United Blood Services Critical Appeal for O Negative Blood Type
4/29/2010
O Negative Blood Type is vital to Patients in Concho Valley Hospitals!
If someone is in the emergency room and immediately needs blood JUST to stay alive – there is no time to run a test to determine their blood type – these patients can be safely transfused with O Negative Blood!

Premature BABIES can ONLY be transfused with O Negative Blood!
Both Shannon and San Angelo Community Medical Center have neonatal care units

O Negative Blood Type can ONLY be transfused with O Negative!

Must be 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health to donate. Donors between 16 and 22 must meet additional height and weight requirements. 16 year old donors must have a Minor Donor Permit signed by a parent or guardian.

Mobile Blood Drives:
Saturday, May 1st
American Cancer Society at Sunset Mall Community Center 1.30pm – 6pm

United Blood Services Donation Center
2020 W. Beauregard San Angelo, Texas 76901
Open: Today until 6pm. Friday 8am – 2pm. Saturday 9am – 1pm.

325-223-7500 or 800-756-0024
or go online to www.unitedbloodservices.org
Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome!

TxDOT holds public meetings on Statewide Transportation Plan
4/29/2010
AUSTIN—The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will host a series of open- house style public meetings across Texas to give citizens an opportunity to provide feedback on a long-range plan that provides the agency with a blueprint for the state’s future transportation needs.

TxDOT’s 25 districts will host two public meetings , one each in May and August to provide the public an opportunity to preview the agency’s Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan 2035.

The San Angelo District will host the first of two district meetings between 4 and 7 p.m. on Monday, May 10, 2010 at the TxDOT District Training Room, Bldg 5A, 4502 Knickerbocker Road, San Angelo, Texas 76904. The second meeting in San Angelo will be Monday, August 2, 2010 at the same location.

Meetings are designed to give Texans an informal venue for viewing informational videos and exhibits outlining the statewide initiative. Participants may ask questions and provide written comments on the direction of the plan which is scheduled to be completed and ready for public hearing and Commission adoption this fall.

The Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan is the foundation that will guide the planning process, a collaborative effort between TxDOT, local and regional decision-makers, and all transportation stakeholders, said Amadeo Saenz, TxDOT executive director.

“It’s important that we take this opportunity to reach out to citizens so they may be a part of shaping the future of transportation in Texas,” Saenz said. “This plan will provide a framework for developing and implementing a multi-modal transportation system through 2035. We need to hear from Texans—transportation partners, elected officials, industry stakeholders and citizens.”

This statewide plan also provides the foundation for a number of other TxDOT planning efforts such the Rail Plan, the 2011-2015 Strategic Plan and corridor-related initiatives, and it provides direction that makes it easier for all of these different planning efforts to work in coordination. It also assures the state’s goals are consistent with federal priorities and guidelines.


Citizens who cannot attend the meeting may send written comments to Peggy Thurin, P.E., Project Manager, Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan 2035, 4544 Post Oak Place, #224, Houston, Texas 77027. Comments may also be made online at the TxDOT website contact us page.

Persons with special communication or accommodation needs may contact Karen Threlkeld at 325/947-9205. Requests should be made no later than three days prior to the open house-style public meeting. Every reasonable effort will be made to accommodate the needs.

For more information, contact Government & Public Affairs media relations at 512/463-8588.

Senior Piano Recital
4/29/2010
     Kathleen Mills of Winters was featured in a senior piano recital on Sunday, April 25.  She is a student of Susan Conner, NCTM.  Kathleen has studied piano with Mrs. Conner since she was in the 2nd grade.  Miss Mills will be attending McMurry Her recital featured favorite pieces she has learned through years and a flute and piano duet with Mrs. Conner.  Miss Mills was drum major for the Winters High School Blizzard band this past year. 
     Also performing on the recital was her brother, Archie Mills, also a pianist studying with Mrs. Conner. 

Runnels County Historical Commission Announces New Book For Sale
4/29/2010
"RUNNELS COUNTY, A LOOK BACK" by the Runnels County Historical Commission will be released for sale by May 1.  Advance sale price will be $17.50 plus postage if mailed.  After June 1, the price of the book will be $20.00 plus postage if mailed. 

To request a copy, contact Diana Rozmen at 365-2784, Beverly Teplicek at 442-4841, Linda Duggan at 365-3145, Anthony Lange
at 786-2140 or Ruth Cooper at 754-5183.
 

Managing Small Business in Today's Challenging Economy
4/27/2010
LUBBOCK─ The U. S. Small Business Administration Office of 8(a) Business Development 7(j)   is sponsoring a free workshop called concerning topics of managing a small business in today’s economy.  The meeting will be:

What:                    Free Workshop on
                             Proposal Preparation
When:                   May 6, 2010
                            8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Where:                 TTUSBDC
                           2579 South Loop 289, Suite 210
                           Lubbock, TX
How:                     Must register online go to http://sbaworkshops.stoverteam.com click on new registration button, it will prompt you to complete your company’s profile.   Each participant must complete a “New Registration “to register for the workshops.

Cost and Pricing:
The Business Development Best Practices workshop will give you a thorough understanding of what all successful businesses both large and small have in common as it pertains to the success of their businesses. As a small business owner attending this workshop, you will learn what these best practices are and how to incorporate them into your business plan and ensure that you can have the infrastructure that it takes to achieve significant business development and success.

Sno-Royalty in Ethnic Festival Parade
4/26/2010

Sno-Queen- Shelby Gehrels

Princess-Katey Reyes

Flake-Macey Gerhart

Mayfest is Here!
4/26/2010 -by Amanda Collom, WACC
Mayfest time is here! This Saturday from 9-6 the Winters Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its annual Mayfestival. There will be live music in the A-C Nutrition parking lot beginning at 10 AM . Playing LIVE this year, Against the Elements, Kody Sims, Travis Calcote and crew and Callahan Divide will be performing. The live music will consist of some light rock, old country and everyone’s favorite Texas Country. Also in this area there will be race car # 45 with driver Shane Wojtek. This is a great photo opportunity for the kids, so bring your camera. In the Post Office area there will be lots of excitement for the kids. Among the fun activities for the kids, there will be a pond game, silly body pictures, free throw shoot, football toss and a jumping castle. 2010 Sno-Royalty will be present assisting with the games. Winters Community Baseball will be doing a Krispy Kreme fundraiser and the funnel cake/tater twister/hand dipped corn dog lady will be here. There will be some outside vendors selling metal art, purses, ladies and children clothing and blizzard fan materials for the ex’s football game. Also the cowboy church will be present with their chuck wagon. Across the street, the fireman will be cooking their famous burgers and fries and serving tea and selling the last of their raffle tickets for the mower. A few doors down, Facing Stitchin’ Post will be the main Arts and Crafts area. At 10:00 AM there will be a cake walk and at 1:00 PM BINGO will begin, these are to benefit the WACC and we need your support. The arts and crafts show will run from 9:00-6:00 and there are some fantastic new vendors and our repeating favorites! The board can’t wait to hear the response on our vendors! Among these vendors we have cowgirl apparel and jewelry, rustic signs, candles and flip flops, bling accessories, Scentcy, stylish children’s apparel, purses, hand made crosses, granite art and furniture and more. Also in the show the North Runnels Hospital will be giving away carbon monoxide detectors and checking blood pressure and blood sugar. Winters Child Development Center will be selling homemade ice-cream and taking pizza orders, Don Wood-the computer guy will be sharing his knowledge, Louise Sumners will be on hand, Compass Bank, Assembly of God guest Mr. Demoss and Central Texas Opportunities will also be available inside the show. We also have booked a massage therapist, so come relax with Stephanie. Just outside the show the Jr High cheerleaders will be selling cotton candy, popcorn and pickles. Our local stores such as Daisy Patch, the Beauty Center, Bluebonnet Mercantile, Heidenheimers and Winters Feed & Seed will be open for your business. Kay invites you into the Stitchin’ Post to see her new tanning area and to check out her new lines. Remember, J&T Hardware has stocked up on the flowers, plants and patio furniture for the season. Winters Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to our annual Mayfestival and hopes you visit all of our local merchants while you are here. If you would like to volunteer to help or donate a cake or bingo prize, please contact Amanda Collom or Vanessa Esquivel. For more information please call 325-754-5210 or visit Raymond’s Clip Joint.

Relay For Life Upcoming Events
4/26/2010
Ballinger Girl Scout Troop #5196 and Runnels County Relay For Life are hosting a canned food drive to benefit the local food pantry. This year the bags used during the luminaria ceremony at Relay will be weighted down with a canned food item as opposed to wooden blocks. Please support our local Girl Scouts, Relay, AND the food pantry! Donations may be dropped off at First Community and the Carnegie Library. For more information call Julie Gray at 325-718-9574 or Elizabeth Cook at 325-718-9678. 

Runnels County Relay for Life will host a blood drive on Friday, May 7 from 2:00p.m. - 7:15p.m. at the Ballinger Wal-Mart parking lot. Set your appointment online at www.bloodhero.com or by calling Julie Gray at 325-718-9574.

The next Relay for Life meeting will be Monday, May 3 at 5:30p.m. at Main Street. It's not too late to participate!

May Immunization Clinics
4/26/2010
Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Clinics

H1N1 Flu Vaccine Available to All
Winters
Thursday, May 6th
1:30-5:30
Professional Building
110 South Main, Suite 108

Please bring child's immunization records. If Child has Medicaid or CHIP please bring card.

For more information call 325/754-4945

Free Immunizations
4/25/2010
Big Country Immunization Coalition (BCIC) In Recognition of National Infant Immunization Week Offering FREE Childhood Immunizations at the Zoo Festival of Gardens 

Who:     BCIC-

Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District, Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, Caring for Children Foundation, Abilene Care Van, Medical Care Mission, 211-United Way, Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas Medical Association Foundation, Taylor-Jones-Haskell-Callahan Medical Alliance 

What:   In recognition of National Infant Immunization Week, April 24- May 1, Big Country Immunization

  Coalition (BCIC), Abilene-Taylor-Calllahan County Public Health District and other community agencies will offer FREE immunizations for children 0 to 18 to years of age.  Due to the changes in the immunization requirements for all Texas schools, BCIC is encouraging parents to be pro-active in immunizing their children to avoid long lines in August.  Parents are asked to bring immunization records.   In addition to immunizations, parents and children will be able to enjoy the family festival with face painting, games and prizes.  Blue Bear, Health and Wellness Ambassador for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Texas will be there along with the Pet Therapy dogs. FREE bicycle helmets will be offered to children 4 to 12 years of age provided by Taylor-Jones-Haskell-Callahan County Medical Society Alliance.                 

Where:   Festival Gardens (across from Zoo)
                 2070 Zoo Lane
                 Abilene, Texas 

When:    Thursday, April 29, 2010   3 PM - 7 PM               

Why:    National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is April 24 - May 1, 2010. NIIW celebrates the successes
              of immunization programs around the country and highlights the importance of immunizing our children.   

In addition to recognizing NIIW, this is a good opportunity to get school age children immunized.  Texas is continuing its Immunization Requirement Phase on schedule that began last year.  New requirements this year were added for kindergarten and 7th grade students for the 2009-2010 school year.  There is a new bacterial meningitis requirement for students entering college at all Texas Universities.  Please refer to http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm for additional information.

Winters and Ballinger Represented at Network Luncheon
4/22/2010
     The community of Eden hosted one of five network luncheons being held in April sponsored by Texas Midwest Community Network.  Ballinger Chamber Executive Tammie Virden and Winters Chamber Executive Amanda Collum attended the luncheon. Discussion at the luncheon focused on “how to encourage optimism at the local level in today's challenging economic climate”.
     Representatives from neighboring cities offered insights on current programs that encourage shopping at home and ways local business owners work together to strengthen local economies. Attendees discussed ways to assist employers when retention and expansion are issues of concern.
     Cities represented at the luncheon included Menard, Brady, Eden, Early, Ballinger and Winters. Representatives from Texas Department of Agriculture, the Entrepreneurial Development Center in San Angelo and TMCN also attended. The meal was catered by City Limits Cafe.
     Texas Midwest Community Network is a one-of-a-kind regional organization founded in 1994 for economic development, tourism development, regional awareness & promotion, and legislative awareness.  It is an organization of “communities working together to accomplish what one community cannot do alone.” For more information about TMCN call 325-795-8626 or 800-845-3563 or visit www.texasmidwest.org.

PIctured Right: Ballinger Chamber Executive Tammie Virden, Winters Chamber Executive Amanda Collum, San Angelo Center for Entrepreneurial Development Director Donna Osborn and TDA Rural Economic Development Specialist Chandra Eggemeyer attended the luncheon

CASA Volunteers to be Honored at Children's Advocacy Center Luncheon 
4/20/2010
The Children's Advocacy Center of Tom Green County will honor the Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA volunteers, in a "Come-n-Go" luncheon that will occur on Wednesday, April 21st, from 11am -1pm at the Children's Advocacy Center Board Room located at 317 Koberlin. 

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) joined the Children's Advocacy Center in 1998.  The program's mission is to speak for the best interests of abused and neglected children whose futures are being decided by a court of law.  Volunteers embody the spirit of the CASA program.  CASA's goal is to provide each child a safe, permanent and nurturing home, and quality volunteer representation is crucial to meeting that goal. Since the inception of the program in 1987, Court Appointed Special Advocates have spoken on behalf of more than 2200 children.  

The next training for those interested in becoming CASAs will begin on Monday, April 26th.  For more information on either of these events, please call 325-653-4673 or for more information or go to www.cactomgreen.org.

BYBA Tournament Update
4/20/2010
Due to many activities going on this weekend, including a large tournament in Abilene, we have had a poor response to our tournament. For this reason we are going to postpone it until a later date. Thank you to everyone who pitched in to put this together. We hope to reschedule our tournament for a time sooner rather than later.

Ode to a Conservationist
4/19/2010 -excerpt of "On The Level" by Charles Frerich
I apologize for the length of time for writing a new article but things have been tough to say the least.  On The Level has not been on my mind.  But in writing this column today I would be remiss to not pay tribute to a special person.  Thus , the reason for the column heading “Ode to a Conservationist”.

Read the rest of the column, by finding a link to "On the Level" in the columns menu on the menu bar above.

Mayfest 2010
4/19/2010
Saturday, May 1
Exhibits, Entertainment & Fun
Arts & Crafts, across from Stitchin’ Post
Live Entertainment, across from Beauty Center
Food & Games by Post Office 

10 A.M. Cake Walk in the Arts & Crafts
1 P.M. Bingo in the Arts & Crafts

Downtown, Winters, TX

PIZZA! PIZZA!
4/19/2010
Place your order for Little Caesar Pizza.  Orders with payments are due by Friday, April 30th.  Truck will deliver the pizzas on Monday, May 10th at 6:00 P.M.
Support the Winters CDC and ENJOY some pizza!!
Thank you now for your support!
YOU are helping to make a difference!

Aggies Unite For Distinctive Tradition
4/17/2010
   Former students of Texas A&M University will assemble in Ballinger on April 21 for the annual Texas Aggie Muster to honor all Texas Aggies who have passed away within the last year.
     Muster activities will begin at 7 PM at the Main Street Corner Market in Ballinger. The speaker for this year’s Muster is Larry Motley, Class of ’87, and a member of the 12^th Man Kickoff team @ A&M. Larry is a native of Novice and is now an engineer with Enbridge.
     All former and current students, their families, and friends of Texas A&M Univer­sity are invited to attend.
     The Texas Aggie Muster tradition, which spans more than a century, will be observed in more than 300 locations around the world. These Muster gatherings are held in many unique places ranging from battleships and foxholes during World War II to ballrooms and steak­houses today.
     Over the years, Aggie Muster has grown to be one of Texas A&M’s most revered traditions. Muster honors the memories of A&M men and women whose deaths prevent them from answering Roll Call at this year’s Muster. The Roll Call is a roster compiled of all former and current students who have died over the past year. As each name is called, a friend or family member will answer “Here!” symbolizing that their memory lives on in the hearts of Aggies everywhere. Muster is more than just a ceremony; it is also an annual way for Aggies to re­new the loyalty and unity which constitute the foundation of their friendship for each other as well as their love and devotion for their school.
     For more information regarding the Texas Aggie Muster held in Ballinger, please contact Dr. Matt or Cindy Belden at 325-365-3726 or by email at cdbelden78@gmail.com.

Can 9-1-1 find you in an emergency? Help Us Help You!
4/17/2010
     Governor Rick Perry has declared the week of April 11-17, 2010, Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.  Many times, the dedication, long hours, and hard work of the public safety telecommunicators go unnoticed. Telecommunicators handle emergency calls and many non-emergency situations for the residents not only in our own towns and counties but for travelers passing through our region.
     You can help the 9-1-1 telecommunicators by being prepared for emergencies when they happen. Not only will it make their job easier, but being prepared will get help to you more quickly. Here are a couple of ways to help ensure you can be found quickly in an emergency:
·         Your 9-1-1 address should be posted and visible from the road so that emergency responders can easily find you in case of an emergency. In an emergency, seconds can sometimes make a life-saving difference. Make sure your 9-1-1 address numbers are posted and are easy to see from the road. A well-marked location is much easier for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and medical personnel to find you when you need help.
·         Help make sure your 9-1-1 address is correct. The phone company’s information for your 9-1-1 address is what will display on the 9-1-1 call center’s equipment. You can check with your phone company to make certain your correct physical address is listed in their records. If you are unsure of your correct 9-1-1 address, contact your local 9-1-1 addressing coordinator, city hall, or county judge’s office.
·         If you are calling from a cell phone, know your location! Be prepared to provide your phone number and the exact location of your emergency. When giving directions, use county and city names, cross streets, mile markers, and landmarks.

Former OU Star To Speak at FCA Sharing The Victory Banquet
4/17/2010
     Former University of Oklahoma football star Carl Pendelton will be the guest speaker at the 2010 Big Country Fellowship of Christian Athletes “Sharing the Victory” Banquet on April 25.
     The annual banquet, set for 4 p.m. at the Abilene Civic Center, will honor the football and basketball players, coaches and cheerleaders for the upcoming 2010 Myrle Greathouse FCA All-Star Classic. Limited seats are available by calling the Big Country FCA office at 325-795-0020.
     Pendelton made national news in 2006 when he announced he would forgo his promising football career to become the legal guardian for his 10-year-old brother, Keirstan, who was born with crack cocaine in his system. Pendelton was president of the OU chapter of the FCA during his playing days, and now is a post-graduate student in Norman. He was named as the Male Big 12 Sportsperson of the Year in 2007.
     The 11^th annual Greathouse FCA All-Star Classic is scheduled for June 12. The girl’s All-Star basketball game at 2 p.m. at Abilene Christian University’s Moody Coliseum will be followed by the All-Star football game at 7 p.m. that evening at Shotwell Stadium.

Dates Announced for 2010 Coleman PRCA Rodeo
4/17/2010
June 17, 18 and 19 are the dates for the 73^rd edition of the Coleman PRCA Rodeo. 

Coleman will welcome back the top stock contractor in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Stace Smith Pro Rodeos.   

Smith produces more rodeos than any other stock contractor in the PRCA.  He has been named Stock Contractor of the Year, every year, since 2004. 

Pro Rodeo Sports News, the official magazine of the PRCA, recently listed the money paid to contestants in each sanctioned rodeo in 2009.  Out of 89 PRCA rodeos in Texas last year, Coleman was 19^th on the list of added money paid, surpassing many larger cities. 

For this reason, Coleman attracts cowboys and cowgirls who routinely compete at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. 

In addition to prize money, the Coleman Rodeo Association will once again award hand-made custom spurs to event winners.   

The Friday night dance will feature country music recording artists Josh Abbott Band and Kyle Park.  The Saturday night dance will feature rodeo favorite Sonny Burgess. 

In keeping with local tradition, you can expect the return of the Coleman County Cowgirl breakfast on Tuesday morning during rodeo week.  

The annual parade will make its way down Commercial Avenue at 10:00am Saturday, June 19. 

Other events include the Special Rodeo for Children to be held on June 19^th and the Coleman County Team Roping scheduled for Sunday, June 6.  

You can also find more information at www.colemanrodeo.com or check out Coleman PRCA Rodeo on Facebook and become a fan.

Setting Spending Priorities
4/15/2010 -by Sandy Taylor
A loss of income forces a family to evaluate its spending.  There will be shifts in spending.  Some expenses will be reduced, while others might be eliminated entirely.  Some families can cut expenses without lowering their standard of living or quality of life.  Other families may have to use their financial assets or have another family member enter the workforce to balance income and expenses.

Read the rest of Sandy's Column here.

Computer Guy Newsletter
4/13/2010
Don Wood, The Computer Guy from Winters, has begun writing a newsletter to help you understand computers and technology. Furthering your knowledge can make your time using your computer more enjoyable and less frustrating. Check out The Computer Guy's first edition of the "Me and My Computer" Newsletter by clicking here, or from the menu bar above, under Columns, click on "Me and My Computer."

Child Development Center, Ribbon Cutting
4/12/2010
April 9, 2010 the Winters Area Chamber of Commerce honored the Winters Child Development Center with a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.  The Winters CDC is having open enrollment and is a Christian based daycare center located on N Heights, behind the high school.  For more information please visit the center or call the chamber office at 754-5210. 

The Winters CDC is non prophet and Cheryl Sneed is the director.  The board members for the center consist of Sheila Paschal- bookkeeper, Dan Killough- president,  Cindy Cathey-vice president, Brenda Briley-secretary, Kathy Whitaker and Brandi Jacob. Children attending center are Adrian Alanis, Braden Hoppe, Carter Jacob, Ava King, Treven Lopez, Jonah Whitaker, Nate Wagner, Mason Meyer, Hunter Gray, Abel Gonzales, Nick Cruz and Bailey Collom.  After school children attending are Logan Lara, Trent Daniel, Heighlee Day and Blake Collom. 

Winters Child Development Center is currently selling candy bars at City Hall, Winters Feed & Seed, Winters Auto Tech, Bryan Insurance, J & T Hardware and Hatler Insurance.  They will take pizza orders for Little Ceasers Pizza through Mayfest.  Pizzas will be delivered Monday, MAY 10th at 6:00 P.M.  PLEASE order! You will have a chance to order your pizza at their booth at Mayfest, where they will be selling homemade ice cream. 

BYBA 1st Annual Co-Ed Softball Tournament
4/10/2010
Date: April 23rd   24th
Location: Chandler Field, Ballinger
Format: USSSA, 16 player rosters, $10 per player
Deadline: Wednesday, April 21st by 5:00pm
Contact: Eloyed Fuentes 365-8581 or 325-977-0915 Tammy Crabb 940-231-4525 Bryan Jones 365-8156
 
  Team Prizes include shirt and $100 for 1st place and shirts for 2nd place   Lots of food and fun 

   *** All proceeds benefit the Ballinger Youth Baseball Association ***

Winters Head Start Now Accepting Applications
4/10/2010

·       Program for 3 & 4 year olds
·       FREE to eligible children
·       *Individualized Teaching by Degreed Teachers or Teachers in a Degree Program*    
·       Full day classes available to eligible parents
·       Meals and Snacks
·       Family Services
·       Health Services
·       Services for children with disabilities
·       Social Emotional Development
·       Assistance with potty training
·       Nationally Acclaimed Curriculum

Servicios completos para todos los ninos y sus familias,incluyendo los ninos con desabilidades

For an appointment call your local Head Start today!
325.754.4325

Edwards Plateau Historical Association Will Meet at Rock Hotel
4/10/2010 -by Betty Thomason - Reporter for RCHC
     The 2010 spring meeting of the Edwards Plateau Historical Association (EPHA) will convene Saturday morning, May 1, in the Rock Hotel. Runnels County Historical Commission will host the all day event.  Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and costs $10.00, which includes a catered meal.  Deadline for reservations is Monday, April 26.  For reservations call Ruth Cooper, Runnels County Historical Commission Chairman, at 325-754-5183 or jrc@wcc.net
     Edward’s Plateau Historical Association meets twice each year in one of the counties comprising the Edwards Plateau of central Texas.  Runnels County’s southeastern corner meets the criteria as being part of Edward’s Plateau.  Edwards Plateau is described as a rocky land covered with a thin layer of soil making it suitable mostly for ranch land.       
     Faith Grote from Llano is president of the EPHA.  The group devotes the meetings to presentations of research papers dealing with various facets of the settlement of this area and sharing information about the related aspects of pioneers.  The association publishes the documented papers from the past five (or so) years into a bound volume entitled THE HISTORIAN.
     The May 1 program at the Rock Hotel will consist of three papers on historical events of the area.  Anthony Lange will tell “The History of Norton, the Town and the Man”.  Ruth Cooper's topic will be “From Germany to Runnels County”.  Third speaker will be Carolyn Gully who will relate “The Story of Nancy Parker”.  This last topic touches a bit on Kimble County history, as Nancy Parker is buried in the historic Weaver-Bannowsky Cemetery on Big Saline Creek.
     Following the meeting, a tour will be made of the Rock Hotel, Z. I. Hale Museum, and Ag Museum in Winters.

Winters High School UIL Prose and Poetry Teams
4/10/2010

Left to right    Shelby Gehrels –Jr.     Kat Lindley-Fr.    Shelly Soto-Fr.   Daisy Martinez-Fr.     Brittany Gray-Fr.  Jennifer Pritchard Sr.

Schedule Set For Alumni Football Games
4/8/2010
     Dates and locations have been set for games in your area! We have three great weekends on tap with games being played at Frenship Tiger Stadium, Sweetwater Mustang Bowl, Big Spring and Jim Ned High School. For our first set of games, on Saturday, April 17th at Frenship’s Tiger Stadium in Lubbock there will be a triple header kicking off at 2:30 p.m. The first game will feature the Hale Center Owls Alumni Team and Olton Mustangs Alumni Team. Saturday’s game will be a hard fought battle between the Plains Cowboys Alumni Team and the Tahoka Bulldogs Alumni Team. And finally, the night’s main attraction will highlight the Littlefield Wildcats and the Levelland Lobos alumni teams.
     Our second weekend is Saturday, April 24th, at the Sweetwater Mustang Bowl and Sunday, April 25th at Big Spring Memorial Stadium. At 2:30 p.m. the Rotan alumni team will kick-off against the Anson alumni team. The Haskell Indians Alumni Team will play against the Stamford Bulldogs Alumni Team at 5:00 p.m. The third contest on Saturday will be an 11-man game with regular high school rules with kick-off slated for 7:30 p.m. The Roby Lions Alumni Team and the Roscoe Plowboys Alumni Team will battle it out under the lights in Sweetwater. Sunday features a doubleheader starting at Noon with Forsan alumni vs. Garden City alumni. To round out the weekend, the Post Antelopes will kick off against the home team at 2:30 p.m., the Big Spring Steers. Teams are currently practicing to gear up for the big game and put on a show for their friends, family, fans and community.
     Our final weekend slated for West Texas is Saturday, May 1st at Jim Ned Indian Stadium in Tuscola. The May tripleheader features six hard-working alumni teams. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m. for Ballinger vs. Miles alumni teams. Saturday’s second game is Wall vs. Merkel starting at 5:00 p.m. Finally, rounding out the evening is the Winters Blizzards against the home team, the Jim Ned Indians at 7:30 p.m.
     Roster spots are still available if alumni from these schools are interested in playing football. Players can sign up at www.WestTexasC.com today! Full rosters are attached with class year and accolades. Yellow highlight denotes captain for respective teams.
     This is a chance for former high school football players to get on the field one more time and play a full contact game with full gear, and regular high school game rules. Players can relive the glory days on the grid iron! No one will want to miss these exciting alumni football match-ups. Tickets will be available at the gate.
Prices are as follows: Adults - $8   Senior 65+ - $6     Children 7-17 - $6   Children 6 & Under – Free

Upcoming Schedule for West Texas:
Tickets available at the gate
Saturday, April 17, 2010 @ Frenship Tiger Stadium
2:30 p.m. Hale Center vs. Olton
5:00 p.m. Plains vs. Tahoka
7:30 p.m. Littlefield vs. Levelland
Saturday, April 24, 2010 @ Sweetwater Mustang Bowl
2:30 p.m. Rotan vs. Anson
5:00 p.m. Haskell vs. Stamford
7:30 p.m. Roby vs. Roscoe
Saturday, May 1, 2010 @ Tuscola Jim Ned Indian Stadium
2:30 p.m. Ballinger vs. Miles
5:00 p.m. Wall vs. Merkel
7:30 p.m. Winters vs. Jim Ned

This is a great way for schools to actively engage their alumni. The community can rally around their players and support their local school by purchasing pre-sale tickets. Half of the proceeds earned through pre-sale tickets go back into the schools. Stay tuned for more information regarding pre-sale tickets for Van Horn.
     Here is some additional information on Alumni Football USA. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask.
Bob Cazet, based in Santa Anna, California is the founder and director of Alumni Football USA and has been organizing alumni games for the past 19 years. While the program is established in other states, this is the first group of games organized in Texas. Tim Bishop is the Texas Regional Director and based in Austin, TX. As you know, football is huge in Texas, so the alumni football games here will be on a much grander scale than the rest of the country. As I mentioned before, this is a great opportunity for schools to raise money through pre-sale tickets when they collect half of the proceeds. So far, 1,500 players from Texas have signed up to play and we've only reached a tiny portion of the state.
     This is a serious, spectacular, one-time football game with community players representing their high schools! The players are more mature, bigger, stronger, thicker, and wiser and maybe a step slower, but they still hit, tackle and score and the fans love them!

To view the full roster, click here.

Relay for Life Meeting
4/8/2010
There will be a Relay for Life Team Meeting on Monday, April 12th, 5:30 p.m. at Mainstreet Soda Fountain.  All team captains, and anyone interested in participating in this year's Relay is invited to attend. 

SBA & SBDC Informational Workshop
4/6/2010
Realize your dreams of entrepreneurship with a wealth of resources from the U.S.
Small Business Administration and Texas Tech Small Business Development Center
at Abilene. Whether your enterprise is a startup, an established or an expanding
business, the SBA’s resources and services can help you!

The following topics will be discussed by SBA & TTU SBDC @ Abilene

- SBA Loan Guaranties and Investment Financing
- Federal Contracting Assistance
- Surety Bond Guarantee Program
- International Trade
- SBDC Programs and Services

WHEN: April 21, 2010
WHERE: Ballinger Community Center
200 N. Crosson, Meeting Rm.
Ballinger, TX 76821
TIME: 6-8pm

Sponsored by:
The Texas Tech University Small Business Development Center @ Abilene, & The U. S. Small Business Administration

There is No Charge for this Workshop; however, seating is limited.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED DUE TO LIMITED SEATING
Call to Reserve: 325-670-0300
Mail to Reserve: SBDC-500 Chestnut, Ste. 601-Abilene-TX-79602
Fax: 325-670-0311
Visit our Website www.ttusbdc.org

Runnels County 4-H Leaders for Life Places 2nd
4/6/2010 -by Toby Virden
     The Runnels County 4-H Leaders for Life Team competed at the District 7 4-H Leaders for Life competition Wednesday, March 31 in Grape Creek.  The team placed second in the contest.  Contest officials had to use all four of the tie breaking processes to decide the winner of the junior division, with Tom Green County and Runnels County’s scores being the same in three of the four parts of the contest.  The team consists of Winters 4-H members Ethan Bredemeyer and Daniel Gerhart, and Ballinger 4-H Club members Alyssa Flanagan, Shane Flanagan, and John Glass.  The project leaders are Bill Bredemeyer and Toby Virden.
     Leaders for Life is a new competition to Texas 4-H in the 2009-2010 year.  The teams conduct a mock meeting in which they demonstrate how to correctly conduct a meeting according to Roberts Rules of Order.  The teams are provided parliamentary problems they must implement into the demonstration during the contest with only 15 minutes of preparation without only the team members present.  Following the parliamentary procedure demonstration, the team members verbally answer a series of questions relating to parliamentary procedure.  The team participates in a quiz bowl, in which the members answer leadership related questions and are scored as a team based on their number of correct answers.  The team also prepares and submits a presentation piece relating to a community service related project which is judged at the contest.  The teams receive a cumulative score overall compiled from scoring in each section of the contest.  The cumulative score determines the overall score for each team.  

 
Team members left to right in white shirts:
Daniel Gerhart, John Glass, Shane Flanagan, Ethan Bredemeyer, Alyssa Flanagan
Project Leaders—left in red shirt with hat—Bill Bredemeyer, Right in pink shirt—Toby Virden  

Runnels SWCD Sponsors Fish Program
4/6/2010
     It’s time for fish, fingerling size. Runnels Soil and Water Conservation District is holding their annual fish sale this year.
     The program will continue through May 7, 2010 with delivery of the fish on May 12, 2010 at the Natural Resources Conservation Service office at 2000 Hutchings Avenue in Ballinger.
     Available species, sizes and pricing are as follows:
          Channel catfish 4-6” .55
                                 6-8” .85
          Blue catfish      3-6” .90
          Largemouth bass 1-4” .95
          Bluegill sunfish   1-3” .45
                                   3” + .85
          Hybrid bream     1-3” .50
          Red Ear perch    1-3” .55
          Crappie              1-4” .90
          Minnows (300-400 per lb.) $11.00 per lb. (fathead or shiner)
          Sterile grass carp (available with TP&WD permit) (visit NRCS office for information)

     The vendor will provide bags, air and water necessary to transport your fish to their destination.
     The Fish Program in addition to the Windbreak Tree Program generates funds used for conservation education across our county. You may recognize such things as our frequent fish and wildlife seminars, conservation field days, Natural Resource Day for county fifth graders, poster and essay contest, soil stewardship materials for area churches and sponsoring students and teachers to educational seminars.
     To place your fish order, please stop by the NRCS office at 2000 Hutchings Avenue in Ballinger or for more information on this year’s program call the office at 365-3415 ext. 3.

Benefit Tournament
4/6/2010
A benefit Coed Softball Tournament to help with rising medical cost for Gabriel Cavazos, will be held April 30th and May 1st.

Entry Fee $ 10.00 per person
16 player roster
The tournament will be held at Rowena Softball Field, Rowena, Texas
Call Sheila 325-718-9989 for more details and to register.

Future of Winters Club of the Winters Area Foundation
4/5/2010 -by Susan Conner, President, Winters Area Foundation
Local citizens are still encouraged to join the Future of Winters Club of the Winters Area Foundation.  The cost of membership is $100 and entitles the member to dinner for two on April 20^th at the Winters Country Club.  Members are invited to come from 5 p.m. to 6:30 to visit and to try their skills at the golf challenges.  Highlight of the evening will be the awarding of grants for the next year.  Memberships are being taken at the Chamber of Commerce, Raymond’s Clip Joint or Windmill Enterprise.  This is the fourth year for the Project Club to exist and each year more people choose to join and become a part of the contributions that the Project Club makes to the betterment of the Winters community.  

MayFest 2010
4/5/2010 -by Amanda Collom, WACC
Winters Area Chamber of Commerce looks forward to this year’s event! The chamber is still signing up volunteer entertainment and taking applications for booth space.  Booth applications may be picked up at WACC office or Wes-T-Go convenience store.  The deadline for applications is April 26.  We already have some NEW entertainment signed up that is sure to please.  Items to look forward to at the arts and crafts show: Homemade Gourmet, Scentcy, Doughnuts to benefit Winters Community Baseball, home made ice cream to benefit Winters Child Development Center, cotton candy & pop corn to benefit the cheerleaders, auction to benefit the Winters Public Library, burgers and ice cold tea to benefit the Winters Volunteer Fire Dept., candles and western décor, flip flops & tees, Praisegates- custom metal art & signs, purses, sno-cones, funnel cakes & tater twisters, Don Wood-the computer guy AND a massage therapist!  WACC would like to remind everyone this is a great time for all of our local churches and organizations to raise money at a community event.  Wojtek Racing car #45 with driver Shane Wojtek will be available for pictures for the kids, please bring your camera.  There will also be a cake walk and bingo, more details to come.  For more information on Mayfest see Raymond at Raymond’s Clip Joint or visit the office at 100 W Dale. 325-754-5210, wacc@wtxs.net 

"Last Trip Home"
4/4/2010
Fort Worth, TX - Outskirts Press, Inc. has published Last Trip Home by Jamye Stewart, formerly of Winters. The author's most recent book to date is a 6 x 9 paperback in the health and fitness, cancer, category and is available worldwide on book retailer websites such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. The webpage at www.outskirtspress.com/LastTripHome was launched simultaneously with the book's publication.

On July 10, 2001 the author’s mother asked her if they were packed and ready for the trip. Jamye knew that when people were getting close to their time, they sometimes talk about packing for a trip or getting ready to go somewhere.

She told her mother, "Yes, we're packed and ready," and her mother replied, "Okay, then."

So begins Jamye Stewart’s chronicle of her mother’s battle with cancer.

237 pages in length, Last Trip Home is being aggressively promoted to appropriate markets with a focus on the health and fitness, cancer and diseases category. With U.S. wholesale distribution through Ingram and Baker & Taylor, and pervasive online availability through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and elsewhere, Last Trip Home meets consumer demand through both retail and library markets with a suggested retail price of $14.95.

Additionally, Last Trip Home can be ordered by retailers or wholesalers for the maximum trade discount price set by the author in quantities of ten or more from the Outskirts Press wholesale online bookstore at www.outskirtspress.com/buybooks

Runnels County Historical Commission Meeting
4/1/2010 -Betty Thomason—RCHC Reporter
     Runnels County Historical Commission  (RCHC) members met March 6 at Casa Cabana.  Marianne Ray gave a program that traced her life from the time she was born in 1945 in Germany and on through the events that brought her to Runnels County where she lives now.
     Chairman Ruth Cooper initiated plans for the RCHC group to host the upcoming Edward’s Plateau Historical Association (EPHA) meeting at the Rock Hotel in Winters on May 1. 
     The EPHA meets twice a year--once in the spring (1^st Saturday in May) and once in the fall (1^st Saturday in October).  The association devotes their meetings to the presentation of papers on the history of settlement and pioneers of the Edward’s Plateau area.  The organization publishes the book, The Historian, from a collection of the papers presented the past five years. 
     In the May 1 meeting at the Rock Hotel, histories of Runnels County will be presented by Anthony Lange of Norton, “The History of Norton, the Town, and the Man;” Ruth Cooper of Winters, “Germany to Runnels County:” and Carolyn Gully of Novice, “Story of Nancy Parker.”
     A tour of the Rock Hotel, Z. I. Hale Museum and Ag Museum will be given in the afternoon and will conclude the program.