The Magic of Compound Interest  
3/31/2010 -by Sandy Taylor
Making the commitment to become a steady saver is a vital first step toward financial peace of mind and, ultimately, greater security and wealth.   In order to reach the “greater security and wealth” part of the equation, let’s learn how to make your savings grow, thanks to – “the miracle of compound interest.”

Read the rest of Sandy's column by clicking on "Dollars and Sense" in the columns menu above.

Ballinger Exes Meeting
3/31/2010
The second meeting of the Ballinger Exes will be on Thursday, April 8th at the Board Room of the School Administration Building at 7:00 pm.  We will try to work on the schedule of events for the reunion and talk about class lists.  All officers and committee chairman have been selected.  We just need your input so you can "have a say" about the reunion.  Come if you can.  We definitely need people to help address envelopes when we have the mail out in May.  If you can help, please contact Carla Campbell (365-5094).

Kickball Tourney
3/30/2010
~MAY 14TH AND 15TH~
Entry Fee $ 10.00 per person
16 player roster
FOR AGES 13 AND UP
Rowena Softball Field, Rowena, Texas
CONCESSIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE
Call: Eloyed 325.977.0915 or 365.8581

BHS One Act Play  - REMINDER!
3/29/2010 -by Sherran Geistmann
Ballinger High School will be hosting the District 7, 2-A One-Act Play competition on March 31 in the High School Auditorium. Ballinger High school will perform first at 1:00. Please make plans to attend and support the endeavors of these hard working students.

This yearʼs play is The Miser by Moliere, adaptation by Roland L. Reed, Anchorage Press. The setting is in Paris, and the play is depicted in a comedic style made famous by Moliere. “The students have spent many hours working on this show. We have attended numerous festivals and received critiques from qualified judges. I am very proud of each cast and crew member. Please attend and watch this magical performance.” Cast and crew are as follows: Crew: Christal Castillo, Emily Studer, Paige Zentner, Samantha Baird, and Maritza Aguirre. Cast: Spencer Ryan, Harpagon;
Jared Fournier, Cleante; Maggie Hogan, Elise; Evan Wilson, Valere; Samantha Gonzales, Marianne; Garrett Collenback, Anselme; Melanie Bailey, Frosine; Jacob Arp, La Fleche; Tanner Nixon, Simon; Will Irish, Jacques; Lindsey Heidenheimer, Dame Claude; Jeremy Fisher, Brindavoine; Clay Kelley, La Merluche; Dane Dallas, Magistrate.

Schedule:
Ballinger - 1:00
Jim Ned - 2:00
Coahoma - 3:00
Wall - 4:00
Grape Creek - 5:00
Colorado City - 6:00

Summer Forage Fertilization Webinar Set
3/29/2010
The free live broadcast featuring Dr. Larry Redmon of College Station will be available to producers at the AgriLife Extension office in Taylor County located on the grounds of the Taylor County Expo Center; the AgriLife Extension office in Callahan County located in the county courthouse in Baird; and in the Anson High School Agricultural Science building in Anson. 

Robert Pritz, AgriLife Extension agent in Taylor County, said fertilization will be the key to taking full advantage of the wet spring West Texans are now enjoying. 

"Fertilizer management is an important part of optimal crop production," Pritz said. "Several specific nutrients are required for adequate growth of forages. We*ll cover those, as well as soil testing, timing and maximizing production while minimizing input costs."

 Pritz said space will be limited so participants are asked to pre-register by April 5 with the AgriLife Extension office where they plan to attend. 

To pre-register or for more information, call the AgriLife Extension office in Taylor County at 325-672-6048, Callahan County at 325-854-5835 or Jones County at 325-823-2432.

Ballinger Elementary School Pre-Registration
3/29/2010
     Ballinger Elementary School will conduct a pre-registration for 201O-11 Kindergarten and PreKindergarten from Monday, April 19th through Friday, April 23rd, 2010 for students who reside in the Ballinger Independent School District. Parents or guardians
of PreK and Kindergarten students are asked to call the elementary office at 365-3527 ext. 3002, to make an appointment for registration. Those students who attended PreK or Kindergmten during the 2009-10 school year, will not have to preregister.
     To be eligible for public school PreKindergarten, children must be at least 4 years old on or before September 1, 2010 and Kindergarten children must be at least 5 years old on or before September 1, 2010.
     Parents of PreK students need to bring the following with them:
           Birth Certificate (courthouse copy ~ not hospital copy)
           A current shot record
           Child's Social Security Card and
           Proof of Income for everyone working in the household
                               OR
           A Food Stamp Award Letter with the Food Stamp Case number

     Parents of Kindergarten students need to bring the following with them:
           Birth Certificate (courthouse copy - not hospital copy)
           A current shot record
           Child's Social Security Card

The immunizations required by the state before entering public school in Texas are:
Four doses OPV or IPV (one dose since 4th birthday).
Five doses DPT or DtaP (one dose since 4th birthday).
Two doses MMR are required for all students 5 and older.
One dose of HibCV on or after 15 months of age unless a schedule for a primary series and a booster was met at 12 months old.
Three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine.
For PK: One dose of Varicella Vaccine (Chicken Pox) or verification of illness.
For KG: Two doses of Varicella Vaccine (Chicken Pox) or verification of illness.
Four doses PCV.
Two doses of Hepatitis A vaccine.

Please call for an appointment at 365-3527, extension 3002.

Take a "WALK" with Jesus - St. Joseph Catholic Church
3/29/2010
The St. Joseph Catholic Church Youth Group invites you to take a “WALK” with Jesus.  Witness Jesus’ final steps to Calvary,  See the crowds, the guards and many others He met on the way.  Not a play, but a prayer uniquely presented in silhouettes,  accompanied with musical interludes and prayerful reflections.  Come see His act of love for you!

Wednesday, March 31st – 6:30 p.m. – St. Joseph Parish Hall in Rowena

Free to the public

"Souper Bowl Sunday" a Success
3/29/2010
The St. Joseph Catholic Church Youth Group collected monetary donations during “Souper Bowl Sunday” and recently presented a $200.00 check to the Church Parish Pantry to be used to purchase Food Baskets for the needy families in the Rowena Community.  The Food Baskets will be distributed this weekend in time for Easter.  Pictured is the Youth Group presenting the check to Parish Pantry Coordinators, Norma Multer & Carmen Daniels.

The Ballinger FD and Ladies Auxiliary Send Thanks
3/29/2010
The Ballinger Fire Department and Ladies Aux. would like to say thank you to everyone that made our drive thru meal a success.  Without people like you in this community we could not do what we do.

Hearn-Wilson to Wed
3/28/2010
      Dorothy Hearn of Ballinger and Ronald Hearn of Irving are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Susan Lynn of San Antonio, to Guy David Wilson of Holland Texas.
     Susan is a graduate of Ballinger High School, Southwest Texas State University (B.S.) and Florida State University (M.S.).  Susan moved to San Antonio where she is currently a therapist with the Veteran's Administration Hospital.  Susan is the granddaughter of the late Mr. Woodrow and Loucille Wilson of Ballinger and the late Mr. Edmond and Tillie Hearn of Dallas.
     Guy is a graduate of York Town High School.  He retired from the United States Army, then attended and graduated cum laude with his Bachelors of Science from Southwest Texas State University.  Guy lives near Holland and is currently a therapist working for the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Temple.  Guy is the son of Mr. E. Guy and Barbara Wilson of Holland, TX.  He is the grandson of the late Mr. Elijah and Susie Talley of Oliphant, AR and the late Mr. Edwin and Sally Wilson from Watson, AR.
     The wedding is planned for September 18, 2010 in the small chapel at MoRanch near Hunt, TX. The ceremony will be followed by a reception.  The couple will reside on his ranch near Holland TX.

BISD Superintendent
3/27/2010
On March 25, 2010, Ballinger ISD Board of Trustees named Mr. Will Brewer (Anson Elementary School Principal) as the Lone Finalist for the position of Ballinger ISD Superintendent.

Ms. Strube will certainly be missed as she was a great asset to the BISD school system. We wish her luck in the future and welcome her to come back should she have the desire.

Here are a few photos from her going away reception provided by Mel Anthony.

Child Abuse Prevention Month
3/27/2010
SAN ANGELO, Texas - The Children’s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County wants everyone to know that April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Our goal is to raise awareness of this widespread issue, while working with our community in helping to raise happy and healthy children. A blue ribbon is the international symbol for Child Abuse Prevention. The color blue was chosen to represent the bruised and battered bodies of the thousands of children that are abused everyday. It serves as a constant reminder that all of us have a responsibility to help keep children safe. You can join in honoring all children and in promoting the prevention of child abuse and neglect. To recognize Child Abuse Prevention month, the Children’s Advocacy Center provides a month of activities that include:
· Every Saturday in April: Help prevent child abuse & neglect by eating at Preppers any Saturday in April! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County! Call 947-7737!

· March 31st, 8:00 pm: ASU’s Chi Alpha acknowledges Child Abuse Prevention Month through “Pinwheels & Proclamations” by placing pinwheels on the courthouse lawn to create awareness of the 516 CONFIRMED VICTIMS of child abuse and neglect that occurred in Tom Green County in 2009. Up from 373 in 2008! Media is invited to attend. MEDIA INVITED TO ATTEND

· April 7th: “Go Blue Day”; Don’t forget to wear blue today as a constant reminder of abused and neglected children. Everyone is encouraged to wear blue to show support for child abuse prevention. Almost 70,000 children were confirmed abuse victims in 2009 in Texas (516 in Tom Green County). 280 Texas children died from abuse and neglect . Wear a blue shirt, dress, tie, or
ribbon to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and encourage individuals and communities to support children and families.

· April 15, 6:00pm-9:00p: The Parent Project classes 10 week sessions are for caregivers of children 11-17 registration required, space is limited. These supportive and educational classes are taught by trained professionals and help to increase healthy communication in the family, while providing parent focused services and youth life skills. Free childcare is provided. Please register by calling 653-HOPE (4673)

· April 15 & 16th, 8am-5pm: The Children’s Advocacy Center hosts Advanced Techniques in Joint Child Abuse Investigations at First United Methodist Church. Brought to you by the Shaken Baby Alliance. This training is a “must” for anyone who works in Law Enforcement, CPS and Child Care Licensing, First Responders, Attorneys & Legal Personnel, Social Workers, Medical Personnel, Child Advocate, and professionals involved in child abuse cases. Click to register http://www.shakenbaby.com/Home/TrainingForm/tabid/115/Default.aspx

· April 18th, 2:-00 to 5:00 pm: The Concho Valley Family Alliance, a program of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County hosts the 5th Annual “Picnic in the Park” at Kirby Community Park located on Edmund & 29th St. FREE food & drink, entertainment, mascots, field games, info on resources for your family, prizes, giveaways and more. All community is invited to
attend. Call 653-4673 to for more information.

· April 21st, 11am-1pm: “CASA Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon”. This luncheon will honor the CASAs who commit their time, energy and hearts to helping abused and neglected children.

· April 26-29 & May 3-May 6, 5:30 to 9:00pm: Court Appointed Special Advocate training begins this week! Call 653-4673 to apply or go to www.cactomgreen.org for application.

· Ongoing & available every Thursday: Parent focused groups and in-home services. Groups through Parents Anonymous® are available every Thursday evening from 6:00-7:30pm at First United Methodist Church located at 37 E. Beauregard. Free of charge, free childcare provided. Any person in a parenting role is invited to attend. Parents talk and problem-solve with other parents
about parenting and life issues and challenges. No registration is required and you may attend as much or as little as you like!

While protecting children is part of our agency’s mission, preventing child abuse is everyone’s responsibility. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, please report to law enforcement in immediate emergency, and call the CPS hotline at 1-800-252-5400. Child abuse is any physical injury, physical neglect, emotional injury or sexual act inflicted upon a child. There are several indicators, including a child’s behavior, which may indicate that a child has been abused. Together we can make this world a safer place for our children. For more information about the Children’s Advocacy Center programs and volunteer opportunities, please call 653-HOPE or go to www.cactomgreen.org

Hilderbran named as chair of special districts committee
3/25/2010
AUSTIN – Rep. Harvey Hilderbran (Kerrville) has been named chairman of a special committee charged with improving accountability and transparency in water-related and other special purpose districts.

Texas House of Representatives Speaker Joe Straus (San Antonio) appointed Hilderbran to lead the House Select Committee on Special Purpose Districts in February. As chairman, Hilderbran will also direct a study into the effect that multiple and overlapping special purpose districts have on taxpayers.

“Chairmanship of this committee allows me to ensure that our special districts are serving Texans efficiency and fairly,” Hilderbran said. “My previous legislative efforts with water and other special districts give me a strong understanding of their organization, including what they need to operate effectively and what they need to cut in order to protect taxpayers from gratuitous taxes.”

While the committee will focus on water-related districts, it will also review those related to hospitals, crime control, emergency services, health services, waste water, and more.

“I am pleased to appoint Rep. Hilderbran as chair of the Select Committee on Special Purpose Districts,” Straus said.  “With over 20 years in the Texas House, Harvey has worked hard to eliminate inefficiencies at all levels of government. I am confident that his extensive knowledge of water issues will help this committee meet its important charges.”

Rep. Jose Menendez (San Antonio) will serve as vice-chair of the committee, which also includes representatives Carol Alvarado (Houston), Valinda Bolton (Austin), Harold Dutton (Houston), Charlie Geren (Fort Worth), Mike Hamilton (Mauriceville), Bryan Hughes (Mineola), Delwin Jones (Lubbock), Tracy King (Batesville), Jodie Laubenberg (Parker), Armando "Mando" Martinez (Weslaco), Allan Ritter (Nederland), Patrick Rose (Dripping Springs) and Larry Taylor (Friendswood). 

Runnels County Retired Teachers Meeting
3/25/2010
The Runnels County Retired School Employees-Runnels County Retired Teachers- will meet for their last meeting Mon. April 5 at 2:00 PM at the First United Methodist Church in Ballinger. Officers will be installed and committee assignments made.

Runnels SWCD Poster and Essay Contest Winners
3/25/2010
     Each year, the Runnels Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) is proud to sponsor the Conservation Poster and Essay Contest for area students. The themes for the poster contest were "Dig It! The Secrets of Soil” and “Conservation Habits = Healthy Habitats. In all 152 conservation posters were received from students in the Ballinger, Winters and Miles school districts.
     Ribbons were awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each grade level at each school district. Other deserving posters were given Honorable Mention ribbons. In addition, posters from each grade level from all the schools were combined and judged to select the overall district winners.
     Cash awards of $25, $15, and $10 respectively were presented by the Runnels SWCD to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place overall district winners. The 1st place overall district poster winner, Cassidy Rathmell from Miles ISD, will represent the Runnels SWCD at the Area Awards Banquet to be held on March 25. At the banquet, Cassidy will receive an engraved plaque signifying her accomplishments in conservation education. Her winning poster will be forwarded to compete in regional competition.
     The theme for the essay contest was “What Soil and Water Conservation Means to Me.” There were 14 entries received from students. Shelby Hohensee, from Miles ISD, was the first place winner and will represent the Runnels SWCD at the Area Awards Banquet to be held on March 25. Laci will receive an engraved plaque signifying her accomplishments in conservation education. Her winning essay will be forwarded to compete in regional competition.
This year the Runnels SWCD honored the teacher of the student with the winning poster and essay with a $25.00 gift certificate. Mrs. Courtney Lange from Miles ISD is the teacher of the poster winner, Cassidy Rathmell. Mrs. Thresa Ray from Miles ISD is the teacher of the essay winner, Shelby Hohensee.
     The Runnels SWCD would like to thank the many administrators, teachers and students who helped make this year’s poster and essay contest educational and fun for all those who took part.


Poster Winners:
MILES 4th GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Cambry Coulter 1st and 3rd OVERALL
Dillon Wilson 2nd
Dayton Halfmann 3rd

MILES 5TH GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Cassidy Rathmell 1st and 1st OVERALL
Victoria Gomez 2nd and 2nd OVERALL
Ashlee Havlak 3rd
Yulitza Mendiola 4th

BALLINGER 3RD GRADE
Esmeralda Zamudio 1st
Cody Harrall 2nd
Jerry Don Flores 3rd

BALLINGER 5TH GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Reid Matschek 1st
Donovan Luna 2nd
Tyler Matschek 3rd

ESSAY WINNERS MILES 6th GRADE
Shelby Hohensee 1st
Skye Hoffman 2nd
Nicole Pelzel 3rd

Let’s Go Fishing!
3/25/2010 -excerpt from "On the Level" by Charles Frerich
    I’m hoping that the last of the cold weather is about over.  The rain has been a blessing and most of the farm ponds in the area have caught a significant amount of water.  The underground aquifers are being recharged and we should see a surge in spring water and seep activity.  The last few years of drought had dried many farm ponds losing most if not all of the fish population.  We are beginning to get inquiries about stocking these ponds with fish.  There is a lot more to fish pond management than just dumping fish in the water.

To read the rest of the story, click here.

Early Release
3/25/2010 -by Laura Strube, BISD Superintendent
The district has an early release on April 1^st due to hosting the junior high district track meet --  April 1 – 1:00 P.M. – Early Student Release (Faculty and Staff may leave after the students)

Thank you for your dedication to the students of Ballinger ISD.

"A Walk Down Memory Lane" - Date is Set
3/24/2010
April 18, 2010 at 2:00pm a “Walk Down Memory Lane” fashion show will take place at St. Joseph’s Parish Hall in Rowena. This fashion show will feature wedding dresses through the decades and a reception. Everyone is invited to attend. A five dollar donation at the door will help these 4-hers raise money for Breast Cancer Research.

If you are interested in seeing your wedding dress or a family members wedding dress in the fashion show, please contact McKenzi Matschek (442-2047) or Jordan Kalina (442-2002). Dresses can be modeled or displayed.

The Easter Bunny is coming to The First National Bank of Ballinger
3/24/2010
The Easter Bunny is coming to First National Bank of Ballinger.
When: Friday, April 2nd
Where: Lobby
Time: 9 a.m. To 2 p.m.

Come have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny on Good Friday. Pictures are $5. Children of all ages welcome. There will also be an Easter-themed bake sale in the lobby featuring cakes, cookies, pies, cupcakes and much more.

                                                   **All proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society/Relay for Life.

Texas Continues To Phase In Minimum State Vaccine Requirements For Students
3/24/2010
The Abilene Care Van and the Caring for Children Foundation of Texas will be offering required vaccinations FREE at the Medical Care Mission, 1857 Pine, Abilene, TX 79601 on April 1, 2010, from
5-7 PM. Parents are encouraged to be proactive by immunizing their children now before the back to school rush to adhere to the state vaccine requirements.

Vaccine requirements incorporated in Title 25 Health Services, 97.61-97.72 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) continues to be phased in by grades. Texas immunization requirements were revised in March 2009 to closely match the recommendations by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
In addition, as of January 1, 2010 Texas Education Code, section 51.9192, Subchapter Z established the requirement for students entering college, including transfer students who will be residing on campus housing to have received the meningococcal vaccine.
Beginning school year (SY) 2010-11, students entering Kindergarten, 1st, 7th and 8th grade will be affected by the following changes:

o Meningococcal Vaccine - Beginning SY 2010-11, 7-8th grade requirement
Graduating seniors are encouraged to receive the meningococcal vaccine now while they are still in school and may be eligible for FREE or low cost vaccine.
o Varicella Vaccine - Beginning SY 2010-11, 2 dose of Varicella for K-1st, 7-8th grade
o Tdap Vaccine - Beginning SY 2010-11, a booster dose of Tdap for 7-8th grade
o MMR Vaccine - Beginning SY 2010-11, 2 dose of MMR vaccine for K-1st grade
o Hepatitis A Vaccine -Beginning SY 2010-11, 2 dose of Hepatitis A K-1st grade

Parents or guardians are asked to please bring child’s immunization record. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by parent or guardian. VFC eligible.

Bake Sale For Relay For Life
3/24/2010
Ballinger National Bank will be having a Bake Sale on April 2, 2010 for Relay for Life.
The hours will be from 9 am to 3 pm.  Please come see what all we have to entice you.

TV Raffle
3/24/2010
The First National Bank of Ballinger is raffling a 50” SANYO  FLATSCREEN PLASMA HDTV.  Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5 and may be purchased from a teller in the bank lobby or drive-thru.  All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society/Relay for Life.  Winner will be announced June 11, 2010 at the Runnels County Relay for Life.  You do not need to be present to win.  Your support is appreciated.

Panhellenic Association to Hold Recruitment Forum
3/24/2010
The San Angelo Panhellenic Association will hold a recruitment forum at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday April 6 at the San Angelo Health Foundation meeting room, 426 W. Avenue B at the San Angelo Visitors Center between the throughways.

The forum is open to all area graduating high school senior girls who plan to attend college this fall and are interested in information on sororities and participation in the National Panhellenic Recruitment process.

Participants will receive an application, recruitment handbook and notice of deadlines.
Registration with the local Panhellenic Association is required prior to participation in the college recruitment process.

Parents are encouraged to attend.
For more information, please contact: Debra Brown, San Angelo Panhellenic Recruitment Chairman, 325-949-9019.

BYBA Free Umpire Clinic
3/24/2010
The Ballinger Youth Baseball Association is in need of paid umpires and is offering free training. 

   Set for Saturday, April 10th
   Meet at Davenport Field
   Clinic begins at 10 a.m.
   Pre-register before April 8th
   Contact David Esquivel at 325-895-1124

Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA -  Makes Another Patronage Distribution
3/23/2010
The board of directors of the Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA, which serves a 20 county area in Central and West Texas, has announced that it has approved another cash patronage distribution to eligible association borrowers for fiscal year 2009. This marks the seventeenth consecutive year the association has returned excess capital to its borrowers. Including this year’s patronage, Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA has distributed over $37.5 Million in excess capital to its borrowers over the past 17 years. This capital has been distributed either through patronage distributions, dividends, stock reductions, or stock equalizations. Patronage distributions alone have accounted for approximately $27 Million of the total amount of capital returned to association borrowers.

This year’s $2.5 Million patronage was distributed to borrowers on March 19th and amounts to over three-quarters percent reduction in the rate of interest borrowers paid on their loans during 2009.

In making the announcement, board chairman Cody B. Richmond stated that the board of directors and management were delighted to once again reduce the cost of borrowing to the association’s stockholders and emphasized that this is only one of the many benefits of obtaining agricultural and rural area credit from the Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA. He noted that the association’s financial strength allows the board and management to maintain an efficient and profitable operation and to continue the policy of returning excess earnings back to our shareholders.

Association CEO James R. Isenhower also noted that despite the adverse economic times many financial institutions experienced in 2009, Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA remains financially strong and is able to once again make a patronage distribution when numerous other Farm Credit institutions are unable to do so.

The Central Texas Farm Credit, ACA, with over $400 Million in loan assets, provides financing for agricultural, rural housing and certain agri-business purposes in Central and West Texas. Association headquarters are located in Coleman, with branch offices in Brownwood, Brady, Haskell and San Angelo. Board members include Cody Richmond, Chris West, Jerry Don Klose, Philip Hinds, Mike Finlay, Mickey Dillard, Larry Damron, Brent Heinze, Wayland Shurley, Robby Halfmann, and Glenn Miller. The board and management remain committed to maintaining the financial integrity of the association while offering competitive loan products that meet the financial needs of all eligible borrowers.

Hooker/Adams Engagement
3/23/2010
     Bill and Sara Adams of Ballinger, Texas are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mallory Denise Adams, to Kennon Ray Hooker, son of Ray Jr. and Esther Hooker of Boerne, Texas, and Stephani and LeeRoy Thorp of Junction, Texas.
    
     Mallory is the granddaughter of the late Lee Hendrix and the late Vera Hendrix of Vernon, Texas, and Ruby Adams and the late Billy Fred Adams of Iowa Park, Texas. Kennon is the grandson of Ray Sr. and Barbara Hooker and the late Sadie Helms, and Patsy and Wayne Taylor all of Junction, Texas.

     Mallory is a 2003 graduate of Ballinger High School, and is currently attending the University of Phoenix pursuing a degree in Psychology.

     Kennon is a 2005 graduate of Junction High School and attended Angelo State University pursuing a degree in Computer Science.

     The couple will be married May 21^st 2010, at Fort Concho in San Angelo, Texas.

Easter Sunrise Services
3/23/2010
What word describes Easter for you?  "Surprise"  "Joy"  "Miraculous" ?  Whatever  the word we use, we all stand in awe each Easter morning!  This year, won't you and your family join with your friends and neighbors at the Winters Country Club on Easter Sunday, April 4th,  at 7:00 a.m. for the community Sunrise Services.  These services will be in the clubhouse, so inclement weather will not be a problem.  A continental breakfast  will be served following the worship services.  The worship services are sponsored by the Winters Ministerial Alliance.  Everyone in the Winters community is invited to come worship on Easter morning.

Belk, a Champion again!
3/22/2010

Heath and Staci Belk of Eola, are some proud parents as their daughter Harli, member of Concho County 4-H, won reserve champion in her class of light weight fine wool lambs in Austin at the stockshow on Saturday.

Congratulations again Harli!!

Quilt to be Raffled Off
3/22/2010

This handmade Quilt by Kathy Halfmann of Olfen, grandmother of Peyton Curry, Class of 2015 is to be raffled off at the Ethnic Festival. Chances will be sold at the Hot Dog Sale prior to the Festival, as well as sold at the Festival itself.

For more information contact Cinnamon Carter. cinnamon.carter@ballingerisd.net

Glory Road Cowboy Church History
3/22/2010
Our 1st services, Feb, 2008, were held behind the chuck wagon fly under the mesquite trees at the arena on the Bronte hwy.

Preachers from Pecos County Cowboy Church came for several services, as did other local pastors. We had Bible study on Thursday night so David Williams, pastor of Seventh Street Baptist Church, could come and lead us: they were also our sponsor church. The Church had services several times in the Windmill Cafe, at the invitation of Debra Miller and her Mother, Glenda Dannels.

Glory Road Cowboy Church is a non denomination church sponsored by the Texas Fellowship of Cowboy Churches and the Baptist General Convention of Texas.

We welcome all and want you to feel free to "come as you are". Services are at 10:00 on Sunday morning and we plan on having services by the 1st of April at our new site.

Directions to the new church site are: from Ballinger, take Hwy 158 to FM 2111, turn left, go to CR 293, turn right about 1/4 mile, the church is on the left side of the road.

Immunization Clinic
3/22/2010
Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Clinic

H1N1 Flu Vaccine Available to All

Ballinger
Thursday, April 8th
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

Relay for Life Bake Sale
3/22/2010
Sugarbakers is having a bake sale at IGA on Saturday, April 3rd starting at 10 until ?

A Blessing and a Birthday
3/21/2010 -by Cinnamon Carter
       The blessing comes in the form of the amount of money raised during the Ballinger Bearcub and Bearcat Relay Concession stands on March 4 and 5.  The Friends of a Friend Class of 2015 took on the two concession stands during the two meets and after all was said and done, by Friday night at 10:00 when the last light was turned off at the track, 940 hamburgers had been sold and $5,000 had been raised.  Thursday’s junior high track meet was an unbelievable success as far as the concession goes. Man, can those junior high kids eat and spend their parent’s money!  Thursday alone afforded the cooking of 800 hamburgers in ONE day!  That’s a LOT of Beef!! Thank you to the parents that worked tirelessly BOTH days even though at the end of each day, we were VERY tired! We could not have been as successful without you. Thank you to the kids that worked and helped earn a little more money towards their dream. This amount of money puts us to the half-way point in a little over a year with approximately $24,000 in the bank!
      The birthday??? Well, It just so happens that on Thursday, March 25th, Mr. Campbell, our sculptor, will be escorting the 2 foot version of the new statue to the Texas Bronze Foundry in Lubbock, TX to begin the process of creating the new Indian. It just so happens that that day is now the birthday of what has become a very dear “friend” to me and a bunch of kids, but it is also my birthday. I can say that I am honored to share this day with such a special person and that it takes away some of the sting of the significance of this birthday year for me!  Coincidence?  I think it is just another one of those “wow” moments we have had since the onset of this project. This moment just happens to be a personal wow for me!
      This first step beginning on March 25 will take approximately 1 month and $10,000 which we have ready to go! Around the first of May, the statue will come back to Ballinger in a styrofoam, clay covered form, 8 feet tall, to be worked on for approximately 2 months by Mr. Campbell. The location of where Mr. Campbell will work on this version of the statue must be decided in the next couple of months and we are currently seeking building space for that next step. The location must be somewhat climate controlled and accessible for a small crane that can assemble the statue as needed to its actual height of 8 feet. Please contact Cinnamon Carter at 325-660-9786 if you have any suggestions and I haven’t found you first!
        Stay tuned for possibly the biggest WOW moment yet and also a HUGE way for the community to help further our fund raising efforts in the form of $25,000. Can’t wait to share the next WOW moment! You will just fall out of your chair when you hear it!

Dirt Cheap Dogs?
3/21/2010 -by Cinnamon Carter
Dirt Cheap Dogs? Well, it isn’t what you think.  It is however Higginbotham’s 129th Anniversary Dirt Cheap Sale on Saturday, March 27. That’s the Dirt Cheap part. The Dogs? Well, that would be the Hot Dogs that the Friends of a Friend for the Indian Statue, Class of 2015 will be selling to nourish all those hungry shoppers at the sale.  Come by Higginbotham’s on Saturday, March 27 from 11:00-2:00 and get a dog, a drink, and a dessert while you shop and support the efforts to replace Friend the Indian in the Ballinger City Park. Shoppers will also be able to purchase tickets for chances to win a Handmade Bearcat Quilt that will be given away during this year’s Festival of the Ethnics.

Rowena Historical Preservation Society
3/21/2010 -by Patricia Vancil
     The first official meeting of the Rowena Historical Preservation Society was held on March 3rd. The purpose of the meeting was to elect officers and directors as well as decide on the immediate plan of action and set goals. 
     Officers, who will serve for two years, were elected as follows:  President - Art Mavrode; Vice-President - Edward Garcia; Secretary - Pat Vancil; and Treasurer - Laura Posphical.  Directors are Mary Ann Lee, Tony Multer, Linda Behrens and Beverly Teplicek.  By-Laws for the society were ratified.
     A book entitled "Rowena - A Town and Its People" is currently being written.  Some oral histories have been obtained as well as written accounts and pictures of the people who settled the town of Rowena.  Additional pictures and historical accounts are always welcome.  A Raffle is underway to help provide funds for the publication of the book.  Tickets are available at West Texas State Bank, Lange Drilling, Halfmann Insurance and The Turnrow in Rowena. The drawing is scheduled for Sunday, April 4th.  Prizes are a Cajun Fryer, 2 crosses and other items.  You need not be present to win.
     Membership in the society is open to anyone interested in the historical preservation of Rowena.  Meetings will be held quarterly - the first Tuesday of January, April, July and October.  Special meetings can be called at any time by the president.  Membership dues are $20.00 and, unless otherwise specified, all members are voting members.
     While the society is very new, it is hoped that the 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 for years to come.
     The next meeting is scheduled for April 27th at 7 p.m.   All those interested in the work of the society are encouraged and welcomed to attend.
     Contact person for matters concerning items for the book is Art Mavrode 325-234-8545 or arthur.mavroad@gmail.com

Catholic Daughters of America Easter Project
3/21/2010 -by Patricia Vancil
Members of Court Our Lady of Grace #1734, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Rowena, recently completed a Easter Project to benefit  San Angelo State School.  Tumblers were decorated and  filled with Easter treats to be presented to the more than thirty residents of Rose Hall.  Caps were also collected by the group to be distributed among the residents of the State School.  The front portion of used greetings cards are collected throughout the year by the group and are used in the Arts and Crafts department of the State School.  The Easter Project has been an annual court activity for many years and continues to be one of the favorite of everyone who participates.

Do You Know This Family
3/20/2010
As the grandson of Joel Audice Reese, former Post Master in Ballinger, I am working through some old pictures of people I am not sure of being able to identify. If you know who these people are, please contact me at 1803 Turney Circle, Jacksonville Texas 75766 or E-mail me at jareese@aol.com or call at 903-586-4116. Thanking you in advance, Jimmie Audice Reese


Click photo for larger view.

City Easter Egg Hunt
3/18/2010
The local Easter Egg Hunt will be Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 11a.m. at the Ballinger City Park. The Ballinger Rotary Club and the Rotary Interact group will be sponsoring this hunt. Please bring your easter baskets and get to the park before 11a.m. All children between the ages of 0-13 are invited.

Pancake Supper
3/18/2010
The Ballinger Rotary Club and the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce have paired up to put on this years Pancake Supper and Bassin Bunch Registration. The Rotary Pancake Supper will be Friday, March 26, 2010, as well as the registration for the Bassin Bunch Fishing Tournament. Pancake Supper tickets are on sale now for $5 see any Rotarian. The meal will be held from 5-9 at the Ballinger Community Center. Anyone wishing to sign up for the fishing tournament may register at the Community Center at that time as well. There will be several raffles to be raffled that evening.

4th Place at Houston Livestock Show
3/17/2010
Houston Livestock Show, heavy weight fine wool, 4th place. Harli Belk member of Concho County 4-H, daughter of Staci and Heath Belk (BHS Graduates).

Annual Central Texas Pecan Short Course
3/17/2010 -by Tom Guthrie, CEA - AG and Natural Resources, Mills County, TX
The annual Central Texas Pecan Short course will be conducted by the Texas AgriLife Extension Office in Mills County from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on March 30. The program will be held at the Mills County Civic Center located at 1103 Cline in Goldthwaite.
This program will educate producers on the best management practices available. There will also be equipment set up to allow producers to see what is available.

Topics and speakers will include:
• Pecan Market Update, Dewayne McCasland, Owner SNT/Pecans.com, Goldthwaite
• Disease and Control Options, Dr. Larry Stein, AgriLife Extension Horticulturist, Uvalde
• Pecan IPM Strategies, Bill Ree, AgriLife Extension Entomologist, College Station
• Nut Phenology and Nutrition, Monte Nesbitt, AgriLife Extension Pecan Specialist, College Station
• Pecan Tree Care in the Home Landscape, Wade Hibler, AgriLife Extension Agent, Burnet County
• Laws and Regulations, Benji Parham, Texas Department of Agriculture
• Water Management, Dr. Larry Stein, AgriLife Extension Horticulturist, Uvalde

A total of 4 Continuing Education Units (CEU’s) will be offered for participants. These will include 2 General, 1 Laws & Regulations, and 1 IPM.

Individual pre-registration by March 26 is $5 and $10 after that. The fee covers educational materials and lunch.
For more information or to pre-register, call the AgriLife Extension Office in Mills County at 325-648-2650.

Walk Through Memory Lane
3/17/2010
The Runnels County 4-H Fashion Show Committee is excited to announce their plans for a "Walk Through Memory Lane Fashion Show." The Fashion show will feature wedding dresses through the decades. It will be fun to see how the styles of dresses have changed through the years and bring back memories of special days of the past.
The fashion show will be a fund raiser for Breast Cancer Research. Tickets will be sold for $5 and all funds will be donated directly to cancer research.
They are currently looking for wedding dresses. These will either be modeled in the fashion show or displayed for viewing. The first dress that has been listed is from the 1940's. They are looking for dresses from each of the decades. If you are interested in having your dress in the fashion show, please call McKenzi Matschek at 442-2047 or Jordan Kalina at 442-2002.
The "Walk Through Memory Lane" Fashion show is being planned for April. More details and information will follow in weeks to come.

Reserve Grand Champion Turkey
3/17/2010
Tanner Nixon Ballinger FFA
Reserve Champion Turkey Hen
2010 Star of Texas
Austin Stockshow
 
Tanner placed Reserve Champion Sunday March 14th
There were 102 Hen entries and 91 Toms entries
 
Pictured left to right
Ashley Likes (neice), Tanner Nixon, Keith Staggs (Judge) Kingwood, Texas
 

Easter Musical
3/17/2010
The Sanctuary Choir at First Baptist Church will present an Easter Musical, “Because He Lives,” on Sunday, March 28, at 10:30 AM.  The church is located at 400 N. 8^th Street.  A nursery will be provided. Everyone is welcome!  For more information, contact the church office at 365-3565 or fbcballinger@wtxs.net.

Imagination Station Playground Softball Tournament
3/17/2010
Date:          June 4^th & 5^th
Location:   Chandler Field, Ballinger
Format:      USSSA, 16 player rosters, $10 per player
Deadline:   Wednesday, June 2^nd by 5:00pm
Contact:     Eloyed Fuentes           365-8581 or 325-977-0915
                 Terilyn Bowman           365-1979 

·       Team Prizes include shirt 1^st and 2^nd
·       Lots of food and fun

35th Annual Colorado River Bikefest
3/17/2010
The Ballinger Noon Lions Club is sponsoring the 35th Annual Colorado River Bikefest will be on April the 24th this year.  Proceeds benefit our Journey for Sight - combating blindness world wide,  Texas Lion's Camp for Diabetic and Crippled Children, Eyeglass Recycling, Scholarships and civic projects.   Anyone can down load an application on our web site www.balllingernoonlions.org.