Ballinger ISD Update
2/28/2010 by BISD Superintendent Laura Strube
Ballinger ISD will use Friday, May 28, 2010, as an instructional day for all students and staff. This day will be the make-up day for the day of school cancelled on February 23, 2010, due to the inclement weather.

RCHC Meeting
2/25/2010
The Runnels County Historical Commission will meet in regular session at Casa Cabana in Winters on March 6 at 11 a.m.  There will be a short program, business meeting and dutch treat lunch.  Meetings are open to the public.

Trent's Retreat Dinner Thanks!
2/24/2010
     We would like to thank everyone in Runnels County and beyond who supported our first annual Trent’s Retreat Dinner and Auction Fundraiser.  It was a HUGE success!  We were truly overwhelmed by your attendance and generosity.  We can’t say enough about how terrific everyone was who helped organize and host the dinner and auction!  Thank you also to St. Joseph’s Parish for allowing us to use their hall and to all the folks who stopped by to help.  Thanks to the cooks who out did themselves on such an AWESOME meal!  It took everyone working together to make this event a success and we appreciate each and every one of you.
     We want to personally THANK all of you who joined us on Saturday night.  We also want to stress our sincere appreciation to those of you who donated and purchased items at the auction as well as those of you who have donated to the Retreat.  It has touched our hearts and made us swell with pride to see our friends and neighbors come together to support this cause.  Trent’s doctor from Fort Worth and our friends and family from out of town were so amazed at how everyone pitched in to help and support the fundraiser.  We can hardly wait to share your kindness and compassion with the families that will be staying at Trent’s Retreat. 
     Due to all of the overwhelming support, we will be able to begin the building of the Retreat very soon.  Along with the money we have raised, several local contractors and businesses have volunteered their labor and materials.  We plan to post pictures on www.trentsretreat.org as the building progresses, so you can enjoy watching the process.
     Thank you so much for helping us celebrate Trent’s memory while helping other families who are fighting pediatric cancer.  We appreciate each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts.

                      David, Misty, Allie and the rest of Trent’s family

Evergreen Cemetery Faces Financial Crisis
2/24/2010
     The Evergreen Cemetery, just south of the City of Ballinger, is facing a pressing, financial crisis.  Currently the Cemetery is spending approximately $2,000 per month to keep the grounds in an acceptable condition, but is only receiving an average of $1,000 per month from income sources.
     The Board of Directors decided in their June meeting to make a push for donations. Based on that decision, a total of 300 letters were mailed out to members. The Cemetery received approximately $6,000 from just over 80 donors. This is a large sum of money, but the Cemetery had urgent needs this year.   The Board of Directors had to purchase a new mower and a new maintenance shed because the mower could not be repaired and the maintenance barn collapsed due to age.  Those two needs plus paying the caretaker quickly exhausted the operating fund and the money from the donation drive earlier in the year.
     The Evergreen Cemetery is a piece of Ballinger’s history.  The Cemetery is not owned or supported by the city or the county.  The only sources of income are interest earned on the Perpetual Care funds and sales of lots.  According to the law, Perpetual Care funds cannot be used at any time for any reason.  These reserve funds are designated to provide income only from the interest they earn.  With interest rates at an all time low and a steady decline in lot sales due to various reasons, the Cemetery’s income has dwindled.
      It is estimated that there are several hundred people that will read this article who have ties to the Cemetery, i.e., parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, brothers, and sisters. If you are one of those that have relatives buried in Evergreen or the Garden of Memories, please visit the Cemetery soon to see how much work it takes to maintain the cemetery grounds.   While it looks good now, without your financial support the maintenance will slow down or completely cease and soon it will have the appearance of a long-forgotten Cemetery.
     The Directors realize that times are tough and there are numerous worthwhile organizations asking for your assistance.  But please keep the Cemetery in mind. You are the Cemetery’s last hope of continuing to be a peaceful resting place for loved ones.
     The next meeting of the Cemetery’s Board of Directors is March 9, 2010.  All members are encouraged to attend the meeting. For further information, please contact Dennis Havlak, the Cemetery’s manager, at 325-895-5792.  Donations may be mailed to the Ballinger Cemetery Association PO Box 127 Ballinger, TX 76821.  Donations may also be made in person at the Cemetery’s business office located next to the Post Office at 112 South 8^th Street.

Crimestoppers Announcement
2/24/2010 -by Deputy Stephen Gray, Runnels County Sherriff's Office
The Runnels County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Postal Inspector request your help. 

We have been having a problem with rural mailbox vandalism.  This may seem like a game to someone but not to the victims who have to replace or rebuild their mailboxes.  This act of vandalism is a serious federal and or state offense.  If anyone has any information about who may be responsible for these criminal acts, please contact your local law enforcement agency or the Federal Postal Inspectors Office.  You do not have to give your name when calling.  A reward is offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible.

Norton Lions Club Chili Supper
2/24/2010
Norton Lions Club Annual Chili Supper 

Saturday,
February 27, 2010
5:30-7:00 P.M. 

$6.00 per person
(all you can eat)

With Desserts Extra
CarryOuts Available for $7.00 a Quart 

Norton Community Center 

Proceeds to be used for repair of air conditioners in community center.

Sandy's Dollars and Sense
2/23/2010
Sandy Taylor will be writing a monthly financial newspaper article and releasing it to post on BallingerNews.com. There's a new link to her articles under the Columns link on the menu bar above. It's titled "Sandy's Dollars and Sense"

Burning the Note!
2/23/2010
Elder Scott Flanagan of Grace Fellowship Church burns the bank note indicating the debt has been paid for the Church and adjoining Grace House.  Grace Fellowship has been greatly blessed by faithful giving and was able to pay the debt off in half the time the note was made for.  Grace Fellowship Church is a non-denominational family-integrated church located at 609 North 9th Street.  Services are held on Sunday mornings beginning at 10:30 AM.

Snow Day Photo Gallery
2/23/2010
We requested you send you pictures from your day in the snow and were provided MANY! Click here to see the Snow Day Photo Gallery! It's not too late to send your pictures to be added to the gallery. Send them to news@ballingernews.com

Thanks to everyone that sent in your photos and allowed us to post them!

NRCS Accepting Applications for Wetlands Reserve Program
2/23/2010
TEMPLE, TEXAS, Feb. 17, 2010 – The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications from landowners interested in wetlands restoration through the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP). WRP is a voluntary program that provides technical and financial assistance to private landowners and Tribes to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands in exchange for retiring eligible land from agriculture.  

“While Texas landowners have restored thousands of wetland acres through the program, changes made in the 2008 Farm Bill make WRP an even better investment,” said Don Gohmert, NRCS state conservationist for Texas. “The new program rules make it easier for landowners to enroll acres and provide a better system for assessing the value of the land enrolled.” 

The 2008 Farm Bill changes the process for determining the easement value, directing NRCS to pay the lowest of:
·         the fair market value of the land according to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices or an area-wide market analysis;
·         the geographic area rate cap as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture; or
·         the landowner’s offer.

WRP offers three enrollment options:
·         Restoration Cost-Share Agreement. This is an agreement for a minimum of 10 years in duration to reestablish degraded or lost wetland habitat. NRCS pays 75 percent of the cost of the restoration activity. This does not place an easement on the property. The landowner provides the restoration site without reimbursement.
·         30-Year Easement. This is a conservation easement lasting 30 years. Easement payments are 75 percent of what would be paid for a permanent easement. NRCS also pays 75 percent of restoration costs.
·       Permanent Easement. This is a conservation easement in perpetuity. NRCS pays for the easement, as well as 100 percent of the costs of restoring the wetland. 

Wetlands provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species; improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals; reduce flooding; recharge groundwater; protect biological diversity; and provide opportunities for educational, scientific, and limited recreational activities.  

For more information about WRP, contact your local NRCS office to determine if your land is eligible or visit the NRCS Texas Web site at www.tx.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/wrp.

To view some other recently released articles, click on the following: Funding Available for Texas Grassland Owners, Farm and Ranch Lands Program, Environmental Quality Incentive Program

FountainGate Fellowship "42" Tournament
2/23/2010
WHAT: “42” Tournament

WHEN: Saturday, March 6

WHERE: FountainGate Fellowship, 909 N. Willis, Abilene TX

COST: $15 per person (lunch included ; $12.50 per person if entry form received by March 4).

DETAILS: Tournament will be double elimination; round-robin play followed by bracketed competition. Each team guaranteed 8 games. Trophies awarded for 1st & 2nd place. Proceeds benefit children’s ministry of FountainGate Fellowship. Maximum entries: 32 teams.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

8:00 am Coffee and donuts / Registration
8:30 am Registration closes
8:45 am Welcome; rules of play presented
9:00 am Round-Robin play begins (lunch to follow)
1:00 pm Bracketed play begins

Click here to download this info that also contains the entry form

Eddie Chumney on the 70 Weeks of Daniel
2/23/2010
Author and International Teacher of the Gospel of the Savior,
Yeshua ha-Mashiach / Jesus Christ, and the Hebrew Roots of our Faith

Sponsored by Abilene Torah Group

Sunday, March 7, 2010
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Taylor County Expo Center in WHC Ranch House
1700 Hwy. 36 (South 11th Street @ Loop 322)
Abilene, Texas

(There is No Charge to Attend the Seminar – A Free-Will Offering is accepted)

RSVP – Seating is Limited - Contact:

325-660-1952

e-mail: abilenetorahgroup@att.net

You might have seen Eddie Chumney on God’s Learning Channel as a weekly teacher (programmer), or on Light of the Southwest, where he has been a guest of Al and Tommie Cooper several times. Eddie is an international teacher of the Hebraic/Jewish roots of Christianity, helping people to understand the scriptures through the Hebrew, rather than the Greek, mindset.
For more information about Eddie, please visit his website www.hebroots.org, or visit his PalTalk congregation, HHMI Beit Yacov, on the internet each Saturday morning beginning at 9:45 a.m. for the current news update to help us understand things currently happening in the middle east, particularly as it regards the land of Israel in the latter days. Following the update, there is a study of the weekly Torah portion, and an afternoon midrash of the weekly scripture study. (PalTalk.com is a free downloadable software with audio and chat.)

Immunization Clinics
2/23/2010
Texas Department of State Health Services

H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccine Available to All

Ballinger
Thursday, March 11th
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

Benefit for Melinda Clayton
2/22/2010
We are hosting a Drive Thru Chicken Plate Dinner to benefit Melinda Clayton. Melinda is a kindergarten teacher at Ballinger Elementary School who has been diagnosed with ALS.

When: Sunday, March 7, 2010
Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm
Where: Ballinger Elementary 3rd Grade Entrance

Cost: $7.00

Advanced tickets available at the following establishments: Ballinger Elementary, Ballinger Jr. High, Ballinger High School, Apples N'Spice, Ballinger Florist, Ballinger City Hall, 1st Community Federal Credit Union, Ballinger National Bank, 1st National Bank of Ballinger, Curiosities, Chandelier Ranch, and Mueller's.

All proceeds benefit Melinda Clayton.

Top Ratings at Solo and Ensemble
2/22/2010 -by D'Ann Hatler

Eleven Ballinger High School students and two Ballinger Junior High students received top ratings in the Region VII UIL Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest and in the related Region VII Junior High Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest at Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Saturday, February 20. Those taking Division I (Superior) ratings and medals on class 1 vocal solos (solos of a high difficulty level) are:
Jacob Arp (Grade 12)
Alyssa Biscoe (Grade 9)
Christal Castillo (Grade 12)
Courtney Gibbs (Grade 10)
Judd Hatler (Grade 9)
Lindsey Heidenheimer (Grade 9)
Reese Hallmark (Grade 9)
Magdalena Hogan (Grade 11)
Will Irish (Grade 11)
Karina Lemus (Grade 10)
Riley Woodruff (Grade 9)

These are now certified for participation in the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest, to be held at Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, just north of Austin, on May 29 and 31. Our students will be attending on Monday, May 31, as graduation is May 29.

Jacob, Christal, and Karina are making return trips to state as they also qualified last year.

The following students received Division II (Excellent) ratings on class 1 solos:
Dacayla Caudle (Grade 9)
Brandon Vasquez (Grade 9)
Brayden Zertuche (Grade 9)

In the related Region VII Middle School Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest, also at Howard Payne University, the following Ballinger Junior High students took Division I (Superior) ratings and medals on class 3 (freshmen level) vocal solos:

Jack Buxkemper (Grade 7)
Tessie McVey (Grade 8)

Students in both divisions prepared well and did an outstanding job of representing their respective schools at the contests.

We extend our congratulations to each of these students for their outstanding achievements in representing their respective schools.

Dale E. Ellis is faculty sponsor for choral music events. Ida Lee Ellis, music teacher for Ballinger Elementary, played the piano accompaniments for the students. Mr. Ellis would also like to thank Mrs. Janet Wilson, BHS and BJHS Band Director, for her assistance in preparing these students for competition.

D’Ann Hatler and Laurie Woodruff served as parent sponsors for the events.

In Need of Umpires
2/22/2010
The Ballinger Youth Baseball Association is looking for paid umpires for games and is offering free training.

Umpire Clinic Set for April 10
Pre-register before April 8, 2010

Contact:    David Esquivel FMI 325-895-1124
Date:       Saturday, April 10, 2010
Where:      Davenport Field
Time:       10:00am
Cost:       No Cost

BES Pizza With The Principal
2/22/2010

Fourth Six Weeks:  Pizza with the Principal

Starting in front left:  Jonathan Marcon (3^rd grade), Zach Cotter (Kinder), Caitlin Bishop (2^nd grade), Robert Roman (Pre-Kinder), Sebastian Delgado (4^th grade), Damian Michalewicz and Courtnie Luna (1^st grade).  Not pictured:  Principal Brian Arrott.

Ronald McDonald House Hosting "Look at the Stars"
2/22/2010
Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Southwest will be hosting the 2010 “Look at the Stars” Benefit Dinner and Auction, Friday, March 26 at the Lubbock Scottish Rite Building at 6:30pm.  Come in your fun party attire for a night of fabulous food, entertainment by Element and a silent and live auction. 24 local artists who have painted beautiful children’s chairs will be featured, as well as other items. All proceeds benefit the critically ill children and their families who are served by Ronald McDonald House Charities. For ticket information call 744-8877.

2010 All School Reunion - Date Change
2/20/2010
An organizational meeting for the 2010 All School Reunion will be held at the board room of the BHS Administration Building on Thursday, Mar. 4th at 7:00 pm.  This reunion cannot happen without people willing to help. Representatives from all classes will be needed to work on updating their class list so information can be sent out.  Please come so your ideas can be heard.  October has been suggested for the Reunion and plans need to be made ASAP so former students can make plans to come. For further information, please call Carla Campbell, at 365-5094

BISD 4th Six Weeks Honor Rolls
2/20/2010

                                        

Gray Skies are Gonna Clear Up… Let’s Plant Some Grass
2/18/2010  -excerpt from "On the Level" by Charles Frerich
   As cold and rainy as it has been the last several weeks it’s hard to imagine anything to do with global warming.  But spring is right around the corner and with that comes sunshine, warm soils and spring rains.  In west Texas, even though we just finished a wet spell we still anticipate the next rain.  As the days get longer and the sun warms the soil we begin to see a flush of growth from weeds and grasses. 

Read the rest of the story from the menu bar under Columns.

This Just In!
2/18/2010
THIS JUST IN, THIS JUST IN!  Trent's Retreat now has over 200 items for the Steak and Shrimp Dinner & Live Auction including a Tony Romo autographed football and Jordan Shipley autographed football.  Tickets for the dinner and auction are available at Main Street Soda Fountain.  View auction items at Main Street or online at www.trentsretreat.org

Runnels County Retired Teachers
2/18/2010
Runnels County Retired School Employees (Runnels County Retired Teachers)  have a change in their meeting date for March.  New date will be Wed, March 3 in Miles at the Miles Opera House at 2:00 PM.  Meet at the First United Methodist Church in Ballinger at 1:30 to carpool.

Five BHS Students Compete in VASE
2/18/2010
The regional event of Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE) was held on Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Central High School in San Angelo. Five students from Ballinger High School participated in the competition that is sponsored by Texas Art Education Association.

Those participating were Judd Hatler (pictured left), and pictured right, Blake Holle, Cheyene Parker, Emily Studer, and Ali Tounget.

Jurors rate the students based on their artwork and individual interviews. The highest rating is 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 received a IV and will also be advancing to state competition in April with his drawing called “Through a Cubist’s Eye.”

These works will be included in a special exhibit at the 2010 Fine Art Extravaganza in the Spring.

Meet and Greet - Runnels County Judge Candidates
2/17/2010
Runnels County Judge Candidates "Meet and Greet" & Forum

Thursday February 18, 2010
6:00 - 6:30pm "Meet and Greet"
6:30 - 8:00pm Forum
Location: Ballinger High School Auditorium

The Forum will also be broadcast on KRUN 1400 AM

This event is sponsored by the Ballinger Noon Lions Club and KRUN Radio
Lions Club and KRUN do not support any one candidate, This Forum is strictly for the voters of Runnels County.

FAFSA Help
2/17/2010
A representative from Western Texas College will be in the Ballinger High School library on Tuesday, February 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to help any parents of seniors who need help with the FAFSA.  Please register for your Pin at www.pin.ed.gov a few days before you come and bring your filed tax return.  If you have any questions, you may contact Kandace Arrott at 365-3547 ext. 5005.

Trent's Retreat Steak and Shrimp Dinner and Live Auction
2/17/2010 -by Misty Ueckert
     We are inviting all of Runnels County and beyond to bring a hearty appetite and join us for an evening of good friends, good food, and good fun - all for a great cause!  Trent’s Retreat will hold its first annual Steak & Shrimp Dinner and Live Auction on Saturday, February 20^th at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall in Rowena.  The delicious meal of grilled steak and shrimp with all the trimmings will be served from 5:30 – 7:30 with the live auction beginning at 7:00.  Advance tickets may still be purchased for $15.00 at Main Street Soda Fountain or from any committee member. Tickets will be available at the door for $20.00.  For more information go to www.trentsretreat.org 
     Because of your kindness, we have over one hundred items for the live auction.  Some of the auction items include a storage shed, many beautiful handmade quilts and afghans, overnight hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, Texas Rangers tickets, original prints and paintings, a pink shotgun, a three night stay at a house on the beach, metal art, heavy duty gas-powered leaf blower and weed-eater, crosses, tent canopy, adirondack chairs, luggage sets, jewelry, blown glass, shelled pecans, deer feeders and much, much more!  Many items are on display at Main Street Soda Fountain or may be viewed online at  www.trentsretreat.org  If you would like to donate an item, please call Diane Michalewicz at 442-3202 or Jodie Kalina at 442-2503.  In addition to our live auction we will be having a Penny Social or Chinese Raffle.  You may purchase a raffle ticket with twenty-six chances to win.  Just put your tickets in the bucket by the items you would like to win.  The more you like an item, the more tickets you put in that particular bucket.  We have over twenty baskets full of items for our Chinese Raffle and winners will be announced at the end of the evening.
     The response to Trent’s Retreat has been so heartfelt!  We have had local builders, a plumber, an electrician, air conditioning and heating, concrete, and landscapers come forward to volunteer their labor.  Our Dinner and Auction will help us raise funds for the materials to build the Retreat.  We hope to begin in March and be able to begin serving families in September.  During Trent’s treatments and stays at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, we constantly told everyone how fortunate we were to live in a small town because everyone was so kind to rally around our family.  We are so excited to share this love and kindness with other families who are dealing with so much.  It is so difficult to juggle treatments, watching your child lose their hair and miss out on so many things, watching them be in pain and wondering if the treatments are working, trying to make time for your other children, and juggling finances to pay the bills, motels, food, and gas, as well as hold down a job.   It is so overwhelming! 
     Trent’s Retreat will be a place where families can come and hopefully forget about the reality of all of this for just a little while and just spend time being together as a family.  Thank you so much for helping the dream of Trent’s Retreat become a reality.  We will be forever grateful to all of you!

BHS UIL Results
2/16/2010 -results provided by Roxan Bowman
The Ballinger High School UIL Team competed in the Wylie Valentine Classic on Saturday, February 13. Over 25 schools ranging from 1A to 3A completed. Ballinger was lead by an outstanding performance by the Journalism team which won first place in overall Journalism, as well as the speech team, which took several medals including two individual golds.

Team Results:1st Place Overall Journalism
1st Place Science: Jared Fournier, Marcus Nelson, Jeremy Fischer and Katie Chapman
2nd Place Number Sense: Jared Fournier, Collin Brown, Blake Holle, Darian Evans and Judd Hatler
2nd Place Mathematics: Collin Brown, Jared Fournier, Katie Chapman and Darian Evans
3rd Place Calculator: Kaci Hite, Katie Chapman, Jacie Frierson and Karri Pruser

Individual Results:
Alice Avis: 2nd Informative Speaking
Samantha Baird: 5th Feature Writing
Alyssa Biscoe: 1st Editorial Writing
Collin Brown: 4th Mathematics
Jared Fournier: 4th Number Sense, 3rd Science
Samantha Gonzales: 2nd Prose
Kaci Hite: 5th Calculator
Maggie Hogan: 1st Informative Speaking
Clay Kelly: 4th Persuasive Speaking
Marcus Nelson: 4th Science
Paige Sanders: 1st Headline Writing
Sterling Sanders: 3rd Editorial Writing
Ali Tounget: 3rd Headline Writing
Evan Wilson: 1st Persuasive Speaking

The First National Bank of Ballinger Valentine's Day Raffle - Relay for Life Benefit Winner
2/14/2010
Bob Brown was the winner of dinner and a dozen Roses for his sweetheart for Valentine's Day. Pictured with Mr. Brown is bank employee Tamara Moore who presented him with his roses and gift certificate to Villa Palma.

Information about your Runnels County Dispatch
2/14/2010 -provided by Runnels County Dispatch Office
With the well deserved retirement of Janice Amarine from the Ballinger Police Dept., all of the County's dispatching will be done through the dispatch office located in the Runnels County Jail. The five dispatchers that work there are responsible for answering all 911 calls for the county in addition to the phones for the police depts. of Ballinger and Winters and the Sheriff's office phone weekdays after 5pm as well as weekends. The dispatch office can also be reached at their main number of 365-5961 for non-emergency calls. The  dispatching duties include the Sheriff's Office, the Ballinger, Miles and  Winters police departments, all of the county fire departments, Ballinger and Winters EMS, the game warden and DPS.  Dispatch can be extremely busy at times but will always strive to give the best service they can at all times. The questions they ask may not seem important to you when you call ,but they need all information possible to dispatch the proper people and for their officer's safety. Runnels County Dispatch is available to give presentations to any interested group on using 911 or how dispatch works. For more information call 365-5961.

BYBA Signup has Begun
2/12/2010
The Ballinger Youth Baseball Association (BYBA) has started accepting registration forms for the 2010 baseball season. The forms are available through the schools, Treadmill, and online at www.leaguelineup.com/ballingeryouthbaseball. New this year, all registration forms will need to be accompanied by a copy of the player’s birth certificate. Completed forms, birth certificates, and payment will all need to be received by March 5, 2010. Any registration forms received after this will be charged a $10 late fee and will be subject to space availability. Coach applications will be available on the website as well as at Treadmill. Player and coach forms can both be turned into the Treadmill or mailed to Ballinger Youth Baseball Association, P.O. Box 203, Ballinger, TX 76821. The BYBA also has board positions available. We are looking to make this a great year and any individuals willing to help us achieve this are welcome to join our next meeting February 17, 2010, 6:00pm at Beefmaster. Additional information can be found on our website.

Spotlight Change
2/12/2010
Meet your DAEP Instructor on the new edition of the BISD Faculty Spotlight.

Keeping the Arts in Texas - 100 Artists Act
2/12/2010
     The works of over one hundred artists from three foreign countries, two continents and fifteen states will be auctioned off on Saturday, March 20, 2010, to benefit Artists Changing Tomorrow or ACT. The ACT International Invitational 2010 is a project of the nonprofit Art Guild of Rural Texas based in Fayetteville, Texas.
     Artists from as far away as England and South America have contributed original works for the auction. American artists from fifteen states have also contributed, including Ballinger artist, Susan Mansell. Works will include traditional media such as oils, acrylic and watercolor paintings as well as photography, fiber art, metalwork and ceramics.
     ACT is the inspiration of internationally known Texas artist, Karen Vernon. Vernon, herself, has been painting since childhood and earned her degree in art education. After teaching for several years, she began her career as a watercolorist full time. Now, after a 40-year career in the arts, Vernon contributes much of her success in life to her early childhood experiences in the visual arts and music. “In the face of ever-shrinking funds allotted to the arts in schools and communities, I decided artists of today must act to support programs which nurture the environment needed for the artists of tomorrow.”
     Ms. Vernon is ecstatic about the artists’ responses to her request for original art for the auction. “I invited 120 known professional artists from around the country and abroad to donate a 12” x 12” original art piece. These are professional artists who exhibit and sell their work in galleries and are established in many public collections. Of the 120 professional artists asked, 102 artists said yes. The response and support from artists has been incredible.”
     Some of the well-known artists include Florida artist, Dean Mitchell whose watercolors and oil paintings are found in some of the most notable collections. Mitchell generously participated stating he was “glad to be a part of anything that encourages a deeper appreciation of the arts.” Margaret Roseman and Linda Kemp, highly collected watercolorists from Canada, enthusiastically joined forces with the US artists. David Poxon, watercolorist from the UK and Bernard Mendoza from England and the US came on board with avid support and contributions to the cause. Mendoza is an internationally known reportage photographer, with works in US museums and the National Portrait Gallery in London and in Scotland. When he heard of the ACT project, he stated, “There is no more important project with which to be aligned.”
     “Our short range goal for ACT is to raise funds for Texas arts programs. Our long range goal is for ACT to inspire other communities around the country and the world to create their own ACT programs, too.”
     The public is invited to attend and to bid on the pieces. All proceeds benefit Artists Changing Tomorrow or ACT, a program of the Art Guild of Rural Texas, a 501 C3 non-profit organization.
     The art will be on display for previewing at The Gallery at Round Top, TX, from March 17, 2010, to March 19, 2010. The silent auction itself will be from 4 PM to 9 PM on Saturday, March 20. The Gallery is located at 203 East Austin Street in Round Top, Texas. The phone number is 979-249-4119 for more details. Reservations for the auction are required.
     Catalogs from the show are available for $65. Contact: info@artguildtexas.org

     More information is available on the artists and their artwork is available at:
     www.act4art.org
     www.artguildtexas.org

BHS CX Debate Team Takes District Title
2/11/2010
The Ballinger High School CX Debate team took the District 7AA Championship and qualified two teams for state competition. The BHS students dominated a field of 11 teams competing in Wall Wednesday for the District Championship.

The team of Alice Avis and Magdalina Hogan were undefeated in prelims and advanced to the finals as the number one seed. They defeated the Grape Creek A team in the semi-finals and the Ballinger B team to clinch the gold medal.

The top speaker award went to Montemayor from the Wall A team. Hogan finished 2nd in Speaker points and Avis was third.

Janice Amarine to Retire after 53 years
2/10/2010
     On Feb. 12, 2010, the city of Ballinger will have a retirement party for Janice Amarine.  Janice is retiring after 53 years of service, with the Ballinger Police Department.  Her 53 years of service, is the longest in the history of Ballinger and probably most of the other cities in the State.  She started working for the PD on July 1, 1957, two months after graduating from high school.
     When asked about one of her memories from the past, Janice remembers meeting Paul Boggess, former police officer and chief of police, when he was 6 or 7 years old.  Paul's grandfather was a police officer and had brought the young boy into the police station to meet Janice.  After talking for a bit, Janice asked Paul what he wanted to be when he grew up.  Paul replied that he wanted to be a policeman, like his granddad.  Janice told him she hoped that she would still be around when he realized that dream.  Well, as it turned out, she was still around and worked with Paul for 26 years, ultimately Paul was her boss as the Chief of Police for most of those years.  
     Throughout the years, she has seen a lot of changes and worked with a lot of different people.  In Ballinger, if you want to know a phone number and can't find it in the phonebook, everyone knows you can call Janice and odds are she is going to help you out.  She is lovingly know as "a living phone book".  
       A retirement party is being held on Feb 12, 2010, at Ballinger City Hall, from 2 to 4.  Everyone in the community is invited to come out and show their appreciation for Janice.

See the Faces page for a few more shots of Janice at a dinner this evening with Chief J.C. Gore and others.

Thanks from The Carnegie Library
2/10/2010 -by Carla Campbell, President of the Library Board
On behalf of the Carnegie Library Board, I would like to thank all who attended A Taste of Ballinger.  This fund raiser for the library was very successful.  I hope you all enjoyed the food and the fellowship.  A special thanks to the churches who participated this year:  9th St. Church of Christ, First Christian, 7th St. Baptist, St. Mary's Catholic, Methodist, 1st Baptist, and Presbyterian.  Without your participation and the wonderful food your members prepared, this fund raiser would not have been possible.  Thank you to the Art Guild for your participation also. 

New Rotarian
2/10/2010
Ballinger Rotary Club welcomed another new member this week. Stacy Hopper rotary club president, presents Byron Bauerlein with a certificate and new member packet.

Suggested Tornado Drill for Schools
2/10/2010 -made available by BISD Superintendent Laura Strube
The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Angelo encourages all residents and schools across West Central Texas to practice their tornado warning drill on Thursday, February 25, at 9:30 A.M. Click here to view the press release.

FCCLA Bake Sale
2/10/2010
Ballinger FCCLA will be hosting a bake sale this Saturday, February 13 from 10 - 2 in the Walmart parking lot. All proceeds will go to the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty which supports self-esteem workshops for pre-teens and teenagers. Please come out and help us support a great cause!

Relay for Life Bake Sale
2/10/2010
The Sugarbakers will be having a bake sale, Friday, February 12, at Wal-mart, noon until sold out.  There will be cakes, pies, diabetic treats, and much more.  All proceeds will go to the Runnels County Relay for Life.
 
Contact:  Nalda Keesee 365-2707 if you need any more info.

Benefit Account
2/8/2010
To help benefit Melinda Clayton who was diagnosed with ALS, there has been an account set up at Ballinger National Bank for anyone who would like to make donations to help go towards medical expenses for the family. For More information, contact Brooke at brooke_clayton@verizon.net

Ballinger FCCLA Attended Region II Meeting
2/8/2010
     Ballinger FCCLA attended the Region II meeting February 5 and 6. The chapter had two candidates for Region officer with both being elected it. Kelsey Lott was elected Region II V.P. of Parliamentary Law and Courtney Gibbs was elected Region II V.P. of Correspondence. Both young ladies will be representing the chapter next year as they serve the Region.
     Leadership Enhancement Opportunities are tests that students can take to show their knowledge in the area of Family and Consumer Sciences. 5 members took LEO's from BHS including Josh Daniels who received a silver medal in Consumer Math and Kassia Jaramillio who received a silver medal in Etiquette. Alzado Rodriguez and Rebecca Johnson received bronze medals as well as Kaitlin Bryan took an LEO. Nolan Esquivel was also on hand recording all of the events for the Region by participating on the Connection Team.
     STAR events are competitive events where members compete individually or as a team. BHS had 6 teams representing them in STAR event competitions. Jessie Horton, Myranda Fuentes, and Brittany Hurt competed in Chapter Service and placed 6th. Natalie McClure, Magan Rich, and Katlyn Heidenheimer competed in Illustrated Talk and placed 5th. Melanie Bailey competed in Job Interview and placed 3rd. J'Zee King and Susan Wallace competed in Chapter Showcase and placed 1st. Kelsey Allen, Maritza Aguirre, and Erica Hunter competed in National Programs in Action. Dulce Castillo and Jacklyn O'Bryant also competed in Focus on Children. All teams placing in the top 6 will advance to state.

The First National Bank of Ballinger - Bake Sale
2/8/2010
The First National Bank of Ballinger is having a bake sale to benefit the American Cancer Society

Friday, February 12, 2010
9 a.m. To close

Cakes, pies, brownies, cookies, candy bags and more!

We are also selling Valentine Day’s picture frames in the lobby all week.

Lots of special treats so please stop by and take a look.

We appreciate all donations. The First National Bank of Ballinger.

New Rotarians
2/8/2010
The Rotary Club accepted two new members pictured below.
Left New Member Melanie Womack, Center Rotary Treasurer David Cowart, and Right, New Member Glenda Wood.

Accident Information and Thanks from Chief Gore
2/8/2010 -by Ballinger PD Chief J.C. Gore
At approximately 10:39hrs., 02/05/2010, central dispatch received an inbound emergency call reporting a major traffic accident on highway 67 in front of Town and Country. Mark Irby heard the initial collision and was first on scene. He summoned assistance and began to assist the injured. The female passenger identified as Tamara Joiner was flown via Shannon AirMed1 to Shannon Medical Center where she remains in critical condition. The driver, identified as Lloyd Joiner was transferred to Ballinger Memorial Hospital, stabilized and then transferred to Shannon Medical Center. The driver of the other vehicle, Harm Ray Glass was treated at Ballinger Memorial Hospital and released. The accident is still under investigation.

I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Sheriff Baird and his staff, Game Warden Lane Pinckney, Constable Wayne Poehls and Mark Irby for their assistance in handling the vehicle accident occurring Friday on Highway 67.  Also, my compliments to the Ballinger Emergency Medical Services and Ballinger Memorial Hospital for their quick response and assistance.

The difficulty in handling serious situations would be compounded without the help of these professionals and I am deeply grateful they were there.

The Ballinger Fire Department provides an indispensible service in removing and caring for injured persons following vehicle accidents. The fire department consist of men and women who not only fight fires, assist in traffic accidents, but will turn out to look for lost kids, help in traffic control and whatever else the community requires. We are a fortunate community to have them.

The police department continues to enjoy a close rapport with the Texas Department of Transportation. Without being called, they have responded to incidents and have assisted in traffic control and relieved the law enforcement officer to care for the injured and removal of vehicles.

Ballinger is a fortunate town to have such dedicated professionals in law enforcement, emergence medical services, the fire department, TXDoT, and last but not least, the individual who when they see the need, responds without being ask and expects nothing in return.

For some unknown reason, we seem to be at our best when things are at their worst.

Groundbreaking
2/7/2010
The Glory Road Cowboy Church plans a groundbreaking/dedication for our new church on Feb 14th,at 3:00 pm

From Ballinger take Hwy 158 to 2111, turn left, go 1 mi to CR 293, turn right about 1/2 mile.

Come join us for our celebration. Public welcome.

First Baptist Church Valentines Banquet
2/7/2010
First Baptist Church
400 N. 8th Street
Free Meal and Inspirational Speaker
Wednesday, February 10, 6:00 PM

Speaker Grant Lengefeld
“A Story of Love, Faith, Forgiveness and Victory”
Childcare provided by reservation, 365-3565, for children ages 4 and younger

Straight From the Heart Blood Drive
2/7/2010
Thursday, February 18th
4:00pm – 7:15pm
Bloodmobile in the Wal-Mart Ballinger parking lot

Schedule your life-saving donation today:
Call United Blood Services at (325) 223-7500
Or go online to www.bloodhero.com
And enter sponsor code: walmartbal

Each donor will receive:
A t-shirt with Don Dane’s artwork
Entry into Daily and Grand Prize Drawings

GRAND PRIZES
--GEORGE STRAIT Autographed Jacket
courtesy of George Strait
--One Pair of Leddy Vaquero Boots
courtesy of ML Leddy’s Boot and Saddlery
--$150 GIFT CERTIFICATE
courtesy of Mr. Boots
--2 TICKETS TO THE FINAL RODEO PERFORMANCE
courtesy of the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association

DAILY DRAWINGS
--A PAIR OF TICKETS TO Various RODEO Performances
courtesy of San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo
--GATE PASSES courtesy of San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo
--FREE SHOE SHINE courtesy of Ernie’s Shoe Shine
--Wrangler Jeans courtesy of Tractor Supply
--Wrangler Jeans courtesy of Palmers Feed and Supply

The First National Bank of Ballinger Valentine's Day Raffle - Relay for Life Benefit
2/3/2010
Win a dozen roses, a box of chocolates and dinner at Villa Palma for your sweetie.

The drawing will take place Friday morning, February 12th at 9 a.m.  You will be notified by phone to pick up your prize. 

Tickets are $1/each or $5 for 6 tickets.  Tickets may be purchased at The First National Bank of Ballinger.

Gray Ranch Youth Hunt
2/2/2010 -by Lane Pinckney, Game Warden
The Sixth Annual Runnels County Youth Hunt was held on the Gray Ranch January 9^th and 10th during the special youth only deer season. In spite of temperatures in the teens, six young hunters from the Runnels County area harvested two bucks and five does during the two day hunt. The hunters were, left to right, Jacob Boggess, Jared Heitman, Travis Martinez, Marcos Fuentes, Fabion Reyes, and John Cuellar. Prior to going to the field the hunters were instructed in marksmanship, firearm safety, game laws, hunter ethics, and tracking. Assisting with the hunt this year were Gerry Kindle, Mike Gray, Brandon Bates, Marshall Green, Lane Pinckney, Doug Black, Jay Patterson, Zac Gray, Shaughn Sims, Leonard Westra, and Danny Wright. Sponsors of this years hunt are Owens Processing, VFW Post in Brady, the Gray family, and the Texas Game Warden Association. During the last six years this youth hunt has introduced 41 youngsters to the sport of hunting with everyone harvesting at least one deer. Many of them experiencing the excitement of harvesting their first deer ever. Thanks to the supporters of this event for their donations, contributions and their continued support and commitment to our youth, youth activities, wildlife management, and conservation.

Imagination Station Playground Raffle
2/2/2010
First Prize:
    10 game mini plan for San Angelo Colts ($85 value)
    $30 gift card to Buffalo Wild Wings
    4 Bowling passes

Second Prize:

    2 tickets to San Angelo Stampede football game

    $30 gift card to Texas Steak Express

    4 Bowling passes

Imagination Station Dinner Raffle

    One night stay at Comfort Suites (4450 W Houston Harte)

    $25 gift card to Olive Garden

    2 Movie passes

    2 Bowling passes

Contact any board member: Terilyn at Willingham Ins., Stacy at Mueller Supply, Elaine at Little Tots Depot, Tammie at Chamber, Elizabeth at 1st Community, Clay at Ballinger National Bank or any of the following committee members: Sheree Goetz, Mark Willingham, Sherry Cavazos.

Open House
2/1/2010
The Ballinger Senior Citizens will be having an Open House in the Newly renovated center at 608 Sealy on February 11^th from 2:00-5:00. Everyone is invited to come see our new center. The total renovation Was paid for thru fundraisers, grants and community donations. The dining room has all new dining tables and chairs and the kitchen is Equipped with some new equipment. Plaques are on the wall in the dining area showing all our contributions. We want to take this time to express our gratitude to all those who contributed. The seniors in our community deserve a nice place to gather to eat and socialize. We hope that other seniors in Ballinger and the surrounding areas will come and enjoy some time with us. We serve a noon meal every weekday and the center is open from 7:00-2:30 for anyone to come and play games, enjoy a cup of coffee or a nutritious meal. Citizens under 60 are also invited to join us for a meal as visitors.

St. Joseph Parish Blood Drive
2/1/2010
The Bi-Monthly Blood Drive will be held at St. Joseph Parish Hall, Rowena, on February 7, 2010, from 8 a.m. - 12 noon. For more information or to set up an appointment, please contact David or Pat Lange at 442-4721.  If you can - give the gift of life.