ALLEN CENTER AT HOLIDAY HILL PASSES INSPECTION
6/30/2010
The Clyde D. and Doris Allen Memory Care Center of Coleman, Texas has passed its final physical, Life Safety inspection and will be ready for business soon. The 20 bed addition to the nursing home, known as the Allen Center, will accept its first four transfers from Holiday Hill on Wednesday, June 30, 2010. This will allow for the staff to get acclimated to new policies, procedures and philosophy before having a final certification inspection. After approximately a week, the Health Survey team from the San Angelo Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services will visit to certify for Alzheimer’s. Holiday Hill will begin to accept new residents from the community shortly after receiving the certification. Inquiries or to schedule an appointment may be made to Shelley Robinett, RN, Director of Nursing at (325) 625-4157.

TPWD Urges Boaters to Be Safe this Holiday Weekend
6/30/2010
This July 4 weekend friends and family will haul their boats into the water and celebrate, but someone else might crash the party – Alex.

Hurricane Alex is expected to make landfall on Thursday in northern Mexico or South Texas and bring with it rain that could lead to inland flooding during the weekend. With that in mind, in addition to the usual safety tips outlined below it is important to watch the weather reports and plan holiday get-togethers on the boat accordingly.

Jeff Parrish, TPWD assistant chief boating law administrator, said that while lakes surrounded by urban development are usually unaffected by inclement weather along the coast, anyone who plans to celebrate near the Texas coast this weekend should monitor the forecast and prepare for the weather.

"Just like pilots develop a flight plan, you should develop a float plan," Parrish said. "Let people know where you’re going and how long you plan to be out so if you don’t come back by a certain time, they know to start looking for you."

In addition to monitoring the forecast, boaters are urged to take the usual precautions when spending time on the water this July 4 weekend, including wearing a personal flotation device and not operating a boat while drinking alcohol.

Boat operators must have at least one lifejacket per passenger on board, and children younger than 13 are required to wear lifejackets while on the water. TPWD reports that 90 percent of boating fatality victims who are recovered had not been wearing lifejackets and that wearing a lifejacket increases your chances tenfold of surviving in the water.

In 2009, TPWD reported 211 boating accidents and 35 boating-related fatalities as well as 219 incidents of BWI (boating while intoxicated). So far this year, 72 boating accidents and 15 boating-related fatalities have been reported as well as 75 incidents of BWI.

Parrish said alcohol consumption is a leading contributor to boating accidents and that not only boating operators but also passengers, skiers, tubers and swimmers should drink responsibly. Someone in the group should also be selected as a designated boat operator.

"Falling or jumping overboard while vessels are underway or at anchor is a common occurrence in recreational boating," Parrish said. "Consuming alcohol coupled with not wearing a lifejacket is a recipe for disaster."

Parrish said in the event of an accident on the water, boaters should call 911 for help.

Additionally, anyone younger than 18 who was born after Aug. 31, 1984, is required by law to pass a boater education course before being allowed to operate a boat. Along with photo identification, boaters who are required to take the course must also carry their completion certificate on board their vessel.

People who are exempt from the boater education course include anyone 18 and older, minors who are accompanied by an adult who is exempt from the course and anyone who holds a master’s, mate’s or operator’s license issues by the U.S. Coast Guard. Nonetheless, TPWD research indicates that those who have taken the course are far less likely to be in a boating accident.

The boater education course costs about $13 and is about six hours long. Boaters can take the course in person or through online and at-home formats.

For boating safety tips or more information on the boater education course, visit the TPWD Boating Safety Web Page or call 800-792-1112, option 2

Boaters are also asked to avoid unintentionally transporting invasive species, such as aquatic plants like giant salvinia or organisms like zebra mussels that can "hitch a ride" on boats or trailers moved from lake to lake. See the texasinvasives.org Web site for tips to identify, report and avoid transporting invasive plants and animals.

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On the Net:

Boating Safety: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/safety/index.phtml
Boater Education: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/boatered

MEMORIALIZE YOUR PET AT THE RAINBOW BRIDGE
-Contributed-
6/30/2010
Have you ever lost a beloved pet? Nearly everyone has. If you would like to honor the memory of your pet, the Humane Society now has a memory board that gives you an affordable opportunity to memorialize your pet.

Many times you are asked for donations of $300 on up for a memorial brick or plaque, which is fine if you can afford it. It all goes to the help unfortunate dogs and cats. However, here in Coleman you do not have to donate so much to be able to commemorate your pet. You can hang a small personalized slat from our Rainbow Bridge that hangs in the Humane Society Thrift Store for only $5. If you want a picture or more room for your sentiments, you can have additional slats for $5 each.

Please drop by the Thrift Store to take a look at the beautiful rendition of the Rainbow Bridge that was painted on wood for the Humane Society by local artist Judia Terry. The oil offers a stirring tribute for all God’s creatures great and small. A thank you, too, to Michael Worsham, who arranged to hang the extra-heavy painting.

We also have copies of the poem that inspired the Rainbow Bridge image, where pets wait patiently for their owners in a meadow by the rainbow bridge that they crossed over at their passing.

The loss of a pet is harder for some maybe than for others, and pet memorials make your pet special while helping other pets find new homes.

Many families are thoughtful enough to request memorial donations to charities of their choice in lieu of flowers when a loved one dies. The Humane Society of Coleman County appreciates being remembered on those occasions, especially when the departed is known to have especially loved and appreciated animals. We send an acknowledgement of all memorials we receive to the grieving family.

We also accept memorial donations when someone loses a pet. An acknowledgement is always sent to the family and a Rainbow Bridge plank is prepared.

Thank you so much for supporting the Humane Society. We appreciate your every gesture that helps us help the homeless animals in our area. We only wish we could save them all!

Christian Rock band from San Angelo TX
will be leading the way Thursday evening

"The Celebration" 2010 at the Cross Next Weekend
6/30/2010
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!

The Celebration 2010 @ The Cross
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!

For more information contact:

The Cross
PO Box 1003
Coleman TX 76834

www.mt25.net
(325)625-1002
m-w 10-4

US Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis to announce $125 million in Community-Based Job Training Grants on Tuesday, June 29
6/30/2010
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis will announce the release of $125 million in grants to 41 community colleges and organizations. This is the fifth and final round of Community-Based Job Training Grant awards. Awardees were chosen from among 323 applications received in response to a competition first announced on March 15.

WHO: U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis

WHAT: Press teleconference to announce the final round of Community-Based Job Training Grant awards

Remarks to be followed by question-and-answer session

HOW: Call-in number: 888-957-9842
Passcode: 6197190

WHEN: Tuesday, June 29, 1 to 1:30 p.m. EDT

Media planning to call in are requested to notify the Labor Department’s Office of Public Affairs at 202-693-4676.

6/29/2010

Coleman ISD Board Meets in Regular Session
6/29/2010
The Coleman ISD Board met in regular session on Monday, June 28 to act on several agenda items. The board accepted the resignations of David Guitierrez, Jennifer Hinds and Karen Broyles. On the recommendation of administration, the board hired Kelsi Dunlap, Lauren Orlando, and Terri Patillo as elementary teachers and extended a contract to Suzanne Ryan who is currently employed at the high school. Ryan will be paid out of grant funds and will serve as the Rural Technology Grant Instructional Facillitator. Among other duties, she will help students create an awareness of college and career readiness requirements.

In other action, the board hired an independent auditor that will conduct the required audit for the fiscal year ending in August of 2010. Reed, McKee and Co., P.C. of San Angelo was hired at a cost of $18,000 plus travel costs. Superintendent Young indicated that grant funds and government stimulus funds had driven up the cost for the annual audit.

The board amended Local Policy BE changing board meeting times from 7:00 to 5:30 P.M. on the third Monday of each month.

The board approved the low bid of $12,805 to rebuild the fence on the west side of school property that blew down earlier in the year. The bid was awarded to Danny Armstrong and will be constructed of pipe and metal. The cost of rebuilding the fence is covered by the insurance money received with the destruction of the old fence.

The last action item was to amend the budget and Superintendent Young explained that no additional funds are being used and the amendments only reflected the moving of money from one place to another within the approved budget. With the winding down of the fiscal year, this is a normal process of closing out the various accounts within the budget.

The board heard from James O’Shields who is the school resource officer. He gave a summary of his work and actions taken during the school year. The school district attendance rate was down slightly from a year ago but still was well over 96%. O’Shields made 683 home visits during the course of the year and issued 187 fail to attend school warnings. He also transported 403 students at one time or the other for various reasons.

Lorrie Payne, curriculum Director, and Royce Young gave some information to the board on preliminary TAKS results and felt that the reports showed good progress.

Superintendent Young indicated that he felt it was time to have a goal setting workshop in connection with the August meeting that would give the school district added direction. A budget workshop is scheduled in conjunction with the July meeting and will be held on July 19.

Elementary principal Becky Jackson gave results of the Elementary Campus Climate Survey and presented the Parent involvement Policy for Coleman ISD and Pre-K through 8th grade. Both items can be viewed by contacting the administration office at 300 West Pecan.

Final enrollment numbers were presented to the board which showed about a 30 student decrease from the previous year. Young explained that at least 4 or 5 staff positions were being absorbed for the 2010-2011 school year and loss of enrollment was a contributing reason. “We will cut where we can and as needed without damaging our instructional needs.” These cuts are being handled through attrition.

The board meeting concluded with the distribution of the CISD financial statement which indicates that the district continues to operate in a fiscally healthy manner.

Boys & Girls of the Santa Anna Library Reading Club
6/29/2010
Boys & Girls of the Santa Anna Library Reading Club are shown studying early day pictures of Santa Anna. The theme for this year is "Reading Express". July 1st the group will visit the old depot. They will also read stories and do crafts at the Library. Boys & girls age 4 to next year's 5th grade are welcome. Everything starts at 10 a.m. and finishes with a snack at 11:30 a.m. (photos by Sarah Pelton)

Texas Twisters will perform Friday for Independence Day Celebration

THE TEXAS TWISTERS PERFORM THIS FRIDAY, JULY 2
6/29/2010
The Texas Twisters is a group of T-34 owners, aviation enthusiasts and Texas residents. The membership roster is ever changing, as the only requirements are a love of flying and a Beech T-34 Mentor, owned, borrowed or even stolen (ha). We have even had 'members' from other states! The leader of our group is JD Daniel. JD is retired from Delta Airlines on the Tri-Star. He and Michele (also a Texas Twister) reside in Arlington, TX. JD has been flying airplanes, both professionally and personally for over 50 yrs. He is a CFI and in the past, has taught aerobatics and spin training. He and Michele own several T-34s. They recently sold a Stearman they had for decades. They have owned many different general aviation aircraft and are both FAST rated and ICAS wavered. They are members of AOPA and the EAA/ Warbirds.

Randy Long is a Twister wingman from Coleman, TX. Randy is in the process of getting his 'lead' patch ,as well. He owns Long's Aircraft Service which is located at the Coleman airport (COM). Randy began flying as a child. He has been performing in airshows since 1988, flying formation since 1989 and FAST qualified since 1992. Longs Aircraft provides the maintenance on many of the Twister airplanes, as well as T-34s from out-of-state. Randy's wife, Deborah, is active in their airplane business in Coleman and often goes to airshows to provide moral support and photographic services!

Our newest Twister is also from Coleman, TX, Johnny Vance, owner of Vance Co. Johnny bought his T-34 last year. He is an experienced pilot with several airplanes. He picked up the formation flying readily and received his “patch” several months ago. It is great to have 2 of our teammates close by for practice and short notice fly-overs.

Tom Nichols from Amarillo, Tx is another of our members. His previous partner in his T-34, Oscar Fields, also from Amarillo, flew with us for many years. When Oscar decided to retire from aviation, Tom became the sole owner of their T-34 and has done a wonderful job of integrating into our flying club. He began flying in 1975. Tom also owns an A-36. He began formation flying 4 yrs ago and seems to be a 'natural'. Anyone who refers to his T-34 as a 'magnificent machine' will always be welcome in our group!

And last, but not least, is our Tyler Twister, Bill Davis. Bill and his son own the family business, Davis-Green Body Shop. Bill, too, is a long time pilot and has owned several Aircraft. Bill’s son Darrin, Air Force and American Airlines, joins his dad on some of our flying adventures.

Our group gathers from all sides of the state on a regular basis to live the ‘dream’. We fly because we love it and hope we can bring the joy of aviation to all who we have the good fortune to entertain. The Twisters also have a more serious and patriotic side. Most of us are former military or have family or friends who serve this great nation! We are always honored to dedicate our flight of the Missing Man to the memory of those who have paid the ultimate price for freedom, our freedom! And in honor of all who serve.

POST OFFICE MODIFICATIONS STILL BEING STUDIED
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/29/2010
The United States Postal Service has responded to a follow-up letter asking about the investigation it promised for April/May regarding handicap access modifications at the Coleman post office.

Garry Gilmore, the District Manager for the Fort Worth District, has advised as of June 15 that an investigation has been started into the possibility of the discretionary modifications that would make the post office accessible to the physically challenged. “The project is still under review by the Facilities Office,” according to Gilmore. Gilmore went on to state that the USPS has delayed any construction projects at this time due to budgetary restraints.

It is encouraging that the USPS has not denied the request for modifications at the post office that would allow access by all citizens, and the project will be closely followed to a conclusion.

Designating National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer
6/29/2010
As some of you may already know, last summer I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. This was a tough time for my family and me, but thanks to the outpouring of support and prayers from many of you, September 30th will mark my one-year anniversary of being cancer free. Because of routine screening, I was able to catch my cancer early. However, many men never take the time to get screened.

In order to increase awareness of prostate cancer and the importance of early detection, this week I will introduce a resolution in the House of Representatives supporting September as “National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.”

One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in the United States, and it is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths among men. In 2010 alone, approximately 217,730 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and 32,050 lives will be taken by this disease. There are no noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer while it is still in the early stages, making screening and education critical steps in the fight against this disease. Educating people in the United States about prostate cancer and early detection strategies is a crucial step in saving the lives of men and preserving and protecting families.

As this resolution begins its journey through the House of Representatives, I will be certain to keep you up to date on its progress and other ways I am working to increase awareness and promotion of prostate cancer screenings.

6/28/2010

First Saturday Gopel Singing for July and August are cancelled
6/28/2010
First Saturday Gopel Singing for July and August are cancelled. The next Gospel Singing at Trunity UMC will be in September. Everybody stay cool the rest of the summer and keep your voices in tune. Vocalists and muscians may call Carla Billings for more info.

Council to Consider Performance Agreement Between Coleman EDC and New Coleman Business
6/28/2010
CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 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 regular meeting held on June 17, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

RECOGNITION OF STAFF:
1. Council will recognize the following staff with service pins:
Jay Moses—5 years
Gary Driskill-10 years

HEARING OF VISITORS CONCERNING MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA:

PUBLIC HEARING:
1. Council will conduct a Public Hearing to allow for public input and answer questions related to the recently published City of Coleman 2009 Consumer Confidence Report for Drinking Water. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

RECEIPT OF BIDS: (NONE)

CONSENT AGENDA: (NONE)

OLD BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider authorizing the City manager to bring a resolution establishing a County/City cooperative for the purpose of protecting private property rights. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider approval of a Performance Agreement between Coleman EDC, Inc and Danek Iron works. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
2. Council will consider information presented by the City Manager related to proposed changes to the City’s ordinances regulating garage sales. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
3. Council will consider allowing for public recommendations for the name of the new 4B economic corporation. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

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

Kyle Lusson signs with the Tampa Bay Rays

Grandson of Local Woman Signs with Pro Baseball Team
6/28/2010
Kyle Lusson, grandson of Joyce Kirwin of Coleman, just signed with the Tampa Bay Rays pro-baseball team. Kyle just completed 4 years with the UT Longhorns, and played in the College World Series his junior year. This is the culmination of years of baseball, starting with "T" ball. Kyle's younger brother, Kevin, will be returning to the UT baseball team as a junior, playing 3rd base. His youngest brother, Colton, will be a senior at McCallum High School in Austin and also plays baseball. Parents are Kami and Brian Lusson of Austin.

County Roping Winners Take Home Big Prizes
6/28/2010
Pictured are the winners of the County Roping held during Coleman's PRCA Rodeo. With a total time of 25.23 on two head, header Joe Stoker and heeler Miguel Valenzuela took home trophy buckles and nearly $4000 in prize money.

AIR SHOW AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY FREE TO THE PUBLIC FRIDAY, JULY 2
6/28/2010
An air show featuring the Texas Twisters along with a professional fireworks display will take place Friday, July 2 at the Coleman Municipal Airport.

Thanks to Travis and Millee Goree of Valera who furnished the fireworks display, citizens from around the community will be provided a world-class fireworks show hosted at the Coleman Municipal Airport. The Independence Day celebration will start promptly at 8:15 p.m. with an air show put on by aviation enthusiasts and stunt pilots called the Texas Twisters. The Texas Twisters will fly over both the Coleman Municipal Airport and the City of Coleman.

The fireworks display will take place promptly at 9:30 p.m. Parking will be available in the area west of the Selkirk Buildings at the airport. Volunteers will be available to help arrange parking. The airport itself will be closed to the public and there will be no restroom access or on-site food or beverage vendors. Garner's Garden Center located at 1303 Highway 84 Bypass will have free parking and restrooms available from 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. along with dip, sauces, and fresh fruit tastings all day.

The event is FREE to the public. Come celebrate and recognize our country's great history and independence.

COMMISSIONERS COURT KEEPS BURN BAN IN EFFECT
by Jo Ann Eddleman
6/28/2010
The Commissioners Court addressed a brief agenda Monday morning. In one order of business not on the agenda, the Court decided to keep the burn ban in effect since the rains in the County had been spotty.

Under old business Judge Jimmie Hobbs commented on the tour he had made of the dams in the county that have recently undergone upgrades and maintenance with the help of a grant from the Texas Soil and Water Conservation Board. Hobbs said he was pleased with the work that has been done and which is continuing in the way of fencing and mesquite control.

Precinct 2 Commissioner Billy Don McCrary asked for permission to hire Joe Morris at $10/hour on a part-time basis to fill the position being vacated by A. L. Watts. Watts is retiring at the end of this month. The Court approved the part-time hire.

In other business the Court approved the advertising for bids on several pieces of used equipment. The winning bids will be awarded on July 26.

Mitzi Mays appeared at the session to ask about any progress on the coordination project she had presented at the last Court meeting. Mays is promoting a coordination effort between the County and the City to provide a regional planning commission that would enable property owners to have more say over the use of their property when the law of eminent domain comes into play.

Mays was not on the agenda, but Judge Hobbs told her that the matter is under review by the attorneys representing the County and the City.

The Court then approved the bills for the month, approved the transfer of a CD to the general fund, and adjourned.

Coleman Junior Rodeo This Friday and Saturday
6/28/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo will take place this Friday (July 2) and Saturday (July 3) at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds starting at 7 p.m.

The age groups include six and under, 7-10, 11-14, and 15-19. Events include barrels, poles, goat tying, roping events, steer and bull riding. Admission for the public is $3 for adults and $2 for children. There will be a concession stand on site.

Coleman's own Randy Turner will be the rodeo announcer. Junior Rodeo updates can be found on their Facebook group. Simply search "Coleman Junior Rodeo" and receive any updates for the events.

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Hailea Smith (right, photo by Insights Studio), 16 year-old daughter of Mark and Teresa Smith of Valera, is the 2010 Coleman County Jr. Rodeo Queen. The junior rodeo is coming up July 2nd and 3rd at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

Hailea will be a junior at Panther Creek High School. She plays on the varsity basketball team and is active in FFA. She is currently “Pounce the Panther”, the Panther Creek School Mascot. She attends Leaday Baptist Church and is active in the Panther Creek Youth Group.

She is the sister of Trent and Trevor Smith and granddaughter of Ken and Helen Smith of Valera and Joe and Geneva Harris of Coleman.

The Josh Abbott Band with Slade Stevenson

JOSH ABBOTT BAND ATTRACTS RECORD CROWD IN COLEMAN
by Slade Stevenson
6/28/2010
The Josh Abbott Band is out to make a name for themselves. Their newest album, “She’s Like Texas,” débuted number three on iTunes and put the title track all the way to number one on the Texas Music Charts. The band drew record crowds Friday night at the rodeo dance.

A few hours before the show I had the opportunity to interview the band; it is an experience that I will never forget. I will never forget how they dropped everything to hang out with the Marsden family, how Josh sat and talked with Jade, or how you could see the whole band’s sincere desire to do all they can to help the Marsdens get on Extreme Makeover Home Edition.

The Josh Abbott Band was truly excited to be in Coleman. They were all raised in small towns like Coleman and said that it was “comforting” to be in a small town again. Abbott said that the community really made them feel at home and went above and beyond to be hospitable.

The Josh Abbott Band has been touring the South, where people have come to love their unique country sound. The band agrees that one of the biggest influences on them as musicians is what their parents allowed them to listen to as children. For the most part, the guys all grew up listening to the “greats” like Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings. As you listen to many of their songs, you can feel the lyrical significance and passion that was poured into them. Abbott has written or co-written every song on their albums. Almost all of his songs are based on personal relationships, which Abbott describes as, “the ups and the down, the goods and the bads, the romance, and the “I’m sorrys.”

One of the band’s favorite memories was making their new music video to “She’s Like Texas.” This is the Josh Abbott Band’s first music video and the band agrees that it was a very “out of the box experience.” Preston, who play the fiddle, jokes that it’s the “Only time I ever put make up on.” Their video has done very well and can be seen on CMT or you can find it on YouTube.

With two great albums out and a schedule packed full of shows, the Josh Abbott Band is one of the Texas Country scenes premier groups. The band is confident that the best is yet to come. Abbott says that we can expect to see them on late night television within the next year or so and that they are even working on an Opry date.

As many Texas Country bands grow, their sound sometimes changes into a more “Nashville” style of music. The Josh Abbott Band is determined to cling to their roots and not change their distinct Texas sound. Abbott says that the band will never sign onto a record label. He even went on to say that he found the thought of giving someone else control of your music “sickening.” Josh wants to ensure that the band is able to personally select every song on their albums. With current technology and advertising resources, Abbott believes that record labels will become obsolete in the future and even hopes to be one of the pioneers of this movement. The band’s philosophy on their music is “sink or swim, at least we are the ones in the ocean.”

Gas Prices in Texas Rise, Despite Recent Declining Trends
6/27/2010
Texas, TX, June 28- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have risen 2.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.59/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 0.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.74/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 11.6 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 3.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 0.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 13.5 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

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

6/27/2010

Abilene Rocket Fest 2010 Rocket Launch
6/27/2010
Abilene Rocket Fest 2010 starts this coming Monday, June 28 and will run through Friday, July 2. High school age participants will build model rockets in the morning and launch them each afternoon except Thursday. Participants will launch 'A' sized model rockets Monday afternoon and 'C' sized model rockets Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon. Launches start at 2:30pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in the west parking lot of the TSTC West Texas campus on East Highway 80 across the Martin Luther King bridge from downtown Abilene.

Starting at 1:30pm on Friday, July 2, participants will launch eggs in much larger 'F' sized model rockets trying to reach 400' in altitude while recovering the egg and rocket without damage. The public is especially invited to the Friday afternoon Rocket Fest Rocket Launch.

The purpose of Abilene Rocket Fest is to teach high school students and faculty how to participate in the Team America Rocket Challenge including how to design, construct, launch and recover payload rockets carrying an egg as cargo. Rocket Fest will be taught by Texas Tech University T-STEM Center faculty based in the TTU Whitacre College of Engineering in partnership with TTU University College; Texas Tech University at Abilene and Texas State Technical College West Texas.

Rocket Fest is made possible by a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, through the Texas Youth in Technology Program. The Texas Youth in Technology initiative and resulting projects establish programs to increase post-secondary enrollments, retention and graduates in engineering and computer science. Working with the Texas Engineering and Technical Consortium (TETC), the grant program also increases collaboration between Texas employers, institutions of higher education, and engineering and science departments. TYT is a non-discrimination, equal opportunity program.

CONTACT: Tom Dolan, associate director of Texas Tech University at Abilene, (325) 660-9169, or tom.dolan@ttu.edu

Bureaucratic Barriers Must Not Obstruct Oil Spill Cleanup
Waiving the Jones Act Would Help International Partners Aid in Recovery
By U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
6/27/2010
More than two months have passed since the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded, tragically killing 11 workers and causing a leak that is gushing up to 60,000 barrels of oil into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico each day. For Gulf Coast communities fearful oil will wash up on their beaches, for the fisherman and shrimpers whose livelihoods have essentially been cut off, and for the wildlife and ecosystems that are being destroyed, help literally cannot come fast enough.

The worsening environmental and economic consequences of the spill should be easy motivation to make absolutely sure every form of aid is available for the cleanup. However, there are some who are willing to help and are being turned away. According to the U.S. Department of State, more than 20 countries have offered assistance in responding to the Gulf of Mexico disaster. But a law designed to promote United States shipping interests is preventing them from sending their ships and equipment to aid in the oil spill cleanup and response.

The Jones Act was established in 1920 to ensure that the United States was able to maintain a fleet of merchant ships by requiring that all goods transported by water between U.S. ports be carried on U.S. flagged, owned, and crewed ships. This means that many foreign vessels have to obtain a waiver to this law in order to help with the oil spill. Under the Jones Act, a bureaucratic review involving three separate federal agencies - the U.S. Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, and Customs and Border Protection - is required in order for a waiver to be granted. In crisis cases, such as the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, a burdensome review process does not serve our nation's best interests.

A Coast Guard official told ABC News, "We have exhausted all our East Coast supply of skimming vessels. We are now looking at Norway, France, Spain, and other European vessels." While there are currently 15 foreign vessels assisting in oil spill recovery efforts, these vessels cannot perform skimming operations within 3 miles of our shoreline without a Jones Act waiver. In other words, they are not allowed to assist with the cleanup effort to the fullest extent and helping to protect our coastline, which clearly is the area in need of the most protection.

Although the administration claims it will use a streamlined process for granting Jones Act waivers, we are already more than 65 days into this crisis and the red tape appears to be intact. On June 16, a representative of a Dallas-based company began the application process for a Jones Act waiver for a fleet of foreign ships to get involved in the Gulf of Mexico cleanup efforts. He offered the federal government use of a mother ship for personnel and equipment, six oil skimming vessels, a specialized boom deployment and recovery boat, and 10 transport vessels. He was told that the expedited procedures had not yet been established. This constituent has also appealed directly to the administration for a Jones Act waiver, and he has not yet received a response.

Meanwhile, the oil slick is spreading wider across the Gulf of Mexico and many Gulf Coast communities are bracing themselves for the oily waters to lap up onto their shores. To waste any tools or equipment that could help mitigate this disaster - or to delay the availability of critical assistance - is unthinkable.

I have introduced legislation to temporarily grant Jones Act waivers for foreign vessels so they can quickly deploy and assist with the cleanup in the most vulnerable areas along the Gulf Coast. The Water Assistance from International Vessels for Emergency Response, or WAIVER Act, would simply cut the red tape, clear up the process confusion, and allow our response to the oil spill to be as expedient as possible. I also hope that this gesture will signal to our foreign partners that their assistance is welcome - and badly needed.

It is worth noting that the same thing could be accomplished without legislation. Three days after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, the previous administration issued an executive order to waive the Jones Act so that foreign-flagged ships could help with disaster relief efforts. Unfortunately, with the Gulf Coast oil spill, more than two months have passed with this bureaucratic barrier standing in the way of recovery efforts. I hope that, whether through passage of my legislation, or through an executive order, we can immediately take this commonsense action to help protect the environment and the livelihoods of the residents of the Gulf.

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

6/26/2010

FUTURE BLUECAT BASKETBALL PLAYERS – FINISH SUMMER CAMP
6/26/2010
Boys Basketball Camp
K-2nd Grade Boys Basketball Camp Awards
Best Handles (Ballhandling): Braxton Smith
Dribble Knockout King: Jalen Holloway
Free Throw Champion: Jalen Holloway
Hot Shot King: Connor Steffey
Camp MVP: Jalen Holloway
Most Improved: Cristian Mares

Group 1 Picture (front row l-r): Kamdyn Holloway, Adam Mason, Blake Brudney, Jalen Holloway, Camden Hensley, and Braxton Smith (back row l-r): Dylan Diaz, Connor Steffey, Blaze Garrett, Cristian Mares, Fabian Carrillo, and Seth Mills (not pictured Dylon Davis)

3rd-6th Grade Boys Basketball Camp Awards
Best Handles (Ballhandling): Edgar Nunez
Dribble Knockout King: Cayden Steffey
Free Throw Champion: Landon Hensley
Hot Shot King: Landon Hensley
Camp MVP: Terran Holloway
Most Improved: Colt Richards

Group 2 Picture (front row l-r): Kevin Jones, Landon Hensley, Edgar Nunez, Caesar Nunez, Terran Holloway, Jacob Diaz, and Blake Greaves (back row l-r): Cade Greaves, Colt Richards, Zachery Mason, Caden Steffey, Jacob Mason, Xavier Nunez, and Chris Lawhon (not pictured Baylor Pope)

7th-9th Grade Boys Basketball Participants
Joe Ethridge
Justin Reyna
Jacob Cortez

USDA Invites Applications for Energy Audits to Help Rural Small Businesses and Agriculture Producers Reduce Their Energy Usage
6/26/2010
TEMPLE, TX June 24, 2010 - USDA Rural Development announces it is seeking applications from eligible intermediaries to help rural small businesses and agricultural producers reduce energy costs and consumption. Funding is provided to conduct energy audits and provide renewable energy development assistance.

"We're pleased to offer this program to those who want to save money and conserve energy, but are unable to do so without financial assistance," said Paco Valentin, Texas State Director of USDA Rural Development. "As we continue to find ways to make America more energy independent, the projects this program supports will become more and more important."

USDA Rural Development has made available $2.4 million for fiscal year 2010 for energy audits. The funds are provided through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and authorized by the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (the Farm Bill).

The Farm Bill allows agricultural producers or rural small business to recover up to three-quarters of the cost of an energy audit. Audit funds are not provided directly to an eligible producer but are allocated instead to an intermediary. The intermediary provides funds to the audit recipient. Eligible intermediaries for energy audit grants include state, tribal, or local government entities; land-grant colleges and universities and other institutions of higher education, including 1994 Land Grant Colleges (Tribal Colleges), 1890 Land Grant Colleges and Historically Black Universities; rural electric cooperatives; and public power entities.

Rural Development is accepting applications for this program until July 26, 2010. For more information on how to apply, please see the May 27, 2010 Federal Register. To learn more about USDA's REAP and other renewable energy programs, please visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_ReapEaReda.html.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of 6,100 employees located in the nation's capital and 500 state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $138 billion in loans and loan guarantees.

6/25/2010

Hilderbran enhancement provides stricter sentences for convicted FLDS members
Hilderbran is Coleman County's State Representative
6/25/2010
ELDORADO – This week, Abram Harker Jeffs was sentenced to 17 years in prison for the sexual assault of a child, making him the sixth member of a polygamous group to be convicted of the crime. The Schleicher County jury determined that his crime was a first degree felony due to an enhancement in punishments authored by Rep. Harvey Hilderbran in 2005.

Sexual assault is generally considered a second degree felony that carries a penalty of two to 20 years. Hilderbran’s amendment, however, made sexual assault a first degree offense if the defendant was prohibited from marrying or living under the appearance of marriage with the victim. As a first degree felony, the crime carries a penalty of five to 99 years in prison.

Jeffs was convicted under the enhancement because he was already legally married in 2006 when he “spiritually” married the victim in the case, who was 15 years old at the time. Jeffs was 34 years old.

Five other members of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints – a group that mainstream Mormons reject – have previously been convicted of sexual assault of a child. Under Hilderbran’s enhancement, Allan Eugene Keate was sentenced to 33 years in prison, while Merrill Leroy Jessop was sentenced to 75 years. Jessop had been “spiritually” married to two 15-year old girls, one of whom he impregnated, and one 12-year-old girl.

“Anyone who sexually abuses a child should receive the harshest punishment possible, and I hope these strict sentences will stop other individuals from thinking that freedom to practice one’s religion somehow means freedom to force marriage, to rape, and to sexually assault young girls,” Hilderbran said.

Raymond Merril Jessop, Michael Emack, and Lehi Barlow Jeffs have also been convicted of sexual assault of a child, receiving sentences of seven to ten years each. Two additional members of the FLDS group are scheduled to go on trial later this year for the same crime, while another has been charged with bigamy and a fourth with conducting an unlawful marriage ceremony involving a minor. All ten men were charged following a 2008 Child Protective Services search of the group’s Yearning for Zion Ranch outside of Eldorado.

The sect, which moved into Schleicher County from Utah and Arizona in 2004, first came under scrutiny when its leader, Warren Jeffs, was accused in two lawsuits of sexually abusing his underage nephew and covering up widespread molestations by fellow sect leaders. The following year, Hilderbran successfully enhanced penalties for sexual assault by offering an amendment to Senate Bill 6 during the 78th Regular Legislative Session.

Warren Jeffs is currently serving 10 years to life in a Utah prison for being an accomplice to rape, and Texas has begun extradition proceedings for crimes committed in this state.

CATTLE RAISERS PASS POLICY ON USDA'S ANIMAL DISEASE TRACEABILITY PLAN
6/25/2010
Fort Worth, Texas - The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA), the state's largest and oldest livestock association, passed policy regarding the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) new animal disease traceability plan. The policy was passed Friday at the association's summer meeting.

On Feb. 5, USDA announced a new framework for animal disease traceability in the U.S. USDA will publish the rule which will open it for comment in December. The new framework replaces the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) that was strongly opposed by numerous livestock industries and associations, including TSCRA.

TSCRA supports an animal disease traceability program that adheres to the following criteria:

1. Additional costs to the beef and dairy industries must be minimized.

2. Any information relative to cattle identification information should be under the control of state animal health officials and kept confidential.

3. The system must operate at the speed of commerce.

4. The priority livestock for participation in the framework is the individual identification of adult cattle.

5. Producers must be protected from liability for acts of others after cattle have left their control.

6. The purpose of the animal disease traceability system should be solely animal disease surveillance, control and eradication. The only data required to be collected should be that necessary to accomplish this goal.

7. Support the flexibility of using currently established and evolving official identification methods.

8. Full compliance with the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and Codex Alimentarius Commission international standards for animal identification and traceability.

9. The animal data management system does not replace or impede existing TSCRA brand inspection activities.

TSCRA passed additional policy supporting good surface water quality standards based on sound science, landowner input, an emphasis on voluntary management practices, water quality protection and sustainable economic development.

Policy was also passed that supports removing the 150 mile restriction on livestock and farm operators from federal and state motor vehicle laws. Under current law, livestock or farm operators who operate equipment not for hire and without a commercial driver's license, for the transport of livestock or farm products, cannot exceed 150 miles.

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.

CitiBank Account Set Up for James Duffy and Family
6/25/2010
Earlier in the year, James Duffy was diagnosed with lymphoma. James went through numerous treatments to battle the disease, and even experienced blood poisoning in the process. Miraculously, James's battle with cancer seemed to end when in early April doctors determined he was in complete remission.

James, along with his family, walked in C.H. Hale Foundation Walk for Cancer in May. James also returned to work with a local roofing operation. However, in mid-June James began feeling ill and experiencing health problems. James went back to his doctors, where they found that his cancer had indeed returned but this time in the form of leukemia. The leukemia discovered resides in James's spinal cord. A report from his wife indicated that he is experiencing losses in motor skills and communication abilities.

James and his wife Christina are currently in Houston, Texas, at M.D. Anderson Hospital, while his children are home in Coleman under the supervision of their eldest daughter. Any donations made to help the Duffy family would be deeply appreciated. Shoppin' Baskit also has a donation jar available.

Commissioners Court of Coleman County Calls Special Meeting June 28
6/25/2010
Notice is hereby given that a special meeting of the above named court will be held on Monday, June 28, 2010, and begin at 9:00 am and continue thereafter until such business of the court has been completed and in accordance with Article 81.005 of the Local Government Code of the State of Texas. The following items of business will be discussed, to wit:

Agenda Topics
- Call the Meeting to Order
- Public Comments, Announcements, Visitors not on the agenda
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow public comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of said Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)
- Consider approval of any Old Business
- Consider approval of Minutes from the June 14, 2010 meeting
- Consider approval of Precinct 2 Commissioner to hire Joe Morris part time, beginning Monday, June 28, 2010
- Consider approval of Commissioners advertising for sale of used equipment
- Consider approval of current bills for payment and transfer of funds if necessary
- Adjournment

District Court Sends Several County Criminals to Jail
6/25/2010
Coleman County District Court was held June 24, 2010 with Judge John Weeks presiding. District Attorney Heath Hemphill presented 7 cases for disposition. Patrick Eugence Pence was sentenced to 12 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) on a charge of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Motion to Revoke Probation. Mr. Pence was previously tried for Murder in the stabbing death of Joshua Weaver. After a jury deliberated all day with no verdict last April, Mr. Pence pled guilty to the Assault charge and placed on probation by the Court. The District Attorney’s office filed a Motion to Revoke his probation earlier this year. Mr. Pence also pled guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance and was given 10 years on that case.

Brittany Machelle Warrenfeltz was placed on probation after serving 6 months in TDCJ (shock probation) last year. The District Attorney’s office filed a Motion to Revoke her probation earlier this year. In court Thursday she was sentenced to 8 years TDCJ on a charge of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Randall Lee Nix pled guilty and was sentenced to 10 years TDCJ on a charge of Intoxication Manslaughter. Gregory Owen Myers pled guilty to a charge of Delivery of a Controlled Substance and was sentenced to 15 months State Jail. Myers’ charges arose out of the large drug bust which occurred in February.

Vera McBride Hubach pled guilty to Tampering with a Government Record (Foodstamp Fraud) and was fined $400, court costs, 5 years deferred adjudication, 80 community service and was ordered to pay $6,779.20 in restitution to the Health and Human Services Commission.

Brian Scott Culwell pled guilty to 2nd Degree Felony Theft and received $400.00 fine, court costs, 10 years deferred adjudication, 100 hours community service, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $84,135.54 to Trinity Industries, $10,000.00 of that restitution was to be paid at the time of the plea.

Local Church Groups Donate to Coleman County Child Welfare Board
Contributed
6/25/2010
Several Coleman County church groups have donated needed items or monetary donations to the CCCWB Raindrop Closet. The Raindrop Closet has clothes and personal hygiene items that the CPS personnel use for children who have been removed from their homes. Currently there are 55 Coleman County children in foster care.

The ladies of the Seventh Day Adventists Church have been making “It’s My Very Own” bags for the children who are placed under CPS foster care. The bags are made of colorful material with a drawstring and are labeled age/gender appropriate. For example, one bag labeled for infant girl, age 0-17 months, contains the following - stuffed toy, bibs, hair brush, toys, teething toys, baby bottle, baby oil, baby powder, baby bath, pacifier and a beautiful handmade quilt. They make bags that range from infants up to age 18, boys and girls.

The Gouldbusk United Methodist Church group has donated monetary donations and items needed in the Raindrop Closet. Members of the CCCWB also donate items to the closet as needed.

The CCCWB thanks these groups for their generosity. Your support is greatly appreciated.

If you would like to make a donation to this worthy cause the address is: CCCWB - Raindrop Closet, P.O. Box 999, Coleman, TX 76834, or you may drop off donations at 114 Needham St. here in Coleman.

Members of the Coleman County Child Welfare Board, who will gladly take your donations, are Mona Wilson, Nina Childress, Bonnie Brown, Margery Hester, Jo Jones, Elaine Robinson, Adela Flores, Becky Watson, Mary Griffis, Mike Kerzee, Lori Amos, Pam Lindsay and Lori Needham (Rainbow Closet member).

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCES NEW RURAL MICROENTREPRENEUR ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO BENEFIT SMALL START-UP BUSINESSES
6/25/2010
TEXAS, June 22, 2010– USDA Rural Development is seeking applications to support the development and ongoing success of rural microentrepreneurs and microenterprises. Funding is now available through USDA Rural Development's Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP), which is authorized by the2008 Farm Bill. This program has been established to fund, finance and facilitate microenterprise developments through loans to the microlender to establish a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund and grants to fund technical assistance.

“USDA Rural Development strives to improve the overall quality of rural communities,” said Paco Valentin, USDA Rural Development Texas State Director. “By providing loans and grants to start-up businesses through the new Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program, we can assist with the development of local, rural businesses. These businesses will in turn benefit the community by creating job opportunities and providing needed goods and services to rural residents.”

Loans ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 with fixed interest rates will be made available to microlenders for startup and growing microenterprises. Grants will be available for microlenders and microenterprise development organizations (MDOs) that provide technical assistance and training to microentrepreneurs who have received or are seeking a microloan under this program. Technical assistance grants will not exceed $130,000 and will be made based on a percentage of the outstanding microloans owed to the microlender under this program.

To eligible for this program, a MDO must be a non-profit entity, a federally recognized Indian tribe or a public institution of higher education. Additionally, the MDO must have legal authority and responsibility and must be citizens of the United Sates and its territories.
Applications will be accepted throughout the year and awarded on a quarterly basis. For fiscal year 2010, applications must be received by July 16, 2010. The total amount available in fiscal year 2010 is $45.1 million. Of this, $36.2 million will be available for loans, $7.6 million will be available for microlender technical assistance grants, and $1.3 million will be available for technical assistance-only grants. To be eligible for a RMAP loan, a microentrepreneur must be located in a rural area, employ less that 10 full time employees and is seeking $50,000 or less in business capital and/or in need of business based technical assistance and training.

More information on how to apply for funding is available in the June 3 Federal Register, page 31413, http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-13380.pdf.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of 6,100 employees located in the nation's capital and 500 state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $138 billion in loans and loan guarantees.

6/24/2010

RANGE & PASTURE PROGRAM in Brown County 5 CEU's offered
Contributed by: Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag/NR / Coleman County
Contact(s):Scott Anderson, 325-646-0386, sa-anderson@tamu.edu
6/24/2010
BROWNWOOD - A full evening of rangeland information, a meal and continuing education units await those who attend a range and pasture program to be conducted by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service office in Brownwood on July 14, 2010.

The program will begin at 5 p.m. at the Brown County Fairgrounds located on Hwy 377 South, heading toward Brady.

Five Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units will be offered to licensed pesticide applicators (two integrated pest management, one laws and regulations, one label/law comprehension and one general).

*Conditions have been perfect this spring for rampant weed growth in our area*s pastures, so addressing those concerns will be a major part of this program,* said Scott Anderson, AgriLife Extension agent in Brown County. "Don't miss this opportunity to here this great line-up of speakers."

Topics and speakers will include:
- Relative Effectiveness of Chemicals for Mesquite and Prickly Pear Control, Dr. Allan McGinty, AgriLife Extension range specialist, San Angelo.
- Herbicide Selection and Use, Ralph Porter, Dow AgroSciences LLC, Abilene.
- Wildlife Pest Control, Glynn Riley, Wildlife Services district supervisor, Brownwood.
- Pesticide Laws and Regulations, Neal Alexander, AgriLife Extension agent in San Saba County.
- Pesticide Label/Law Comprehension, Anderson.

Pre-registration for the program is requested by contacting Scott Anderson, CEA-Ag at the AgriLife Extension office in Brown County at 325-646-0386, or by E-Mail: sa-anderson@tamu.edu . There will be a $20 registration fee due at the door for those who pre-register and a $25 at-the-door fee for those who do not. The fee includes supper and educational materials.

COLEMAN ARTISTS ATTEND PRIVATE SHOW IN SAN ANTONIO
6/24/2010
Fine Arts League of Coleman County Vice President Virginia Bethke was featured in a private showing in San Antonio on Friday, June 18. Virginia invited Coleman artist friends, Theda Rhea, Sherrell Hazlewood, Judia Terry and Emmalee Dyer to be a part of the exhibit.

The show was held in the home of Terry and Gerry Schaefer in their restored 100-year-old home in the historic Lavaca neighborhood of San Antonio. More than 100 invited guests viewed the 75 paintings exhibited by the FALCC artists.

Glen Cove Family Being Considered
For ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition
6/24/2010
In November, a representative from ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition sent area news offices a press release about their program coming to our area. Extreme Makeover Supervising Producer Rebecca Shumsky stated in the press release, “We really want to help families whose homes present major problems for the family, those big issues that affect the family's quality of life on a daily basis. We want to find deserving people who just don't have the resources, ability, or time to fix those serious issues without our help.” A family recently nominated in Coleman County definitely fits Shumsky's description.

David and Samantha Marsden, who recently moved from Washington state to be with family in Texas, are new residents of Glen Cove. Like most families, they enjoy attending church together, hosting picnics with friends and family, and they certainly share their fair share of memories and hardships. However, unlike most families, two of their five children suffer from severe disabilities. As a result, the Marsdens spend an enormous amount of time, money, and energy caring for their children's welfare, while their dream of having a normal home takes second place.

The Marsden's eldest child, Jade age 13, was born with an extremely rare case of dwarfism called Kneist Dysplasia. The rare form of dwarfism, often referred to as Swiss Cheese Cartilage Syndrome, is characterized by short stature, enlarged joints like knees or elbows, and affects the normal development of bones and connective tissue. Kneist dysplasia leads to abnormal skeletal growth, and naturally causes a multitude of other health problems.

From an early age, Jade required an enormous amount of medical attention. She was born weighing 6 lbs and 3 oz and measured 17 inches long. She was unable to leave the hospital until she turned 1. Jade suffered from visual and hearing problems. The 13-year-old has endured numerous hospital stays, communication disabilities, frequently been on a ventilator, suffered from an enlarged heart, surgeries on her stomach, and progressively loses her ability to walk.

Nonetheless, throughout their life experience, David and Samantha developed a passion for raising a family and caring for special needs children. Before moving to Texas, David and Samantha fostered children with special needs. Eventually, the Marsdens adopted one of their foster children named Dean. As an infant, Dean was diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Prenatal Drug Exposure. He is also diagnosed with Autism and suffers from seizures and sleeping problems. Despite these setbacks, David and Samantha knew they could provide Dean with an understanding and dynamic family.

David and Samantha lived happily in Washington, where David worked as a computer network administrator and Samantha worked at a homeless shelter. However, tragedy struck the Marsdens again when David sustained a back injury at work and suffered stroke-like symptoms which affected some of his speaking abilities and motor skills. There's an old saying: When it rains, it pours.

In order to relieve some of their problems, David and Samantha moved their family to Texas to be near Samantha's father, John Watkins of Glen Cove. Both David and Samantha are developing careers from home in order to be near their children. Samantha, who currently holds an Associate's Degree and was pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in developmental psychology, hopes to complete her studies one day.

David and Samantha bought a house big enough for their family, which is also located a block away from Samantha's father. The house is perfect for the Marsdens in many ways, as it adequately houses the children, features a large backyard with a basketball goal, and most importantly, it's near grandpa. The home, however, is not suitable in terms of accessibility for Jade. The house also suffers from basic septic, insulation, and aesthetic problems.

The Marsden's were recently nominated by a friend for ABC's Extreme Home Makeover Edition and they filled out an application before the deadline ended December 2009.

On Friday, June 18, The Josh Abbott banded invited the Marsdens to meet the band. For nearly an hour, The Josh Abbott band met with the family and played with the children. Josh Abbott sat personally with Jade and talked about music, where Abbott honored Jade with an autographed CD of "She's Like Texas."

You can learn more and help Jade and the Marsden family by following Jade on Facebook.

Hornet Board Notes
Volume I, Number 9
6/24/2010
The Novice ISD Board of Trustees held their regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 21, 2010. The board meeting was preceded by a public hearing on next year’s estimated budget and tax rate.

Agenda items during the board meeting included:
- approving a request from the Novice Volunteer Fire Department to use the area around the football field for the community Fourth of July celebration,
- adding local graduation requirements for CTE and computer classes,
- adding academic and extra-curricular requirements for transfer applicants,
- setting the tax rate for next year at $1.17 and setting the date for the district’s tax ratification election on August 24, 2010, and
- offering Shasta McClure a teaching contract for the 2010-2011 school year. This is an additional teaching position that targets elementary math achievement.

The administrative reports by Jim Meredith, principal, and Dale Freeman, superintendent, included:
- preliminary TAKS results for the district,
- the annual TASA conference in Austin,
- summer school attendance,
- summer TAKS dates, and
- an update on the T3 grant expenditures.

This report is not intended to replace the official board minutes. It is simply a summary of the major agenda items and other items of general interest to district parents and community members. The next regularly scheduled board meeting is Monday, July 19. All interested persons are invited to attend.

6/24/2010

Little League Major Division Champions
6/23/2010
Congratulations to a great group of boys for a wonderful season! They finished the season with a 10-2 record and played with a lot of heart all season. All of the teams in the Majors competed with class and Coleman Bluecat Baseball has a great future judging from the play of all the teams this year. Pictured l to r bottom: Trevor Brooks, Cade Garrett, Brendan Camp, Devin Taylor, Trotter Harris. Top l to r: Walt Arnold, Xavier Nunez, Asst coach Willie Gilbreath, Thomas Hurtado, Lucas Hurtado, asst coach Raul Hurtado, Chase Taylor, Head Coach Michael Taylor. Not pictured: Nathaniel Rodriquez

DeMoss Brothers Compete in Coleman's Rodeo, Cody Takes Home Spurs
6/23/2010
The DeMoss brothers, two of the best Saddle Bronc riders in the PRCA, competed last Friday night in Coleman.

Pictured, left to right, are Cody DeMoss, Coleman Rodeo Association President Heath Hemphill, and Heith DeMoss.

Cody scored 85 points to win the Coleman PRCA Rodeo. Cody also won the Weatherford PRCA Rodeo last weekend with Heith placing fourth. Heith placed second in Big Spring.

But the best was yet to come for Heith "Danger" DeMoss. He went to Reno, Nevada and rode a previously unridden bronc for 85 points and the first round lead.

The spurs given to event winners in Coleman, and Stace Smith broncs, are why the DeMoss brothers love to come to the Coleman PRCA Rodeo.

Matt Turner of Coleman Wins Hot Sauce Competition
6/23/2010
The 3rd annual "Hot, Hot, Hot...Sauce, that is" contest was held following the Rodeo Parade on Saturday, June 19 and was a great success and lots of fun. We had twelve entries and all of them looked and tasted great. It's amazing how the same ingredients (basically) produce such diverse flavors.

We had three judges and they decided that the best hot sauce was made by Matt Turner of Coleman and a close runner-up was Amy Loyd, also of Coleman. In addition, we had a "People's Choice" contest that was well attended and they, too, decided that the best hot sauce was made by Matt Turner. Congratulations, Matt and Amy and thank you to all who participated. We hope to see you again next year!

TRIAL CANCELLED IN SANTA ANNA COURT
6/23/2010
The trial scheduled for Thursday, June 24, 2:00 p.m. in Santa Anna Municipal Court has been CANCELLED. Those who received a letter concerning jury duty DO NOT HAVE TO APPEAR.

Santa Anna Methodist Church VBS Will be July 5th Thru 9th
Contributed
6/23/2010
Santa Anna Methodist Church invites all children ages 3-12 to participate this summer in Vacation Bible School. “Galactic Blast: A Cosmic Adventure Praising God” will give children a chance to see our awesome universe - and our awesome God - in a whole new way. This extreme adventure will take kids on exciting Bible treks through the Bible to discover God’s works everywhere, every day. VBS will be Monday through Friday, July 5-9, from 3:30 - 6:00 p.m., at the church located at 401 S. 1st Street in Santa Anna. Events will begin each day with snack time in the church annex as the children arrive at 3:30 p.m. Registration will be at 3:15 p.m. on Monday, July 5, just prior to the 3:30 start time.

This program offers children many chances to explore the scriptures and grow in the study of God’s creation through the ages, as well as finding how God still interacts with people today. Each day children will participate in adventures that remind them of stories from the Bible, as they contribute to local mission projects, sing some great tunes, and make many new friends.

Friday, July 9, at 6:00 p.m., we invite friends and family to share in a time of music and celebration with the children. Please join us at the Santa Anna Methodist Church for the 2010 VBS adventure. For more information or to pre-register, contact Director Cathy Ellis at 325-348-3016.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LAUNCHES LAWN MOWER FUNDRAISER!
6/23/2010
The Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, Agriculture & Tourist Bureau 2010 Fundraiser is under way. By purchasing a ticket for a $10.00 donation, you have a chance to be the lucky winner of a brand new John Deere LA115 19.5 HP 42” Deck Lawn Mower.

Tickets are available at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce office, which is located at 218 Commercial Ave., or you may contact any Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Director. Directors are: Sandra Barr, Dr. Darron Atwood, Nina Childress, Cathy Allen, Evan Autry, Kim Horne, Danyelle Hemphill, Greg Martin, Bobby McGee, Kevin McMahon, and Darla Wise.

For more information, contact the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce Office at (325) 625-2163 or come by 218 Commercial Avenue to view the John Deere LA115 19.5 HP 42” Deck Lawn Mower.

School Board to Review More Resignations and Hires at Next Meeting
6/23/2010
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE COLEMAN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

DATE: Monday, June 28, 2010
TIME: 5:30 P.M.
PLACE: Coleman I.S.D. Administration Office
300 West Pecan

THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS.

AGENDA:
1. Invocation
2. Call to Order
3. Reading of the Minutes
4. Public Forum
5. Campus Report

THE BOARD RESERVES THE RIGHT TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT, TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 551.001 et seq., AND FOR THE REASONS STATED IN THE CODE.

ACTION ITEMS:
1. Personnel – Consider Accepting Resignations from Personnel
2. Personnel – Consider Hiring Personnel
3. Consider Recommendation to Hire Independent Auditor
4. Consider Changing Local Policy BE for Meeting Time for Regular

Meetings of the Board
5. Consider Approving Fence Bid
6. Amend the Budget

BOARD REPORT:
1. School Resource Officer End of Year Report
2. Spring TAKS Report
3. Elementary Campus Climate Survey Results

DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Goal Setting

INFORMATION ITEMS:
1. Parent Involvement Policy for Coleman ISD and Pre-K thru 8
2. 2009-2010 Final Enrollment
3. Budget Workshop/Board Meeting
4. Summer Projects
5. Check Payments
6. Financial Statement

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

Is Your Family ‘Sick’ Of the Rough Economic Times?
America’s Money Doctor Gives Family-Friendly Financial Planning Tips
6/23/2010
If the economic mess was a disobedient child, at least one expert would recommend a spoonful of castor oil and a good old fashioned whack on the behind to set him straight.

“We need to get back to basic common sense,” said Louis Scatigna, Certified Financial Planner and national radio talk show host known as “The Financial Physician” “The economy is a mess, and there are two sides of the cause. Yes, the big banks and investment houses were lending money through high-risk products without an ounce of sense to the outcome. However, for them to be knee-deep in bad investments, they had to be selling them to someone. All those high-risk mortgage loans belong to people who were buying more house than they could afford and they knew it. All those people with high credit card debt weren’t having their arm twisted by the credit card companies. They were simply given the chance to live beyond their means and now they are paying for it.”

Scatigna, author of The Financial Physician: How to Cure Your Money Problems and Boost Your Financial Health (www.thefinancialphysician.com), recommends a back-to-basics approach for consumers to get through the rough patches on the road to recovery.

“To a certain extent, recovery is irrelevant,” he added. “A lot of these troubles would correct themselves if the average American just buckled down a bit more, and exercised some restraint and common sense.”

His tips for getting through include:

· Stop using the credit cards, sort of - The average American is carrying about $7,500 in revolving debt, and it’s only going to continue to grow if people don’t stop using their credit cards for things they don’t need. I call credit card debt cancer to the financial body; it’s the worst form of debt available and dangerous to your financial health. Now, some banks are starting to charge “inactivity fees” to people who don’t use their cards, and that’s only one of the rubs. If you have credit, and don’t use it, it may actually adversely affect your credit accounts and reduce your credit rating. The best thing to do is buy something small with your credit card once a month, or use your credit card for one grocery run each month, and then pay it off with the next billing cycle. That keeps your card active, and the regular use will reflect positively on your credit rating.

· Only spend what you have - If you don’t have it in your checking account, don’t spend it. Many households that can’t make ends meet get into trouble because they are spending their money on things they really don’t need. Make a budget and stick to it, even if it hurts a little for now. When your cash flow increases, you can relax the rules. Remember buy what you need, not what you want.

· Pay down your debt - When you have a little extra money to spend, don’t splurge. Use it to pay extra on your credit cards. In many cases, paying the minimum balance on your credit cards won’t reduce your debt by much. A simple $10,000 balance could take as long as 15 years to pay off if you stick to minimum payments. By the time you pay it off, you could actually spend double the amount of your debt because of increasing interest rates.

· Use cash when you can - The debit card can be deadly, because it is so easy to swipe it and forget it. Because some debit card transactions take days to clear, many people operate day to day without a clear picture of what they have in their checking accounts, leading to the surprise of being overdrawn. If you can track your debit card use closely, then do so. If not, drawing cash for specific purposes and sticking to those budget items is a low-tech way of keeping things straight. In the depression of the 1930s, many families used mason jars marked with their regular expenditures as a way of keeping track of their monthly budget. It’s not pretty, but it got many Americans through the worst depression in history.

“There are a great many of us who are in dire financial straits, and are already tightening the belt as far as it will go,” he said. “Many of those families are already doing the hard work of living within their means. However, many of us still cling to some of the bad habits that put us in the mess we’re in now. We need to learn better habits if we’re going to survive and boost our financial health”.

6/22/2010

Summer Band Schedule - Events Begin July 26th
6/22/2010
Dear Band Member,

Greetings from the Band Hall! I hope your summer has gone well. Mine, like yours, has gone way too fast. The schedule for summer band is listed below. Please be aware that these are mandatory practices. Jobs and vacations are not excusable absences. If you remember, you were reminded of this before school let out in May. Inform your employers as soon as possible of this schedule. Athletic practices will be over by 1pm so there will be no conflicts with our rehearsals. Our practice will happen indoors in the High School Band Hall. Please contact me if you have questions or cannot make a practice.

I am looking forward to a great school year!!!

Jerry Everett
Band Director

School: 643-4593
Home: 646-9772
Cell: 642-4115 (emergencies only please)

Flag/Drumline Camp
July 26th – 30th 9am-2pm

Summer Band (All Band Members)
August 2 6:00 pm Equipment Checkout
7-9 pm Rehearsal

August 3-6 7-9 pm Rehearsal

August 9-13 7-9 pm Rehearsal

August 16-20 7-9 pm Rehearsal

FIRST EVER RESCUED DOG REUNION & DACHSHUND RACES, JULY 10 - Perini Ranch, Buffalo Gap
6/22/2010
• Every wiener dog can race.
• No fee to enter. Register 9:00 a.m., Races 10:00 a.m.
• Admission: $5.00 for adults or $10.00 for the whole family (mom, dad, & kids under 18)
• Food sold separately.
• For complete information, please visit RescueTheAnimals.org
• Don’t miss the first ever Rescued Dog Reunion and Beauty Pageant to be held at the Dachshund Races on July 10.
• We want to meet every rescued dog in West Texas no matter where it was rescued!
• Awards, prizes, and trophies will be given and all breeds of rescued dogs can participate!
• Visit RescueTheAnimals.org and join us on July 10!

36 Texas Counties Now Approved for USDA FSA’s
Distress Loan Program for Wheat
6/22/2010
Juan M. Garcia, Texas State Executive Director of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced today that distress loans are available for wheat producers in eight additional counties:  Baylor, Callahan, Coleman, Eastland, Shackelford, Stonewall, Throckmorton and Young.   This brings the total number of counties where distress loans for 2010 wheat are approved to 36.

For questions on this or any FSA program, including specific crop reporting deadlines and planting dates, producers should contact their county FSA office. More information on FSA programs is at: www.fsa.usda.gov.

EPA REGULATION OF GREENHOUSE GASES COULD MEAN COSTLY FOOD FOR AMERICANS
6/22/2010
Fort Worth, Texas - The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) is disappointed after the U.S. Senate failed to pass a resolution that would have prevented the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from regulating carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases (GHGs).

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Ark.) filed a disapproval resolution after the EPA released an endangerment finding giving themselves the authority to regulate GHGs.

If the EPA regulates GHGs under the Clean Air Act (CAA), the cost would be overwhelming as millions of entities, including ranches, would be subject to burdensome CAA regulations. If ranchers don't comply with the new regulations, they could be subject to fines.

These costly regulations would be based on what the EPA claims is a weak and indirect link between GHGs and public health.

"If the federal government wants to regulate greenhouse gases, that debate should happen in Congress -- where agriculture has representation -- not through a backdoor approach," said Dave Scott, rancher and TSCRA president. "The EPA's decision to regulate greenhouse gases on their own authority will drastically increase the cost of producing safe and affordabl food, putting many ranchers out of business."

"Ranchers appreciate the Senators who voted in favor of this resolution, including Texas Sens. Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn, " Scott said.

TSCRA, along with more than 100 agricultural organizations, sent a letter to Sen. Murkowski in support of her resolution.

The letter states that "the EPA's findings put the agricultural economy at grave risk based on allegations of a weak, indirect link to public health and welfare despite the lack of any environmental benefit."

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.

UNT receives $1.6 million grant for Texas rural librarians project
6/22/2010
DENTON (UNT), Texas — While public libraries in urban areas often have multiple staff members to handle specialized services, like reference and children and youth services, public libraries in rural areas may have only one full-time staff member, or one part-time staff member and a few volunteers, to provide all services — including keeping the library clean if there’s no janitor.

With a nearly $1.6 million grant from the Robert and Ruby Priddy Charitable Trust, the Department of Library and Information Sciences in the University of North Texas College of Information will begin a three-year project, Promoting & Enhancing the Advancement of Rural Libraries, or PEARL. The project addresses the roles of small rural libraries in Texas as community resources and gathering places.

PEARL will target staff members in approximately 105 libraries located in towns with populations of 25,000 or less. The towns are all located in 83 counties stretching from Johnson, Montague, Parker and Wise counties to the east, the New Mexico border to the west, Crockett, Kimble and Sutton counties to the south, and the Oklahoma border to the North.   

The library staff members will receive training and mentoring from five UNT students and an outreach coordinator. The students will be enrolled in the College of Information’s Certificate of Advanced Study program with an emphasis in rural librarianship. The Priddy grant will pay for their tuition.

As mentors, the students will work directly with the library staff members to create customized community outreach plans for forming partnerships with local governing agencies, civic organizations, community leaders and others. Each student will be assigned to liaison with the staff of seven libraries each year, working with a total of 21 libraries over three academic years.

Dr. Yunfei Du, UNT assistant professor of library and information sciences and principal investigator of PEARL, said very few librarians in small towns have library science degrees or receive continuing education training. Yet libraries in rural towns, he said, may often be more in demand from patrons than libraries in cities and suburbs, since the library may be one of the few places in a rural town where people can use a computer and access the Internet.

“Public libraries in rural communities face enormous challenges because, while experiencing increases in demand for services, they simultaneously deal with declining tax bases, lack of an educated workforce, decreasing funding and an aging population,” he said.

In addition, in rural towns, public libraries are often underused and underappreciated as a resource for local businesses, said Dr. Herman Totten, College of Information dean and PEARL director.

“A library needs to show how it functions as a community retrieval and information center, with the staff showing business owners, teachers and other professionals what the library can do for them. Libraries must also take leadership roles in creating effective partnerships with local organizations, government agencies and social institutions to meet the demands of the range of library users they serve,” Totten said. “By doing this, the librarians develop advocates in the community, who can support them when they ask for funding from the town officials.”   

PEARL will also:

• Provide educational, networking and peer interaction opportunities for the rural librarians, including two workshops and two forums each year. Funds will also pay for the librarians to join the Texas Library Association and attend TLA’s annual conference.

• Offer a website with a social networking component so the librarians can form a virtual community. The website will also include a list of resources for rural librarians. 

The funding for PEARL is the second major gift that UNT has received from the Priddy Charitable Trust during the last five years. A $2.5 million grant led to the creation of the Priddy Charitable Trust Fellowships in Arts Leadership, which provides visual arts and music students each year with tuition and fees for graduate school at UNT, health insurance, stipends and travel allowances to attend professional meetings and conferences.

For more information about PEARL go to http://pearl.unt.edu.

6/21/2010

Fund Set Up at FCNB for Liles Family
6/21/2010
An account has been set up at First Coleman National Bank for Doris Liles of Coleman, to help defer expenses incurred in the recent death of her husband, Ken Liles. Any and all contributions will be greatly appreciated.

Coleman Junior Rodeo Association will meet Thursday, June 24th
6/21/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will meet Thursday, June 24th at 6:30 p.m. at the Bill Franklin Center. Final plans will be made for the upcoming rodeo on July 2nd and 3rd.

Gas Prices Rise Over the Weekend
6/21/2010
Texas, TX, June 21- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have risen 3.0 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.57/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.73/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 4.3 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 12.8 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 9.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 7.2 cents per gallon higher than this day a year ago.

About TexasGasPrices.com

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

WHO DOES WHAT IN COLEMAN AND COLEMAN COUNTY?
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/21/2010
This is the second in a series of articles on what different organizations in Coleman do for the good of our town and county in a non-governmental capacity.

We all basically know what the City and County governments do to keep the wheels turning, but how much do we know about the mission of our many nonprofit groups that offer their services in one way or another to benefit our town?

Let’s take a snapshot of each of these groups, and take time to be thankful that each has chosen to take up a worthy cause. Perhaps at the same time we can choose to support their efforts either financially or by participation as the need arises.

Much of the early history of each of the organizations will be gleaned from the writings of our local historian, Ralph Terry.

COLEMAN SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER
Coleman is a county with a senior population over 22%. That compares to just over 10% seniors for the state as a whole. With that high percent in our county, you know a senior center is something Coleman County should count as one of its assets.

And, as we know, we do have a senior center. It is listed in the telephone book under Coleman County as the Senior Citizens Center at 916 S. Concho. Many know it well for the fried catfish lunch on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. Yum!

Let’s take a look at what the Senior Citizens Center is all about and how it continues to serve our community without much in the way of guaranteed revenue.

There’s a lot of talk about getting government out of our lives, but we can use the Senior Center as one example of what would not exist if there were no tax money to support it. Unless we want to assume that the private sector would step up and pay the approximate $155,000 annual operating budget, we can be thankful for agencies such as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA), a State agency with a regional office in Abilene. The agency is an arm of the Texas Department of Aging and Disability (DADS). DADS relies on legislation embodied in the Older Americans Act of 1965.

The services of our Senior Center are two-fold. One is the building itself that provides a place for seniors to gather, visit and engage in various activities. The Center has a nice selection of exercise equipment, including a treadmill, stationary bikes, and an ab-lounger. The equipment can be used by anyone of any age for $1 day, or $15/month if you plan to use the equipment on a regular basis. A quilting group meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday under the direction of volunteer Sherry Anderson. Three tables of dominoes are a favorite any day, starting at 9 a.m. It’s just for fun, no tournaments. And there’s Bingo every day after lunch. There’s even a pool table.

The Center’s executive director, Tina Rankin, arranges for a birthday party each month to celebrate all the eligible seniors’ birthdays that fall in that month.

The second part of Senior Center services revolves around the noon meal for these “eligible” seniors, and others as well. Actually, the fact that the Senior Center serves food is the reason it receives Area Agency on Aging (AAA) assistance. There could be a privately-supported senior center with no food service and a volunteer staff, but the Center since its inception has been organized in such a manner as to be eligible for the government assistance that is available for nonprofits which provide a nutrition program for eligible seniors. It now functions as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit governmental entity under the fiscal umbrella of the City of Coleman.

Operating as the Coleman County Nutrition Program, the Center receives $3.64 per meal served to eligible seniors in the congregate environment at the Senior Center and $3.67 per meal for home-delivered meals. Rankin said the Center serves an average of 3,400 meals a month, and the grocery bill is around $5,000 to $6,000 a month. The meals must meet nutritional guidelines established by AAA. Two cooks, Joy Brinson and Stacie Moore, do a good job in the preparation of palatable and healthy meals using the recipes that are provided by the agency.

The operative word in trying to figure her budget, according to Rankin, is “eligible.” Not all seniors who eat at the Senior Center are “eligible” to be counted toward the funds she receives from AAA. Primarily, the individual must be 60 years of age or over and meet the low-income guidelines established by DADS, although others who are disabled or are caregivers can be eligible as well regardless of age. Currently, Rankin has a list of 85 eligible seniors that regularly eat lunch at the Senior Center and 33 who are authorized to receive home-delivered meals. Another 43 are receiving home-delivered meals but are awaiting eligibility approval.

Sponsors provide $4 a meal for an additional 18 individuals who have been identified as homebound and in need of the home-delivered meals but who are not eligible under DADS guidelines. Various church groups and individuals provide the sponsorship funds for these individuals.

The red tape that is involved in identifying who is eligible to be counted for the $3.64/$3.67 per meal compensation from the AAA and how AAA calculates the dollar amount of the reimbursement is too much to attempt at this writing. Suffice it to say that Rankin is at the mercy of what the regional AAA can give her based on the agency’s internal guidelines and its annual budget.

Anyone regardless of age or financial need is welcome and encouraged to eat their noon meal served cafeteria-style at the Senior Center. Everyone under the age of 60 (honor system) is asked to contribute $4 for the meal. Seniors (those over 60) may or may not contribute $3 for the meal. The Center is not allowed to require payment from a senior for a meal to preserve the privacy of those who are eligible for a free meal.

Coleman County contributes $2,400 a year toward general expenses, and the City leases the city-owned building to the Center for a token $10/year. Plus, the City covers workers compensation insurance on the three employees. The City of Bangs contributes $200 a month for 30 to 35 twice-a-week home-delivered meals in Bangs. Groceries, salaries (no benefits), contents insurance, and utilities must be covered by the revenue generated by the nutrition program and other Center fundraising. Utilities alone run from $500 to $1,600 a month depending on the season. Some quick math will make it obvious that shortfalls are to be expected. So far, these revenue shortfalls are being covered by fundraisers and concerned citizens and church groups who support the Senior Center through their charitable donations.

Aside from the constant struggle with fiscal matters, the Senior Center has a bright side with the number of volunteers Rankin can count on to step up to the plate each week. Approximately 8 volunteers regularly attend to the cashier and other duties that go with serving the noon meals five times a week. In addition, 35 volunteers are available to help with the home-delivered meals, often referred to as Meals on Wheels. Rankin also uses community service and Access workers for janitorial and maintenance duties.

The Coleman Senior Center has been in continuous service since it was organized by Cliff Drinkard and his wife Maxine in the 1980s. It first operated out of the hospital where the kitchen was available for meal preparation. It moved to its Concho Street location in 2000. The current board is composed of President Andy Young, Vice President Jamie Trammell, Secretary Ann B. Carter, Treasurer Carolyn Merriman, Faye Dean, Louise Strength, Nina Childress, the City Secretary (Karen Langley), Sherry Anderson and Nancy Grimes.

Everyone is encouraged to use the Coleman Senior Center for nutritious meals and fun with friends. The building can also be rented for functions that need a clean, spacious place to meet. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The noon meal is served beginning at 11:30 a.m. Take-out is available starting at 10:30.

DOGGIE ADOPTION DAY THIS SATURDAY
-Contributed-
6/21/2010
The Humane Society has rescued more dogs than we are able to place in foster homes. To try to find new homes for these orphans, we will have a special adoption day Saturday, June 26, at the Thrift Store, 108 East Pecan, from 10 – 3. Some cats and kittens will be available as well.

Each pet will be offered for a minimum adoption fee of $25, plus any donation you feel you can make to help cover the Humane Society’s expenses. A donation is not required. Each dog will be spay/neutered and heartworm tested, have rabies and canine disease shots and wormer meds.

The Humane Society never gives a dog away since we want adopting families to realize that a pet will always cost money if it gets the care it deserves, and the adoption fee represents only the beginning of the cost of a pet.

Basic adoption requirements include a fenced yard (unless you live in an apartment), no chaining, and a commitment to ongoing vet care, as needed. We do not adopt our tiny dogs, usually Chihuahuas, to families with toddlers.

Come visit our guys. You may not adopt, but you may get the “bug.” If you can offer a foster home, please let us know.

6/20/2010

Coleman 73rd PRCA ProRodeo Results
6/20/2010

For the Full List of Results Click Here

Judge’s Sheet - Parade Results
6/19/2010
Floats -----
Out of Town
1st Place -- #48 Llano Chamber
2nd Place -- #49 Miss Ballinger

Floats -----
In Town 1st Place -- #44 Coleman Jr. Hi
Cheerleaders
2nd Place -- #41 Holiday Hill,
Coleman, Texas

Decorated Vehicles / Antique Vehicles -----
Local 1st Place -- #36 1954 Ford Pickup
Homer Horton,
Coleman, Texas

2nd Place -- #39 Mesquite Bean Quartet
Coleman, Texas

Decorated Vehicles / Antique Vehicles -----
Out of Town
1st Place -- #32 Best Quarter Horse &
Drafts Wagon,
Zephyr, Texas

2nd Place -- #31 Black Plumbing,
Coleman, Texas

Decorated Bicycles / Go Carts /
Etc. 1st Place -- #59 4M Ranch
Coleman, Texas

2nd Place -- #61 Arnold & Lucy Barber
Bangs, Texas

Walkers / Marching Groups /
Clowns / Dancers / Bands

1st Place -- #65 Cowboy Stilts
Daniel Shamburger,
Coleman
2nd Place -- #63 Gypsy Lane Horses
Anson, Texas

Riding Clubs 1st Place –
Coleman County Cowgirls

2nd Place – Lone Star Ladies
Anson, Texas

Individual Riders 1st Place --
#13 Seven 6 Ranch
Longhorns
Carbon, Texas

2nd Place -- Tech Mask Rider
Lubbock, Texas

Golden Kite, Golden Dreams: the SCBWI Awards
Exhibit Opening July 8 Features Art from Favorite Storybooks
6/19/2010
ABILENE, Texas, June 15, 2010 — Cherished memories of reading children’s stories like “Mama, Do You Love Me,” “Cinderella” and “The Napping House” stay with many parents and children always. Beginning with a public preview the evening of July 8 with the formal opening on July 13, people in Texas and Oklahoma will have the opportunity to see original illustrations by Barbara Lavallee, Barbara McClintock and Don Wood from these three well-known stories as well as other magical children’s book illustrations by Tomie dePaola, Robert Sabuda, Richard Jesse Watson and many others.

The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) will open Golden Kite, Golden Dreams: the SCBWI Awards, a retrospective featuring Golden Kite Medal and Honor Winners from 1974 to 2010. This will be the first time a collection of illustrations by Golden Kite Award winners has been exhibited.

Curated by award-winning illustrator David Diaz, this exhibit features 46 artists, many of whom are also Caldecott Award Winners, and more than 75 pieces of artwork in media ranging from ink, pencil and acrylic to gouache, watercolors and paper cutting. It highlights the variety, diversity and high standards the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) sets for Golden Kite Award recognition.

Museum admission is free. Please visit www.nccil.org for a complete list of artists participating in the exhibition and opening event details. After its debut at the NCCIL, this exhibition will be available for ten-week rental periods starting October 2010. For more information on this exhibition or rental, please contact the NCCIL.

About SCBWI
Founded in 1971 by a group of Los Angeles-based children’s writers, the SCBWI is one of the largest organizations for writers and illustrators. Instituted in 1974, SCBWI presents the Golden Kite Award to recognize excellence in children’s literature in four categories: fiction, nonfiction, picture book text, and picture book illustration. Golden Kite Awards are the only children’s literary awards judged by a jury of peers. For more information regarding SCBWI and a complete list of award winners, please visit www.scbwi.org.

About NCCIL
Located in Abilene, Texas, the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature collaborates with award-winning artists to produce high-quality exhibitions of their artwork that are distinctive and appealing to museum visitors of all ages. In addition to this unique artistic partnership, following their debut at the NCCIL gallery each exhibition travels to museums, public libraries, and galleries nationwide. Please visit www.nccil.org for more information.

6/18/2010

Women of Lake Ivie Baptist Association to Participate in “Women’s Storybook Project of Texas”
Submitted by Colette Tabor
6/18/2010
The women of the Lake Ivie Baptist Association of Churches is participating in the “Women’s Storybook Project of Texas”. They are inviting anyone interested to be a part of it, too!

The Women’s Storybook Project of Texas was created as a unique way for women who are serving time in prison to keep the bond between mother and child strong while they are separated. Through this program, women are given the opportunity to browse through a collection of books that have been donated. With the help of volunteers, she then reads the book out loud and it’s recorded onto a cassette tape. The book along with the cassette tape is then mailed directly to their child or children. The child upon receiving the tape and book can then hear their mother’s voice reading the story to them, and they can also follow along in the book.

We have all made mistakes in our lives, and it is not for us to judge these women, but to reach out in Christian love not only to them, but also to the children whose lives are affected. By participation in this program, we are being given the unique opportunity to help make the lives of these children just a little bit easier. Statistics have shown that women who are able to maintain a family connection while incarcerated are 80% less likely to be repeat offenders.

Women’s Storybook Project is seeking donations of the following:
* Padded mailing envelopes (large enough to mail books in)
* Blank cassette tapes for recording (60 minutes in length)
* Children’s books. Greatest need are books for children under 5
years of age, however, all age groups up to 12 years old are greatly appreciated. Please donate only new books. Do to grant requirements, they cannot accept religious books.

Please do not let the fact that religious books cannot be accepted affect your willingness to participate in this program. We have the opportunity to share Christ with these women, not just through material donations, but through our actions of caring and giving. Let the love of Christ shine through you.

Donations for this project began June 13th and will end on August 8th.

If there are questions about the project or you have items to donate, please contact Colette Tabor at Fellowship Baptist Church at 625-5685.

Pastor Rick Brann will be speaking at Central Baptist Church Sunday Night
6/18/2010
Pastor Rick Brann will be speaking at Central Baptist Church, this Sunday Night June 20th at 6:30pm. Our members would like to invite everyone to come out and join us.

County Junior Rodeo Association holding cookout following the Coleman Rodeo Parade on Saturday
6/18/2010
Be sure to hang around after the Rodeo Parade on Saturday morning, as the Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will be holding its annual cookout immediately following the Coleman Rodeo Parade on Saturday, June 19th. The Association will be serving hamburger and hot dog meals on the courthouse lawn immediately following the parade (approximately 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.).

This event will be held in conjunction with the Coleman Businesspeople's "Hot, Hot, Hot......." Hot Sauce Contest. Live music will be provided by Denny Fulbright, accompanied by Last Call, with Spencer Gilbreath playing bass. Denny has a great local following, and had the opportunity to tour last year with Aaron Watson. Each meal will include your choice of a hamburger or two hot dogs, chips, and a drink for six dollars.

All proceeds with benefit the Coleman County Junior Rodeo Scholarship Fund. Any questions may be directed to the Chamber of Commerce at (325) 625-2163 or to Shana Everett at (254) 631-7147.

APPLICATIONS FOR 4B EDC BOARD AVAILABLE AT CITY HALL
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/18/2010
At its regular meeting Thursday afternoon, the Coleman City Council approved an application that will be used to give citizens interested in serving on the newly enacted Type B economic development corporation board an opportunity to express that interest.

City Manager Larry Weise said that applications will be taken for the next 4 to 6 weeks and Council should be in a position to make the appointments to the 7-member board at its first meeting in August.

The applications are available at City Hall.

Council also heard from Mitzi Mays, a citizen who is pushing for a regional planning commission between the city and the county pursuant to Chapter 391 of the state’s Local Government Code.

According to language in the referenced chapter, such a commission may plan for the development of a region and make recommendations concerning, among other things, land use within its jurisdiction.

Mays’ position is that with such a commission in place the various governmental agencies that plan to take land by eminent domain for a specific use, such as transmission lines, would have to coordinate their efforts with the regional planning commission to ensure that local planning and private property rights are taken into consideration.

The number of members on a commission and the qualifications of the members would be determined by the participating governmental units. At least two-thirds of the governing body are required to be elected officials of the participating governmental units.

Mays made a similar presentation to the Commissioners Court earlier in the week.

Council expressed its appreciation for Mays’ presentation, and Councilman Paul Kugle moved that the matter be tabled to give Council time to study what would be involved in such a coordination effort. The motion to table was approved.

In concluding comments, the City Manager said that future agendas will begin to address budget matters for the upcoming fiscal year that begins October 1.

Councilman Kugle commented that he had received complaints about the action taken at the last Council meeting that gives city employees a 50% discount when they rent the recently renovated event facility at City Park. Some of the input had come from city employees themselves “who are taking some flack,” Kugle said, about what is perceived as favoritism for city employees over other citizens. He asked what can be done to rethink a motion that has passed, but that may need to be rescinded. No discussion on the matter ensued, and the meeting adjourned.

Coleman Rodeo Champions Take Home Unique Trophy
6/18/2010
Think of the cowboy and you picture a man wearing a hat and boots, and on those boots, a set of spurs.

Spurs are a distinctive piece of equipment for the cowboy, so when the Coleman Rodeo Association began giving handmade spurs to its event champions a few years ago, word immediately began to spread.

Handcrafted by Chad Mock, the spurs have the PRCA logo, year won, name of the event, and Coleman on them.

While the money won by PRCA cowboys pays the bills and keeps them going down the road, the spurs they win for being an event champion in Coleman is something they can carry with them a lot longer than the money.

One of the first cowboys to win a set of Coleman PRCA Rodeo spurs was All-Around World Champion Trevor Brazile.

AND THE WINNERS ARE...
6/18/2010
Holiday Hill held a contest in conjunction with National Nurses Aide Week. The contest, sponsored by the Activity Department, was a poem writing contest on what it means to be a nurse aide. First place was Marie Jackson. Second place was Teresa Kloss and third place was Cyndi Traylor. First place award was $50.00 cash.

6/17/2010

One of a Kind Boots Display Photograph Up for Auction
6/17/2010
A Colorful display of the boots worn by the 2010 Coleman County Cowgirls up for auction this Saturday…NOT THE BOOTS, but…a framed picture of the boots worn by our beautiful 2010 Coleman County Cowgirls. This one of a kind 10 x 20 framed picture has been autographed by each of the fifteen Cowgirls and it can be yours! Auction will be held on the Courthouse lawn this Saturday, June 19th at the conclusion of the rodeo parade (approximately 11:00am) and just prior to the hot sauce judging contest. Stop by and take a look…Picture will be on display Thursday and Friday night in the hospitality room at the Coleman County Rodeo. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Excellence in Education Scholarships. Awarded annually by the Circle C Cattlewomen.

Summer Stampede 5k Launches This Saturday
6/17/2010
The Circle C Cattlewomen Summer Stampede 5k (3.1 miles) Run/Walk is this Saturday, June 19. The race begins at 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Participants may pre-register tonight and Friday night at the rodeo. Last minute registration will take place Saturday at 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. at the Courthouse prior to the race.

Registration is $20 and all participating will receive a t-shirt commemorating the event. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Excellence in Education Scholarship awarded annual by the Circle C Cattlewomen.

COLEMAN RODEO PRESIDENT AND RODEO QUEEN VISIT KIWANIS
6/17/2010
Coleman Kiwanis International received a visit from the 2010 Coleman Rodeo Association Queen and Rodeo Association President on Tuesday the 15th. Casey Swening, 2010 Rodeo Queen and Heath Hemphill, Rodeo Association President visited with Kiwanis members to promote the 73rd Annual Coleman Rodeo.

Heath, also the District Attorney for Coleman discussed many aspects of the rodeo this year, including the team roping event which is believed to up over 250% from last year. The bull riding event is also up so much they will be held twice a night. The rodeo kicked off this year with the annual breakfast on the court house lawn and was a great success.

Mr. Hemphill mentioned that there were 10 to 15 of the top calf ropers in the world headed to Coleman this year. Many of these cowboys will make it Reno for the nationals. The 'Tough Enough to Wear Pink' night was to be held again this year on Thursday. The Association will donate $1 for every ticked person wearing pink to the Susan G. Komen foundation this year. He also mentioned that once again the Dance had some top headliner talent in Josh Abbott. Mr. Abbott currently has a number one hit in "She's Like Texas". Also performing is Kyle Park and Sonny Burgess.

Ms. Swening spoke about the Exceptional Kids' Rodeo and all the fun and excitement surrounding this event. They should have 40 to 50 kids participating in the event which include steer roping, hand rocked bull riding and barrel racing. Ms. Swening is a 2010 Coleman graduate, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.

The rodeo is a sanctioned Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event with 384 entries this year.

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY TO ENTER THE HOT SAUCE CONTEST
6/17/2010
The deadline to enter the Coleman Business People’s “Hot, Hot, Hot........” Hot Salsa Contest has been extended until 6:00 p.m. Thursday.

The contest will take place on the Coleman County Court-house lawn immediately following the Coleman Rodeo Parade this Saturday. The parade begins at 10:00 a.m.

In order to enter, you will need to pick up your official entry form and packet at Wise X-Press, 108 E. Liveoak.

The entry fee is $15.00 and is non-refundable. We will have a panel of three judges and the top two winners will split 90% of the jackpot. This will be a 60/40 split. We will also have a People's Choice category and the winner will receive a trophy.

Be sure to enter by 6 o’clock Thursday!

Exceptional Kids Rodeo This Saturday
6/17/2010
The Coleman Rodeo Association, along with the Coleman County Cowgirls, is excited to sponsor the 2nd Annual Exceptional Kids Rodeo. It starts at 3:00pm on Saturday, June 19, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

Approximately 45 special children from this area will star in their very own performance of specially designed events including the stick horse barrel race, steer roping, calf roping, eight second rides on hand-rocked bulls and bareback horses, flag race on horseback, and more.

Each child who participates takes home a cowboy hat, bandana and plenty of fond memories of fun, smiles, hugs and applause.

At the conclusion, each child will receive individual recognition, a trophy and autographed picture of him or herself with their rodeo partner.

The smiles will touch your heart.

Local Man Wins Circle C Cattlewomen's "Beef for Father's Day" gift basket
6/17/2010
The lucky winner of the Circle C Cattlewomen's "Beef for Father's Day" gift basket is Tyler Chamberlin of Coleman. Tyler received a rolling cooler full of goodies, including rodeo tickets, dance rickets to Sonny Burgess, a gift certificate to Shoppin Basket, a rodeo t-shirt and apron, and various beef promotional items. Beef.....it's what's for dinner!

Coleman County 4-H News
6/17/2010
4-H RECORD BOOKS DUE IN JULY
County 4-H Record Books will be due in the County Extension Office on Tuesday, July 6, 2010. If you need assistance with your record book, or you are just getting started and would like to know more about this, please call the County Extension Office at 625-4519.

DISTRICT RECORD BOOK JUDGING
This year*s District Record Book judging will be on July 15, 2010. We have to submit to the District the categories by July 9th.

WILDLIFE CAMP
Wildlife camp dates are July 29 - 30, 2010. Details will be coming soon. Call the Extension Office at 625-4519 and sign up.

County-wide 4-H / FFA STEER VALIDATION
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The 2010-2011 Steer Validation for 4-H and FFA exhibitors will take place on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Coleman Vet Clinic. Cost for state tags is $7.00 each. If you have any questions, contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag at 325-625-4519 or your Ag Science Teacher.

DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
For those of you who participated in the Junior / Intermediate 2010 District Photography Contest, your photos are here at the County Extension Office. Please come by and pick up your photos and placing ribbons. Congratulations to all of you for your ccomplishments.

If you have any questions about any of the above 4-H events, please contact the Coleman County Extension Office at 325-625-4519.

Texas Tech University at Abilene and TSTC West Texas Announce Rocket Fest 2010 Summer Camp
6/17/2010
Texas Tech University at Abilene and TSTC West Texas announce Rocket Fest summer camp for high school youth at least 14 years or older the week of June 28, 2010. Rocket Fest will be a free, fun-filled five day summer experience exploring rockets and what makes them fly. The camp is limited to the first 50 eligible applicants. Contact Tom Dolan, 325-660-9169 or Tom.Dolan@ttu.edu to obtain Rocket Fest application.

Rocket Fest is sponsored by Texas Tech University at Abilene and hosted by Texas State Technical College West Texas, 650 E. Hwy 80, Abilene, Texas. The camp will be 8am through 5pm Monday, June 28 through Friday July 2. Lunch is included. Students will build rockets in the morning and launch rockets each afternoon.

Rocket Fest will be taught by Texas Tech University T-STEM Center faculty based in the TTU Whitacre College of Engineering in partnership with TTU University College; Building future science and math workforce in Texas through Technology, Science, Engineering and Math.

Rocket Fest will culminate in a Friday afternoon public rocket launch event where students will launch and recover payload rockets. Parents, families and friends are highly encouraged to attend Friday, July 2 afternoon Rocket Fest Rocket Launch.

This program is made possible by a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, through the Texas Youth in Technology Program. The Texas Youth in Technology initiative and resulting projects establish programs to increase post-secondary enrollments, retention and graduates in engineering and computer science. Working with the Texas Engineering and Technical Consortium (TETC), the grant program also increases collaboration between Texas employers, institutions of higher education, and engineering and science departments. TYT is a non-discrimination, equal opportunity program.

CONTACT: Tom Dolan, associate director of Texas Tech University at Abilene, (325) 660-9169, or tom.dolan@ttu.edu.

Commissioner Staples Releases Statewide Map To Identify Broadband Needs Across Texas
6/17/2010
AUSTIN - More than 96 percent of Texas households have access to home broadband service; however, a quarter of a million households in the Lone Star State - more than all of the households in Vermont - lack access to this critical service. In an effort to close the digital divide, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples today announced the launch of the Texas broadband map, which illustrates the state's broadband landscape; pinpoints unserved areas; identifies types of service; and allows broadband service providers to target future investment.

"High-speed Internet is directly related to business development and is a critical lifeline to vital services like telemedicine and education," Commissioner Staples said. "Every Texan should have the opportunity to drive in the fast lane on the information superhighway; however, some Texans are stuck on a dirt road. This new statewide broadband map will help us bridge the digital divide for rural communities and households that remain unserved by broadband service."

The state was mapped by Connected Texas, a non-profit organization designated by the Texas Department of Agriculture to measure and map the availability and use of broadband in Texas.

The map includes data from 123 state providers and indicates 3.5 percent of Texas households, or approximately 257,000 residences, do not have access to home broadband service. Most of the unserved areas are in rural regions of the state, and a lack of broadband access is hindering their opportunities for business development and access to telemedicine, higher education and e-government.

"The complete picture of the state's broadband coverage will help us focus our efforts on those libraries where better connectivity is needed," said Director Peggy Rudd of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. "Public libraries often face the challenge of not knowing what broadband options are available in their areas, and the new map will become a valuable informational tool for them as well."

"This map will be a valuable tool to help Texans identify providers offering high-speed Internet access to homes and businesses throughout the state," said Commissioner Donna L. Nelson of the Public Utility Commission (PUC).

The map is a tool for strategically targeting broadband infrastructure build-out and subscribership. The public is encouraged to review the map at http://www.connectedtx.org/ and provide input to help validate the data. The broadband inventory map will be updated again in the fall after consumer and provider data are collected.

The Texas broadband map includes BroadbandStat Technology, which allows a street-level view of current high-speed Internet availability. The map, which will be continually enhanced and upgraded, is searchable by address, allowing users to see the type of technology used to provide service in their areas, as well as the providers servicing their areas. The public can also use the map to compare prices through direct links to service providers.

Gov. Rick Perry designated TDA, in consultation with the PUC and the Texas Public Safety Commission, to lead the state's broadband service expansion initiatives and represent the interests of Texas to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

6/16/2010

Bulls, Bulls and More Bulls
6/16/2010
The Coleman PRCA Rodeo has attracted almost 60 bull riders this year. For that reason, bull riding will be the first event and the last event each night.

Not only are many National Finals Rodeo riders entered, but they’ll compete against several bulls which bucked in Las Vegas last December. Among the bovine are Black Mamba, Silent Assassin, Cut Across Shorty and Texas Charm.

Cowboys who have been featured at the Wrangler National Finals, or on national television, include Cooper Kanngiesseer and Logan Knibbe on Thursday night. On Friday night, Justin Koon.

On Saturday night, Coleman’s Cory McFadden has drawn the National Finals bull Silent Assassin. Cody Hancock has drawn the bull named Party Train. Corey Navarre, Stormy Wing, Souli Shanklin, Kanin Asay, Chance Smart and World Champion J.W. Harris are scheduled to ride.

Perfect Day for Roping and Slack
6/16/2010
With 384 entries in the Coleman PRCA Rodeo this year, it would be impossible to allow all of them to compete in a normal two hour nightly performance.

That’s where slack comes in. It allows cowboys and cowgirls to enter several different rodeos in a region. This week, PRCA rodeos are being held in Coleman, Cleburne, Weatherford, Mesquite and Big Spring, all just a few hours apart.

In some towns, cowboys and cowgirls will compete in a regular nightly performance, in other towns they will compete during the slack.

Slack counts in the standings, and it’s possible a contestant can win a Coleman Rodeo championship during the slack.

Timed events, such as tie-down roping and ladies barrel racing, will be held starting at 6:00pm Wednesday, June 16, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. There is no admission charge and it usually takes several hours to complete the slack.

Statement by US secretary of labor on US farmworkers and their families
6/16/2010
WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement in response to the report “Weeding out Abuses: Recommendations for a Law-abiding Farm Labor System” co-authored by Farmworker Justice and Oxfam America:

“This report makes clear that farmworkers face a number of challenges and that for too long the federal government has not taken the steps necessary to empower and protect these workers. When I came into office, I immediately began to change the way the Department of Labor approaches farmworker issues.

“As secretary of labor, I have made a priority of ensuring farmworkers are paid a fair wage, provided safe and healthy working conditions and given the opportunity to update their job skills. We’ve changed regulations, put more investigators in the field, made clear we won’t stand for the exploitation of children in the fields and refocused our efforts on behalf of this important community.

“While I’m very proud of what the Obama administration has accomplished on behalf of farmworkers in the last year, I look forward to continuing to work with the farmworker community on ways to protect the wages, safety and health of this important part of America’s labor force.”

Editor’s Note: A list of action steps taken by the U.S. Department of Labor to improve working conditions for farm labor follows this statement.

Santa Anna Library invites the children to Reading Express
6/16/2010
Santa Anna Library would like to invite the children from Pre-K to 6th grade to come riding our Reading Express. Will take many adventures to the world of trains. During our adventure will read stories, do crafts, take field trips to interesting site around Santa Anna, and have snacks. We will leave the Santa Anna Library Station on June 17th, June 24th, July 1st, and July 8th from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pack your bags and come go with us to learn about trains. ALL ABROAD FOR A GREAT ADVENTURE!

Introducing Coleman County's Rodeo Royalty!
6/16/2010
The rodeo queen for the 73rd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo is Casie Swening, 17 year-old daughter of Dr. Mark and Tammy Swening of Coleman.

Casie recently graduated as the valedictorian of the Coleman High School Class of 2010.

She will attend Texas A & M University in the fall, majoring in Animal Science. She then hopes to enter medical school at A & M with a discipline in pediatrics.

Casie has been a member of the Coleman County Cowgirls precision riding drill team for the last eight years. Not only will you see her in the role as queen, but also as a member of the drill team which performs nightly at the rodeo.

Casie has also made appearances on Abilene television stations in recent days to promote the rodeo and will a help with the mutton bustin’ at 7:15 each night before the rodeo and at the Exceptional Kids Rodeo Saturday.

Look for Casie leading the rodeo parade at 10:00am this Saturday in downtown Coleman.

Hailea Smith, 16 year-old daughter of Mark and Teresa Smith of Valera, is the 2010 Coleman County Jr. Rodeo Queen. The junior rodeo is coming up July 2nd and 3rd at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

Hailea will be a junior at Panther Creek High School. She plays on the varsity basketball team and is active in FFA. She is currently “Pounce the Panther”, the Panther Creek School Mascot. She attends Leaday Baptist Church and is active in the Panther Creek Youth Group.

She is the sister of Trent and Trevor Smith and granddaughter of Ken and Helen Smith of Valera and Joe and Geneva Harris of Coleman.

Are YOU Tough Enough to Wear Pink to the Rodeo?
6/16/2010
Thursday night is a great night to attend the Coleman PRCA Rodeo because your attendance helps fight breast cancer, simply by wearing something pink.

For each ticketed person wearing pink, the Coleman Rodeo Association will donate
$1 to Susan G. Komen For the Cure.

Encourage your friends to wear pink and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Be there as the first chute gate opens to three incredible nights of PRCA Rodeo.

Better yet, get there early and watch the kids compete in mutton bustin’ at 7:15pm, followed by the rodeo at 8:00pm.

Join in the western tradition that generations have enjoyed, the 73rd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo, one of the Top 20 rodeos in Texas.

Farm Service Agency News:
6/16/2010
2010 CROP ACREAGE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
The final date to report spring seeded crops such as cotton, grain sorghum, CRP, sudan, and grass acreage planted on cropland is July 15, 2010. The exception to this is for producers who purchased NAP coverage on their 2010 crops. These producers must file an acreage report by the earlier of the normal final crop reporting dates listed above or 15 days prior to grazing or harvest. If a FSA-578 is not on file for ALL crops and land uses, you may not qualify for available program benefits. Participants in CRP must report CRP acreage. Producers who plan to request wool & mohair loans or LDP’s, must assure all cropland is reported on all farms in which they have any interest in.

Failed Acreage Reports must be filed on any crops which will not be harvested for the purpose it was originally intended due to disaster conditions. These reports should be filed prior to the acreage being destroyed or put to another use. We will need to know the type and amount of seed planted as well as the type and amount of fertilizer applied.

Producers that intend to plant a crop but are prevented due to weather related conditions are required to file a form FSA-576 report of prevented planting acreage. This form must be completed within 15 days of the final planting date for the crop to be considered timely filed.

Final Planting Dates for crops in Coleman County are:
Cotton – June 20th
Grain Sorghum – June 20th
Sorghum forage for grazing – June 20th
Sorghum forages for hay – July 5th
Contact our office for final planting dates of other crops you intend to plant.

2010 LDP & LOANS
Form CCC-633EZ will allow producers to request a LDP on all crops in all counties for the crop year. Form CCC-633EZ will cover grain crops, cotton, wool, and mohair. The form will insure LDP eligibility on all eligible crops, when page 1 of the form is completed before loss of beneficial interest in the commodities and before the final loan availability date. Producers will receive LDP benefits calculated using the earlier of: (1) the date that Beneficial Interest is lost in the eligible commodity based on acceptable production evidence or (2) the date of a request to lock in a payment rate is filed by the producer. Producers must submit a completed CCC-633EZ page 2-5 and related production information on or before the final loan availability date for the respective commodities.

Know Your Rodeo Lingo
Courtesy of the Coleman Rodeo Association
6/16/2010
Before you hop on your horse and trot out to the Coleman PRCA Rodeo this week, we thought it might come in handy to go over some terminology used at the rodeo. This may be old hat for veteran rodeo fans, but for those new to rodeo, you’ll be in the know when you go to the show.

Barrelman: an entertainer who uses a barrel to distract a bull after a ride, and sometimes to protect the cowboy. Coleman’s barrelman this year is Robbie Hodges.

Timed Events: steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping and steer roping – events in which the contestant who makes the fastest qualified run wins.

Box: in a timed event, the area a horse and rider back into before they make a roping run.

Breaking the barrier: in the timed events, if the rider leaves the box too soon – failing to give the animal enough of a head start – he is assessed a 10-second penalty.

Bulldogger – a steer wrestler.

Bullfighter: two athletes who protect the bull rider after he dismounts by distracting the bull and directing its attention to the exit gate, sometimes stepping between the bull and the rider. Coleman’s bullfighters this year are Clay Collins and Casey Wells.

Calf Roper: a tie-down roper

Flank Strap: a soft sheepskin lined strap placed in the area where a human’s belt would go. It encourages the animal to kick out behind itself, rather than rear up, which provides a safer, showier ride.

Hazer: in steer wrestling, the cowboy who rides on the other side of the steer from the contestant to make sure the steer runs straight.

Header/heeler: the two partners in team roping – the header throws the first rope, over the animal’s head or horns, and the heeler throws the second rope to catch the steer’s hind legs.

Hooey: the knot that a cowboy uses to finish tying the calf’s legs together in the tie-down roping.

Left (or right) delivery: many bucking animals prefer to stand in the chute facing a particular direction, so they can leave the chute in the direction they prefer.

Mark Out Rule: in the bareback and saddle bronc riding, a cowboy’s feet must be above the point of the horse’s shoulders when the horse makes its first move out of the chute – if so, he “marked the horse out,” but if not, he “missed him out” and the ride is disqualified.

Penalty: in timed events, common penalties include 10 seconds for breaking the barrier and, in team roping, five seconds for a one-leg catch. In barrel racing, a five second penalty for each barrel knocked over.

Pickup Men: two mounted cowboys who help riders dismount, release the bucking horse’s soft flank strap, and escort bucking horses and bulls to the exit gate after a ride. Coleman’s pickup men are Jason Bottoms and Dan Etbauer. As a contestant, Etbauer qualified for the National Finals Rodeo 10 times in the saddle bronc riding.

Piggin’ String: in tie-down roping, the small rope used to tie a calf’s legs together. The cowboy carries the piggin’ string in his mouth.

Rank: an adjective of praise and respect used to describe especially challenging roughstock.

Roughstock: the bucking horses and bulls used in bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding, usually bred and raised for the job. Roughstock in Coleman are provided by Stace Smith Pro Rodeos.

Reride: if a horse or bull doesn’t buck to performance specifications, the judges may offer the cowboy a clean-slate chance on a different horse or bull.

Standings: a professional cowboy’s success is measured in money earned. Cowboys may keep track of where they rank in yearly earnings in several sets of standings.

Try: used for both cowboys and livestock, denoting grit, determination, fitness, stamina and resilience. “Give that cowboy a hand – he had a lot of try.”

You’ll hear these terms, and many others, which rodeo announcer Chad Nicholson will help you understand. Thanks for sharing in 73 years of tradition at the Coleman PRCA Rodeo.

6/15/2010

FARM SERVICE AGENCY: COUNTY COMMITTEE ELECTIONS
6/15/2010
The election of agricultural producers to Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Committee is important to ALL farmers and ranchers with large or small operations. It is crucial that every eligible producer participate in these elections because FSA County Committees are a direct link between the agricultural community and the US Department of Agriculture. Committee members are a critical component of FSA’s operation. They help deliver FSA farm programs at the local level. Farmers who serve on committees help with the decisions necessary to administer the programs their Counties offer. They work to make FSA agricultural programs serve the needs of local producers. Committees provide local input on:
• Commodity price support loans and payments
• Establishment of allotments and yields
• Conservation programs
• Incentive, indemnity and disaster payments for some commodities
• Other farm disaster assistance

The 2010 Coleman County Committee Election will be held for Local Administrative Area (LAA) 2. LAA 2 includes all the land south of FM 568 and east of FM 2131 to the county line. A public meeting will be held at the Coleman County FSA office on July 14, 2010 beginning at 11:00 am for individuals who have questions about the election process.
ELIGIBILTY TO HOLD OFFICE - To hold office as a county committee member, a person must meet the basic eligibility requirements described below:
• Participate or cooperate in a program administered by FSA
• Be eligible to vote in a county committee election
• Reside in the LAA in which the person is a candidate
• Not have been removed or disqualified from the office as a County Committee member, alternate, or employee; removed for cause from any public office or have been convicted of fraud, larceny, embezzlement or any other felony; Dishonorably discharged from any branch of the armed services

WHO CAN VOTE - Agricultural producers of legal voting age are eligible to vote if they participate or cooperate in any FSA program. A person who is not of legal voting age, but supervises and conducts the farming operations on an entire farm can vote. A person who meets the requirements in number 1 or 2 below, plus number 3 is eligible to vote.
1. Be of legal voting age and have an interest in a farm or ranch as either of the following:
• An individual
• The authorized representative of an entity
2. Not of legal voting age, but supervises and conducts the farming operations on an entire farm
3. Participate or cooperate in any FSA program that is provided for by law.
NOMINATIONS - The nomination period has begun and ends August 2, 2010. A nomination form signed by the nominee is required to nominate an individual. The form includes a statement that the nominee agrees to serve if elected. Individuals may nominate themselves or others as a candidate. For more information about FSA County Committees, including the nomination forms, visit the following website or contact your local USDA Service Center: http://www.fsa.usda.gov/pas/publicatins/elections/Default.asp

Santa Anna First Baptist Church invites children to "Hit the trail at VBS"
6/15/2010
Santa Anna First Baptist Church invites children age 4 to completion of 6th grade to "Hit the trail at VBS" Monday June 21 through Friday June 25. Activities begin each night at 6:00 PM. as we visit Saddle Ridge Ranch to Round Up questions and Drive Home answers studying God's word.

Children will enjoy worship rally, crafts and snacks. Parents are invited to attend the closing ceremonies on Friday June 25 at 7:00 PM. Van service will be provided beginning Tuesday night. For information contact Santa Anna First Baptist Church at 325-348-3725.

COLEMAN COUNTY COWGIRLS HOST CHUCKWAGON BREAKFAST
6/15/2010
The Coleman County Cowgirls hosted a chuckwagon style breakfast this morning at the Coleman County Courthouse. The breakfast began at 7:00 a.m. and guests enjoyed more than just the cool weather. The Cowgirls served homemade biscuits and gravy, sausage, eggs, and cowboy coffee. Gentlemen from the Coleman Rodeo Association cooked the traditional spread, while the Cowgirls served those attending. The Cowgirls offer the breakfast free to the public, but gladly accept any donations made. The Coleman County Cowgirls help promote the Coleman Rodeo and also introduced the first annual Exceptional Kids Rodeo last year and will host it again at 3:00pm Saturday, June 19, at the Rodeo Grounds. You’ll also see the Cowgirls leading the Coleman Rodeo Parade at 10:00am Saturday, June 19.

Members of the 2010 Cowgirls are Alice McKinney, Paige Barnett, Casie Swening, Teresa Triplett, Danielle Denbow, Jackie Birdwell, Danyelle Hemphill, Morgan Schumann, Sally Arnold, Cindy Dockter, Dana King, Danette Denbow, Bobbie Birdwell, Tricia Kimmel and Pam Eddleman.

See the Faces in the Crowd Page sponsored by First Coleman National Bank for more pictures of today's event!

It’s Rodeo Time in Coleman
73 Years of Tradition Continues Thursday through Saturday
6/15/2010
The annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo will be held at 8:00pm nightly Thursday, June 17 through Saturday, June 19.

The Coleman PRCA Rodeo has consistently grown in recent years to become one of the Top 20 professional rodeos in Texas. Current and former world champions are among the 384 total entries this year. Contestants will come from all over the United States, Canada and Australia.

The Coleman Rodeo is strictly professional and always has been. This means that it is approved by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association.

Rodeo Tickets

Advance tickets will be available through 5:00pm Wednesday, June 16.

Advance tickets are $8 for adults (13 years and older), $4 for youth (6-12 years-old).
Children under 6 admitted free.

Advance tickets are available at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, First Coleman National Bank, Coleman County State Bank, Cavenders Western Store in Abilene, KEAN Radio in Abilene, Stanley Dodge in Brownwood, KOXE Radio in Brownwood and Blairs Western Wear in San Angelo.

Tickets at the gate Thursday through Saturday are $10 for adults (13 years and over) and $5 for youth 6-12 years.

Tickets can also be purchased online at www.colemanrodeo.com.

For questions about tickets, contact the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce
at 325-625-2163.

Rodeo Producer – Stace Smith Pro Rodeos

Stock for the Coleman Rodeo is being provided by Stace Smith of Athens, Texas. Smith has been the PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year for the past six years.

Rodeo Royalty

The 2010 Coleman PRCA Rodeo Queen is Casie Swening, 17 year-old daughter of Dr. Mark and Tammy Swening of Coleman. Casie recently graduated as valedictorian of Coleman High School and plans to attend Texas A & M in the fall, majoring in Animal Science.

The 2010 Coleman Junior Rodeo Queen is Hailea Smith, 16 year-old daughter of Mark and Teresa Smith of Valera. She will be a junior at Panther Creek High School where she is active in basketball and FFA.

Rodeo Announcer

Chad Nicholson of Exeter, California is one of the most recognized voices in rodeo. Originally from Stephenville, Chad is a graduate of Tarleton State University and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He has been announcing professional rodeos since 1993. He also owns a voice-production company and is a rodeo announcer school instructor.

Rodeo Bullfighters and Clown

Bullfighters this year are Clay Collins of Garland, Texas and Casey Wells of Glendale, Arizona. Rodeo clown and specialty acts provided by Robbie Hodges of Cave Spring, Georgia.

Rodeo Parade

The annual rodeo parade will be held at 10:00am Saturday, June 19 and will travel along the length of Commercial Avenue from the south, to downtown at the courthouse, back to the starting line. The parade will feature lots of horses, riding clubs, floats and special guests. The deadline to enter the parade is 12 noon on Friday, June 18, at the Chamber of Commerce, downtown Coleman. Call 325-625-2163.

Rodeo Events

You will see Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Team Roping, Women’s Barrel Racing, Women’s Breakaway Roping, and Bull Riding.
Steer Roping will be held at 9:00am on Wednesday morning.

Rodeo Concerts and Dances

The Josh Abbott Band is the headliner for the Friday, June 18th concert and dance, starting at 10:00pm at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. Kyle Park will also perform.

Tickets for the two Friday night shows are $20 per person. There is also a $20 bring your own cooler charge.

Sonny Burgess will perform Saturday, June 19th, starting at 10:00pm. Tickets are $10 per person. There is a $10 bring your own cooler charge.

Tickets for the concerts are available at all ticket outlets and at the gate.

Thursday is Tough Enough to Wear Pink

Be sure to join our cowboys and cowgirls in wearing pink to the Thursday night rodeo. For each ticketed person wearing pink, the Coleman PRCA Rodeo will donate $1.00 to the Susan G. Komen For the Cure, to help find a cure for breast cancer.

Exceptional Kids Rodeo

The 2nd Annual Exceptional Kids Rodeo will be held at 3:00pm Saturday, June 19, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. It consists of specially designed rodeo events. There will be a stick horse grand entry, steer roping, 8-second rides on hand-rocked bulls and bareback horses, stick horse barrel race, flag race and much more.

CITY COUNCIL TO BEGIN 4B ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS PROCESS
6/15/2010
AGENDA
CITY OF COLEMAN
CITY COUNCIL
THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 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 regular meeting held on
June 3, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

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

NEW BUSINESS:

1. Council will receive a presentation from a local citizen related to the formation of a
City/County cooperation for the purpose of protecting private property. Council
may take any action deemed necessary.

2. Council will consider authorizing the City Manager to move forward with establishing an application process for the appointment of a board of directors for the new 4B Economic Development Corporation. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

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

US Department of Labor annoucnes veterans ‘green’ jobs training grants via teleconference Tuesday, June 15
6/15/2010
WASHINGTON – Raymond Jefferson, assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service, will announce the release of more than $9 million in “green” jobs training grants funded by the department’s Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program. Under these grants, veterans will receive skills assessments, individual job counseling, labor market information, classroom or on-the-job training in green jobs, skills upgrading and retraining, placement assistance and crucial follow-up services.

These grants will allow state and local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and nonprofit organizations, including faith-based and community organizations, to serve veterans – particularly those who are homeless, disabled or economically disadvantaged – and train them for employment in emerging green industries.

WHO: Raymond Jefferson, U.S. assistant secretary of labor for Veterans’ Employment and Training Service

WHAT: Press teleconference to announce “green” jobs training grants through the Veterans’ Workforce Investment Program

Remarks to be followed by question-and-answer session

HOW: Call-in number: 888-829-8671
Pass code: 8459784

WHEN: Tuesday, June 15
11 to 11:30 a.m. EDT

Texas Gas Prices Continue To Decline
6/15/2010
Texas, TX, June 14- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have fallen 2.0 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.54/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 1.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.70/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 3.8 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 21.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 18.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 5.9 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.

6/14/2010

CIRCLE C CATTLEWOMEN HOSTING 1ST ANNUAL 5K RUN/WALK!
6/14/2010
The Circle C Cattlewomen are sponsoring their 1st Annual Summer Stampede! The Summer Stampede is a 5k Run/Walk hosted right here in Coleman, Texas. Contestants may sign up at the rodeo on both June 17 (Thursday) and June 18 (Friday) or Saturday June 19 starting at 7 a.m. The race begins 8:00 a.m. at the Coleman County Courthouse in downtown Coleman. Proceeds benefit the Circle C Cattlewomen's Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship fund.

LIBRARY READING PROGRAM RECEIVES LARGE TURNOUT
6/14/2010
The library had a great turnout yesterday for the Summer Reading Program registration. Over 154 children and teenagers signed up for the program. At the conclusion of the program a Pizza Party will be held for those who finish the required reading requirements. Those who finish will recieve their reading certificates and coupons donated by local sponsors. Grand prizes will also be awarded. All attending enjoyed refreshments provided by the Friends of Coleman Public Library. A old antique train is on display curtsey of Commercial Ave. Antiques Mall. A special art viewing of the Old Coleman depot “Sundown in Coleman County, 1915”, painted by Stephanie Furst. Stephanie won Honorable mention in the 2009 Fiesta Juried Art Show. The painting was donated to the library by Bob Tyson in honor of Jim Stokes.

Sarah Beal, Program chairman for the teens will have author Evelyn Hilton, give a review of her book “Kidnapped” for the program on June 15th. The teen program will continue each Tuesday during the month of June starting at 1:00 - .

Morning sessions will start at 9:00 am – 10:00 am for the Toddler-Kindergarten age and 10:00 – 11:00 am for the 1st & 2nd grade. Toddlers – Kindergarten age will explore and learn about “Trains” and the 1st & 2nd grades will learn about the “Dining Car”. Program chairman’s for this age group are Sandra Rose and LeMoine Knox. Mona Wilson is chairman of the 3rd thru 5th grade level, who will be studying about King Tut and mummies. Also a craft will be included in the program. They will be meeting from 2:00 to 3:00 each Wednesday during the Summer Reading Program.

The 2nd Annual Stick Horse Rodeo will take place on June 17th at 1:00. Age group for this event will be Toddlers – 2nd grade.

Registration for the reading program will continue until June 16th for Toddler – 5th grade and June 15th for the teen age.

For more information about the program call the circulation desk at 325-625-3043 during regular library hours.

CITIZEN ASKS COMMISSIONERS COURT FOR COORDINATION EFFORT AT LOCAL LEVEL
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/14/2010
At its regular Monday morning meeting Commissioners Court heard from Mitzi Mays, a citizen who is concerned about the incursion of government into the private property rights of landowners. According to Mays, local government entities can control what happens in a county by a process called coordination. Mays is particularly disturbed about the ability of utility companies to lay power lines through counties using the powers of eminent domain without regard to individual property owners’ rights and wishes.

Mays presented the Court with information on how this process of coordination has been used in Mason County and has also, according to the handouts, effectively brought the Trans-Texas Corridor project to its knees. She asked that the County investigate what can be done in Coleman County to establish the coordination among government entities that is permitted by Texas Local Government Code, Section 391, as a means of controlling what the State and utility companies, in particular, can and cannot do with eminent domain powers without the approval of a Regional Planning Commission. Mays will be making a similar presentation to the City.

The Court appreciated Mays’ input and promised to follow up on the issue, with Judge Hobbs commenting that the Court had heard from other landowners about how power companies are planning lines through Coleman County without regard to landowner concerns.

In other matters the Court approved Sheriff Wade Turner’s request to advertise for bids for an electronic security system for the Courthouse and for the jail. Turner said the time had come for the County to have more than what amounts to a monitor system that only shows what is happening at the moment. Turner will be asking for a loop system that will video activities at the jail for replay as needed.

The closing of the bridge at Mud Creek on CR 108 is still in process. Commissioner Billy Don McCrary is waiting for input from the State on what they will accept in the way of repair of the bridge. McCrary wants to use a tinhorn culvert for an estimated cost of $3,000 instead of providing 10% matching funds from the County for the State’s proposed new bridge at a total cost of $222,000.

McCrary asked that the agenda item asking for a leave of absence for Roger Guerrero, Jr., be canceled since Guerrero has resigned. McCrary will hire David Peeples part-time to assess performance before moving him to a full-time position.

County Clerk Stacey Mendoza asked for and received approval to sell the remaining used election equipment to Concho County for a total price of $10,900. Mendoza also received approval to use Doris Williams on a part-time basis as needed to cover the County Clerk’s business while other personnel are on medical leave.

Pathwayz, a telephone network company, gave a presentation on how a unified telephone system covering all county offices would work. The Court will consider the benefits of such a system during the upcoming budget cycle.

 Author to Speak June 22nd for Coleman Public Library’s Teen Reading Program
Submitted by Evelyn Hilton
6/14/2010
Evelyn Gill Hilton, born in Baytown, Texas, was a reading and art teacher in the Texas public schools for 26 years, with her last three years of teaching at Bangs Middle School. Now retired, she had finally found time to write down the intriguing adventures of her great-great-grandfather. These stories about the young boy and the famous French privateer, Jean Lafitte, make up her historical fiction book, Kidnapped By Pirates (softback $10/hardback $14).

Evelyn Hilton is scheduled to speak about her book next Tuesday, June 22nd at 1:00 p.m. for a Teen Summer Reading Program in the Coleman library. The public is invited.

Hilton’s book, written for middle grades and up, is based on the true story of fourteen year-old Charles Tilton, who was kidnapped from a New England whaler by some of Jean Lafitte’s rogue pirates and brought to Galveston Island in 1814 as a ransom prize. Lafitte was enraged that his men would attack an American vessel and its sailors and had the guilty pirates hung.

The book reveals a little-known, gentler side of the French privateer, who had a soft spot in his heart for children and felt sorry for the frightened boy.  Lafitte offered him a job as cabin boy, which Charles accepted and likeing the swashbuckling life, stayed for six adventurous years of thrills and dangerous exploits! Buried treasure and raids on Spanish Galleons fill the exciting book.

When Charles was twenty, the American Navy expelled them from Galveston so the buccaneers scattered and Lafitte sailed off to Mexico. After a trip home to New Hampshire, Charles returned to Texas and applied for land grant from the Mexican Government. He later settled near Galveston Bay, married and raised a big family, of whom Hilton is a descendant.

As a teacher, she hopes her book will provide some thrilling hours of reading about early Texans, and also spark a desire in readers to learn about their own ancestors! Kidnapped By Pirates can be purchased at bookstores, ordered from Hilton’s website, www.texastrailsbooks.com, or ordered from the author directly at her email address, erhilton@yahoo.com. When Hilton isn’t writing, she is enjoying her six grandchildren, traveling with her husband, Bob, doing church activities or painting. Evelyn and Bob live just outside of Bangs.

OUTDOOR BURNING CODE
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/14/2010
The hot, dry season is here. The various fire departments in the county want to re-emphasize the laws that are on the books regarding outdoor burning.

No burning is allowed when a burn ban is in effect. However, even when outdoor burning is allowed, there are requirements that are outlined in the Texas Administrative Code, Title 30, Chapter 111, Subchapter B.

One rule refers to wind direction. Burning can be conducted only when wind direction and other meteorological conditions are such that smoke and other pollutants will not cause adverse effects to any public road or landing strip. If a burn causes or may tend to cause smoke to blow onto or across a road or highway, it is the responsibility of the person initiating the burn to post flag-persons on affected roads.

Rule 111.219(6)(A) limits the hours of a burn:
“The initiation of burning shall commence no earlier than one hour after sunrise. Burning shall be completed on the same day not later than one hour before sunset, and shall be attended by a responsible party at all times during the active burn phase when the fire is progressing. In cases where residual fires and/or smoldering objects continue to emit smoke after this time, such areas shall be extinguished if the smoke from these areas has the potential to create a nuisance or traffic hazard condition. In no case shall the extent of the burn area be allowed to increase after this time.

There is also a proscription against commencing a burn when surface wind speed is predicted to be less than six miles per hour or greater than 23 mph during the burn period.

In addition to responding to out-of-control burns, the fire departments in the county are called upon each year to fight wildfires that are often started by cigarettes carelessly tossed from vehicles and by sparks from welding equipment and other farm equipment. Please be aware of the dry conditions in the areas where you are smoking or using mechanical equipment.

Click here to see the Texas Administrative Code

Robbie Hodges Brings Family Fun to Coleman Rodeo Arena
6/14/2010
Rockin' Robbie Hodges has established himself as one of professional rodeo’s hottest new clowns and barrelmen.

His quick wit and off the cuff banter, as well as carefully thought out acts, keeps the crowd entertained and looking at him for the entire performance.

Hodges always promotes positive, non-violent, clean family humor, and has an uncanny knack for instantly bonding with children of all ages. He genuinely enjoys being a rodeo clown because he likes to talk to and entertain people, especially children.

From his home of Cave Spring, Georgia, Hodges takes his humor all over the United States. You can see him in action at the Coleman PRCA Rodeo at 8:00pm nightly June 17-19 at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

If you haven’t purchased your rodeo souvenir, the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce is the place to go. The new Coleman PRCA Rodeo logo is emblazoned on shirts, caps, aprons, burnout shirts, koozies, bandanas, and visors. Buy early as these items usually sell quickly.

Rodeo “Slack” Competition Wednesday Evening at 6:00pm Free Admission
6/14/2010
With 384 entries in the Coleman PRCA Rodeo this year, it would be impossible to allow all of them to compete in a normal two hour nightly performance.

That’s where slack comes in. It allows cowboys and cowgirls to enter several different rodeos in a region. This week, PRCA rodeos are being held in Coleman, Cleburne, Weatherford, Mesquite and Big Spring, all just a few hours apart.

In some towns, cowboys and cowgirls will compete in a regular nightly performance, in other towns they will compete during the slack.

Slack counts in the standings, and it’s possible a contestant can win a Coleman Rodeo championship during the slack.

Timed events, such as tie-down roping and ladies barrel racing, will be held starting at 6:00pm Wednesday, June 16, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. There is no admission charge and it usually takes several hours to complete the slack.

Commissioners Court to Consider Adoption of Coordination, Leave of Absence from Guerrero
6/14/2010
Agenda Topics
- Call the Meeting to Order
- Old Business
- Public Comments, Announcements, Visitors not on the agenda
(This listing is included on the agenda to allow public comments, presentations and announcements by Commissioners Court members. Any person may appear at this time and comment on a topic whether that topic appears or does not appear on this agenda. However, members of the Commissioners Court cannot discuss, deliberate or take action on any item or topic not scheduled on this agenda in accordance with existing law. Public comments requiring possible action or deliberation may be placed on a later agenda. Comments and presentations by members of the public will be limited to a maximum of five (5) minutes unless a member of said Court request additional time for the presenter. Any materials for handout must be furnished by the presenter.)
- Consider approval of Minutes from the May 24, 2010 meeting
- Consider approval of Adoption of Coordination (ie: large projects coming through Coleman County) presented by Mitzi Mays
- Consider approval of Courthouse Security presented by Sheriff Wade Turner
- Consider approval of Letter Requesting Waiver and Resolution adopting waiver for matching funds for work on Bridge located on CR 108 at Mud Creek (tabled from previous meeting)
- Consider approval from Precinct 2 Commissioner to grant Leave of Absence for Roger Guerrero, Jr.
- Consider approval from Precinct 2 Commissioner to hire David Peeples as part-time help at an hourly wage of $10.00/hr
- Consider approval of bid from Concho County for the remaining used election equipment
- Consider approval of request from County Clerk to hire temporary help if needed while current employee is out for medical reasons
- Consider approval of current bills for payment and transfer of funds if necessary
- Consider approval of Presentation of Phone System as presented by Pathwayz Network Solutions
- Adjournment

Coleman Rodeo Day Activities
6/14/2010
The Coleman County Junior Rodeo Association will be holding its annual cookout immediately following the Coleman Rodeo Parade on Saturday, June 19th. The Association will be serving hamburger and hot dog meals on the courthouse lawn immediately following the parade (approximately 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.). This event will be held in conjunction with the Coleman Businesspeople's "Hot, Hot, Hot......." Hot Sauce Contest. Live music will be provided by Denny Fulbright, accompanied by Last Call, with Spencer Gilbreath playing bass. Denny has a great local following, and had the opportunity to tour last year with Aaron Watson. Each meal will include your choice of a hamburger or two hot dogs, chips, and a drink for six dollars. All proceeds with benefit the Coleman County Junior Rodeo Scholarship Fund. Any questions may be directed to the Chamber of Commerce at (325) 625-2163 or to Shana Everett at (254) 631-7147.

PRCA Steer Roping in Coleman Wednesday Morning Free Admission
6/14/2010
Eight of the top ten steer ropers in the PRCA are among those who will compete at 9:00am Wednesday, June 16, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. It will be a three go-round event.

Not all PRCA rodeos offer steer roping, but Coleman has for many years. Due to a large number of entries, it is held as its own event separate from the nightly performances.

Those in the top ten who have entered Coleman are Vin Fisher, Jr., Trevor Brazile, Bryce Davis, Dan Fisher, Neal Wood, Scott Snedecor, Walter Priestly and Will Gasperson.

Guy Allen of Santa Anna is the best known steer roper in the world, having won 18 world championships. He will also compete on Wednesday morning.

Admission is free, so if you enjoy steer roping, come on out to the Coleman Rodeo Grounds and see the best compete.

Coleman Fine Arts League Launches Workshop and Show in July
6/14/2010
JULY 14 - SUSAN MANSELL WORKSHOP
Heritage Hall will sponsor a workshop by Master Watercolorist, Susan Mansell, Ballinger, Texas. Susan is a super teacher with many awards and much experience behind her. She will teach a 2-day workshop at Heritage Hall 400 W. College, July 14 & 15 from 10am to 4 pm each day. Limited enrollment (15) requires a deposit of $80 by June 30 to hold your spot ($160 total). Susan requests that students bring some experience to the workshop who want to challenge themselves to better work. She would like for workshoppers to bring a painting or two which needs some help. The artist should be prepared to paint over, crop or adjust the painting as needed to make it better. No finished paintings! Lunch can be reserved each day at $5 each. More Information at Kaysgarden1@verizon.net or call Kathy Andrews 325-625-2142 or Kay Mitchell 325-625-1140. Deposits ($80) may be mailed to Kays Garden 114 E. Pecan, Coleman 76834

JULY 16 - FINE ARTS LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP SHOW
The Second Annual Membership Show will accept entries starting Friday July 16 from 12- 5 and Saturday July 17 10-5 at the Coleman Public Library. Each member is encouraged to bring and enter as many as THREE pieces of created work - can include any medium, sculpture, collage, watercolor, pastel, oils, etc. Bill & Sue Shields are in charge of this FUN SHOW! No judge, just good fun, with people's choice (3) awards being given. The Show will run from July 20 through July 24. Direct your questions to Bill/Sue Shields 325-723-2056 email sshiel4@aol.com sshiel@aol.com

It's a time for joining the Fine Arts League group with lots of exciting things happening this Summer and then the Fiesta Juried Show October 1-2, 2010. See any member re: membership and a JOB! We have enough to go around!!

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

6/12/2010

Holiday Hill Allen Center Nearing Certification
6/12/2010
The Clyde D. and Doris Allen Memory Care Center at Holiday Hill is pending certification from the State of Texas. Holiday Hill has had two initial inspections and is awaiting their third and final scheduled inspection. The nursing home is governed by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services, or DADS as we like to call them. Our addition requires an initial inspection by the DADS local region of Life Safety Code from Wichita Falls. Our inspection ranges from emergency electrical, stand by electrical generation, disaster policy and planning evacuation procedures, proper corridor width, fire alarm function and many other items. Our final inspection is scheduled for the week of June 14.

In the mean time, Shelley Robinett, RN, Director of Nursing and Tena Rhoads, LVN, Medicare Coordinator and Training Coordinator for the Allen Center scheduled two days of intensive training. They wanted to ensure our staff would be ready when our regulators give us the green light to admit to the new home.

Below are photos of some of the training. We came up with the idea to have employees ‘clock in’ as residents for the day to get into character for the benefit of their colleagues and the purpose of training using our specialized approach. Each day there were 12 employees performing as dementia residents based on the Alzheimer’s Association’s seven stages of Alzheimer’s. Some characters might have early stage issues and others had latter stage issues. They were all typical of the concerns our employees face each day during a normal workday.

According to the ‘residents’ and the employees, the training went extremely well and met its goal of training for the future. All employees working in the Allen Center will require specialized training including 8 hours of classroom regarding policy and procedure, disease etiology, memory care topics and much more.

Conaway Chronicle: Volume 5, Issue 4
6/12/2010
Last week, I held eleven town hall meetings across West and Central Texas, where I listened to and took note of ideas and concerns of the people of District 11. House Republicans across the nation are hosting similar meetings to help launch a new and revolutionary initiative: America Speaking Out. In person and online, we want to hear your ideas that will lead our country in a new direction, and get it back on the right path. We will incorporate many of these ideas into a new, responsive and responsible governing agenda that all Americans can support. It has become increasingly clear that Democrats and Washington bureaucrats do not have the will or want to seek out and apply common sense solutions to the many problems that face our country.

The most pressing issue acknowledged by my constituents is the economy, and the reckless fiscal policies of the Democrats in Congress and the Obama administration. From Big Lake to Colorado City to Comanche, those in attendance told me that, in order for their families and small businesses to prosper and survive, they must live within their means. It should be no different for their government. In each community, participants voiced their concerns over increases in what they already considered to be out-of-control spending. Though our deficits continue to skyrocket, no one suggested that a greater tax burden placed upon people or businesses would align our stars.

Most, if not all, suggested that we must reduce spending. A gentleman in San Saba suggested that we should not follow the European spending model, let alone send them bailout money. Without cuts in the overall deficit we could face an equally grim scenario. However, the United States does not have to walk the same path. We are a strong nation, with a capable citizenry, that can and should hand a greater nation to our children than the one we inherited.

I have spoken to many people, including farmers in Miles, Robert Lee and elsewhere, who do not want to see the estate tax reinstituted. Family farmers worry that the taxes assessed, when loved ones pass, might not allow their families to continue farming on the land that they have spent years, or even generations, cultivating. In these cases, land is not just property; it is the land that puts food on the table and a roof over the heads of their families. It runs deep in their veins and it is part of their heritage.

A resident in Bronte recommended that tort reform could lower health care costs. Most cost cutting measures were ignored by the governing party while the health care debate was raging. Whether in Sterling City or Winters, a majority of my constituents would like health care reform, but not the kind forced upon them by the Democrats. A majority of those attending these town halls want us to scrap the bill passed this spring, to replace it with real common sense reforms.

Much like health care, energy costs worry Americans. The voters of District 11 know that if the Democrats pass Cap-and-Trade, then energy costs will increase. We must be good stewards of the Earth’s resources. However, passing legislation that forces higher energy costs on America’s businesses and families with no measureable results is not the answer.

A woman from Mertzon would like a more competent process by which rural communities are fully accounted for in the census. The accuracy of those numbers can be vitally important to small communities. Another from Bronte would like more to be done to extend broadband coverage to her community, and those like hers. I agree, as broadband has the potential to generate American jobs in rural America - not overseas. Also, I was pleased to hear one individual from Ballinger express concern towards acquisition process within our Department of Defense. This is an issue that I am very passionate about. Currently, there is no way to verify that all funds allocated are spent well. We want to ensure money is being spent to strengthen, arm and protect our armed forces.

All of these examples are just some of the ideas that have been offered by Texans from different regions, counties and communities within District 11. However, Republicans want to hear more ideas from Americans all across the country. I strongly encourage everyone to go to www.AmericaSpeakingOut.com and make your voices heard.

TXDOT SEAL COATING MAY CAUSE TRAFFIC DELAYS
6/11/2010
Sections of FM 1026, FM 2633, US 67, FM 585, US 84 (includes town portion) and SH 206 (includes town portion) in Coleman County are scheduled for seal coat treatment this summer. Seal coat is a preventative maintenance measure where fresh asphalt and rock is applied to an existing roadway. This process seals the surface of the roadway preventing moisture from damaging the road base. Seal coat typically extends the life of a roadway some seven to ten years.

Seal coat projects are generally fast moving and do not stay on a roadway for very long, however, motorist should be prepared for delays and brief lane closures where this maintenance work is being done. Because the seal coat process is temperature sensitive it is usually applied from May to mid August.

Every TxDOT district across the state will have active seal-coat projects during the summer. Brannan Paving Co., LTD, was awarded the $6.3 million contract to seal coat approximately 308 miles in the nine county Brownwood District. Work is scheduled to begin in mid-June and should be completed by mid-August, weather permitting.

For more information regarding this article please contact Sandra Parker - Public Information Officer Brownwood district - (325) 643-0413 or sparker@dot.state.tx.us.

REMINDER ABOUT COUNTRY CLUB POOL
6/11/2010
The Swimming Pool at the Coleman Country Club is a PRIVATE pool. It is open to members and their OUT OF COUNTY guests only. If you are not a member or an out-of-county guest of a member, you  are TRESPASSING!

Gouldbusk hosting an Open Rodeo Sunday, June 13
6/11/2010
Gouldbusk is hosting an Open Rodeo Sunday, June 13, at the Gouldbusk Arena. Exhibitions will start at 4:00, and the rodeo will begin at 6:00. Events will be: barrels, poles, flags, and goat tying. Age groups will be: 10 and under, 11-14, and 15 and up. All events will be jackpotted. The Panther Creek High School Cheerleaders will provide the concession stand.

All are welcome to attend. For more information call: 325-220-0065.

Statistics for Coleman Police Department in May 2010
6/11/2010
Investigations
Criminal Mischief-4
Burglaries-11
Theft-15
Information Reports-5
Credit Card Abuse-1
Possession of Marihuana-1
Assault-2
Suicide-1
Retaliation-1
Duty on Striking Fixture-1

Arrests
Public Intoxication-4
Warrants-5
Driving While Intoxicated-1
Assault-1

Motor Vehicle Crashes
No Injury-6
With Injury-1

Tickets Issued
Environmental/Code Officer: 2 tickets with 2 charges filed
Police Department-61 tickets with 73 charges filed

Warnings Issued
Animal Control-1
Police Department-18

Animal Control
Calls for Service-69
Dogs Picked Up-24
Cats Picked Up-14
Other Animals Picked Up-1
Dead Animals Removed from Roadway or Residence-2

Environmental/Code Enforcement
Junked Vehicles Removed-9
Junked Vehicles Pending-3
Abandoned Vehicles Removed-3
Tall Weeds or Grass Investigations-7 (2 complied and 5 pending)
Nuisance Violations-2
Dilapidated Structure-1

SIGN UP FOR SWIM LESSONS!
6/11/2010
Once again, the Learn to Swim Program will be taught in Coleman by Jennifer Hubbard! Jennifer teaches "Mom & Me" babies all the way up to Red Cross Level 6. Mark your calendar for sign up day, Saturday-June 26th, 9am until noon, at the Coleman City Pool. The two week program cost is $40 per child. Jennifer will know what level your swimmer is from last year's achievement; however, if you're new to the program, come to the sign up day with a swimsuit & towel for testing. The two week program will be either July 6-16 OR July 20-30. For more information, please call Jennifer at the city pool, 625-5712, in the afternoons.

Weekend Weather: Muggy With Scattered Storms Today:
6/11/2010
Good Morning from KRBC Meteorologist Chris Whited
* Another very warm and humid morning across West Central Texas to start our Friday. An upper level system will work north and eastward out of Mexico across West Central Texas into the day today. The dryline will sharpen to our west into the afternoon. The disturbance will provide some lift and some storms this afternoon. The system will also help storms develop along the dryline. Another factor will be high dewpoints and of course the afternoon heating. A few storms could go severe briefly but organized severe weather not expected and the SPC as of this morning has taken our area out of the 'Slight Risk' category. The best chances for rain will be across the western half of the Big Country but still a slight chance of a storm in the late afternoon and evening across the rest of the area. Highs today east of U.S. 277 will range from the lower to middle 90s while west of U.S. 277 highs will be in the middle to upper 90s. A few storms are still possible this evening with overnight lows into the lower to middle 70s.

* Weekend: Partly cloudy, warm and still humid with highs in the lower to middle 90s and overnight lows in the lower to middle 70s. There is a slight chance for a few thunderstorms mainly across the far western half of the Big Country on Sunday near the dryline.

* Next Week: Models are bringing a frontal boundary into the Big Country early next week and stalling that front in our area. There are chances for thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday. Highs will be cooler into the upper 80s and the lower 90s with overnight lows into the upper 60s. The weather looks dry for Wednesday.

6/10/2010

Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department Meeting on June 12 Postponed
6/10/2010
THE GLEN COVE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MEETING SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY JUNE 12 HAS BEEN POSTPONED. THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING IS SATURDAY JULY 10.

MORE DETAILS WILL BE RELEASED AT A LATER DAY ABOUT THE UPCOMING GROUND BREAKING FOR THE NEW BUILDING FOR THE GLEN COVE VFD. SEVERAL FUND RAISERS ARE PLANNED AND GRANT REQUESTS ARE BEING PREPARED TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE NEW BUILDING. ALL FINANCIAL DONATIONS ARE WELCOME AND WILL BE USED FOR THIS SPECIAL PROJECT WHICH WILL HELP PROVIDE FIRE PROTECTION FOR THE GLEN COVE AREA AND COLEMAN COUNTY.

National Finals Rodeo Bullfighter Returns to Coleman
6/10/2010
Clay Collins has protected the best bull riders in the world at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas each of the last three years. Collins has also worked in Coleman each of the last three years and we’re glad to have him back.

Sports have been a huge part of his life. Collins excelled in football and baseball in high school. In 1995, he tried out with the Florida Marlins but was later cut. He has also coached high school and college baseball at Panola College in Carthage, Texas.

It wasn’t until Collins was 21 years-old that the Texas native attended his first rodeo. That sounds odd, being from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. But a dare from a friend to try bullfighting has given professional rodeo a great athlete and a fearless protector of bull riders.

See Clay Collins in action nightly at the Coleman PRCA Rodeo, June 17-19. He’ll be the one in red.

Tickets for the rodeo are $8 advance or $10 at the gate. Children’s tickets are $4 advance or $5 at the gate. Advance tickets are available through Wednesday, June 17, at the Coleman County Chamber of Commerce, First Coleman National Bank, Coleman County State Bank, Cavender’s in Abilene, KEAN 105.1 in Abilene, KOXE 101.3 in Brownwood, Stanley Dodge in Brownwood and Blair’s Western Wear in San Angelo.

MISD’s Hartman named superintendent of year
By Felicia Frazar
The Gazette-Enterprise
Published June 9, 2010
MARION — Marion Superintendent James Hartman has made a name for himself around the Marion community since arriving in town in 2007.

Now Hartman’s recognition is going beyond the Marion ISD border after the Texas Association of School Boards Region 13 selection committee named him 2010 Superintendent of the Year.

“It’s very humbling and I think it is really reflective of our hard-working students, staff and school board,” Hartman said. “I am proud to accept this honor on their behalf. I am not sure I am deserving of it but I think it is indicative of the things taking place in the school district and the hard work that a lot of folks have put forth to better prepare the future for our students.”

In the region, Hartman was chosen from an area including 60 superintendents across 16 counties in the South Central Texas area ranging from Guadalupe to Gillespie to Williamson.

Board President Victor Contreras said he and the other MISD trustees couldn’t be happier.

“We’re ecstatic. We’re proud to have a superintendent that can be recognized throughout the region,” Contreras said.

During the April school board meeting, trustees passed a resolution to nominate Hartman and explained to the Region VIII in paperwork their decision, Contreras said.

“He came in during an incredibly difficult situation, but he has been able — through his organizational skills, I believe — to get the district back on track,” he said. “The board sees the changes that have been made, which may not have been the most popular decisions, but things that were needed in the district.”

One of the newest accomplishments Hartman was able to brag about was the recent TAKS scores.

“We are proud of the fact that we made significant academic progress in the latest round in the accountability testing,” Hartman said. “We increased to 23 of the 27 indicators and we increased in all 13 that were math and science. We are moving in a very positive direction in our student performance and engaging kids in instruction.”

Hartman was interviewed by the regional selection committee on Friday and received the announcement on Monday, Contreras said.

“He is now entered into the next level, which they will narrow down to the top five finalists for the state superintendent,” he said. “They whittle the 20 regions down to five and then they decide the finalist at the state convention in September.”

Along with higher TAKS scores, Contreras added that MISD is also hoping for higher TEA ratings this year. Last year, the district was initially named as Unacceptable but then was raised to the Acceptable level with an exemption.

“Through the efforts of the teachers’ instruction and Mr. Hartman’s leadership, we should be a recognized district,” he said. “If everything goes through, with our preliminary reports we should have a Recognized district, but the official results will be released on July 30.”

James is a 1989 graduate of Santa Anna High School. He is the son of Eddie and Mary Ann Hartman of Brownwood. Grandparents are Edd and Ruby Hartman of Santa Anna.

Senior Center Hosting Fundraiser on June 18
6/10/2010
The Coleman Senior Center located at 916 South Concho will be having a FISH FRY Fundraiser on June 18, 2010. From 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Take out will be available or you can call to place your order at 325-625-4779.We will be serving Fish, Coleslaw, Corn on Cob, French Fries, Hushpuppies and Key Lime Pie. Tea or Water to drink. All for the price of $7.00. So mark your calendars.

PREPARING RURAL TEXAS FOR REDISTRICTING AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION REGULATION
6/10/2010
Fort Worth, Texas - Animal identification regulations and next year's redistricting process are two topics that will be discussed during the breakout sessions at the 2010 Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) Summer Meeting. The meeting will take place at the Embassy Suites Outdoor World in Grapevine, Texas, June 16-18.

The breakout sessions, hosted by TSCRA committees, begin Thursday, June 17, and will cover a variety of topics critical to Texas cattle producers and landowners.

A schedule of sessions is below.

8 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Animal Health Breakout Session
Dr. Daniel Posey, director of special programs at Texas A&M's College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), will discuss the CVM's Food Animal Teaching Program, the selection and application process for vet school, and what the school is doing to recruit students that want to become food animal vets. Dr. Dee Ellis, executive director of the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC), will also update the group on animal diseases, treatments and prevention.

9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Natural Resources and Environment Breakout Session
Participants will discuss water issues, both local, state and federal, that will affect cattle producers and rural Texans. Issues include groundwater ownership and federal control of water.

9:15 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Agricultural Research Breakout Session
Dr. Tyler Campbell, research wildlife biologist with the United State Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) will discuss new feral hog research.

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Special Session: Animal Identification Update
Hosted by the Animal Health and Marketing Committee
Dr. Dee Ellis, executive director of the TAHC, will discuss the future of the state's animal traceability plan and how ranchers can start preparing for any new regulations.

2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Brand and Inspection Breakout Session
TSCRA Special Ranger Regional Supervisors Hal Dumas and Jimmy Dickson will talk about recent cattle theft cases in Texas. An update on TSCRA's Operation Cow Thief will also be presented.

2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Wildlife Breakout Session
Ross Melinchuk, deputy executive director of natural resources for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), will update participants on wildlife issues that affect landowners as well as TPWD activities.

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Legislative and Tax Breakout Session
Professor David Guinn, Baylor University, and Zach Brady, Texas Tech University, will speak about next year's redistricting process and how it will affect rural Texans. Guinn teaches Constitutional Law at Baylor Law School and has an extensive background on the legal side of the redistricting process. Brady, a lawyer from Lubbock, has worked on the political side of the process.

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Labor Breakout Session
TSCRA Director Bennie Bock will give an immigration update. Bill Lacey, partner and managing director of the Plexus Group LLC, will discuss the new health care law, the timeline of what will take place and how ranchers can better prepare themselves for what is to come.

For registration information and a complete schedule, visit www.tscra.org/summermeeting.

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.

Progressive Agriculture Safety Day
6/10/2010
Farm Safety Day
Event Date: Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Taylor County Expo Center
Sign up deadline: June 14th

A Progressive Agriculture Safety Day is planned for children ages 9 to 15 on Tuesday, June 29, 2010. This event is being conducted by Texas AgriLife Extension offices from Callahan, Coleman, Fisher, Jones, Nolan, Shackleford and Taylor counties in conjunction with the Progressive Agriculture Foundation. Children often see farm and livestock operations as exciting playgrounds, providing endless hours of fun and adventure. But these facilities and the livestock and equipment on them also can set the stage for tragedy. This safety education and awareness day will provide youth with interactive activities that reinforce the importance of taking responsibility for their own safety, respecting parents* safety rules and sharing safety tips with their family and friends. Hands on demonstrations will focus on farm hazards associated with electrical safety, rattlesnake safety, weather safety, ATV safety, fire safety, dog and animal safety, drug awareness, bee awareness and passenger safety.

Registration is $5.00 per child which covers lunch, snacks, speakers, and a take-home bag of safety materials and a safety day t-shirt.

If you would like to attend, come by the Coleman County Extension Office (2nd floor, County Courthouse) and fill out a registration and release and consent form.

6/9/2010

COLEMAN LIBRARY READING PROGRAM REGISTRATIO NOW OPEN
6/9/2010
The school year has quickly passed by and the Coleman Public Library is gearing up for a fun filled summer with the Summer Reading Program. The Library Committee comprising of Sandra Rose, Christine Flynn, Tammy Jo Turner, Sarah Beal, Candace Beal, Mona Wilson, Virginia Jamison, LeMoine Knox, and Robin Black has planned an exciting program that engages the youth to pick up a book this break and use their imaginations. This year the theme, “Catch the Reading Express” targets the elementary school children and younger and invites them to explore travel, geography, transportation, and the unique cultural heritage of our great states. Leading the program include Sandra Rose for the toddler, pre-school, and kindergarten age group, Sue Dossey and LeMoine Knox for the 1st and 2nd graders, and Mona Wilson for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders.

The other theme targeting 12 to 18 years of age is “Within Reach… The Future is Yours!” which focuses on helping teens identify ways they can express themselves creatively. The surrounding area schools have also joined the mission to encourage reading by giving grade and homework incentives for completing the summer reading program. The teen program chairpersons are Sarah Beal and Candace Beal.

Registration begins June 9th from 2:00-4:00 pm. Refreshments and entertaining craft activities will be among the festivities to launch the program this year. The Friends of the Library is also sponsoring a coloring contest and guessing games where a boy and a girl from each grade level will win a prize. Also, a delightful train is on display provided by Eric Joffrion owner of the Commercial Avenue Antiques Mall. Plus, due to overwhelming requests the 2nd Annual Stick Rodeo is returning and scheduled on June 17th at 1:00pm.
Programs will be each Wednesday in June, 16th, 23rd, 30th, and July 7th at a scheduled time for each age group. During each week’s activities, the participants are encouraged to read books and to log their time spent reading. There will be weekly door prizes, grand prizes awarded to the top readers, and a special Awards Ceremony and a pizza party will be held on July 14th.

For additional information contact the Library 325-625-3043 during regular library hours.

Multi-County Camp June 29th, 30th, and July 1st, 2010
6/9/2010
Attention Coleman County 4-Hers......Get your camping gear ready!! Multi-County camp is just around the corner. This year*s camp is Tuesday -Thursday, June 29th - July 1st at the Heart of Texas Bible Camp in Brady, TX. Cost is $40.00 per person or $35.00 per person if more than one child per family attend. Junior & Intermediate age 4-H members for the 2009-2010 4-H year (under 8 must be accompanied by a parent) are eligible to attend. Senior members may attend only as Teen Leaders with CEA approval. Campers are also required to fill out a Minor*s Release & Health History.

Deadline to sign up is Friday, June 18th. Camp this year is limited to 120 campers. This is a joint camp with McCulloch, Callahan, Mason, Menard and Concho counties. ADULT CHAPERONE*S are needed also. If you are interested, please come by and talk with the county agents.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO ASSIST TEXAS AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS AND COOPERATIVES
6/9/2010
TEMPLE, TEXAS - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that USDA has selected four recipients in Texas to receive business development assistance to pursue marketing opportunities for agricultural commodities. Funding is made available through USDA Rural Development assistance under the Value-Added Producer Grant program, which was authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill.

"As part of the Obama administration's work to turn the economy around, USDA is acting as an important catalyst for business development and job creation in rural America," Vilsack said. "These grants will improve financial returns and help create jobs for agricultural producers, businesses and families across the Nation. USDA is investing in farmers, ranchers and cooperatives to strengthen the economic foundation of rural America."

"Investing in the ideas of rural Texans is a direct route to economic recovery of our rural communities," said Paco Valentin, USDA Rural Development Texas State Director. "I congratulate these recipients on their innovative ideas and initiative in finding profitable value-added agricultural commodities."

Two Texas recipients will utilize the grants to investigate the viability of new value added commodities. Green Gate Farms, located outside Austin, will receive an $87,500 grant to determine the profitability of blending chicken manure with the City's food scraps from apartments and condominiums to produce a high protein feed for pets and animals. The Waller County Biofuel Steering Committee will receive a $25,000 grant to investigate biogas electrical generation from hybrid forage sorghum.

Two additional Texas recipients will receive grants to provide working capital to package and market their value-added commodities. J Berry Nursery, located in Van Zandt County, will receive a $300,000 grant for their project with a hybrid hibiscus plant. Rangeland Restoration and Improvement, LP, located in Hays County, will receive a $250,000 grant to process and market hay into compost and compost tea extract.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages more than 40 housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of 6,100 employees located in the nation's capital and 500 state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

GLEN COVE VFD HOLDING MONTH FIRE MEETING
6/9/2010
This Saturday, June 12th, the Glen Cove VFD will be holding their monthly fire meeting. The meeting will be held at Glen Cove Baptist Church. There will be a meal at 6pm and the meeting will start around 7pm.

Sam Callaway of Corpus Christi (left) presented his check for Toyota ShareLunker 500 to Scotty Landry of the Make-a-Wish Foundation (right) as Permian Basin Oilman’s Invitational Tournament Director Gary Lankford (center) looked on.

Toyota ShareLunker 500 Angler Donates Winnings to Make-a-Wish Foundation
6/9/2010
ATHENS—A big bass caught from O.H. Ivie Reservoir on April 9 is going to make a dream come true for a child with a life-threatening medical condition.

Angler Sam Callaway of Corpus Christi was fishing in the Permian Basin Oilman’s Invitational bass tournament when he caught the 13.34-pound fish. Only when he weighed it in did he discover he had caught Toyota ShareLunker No. 500.

And then he learned that the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation was paying $500 per pound to the angler who caught the fish.

Since the purpose of the annual tournament for the last 16 years has been to raise money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, and Callaway had fished every one of those tournaments, it didn’t take long for him to decide what to do with the $6,670 check he received: Make a child happy.

At the annual ShareLunker Banquet held at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens June 5, Callaway formally presented the check to Scotty Landry, president and CEO of the North Texas Chapter of the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

“The average cost of granting a wish is about $7,000,” Landry said in accepting the donation. “This money will make a child’s dream come true.”

Callaway received a standing ovation from the approximately 300 people in attendance.

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

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

Information on current program activities as well as short videos of interviews with anglers, is at www.facebook.com/sharelunkerprogram.

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

6/8/2010

COLEMAN 4-H NEWS
6/8/2010
4-H RECORD BOOKS DUE IN JULY
County 4-H Record Books will be due in the County Extension Office on Tuesday, July 6, 2010. If you need assistance with your record book, or you are just getting started and would like to know more about this, please call the County Extension Office at 625-4519.

DISTRICT RECORD BOOK JUDGING
This year's District Record Book judging will be on July 15, 2010. We have to submit to the District the categories by July 9th.

WILDLIFE CAMP
Wildlife camp dates are July 29 - 30, 2010. Details will be coming soon. Call the Extension Office at 625-4519 and sign up.

Coleman Masonic and Order of the Eastern Star Meeting Next Week
6/8/2010
There will be a called meeting of the Coleman Masonic Lodge for the purpose of conferring the Entered Apprentice Masonic Degree. The Coleman Masonic Lodge #496 will open at 7:30 P.M. June 15, 2010 for that purpose.

Installation of new officers of Coleman Chapter #360 of the Order of the Eastern Star will be held on June 12, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. at the Coleman Masonic Lodge Hall. All members of the Eastern Star are cordially invited to attend.

Saddle Ridge Ranch Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church
6/8/2010
Saddle up and come on down to Saddle Ridge Ranch Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church in Coleman. Registration begins at 8:10a.m. on Monday, June 14th in front of the Family Life Center, or you can pre-register at FBC office anytime between 9-12 and 1-5 through Thursday and 9-12 on Friday. This week events include rotations such as Worship Rally, Bible Study, Recreation, Snacks, Missions, Crafts, and Music.

Dates: June 14-18
Time: 8:25-12:00 (Noon)
Where: First Baptist Church, Family Life Center
Who: For any students entering Kindergarten through 6th grade
(any students 7th-12th are welcome to come help volunteer)

Coleman County Cowgirls to Perform Nightly at Coleman PRCA Rodeo
Will Host Cowgirls Breakfast Tuesday, June 15
6/8/2010
The Coleman County Cowgirls is a high speed equestrian drill-team that rodeo fans will see perform at the Coleman PRCA Rodeo, June 17-19. The rodeo starts at 8:00pm nightly.

In addition to the performances during the rodeo, they work hard promoting the rodeo in many other ways. They host the Chuckwagon Breakfast at 7:00am Tuesday, June 15 on the Courthouse Lawn. They organize the Mutton Bustin’ each night at the rodeo which starts at 7:15pm. They also introduced the Exceptional Kids Rodeo last year and will host it again at 3:00pm Saturday, June 19, at the Rodeo Grounds. You’ll also see the Cowgirls leading the Coleman Rodeo Parade at 10:00am Saturday, June 19.

Members of the 2010 Cowgirls are Alice McKinney, Paige Barnett, Casie Swening, Teresa Triplett, Danielle Denbow, Jackie Birdwell, Danyelle Hemphill, Morgan Schumann, Sally Arnold, Cindy Dockter, Dana King, Danette Denbow, Bobbie Birdwell, Tricia Kimmel and Pam Eddleman.

The Cowgirls invite you to attend the rodeo and bring some friends.

FRONT ROW (L TO R): ALICE MCKINNEY, PAIGE BARNETT, CASIE SWENING, TERESA TRIPLETT, DANIELLE DENBOW, JACKIE BIRDWELL, DANYELLE HEMPHILL, MORGAN SCHUMANN.

BACK ROW (L TO R): SALLY ARNOLD, CINDY DOCKTER, DANA KING, DANETTE DENBOW, BOBBI BIRDWELL, TRICIA KIMMEL, PAM EDDLEMAN.

TEXAS 4000 CYCLISTS RODE THROUGH COLEMAN
6/8/2010
TEXAS 4000 CYCLISTS RODE THROUGH COLEMAN all the way from Austin, raising money for cancer research.

The student group, which treks nearly 4,500 miles from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska, made their way through Coleman from Brownwood, where Dr. Paul Reynolds and his wife Becky hosted a rehabilitation station for the exhausted students. The group will make multiple stops along the way, including the coast, the rockies, and even Canada, while spreading their message of charity and cancer awareness.

The riders and other volunteers have raised nearly $400,000 this year to fight cancer. The Sense Corp Texas 4000 for Cancer is the world’s longest annual charity bike ride. The organization was founded at the University of Texas at Austin, though other colleges and universities now participate.

Coleman High School graduate and current UT student, Jack Reynolds, is participating in the ride from Texas to Alaska. However, Reynolds took a separate route that did not come through Coleman this year. Pictured above is a group picture from the Reynolds home in Coleman. Barbara Hubbard captured the shots of the bikers battling the Coleman hill.

COUNTY TEAM ROPING EVENT RESULTS
Submitted by Shana Everett
6/8/2010
Coleman Rodeo Association's annual County Team Roping event was held Sunday, June 6th, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds. The event is open each year to residents of Coleman County and surrounding counties (Brown, Callahan, Concho, McCullough, Runnels, or Taylor Counties). Contestants roped three steers on Sunday, and the top ten will rope their final steer at the Thursday night (June 17th) performance of Coleman's PRCA Rodeo. The top ten ropers and their times on three head are:

1. Joe Stoker and Miguel Valenzuela with a time of 18.03.
2. River Dillard and Miguel Valenzuela with a time of 19.53.
3. Twister Vinson and Miguel Valenzuela with a time of 20.05.
4. Tracy Sanders and Clint Middleton with a time of 21.96.
5. Rodie Goodwin and Colton Lee with a time of 22.53.
6. McCade Miller and Tommy Guy with a time of 24.08.
7. Zach Edington and Kyle Cunningham with a time of 25.23.
8. Cal Lewis and Tommy Guy with a time of 26.20.
9. Zach Edington and Kyle Ribble with a time of 26.31.
10. Shane Allen and Sonny Pate with a time of 26.56.

County-wide 4-H / FFA STEER VALIDATION
6/8/2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The 2010-2011 Steer Validation for 4-H and FFA exhibitors will take place on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Coleman Vet Clinic. Cost for state tags is $7.00 each. If you have any questions, contact Luther Dunlap, CEA-Ag at 325-625-4519 or your Ag Science Teacher.

DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
6/8/2010
For those of you who participated in the Junior / Intermediate 2010 District Photography Contest, your photos are here at the County Extension Office. Please come by and pick up your photos and placing ribbons. Congratulations to all of you for your ccomplishments.

If you have any questions about any of the above 4-H events, please contact the Coleman County Extension Office at 325-625-4519.

6/7/2010

Santa Anna’s James Allen to be Inducted Into Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame June 25th
6/7/2010
On June 25, 2010 James Allen of Santa Anna, Texas will be inducted into the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame in Pecos, Texas. The West of the Pecos Rodeo will be held June 23-26.

James competed at the Pecos Rodeo for 40 years. Events entered were calf roping, team-tying, steer roping and bulldogging. He was Sr. Steer Roping Champion in 1995.

The Pecos Rodeo was the first rodeo held. It was always over the 4th of July.  It changed to the last of June two years ago because of conflicting rodeos.

Guy Allen, son of James, was inducted two years ago into the Texas Hall of Fame in Pecos. He will be competing there in steer roping and working as pick-up man for the rodeo.

Also being inducted this year will be the late Buddy Neal, father of Sandy Neal of Coleman, Texas.

COLEMAN RODEO GEAR AVAILABLE AT THE CHAMBER
6/7/2010
Coleman Rodeo gear is now available and for sale at the Chamber of Commerce in downtown Coleman. This year's line of apparel includes both grey and pink t-shirts, aprons, tough enough to wear pink caps, regular rodeo caps and visors, and bandanas. Regular size t-shirts are $10, caps are $10, tough enough caps are $20, aprons are $20, and bandanas are just $5. Help promote Coleman's largest event in town by purchasing official rodeo gear today! Proceeds of the sales help benefits the Coleman Rodeo. Remember: Wear pink to Thursday night's event to help promote breast cancer awareness. A portion of the ticket sales raised goes to breast cancer research grants and awareness programs.

Novice ISD Begins Summer School
6/7/2010
Summer school for Novice ISD began on June 7, 2010. According to Superintendent Dale Freeman, the primary objective of the summer program is to assist students who have not yet passed their TAKS tests. “Some students are impacted by the state’s Student Success Initiative and need to pass the tests administered during the summer in order to be promoted to the next grade. They are our first concern.”

Novice students have also struggled with their math scores the last two years. The summer program is designed to strengthen their underlying understandings in order to promote higher achievement during the upcoming school year.

A third group, mainly high school students, is also working on credit recovery. The summer session allows them the opportunity to earn graduation credit in classes where their previous scores were less than passing.

Novice’s summer school runs from June 7 to June 25 with classes scheduled from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Summer TAKS testing dates are June 29 and 30 for fifth and eighth grades. Exit retests are the week of July 13-16. For more information call the school offices at 325-625-4500 or 325-625-4069.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF COLEMAN COUNTY RECEIVES GRANT FROM PETSMART CHARITIES® FOR FERAL CAT PROGRAM
6/7/2010
The Humane Society of Coleman County received a $5,700 grant from PetSmart Charities® this week to fund its new Trap-Neuter-Return feral cat program.
The Humane Society has actively promoted the discounted spay/neuter vouchers it provides for owned dogs and cats in the county since its inception in October 2003. The program has been well received, and over 300 dogs and cats have been altered each year to fight the area’s dire overpopulation problem.

However, the Society has not been in a position to aggressively pursue the feral cat problem since the considerable funding needed for such a program would be borne entirely by the Humane Society. Although proceeds from the Humane Society Thrift Store provide the funding to support the year-round discounted voucher program, funding for the spay/neuter of free-roaming cats was not available until a grant from PetSmart Charities was identified and sought.

“We are excited to be able to start this Trap-Neuter-Return program to begin to alleviate the free roaming cat problem in Coleman,” Humane Society president Jo Ann Eddleman said. “A portion of the grant will be used to buy additional live traps for us to use in collecting the cats that people identify for us. With the receipt of this generous grant, we expect to TNR at least 150 feral cats during the first year of the program.” The cats also receive a rabies shot before they are returned to the colony location.

PetSmart Charities was established in 1994 and is an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animal welfare issues, and promote healthy relationships between people and pets. The largest funder of animal welfare efforts in North America, PetSmart Charities has provided $110 million in grants and programs benefiting animal welfare organizations and, through its in-store adoption program, helped save the lives of more than 4 million pets. To learn more about how PetSmart Charities is working toward its vision of a lifelong, loving home for every pet, visit petsmartcharities.org or call 1-800-423-PETS.

Confirmation at Sacred Heart Coleman
By Most Reverend Michael D. Pfeifer OMI
6/7/2010
On June first, at 6:30 p.m., Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer offered Mass of the Holy Spirit with Rev. Romanus Akamike, Pastor of Sacred Heart Parish concelebrating. During the Mass, he conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on seven candidates. With Father Romanus, the Bishop laid hands on the recipients of the Sacrament and anointed them with the Sacred Chrism which symbolizes the descent of the Holy Spirit.

Our belief that the Holy Spirit comes down on the recipients and candidates, fills them with His gifts of Wisdom, Knowledge, Counsel, Piety, Understanding, Courage and Reverence as they are anointed with the Chrism.  The Sacrament also imprints on the soul the mark of Confirmation which reinforces their Baptismal vows and spiritual maturity.

The sanctuary, in honor of this sacred event, was adorned with red roses and white gladioli. The vestments and ornamentations were crimson, the banner, the Ambo front, the Altar cloth, and the tabernacle veil.

The Bishop entered in procession, preceded by the candidates Morgan Hurtado, Angelina Jones, Garrett Mendoza, Lisha Merkley, Devan Nunez, Keagan Slayton, Juan Suarez followed by the Altar Servers Colton Ridgeway, Mariana Watson and Zane Rosales, Rita Rodriguez and Caitlin Perez; Deacon-elect Ray Nunez led the way and Father Romanus preceded Bishop Pfeifer as the choir Paula Diaz, Sylvia Wells, Edgar Barrios and the congregation sang, “Come, Now is the Time to Worship” under Nancy Baker’s limber fingers at the piano.

The Bishop, on all Liturgies, carried his crozier (Staff) and wears his Miter (tall pointed head covering).

Rob Cheaney stood as Commentator and announced to the congregation the particulars of the Mass. As well, he greeted and welcomed the Bishop to the parish and thanked him for his presence.

Angelina Jones completed the Bible Reading according to the Prophet Isaiah; Keagan Slayton initiated the Psalm Reading for the congregation to respond. The Gospel was proclaimed by Father Romanus and explained by the Bishop in his homily.

The summary of the Gospel message was ‘Those who have ears to hear, ought to listen.’ Bishop Pfeifer repeated that phrase several times for the confirmandi and for the congregation.

The Bishop also thanked the candidates for their letter of confirmation concerning their desire to receive the Sacrament and their reasons for doing so. In conclusion, he said: The Sacrament of Confirmation will change these young people into mature adults spiritually to produce much fruit. He admonished them to listen with their hearts, not only their ears to the Holy Spirit who will set them on fire for Christ and Who remains with them forever. He also mentioned it would be difficult in the world today which has so many distractions.

Then Bishop thanked the Coordinator of Religious Education Margie Mitchell and the teens’ Instructor Rita and Benny Luera, all those who prepared the refreshments for the reception, the Guada-lupanas and Delia DelaRosa for many other preparations.

Following the conferment of the Sacrament, Bishop Pfeifer proceeded to the altar with Father Romanus and Deacon-elect Ray.

The Bishop consecrated bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ according to the Catholic tradition and teaching. Following Consecration, all in the congregation who had prepared to receive Communion (the Sacred Body and Precious Blood of Jesus), including the newly confirmed, approached the altar and received Him.
At Mass’s end, Bishop said the closing prayer, congratulated the newly confirmed and blessed those who attended Mass. All then proceeded to the Lawrence Cyr Hall for the reception.

Newly remodeled park building - See link below for pictures inside

Renovated Park Building Now Available to the Public
6/7/2010
The City of Coleman along with the MKB Foundation completed the remodeling of the former Coleman Museum building at the Coleman City Park. The Coleman Museum broke ground in 1935 and was completed in 1937 by the Federal and Texas Centennial Commissions and Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. The building is a replica of the Camp Colorado Administration Building that was established in 1856, but abandoned in 1861.

Today, the renovated historic building will serve as a place to gather with family and friends for special occasions. The recommended occupancy of the building is 75 maximum and rental fees are $50 for a half day or $100 for the full day. Reservations may be made with the City Secretary at City Hall 200 W. Liveoak during regular business hours. An event form must be filled out and returned for review. Reservations will not be final until payment is received in full. Deposit and usage fees are due when the Museum is reserved.

Virtual tours and pictures of the newly remodelled building can be found at: http://www.cityofcolemantx.us/city_park_museum.html

TEXAS GAS PRICES FALL 3.1 CENTS, BELOW NATIONAL AVERAGE
6/7/2010
Texas, TX, June 7- Average retail gasoline prices in Texas have fallen 3.1 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.57/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 0.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.73/g, according to gasoline price website TexasGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Texas during the past week, prices yesterday were 11.3 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 22.7 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 18.6 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 14.3 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.

FOOTBALL SIGNUPS FOR 1ST, 2ND, 3RD, AND 4TH GOING ON NOW
6/7/2010
FOOTBALL SIGNUPS FOR THE 5TH AND 6TH GRADE DIVISION ARE CLOSED. WE ARE STILL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 1ST & 2ND; and 3RD & 4TH GRADES.

QUESTIONS CALL: JEFF HAMMONDS- 625-2101   726-9285

US Labor Department sponsors free webcasts to help retirement plan fiduciaries comply with the law
6/7/2010
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration will sponsor “Getting It Right – Know Your Fiduciary Responsibilities” webcasts on June 9 and 10. The webcasts are part of the agency’s national fiduciary education campaign to increase awareness and understanding of basic responsibilities associated with operating private sector retirement plans.

The webcasts will feature speakers from the Labor Department. The June 9 webcast will focus on basic fiduciary responsibilities and prohibited transactions and exemptions under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. The June 10 webcast will include information on the reporting and disclosure provisions of ERISA and the department’s voluntary correction programs.

WHO: Employers, plan fiduciaries and providers of plan services

WHAT: Fiduciary education seminar

WHEN: June 9 and 10

2 to 4 p.m. EDT

HOW: Registration is required and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit EBSA’s website at http://www.dol.gov/ebsa and click “Getting It Right - Know Your Fiduciary Responsibilities Webcast” under “Compliance Workshops, Seminars and Webcasts.”

6/5/2010

Who’s Who of PRCA Cowboys Expected in Coleman June 17-19
6/5/2010
The Coleman PRCA Rodeo has a total of 384 entries in 2010, more than last year, and many are household names in the sport of rodeo. The list starts with the All-Around Champion Cowboy of the World.

Trevor Brazile (bruh-zill) has entered the calf roping, team roping and steer roping in Coleman. Whether he is well enough to compete isn’t known as of now, since he is temporarily sidelined with an injured elbow tendon. Brazile won a title in Coleman a few years ago.

J.W. Harris, two-time and reigning PRCA World Champion Bull Rider, will defend the championship he won in Coleman last year. Harris, who makes his home in neighboring Brown County, has a large and loyal following of family and friends in Coleman County.

Fred Whitfield has entered the tie-down roping in Coleman. He is the 8-time World Champion Calf Roper and World All-Around in 1999. Whitfield is currently 4th in the standings in tie-down roping and has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals 18 times.

Cody Ohl has 6 World Champion Calf Roping titles and one All-Around World title. Ohl is currently 20th in the Calf Roping standings and has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo 15 times.

Joe Beaver is an 8 time World Champion Calf Roper and the All-Around Champion of the World once. He has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals 22 times. He’s entered in the Team Roping in Coleman. Joe also commentates on roping events on ESPN for the Wrangler National Finals telecast.

Guy Allen is known as The Legend, is from Santa Anna, and entered in the Steer Roping event. Allen has qualified for the National Finals Steer Roping 32 times and has won the World Steer Roping Championship 18 times.

Justin McKee has entered the Steer Roping. McKee is a longtime rodeo announcer and perhaps best known as the lead commentator on all PBR television broadcasts on Versus.

Bareback Bronc Riding
Matt Bright of Azle – currently 6th in the World Standings
Jared Smith of Cross Plains – currently 16th in the World Standings
Dave Worsfold of Queensland, Australia – currently 15th in the World Standings

Steer Wrestling
Joey Bell, Jr. of Athens, Texas – a five-time qualifier for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo
Sam Koenig (King) of Cross Plains – just turned 51 and recently threw a steer in 3.7 seconds to win a share of first place at a rodeo in South Texas.
K.C. Jones of Decatur, Texas is currently 40th in the PRCA World Standings but a past champion for the last two decades.
Brent Arnold of Coleman

Bull Riding
Douglas Duncan of Alvin, Texas is currently 11th in the PRCA World Standings and rides in the PBR Built Ford Tough Series.
Cody Hancock of Taylor, Arizona was the PRCA World Champion in 2000 and competed at the Wrangler National Finals last year. First in the PRCA Extreme Bulls competition last year.
Corey Navarre (nuh var) of Weatherford, Oklahoma, currently 4th in the PRCA World Standings.
Chance Smart of Philadelphia, Mississippi, finished 2nd in the World Standings (behind J.W. Harris) in 2008.
Cory McFadden of Coleman is a past winner at Coleman, former PBR contestant and well known for riding the bull “Little Yellow Jacket” twice in his career.

Saddle Bronc Riding
Ty Atchison of Jackson, Missouri, currently 8th in the PRCA World Standings.
Heith DeMoss of Heflin, Louisiana, currently 20th in the PRCA World Standings, has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals twice and finished 10th in the World last year.
Cody DeMoss (Heith’s brother) won the Coleman PRCA Rodeo in 2009 and finished 2nd in the PRCA World Standings last year.

Calf Roping
Bryce Davis of Abilene, currently 4th in the PRCA World Standings.
Justin Maass of Giddings, Texas, currently 8th in the PRCA World Standings.
Scott Kormos of Teague, Texas, currently 12th in the PRCA World Standings.

Team Roping
Joel Bach of Milsap, Texas, header, currently 8th in the PRCA World Standings.
Tommy Edens of Gatesville, Texas, header, currently 9th in the PRCA World Standings.
Luke Brown of Rock Hill, South Carolina, header, currently 11th in the PRCA World Standings.
Jake Weddle of St. Joe, Arkansas, header, currently 13th in the PRCA World Standings.
Patrick Smith of Midland, Texas, heeler, currently 7th in the PRCA World Standings.
Martin Lucero of Stephenville, Texas, heeler, currently 8th in the PRCA World Standings.
Justin Hendrick of Rosenberg, Texas, heeler, currently 10th in the PRCA World Standings.
Rich Skelton of Llano, Texas, heeler, currently 23rd in the PRCA World Standings.

Steer Roping
Not all PRCA Rodeos offer Steer Roping, but Coleman has for many years, therefore has attracted the majority of the Top Ten and beyond.
Vin Fisher, Jr. of Andrews, currently 2nd in the PRCA World Standings.
Trevor Brazile of Decatur, currently 3rd in the PRCA World Standings.
Bryce Davis of Abilene, currently 4th in the PRCA World Standings.
Dan Fisher of Andrews, currently 5th in the PRCA World Standings.
Neal Wood of Guy, Texas, currently 6th in the PRCA World Standings.
Scott Snedecor of Uvalde, currently 7th in the PRCA World Standings.
Walter Priestly of Robstown, currently 8th in the PRCA World Standings.
Will Gasperson of Decatur, currently 10th in the PRCA World Standings.

Women’s Barrel Racing
Layna Kight of Wills Point, Texas, currently 8th in the WPRA World Standings.
Anessa Self of Valley View, Texas, currently 10th in the WPRA World Standings.
Kassie Mowry of Dublin, Texas, currently 12th in the WPRA World Standings.
Kenna Squires of Fredonia, Texas, currently 14th in the WPRA World Standings.
Jean Winters of Texline, Texas, currently 19th in the WPRA World Standings.

6/4/2010

THE HOT, HOT, HOT...SALSA, THAT IS COMPETITION IS BACK!
6/4/2010
The Coleman Business People's Association is once again sponsoring the "Hot, Hot, Hot...Salsa, That Is" Contest on the Coleman County Courthouse lawn immediately following the Coleman Rodeo Parade on Saturday, June 19. The parade begins at 10:00 a.m.

We have had great response the past two years with our hot sauce contest. We hope that we will have even more entries this year. In order to enter, you will need to pick up your official entry form and packet at Wise X-Press, 108 E. Liveoak. These can be picked up beginning Wednesday, June 9th through Wednesday, June 16. Wise X-Press is open from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. on weekdays only.

The entry fee is $15.00 and is non-refundable. We will have a panel of three judges and the top two winners will split 90% of the jackpot. This will be a 60/40 split. We will also have a People's Choice category and the winner will receive a trophy.

Stay tuned for more information as the date draws nearer.

CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM

Step Back in Time!
6/4/2010
The Faces in the Crowd page sponsored by First Coleman National Bank features a slide show with pictures from the 1949 Coleman Rodeo Parade. The pictures were submitted by James Winstead and taken by the late Roy Winstead. Notice the old building facades and the brick streets! How cool! Ann Hargett was the Rodeo Queen that year.

Click here to see the slide show!

6/3/2010

Chad Nicholson to Announce Coleman PRCA Rodeo
6/3/2010
When it comes to excitement, PRCA Rodeo Announcer Chad Nicholson is right in the middle of it, helping to make it all happen. Since 1993, he has been entertaining and educating rodeo fans from coast to coast and border to border, maintaining a busy schedule.

If you’ve heard the radio ads, or seen the TV ads for the Coleman rodeo, then you’ve heard his voice. In the two weeks before the Coleman rodeo, he will announce in Utah. In the three weeks after Coleman, he will announce rodeos in Montana, South Dakota and the award winning Rooftop Rodeo in Estes Park, Colorado.

A native Texan, Nicholson now makes his home in the Central California farming community of Exeter. But he credits his Texas roots that initially spawned his affection of the sport. A former contestant himself, he has accomplished much over his professional announcing career. From being selected to announce eight PRCA Circuit Finals Rodeos to the prestigious Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo, he has always maintained one simple philosophy, have fun and make sure everyone else has fun too.

There are many aspects of Professional Rodeo that keeps Nicholson traveling 40,000 miles per year, but probably the most important to him is the patriotic atmosphere that naturally exists in rodeo. A U. S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran, Nicholson prides his announcing ability in his powerful, patriotic openings. “The Rodeo Cowboy is one of the last free-spirits left in America today”, he says, “and we never will forget who and what gives us the opportunity to participate in and carry-on such a great American tradition that truly exemplifies freedom and heritage.”

The dates for the rodeo are June 17, 18 and 19. Nightly performances at 8:00 pm, but get there early for the Mutton Bustin’ at 7:15pm. Rodeo tickets for those 13 and over are $8 in advance, $10 at the gate. Youth tickets (ages 6-12) are $4 advance, $5 at the gate.

Halting Offshore Drilling Would Threaten U.S. Economy & Energy Security
Lessons Learned from Oil Spill Must Spur Greater Safety and Oversight
By U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison
6/5/2010
For nearly forty years, oil rigs have been safely drawing natural resources from the depths of the earth’s crust in the Gulf of Mexico. Up until the tragic explosion on the Deepwater Horizon in April, oil and gas development off the Gulf Coast has been conducted without major incident. The resulting oil spill and the response by both the administration and the companies involved have justifiably frustrated many who are concerned about the environmental and economic impacts. This accident could have far-reaching consequences, and we can all agree that proper safeguards must be in place to prevent another catastrophe from happening again.

However, I strongly disagree with those in Congress and in the administration who are calling for a drastic – and economically destructive – change in our energy policy in response to the oil spill. This devastating but isolated incident must not result in an end to offshore energy exploration and development. Oil and gas remain a critical part of a balanced domestic energy portfolio.

Unfortunately, President Obama signaled a troubling shift in policy when he recently announced he will extend a moratorium on all deepwater drilling off our nation’s coasts for six months and even shallow water drilling for some period, as well. Delaying access to all Gulf water drilling places some of our most resource rich assets out of reach. Drilling in the Gulf of Mexico alone accounts for about 30 percent of domestic oil and 13 percent of natural gas production. Of those abundant resources in the Gulf of Mexico, 70 percent of oil and 36 percent of natural gas are drawn from deepwater wells. Shallow water drilling poses little threat because the wells are more easily reached if a problem occurs.

Placing those resources off limits undercuts our domestic supply of energy, which will result in higher energy costs for all Americans. It also threatens thousands of jobs associated with oil and gas development along the Gulf Coast. Some of these jobs will move overseas; some will never return. Furthermore, cutting off significant portions of our domestic resources places our national energy security at risk and could force us to increasingly rely on the costly oil of foreign regimes that do not have our best interests at heart.

With steep economic and national security considerations at stake, we cannot afford to significantly deplete our domestic resources. Instead, we should take what we learn from the extensive investigations into the Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil spill and apply those lessons to technical and procedural advancements in the oil and gas industry. Government oversight should be improved. Guided by common sense, we can put into place a plan to restore domestic oil and gas production in the United States in the safest manner possible.

As well as improving technology and adopting more stringent safety measures, we should to look at other energy resources that aren’t presently being utilized or are underemphasized in our energy portfolio. Our most valuable untapped resource is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). It has even more potential than the Gulf of Mexico. This remote frozen tundra could be drilled with minimal impact on surrounding life. ANWR is the size of South Carolina and the area drilled would be roughly the size of Dallas Love Field Airport. The majority of Alaskans support drilling in ANWR and welcome the jobs and economic growth it would bring to their communities. Federal law, however, places ANWR’s estimated 10.4 billion barrels of oil under lock and key.

The Deepwater Horizon incident also shows the importance of a comprehensive energy policy that is not limited to a single industry. In the event that a given source of energy is taken offline for any reason, we must be able to rely on other sources to fuel our vehicles and power our homes and businesses. Nuclear power is a clean, efficient, and inexpensive energy resource that should play an important role in America’s energy future. Solar power, wind energy, and advanced biofuels will also expand our energy portfolio and provide alternative resources to further ease our reliance on foreign fuel. Emphasizing these industries will also create stable, lucrative jobs for American workers.

It can be human nature to react impulsively to a challenge as significant and daunting as the Gulf Coast oil spill. But human nature and common sense, unfortunately, are not always synonymous. It is important that our response be prudent and thoughtful. We should take the opportunity to learn from the mistakes that were made and find ways to improve our existing energy policy. I believe calls to halt offshore drilling are reckless and would be detrimental to our economy and our long-term energy security.

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.

Coleman 4-H Club June Meeting
6/5/2010
Coleman 4-H meeting will be held June 15th at 6:00 pm at the Coleman Public Library.Officer elections will be held at this time.

Coleman 4-H Swim Party
The Coleman 4-H Club will have a swim party June 24th at the Coleman Country Club from 6:00- 8:00 pm. Pizza and drinks will be provided.

Town and Country Garden Club News
6/5/2010
The Town and Country Garden Club met May 4 in the Miller Building. Refreshments were served by Eileen Morris and Sue Shields and were enjoyed by all nine members present. Sue Shields presided and asked each member present to answer roll call with the name of a flower beginning with the same letter as her last name. Roll call ended with a wonderful imaginary bouquet.

A report about the District Meeting held in Ozona was given. All members who attended, including Sue Shields, Katherine Hollis, and Eileen Morris enjoyed the program given by members Nan Markland and Jane Padgitt, as well as the scenery around Ozona. Sue also noted that the fall convention would be in Abilene in 2012.

Program plans for next year were also reviewed and discussed. Each month’s program will be the responsibility of one of the members and a pilgrimage is tentatively planned for April.

For this month’s program, members brought varieties of wildflowers and with the help of several published references, we attempted to identify them. There were many varieties of daisies, sages, and other knowns and unknowns viewed and discussed

The meeting then adjourned.

COLEMAN ISD STAFF AND BOARD HONORED FOR SERVICE
6/4/2010
The Coleman ISD staff and Board of Trustees were honored with a staff appreciation breakfast on Friday, May 28th bringing to a close the 2009-2010 school year. Royce Young, Superintendent of Schools, addressed the staff and thanked them for their hard work during the past school year.

Mr. Young then recognized the personnel for their years of service at Coleman ISD. Those employed for 5 years with CISD were Rusty Buzzard, Linda Gatlin, Linda Hallford, Brock John, Arnold Lefevere, James O’Shields, Marsha Ray, Isabel Roberts, Kim Smith, Stephanie Strickland and Don Woodruff. Employees recognized for 10 years with CISD were Linda Burton, Tom Nixon, Dorothy Vineyard and Darlene Webb. Alissa Hohmann, Lee McKelvain and Linda Woodruff were recognized for their 15 years of service. Rena Croft, Mary Lou Garrett, Tina Hensley, Margery Hester and Larry Johnson were recognized for 20 years of service. Joyce Anderson and Glen Gardner were recognized for 25 years of service. Special recognition was given to Sarah Beal, Elisa Nunez, Debbie Scott and Caroline Skelton for their 30 years of service with Coleman ISD. Employees retiring at the end of the school year are Sherry Autry and Elisa Nunez.

Mr. Young spoke briefly about the TAKS results for the district. He was very pleased with the overall results. He pointed out that 8th grade social studies and the exit level social studies students had 100% passing. He also mentioned many other areas that scored very well. Official TAKS results will be released at a later date.

Mr. Young wished everyone an enjoyable summer and said he looked forward to seeing everyone back on campus in August.

Alumni Association Formed for Coleman High School Students
6/4/2010
A meeting to form a Coleman High School Alumni Association was held May 22, 2010 at Hidalgo’s Restaurant in Coleman, Texas. There were eleven class representatives present at the meeting that began at 11:30 a.m. under the direction of Jeanie Bell, representative for the CHS class of 1953.

Bell explained the need of an alumni group and after discussion, those present voted to form the association and also voted to accept the presented by-laws.

Officers elected to serve one year terms included president, Jeanie Bell, class of 1953; vice president, James Williams, class of 1950; treasurer, Nancy Grimes, class of 1961; secretary, Beverly Gee, class of 1962. Also elected were three trustees: Fred Stewart, class of 1956; Patsy Cantrell, class of 1950 and Grace Crum, class of 1951. These officers and individual class representatives will form the Alumni Association Council.

Dues were set at $5.00 per year with membership open to anyone who ever attended Coleman High School. Application forms are available upon request from Jeanie Bell (2909 Wenwood Rd., Abilene, TX 79606) or Nancy Grimes (507 Rio Grande, Coleman, TX 76834). Teachers are invited to join with no membership dues required.

A date for a future meeting of the alumni association will be decided later and all members will be notified of the date and time.

COUNCIL APPROVES SPECIAL RATE FOR PARK FACILITY USE BY CITY EMPLOYEES
By Jo Ann Eddleman
6/4/2010
City Council approved the reduced fee for use of the City Park Museum facility for city employees at its Thursday meeting. City employees will be allowed to rent the facility for one-half the regular fee--$25 for a half-day and $50 for a full day.

Before voting, however, Councilman Harold Skelton asked if there was any precedent for this kind of special benefit for city employees over what citizens in general will be asked to pay for use of a City facility. City Attorney Steve Autry said that although he did not recall any other similar action, he did not see any legal problems with giving full-time City employees this special consideration with Council’s approval.

Councilman Terry Langley asked what can be done to avoid the potential for abuse with non-city employees asking a city employee to rent the hall for use at the reduced rate. The motion made by Councilwoman Tracy Rankin included wording to the effect that any city employee asking for the reduced rate would be expected to use it for his or her personal use, and he/she would be present at the function. Further, the same rules as to the required $100 clean-up and damage deposit will be in effect.

After approving the resolution to support the National Park Service feasibility study to designate the Great Western Trail (which came through Coleman) and the Chisholm Trail as National Historic Trails, Council moved to go into executive session to discuss the City’s utility contract performance. After 1 hour and 27 minutes in closed session, the Council took no action on the agenda item.

In closing, Council authorized City Manager Larry Weise to work with McCord Engineering, of Bryan/College Station, to appraise the electric utility grid that is owned by the City to assess net revenue and determine its commercial value.

McCord would also be asked to perform a study that will determine what the short- and long-term impact of green energy will have on utilities. As the Federal government prepares to aggressively push alternative energies, the City wants to position itself to take full advantage of the green energy movement and the funding that may be available as it makes decisions on what can and should be done about utility services for Coleman in general.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICE DAY
6/4/2010
COLEMAN COUNTY, TEXAS, May 26, 2010 –USDA Rural Development representatives will be holding a Rural Development Office Day for the City of Coleman June 22, 2010, from 10 am to 12 pm to present program information and applications to the public. The office day will be held at the Coleman County Commissioner’s Court Room, 100 West Live Oak. Information will be provided about USDA Rural Development Housing, Community and Business and Cooperative loan and grant programs.

USDA Rural Development works to ensure rural citizens can participate fully in the global economy through technical assistance and programs that help rural Americans build strong economies to improve their quality of life. Rural Development loans and grants assist rural communities meet their basic needs by building water and wastewater systems, financing decent, affordable housing, supporting electric power and rural businesses, including cooperatives and supporting community development with information and technical assistance including broadband initiatives. USDA Rural Development representatives will be available during the office day to answer questions and assist individuals with applications in all program areas.

USDA Rural Development Housing Programs offer loans and grants to families with very low to moderate income levels in towns and cities meeting certain population requirements. Loans are primarily used to help income eligible individuals or households purchase homes in rural areas. Funds can be used to build, repair and renovate a home, or to purchase and prepare sites with water and sewage facilities. For very low income families who own homes in need of repair, the Home Repair Loan and Grant Program offers funding for renovations. Funding has previously been requested to repair a leaking roof, make a home wheelchair accessible, repair damaged or faulty wiring and to install a waste disposal system.

USDA Rural Development Community Programs enhance the quality of life for rural Texans by providing funds to governmental entities, nonprofit organizations and Indian Tribes for essential community facilities and services. Funds may be used for a variety of community projects. Previous funds have been used to enlarge, improve or construct schools, libraries, farmers markets, medical clinics, assisted living centers, public buildings, community centers or fund new and improved water and wastewater facilities. Funds are also available to purchase public safety equipment such as ambulances, firefighting equipment and other required emergency service gear.

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

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

NOOSE FOUND HANGING FROM OPERA BUILDING IN SANTA ANNA
6/3/2010
A noose was found hanging today in downtown Santa Anna at the old Santa Anna Opera House. The noose hung from the highest point of the building--almost out of sight. An anonymous caller notified the news office of the incident, whereas we traveled to Santa Anna and confirmed the noose.

Several townspeople and business owners said that they hadn't even seen the noose (probably because of its high position). Upon hearing of the noose, Santa Anna City Hall along with the Coleman County Telephone Cooperative gathered up a crew to take down the noose.

The former Opera House, now referred to as the  Santa Anna Road House, is currently undergoing renovations by an out-of-town investor. No one is quite certain how the noose was hung from the building, though many townspeople suspect a prank.

Last February in San Diego a student hung a noose in a university library, whereas a series of protests ensued. The noose is typically associated with death by hanging and is an extremely sensitive symbol to the African-American community. A big thank you for the quick response of the City of Santa Anna and the Coleman County Telephone Cooperative for their efforts.

Lakosky, Johns Plead Guilty, Sent to Prison
6/3/2010
District Attorney Heath Hemphill presented eight cases before District Judge John Weeks on May 27. Timothy Lakosky pled guilty to Reckless Injury to a Child and was sentenced to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Charles Wilson "John" Johns also pled guilty to felony theft of cattle and was sentenced to 5 years TDCJ. Johns also faced 2 years in state jail arising out of a marijuana possession case, this was dismissed with his plea to the cattle theft.

Mary Elizabeth Miller pled guilty to Delivery of a Controlled Substance arising out of the February drug bust and was sentenced to 18 months state jail. Benjamin Torres was also sentenced to 10 months state jail for felony marijuana possession.

Judy Ann Donaghue pled guilty to delivery of hydrocodone and was sentenced to 5 years TDCJ probated for 5 years, court costs and a $1000.00 fine. Jackie Eugene Eldred pled guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance and was sentenced to 6 years deferred adjudication, court costs and a $400.00 fine.

The Possession of Controlled Substance probation of Douglas Wayne Reed was revoked and he was sentenced to 14 months state jail. The Possession of Controlled Substance deferred adjudication of Andrew Dixon was revoked and he was adjudicated and placed on regular probation.

Lakosky, Torres and Eldred were set for June 7 jury trials before their guilty pleas were entered.

COLEMAN EDC TO MEET TUESDAY, JUNE 8
6/3/2010
AGENDA - COLEMAN EDC, INC.
REGULAR BOARD MEETING - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD ROOM
218 SOUTH COMMERCIAL, COLEMAN, TEXAS
TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 2010 4:00 P.M.

CALL TO ORDER

Receive comments from guests on items not on the agenda

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. EDC Board will consider approval of minutes from the meeting on May 8, 2010. The Board may make any action deemed necessary.

FINANCIAL REPORT

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

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

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

1. Consider the bids to repair storm damage to the EDC buildings at the Airport. The Board may take any action deemed necessary.

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

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

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

5. Receive report from Drew on EDC report to the City Council.

6. Receive comments from EDC Board Members.

EDC Board reserves the right to enter executive session related to any item on the agenda in accordance with conditions set forth in section 551.074 and 551.087 of the Texas Government Code.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

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

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

ADJOURNMENT

Primera Iglesia Youth Will Have Bake Sale This Saturday Morning
6/3/2010
The Primera Iglesia Youth will be having a Bake Sale this Saturday, June 5th beginning at 8:00 a.m. until everything is gone at El Taquito on East Pecan St.

You may also pre-register for Vacation Bible School at Shoppin' Baskit at 8:00 a.m. this Saturday.

6/2/2010

County Clerks Office Closed June 11
6/2/2010
The Coleman County Clerk's Office will be closed on Friday, June 11, 2010 so that employees may attend The Texas Department of State Health Services Vitals Statistic Training Conference. We will re-open on Monday, June 14, 2010.

Coleman PRCA Rodeo Mutton Bustin’ June 17-19
Sponsored by Kent & Carla Finley
6/2/2010
The 73rd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo will be hosting Kid’s Mutton Bustin’. Mutton Bustin’ has become a popular addition to rodeo performances and is similar to the grown-up cowboy rough stock except that the youngsters will ride sheep.

Contestants are selected from a random drawing and must weigh 55 pounds or less to be eligible. Twenty contestants compete each night of the rodeo prior to the rodeo performance. Each child will receive an official Mutton Bustin’ t-shirt for participating. The t-shirts are donated by Coleman County Special Utility District.

The contestant with the highest marked score each night will receive a champion belt buckle. The belt buckles are donated by Coleman Rotary Club.

Entry blanks can be picked up at Davis Farm and Ranch, and The Feed Barn. Entry blanks can also be printed from the Coleman Rodeo website @ colemanrodeo.com. Deadline to enter the Mutton Bustin’ is June 12, 2010. For more info please call Bobbi Birdwell at 325-220-1370 after 6:00 p.m.

KCB Schedules Pre-Rodeo Clean Up Evening June 14th
By Liz Hughes
6/2/2010
Keep Coleman Beautiful has scheduled a cleanup evening on Monday, June 14, 2010 for the downtown area of our city. If you are interested and willing to serve your community in this capacity, please report to the Coleman County Courthouse lawn at 6:00 p.m. on that evening in order that we may spiff up our downtown area prior to the annual rodeo.

Let’s all pitch in, city wide, to have our properties in “tip-top” shape for visitors that will be arriving to our city in June! We are very fortunate to be able to host a PRCA Rodeo in our community each year. We hope that the cowboys will be able to leave our city saying that it was clean, they ate some good grub, and the beds were real comfy!

Your help will be greatly appreciated on this scheduled clean up evening, or for anything you might be able to do prior to and during the rodeo event to Keep Coleman Beautiful!

Coleman County Cowgirls Preparing for 73rd Annual PRCA Rodeo June 17th - 19th
6/2/2010
The Coleman County Cowgirls are preparing for the 73rd Annual Coleman PRCA Rodeo. The Coleman County Cowgirls are a high-speed equestrian drill-team.

The cowgirls will be performing nightly at the Rodeo. They will also be helping with the Downtown Breakfast on Tuesday, June 15th, starting at 7:00 a.m., the Mutton Bustin’ each night of the rodeo, as well as the 2nd Annual exceptional rodeo on Saturday, June 19th at 3:00 p.m.

The Cowgirls will also be riding in the Coleman PRCA Rodeo Parade on Saturday morning at 10:00. The Coleman County Cowgirls would like to encourage everyone to come to the Coleman PRCA Rodeo as well as all the special events planned for rodeo week.

The 2010 Coleman County Cowgirls include Alice McKinney, Paige Barnett, Casie Swening, Teresa Triplitt, Danielle Denbow, Jackie Birdwell, Danyelle Hemphill, Morgan Schumann, Sally Arnold, Cindy Dockter, Dana King, Danette Denbow, Bobbi Birdwell, Tricia Kimmel and Pam Eddleman.

CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER FEE REDUCTION ON RENOVATED PARK BUILDING, RECEIVE REPORT ON UTILITIES CONTRACT PERFORMANCE
6/2/2010
AGENDA CITY OF COLEMAN CITY COUNCIL
THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 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 regular meeting held on May 20, 2010. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

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

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Council will consider a request from employees to allow a reduced fee for the rental of the Park Museum facility to full time city employees. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
2. Council will consider Resolution # 10-06 supporting the National Park Service initiative to conduct a feasibility study for the designation of the Great Western Trail and the Chisholm Trail as National Historic Trails. Council may take any action deemed necessary.
3. Council will receive information from the City Manager related to utility contract performance. Council reserves the right to enter into closed executive session under Section 551.086: Certain Public Power Utilities; Competitive Matters and Section 551. 071: Consultations with Attorney, of the Texas Government Code, Council may take any action deemed necessary.
4. Council will consider authorizing the City Manager to work with McCord Engineering for the development of an appraisal of the electric utility grid system and an Electric Utility Impact Study. Council may take any action deemed necessary.

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

Picnic food safety greater concern in hot weather
Expert recommends more care in handling, preparation and storage
By: Paul Schattenberg
Contact(s): Rebecca Dittmar, rsdittmar@ag.tamu.edu
Submitted By: Christin Burris, CEA-FCS Coleman County
6/2/2010
Ants aren’t the only little creatures that can spoil a summer picnic, said a food safety expert with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.

Coleman County Horse 4-H club meeting and practice
6/1/2010
Coleman County Horse 4-H club meeting and practice will be on Wednesday June 2, 2010 at 6:30pm until whenever. Their will be a meet and ride every Wednesday from now until school starts. So come join us for fun and practice. For more info please contact Luther Dunlap at the County Extension Office. Thank you!!

Coleman Business People’s Assoc. Will Meet Thursday at Noon
6/1/2010
The Coleman Business People’s Association will have a meeting at noon Thursday, June 3rd in the boardroom at the Chamber of Commerce. Purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Hot Sauce Contest to take place on the day of the upcoming Rodeo Parade. Snacks will be provided at Thursday's meeting.

Jury Scheduled for Monday, June 7th is Cancelled
6/1/2010
The jury scheduled for Monday, June 7th at 9:00 a.m. in Coleman’s District Court has been cancelled.

Coleman Student Wins West Central Wireless, Five Star Wireless, Mid-Tex Cellular, and Central Texas Telephone Scholarship
6/1/2010
West Central Wireless, Five Star Wireless, Mid-Tex Cellular and Central Texas Telephone Cooperative proudly announce the awarding of 61 scholarships totaling more than $37,000 to the high school seniors listed below.

According to Mike Higgins, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Central Texas Telephone Co-op and General Manager of West Central Wireless, Five Star Wireless, and Mid-Tex Cellular, a graduating senior was chosen from each of the 61 public high schools within the boundary of the companies’ 26 county home coverage area. Each student will receive a five hundred dollar scholarship that may be used for tuition, books, or other fees at a university, junior college, community college, or technical school.

The recipients were selected by their school.

West Central Wireless, Mid-Tex Cellular, and Five Star Wireless serve a 26 county home coverage area with roaming partners nationwide and comprise the seventh largest cellular network in Texas.

Winners of the area scholarships include:

Bronte: Jeremy Sanchez
Ballinger: Cheyene Parker
Bangs: Chance Furniss
Blanket: Orlanda Lopez
Samuel V. Champion: Maggie Young
Boerne: Kathryn Brand
Brady: Xander Leatherwood
Dylan Jacoby
Brookesmith: Ashely Parsons
Brownwood: John Paul Hernandez
Center Point: Brittany Butler
Central High School: Kristen R. Hensley
Cherokee: Carissa Davis
Mysti Bessent
Christoval: Allysan Carles
Coleman: Angelina Jones
Comanche: Mercedes Gilchrest
Comfort: Anastacia Klemm
DeLeon: Ashley Sharp
Dublin: Erika Medina
Early: Brandy Wallace
Eden: Dana Sparks
Evant: Carolyn Huncke
Eldorado: Krista Galindo
Fredericksburg: Joshua Wehmeyer
Garden City: Andrea Olivarez
Goldthwaite: Jody Loudamy
Kinsey Perry
Goldthwaite:
Central Texas Telephone Coop /
Mills County State Bank: Bailey Perry
Grape Creek: Sara Martinez
Gustine: Jon Poage
Harper: Jovan Middleton
Huckabay: Morgan Stegall
Ingram: Kaylah Ward
Irion County: Vincent Tanner
Junction: Francisco Tinajero
Lake View High School: Kwangmoon “Alex” Park
Lingleville: Elena Alarcon
Lohn: Laramie Moore
Patricia Del Carmen
Mason: Jeremy Duarte
May: Ty Rhine
Menard: Manuel Ray Hernandez
Miles: Karaina Aldrete
Mullin: Brandon Foster
Randy Sims
Novice: Anthony Jeses Delgadillo
Ozona: Teresa Cervantes
Paint Rock: Fernando Torres
Misael Romo
Panther Creek: Jammie Pruitt
Priddy: Blake Randolph
Cody Seider
Reagan County: Shelby Lentz
Richland Springs: Jose Dominguez
Marsha McMillan
Robert Lee: Jacob Moreno
Rochelle: Taylor Brooks
Samantha Greene
San Saba: David Smith
Tayler Hibler
Santa Anna: Weston Tucker
Sidney: Francisco Munoz
Sonora: Michael Stephens
Star: Melisa Garcia
Juan Facundo
Stephenville: Jason Spears
Sterling City: Cason Wood
Tivy: Nastacia Robles
Veribest: Teresa Rivera
Wall: Shelby Kastler
Nathan Fuesell
Water Valley: Iyoume Salazar
Winters: Joby Winfrey
Zephyr: Shelby Nail

Higgins said the Board of Directors of West Central, Mid-Tex, Five Star and their parent company Central Texas Telephone Coop are proud to be a part of the continued success of these fine young people.

Coleman County Historical Commission meeting at Heritage Hall Thursday
6/1/2010
Coleman County Historical Commission meeting at Heritage Hall, 400 West College. Thursday June 3rd. at 7:00 PM

Anne Shelton, Cemetary Preservation Coordinator, for Texas Historical Commission will bring our program.

We will also have Question and Answers on cleaning grave markers.

Refreshments will be served. Please come, should be a very informative meeting.

2010 Small Acreage Landowner Seminar
6/1/2010
Dates: Session III – June 4th
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall

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


Session III: Wildlife Management on Small Acre Tracts – June 4th

Session IV: Livestock Management Practices - TBA

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


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

Make check payable to Ag Day Fund.

First Saturday Gospel Sing
6/1/2010
June 5, 2010
6 pm
Trinity Methodist Church
Corner of 9th and Concho Streets
Last month we had a wonderful roster of musicians:
Barabra Brown, Kay Gray, Darla McKey, Louise Strength,
Spud Stinson, Jerry Lester, John Wall, Richard Pearce,
Ralph Howell, R.B. Rutherford ,Betty McClellan, and
Wanda Cockrell.
So you won't want to miss coming this Saturday
to join in the blessing of music and fellowship.
Open mike...just come on and sing.....or listen.
Carla Billings for more info...625-5302.

Josh Abbott Band Headlines Coleman PRCA Rodeo
6/1/2010
He’s been called the Lone Star State’s best kept secret. But people talk. Now, Josh Abbott is quickly taking his place alongside other Texas music greats and developing a large, loyal following.

Abbott will bring his #1 song “She’s Like Texas” to the Coleman PRCA Rodeo on Friday, June 18th. Also on the show that night is Austin-based singer Kyle Park. Admission to enjoy two Friday night concerts is $20 per person. There is also a $20 bring-your-own-cooler charge. The shows start at 10:00pm.

While studying communications and political science at Texas Tech in Lubbock, Abbott and his Phi Delta Theta comrades frequently partied at the Blue Light Live, a downtown club on Buddy Holly Avenue that's been a linchpin for such hard-scrabble acts as Cross Canadian Ragweed, Wade Bowen and Golden Globe nominee Ryan Bingham.

After doing a few acoustic open-mic nights at the Blue Light, Abbott and three frat buddies formed a complete band and started playing the club, where they were greeted by a full house their first night. Word spread quickly about the Josh Abbott Band, and soon they were opening shows for the acts they were trying to emulate: Cory Morrow, Pat Green and Robert Earl Keen, among them.

You can watch the JAB video “She’s Like Texas” on the band’s website www.joshabbottband.com. You can also follow the band on Twitter and Facebook.

Kyle Park
Plain and simple, Kyle Park can sing. He has written, or co-written, all 12 songs on his new album “Anywhere in Texas”. His current Texas music single is entitled “Don’t Look”.
You can learn more about Kyle on his website www.kyleparkmusic.com.

Saturday Night Concert Features Sonny Burgess
Not only does Sonny Burgess record and play great dance music, he has a reunion when he comes to perform for his friends in Coleman. He will perform for the Saturday, June 19th concert and dance. Tickets are $10 per person along with a $10 bring-your-own cooler charge.

Coleman County Team Roping Sunday, June 6th
6/1/2010
The first event associated with the Coleman PRCA Rodeo is just around the corner.

The annual Coleman County Team Roping is scheduled for the afternoon and evening of Sunday, June 6th, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds.

Team ropers from Coleman County and adjacent counties (Taylor, Callahan, Brown, McCulloch, Concho and Runnels) are eligible to enter.

This is an open roping. It is enter one draw two, or enter open and draw three, for $100/man. Enter up to three times. This is a four-head roping with the first three being roped on Sunday, June 6th, and the top 10 teams to rope during the Thursday night (June 17) performance of the Coleman PRCA Rodeo. (NO EXCEPTIONS)

Contestants must show proof of residency to collect winnings.

Books open at 3:00pm and close at 4:00pm. No entries will be accepted after the books close. Roping begins shortly after 4:00pm Sunday, June 6, at the Coleman Rodeo Grounds, located on Highway 206 on the south side of Coleman.

Coleman Junior High School High Point Boys and Girls
6/1/2010
The following were named High Point Students at the Coleman Junior High School 8th grade graduation and awards ceremony held Thursday, May 27, 2010: Jansen Merrill - Valadictorian, Vallari Escobar – Salutatorian, Niki Henderson – 3rd Place High Point Student, Brent Ogden – 4th Place High Point Student, and Shaila Bishop – 5th Place High Point Student.

DRT VISITS PRESIDIO DE SAN SABA IN MENARD
6/1/2010
The Heart of Texas Chapter of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas recently enjoyed a field trip to Menard to visit the Presidio de San Saba, the Ditch Walk and the Menardville Museum. Joining them at the museum was Mr. Jim Kniffin, local curator and history buff.

Mr. Kniffin is well known in Brady as well as Menard as a retired History teacher and tennis coach. He explained many of the exhibits and the historic Frisco Depot, which now serves as the museum. Of special interest was the room set up as a turn-of-the-century saloon. The great bar fills one entire wall . . . complete with its brass rail and mirror still showing a bullet hole. He explained that the bar was moved to the museum on rollers from its former location next to Menard’s First State Bank. That saloon building, with its monetary-hinting name, “Legal Tender,” is now owned and occupied by the bank. The bank’s president, Mr. Mark Jones, of Brady, currently presides where the bar once stood.

In addition to the museum, a visit was made to the site of the Presidio, which was rebuilt by the Works Progress Administration for the Texas Centennial in 1936. Also visited was the Ditch Walk, which had been dug from the Presidio to the Mission for irrigation. No remains of the Mission can now be seen. Comanche Indians had burned it shortly after it was built. Both the Ditch Walk and the Presidio have billboards explaining and showing their history, which makes a visit even more enjoyable. Both are easy to find with clearly marked signage.

During the summer months, the DRT will not be holding its monthly meetings. This allows those interested in joining the local chapter to explore and trace records, documents, deeds, land grants, births, deaths, and marriages which for their own history and family tree. Two members are volunteering to aid anyone interested in doing so, at no charge for their time and services. The only costs to those looking for documents would be the prices for the duplications of documents, shipping and handling, etc.

This is a great opportunity, especially for the beginning novice researcher. These ladies are already familiar with many of the database websites: for cemeteries, muster rolls, probated wills, censuses, birth, death, and marriage files. They are also knowledgeable about methods to verify information when no original documents are available. Those interested may call president Sharon Purcell at 325-597-2887 or registrar Jerry Wilkinson at 325-243-5344.

Attached Photo identification: At the entrance to the Presidio de San Saba are, left to right, Nancy Evridge, Jerry Wilkinson and Sharon Purcell.

Commissioner Staples Announces Support of Projects to Bring High-Speed Internet to Unserved Texas Communities
6/1/2010
AUSTIN - In an effort to ensure high-speed Internet access is available to all Texans, Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced today the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC), and the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) are supporting 32 applications seeking almost $370 million in funds from the federal Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP).

"Broadband access is just as important for our state today as when Texas connected our rural citizens to electricity in the 20th century," Commissioner Staples said. "If Texas is to maintain a competitive advantage, it is essential our families, rural schools, hospitals and small businesses have high-speed access to the wide range of resources, services and products available on the information superhighway. The projects we are recommending will take our state a step closer to our goals of connecting all Texans."

Gov. Perry designated TDA, in partnership with PUC and PSC, to lead the state's broadband service expansion initiatives and represent the interests of Texas to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

Texas evaluated 50 applications submitted to the state review process for consistency with state and federal priorities. Newly available preliminary Texas broadband inventory maps were used in the review process. A final map that will detail broadband coverage across the state is scheduled for completion on May 31.

The Texas and Texas-related projects submitted for federal funding fall into three categories: infrastructure, which includes construction of broadband delivery equipment; public computer centers, which increase public access to education and workforce development opportunities; and sustainable adoption, which is designed to educate Texans about the importance of broadband, and develop broadband markets in unserved and underserved areas.

"These applications show the desire of rural Texans to increase business and educational connections with the rest of the world," said Commissioner Donna Nelson of the Public Utility Commission. "Completion of these projects will give thousands of Texans a better way to reach out."

To review the Texas projects recommended by TDA, PUC and PSC click here.

More About NTIA Grant Funding

In 2009, NTIA began accepting applications for a total of $4.7 billion broadband expansion through BTOP (all rounds totaled). In the first round of awards, NTIA awarded $2.1 billion, of which projects affecting Texas received approximately $80 million. The applications TDA and PUC recommended in the first round totaled almost $700 million in federal requests.

Then in January 2010, NTIA announced the second application round for the remaining $2.6 billion. TDA, PUC and PSC are requesting NTIA thoroughly review all proposals affecting Texas to ensure maximum investment in the state.

To view the recommendations and comments submitted by TDA, PUC and PSC, visit TDA's website at http://www.texasagriculture.gov/ and click on Broadband for All Texans.

IT PAYS -- $100 -- TO BE PRESENT
6/1/2010
The winner of the end of the year $100 Pays to be Present drawing was Sergio Acosta who received the check from Adam Rodriguez, President of the Student Council.

LEARN HOW TO PREVENT CATTLE THEFT AT TSCRA RANCH GATHERING IN CORSICANA
6/1/2010
Fort Worth, Texas - Join Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) for a ranch gathering on Thursday, June 3, at the Navarro County Exposition Center in Corsicana. The gathering will begin at 5:30 p.m. with registration followed by a free steak dinner and presentations.

"Our ranch gatherings are a great way for folks in the community to get together, and it's not just for TSCRA members. Anyone who would like to come out and enjoy the evening is invited," said TSCRA President Dave Scott, Richmond.

TSCRA Special Ranger Jimmy Dickson will talk about ways to protect property and livestock from theft and Eldon White, TSCRA executive vice president, will discuss what is going on in Washington and Austin and how that will affect cattle raisers.

Please RSVP by June 1 to Brooke Boddy at 1-800-242-7820, ext. 192, or rsvp@texascattleraisers.org.

The Navarro County Exposition Center is located at 4021 West Hwy 22 in Corsicana.

Please see schedule below.

5:30 p.m. - Registration Opens

6:00 p.m. - FREE Steak Dinner Served

6:30 p.m. - Protecting your Property from Theft in Difficult Economic Times
Jimmy Dickson, TSCRA Special Ranger Supervisor

7:00 p.m. - Landowner Legislative Update and Discussion
Eldon White, TSCRA Executive Vice President and CEO

The ranch gathering is sponsored by Bayer Animal Health, Brazos Valley Equipment, Helena Chemical Company, Hubbard Livestock, Smith General Store and Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
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.