Abilene, TEXAS – On Sunday, November 7, at 2 p.m., the Children’s Performing Arts Series is pleased to present a live musical production of “Cinderella,” which will come to life on the stage of the historic Paramount Theatre in downtown Abilene in a delightful production from American Family Theater.
This exciting full scale musical production will burst with excitement, fantasy, and song. Audience members will enjoy following Cinderella and her new friend Mortimer Mouse as they sing and dance their way from the house of Cinderella’s stepmother to the ballroom of Prince Charming’s castle. All of the beloved characters come to life with zest as audiences share in the joy of this AFT Broadway for Kids production. American Family Theater’s award winning production of “Cinderella” has thrilled audiences of all ages nationwide with spectacle, song, and special effects.
Leslie Bennett of the N. Y. Times says this about American Family Theater productions:
“Their shows burst with energy, song, and special effects. Again and again, American Family Theater proves how strong it is in creating original contemporary theater. Their engaging productions wonderfully command the attention of young audiences and their sprit is contagious.”
 “Cinderella” is the second of three productions that are a part of the Children’s Performing Arts Series 2010-11 season. The final show in the season is a professional musical production of “Pippi Longstocking,” scheduled for April 12, 2011. All shows will be performed at the Paramount Theatre.
The Children’s Performing Arts Series is a division of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, a non profit organization. The Children’s Performing Arts Series brings live professional theater productions to Abilene for the benefit and enjoyment of the area’s youngest audiences and their families. Ticket prices are made affordable though the generous underwriting of individuals and businesses in the community.
Prorated season tickets for the final two season shows are available for $15, $17 or $22. Military and group discounts are available, as well. The $22 level VIP season tickets will offer entry to unique after parties following the Cinderella and Pippi Longstocking shows. At the after parties, children and their families can meet the casts of the shows and enjoy refreshments and craft activities.
Tickets to the individual shows are $8.00 each.
Tickets may be purchased online at abilenecac.org/cparts until noon on the Friday before the Sunday performance. Tickets can also be purchased over the phone by calling 677-1161 or purchased in person by visiting the CPAS office in the T&P Depot at 1101 North 1st Street, Monday – Friday between 8:30 – 12 p.m.
 On the day of the show, tickets will be available at the Paramount Theatre box office beginning at 12:30 p.m. Tickets purchased online or over the phone the week prior to the show will be available at the Paramount Theatre “Will Call” table on the day of the show. 

Taylor County residents: sign up to receive severe weather warnings through CodeRED®

ABILENE, TX – All Taylor County residents, including those who live in Abilene, can now sign up for a free service to receive warnings about dangerous weather conditions on their phone through CodeRED® thanks to a recent decision by the Abilene/Taylor County 9-1-1 District to purchase the service. Citizens must sign up (opt-in) for the weather warning, even if they are already registered in the CodeRED® system, by logging on to the City website, www.abilenetx.com, or the Taylor County website, www.taylorcountytexas.org and clicking on the CodeRED® logo. CodeRED® is the emergency notification calling system for Taylor County.

“Previously, City and County officials would have to be informed of the rapidly approaching weather situation such as a flash flood, determine who might be affected, record a call and send it out through CodeRED®,” explained City of Abilene Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Bryan. “Now, with the Weather Warning system, calls are automatically delivered by CodeRED® within seconds after warnings are issued by the National Weather Service for tornadoes, flash floods or severe thunderstorms. What’s important to note about this system is that only those residents, who are within the projected path of the dangerous weather and are registered for this free service, would be called.”

When you fill out the online form, you must check the box indicated for Weather Warnings and choose what notifications you want to receive. You may register up to two telephone numbers for your address. For residents without a computer, Internet access is available at all three City library locations. For seniors who cannot register online, Weather Warning Signup Assistance will be offered on the following dates and locations:

                                   Time/Date                                                                   Location                                                                     Address

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5                      Rose Park Senior Activity Center                               S. 7^th and Barrow St.

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 19                    Rose Park Senior Activity Center                               S. 7^th and Barrow St.

Since the City’s CodeRED® system became operational on April 1, 2007, it has been used to notify affected residents of flooding, grass fires in southern Taylor County, and police action. The Abilene/Taylor County 9-1-1 District contracts with Emergency Communications Network, Inc., of Ormond Beach, Florida, for the service. The annual contract costs $54,350 and is paid for through the Abilene/Taylor County 9-1-1 District.

This news release is posted online at www.abilenetx.com.

Philharmonic Fills Homes with Music

Come and tour an extensive collection of Abilene’s most picturesque homes on Saturday, November 13^th from 11am to 5pm as the Abilene Philharmonic presents its annual Holiday Home Tour. Home enthusiasts are invited to stroll through 6 homes in the Sayles, Amarillo and Elmwood areas brimming with holiday décor. All guests of the Holiday Home Tour receive an extra-special treat from local area musicians with live music performances throughout the homes, as well as Philharmonic performances from past Christmas concerts.                    

Guests will be self-guided with a map brochure that comes with every ticket purchase. Tickets for the Home Tour are $20 and participants can purchase them from the following locations: the Philharmonic Office, Village Boutique, Michael Joseph Hair Salon, Hair to Dye For, Gary’s Floral Gallery, Vletas Candies, Jordan Taylor & Co., Benjamin Moore, Avanti Salon, Abilene Urology, and Hickory Street Cafe. Tickets are available online at www.AbilenePhilharmonic.org. You can also purchase tickets at each home on the tour during the event.

The Board and Staff are always looking for ways to bring the Philharmonic off the stage and into the home. “This is an event we so enjoy outside of our concerts. It provides the community an inside glimpse into some very well known homes.  Christmas music adds a special touch to the festive décor and to top it off, we are thrilled to present live music from local talented groups,” stated Executive Director Leanne Baldwin.  All proceeds from this fundraiser benefit the Abilene Philharmonic Association. The tour begins and ends at any of the featured homes on the map. More detailed information about the Holiday Home Tour can be found at www.AbilenePhilharmonic.org.

Featured homes on Philharmonic Tour:

{{Photos of all homes are attached for your convenience.}}

Talmadge & Sara Trammell

758 Sayles Dr.

Built in 1910 by Henry Sayles, the Trammell Home is a prominent landmark in the Sayles Boulevard Historic District.  Nestled behind the trees of South Seventh and Sayles Boulevard, the house is a prime example of Greek revival architecture.  Throughout the years, the property has been changed multiple times, but all the owners have been sensitive to maintain the original architecture and infrastructure.  The home is 7,390 square feet and sits on 3.2 acres.  The exterior of the home contains classic white Greek columns, a beautifully manicured backyard, and a luxurious pool area.  The front entryway of this masterpiece contains details such as side-lights and transoms, and opens into a welcoming hallway.  Off the hall, a cozy library with custom bookshelves and an elegant living room provide a relaxing retreat.  The formal dining room contains exquisite Zubair handpainted wallpaper and antique table and chairs.  The original wooden staircase leads to a second floor which houses four spacious bedrooms, a large walk-in closet, and a children’s playroom.  Over the years, each owner has added personal touches to make the home a delightful landmark in the community.

Harrop & Lisa Miller

860 Amarillo St.

In 1928, construction was completed on this charming 2-story traditionally inspired home.  The interior of the home is accented with personal touches of family heirlooms and historical keepsakes.  On the main floor, a separate living room and den overlook a beautifully manicured, privately fenced in pool area.  It is believed that previous homeowners were the first to install a gunite pool in Abilene.  Several treasures can be found all around the nooks and crannies of this home.  A magnificent wall clock in the living room originally belonged to Harrop’s paternal grandparents, Cale and Maggie Miller.  It dates back to 1880 and coordinates well with the oil portrait by Amsterdam born artist and Harrop’s great-grandfather, Dr. Johan Flintermann.  Other historical antiques include custom designed paperweights, which contain mounted bullets and musket balls from Gettysburg where Harrop’s great-grandfather, Edgar Oren Durfee proudly served during the Civil War.  On the second floor, a spool bed in the quaint guest bedroom originally belonged to Harrop’s great-grandfather and namesake, Harrop Freeman.  His name is painted inside on the sideboards.  In 2009, a full kitchen remodel was completed to include new cabinetry, appliances, and a private breakfast nook. 

John & Martha Ferguson

1326 Albany St. #1

In 1977, construction was complete on this 2-story modern townhome which was considered ahead of its time when built.  The architect was Jack E. Meek of San Angelo, Texas and the builder was Rufus Sivley of Sivley and Sons, Abilene, TX.  At the entrance of the home are two bronze doors that were custom designed and installed by Durango Doors of Dallas.  The interior of this comfortably furnished 2-bedroom and 2-bathroom home was designed and decorated for the Ferguson’s by David Waldrop of David Waldrop Interiors, Abilene, TX.  Fine pieces of antique furniture, custom-made rugs, old Oriental rugs, pre-Columbian weavings, large bronze sculptures and original artwork accentuate this architectural jewel.  The floor plan of the home includes a private atrium that was designed and landscaped by Tom Morgan of Masterscapes, Abilene, TX.  Exotic plants, flowers, and trees make the atrium a cozy retreat all year-round. 

Jess & Patti Holloway

1326 Albany St. #2

Built in 1977 by architect Jack E. Meek, this 2-story modern townhome was considered ahead of its time when built.  A secluded front patio opens into a spacious living room complete with African wood floors, original artwork, and a baby grand piano.  Off the main living room, a formal dining room makes a perfect location for a party.  A custom built chandelier adorned with pink, clear, emerald green, and purple crystals is the design focal point of the room.  Immediately off the living room, a covered private atrium is full of luscious exotic plants and a small pond to make visitors feel like they are in the middle of a safari getaway.  At one end of the atrium is a comfortable lounging area and the other side serves as a private home office.  A charming downstairs bedroom and vintage bathroom is perfectly placed off the atrium.  Another bedroom and bathroom is located on the second floor of this architectural gem.  Additional design features include a private elevator and original spiral staircase. 

Jim & Paula Tallant

865 Amarillo Street

Built in 1928, this two-bedroom and one-bathroom bungalow has been remodeled into a charming oasis.  Purchased in 2001, by Jim and Paula Tallant, the interior is comfortably decorated and has been restored to reflect the era of the home.  A large covered front porch provides a cozy entrance to a spacious living room and separate formal dining room.  Original historic features that have been preserved include the hardwood floors, crown molding and baseboards, and the fireplace in the den.  Major renovations include an entire kitchen remodel, except for the vintage stove, and a gutted and remodeled master bathroom.  Nestled in the back of the home is a large den complete with a rustic rock and limestone fireplace and built-in book shelves.  A large glass door opens onto a deck, fenced yard, and separate garage.  For decades, the home was owned and occupied by W. D. “Dub” Wofford.  During the remodeling process, the Tallants discovered a photograph of a young W. D. “Dub Wofford which is now proudly displayed in the home paying homage to the past and present.

Jeff & Susan Braaten

1314 Elmwood Dr.

Construction began on this 4 bedroom and 5 bathroom Country French home in the late 1940’s by the Caldwell Family of Abilene, TX. A traditionally decorated interior includes original brick and hardwood flooring, intricate crown molding, and fireplaces. The entryway contains floor to ceiling mirrored panels and opens up to an elegant living room.  Prominent features in the room include an 1851 piano that was debuted at the 1851 World’s Fair, an antique wood chest, and vintage fireplace screen originally owned by Susan’s maternal grandmother.  Deep ruby red walls and French inspired furniture immediately shifts the focus to the formal dining room.  A handsome crystal chandelier beautifully anchors this room and helps make the room a perfect location for entertaining.  The heart of the home is the informal family room, which overlooks the spacious backyard.  Special outdoor features include a cozy brick fireplace, large pool, and private guest house.

 
‘Tis the season for the Community Christmas Tree Lighting                     

ABILENE, Texas – The City of Abilene is pleased to announce that the annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010 at the Abilene Civic Center, 1100 North 6^th Street. Mayor Norm Archibald will light the tree. The public is invited to attend this community-wide celebration to usher in the holiday season.

Along with the tree lighting, Cooper High School’s Red Rhythm & Blues will perform as well as the Abilene High School and Cooper High School combined orchestras. Afterwards, refreshments will be served and Beamer’s Gymnastics Group will put on a demonstration in the Exhibit Hall.   

This event is sponsored by the City of Abilene, Civic Abilene, Inc. and the Abilene Independent School District.

The tree lighting caps off the 22^nd annual City Sidewalks which gets underway earlier in the evening with entertainment by AISD students from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Merchants, museums and galleries open their doors for an evening of holiday cheer during this Abilene Downtown Association-sponsored event. Other activities include KTXS-TV Christmas Lights Parade, entertainment, food, Reindeer Game and lots of family fun. The Reindeer Game runs from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and the parade takes center stage at 6:30 p.m.

For additional details about City Sidewalks and the Community Tree Lighting, contact the following:

1. KTXS-TV (Parade): (325) 677-2281

2. Wilma Butman (City Sidewalks): (325) 676-2556

3. Abilene Civic Center (Tree Lighting): (325) 676-6211

This news release is posted online at www.abilenetx.com.

Evening City Council Workshop scheduled for November

ABILENE, Texas –The City Council will hold a workshop concerning City of Abilene programs at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010, in City Council Chambers at Abilene City Hall, 555 Walnut Street. The workshop, which is likely the first of more workshops to come, concerns the viability of a variety of City programs. Citizens will have an opportunity to address the City Council during the workshop. No dates have been scheduled yet for additional workshops on this topic.

The November workshop is the result of a recommendation by Councilman Joe Spano, Place 2, in which he suggested that the City Council discuss City programs and whether there is an opportunity for cost savings by reevaluating the services that are currently provided to citizens. During a Feb. 25, 2010 City Council meeting, City Manager Larry Gilley provided examples of possible program reductions if sales tax revenue continued to decline. The examples included discontinuing the Maxwell Municipal Golf Course subsidy, closing the South Branch Library, discontinuing senior citizen van transport, closing pools, closing one recreation center, eliminating the mosquito spraying program, eliminating weed/nuisance abatement, eliminating wild animal trapping program, eliminating YMCA juvenile justice program and eliminating graffiti eradication program. This month’s workshop may include discussion about these and other City programs.

The Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Budget, which was approved by the City Council in September, does not include any program reductions. The new fiscal year began Oct. 1, 2010.

The City Council Workshop will air live on TV Channel 7, the City’s education/government channel. TV Channel 7 is available on Suddenlink Cable Channel 7 and broadcast Channel 7 KXN TV. This news release is posted online at www.abilenetx.com.

City Council may wait for state action regarding

synthetic marijuana ban

ABILENE, Texas – During this morning’s meeting, the City Council heard a presentation from an Abilene citizen regarding reasons to consider a city-wide ban of K2 and similar synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the effects of marijuana which is an illegal substance. Cynthia Chambers’ presentation was for informational purposes only. Due to the potential difficulty of enforcing a ban locally, the City Council may wait for the Texas Legislature to take on the issue when it meets in January.

Following the citizen’s presentation, Police Chief Stan Standridge addressed the City Council in which he stated that products like K2, which is marketed as incense and not for human consumption, is available for sale in the Abilene area. However, Chief Standridge pointed out that the Texas Department of Public Safety does not test for this product since it’s not considered an illegal substance in the state which, in effect, could make it difficult to enforce a city-wide ban as well as to prosecute offenses. Also, he noted that any ordinance banning marijuana homologs or marijuana synthetics would have to be broad in nature since the synthetic compounds could be altered slightly to be considered a different substance with similar effects.

Chief Standridge added that according to the Texas Poison Center, there were 71 marijuana homolog exposures from Jan. 1, 2010 to June 8, 2010 in Texas. Of these 71 exposures, there was only one in Taylor County.

Mayor Norm Archibald urged citizens to contact state legislators if a state-wide ban of synthetic marijuana is an issue of concern.

This news release is posted online at www.abilenetx.com.

Keep Abilene Beautiful: make a difference with Myrtle and her girls  

ABILENE, Texas – Keep Abilene Beautiful (KAB) will host a dwarf crape myrtle sale on Saturday, Oct. 23 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 P.M. at Sprinkler & Scapes, 1425 Marshall Street. The sale is part of KAB’s Make a Difference in One Day beautification event. Approximately 250 three gallon dwarf crape myrtles with red, pink or white flowers will be available for purchase. The proceeds will benefit KAB and its mission of beautifying Abilene.

“Planting a tree or a shrub like a dwarf crape myrtle is one way residents can make a difference in our community,” explained Keep Abilene Beautiful Coordinator Alexis Rolfe. “The Make a Difference day is about taking action to help beautify where we live, work and play.” 

The owners of Sprinkler & Scapes, Vic and Melissa Valentine, will be available to answer questions concerning the planting and care of the crape myrtles. Mulch will also be available for purchase on the day of the crape myrtle sale. Individuals or groups can also purchase the trees to be placed in areas for beautification around Abilene.

KAB offers these suggestions for Make a Difference in One Day:

·         Plant a tree

·         Pick up trash on highways

·         Mow a neighbor’s yard

·         Wipe out graffiti

·         Trim trees for the elderly

·         Clean a park

·         Unite a community

·         Paint a house

·         Teach a child by taking them with you

For more information, contact KAB at (325) 734 - 3301 or go online to www.keepabilenebeautiful.org. This news release is posted online at www.abilenetx.com.

Ready.Set.LAUNCH!!

(Chamber of Commerce, Abilene, Texas) . . . The Abilene Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is pleased to announce the official launch of the updated, upgraded and innovative abilenechamber.com website.  This site is the Big Country's Business "ONE STOP" online source to locate information and resources for business partners, products, services and events. with ease!

The site features updated graphics, pictures and video clips of Chamber events and has an added element that offers the ability to join the Chamber and pay online. 

Now "OPEN FOR BUSINESS", abilenechamber.com offers Chamber members another "Advantage" with the feature of website spot advertising.  The Abilene Chamber of Commerce theme for this year is "Progress through Partnership" and with the launch of this cutting edge site, the Chamber is proving its commitment to moving forward in technology in continued support of strong and lasting partnerships.  abilenechamber.com is yet another tool to promote our community with the shared vision to work together for the improvement of Abilene's business environment and quality of life.

Continuing with "Progress through Partnership" we have joined Social Media networks as well! The Abilene Chamber of Commerce is now on Facebook - Facebook.com/abilenechamber, Twitter - Twitter.com/Abilene_chamber, and Blogger - Abilenechamber.blogspot.com. Visit us on one of these social media networks to follow the GOOD NEWS and updates of our great community!!

Class Features 2009 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist

On October 29^th, the Abilene Philharmonic in conjunction with the Abilene Christian University’s Music Department presents a master class highlighting international pianist Haochen Zhang. The event is located on the campus of ACU in the Williams Performing Arts Center recital hall. Showcasing local talent of Abilene, students are given the chance to perform for this highly acclaimed pianist. The master class begins at 3:00pm, concludes by 4:30pm, and is free to the public. Participants include Abilene Christian University students Mara Jones, Nathan Hamilton, Jing Yuan Jiang, Parker Gordon, and Briana Isaac from Hardin-Simmons University.

A sensitive musician and insightful programmer, Mr. Zhang is in demand worldwide for orchestral and recital engagements. He launched his first year as a Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Gold Medalist with appearances at prestigious venues, including the Aspen Summer Music Festival and Academy, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and as part of Carnegie Hall’s “Ancient Paths, Modern Voices:  A Festival Celebrating Chinese Culture.” He also made a triumphant return to his native China as soloist at the Beijing Music Festival in the winter of 2009. Born in Shanghai, China, Haochen Zhang now lives in Philadelphia.

“The faculty and students are thrilled about Haochen Zhang visiting ACU. The community is fortunate that the Abilene Philharmonic provides these wonderful educational experiences. Instruction from this internationally recognized pianist will benefit everyone in the class,” as stated by Pauline Bjorem, Piano Division Chair and Assistant Professor of Piano.

Season tickets are on sale now and first time buyers receive 50% off. All tickets for Abilene Philharmonic 2010-2011 season can be purchased by calling (325) 677-6710 or (800) 460-0610 or visit the Philharmonic office located at 402 Cypress Street. Purchase tickets online at www.AbilenePhilharmonic.org.  The concert sponsors for the evening are Pete & Karen Renick with artist support provided in part by Abilene Christian University.  Super sponsors are American Eagle Airlines, GAP Broadcasting, and KTXS.

In its 60^th year, the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra is one of Abilene’s oldest performing arts organizations. Led by Music Director and Conductor David Itkin, the Philharmonic is the only professional orchestra within 80 miles of Abilene and draws audiences from more than 50 Texas cities. The Philharmonic provides opportunities for the public to enjoy excellence in symphonic performance by offering musical diversity and innovative educational programs in order to enrich the quality of life in our community. Information concerning the Abilene Philharmonic’s 2010 program and donor opportunities may be found by visiting www.abilenephilharmonic.org.

United Way of Abilene, City of Abilene celebrate community involvement

ABILENE, Texas -- Mayor Norm Archibald will proclaim October 24 to October 30 United Way of

Abilene Week during the Abilene City Council meeting tomorrow at approximately 8:30 a.m. The

proclamation will recognize United Way efforts to bring people and resources together to improve

lives for individuals, families and neighborhoods in West Central Texas. It will also celebrate City of

Abilene employees for their volunteer participation and financial investments in United Way. Media

representatives interested in interviewing United Way President and CEO Dixie Bassett are

encouraged to request an interview after the proclamation and presentation portion of the agenda.

City Council is held in the council chambers on the second floor of City Hall at 555 Walnut Street.

Please call Lauren Kimball at (325) 677-1841 to discuss other story opportunities featuring United

Way volunteers, program providers and community impact. Additional information about United