New Spotlight
4/29/2010
It's been a bit too long, but there's finally a new BISD Spotlight posted. Click on the BISD Spotlight link on the Menu Bar above to read all you wanted to know about Mrs. Bowman!
 

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!

Relay for Life Bake Sale
4/29/2010
Ballinger National Bank will have a Mother's Day Bake Sale on May 7th, 2010 from 9am til 3pm in the Bank lobby. All proceeds will go to Relay for Life.
 

Rowena T-Ball Sign Up
4/29/2010
Rowena T-ball sign up will be Wednesday, May 5th from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at St. Joseph Parish Hall. Children age 4-6 can participate, and cost is $12 per child.  Forms will be available at The Treadmill for those who can't make the signup. FMI, call Danelle Schwertner at 365-8534 (day)/468-2518 (evening) or Jamie Strube at 365-8531 (day)/442-2088 (evening).

Runnels County "Walk Down Memory Lane"
4/29/2010
Check out the 4H page under the menu bar "Columns" above to read about the local 4H Fashion Show Committee and their "Walk Down Memory Lane" fashion show that featured over 50 wedding gowns from the past!

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.

Fine Art Extravaganza
4/29/2010
     Ballinger High School will present the 2010 Fine Art Extravaganza on Sunday, May 2nd beginning at 2pm at the high school. Once again, all areas of fine art will be represented by students of BHS.
    An effort to increase awareness of the importance of conserving our environment for future generations is being made evident at this event. Reusable grocery totes with  hand-painted designs will be available for purchase to the community.
    Vocal students advancing to state level competition will perform their pieces. The jazz band will provide entertainment as patrons have the opportunity to view the visual works of art on exhibit. Art show winners will be revealed, followed by the state-qualifying One-Act Play performance of “The Miser” beginning at 3:30. The play will charge an entry fee of $3.00 for students and $6.00 per adult.

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.

Stamp Out Hunger
4/28/2010
You Can Help!! Saturday May 8, 2010 is National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.
It's easy:
1. Put some non-perishable food items in a bag and place by your mailbox. Please do not include items that have expired or are in glass containers.
2. Your letter carrier will pick it up deliver to a local food bank pantry. In the case of Ballinger, all goods will be delivered to the Ballinger Food Pantry.

This year's goal for Ballinger is 5000lbs. 4970 lbs were collected last year, and the Post Office is trying to one up that goal this year.

Visit www.usps.com/stampouthunger for more information.

Bearcats Football Team Car Wash
4/28/2010
The Ballinger football team will be having a car-wash on May 1, Saturday, from 10 a.m. till 2p.m. at J's Auto on Hutchings Ave in Ballinger, to raise money for this summer's 7 on 7 team.

Olfen School Superintendent's Report
4/27/2010 -by David Velky, Olfen Superintendent
     This week at Olfen School we are TAKS testing. This time of year reminds us of how important preparation is. Failing to prepare means, “planning to fail”. I am proud of our Mustangs for having a great attitude about TAKS. They have prepared thoroughly, and are ready to perform at their highest levels this week.
     Small things are often of great importance in a school. As I look back over the past months, I have seen teachers taking extra time to help children understand what is expected of them. We seldom know how a few words from us can make a big difference in a child’s life. Our actions as educators are of great importance. Whether it is handwriting or teaching good manners, our lessons last a lifetime.
     This morning I took one of our District vehicles to Toliver’s for an oil change and new tires. I am always impressed with the staff at this small country dealership. They are polite and efficient. Everyone there knows their job, and they do it very well. When I see a small business that works well and provides great service, I think about how our schools should contribute to making every student ready to be a good employee or businessperson. If I were to write such a curriculum, it would begin with “Being of Service to Others.”
     There are several staff members who have done extra good work last week at Olfen School. Mrs. Brenda Halfmann deserves particular recognition for getting all our TAKS testing material lined out properly. This is no easy task, and involves hours of tedious work. I appreciate Mrs. Halfmann’s commitment to our kids.
     Another staff member who deserves recognition is Darla Williams. She put together a great book fair this year. Students and parents were able to come up and purchase books for their children. I’ve noticed on the bus and in the cafeteria that students are reading their new books in their free moments. Thanks are due to Mrs. Williams for promoting reading among our students.
I would also like to thank JB and Ethel Fuchs for coming up this weekend to weed around the buildings and the football field. The school is responsible for 26 acres of lawn care, which is no small task. The help we receive from community members is both essential and very much appreciated.
     Next week the majority of our State testing will be over. We can look forward to a more relaxed May, with field trips, banquets and graduation exercises. Perhaps the teachers can fit in some lessons that are not necessarily on the TAKS test, but are nonetheless very important. Have a good week, and see you around the campus.

See the new Mustang Message from the "Home" drop drop menu above.

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.
 

"The Miser"
4/27/2010 -by Sherran Geistmann
Ballinger High School's One Act Play, The Miser, won at the Regional competition held at Odessa College, April 23.  Shallowater and Ballinger advanced to the State meet to be held in Austin, Friday, May 7.  Ballinger will be performing in the second session.  This session begins at 7:30 P.M. and Ballinger is the 3rd show.  At state the plays run back to back, so everyone needs to be there by 8:30 P.M. in order to watch the show.  Admission is charged.  Call the high school office for more information. 

"The students are excited and should be congratulated by all,"  comments Sherran Geistmann.  "It takes a tremendous amount of dedication and time to produce a quality show.  Please make plans to attend the State Meet and support our students.  They are now in the top 8 in the State of Texas." 

Individual Awards:
Samantha Gonzales - Hon. Mention Cast
Maggie Hogan - All Star Cast
Spencer Ryan - Best Actor

National Day of Prayer
4/26/2010
In observance of National Day of Prayer, the community of Rowena will have a Prayer Service on Thursday, May 6 at the VFW Hall in Rowena.  The service will begin at 7 p.m. with the posting of the colors and will include prayers, songs and a message from Art Mavrode, pastor of Zoar Community Church.  The theme of the evening is: "Prayer-For Such A  Time As This."  The citizens of Rowena invite everyone to join them as they pray most especially for Our Country and its leaders.

May 8, 2010 Election Information
4/26/2010
The City of Ballinger will be conducting the early voting for the City-Ballinger ISD and Ballinger Memorial Hospital District.
Early voting by personal appearance starts Monday April 26- May 4, 2010
People can vote during the day 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m Monday thru Friday
The City hall will be open late for two days on Monday and Tuesday
May 3, 2010- May 4, 2010 and the hours will be 8:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.

The place to vote is at the City Hall- 700 Railroad Avenue

The places and candidates are as follows:
City of Ballinger- Single Member District # 3
Juan Castillo, Jr.
Jolene McBurney

Ballinger ISD- Single Member District # 2
Michelle Aguilera
Steve Kelley
Scott King

Ballinger Memorial Hospital District Director
Vote for none, one, two, three or four
Rodney Flanagan
Debbie Mattingley
Jeff Soltow
James Studer
David Cowart
John C. Dankworth
Bryan Jennings
Rebecca (Becky) Kresta
Carolyn Goetz McNelly

THE ELECTION DAY IS MAY 8, 2010 AND ALL VOTING WILL BE CONDUCTED AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER - 200 CROSSON AVENUE-

Ballinger High School One Act Play Tickets
4/26/2010 -by Mike Carter, BHS Principal
Ballinger High School One Act Play is advancing to the state level and will perform in Austin, Texas at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, May 7^th. If you are interested in purchasing tickets to the performance, you may do so by coming to the BHS office with money in hand by 3:30 on Wednesday, April 28th. The cost is $10 per student and $12 per adult. The cost includes four performances starting at 7:30 p.m., not just Ballinger’s performance.  

If you purchase tickets through the school, you will need to be at the box office area of the Hogg Auditorium from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00p.m. to pick up your tickets. Look for Ballinger High School Office personnel, who will have your tickets at that time. If you cannot be there during that window of time, please understand that you may not be able to collect your ticket and it may be better to purchase general admission tickets when you arrive. Please note that there is limited seating.

If you are interested in attending all of the 2A performances, you will need to purchase additional tickets for the 4:00 p.m.  session. These tickets will go on sale starting at 3:00 p.m. at the Hogg Auditorium Box Office. The cost of general admission tickets at that time is $10 per student and $15 per adult. The school will not be able to order those tickets for you.

Congratulations to our Bearcat One Act Play. Please come and show your support for their efforts.
 

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

Ballinger
Thursday, May 13th
10-12 & 1:30-3
608 Strong (behind the courthouse)

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

For more information call 325/754-4945

City and Rural Rides - 2010 Outstanding Rural Transit System in Texas
4/25/2010
     Local transit system, City And Rural Rides has been awarded the Texas Transit Association’s “2010 – Outstanding Rural Transit System in Texas”.   The award was presented during the Annual Texas Transit Association Conference and Expo held in Corpus Christi, Texas on April 20, 2010.  The Texas Transit Association which was organized in 1986, includes members composed of the metropolitan transit authorities, small urban transit districts, and rural transit districts in the State of Texas, as well as associate members of private and public entities from across the nation. 
     C.A.R.R. was selected from the 39 Rural Transit Districts serving areas with a population under 50,000.   J.R. Salazar, General Manager stated, “We are so proud to receive this recognition from the Texas Transit Association whose membership includes representatives of Transit systems throughout the State.  He added, “I would like to thank all of the staff of City And Rural Rides and our Board of Directors for their hard work, dedication, and efforts on behalf of our riders.”
     City And Rural Rides provides Rural Public Transit service in eleven counties including:  Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Comanche, Eastland, Erath, Nolan, Runnels, Shackelford, Stephens, and Rural Taylor counties.   City And Rural Rides is operated by Central Texas Rural Transit District.   For more information on services please call 1(800)710-2277 or visit C.A.R.R.’s web-site at www.cityandruralrides.com

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.

BHS One Act Play Qualifies for State
4/25/2010
Congratulations to the Ballinger One Act Play for qualifying for State!!!!!

Spencer Ryan Best Actor, Maggie Hogan All Star Cast and Samantha Gonzales Honorable Mention.

Other school advancing is Shallowater while Sonora is the alternate.

Ballinger and Winters 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

Dr. Brian McKnight to be Featured Speaker
4/22/2010
San Angelo, Texas – The San Angelo Genealogical and Historical Society will feature Dr. Brian D. McKnight, Associate Professor of History at Angelo State University, as the May speaker. Dr. McKnight is the award-winning author of Contested Borderland - The Civil War in Appalachian Kentucky and Virginia. His presentation is entitled “Guerillas of the Civil War” and will be part of the regular monthly meeting on May 4, 2010 at 7:00 PM.  

BISD 5th Six Weeks Honor Rolls
4/22/2010

                                      

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.

Ballinger Education Foundation Raffle
4/20/2010
HP PAVILION DV7-3057NR ENTERTAINMENT NOTEBOOK PC
• AMD Turion II Dual-Core Mobile Processor M500 (2.2GHz, 1MB L2 cache)
• Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
• 17.3" diagonal HD LED BrightView widescreen display
• 4096MB DDR2 SDRAM (2 Dimm)
• 500GB 7200rpm hard drive
• LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD±RW with double layer support
• 802.11a/b/g/n WLAN
• ExpressCard/54 PC Card Slot
• ATI Radeon HD 4200 Graphics with 128MB DDR2 Display CacheHP webcam
• 5-in-1 Digital Media Reader
• Expansion Port 3
• HP Mobile Remote Control
• HP MediaSmart
• 8-cell Li-Ion battery

HP PHOTOSMART PRINTER
• Wireless
• Printer
• Scanner
• Copier


$1.00 each or 6 for $5.00
Drawing June 5, 2010

Contact any Ballinger Education Foundation Member to get your tickets.
(Justin Busenlehner, Tammie Virden, Jackie Gibbs, Terilyn Bowman, Elaine Paske, Kay Smith, Robert Martinez, Thella Henderson, Julie Gray, Jeanette Johnson)

All Proceeds go to benefit the teachers and students of Ballinger ISD.

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.

BYBA Thank You
4/19/2010
The Ballinger Youth Baseball Association would like to send out a big "Thank You" to all of the businesses and individuals who aided in making our Opening Ceremony a success. Although we had to scramble for a change of venue due to the weather, we had a great turnout and were able to offer most of the activities we had planned. We would also like to remind everyone that we are having our 1st Annual BYBA Co-ed softball tournament this weekend at Chandler Field. The format will be USSSA 16 player rosters with a $10 cost per player. We will be offering 1st and 2nd place prizes as well as lots of food and fun. You can contact Eloyed Fuentes at

325-365-8581 or 325-977-0915, Tammy Crabb at 940-231-4525, or Bryan Jones at 325-365-8156 no later than 5pm on Wednesday, April 21st to enter your team.
 

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

Third Annual Miniature Art Exhibit
4/19/2010
The Mid-West Texas Artist’s Guild will have their third annual miniature art show and sale on April 24, 2010. This is an open show. Any artist age 18 and over is eligible to enter. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place, with four honorable mention awards to be presented. There will be a People’s Choice Award chosen by the public.

Entries should be no larger than 24 continuous inches, as in a 5” x 7” or 6” x 6”, etc. Entries will be accepted on April 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. If you would like further information, please contact Louise Drennan at 365-9920 or Queba James at 365-3770.

In addition there will be numerous purchase awards. Purchase awards allow the public an opportunity to purchase art for a nominal fee. This makes a great gift or a treasure to keep for yourself. Purchase awards may be obtained from any guild member.

The show will be held from 9 until 4 on Saturday, April 24, at the Do-Art Studio at 108 South Ninth Street. The award presentation will be at 3:00 p.m.

Queba James will have her print “Fiesta” available for sale. This is Mrs. James’ depiction of the Ethnic Festival. This is a limited edition print, signed and numbered. These won’t last long. This print may be purchased during Saturday’s art show or contact Mrs. James at 365-3770.

Mid-West Texas Artist’s Guild invites everyone to visit us during the Ethnic Festival.

Rowena Historical Preservation Society Meeting
4/19/2010
The Rowena Historical Preservation Society will have a meeting on Tuesday, April 27th at 7 p.m. at the Zoar Community Church in Rowena.  Anyone interested in the historical preservation of Rowena is encouraged to join the historical society.  Membership dues are $20.00 annually.  The society is very new and it is hoped that involvement of the community in historical preservations and the interaction with other groups and civic organizations in preserving Rowena's heritage will be an ongoing labor of love.  The society is especially interested in finding descendants of families who once made their home in Rowena and are a part of the town's history. 

Rowena TBall Signup
4/17/2010
Rowena T-ball sign up will be Wednesday, May 5th from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at St. Joseph Parish Hall. Children age 4-6 can participate, and cost is $12 per child.  Forms will be available at The Treadmill for those who can't make the signup. FMI, call Danelle Schwertner at 365-8534 (day)/468-2518 (evening) or Jamie Strube at 365-8531 (day)/442-2088 (evening).

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.

Bearcat Band makes Sweepstakes
4/17/2010
     The Bearcat Band completed their yearlong goal of Sweepstakes yesterday in Llano.  They have received Division I rating in UIL Marching, Concert, and Sight-reading competitions this year.  Congrats to them on their hard work and thanks to you all for your support this year!  It has been a great year!
     Including Bearcub Band's Sweepstakes - this makes 3 consecutive years of "GRAND SWEEPSTAKES." Way to go!!!
 

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.

One Act Play Performance
4/15/2010
For those of you that will not have a chance to see the play, please mark your calendars for Sunday, May 2, 3:30.  This is the Art Extravaganza day that Mrs. Chapman started.  It is a wonderful day to see what all the artistic students have accomplished.

Please make plans to attend and make an afternoon of art enjoyment.  We will need to charge for the play.  This is our fund raiser so please try to attend.  We need your help.  Adults - $6.00 and Students - $3.00.

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.
 

2010 Fine Art Extravaganza To Be Held
4/15/2010
     Ballinger High School will present the 2010 Fine Art Extravaganza on Sunday, May 2nd beginning at 2pm at the high school. Once again, all areas of fine art will be represented by students of BHS.
     An effort to increase awareness of the importance of conserving our environment for future generations is being made evident at this event. Reusable grocery totes with  hand-painted designs will be available for purchase to the community.
     Vocal students will perform their pieces. The jazz band will provide entertainment as patrons have the opportunity to view the visual works of art on exhibit. Art show winners will be revealed, followed by the Regional qualifying One-Act Play performance of “The Miser” beginning at 3:30. Admission to the play is $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for students.

Ballinger Students Compete in World's Largest Art Competition
4/15/2010
     Five Ballinger High School Students recently competed in the world’s largest high school art competition. The Visual Arts Scholastic Event, or VASE, is sponsored annually by the Texas Art Education Association.  Entries for 2010 included 24,527 from across the state with 2,057 advancing to the state competition. Students entered the contest by scholastic regions. This is the second year for Region 15 to compete and the first for Ballinger High School.
     The regional event of VASE was held on Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Central High School in San Angelo. Those participating from BHS were Judd Hatler (pictured left), Blake Holle, Cheyene Parker, Emily Studer, and Ali Tounget.
     Jurors rated the students based on their artwork and individual interviews. The highest rating being IV Superior, followed by III Excellent, II Average, and I Below Average.
     Ali Tounget received a III Excellent rating on her mixed media piece called “Red Kiss.” Cheyene Parker also received a III on her piece called “Sunflower.” Cheyene also received a IV Superior rating on her drawing called “A Vase and Other Stuff.” Also receiving IVs were Blake Holle for his pieces, “Me, Myself, and I” and “Shattered Thought.” Emily Studer received a IV for her drawing “Mind Bottling.” Judd Hatler received a IV on the drawing he titled “In the Mirror”.
     Judd also received a IV and advanced to the state competition with his drawing called “Through a Cubist’s Eye.”
     Judd competed at the state level on April 10, 2010 at the University of Houston at Clear Lake. His drawing received a III Excellent rating. He was also a finalist in the on-site scholarship competition held among all Division I State Finalists. The students were given 5 objects, paper and charcoal pencils with instructions to produce a still life drawing in a two hour time frame. The drawings were then juried based on a number of design criteria.
     All of these works will be on display at the Fine Arts Extravaganza to be held at Ballinger High School on Sunday, May 2^nd.

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."

Huge Concert Event
4/13/2010
BRONTE, TX - To benefit MARTIN BASQUEZ, Bronte native recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. 

WHO: (bands performing)
BUGOTA      UNSPOKEN    CROWHAVEN
   CROSSING TYLER     REVERENCE   
BUCK RHINESTONE    FEARLESS JASON 

WHAT:  Food and drinks available.
            ***Bring your lawn chairs***

WHEN: MAY 1, 2010      2pm-?
WHERE: Bronte Community Center
WHY: To help Martin and his family with treatments and traveling expenses.
COST:  Donations

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sherri @ (325) 656-2039

5th Annual Picnic in the Park
4/13/2010
SAN ANGELO, Texas - THE CONCHO VALLEY FAMILY ALLIANCE (CVFA), a program of the Children's Advocacy Center of Tom Green County, will continue our tradition of recognizing Child Abuse Prevention with the 5th Annual “PICNIC IN THE PARK”.  The picnic will occur on Sunday, April 18, 2010 from 2:00—5:00 pm at the Kirby Park Pavilion located at 1400 Block of Edmund Blvd on the North Concho River.  Last year, this event drew over 1200 people and we’re expecting even more this year! Our goal is to strengthen the family by reducing risk to our children—-stress on parents-- lack of parenting knowledge, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, lack of access to medical care, and unemployment all hinder the welfare of children and families. Our goal for this event is to increase the public’s understanding of these issues while providing education and resources to our community’s members. It's also intended to promote family fun and togetherness.

Our theme this year will be that of an old fashioned country fair. There will be free hot dogs and ice cream, lemonade, music and give-aways, activities and games!  Many businesses, organizations, and volunteers will be present, including the Children’s Advocacy Center, the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council of the Concho Valley, Esperanza Health & Dental Centers, El Camino Girl Scouts, Head Start, and the Concho Valley Transit District, and more!  

This is a free community-wide event.  Everyone is invited to attend!  Please call 325-653-4673 or for more information or go to www.cactomgreen.org.

Frerich-Neighbors to Wed
4/13/2010
John and Paula Frerich of Rowena and Jerry and Tammy Neighbors of San Angelo are proud to announce the engagement and upcoming marriage of their children, Shayna Elizabeth Frerich to Justin Wade Neighbors. The wedding is planned for June 5, 2010 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rowena, Texas.

Shayna is a 2005 graduate of Ballinger High School and a 2008 graduate of Angelo State University. She is a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at San Angelo Community Hospital. Shayna is the granddaughter of Alice Frerich of Rowena and the late Arnold Frerich and Daniel and Sherline Strube of Wall.

Justin is a 2005 graduate of Wall High School and owns and operates Neighbors Trucking. Justin is the grandson of David and Carol Lippe of San Angelo; Mary Neighbors of San Angelo and the late Melvin Neighbors.

Best Burger!
4/13/2010
Three years ago today, April 13, was the official Grand Opening of THE TURNROW BAR & GRILL in Rowena, Texas. Thanks to all Customers, Employees, & Family for making The Turnrow what it is today. We have come all the way from giving free hotdogs to serving food that is being talked about all over the area ! Thanks again for all of your support! 

Next Tuesday, April 20, Texas Lone Star Country, 92.9, will be broadcasting live during the noon hour at the TURNROW!  We are in the final 4 of the Best Burgers in Concho Valley!  Earlier this month they asked their listeners who they thought had the Best Burgers in the Concho Valley!  And of course thanks to our wonderful customers we are now in the top 4!!!  They had a survey on the internet that consisted of about 30 restaurants.  You had to log in and vote for your favorite burger restaurant.  It sounds like we got a lot of votes!   

We look so forward to next Tuesday so that we can show them why we should be #1.  Come out and join all the fun! 

Imagination Station Playground
4/13/2010
Citizens of Ballinger have committed to creating a community-built playground that promotes active play, stimulates imagination and  provides play opportunities for all children regardless of ability.  In order to make this vision a reality, we need to raise $125,000 and we are asking the children of our community to take part in this fund raising effort. In honor of the 10/10/10 Grand Opening of Imagination Station, we are asking each student  in Elementary to ask 10 friends and family members to donate $10 toward the cost of materials needed to construct the park. This fund raiser will begin April 12,  2010 and is to be returned to the school by April 23, 2010.

Any grade raising $500 or more will be recognized for their contribution on a plaque at the park. (ex....if the fifth grade class raises $5,000, the Class of 2017 will be recognized as a Patron Level Donor...If the 4th grade class raises $2,000, the Class of 2018  will be recognized as a Sponsor Level Donor, or if  the 3rd grade class raises $500, they will be recognized as a Donor Level contributor). The grade that raises the most money will be rewarded with a pizza party at school thanks to the support of Ballinger Pizza Hut. All students raising $100 or more will be entered in a drawing for a $100 Wal-Mart gift card.

This park truly is a community project – designed with the help of local children, purchased with donated funds, and built entirely by volunteers to be enjoyed by all for many years to come. By taking part in this fund raiser, you are making a difference in this community. Kids, when you play on this new equipment, take pride in knowing you are responsible for it being here. We want you to know that if you can help build a park when you are a student at Ballinger Elementary School, with a little imagination and hard work, you can do anything you set your mind to in years to come!   

Thank you for being a part of this project. Ballinger City Park Board

Third Annual Miniature Art Exhibit
4/12/2010
The Mid-West Texas Artist’s Guild will have their third annual miniature art show and sale on April 24, 2010. This is an open show. Any artist age 18 and over is eligible to enter. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place, with four honorable mention awards to be presented. There will be a People’s Choice Award chosen by the public.

Entries should be no larger than 24 continuous inches, as in a 5” x 7” or 6” x 6”, etc. Entries will be accepted on April 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. If you would like further information, please contact Louise Drennan at 365-9920 or Queba James at 365-3770.

In addition there will be numerous purchase awards. Purchase awards allow the public an opportunity to purchase art for a nominal fee. This makes a great gift or a treasure to keep for yourself. Purchase awards may be obtained from any guild member.

The show will be held from 9 until 4 on Saturday, April 24, at the Do-Art Studio at 108 South Ninth Street. The award presentation will be at 3:00 p.m.

Queba James will have her print “Fiesta” available for sale. This is Mrs. James’ depiction of the Ethnic Festival. This is a limited edition print, signed and numbered. These won’t last long. This print may be purchased during Saturday’s art show or contact Mrs. James at 365-3770.

Mid-West Texas Artist’s Guild invites everyone to visit us during the Ethnic Festival.

Benefit Meal
4/12/2010
A benefit take out meal for Haley Smith will be held Sunday, April 18th from 11 AM until it is all gone at D.J.'s Bar in Rowena.  The meal will consist of barbecue brisket, and the trimmings at a cost of $7.00 per plate.  Haley is the wife of Ballinger High School graduate Barrett Smith and the daughter in-law of Jeri Smith and Ronnie Smith.  Haley sustained severe facial and other injuries in a automobile related accident in March.  The family has insurance, however Haley continues extensive surgery and treatment as she recovers from her injuries.  A benefit account for Haley is open to accept donations at the First National Bank of Ballinger.  All support is greatly appreciated.