Quest for a new "Friend" ...Indian Hill Update
by Cinnamon Carter
1/26/2009

This reading session we are going to have today maybe the most important one yet, so I need you to really, really focus, ok? Ok! Before I tell you the big news, I want to first give you the opportunity to see how cool this journey has been for the kids and I since the start. I am going to lay out a time-line of the amazing events that have gotten us to the big news that I have for you. Don’t you skip to the end and peek! Just stay with me here..
(Story Continued Here)

Junior High Cheerleader Tryouts
1/26/2009
Jr. High Cheerleader tryouts will be Feb. 27^th.  Tryouts are open to all 6^th and 7^th grade girls.  They will tryout in front of student body at 8am and the judges at 4pm. Contact Terri Harral at the Jr. High for more information.

Ballinger UIL Team Results
1/26/2009

The Ballinger UIL Team competed at the Brownwood Heart of Texas UIL Meet on
Saturday, January 17. The team placed 3rd in Sweepstakes Competition with 28
schools competing.
1st Calculator Team - Nathan Kalina, Katie Chapman, Kari Pruser, Kaci Hite
Individual Results:
Markus Nelson - 5th Computer Applications
Dottie Cook - 1st Editorial Writing
Paige Sanders - 2nd Editorial Writing, 5th News Writing, 2nd Headline Writing
Paige Mattingley - 3rd Ready Writing
Kalee Owen - 3rd News Writing
Nathan Kalina - 2nd Calculator
Katie Chapman - 4th Calculator
Kari Pruser - 6th Calculator
Lindsey Phillips - 6th Persuasive Speaking

Glory Road Cowboy Church hosts Dee Vickery in Concert
1/26/2009
Dee Vickery
National & International Christian Country Recording Artist
In Concert February 1st, 2009 @ 10AM

Location:
Glory Road Cowboy Church
802 Hutchings
Ballinger, Texas

Contact Madelyn Kline @ 365-2735 for more info.
 

Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Clinics
1/25/2009
Winters
Thursday, February 5th
1:30-5:30
Professional Building
110 South Main, Suite 108

Ballinger
Thursday, February 12th
10-12 & 1:30-3
608 Strong (old DHS Office 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
 

Winters Chamber News
1/22/2009
Lawrence Bros. IGA grocery has installed a free internet hot spot for the use of customers and visitors to Winters. The service will work in the store and the IGA parking lot. According to store manager Randy Couch, the name will show up as “Law Bros Public WiFi.” A password will be needed to use the service and this will be made available inside the store, free of charge.
     Although the registration deadline has passed, there are still a few openings for anyone interested in attending Texas Midwest Day at the Capitol in Austin on Tuesday, Feb. 3. This event is designed to give folks in this area an opportunity to visit one-on-one with State Senators and Representatives on issues important to this region. The Winters delegation will depart from North Runnels Hospital at 7:30 a.m. This is a great opportunity to see the State Legislature at work. It’s important that legislators see people from our area and for us to share our concerns with them. Anyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, call the Winters Chamber at 754-5210 or the Winters Industrial Corporation at 754-4542.4542.
     Dust off your dancin’ shoes and join the fun on Saturday, Jan. 24, when five area bands will host a benefit dance from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Winters Community Center. Proceeds from the event will go to Danny Reel and his daughter Becky who lost their home and possessions in a house fire in December. Admission is by donation. The Winters Chamber will provide concessions, with those proceeds going to Danny as well.
     I’ve been receiving several requests for hunting information. If you have a lease, send me your info and we’ll add it to the list which can be found at www.winters-texas.us. Hunters also spend money on food, gas and other needs while in our area and their dollars are always a boost to our economy.
     The Chamber is excited about working with the City and Police Department in their efforts to clean up our community. With everyone doing their part, we can make sure our city “shines” and presents a welcoming picture for visitors and possible future residents and business owners.

Ballinger Knights of Columbus Free Throw Competition
1/22/2009
Reminder! The Ballinger Knights of Columbus Free Throw Competition is to be held this Sunday the 25th of January. The event is open to all boy & girls ages 10-14. The competition will be held at the Joe Forester Gymnasium at Ballinger High School beginning at 1:30pm. There is no registration fee for participating.

Varmint Contest a Success
1/21/2009
Rough Country Accessories held a varmint contest on January 17th, with 19 teams entered. The hunt began at Noon on Saturday and concluded that Sunday at 1:00 in the Rough Country parking lot. Each team was allowed to hunt Runnels and the surrounding counties. The teams that entered also had the opportunity to get in a side pot for big coyote, raccoon, fox, and bobcat.

First Place and Big Raccoon went to Team Will Duggan with 112 points for a pay out of $950 and a raccoon weighing in at 21.15 lbs for a pay out of $130.


Second Place and Big Fox went to Team Josh Alexander with 111 points for a pay out of $570 and a fox weighing in at 11.5 lbs for a pay out of $150.
 

Third Place went to Team Gabe Salmon with 110 points for a pay out of $380.
 

Big Bobcat went to Team Cord Bowman weighing in at 28.14 lbs. for a pay out of $140.
 

Big Coyote went to Team Helberg weighing in at 31 lbs for a pay out of $90.
 

Thank you to all the teams that entered the contest and helped make this round a success. The next contest will be held February 28th. To get entered into the next contest come by 1919 Hutchings in Ballinger or call 325-365-5258. Look forward to having another success hunt this next time around.

Citizen of the Year Nomination Open
1/19/2009
The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for Citizen of the Year. Nominations will need to be submitted in writing to the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce no later than Friday, February 13, 2009.
Please submit your nomination and a brief description as to why this person should be citizen of the year. This person should demonstrate willingness to go above and beyond their job and must benefit our community in growth and assisting Ballinger in being a better place to live and work. Please list the civic organizations and volunteer groups that this individual is involved in. You can submit these nominations by mailing them to P.O. Box 577, faxing 365-3445, or e-mailing to coc@ballingertx.org.

Runnels County Relay Kick Off
1/19/2009
January 29, 5:30 p.m.
Main Street Soda Fountain
The 2009 Runnels County Relay is just around the corner. Those who have never participated in Relay may wonder just what Relay is and why we Relay. The first Relay took place in 1985 in Tacoma, Washington when Dr. Gordy Klatt ran around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Relay for Life is an overnight event for the entire family that brings a community together by raising money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society. Teams of up to 15 camp out around the track and take turns walking or running. Because cancer never sleeps, each team is asked to have at least one team member on the track at all times during the 12 hour event.

In 2008 more than 3.5 million people participated in a Relay. More than 500,000 cancer survivors walked the opening lap of Relay events in their community. In 2008 the Runnels County Relay raised over $70,000 for the American Cancer Society. Since its beginning, Relay for Life has raised more than $3 billion. Our Relay season will officially begin at the Relay Kick Off Rally on January 29 at 5:30 at Main Street Soda Fountain. This is an opportunity to sign up for a team, register survivors and caregivers, and see just what Relay is all about.

In 2009 Relay For Life will celebrate 25 years. We hope you will join us as we celebrate 25 years of hope and all that has been achieved by Relays like ours to make a difference in the fight against cancer. For more information please contact Julie Gray at 365-2403.

Ballinger ISD Public Hearing Meeting
1/19/2009
Thursday, January 22, 2009 5:30 PM
Agenda of Public Hearing Meeting The Board of Trustees Ballinger ISD
A Public Hearing Meeting of the Board of Trustees of Ballinger ISD will be held January 22, 2009, beginning at 5:30 PM in the BISD Administration Building, 802 Conda Ave, Ballinger, Texas 76821.  The subjects to be discussed or considered or upon which any formal action may be taken are as listed below. Items do not have to be taken in the order shown on this meeting notice.  Unless removed from the consent agenda, items identified within the consent agenda will be acted on at one time.
1. 2007/2008 AEIS Report (Academic Excellence Indicator System)
2. 2007/2008 AYP Report (Adequate Yearly Progress)

Ballinger ISD Regular Meeting
1/19/2009
Thursday, January 22, 2009 6:00 PM
Agenda of Regular Meeting The Board of Trustees Ballinger ISD
A Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of Ballinger ISD will be held January 22, 2009, beginning at 6:00 PM in the BISD Administration Building, 802 Conda Ave, Ballinger, Texas 76821. The subjects to be discussed or considered or upon which any formal action may be taken are as listed below. Items do not have to be taken in the order shown on this meeting notice.
1. Call to order
   A. Invocation
   B. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Approval of Minute(s)
3. School Board Recognition
4. Report of Administrators
   A. Elementary Principal
       1. Enrollment Figures
       2. Campus News
       3. Miscellaneous
   B. Junior High Principal
       1. Enrollment Figures
       2. Campus News
       3. Miscellaneous
   C. High School Principal
       1. Enrollment Figures
       2. Campus News
       3. Academics
       4. Athletics
       5. Miscellaneous
   D. Technology Director
       1. Technology Evaluation of the District
5. Superintendent Report
   A. Honor Roll/Failure Report
   B. Attendance Figures
   C. Level II School Board Member Training for the Leadership Team of Eight
   D. 2009 School Board Election Dates
   E. Update on Elementary Construction
   F. Update on the Administrator/Coach Position
   G. Next Board Meeting February 5, 2009
   H. Miscellaneous
6. Petitions and Communications
7. Tax A/C Report
8. Budget Report
9. Quarterly Investment Report
10. New Business
   A. Consideration and possible action on the 2009/2010 School Calendar
   B. Consideration and possible action on Contract with Fairview Alternative Education Co-op
   C. Personnel
(This item requires a closed meeting as authorized by Section 551.001through 551.146 of the Texas Government Code)
       1. To deliberate the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee
       2. Discuss Personnel Matters with Superintendent
       3. Resignations
       4. Recommendations
11. Action, if any, of Matters Discussed in Closed Session
12. Adjournment

3rd Annual Taste of Ballinger Coming Soon!
1/16/2009
Our giant church supper is coming soon!! Come and enjoy visiting with your friends while you taste the culinary efforts of the wonderful cooks of Ballinger. The 3rd annual Taste of Ballinger will be on Thursday, February 12th at the Ballinger Community Center. Serving hours are 5:00-7:00 pm. Tickets will be available beginning Monday, Jan. 26th. These can be purchased at the Library, at participating churches, and from Library Board Members. The price is $7.00 per person. Cookbooks with all the tasty recipes will be available to purchase for $5.00. Take out boxes are also available for $7.00 per person. For any questions or more information, contact Carla Campbell at 365-5094.

In conjunction with A Taste of Ballinger, our local art guild will have an art show with paintings and pictures available for purchase. Anyone who has their own original artwork or original craft is invited to display their work for sale at this show. 20% of the proceeds from any sales that night will be donated to the library. For more information about this show, contact Jean Hensley at 365-8262 or Janet Vaughn at 365-5907.

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR
DISTANCE LEARNING AND TELEMEDICINE GRANTS
1/13/2009
TEMPLE, TEXAS, January 13, 2009 - Acting Agriculture Under Secretary for Rural Development Douglas L. Faulkner announced today that USDA is accepting applications for grants through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Grant Program to provide access to education, training and healthcare resources in rural areas. Funding for the program is subject to Congressional appropriations.

“These grants will increase the range of educational opportunities available to students in rural communities and improve access to healthcare for countless numbers of rural Americans,” Faulkner said. “The DLT program provides increased economic opportunity by expanding telecommunications, educational resources and computer networks throughout rural America.” In 2008, USDA Rural Development provided grants totaling $28.2 million under the program to 105 recipients in 41 states.

“Distance learning and telemedicine systems are powerful tools for rural Texas,” said Scooter Brockette, USDA Rural Development Texas Acting State Director. “Through technology, students and families can participate in classes not previously available to them, and people who live in rural areas can access expanded health care options.”

Complete applications must be received by March 24. For further details about eligibility rules and application procedures, see the December 24, 2008, Federal Register, page 79041. Materials including an application guide and full details about the program can also be obtained at www.usda.gov/rus/telecom/dlt/dlt.htm  or by calling the DLT program at 202-720-0413.

USDA Rural Development strives to see that rural citizens can participate fully in the global economy by providing technical assistance, funding, and other programs that help rural Americans build strong economies to improve their quality of life. For further information regarding USDA Rural Development Programs, contact the State Office at (254) 742-9700 or visit our website at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/tx/ .

 

Visit your legislators, help your neighbors
1/13/2009
If you’ve ever wanted to visit your legislators’ offices and talk one-on-one about issues important to this region, come join the Texas Midwest Day in Austin on Tuesday, Feb. 3. Winters will join more than forty other communities in the Abilene and San Angelo area for this special event. A group of Winters residents will depart from North Runnels Hospital at 7:30 a.m. or you can ride a bus which departs from Ballinger at 8 a.m. Registration for the event is $50 per person or $90 with bus transportation. The first 10 people from Winters to sign up will get their $50 registration paid for.   This is a great opportunity to see the State Legislature at work. It is very important that legislators see people from our area and for us to share our concerns with them. Anyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Reservation deadline is Jan. 20. Call the Chamber at 754-5210 or the Winters Industrial Corporation at 754-4542 for more information or to make reservations.

Account Set Up to Benefit Families in Winters
1/13/2009
Accounts have been set up at Security State Bank to benefit two families who lost their homes to fires during the holidays. Eirma Linda Perez has five young children; one in 5th grade, one in 3rd, one in 2nd and two pre-schoolers. Danny Reel and his daughter, Becky, are currently staying with friends until housing can be found. Anyone wanting to make donations can send them to SSB, P. O. Box 156, Winters, Texas 79567, indicating which Benefit Account you prefer.

Benefit Dance at Winters Community Center
1/13/2009
A dance to benefit Danny Reel will be Sat., Jan. 24 at the Winters Community Center from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Five area bands will offer a wide selection of music from bluegrass to country and rock ‘n roll. Admission is by donation, and concessions will be available.

In addition to Danny losing his home and all his possessions in the fire, the Chamber lost all the letters used on the signboard at IGA. Danny, a Chamber director, was the “keeper of the letters” and was in charge of updating the sign as needed. The only letters left are the ones on the sign at the present time. Replacement cost for the letters will be approximately $325. Donations to the Chamber to help purchase a set of letters will be appreciated. Displaying messages for clubs and organizations has been one of the many services the Chamber provides, and we hope we can continue this free service which benefits the community.

Winters Chamber News
1/13/2009
New happenings in town: Lawrence Bros. IGA Supermarket now offers wireless internet service. S&M storage units are expanding with several new units under construction. Farm Bureau will be opening at the corner of Main and West Dale. Another new business will be opening in the former Winn’s building on Main Street. The building formerly housing Chicago Grill is under renovation by K&K Remodeling and soon be available for rent. Florida Power & Light has signed a six-month lease to office at DLC Realty at 1116 S. Main. And I hope you’ve noticed the new trash containers and beautiful benches along the new sidewalks downtown.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, please shop with your local merchants and business owners. We have stores and restaurants right here in town which offers great gift items, many with free gift wrapping. And if you’re not sure what to get your special Valentine, get a gift certificate. Shopping at home helps keep dollars in our community. Support your businesses which support your town.

The Chamber welcomes and encourages new members, volunteers and ideas. For more information, call the Chamber at 754-5210, e-mail wacc@wtxs.net, come by 100 West Dale in the Gehrels Building, or check out our website at www.winterschamber.org .

North Runnels Buffer Zone Meeting
1/12/2009
North Runnels Buffer Zone Meeting
Tuesday, January 20
10:00 a.m. Winters Community Center
The Runnels County Wildlife and Livestock Protection Committee and Texas Wildlife Services have developed a plan build a buffer zone on the Northern portion of Runnels County.  This program is similar to what is done in Coleman County each year where Wildlife Services dedicates one to two weeks in February to fly the Northern part of Runnels County to manage coyotes, fox, bobcats and wild hog numbers coming in from Taylor, Callahan and Coleman Counties.  Feral hogs are definitely increasing in numbers and aerial hunting in this area will hopefully slow them down as they move deeper into Runnels County.
 
The only way this will work is to have as many landowners as possible in Northern Runnels County sign an agreement with Wildlife Services to allow aerial hunting on their property.  To do this, we are hosting a meeting on Tuesday, January 20, at the Community Center in Winters beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Please consult with your neighbors and ask them to sign an agreement so that this buffer zone can be established.  The area we are looking at right now is the North East corner of Runnels County from Hwy 153 to the county line.  Copies of these agreements will be available at the meeting on January 20th.  For more information, please contact Marty Gibbs, County Extension Agent at 365-2219. 

Runnels County Junior Livestock Show - Partial Results
1/12/2009
Victoria Kalina--Champion American Steer-Miles 4-H
Ethan Bredemeyer Champion British Steer-Winters 4-H
Tori Reyna -Champion Finewool-Ballinger 4-H
Dottie Cook Champion Southdown-Ballinger FFA
Dottie Cook- Champion Crossbred Lamb-Ballinger FFA
Johanna Lange Champion Duroc- Miles FFA
Slade Egan- Champion WOPB- Ballinger FFA
Joshua Juckabee- Champion York-MilesFFA
Guyman Richards--Champion BOPB-Ballinger FFA
Rachel Gibbs--Champion Light Weight Goat- Ballinger 4-H
Courtney Gibbs-- Champion Mediumweight Goat-- Ballinger 4-H
Reid Matschek- Res Champion American Steer-- Rowena 4-H
Camille Kruse Res Champion British Steer--Winter 4-H
Logan Reyna- Res Champion Finewool Lamb Ballinger 4-H
Rachel Gibbs -Res Champion Southdown Lamb-Ballinger 4-H
Dottie Cook--Res Champion Crossbred Lamb Ballinger FFA
Kara Heathcott-Res Champion Duroc Winters 4-H
Kara Heathcott- Res Champion Hamp- Winters 4-h
Kris Strube-Res Champion WOPB- Ballinger FFA
Linzi Pate Res Champion BOPB- Miles FFA
Ashley Guy- Res Champion BPOB- Winters FFA
Jacalyn Wanoreck- Res Champion Cross-Ballinger FFA
KOlton Looka- Res Champion Light Weight Goat- Miles 4-H
Dottie Cook Res Champion MIddle Weight Goat-Ballinger FFA
Clay Kelley Res Fancy Rabbit-Ballinger 4-H
Bailey Halfmann- Res. Commercial Rabbit-Miles 4-H

Winters Chamber Hosting Hamburger Supper Tuesday
1/7/2009
     Burgers and basketball are scheduled for Tuesday, January 13. The WHS Blizzards will play Albany, beginning at 4 p.m. with the JV girls, followed by the JV boys, varsity girls, then varsity boys. As our first fund raiser of 2009, the Chamber will be serving grilled hamburgers, chips, cookies and a drink for only $6. The public is encouraged to come support the Blizzards and the Chamber.
     The 2009 edition of the Texas Midwest Guide has arrived at the Chamber office at 100 West Dale. The attractive and informative guide includes two pages about Winters, with a feature page showcasing Heidenheimer’s, Bluebonnet Mercantile, Daisy Patch, and the Stitchin’ Post. The guide is distributed through Texas Travel Information Centers, chambers of commerce, convention and visitor bureaus, coast-to-coast travel shows and participating businesses. Information included in the guide can be accessed on-line at www.texasmidwest.org  and provides history, recreation, lodging, calendars and entertainment of participating communities.
     Congratulations to all the winners and participants of the Winters Livestock Show this past weekend. Winters ISD Ag Teacher Joel Bush, along with a host of volunteers, helped make this year’s show a fun learning experience for our local youth. The Runnels County Ag Show will be this weekend in Ballinger.
     Friends of Danny Reel will be hosting a benefit dance at the Winters Community Center on Sat., Jan. 24. Reel and his daughter recently lost their home to a fire. A fund has been established at Security State Bank, P. O. Box 156, Winters, 79567. Clothing donations can be taken to DLC Realty at 1116 S. Main. Furniture and appliances are being accepted by Lupe Guevara at Debbie Bryan Insurance Agency.  
     Remember to mark your calendars to join the fun on Monday, February 16, when the Chamber hosts the San Angelo Trail Riders for Dinner and Dance at the Rock Hotel. Trail riders will travel along highway 83, go by Winters elementary school as they enter town, then camp overnight in Winters before traveling back to San Angelo. The Chamber will provide supper and breakfast for the riders. A free street dance for the riders and the public is planned for Monday evening, Feb. 16, to welcome the riders and share some of our wonderful Winters hospitality.
     The Chamber is working diligently to generate energy and promotion of our businesses and community. We strongly urge residents and visitors to shop at home with local tax-paying, school-boosting, community-supporting businesses. The efforts of the Chamber require support, just as other businesses need customers. We encourage and appreciate all our members – individuals, families and businesses, whose support allows us to work for their businesses and this community. For more information regarding Chamber membership, give me a call at 754-5210, come by 100 West Dale, or e-mail wacc@wtxs.net. And check out our website at www.winterschamber.org. Your participation will make a difference and help keep our doors open.

Ballinger ISD to Hold Public Hearing
1/6/2009
Ballinger ISD will hold a public hearing to discuss the 2007 – 2008 annual reports – AEIS (Academic Excellence Indicator System) and AYP (Adequate yearly Progress).  The hearing will be held January 22, 2009, at 6:00 P.M. in the Ballinger ISD Administration Building, 802 Conda Avenue.  The public is invited and encouraged to attend the public discussion.

Indian Update - and Thanks!
1/6/2009  by Cinnamon Carter
     Happy New Year to everyone! I wanted to inform you of our most recent updates on our Indian since our last visit.  Before the holidays, we had some remarkable developments and then over the holidays, had to very special letters sent my way.  Our biggest discovery came via a man named Steven Harris. After visiting with him on the phone, he disclosed the fact that there is still one Indian in existence. WOW! was my expression to him on the phone. We assumed that all statues had been lost over the years based on what we had read so far. Mr. Harris is an avid collector of Ardmore history and of the Palacine Indians. Through his research, he discovered a couple in Tulsa, OK that owned one of the original Indian statues.  “Joe”, as the family named him, has been in their family for many, many years. Mr. Harris was granted permission to come and view the Indian but said he was promptly met at the front door by a tiny 80 year old woman who very adamantly said, “The Indian is NOT for sale”.  Mr. Harris was afforded the opportunity to take some pictures and also learn that “Joe” has been apart of backyard football games, Tag, and been hugged and kissed by the couple’s children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren.  Needless to say, he means as much to these folks as he did to so many in our own community. They are just lucky enough to still have theirs! The kids and I were thrilled to learn that there still really was one that has survived for over 50 years and is still bringing joy to those who call him Friend.
        I also read the article over the holidays in the “Ledger” from Mr. Northington and was most gracious for his input of information.  He provided some very candid and valuable information to our project and I hope he will continue to do so.
        Other than finding out that there was still an Indian, even though he is NOT for sale, the second greatest find was a letter I received from Nell Shepperd Hambrick. She is the daughter of Elmer Shepperd who purchased and had the Indian placed in the park so many years ago. She talked of how proud her father was to see the Indian stand so tall and regal on his pedestal and also of how sad and disappointed he was when it was destroyed.  She said he had hoped that it would be a monument to be enjoyed by us all these years later in 2009. She, as many I have talked with, thanked me for “unknowingly bringing back many precious memories”.  Mrs. Hambrick is 92 years old now as she told me in her letter but was very proud to say she has been blessed with good health and remains very active. Thank You Mrs. Hambrick for taking the time to write to my class and to me and share your memories with us.
        Thank you once again to all of those so far who have taken the time to write to me and share your thoughts. Please continue to write in and allow us to preserve such a special period in time for so many.  Until next time, thanks for reading and taking an interest!

Immunization Clinic
1/6/2009
An Immunization Clinic will be held by The Texas Department of State Health Services, Thursday, January 8, 2009 from 10-12 and 1:30-3 at 608 Strong Avenue in Ballinger. Please bring your child's immunization records and if your child has Medicaid or CHIP, please bring the card. For more information call 754-4945.

Carnegie Library
1/6/2009
The Carnegie Library has declared that January 2009 is Amnesty Month. All fines on returned books will be waived with the exception that fines previously assessed are still due.

First Christian Church
1/6/2009
The First Christian Church will host a spaghetti luncheon Saturday, January 10th from 11am to 2pm. Take out and delivery plates are available for $6 per plate. There will also be a raffle ticket sale for chances to win an Afghan and Quilt. Call 365-2794 for more information.

Tony Romo Jersey Raffle
1/6/2009
The Ballinger Senior Citizens Center is having a raffle for a Dallas Cowboy Tony Romo jersey. Tickets are $1-each or 6 for $5. Proceeds will benefit the Senior Center Building Fund. The drawing will take place January 30th. For more information, go by the Center at 627 Strong or call 365-5027.

Relay For Life Fundraiser
1/6/2009
There will be Relay For Life Fundraiser at Toliver Brothers. For a $10 donation you receive a portrait certificate that entitles you to a portrait option. The family portrait option includes the photo shoot and a 10X13 family portrait. The just for kids option includes the photo shoot, 1-8X10, 2-5x7's, and wallets of the same pose. The photo shoot will take place at the Toliver Used Car Lot, Sunday January 25, and Monday January 26, 2009. Additional poses will be taken and available for purchase from Olan Mills. To purchase a certificate or for more information contact Sheree Goetz at 718-8640, or Cari Cuellar 650-7884, or come by Toliver Brothers.

Assistance for Fire Victims
1/6/2009
An account to assist Kristin Martinez and her family whose house was destroyed by fire on Dec 30th has been set up at the First National Bank. There is also a collection jar at the Shoppin Baskit as well. If you’d like to donate clothing or need other information, please contact Anita Martinez at 365-5684 or 650-3917.

WEST TEXAS CENTERS GIVEN $10,000 FROM CHILI COOK-OFF PROCEEDS
1/6/2009
BIG SPRING - Members of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie No. 3188 donated $10,000 - generated from Saturday’s Chili Cook-off - to West Texas Centers for MHMR’s Children in Need fund. Eagle members presented the check to West Texas Centers Deputy Director of Operations Landon Sturdivant at the conclusion of the Seventh Annual Chili Cook-off. The Chili Cook-off attracted 33 chili cooks and about 300 attendees who sampled chili, visited with friends and enjoyed the entertainment at the Eagles building. The large donation was spurred in part by the exceptional turnout and higher-than-normal number of cooks, West Texas Centers for MHMR CEO Shelley Smith said. “It was the best chili cook-off thus far, and the weather could not have been better.” The large attendance, entry fees from the 33 chili cooks and donated auction items and raffle tickets generated the $10,000 donation. “The event was a huge success, and we are so appreciative to have had the support of the community through healthy attendance and experienced judges who volunteered their time for a worthy cause,” Smith said. The Eagles also expanded the number of prizes and included more raffle and auction items for the event, drawing an ever larger number of cooks, she said. The Children in Need Fund purchases school supplies, clothing, tuition for summer camps and other financial needs of special children who are receiving services from West Texas Centers for MHMR. “We have so many children who have needs in addition to the services they receive, so these funds help pay for those additional items that state funding does not cover,” Smith said. “This Chili Cook-off is one of the major contributors to that fund. That’s why we appreciate their work so very much.”

Chili Cook-off winners were: Irma Garcia & Janie Murley – Two Hot Mamas, first place; Janet Payne and Clarissa Womack – Wild Women of West Texas, second place; Tommy Tilley, third place; Austin Bynum – Homegrown Chili, fourth place; Valerie White and Kellie Howell – Twisted Sisters Chili Team, fifth place; Dalton Lewis, sixth place; Carl Wyrick – Two Dogs, seventh place; Mike Ramirez – Little Mexico, eighth place; Buddy Owens – Iron Works Chili, ninth place; and Tim Reibe – T and C Chili, 10th place. The Showmanship Award was presented to Jeff Thompson and Danny Wright of the Two Fat Guys crew; and the Horses award was given to Doug Carson and Ron Long for being the largest promoters or “smack talkers” about their pot of chili, Smith said. Winner of the two-night stay at the Inn of the Mountain Gods was Gary Gillihan. Mike Welling won the 50-50 raffle.
West Texas Center is the mental health authority for 23 rural counties in West Texas which includes Andrews, Borden, Crane, Dawson, Fisher, Gaines, Garza, Glasscock, Howard, Kent, Loving, Martin, Mitchell, Nolan, Reeves, Runnels, Scurry, Terrell, Terry, Upton, Ward, Winkler and Yoakum counties.

January 2009 is School Board Recognition Month
1/5/2009
Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed January as School Board Recognition Month to build awareness and understanding of the vital function an elected board of education plays in our communities. Ballinger ISD is joining with other districts throughout the state to thank board members for caring so much about the future of every child enrolled in our public schools.

“Texans benefit every day from the dedicated energies and countless hours devoted by a group of more than 7,000 men and women across the state. These public servants are elected to serve by local citizens and receive no compensation for their tireless efforts. School board members are extraordinary people who voluntarily tackle the enormous job of governing school districts. Their actions and decisions affect the present and future lives of all our children,” said Laura Strube, Ballinger ISD superintendent.

“Even though we are making a special effort during January to show appreciation to our school board members, we recognize their work reflects a year-round commitment,” Ms. Strube said. “Every day trustees demonstrate strength and dedication as they focus on excellence for their district programs, their teachers, and most importantly their students. They unselfishly contribute their time and talents toward the advancement of public schools, and represent a continuing commitment to local citizen control and decision making in education,” she said.

The trustees serving on the Ballinger ISD Board are:
Mike Riley – President
Charles Frerich – Vice President
Stan Bickel – Secretary
Bryan Davenport
Manuel Galvan
Dale Halfmann
Kevin Newsom

Ballinger Stock Show Results
1/5/2009 (Pictures by Jason Gore of Ballingernews.com and Gore Photography)
Goats
Grand Champion - Rusty Fischer (pictured left) showing his goat by breeder Mike Halfman.
Reserve Champion - Dottie Cook
Showmanship - Rusty Fischer
Lightweight 1. Rusty Fischer 2. Dottie Cook 3. Jett Byler 4. Shane Flanagan
5. Tyler Englert
Medium weight 1. Dottie Cook 2. Rusty Fischer 3. Alyssa Flanagan 4. Tyler Englert
5. Ryan Byler
Heavyweight 1. Kasey Byler 2. Rusty Fischer 3. John Glass
 

Swine
Overall Grand Champion - Jack Buxkemper
Overall Reserve Champion - Jacalyn Wanoreck
Duroc 1. Jessica Castleberry
Hampshire 1. Jacalyn Wanoreck 2. Slade Egan 3. McKinzie Arrott 4. Brandon Schaefer
Chester 1. Slade Egan 2. Jennifer Castleberry
Yorkshire 1. Jack Buxkemper 2. Allison Schaefer 3. Marcus Castleberry 4. Jennifer Castleberry
Cross Grand Champion - RJ Amaro
Cross Reserve Champion - Jacalyn Wanoreck
Cross #1 1. RJ Amaro 2. Ryan Matschek 3. Dottie Cook 4. James Rouse
Cross #2 1. Jacalyn Wanoreck 2. Tyler Matschek
3. McKinzie Egan 4. McKinzei Arrott

Finewool Lambs
Grand Champion - Colton Little (pictured right)
Reserve Champion - John Glass
Lightweight 1. Kasey Byler 2. Colton Little 3. Ryan Byler 4. John Glass 5. Alyssa Flanagan 6. Shane Flanagan
Heavyweight 1. Colton Little 2. John Glass 3. Tori Renya 4. John Glass 5. Karlie Little 6. Logan Reyna

Southdown Lambs
Grand Champion - Dottie Cook
Reserve Champion - Kasey Byler
Lightweight 1. Jett Byler 2. Jett Byler 3. Megan Rich
4. Clay Kelley
Heavyweight 1. Dottie Cook 2. Kasey Byler 3. Ryan Byler 4. Megan Rich 5. Clay Kelley

Medium Wool Lambs
Grand Champion - Chelsea Zepeda
Reserve Champion - Dottie Cook
Lightweight 1. Tori Reyna 2. Corey Virden 3. Shane Flanagan 4. Corey Virden
Heavyweight 1. Chelsea Zepeda 2. Dottie Cook 3. Chelsea Zepeda 4. John Glass 5. Chelsea Zepeda

Finewool Cross Lambs
Grand Champion - Tori Reyna
Reserve Champion - Colton Little
Lightweight 1. John Glass 2. Corey Virden
3. Corey Virden 4. Jett Byler 5. Corey Virden
Medium weight 1. Dottie Cook 2. Kasey Byler
3. Logan Reyna 4. Karlie Little 5. Alyssa Flanagan
Heavyweight 1. Tori Reyna 2. Colton Little 3. Dottie Cook 4. Ryan Byler 5. Logan Renya 6. Karlie Little

Heifers
Grand Champion - Judd Hatler
Reserve Champion - Hadley Hatler
Class 1  1. Judd Hatler 2. Hadley Hatler
Class 2  1. Hadley Hatler 2. Judd Hatler

Steers
Grand Champion - Davis Matschek
Reserve Champion - Auggie Woodruff
Showmanship - Chelsea Toliver
Red Angus Class 1  1. Mason Matschek (Pictured above right) 2. Ethen Langston
American Class 2  1. Reid Matschek 2. Travis Holle
European Class 3  1. Davis Matschek 2. Corey Virden (pictured right) 3. Chelsea Toliver
European Class 4  1. Chelsea Toliver
2. Victoria Kalina (pictured below right)
3. Sydney Dankworth (pictured below left)
European Class 5  1. Auggie Woodruff
2. Sydney Dankworth 3. Riley Woodruff

Runnels County Junior Livestock Show
1/5/2009
The 9th Annual Runnels County Junior Livestock Show will be held Thursday January 8th through Saturday, January 10th at the Community Center in Ballinger.  This years show will feature 120 youth in 4-H and FFA clubs representing Ballinger, Rowena, Miles, and Winters that will exhibit approximately 400 animals.  These exhibitors will compete for prizes and premiums totaling over $85,000 to be presented at the premium sale on Saturday.  The show is free to the public and everyone is invited to attend and support these youth as they demonstrate their skills in showmanship and animal husbandry to complete their projects.  The show schedule is as follows:

Show Schedule
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Arrival of all Animals except swine 1:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Weigh-in of all Animals except swine 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Friday, January 9, 2009
Concession Stand available all day Friday and Saturday
8:00 a.m.   Rabbit Show-Fryers and Breeding
Meat Goat Show followed by Showmanship
12:00 noon Fajita Lunch Ballinger Young Farmers
$7 per plate
Sheep Show- Lambs and Breeding followed by Showmanship
Cattle Show -Heifers, Steers followed by Showmanship
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Arrival and weigh-in of all swine

Saturday, January 10, 2009
8:00 a.m.    Swine Show followed by Showmanship
12:00 noon Buyers Pork Steak Lunch - Miles Young Farmers
$7 per plate. Complimentary to all Buyers
2:00 p.m. Premium Sale

Winter Weather Possible Sunday Night / Monday
1/4/2009
With temperatures near or just below freezing Sunday night, and with light rain possible, freezing rain could cause icy conditions in our area and the rest of the Big Country and Concho Valley Sunday night and Monday. Click on the links below for the watch/warning map and to read the special weather statements being issued by the San Angelo National Weather Service office.