| Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015 |
| Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Inside this issue
Copperas Cove overview
Page 6
City manager’s letter
Page 7
Mayor’s letter
Page 8
Meet the council
Page 9
City services
Page 10
Cove library
Page 11
Cove police, fire
Page 12
Cove chamber
Page 14
Cove development
Page 15
Festivals, events
Page 16
Copperas Cove ISD
Page 20
Communities in Schools
Page 22
Central Texas College
Page 23
Coryell County
Page 24
Lampasas County
Page 24
Lampasas overview
Page 25
Lampasas ISD
Page 26
Gatesville ISD
Page 26
Texas A&M-Central Texas
Page 28
Gatesville overview
Page 30
Kempner overview
Page 31
A Copperas Cove Herald publication. Contact Us Editor: David A. Bryant dbryant@kdhnews.com 254-501-7554 Metro Editor: Jacob Brooks jbrooks@kdhnews.com 254-501-7468 Designer: M. Clare Haefner chaefner@kdhnews.com 254-501-7551 Find more news at copperascoveherald.com.
Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015 |
| Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
About 33,000 people call Copperas Cove home Herald staff reports
Copperas Cove, “the city built for family living,” is the largest city in Coryell County and is home to many retirees, active-duty military and others. Copperas Cove had an estimated population of about 33,000 in 2013, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Residents are served by four major entities — the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce, the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation, the Copperas Cove Independent School District and the municipal government. The municipal government is led by a seven-member council and a mayor. Dayto-day operations are conducted by City Manager Andrea Gardner. The police and fire departments provide emergency public safety services, and crime and fire prevention awareness. The Cove police chief is Tim Molnes. The fire chief is Michael Neujahr. Municipal Court Judge Bill Price presides over cases involving city ordinance violations and other offenses.
The history of Copperas Cove dates back to when the developing cattle industry cut through the region with the Chisholm Trail in the 1870s. The court is at 602 S. Main St. Animal Control, another public safety department, is overseen by Mike Heintzelman, deputy police chief. Animal Control collects, shelters and adopts out stray animals, protects residents from vicious animals, and regulates animal care ordinances for the city. The shelter is at 1601 N. First St. The Public Works main offices are at the same location. The Public Works Department, run by Daryl Uptmore, regulates water, garbage, recycling, street and sewer services. Building development, 914 S. Main St., Suite G., is headed by Mike Morton, chief building official. Operations allow for businesses and residents to receive permits and regulate development and various
other activities such as garage sales. The Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau promotes the area’s business community and organizes and conducts numerous tourist and citywide events throughout the year. Polo Enriquez guides the Economic Development Corporation, which has an appointed council board of directors. The entity’s goal is to attract businesses to locate and stay in Copperas Cove. It has played significant roles in securing the Five Hills shopping center and is currently developing The Narrows, a business and technology park.
A BIT OF HISTORY
The history of Copperas Cove dates back to when the developing cattle industry cut through the region with the Chisholm Trail in the 1870s. A resident petition for a post office named the settlement “Cove” but added “Copperas” to reflect the mineral taste of the spring water. Marsden Ogletree became the first postmaster in 1879 and lends his name to Ogletree Gap Park.
Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015 |
Welcome to a ‘City Built for Family Living’ Dear friends and guests, We welcome all to our great community, a city progressing without limitations. Copperas Cove is unique in that our boundaries are located in three counties, Coryell, Bell and Lampasas. We are the largest city in Coryell County and have the benefit of being located west of Fort Hood, the largest military installation in the free world. We cherish our rich history and hope you enjoy learning of that history by visiting our historic sites, the Ogletree Gap Post Office and the Allen House. Being located next to Fort Hood and enjoying having military personnel and family members reside in our community provides us the opportunity to gain an improved understanding of military operations and value. Our city includes some of the most beautiful park space in Central Texas. We invite you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Ogletree Gap Park, City Park and the Hills of Cove Municipal Golf course. We are known for our excellent
Andrea M. Gardner City Manager Age: 45 Experience: Has served as city manager since September 2007 after taking on the position as interim city manager from July to September 2007. Prior to that, she was the assistant city manager and finance director. She worked for Pearland from April 2003 to December 2005 and Pasadena from January 2002 to April 2003. She has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Houston Clear Creek. She has a certified public manager certificate from Sam Houston State University. schools and high school football program that helped shape a recent Heisman Trophy winner and several NFL players. We are proud to have one of the lowest crime rates in the Central Texas region
and have gained a reputation for supporting and attracting military families to our community. As we continue into the future, our bedroom community is attracting considerable interest from retailers and developers with the recent completion of State Highway 9 and the Farm-to-Market 2657 road-widening project. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for the completion of the U.S. Highway 190 southeast bypass in late January. The new highways are expected to increase the number of major employers with the addition of available office space, restaurant sites and a technology park. Excitement continues to build in our community as opportunities to welcome and patronize the planned commercial development become evident. As city manager, I welcome you to our “City Built for Family Living” and invite you to discover what Copperas Cove has to offer. Sincerely, Andrea M. Gardner
| Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Copperas Cove a city ‘Where Progress Grows’ Dear friends and guests, We welcome all to our great community, a city “Where Progress Grows.” Copperas Cove is primarily in Coryell County with smaller portions of the city situated in Bell and Lampasas counties. We are the largest city in Coryell County and enjoy the many benefits that come from being located west of Fort Hood. Copperas Cove has a rich history, and as the “City Built for Family Living,” it offers several family activities throughout the year, such as the Polar Bear Swim in late January/early February, Kid Fish in March, Rabbit Fest in May, National Night Out in October and Safe Trick or Treat in October. We end the year with our holiday festivities — the city’s annual tree-lighting ceremony, the C.H.A.M.P.S. HOT Bowl, Krist Kindl Markt and the annual Christmas parade downtown. Just a few weeks ago, the city welcomed four teams to town as the
C.H.A.M.P.S. HOT Bowl program now includes two bowl games. Copperas Cove is very proud of our nation’s heroes, thus we embrace our service members and military families throughout the year and show our appreciation for their many sacrifices by honoring them in our Veterans Day parade. As the city continues to grow, it is receiving considerable attention from retailers and developers. The city appreciates the support we receive from our major employers like Wal-Mart, the Copperas Cove Independent School District, GC Services and H-E-B. We hope to expand our partnerships by adding new businesses to our great community. We also continue to seek new development with the addition of office space, restaurant sites and a technology park and look forward to growing our citizen base with new residential development planned for north Copperas Cove. As mayor, I welcome each of you to a city that is proud of its history and looks forward to the future. Sincerely, Mayor John Hull
Residents elect council members, mayor in November Herald staff reports
Copperas Cove is governed as a homerule city that looks to the Texas constitution and its city charter to decide how it operates and functions. Making the financial and governing decisions of the city is its at-large elected council consisting of seven council members and a mayor. Residents elect this governing body in November with only some seats up for election each year. The members can serve a maximum of two consecutive three-year terms. The council meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month at the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation office at 210 S. First St. It also has 5 p.m. workshops on those days to discuss city issues. Learn more about the city at www.copperascovetx.gov.
Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015 |
John Hull, Mayor
Age: 82 Length of time in position: Served from February 2009 to November 2012; Re-elected in November 2012 to serve another three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army photographer; former county commissioner and county judge. Lived in Copperas Cove: 74 years Email: jhull@copperascovetx.gov
Cheryl Meredith, Council Place 1 Age: 63 Length of time in position: Served from February 2009 to November 2012; Reelected in November 2012 to serve another three-year term. Occupation: Escrow officer for Land Exchange in Killeen. Lived in Copperas Cove: 30 years Email: cmeredith@copperascovetx.gov
Mark Peterson, Council Place 2 Age: 58 Length of time in position: December 2012 to November 2015.
Occupation: Retired Army sergeant major. Lived in Copperas Cove: 14 years Email: mpeterson@copperascovetx. gov
Gary Kent, Council Place 3 Age: 50 Length of time in position: June 2010 to November 2013; Reelected in November 2013 to serve another three-year term. Occupation: Nolanville police chief, retired army first sergeant. Lived in Copperas Cove: 17 years Email: gkent@copperascovetx.gov
Marty Smith, Council Place 4 Age: 69 Length of time in position: Elected in November 2013 to serve a three-year term. Occupation: Retired Chamber of Commerce president and business owner. Lived in Copperas Cove: 4 years; Coryell County for 14 years. Email: msmith@copperascovetx.gov
Kirby Lack, Council Place 5
Age: 63 Length of time in position: Elected September 2014 to fill a remaining position until November 2016. Occupation: Pastor at Trinity Worship Center. Lived in Copperas Cove: Native Covite Email: klack@copperascovetx.gov
George Duncan, Council Place 6 Age: 54 Length of time in position: Elected in November 2014 to serve three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army command sergeant major, business owner. Lived in Copperas Cove: 20 years Email: gduncan@copperascovetx.gov
Matthew Russell, Council Place 7 Age: 54 Length of time in position: Elected in November 2014 to serve three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army colonel, business owner. Lived in Copperas Cove: 20 years Email: mrussell@copperascovetx.gov
10 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
City offers water, sewer, trash collection, recycling services Herald staff reports
The city government in Copperas Cove provides multiple services to its residents, including solid waste collection, water and sewer. Residents can pay or sign up for these services by visiting the utility billing offices at 305 S. Main St.. Lobby hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for payments, transfers, disconnects and new activations. The drive-thru window is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for payments only. Go to www.copperascovetx.gov or call 254-5478718.
SOLID WASTE
The solid waste division collects residential trash, brush, bulky items and recyclables. Residential trash collection occurs once a week Monday through Thursday through an automated trash collection system. The service requires a one-time deposit of $40 per residence and a monthly fee of $16.25. The city provides residents with a 96-gallon container; however, a resident can opt for a smaller, 64-gallon bin. Residents can receive more bins for an
additional charge. The solid waste department is located at 2605 S. Farm-to-Market 116 and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; However, the scales close daily at 4:30 p.m. Go to www.copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-4242.
RECYCLING
Recyclable items are collected twice per month during residents’ regularly scheduled garbage collection days. Residents who participate receive either two 22-gallon containers or a 96-gallon container, if their residence is located within a single-stream district. The city is continuing to transition entirely to the single-stream recycling program. Go to www.copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-4242. The solid waste department is located at 2605 S. FM 116.
WATER AND SEWER
Copperas Cove residents are provided with safe, uninterrupted water through the water distribution department. Deposits for water services start at $50. The city’s sewer deposit also starts at $50.
Soldiers stationed at Fort Hood have the option to participate in the “No Deposit for Authorized BAQ” program that will waive the water deposit. The rate for water in the city is $3.69 for residents and $4.51 for commercial businesses for 1,000 gallons with a minimum rate of $11 per month, depending on a building’s water meter size. Sewer rates are $5.16 per 1,000 gallons used with a minimum rate of $11 per month for all customers. The water distribution department is at 914 Tank St. Go to www. copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-2416.
KEMPNER WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION The Kempner Water Supply Corporation serves about 5,000 customers in the Kempner area, in addition to piping water to the nearby city of Lampasas. The water supplier is at 11986 E. U.S. Highway 190 in Kempner and is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The membership fee is $200, refundable. The monthly base rate is $55. KWSC water costs $2.80 per thousand gallons; bulk water costs $3.35 per thousand gallons. Call 254-547-9430.
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Library offers books, films, online collections for residents Herald staff reports
From e-reader downloads to children’s story times, the Copperas Cove Public Library is available to residents for their information and entertainment needs. The library offers more than 68,000 items, including books, audiotapes and movies. It also offers access to e-book collections, 20 public access computers and a variety of programs for readers of all ages. The library is part of the Central Texas Library System and the inter-library loan program, to share books from across the state. It also is part of the Tex-Share Card program, which lets people use their library cards at various libraries statewide. Children’s story times start at 10 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Book clubs meet routinely and a monthly brown bag lunch program comes together to discuss various issues the third Thursday of the month. Services are free to Copperas Cove residents, but there is $10 per year cost for a family account for nonresidents. The library is located at 501 S. Main
Children press out pizza dough during the Summer Reading Program pizza party July 31 at the Copperas Cove Public Library.
St. and is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday and
Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Go to www. copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-3826.
12 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Police, fire departments serve and protect residents Herald staff reports
Police department
Copperas Cove Deputy Police Chief Eddie Wilson shakes hands with Nathan Tyler during graduation from the Copperas Cove Explorer program July 25 at Lea Ledger Auditorium in Copperas Cove.
The Copperas Cove Police Department is headed by Chief Tim Molnes. The department is organized into two major divisions led by the chief, as well as two deputy chiefs of police. The two divisions within the department are the Uniform Services Division and the Support Services Division. Uniform services consists of the uniform patrol, special operations, motorcycle traffic, school enforcement, police reserve and training and personnel sections. The support services division manages a number or areas including criminal investigation, evidence, communications, organized crime, community relations and administrative sections. The department also has an internal affairs sections. The department currently operates out of its headquarters at 302 E. Avenue E. For more info: http://www.copperascovetx.gov/pages/police_department/police_ department.htm
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How to contact
Copperas Cove Police Department 302 E. Avenue E 254-547-8222 Emergencies: 911 Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday Emergency: 24 hours Copperas Cove Fire Department Central Fire Station 415 S. Main St. 254-547-2514
Fire department The Copperas Cove Fire Department was originally founded in 1947 as a volunteer organization. Today, the department provides professional Fire and EMS services to Copperas Cove residents as well as the southwest portion of Bell County, which is south of Copperas Cove, and over 90 square miles of southern Coryell County. According to the department, the CCFD averages about 350 emergency responses each month. The Fire Department is led by Fire
Copperas Cove Fire Chief Michael Neujahr and Mayor John Hull attend the Oct. 29 groundbreaking of Fire Station No. 2 at 2401 Farm-to-Market 1113 in Copperas Cove.
Chief Michael Neujahr and he is supported by an administrative assistant, two deputy fire chiefs and 45 personnel in the emergency operations division. The city broke ground on new fire station at the intersection of Farm-to-Market
1113 and Grimes Crossing Road in October. The Copperas Cove Fire Department Station 1 is located at 415 S. Main St. Learn more about the Fire Department at http:// www.copperascovetx.gov/pages/fire_department/fire_department.htm
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BAKED PASTAS PIZZA CHEF’S SPECIALS CHICKEN
CHEESECAKE.
(STRAWBERRY, RASPBERRY, TRIPLE CHOCOLATE, PLAIN)
14 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Chamber supports local businesses, promotes tourism Herald staff reports
The Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce provides leadership and services for more than 350 members, according to the chamber’s website, www.copperascove. com. The members of the chamber are “some of the most capable business and professional people in our community — representing the diverse economy of the Cove area,” according to the website. The Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau is often referred to as “the front door” to the city as it uses its website and offices to market local events, chamber members and local shopping. Residents can find information what is happening in the city, including a member directory and a community calendar. “The chamber works hard to promote our community, the chamber business members, our school system and our great economic climate,” said Betty Price, chamber president. Also in charge of tourism, the chamber facilitates a large variety of annual events
Bikers race in the Fort Hood Challenge organized by the Copperas Cove Chamber of Commerce. The Fort Hood Challenge is a 33-mile, closed-course bicycle race that brings hundreds of cyclists to the area.
and activities, such as the Fort Hood Challenge bike race, Rabbit Fest and Krist Kindl Markt. Chamber membership extends well beyond the city limits to encompass Killeen, Harker Heights, Temple and Belton. Chamber mixers, which are networking platforms, are typically held on the fourth Thursday of the month at various locations.
Chamber Military Affairs Dinners are held on the third Thursday of the month to strengthen ties with Fort Hood. Educational workshops for business owners and their employees are held throughout the year. For more information, call 254-547-7571 or visit 204 Robertson Ave., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or go to www. copperascove.com.
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Boards focus on economic growth in Cove, Coryell County Herald staff reports
Copperas Cove has an entity fiercely focused on developing and maintaining the business climate in the city. Formed in August 1990, the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation’s purpose is to promote vitality in the community through economic development programs and services, said executive director Polo Enriquez. “We assist businesses with access to capital and removing barriers in their way to being successful,” he said. “We introduce them to new products and services to allow them to be more profitable.” The EDC helps businesses through a business retention specialist, Diane Drussell, who actively works with locallyowned businesses to help them remain vaible and grow. The EDC opened a small-business incubator in 2014.
DEVELOPMENT The EDC’s work is most visible in the development of the east side of town,
More stores are coming to the Shops of Five Hills, which includes H-E-B Plus!
where the new H-E-B Plus! opened along with other retail stores, service businesses and restaurants. Ross Dress for Less and five other retailers are listed as incoming stores to the second phase of construction of the Five Hills shopping center, which is anchored by the H-E-B Plus!. In addition to Ross, rue21, Burke’s Outlet, Bealls, Dots Fashion and Rack Room Shoes are listed
on the website of Endeavor Real Estate Group, which is developing the shopping center. In early 2012, the Coryell County Commissioners Court created a county Economic Development Board. The five-member board welcomes ex-officio members, who represent local entities such as chambers of commerce or city councils.
16 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Many events bring community together, draw tourists Herald staff reports
No one stays bored in the Copperas Cove area for long with so many events and festivals year-round. From festivals involving spurs and rabbits to an old-world German Christmas party, there is plenty of variety and fun for all ages to enjoy. Here’s a sampling:
February Kids Fish, Copperas Cove — Held at City Park in conjunction with Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Kids Fish event traditionally aims to catch trout. Both the city and TPW believe the event is an excellent opportunity for children to learn how to fish and enjoy the outdoors. The city provides space for the event and TPW stocks the pond so children ages 12 and younger have something to catch. Go to: www.copperascovetx.gov.
April Festival-goers walk the midway at the 2014 Rabbit Fest in Copperas Cove. The annual event is in May.
Bloomin’ Fest, Lampasas — Springtime gardening is the focus of Bloomin’ Fest. Attend the free demonstrations on how to grow flowers, fruits and vegetables in Central Texas. Kids can romp in a play area and live bands perform. Go to: lampasaschamber.org.
May Rabbit Fest, Copperas Cove — Rabbit Fest is a four-day arts and crafts festival that draws more than 100,000 people annually. The family-friendly festival offers a live rabbit display, a parade, carnival rides, food and craft vendors and live entertainment. Go to: rabbitfest.com.
September Spurfest, Gatesville — Known as the “Spur Capital of Texas,” Gatesville celebrates it’s world famous spurs with music, events, food and overall celebration. Go to: spurfest.com National Night Out, Copperas Cove — The city starts its National Night Out block parties with a large kickoff party in downtown Copperas Cove at the end of September or early October, followed by CONTINUED, PAGE 16
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visits to local block parties. Organized by the police department, the event features several carnival-style games, bounce houses, police demonstrations, and more. The party serves as a chance for residents to meet and gives officials an outlet to provide tips for preventing crime.
October Monster Dash — The Rotary Clubs of Copperas Cove, Harker Heights and Killeen joined together to raise funds for youth oriented, local projects. Participants can select the Monster Dash 5K walk/run, or 5K team competition or the 1/3 mile Little Monster Dash for children 10-years old and under. Go to: ci.harker-heights.tx.us. Ogletree Gap Folklife Festival, Copperas Cove — Held on the third weekend in October, the festival centers on pioneer life with horseshoeing, weaving and candle-making demonstrations. The highlight is a Civil War re-enactment. The festival also features a barbecue cook-off and folk dancers.
December
April Dudley, 8, of Joshua, looks around Dec. 7 while riding the flying swing at Krist Kindl Markt.
Krist Kindl Markt, Copperas Cove — The first weekend in December comes to life in downtown Copperas Cove with the charm of a German Christmas. A parade, food, arts and crafts and entertainment highlight the weekend festivities. Go to: copperascove.com/specialevents/krist-kindl-markt.
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20 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Hettie Halstead Elementary Principal Brian Jost takes a pie in the face Nov. 20 after students raised more than $2,300 for the United Way.
How to enroll in Cove ISD All new students in the Copperas Cove Independent School District can register in person before attending schools. The district holds registration times with each elementary, middle and high school campus in August. Parents of prekindergarten to eighth-graders are required to fill out a student registration form, which lists the student’s address and legal guardian, as well as other pertinent information. Other required forms include: student health information sheet, student profile form, ethnicity and race reporting guidance form, home language survey, student residency form, records request form and military/foster form. Additional required documents include: a student’s Social Security card, current immunization records — there are immunization requirements for all students — proof of residence within Copperas Cove ISD, such as a current utility bill or lease contract, an emergency contact and their information, a copy of student’s records from school most recently attended, if applicable, guardianship papers, if applicable, an official birth certificate and proof of eligibility for prekindergarten, if applicable. For information, call the Student Services Office at 254-547-1227 or visit www.ccisd.com.
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Students of S.C. Lee Junior High School gather for a school pep rally Sept. 23.
Copperas Cove ISD educates about 8,000 students Herald staff reports
Copperas Cove Independent School District serves about 8,000 students from Copperas Cove and portions of Coryell and Bell counties, including parts of Fort Hood. The district operates seven elementary schools, two junior high schools and two high schools, one being an alternative school of choice. To man those campuses, there are more than 1,300 teachers, administrators and
support personnel. The district graduated 485 students in 2014. Due to the district’s close proximity to Fort Hood, many students come from military families. The district is led by Superintendent Joseph Burns, who came to the district at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Burns has a doctorate in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. Cove ISD’s 11 campuses met the state standard for the 2013-2014 school year. Of
the 11 campuses, seven received distinctions in science, math and reading. The 2014 ratings are based on a revised system that uses indicators such as student achievement, student progress, closing student performance gaps and postsecondary readiness. The district is served by a seven-member board: Joan Manning, Mike Wilburn, Bob Weiss, Inez Faison, Jim Copeland, Karen Harrison and Doug Cook. For information, all 254-547-1227 or go to www.ccisd.com.
22 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
David Woodberry with Communities in Schools hugs a child Dec. 21 during a party at East Ward Elementary School in Killeen.
Communities in Schools helps students facing challenging times Communities in Schools of Greater Central Texas, a nonprofit educational outreach program, helps children faced with challenging situations at school and at home. The organization provides services to students in prekindergarten through 12th grade who are economically disadvantaged, at risk of academic failure as identified by the Texas Education Agency, are in a crisis situation or receiving free or reduced-price lunch. CIS of Greater Central Texas operates in four counties — Bell, Coryell, Milam and Williamson. Its staff members report to some campuses in the Killeen, Copperas Cove, Belton, Temple, Salado, Cameron and Florence independent school districts. CIS provides services including tutoring, grade monitoring and housing placement for homeless students, and is the only nonprofit organization housed on school property. The program helps students by seeking food, clothing and academic resources for them and receives funding from state legislation and various organizations and foundations. Call 254-554-2132 or go to www. cis-tx.org. Herald staff reports
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Central Texas College serves more than 50,000 worldwide Herald staff reports
Central Texas College is a public, twoyear community college, with its central campus off U.S. Highway 190 adjacent to Fort Hood, between Killeen and Copperas Cove. CTC opened its doors to about 1,800 students in 1967. Now, the college serves students in area communities and on military installations that include more than 50,000 students around the world, taking courses at one of CTC’s more than 150 locations. Each year, the college sees an average of around 25,000 students enrolled at the Central Texas campus and various sites in Texas, including Fort Hood and Gatesville. CTC’s students come from all walks of life, including military, civilian, local, national and even international. CTC has campuses in the continental United States, Iraq, Afghanistan, Japan, Okinawa, Korea and locations across Europe. Classes also are offered on ships at sea. CTC first began offering its popular online-only and distance education courses
Christian Nabarro grabs pepper and thyme for his sweet potato dish during a cooking contest Dec. 11 at Central Texas College in Killeen.
in 1997. CTC also developed offline access and multimedia courses for military personnel who cannot attend classes or do not have Internet access. The college offers a variety of associate degrees and certificates of completion in academic, professional and vocational/
technical fields, including high demand jobs such as nursing. The college partners with several universities, including Texas A&M University-Central Texas, that assist students in transferring credits and earning four-year and post-graduate degrees. The college offers classes for part- and full-time students during the day, evening or online. Noncredit and continuing education courses also are offered. CTC also reaches out to pre-college students by working with area high schools to offer dual- and concurrent credit early admission programs. The school’s chancellor is Thomas Klincar. Board members include: Don Armstrong of Killeen, whose term ends 2017, Bill Shine of Harker Heights, whose term ends 2015, Mari Meyer of Harker Heights, whose term ends 2019, Elwood Shemwell of Copperas Cove, whose term ends 2019, Jimmy Towers of Killeen, whose term ends 2019, retired Brig. Gen. Rex Weaver of Killeen, whose term ends 2017 and Scott Isdale of Belton, whose term ends 2015. Call 254-526-7161 or go to www.ctcd.edu.
24 | Copperas Cove Newcomers 2015
Coryell County home to many farmers, ranchers Herald staff reports
Coryell County, a Central Texas farming and ranching area on the Edwards Plateau, was created by the Texas Legislature in 1854. The county seat is Gatesville at the junction of U.S. Highway 84 and State Highway 36. The county’s largest city, Copperas Cove, is in the southern tip of the county on U.S. Highway 190. Habitation of the county dates back as far as 4500 B.C., with Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, Kiowa and Comanche migrating through at various times. Today, an estimated 76,000 people occupy the county’s 1,052 square miles. A branch of the Chisholm Trail passed through the county, and the area around Copperas Cove served as a camp ground for drovers of northbound herds of longhorn cattle. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps established two camps in the county, one at Mother Neff State Park and one at Gatesville. The establishment of Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) in the early 1940s took approximately 225 square miles of land in southern Coryell County, eliminating two dozen communities and nearly 1,200 farms, displacing 470 families. Coryell County is run by a five-member Commissioners’ Court made up of a county judge elected at-large and four commissioners elected from single-member districts or precincts. Other officials elected at-large include the county clerk, county sheriff, county tax assessor/collector and county treasurer. Constables and justices of the peace are elected from individual precincts.
The Coryell County Courthouse, built in 1898, still serves the county and district courts.
CORYELL COUNTY OFFICIALS County Judge: John Firth, 254-865-5911 ext 2222, county_judge@coryellcounty.org Commissioner Precinct 1: Jack Wall, 254248-2005, jw@coryellcounty.org Commissioner Precinct 2: Daren Moore, 254-223-1001, dmcoryellcounty@gmail.com Commissioner Precinct 3: Don Jones, 254-223-1210 Commissioner Precinct 4: Justin Latham, 254-216-9079, commissioner. jlatham@gmail.com County Clerk: Barbara Simpson, 254-865-
5911 ext 2235, county_clerk@coryellcounty. org County Attorney: Brandon Belt, 254-2483180, county_attorney@coryellcounty.org County Sheriff: Johnny Burks, 254-8657201, sheriffburks@sheriff.co.coryell.tx.us County Tax Assessor/Collector: Justin Carothers, 254-865-5911 ext 2263, tax_collector@coryellcounty.org County Treasurer: Donna Medford, 254-865-5911 ext 2225, county_treasurer@ coryellcounty.org Website: www.coryellcounty.org
Named after river, Lampasas County created in 1856 Herald staff reports
Lampasas County was formed in 1856 and named after the Lampasas River. The county has a total area of 714 square miles, of which 712 square miles are land and 2 square miles are covered by water. As of 2013, the county’s population was 20,222 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
The county seat is Lampasas and the governing body for the county is the commissioners’ court. The court, led by County Judge Wayne Boultinghouse and four commissioners, meets at 9 a.m. the second and fourth Monday of every month in the Lampasas County Courthouse courtroom, 501 E. Fourth St., Lampasas. In addition to the court’s responsibilities required by the state, other respon-
sibilities include setting the county’s annual tax rate, monitoring the expenditure of county funds, handling budget responsibilities for all county offices and issuing bonds for building purchases and repairs to county buildings. David Whitis is the county sheriff. County residents can register to vote with Lampasas County Elections Administrator Randall McGuire.
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Buckholtz Cotton Festival Queen Paige Cardon waves during the Spring Ho parade July 12 in Lampasas.
Lampasas offers small-town charm Herald staff reports
Historians can’t agree on the origin of the name “Lampasas,” but current officials seem to concur that the city of 6,854 has struck the perfect balance between small-town charm and convenience. “We’re close enough to the larger areas, like Killeen, Fort Hood and Austin, but (newcomers) like the rural atmosphere and friendliness of the people,” Mayor Jerry Grayson said. The city was founded in 1883, and today it is run by a council-manager style of government led by Grayson, Mayor Pro Tem Wanda Bierschwale, and council members TJ Monroe, Chuck Williamson, Misti Talbert, Christian Toups and Mike White, and City Manager Finley deGraffenried. Council members and the mayor are elected at-large for two-year terms. The council, which meets regularly at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of every month at City Hall, 312 E. Third St., is responsible for adopting budgets, determining policies, appointing the city manager and approving legislation. A major attraction is the city’s annual Spring Ho Festival, held the second weekend in July. Founded in 1972 by residents Gary Martin and Milton Boone, the festival commemorates the rejuvenating powers of Sulphur Springs. The city is home to about 7,000 people. Learn more about the city at www. lampasas.org.
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Lampasas ISD educates nearly 3,400 students Herald staff reports
The Lampasas Independent School District spans three counties and provides daily instruction to approximately 3,390 students. The district consists of five campuses, including Taylor Creek Elementary, Kline Whitis Elementary, Hanna Springs Elementary, Lampasas Middle School and Lampasas High School. Now in his sixth year, Superintendent Randall J. Hoyer leads the district along with seven school board trustees — Ryan Shahan, Kirk Whitehead, Dan Claussen, Randy Morris, Bill Brister, David Millican and Sam Walker. Hoyer said he believes Lampasas ISD is one of the premier school districts in
Gatesville quarterback Jeff Speer prepares to pass against Lampasas.
the area because it can offer a small-town atmosphere with big-city opportunities. “Because of our size, we’re big enough to offer pretty much and everything that a student/family may want,” he said. “And yet, with all of that, we’re still small enough that (teachers and administrators)
can put a name with a face and they know the kids. You’re not just a number.” Hoyer added that the district continues to make strides in its technological department. “We try to continually expand, ensuring that our students, when they leave Lampasas, are college and/or career ready regarding technology,” he said. Lampasas ISD’s Transportation Department provides service for about 1,500 students, covering more than 600 square miles in areas of Bend, Copperas Cove, Izoro, Kempner, Killeen, Lampasas and Lometa and other parts of Bell, Burnet and Coryell counties. Buses travel more than 500,000 miles each year. Learn more about the district at www. lampasas.k12.tx.us.
Gatesville ISD puts emphasis on using latest technology Herald staff reports
Gatesville Independent School District operates five campuses for nearly 3,000 students. The district strives to ensure all its children receive a quality education in a positive, successful environment with an emphasis on the latest technology. The district is building a new elementary school after voters overwhelmingly approved a $17.9 million bond issue in 2013. The measure to raise the tax rate by 5.9 cents to about $1.19 per $100 assessed property valuation passed with 77 percent of the vote. Gatesville teams played their first season in an improved McKamie Stadium last fall thanks to $1.5 million in renova-
tions to the 48-year-old stadium. The Gatesville Independent School District uses technology to serve parents, students and teachers at its schools, and to focus on achieving academic excellence for the upcoming year. Programs include a parent portal, which is an online database that allows parents to access their students’ grades, giving them a way to be more involved in their children’s academics. Training for the parent portal is available through the district’s website. Parents will be required to watch two short videos, then complete a worksheet. The worksheet can be turned in at the student’s school for a parent portal ID. The district’s campuses include a pri-
mary school, which houses early childhood development, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade. The district’s elementary school educates second and third grades, while the intermediate school serves fourth, fifth and sixth grades. The junior high school includes grades seven and eight, and the high school has ninth- through 12th-grade students. Serving as the school district board of trustees are Stephen A. Norris, board president; Mary Anne Leib, board vice president; Amy E. Hays; Lisbeth G. Appelman; Deborah C. Ford; Joe Nolte; and Gerald R. Poe. The district superintendent is Stewart Speer. Go to www.gatesvilleisd.org.
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A&M-Central Texas offers undergraduate, graduate courses Herald staff reports
Texas A&M University-Central Texas is an upper-level university located in Killeen, offering junior and senior-level undergraduate and graduate courses for students. With a diverse student population, the university serves community college graduates and transfer students, working adults, military students and their spouses, and even returning students who want to continue their education or attend classes for personal enrichment. The school once known as Tarleton State University-Central Texas has been offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Central Texas since 1999. According to the university’s website, A&M-Central Texas offers nearly 40 undergraduate programs and more than 15 graduate programs. In 2013, the university was officially awarded separate accreditation status from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university’s main campus is at the intersection of State Highways 195 and
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201, at 1001 Leadership Place in Killeen. The university currently operates out of its inaugural building, Founder’s Hall, a four-story, 103,000-square-foot multipurpose building that houses classrooms, a lecture hall, student services, enrollment services, administration, support services and a campus bookstore. A second building, Warrior Hall, opened its doors last fall. The $38 million, 125,500square-foot building moves several departments that were previously located at the old Fairway Middle School in downtown Killeen, thus centralizing the campus. In addition to a library, the building houses the university’s first science laboratories, conference facilities, classrooms, student affairs, counseling and the sociology and finance departments, as well as others. The U.S. Army transferred about 662 acres of land for the new campus to the Texas A&M University System on Sept. 4, 2009. The most recent numbers show an enrollment of about 2,500 students for the fall semester. Many students are soldiers, and the university offers programs to help them with tuition assistance, distance learning and eArmyU college courses. Go to www.tamuct.org.
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The Spur Capital of Texas, Gatesville is Coryell County seat Herald staff reports
Gatesville is home to about 16,000 people and is known as the Spur Capital of Texas. Gatesville is the county seat of Coryell County with a population of about 16,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Founded in 1854, it is the home of the Mitchell collection, said to be the state’s largest spur collection, giving the city its nickname. It also features one of the last remaining operational drive-in theaters in the state and several old buildings and structures are used today. The Coryell County Courthouse, built in 1898 from native limestone and Pecos sandstone, is still utilized by many offices, including the 52nd Judicial District Court. The Cotton Belt Depot, built in 1910, began to house the Gatesville Chamber of Commerce after railroad service ceased in the 1970s. Another historic structure on East Main Street, the First Baptist Church building, has been a part of the community since 1936 and in Gatesville for more than 150 years. The Old Leon River Bridge, also known as the 1904 Bridge, was a major route east to west in Central Texas. In 1917, the roadway became a part of State Highway 7 and was renamed U.S. Highway 84 in the 1930s. In 1994, the bridge was restored and rededicated. The Coryell Museum and Historical Center on East Main Street collects, documents, exhibits and interprets cultural materials related to the county. Gatesville also houses six state prisons operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The prisoners account for about 8,510 of the city’s population, according to the TDCJ. The city government is run by a mayor,
Dressed in pink, 5-month-old Fynlee Brown draws a crowd of admirers Sept. 13 as she waits to compete in the Baby Miss category of the first Miss Coryell County Spurfest Pageant in Gatesville. She is the daughter of Tanner and Kyla Brown of Gatesville.
six council members, City Manager Roger Mumby and Assistant Manager Luis Lobo. The mayor is Gary Chumley, and the
council members are Sandra ShepherdCain, Ollie Inmon, Barbara Burrow, Timothy Woodlock, Jack Doyle and Ronnie Viss.
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Kempner blends rural living with family values Herald staff reports
Known as the gateway to Lampasas County, Kempner’s motto is “a community of rural living and traditional family values.” Kempner is located just 12 miles from Lampasas and five miles from Copperas Cove. The city of 1,117 was founded in 1882 and named after Harris Kempner, a Texas philanthropist, banker and railroad magnate. The U.S. Census Bureau lists Kempner as spanning a total of 2.2 square miles,
The city of 1,117 was founded in 1882. and families are served by the Lampasas Independent School District. The city operates under a mayor-council form of government led by Mayor Paul Cook. Council members are Bob Crane, Robert McKinnon, Clifton Morse, Robert Stafford and Melba Vandeveer. City Hall is at 12288 U.S. Highway 190 and is open from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The building contains all the city offices, municipal court, council chambers and the police department. The City Council meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.