Future Bluecats Gear Up for an Exciting Football Season
Pictures by Sarah Mason
7/23/2010
Future Bluecat Football players completed a week of workouts with the CHS coaching staff. Football camp was held July 19th -July 22nd. While the heat and humidity blasted in full force, these young athletes ranging from 3rd to 9th graders helped sharpen their athletic skills for the upcoming year. The elementary level students won't be able to play as official Bluecats quite yet, but with early exposure to pee wee football and summer camp they'll be ready in no time to wear those blue jerseys. Some of the camp participants will be making their way to a first appearance at the junior high level, while last year's 8th graders will be advancing to high school football. One things for certain: We're looking forward to a fun season of Bluecat football!

Health Department Clinic Coming to Coleman August 17
7/23/2010
Texas Department of State Health Services will hold an immunization clinic in Coleman Tuesday, August 17th (please note date change this month) 10-12 & 1:30-3 United Christian and Presbyterian Church 1609 Commercial. Please bring child's immunization records if child is on Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card. For more information please call 325-754-4945.

Barr Receives $15,000 Scholarship from Houston Livestock Show
7/23/2010
Reagan Barr received a Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship for $15,000 on July 15, 2010 at the State FFA Convention in Corpus Christi. The purpose of the Texas FFA Scholarship Program is to provide financial assistance to the most capable and deserving members from each Area of our state wishing to pursue a Bachelor's degree from a Texas college or university in preparation for a successful career. Congratulations Reagan on a job well done!

Slayer of the Sodium
7/23/2010
Salt, a mineral compound consisting of sodium and chloride, is one of the world’s oldest food seasonings and preservatives. Though essential for animal life in small amounts, sodium can be harmful in large quantities. The high sodium intake by most Americans is due to more meals away from home and the increased use of convenience foods like canned foods, processed meats and cheeses, and frozen meals. High sodium intake is strongly associated with hypertension, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and blindness. According to International Food Technology Journal (2010), the average sodium intake exceeds 3,400 milligrams per day (mg/day) which is well over the 2005 Dietary Guidelines recommendation of 2,300 mg/day (equal to about one teaspoon of salt per day). Persons who consume 1500 mg of sodium per day have better blood pressure control by keeping blood pressure from rising and allowing blood pressure medications to work more effectively.

So what’s the big idea? How can such a small compound cause such problems? The bottom line is fluid. Wherever sodium goes into the body, so does water. The more sodium eaten, the more water held by our body. This increases blood volume and blood pressure because more stress on the heart and blood vessels causes them to work harder. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states a blood pressure less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) to be desirable. A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or greater is considered hypertension. People with hypertension may benefit from reducing their sodium intake to 1500 mg sodium per day.

Now for the good news; we can be in control of our sodium intake! At first glance, it can seem sodium is hidden in many foods. The first step in reducing sodium intake is to know where to find it. Remember the foods on the go and highly processed foods. Luckily, the amount of sodium in a food is written on the food label. The food label gives us the information we need to make healthful food choices to reduce our daily sodium intake. Look at the Nutrition Facts and also at the Ingredients Listing for all sources that say sodium.

Here are some additional hints to reduce sodium intake:

1. Use reduced sodium or no salt added products. Canned goods, processed meats and cheeses, and frozen meals often come in reduced sodium varieties.

2. Remove the salt shaker from the table. Much of our sodium intake comes from the salt we add at the table after the food is prepared. Do you find yourself salting your food before you even taste it? You can reduce your sodium intake by not adding salt after the food is cooked. Reduce the amount of added salt gradually. Your taste buds will adapt to the salt reduction and before long you won’t even miss it!

3. Use salt substitutes. Before using, ask your physician if salt substitutes are right for you. Because they contain other chemicals which may interfere with your body or medications, always check with your physician first.

4. Use spices. To avoid flavorless food due to reduced sodium, use additional spices or hot sauces. Chose spices without salt like garlic powder instead of garlic salt. Read the ingredient list to be sure of salt content.

5. Reduce salt in recipes by half. Many recipes can handle a cut in salt and still be delicious. Do not cut salt when making yeast breads or rolls.

6. Avoid food ingredients that contain sodium. In addition to table salt, many ingredients add sodium to foods such as monosodium glutamate and sodium aluminum phosphate.

7. When eating out ask for low sodium options or no added salt. Many restaurants will mark foods as heart healthy. Often times the nutrition facts are available to the consumer. Remain in control of your food choices and consumption when eating out.

Remember you are in control of your food intake. Equip yourself with these tools to become the slayer of salt reducing the amount of sodium in your diet. Though cutting salt may seem like a daunting task, your heart will thank you! To learn more about reducing sodium in your diet, contact your local County Extension Agent, Christin Burris at 325-625-4519 or cdburris@ag.tamu.edu.

References:
1. Kuhn, Mary Ellen. Strategies for Reducing Sodium in the U.S. Food Technology 2010 64-5:34-36.
2. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Your Guide to Lowering High Blood Pressure. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/bp/bp.htm Viewed July 1, 2010.
3. Food and Drug Administration. Nutrition Facts Label Images for Download. http://www.fda.gov/Food/LabelingNutrition/PrintInformationMaterials/ucm114155.htm Viewed July 1, 2010.

Prepared by Anne Gilmore, BS Texas A&M University Dietetic Intern, and Mary Kinney Bielamowicz, PhD, RD, LD, Professor and Nutrition Specialist, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Texas A&M University System, Summer 2010.

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin.

The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Peanuts in your soda, anyone?
7/23/2010
He wasn't born in Texas....but he got here as quick as he could! Fellow co-workers at the Coleman hospital introduce this feller from Michigan, Jared Chanski, to the BEST multi-tasking of all....PEANUTS IN YOUR SODA!

Texas Cities Take Advantage of Ag Department's Retirement Program
7/23/2010
AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Agriculture today designated the city of Orange a GO TEXAN Certified Retirement Community (CRC). The CRC Program helps communities attract retirees and potential retirees to make their homes in Texas. Orange is the 33rd Texas community to be certified.

"We are delighted that the Texas Department of Agriculture and Commissioner Todd Staples recognize the city of Orange as a Certified Retirement Community," Mayor W. Brown Claybar said. "The city of Orange works very hard to be accommodating and meet the needs of the senior community. This designation is a recognition of our efforts."

Texas has become the No. 2 retirement state in the nation, and that ranking is paying off. Retirees spend an average $42,500 each year in their respective communities.

"I extend my most sincere congratulations to the citizens and leaders of Orange for achieving this notable certification," Commissioner Staples said. "Not only do retirees have a significant economic impact on the regions in which they reside, but they also bring a wealth of knowledge and energy to community service, employment and business."

Local legislators believe the designation is a win for the community and the state as whole.

"Retirees are discovering why Texas continues to be a leading example for the rest of the nation," Sen. Tommy Williams said. "I applaud the city of Orange and their community-wide efforts to make this recognition a reality."

"The city of Orange has proven that they are committed to maintaining a community desirable for retirees," Rep. Mike Hamilton said. "I am glad to see this collective effort is being recognized by the Texas Department of Agriculture and Commissioner Staples."

To become a CRC, communities must complete an application and retirement desirability assessment covering a wide range of topics, including demographics, tax structure, local housing availability, safety, employment opportunities, availability of health care services, public transportation and more. The application process also requires communities to submit a marketing plan and long-term plan for maintaining and improving desirability for retirees. An independent volunteer advisory team representing leaders in business, health care, city/state government and retirees reviews and scores the applications.

The CRC Program is open to any Texas community that wants to showcase itself as a retirement location and a tourist destination. Interested communities should contact TDA's Rural Economic Development Division toll free at (877) 428-7848 or e-mail finance@TexasAgriculture.gov.

For more information on the GO TEXAN CRC Program, please visit TDA's website at www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on Retire in Texas.

7/22/2010

Dove, Teal Seasons Set
7/22/2010
AUSTIN, Texas — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service SRC (Service Regulation Committee) has approved the 2010-2011 Texas dove season, including a 70-day season and 15-bird daily bag statewide, and a 16-day early teal season.

Texas dove season in the North and Central Dove Zones will run from Wednesday, Sept. 1 through Sunday, Oct. 24 and reopen Saturday, Dec. 25 through Sunday, Jan. 9, with a 15-bird daily bag and not more than two white-tipped doves.

The South Zone dove season will run Friday, Sept. 17 through Sunday, Oct. 31, reopening Saturday, Dec. 25 through Tuesday, Jan. 18 with a 15-bird daily bag and not more than two white-tipped doves.

Possession limit is twice the daily bag for all migratory game birds except light geese and sora and Virginia rails.

The Special White-winged Dove Area will open to white-winged dove afternoon-only (noon to sunset) hunting the first two full weekends in September running from Sept. 4-5 and 11-12 and reopen when the regular South Zone season begins on Friday, Sept. 17 through Sunday, Oct. 31 and again from Saturday, Dec. 25 through Friday, Jan. 14. The Special White-winged Dove Area season takes four of the allowable 70 days, so when the regular season opens, this area must close four days earlier than the rest of the South Zone. During the early two weekends, the daily bag limit is 15 birds, to include not more than four mourning doves and 2 white-tipped doves. Once the general season opens, the aggregate bag limit will be 15.

Texas’ 16-day September teal season will run Sept. 11-26.

The season for rail and gallinule is Sept. 11-26 and Oct. 30-Dec. 22; for snipe, Oct. 30-Feb. 13; and for woodcock, Dec. 18-Jan. 31.

COLEMAN FFA ATTEND STATE FFA CONVENTION
7/22/2010
THE COLEMAN FFA CHAPTER WAS WELL REPRESENTED AT THE STATE FFA CONVENTION in Corpus Christi during the week of July 12-16. Local students attended sessions throughout the week conducted by the State FFA officers. They also attended a concert featuring Kyle Park. On Tuesday, two FFA officers, Tanner Strickland and Kelby McCorkle were awarded the Lone Star FFA Degree. The Lone Star FFA Degree is the highest degree awarded by the Texas FFA Association. Texas FFA members received this honor as a result of their work with their SAE and FFA activities. Congratulations to Tanner and Kelby. The group was accompanied by their advisors, Becky Goodwin and Tony Beggs.

Coleman FFA Officers pictured from left to right are Cody Cogdill, Chanie Barker, Sarah Wickson, Tanner Strickland, Autum White, and Jackie Birdwell. Not pictured, Kelby McCorkle.

First United Methodist Church VBS Enjoys Wonderful Week of Activity
Contributed
7/22/2010
Our God is awesome!  Praise God!  What a wonderful week we had at First United Methodist Church during Vacation Bible School July 12th through 16th!

“Galactic Blast:  A Cosmic Adventure Praising God!” was the theme for VBS this year and our “space cadets” learned a lot about the earth, moon, stars, comets and supernovas as well as green tips for keeping Earth healthy.

Each evening the group started out in the Starship Galactic Praise where the VBS GPS taught us about space.  Commander Mike, Galileo the green gorilla and Benja were our guides.  Then our groups divided up and went to different areas to learn.

In the Bible story area, “Good News Galaxy”, our space cadets received a boarding pass for a “rocket” ride.  They climbed aboard the rocket, put their seat belts on and blasted off to a different story each evening.  They learned about God creating the universe; the story of Elijah and God speaking in a still, small voice; the story of the blind beggar in Jericho; the story of the woman at the well; the story of Jesus and the disciples meeting again on the road to Emmaeus.

In the “Orbital Observatory” or Discovery area, the children participated in different experiments having to do with Earth’s rotation and gravity and drinking water lying on your stomach and what to mix with vinegar to cause a mess!  It was a very interesting and fun experience!

The space cadets also learned new songs in “Moons & Tunes”, made cool crafts to take home in the “Cosmic Crafts” and played games with “planets”, water and burned off some energy in “Rocket Rec”.  They also refueled at the “Astro Bistro” with snacks and water.

During the week, the children also learned about giving to others.  The missions for the week were collecting pennies for the Loaves and Fishes Ministry, small toys and coloring books for the City Wide Toy Drive, dog and cat food for the Humane Society and school supplies for the Elementary School.

The dog and cat food was presented to Jo Ann Eddleman and her friend, Big Cody, at the finale on Friday night.  Big Cody was the hit of the show and the children grouped around him to pet him.

While the girls won the penny contest, the boys were winners too!  A total of $216.70 was presented to Leta Gaither on Sunday morning during morning worship services at First United Methodist Church.  Several boxes of toys were presented to the City Wide Toy Drive and a backpack and several boxes of school supplies were on display and will be presented before school to the Elementary School for the children of VBS in memory of Mrs. Theresa Edington.

During the week a total of 52 children became space cadets and enjoyed learning with Galileo, the green gorilla (Kelly Loyd) and Benja, his human trainer (Benjamin Kerzee)!  Children participating were Marissa Bales, Lana Guerrero, Anthony Huddleston, Elijah Ramirez, Cassandra Sartain, Blu Davis, Kara Dillingham, Jessi Everett, Justin Huddleton, Linda Kugle, Kadence Aristondo, Lexi Dossey, Aren Gaines, Aiden Garcia, Ryan Garcia, Yuliana Garza, Katie Hamilton, Alex Kugle, Adam Mason, Emily Moran, Saul Ramirez Jr., Briana Rhodes, Americas Sartain, Travis Sibley, Fernanda Solis, Gabriella Solis, Carlie Tibbetts, Arena Grace Turner, Lillian Valdez, Haylee West, Haley Bales, Emily Croft, Jeffrey Edington, Kendall Hill, Chyanne Hollingsworth, Angela Huddleston, Kynthia Litton, Austin McWhirter, Caesar Nunez, Edgar Nunez, Cooper Ramirez, Monica Ramirez, Megan Hamilton, Natalie Hill, Ashtyn Kugle, Chris Lawhon, Mark Loyd, Megan Moran, Xavier Nunez, Lane Rhodes, Sierra Rhodes and Jewel Weaver.

A total of 18 young people from 6th grade to 12th grade were a blessing and learned a lot by helping out in various areas.  The young people showed the children how to do the motions for the songs in the Moons & Tunes, walked with the children to each area, participated in the skits, helped with the Bible Story area, helped in the Orbital Observatory and took pictures during the week.  These young people were Zachary Mason, Jacob Mason, Tommy Croft, Trey Sartain, Benjamin Kerzee, Kelly Loyd, Dakota Rhodes, Emilie McWhirter, Miranda Slone, Annalissa Sanches, Jessi Loyd, Samantha Jimenez, Angel Stewart, Angelique (Angie) Alonzo, Shelbie Slone, Laura Martinez, Mariah Diaz and Lane Watson.

And a total of 35 adults made this VBS run extremely smoothly.  Assuming command as Commander Mike was Rev. Mike Kerzee.  Registration was handled very efficiently by Dora Newman and her helpers - Billie Williams, Sue Dossey, Paula S. Brown, Diann Dillingham, John Dillingham, Helen Cross, Shirley Adams, Margaret Schulze, Terra McMahon and Kevin McMahon.  Leading the different areas were Mona Wilson Turner, “Moons & Tunes”; Michelle Loyd, “Cosmic Crafts” with help from Am Loyd, Michael Loyd and Michaela Loyd; Kathy Saunders and Kelsi Dunlap, “Rocket Rec”; Dianne Kerzee, “Orbital Observatory”; Terry Loyd and Stephen Loyd, “Good News Galaxy”, with help from story tellers - Bill Johnson, Zach Kerzee and Darrel Woodcox (as well as some of the youth helpers).

Feeding the space cadets was a big job at the “Astro Bistro” but it was handled in an excellent manner by Bitsy Murchison, Bob Murchison, Tommy Saunders, Kathy Saunders, Sue Sorrells, Kermit Sorrells and Carolyn Merriman.

Adults walking with the children were Diann Dillingham, Sue Dossey, Shirley Adams, Cynthia Kugle, Tammy Jo Turner and John Dillingham.  Many of the adults wore more than one “space helmet” during the week and handled duties in more than one area.  Handling “Space Patrol” duties in the hallway was James Cross.  And the Space Director - “Captain Big Mouth” was Leslie Cross.

Our God is awesome!  Praise God!  If you had a great time at VBS and or if you missed out and want to come and visit, Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday morning at First United Methodist Church, 500 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas 76834.  The church family also gets together on Wednesday evenings at 5:15 p.m. for a covered-dish supper in the fellowship hall, Bible study for the adults, UMYF for the youth and WiNGS for the Pre-K through 5th grade children at 5:45 p.m. and then Chancel Choir Practice at 6:30 p.m.

Come join us and worship our awesome God!

Wine Grape Investment Grape Grants Available
7/22/2010
The Texas Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce the third round of Wine Grape Investment Grants. A total of $250,000 will be available for eligible wine producers in the state. The program is designed to assist a producer in starting or expanding a commercial wine grape vineyard. Each eligible applicant will need to identify a wine grape expansion project of at least five new acres of wine grapes. The maximum grant award to any one producer will be $25,000. The grant is intended for the 2012 growing season.

Applications are available online and will be accepted between July 6 and August 12, 2010.

Please see program specific information on the TDA web site at www.TexasAgriculture.gov. Click on the Economic Development link at the top of the agency home page and the Wine Grape Investment Grant Program on the right side of the Rural Economic Development program page. Please feel free to disseminate this information to your constituents and members. Thank you.

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Coleman Locals Compete in Texas Sprint Triathalon
7/22/2010
Coleman Locals competing in a Texas Sprint Triathalon were Jennifer Hubbard, Sydney Reynolds, (a friend from Houston, Drake Dominy) and Paul Reynolds. Each athlete at this event ranged from 10 years to 72 years and did a combination of swim in open water, bike, then ran. Hats off to the training required at this level!

7/21/2010

COLEMAN COUNTY TO BE REPRESENTED AT FORT WORTH HUNTER’S EXTRAVAGANZA
Promotional Items Needed By Wednesday, August 18th
7/21/2010
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture and Tourist Bureau and the Wildlife Appreciation Committee will have a booth at the 2010 Hunter’s Extravaganza in Fort Worth on August 20, 21, and 22 at the Will Rogers Convention Center.

This is an excellent economic opportunity to promote the industry of hunting in Coleman County. There will be approximately 1,700 booths and around 25,000 people in attendance.

Anyone wishing to send promotional material to be distributed please contact the Coleman Chamber of Commerce Office at (325) 625-2163 or chamber@colemantexas.org by Wednesday, August 18th.

Hunters Education Course Scheduled for Last Week in July
7/21/2010
July 31st, 2010
First United Methodist Church
500 W. Live Oak St.
8:00am-5:00pm

Attention all youth of Coleman County. There will be a Hunters Education Course on July 31st, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church in Coleman, TX. The cost of the course will be free to all youth thanks to Buck Masters. Buck Masters will be sponsoring the youth and paying all their fees.

The course is also available for adults. The fee for adults in $15.00 per person.

The Course will begin at 8:00 am sharp and will conclude at 5:00 pm. Participants are asked to bring a sack lunch. All drinks will be provided. Participants will need to RSVP at the Coleman County Extension Office at (325) 625-4519.

If you have any other questions please call the Coleman County Extension office.

FINE ARTS LEAGUE MEMBERS' SHOW - GOING ON NOW!
7/21/2010
The Coleman Fine Arts League Members' Show is now open and ready for the public. The show is hosted at the Coleman Public Library in the Tillman Annex Room. The show runs from today until July 24th 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Awards will be People's Choice 1,2,3 and a 1st for the Special "Orange" division. Questions can be directed to Shields 325-723-2956 or Sherrell Hazlewood, League President, 325-625-4687.

Volunteer Fire Department Breaks Ground for New Site
7/21/2010
The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department broke ground at the future site for their fire department building Saturday, July 10. The site is centrally located within Glen Cove on Highway 153. Nelda Copley, who serves as the Volunteer Fire Department Secretary/Treasurer, donated the land to the all volunteer organization.

The department estimates that the building will cost around $45,000, whereas the volunteers are currently raising money and pursuing grants. The group hopes to begin construction within one to two years. The organization's first official building will feature 3 bays to store their fire trucks and several storage areas for miscellaneous equipment.

The Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department was founded in 2008 and has around 50 paid members. Officers include Bill Paul as President, Doug Miller as Vice-President, Nelda Copley as Secretary/Treasurer, Rick Davis as Fire Chief, and Scott Beaver as Assistant Fire Chief. The volunteers meet once a month at the Glen Cove Baptist Church on the second Saturday of the month at 6:00 p.m.

Headstart Employee Receives Child Care Credential Recently
7/21/2010
Tammy Jo Turner of Coleman, Texas has been awarded a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential in recognition of outstanding work with young children. The credential was awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition in Washington, DC, which represents the early childhood education profession.

CDA is the only major national effort to improve early childhood education and care, by evaluation and recognition of the skills of individuals providing care. The first Credential was awarded over 30 years ago, and now 49 states plus the District of Columbia include CDA in their childcare licensing regulations.

Parents who use early education and care are especially concerned today about their children’s welfare. With this in mind, as part of the CDA assessment process, every candidate for the CDA Credential is observed working with young children or families by an early childhood professional. In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children’s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy learning environment.

The CDA Credential is having a positive effect on the quality of early childhood education and care. Its impact is evident in center-based and home visitor programs as well as family child care, the most common form of care for children under 5 years old.

Tammy Jo Turner is currently employed as a teacher at the Coleman Headstart.

NOMINATE YOUR COMMUNITY FOR THE FIRST LADY’S TEXAS TREASURES AWARD
7/21/2010
Austin, TX – Follow the preservation success of Nacogdoches, San Marcos and Waxahachie and nominate your community for the 2011 First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award. The award will recognize one community in 2011 that utilizes multiple resources offered by the Texas Historical Commission (THC), as well as those of other organizations or state agencies, to support historic preservation initiatives. The winning community will be honored at the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Unity Dinner in February 2011 in Austin. The deadline for nominations is Sept. 10, 2010.

“It’s through important places and buildings––like our grand courthouses, charming main streets, and historic downtowns that we get to share the story of Texas,” said First Lady Anita Perry. “The Texas Treasures Award recognizes communities that embrace the past for the benefit of future generations.”

The First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award, now in its third year, recognizes the multifaceted preservation achievements of an entire community that understands the benefits of researching, identifying and preserving the structures, archeological sites and landscapes that emphasize an authentic sense of Texas place by engaging citizens and visitors with those assets through events, outreach and education. A winner will be chosen by a committee comprised of staff members from the Office of the Governor and the THC.

“This award highlights communities that understand the economic, social and environmental benefits of the THC’s programs on contemporary civic life. Previous winners have been committed to saving their real places that tell many real stories of our state’s past,” said THC Executive Director Mark Wolfe. “We’re honored that the First Lady supports this initiative that protects unique treasures and showcases community-wide preservation efforts.”

Past winning communities employed their unique resources and personalities to demonstrate sustainable preservation stewardship related to the THC’s tools and programs, while showing broad support
and preservation leadership from volunteers, city officials, as well as cultural and historical groups. Their efforts and accomplishments have resulted in treasures saved and local legacies and stories shared with all Texans.

The First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award promotes the unique heritage experiences of communities through special signage and a DVD. To see video clips of 2010 and 2009 award-winning communities visit www.thc.state.tx.us/awards/awdFrstLdyTxTrs.shtml.

To submit a nomination for the 2011 award, contact April Garner with the THC’s Community Heritage Development Division at 512.463.6092 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us.

http://www.thc.state.tx.us/

7/20/2010

CATTLE RUSTLING RESULTS IN FELONY CHARGES IN TEXAS
7/20/2010
QUANAH, TEXAS - A serial cattle thief was indicted Wednesday on a first degree felony charge by a Hardeman County grand jury. Carl Wade Curry was arrested in April on six different charges relating to cattle theft, including theft of 420 head in Hardeman County. The charges could send Curry to prison for life.

Curry was arrested by Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) special rangers after an informant made an anonymous tip to the association's Operation Cow Thief hotline.

Through Operation Cow Thief, informants can receive a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and/or grand jury indictment of individuals for theft of livestock or related property.

In 2009, more than 7,400 head of cattle were reported stolen or missing to TSCRA authorities. TSCRA reported 6,400 in 2008 and 2,400 in 2007.

"Both cattle and property theft continue to be a problem in Texas," said Larry Gray, TSCRA executive director of law enforcement. "The good news is that, with the public's help, TSCRA special rangers are able to track down most thieves. Thanks to a new Texas law, those thieves are spending more time behind bars."

During the 81st Legislative Session, Texas lawmakers passed a law increasing the penalty for cattle theft from a state jail felony to a third degree felony. That law went into effect in September 2009.

Anyone with information regarding this or other cattle thefts should call TSCRA's Operation Cow Thief hotline at 888-830-2333.

TSCRA has 29 special rangers stationed strategically throughout Texas and Oklahoma who have in-depth knowledge of the cattle industry and are trained in all facets of law enforcement. All are commissioned as Special Rangers by the Texas Department of Public Safety and/or the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is a 133-year-old trade organization. As the largest and oldest livestock association in Texas, TSCRA represents more than 15,000 beef cattle producers, ranching families and businesses who manage approximately 4 million head of cattle on 51.5 million acres of range and pasture land, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma.

TSCRA provides law enforcement and livestock inspection services, legislative and regulatory advocacy, industry news and information, insurance services and educational opportunities for its members and the industry.

Matthew 25 Ministries 10th Year Hosting "The Celebration"
7/20/2010
Another exciting “The Celebration”, three days set aside to Celebrate the Goodness of God! We are grateful and thankful for God’s love shown through Jesus Christ, and for the awesome move of His Holy Spirit!

2000: The 1st “The Celebration” was held behind the home of Barry and Maureen in the country, and their home was filled with people eating!

2001-2002 The Celebration was held in their pasture below a hill between 2 tanks and ran on generators, porta-potties were rented. The food was cooked at their home and driven to the event.

2003 The Celebration was 1st held at The Cross just 6 weeks after it was purchased. We were unable to use any of the buildings, so we had to still cook the food outside and rent porta-potties.

2004-2006 Able to use the 1st building with the kitchen, dining area, and bathrooms!

2006-2010 Unchained Life Ministry joined The Celebration.

2007 The Celebration was completely moved indoors when the auditorium at The Cross was opened for use.

2007-2010 The auditorium seats over 300 and now has a wonderful stage with sound equipment and AC. The 1st building now has a huge kitchen and dining area, plus couches and a game room. Both buildings combined, we now have a total of 6 bathrooms!

We have come a long way and continue to praise God for His Goodness and all He has done for us. We want to thank Jesus for the souls that are saved and the lives that are changed, and for allowing us to join in this tremendous blessing!

This year from Abilene, Jimmy Pruitt of Grace Point Church spoke on “Planting that Seed”. Echo Academy of Worship Arts & River Rising Worship from Beltway Baptist, Abilene, (with the help of Rhett from The Cross) presented Drama and Dance. Music was provided by Redemption Cry from San Angelo, Reverence from Bronte, and General C and Volanda of Unchained Life Ministry. Unchained Life Ministry traveled from Post, Elvis (Mike Holly), Merika and Junior speaking. From Matthew 25 Ministries Mitchell Nelson spoke on the “True Love” and Barry followed with “Men Love Your Wife”. There was also a special performance by the band “Peculiar People”.

We received several comments on the BattleCry teens for their great attitude and their growth Spiritually since last year. We challenged the teens to work 30 hours in 3 days, doing everything we ask without complaining. Eight BattleCry teens took that challenge: Frederick, Samantha, Chelsea, Tamara, Clint, Jaquan, Tiana and Jennifer. Four teens, Frederick, Tamara, Samantha and Clint gave testimony of how God has made a difference in their lives. Samantha and Tamara were baptized on Saturday night excited about their new life in Christ. Other teens had to wait for permission from parents to be baptized, so we are expecting more baptisms. Plus, Friday morning there was a young man baptized from the county jail. PRAISE GOD!

This year we were blessed with many volunteers, and that made everything so much more relaxed and peaceful for Barry and Mo. We thank all of them. Paul and Cindy of Goat Willies BBQ Team in Brownwood did the outstanding cooking, plus Linda made great cobblers, and Mom made lots of delicious brownies. Patty and Shelia helped with the kitchen, while Gabe and Chuck were the door keepers. We also want to thank Cindy W and Wendy for their support. And thank you to Mitchell who ran the sound board, spoke, and led the band “Peculiar People” made up of the Staff of The Celebration.

2000-2010 Every year The Celebration is free to the public funded by the generosity of others. THANKS EVERYONE for your support!

For more pics go to www.mt25.net (hope to have them all up by Monday).

To Donate to Matthew 25 Ministries:
The Cross
PO Box 1003
Coleman TX 76834

For more information:
(325)625-1002
m-w 10-4
mt25@verizon.net
www.myspace.com/crybattle
Facebook: Mo Wilson

Coleman ISD School Board Meets in Regular Meeting

7/20/2010
The Coleman Independent school board met in regular session to address several agenda items and receive information related to the upcoming budget for 2010-2011.

The board formally accepted the resignations of Kim Smith and Terri Pattillo. Smith had been a teacher/coach for the school district and Pattillo had been hired at the June board meeting but later decided to stay at her current location. Charlese Walters Harris was hired by the board to serve in Elementary Special Education and Cynthia Davis was hired at the high school to teach Senior English and Dual Credit English. At this time all professional positions have been filled at Coleman ISD. Smith’s position will be absorbed by the district and he will not be replaced. Ms. Harris will be a beginning teacher and Ms. Davis brings a wealth of experience to the district having spent the last 25 years teaching in Winters, Alpine and Stephenville.

The fuel bid from Berry Marketing, Inc. was accepted for the 2010-2011 school year. In other action, the board appointed Sue Sloan as delegate and Viki Hambright as alternate delegate to the TASB Delegate Assembly to be held in Houston on September 25.

With the fiscal year ending in August for the 2010 school year, the board approved budget amendments. Superintendent Young said that with a month to go in the fiscal year, the business office was estimating that the district would end the fiscal year at $150,000 in the black. He noted this as a considerable turnaround from the year before.

The board held a budget workshop and received more good news concerning the preliminary 2010-2011 proposed budget. Superintendent Young and Business Manager Karen Huff presented a budget that was proposed as being $306,000 smaller than the previous year budget. Both cited the absorption of personnel through attrition due to smaller enrollment numbers as the main reduction in the overall budget. Personnel costs make up 80% of all costs in the budget.

Due to staff reduction and the passage of the tax ratification election last October, the district is proposing a balanced budget that calls for $8,246,473 in estimated revenues with $7,937,631 in expenditures. This should enable the district to place about $300,000 in fund balance if all goes well during the 2010-2011 school year. Young pointed out this is roughly a $700,000 turnaround in the financial outlook of the district from a year ago and again is due to the passage of the tax ratification election, staffing reduction, and administrative and staff management. “We did what we had to do this past year and we can ride out the tough times we are in until the legislature comes up with a better funding formula for public education.” “The budget remains a no thrills budget and the only thing we are really recommending in the way of capital outlay is the purchase of 1 school bus.”

Young mentioned that we need to keep a healthy fund balance and be ready to make some repairs at the 36 year old high school as needed. This item and others will be discussed more thoroughly at a goal setting workshop in August. The high school is in need of some repairs and improvements that would reduce energy costs and operate more efficiently. Young said that he had some preliminary figures on roofing and heating and cooling modifications that would significantly reduce the $130,000 it takes in electricity to run the high school per year.

The budget will be presented at a budget hearing on August 16 along with adopting the tax rate for the 2010-2011 school year. The proposed budget is based on the current tax rate.

In other discussion the Board set the New Teacher Luncheon for August 11 and the staff luncheon of Friday, August 20.

Coleman Family Participates in Brownwood Musical
Last Chance to See "Annie"
7/20/2010
Like most parents with a young child, Zac and Cathy Allen of Coleman watched their fair share of cartoons. The Allens, along with their daughter Abbi, watched anything from Disney to Nickelodeon, whereas they could recite certain lines word-for-word without missing a beat...in their sleep.

After discussing a change in entertainment pace, Zac and Cathy decided to show "The Sound of Music" in place of Abbi's normal cartoon programming. Abbi loved the movie. They watched it repeatedly, and when a play version made its way to San Angelo the Allens took Abbi to see it. What was meant to be a temporary change in habit turned into a passion for the stage.

After seeing The Sound of Music in San Angelo, Abbi told her parents that she would like to act. As fate would have it, Zac heard a public service announcement by the Brownwood Lyric Theatre asking for actors for none other than The Sound of Music. The Allens took Abbi for an audition and she was awarded the role as Gretl von Trapp. Today, Abbi is still acting. However, this time they've made it a family affair.

Zac, Cathy, and Abbi are participating in this year's musical rendition of "Annie" presented by the Brownwood Lyric Theatre. The Allens participate in the group because it's a fun way to do something active as a family. While they often rehearse from 6:30 p.m. until 1 a.m., the lessons in hard work and community service are invaluable. Zac and Cathy said the work put forth by the group is inspiring. Currently, the Lyric Theatre has raised $1 million dollars toward restoring the old Lyric Theatre in downtown Brownwood. When I asked Cathy what she's learned from her experience, she said, "That big goals are attainable." When I asked Zac, he laughed and said, "I'm not as light on my feet as I used to be."

The Brownwood Lyric Group will perform its final round of the musical "Annie" starting Thurs., July 22 at 7:30, Fri., July 23 at 2:30 and 7:30, Sat., July 24 at 7:30, and Sun., July 25 at 2:30. The performance takes place at Dorothy McIntosh Fine Arts Center Auditorium at Brownwood High School on 2100 Slayden Street in Brownwood. Tickets are $10 and can be bought at the door or locally at The Owl Drug Store. All actors are unpaid and all proceeds benefit the restoration of the historic Lyric Theatre.

How To Teach Kids To be Financially Literate
Expert Reveals Five Tips On How To Teach Kids About Money
7/20/2010
In the coming decade, it won’t be enough to teach kids how to read and write. If they’re not financially literate, they’ll be lost.

That’s the advice being offered by The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) (www.FinancialEducatorsCouncil.org), organizers of Money XLive – one of the nation’s largest financial literacy event that brings together celebrities and sport stars to provide youth a practical financial education in an MTV award show style environment.

According to a survey from CollegeGrad.com, 80 percent of all college graduates in 2009 moved back in with their parents after graduation, a three percent increase from 2008 and a 13 percent increase from 2006.

“It’s tough out there, and it isn’t getting any better,” said Vince Shorb, president of the NFEC. “I’m reading studies that are saying as many as 80 percent of college grads have to move back home after graduation. The trend is rising, and it’s not getting any better. Living independently is getting more difficult with each new generation of graduates, and one of the key problems is that we aren’t equipping these kids with a good sense of how to run their finances.”

The NFEC, which helps educators, not-for-profits, schools, community organizations and parent groups assemble financial literacy programs, offered some tips on how to teach children financial literacy. They include:

· Relate Money to Lifestyle. Today’s youth are not focused on just “money.” It’s what money “allows them to do” that motivates our children to pick up financial literacy skills. Uncover their personal dreams and find out how they want to live their day-to-day life. Then relate their aspirations to how having a financial education can help them reach their goals faster.

· Help Them Recognize Opportunity. Even though many people are going through financial challenges now, it is important that we teach our children how to recognize opportunity. When the economy is in bad shape is when many financially savvy people are making investments that will increase their long-term net worth. A simple financial literacy lesson like a practical understanding of market cycles gives them the knowledge of how to take advantage of future trends can have a profound impact on their life.

· Savings Plan. Getting your child, teen or young adult in a habit of setting financial goals and saving money as soon as possible is an important financial literacy habit you can help them develop. Since today’s youth are comfortable with technology it is highly recommended you teach them to automate their savings and budget plans.

· Build a Solid Financial Foundation. Make sure your child has their checking, savings, Roth IRA and brokerage accounts open as soon as possible (even if they do not have money to put into their brokerage or retirement accounts right now). People that have these accounts open are more likely to save their money and begin investing at a young age.

· Power of Compounding Interest. Youth gives our children a huge advantage when it comes to their financial health due to compounding interest. If you are over 60 years old, if you would have invested $100 per month in the S&P 500 index starting at 18 years old, you could be a millionaire now. Don’t you wish you fully understood compounding interest and how to take advantage of it when you were 18 years old?

“Let’s face it,” Shorb said. “The next generation will be without the advantages of pensions and Social Security to protect their futures. If we’re going to deny them those tools, we should at least teach them how to better manage what they earn. That’s why the NFEC was created, and that’s the mission of the organization.”

About The NFEC

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) is a coalition of leading financial literacy experts and organizations that represent the best practices in the financial education industry. Serving people of all ages and backgrounds, the NFEC provides practical financial education solutions that are engaging and inspire people to take positive action.

About Vince Shorb

Vince Shorb is the president of the NFEC, and a lifelong advocate of financial literacy.

Nominations Sought for Leopold Conservation Award, Lone Star Land Steward Awards
7/19/2010
The $10,000 Leopold award is the statewide accolade within the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Lone Star Land Steward Award Program, which also recognizes land stewards in 10 different ecological regions and in corporate, co-operative and special categories. The awards recognize Texas ranchers and other landowners who demonstrate outstanding, sustainable management of natural resources.

“The Leopold Conservation Award is the highest honor for private land stewardship in Texas, reserved for the truly exceptional examples of conservation achievement and commitment in our state,” said Carter Smith, TPWD executive director. “We have had exceptional stewards in all areas of the state, and anyone can nominate a previous eco-region winner for the Leopold award. All the information to make nominations is on our website.”

The Leopold award is presented in honor of famed conservationist and author Aldo Leopold, who called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. It is open to any landowner who has previously received an eco-region Lone Star Land Steward Award.

“The health of Texas’ landscape is dependent on hard-working farmers and ranchers across the state who dedicate themselves to ensuring that Texas’ land, water and wildlife are in better shape than when they found them,” said Dr. Brent Haglund, Sand County Foundation President. “Year after year, the quality of award nominations for the Leopold Conservation Award proves that Texas’ natural resources are being cared for by innovative landowners who want to see them flourish for future generations.”

Eco-region award winners and the Leopold Conservation Award recipient will be announced at the Lone Star Land Steward Awards ceremony next May in Austin. The Leopold Conservation Award is made possible in Texas through the generous support of the Bradley Fund for the Environment and Silver Eagle Distributors.

Sand County Foundation is a private, non-profit conservation organization dedicated to working with private landowners to improve habitat on their land. In the spirit of Aldo Leopold, author of A Sand County Almanac, the Foundation encourages the exercise of private responsibility in the pursuit of improved land health. Aside from Texas, the foundation presents Leopold awards in California, Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

For more information about how to nominate a landowner for the Lone Star Land Steward Awards, contact Private Lands Program Director Linda Campbell in Austin at (512) 389-4395 or email linda.campbell@tpwd.state.tx.us.

Central Baptist Church Hosting Gospel Singer this Wednesday
7/19/2010
The Central Baptist Church is hosting singer and evangelist Ronnie Warren Wednesday Night July 21st at 6:30pm. We would like to invite everyone to come and join us. For information on Bro. Warren his websight is warrensounds.com.

Glen Cove Baptist Church Celebrates 110th Year in August
7/19/2010
Glen Cove Baptist church will be celebrating its 110th anniversary on August 15, 2010. There will be a special service that morning at 11:00am followed by a meal. It will be a great day of celebration and we invite all to come. More details to come

COMPUTER TRAINING AVAILABLE IN AUGUST AT PUBLIC LIBRARY
-contributed-
7/19/2010
The Humane Society will again sponsor basic computer training classes starting Monday, August 9, in the Tillman Room at the Coleman Public Library. The Tillman Room is set up for training on nine laptop computers using Windows XP. There is also a large screen to demonstrate lessons to the class. These classes are meant primarily for adult home users who want to get the most enjoyment from their computer.

There will be two classes each Monday for six weeks. Day classes will start at 10:00. Evening classes will start at 6:30. The classes will be from 1 to 1-1/2 hours long. Subjects are as follows:

August 9: Introduction, computer components and Windows basics
August 16: More Windows and email
August 23: Internet surfing, shopping, games
August 30: Software, including intro to word processing
Sept. 6: Security and backup
Sept. 13: Review, tips & tricks and questions/answers

The 6-week course can be paid for one at a time at $20 each. Or the whole six weeks can be paid for at a discounted rate of $100. If you sign up for the morning class, you are welcome to audit the evening class at no charge, or vice versa. A paying student can bring one friend/spouse at no charge, but only one computer will be assigned. Fifteen days of telephone problem-solving assistance are also included following the classes.

Jo Ann Eddleman will be the tutor and an assistant will be available to provide one-on-one help as needed. All proceeds will benefit the Humane Society of Coleman County.

To sign up, please drop by the Humane Society Thrift Store Thursdays - Saturdays, or call or email Jo Ann at 325-625-1642, hscc@verizon.net.

Recent Coleman High Graduate Wins $1,000 Scholarship
7/19/2010
Gary Heath, recent Coleman High School graduate, receives one of the two $1,000 B. Don Magness Texas Cares for Children Scholarships for Young Men awarded at the 75th anniversary Miss Texas Scholarship Pageant on June 2 in Arlington. Heath is pictured with Colton Altier (left), 2010 graduate of South Garland High School. Heath is 2010 graduate of Coleman High School and will study agricultural development this fall at Texas A&M University, where he will be a Corps Cadet.

Gouldbusk Methodist Church Monthly Lunch Next Sunday
7/19/2010
The Gouldbusk Methodist Church will be having their monthly lunch next Sunday, July 25, and wanted to let the public know. The meat will be provided. Everyone is encouraged to bring a salad or a dessert and come join the Gouldbusk Methodist Church at noon.

Gas Prices Continue Down, Down, Down
7/19/2010
Texas, July 19- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have fallen 1.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.52/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 0.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.72/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 24.0 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 3.7 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 1.6 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 26.0 cents per gallon higher than this day one 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.

Get Ready to Sail Away - Concho Baptist Vacation Bible School Begins!
7/19/2010
The boats are ready to sail for the island at Concho Baptist Church. It’s time for Soul Survivors On Danger Island Vacation Bible School beginning July 26-30 from 6:30-8:45pm for ages 4 years thru 5th grade at 1700 S. Concho. This year the students will face many "dangers" and learn how to conquer the enemy in an island theme. For more information or to save your seat on the boat, call 625-2409. We hope to see you there!

Eat to a Healthier You
Written By: Anne Gilmore, TAMU Dietetic Intern, Edited by Amanda R. Scott, MS, RD, LD
Submitted By: Christin Burris, County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences
7/18/2010
It’s summertime! A time for warm sunny weather, relaxing vacations, and playtime with the children. Another great benefit of summer is the abundance of fresh delicious, fruits and vegetables available. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber needed for good health. The nutrients found in fruits and vegetables give you the power to fight and prevent disease and maintain or achieve a healthy weight says County Extension Agent Christin Burris.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend an average individual consume two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of vegetables every day. Despite the known health benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables, Americans as a whole, do not consume the recommended amounts each day. So what is coming between you and these powerful foods? Is it lack of time or a taste preference? Here are some ways you can increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat each day:

If you find yourself blaming your lack of fruit and vegetable consumption on lack of time, don’t be afraid to try canned or frozen fruits and vegetables. They can be ready in minutes and added to any meal. For a healthier product, choose canned fruits packed in their own juice or light syrup. When you shop for frozen vegetables, choose those without sauces which can add unwanted salt, fat, and calories. If you prefer fresh fruits and vegetables, consider purchasing convenience items. For example, buy pre-cut packages of fruit for a healthy snack in seconds. Carry whole fruit or dried fruits and vegetables with you for a quick snack on the go. When you have a minute, spend some time cutting up fruits and vegetables for the rest of the week, so they will be available and ready to use when your schedule is hectic.

For those of you, who find little appeal to certain fruits and vegetables, don’t give up hope. Here are some ways to make fruits and vegetables more appealing. Many fruits and vegetables taste great with a dip or dressing. Use low fat yogurt for fruit or low fat ranch for vegetables. Mix fruits and vegetables in with foods you all ready love.

If you’re grilling steaks, marinate fresh bell peppers, onion, and squash and throw them on the grill as well. Try different textures of fruits and vegetables. If you’re not a fan of bananas or cooked carrots try crispy raw broccoli or fresh apples. Especially during the summer, there is a wide variety of fruits and vegetables available. Be creative and keep trying different ones until you find what you love!

If money is tight, buy seasonal fruits and vegetables from a local farmers market or grocery store. Canned, frozen, or dried fruits and vegetables are sometimes more affordable than fresh produce. This is a good option when money is tight, time is short, or your favorite fruit or vegetable is out of season. Also, many vegetables can be added to any dish like casseroles or soups to increase the volume, feeding more people at a lower cost. Growing your own fruits and vegetables can also cut down on cost. Get children involved to increase their interest in different fruits and vegetables. Let them choose which ones you will plant. They will take pride in the garden and their health will reap the benefits.

Whether you grown your own, support local farmers, or buy from a grocer, take advantage of the diverse selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables and eat to a healthier life! To learn more about the health benefits of fruits and vegetables, more ways to incorporate them into your diet, and local nutrition education programs available in your area, contact your local County Extension Agent at 325-625-4519 or cdburris@ag.tamu.edu.

EASTLAND COUNTY FATAL CRASH
SUBMITTED BY SENIOR TROOPER SPARKY DEAN
7/18/2010
ONE TEENAGER WAS KILLED AND TWO WERE INJURED IN A ONE-VEHICLE ROLLOVER CRASH, FRIDAY AT 10:00 P.M. IN EASTLAND COUNTY. THE CRASH OCCURRED ON TEXAS STATE HIGHWAY 112 NEAR MILE MARKER 294.

DECEASED;
1. KALENA GILLISPIE, 16 YEARS OF AGE FROM BRECKENRIDGE, TEXAS WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE AT 10:40 P.M. BY JUDGE D. J. WALKER. THE BODY WAS TAKEN TO EDWARDS FUNERAL HOME IN EASTLAND, TEXAS. MS. GILLISPIE WAS NOT WEARING A SEAT BELT.

INJURED;
1. (DRIVER) MYRANDA BLAKE HAMMER, 17 YEARS OF AGE FROM EASTLAND, TEXAS WAS TAKEN TO HARRIS METHODIST HOSPITAL IN FORT WORTH WITH HEAD INJURIES.
2. JANIE CARRION, 16 YEARS OF AGE FROM EASTLAND, TEXAS WAS TAKEN TO HARRIS METHODIST HOSPITAL IN FORT WORTH WITH HEAD INJURIES.

VEHICLES INVOLVED;
1. 2000 MITSUBISHI DRIVEN BY MYRANDA BLAKE HAMMER.

SYNOPSIS;
ONE TEENAGER WAS KILLED AND TWO WERE INJURED IN A ONE-VEHICLE ROLLOVER CRASH FRIDAY NIGHT AT 10:00 P.M. IN EASTLAND COUNTY. MYRANDA BLAKE HAMMER, AGE 17 FROM EASTLAND, TEXAS WAS DRIVING A 2000 MITSUBISHI NORTHBOUND ON TEXAS 112. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND RAN OFF OF THE ROADWAY INTO A FIELD, OVERTURNING AND EJECTING THE UNBUCKLED PASSENGER, KALENA GILLISPIE.

THE ROAD WAS DRY AND THE WEATHER CLEAR.

THIS CRASH IS BEING INVESTIGATED BY TEXAS HIGHWAY PATROL TROOPER TIM PITTS.

After 98 Years Girl Scouts Get a Makeover
Girl Scouts Unveils New National Brand Initiative
7/18/2010
Austin, Texas, July 15—Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), one of the most well known organizations in the nation, is revitalizing and reenergizing its brand to reach a new generation of girls.

After extensive research and development, Girl Scouts debuted last week a long-term, multichannel brand campaign that is designed to reacquaint the country with the iconic organization and communicate the power girls have to change the world through Girl Scouting. The campaign, known by the tagline What Did You Today?, is also keyed to boosting the number of girls and adult volunteers who participate in Girl Scouting annually after a period of declining membership.

“About one out of every 10 girls participates in Girl Scouting and that’s a tremendous number when you think about it,” says Kathy Cloninger, Chief Executive Officer of GSUSA. “We have revamped our entire organization to appeal to that 90 percent of girls who aren’t benefiting from the Girl Scout leadership experience. And with our new brand work, we think we have the right message at the right time.”

The branding is composed of a striking new visual identity, which includes a distinctive trefoil mark, revised color palette, and refreshed logo that was originally created in the 1970s. In addition, the initiative also includes plans for a 360 degree marketing program that taps the online, place-based and traditional media.

“The new brand look will reinforce the Girl Scout message that is relevant to girls and the lives they lead today,” says Etta Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Central Texas. “We’re excited to launch the new brand initiative locally in an effort to continue to build girls of courage, confidence and character and to position ourselves as the premiere leadership organization for girls in Central Texas.“

Girl Scouts is launching its rebranding from a position of strength because it can draw upon strong name recognition and a long legacy of leadership development. With this new campaign and the projected growth in overall girl population in the United States, Girls Scouts expects to see its membership begin to increase over the next few years. The campaign will also pave the way for a major effort to gain exposure during the organization’s national centennial celebration in 2012.
About Girl Scouts

Founded in 1912, Girl Scouts of the USA is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls with 3.3 million girl and adult members worldwide. Girl Scouts is the leading authority on girls' healthy development, and builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. The organization serves girls from every corner of the United States and its territories. Girl Scouts of the USA also serves American girls living overseas in 90 countries. For more information on how to join, volunteer, reconnect or donate to Girl Scouts, call (800) GSUSA 4 U (800-478-7248) or visit www.girlscouts.org.

About Girl Scouts of Central Texas:
Girl Scouts of Central Texas serves nearly 21,000 girls in grades K-12 and more than 12,000 adult volunteers in 46 Central Texas counties. Headquartered in Austin, Girl Scouts of Central Texas has program centers in Brownwood, 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.

7/17/2010

THE PERFECT WEEKEND OUTING FOR YOUR FAMILY - GO SEE A PLAY!
7/17/2010
The Brownwood Lyric Theatre is back in action in the Big Country! This year the Lyric Theatre presents "Annie" Sat., July 17 at 2:30 and 7:30, Sun., July 18 at 2:30, Thurs., July 22 at 7:30, Fri., July 23 at 2:30 and 7:30, Sat., July 24 at 7:30, and Sun., July 25 at 2:30. The performance takes place at Dorothy McIntosh Fine Arts Center Auditorium at Brownwood High School on 2100 Slayden Street in Brownwood. Tickets are $10 and can be bought at the door or locally at The Owl Drug Store.

The proceeds from "Annie" will go towards a non-profit movement to restore the old Lyric Theatre in downtown Brownwood. The cast of Annie includes actors from around the region, including Coleman's own Zac, Cathy, and Abbi Allen.

More information on the Brownwood Lyric Theatre group or play information can be found at http://www.brownwoodlyrictheatre.com/tickets-new.html

Charles Stenholm to address Big Country Wheat Conference Aug. 5 3 CEU's Offered
Submitted by: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR
7/17/2010
ABILENE - Charlie Stenholm, former congressman for Texas’ 17th District, is scheduled to be the keynote luncheon speaker for this year’s Big Country Wheat Conference set for Aug. 5 in Abilene. The biennial conference, conducted by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, starts with registration at 7 a.m. in the Big Country Hall, located on the grounds of the Taylor County Expo Center.

Former Congressman Stenholm is a plain-spoken Democrat and a staunch production agriculture supporter,’ said Robert Pritz, AgriLife Extension agent in Taylor County. ‘He is very well known in our area having served the 17th District of Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives for many years.’ Stenholm is currently a senior policy advisor for Olsson Frank Weeda, a Washington-based law firm. ‘He’ll be speaking on policy as it relates to agriculture in the Big Country,’ said Pritz.

Dr. Allan Fritz, Wheat Breeder from Kansas State University, is another noted speaker we have scheduled,’ Pritz said. ‘During the morning, he’ll be speaking on breeding wheat for quality, and the role of biotechnology and during the afternoon program he’ll speak on private and public wheat breeding collaborations.’ He said the program is the largest educational event of its kind in Texas and regularly draws speakers and participants from Texas and Oklahoma. The conference is set just prior to planting so growers have time to apply what they’ve learned to this year’s crop, Pritz said.

Other topics will include: world wheat outlook, wheat variety and disease summary, small-grain forage production, weed and wild oat control, insect control, risk management and a producer panel.

Three Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units (two general and one integrated pest management) will be available for private pesticide applicator license holders.

The conference will be conducted by the AgriLife Extension offices in Callahan, Fisher, Jones, Nolan, Runnels, Shackelford and Taylor counties. Individual registration is free if preregistered by Aug. 3 and $20 thereafter.

For more information and to preregister, contact Robert Pritz, CEA-Ag/NR at the AgriLife Extension office in Taylor county at 325-672-6048, or any of the affiliated AgriLife Extension offices.

Foundation of U.S. Military Should be Built on American Soil
By U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
7/17/2010
For the future security posture of U.S. military forces and for the fiscal health of our nation, our military construction agenda should be guided by these words: Build in America. At the end of the Cold War, the U.S. military determined that our armed forces would be best trained and equipped for service when stationed at installations on U.S. soil. Thus, our military adopted a “force projection” strategy that allows our troops to deploy from home, rather than being based primarily overseas.

In 2005, the Overseas Basing Commission reaffirmed this strategy and lauded the Department of Defense’s (DOD) efforts to transform the military and re-station tens of thousands of military personnel in the United States. Congress has invested more than $14 billion to build housing, stationing, training, and deployment capacities at major military installations, such as Fort Bliss and Fort Hood. We have proven we can best deploy from the United States – and we can do it more cost-effectively.

However, the DOD’s current military construction proposal would begin a worldwide transformation of U.S. basing that would expand our overseas presence. DOD is pursuing expensive, and in some cases duplicative, construction projects in Europe, South Korea, and Guam without demonstrating adequate cost efficiencies or projected future costs. Plans include building facilities costing $3.5 billion in Germany over the next five years. This shift in global posture disconnects with stateside basing capabilities and reverses the Overseas Basing Commission’s recommendations.

In Germany, massive plans are underway to move U.S. Army Headquarters from Heidelberg to Wiesbaden even though European and African Commands already have substantial infrastructure in Stuttgart, where efficiencies would be available. These projects would create thousands of foreign jobs and require continuous taxpayer funding. This is a poor investment considering the serious limitations to U.S. military training and deployment capabilities overseas, and it would create duplicative headquarters. Furthermore, it costs 15 percent less to build in the United States than in Germany, and the work would be done by American workers.

Our troops must have access to training areas where they can maneuver freely, conduct live-fire exercises, and work with night-vision devices. Many overseas locations limit or prohibit such intensive training. These constraints hinder the readiness of our troops.

Deployment impediments also exist in Europe. During times of peace and war, our troops face restrictions traveling through many countries. In 2003, our NATO ally Turkey refused to let U.S. troops travel through their country during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Merely having our troops forward-deployed is no guarantee they will be available when and where we need them.

DOD is also planning to spend millions to build deployment facilities in South Korea. The Pentagon proposes expanding U.S. presence from 30,000 service personnel to approximately 84,000 including families. This will require substantial taxpayer funding to build adequate housing, schools, hospitals, childcare facilities, and commissaries. Investing these resources overseas makes no sense when we are already building up infrastructure and deployment capabilities at U.S. bases, where amenities to support military families are well-established.
Similarly, plans to shift Marines currently stationed in Japan to the tiny island of Guam are problematic. This proposal is fraught with environmental concerns, insufficient existing infrastructure, an implausible timeline – and staggering costs (now estimated at $16 billion). With these considerable barriers, better basing alternatives should be explored.

Some argue that U.S. presence overseas provides assurance to our allies and deterrence to our adversaries. History has shown otherwise. Russia did not hesitate to conduct military operations against Georgia in 2008. Having troops in South Korea did not deter North Korean aggression against a South Korean naval vessel last May. We should assure our allies and deter our enemies with strong military capabilities and sound policy, not merely by keeping our troops stationed overseas.

Instead of breaking ground on military projects abroad and advancing DOD’s new goal of building “partnership capacity,” we should be building American infrastructure. Following World War II, the U.S. constructed bases in Europe to establish a strong presence as nations rebuilt. We stayed in Europe and placed bases in South Korea to protect the interests of America and its allies during the Cold War. The world has changed, and with it, our nation’s military priorities. Military construction investment should reflect strategic principles, meet the needs of families, maximize the force flexibility of our modern military, and protect taxpayers. I hope the Department of Defense will continue to build the foundation of our military right here on American soil.

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.

7/16/2010

Car accident at intersection of Commercial and College

CAR ACCIDENT RESULTS IN DOWNED TRADEMARK STREET LIGHT
7/16/2010
According to the Coleman Police Department, a red Dodge pickup truck, stopped at the intersection of College Street and Commercial Avenue, was attempting to make a north bound turn from College to Commercial. As the red truck accelerated, the driver of the red truck noticed a  vehicle quickly approaching headed south bound on Commercial. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the red truck accelerated and attempted to make a north bound turn. The attempt failed and the red truck collided into and knocked down one of Coleman's trademark street lights. There were no injuries or other vehicles involved in the accident. There is no official word as to whether or not the street light will be repositioned.

Angora Goat Performance Test Field Day and Sale is July 29
Submitted by: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR
Contact(s):Dr. Dan Waldron, 325-653-4576, d-waldron@tamu.edu
7/16/2010
SONORA - Texas AgriLife Research*s annual Angora Goat Performance Test Field Day and Sale is set for July 29 at the AgriLife Research Station at Sonora.

The station is located 28 miles south of Sonora on U.S. Highway 55, between Sonora and Rocksprings.

The day*s activities open at 10 a.m. with an informal viewing of the test animals and their records. Educational presentations start at 11:15 a.m. and resume at 1 p.m. after lunch. The sale of performance-tested animals will immediately follow the educational program at about 2 p.m.

Program topics and speakers include:
- Range Utilization by Goats, Dr. Charles *Butch* Taylor, superintendent, AgriLife Research Station at Sonora.
- Meat: The Other Angora Product, Joe David Ross, Sonora rancher.
- Tribute to Mac Gilliat, Fred Speck, Speck Angoras, Kerrville.
- Mohair Market Update and Outlook, Seco Mayfield (Sonora), Mohair Council of America, San Angelo.
- Comments on Test Results, Drs. Chris Lupton and Dan Waldron, AgriLife Research at San Angelo.
- Presentation of Mohair Council of America Awards and Recognition of Certified Bucks. The sale of performance-tested animals will conclude the day's activities.

Complete performance data and photos of the bucks in-fleece are available at: http://safiles.tamu.edu/genetics/angoratest.htm .

For more information, contact Waldron or Dr. Frank Craddock, Texas AgriLife Extension Service sheep and goat specialist in San Angelo, at 325-653-4576, or the AgriLife Research Station at Sonora at 325-387-3168.

Coleman Loss & Grief Group to Begin Meeting Thursday, July 22nd
Contributed
7/16/2010
A grief and loss group for the Coleman community is being organized and will consist of women and men. Anyone who has suffered a loss and is having trouble with their grief is welcome.

The first meeting will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Coleman Fellowship Hall, 500 W. Liveoak Street, on Thursday, July 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

Please come and join us!

Revival Will Be Held July 30th Thru August 1st
Contributed
7/16/2010
Pastor Don Cothran welcomes all to come to a Revival scheduled for Friday, July 30th, Saturday, July 31st and Sunday, August 1st to take place on S. Commercial Ave. in the lot south of Chuy’s Burritos.

Services will begin at 7:00 p.m. each evening. There will be prayer for the sick and bound, salvation to the lost. Everyone is welcome!

COUNCIL MOVES MEETING TIME TO 6:00 P.M.
by Jo Ann Eddleman
7/16/2010
City Council unanimously approved moving the meeting time for City Council meetings from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at its Thursday afternoon meeting. The new meeting time will take effect at the next Council meeting August 5. Jeannie Moss had asked the city to consider moving the time at the last council meeting so that business owners and working people would have a better chance to attend the meetings. Councilmen Paul Kugle and Terry Langley both commented that they looked forward to more citizens attending Council meetings and offering input.

In other business, Council heard from Tim Parrott, representing the Coleman County Country Club, who wanted the city to provide raw water from Hords Creek Lake at a reduced rate from the 65¢/1000 gallons that is provided for in the city's fee schedule. He asked that the charge remain at the 25¢/1000 gallons the Club is currently paying. The Country Club had at one time paid only 10¢/1000 gallons for the approximately 8 million gallons of water they use each year to keep their lake full and grounds watered.

Parrott made the case that the Country Club is an asset to Coleman that regularly brings out-of-town visitors to town for the tournaments it sponsors each year, which adds a significant amount to the town's sales and occupancy tax revenues. He also mentioned that the award-winning high school golf teams have a place to practice that they would otherwise not have. Parrott pointed out that the $2,000 the city would lose from the Club's purchase of the raw water at the 25¢ rate was not a significant amount in the overall city budget, but was a large difference for the Country Club budget.

Councilman Kugle questioned City Manager Larry Weise about whether enough water was available to comfortably divert for Country Club use and whether there was a cost to the city to bring raw water to town that needed to be covered by the per gallon charge.

After determining water is available and there is no extra cost to the city to provide the raw water, Councilman Kugle said he saw no reason the water should not be provided at the 10¢ rate, and so moved. However, the motion died for lack of a second. Councilwoman Tracy Rankin then moved that the raw water for the Country Club be charged at the 25¢ per 1000 gallon rate with a limit of 8 million gallons per year at that rate. Kugle seconded the motion and the motion passed, with Councilman Harold Skelton abstaining.

Public Works Director Bob Ray presented his annual overview of the departments under his supervision, including Water Treatment, Electric Service, Water/Sewer, Street Department and the City Cemetery.

Ray emphasized that Public Works continues to do the job it is required to do to keep Coleman running with a steadily decreasing budget. Some of the statistics Ray reported included stringing 14,500 feet of electric wire, which includes new and replacement wire, and laying 21,043 feet of pipe, which, according to the City Manager, reflects the city is making an effort to replace pipe that is leaking instead of patching. Public Works fielded a total of 3,276 calls for service.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mary Griffis fielded some questions by Councilman Kugle about the Quarterly Occupancy Tax Report she presented to Council. Kugle was concerned that the Chamber represents the county and yet receives no support from the county or from other towns in the county, such as Santa Anna, which stand to benefit from Chamber activities which are supported by the City of Coleman's occupancy tax. Griffis said the Councilman was welcome to come to her office to clarify the issues he was concerned about.

The report reflected occupancy tax revenue for the quarter of $8,607.65. The Rodeo Association received $2,500 to defray a portion of its advertising expenses for the rodeo, and the Humane Society received $200 to help cover some of its expenses for advertising the county-wide garage sale. The remainder of occupancy tax revenue was used for Chamber overhead in accordance with state law.

Council went into executive session for the annual evaluation of the City Manager. Action taken, if any, will be reported at a later date.

RESCUE THE ANIMALS RESCHEDULES DACHSHUND RACES
-contributed-
7/16/2010
The Dachshund Races sponsored by Rescue the Animals in Abilene are back on after being cancelled due to rain. The re-scheduled races are Thursday evening, July 22, at the Festival Gardens across from the Abilene Zoo on South 11th. Rescue the Animals is waiving the fee for entrance to the event, so it's FREE.

The gates open at 6:00 p.m. and the Rescued Dog Beauty Pageant will be at 6:30. The beauty pageant is open to all breeds.
 
The wiener dog races start at 7:00 p.m. You can register for the races at the gate.

The event will also give you the opportunity to have your dog heartworm tested for $5, and you can also get all vaccinations including rabies for $19.99. Worth the trip!

Join all the animal lovers and rescued dogs in the Big Country at the Dachshund Races! Check out www.RescuetheAnimals.org for details.

All-Star cheerleaders from left to right:
Shay Carter-JV, Vallari Escobar-JV, Kirstie Jamison-JV and Dylan Buzzard-Varsity.

COLEMAN CHEERLEADERS GEAR UP FOR UPCOMING SEASON
7/16/2010
The Varsity and JV cheerleaders attended cheerleading camp at Angelo State University the week of June 28-July 1. The girls performed daily and received awards and recognition for their performances. On the first night of camp, the JV and Varsity squads competed as one squad and performed a Home Pom routine, choreographed by Kourtney Johnson and were awarded first place for their performance. The Home Pom, was the only time the squads performed together.

The rest of the camp the squads were split up and competed separately on the JV and Varsity levels. The second night the squads were evaluated in the cheer category and both squads received superior ribbons for their performances. On the third night of camp the squads were evaluated on the X-treme Dance division and both squads received superior ribbons. In the afternoon on the third day, the All-Star competition was held. The All-Star competition consist of a cheer, dance and jump. Girls are selected by the Universal Cheerleading Association (UCS) staff as All-Star Cheerleaders based on their performance. The following girls were selected to the All-Star Squad: Shay Carter-JV, Vallari Escobar-JV, Kirstie Jamison-JV and Dylan Buzzard-Varsity.

On the final day of camp, the girls competed for Camp Champs in the Cheer and X-treme Dance divisions. The Varsity won 2nd in the X-treme Dance division and the JV won Camp Champs in the X-treme Dance division. The varsity was also awarded the Superior award, which is an award that is given to squads that have superior performances throughout the week. The JV division of the camp was not awarded Superior awards by the UCA staff. Overall both squads did an excellent job at camp and learned a lot of new material to bring back home to perform.

The cheerleaders are now busy preparing and getting ready for the upcoming season. The cheerleaders would like to remind the public that they will be holding their mini-cheer camp on August 4, 5, and 6th at the new High School gym. The mini-cheer camp is open to all girls ages 4-7th grade. Mini-cheer camp will start at 9:00-11:30 a.m. and registration will be at 8:30 a.m. on August 4. No pre-registration is available. Forms will be available at the registration on site of the first day.

------

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Hunter Education Instructors Needed
7/16/2010
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will be conducting a free Hunter Education New Instructor Training Workshop Saturday, August 14th, 2010, in Grand Prairie, Texas. The workshop will be from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the North Texas Education Center, 5411 Robinson Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052.

We will be training new applicants and currently certified instructors in skills trail, live firing exercises and Home Study procedures. The training puts fun and exciting activities into the learning experience. Students will benefit by going through actual hunting simulations and by making their own decisions regarding responsible actions using “shoot-don’t-shoot” scenarios.

Before you attend this workshop, you must go to the following web site and prepare yourself by going over the Introduction and the first 4 chapters of the instructor training manual. You will sign an acknowledgement and release that you have done this pre-workshop assignment as part of your training. The site is as follows: tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/hunter_education/instruct.phtml.

Every Texas hunter born on or after September 2, 1971, must successfully complete a Hunter Education course. The Hunter Education Program’s goals are to reduce hunting-related accidents and violations; promote safe, responsible and knowledgeable hunting; and enhance hunting traditions and values.

Hunter Education provides instruction in Texas hunting regulations, wildlife management and identification, conservation, ethics, firearm and hunting safety and responsibility, and outdoor skills.

By understanding hunting through education, hunters and non-hunters alike will help make a bright future for the sport. Now is the time to become involved, so let us know if you are interested!

To register, please contact: Robert Ramirez, TPWD Hunter Education Specialist, (972) 263-1219 or robert.ramirez@tpwd.state.tx.us.

7/15/2010

Bluekatts Gear Up for Next Season at Summer Basketball Camp
7/15/2010

Several Coleman Bluekatts attended the McMurry Women’s Basketball Position Camp on July 11-14. Mary Etheridge received the Camp Heart Award. Erin Strickland and Mercedes Taylor were on the Camp 3 on 3 Champion Team. Pictured are (L-R) Shay Carter, Freshman; Shaila Lewis, Freshman; Erin Strickland, Senior; Mary Etheridge, Junior; Taylor Armstrong, Senior; and Mercedes Taylor, Senior.

City Council Meets Tonight, Considers Release of Raw Water
7/15/2010
CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2010 AT 5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Hall - 200 W. Liveoak - Coleman, Texas

PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the July 1, 2010 regular meeting. Council may take 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:
OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider a request from a citizen to change the time for the regular council meetings to start one hour later. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
2. Council will receive the Quarterly Occupancy Tax Report from the Chamber. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
3. Council will consider a request from the Coleman County Country Club for a release of raw water. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
4. Council will receive the annual report from the Public Works Director. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
5. Council will conduct the annual evaluation of the City Manager. Council reserves the right to enter into executive closed secession pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code, Concerning Personnel Matters. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN:

Senator Fraser To Lead Senate Committee on Natural Resources
Fraser is Coleman County's State Senator
7/15/2010
AUSTIN -- State Senator Troy Fraser, R-Horseshoe Bay, was named to lead the Senate Committee on Natural Resources today.

"I look forward to assuming the responsibilities of the chairmanship and want to thank Lt. Gov. Dewhurst for the opportunity," Fraser said. "I am excited to take on this new challenge as Texas fights the federal government's attempt to control our natural resources."

The Senate Committee on Natural Resources handles the flow of legislation in a number of policy areas, including water resources, air quality, oil and gas, agriculture, and parks and wildlife. In addition, Fraser has been asked to develop a State Energy Plan based on his extensive knowledge of the oil, natural gas, alternative fuels, and electric generation and transmission industries.

"The Texas economy is the world's 11th-largest. Despite a slight slowdown in 2009, Texas’ relative economic advantage should continue as the state and U.S. economies turn around and expand again in 2010," said Fraser. "However, our economic advantage will be lost if the federal government continues to try to over-regulate our businesses and our lives."

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts states that federal efforts to further regulate greenhouse gas emissions could negatively impact the Texas economy. The state could see 173,000 to 425,000 fewer jobs than expected in 2030 as a result of increased energy prices from the cap and trade portion of the recently proposed bill. She estimates the resulting decline in gross state product to be between $25 and $58 billion.

"Texas is facing federal interference on several fronts - air quality and oil and gas production," Fraser said. "These actions are an arrogant and unnecessary exercise of federal power that shows the federal government's lack of respect for Texas and private businesses."

As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Fraser is committed to ensuring the federal government recognizes that Texas has made great strides in protecting all of our natural resources.

"I will work on slowing down the federal government's attempted takeover so that Texas can continue to successfully balance the dual interests of a strong economy and a clean environment. We have and can continue to make positive changes without over burdening our residents and businesses financially."

The Coleman Senior Center is selling tickets for a Guitar
7/15/2010
Product Features are Solid Canadian cedar top with mahogany back and sides features a natural lacquer finish, Cedar neck with 2-1/10' nut width, 18-fret rosewood fingerboard, Spanish bracing system and heel joint, Rosewood bridge with traditional tie block, Gold tuning machines for accurate tuning and Savarez Cristal Corum nylon Strings. This classical guitar is lightweight and features a comfortable cedar neck for easy playability. The all-wood construction includes a solid Canadian cedar top and mahogany back and sides for a warm, robust tune. This guitar also comes with a guitar case. Stand is not included.

You can come see the guitar or buy your tickets at the Senior Center at 916 SO. Concho. The tickets are one for a $1.00 or six for $5.00 We will be selling these tickets from now to August 31, 2010 until 12:00 pm. At 12:01 pm we will draw for one lucky person to win. Just a reminder all proceeds go to the Senior Center. So not only will you have a chance to win this beautiful guitar but you will be helping us out also.

National dropout report to laud Texas’ prevention efforts
7/15/2010
AUSTIN – A new national dropout report to be issued later this summer will laud Texas’ far-reaching strategies for reducing the number of high school dropouts.

“Texas stands out for its coherent and far-reaching strategy to put dropouts and struggling students at the center of high school reform,” says an independently conducted report called Six Pillars of Effective Dropout Prevention and Recovery to be issued by Jobs for the Future (JFF). This national non-profit organization develops, implements and promotes new education and workforce strategies that help communities, states and the nation compete in a global economy.

Adria Steinberg, a vice president at JFF and coauthor of the forthcoming report that examined dropout prevention efforts nationwide, said “We’ve got two populations that generally lack college-ready skills—the 1.2 million who drop out of high school each year and many more who struggle to earn a diploma with little chance of achieving more. Many policies concerning these programs predate the need for a college degree to earn a family-supporting wage. These policies must change.”

The report notes that Texas is one of the states that is addressing the dropout situation in a comprehensive manner. “Drawing on the latest research on predicting dropouts, Texas uses its at-risk student indicator system to trigger significant reforms (and resources) targeted toward schools and students with the greatest need. In 2003, Texas built on this foundation by enacting the state’s first legislation on early college high schools (SB 976), adopting the National Center for Education Statistics definition of a dropout (SB 186), and appropriating $60 million for high school completion and success programs. In 2007, the state enacted HB 2237, Texas’s comprehensive policy approach to reduce dropouts and increase the number of students who graduate ready for postsecondary success. Also that year, Texas enacted HB 1137, which authorizes funding for school districts to help young people up to age 26 receive a high school diploma,” the report says.

It also notes that HB 1, passed in 2006, created the high school allotment, which provides $275 per pupil to be used to implement programs and practices that increase college and career readiness.
“The state’s omnibus dropout prevention law, HB 2237, codified some of the state’s secondary school reform efforts and laid the groundwork for its forward-thinking dropout prevention agenda,” the report continues.

Commissioner of Education Robert Scott said, “Although too many students still drop out of schools, Texas is aggressively addressing the problem through a number of programs. It’s nice

to get recognition for this comprehensive effort that involves the legislature, the Texas Education Agency, educators, students and parents working together to create success for students.”

The four-year dropout rate in Texas fell from 11.4 percent for the Class of 2007 to 10.5 percent for the Class of 2008, which are the most recent statistics available published by the Texas Education Agency. Out of 300,488 students in the Class of 2008, 79.1 percent graduated, 8.9 percent continued in high school, and 1.5 percent received a GED.

“The increased graduation rate and the declining dropout rate are strong signs that our approach is working,” the commissioner said.

The JFF report examined six model policy elements that frame a sound strategy for dropout prevention and recovery:
1. Reinforce the right to a public education;
2. Count and account for dropouts;
3. Use graduation and on-track rates to trigger transformative reform;
4. Invent new models;
5. Accelerate preparation for postsecondary success;
6. And provide stable funding for systemic reform.
JFF found that only three states, one of which is Texas, have made progress on all six pillars since 2002.

The Texas Education Agency has focused its efforts around four proven research-based strategies:
• Learning environments are challenging and personalized for each student.
• Mentors are used as role models and advocates for students.
• Students who are behind in school receive academic support.
• Data systems identify struggling students who need early intervention.

Additional information about the state’s efforts to reduce the dropout rate can be found at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index4.aspx?id=3505&menu_id=2147483659.

The JFF report that details the work of all states is available at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index4.aspx?id=2147485353.

7/14/2010

Gospel Group Singing in Santa Anna Saturday
7/14/2010
The Feed Store in Santa Anna is hosting a gospel singing free to the public this Saturday starting at 6:00 p.m. The Soul-gers for Christ, a local gospel group including Gary Herring, Willie Horton, R.B. Rutherford, and Spud Stinson, will be performing alongside other gospel singers beginning at 7:00 p.m. Come on out and enjoy Christian fellowship and refreshments this Saturday!

Do-It-Yourself Public Relations
Secrets to Getting PR with a Little Know-How and Elbow Grease
By Marsha Friedman
7/14/2010
The cycle of marketing was once summarized in the story of the circus coming to town.

If the circus is coming to town and you buy a billboard saying “Circus Coming to the Fairground Saturday,” that's advertising. If you put the sign on the back of an elephant and walk it into town, that's promotion. If the elephant walks through the mayor's flower bed and the local paper picks it up, that's publicity. And if you get the mayor to laugh about it, that's public relations. If the town's citizens go to the circus, you show them the many entertainment booths, explain how much fun they'll have spending money at the booths, answer their questions and ultimately, they spend a lot at the circus, that's sales.

Most of the time, it’s really difficult to get the elephant to walk where you want it. In those cases, you need to generate your own public relations, and I’ve got some basic tips for you to follow to make that happen fast and inexpensively:

· Find your inner expert – Think about your business or your profession and zero in on your expertise. Pick the area you know the most about, and focus on that. Do you have a ballpark idea of what that is? Keep that in mind, and we’ll get back to that in a minute.

· Surf the Internet – Just about every key news source has a Web site, so do some surfing. Go to the Web sites of the news media outlets in which you’d like to be featured and harvest their contact information to build your media database.

· Read the papers – One good way to figure out if what you are doing is newsworthy or relevant is to read a newspaper to see what the press is writing. If you want their attention, you need to figure out what currently interests them. Specifically look for news stories in your area of expertise or interest.

· Put it all together – In remembering your media targets and the stories they typically publish about your topic or area, go back to your expertise. Is there something that you found that was in the news related to your expertise? Is there something you can comment on with veracity and credibility? That’s how you thread the needle.

· PR Tools – The press release, as a reliable tool for public relations professionals, had been on life support since 2005, when newspapers first realized that they weren’t competing with television or radio as much as they were competing against Internet news portals. Dozens of newspapers and magazines have folded, and hundreds more have scaled back their staff and even their publication size. Consider the shrinking news hole, the shrinking staff and the emphasis on competition from online outlets, and you have to ask yourself if they even have the staff to read the volume of hundreds of press releases per day that they receive from email and wire services.

So, if they aren’t reading press releases, or only selecting press releases from trusted or existing sources sparingly, how can you get through to print media editors?

The answer is content. Most publications are not seeking news, but rather, ready-made content that they can plug directly into their publications, Web sites or both. The key is ensuring that the content you offer is more than just a sales pitch for you or your project.

At the end of the day, the most important thing to remember is that this is NOT a marketing project or a promotional project. It’s a news project. You want to take who you are, what you do and your primary message and marry it to something already in the news. Think like a news editor and not like an artist, and you’ll find something between the lines that will resonate with the media as well as the audience.

(Marsha Friedman is a 20-year veteran of the public relations industry. She is the CEO of EMSI Public Relations (www.emsincorporated.com), a national firm that provides PR strategy and publicity services to corporations, entertainers, authors and professional firms. She also hosts a national weekly radio talk show, The Family Round Table, and is author of the book, Celebritize Yourself.)

Coleman Fire Department Focuses on Extrication Training
7/14/2010
The Coleman Fire Department (CFD) trains weekly on various subjects, from wildland fires and water supply to structural firefighting operations and search & rescue. This week’s drill focused on motor vehicle collisions (MVC) involving extrication, which is removing patients from a vehicle who cannot remove themselves. The CFD would like to thank Terry’s Towing for supplying the vehicle used during this drill.

There are many different problems that may need to be addressed at any MVC, some of which are: vehicle stabilization, disabling power, securing traffic, establishing a safe work zone, maintaining spinal integrity of the patient, deciding the most effective method of extrication, minimizing hazards (fuel leaks, sharp objects, chemicals, etc), establishing and maintaining a landing zone, and much more.

During training, CFD teams were presented with various scenarios involving different patient positions, each of which required a different approach. Using hydraulic tools, commonly known as the Jaws of Life, teams had to accomplish tasks, from prying open a door to access a restrained patient in the driver’s seat to removing the entire vehicle top in order to access an unrestrained patient in the rear seat. Each team successfully extricated their patient in a timely fashion while maintaining safety for the patient as well as the team.

This particular drill was performed to introduce new CFD members to some of the tools and methods used in auto extrication, and to give other members a chance to refresh their knowledge and even pick up a few new skills along the way. This is only one aspect of auto extrication and plans are already in the works for the next drill, which will focus on a different type of scenario that can/has occurred in Coleman County.

The CFD has responded to 41 MVC calls since April 1st 2010.

The RURAL ALLIANCE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY Presents
Biomass in Texas: Can Feedstock from our Forests and Fields Illuminate our Future?
7/14/2010
August 26, 2010
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Clayton Williams, Jr. Alumni Center
Texas A&M University
College Station, Texas

$35 (includes lunch for advance registrants)

• What is Texas’ opportunity for biomass electric power?
• Does Texas have sufficient biomass resources?
• Does Texas need biomass power?
• How can we take advantage of our biomass resource potential?
• What research is under way? And how is it progressing?
• What are the barriers to development?
• Policy? Technology? Infrastructure?
• What is happening in the industry today?

Learn the answers to those questions and hear from Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples at this exciting biomass conference in College Station.

Make your reservations at one of the many Bryan/College Station hotels

Online Conference Registration
Manual Conference Registration Form [PDF]
Online Sponsorship Registration Form
Manual Sponsorship Registration Form [PDF]

Event Hosted by RARE Members

Coleman Fine Arts League Hosts Membership Show July 16 & 17
Submitted by Marian Johnson, Publicity
7/14/2010
2010 FINE ARTS LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP SHOW ENTRY DATES FRI & SAT. July 16 & 17 at the Coleman Library 10-5. members are allowed three entries each media of choice. Bill & Sue Shields, Chairpersons for the Show are expecting a fun time with many entries. The Public is encouraged To come by the Library to see the many different talents in the Fine Arts League. Show opens July 20 and runs through the 24th 10-4 each day. Awards will be People's Choice 1,2,3 and a 1st for the Special "Orange" division. Questions can be directed to Shields 325-723-2956 or Sherrell Hazlewood, League President, 325-625-4687. See ya there!

www.fineartsleaguecolemantx.com

7/13/2010

School Board considers more hires, Extracurricular Drug Testing Results for 2009-2010
7/13/2010
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE COLEMAN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
DATE: Monday, July 19, 2010
TIME: 5:30 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office
300 West Pecan Street
Coleman, Texas
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. Personnel – Consider Hiring Personnel for the 2010-2011 School Year
3. Consider Accepting Fuel Bid for 2010-2011
4. Appoint Delegate and Alternate Delegate to the 2010 TASB Delegate Assembly
5. Amend the Budget
6. Budget Workshop

BOARD REPORT:
1. Summary of Extra-curricular Drug Testing Results for 2009-2010 Coleman Independent School District

DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Set Date to Adopt Tax Rate and Budget Hearing
2. Set Date for Meeting to Approve Final Budget Amendments for 2009-2010
3. TASB/TASA Joint Annual Convention, Houston, September 24-26, 2010

INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. New Teacher Luncheon
2. Staff Luncheon
3. Check Payments
4. Financial Statement

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

2010 CROP CERTIFICATION DEADLINE
7/13/2010
Curtis L. Garrett, CED for the Coleman County Farm Service Agency, reminds producers of the July 15, 2010 deadline to report all cropland and pastures uses to the FSA office. Failure to report all cropland and pasture uses may result in producers being ineligibility for some programs.

Late filed acreage report fees will be assessed for acreage reports filed after the July 15th deadline.

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.

Holiday Hill to host Senior Mini-Olympics
7/13/2010
Holiday Hill will host the 10th Annual Senior Mini-Olympics on Friday, August 6, 2010. The event which typically draws 6 to 8 nursing homes from around the area will be held in the Bill Franklin Center on Friday, August 6 from 10:00AM to 3:00 PM. There will be many events and food for the participants. Sponsorship for the event will again be only $50.00. This gets your business name on a t-shirt, sponsorship advertising on the radio and newspaper, a free t-shirt and covers the costs of trophies and food. Employees of Holiday Hill will be out in force in the coming weeks to seek sponsors.

COMMISSIONERS COURT 07/12/10
7/13/2010
Comanche Shores Subdivision problems regarding access to roads dedicated to public use in the original plat of the subdivision were brought to the attention of the Court by Roland Elledge, who was accompanied by Mike Jackson.

Elledge owns 80 of the 135 lots in Comanche Shores and is concerned that another adjacent landowner, Lloyd Gillespie, has blocked entrance to public roads that access his lots with high-wire fencing and locked gates.

Elledge provided the Court with photographs and other documentation that he believes prohibits anyone from limiting access to public roads. He has brought an action in the District Court to restrain Gillespie from keeping the gates locked. However, the District Court has not yet heard the suit.

The Court appreciated Elledge's problems, but said the Court has no jurisdiction. The Court does agree with the original plat language that calls the roads in Comanche Shores dedicated public roads. The original plat specifically states that the County is not expected to maintain the roads. Judge Hobbs indicated the gentlemen were on the right track in asking the District Court for a ruling on this civil matter.

A request to consider closing a portion of CR 404 north of Valera was presented by Robby Brooks, a landowner in the area. Brooks pointed out that part of the road was being used by mud-doggers and another portion as a dump ground. After looking at maps of the area, the Court decided to table the request until it could be determined if the portion of road in question was actually a county road, and not just an offshoot that had been carved out by off-road use off the main road. If it is found that the portion of road in question is not a county road, Brooks can take steps to fence the area to keep vehicles out without the Court's approval.

Although not on the agenda, another road issue was presented by Tom Wardlaw and Robert Reese. The two men were upset over the condition of the road they have to travel to their homes because of the sticky black dirt that has been left on top of the caliche base. Housley Communications has recently laid line in the area in question. According to Commissioner Alan Davis, Housley has promised to correct the problem with hauled in material as soon as it is dry enough.

The Court heard from a representative from Tommy Morris Insurance Agency, who presented a new group health insurance package for approval. The costs are 6% higher than last year, but are among the lowest percent increase in the agency's region. Some increases were as high as 14%. The new rate for county employees is $551 a month. The County pays 100% of this health insurance. Family coverage is available at the employee's expense.

Sheriff Wade Turner told the Court that he had received only one bid after advertising for a security system for the jail and Courthouse. The bid offers a 16-camera system for the jail cells and outside the jail that will digitally record on a 28-day loop. The system, which was approved, will cost $36,500. It does not include cameras inside the Courthouse. Turner said that there has been some discussion of providing controlled access to the Courthouse during high-profile trials. He said he would get with Courthouse offices to see if there was a priority need for cameras inside some of those offices, but that expense was not included in the $36,500 price for the jail system.

After attending to routine business including the County Road and Bridge Fee, the approval of the 3rd quarter condensed statement of accounts and the payment of bills, the Court adjourned.
Financial information for the County is online at www.co.coleman.tx.us.

Church of the Nazarene hosts kids Summer Splash VBS
7/13/2010
Coleman Church of the Nazarene will have a “Summer Splash” V.B.S. on Saturday, July 17 9:00 a.m. – Noon. This Vacation Bible School day is for children ages Pre-K through 5th grade. Lots of water slide fun, water games, snacks, crafts, and of course fun learning about Jesus. Be sure to bring a change of clothes.

The church is located at 1016 S. Concho on the corner of 4th and Concho. If you have questions or if your child needs a ride, please call 325-625-2667 or 325-277-3160.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

2010-2011 Panther Creek Elementary School Supply List
7/13/2010
Pre-K
2 boxes of Kleenex
2 bottles of GermX
2 glue sticks
2 bottles of Elmer’s glue
2 boxes of washable markers-primary colors
1 pair of Fiskar scissors
2 boxes Crayola Crayons—24 pack
Small pencil boxes
Extra set of clothes to leave at school
6 plastic folders w/pockets & brads
Backpack
2 boxes of zip lock bags-jumbo & regular size
1 nap mat
Small pillow and small blanket with their name on them.
2 pkgs. of baby wipes
Extra change of clothes in case of accident or illness.

Kindergarten
Crayons
36 Pencils
Spiral notebook (for journal)
Elmer’s glue and 2 glue sticks
Fiskar scissors (easiest for little hands to use and cut best)
Washable markers
2 boxes Kleenex
2 plastic folders with pockets and brads (or 4 similar paper folders)
Large eraser
Backpack
2 boxes of small Ziploc bags
Extra change of clothes in case of accident or illness
Pencil box

1st Grade
2 pkgs. 24-count crayons
24 Pencils
2 bottles of Elmer’s glue
Fiskar scissors (easiest for little hands to use and cut best)
Washable markers
Pencil box
1 box Kleenex
2 plastic folders with pockets and brads
Large eraser
Map colors
Ruler-centimeter and inch
Backpack
1 box of small Ziploc bags
Extra change of clothes in case of accident or illness
1 bottle of Germ-X

2nd Grade
36-#2 pencils
Crayons
Map Colors
1 red pen
2 boxes of Kleenex
Sharp scissors
Erasers
Washable magic markers
Glue sticks and 1 bottle of Elmer’s glue
Small school/pencil box (No large boxes)
Backpack
7 plastic folders with brads
3 pkgs. wide-ruled notebook paper
1 hand-held pencil sharpener with cover
3 spiral notebook
Water bottle
2 boxes of small Ziploc bags

3rd Grade
Scissors
2 big Erasers
1 Map Colors (box 12, 24, 48)
48-#2 pencils
2 glue sticks
2 red pen
6 plastic folders with brads
1 pkg. plastic subject dividers w/double insertable pockets(one on each side)
Crayons
Small pencil/school box (No large boxes)
2 boxes Kleenex
1 medium bottle of GermX
Thin Washable markers
Centimeter and inch ruler
3 pkgs. wide-ruled notebook paper
1 pkgs. of note cards
3 spiral notebooks
2 inch 3 ring not a Trapper Keeper
Backpack
Ziploc baggies

4th Grade
Large Sharp scissors
Crayola map pencils
Crayola washable markers
2 red pens
1 medium bottle of GermX
1 pkg of note cards
6 plastic folders w/pockets & brads
1 glue stick
48-#2 pencils
Crayola Crayons
Pencil top erasers
1 big pink eraser
2 boxes Kleenex
1 pkg. plastic dividers w/double insertable pockets(one on each side)
Small school box (no large)
4 pkg. wide-ruled notebook paper
1 pkg. of 4 highlighters
1 12”ruler w/centimeters
1 backpack
3 spiral
2 inch 3 ring binder not a Trapper keeper
1 box of small Ziploc bags

5th Grade
Large sharp scissors
Crayola map colors
Crayola washable markers
2 red pens
1 pkg. plastic subject dividers w/ insertable pocket on each side
1 glue sticks
1 pkgs. of index cards
1 backpack
48-#2 pencils
Crayola Crayons
Pencil top erasers/ 1 big pink eraser
2 boxes Kleenex
1 medium bottle of GermX
Small school box
4 pkgs. wide-ruled notebook paper
1 pkg. low odor dry-erase markers
1 pkg. of 4 highlighters
1 12”ruler w/centimeters
Water bottle
2 inch 3 ring binder not a Trapper Keeper
3 spiral notebooks

7/12/2010

City Council Considers Request from County Club to Release Raw Water
7/12/2010
AGENDA CITY OF COLEMA CITY COUNCIL
THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2010 - 5:00 P.M.
Coleman City Hall - 200 W. Liveoak - Coleman, Texas

PRESENT:
ABSENT:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
WELCOME OF VISTORS AND GUEST:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. Council will consider approval of the minutes from the July 1, 2010 regular meeting. Council may take 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:
OLD BUSINESS: (NONE)

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider a request from a citizen to change the time for the regular council meetings to start one hour later. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

2. Council will receive the Quarterly Occupancy Tax Report from the Chamber. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

3. Council will consider a request from the Coleman County Country Club for a release of raw water. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

4. Council will receive the annual report from the Public Works Director. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

5. Council will conduct the annual evaluation of the City Manager. Council reserves the right to enter into executive closed secession pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code, Concerning Personnel Matters. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT:
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
CLOSE ANY PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ADJOURN:

Monthly Coleman County Prayer and Praise Service
7/12/2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
7:00 pm
Trinity United Methodist Church
1609 S. Concho St., Coleman
This service is for all Christains to come together and voice
praise for our blessings and pray for the needs of our local communities.
All denominations are encouraged and invited to come.
The meeting is held at a different county church each month.
For more information call this month's host Carla Billings 625-5302.

COLEMAN JUNIOR RODEO - BACK TO SCHOOL BLOWOUT
7/12/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo has been rescheduled for August 21, 2010. The Rodeo will take place at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds at 5:00 p.m. The event will be a one night rodeo event including breakaway, barrels, poles, goat tying, steer riding, tie-down roping, ribbon roping, Jr. Bulls, and Sr. Bulls.

Entry fees range from $15 to $40 depending on age and event. A dress code will be required for participants with hats optional. The Rodeo will award a jackpot prize, Hy O Silver All-Around Buckles, and Event Prices through 3rd place.

The Coleman County Junior Rodeo encourages all residents and visitors to show up for a great show and fun time! You can follow the Junior Rodeo Association on Facebook for updates and information by searching "Coleman Junior Rodeo".

Thur-July 15th
Christian Rock band from San Angelo TX will be leading the way Thursday evening. They have performed at Ignite & Conquer and several other concerts plus camps. Andrew Youngblood-guitar/vocals, Ashley Rijken-vocals, Adam Lucido-drums, Josiah Fernadez-guitar, Jimmy Patina-Bass. This is their 2nd visit to The Cross and they have a special anointing to minister to teens.

Jimmy Pruitt- Pastor of Grace Point Church, Abilene TX will be ministering Thursday evening. His message will be a refreshing for your soul. Jimmy answered the call into the ministry in 1983 and received his Bachelor of Arts in Theology at HPU and has been the lead pastor of Grace Point Church for 8 years. Jimmy has a special place in his heart for the young people and how they can make a change in their community. You will not want to miss this! If you can… be here!

Thur-Fri-Sat July 15-16-17
Saturday July 17th Featuring

Saturday, July 17-
5pm-------free buffet: Fried Catfish, Hush Puppies, Chicken Strips, Scalloped Potatoes & Cobblers

7pm-------music & ministry- Unchained Life Ministries and General C Christian from Post TX, will return this year to bring their God ordained unique worship and music ministry Saturday evening of The Celebration.

Unchained Life Ministries is a biker ministry team that preaches, teaches and speaks to inmates in prison and in detention centers all over.

Thur-Sat July 15-17th
A special invitation for all of the Coleman County Area to gather and celebrate God’s Love in Christ. With joy in song, praise, worship, prayer and fellowship the 3rd Weekend in July @ The Cross!

‘Testimonies- What God has done- given nightly’
+Location of The Cross in Coleman TX. Make a left at the courthouse- go to the end of West Liveoak.

Donations & Volunteers Welcome 325-625-1002

Thursday, July 15-.
5pm-------free food & fellowship Homemade burgers, BBQ Brisket Burgers & Fries, & cakes

7 pm------music by- Redemption Cry Christian rock band from San Angelo ministry- Jimmy Pruitt Pastor of Grace Point Church, Abilene TX

Friday, July 16-
5 pm------free food & fellowship Pit BBQ- Brisket, Chicken & Ribs, Beans, Cornbread, Macaroni & Velveeta & more cakes

7pm------ Reverence- Christian rock band from Bronte TX
-------drama & dance- Echo Academy of Worship Arts & River Rising Worship from Beltway Baptist, Abilene TX
------ministry- Doug Starr from Seagraves, TX

Saturday, July 17-
5pm-------free food & fellowship Fried Catfish, Hush Puppies, Chicken Strips, Scalloped Potatoes & Cobblers

7pm-------music & ministry- Unchained Life Ministries a Christian Biker and Prison Ministry & General C Christian Rap all from Post TX is a biker ministry team that preaches, teaches and speaks to inmates in prison and in detention centers all over.

Paul and Cindy Coghlan of Goat Willie’s BBQ Team, Brownwood TX will be cooking for The Celebration. It’ll be delicious!

Fri-July 16th
Free Food & Free Concert

5 pm Buffett Pit BBQ- Brisket, Chicken & Ribs, Beans, Cornbread, Macaroni & real Cheese, & dessert
7pm Concert Reverence- Christian rock band from Bronte TX

We are "Reverence," a Christian rock band formed only by the desire to better worship and glorify Christ's name through our musical talents and love for music. Our name serves our goal and that is to give Him "Reverence."

We often journey back, not very long ago, pondering the memories of our past rock-n-roll years playing music together...music that was not pleasing to our Savior. How quickly we realized the time wasted, but nonetheless, knowing God was preparing us for something far more than we could ever expect.

It was 3 1/2 years ago when our band split up to go separate ways and it was during that time that God began working in our lives. One by one, members of our band made the decision to admit we were sinners, believed He paid the ultimate price for our sins, and confessed our desires to have Jesus in our lives. After a year 1/2 break from playing music we decided it was time to reunite as a Christian rock band, thus proclaiming our faith in Christ Jesus through rock-n-roll music and birthing the band, "Reverence." We now look forward with great anticipation and hope to see where God leads us.

Band Members: Jason Wilson - Lead Vocals, Zeb Speary – Drums, Mario Minjarez - Bass Guitar, Zack Speary – Guitar, Steve - Lead guitar

Drama & Dance- Echo Academy of Worship Arts & River Rising Worship from Beltway Baptist, Abilene TX The Echo dance team and the River Rising Worship drama team from Beltway Park Baptist Church, Abilene TX will be praising God in motion Friday evening!

ECHO Academy of Worship Arts "Encouraging Creativity as a Holy Offering"
Mission Statement: To train and equip men and women, boys and girls of all ages to recognize and exercise thier spiritual gifting in excellence through the arts, growing in the knowledge and wisdom of Christ and in thier call to be His ambassadors to the world. We strive to tell about and be a witness to the Good News and the unequivocal truth of the Scriptures, to be about His Kingdom business, and to be a reflection of that which is taking place around His throne - worshiping in Spririt and in Truth - to the glory of God, our Father, through Jesus Christ.

River Rising Worship
Drama is a powerful tool in communicating emotion and therefore, a picture of God's heart. Our drama teams are under the direction of Lorna Ayres and seek to creatively declare the Gospel of Jesus in real life ways to all age groups, inside and outside our church walls. This is an ever growing fellowship of believers creatively sharing the good news of Jesus.

Speaker- Doug Starr from Seagraves, TX Doug Starr from Seagraves, TX will be our speaker for Friday evening. As an educator he endeavors to establish true principles in the lives of each of his students. He loves to speak publicly, encouraging the youth of today through his gifts of humor and wit.

TEXAS GAS PRICES SLOWLY DECLINE
7/10/2010
Texas, TX, July 12- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have fallen 1.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.53/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 1.8 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.71/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 18.4 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 0.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has increased just 0.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 19.4 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.

7/10/2010

Supreme Court Ruling is Another Key Victory in the Fight for Second Amendment Rights
By U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
7/10/2010
As the fight to protect the rights of American citizens to keep and bear firearms wages on, the Supreme Court of the United States recently handed down a decision that marks another significant victory for lawful gun owners. In the landmark case, McDonald v. City of Chicago, the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that it is unconstitutional for state and local governments to unnecessarily restrict the gun rights of law-abiding individuals. With the decision, America’s highest court sent a clear message to those who seek to obscure the founding framers’ intent and to circumvent the Second Amendment: gun ownership is a constitutionally-protected right for all lawful citizens in our nation.

McDonald v. City of Chicago examined the issue of whether the Second Amendment applies to state and local governments through the Fourteenth Amendment, otherwise known as the Due Process Clause, of the U.S. Constitution. The McDonald case upholds the seminal 2008 case, District of Columbia v. Heller, in which the Supreme Court held that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to keep and bear arms for self-defense. It was the judgment of the Supreme Court that the District of Columbia had violated that right with its draconian handgun prohibition and its ban of loaded, operable firearms for self-defense in the home.

Despite the Supreme Court’s clear ruling in Heller, several subsequent gun rights cases have attempted to skirt the precedent set in that landmark case. After the Seventh Circuit Federal Court heard arguments in McDonald, the federal court ruled that Heller only applied to federal jurisdictions, like the District of Columbia, and not to states and municipalities. Thus, it upheld Chicago’s punitive gun laws, which have prevented law-abiding residents from keeping guns in their homes for protection.

After the Seventh Circuit’s disappointing decision, I was relieved to learn that the Supreme Court would hear McDonald v. City of Chicago and make a final judgment, settling this constitutional question once and for all.

Leading up to the Supreme Court’s consideration of the case, Senator Jon Tester of Montana and I together led a bipartisan amicus curiae, or “friend of the court,” brief asking the Court to hold the Second Amendment applicable to the states. Our brief was signed by 58 senators and 251 representatives – no other amicus brief in U.S. history has had as many Congressional supporters. Ultimately, the majority opinion of the Supreme Court was in agreement with our amicus brief. I applaud the Court for again affirming that the right to bear arms is an individual, fundamental right that is guaranteed and protected by the Constitution.

Just four days after the Supreme Court overturned Chicago’s gun ban, in brazen defiance of the Court’s ruling, the Chicago City Council approved a new gun control ordinance that will make sure the city clamps down on lawful individual gun ownership – once again imposing the strictest laws in America. The new ordinance continues to place meritless restrictions on law-abiding citizens while undermining the intent of the Supreme Court ruling. This is just another reminder that the fight to protect Americans’ Second Amendment rights is ongoing.

The McDonald v. City of Chicago ruling also illustrates the consequential nature of Supreme Court nominations. In 2009, when the Senate was reviewing the record and statements of now-Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, I had serious reservations about her Second Amendment views. Seeking to allay those concerns, which were shared by many of my colleagues, Ms. Sotoyamor said, “I understand the individual right fully that the Supreme Court recognized in Heller.” However, in the McDonald v. City of Chicago decision, she voted with the minority to uphold Chicago’s gun ban, stating, “I can find nothing in the Second Amendment’s text, history, or underlying rationale that could warrant characterizing it as ‘fundamental’ [in seeking to] protect the keeping and bearing of arms for private self-defense purposes.”

The protection of fundamental, constitutionally-guaranteed rights is one of the reasons that the Senate’s duty to advise and consent on Supreme Court nominations is so serious. The Senate will soon vote on another lifetime appointment to our nation’s highest court. It is critical that senators scrutinize the nominee’s judicial philosophy and demonstrated adherence to the Constitution as we determine whether or not to support the nomination.

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.

NEWEST ENTRY SUGGESTS LAKES & TANKS MAY HAVE GAINED
7/10/2010
The Chronicle & DV and ColemanNews.com ask our readers to contribute your rain report. Over the last week, numerous citizens from around the county have boasted about the amount of rain received or the lack thereof. As you submit your report, we'll bump up this post with your name, location, and amount received. Feel free to submit your entry at mail@colemannews.com, call 325-625-4128, or stop by!

Biologists sampling Texas coast to prepare for oil spill impacts
Teams collect environmental samples at 21 locations in advance of Deepwater Horizon spill impacts.
7/10/2010
AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologists are working their way down the state’s long coast line collecting environmental samples so that a baseline record is available to gauge any impact in Texas from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The effort is part of a plan developed by multiple natural resource trustee agencies in coordination with BP.

TPWD is leading specialized five-person teams of scientists who are systematically collecting data at 21 locations up and down the coast. These samples will be used to characterize beach conditions, water chemistry, benthic invertebrates (living creatures in shallow water, mud and sand), and other "indicator" factors.

The department is partnering with the other natural resource trustee agencies for Texas, including Texas General Land Office, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to complete this effort.

A NOAA contractor is accompanying each team to provide chain of custody quality control and oversee the shipping of samples, which go to contracted out-of-state laboratories for analysis.

Sampling on the upper coast began Monday. As of Thursday, samples had been collected at five locations from the Port Arthur area to West Galveston Island. The process is expected to be complete within two weeks, though higher-than-normal tides, rain and flooding associated with the tropical disturbance in the western Gulf of Mexico may delay operations.

Besides the baseline sampling, TPWD is ready to assist with logistical support for GLO and the Coast Guard in oil spill response and clean-up operations. TPWD support will come in the form of boats, logistics, and trained staff with expertise in dealing with HAZMAT situations. TPWD has already worked with partner agencies to provide information on important or sensitive Texas ecological areas, such as coastal parks and refuges.

TPWD has been monitoring the Deepwater Horizon situation since shortly after it occurred on April 20. Early on, the department began planning for possible contingencies and these plans are now being executed.

For oil observed in Texas waters or shorelines call the Texas General Land Office oil spill reporting line at 800-832-8224.