Student Letters Added
3/31/2009
Mrs. Carter's Class of 2015 has sent in about 21 more letters about their project with the Indian Hill. Check them on on the Indian Hill page.

AR Limo Ride
3/31/2009 -Contributed by Christy Kvapil
Accelerated Reader is a program to promote the joy of reading. This year students in grade first through fifth receive special rewards as they reach specific goals. Each goal is based on points that students acquire after reading a book and taking a computerized test. Each student receives points based on book difficulty and grade made on the AR computerized test.

Recently, several students were treated to a limousine ride courtesy of Mr. Larry Lange. These students have accumulated over 100 points! Students participating in this reward were James Rouse, John Nelson, Mattie Dixon, Meredith Gray, Morgan Thrush, and Hunter Cassaday.

Ballinger HS UIL Results
3/31/2009 -by Roxanna Bowman
The Ballinger High School UIL Team competed at the district meet last Friday, March 27
in Wall. The team finished 3rd in Overall Sweepstakes Competition and 14 BHS
students qualified for regionals. The Regional UIL Academic Meet will be held in
Odessa on April 24-25.

 

Team Results:
1st Place Overall Journalism
1st Place Calculator Team: Nathan Kalina, Kaci Hite, Katie Chapman, Karri Pruser
2nd Place Overall Speaking
2nd Place Science Team: Herchel Harrell, Matthew Fischer, Morgan Halfmann, Jared
Fournier

Individual Results:
Maritza Aguirre: 6th Prose
Alice Avis: 2nd Informative Speaking
Collin Brown: 5th Mathematics
Katie Chapman: 5th Calculator
Matthew Fischer; 5th Science
Jared Fournier: 5th Number Sense
Jill Halfmann: 1st Headline Writing, 3rd Editorial Writing
Morgan Halfmann: 6th Science
Herchel Harrell: 4th Science, Top Chemistry
Kaci Hite: 4th Calculator
Maggie Hogan: 1st Informative Speaking
Nathan Kalina: 1st Calculator
Nicole Lira: 4th Persuasive Speaking
Paige Mattingley: 2nd Feature Writing
Jacob Mota: 1st Prose; 5th Persuasive Speaking
Marcus Nelson: 6th Computer Applications; 6th Spelling
Lindsey Phillips: 3rd Poetry
Cody Pruser: 4th Number Sense
Karri Pruser: 6th Calculator
Paige Sanders: 2nd Headline Writing; 3rd News Writing; 5th Editorial Writing
Ian Sirmans: 3rd Informative Speaking
Ali Tounget: 1st Editorial Writing; 1st Feature Writing; 3rd Headline Writing
Madlyn Tounget: 6th Current Issues
Spencer Whisenhunt: 6th Poetry
UIL Coaches: Mrs. Aldridge, Mrs. Bowman, Mrs. Cornutt, Coach Lee, Mrs. Reeder

Runnels SWCD Poster and Essay Contest Winners
3/31/3009 -by Kay Mansell, District Technician
     Each year, the Runnels Soil & Water Conservation District (Runnels SWCD) is proud to sponsor the Conservation Poster and Essay Contest for area students. The themes for the poster contest were “Water Is Life” and "Dig It! The Secrets of Soil.” In all 112 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, Griselda Rangel from Ballinger ISD, will represent the Runnels SWCD at the Area Awards Banquet to be held on March 26. At the banquet, Griselda 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 24 entries received from students. Laci Rathmell, from Miles ISD, was the first place winner and will represent the Runnels SWCD at the Area Awards Banquet to be held on March 26. 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 essay winner, Laci Rathmell. Mrs. Dinell Jacob from Ballinger ISD is the teacher of the poster winner, Griselda Rangel.
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.

MILES 5th GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Skye Hoffman 1st and 3rd OVER ALL
Sloane Riddle 2nd
Shelby Hohensee 3rd
 

BALLINGER 5TH GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Griselda Rangel 1st and 1st OVER ALL
Victoria Aviles 2nd
Mattie Dixon 3rd

WINTERS 5TH GRADE POSTER WINNERS
Bailey Pierce 1st and 2nd OVER ALL
Bailee Busher 2nd
Cameron Cooper 3rd
 

ESSAY WINNERS MILES 6th GRADE
Laci Rathmell 1st
Shelton Hohensee 2nd
Mackenzie McGuire 3rd
 

Winters Chamber News
3/31/2009 -by Jean Boles Winters Chamber of Commerce
Busy weekend in Winters
     Let’s all put out our “Welcome” mat for the visitors coming this weekend for the Hill Country Firemen’s Convention on Saturday. Our volunteer fire department does an amazing job at taking care of this community, and this has been especially challenging during all the dry weather. Please take a minute to thank our firemen for all that they do.
     Saturday evening, the First United Methodist Church of Winters will host an “Evening in Winters,” beginning with a spaghetti supper at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria followed by a concert in the school cafeteria at 7 p.m. by Revolution, a very talented group of fiddlers from Cooper High School in Abilene. There is no charge for either event. Guests will have the opportunity to make a freewill offering at the door.
     The Wingate Lions Club is hosting its annual Consignment Farm Sale on Saturday, April 4, beginning at 9 a.m.
Holy Week Services begin Monday, April 6, and continue through Friday, April 10. Area churches will provide meals and a short worship service at the Community Center at noon each day. Community members and guests are invited to attend.
     The Chamber will host the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the City Park at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 11. There will be three categories for children: ages 1-3, 4&5, and 6-8, with a prize egg in each division. We are accepting donations of Easter eggs and money to buy hundreds of eggs for the children of our community.
Sunday, April 12, is the Easter Community Sunrise Service and brunch at the Country Club at 7 a.m. Attendees are asked to bring a brunch type refreshment. The Methodist Church will furnish drinks.
     Registration is open to any vendor wanting a booth for the Mayfest celebration on May 2, at the Community Center. Arts and crafts vendors and food vendors are invited to participate in this fun event. Registration is also underway for the co-ed softball and tennis tournaments. Anyone interested in the softball tourney is asked to contact the Chamber at 754-5210. Doug Wheat of Wheat Energy Services (754-4555) has generously offered to oversee the tennis tournament. Several new children’s games and activities are planned for this year’s Mayfest with entertainment throughout the day.
     For more information about any of these events, call the Chamber at 754-5210, come by 100 W. Dale, or e-mail wacc@wtxs.net. Our board of directors will meet Monday, April 6, at 5:30 in the Gehrels Building. Visitors and volunteers are always welcome.
     On a personal note: My husband and I have sold our house in Winters and will be moving to New Braunfels this summer to be near our five precious grandchildren (if you have an hour or two, I’ll tell you all about them). Randall will fulfill his contract to teach summer school in Ballinger through June. I will continue to work at the Chamber as long as possible. More details about this job opening will be posted in next week’s column.

BGSA Opening Ceremony
3/31/2009
Opening Day Ceremonies for Ballinger Girls Softball Association will be held Saturday, April 4th at 10:00 am on Sensabaugh Field to introduce the coaches and players of all of the teams.

Throwing Pies at the Principal!
3/31/2009
Ballinger Elementary School is having its 2nd AR Pie Throw. There will be 14 students with a chance to hit Mr. Arrott with a pie! Come out and see it in person Friday, April 3rd at 11:15 am in front of the Elementary!

Ballinger Girls Softball Association Fundraising Tournament
3/31/2009 -Photos contributed by BGSA
There were a total of 17 brave teams to face the cold front that blew in this past weekend, but the games went on.  The BGSA held a weekend long tournament to raise money for upgrades that are needed to the girl's softball field. Last year's tournament raised money for a new infield, and there will be another tournament this year to raise money for new lights for the field. Congrats to all team involved in this fundraiser!!
Ballinger Girls Softball Association Webpage


Photo of 1st Place Team "Spuds Buds" that was sponsored by Chastinade Boutique


Photo of 2nd Place Team "Fully Loaded" that was sponsored by Laurie Woodruff State Farm and Pizza Hut


Photo of 3rd place Team "Devil Dogs" that was sponsored by DJ's Bar in Rowena

Coed Kickball Tourney
3/31/2009
There will be a COED KICKBALL tournament on May 8th & 9th proceeds go to Relay For Life for more info call Eloyed @ 365-8581 or 977-0915

Ballinger Jr. Livestock Show Meeting
3/30/2009
DATE: Wednesday April 1st
TIME: 7:30 PM
PLACE: Ballinger Ag Shop

AGENDA:
Fundraising
Elect New Show Representatives
Create Phone Tree System
 

Pre-K and Kindergarten Registration
3/30/2009
Ballinger Elementary School will conduct a pre-registration for 2009-10 Kindergarten and PreKindergarten from Monday, April 20th through Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 for students who reside in the Ballinger Independent School District.
Click here for the full News Release.
Haz clic aquí para la versión en Español

Ballinger Chamber Reminder
3/30/2009
The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce would like to remind you that they are still accepting applications for the Texas State Festival of Ethnic Cultures, the Talent Show, entries to the parade, and Miss Ballinger contestants. Miss Ballinger entries are due April 10th.

The Texas State Festival of Ethnic Cultures Parade will be April 25th at 10am with line up at 9am.

Rowena Blood Drive
3/30/2009
The Bi-Monthly Blood Drive will be held on Sunday, April 5, at St. Joseph Parish Hall in Rowena from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Call David or Pat Lange at 442-4721 for an appointment. Remember: If you can, give the gift of life.

Ballinger PD Looking for Info
3/28/2009 -by Chief of Police JC Gore
Ballinger Law Enforcement is asking for any information regarding the burglary of a residence at 401-12th. The offense occurred between 09:00AM and 2:00pm on Thursday, March 26th. Items taken include a 42" flat screen television, a VCR Player and several crosses taken from the wall. Anyone with any information regarding the above offense may contact the Ballinger Police Department at any time at 325-365-3591.

National Junior Honor Society Recognizes new Jr. High Members
3/28/2009 -by BallingerNews.com
In a ceremony held Friday March 27th at the BHS auditorium, the NJHS honored its new Ballinger Jr High School members. Jr. High Librarian Nona Burton hosted a reception following the ceremony in the Jr. High Library.

Photos of the ceremony and reception can be viewed here.

NJHS OFFICERS
President - Brandon Vasquez
Vice President- Lindsey Heidenheimer
Secretary – Alyssa Biscoe
Treasurer – Blake Holle

NJHS INDUCTEES
8th Grade                    7th Grade                 6th Grade
Samantha Regula        Jordan Anderson       Justin Carson
Brandon Schaefer        Paige Brevard            Luke Carter
                                  Miguel Lugo              Jennifer Castleberry
                                                                  Hailey Esquivel
                                                                  Julie Fischer
                                                                  Alyssa Flanagan
                                                                  Shelby Fournier
                                                                  Benjamin Galicia
                                                                  Rachel Gibbs
                                                                  Hadley Hatler
                                                                  Taryn Kalina
                                                                  Alexandra Lemus
                                                                  Abby Ocker
                                                                  Kaleigh Schniers
                                                                  Chelsea Toliver
                                                                  Logan Tounget
                                                                  Sarah Wright

Letters from the class of 2015
3/27/2009
The students of Mrs. Carter's class have begun to write letters about their feelings for their project of the Indian Hill restoration. They would like to share them publicly so that their ideas, thoughts, dreams and compassion toward this project can be seen by the community. Since this has the potential to become quite large, there will be a new link on the Indian Hill page to the students' letters. Click here to go to them now, but in the future, visit the Indian Hill page and then follow the link to the letters from there.

Relay for Life Meeting
3/27/2009
The next Relay For Life Meeting is Tuesday April 7th at 5:30pm at Main Street. All are welcome so please come and share your ideas and how your team is doing. For more information please call Julie Gray at 718-9574.

Ballinger Homes Threatened by Grass Fire
3/27/2009 -reported first by BallingerNews.com, photos by BallingerNews.com
Ballinger FD responded to a grass fire yesterday afternoon around 3:30pm at Hwy 67 and Airport Road in Ballinger. The suspected cause, that is still under investigation, is an extension cord that was run across the dry ground. 5-10 acres of a pasture were burned and 1 out building (pictured below) was a complete loss. The winds were blowing the fire toward some homes, but the Ballinger FD made a priority of heading off those flames and none of the homes were damaged.

Assistant Fire Chief Brent Allen wants to remind folks to clean up around your homes. If you have a lot of tall grasses or other flammable materials around your home, it's a good idea to straighten up and move anything away from your home that could potentially burn and spread to your house.

Also, please remember that the County Wide Burn Ban is in effect.






Jason Battle pictured left, chasing the flames in the high winds





Pictured below is the heavy smoke covering Hwy 67.

Suspected cause of fire pictured below

CTO, Inc. Installs New Board Of Directors
3/27/2009
Central Texas Opportunities, Inc., a private, non-profit corporation providing a vision of a better tomorrow for all people by providing opportunities for changing lives and strengthening families through community partnerships. We are preparing families for the future by giving hope and dignity through people helping people. We provide Head Start, Early Head Start, Energy Assistance and Case Management services to residents of Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Comanche, Eastland, McCulloch, and Runnels Counties. Central Texas Opportunities, Inc. held its annual Installation of Officers for FY 2009-2010 at the Administrative Offices located at 2302 Commercial Avenue in Coleman on Tuesday, March 24, 2009. The Honorable Randy Young, McCulloch County Judge, administered the Oath of Office to the three candidates who were elected to serve a one-year term. Officers are: Thella Henderson, Chairman, Public Sector Representative for the Honorable Marilyn Egan of Runnels County, Jesus Cisneros, Jr., Vice-Chairman, Private Sector Representative for Eastland County, and Noma Crow, Secretary/Treasurer, Target Sector Representative for Coleman County. A meal and a business meeting followed the Installation of Officers. We congratulate each candidate on their election and appreciate their loyal dedication and service to Central Texas Opportunities, Inc.

In the picture (contributed): Thella Henderson, Jesus Cisneros, Jr., Noma Crow, Judge Randy Young

Spring Brings out the Art
3/27/2009 -contributed
     Another Art Event is in the making for area artists – Ginger Test, Fine Arts League member, is sponsoring a TOM LOCKHART WORKSHOP!! The class will be held at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 500 W. Liveoak, Coleman, Texas, APRIL 23,24,25, 2009.
     Deadline for registration and deposit of $100 is April 6, 2009. The balance of $200 is due April 23, 2009. Make your checks payable to Tom Lockhart. A supply list will be sent upon receipt of registration.
     Tom will be demonstrating in both watercolors and pastels. You may do either or both! NO OILS!
Contact for workshop is: Ginger Test
                                    3151 CR 490
                                    Novice, Tx. 79538
                                    325-723-2035

     Lodging is available at the Coleman Inn (Best Western). 1401 Hwy. 84 Bypass Coleman. 325-625-4176.

2009 All-Big Country 2A Basketball Team Announced
3/26/2009
The Abilene Reporter-News announced the 2009 All-Big Country 2A Basketball teams today.

Lady Bearcat, Morgan Halfmann (pictured left, photo by GorePhotographyShop.com), was one of only five first team selections. Morgan is described as “one of the deadliest 3-point shooters the Big Country has seen in some time”. Morgan, who is a senior, averaged 14 points per game. She also set a school record by hitting 68 three pointers, the most in a single season in Bearcat history. She also had 70 steals and drew 21 charges, another school record. Morgan was also a 1st team 7-2A all district selection, TABC All-Region and TGCA all-state selection.

Slade Egan (pictured right, photo by GorePhotographyShop.com) was also recognized by the Abilene Reporter-News. He was a 2nd team All Big Country Selection. Slade, also a senior, averaged 17.8 points a game and 8.5 rebounds for the Bearcats. He was a 1st team 7-2A selection for the second straight year, as well as, all tournament at Clyde and Ballinger. Slade is a three year letterman for the Bearcat basketball team.

Phillip Lopez also received Honorable Mention All-Big Country.

Congratulations Morgan, Slade and Phillip on a great season!!

African Masks
3/26/2009 -submitted by Terri Harral

(BallingerNews.com Photo)
African masks are an important part of African culture. They were and still are used in many ceremonies and celebrations. Masks are used to represent good luck in warfare, a good hunt, a good harvest, rain, to look like an ancestor, an animal, a medicine man or woman, and many other uses.

Our sixth grade social studies classes have been studying Africa for several weeks. The students chose a category for a mask and created their own African masks. The masks will be displayed in the trophy case at the junior high and in the sixth grade hall.

(BallingerNews.com Photo)

Help Needed in Bearcat Football Research
3/26/2009
Local Bearcat Football Historian JB Teters is looking for some help in researching the early years of Ballinger Bearcat Football. JB is looking for photos from the 1915-1927 seasons as well as the 1930 season. Mr. Teters is working on a book spanning the years 1909 to 2009 to cover 100 years of Bearcat Football. You may email Mr. Teters at jbbteters@verizon.net or call him at 325-365-3859. Your help is deeply appreciated.

Newsom - LyBrand Engagement Announcement
3/25/2009

Mr. and Mrs. Julius L. LyBrand III are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jenny Bett, to Logan Wayne Newsom of Ballinger, Texas. Jenny Bett is a teacher for the San Angelo Independent School District, and Logan is the manager of Double K Country Store in Early, Texas. The couple will wed at the First United Methodist Church of New Braunfels in August 2009.

Spotlight has changed
3/25/2009
Find out about the other half of "Team Ellis" on the BISD Spotlight page.

Poster Contest Winners
3/24/2009 -info and photos by Latresha Allen
Below are the winners for the Ballinger Fire Poster Contest. These winners will now advance to the District Contest in Winters on April 4th and the State competition will be held in June. Congratulations and best of luck to all!

Pictured left - Kindergarten division (pre K and K)-- 1st place Sterling Winchester, 2nd place Markus Castleberry, 3rd place Avery Flanagan

 

Pictured right-Primary Division (1st and 2nd)--1st place Cody Harral, 2nd place Catlin Bishop, 3rd place Elyssa Korn (absent from pic)
 

Pictured Left-Intermediate (3rd and 4th)--1st place Shane Flanagan, 2nd place Emily Biscoe, 3rd place Drew Crenshaw
 

Pictured Right-Middle (5th and 6th)--1st place Christin Garcia, 2nd place Hadley Hatler, 3rd place Easton Sanderson (absent from pic)
 

Pictured Left-Jr High (7th and 8th)--1st place Lauren Harral, 2nd place Katelyn Willingham, 3rd place Brylee Matschek
 

Pictured Right-HS (9th - 12th)--1st place Ali Tounget, 2nd place Lauren Tabb

Relay for Life Fish Fry
3/24/2009
Trent's Team will have a Benefit Fish Fry on Friday, April 3rd, from 5:00 to 9:00 at Main Street Soda Fountain located at 701 Hutchings. Dine-in and enjoy being entertained by Elvis or carry-out plates will be available by calling 365-3383. Plates include catfish, french fries, colesaw, hushpuppies, red beans, and dessert, All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
 

First Baptist Church Easter Cantata
3/23/2009
First Baptist Church is having an Easter Cantata on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 10:30 AM.
This years Easter Musical is “In The Presence Of Jehovah”. Please come and join us for this time of worship through music.

Winters Chamber News
3/23/2009 -by Jean Boles Winters Chamber of Commerce
April bringing fun events to Winters
     Hope everyone enjoyed the wonderful rain we recently received, as well as spring break. As spring and April arrive, we see a very busy month ahead with several opportunities to enjoy events and volunteer to help.
     The Chamber is busy with preparations for the upcoming Mayfest on May 2 at the Community Center and City Park. New children’s games and activities are planned, along with a tennis tournament and softball tournament. Registration is underway for the arts and crafts show as well as food vendors. Anyone interested in a booth may contact the Chamber at 754-5210, come by 100 W. Dale, or e-mail wacc@wtxs.net. Watch for more details.
     J&T Hardware will host their Customer Appreciation Day on Thursday, April 2. Hamburgers and goodies will be served from 11-1 p.m. at 333 S. Main. Check out their special sale on filters from March 30 through April 4.
Several events will be Sat., April 4, including the Wingate Lions Farm Sale, the Winters Volunteer Fire Department will host the Area Firemen’s Convention all day, and First United Methodist Church of Winters invites everyone to an “Evening in Winters.”
     The FUMC event begins with a spaghetti supper at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria followed by a concert by the very entertaining group, Revolution, from Cooper High School in Abilene at 7 p.m. in the school auditorium. There is no charge for either event. Guests will have the opportunity to make a freewill offering at the door.
I hope you read the great story in the Abilene Reporter-News on March 1, about how “Lawrence Brothers stores strive to serve their communities,” with special emphasis on the Winters IGA location. The article included information about how the Winters Area Business and Industrial Corporation stepped up to provide a loan to help establish a pharmacy within the store located at 900 N. Main. As Kyle Lawrence, vice president for purchasing and advertising of Lawrence Brothers Management, said in the ARN story, “Keeping a pharmacy in Winters allows residents, many of them older, to avoid the time and expense of traveling to Ballinger or Abilene.”
     The Chamber encourages residents and visitors to support Lawrence Bros. IGA as well as all our local businesses. With tough economic challenges all around us, we will do well by trading “at home” as much as possible. Every dollar spent in Winters helps the local economy.
     Other April events include a networking luncheon on April 7 at the Carnegie Library in Ballinger, hosted by the Texas Midwest Community Network, Holy Week Services at the Community Center, the Chamber’s annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 11, Samaritan’s House Open House on April 19, Winters Area Foundation annual membership dinner on April 21 at Fort Chadbourne, second grade musical on April 23, Woman’s Club Ladies Nite Out on April 23, and a first grade musical on April 27. Plenty to see and do right here in wonderful Winters, Texas.

GINGER TEST – Hill Country Workshop
3/22/2009 -by Marian Johnson, Publicity- Fine Arts League

Artist, Ginger Test (pictured left), will conduct a watercolor workshop in Mason April 17 & 18, 2009 at the Granite Rock Bed & Breakfast. The “Hill Country Wildflower Workshop”
is scheduled to begin Friday(17th) at 8:30 with breakfast! Breakfast and lunch will be
served both Friday and Saturday at a cost of $20 per day. However, you may bring your own sack lunch, but you will miss the treat of Martha Kothman’s cooking!
Thursday (April 16th) evening at 6:30 Martha will serve a gourmet meal for $30. Reservations must be made with Ginger 325-723-2035 for this meal by Monday April 13th .
The class is limited to 15 so get your name on the list NOW! The class is $90 and will be 9am to 4 pm.
Lodging information is available at the Fort McKavitt Inn or The Red Door B&B. Request lodging information from Ginger. Or by email terry_t.1957@yahoo.com
Ginger is a member of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County.
 

Ballinger Rotary Club Easter Egg Hunt
3/20/2009
The Ballinger Rotary Club will be hosting the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 11:00a.m. at the Ballinger City Park. The hunt will begin promptly at 11:00a.m. The park will be roped off, so please allow plenty of time to park at the Community Center and walk down to the park; this is to assure the safety of the children while they are hunting.

There will be four different areas marked off for the different age groups to hunt. There will be 0-3, 4-5, 6-8, and 9-11 years. This is a free Easter Egg Hunt for all of the children in the area. Please bring your Easter basket or a bag and prepare to bring lots of goodies home.

For more information contact Rotary Board Member Tammie Virden at 325-895-0353, or John Di Francesco Rotary President at Runnels County Rehab and Nursing Center 325-365-2538.

In case of bad weather, the Easter Egg hunt will be rescheduled for April 11, 2009 same time and same place.

Runnels County Farm Bureau Scholarship
3/20/2009
RUNNELS COUNTY FARM BUREAU
2009 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP 

1.     Eligibility requirements
·        Parent or guardian must be a member of the Runnels County Farm Bureau as of November 1, 2008. 
Applicant must be admitted to a college or university the summer or fall of 2009 and show evidence of admission. 

2.     Selection of winner will be based on
·        Completed application returned to the Runnels County Farm Bureau office by May 1, 2009.
·        Should be ranked in the top one third scholastically in his or her class.
·        Application should include any leadership and citizenship achievements during high school years.
·        Typed essay written and submitted by applicant on: "My career goals and how I plan to reach them", or "How living in rural Texas has affected my life".  (choose one topic)
(The top three applicants selected will be subject to an interview)

3.     Scholarship amount
·        The 2009 scholarship of $500.00 will be awarded over a period of one year, in $250.00 increments per semester.  The second semester will be awarded after the Runnels County Farm Bureau office has received a confirmation that an average of 3.0 or more was achieved in the first semester.

Click here for the application.

Relay for Life 37" TV Raffle
3/18/2009
First National Bank of Ballinger will be holding a Relay For Life fundraiser.  First National Bank will be selling raffle tickets for a 37" flat screen VIZIO HDTV.  Tickets are on sale now in the bank lobby. They will be available until June 12th. Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. Drawing will be held at the Relay For Life.  For any questions or donations please contact Stephanie Escobar at 325/365-2525. 

Coleman Artists participate in Abilene Paint-Out
3/18/2009
Sherrell Hazlewood and Theda Rhea participated in a 2-hr. quick draw at Abilene's Hilton Gardens Friday, on March 6. The event was sponsored by the Texas division of Holistic Management International, an international ranching organization. Some 200 members of the audience enjoyed dinner and an interesting presentation by Author, Elmer Kelton as they watched Theda, Sherrell, Paul Friske, Lee Ann Goode and an acrylic artist from Colorado City produce paintings for auction. Theda’s 15”X”11” pastel painting featured a young Navajo Cowboy. SLH produced a 9”X12” acrylic painting entitled “Texas Blue Bunnies Hang Out with a Visiting Texas Longhorn. Sherrell and Theda are Members of the Fine Arts League of Coleman County. Sherrell is the current
President of the group.
 

Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Clinics
3/18/2009
Winters
Thursday, April 2nd
1:30-5:30
Professional Building
110 South Main, Suite 108

Ballinger
Thursday, April 9th
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

Miss Ballinger
3/18/2009
The Ballinger Chamber of Commerce is in search of their new Miss Ballinger. Forms can be picked up at the High School office or at the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce located at 700 Railroad in the Santa Fe Depot Station. Deadline for entry is no later than 5p.m. on April 10, 2009. Please contact the Chamber if you have any questions. 365-2333. Click here if you'd like to download the form.

Spotlight Change
3/16/2009
Mr. Ellis, the Choral Music Director, has found his way into this week's spotlight.

Ethnic Festival Talent Show
3/16/2009 -by Tamara Moore
Do you have talent? SURE YOU DO!!! Well, the town of Ballinger wants to see your talent. If you can sing, play a musical instrument, dance, or even engage in your own little circus act we would love to see it. Come on down to The First National Bank of Ballinger or The Chamber of Commerce and get an entry form for the Talent Show or Click here to download the entry form. The Talent Show will be at The Ethnic Festival on Sunday, April, 26th on the Court House lawn. So, come and get your entry form and show us what you can do. Prizes will be awarded for 1st and 2nd place in each division. All forms must be received from applicants no later than April 15th.

Hoops, Dreams, and Goals on Tap for March 27
3/16/2009
BIG SPRING –  Pictured right, Sammy Escobar (in black uniform) - a member of the Ballinger Longhorns team - plays tough defense on Riggan Sifford of the Big Spring Heat during the 2008 Hoops, Dreams and Goals competition in Big Spring. Escobar and his teammates will suit up again on March 27 during the 2009 Hoops, Dreams and Goals competition at Howard College's Dorothy Garrett Coliseum. Escobar's team is comprised of consumers from the Runnels County Vo-Tech.

     Six teams from West Texas will take the floor March 27 at Howard College’s Dorothy Garrett Coliseum for the Fifth Annual “Hoops, Dreams and Goals” competition.
     The annual event pits teams from each of the 23 counties West Texas Centers for MHMR serves in a friendly game of basketball, dance contests, and the spirited cheerleading competitions.
     “This is by far my most favorite event of the year,” West Texas Centers for MHMR CEO Shelley Smith, LMSW, said. “There is no way you can leave this event without a smile on your face. Everyone who attends is just uplifted by the day of basketball, music, food and dances.”
     The six teams who will participate are the: Big Spring Heat, Sweetwater Red Rattlers, Ballinger Longhorns, Snyder Wildkatz, Seminole and Brownfield Pink Panthers, and the Monahans and Pecos Warriors.
     The Ballinger Longhorns have been practicing all winter long to prepare for the competition, Smith said. “They wear their black and burnt orange colors very proudly and are always extremely competitive.”
     Score is kept of each contest, and each team wins a trophy and each participant is awarded a medal at the end of competition, Smith said. “We have live tournament action with music and an announcer announces each player when they score a basket or make a great defensive stop.”
     “We started out patterning this after the Final Four competition held each March by the NCAA,” Smith said. “The people we serve and our employees really enjoy this day.”
     Tip-off is set for 9 a.m. with games continuing throughout the day.
     Big Spring Mayor Russ McEwen will open tournament play with the reading of a proclamation declaring March as Mental Retardation Month in Howard County.
     St. Rep. Joe Heflin (D) Crosbyton will welcome the anticipated crowd of more than 700 athletes, coaches, cheerleaders and fans with words of encouragement.
     “Rep. Heflin has been extremely supportive of our Center and we could think of no one better to welcome us to a day of competition,” Smith said.
     The Howard College cheerleaders and the Howard College Hawk and the Big Spring Steer drum line will provide entertainment and encouragement to the athletes throughout the day.
     “We really want to encourage the people of Ballinger to come out and support the players from their community,” Smith said. “We present an annual spirit award and the more active fans wearing the team colors of black and burnt orange help the athletes and help them to perform.”
     Other activities scheduled during the tournament include free throw shooting contests; dribbling and passing exhibitions and cheerleading contests.
     The tournament is sponsored by West Texas Centers for MHMR, Howard County Arc, Howard College, Professional Pharmacy in Big Spring, KBST Radio in Big Spring along with many other businesses, organizations and people from the 23 counties served by West Texas Centers for MHMR.

West Texas Centers for MHMR provides care for more than 2,200 people with mental retardation and mental illness and their families in 23 counties in West Texas.
Counties served by West Texas Centers for MHMR are 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.
Runnels County Vo-Tech is located at 119 North 7th Street in Ballinger. Their phone number is (325) 365-2069; toll-free (888) 831-6618 (toll-free).

Fine Arts League Hosts Theda Rhea Demo
3/16/2009
The Fine Arts League of Coleman County is hosting a demonstration by local Artist, Theda Rhea, Thursday March 19, 2009 in the First Coleman National Bank Club Room at 6 pm.
Theda is a well-known pastel artist, but also works in oils and other media. She will paint a portrait in pastels from a live model at the March meeting. You are in for a treat – come see the image come to life under Theda’s talented hand.

Guests are welcome – Short business meeting and refreshments will follow.


 

Region VII UIL Vocal Solo and Ensemble contest
3/15/2009 -by Dale and Ida Lee Ellis (reprint with photos)
Seven Ballinger High School students received top ratings in the Region VII UIL Vocal Solo and Ensemble contest, held at Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Saturday, February 21.

These are now certified for participation in the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest, to be held at Texas State University on May 30 and
June 1. Our students will be attending on Monday, June 1, as graduation is May 30.

This is Alisha's fourth time to qualify for state, and Vivian's third. They each already have a Division I rating and medal from a previous state competition. This is Briana's second time to qualify.



 

Those taking Division I (Superior) ratings and medals on class 1 vocal solos (solos of a high difficulty level) are pictured left to right. (Front) Lindsey Phillips, Christal Castillo (2nd Row) Karina Lemus, Alisha Multer, Jessie Thompson (Back Row) Vivian Cavazos, Jacob Arp, Briana Berkley, Nicole Lira, Courtney Gibbs -photo contributed

The following students received Division II (excellent) ratings on class 1 solos. They each prepared well for the competition and gave excellent performances at the contest:
Courtney Gibbs, Lindsey Phillips, Jessie Thompson

In the related Region VII Middle School Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest, also at Howard Payne University, the following Ballinger Junior High students took Division I (Superior) ratings and medals on class 3 (freshmen
level) vocal solos, pictured left to right: (Front row)  Samantha Baird, Lauren Harral, Lindsey Heidenheimer, Gabriel Cavazos, Riley Woodruff  (Back row) Reese Hallmark, Alyssa Biscoe, Brandon Vasquez, Dacayla Caudle, Judd Hatler -photo contributed

These also prepared well and did a great job at the contest.

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

Dale E. Ellis is faculty sponsor for choral music activities. Piano accompaniments for these students were played by Ida Lee Ellis, music teacher for Ballinger Elementary.

Community Calendar Added!
3/13/2009
Keeping up with dates is VERY important, so we have added a calendar to the page. You can see the icon above next to the two banners and there is also a new button on the link bar to the left. The icon above may move around or go away, but the button to the left will always be there. Send us your event whatever it may be, and it will be added to the calendar for the world to see.

You can view it by week, month or agenda. You can even print it!

Bearcat Band Happenings
3/13/2009 -by Janet Wilson, Band Director
Just wanted to let everyone know what the Ballinger Bearcat Band is up to these days! The kids are preparing for UIL April 16th. They are well on their way to a sweepstakes this year!! They are also gearing up Spring Trip to Houston. They are starting their fundraiser today - The Bearcat Band Bistro. Students are selling casseroles - homemade by Steven and Melody Rutledge and their catering business Myrtle House. Casseroles will be precooked and frozen and available the 4-6 of April for pick-up and delivery. Thanks for your support in advance!!

Pancake Supper
3/13/2009
The Ballinger Rotary Club annual Pancake Supper is Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. at the Ballinger Community Center. Tickets are $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children under 12. Tickets can be purchased from any Ballinger Rotary Club member.

Former QB to Speak at 2009 FCA All-Star Banquet
3/12/2009
     Former San Diego Charger and Baylor University quarterback Neal Jeffrey will be the featured speaker at the 2009 Fellowship of Christian Athletes Victory Banquet on April 19 at the Abilene Civic Center.
     The banquet will begin a 4 p.m.
     Now a Christian author, speaker and minister, Jeffrey will also help introduce the 2009 class of players, cheerleaders and coaches for the 10th Anniversary Greathouse FCA All-Star Classic.
     Jeffrey is best known for leading Baylor in its 1974 “Miracle on the Brazos” season when the Bears came from out of nowhere to capture their first Southwest Conference title in 50 years. He later played three seasons in the NFL for the San Diego Chargers.
     A longtime member and supporter of FCA, Jeffrey speaks at hundreds of events each year and is author of the book, The Man I Want to Be. He also serves as an associate pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Dallas.
     A limited number of tickets for the Victory Banquet can be purchased by contacting the Big Country FCA office at 325-795-0020. Tables of 10 are available for a donation of $500 and individual tickets are $50.
     Along with the annual football game, a girls basketball game will be added to the Greathouse FCA Classic this year. Both games are set for June 13.
     Information about the Big Country Chapter of the FCA can also be found at www.bigcountryfca.org.

2009-2010 Bearcat Cheerleaders Announced
3/12/2009
Varsity                                            Jr Varsity
Bianca Fuentes- head                         Jordan Kalina- head
Paige Mattingley                                Jessica Arp
Hailey Wheeler                                  Susan Wallace
Melanie Bailey                                   Charli Beth Blackwell
Karri Pruser                                       Lindsey Heidenheimer
Kelsey Lott                                        Kirsten McCoy
Katie Chapman                                  Shayann Matschek
Maggie Hogan                                   Katelyn Willingham

New High School Principal Announced
3/11/2009

Mike Carter (pictured left, in deep thought) will be the Ballinger High School Principal for the 2009 / 2010 school year. Mr. Carter will assume his new position on July 1, 2009.

BallingerNews.com Photo

One Act Play Returns - BallingerNews.com Exclusive
3/11/2009 -by Jacob Mota
The 2009 Ballinger High School UIL One Act Play is here with their production “A Canterbury Tale from the Wife of Bath.” In the 2008 year the One Act Play Cast and Crew made it all the way to the state meet, after dominating everyone in their Zone, District, Area, and Regional competitions, for the first time in Ballinger High School’s history. They did very well along with three Ballinger Cast members winning awards including “All-Star Cast” and “Honorable Mention All-Star Cast” and one Crew member winning the “State Tech Award.”

So far this year’s production has been to two festivals, with one more this Friday (March 13th) at Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas. At both festivals judges had only great comments to say about this year’s production. All of this makes the cast, crew, new director Mrs. Cornutt and new assistant director Mrs. Chapman extremely happy with the production.

This year's production is a comedy and the cast always performs better with an audience laughing them on. With that said, The entire Ballinger High School One Act Play cast and crew would like to invite everyone to watch there District competition in the Ballinger High School auditorium on Wednesday, March 25th, 2009 at 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. (Exact times cannot be provided at this time. www.ballingernews.com will be the first to know about all the time changes so keep updated!) The more people who show up to give support, the better we will do!

We would like to thank everyone who has helped us so far this year including Mrs. Cornutt and Mrs. Chapman, parents, grandparents, BHS faculty, and all others who “Have Our Backs” (pictured right, click photo to see larger view) - Dawn Fournier * Hayden Conger * Kenneth Miller * Jerry, Denise, and Jeremy Sumners * Justin Conger * The Delgado Family * Lisa Trevino * Arnold Cavazos * The Worthington Family * Natalie and Ashley Cavazos * www.gorephotographyshop.com * Leticia and Johnny Reyes * Karen Aldridge * Shona, Chayse & Eryn Galindo * The Castillo Family * Bob and Dianna Spence * Jessica Murchison * Dulce and Sylvia Castillo* The Ballinger Ledger* Chris and Chilo Martinez * The Kalina Family * Longhorn Equipment * Jay, Lori, Dylan & Steelie * The Halfmann Family* Trent William Ueckert “Go Big or Go Home” * Main Street Soda Fountain * The Chavez Family * Corey and Cheryl Cornutt * Mr. Boles * The Hogan Family * www.ballingernews.com * Diego and Gorgeous Alvarado * State Farm Laurie Woodruff * Mrs. Jennings * Carnegie Library * Kim Wilson, Granny, Dane & Zane * Ed Wilson, you all have helped us tremendously this year and we hope we can put on another great show for Ballinger!

Thanks for reading and keep checking back to www.ballingernews.com because they will have updates for all of this year's One Act Play events. Hope to see you at our shows!


The cast and crew (in no particular order, click to see larger photo): Jacob Mota, Chelsea Skinner, Vivian Cavazos, Jill Halfmann, Briana Berkley, Victoria Valenzuela, Melanie Bailey, Christal Castillo, Lindsey Phillips, Evan Wilson, Spencer Ryan, Ian Sirmans, Magdalena Hogan, Jared Fournier, Natalie McClure, and Alex Valenzuela

Ballinger ISD Announcement to Private and Home Schools
3/11/2009
Ballinger ISD is required by law to offer services to private schools and home schools with a 501-C3. For more information on accessing these services, please contact Caroline Toliver at (325)365-3588 Ext 1006 by Monday, April 6.

Do you believe in Magic?
3/11/2009 -by Staff Writer Cinnamon Carter
     Our journey continues to amaze me each and every day. Since the onset of our project, whether it be stories collected by the kids or people I have been able to speak with personally, I can never seem to grasp the magic that the Indian statue was able to bestow to those fortunate enough to have known him. Both the kids and I, and most of us for the first time, have only seen him in pictures and heard the stories. That is from where our relationship with the statue has been formed. Yet, I have often wished I could feel what others so genuinely convey as Janice Amarine and her best friend Kay Howard so candidly shared with me one recent Friday night at Adelita’s. I have been told by some of the talk around town and how the statue seems to be at the fore-front of most conversations at Main Street Sandwich Shop or during coffee at the “coffee shop” in the mornings. That night at Adelita’s, I finally got to be in on one of those conversations after I heard, “Hey Indian Lady, come over here and sit with us”. I saw the giddiness that Janice and Kay had as I sat and listened to them talk of hanging out at the base of the Indian. I also heard how good of a make-out spot it was behind the back of Friend where he and others could not see you! It was like watching two teenage girls talk about the weekend they had just had with a bunch of friends. It was while actually sitting and talking with these two sweet ladies that I could finally start to understand that truly magical feeling that the Indian gave to so many. I left the restaurant feeling that our project was, as one of my former high school students put it after hearing all about it, meant to be.
     That TOTAL magical feeling happened not long after my conversation with Janice and Kay. I met Charlie Fischer, who makes his living in concrete construction and also happens to have a sixth grade daughter, at the park so he could take some measurements and we could discuss the work that would need to be done as to the site preparation. When I first arrived, there were several of my students sitting up around the base talking and that was a really cool feeling to see them there. However, as Charlie and I began our discussion, a young couple and their daughter arrived and climbed up the “not so easy to climb” hill and just sat down and talked right next to the old base where Friend stood. The little girl danced around, while Mom and Dad simply shared a moment on the hard concrete slab that protrudes up around the base. That was the moment for me. I realized that still, 60 years later, even though there is only a pile of rocks with junk written all over it and what’s left of a couple of moccasins, that place is still where people go to just be together. As I stood at the top of that hill and looked out over the creek, the beautiful park where other kids were playing, and the extremely nice city pool that Mrs. Wade and the city workers have worked so hard to provide for our kids, I finally felt that magic that everyone has talked about. I imagined that what I felt was what Mr. Shepperd felt when he stood there in 1939 and saw his vision of a city park come true and his Indian standing there to welcome all who entered. It was the coolest thing ever, as the kids would put it. I have never seen the Indian except in a picture, but it was as if I had known him all my life. It was as if he was saying, I am still here. I left the park that day more determined than ever to make sure I do everything possible to give the kids in my classroom that are working hard at keeping this project going, the chance to feel that magic. I want them to stand there on many occasions years from now and feel proud of what they have done not only for themselves, but for our community. I want them to be able to talk about the Indian like so many folks do now. This is a chance of a lifetime to give to our kids.
     I recently received an email that asked, “How is this education? It is just a statue and don’t you think that money could be put to good use some place that really needs it? This is ridiculous. That is my opinion”. Everyone is entitled to voice their opinion and that is perfectly understandable. My reply to that is simply this: Education is everywhere. School is not the only place where children can learn. The education in this project comes in the form of participation in city government, service to the community, money management and fund raising, goal setting, communication skills both written and verbal, historical preservation and knowledge of things in and out of your community, multicultural understandings, and the list goes on. The school is not funding this project in any way, nor is anyone else that chooses not to, but is simply providing a building in which to perform a task. This is an independent endeavor that is being spearheaded by a group of students and a teacher and people who have said that they would love to see the Indian back. I am actively applying for grants and am seeking as much funding for this project as I can in that area. In fact, on Thursday, March 12, I will be applying for a grant called Texas Communities for Service and Learning, www.txcsl.org, with the help of Region 15 Service Center in San Angelo. This grant is a three year program grant that will allow me, if we are awarded, to continue more service projects in our community with the current 4th and 5th graders once they reach their 6th grade year. This grant is designed to engage students in their community and create a sense of pride and ownership right where they live. You can read more about the goals on the website provided. The grant amount for this year is $20,000 and that is based on our total student count within our district. With the help of grants like this and others that I have applied for and yes, the support from our community both local and non-local, we can reach our goal whether it be one year from now or 3 years from now. Our kids need this project, not for the sole purpose of getting a new statue, but for the knowledge and, if you will, magic that it will afford them that otherwise they may never have had the chance to know.
     I have saved the best for last! We have a sculptor and his name is Hugh Campbell. He is a Ballinger Bearcat from the Class of 1958 and I was privileged to get to meet him this past Friday. It was wonderful to hear him tell me and I quote, “This is an honor and a chance of a lifetime to do a piece of artwork such as this Indian from my hometown”. Mr. Campbell told me in our very first conversation, a couple of months ago, how he vividly remembered the Indian and spent many a lunch break with him during his school days. He is well respected in our community and also a very accomplished artist in both oil and pastel paintings, as well as bronze sculptures. I am providing a link to his website so that you may view his work and see his many accomplishments in the field of art, www.hughcampbellwesternart.com .
     After several discussions with Mr. Campbell as well as other artists about the different materials to possibly use, the statue restoration committee has decided to use bronze. It is the most resilient and durable to withstand the weather and the perils of age as you should be able to see from the beautiful Charles Noyes statue that graces our courthouse square. That bronze piece has stood proudly since 1919. Mr. Campbell has provided us with a price quote for an 8 foot(head to toe) bronze that includes his fee, the foundry in Lubbock where the bronzing will take place, and the final transporting, setting, and attaching of the statue to its permanent location. His quote is for $43,800 turn-key. Timeline could be within 8-10 months of total completion. Using this material will ensure that when the Class of 2015 celebrates their 60 year class reunion, Friend the Indian will still be standing proud. Using bronze will allow for a one time investment to withstand the ages. If you divide 100 years or 36,500 days by $43,800, that is 0.83 cents a day. That is a pretty good bargain! I know what you are thinking here. But look at it like this, you might die in a plane crash, but I bet you still fly. You might die in a car crash, but I bet sometime today you will drive your car! Life is about taking chances and arriving at the end of the road to reap the benefits just because you were brave enough to try. I will save, for another time, our plan to create such a presence about the Indian that people will want to only admire him instead of harm him. We have a plan that will involve the youngest to the oldest person in and outside our community and create a sense of ownership with all who know him! Don’t be scared. Just trust us, it will be wonderful! To quote Talia Leman, age 12, Founder/CEO of RandomKid who has raised over 10 million in hurricane relief funds, “By helping kids help others, they will know what they are capable of, and be able to use those skills all their lives. Plus, nothing feels better, or teaches you more about your own power and worth”. Our kids in this project are 12!
     A final note! The statement, "It is just a statue” might be true to those who have no historical knowledge of nor share any memories or emotions with the statue. However, to those who told their deepest secrets, shared their greatest joys, or just sat at its base and sought a quiet moment, with regards to ours, it was more than a statue. The Charles Noyes statue is not just a statue. It is rather a memorial erected to forever tell the story of a beloved son that was taken away from the family that dearly loved and cherished him. The Statue of Liberty is not just a statue. It is a symbol of a new beginning in a country that promised life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness to all who entered. Our statue is the investment in the children that will one day be the leaders in our town, our teachers, our doctors, and most importantly mothers and fathers. What we teach them by whatever means we are given, is our legacy that we leave to them. That legacy can be lasting or it can be fading. I hope you will join with me and make it lasting and if it happens to come in the form of an Indian standing on a hillside, then so be it.
 

Check out the new Spotlight
3/11/2009
Janice Travis, school nurse, has found her way to the BallingerNews.com BISD Spotlight.

BISD School Board Election
3/10/2009
Persons Signing up for School Board election 5-9-09

Single Member District 3: Charles Frerich
Single Member District 4: Scott King
                                      Phil King
                                      Jim Chapman
Single Member District 5: Bobby McNaley

Winters Chamber Honors Local Citizens
3/10/2009 -by Jean Boles Winters Chamber of Commerce
     Congratulations to Chris Bahlman, Cheryl Sneed and Sonny’s West Dale Grocery and Market for being named 2008 Man of the Year, Woman of the Year and Business of the Year, respectively, at the annual Chamber banquet Saturday night. We had a wonderful evening with great weather and wonderful fellowship. Mike Bodenchuk, with Texas Wildlife Services, brought an informative, entertaining program to approximately 160 guests.
     Other nominees for Man of the Year were David Hutton and Larry Collom. Nominees for Woman of the Year were Bobby Collom, Billie Sue Helm, and Bobbie Collom. Bishop and Sons, Wes-T-Go and Best Fried Chicken were also nominees for Business of the Year. All of these individuals and businesses are ambassadors for Winters and worthy of our gratitude as they continue to make Winters a better place to live.
     The Chamber gratefully acknowledges the sponsors who helped make the banquet and reception possible. Gold sponsors were Ray & Billie Alderman, Coleman County Electric Cooperative, Security State Bank, and the Winters Area Business and Industrial Corporation. Silver sponsors were DLC Realty, Farm Bureau Insurance, Dr. Aref and Doris Hassan, and Texas Communications. We also appreciate everyone who donated for the silent auction which helped raise funds for Chamber operating expenses.
     Pam and Randall Barnes, owners of Lone Star Video, invite everyone to their Open House to celebrate their new location at 205 N. Main (formerly Higginbotham’s). Refreshments will be served beginning at 2 p.m. Regular store hours are Monday through Thursday from 4-9 p.m., Friday from 4-10 p.m. and Saturday from 2-10 p.m. For more information, call 754-4978.
     First United Methodist Church of Winters invites the community to an “Evening in Winters” on Sat., April 4. A spaghetti dinner will be served in the school cafeteria at 6 p.m. followed by a concert in the school auditorium at 7 p.m. The fiddle group, Revolution, from Abilene Cooper, will entertain. There is no charge for either event. Guests will have the opportunity to make a freewill offering at the door.
     Starting this month, Samaritan’s House will have evening hours, hoping to reach more in the community who are in need of this service. Hours will be 4-7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Barbara Jones will be in the office located at the corner of East Dale and Grant. Volunteers are needed to help distribute food and assist in the office. If you can help, please contact Maudella Reeves at 754-1011.
     Samaritan’s House will hold an open house and “shower” on Sunday, April 19 from 2-4 p.m. Watch for more information.
     The Chamber has begun working on the Mayfest celebration for Sat., May 2, at the community center and city park with children’s games, food vendors, an arts & crafts show, softball tournament, entertainment and much more. Anyone interested in a vendor space may contact the Chamber at 754-5210, come by 100 W. Dale, or e-mail wacc@wtxs.net.
     Due to Spring Break next week, the Chamber office will be closed until Thursday, March 19.

Gifted and Talented Identification
3/10/2009
Ballinger Junior High School seeks to nominate and identify gifted and talented students each year. This nomination process is now in progress and will end on March 31, 2009. Nominations for the G/T program may come from parents, teachers, or from someone in the community. If you know of a student at Ballinger Junior High that might qualify for the Gifted and Talented Program, we would welcome your nomination of that student. Identification is based on a number of criteria, with selection being made by a committee of educators. Nomination does not necessarily mean acceptance into the program. However, it will initiate the identification process. Should you wish to nominate a student, the forms may be obtained at the Ballinger Junior High office. If you have any questions, please call Rita Pitts at 365-3537.

Relay Team Captain Meeting
3/10/2009
Relay Team Captain Meeting this Thursday, March 12th at 5:30 @ Main Street. Remember, teams get points for each team member in attendance! For more information contact Julie Gray at 365-2403.

Rabies Clinic
3/9/2009 -by Abbey Multer - Club Reporter
The Rowena 4-H Club is having their annual Rabies Clinic on Saturday, March 21st from 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon at the Rowena Fire Hall. This is one of the clubs biggest fund raisers, so please show your support by bringing in your
pets for their annual vaccinations. Thanks for your continued support.
Abbey Multer - Club Reporter

Jr. High Spring Fling
3/9/2009
There will be a short meeting in the Jr. High Library at 6pm on Monday, March 09, 2009. The purpose of this meeting is to begin planning for the Spring Fling which will be held on Saturday, May 9th. If you would like to help with any area of the Spring Fling, please come to the meeting.

Ballinger VFW Recruiting Drive
3/6/2009 -contributed by Post 8119 Commander Timothy Sirmans
There is currently legislation pending at the National VFW level to close all VFW posts in the United States with memberships of less than 50. At present, the VFW in Ballinger Post 8119, has only 46 members on the roll. This legislation will be up for vote this year and we want to avoid even being on that list if it does pass. We are in the process of having a recruiting drive to reach that magic number of 50 so that we are not in the critical position of facing a possible closing. Since we do not have a building that we own, it would be very easy to peg us as a Post closing. I know that there are many former Veterans of Foreign Wars in Ballinger that are not members and we really need to reach out to them and ask that they join. Even if these veterans never attend a meeting, the numbers for membership mean everything to those of us that do attend and that do enjoying working for the VFW. If you are a Veteran living on a fixed income, there are grants available that will allow us to pay your membership, provided you meet certain income criteria.

Post Commander, Timothy Sirmans, recently attended a class in Service Officer Training to help VFW members deal with VA claims through the office in Austin. Timothy can help fill out some paper work and do some personal contacting, if necessary, to assist veterans with any claims process. This is just one of the many services that we, as a VFW Post, can offer to our local community. Our current meetings are every third Saturday of the month at the Senior Center and we have changed our meeting time to 8 a.m. Timothy's home number is 365-4132 and email is timothy.sirmans@goodfellow.af.mil. I will be glad to assist any Veteran in any way that I can. We truly appreciate all of our Veterans for their service and want to help them in any way that we can while serving the wonderful community of Ballinger.

Again, the meeting time for the Ballinger VFW post 8119 meets at the Senior Citizens Center at 627 Strong Avenue. The meetings start at 8 am on the third Saturday of every month. Breakfast follows.

Jr. High Cheerleaders Announced
3/6/2009
Here are the Jr. High Cheerleaders for 2009-2010. Congratulations Ladies!!

(Photo contributed by Jr. High Staff)
Bottom row left to right: Taryn Kalina-7th, Brylee Matschek-8th, and Lauren Harral-8th
Standing left to right: Hailey Esquivel-7th, Julie Fischer-7th, Sydney Dankworth-8th, Molly Jones-8th, and Jordan Frierson-7th.

Annual Job Fair
3/6/2009
Odessa College will be holding their Annual Job Fair on Thursday March 12, 2009. This is at the Odessa College Sports Center hours will be 12-4pm. Admission is free and there will be employers recruiting for all areas.

The industries of: medical, broadcasting/communications, legal/law enforcement, personnel placement, business, city and state government and more will be present.

Big Dream Conference
3/5/2009 -by Cinnamon Carter
 Members of the Class of 2015 attended the Big Dream Gathering sponsored by the Texas Midwest Community Network on Thursday, March 5 in hopes of having someone help fulfill their dream of seeing Friend the Indian back in Ballinger City Park. The gathering brings dreams of all kinds together in one arena and allows them to be posted on the "wall of dreams" and then be viewed by anyone looking to help others out. There are many different categories for dreams to fit in to such as business, agriculture, education, travel, government, media, spiritual, and many others. We placed our dream in the category of "Dreams that Defy Categorization". The students pictured are left to right: Corey Virden, Hailey Esquivel, Priscilla Pospichal, Cassie Salazar, and Haley Evans. We, along with Mrs. Carter, arrived at the San Angelo convention center at 6:00 and placed our dream on the wall. The wall will close at 9:00 and then the dreams will placed in pre-marked envelopes with any comments collected and mailed to their respective dreamers. We hope to have positive feedback once our dream finds its way back to us via the postal service. Our Ballinger Chamber of Commerce is participating for the first time in this nationwide network as it was the featured subject at the recent chamber banquet.
In case you were wondering about the status of our project, I would like to provide you with an update. We are actively pursuing an artist to sculpt our statue and then in turn secure a medium and a price to complete it. We have also established our Statue Restoration Fund at First National Bank of Ballinger and are accepting donations. The Statue Restoration Committee has also been formed consisting of myself, Cinnamon Carter, Matt Belden, Beverly Everett, and Tammie Virden. We have had our first meeting and discussed funding options via grants, fundraisers, and community donations, statue specifics concerning the creation of the new model, and the responsibilities of each member of the committee to see the project forward. I have also met and discussed with Charlie Fischer the needs of preparing the park location for the new statue with regards to a new base, stairs, moving the original base back a few feet to a new location and the overall site work needed to be done before Friend arrives. He is in the process of creating a bid as to what that part of the project will entail. We are also looking for a Native American Group to come and be a part of our reveal ceremony once that point is reached. My goal is to have an artist secured, the money needed to begin the first phase of the project, and the statue creation process begun by the end of this school year before the sixth graders leave my class and move on to seventh grade. My vision for project completion is to see Friend grace his hillside by the year 2011, if not before, when the sixth graders will have become the 8th grade class at Ballinger Junior High. Please pass the word to all your friends and neighbors about the project and stay tuned for the next update.

Blue Grass Festival
3/5/2009
Bluegrass music comes to San Angelo’s Wells Fargo Pavilion on April 3 and 4, 2009. Concho Valley Home for Girls/Children’s Emergency Shelter presents the third annual Concho Valley Blue Grass Festival benefit featuring some of the best bands in the business.

Pictured left, host band, Concho Grass of San Angelo welcomes Saltgrass from Houston, TX, the Batten Family from Lubbock, TX, Triple L from Portales, NM, Clear River from Weatherford, TX, and Glen Bonham & Southern Tradition from Oklahoma. Friday the doors open at 4:00 PM for a night of all gospel music. Saturday, the doors open at 10:00
AM with music from all of the bands until 10:00 PM. Tickets are $8 for Friday night; $15 for Saturday; or $20 for the weekend.

A variety of craft vendors will be on site for festival shoppers. A free pancake supper will be served Thursday evening at the Pavilion. Dinner and lunch will be served Friday and Saturday. Proceeds from all events benefit Concho Valley Home for Girls/Children’s Emergency Shelter.

The Concho Valley Home for Girls and Children’s Emergency Shelter provide children in our community with a stable home when their circumstances leave them without any other suitable living environment. The children in our care receive the shelter, nourishment, education, counseling and support they need to help them grow into healthy, positive members of our society.

Tickets will be available at the door. For more information, please call 325-655-3821.

Ballinger Education Foundation Concert Raffle
3/5/2009
Ballinger Education Foundation is beginning a raffle for the George Strait, Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, and Julianne Hough Concert on June 6th at 5:30 at the new Texas Stadium. The seats being raffled off are great floor seats in sections C & D.

$20/chance for 2 tickets. (Parking not included) You will have two chances to win. Tickets will be on sale thru May 14th with the drawing on May 15th.

If you are interested in purchases a raffle ticket contact any BEF board member, Jackie Gibbs, Justin Busenlehner, Terilyn Bowman, Tammie Virden, Elaine Paske, Jason Gore, Kay Smith, Julie Gray, Jeanette Johnson, Thella Henderson, or Robert Martinez. Or you may call Jackie at (325) 365-3588 x1010.

Ribbon Cutting
3/4/2009
The Travel With Class Ribbon Cutting was held yesterday to welcome them as new members of the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce. You can visit them at http://www.travel-with-class.com/ to learn more about what services they can provide you for your next get-away. You are welcome to call Christy at 365-5943 or Mary Etta at 365-3357 to arrange your next trip.

In the photo contributed by the Ballinger Chamber of Commerce, pictured left to right are:
(front) Phil Springer, Bianca Fuentes, Christy Kvapil, Mary Etta Kvapil, Maggie Hogan, and Mark Heinze
(back) Ken Kvapil, Alex Kvapil, and Ebb Grindstaff

1st Annual Curing Cancer Dance
3/4/2009
1st Community Federal Credit Union's Relay for Life Team, and their sponsors, will be hosting the 1st Annual Curing Cancer Dance on May 16 at Bruce Field Airport in Ballinger from 4pm to midnight. The Zach Edwards Band will headline the musical entertainment. Also appearing are Cody Hughes Davidson Band, Rio Grand, Darren Kozelsky, Harber and Miller Band, and Brian Milson. View the event poster here, and also check out the event on Myspace at www.myspace.com/curingcancerdance

Who's in the Spotlight?
3/3/2009
Check in on the BISD Faculty Spotlight to see who has been added today.

Winters Chamber of Commerce News
3/3/2009 -by Jean Boles Winters Chamber of Commerce
Come join the fun on Saturday evening, March 7, when the Chamber hosts the annual banquet at the school cafeteria. Doors open at 6 p.m. for visiting and silent auction bidding. This year’s theme is “Boots ‘n’ Bling.” The program and dinner begin at 7 p.m. Keynote speaker is Mike Bodenchuk, wildlife biologist with the Texas Wildlife Services. Highlighting the evening will be the announcements of Man, Woman and Business of the Year. Tickets are available at the Chamber office at 100 W. Dale, J&T Hardware, Security State Bank, Daisy Patch, Guy’s Dirt Contracting, and Raymond’s Clip Joint. Dress is casual.
The Chamber welcomes Farm Bureau Insurance as a new member. Agency Manager Jeff Cook and Jeff Soltow, Agent, invite you to stop by their new office at 101 S. Main Street for a cup of coffee and a free quote. Or give them a call at 754-5300, www.txfb-ins.com.
Lone Star Video is moving to the former Higginbotham building at 205 N. Main. Owners Randall and Pam Barnes are planning to have the move completed by this weekend, and host a grand opening on Sat., March 14. Watch for details in next week’s Enterprise.
Check out the $5 and $10 bargain racks at Heidenheimer’s. Other great deals at low prices throughout the store at 105 S. Main.
Census jobs testing will be given at the Winters City Council chambers at 310 S. Main on Monday, March 9, at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Evening testing can be arranged by calling 1-888-861-2010. Sample tests are available at the Chamber office. A variety of job openings will be available: part-time, full-time, day, nights and weekends.
The new blue poly cart trash containers have been delivered throughout the city by Allied Waste. Each resident or commercial hand-load customer receiving city utilities has been provided with one 95-gallon poly cart at no charge. According to Allied Waste, if an additional cart is required, the City of Winters will be happy to provide one for a nominal fee. For details of proper placement and usage, please call City Hall at 754-4424.
Remember to move your clocks forward on Saturday night or early Sunday as we enter Daylight Saving Time.

Attention--Call To Action!!
3/2/2009 -by Cinnamon Carter
The quest to bring the Indian statue back to Ballinger City Park is well underway and we need ACTION. The students are busy raising money and are currently proud to say they have raised $345.00 in a matter of 2 days! The students and I are asking all those who have offered donations somewhere along the way or those that have simply just “thought about it” to make a trip to First National Bank and DONATE! We know you are talking about the Indian and how wonderful it will be to have him back. Well, you can HELP. The amount can be small or large. EVERY AMOUNT IS IMPORTANT TO GET US TO OUR GOAL. If 4000 people of the 4500 or so that live in Ballinger donated just $10.00, that would be $40,000. If 400 people donated $100.00, that would also be $40,000. If 40 people donated $1,000.00, that would be $40,000. We need your help in whatever manner you can provide! Don’t let this chance for you to be a part of something so wonderful pass you by. Your $5.00 is just as important as someone’s $100.00!

Miss Teen Texas International Pageant
3/1/2009 -Contributed to BallingerNews.com
San Antonio, TX - Officials for the Miss Teen International Pageant are proud to announce that Magdalena "Maggie" T. Hogan of Ballinger, Texas, has been named "Miss Teen Runnels County International 2009". Maggie will represent the greater Runnels County area at the 2009 Miss Teen Texas International Pageant in San Antonio on March 22, 2009. She will be competing for over $15,000 in cash and prizes and the chance to proceed to the Miss Teen International competition in July of 2009.

The Miss Teen International Pageant system recognizes young women for their ambition, accomplishments and desire to make a difference in their communities. Throughout her year, the new Miss Teen Runnels County will not only compete for the state crown, but she will also be available to make appearances, attend special presentations and assist with civic and non-profit oriented projects.

For information about the State Pageant, ticket sales, or to schedule an appearance by Miss Teen Runnels County International, contact the State Office, at 210-403-0589 and ask for Kirstin Koether, Executive State Director.

                                                                                                               Photo by Sharon Nixon, Class Act Photography

Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Clinics
3/1/2009
Winters                                          Ballinger
Thursday, March 5th                           Thursday, March 12th
1:30-5:30pm                                       10-12 & 1:30-3pm
Professional Building                           608 Strong (old DHS Office behind the courthouse)
110 South Main, Suite 108

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

For more information call 325/754-4945

Ballinger Born Reporter Covered Vietnam War
3/1/2009 -by Joe Holley of the Washington Post
Ann Bryan Mariano, 76 (pictured right, Family Photo)

     Ann Bryan Mariano, one of the first female combat reporters to cover the Vietnam War, sued to keep her paper on base newsstands.
     Ann Bryan Mariano, 76, who was one of the first female combat correspondents covering the Vietnam War and who sued the Pentagon to keep her publication on military-base newsstands, died Feb. 25 of complications from Alzheimer's disease at Belmont Manor Nursing Home in Belmont, Mass.
     In 1965, Ms. Mariano -- then Ann Bryan -- was sent to Saigon to start an Asian edition of Overseas Weekly, a scrappy German-based tabloid that saw itself as an irreverent alternative to the semiofficial Stars and Stripes. The paper took particular delight in uncovering the misdeeds of military brass and offered its readers, most of them GIs, 12 pages of color comics and a weekly buffet of bosomy beauties.
     Ms. Mariano exported Overseas Weekly's iconoclastic exuberance to Vietnam and "added a lot of depth to it," said Tracy Wood, who reported from Vietnam for United Press International. Under Ms. Mariano's leadership, the newspaper reported on war profiteers, officers involved in the black market, pot smoking among soldiers and racial prejudice in the Army. It also carried articles on doctors and relief workers assisting refugees and orphans and broke a story about U.S. soldiers at Long Binh Army base, outside Saigon, complaining that they didn't have enough rifles and ammunition.
     The Defense Department barred Overseas Weekly from newsstands in Vietnam and post exchanges throughout Asia. "Our only recourse was a lawsuit," Ms. Mariano recalled in a chapter she contributed to "War Torn: Stories of War From the Women Reporters Who Covered Vietnam" (2002).
     In 1966, the paper filed suit in U.S. District Court in Washington, accusing Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara of violating the First Amendment by banning distribution of the newspaper in the Pacific region. While the suit was pending, Ms. Mariano arranged for the paper to be published in Hong Kong and flown in to Saigon. Vietnamese newsboys hustled it on the streets and outside military barracks. Local authorities began confiscating copies.
     "As it became clear the troops could trust us, soldiers began calling our office directly with tips and information, by-passing official channels," Ms. Mariano recalled in "War Torn." "We began getting stories that ran counter to the rah-rah military point of view, which, of course, kept us often at odds with the Pentagon."
     Overseas Weekly lost its suit against the Pentagon but won on appeal in 1967.
     Ms. Mariano also had to fight the Pentagon for battlefield access, not because she reported for Overseas Weekly but because she was a woman. The Pentagon eventually lifted its ban against female correspondents.
     She left Overseas Weekly in 1971 and lived briefly in San Francisco with her new husband, Frank Mariano, an Army helicopter pilot and information officer who later worked as a correspondent for ABC News. The couple returned to Vietnam two years later, and she worked as a freelance reporter for the Associated Press and the Daily Express of London. When Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese in April 1975, she helped former Weekly colleagues escape the city.
     "Ann Bryan Mariano was the consummate investigative reporter during her years in Saigon, digging for the kind of stories that MACV [Military Assistance Command, Vietnam] and the generals would just as soon she never found," said Joe Galloway, who covered Vietnam for UPI and co-wrote "We Were Soldiers Once . . . and Young" (1992). "She was the real deal."
     She was born Grace Ann Bryan in Ballinger, Tex., and received her undergraduate degree in journalism and English from Texas Tech University in 1953. After a brief stint at the San Angelo Standard Times, she headed to New York, where she was a freelance reporter for a year before taking a job as an airline stewardess. She ended up in Germany, where she caught on in 1959 with Overseas Family, a sister publication of Overseas Weekly. She worked in Germany for five years, until many of the soldiers she was writing about began shipping out to Southeast Asia.
     After her experiences in Vietnam and her return to the United States in 1976, Ms. Mariano joined The Washington Post, where she worked as an editor on the foreign desk and later as a reporter. She retired in 1996.
     Ms. Mariano's first husband died in 1976. A daughter from that marriage, Jane Catherine Thai "Katie" Mariano, died in 1983.
     Survivors include her husband of eight years, Robert McKay, of Belmont, Mass.; a daughter from the first marriage, Anna Francesca Hua "Mai" Mariano of Columbus, Ohio, and a stepson from the first marriage, Tony Mariano of Carmel, Calif.; and three grandchildren.
     By 2001, when Ms. Mariano and co-authors were writing "War Torn," she knew she had Alzheimer's disease, which she described as "blowing through my memory like wind through a Buddhist sand painting." Although she could speak, she could no longer write. But with information from old files, her daughter's memories and letters and recollections of friends, she was able to reconstruct her experience.
     "What no disease can ever erase," she told Laura Palmer, a friend and fellow war correspondent who wrote her chapter, "is that Vietnam is where I found my family."