July Immunization Clinics for Runnels County
6/22/2009

Runnels County 4-H*ers Excel at State 4-H Roundup Competition
6/22/2009
     The Runnels County Senior 4-H Livestock Judging team made it*s presence well-known at state competition this past week at Texas A&M University. The team won the largest and most competitive state contest to date. The team comprised of Dottie Cook, Conner Newsom, Victoria Kalina and Courtney Gibbs outmatched over 78 teams and took the state title. Individually, Cook was 2nd and Newsom 14th out of 278 competitors. With the state championship under their belt, the team will travel to Louisville, Kentucky in November to compete on the national level. The team was coached by Marty Gibbs and Cade Halfmann.
     Including the Livestock team, Runnels county had 27 participants in various state competitions throughout the week, and along with various plaques and ribbons, three Runnels County seniors were awarded scholarships totaling $47,500. Results are as follows:
Scholarships -
Eric Schwertner- $15,000 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, $2,500 TEEA Alisha Multer- $16,000 San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo Sterling Hohensee- $15,000 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (pictured above left)
Livestock Judging- 1st Place Team- Dottie Cook (2nd Ind), Conner Newsom (14th Ind.),  Victoria Kalina, Courtney Gibbs (below right)
Consumer Decision Making-
      3rd Place Team- Morgan Pelzel, Lauren Michalewicz, Kelci Zentner
      34th Place Team- Paige Zentner, Valerie Albarado, Abbey Multer (pictured left)
Educational Presentations:
Farm and Ranch Economics- 1st Place - Tyler Englert
Housing and Home Environment- 1st Place- Lance Michalewicz, Trevor Lange Fashion Show- 2nd Place Construction Formal- McKenzi Matschek Clothing- 3rd Place- Valerie Albarado, Dottie Cook, McKenzi Matschek (below right) Safety- 3rd Place - Abbey Multer, Jordan Kalina, Paige Zentner Meat Science- 4th Place- Courtney Gibbs, Victoria Kalina, Janelle Fant
Natural Resources- 3th Place - Lauren Michalewicz, Kelci Zentner (pictured left)
Consumer Life Skills- 6th Place - Layne Halfmann, Logan McCoy, Mason Matschek, Sklyar Schniers
Wool Judging- Clay Kelley
Share-the-Fun Vocal- Alisha Multer
Consumer Judging Team 3rd place Morgan Pelzel, Lauren Michalewicz, Kelci Zentner (pictured left)
Food Show - Main Dish - 6th Place - Judd Hatler Entomology Identification - Judd Hatler

       

 

(pictured left to right, Trevor Lange, Lance Michalewicz, Tyler Englert, Alisha Multer, Valerie Albarado, McKenzi Matschek, Dottie Cook)
 

30th Annual Basketball Camp Wrapped Up
6/22/2009
This past Friday marked the end of another successful Bearcat Basketball camp led by Coach Robert Buxkemper. this camp was another great one full of eager kids. There was about 140 kids that participated this year and eleven coaches. Take a look at the faces page to see some of Friday's action.

Shocking News About Lightning
6/20/2009 -by Laurie Woodruff, State Farm Agent
      Lightning brightens the sky and provides a spectacular display of Mother Nature’s power. This awesome phenomenon also causes more deaths and property destruction in a typical year than floods, hurricanes and tornadoes combined.
     Don’t underestimate the dangers of lightning. The threat of lightning danger can occur anytime, but the most likely time for damaging thunderstorms is June through August. The early spring is also a vulnerable period.
      Scientifically speaking, lightning is the visible discharge of electrical energy. It is often accompanied by thunder, which is a sonic boom created by the same electrical discharge.
      This electrical energy seeks a path to ground and that path can be your home, a tree in your yard, or even you! The key to your protection is diverting that discharge to a grounding path away from people and property.
      A lightning protection system has two objectives: Provide a direct path for the lightning to follow to the ground and prevent destruction, damage, injury or death as it travels that path.
      Many of you are likely aware of lightning rods. Contrary to typical references to these devices, lightning rods do not attract lightning. They also cannot prevent lightning from striking your home. What they are designed to do is provide that safe path to the ground for the electrical current. Rods are just one part of an effective lightning protection system. If you’re serious about lightning protection, State Farm recommends you have a qualified contractor evaluate your home, explain the many parts of a total system and perform the installation.
      While lightning’s first target may be your house, there’s also a need to protect the property inside your home from the electrical surges that accompany a lightning strike. Surge protection devices installed at the main electrical panel or meter and at outlets serving electronics can often prevent these sudden spikes in electrical current from damaging TVs, VCRs, computers and other expensive electronic devices.
      Personal safety first.  Most importantly, protect yourself. If lightning is present, seek shelter inside an enclosed building or vehicle, stay away from electrical appliances and avoid using the telephone. If you cannot find shelter, stay close to the ground in a low-lying area, avoiding isolated trees, high ground, bodies of water or large open areas. If someone is injured, administer first aid if you are qualified to do so and call for emergency help. You cannot be “shocked” by someone who has been hit by lighting.
For more information on this and other safety issues related to your home and family, please stop by my office or visit statefarm.com.

Flag Football Tournament
6/20/2009
What:  "Friends of a Friend" Flag Football Tournament 
When:  July 25, 2009 
Where:  Ballinger 
Cost:  $150 per team (all proceeds benefit the Friends of a Friend project, less official's fees)
 
This is a double elimination tournament.  For more information, please contact Jason Martinez @ (325) 365-5673 or (325) 365-2552 or by e-mail @ jasonmartinez74@hotmail.com.  Entry fee deadline is July 18, 2009.

Audio Added
6/18/2009
KRUN has provided the audio from the 7th inning of the UIL State Final Baseball game in which our Miles Bulldogs emerged as champions. Click on the Bulldog logo above to view the Miles State Champs page, and listen to the audio as well as view the photos.

 Spotlight Change
6/16/2009
Mrs. Elizabeth Garza has found her way into the BISD Faculty Spotlight. Click the BISD Spotlight link on the menu bar above to check it out.

Relay for Life a Success
6/16/2009 -by Julie Gray, photo by BallingerNews.com

Last Friday over 350 participants braved the heat for the annual Runnels County Relay for Life.  We had 32 teams and over 350 participants!  Overall, Relay raised around $60,000 for the American Cancer Society.  The Relay Committee would like to say thank you to all of our generous Sponsors, Underwriters and Supporters who helped make this event a success.  We also thank Home Depot for providing craft kits for the kids at no cost.  Teams are reminded to join us for a Hamburger Relay Wrap-Up in the Park on Friday, June 19 at 6:00p.m.  Tune in next week for event details and final numbers.

A Hot Hitch
6/16/2009
It’s time for a new story from Connie Sanderson’s column, “A Day in My Life.” Click here for a laugh.

Carnegie Library Sign
6/16/2009
There is a new sign in front of the Carnegie Library that was put in place due to the gracious donation by Howard Yocham. The new sign was donated in memory of Mr. Yocham's grandparents, Clyde and Evelyn Flanagan. Mr. Yocham owns the Yocham Quarries of Kingsland, TX which is an international company. His generosity is very much appreciated. Visit the Library webpage here.

(BallingerNews.com photos)
 

Feral Hog Workshop
6/15/2009
WINTERS, Texas * The Runnels County Wildlife and Protection Committee(RCWPC) along with the Runnels County AgriLife Extension office will host a seminar on feral hog biology, control and management June 25th at the Winters Community Center from 5:30-8:00 p.m.
     The seminar is sponsored by AgriLife Extension offices in Runnels county as well as the RCWPC, and will cover the good, the bad and the ugly of feral hogs.
     Feral hogs have long been a problem in Runnels county as well as surrounding counties, but numbers seem to be increasing, and with the increase in numbers, more reports of damage to pastures and grain fields can only be expected.
     The aim of this program is to bring landowners up to date on the impact of feral hogs and their management. Topics will include everything from feral hog biology to trapping techniques.
     Feral hogs are now in just about every county in Texas, but with enough education and implementation, we can begin to alleviate this problem and eventually work to eradicate the feral hog.
     The seminar will help landowners understand the feral hog challenge and hopefully we can train people on the methods to reduce the population of this unwanted invader.
     Other topics will include: "Biology, Status and Distribution of Feral Hogs in Texas;" "Game Laws and Regulations;" and "Controlling Feral Hogs * Traps and Baiting."

Registration is $10 by June 18th or $15 anytime thereafter; the program will begin at 5:30 p.m. and a meal will be served. The meal is included in the registration fee, as are refreshments and handout materials.

For more information or to register for the program, contact the AgriLife Extension office in Runnels County, 325-365-2219.

Zachary Ottmers in San Angelo Play
6/15/2009
Eric and Starr Sims would like to announce that their son Zakkary Ottmers, recently auditioned at the San Angelo Broadway Academy. He is set to play “Chip the Tea Cup” in the musical of The Beauty and The Beast. Zakkary auditioned against 57 other Texas youth. Receiving a lead role. He was one of the lead characters in Ballinger Elementary version of The Aristocats he played Thomas O’Maley the Alley Cat (pictured right by gorephotographyshop.com). For ticket information call Eric Sims at (325)277-0841 or Starr Sims at Prestige Movies (325)365-5150 or (325)277-1091, adult tickets are $8 and Children 7 and under $5. The dates are June 26^th at 7:30 pm, 27^th 2pm and also 5:30 pm, and 28^th at 2pm. At the City Auditorium in San Angelo. We hope to see everyone there.

Stamford Quickdraw Event
6/15/2009
     Many of the artists will participate in the popular “Quick Draw” event at the 36^th Annual Preview Party.  In this event, artists are given one (1) hour to complete a painting from a blank canvass and frame it.  The artwork is then auctioned off to the highest bidder with proceeds benefiting the West Texas Rehab Center.  Patrons can mingle and watch these awesome works in the making.  Artists participating this year are:  Gary Bailey, Bill Barrick, George Boutwell, Anthony Brown, R. Russell Brown, Hugh Campbell, III, Jimmy Dyer, Paul Friske, M. S. Hollis, Mike Irvin, Daniel Maldonado, Steven Napper, Tom Paulson, Doug Prine, Theda Rhea, Paul Cameron Smith, Kathy Tate, Gary Ward and Jim Ward.
     Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame Artist, Wayne Baize is unable to attend the Show, but is donating a print on canvas to be used in the Auction.  Baize was an original artist in the Stamford Art Show in 1974 and continues to be supportive of the Show’s endeavors.  There will also be a drawing for two (2) $100.00 gift certificates to be used toward the purchase of any art work in the Show.
     The 36^th Annual Stamford Art Foundation Show and Sale is July 1st through July 4^th with the Preview Party on June 30^th.  The Show will be held at the John Selmon Memorial Gallery located at the Texas Cowboy Reunion Rodeo Grounds.  The Show is held in conjunction with the Texas Cowboy Reunion Rodeo.
     The art for the 36^th Show can be seen for the first time at the Preview Party held on June 30^th at 6:30 p.m. at the Texas Cowboy Reunion Rodeo Grounds.  Those attending will have the opportunity to visit with the artists, enjoy a steak dinner with all the trimmings catered by Joe Allen’s of Abilene and dance to music by Gary Miller and the Key West Band. 
     Tickets for the Preview Party are $37.50 each.  For information regarding the Show or reserving tickets, contact Dawn Ham at 325-773-9094 or the West Texas Rehabilitation Center at 325-793-3512.

Public Thanks
6/15/2009 -by staff writer Cinnamon Carter
     I am humbled by the recent support that the Class of 2015 and their Indian project has received.  As of today, I was made aware of the 1st Annual Biker Bash that will be held in August benefiting our Indian coordinated by Bob Six and the grandparents, Gerald and Dorothy Parks, of one of my students, Megan Blackshear.  Jason Martinez, also within this last week, is currently putting together a Flag Football Tournament for the Indian to be held later in July.  This kind of dedication and work is exactly what makes a town the size of Ballinger successful. When you choose to be a part of a cause bigger than yourself and give of yourself unselfishly, then everyone is the better for it.  The benefits and lasting impressions that we as adults are instilling in the children of the Class of 2015 by our efforts are what will ensure that the town of Ballinger will live on for a very long time.  I want to personally and publically thank these fine people for believing in our vision and going to such great lengths to be a part of an event that , in my opinion, will be bigger in the end than any of us can possibly realize.  I want to leave you with a story about one of my students and her endless support that is worthy of recognition and that makes me feel even more honored to be a part of this project.

     Sarah Wright, the daughter of Bob-O and Virginia Wright,  has been a truly exceptional young lady from the onset of this project and all around for that matter. In the beginning, she did endless hours of internet research with her family and was able to find many pictures, stories, and information about the Indian and his origin in Oklahoma. She and her family even discovered an old Oklahoma road map that had the Indian on the cover on sale on Ebay. She and her family went to bidding for us, but in the end, our $40.00 bid lost to an amazing winning bid price of $401.00 that the map sold for. WOW, Friend memorabilia is much sought after evidently! She would come to class almost everyday with some news as to what she discovered the night before.  She created the Keynote(powerpoint) that we used as our presentation delivered to the Ballinger City Council as we were seeking approval to proceed with the project.  If I am correct in this, I believe she even skipped eating lunch at school for a week so that she could give her lunch money to the fund on top of money she had already donated from her savings at home.  She is constantly looking for ways to help and comes up with some really great fundraiser ideas.  Her finest moment came the last day of school when she won the $100 “It Pays to be Present” award for perfect attendance. She told me after the ceremony that she was going to give half of it to the Indian and I told her No that she needed to keep this money and spend it on herself because she had already given a large amount of her own money to the project. As I suspected, she went down to First National Bank as soon as school let out for the summer and deposited her $50.00 from her award in to the fund. She wrote me the sweetest letter and informed me of this, and I quote,” On Friday, I went to the bank and cashed my $100.00 bill and I put $50.00 in the Indian account and $30.00 in savings and I kept the rest. I am really excited and interested in this project. I know that $50.00 isn’t a lot, but that $50.00 came straight from the heart.”.  I don’t know about you, but as far as I am concerned, that $50.00 is worth about $50,000 when you put it like that! Those are the exact words of one of the young ladies that is involved in the Indian project and I wanted you to know the exact benefits of where your donations are going. These donations are helping to nurture and grow our future adults and leaders of our town in ways we can yet even imagine! Friend still holds his magic over Ballinger and is slowly but surely rekindling it in a new generation. Thank you again for your support and donations and for being “Friends of a Friend”!

Outstanding Conservation Winners
6/13/2009 -by Kay Mansell, District Technician, Runnels Soil and Water Conservation District
     The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts in cooperation with the state’s 217 soil and water conservation districts annually sponsor the Texas Conservation Awards Program to recognize and honor those who dedicate themselves and their talents to the conservation and wise use of renewable natural resources.
     “On the local level the conservation awards program provides opportunities for competition and incentives to help our conservation district expand and improve conservation efforts, resource development, and increase the wise utilization of renewable natural resources”, said Rodney Flanagan, Chairman of the Runnels Soil & Water Conservation District.
     “Though our district has several categories for which local citizens are honored for their soil, water and related natural resources conservation efforts, two primary categories are a major focal point of the district.  These categories focus on a poster and essay contest for youth in our district”, said Flanagan.
     The poster contest is open to boys and girls, ages 12 and under. The district’s expected artistic content of a poster is for a student to graphically demonstrate the importance of conservation of soil, water and related renewable resources within the realm of their community environment the chairman of the district said.
     The two choices of themes for students to choose from this year were "Water is Life" and "Dig it! The Secrets of Soil." The posters were judged at the local soil and water conservation district level with winning posters sent to area-level competition. Our local winner of the poster contest was Griselda Rangel of Ballinger ISD.  Her parents are Geno and Maria Rangel of Norton. 
     “The Essay Contest is open to boys and girls in two age categories - ages 13 and under, and ages 14 to 18 years”, said Flanagan.  The contest’s theme “What Soil and Water Conservation Means to Me” provides participating students with the opportunity to express in a written format the importance of soil and water resources and how they are linked to providing food and clean water.
     The essays were judged on the local district level with winning essays sent to the area level. Laci Rathmell from Miles ISD was our local winner.  Her parents are Donna and Kip Rathmell of Miles.
     Laci was also chosen as the First Place Area Outstanding Conservation Essay winner.  Her essay will be sent to be judged at the state level along with five other area winners.

(Pictured Left)  Griselda Rangel, Outstanding Poster Winner and Rodney Flanagan, chairman of the Runnels Soil & Water Conservation District.

(Pictured Right) Marty Graham, member, Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and Laci Rathmell, Outstanding Area Conservation Essay Winner.

FCA All-Star Game Radio Broadcasts
6/13/2009
The FCA-All Star Games are being broadcast on several radio staions as well as being streamed online.

The games will be broadcast live on the following radio stations.
Radio broadcast for Basketball Game      KHXS 102.7 FM Abilene

Radio broadcast for Football Game          KHXS 102.7 FM Abilene
                                                            KXOX 1240 AM Sweetwater
                                                            KVRP 97.1 FM Haskell
                                                            KATX 97.7 FM Eastland
The Football game will be on KTAB-TV.  It will be streamed on www.bigcountryhomepage.com (sports)

The radio broadcasts of the football and basketball games will also be streamed on www.102thebear.com

Miles State Championship Game Stats
6/11/2009
Final Score:
Windthorst HS 3
Miles HS 4

Score by Innings                     R H E
--------------------------------------------------------
Windthorst HS.......  210 000 0 - 3 7 1
Miles HS............     001 000 3 - 4 7 2
-------------------------------------------------------

Team Totals:
Windthorst
                             AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
Totals...................  26  3   7   2    1    2    19  5   6
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Miles
                             AB  R  H RBI BB SO PO A LOB
Totals...................  27  4   7   4    3    8    21  9   8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brad Scott - Wild Branch Ministry
6/11/2009

Brad  Scott

"... thou bearest not the root, but the root thee." Romans 11:18 

Presenting teaching programs:

Bricks and Stones
Thursday, July 9^th, at 6:30 p.m. 

Ezekiel’s Wheel
Friday, July 10^th, at 6:30 p.m.

 1458 Sewell Street
Abilene, Texas 

Sponsored by Abilene Torah Study Group
 (Location provided through generosity of Crossway Baptist Church)

Brad Scott is a regular teacher (programmer) on God’s Learning Channel, so you might already be familiar with his very energetic and exciting teaching style, as well as his terrific sense of humor.  Brad has been teaching the Scriptures since 1971. He began in the Lutheran system and was taught traditional "Christian" theology. In 1978, he began his studies in the Greek language and soon discovered that the well-defined Greek structure was NOT so well-defined. He soon began to learn the Hebrew language, and sat at the feet of Rabbinical scholars, much the same way Sha'ul may have done so! Having been trained that the New Testament was written in Greek, Brad discovered, along with other scholars of the New Testament and the Dead Sea Scrolls, that the New Testament may well have been written in Hebrew. He has been teaching the Hebrew language and culture since 1983. Brad is an ordained minister through a non-denominational pastoralship.

Contact Information:
Mike or Deb Meyer
(325) 673-0676  or  (325) 660-1952
drillertee@nts-online.net 

Directions:    Sewell Street is located between Barrow Street (Mockingbird) and Sayles Blvd.  The church is located just off of South 14^th Street on the corner of South 15^th Street and Sewell Street (this is very near the H.E.B. grocery store).  (You can Google on the internet for:  Crossway Baptist in Abilene, TX, for an excellent street map.)

“Friend” gains popularity with the Ladies!
6/11/2009 -by Staff Writer Cinnamon Carter
     Move over Hollywood hunks, there is a new hunk in town.  Friend the Indian seems to have acquired a fan club of a few hundred screaming, crazed, adoring, females.  In a matter of only a week, Friend received, from one very generous anonymous female donor, $2000!  Also, the Ballinger High School Rotary Interact held a contest between the boys and the girls at high school with the grand prize being one hour for lunch and were able to raise $517.00 with the girls being the ultimate winners. Also, the Ballinger Woman’s Club made a $500 donation during the junior high end of the year awards ceremony to the Class of 2015.  Girl Power!

Read the Full Story on the Indian Hill Page
     

Ballinger ISD Annual Federal Program Consultation Meeting
6/11/2009
The public is invited to the Ballinger ISD Annual Federal Program Consultation Meeting on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 9:00 AM in the Ballinger ISD Administration Board Room.  The Local Advisory Council will be at the meeting to help evaluate, plan and organize the federal funds for the 2009-2010 school year.  Federal funds include:  Title I – Part A (Improving Basic Programs), Title I – Part C (Migrant), Title II – Part A (Teacher Principal Training and Recruiting Fund.  If you have any questions, please contact Caroline Toliver at 365-3588.

Engagement Announcement
6/10/2009
Jessi Buxkemper & Jeff Saucedo

To wed in Dallas, TX
July 24, 2010.

Jessi is the daughter of Kim & Robert Buxkemper of Ballinger, TX
Jeff is the son of Debbie & the late Michael Saucedo of Carrollton, TX

BISD 6th Six Weeks Honor Roll
6/9/2009

Also, these students made the semester honor roll for maintaining an A average all three six weeks of the second semester of 2008-09.

Kickball Tournament
6/9/2009

Thanks for the Memories
6/8/2009 -by Jean Boles, Winters Chamber of Commerce
     With summer here, we can take a deep breath and maybe enjoy a little time off from the busyness of the past months and all their activities. Soon it will again be time to make all sorts of plans for activities and meetings, so I hope everyone has a great summer.
     The Winters Chamber continues to serve this community and the surrounding area. This organization works very hard to extend a friendly, gracious “Welcome” from our slice of Texas and all the blessings it holds. Although summer months hold fewer activities, the Chamber is still busy planning for events coming in the next few weeks and months.
     We congratulate J&T Hardware as the Chamber’s Business of the Quarter, and the residence of Bobby and Dolly Airhart as Yard of the Month.
     As some of you know, my hubby and I are leaving Winters to move to New Braunfels to be near our children and precious grandchildren. Thus, my final column of Chamber News.
     For more than four years, I’ve had the responsibility and privilege of serving as the Office Manager at the Winters Chamber of Commerce. I’ve loved being out-and-about in this community, working hand–in-hand with local business owners, clubs, organizations and entities. I’ve been blessed to develop great friendships in our neighboring towns as well. To say it’s been great is an understatement.
     I thank all of you who have tolerated my crazy ideas and plans, my “smidge” of obsessive-compulsive personality, and my “gift of gab.”
     I will continue to pray for this community and all those who live here and pass through here. I hope you will continue to support the Winters Chamber. There’s a tremendous niche that only the Chamber can fill. This organization works for all its members as well as the community as a whole. Your financial support is absolutely necessary to keep the doors open...just think, you have the choice and ability to keep a business operational in Winters simply by joining its membership. And volunteers are always needed and greatly appreciated. So jump on board, and support the Chamber.
     I’ll miss this office, my wonderful board of directors, our members, and this community. Hubby and I will be back to visit often because, after all, Winters will always be “home”.
     One last thought I’d like to share that’s been important to me: Never lose an opportunity to bring sunshine into someone’s life. Thanks, Winters!

Elementary G/T Students Tour the State Capitol
6/8/2009
     Gifted and Talented students at Ballinger Elementary enjoyed a field trip in May to Austin where they toured the State Capitol and visited the Bob Bullock Texas History Museum.
     The students picnicked on the capitol grounds, and were visited there by Isaac Albarado (pictured right, click for larger view), a 1999 graduate of Ballinger High School who works in Representative Hilderbrand's office. Isaac told the students about his job and fielded a few questions. The students then toured the capitol (pictured below left), and enjoyed seeing the legislature at work. Representative Hilderbrand was actually questioning someone about a proposed bill when we walked in. On our way out of the capitol, he asked us to pose for a picture with him and he visited with the students for several minutes. (pictured below right)
    We then toured the Texas History Museum (pictured left, click for larger view), and watched the movie, “Spirit”, which turned out to be very entertaining. It is an inter-active movie and students and parents alike enjoyed that as well.
     Students attending were: A. J. Colombo, Melodie Gray, Cody Harral, Joseph Lynn, Haley Matschek, Marcus Toliver, Carly Brown, Haley Cullen, Emma Duke, Jason Elliott, Kinley Gray, Becca Holden, Patrick Martinez, Avery Schniers, McKenzie Arrott, Dakota Boone, Connor Kvapil, Peyton Jackson, Zakkary Ottmers, Mattie Dixon, David Gonzales, Tanner Gore, Meredith Gray, Layne Halfmann, Marley McClure, Adam Multer, John Nelson, James Rouse, Tiana Sanchez, and Morgan Thrush. Mrs. Carolyn Slaughter is the G/T Coordinator for Ballinger Elementary. Several parents also attended and helped Mrs. Slaughter.

Morgan Halfmann takes 4th at State Meet
6/7/2009
Morgan Halfmann finished 4th in the 800M, at the state track meet Friday.  She ran an incredible race.  At the midway point, she found herself boxed in.  She managed to work her way out of that and finished strong, almost catching the 3rd place runner.  This year's race marked Morgan's return to Austin, after a year's absence, due to a terrible leg injury.  She capped off an incredible career, which included numerous victories, most notable...several district wins, regional wins, and State Champion in the 800M in 2007.  We at BallingerNews.com want to say CONGRATULATIONS Morgan!! 

BallingerNews.com Photos

See more photos on the Faces Page

Dove Fest Plans Include WHS Homecoming
6/7/2009 -by Randall Conner
Plans are underway for the 7^th annual Winters Dove Fest – hunter appreciation event. This year WHS Homecoming will be in conjunction with the event. The festivities are scheduled for Labor Day weekend, September 4^th and 5^th. 

Currently, the Winters Dove Fest committee is seeking sponsors and supporters for the event. There are several levels of sponsorship available. The Winters Dove Fest is a non-profit organization; therefore, all proceeds go back to local youth and civic organizations. Last year $7,500 was distributed to 15 organizations.

This Hunter Appreciation Event is a fun time for everyone and includes a barbeque meal, entertainment, door prizes, gun raffle, Day Dove Hunt, Gun & Knife Show, Downtown Shopping Promotion, Clay Pigeon Fun Shoot, and a Motorcycle Fun Run event. Dove Fest will give you, as a company sponsor, exposure to over a thousand people from all over Texas. You are invited to let us help promote your business at Winters Dove Fest 2009.

State 4-H Roundup News
6/7/2009
Twenty-five 4-Hers will represent Runnels County and District 7 as they compete in Texas 4-H State Roundup contests held at Texas A&M University this week. 4-Hers from 12 districts across the state will apply the knowledge and skill they have learned in the 4-H program to win the state's top honors. These Runnels County 4-Hers have been practicing for months and competed at the county and district level to earn their spot at state roundup. 

Eric Schwertner of Miles 4-H, who is currently serving as District 7 4-H Council President, and Tyler Englert of Ballinger 4-H, currently District 7 4-H Council Delegate-at-Large, are state council delegates and will be helping with various roundup activities.

Schwertner, as well as Alisha Multer of Rowena 4-H, and Sterling Hohensee of Miles 4-H will be interviewing for 4-H scholarships on Tuesday, June 9th. 

The 4-Hers representing Runnels County and their respective state contests are as follows: 

Wednesday, June 10th
Livestock Judging - Dottie Cook, Courtney Gibbs, Victoria Kalina, Conner Newsom Share the Fun Vocal - Alisha Multer Consumer Decision Making - Morgan Pelzel, Lauren Michalewicz, Kelci Zentner, Valerie Albarado, Abbey Multer, Paige Zentner Fashion Show - McKenzie Matschek Entomology - Judd Hatler Wool Judging - Clay Kelley, Sterling Hohensee, Stewart Hohensee 

Thursday, June 11th
Food Show - Judd Hatler

Educational Presentations:
     Clothing - Valerie Albarado, Dottie Cook, McKenzie Matschek
     Consumer Life Skills - Layne Halfmann, Logan McCoy, Mason Matschek, Skyler Schniers
     Farm & Ranch Economics - Tyler Englert
     Housing & Home Environment - Lance Michalewicz, Trevor Lange
     Meat Science - Courtney Gibbs, Victoria Kalina, Janelle Fant
     Natural Resources - Lauren Michalewicz, Kelci Zentner
     Safety - Jordan Kalina, Abbey Multer, Paige Zentner 

Wednesday and Thursday evenings the 4-Hers will assemble in Rudder Auditorium on the Texas A&M campus for the awards assembly. State 4-H Roundup will conclude with the scholarship assembly and scholar banquet on Friday, June 12th.

Winters First United Methodist Church Bible School
6/7/2009
The First United Methodist Church of Winters invites all children ages 4 through those entering 6th grade in the fall to go to the edge this summer for Vacation Bible School.  CAMP E.D.G.E.:  EXPERIENCE AND DISCOVER GOD EVERYWHERE is an extreme adventure camp taking kids on exciting Bible treks to experience and discover God everywhere, every day.  The fun begins June 15 and ends June 19 from 5:30 50 8:30 p.m. at 141 N. Church Street.  Supper will be served.  For more information call the church at 754-5213.

Winters Ministerial Alliance Receives Grant
6/4/2009
The Winters Ministerial Alliance is pleased to announce the receipt of a grant from the Winters Area Foundation.  At the May 4 Winters Ministerial Alliance meeting, Susan Conner, a member of the Winters Area Foundation, presented a check in the amount of $1,800.00 to Rev. Jordan Hubbard, chairman of Winters Ministerial Alliance.  These monies are to be disbursed through the relief fund of the Ministerial Alliance.  The relief fund is used to assist families in northern Runnels county with utility and medication bills.  Rev. Hubbard expressed his appreciation to Mrs. Conner on behalf of the Winters Ministerial Alliance for this bountiful gift.

Softball Tourney
6/4/2009
What:    Benefit 2nd Annual Midnite Madness Coed Softball Tournament for the family of the late Remedy Jaques
When:    June 19-20
Where:    Bronte, Texas
Cost:     $10 a player
FMI:     Contact Mark Gonzales @ 325-227-2495 or mgonzales55555@yahoo.com

Ballinger Pool Open for Business
6/4/2009
The beautiful Ballinger City Pool is open for the summer! Mrs. Wade invites anyone and everyone to come on down and enjoy the refreshing water. Pool hours are Tuesday through Sunday 1pm to 5:45pm, closed on Mondays. Family night is Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm, and there are private parties almost every Wednesday through Sunday. Teen night is held on Thursdays from 8pm to 9:45pm.

Everyone swims for $2.00 each, life jacket rentals are available at the pool, or you can bring your own Coast Guard Approved Life Jacket to use for those that cannot swim. Call 365-2454 if you have any questions.

Toliver Brothers Announcement
6/3/2009
Toliver Brothers will move forward with General Motors, as the company begins restructuring. General Motors sent out letters, June 1, 2009, to announce plans for the future.  Toliver Brothers was identified by General Motors as one of its key dealers for the Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC Truck brands.
Thank you, to all of the customers who have helped us achieve this standing.  Please come by and let us help you with all you vehicle needs in the future.

2nd Annual Curing Cancer Dance
6/3/2009
The 2nd Annual Curing Cancer Dance has been scheduled for May 10, 2010! Keep your eyes on the lookout for details about the event and performers as they are confirmed. Thanks to Elizabeth Cook and the City of Ballinger for preparing to put on another good show.

Annual Fireworks Show
6/3/2009
     The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce will host the Annual Fireworks Show at the Ballinger City Lake Park on Saturday, June 27, 2009.  The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce will have a concession stand that will open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM serving a variety of snacks and drinks. A barbecue cook-off will be held, beginning with the cook’s meeting at 9:00 AM Saturday.  An obstacle course will be on site as well as the largest water slide in Texas. Both attractions will be available throughout the day.  Slices of cold watermelon will be served free of charge at 8:00 PM.  Kit Hurt’s Texas Sized Fireworks Show begins at 9:00 PM. 
     Make plans to bring the entire family for a great weekend summer getaway.  Boaters, personal watercraft, and recreational vehicles are welcome.  Recreational vehicle parking spaces complete with water and electricity connections are available at the Ballinger City Lake Park for a small fee.  The number of spaces is limited.  The spaces are rented on a “first come, first served” basis.
     Corporate sponsors helping to make this event possible are Mueller Inc. and Buddy’s Plant Plus.

For more information regarding any activities contact the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce at (325) 365-2333 or visit www.Ballingertx.org.

Ballinger Jr. High School Award Winners
6/3/2009
On May 30, 2009, BJHS awards its students for their accomplishments throughout the year. Below is a full list of the awards and their recipients.

Pat Patterson Award:  Armando Fuentes  (Outstanding male athlete) 

Grade Point Average:  Top two from each grade
  6^th Grade:  1. Logan Tounget, 2. Sarah Wright
  7^th Grade:  1. Brylee Matschek, 2. Sydney Dankworth
  8^th Grade:  1. Blake Holle, 2. Judd Hatler
   (Presented by State Farm, Laurie Woodruff)

Pays to be Present Award:  Sarah Wright
  (Received 100 dollars, presented by First National Bank of Ballinger, Stan Bickel)

AR Top Reader:  Jennifer Castleberry 

Weldon Brevard Award:  Brandon Vasquez and Katelyn Willingham 

Jimmie Stubblefield Award:  Blake Holle and Alyssa Biscoe
 (Excellence in UIL events) 

Lady Cub Award:  Shayann Matschek  (Outstanding female athlete) 

Principal’s Achievement Award:  Lindsey Heidenheimer, Kirsten McCoy, Gabby Martinez, and Dance Doty 

Bearcat Eye Award:  Zach Perez  (Received 100 dollars) 

Teacher of the Year:  Elaine Brevard 
Awards were also presented for each grade level, as well as, attendance awards. 

Cavazos and Multer Take Top Rankings at State, Others Excell
6/3/2009
Seven Ballinger High School Students participated in the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest, held at Texas State University in San Marcos, Monday, June 1, 2009:
Vivian Cavazos and Alisha Multer, Seniors this past year and now 2009 graduates of Ballinger High School, received Division I (Superior) ratings and gold medals.  This is the second time that these two students have taken Division I ratings at State, their first coming in 2007.  Alisha qualified for state all four years, Vivian for the past three years.

Pictured Left:
Front Row, L to R: Karina Lemus, Alisha Multer, Christal Castillo 
Back Row, L to R: Vivian Cavazos, Jacob Arp, Briana Berkley, Nicole Lira

Those receiving Division II (Excellent) ratings and silver medals are:
Jacob Arp, Junior this past year
Briana Berkley, Senior this past year and now a 2009 graduate of Ballinger High School, her second performance at State
Christal Castillo, Junior this past year
Nicole Lira, Sophomore this past year
Freshman Karina Lemus also participated in the competition. 

These students qualified for participation at state by receiving
Division I (Superior) ratings in regional competition held at Howard Payne University in Brownwood this past February.

Ida Lee Ellis, music teacher at Ballinger Elementary, served as accompanist for the students.  Bearcat Band Director Janet Wilson, along with Alisha’s parents Tony and Norma Multer, and Vivian’s father, Arnold Cavazos, served as sponsors for the state event.

Also attending in support of these students were Abbey and Adam Multer, sister and brother of Alisha, Ashtyn Wilson, daughter of Alan and Janet Wilson, and BHS 2009 graduate Jessica Thompson.  Dale E. Ellis is sponsor for Ballinger High School choral music activities.

San Angelo Rainwater Harvesting Workshop Scheduled
6/3/2009
SAN ANGELO - Texas AgriLife Extension Service’s Concho Valley Master Gardeners will conduct a rainwater harvesting workshop from 8:45 a.m. to noon on July 18 at the Tom Green County 4-H Center.
     The 4-H Center is located at 3168 N. U.S. Hwy 67, next to the animal shelter.
     The workshop will focus on teaching the benefits of harvesting rainwater and how to install rainwater capture systems.
     Speakers will include Allison Watkins, AgriLife Extension horticulturist for Tom Green County, and Billy Kniffen, AgriLife Extension water resource specialist at Menard.
     Watkins said there is a growing need for alternative water sources, and rainwater harvesting is one source that’s easy to learn and use.
     “Half the water used by municipalities goes to water landscapes,” Watkins said. “Capturing water to irrigate trees, shrubs and landscapes provides a source of water that is healthier for plants and easier on the water bill. Harvesting rainwater also reduces erosion and surface water contamination and lessens the demand on municipal water sources. Simply put, rainwater is a high-quality source of free water that should be used as much as possible.”
     The workshop is free to the public, however RSVPs are requested by calling 325-659-6522.

New Spotlight
6/2/2009
We have a new BISD Faculty member in the spotlight today! Check out what the Brownfield, TX native has to say.

State Farm Contest
6/2/2009
State Farm is giving away a trip for 4 along with $1000.00 in spending money to go to Las Vegas to see the band “No Doubt”.  All you have to do is go to: www.sfmusictour.com and register.  And while you are registering, you can get a quote from your local State Farm Agent Laurie Woodruff! The deadline to enter is July 14, 2009!! Good Luck!

Hilderbran Awards Scholarships to Four District 53 Students
6/2/2009
AUSTIN – Representative Harvey Hilderbran (R-Kerrville) announced today that he would award four District 53 graduating seniors with scholarships for the 2009-2010 school year.
     This year’s winners are Julie England from Winters, Kathryn Keith from Mason, Christina Van Dohlen from Center Point, and Julie Taylor from Ingram.
     Hilderbran originally planned to award scholarships to two students. However, he said that all four winners were equally competitive.
     “District 53 has many smart and talented students, so it was a tough decision this year,” Hilderbran said. “These four students did an exceptional job not just on the essay, but throughout their academic career, and they all four deserved recognition for their accomplishments.”
     Winners of the $250 scholarships were chosen based on academic performance, grade point average, class ranking, accomplishments, and an essay question about voter identification.
     Hilderbran established the Hilderbran Scholars Fund to provide financial assistance to students pursuing a degree at a college, university, or technical school of their choice.

Congratulations to the BHS Graduating Seniors
6/1/2009

On May 30th, 2009, the 2009 BHS Senior class celebrated their Graduation. See all the photos from the evening at GorePhotographyShop.com

Runnels County Relay for Life Just Around the Corner
6/1/2009 -by Julie Gray
     On June 12 walkers will go around the clock in the battle against cancer during the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. This celebration of life brings together numerous groups and individuals concerned about cancer in a unified effort to fight back.
     Teams of enthusiastic citizens will gather at the Ballinger HS track for an overnight relay from 7:00p.m. on June 12 until 7:00a.m. on June 13 that celebrates anyone who has battled cancer, remembers loved ones lost and empowers all to fight back against the disease.
     Relay For Life is a unique fundraising event that allows participants from all walks of life — including patients, medical support staff, corporations, civic organizations, faith-based groups and community volunteers — to join together to fight cancer. Relay For Life reminds us that progress has been made in the fight against cancer and that everyone who participates is making a difference.
     Relay for Life opens as cancer survivors (anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer) take the first lap and are joined halfway by caregivers (anyone who has ever cared for a cancer patient in any way). This emotional time sets the stage for the importance of each participant's contribution. A festive atmosphere always develops around the track area at Relay For Life events. As participants make new friends and spend time with old ones, the Relay celebration and camp-out begins. Team members come together to celebrate, barbeque, play games and walk the track for a great cause.
     Highlighting the evening is the Luminaria Ceremony, held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost the battle against cancer. Hundreds [thousands] of luminaria (bags filled with sand and a lit candle) line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.
     Relay for Life is as much an awareness raiser about the progress against cancer as it is a fund raiser.  Many of the participants will be people who have dealt with cancer themselves. Their involvement is proof of the progress that has been made in reducing cancer death rates and in the quality of life following cancer treatment.  The funds raised will enable the American Cancer Society to continue their investment in the fight against cancer through educational programs, research and services to patients.
     The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit http://www.cancer.org.

                Check back here on BallingerNews.com next week for the schedule of events the night of Relay!