved her decision.

The Court then examined the 2nd quarterly condensed statement of accounts presented by Shirley Sansing. Mrs. Sansing highlighted the sections for the Court. The statement of accounts is available to all online for review. The Court approved the 2nd quarterly condensed statement of accounts.

Lastly, Judge Hobbs informed the Court to be aware that there will be an increase for the Texas Wildlife Service program next year. Every couple of years there has been a rate increase. This service provides the county help with predators such as hogs and coyotes.
The meeting adjourned with payment of bills.

Nostalgia takes center stage at the 119th birthday celebration in Dr Pepper Texas
4/15/2010
The changing of the Dublin, Texas city limits sign to DR PEPPER, TEXAS on Monday, June 7 signals the start of a nostalgic “Endless Summer” at the world’s oldest Dr Pepper bottling plant.

By official city proclamation, the second week in June each year is designated Dublin Dr Pepper Week and the Monday morning changing of the city limits sign usually finds local residents and visitors lined up behind the Dr Pepper, Texas sign for the “photo op.”

The sign change kicks off the start of the week-long theme-0based birthday celebration which climaxes each year on the second Saturday of June. This year’s celebration on June 12 marks the 119th birthday of the plant, which was founded in 1891 at the same location where it stands now.

Since the first official centennial birthday celebration in 1991, as many as 5,000 to 7,000 people have crammed into the heart of this small North Central Texas town for the big family-oriented party.

This year’s Endless Summer theme fetches memories of surfing music and the sounds of American Bandstand, muscle cars that were the envy of teenagers, Frankie and Annette beach movies, beach blanket bingo- even a giant sandbox for kids of all ages. All of these great memories are incorporated into this year’s event.

The big weekend kicks off on Friday afternoon, June 11, across the street from the bottling plant in Hogan’s Alley where the annual AlleyFest will feature exclusive handmade crafts. The show continues all day Saturday.

On Friday night, visitors will gather near the Dr Pepper stage for a free concert by the 10-2-4 Band and a showing of a classic beach movie.

The Saturday events kick off with the annual Lions Club charity 10-2-4k race which starts at the Dr Pepper plant, and the Tour de Pepper bicycle race which starts at Dublin High School. Both events offer a variety of formats which should attract serious and non-so-serious athletes. The 10-2-4k run traditionally attracts as many as 500 runners and the bike race is expected to have twice as many riders.

The operative words for Saturday activities are “free, family, and fun.” The Dr Pepper plant will be open all day for free tours of the historic bottling line and museum. The steady flow of free Dublin Dr Pepper comes from a giant soda can, and the air will be filled with nostalgic music of the 60’s. Live performances will take place on the Dr Pepper stage and visitors will enjoy a slice of the huge Dublin Dr Pepper birthday cake.

Local and area non-profits will also stage various games and activities with small fees, with all proceeds benefiting their organizations.

The annual birthday is a thank-you celebration to the loyal fans of Dublin Dr Pepper Bottling Co and parent company, Dr Pepper-Snapple Group.

The Dr Pepper Birthday Party also coincides with the annual Dublin Area Reunion at the high school which is highlighted by a barbecue lunch, prepared and served by the Dublin Historical Society. Corporate sponsor of the reunion is Dublin National Bank.

The Dublin Historical Museum and the Dublin Rodeo Heritage Museum will also be open on Friday and Saturday and the Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly “Ladies Day on the Town” shopping event on Saturday.

For more information, go to www.dublindrpepper.com and www.dublintxchamber.com.

Sarah Herrod honored twice more for basketball performance
4/14/2010
Santa Anna High School junior Sarah Herrod has been awarded two additional honors for her basketball performance in the 2009-2010 season. Sarah was named to the Six Man All Region 1st team and the All West Texas 2nd team in addition to her All District and TABC all region selections. Sarah has just completed her third season for the Lady Mountaineers and Head Coach Bob Libby. During her tenure the Lady Mountaineers have won the district championship twice and been runner-up once. Santa Anna finished this season with a 28-6 record before bowing out in the bi-district round of the playoffs. Sarah is currently district singles tennis champion and has advanced to the regional tournament on April 21st and 22nd.

Santa Anna Horse Judging
4/14/2010
Santa Anna High School shows success in many areas and this year is no exception. This year you can add the FFA. The Horse Judging Team consisting of seniors Laken Herrod, Kody Krause, Wes Tucker, Emily Taylor, junior Danny Trowbridge, and sophomores Kaitlyn Krause and Kelsie Tobin is bringing in the hardware. They consist of a 4th place finish at Weatherford College, 2nd Place finish at the Panther Creek Invitational with Kaitlyn Krause being awarded High Point Individual, and a 4th place finish at the Area IV contest with Kody Krause being 10th overall High Point Individual. The team has qualified for a chance to go to state and compete against the best teams in Texas on April 17th at Texas Tech. Congratulations and best of luck!

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:
4/14/2010
Letter to Editor

Dear Editor,
As news of teenage drug abuse and drugs found in drinking water abound, our pharmacy wants to help. The Office of National Drug Control has found that prescription drugs are the drug of choice among 12- and 13-year olds, while a third of all new abusers of prescription drugs were between the ages of 12 and 17. Though it may be argued that the presence of drugs in drinking water is negligible, more and more consumers are disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the drain, adding pharmaceutical pollution to our waters. In addition, medicines thrown in the trash can end up in landfills if not first picked up by children, pets, sanitation employees, or anyone who rummages through trash.

That is why we’re pleased to have started a new drug take back program to help our patients safely dispose of medicines that may be dangerous to others and to the environment. Patients of any pharmacy can now safely dispose of unused and expired medications at our store(s), free of charge April 19 thru 24. Simply bring in the drugs in their original stock containers and we will work to dispose the medications in an environmentally friendly way.

We welcome you to come and talk to your community pharmacist about any medications. And remember to never give away your medications or take someone else’s. Prescription medicines are powerful and when taken correctly, can save lives, but when not taken properly, can have dangerous and potentially deadly consequences. Our extensive education and experience in community pharmacy make us the most qualified health care professionals when it comes to medication therapy, and often the most accessible. We look forward to talking to you soon.

Robert L. (Bob) Tyson, R.Ph.
Tyson Pharmacy
215 West Pecan Street
Coleman, Texas 76834
325-625-4126

THE ROAD YOUTH GROUP FUNDRAISER
4/14/2010
A church-wide garage sale to benefit the ROAD Youth Group of Concho Baptist Church is this Friday and Saturday at 1700 S. Concho. All proceeds will go in the Youth Camp fund to help the kids go to summer church camp. Come see the huge selection of furniture, clothing, toys, tools, etc. The sale will be Friday from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday 8-2.

Former City Councilman Indicted on Several Charges
By Kim Horne
4/14/2010
On March 24, 2010, the grand jury indicted John Plummer of Coleman on two counts of sexual assault, including one count of sexual assault of a child as well as one count of prohibited sexual conduct.

Plummer surrendered himself to the Coleman County Jail on March 25th. He is currently out on bonds totaling $120,000.00.

When ColemanNews.com contacted District Attorney Heath Hemphill, he wished to give no comment at this time.

John Plummer was employed at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene as security coordinator until the time of his indictment. He also served on the Coleman City Council South Ward and resigned from that position.

April has been designated as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Don’t Get Poor Marks for Your Reaction to Your Child’s Grades
4/14/2010
Take these important steps and avoid the “Report Card Reflex”
1. Sit down with your child and look over the report card.
2. Praise your child. Find at least one good thing: attendance, effort.
3. Be calm! Let your child tell you about his poor grades.
4. Ask how you can help your child do better.
5. Ask what your child can do to make better grades.
6. Make a plan with your child’s teacher and your child to do better.
7. Be realistic about your expectations and your child’s capabilities.
8. Spend time checking that your child’s school work is completed.

Developed by Child Abuse Prevention Network-Houston, Texas
Distributed by Coleman County Child Welfare Board

Coleman ISD Foundation To Award 3 Scholarships To CISD Graduating Srs.
Contributed
4/14/2010
The Coleman ISD Foundation, under the umbrella of the Community  Foundation of Abilene, will be awarding $1,000 scholarships to three  Coleman ISD graduating seniors.

Scholarship applications may be picked up at the CISD High School  Office. To qualify, you must be a Coleman ISD graduating senior with  intent to attend a 4-year college or trade school.

Scholarship applications are due in the CISD High School Office by  April 30, 2010.

Gospel Singin’ Sat. Night at The Feed Store
4/14/2010
There will be a Gospel Singing Saturday night at The Feed Store in downtown Santa Anna. Feeding in the Feed Room at 6 p.m., with the Singin’ to begin at 7 p.m.

Y’all come!!!!!

COUNTY TEAMS CLEAN UP SHOP AT DISTRICT GOLF TOURNAMENTS
4/14/2010
NOVICE'S BRILEY TAKES 1ST PLACE...Novice's Jarred Briley (left) was the first place medalist in district golf tourney. He shot an 82/82 for a 164 total. Garrett Strickland was also an alternate medalist as well.

PANTHERS TAKE 2nd AT DISTRICT...Panthers Boys compete in Eden at the district golf meet 4/12 & 4/13 after 36 holes the team took 2nd and will advance to the regional meet in Baird next week. The team consists of Fred Blackwell, SR. Trent Smith, JR. Kelton Powell, Soph. Ethan Morris, FR. coached by Dwin Nanny

COLEMAN HIGH GIRLS AND BOYS MOVE FORWARD...The Coleman High School Girls team placed 1st at district, while the Boys Varsity team placed second. Both teams will advance to regionals. Ryan Martin also won 1st in individual in boys golf district 8-AA.

Coleman Boys and Girls Golf...Front row: Dylan Buzzard, Taylor Armstrong, Reagan Barr, Lisha Merkley, Sarah Cassleberry, Chanie Barker. Back row: Trey Casey, Andrew Isom, Garrett Mendoza, Ryan Martin, Brody Tibbetts.

Texas Department of Agriculture Announces Ballot Deadline for Regional Boll Weevil Vote
4/14/2010
AUSTIN - Cotton farmers and landowners who planted cotton in 2009 in the Southern Rolling Plains Boll Weevil Eradication Zone are eligible to vote in an April 15 election to determine a board member to serve on the statewide board of directors for the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation, Inc.

TDA received one nomination for this position before the filing deadline. The name of Kenneth Gully of Eola will appear on the ballot as a board nominee. Gully has been farming since 1979.
Eligible voters in the zone should have already received an official ballot with a postage-paid return envelope included. Completed ballots must be postmarked on or before April 15 to be counted. Producers who planted cotton in 2009, but do not receive a ballot should contact TDA at (512) 463-3285 or 800-TELL-TDA (800) 835-5832.

The boll weevil remains the most destructive cotton pest in North America. The Texas Legislature established the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation in 1993 to eradicate the pest and ensure the Lone Star State remains the No. 1 cotton- producing state in the nation. Cotton has more than a $4 billion annual economic impact on Texas.

The Southern Rolling Plains Boll Weevil Eradication Zone includes all of Coke, Coleman, Concho, Irion, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Runnels, Schleicher and Tom Green counties, and parts of Taylor County.

REPUBLICAN RUN-OFF RESULTS
4/13/2010
Texas Supreme Court
-Debra Lehrmann 128
-Rick Green 182

County Commissioners
-Roger Guerrero Jr. 190
-Rick Beal 195

Livestock Projects TAG ORDER TIME
4/13/2010
Its April and Livestock Projects TAG ORDER TIME ! Please read the following and respond as soon as possible.

This week, the first two notices are for the State Fair in October this year. Please let your Ag Agent or FFA Advisor know if you are planning to exhibit livestock at Dallas next fall.

STATE FAIR - LAMB & GOAT TAGS
Please get your order to us by Thursday, April 15th.
Cost for tags will be $7.00 each. After the April 19th deadline, late tags are $20.00.
E-mail or call your orders to the County Extension Office ( coleman@ag.tamu.edu )

STATE FAIR - SWINE VALIDATION
Please let us know how many Swine Tags you will need by May 5th.
If you have anyone wanting to go to the state fair hog show in October 2010 , we need to order validation tags by May 7.
Try to let me know by May 5 ,so I can get them ordered on time. Cost of tags is still $7.00.

STEER VALIDATION
In addition to the two other tag orders, its time to order STEER TAGS for the 2010 - 2011 show season. Please call or e-mail the County Extension Office (coleman@ag.tamu.edu ) by Friday, April 16th, and let us know how many tags you will be needing the upcoming year. Cost for the tags are $7.00 each. Tags ordered after the April 20th date will be $10 each.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR at 325-625-4519.

April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Working together as a community, we can raise awareness, change attitudes, and help prevent sexual assault.
4/13/2010
Sexual assault takes many forms—it is any unwanted sexual contact, including rape, attempted rape, and child sexual abuse. It can affect people of any gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or ability. Perpetrators of sexual assault can be friends, acquaintances, family members, or strangers.

How can I protect myself from being sexually assaulted? There are things you can do to reduce your chances of being sexually assaulted.

• Be aware of your surroundings—who's out there and what's going on.
• Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the stronger you appear.
• Don't let drugs or alcohol cloud your judgment.
• Be assertive—don't let anyone violate your space.
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.
• Don't prop open self-locking doors.
• Lock your door and your windows, even if you leave for just a few minutes
• Watch your keys. Don't lend them. Don't leave them. Don't lose them. And don't put your name and address on the key ring.
• Watch out for unwanted visitors. Know who's on the other side of the door before you open it.
• Be wary of isolated spots, like underground garages, offices after business hours, and apartment laundry rooms.
• Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Vary your route. Stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas.
• Have your key ready to use before you reach the door—home, car, or work.
• Park in well-lit areas and lock the car, even if you'll only be gone a few minutes.
• Drive on well-traveled streets, with doors and windows locked.
• Never hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.
• Keep your car in good shape with plenty of gas in the tank.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE JUST BEEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED
• Get to a safe place.
• Contact someone who can help you: a friend, the police (911), The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter & Sexual Assault Program (325 643-2699) or (888-313-2699).
• Do not shower, drink or eat, clean, or change your clothes. These activities destroy important evidence in the event that you decide to prosecute the assailant.
• Get medical attention. You may have hidden injuries and may want to explore options for preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.
• Write down everything that you remember happening, with as much detail as possible. This can help with your own healing process and in any legal action you might decide to take.

FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
After a sexual assault a person needs to:
• Feel safe.
• Be believed.
• Obtain medical assistance.
• Know she or he was not at fault.
• If you know someone who has been assaulted and you have questions about getting them help, call The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter & Sexual Assault Program (325 643-2699) or (888-313-2699). 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Panther Creek Booster Club Meeting April 21
4/13/2010
Panther Creek Booster Club has a meeting scheduled for Wednesday, April 21st at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Plans will be discussed for the upcoming sports banquet, scholarships and next year’s events. Please come and bring your ideas and input for a better club. Everyone invited to attend.

Burkett VFD Thank You
4/13/2010
The Burkett VFD would like to express a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped to make our 2nd Annual BBQ a success! We had ample food, lots of people and a great time. It is the fundraisers and donations that keep the VFD’s operational. Thank you!!

“THANK YOU” to the following businesses for the generous donations of food, goods, and/or services for the drawings:

Merle Norman
Petal Patch
Best Fried Chicken
Johnson’s Implement
Alco
William’s Tire
Dairy Queen
Jet Lube
Cooper Supply
Davis Farm & Ranch
HBC/Radio Shack
Car Quest
D & R
Grammer’s
Johnson Feed Barn
F & L Feed Store
Pizza Hut
Tyson’s Pharmacy
Earle Smith Jewelry
Screen Art Graphics
Coleman Flower
Coleman State Bank
First Coleman National Bank
Self Image Salon
Tiffany’s
O’Reilly’s Auto Parts
Shoppin Baskit
Owl Drug
The Way Station
West Texas Gas
Big O’s
Rockin R 5 Steakhouse
Leather & Lace
The Line Shack
Double H Family Dining
Mesquite Time
That Santa Anna Store
Santa Anna Grocery
Traveler’s Treasure
Santa Anna Custom Processing

“THANK YOU” to the ladies who baked items for the Bake Sale and to the attendees who bought them!

Your continued support is greatly appreciated and we are truly blessed to have a very supportive and “Caring Community”!!

The Burkett Volunteer Fire Department, officers, governing board and members

4-H Sewing Project
4/13/2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010 Bill Franklin Center 10:00 a.m.
After many scheduling conflicts, we have set our next meeting date to continue with our sewing project work. Topics to be covered at this meeting are: practice four basic embroidery stitches and watch an informative CD *The More You Sew, The More You Know*. We will have the Felt Heart Project ready for you on Sat. April 24th, so please bring $7 to cover expenses for this project.

We will also present details about the next sewing project (2 parts) which is a Table Runner and Placemats to match. We will have this meeting on Saturday, April 24, 2010.

If you are interested in these 4-H Sewing Projects, call the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519 and sign up or e-mail us at coleman@ag.tamu.edu . These meetings are designed to get youth interested in sewing and learn hand work skills at the same time.

So remember - 4-H Sewing Project, this Saturday, April 17th, 10:00 a.m., Bill Franklin Center.

MT. VIEW CEMETERY ANNUAL MEETING and WORKDAY
4/13/2010
The annual meeting and workday for the Mt. View Cemetery Association of Coleman County is scheduled for Saturday, April 17th at the cemetery. Weather permitting, we will begin general maintenance and clean up at 8:00 a.m. We will plan to have lunch (bring your own!) around 11:30 or noon and visit a few minutes prior to starting the meeting. NOTE: If the weather is not suitable for working on the grounds or the ground is too wet from earlier rains (we can only hope!), we will have the general meeting around 8:30 or 9:00 to elect 2 board members and 3 officers, take care of any other business at hand, then reschedule the workday for another date.

If you have family or friends at rest in this quiet, peaceful place, we encourage you to join us. Mt. View is so pretty at this time of year.

Contact a Board member or Officer if you have any questions.

Sam Callaway of Corpus Christi caught Toyota ShareLunker 500 from O.H. Ivie Reservoir April 9. ShareLunker program manager David Campbell was there to receive the fish and present Callaway with a ceremonial check recognizing his catch. Callaway will receive the actual check at the ShareLunker banquet at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center June 5.
TPWD PHOTO © 2010, Larry D. Hodge

Toyota ShareLunker 500 Angler Collects Big Check
Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation pays $6,670 for big bass from O.H. Ivie Reservoir
4/13/2010
ATHENS—So far this season O.H. Ivie Reservoir has produced nine largemouth bass weighing 13 pounds or more that have been entered into the Toyota ShareLunker program. All were special fish to the anglers who caught them, but the ninth was a little more special than the others: Sam Callaway of Corpus Christi will collect $500 a pound for his catch, a total of $6,670.

Callaway caught Toyota ShareLunker No. 500 at 9:20 a.m. April 9 using a Zoom Magnum eight-inch lizard in watermelon/red. The 13.34-pound fish was immediately taken to an official ShareLunker weigh and holding station, Concho Park Marina, where it was held for pickup by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) ShareLunker program manager David Campbell. The fish, which is 20.5 inches in girth and 26.25 inches long, now rests in the Lunker Bunker at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center.

Callaway caught his big bass on the first day of the Permian Basin Oilman’s Bass Invitational, an annual event that raises money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The sixteen tournaments held to date have raised more than $1.5 million for the cause.

All participants in the tournament are subject to a polygraph test. Participation is limited to 250 two-person teams and is by invitation only. Callaway placed eighth in the tournament.

“Since the tournament is held to benefit the Make-a-Wish Foundation, the payouts are not huge,” Callaway said. “Mine will amount to a couple of thousand dollars. Catching the fish was a huge piece of luck—a blessing. It’s one of the greatest things that’s ever happened to me as a fisherman, and I’ve been fishing for 29 years.”

Callaway’s $500 per pound reward continues the practice of rewarding centennial catches of entries into the ShareLunker program that began with Jason Baird’s catch of ShareLunker 400 from Lake Amistad on February 28, 2006. That fish paid the Gypsum, Kansas, angler $400 a pound.

With almost three weeks to go in the current ShareLunker season, speculation now turns to how many fish will be entered into the program this season. Callaway’s fish brought the total to 29, which is well above the program’s 23-year average of 20.

Anyone legally catching a 13-pound or bigger largemouth bass from Texas waters, public or private, between October 1 and April 30 may submit the fish to the Toyota ShareLunker program by calling program manager David Campbell at (903) 681-0550 or paging him at (888) 784-0600 and leaving a phone number including area code. Fish will be picked up by TPWD personnel within 12 hours.

ShareLunker entries are used in a selective breeding program at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) in Athens. Some of the offspring from these fish are stocked back into the water body from which they were caught. Other ShareLunker offspring are stocked in public waters around the state in an attempt to increase the overall size and growth rate of largemouth bass in Texas.

Anglers entering fish into the Toyota ShareLunker program receive a free replica of their fish, a certificate and ShareLunker clothing and are recognized at a banquet at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens. In addition, if a Texas angler catches the largest entry of the year, that person receives a lifetime fishing license.

For complete information and rules of the ShareLunker program, tips on caring for big bass and a recap of last year’s season, see www.tpwd.state.tx.us/sharelunker. The site also includes a searchable database of all fish entered into the program along with pictures where available.

Information on current catches, including short videos of interviews with anglers, is posted on www.facebook.com/sharelunkerprogram.

The Toyota ShareLunker Program is made possible by a grant to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation from Gulf States Toyota. Toyota is a long-time supporter of the Foundation and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, providing major funding for a wide variety of education, fish, parks and wildlife projects.

Alleviating Texas hunger issues one mile at a time
Contributed by Texas Baptists Communication
4/13/2010
BALLINGER – Texas Baptists are fighting hunger in the state, and they are doing it by riding one mile at a time during Bike Out Hunger – a six-day event where pastors, church members and students will ride all or part of 445 miles during April 19-24 to raise awareness and support for hunger issues in the state.

In Texas, hunger is a present issue, one significantly affecting children. More than 1.3 million Texans are unsure of where they will get their next meal. Texas also leads the nation in the percentage of children who are food insecure at 22.3 percent. In Ballinger, this is also a reality as more than 53 percent of students in public school receive free or reduced lunches, and in Brownwood, about 63 percent of students are involved in the lunch program.

But Texas Baptists are trying to do something about this issue through the advocacy effort. A group of nearly 50 cyclists has committed to ride all or part of 445 miles in Bike Out Hunger April 19-24., an effort with Baylor University’s Texas Hunger Initiative to raise support for existing feeding ministries in the state and to empower churches and students to participate in efforts that end the cycle of hunger and poverty.

The group will meet at Executive Inn in Ballinger at 8 a.m. on April 19 to kick off the tour. The cyclists then will follow Highway 67, making a lunch stop in Santa Anna and then continuing on into Brownwood to stop at the Bell Towers on Howard Payne University campus at 4 p.m. for a rally and a hunger education event. Also, a commissioning service for the riders will be held during the 10:30 a.m. worship service at First Baptist Church on April 18. Also, Bobby Broyles, pastor of the church, will be riding in the first day of the tour.

“As Texas Baptists, we can’t ignore the number of hungry people in our state,” said Rand Jenkins, Texas Baptists director of communications and organizer of the event. “We must educate Texas Baptists about the hunger issues and call them to action. That is what Bike Out Hunger is all about - helping teach people about the need for hunger ministry and raising support for efforts that attempt to end the cycle of poverty and hunger in the state and around the world.”

Six volunteer cyclists have committed to ride the entire 445 miles with six multi-day riders while up to 20 additional riders will join the team for a day ride of about 70 miles. Many of the full-time cyclists are pastors and church staff members from congregations all over the state. Twelve other HPU students and professors have agreed to participate in the first day of the tour.

The group will take six days to complete the ride, stopping along the way at churches and universities to talk to anyone who will listen, attempting to educate about hunger issues and rally support for the issue at hand. The cyclists will start riding at First Baptist Church in Ballinger and wind their way through Brownwood, Hamilton, Gatesville, Waco, Belton, Killeen, Georgetown, Dripping Springs, Wimberley and San Antonio. The ride will end a rally and lunch at The Fellowship of San Antonio at noon on April 24.

“We wanted to recruit riders and that would help enlist other riders and financial support for the Texas Baptist Offering for World Hunger,” Jenkins said. “This has gone exceptionally well. We've also had great help from the Texas Baptist schools we'll ride by. Howard Payne University, University of Mary Hardin Baylor, Baptist University of the Americas, Truett and Baylor all have faculty, staff or students riding. Each of those is also hosting a hunger awareness event for the students and community.”

Within the past two months, the cyclists have enlisted to family, friends and church members to sponsor each mile that they will ride. All money raised will be given to the Texas Baptist Offering for World Hunger that supports more than 100 feeding ministries in the state, U.S. and abroad. Also, at each rally location during the tour, those who attend will have an opportunity to give to the offering. To date, the effort has raised about $3,000 for the offering.

To follow the progress of the cyclists, view daily riding routes or a complete riding map, locate a hunger awareness event to attend or learn how you can ride in the event, visit www.Texasbaptists.org/bikeout.

During the ride, daily updates, videos and photos will be added to this Web site. At each event location, riders and hunger initiative advocates will be available for interviews. To schedule interviews with the riders or a hunger advocate while they are in the Waco area, call 214-887-5494.

If someone in the community is interested in joining the ride, it’s not too late to sign up and participate. Interested riders can e-mail Rand.Jenkins@TexasBaptists.org or visit the event Web site for information on riding with the team.

City Council to Hear From Public Works on 2010 Paving Program
Thursday, April 15, 2010, 200 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas
4/12/2010
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the regular meeting held on Thursday, April 1, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

RECOGNITION OF STAFF: (NONE)
HEARING OF VISITORS CONCERNING MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA:
PUBLIC HEARING (S): (NONE)
RECEIPT OF BIDS: (NONE)
CONSENT AGENDA: (NONE)
OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider a request from the Fine Arts League to utilize the sidewalks adjacent to the Coleman Public Library for planned activities in conjunction with the FALCC Juried Art Show to be held on Saturday, October 2, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
2. Council will consider approval of the 2010 Paving Program as presented by the Public Works Division. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
3. Council will consider mid-year budget amendments as recommended by administration. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
4. Council will receive information presented by the City Manager and City Attorney related to the contract for the salvage of the Municipal Light Plant. Council reserves the right to enter into closed executive session pursuant to Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code, consultation with Attorney for the City.
5. Council will consider contract amendments for the salvage of the Municipal Light Plant. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
 
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN:

SANTA ANNA LIBRARY TO HOST BAKE SALE AT DOUBLE H CONVENIENCE STORE
4/12/2010
The Santa Anna Public will have a bake sale in front of Double H Convenience Store on Saturday, April 17th beginning at 8:00 a.m. On Sunday, April 25th at Double H Restaurant, beginning at 4:00 p.m., there will be a Spaghetti Supper. The proceeds of these two benefits will go towards a matching grant for expanding an already existing building at the Santa Anna Public Library.

The library has outgrown itself and is very widely used and in need of the extra room for further growth.

If the proceeds of the two benefit programs exceed the needed amount of funds, the excess funds will be divided between the Santa Anna ISD Library and the Santa Anna Public Library. The school will use any excess funds to buy new Accelerated Reading books for that very successful program.

2010 CROP CERTIFICATION DEADLINE
4/12/2010
Curtis L. Garrett, CED for the Coleman County Farm Service Agency, reminds producers of the May 3, 2010 deadline to report all small grain acreage (wheat, oats, barley, etc) or other fall seeded crop acreage to the FSA office. Failure to report all cropland and crops may result in ineligibility for some programs.

Additionally, producers who have short-rated some of their insured acreage and had previously reported those acres as intended for harvest as grain, need to revise your acreage report to reflect the appropriate intended use. A copy of the “Summary of Coverage” from your crop insurance needs to be provided for short-rated acres.

Late filed acreage report fees will be assessed for acreage reports filed after the May 3rd deadline.

Final Planting Dates for crops in Coleman County are: Cotton, Grain Sorghum, and Sorghum Forage for grazing are June 20th and Sorghum Forages for hay is July 5th. Please contact the office for final planting dates of other crops you intend to plant.

Please call 325-625-4197, extension 2 to schedule an appointment to report your acreage. The Coleman County FSA office is located at 118 North Concho Street in Coleman.

Junior Class Parents will have a meeting on Thursday
4/12/2010
The Junior Class Parents (Class of 2011) will have a meeting on Thursday, April 15, at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss plans for the After Prom Celebration on May 8th. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

Kiwanis To Host Candidate Forum TOMORROW!
4/12/2010
The Kiwanis will host a Coleman County Candidates Forum on Tuesday, April 13th at 5:30 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center. The candidate forum is a chance for citizens to hear from candidates running for county offices such as county judge and commissioners, city council candidates, and Coleman I.S.D. School Board of Trustees. The event costs $5 (tickets can be purchased at the door or from any Kiwanis member) and features a Mexican Chicken meal. Proceeds go toward the Senior Citizens Center and Kiwanis Youth projects. Please join your fellow citizens in a fun night with great food and discussion. Early voting begins April 26th-May 4th and voting day is May 8th.

Nancy Wylie, Mayor of Santa Anna, discusses Santa Anna's 4B EDC which has had positive influence on their downtown sccene

ColemanNOW Brings the Community Together for Discussion
4/12/2010
ColemanNOW hosted a town hall meeting last Thursday at Heritage Hall to engage voters about the possibility of installing a 4B Economic Development Corporation. Around 60 participants attended the town hall, where anxious participants found out information ranging from potential projects, specific examples of similar towns with 4Bs, and tax issues. The response from the crowd was enthusiastic and involved. ColemanNOW plans on hosting a similar event in the near future, as well as scheduling speaking engagements at organizations.

COLEMAN JUNIOR HIGH STUDENT PLACES 1ST IN MAYORS 5K RACE IN ABILENE
4/12/2010
On April 10th, Gabriel Roberts was one out of 428 runners that participated in the Mayor's 5k Race in Abilene. Gabriel won the first place medal for (males 12 and under division) and placed 13th overall with a time of 20:50. Gabriel also ran against Melissa Morgan (The biggest Loser contestant).We are so proud of Gabriel, for his enthusiasm and determination for finishing the 5k run.

ART LEAGUE MEETING THURSDAY
4/12/2010
The Fine Arts League will hold its monthly meeting Thursday, April 15 at the First Coleman National Bank Club room at 6 pm. A Board meeting at 5 pm will precede the membership meeting.

Discussions will include the Membership Show in July, Chair Bill Shields. The Committees for the Fiesta Juried Show will be announced. The Fiesta Show is October 1 & 2 at the Library with John Pototschnik serving as Juror. Texas Blue Bunny books are available from League members at $15. This project is a fundraiser for the Fiesta Juried Show. It is a limited edition, so be sure and get your copy NOW.

The Tom Lockhart Workshop deadline for deposit is April 21. Workshop is April 29, 30 and May 1. It is sponsored by and under direction of Heritage Hall. For further information, you may call Ginger Test 325-723-7035 or Kay Mitchell 325-625-1140 (Kay's Garden).

The Ballinger Mini Art Show will be held April 24. Entry is April 21 at the Do-Art Studio in Ballinger.

The program for Thursday's meeting is "color fields and backgrounds". Should be an interesting evening.

Refreshments will be provided. Come, enjoy. Guests are always welcome.

Marian Johnson, Publicity Fine Arts League of Coleman Co.

www.fineartsleaguecolemantx. Com

Projects of the Fine Arts League are funded in part by the Texas Commission on the Arts, the Coleman Foundation, and hotel occupancy tax

DOLLAR GENERAL DONATES DOG FOOD TO HUMANE SOCIETY
4/12/2010
Steve Martin, Dollar General’s store manager, helps Humane Society director Sue Frizzell load several sacks of dog and cat food to support the Humane Society’s new program that provides pet food for the shut-ins and disabled in the Meals on Wheels program. Martin is inviting the Humane Society to pick up pet food each Friday.

BOY SCOUTS TO HOST GARAGE AND BAKE SALE
4/12/2010
The scouts of Boy Scout Troop 221 will be having a combined garage sale and bake sale at Monroe Auto Parts at the corner of Concho and Elm Streets on Saturday, April 17th, beginning at 8 am to raise money to go to summer camp at Camp Tonkawa in Buffalo Gap in June. Summer camp will cost each scout $190 and $100 for each adult camping with them.

Please come out and support our local Boy Scout Troop with your purchases and donations. This will be the first trip to summer camp for most of these boys. The Troop is in a rebuilding stage with many new scouts and leaders. Your support and generosity is greatly appreciated to keep scouting alive in Coleman.

Holiday Hill Easter Egg Hunt

HOLIDAY HILL EASTER EGG HUNT HOSTS OVER 70 CHILDREN
4/11/2010
-Contributed-
Holiday Hill held an Easter egg hunt for Coleman County kids on April 3, 2010. There were about 70 kids that participated and the hunt was broken into three groups by age: Babies, Toddlers, and Big kids.

Holiday Hill would like to say thank to everyone who came out and participated the residents really enjoyed being able to see all of the young kids.

Sam Callaway of Corpus Christi
500th SHARELUNKER CAUGHT AT O.H. IVIE? I THINK SO!
4/10/2010
Sam Callaway, of Corpus Christi, was participating in his 16th year at the Permian Basin Oilman’s Bass Invitational which benefits the Make a Wish Foundation when he caught a large bass. Callaway caught a 13.34 pound bass at 9:20 a.m. yesterday morning at O.H. Ivie Reservoir. Callaway was fishing around 7 feet deep with the water at 61 degrees. He used a Zoom 8 Inch Magnum Lizard watermelon red. The fish qualified for the Sharelunker program hosted by Toyota and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

If Callaway's fish passes official inspection tests from the Texas Parks and Wildlife organization, Callaway will be named the 500th Sharelunker winner, whereas Callaway will receive $500 for every pound.

While yesterday's monster bass was caught on the Concho side of Lake Ivie, several Sharelunker worthy bass have been caught in Coleman County. Coleman truly is a sought after destination for both hunters and fisherman alike. Look for the Chronicle & DV's fishing guide which will be published April 22, 2010.

Coleman ISD Early Release Monday, April 12th
4/10/2010
Coleman ISD will release ALL students early on Monday, April 12th. Teachers will participate in staff development Monday afternoon. High School will release students at 12:00 noon. Elementary and Jr. High School students will release at 12:25 p.m. Elementary students will not have TKO on Monday. Busses will run early Monday afternoon.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT LOANS FOR HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
4/10/2010
TEMPLE, TEXAS, April 9, 2010 - Paco Valentin, Texas State Director of USDA Rural Development, announced today that Section 504 loan funds are available to qualified applicants to make their homes more energy efficient. Loan funds may also be used to make general repairs to improve or modernize the property, as long as the dwelling remains modest.

"The Section 504 Loan Program not only helps homeowners repair their homes and make their homes more energy efficient, but is an important component of USDA's economic development efforts," said Paco Valentin.

Having an energy efficient home can be accomplished very easily. Examples of making a home more energy efficient include installing double pane windows, more insulation in the attic, weather stripping the doors, caulking existing windows, and the installation or upgrade of a heating or cooling unit with higher seasonal energy efficiency rating for the purpose of removing health hazards. Doing such would reduce the costs of heating and cooling a home.

Section 504 loans have an interest rate of 1 percent and a maximum term of 20 years. Maximum loan amount is $20,000. To qualify for a Section 504 loan, the applicant must have a reliable income source sufficient to allow repayment of the loan. Applicants must also have a credit history that indicates a reasonable ability and willingness to meet debt obligations. The adjusted household income at the time of loan approval and at loan closing must not exceed the USDA Rural Development applicable very low income limit.

In order to be eligible for a Section 504 loan, the applicant must own and occupy the property. The property must be considered modest for the area, must not have an in-ground pool, and must not have a value in excess of the area loan limit. For the purpose of USDA Rural Development housing assistance the property must be located in an eligible rural area. To determine if your property is located in an eligible rural area, please contact the USDA Rural Development area office that serves your area, which can be located at http://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app or call (254) 742-9770 for assistance.

Scholarship Fund Established in Memory of Theresa Edington
4/9/2010
A Memorial Scholarship has been established in memory of Theresa Edington. She had been an educator for 31 years and most recently worked with struggling readers in the Elementary Reading Lab. She passed away after a serious illness on April 8, 2010.

The Elementary Faculty and Staff would like to honor her memory by awarding a yearly scholarship to a Coleman High School Graduating Senior. Our hope is that this scholarship will provide an opportunity for continued education for deserving students who were fortunate enough to fall under her guidance allowing them to carry on her ideals, her knowledge, and her moral principals into their own future, and the world cannot help but to be a better place for it.

Donations to this scholarship fund may be made directly to Coleman Elementary in her name. Donations may be dropped off at the Elementary office or mailed to 303 West 15th Street, Coleman, TX 76834. For more information you may contact Becky Jackson at 625-3546. Seniors may pick up a scholarship application in the High School Counselor’s office and is due back by May 7, 2010 for consideration.

Toyota ShareLunker 499, 500: O.H. Ivie Again
4/9/2010
ATHENS—Bill Hunter III of Sweetwater caught Toyota ShareLunker 499 from O.H. Ivie Reservoir April 6. The fish weighed 13.04 pounds.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff are currently enroute to pick up the potential Toyota ShareLunker 500 from O.H. Ivie Reservoir. That fish will not be officially accepted into the program as No. 500 until it has been X-rayed and the angler has taken a polygraph test to confirm the fish was legally caught and entered.

Additional information will be released through the usual channels as soon as it is available.

County Commissioners consider road grader trade, hiring part-time employee
4/9/2010
Notice is hereby given that a regular meeting of the above named court will be held on Monday, April 12, 2010, and begin at 9:00 am and continue thereafter until such business of the court has been completed and in accordance with Article 81.005 of the Local Government Code of the State of Texas. The following items of business will be discussed, to wit:
Agenda Topics
-Call the Meeting to Order
-Old Business
-Consider approval of Minutes from the March 22, 2010 meeting
-Consider approval of Security Policy by the Coleman County Tax Assessor Collector’s office (Jamie Trammell)
-Consider approval of Precinct 1 trading 2 road graders for 1 road grader with Wilson Equipment Co. (Mark Williams)
-Consider approval of Precinct 3 hiring a part-time employee as a full time employee (Mike Stephenson)
-Consider approval of bids for sale of used election equipment (Stacey Mendoza)
-Consider approval of 2nd Quarter Condensed Statement of Accounts
-Consider Texas Wildlife Service Program Increase on assessment rate for County Trapper to be effective January 1, 2011
-Public Comments, Announcements, Visitors not on the agenda
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow public comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of said Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)
-Consider approval of current bills for payment and transfer of funds if necessary
Adjournment

Coleman FFA Advances 2 Judging Teams to State FFA Judging Contest
4/9/2010
Five judging teams from the Coleman FFA chapter participated in the Area IV Career Development Event Wednesday April 7^th at Tarleton State University. Awards were presented to the top 5 placing individuals and top five placing teams in the area. The top 5 placing teams were certified to compete in the State FFA Judging Contest.

“These students have had a very successful year and did a great job representing Coleman and our FFA Chapter”, advisor Tony Beggs

Tanner Strickland 4^th high individual overall in Land Judging.

2010 Coleman FFA Land Judging team placed 3^rd overall. From Left to right, Advisor Tony Beggs, Chase Huddle, Jeff Levefer, Tanner Strickland, Kelby McCorkle.

Gary Heath placed 4^th high individual in Horse Judging.

2010 Coleman FFA Horse Judging Team placed 2^nd overall. From Left to right, Casie Swening, Gary Heath, Lisa Dees, Seth Ryan and advisor Tony Beggs.

$100,000 Young Farmer Grants Now Available
4/9/2010
The Texas Agricultural Finance Authority announces $100,000 for a new round of Young Farmer Grants. Grants up to $10,000 will be awarded to young Texas agriculture producers between the ages of 18 and less than 46 years old. Please check the website for program details and a link to the application. The grants are competitive and more than 150 young Texans applied for the last round. The open application period is April 14 to close of business May 14, 2010.

Click here for more information application...

Panthers Do Not Advance Past Area, Wins in All Star Cast and Honorable Mention
Submitted by Teresa Smith
4/9/2010
Panthers did a great job at Area One Act in Brownwood but only Blackwell and Highland advanced. Panthers did have honors: ALL STAR CAST: Trevor Smith, Cassie Philpot HONORABLE MENTION CAST: Courtney Moore, Ethan Griffin Congrats to Mrs.Short and the cast and crew of the "The Bridegroom of Blowing Rock" great job panther fans very proud of you all!

Director of Senior Center Presents Program to Good Neighbor TEEA Club Last Friday
4/9/2010
Contributed
Tina Rankin, Director of the Coleman Senior Center, presented the program to the Good Neighbor TEEA Club Friday morning, April 2nd. She gave information on the operation of the center under the West Central Texas Area Agency on Aging. She stated a great need for financial assistance now as many of the people in the Meals on Wheels program can not pay for their meals. Volunteers also are needed to assist with the deliveries and also to assist with the meals at the center. Thank you, Tina, for coming to share with us.

During the business meeting, President Nina Childress called the meeting to order. Thought for the day was “Good character, like good soup is usually homemade.” Roll call was “What is your favorite dish to prepare?” Minutes of the last meeting were read. Peggy Willetts gave the treasurer’s report. The group voted to give a donation of $120 to the Senior Center.

The president announced the joint club Fun Day would be Friday, May 7. Deborah Yates was in charge of the trip, which would be to Brady. Itinerary would include Historical Heart of Texas Museum, lunch, and Heart of Texas Museum. Because of Fun Day, the club voted to move its May 7 meeting to Friday, April 30th.

In other business, the upcoming District 7 Spring meeting April 6 in San Angelo was discussed. Schedule for the County Cultural Arts Contest on May 12 was announced. Judging will take place that morning at 11:00 followed by a salad luncheon at 11:30. The Coleman 4-H Scholarship winner for 2010 will be recognized at the luncheon. The association monthly meeting will be immediately afterwards.

Members attending were Ola Jean Alderson, Nina Childress, Helen Cross, Retamay Gaines, Betty Griffin, Anna Jenkins, Jean Langford, Dorothy McDonald, Dora Newman, Mary Frances Smith and Peggy Willetts. Hostess was Ola Jean Alderson.

Good Neighbor Club will next meet April 16 at 9:00 a.m. in the Coleman County State Bank clubroom. Ralph Terry will present the program. You are invited to attend. Visitors are welcome.

SANTA ANNA COACH SELECTED TO COACH ALL-STARS BASKETBALL GAME
4/8/2010
Contributed
Santa Anna varsity girls’ coach Bob Libby has been selected to coach the All-stars in the Texas Six Man’s Coaches Association basketball game this summer which will be played at Lubbock in July. Coach Libby has been coaching for 30 years and has been the Santa Anna girls’ coach for the past six seasons.

For the most part, the Lady Mountaineers and Coach Libby have been a very good mix. Santa Anna has accumulated an overall record of 131 victories and only 64 losses over the past six years. Santa Anna has won a minimum of 20 games in four of those six seasons. The Lady Mountaineers have been district champs twice, as well as two-time district runners-up. In his first two seasons, Santa Anna placed third. In the 2008-09 season Santa Anna advanced to the regional quarterfinals and were eliminated by eventual state champion Roby. This past season, a very young team was the most successful team to date in terms of victories with a record of 28-6. They were eliminated in the bi-district round.

During his tenure he has coached one All-State selection, four All-Region picks, and numerous All-District players. There have been three girls that have represented Santa Anna in the All-Star game. This overall success has been a major reason in his selection as an All-Star Coach.

Coleman County TEEA Receives Award at District 7 Spring Meeting
4/8/2010
Contributed
Coleman County TEEA received the Education Program Award at the District 7 TEEA Spring Meeting, Tuesday, April 6 in San Angelo. This group receiving the award includes the two TEEA clubs in the county, Good Neighbor and Gouldbusk Homemakers.

District 7 Director, Shari Craig, from Coleman County, presided at the meeting. Lynn Corbett, also from Coleman County, acted as secretary and presented the credentials report during the business session. TEEA members and CEA-FCS agents attended from 12 counties in the district. Thirteen members were in attendance from Coleman County.
Highlights of the day included two programs. “Bob Who and Other Important Stuff” was given by Director Shari Craig. “Edible Flowers for The Home Landscape” was presented by Allison Watkins, Tom Green Co. CEA-Horticulturist. Enter-tainment during lunch was by San Angelo’s Lone Star Cloggers.

Attending from Coleman County were Anna Jenkins, Coleman County TEEA Chairman, and Shari Craig, Nina Childress, Lynn Corbett, Helen Cross, Geneva Harris, Jean Langford, Danella McBrayer, Dorothy McDonald, Dora Newman, Mary Frances Smith, Pat Vance, and Peggy Willetts.

4-H Horse Club Meeting Scheduled for Monday, April 12, 2010
Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR
4/8/2010
All 4-H Horse Club members, and all those who are interested, are asked to attend a horse club meeting on Monday, April 12, 7:00 p.m., Bill Franklin Center.  We will be discussing upcoming events and certifying horses for the 2010 District and State 4-H Horse Shows. If you have a horse that needs to be certified, please bring the appropriate paperwork. If you have any questions, call the County Extension Office at 325-625-4519.

Coleman EDC to Meet Tuesday, April 13th
4/8/2010
AGENDA
COLEMAN EDC, INC.
REGULAR BOARD MEEETING
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD ROOM
218 SOUTH COMMERCIAL
COLEMAN, TEXAS
TUESDAY, April 13, 2010 4:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

Receive comments from guests on items not on the agenda.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. EDC Board will consider approval of minutes from the meeting on March 9, 2010. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.


FINANCIAL REPORT

1. Consider monthly financial report from EDC’s Treasurer, Harold Skelton. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

2. Update on the back pay and the resumption of payment of fees to Harold Skelton for the accounting work on the EDC’s finances. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

1. Consider the TxDot Funds reported to be available, and discuss status of the TxDot work in progress for the grant of matching funds for the two buildings at the airport. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

2. Information from Mike Otto concerning water quality at Filtration Equipment. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

3. Determine the insurance payments and seek bids to repair storm damage to the EDC buildings as appropriate. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

4. Update on the Wind Tower Monitoring in the south part of Coleman County. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

5. Receive update from Evan Autry on a proposed separate 4B Economic Development Corporation in Coleman. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

6. Receive report from Bob Turner. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

7. Discuss prospective businesses interested in relocating to Coleman. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

8. Set a date for delivering the EDC Annual report to the City Council. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

9. Receive comments from EDC Board Members.

EDC Board reserves the right to enter executive session related to any item on the agenda in accordance with conditions set forth in Section 55l.074 and 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

EDC Board will consider information related to business and commercial Prospects with which the EDC Board has on going negotiations relating to relocation, expansion and/or to stay in the area, pursuant to Section 551.074 and Section 551.087 which authorizes certain deliberations about officers, employees and consultants of the governmental body to help in executive session of the Texas Government Code.

1. EDC Board to reconvene in open session and take any action relative to Economic Development negotiations to Section 551.074 and Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.

ADJOURNMENT

Little League Baseball and Softball Opening Ceremonies Saturday
4/8/2010
Opening ceremonies for Little League Baseball and Softball are this Saturday, April 10th, at 10:00 am. There is a full day of games to follow, so come out and support the youth of Coleman as they kick off another great year of baseball and softball. The concession stand will be open, so plan on staying for lunch.

ANNUAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BANQUET, FRIDAY, APRIL 23
4/8/2010
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture & Tourist Bureau will host its Annual Banquet on Friday, April 23rd at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center. Theme for this year’s banquet is “A Ticket to the Stars”. Donnie Neff will provide the dinner music and Rex Tackett will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Please come join us for a fun filled evening. Chairpersons for the 2010 Chamber Banquet are Nina Childress, Bobby and Karen McGee.

Directors of the Coleman Rodeo Association will cook the meal. The menu will consist of sirloin steak, grilled chicken breast, and all the trimmings.

Tickets are now on sale at the Chamber of Commerce Office or from any Chamber Director for $14.00. Chamber Directors to contact are: Cathy Allen, Dr. Darron Atwood, Evan Autry, Sandra Barr, Nina Childress, Danyelle Hemphill, Kim Horne, Greg Martin, Bobby McGee, Kevin McMahon, Kathy Turner and Darla Wise.

The 2010 Citizen of the Year, Rural Citizen of the Year, New Horizon Award of the Year, and Teacher of the Year Award winners will be announced during the program.

A silent auction and live auction will be held again this year. Various items donated by merchants will help enable the Chamber to defray cost for the banquet. Items will include gift certificates, merchandise, and goody bags showcasing our merchant’s best goodies. Proceeds form the auction will also help the Chamber of Commerce purse future activities throughout the year.

Everyone is encouraged to attend the Chamber of Commerce banquet for an evening of pleasure. You do not have to be a Chamber member in order to attend. We are asking business members to encourage their employees to attend the banquet. Attendance by your employees will represent your business while showing the employee that they are an integral part of your business.

For more information concerning the banquet, please call the Coleman Chamber of Commerce office at 325-625-2163.

Taking the First Step Forward
Town Hall Meeting TONIGHT
by Evan Autry, ColemanNOW Representative
4/8/2010
For a brief moment, think of community development in terms of trying to lose weight:

Let's assume a man is overweight and consequently unhealthy. As a result of his rearing and life choices, our hypothetical man is fat, falls short of breath, and cannot travel easily. He not only suffers from risk of heart disease, but also has trouble with the ladies. So, what choices are available to this gentleman?

The man above simply has two choices: Choice A involves staying the course or diving in and out of pointless dieting, while Choice B involves changing one's lifestyle. Obviously, most of you would choose Choice B, because B leads to a healthier and gratifying lifestyle.

Nonetheless, if any of you have ever tried to diet versus trying to change your lifestyle, you might understand how hard it is to truly change. Adhering to a diet does indeed require exercise and a change in eating habits, but all too often dieting acts as a quick fix but doesn't transition into a changed lifestyle. On the other hand, a changed lifestyle involves practicing a new way of living, which in the case of an overweight person attempting to become healthy, would mean daily exercise, a revised and almost religious eating program, and aggressive medical screening and care.

Community development in a city like Coleman is very similar to a diet versus a lifestyle. Right now we are fat and unwilling to act or in search of a quick fix. While most of us assume that we are Choice B people, many of us have chosen Choice A because taking the first step to change is often very difficult and scary. However, in order to truly prosper, we can't look at development as either a quick fix or useless pursuit. Instead, we need to think of it in terms of a process defined by sacrifice, persistence, and activism. After all, if we want a healthy economy and to attract business, we need to change how we think of economic development.

Today, ColemanNOW asks Coleman's citizens, the true stewards of our community, to take the first step toward a lifestyle focused on community building. Today's town hall not only gives you a chance to learn what's at stake for Coleman's future, but it allows you to voice your opinion, participate in a brainstorming session, and gather in fellowship with citizens who care about making a change together. Furthermore, we will answer the following questions and more: What's a 4B, What projects can it do, Who else has a 4B, Who makes the decisions, Why do we need 2 EDCs, Why not private funding, How will it affect me, Are you creating a new tax?

The possibilities of a 4B Community Development Corporation are endless. They range from beautifying our downtown to gaining access to large grants to marketing our community to retirees or fixing basic infrastructure problems. The true importance, however, is taking a step in the positive direction and picking ourselves up by our bootstraps. After all, if we don't care about Coleman, who will?

Town Hall Meeting: Thursday (Tonight) at 5:30, April 8th, 2010, Heritage Hall at 400 W. College Street, Beans Hush Puppies, and Homemade Cobbler provided by the Grazin' Patch.

1. Cassie Philpot, 2. Betty Torres

2 Panthers Place in District, Move on To Regionals
4/8/2010
Two Panther Creek students placed in the District track meet at Zepher April 6, 2010. Cassie Philpot placed 1st in the 800 meter and 1st in the mile. Betty Torres placed 2nd in 800 meter.

Lockhart workshop on watercolor and pastel open to 15
4/8/2010
The Tom Lockhart workshop is open to a class of 15 who are interested in learning from a master of watercolor and pastel. The Workshop is sponsored by and will be held at Heritage Hall, 400 W. College, April 29, 30 and May 1 from 9 to 4. Deposit of $150 is due April 21. For Entry and information, contact Kay Mitchell at Kay's Garden 325-625-1140 or Ginger Test 325-723-2035.

Marian Johnson,
Publicity
Fine Arts League of Coleman Co., Inc.

SANTA ANNA HIGH SOPHOMORE ADVANCES IN BEAUTY PAGEANT
4/8/2010
Sarah Pelton, sophomore at Santa Anna High School, has advanced to the Texas State Finals in the Sunburst Beauty Pageant. The State Pageant will be held in Houston at the end of May on Memorial Day weekend. Sarah is the daughter of Earl and Alys Ellis and the grandaughter of Tex and Patsy Wright all of Santa Anna. She has participated in many modeling events and wishes to continue. Sarah would like to go not only to enjoy the experience but to learn about a career opportunity. At the moment the goal she has to meet is yet to be reached, so please help donate money for Sarah to continue towards the Texas State Finals.

We will be holding a benefit dinner April 10th starting at 6:00 pm. The dinner will be held at the Santa Anna Fire Hall. You can also help her continue by putting an ad in the State Wide Program or donate money to support. If you would like to place an ad in the State Program please Contact:

Sarah at- [325]-348-3745
or by e-mail: avea800@yahoo.com

Guys & Dolls Scramble Is Cancelled
4/7/2010
The Guys and Dolls Scramble scheduled for this weekend at the  Coleman Country Club has been cancelled due to lack of entries,  reports Tim Parrott. The next tournament is the Two Person Low Ball set for May 8-9.

BURKETT COMMUNITY DINNER
4/7/2010
Do foods like home fried chicken, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, fresh pies and cobblers make your mouth water? If so, come join us for a home cooked meal, maybe a game or two of dominoes and a visit with your neighbors.

The Burkett Community Dinner offers a buffet style – pot luck meal. We’re talking about good, down home cooking! The Community Dinner is open to everyone, just load up your family, a covered dish and y’all come.

SATURDAY ~ April 10, 2010
6:00 PM
Burkett Christian Community Center

COLEMAN HIGH YEARBOOK ORDER FORMS
4/7/2010
Click here for the Coleman High School Yearbook Order Forms.

The show goes on as workers install the new frozen section behind the check out counters!

Shoppin' Baskit Gears Up For Summer
Expands Frozen Section, Amplifies Security
4/7/2010
In downtown Coleman, there are few stores that bustle with as many customers going in and out as the local grocery store. Shoppin' Baskit is busy preparing for summer by installing several new features for the public.

Shoppin' Baskit recently expanded its frozen food section by installing 16 new sections. The frozen sections will showcase new assortments of frozen meats, ice cream, and pizzas. Shoppin' Baskit will now also host a 20 foot long refrigerated drink counter.

The Shoppin' Baskit also wants the public to be aware of 30 new cameras installed to prevent shop lifting and other criminal offenses. The cameras were installed in strategic places throughout the store, whereas criminals may now be caught both during the act and via recorded methods. That means, you don't have to be caught red-handed in order to be arrested. On average, the Shoppin' Baskit has caught around 2 to 3 customers per week.

Shoppin' Baskit aims to make its customers shopping experience not only pleasant through expanded and assorted selections, but safe by means of amplified security.

Outdoors Movie Theater Coming To Coleman
4/7/2010
Do you remember drive-in movie theaters? If not, have you ever wanted to attend a drive-in or enjoy a good movie outside under the stars? This Saturday night you and your family and friends will have the opportunity to attend an outside, drive-in double feature--IN COLEMAN!

Stagecoach Outdoor Movie Theaters will host a double feature of "The Blind Side" and "Sherlock Holmes" this Saturday night, April 10th, starting around Sunset or 8:00 p.m. at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. Those attending may view the movie from their cars or bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the movie in a designated area up front.

Tickets for adults are $7.00 and children (12 and under) get in for $5.00. If you present the advertisement from this newspaper, you may purchase up to 4 tickets each at a dollar off.

The Coleman Kiwanis Club will host a concession stand with traditional favorites like buttery popcorn, assorted soda pop, and sweets!

Come enjoy a fun-filled event that not only takes place here in our hometown, but allows us to enjoy two great films out in the beauty of the West Texas sky!

AUTOMATED WEATHER OBSERVATION SYSTEM (AWOS)

COLEMAN AIRPORT INSTALLS NEW WEATHER SYSTEM
4/7/2010
THE NEW AUTOMATED WEATHER OBSERVATION SYSTEM (AWOS) is now up and running at the Coleman Airport. Airport manager Randy Long explained that the system provides "real time" weather conditions in Coleman, not only for pilots, but for everyone. There is a local phone number (625-3563) so citizens can call and get up-to-date weather. The AWOS has been in the works for two years now, and construction was finished two weeks ago, with the unit being commissioned Monday.

BAKE SALE FOR JEANIE GUERRERO
4/6/2010
The Friends of Jeanie Guerrero are having a bake sale Sunday (April 11th) at the Shoppin’ Basket from 9:30 AM to 2 PM.

Jeanie Guerrero has been working at Coleman County Medical Center since July of 1998. She started as a cook in the Dietary Department, and was made Director of that department in January of 2005. She is a sweet, caring woman who is raising her two grandsons.

Recently, Jeanie was diagnosed with cancer of the liver and pancreas. She is in Abilene Regional Medical Center. Although she has some insurance, it isn’t enough to cover all the bills. She has run out of Sick Pay and Paid Time Off at the hospital. She needs help.

There will be cakes, pies, cookies, breads, and other goodies for sale. The CCMC employees will be cooking for this sale, as well as other people, and if anyone out there reading this would like to help us out (and I know there are some wonderful cooks out there!), please give the ladies in the Dietary Department a call (325-625-2135, Ext. 301), or just bring them to the Shoppin’ Basket around 9 AM Sunday morning. The more we have to sell, the more we can help Jeanie.

The employees are also donating to a fund to pay Jeanie’s insurance premiums so her policy will not be cancelled. She would do the same for us.

GLEN COVE VFD HOSTING BAKE SALE SATURDAY
4/6/2010
The Glen Cove VFD will be having a bake sale on Saturday, April 10th, at The Shoppin Basket. The bake sale will begin at 8:00am and go until it is all sold out. There will be all kinds of baked goods for sale and all the proceeds will go to support the Glen Cove VFD. Thanks for you support!

That same evening there will also be a Glen Cove VFD meeting at 6:00pm at the Glen Cove Baptist Church, with a sandwich and chips supper.

Junior Rodeo Association will meet on Thursday, May 6th
4/6/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will meet on Thursday, May 6th at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center. All interested are welcome to attend. No meal will be served. Hope to see you there!

Join the Friends of NRA at the Bill Franklin Center May 1st
4/6/2010
Save the date of Saturday May 1, 2010. Join the Friends of NRA at the Bill Franklin Center at 6 PM to celebrate family, friends, fun, and your Second Amendment freedom. Live auction, silent auction, and raffle winners will take home firearms, optics, art work, jewelry, knives, and furnishings. Come join the fun and win the NRA gun of the year, a Kimber Model 84M Classic Select .308.

Pre-event raffle tickets are $10. Winners will take home a DPMS AR-15 and a Taurus Judge. Winners need not be present to win.

Banquet tickets are available for $25 per person at the Bargain House or Shoppin' Basket in Coleman. Tickets are also available from committee members or on line at  www.friendsofnra.org/events/tx

Included in the price of admission is an opportunity to participate in several raffles, silent auction, live auction and BBQ supper catered by Sara's Neighborhood. For more information or to volunteer please call Tom Hoysa 785-4465.

DAR AMERICAN HISTORY ESSAY WINNERS ANNOUNCED
4/6/2010
The Captain William Buckner Chapter of DAR sponsored the American History Essay Contest for 2009-2010. The Panther Creek 5th grade participated and the winner was Sarita Short, daughter of Michael and Jennifer Short. Runners up were Riley Philpot, daughter of Wayne and Wendy Philpot and the late Cynthia Philpot and Cody Tovar, son of Tony and Shannon Casas.

The topic was to describe how they felt on May 10, 1869 when the golden spike was driven at Promontory Summit, Utah, to celebrate the completion of the First Transcontinental Rail-road. They could pretend that they were either a settler planning to use the train to travel to their new home in the west, an Irish or Chinese worker who helped build the line, or a Native American whose way of life was greatly affected by the railroad.

These students, along with the DAR Good Citizens from Coleman County schools, will be honored with a luncheon on April 10th at 11:30 at Sara's Neighborhood.

HUMANE SOCIETY BOARD MEETING APRIL 10TH
4/6/2010
We have moved our board meeting from the first Wednesday in the quarter to Saturday, April 10. We are hoping Nelda will be back from her knee surgery by then. We’ll wheel her in!

All members are invited to join us. We will try to keep our agenda discussion to a minimum while still giving visitors the opportunity to have a part. Agenda items will include our upcoming garage sale weekend and an update on our new feral cat trapping.

We hope you will be able to drop by. The meeting will start at 2:00 p.m. for refreshments and visiting, with the business meeting at 2:30, Heritage Hall, 400 West College.

Heart of Texas Chapter DRT Observes San Jacinto Day
4/6/2010
The Heart of Texas Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) will hold its next meeting on Monday, April 12, in the Striegler Military Complex at the Heart of Texas Historical Museum. The meeting will begin at 3:00 PM and is open to the public.

The DRT would like to remind everyone that April 21 will be honored throughout the state as San Jacinto Day. On this date, in 1836, General Sam Houston and the Texas Army defeated Santa Anna’s Mexican troops in the Battle of San Jacinto. This battle occurred following the burning of nearby Harrisburg (present day Houston). On the next day, the Texians captured Santa Anna and the Mexican forces began their retreat beyond the Rio Grande River.

Active at the Battle of San Jacinto, a young Sergeant Benjamin McCulloch, a volunteer from Tennessee, was in charge of one of the guns called, “the two sisters” which were instrumental in the victory of the Texians. Ben McCulloch (1811-1862) served in the Army of the Republic of Texas and later joined the Army of the Confederate States of America. He was killed during the Battle of Pea Ridge (aka: Elk Horn Tavern), Arkansas. McCulloch County was named in his honor when it was created after Texas became one of the United States of America. He is buried in the State Cemetery in Austin, TX. In his memory, Shelly Perkins will present his biography as recorded in the The Southern Illustrated of Richmond, Virginia, as printed in 1862.

The program for the meeting will also include several projects associated with preparation for the DRT’s 119th State Convention being held in Houston, Texas, May 12 – 15. These projects include work on the chapter scrapbook, labels for the Texas Battle Flags and preparation of items for sale at the Convention.

Additional information is available from the president, Sharon Purcell, at 597-2887 in Brady; from the registrar, Jerry Wilkinson, of Rochelle, at 243-5344; and from Julie Harrison, of Mason, at 347-1070. Also available is information about the Heart of Texas Chapter of the Children of the Republic of Texas (CRT), which is sponsored by the Daughters of the Republic.

TEXAS GAS AVERAGE REACHES $2.68
4/6/2010
Texas, TX, April 5- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have risen 4.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.68/g today. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.83/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices today are 73.3 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 10.4 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 10.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 82.0 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 200 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including TexasGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine's 50 best websites and to PC World's 100 most useful websites of 2008.

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in March 2010
Submitted by Chief Jay Moses
4/5/2010
Investigations
Theft-11
Arson-1
Criminal Mischief-4
Credit Card Abuse-1
Forgery-2
Burglary-14
Aggravated Sexual Assault-1
Assault-Family Violence-3
Harassment-1
Information Report-1
Interference with 911 Call-1
Possession of Marihuana-1
Furnishing Alcohol to Minors-1

Arrests
Warrants-18
Arson-2
Furnishing Alcohol to Minors-1
Disorderly Conduct-1
Assault-Family Violence-1

Motor Vehicle Crashes
No Injury-3

Tickets Issued
Environmental/Code Enforcement-3 tickets issued with 3 charges filed
School Resource Officer-7 tickets issued with 7 charges filed
Police Department-53 tickets issued with 60 charges filed

Warnings Issued
Animal Control-1
Police Department-21

Animal Control
Calls for Service-41
Dogs Picked Up-26
Cats Picked Up-8
Other Animals Picked Up-2
Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-5

Trickham community will host a Quilt Show Saturday
4/5/2010
The Trickham community will host a Quilt Show Saturday (April 10th) at the Trickham Community Center. Hours will be 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can purchase breakfast or lunch while visiting the quilt show. Raffle tickets are still available to purchase for a heart quilt.

Prices are $2.00 for 1 or $10.00 for six; need not be present to win. Come see the beautiful quilts and visit the residents of Trickham.

Little League Baseball and Softball Opening Ceremonies Saturday
4/5/2010
Opening ceremonies for Little League Baseball and Softball are this Saturday, April 10th, at 10:00 am. There is a full day of games to follow, so come out and support the youth of Coleman as they kick off another great year of baseball and softball. The concession stand will be open, so plan on staying for lunch.

Come and reminisce with the class of 1970
4/5/2010
--Contributed--
It's hard to believe it has been 40 years! Come and reminisce with the class of 1970 of Coleman High School on June 19th. There are several other classes meeting together the same weekend, plus it is rodeo time in Coleman. So, please make plans now to join us and reconnect with an old friend or make a new one.

We will meet at Heritage Hall on Saturday all day. Whatever time you can make it to the Hall is fine. We will go to the rodeo parade downtown at 10 a.m. and lunch back at Heritage Hall will be on your own brown bag or take out. The afternoon will be for visiting, sharing pictures (bring your yearbooks and photos) and just hanging out. Ralph Terry will be taking our class picture around 5 p.m., but will be there at 4 to take orders.

Saturday night at 6 p.m., we will gather at Paul Wheat's house at 600 Rio Grande for dinner and party. We are having dinner catered from Big O's so be sure to send and RSVP! We can rock and roll the night away to the great music of the time or just catch up with each other's lives.

Cost for the weekend is $20 per person to cover the fee for use of the Hall, dinner and postage. Please send RSVP and check to: Debi Hagler Hardridge, Class Treasurer, 3506 Joe Colby Road, Ponca City, Oklahoma 74604.

Hope to see you there! Please spread the news and send us addresses, email addresses, phone numbers.

Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off April 10th
By Liz Hughes
4/5/2010
The Don't Mess with Texas Trash-Off is set for Saturday, April 10, 2010. Trash-Off Day is held each year by Keep Texas Beautiful, partnering with the Texas Department of Transportation, and is the single largest one day cleanup event in the state.

Keep Coleman Beautiful encourages all citizens to take part in this event. It can be a great day for everyone! Have an organized neighborhood clean-up and then reward yourselves at the end of the day by having a potluck dinner or cookout for everyone on your block. Civic organizations are encouraged to meet on Trash-Off Day and clean up public areas such as the downtown area. Some other ideas for your group would be to clean up along the highways just inside/outside our city limits sign, pick up trash in the city park or cemetery, or help an elderly or disabled person do some much needed clean-up, mowing and trimming around their yards. There is so much that could be done in Coleman to make it a cleaner, safer place to live.

For everyone's convenience, the City of Coleman's "Convenience Center" will be open on April 10th to accept the trash and yard debris that you have collected for the day! Again, Keep Coleman Beautiful encourages your participation in this one day event, however, one day a year will not make a permanent improvement in our community. We need to commit to a better Coleman, Texas and work together to make it happen!

City of Santa Anna Sets City-Wide Cleanup Date
4/5/2010
The City of Santa Anna will hold a city-wide cleanup on Saturday, April 17. A large roll-off dumpster will be located at the corner of Wallis Avenue and N. 7th Street. The site will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

You MUST provide a City of Santa Anna water bill before being allowed to dump. Trash generated outside the city limits of Santa Anna will not be accepted. Volunteers and city employees will be on-site to supervise and assist.

You may dump brush, limbs, batteries, appliances (refrigerators and air conditioners must have a sticker or tag showing that the Freon has been removed), furniture, sacks of trash, small amounts of construction trash, broken-down cardboard boxes, tires (with sidewalls cut out). Items not accepted – gasoline, liquid paint, ammunition, medical waste, pesticides, chemicals from photo labs, oil/oil filters, etc.

There will be a chipper on-site for brush and limbs. Batteries, appliances, car parts and other metal will be set aside for recycling.

If you have questions, please call City Hall at 348-3403.

MEANDERINGS BY ANN
—A Seminar by Any Other Name
By Jo Ann Eddleman
4/5/2010
If you’ve ever worked in a large corporation, you have for sure attended seminars. Yawn. Well, as jaded as I am about seminars, workshops, conferences—whatever you may choose to call these obligatory sessions that you must attend to improve your job performance—I have to tell you about a really worthwhile, non-obligatory seminar I recently attended, and I don’t even work for a corporation anymore.

I hope you will be interested because this seminar/workshop sponsored by the City, the Chamber, the Coleman EDC, the Texas Department of Agriculture and USDA, Rural Development, had everything to do with what our grassroots organization ColemanNOW is trying to pull off here in Coleman. We were excited! We met folks that already do the same things we want to do in Coleman. It’s really hard to invent the wheel nowadays. Some other towns just our size (even smaller) have already done it! We just have to follow suit. And our government, dare I say, is willing to give these community-minded towns access to our tax dollars (grants, low-interest loans, etc.) to accomplish a whole range of interesting projects to benefit ourselves and our town. They just want us to ask for it in a certain format so they can, hopefully, help those who need help the most.

In our case, Coleman is already pegged as an economically distressed area with a 22% poverty rate. We are exactly what our government, State and Federal, is looking for as a community that needs not a handout but a leg up to give us the boost we need to thrive. If we are willing to grab our bootstraps and pull together, the resources are available to us that will help us become self-sustaining again.

Is ColemanNOW being too idealistic, naïve or impractical? Well, let’s see.

Idealistic—Idealists are charged as those who, against all odds, aspire to high standards. Yes, we are guilty of aspiring, of believing that Coleman can be more than what it is today and concerned about what it will become if we do nothing. Regardless of how much we personally may love Coleman and choose to live in Coleman, we have to face facts. Inaction will only lead to further decline. Small towns are in crisis and those small towns that survive, let alone thrive, must take action. They must aspire. Yes, ColemanNOW is idealistic. We aspire.

Naïve—We are naïve only if we are dead wrong when we assume our fellow citizens are as interested in Coleman and its future as we are. No, we are not naïve. We are confident our neighbors will step up to the plate.

Impractical— Will it turn out that we have been impractical and unrealistic to think our Coleman will be willing to pay its way to the future with a half-cent sales tax even though it will mean a small increase in ad valorem taxes for property owners? We ask those who feel we are being impractical when we ask you to vote FOR the Type 4B economic development corporation in the May election to give us the alternatives for Coleman and Coleman’s future. We’re all ears!

A Type 4B corporation will give us the jump start we need to do things in our town that are being done in so many other towns across Texas. In last week’s seminar one of the favorite comments was heard from a participant from the metropolis of Eden. She said, “There are always CAVE people in every town: Citizens Against Virtually Everything.”

ColemanNOW is convinced Coleman is not full of cave people and, yes, we are idealistic enough to think Coleman voters will rally to this cause—a cause for Coleman to be all that it can be.

Join us at our Town Hall Meeting this Thursday, April 8, 5:30 p.m. at Heritage Hall. Ask questions. Give us your input. Let us hear if you have ideas for alternatives to a Type 4B community development corporation which can provide the seed money to get Coleman on the move. Share your ideas on what you hope a 4B corporation can do.

See you Thursday!

LIONS CLUB'S ANNUAL MOP AND BROOM SALE WED.
4/5/2010
The annual Mop and Broom Sale sponsored by the Coleman Noon and Evening Lions Clubs, will be tomorrow (Wednesday, April 7th) from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. in downtown Coleman. Location is on College Avenue in the median across from side of Chamber office.

Items offered will include mops, brooms, brushes and many other quality cleaning aids for the home, business or industry. These are Quality Blind Made Products and are fully guaranteed.
Proceeds from the sale benefit the local Lions Clubs' projects, including eye conservation programs, Kerrville Crippled Children's Camp, etc.

Everyone is invited to stop by the location Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and make a purchase to help the blind help themselves and to help the local Lions with their many worthwhile projects. Now is the time to get your spring cleaning aids and help a worthy cause. Your support will be greatly appreciated by members of both clubs.

EARLY VOTING CONTINUES THRU FRIDAY FOR REPUBLICAN PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION
4/5/2010
Early voting for Republican Primary Runoff Election began Monday, Apil 5th and will continue through Friday, April 9th. Voting will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Coleman County Courthouse, 100 Liveoak St., Coleman.

On the ballot will be the runoff between Republican candidates for County Commission-er Precinct 2, Roger Guerrero and Rick Beal. There will also be a Republican runoff for Justice of the Supreme Court Place 3 at all precincts.

Election Day
Polling Locations:
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Precinct 1 – East Wing Coleman County Courthouse, 100 Liveoak St. –Coleman, TX
Precinct 2 – Old Armory Community Center, 303 S. Houston St. – Santa Anna, TX
Precinct 2E – United Christian/Presbyterian Church, 1609 S. Commercial Ave. – Coleman, TX
Precinct 3 – Concho Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 1700 S. Concho St. – Coleman, TX
Precinct 4 – West Wing, Coleman County Courthouse, 100 Liveoak St. – Coleman, TX

Spring Revival has been scheduled for Sunday morning
4/5/2010
A Spring Revival has been scheduled for Sunday morning, April 11th thru Wednesday evening, April 14th at the First Baptist Church, 201 S. Lee Street, Santa Anna, Texas.

The Sunday morning revival service will begin at 10:45 a.m. A luncheon will be served at 12:00 noon in the CLC that day. Sunday evening service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Wednesday evening services will begin at 7:00 p.m.

There will be a different evangelist at each service. The Newberry's will be the music worship leader. Everyone is invited to attend this revival.

HUMANE SOCIETY MEMBERS INVITED TO APRIL 10 BOARD MEETING
4/5/2010
The Humane Society invites its members to the 2nd quarter meeting that will be held on Saturday, April 10, at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Hall. This meeting would have normally been scheduled for the first Wednesday, but has been rescheduled to make sure we have Nelda back from knee surgery.

Please join us for an agenda that will discuss the county-wide garage sale and the new feral cat program, as well as include open mike time for visiting members. Refreshments will be available.

Alzheimer's Association Hosts Spring Caregiver Seminar
The Confident Caregiver
4/5/2010
A person caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, will face many challenges. Preparing for these challenges can lighten the load for the caregiver and reduce stress. The Alzheimer's Association-North Central Texas Chapter is pleased to present “The Confident Caregiver” featuring Andy Crocker, MS, Extension Program Specialist-Gerontology Health for the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. The seminar will be held on Friday, April 23, 2010 from 8:30 A.M. to 4:15 P.M. at Southern Hills Church of Christ, located at 3666 Buffalo Gap Road in Abilene.

The seminar will cover such topics early diagnosis, driving, intimacy and end-of-life choices. The program will include segments from the Emmy award winning HBO documentary series, The Alzheimer’s Project, to draw on themes and issues related to dementia care. The cost for this event is $20 for family caregivers, with limited scholarships available. Respite assistance is available for qualifying family caregivers through the Area Agency on Aging of West Central Texas. Program cost for professionals is $30, with continuing education credits approved for the following disciplines: Activity Professionals, Assisted Living Administrators, Long-Term Care Administrators, Nurses and Social Workers. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL CAREGIVERS AND PROFESSIONALS.

The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

For more information call Mindy Bannister at 325-672-2907 or 1-800-272-3900.

Alco awards Humane Society Large Donations
4/4/2010
Humane Society treasurer, Sue Frizzell, prepares to deposit a check in the amount of $475.32 donated to the Humane Society by Alco. Alco employees make the choice of which 501(c)(3) nonprofit will receive the proceeds from their annual Cute Baby contest. The employees have chosen the Humane Society for two years in a row! Thank you!

Panther Creek One-Act Play to compete at  Brownwood High
4/3/2010
The Panther Creek One-Act Play will compete at the Area contest at Brownwood High School Thursday, April 8th. The plays begin at 3:00 and will run back-to-back without intermission. We are the THIRD school to compete. Richland Springs will be the first play at 3:00. Then it will be: Highland, Panther Creek, and Blackwell.

Gov. Perry Urges Boaters to Take Precautions against Giant Salvinia
4/3/2010
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today urged boaters to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the invasive giant salvinia plant in Texas lakes. This exotic plant clings to boats, motors and trailers, and is usually spread unknowingly by people moving their boats from lake to lake.

“Texans need to be aware of the threat from giant salvinia, and active in its management,” Gov. Perry said. “If we don’t get a handle on it and the other invasive species that are working their way into our ecosystem, the Texas we know and love will be changed forever, and not for the better.”

A native of Brazil, giant salvinia is a floating, rootless fern that can double its coverage area in less than a week. Left unchecked, the plant can potentially devastate lake ecosystems and tourism economies by choking off boating and fishing access to an entire lake, clogging power plant water intakes, and displacing beneficial native plants needed by fish. Because of the plant’s rapid growth rate, herbicides and mechanical methods are impractical and costly temporary measures.

“Not only is giant salvinia imperiling the ecology of our Texas lakes, it’s threatening the economies of lakeside communities that depend on fishing, boating and tourism,” Texas Parks and Wildlife Executive Director Carter Smith said.

Transporting giant salvinia or other invasive species is a class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 per violation. To prevent the spread of the plant, boaters are encouraged to learn to identify and report giant salvinia and other invasive aquatic species, clean boats, trailers and gear, and place plant material in a trash can before leaving a boat ramp area.

Boaters may report sightings of giant salvinia at giantsalvinia@tpwd.state.tx.us or (409) 384-9965.

For more information about giant salvinia and other invasive species, please visit
http://www.texasinvasives.org.

Central Baptist Church Teens hosting a bake sale Saturday
4/2/2010
The Teens of Central Baptist Church are hosting a bake sale Saturday morning April 3rd at The Shopping Basket for 8am-12pm. All money raised will go to help our teens attend a week long camp during the summer.

4-H Livestock Judging
By: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR
4/2/2010
Entries Due by Wednesday, April 7th

If you are interested in participating in Livestock Judging, please CALL the Extension Office at 625-4519 (or e-mail: coleman@ag.tamu.ed) and put your name on the list. Practices will begin SOON.

The District 7 4-H Livestock Judging Contest will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 (Spur Arena-San Angelo)
Entries & Lunch Orders due to the District office by Wed. April 7th

Following is livestock judging information:
Age Divisions: Junior - Age 8 (or in the 3rd grade) to age 10
Intermediate - Age 11 to 13
Senior - Ages 14 to 18 ( contestant must not have reached their 19th Birthday on or before Aug. 31st

Teams: Will consist of 3 or 4 members

Cost: $10 per individual
$30 per team (either 3 or 4 members)

MEALS - $5.00 per person
(Meal will be Cheeseburger, chips and tea from Steak Express)


If you have any questions, call the Extension Office at 325-625-4519 or E-Mail to coleman@ag.tamu.edu.

Mayor Poldrack honors Karen Langley with a 5-year service award

COUNCIL KEEPS BLUE CROSS-BLUE SHIELD AS CITY’S EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE CARRIER
By Jo Ann Eddleman
4/2/2010
Blue Cross-Blue Shield was again approved by the Coleman City Council as the carrier for the City’s employee health insurance at the Council meeting Thursday. Zesch & Pickett Insurance presented the bids it had received for the City’s 68 employees. Although Blue Cross was not the lowest bid among the five bids submitted, City Manager Larry Weise advised Council that the City and City employees are pleased with the coverage and service they receive from Blue Cross. Under the Blue Cross plan the city pays $342.35 a month per employee for a total cost of $279,357.60 a year. The City also picks up $500 of the $1,500 deductible.

In other business, the City presented Karen Langley with a 5-year service award, and Langley was also sworn in as the City’s new City Secretary, replacing Sue Burleson who retired at the end of March.

Council approved the use of City Park for Loaves and Fishes’ annual Walk for Hunger. Loaves and Fishes director Leta Gaither thanked Council for their continuing support and invited their participation in the walk, which is scheduled for Saturday, May 1, between 8:30 and Noon.

In some housekeeping items, Council approved the codification of recent ordinances, bringing the City’s ordinances up to date on the Franklin Legal Codes and Ordinances site which can be accessed on the City’s web site at www.cityofcolemantx.us. The order for election on Saturday, May 8, was authorized; and Resolution 10-03 was approved to update the City’s Excessive Force Resolution to maintain compliance with federal requirements.

In concluding comments, the City Manager advised that some progress is being made on issues that have been holding up the dismantling of the old light plant. Weise also called attention to the successful economic development workshop that was attended by approximately 70 people from the area. The City was a co-sponsor of the workshop.
Mayor Nick Poldrack said he had received a couple of phone calls thanking the city for working on the pot holes in the drive that leads to the post office drop boxes behind the post office.

Council’s next meeting will be at 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 15.

Garden Club Minutes
Myrtie Beaver - Town and Country Garden Club Secretary
4/2/2010
The last two months have been busy ones for the Town and Country Garden Club. The February meeting was held in the Miller Building and was hosted by Becky Greaves.

There were 12 members present. President Sue Shields called the meeting to order and Alice Hemphill introduced Nan Moses and Liz Hughes, members of the Keep Coleman Beautiful organization, who talked about the many projects of the group. Nan told us about the many people of the community who have been working to clean some areas of the city. She stated that in the future, their plans are to work on the cemetery building. Liz discussed the success of the Property of the Month program that was started last April through October. She expressed appreciation for the City Council and others, and told about the judging process for the project. Plans are being made for the continuation of this program this year.

The horticulture exhibit was presented by Myrtie Beaver, showing examples of spring flowers to come. A beautiful artistic exhibition of pottery, ornamental grass, and background was presented by Becky Greaves.
Eileen Morris gave the treasurer’s report. Garden club activities for the next month were announced. Also noted was that February is the month to plant roses, prune rosebushes, fill birdfeeders, dig for crops, and fertilize annuals.

On March 2, 2010, the club met at the Miller Building with President Sue Shields presiding. There were fifteen members present. Hostess was Mona Wilson. President Sue Shields introduced Melissa Sturdivant, horticulturist from Taylor County Extension Service, who presented a program about planting our vegetable gardens, She displayed examples of plants and a small lasagna garden and showed slides of several garden plots.

Business included Nan Markland giving a report concerning renovations of the Miller Building. Eileen Morris gave the treasurer’s report.
It was announced that the Abilene Flower Show will be May 1st for those interested in attending. Also, Nan Markland and Jane Padgitt will be in charge of the program at the District Garden Club Show.

Artistic design, an interesting flower container, was presented by Karla Finley, and the horticulture exhibit, a rick rack plant, along with an entertaining story, was presented by Eileen Morris.

The April meeting will be in Brownwood with a program on lasagna gardening to be presented by Novella Newman. In May, we will have a potluck picnic at Tootsie’s Garden. (Recently, the April and May programs have been switched.)

2010 Santa Anna UIL Regional Qualifiers
Submitted by Becky Martin
4/2/2010
Those representing Santa Anna High School at the Regional UIL meet are Shawn Robertson, Dillan Whitely, Natalie Neville, Spencer Gilbreath, and (not pictured) Jonathan Holland.

Front Row: Left to right--Hunter Musick, Natalie Neville, Charity Holland, Saydie Bradley, Kendra Sanchez Second Row:

Left to right--Sarah Herrod, Lauren Matthews, Layken Herrod, Sarah Pelton Third Row: Left to right---Kelsie Tobin, Peyton Morris, Aspyn King, Amber Musick Back Row: Left to right--Dillan Whitely, Shawn Robertson, Spencer Gilbreath

2010 UIL Results
4/2/2010
March 23 and 25 Santa Anna High School competed in the District 14 University Interscholastic League meet at Panther Creek. Students who participated are Caleb Absher, Saydie Bradley, Dakota Enriquez, Spencer Gilbreath, Hannah Hartman, Laken Herrod, Sarah Herrod, Charity Holland, Jonathan Holland, Kindsey Holland, Jordan Jewell, Aspyn King, Lauren Matthews, Heather McMillan, Amber Music, Hunter Musick, Natalie Neville, Sarah Pelton, Shawn Robertson, Kendra Sanchez, Dylan Sellers, Kelsie Tobin, and Dillan Whitley.

Students who placed but who do not advance to Regional are Lauren Matthews: 4th Poetry Interpretation;

Charity Holland: 6th Poetry Interpretation; Jordan Jewell: 4th place Persuasive Speaking; and Dillan Whitley,

5th place Ready Writing.

Those that qualified for Regional competition are Jonathan Holland: 3rd place Social Studies; Natalie Neville: 3rd place Ready Writing; Shawn Robertson: 2nd Poetry Interpretation, 2nd Individual Computer Science, 1st place team; Spencer Gilbreath: 3rd place Individual Computer Science, 1st place Team; Dillan Whitley: 1st place Team Computer Science;

The Region IV meet will be held at Abilene Christian University April 23 and 24.

Panther Creek Hosts Over 30 Horse Judging Teams at Goree Expo Center
4/1/2010
Panther Creek FFA hosted an invitational horse judging contest on Tuesday, March 30, at the Goree Expo Center. Thirty-six teams representing 29 schools were in Coleman for the event. Below are the Top 10 results from www.judgingcard.com:

Coleman FFA Places First as High Point Horse Judging Team
4/1/2010
Coleman FFA participated in three separate CDE judging contests on Tuesday, March 30, 2010 and did well in all three.

The Coleman FFA Horse Judging Team won First Place High Point Team at the Panther Creek Invitational Horse Judging Contest. Team members pictured from left to right are Seth Ryan, Lisa Dees, Casie Swening, and Gary Heath. Not pictured, Reagan Barr. Casie Swening was the 2nd high individual at the contest.

The Land judging team participated in the Nolan County SWCD Land Judging Contest held in Sweetwater, Texas. They placed 5th overall. Team members consist of Jeff Lefevre, Peyton Schumann, Kelby McCorkle, Tanner Stickland, and Drey Richards.

Coleman FFA will travel to Stephenville on April 7th for the Area IV Contests. We would like to wish all teams the best of luck at the Area contest next week!

Submitted by: Becky Goodwin and Tony Beggs, Coleman FFA Advisors.

Brody Tibbetts of Coleman FFA

Tibbetts Places 2nd in On-Site Welding Demo in Brownwood
4/1/2010
Brody Tibbetts of Coleman FFA participated in the TSTC 2010 Welding Competition held in Brownwood, Texas. He placed second place individual in the On-Site Welding Demonstration competition.

Coleman High To Host Series of Meeting for Parents
4/1/2010
Coleman High School will be meeting with students and with parents to get ready for next year. Principal Richard Holloway and Counselor Carol Bennington have planned a series of meetings to help inform parents on graduation requirements, course offerings (including dual credit), college entrance exams, college & career readiness pathways, and answer any other questions that parents may have. The parent meetings are scheduled at the High School Auditorium on the following dates and times:

Monday, April 5
Counselor meetings with 11th graders in English classes
5:00 – 8th Grade Parents
6:30 – 9th Grade Parents

Tuesday, April 6
Counselor meetings with 9th graders in English classes
6:00 – 11th Grade Parents

Wednesday, April 7
Counselor meetings with 10th graders in English classes

Monday, April 12
6:00 – 10th Grade Parents

Tuesday, April 13
6:00 – 8th Grade Parents

Monday, April 19 – Location to be announced later
Makeup meetings
5:00 – 8th Grade Parents
5:30 – 9th Grade Parents
6:00 – 10th & 11th Grade Parents

If you have questions, please call the high school office at 325-625-2156. We hope all parents will find time to attend one of these informal meetings.

Junior Class Parents will have a meeting on Tuesday, April 6
4/1/2010
The Junior Class Parents (Class of 2011) will have a meeting on Tuesday, April 6, at 5:15 p.m. in the Coleman Elementary library. We will discuss plans for the After Prom Celebration on May 8th. We need all parents to attend to help make this a success for all students.

HUMANE SOCIETY MEMBERS INVITED TO APRIL 10 BOARD MEETING
4/1/2010
The Humane Society invites its members to the 2nd quarter meeting that will be held on Saturday, April 10, at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Hall. This meeting would have normally been scheduled for the first Wednesday, but has been rescheduled to make sure we have Nelda back from knee surgery.

Please join us for an agenda that will discuss the county-wide garage sale and the new feral cat program, as well as include open mike time for visiting members. Refreshments will be available.

Hornet Board Notes
Volume I, Number 6
4/1/2010
The Novice ISD Board of Trustees held their regular monthly meeting on Thursday, March 25.

-       approving a request from the Novice Volunteer Fire Department to use the school cafeteria for their April 17 barbeque fund raiser.

-       appointing Rita Shifflett as election judge for the upcoming school trustee election.

-       certifying the district’s textbook selections for reading and English Language Arts,

-       posting a opening for a K-12 principal position, and

-       approving teaching contracts for the 2010-2011 school year. All full time teachers were rehired.  

-       results of the high school UIL district academic contest highlighted by Amber Blackshear and Kirsten Hall qualifying for regional. Amber was first place in News Writing and Kirsten was second place in Feature Writing.

-       current enrollment of 92 students in grades Pre-K – 12,

-       a $600 grant from CAS for security lighting equipment,

-       information on the business services co-op project that is being offer by Region 15 ESC,

-       planning for summer school, and

-       new graduation requirements for the class of 2014.

Attention Bluecat Band Parents:
4/1/2010
We will be having a meeting on Monday the 5th in the band hall at 5:30pm.. These meetings are for all parents and guardians of students in band grades 6th through 12th

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Texas
Submitted by:  Coleman County Child Welfare Board
4/1/2010
   April is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Texas and across the nation.  It is a time to focus on ways to not only protect children from abusive environments, but more importantly to prevent abuse from ever occurring.

   Unfortunately, child abuse and neglect exists in our state and will not go away by simply ignoring it.  It’s up to each of us to arm ourselves with the facts, learn the warning signs and watch out for our most innocent Texans.  It’s up to all of us to prevent a child from becoming another heartbreaking statisticStory of the Blue Ribbon

   The Blue Ribbon Child Abuse Prevention Campaign had its early beginning following the death of a very young child.  In the spring of 1989, Bonnie Finney, a Virginia grandmother received the devastating news that her beloved grandson had died of injuries inflicted by his parents.  In an expression of her grief and outrage, this grandmother did something that has given us a symbol, around which we rally for the cause of child abuse prevention.

   She tied a blue ribbon to the antenna of her van as a way to remember “the bruised and battered body of her grandson” and to alert her community to the tragedy of child abuse.
  
In Bonnie’s own words:  The blue ribbon serves as a constant reminder to fight for protection of our children.  Please wear a blue ribbon.  Put one on your car.  Give one to your friends.  Tell them what it means.  You may save a child’s life!

   Her simple idea, to wear or display a blue ribbon to show support for child abuse prevention was picked up by grassroots organizations across the country.

   The act of one grandmother thousands of miles away leads us to this day.  Just think what could happen if each one of us helped to spread the word to a few of the people that we come in contact with 

each day. The groundswell of support that would follow just might be enough to move us towards the day when our homes and communities are completely safe.
   During April, we ask that you wear a blue ribbon to show your support of child abuse prevention.

   Members of the Coleman County Child Welfare Board are Mona Wilson - Chairperson, Nina Childress - Vice Chairperson, Margery Hester - Treasurer, Bonnie Brown - Secretary, Elaine Robinson, Jo Jones, Becky Watson, Lori Amos, Mary Griffis, Adela Flores, Pastor Mike Kerzee and Lori Needham - associate member - keeper of Raindrop Closet.

PANTHER CREEK ONE ACT PLAY ADVANCES PAST DISTRICT!
Submitted by Teresa Smith
4/1/2010
Panthers competed at District One Act Play at Coleman High School Auditorium March 31st, along with Santa Anna, Veribest, Richland Springs. Advancing plays were Richland Springs with "Close Ties" by Elizabeth Diggs & Panther Creek with "The Bridegroom of Blowing Rock" by Catherine Trieschmann.

L-R(front row) Courtney Moore, Jorie Nanny, Katie Straach, Deanna Hudson, Jessica Laws, Julie Reed, Trevor Smith (back row) Benton Warren, Cassie Philpot, Ethan Griffin, Jared Romine, Chelsea Lewis, Jennifer Short (director).

Honors received: ALL STAR CAST~ Courtney Moore, Trevor Smith, Chelsea Lewis Honorable Mention Cast~ Cassie Philpot

Next competition for the Panthers will be 4/8 in Brownwood...TBA

Coleman Junior High Cheerleaders Announced
Submitted by Steffany Fitzpatrick, JH Cheer Coach
4/1/2010
This year’s junior high cheerleading squad would like to congratulate the new and upcoming squad for the 2010-2011 school year. The 2009-2010 squad had a fantastic year and wish the best of luck to the new squad. GO BLUECATS!!!

2009-2010 SQUAD
2009-2010 Cheerleaders - Pictured Left to Right: Riley James, Savannah Vasquez, Shayla Carter, Kirstie Jamison, Aspen McConathy, Vallari Escobar, Baile Jones, and Shelbi Greaves.

2010-2011 SQUAD
2010-2011 Cheerleaders - Pictured Left to Right: Baile Jones, Kaci Williams, Ashlyn De La Garza, Shelbi Greaves, Ashlee Whitten, Ashley Slayton, Bailey Garrett, and Elizabeth Baum.

SANTA ANNA ONE ACT PLAY TEAM EARNS NUMEROUS HONORS
4/1/2010
The members of the Santa Anna One-Act Play cast competed in the Zone One Act Play competition at Rochelle on March 24th. The play they performed was "The Cover of Life." They advanced to district which was held at Coleman on March 31, 2010. Members of the play cast are:

Front Row-L to R: Aspyn King, Heather McMillan, Saydie Bradley, Charity Holland, Amber Musick, Mariah Murray Back Row-L to R: Shawn Robertson, Loren Pritchard, Kenneth McMillan, Michael Lopez, Lauren Matthews, Kelsie Tobin

Those receiving honors at the Zone competition were: All-Star Cast----Shawn Robertson, Heather McMillan, Lauren Matthews Honorable Mention: Aspyn King, Kelsie Tobin, Amber Musick

LITTLE LEAGUE WORKDAY THIS SATURDAY
4/1/2010
Great Little League workday this past Saturday. There are still a few things to do to get ready for opening ceremonies on April 10th. We are going to have another workday this coming Saturday, April 3rd, at 9:00. We should be done in a couple of hours if we get plenty of help. If you need any more info on what is needed, please call Michael Taylor @ 325-636-3922 or 325-625-1217.

Republican Party Sample Ballot
4/1/2010
Click here to view the sample ballot