2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
COPPERASCOVEHERALD.COM
INSIDE THIS ISSUE City manager’s welcome
6
Cove’s elected officials
8
Mayor’s welcome
10
Cove utilities
11
Cove library
12
Cove ordinances
12
Cove recreation
14
Police and fire
16
Animal shelters
17
Cove permits
17
Post office
17
Armed Services YMCA
18
Boys & Girls Club
19
Boy Scouts
19
Cove chamber
20
Festivals and events
21
Copperas Cove ISD
22
Central Texas College
24
Texas A&M-Central Texas
25
Coryell County overview
26
Lampasas overview
27
Kempner overview
28
Driver’s license/vehicle tags
28
Mass transit
29
Medical services
30
Cove food pantries
30
CONTACT US
DAVID A. BRYANT COVE HERALD EDITOR dbryant@kdhnews.com | 254-501-7554
DAVE MILLER DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR dmiller@kdhnews.com | 254-501-7543
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www.copperascoveherald.com A KDH Media Group publication. All rights reserved | Copyright 2016 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
COPPERASCOVEHERALD.COM
Welcome to Copperas Cove, ‘the city built for family living’ Dear friends and guests, Welcome to the City of Copperas Cove, the “City Built for Family Living,” which was established in 1879. Years of planning for the future of our great community have provided our citizens and guests with new options for commuting in and around Copperas Cove. We are uniquely situated in three counties — Coryell, Bell and Lampasas — and two Texas Department of Transportation Districts, Waco and Brownwood. Copperas Cove is the largest city in Coryell County and has the benefit of being located just west of Fort Hood, the largest military installation in the free world. We invite you to learn about the city’s rich history by visiting such sites as the Ogletree Gap Post Office and the Allin House. The city is proud to have one of the lowest crime rates in the Central Texas region and honored to have Fort Hood as a neighbor. We have gained a reputation for supporting and attracting military families to our community and love to display our military pride. The community shows appreciation for our service members and their families throughout the year by hosting military affairs dinners as well as Memorial Day and Veterans Day parades. Copperas Cove hosts a lot of great events for the entire family throughout the year, such as the Polar Bear Swim, Fishin’ in the Park, Easter Egg Roundup, Rabbit Fest, Safe Trick or Treat, Christmas Tree Lighting, Krist Kindl Markt and several holiday parades. We also have some of the most 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
beautiful park space in the Central Texas region and invite you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Ogletree Gap, the City Park and the Hills of Cove Golf Course. Our city is also known for excellent schools that serve the educational needs of more than 8,000 students. Copperas Cove Independent School District is committed to providing safe, quality schools that ensure the highest level of student preparation necessary for success in a competitive, rapidly changing world. The district is also well known for its high school football program that helped shape a Heisman Trophy winner, NFL Man of the Year recipient and several NFL players.
Copperas Cove is a growing community that seeks to attract new retailers and developers. With the recent completion of two major highway projects and the amount of available land, the city anticipates an increase to the number of major employers. Excitement continues to build in our community as new commercial development becomes a reality. As city manager, I welcome you to our “City Built for Family Living� and invite you to discover what Copperas Cove has to offer you. Sincerely, Andrea Gardner City Manager COPPERASCOVEHERALD.COM
Mayor, seven-member council help govern Copperas Cove Copperas Cove is governed as a home-rule city that looks to the Texas constitution and its city charter to determine how it operates and functions. Making the financial and governing decisions of the city is its at-large elected city council, with 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 governing body 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.ci.copperas-cove.tx.us. Members of the Copperas Cove City Council go over notes before voting on agenda items at their meetings.
2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
Frank Seffrood, Mayor Age: 76 Length of time in position: Elected in November 2015 for a three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army missile engineer; retired postal worker. Lived in Copperas Cove: 40 years Email: fseffrood@copperascovetx.gov
James Pierce Jr., Council Place 2 Age: 47 Length of time in position: Elected November 2015 for a three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army sergeant first class and business owner. Lived in Copperas Cove: 8 years Email: jpierce@copperascovetx.gov
David Morris, Council Place 1 Dan Yancey, Council Place 3 Age: 35 Age: 62 Length of time in position: Length of time in position: Elected December 2015 for a Elected in November 2015 to three-year term. fill last year of a three-year term to November 2016. Occupation: Publisher of the Copperas Cove Leader-Press Occupation: Senior vice newspaper. president at First National Bank Texas and former chairman of the Lived in Copperas Cove: One week shy of Economic Development Corporation being a native Covite. board of directors. Email: dmorris@copperascovetx.gov Lived in Copperas Cove: 31 years Email: dyancey@copperascovetx.gov
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES Marty Smith, Council Place 4 Age: 70 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: 5 years; Coryell County for 15 years. Email: msmith@copperascovetx.gov Kirby Lack, Council Place 5 Age: 64 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: 55 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: 21 years Email: gduncan@copperascovetx.gov Matthew Russell, Council Place 7 Age: 55 Length of time in position: Elected in November 2014 to serve three-year term. Occupation: Retired Army colonel, business owner. Lived in Copperas Cove: 21 years Email: mrussell@copperascovetx.gov
U.S. CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 25: The area is represented by Republican Roger Williams of Austin. He was elected to the seat in November 2012. Call 512-4738910 or fax 512-473-8946. TEXAS SENATE DISTRICT 24: Troy Fraser represents a multicounty region that includes Bell and Lampasas counties. After serving since 1996, he announced last year his intention to not seek re-election in 2016. Call his office at 512-463-0124. TEXAS SENATE DISTRICT 22: Republican Brian Birdwell, of Granbury, was sworn in to the Senate in 2010 after winning a special election. District 22 covers 10 counties, including Coryell County. Call his office at 512-463-0122. TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 54: Republican Jimmie Don Aycock, of Killeen, has represented parts of Bell and Lampasas counties since 2006. Aycock announced that he would not seek a sixth term in 2016. Call his office at 512-463-0684. TEXAS HOUSE DISTRICT 59: Republican J.D. Sheffield of Gatesville has represented District 59 since 2012. The district includes six counties, including Coryell County and parts of Fort Hood. Call his office at 512-463-0628.
COPPERASCOVEHERALD.COM
Residents, city staff help make Cove a great place to live Dear friends and guests, City staff and I join the members of our community in welcoming you to Copperas Cove, the “City Built for Family Living.” We are situated in the cradle of five hills, and nature is, and has been, kind to us in the comfort of those hills by diverting severe weather. We are primarily in Coryell County, but, with recent growth, have a portion of our great city in Lampasas County to the west. To the east, we are bordered by Fort Hood; a U.S. Army post responsible for the majority of the attraction to this part of Central Texas. The post is the major employer in this area and most of our citizens rely on it in some manner, whether as a direct employee on Fort Hood, involved in an enterprise supporting the military personnel or providing a service necessary for our high quality of life. We attract a large number
10 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
of retired military personnel because of the support facilities for the needs of retirees in a convenient proximity. We have a myriad of activities geared to age, interest and desire. Annually, we have Fishin’ in the Park, bicycle rallies, 5k runs, Rabbit Fest, golf tournaments, Polar Bear Swim, parades for Veterans Day, Rabbit Fest, Christmas and other occasions. We celebrate National Night Out, have an annual Tree Lighting, Krist Kindl Markt, two C.H.A.M.P.S. Bowl football games and many business-
sponsored events. We have the whole population of Copperas Cove to thank for the continued growth and great quality of life we enjoy. This is possible through the outstanding efforts and professionalism of the backbone agencies serving our city. Thank you, city staff, firefighters and EMTs, police department, city services, Copperas Cove Independent School District and all who in any way make our city truly the city for family living. As mayor of this great city, I am proud to announce our accolades to all and extend a hearty welcome to one and all to visit, stay and join a city with earned pride. We are growing — we are planning our growth and invite you to be part of our progress in action. Sincerely, Frank Seffrood Mayor
City provides trash, recycling and water services to residents 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 254-547-8718.
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 $16.75. The city provides residents with a 96-gallon container; however, a resident can opt for a smaller, 64-gallon bin. Residents can receive additional containers for an additional charge. The solid waste department is at 2605 S. Farm-to-Market 116 and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, the scale closes 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 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. The rate for water in the city is $4.05 for residents and $4.96 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 $5.67 per 1,000 gallons used with a minimum rate of $11 per month. The water department is at 914 Tank St. Go to www.copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-2416.
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Thousands of items, community programs available at library 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, e-readers and movies. It also offers access to e-book collections, 20 public access computers, a 3-D printer and a variety of programs for readers of all ages. The library is part of the Central Texas Library System and the interlibrary 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 the library also offers classes on medieval technology and a monthly game day for Dungeons and Dragons, Warhammer 40k and more. Services are free to Copperas Cove residents, but there is $10 per year
cost for a family account for nonresidents. The library is at 501 S. Main St. and is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Go to www.copperascovetx.gov or call 254-547-3826.
COPPERAS COVE ORDINANCES In an effort to keep Copperas Cove residents healthy and safe, the City Council passes laws and restrictions, otherwise known as city ordinances. Although these rules can be amended, ordinances outline policies and punishments for lawn clippings in the street, failure to maintain property, right of way parking and other actions. The entire list of ordinances can be found on the city’s website at www.ci.copperas-cove.tx.us. Ordinances most often responded to by city officials include property maintenance, animal control and obstructing city property. BLOWING GRASS, LEAVES INTO STREET: With the exception of containers and items placed for pickup, the disposing of garbage, trash, rubbish, brush or any other refuse in any street, alley, right-of-way, drainage ditch, utility easement or other public places is prohibited. HIGH GRASS/WEEDS/TRASH: The city regulates high weeds, grass, rubbish, obstruction by tree limbs, junk or other objectionable, 12 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
unsightly or unsanitary matter in private yards, to include branches overhanging the street or sidewalk. A person or owner responsible for or claiming or having supervision or control of any real property commits an offense by permitting or allowing weeds, grass, brush or vegetation not regularly cultivated to grow to a height greater than 12 inches. Residents are also responsible for keeping the sidewalk or street clear of obstructions caused by intruding and overhanging brush and/or tree limbs, requiring a clearance of at least 8 feet above a sidewalk and 14 feet above a street. They are also responsible for stagnant or unwholesome water, filth, carrion, weeds, rubbish, rubble, junk or garbage, or impure or unwholesome matter of any kind, including, but not limited to, all vegetation that by size or material usually not suitable for timber or livestock and easily subject to becoming a fire hazard or harborage for rodents, dead grass, tree limbs or tree stumps.
BASKETBALL GOALS: Residents are not allowed to construct, erect or place any obstruction or encumbrance, permanent or temporary, on any street, alley, parkway, sidewalk, right-of-way or other public place in the city. Obstructions or encumbrances include but are not limited to permanent or portable basketball goals, posts and fences, all trees, shrubs or bushes over 2 feet in height above the pavement and other landscaping structures or ornaments to include signs. RIGHT OF WAY: Any person constructing, erecting or placing any obstruction or encumbrance on any street, alley, sidewalk, right-of-way or other public place in the city will be declared as creating a nuisance. Any such person notified by a city official to remove such obstruction or encumbrance, and all persons failing or refusing to remove such obstruction or encumbrance on any street, alley, sidewalk, right-of-way or other public place, or any part thereof, will be guilty of committing or creating a nuisance.
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Lots of opportunities for recreation in Cove Copperas Cove offers plenty of recreational activities for youth and adults. The city owns and operates seven parks. The city’s South Park offers a hike and bike trail, a swimming pool, a splash pad for kids, two sand volleyball courts and two youth soccer fields. Ogletree Gap Park on the far west end of the city offers plenty of acreage for walking and exploring. The City Park Complex is an 88acre park. The complex offers picnic areas, children playscapes, soccer fields, baseball and softball fields, basketball and volleyball courts and an Olympic-sized swimming pool with a diving well, circular slide, mushroom fountain and a duck pond. The park has a 13-site recreational vehicle area. The area has electricity, water and waste disposal and can be reserved from one day to one month at a time. The city maintains four tennis courts at Martin Walker and Mae Stevens Elementary schools, Turkey Creek Activity Center and Copperas Cove High School. The Parks and Recreation department offers many recreational activities throughout the year. Youth can register for cheerleading, tackle and flag football, boys and girls basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball and track. Adult sports include softball and flag football. And with the city’s online activity registration, interested individuals are able to register for activities through the city’s website. The site also features a link for those interested in becoming certified as a youth coach. Residents who enjoy hitting the greens can play 18 holes at the Hills of Cove Golf Course. The course features a lighted driving range, a golf pro shop, clubhouse, bar and lounge area. For youth interested in golfing, the 14 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
Hills of Cove Junior Golf Academy helps develop youth in the sport. The department hosts the Polar Bear Swim event every January and Fishing in the Park in February. In addition, the department puts on its annual Easter Egg Round Up and annual Christmas tree lighting. The Copperas Cove Parks and Recreation department can be reached at 254-542-2719 or go to ci.copperas-cove. tx.us for more information.
Cove Senior Activity Center
Located in the Human Resources Building at 1012 North Drive, Suite 5, the Copperas Cove Senior Activity Center accepts people age 50 or older. It is dedicated to serving the seniors in this area with enrichment programs that encourage a healthy
lifestyle and provide social interaction. These programs include lunch twice a week, a big breakfast once a month, and a potluck monthly (the center provides the main dish and the seniors provide the sides). Health checks are offered twice a month, and exercise classes are offered three times a week, as well as a monthly foot clinic. Recreational activities include Bingo on Tuesdays and Fridays each week, a crochet/knit group on Monday, card and dominos games throughout the week, and scheduled time for fellowship once a week. In addition, the “Dining with Friends” program involves visiting local restaurants each month to encourage activity, good food and conversation. Call 254-547-6049.
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Police and fire departments serve, protect residents 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 an number or areas including criminal investigation, community relations and administrative sections. The department also has an organized crime unit and an internal affairs sections. The department operates out its headquarters at 302 E. Avenue E. In January 2014, Copperas Cove officials broke ground on a new
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police and fire substation. The 4-acre lot is off of Old Copperas Cove Road between Constitution Avenue and Robert Griffin III Boulevard.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Copperas Cove Fire Depart-
ment was originally founded in 1947 as a volunteer organization. Today, the department provides professional fire and EMS services to Copperas Cove residents over 90 square miles of southern Coryell County.
Copperas Cove Animal shelter
The Animal Control Facility’s at 1601 N. First St. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The shelter holds a monthly free adoption event for cats and dogs. Requirements for spay/neuter, shots and registration are still required. Call 254-547-5584.
Texas Humane Heroes
Originally CenTex Humane Society, the Second Chance Animal Shelter merged with the Humane Society of Williamson County to create Texas Humane Heroes. The no-kill shelter is at 5501 Clear Creek Road in Killeen. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Call 254-526-6200 or go to www. texashumaneheroes.org.
Planning a project? Make sure you get a permit Before hosting a garage sale or starting a home improvement project, Copperas Cove residents must first be cleared by the city, which will issue a permit. Copperas Cove residents who want to add onto their homes or build new structures can apply for permits at 914 S. Main St., Suite G or call 254-5423528. The cost of permits varies. All other permits, including yard sales and car washes, are available at this location or at www.copperascovetx.gov. Building permits: These cover all building, add-ons and structural movement within a piece of property. Installation and alterations to electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing also falls under this category. The
permit must be obtained before any building or alteration can begin. Contractor registration: Contractors have to register with the city individually before they can begin working in that city. This is only the first step in obtaining a building permit. Car washes, fundraisers: The city places restrictions on where fundraisers and car washes can be held. All charitable organizations must first obtain a permit before beginning to raise money within the municipality. Garage sales: A homeowner must obtain a permit for a garage sale before the start of the sale. Swimming pools: Residents must submit a plan showing proposed location of a pool to apply for a permit.
New in town? Change your address
The Post Office is at 802 E. Avenue D. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Call 254-547-3605.
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Child care, family fun at Armed Services YMCA Central Texans are served by ASYMCA centers in Copperas Cove, Killeen and Harker Heights. The Armed Services YMCA is the largest provider of school-age child care in Central Texas area, providing care to nearly 1300 children daily. The ASYMCA Killeen serves children in 39 elementary schools in the Killeen, Copperas Cove, Florence, Belton and Lampasas school districts. Child care services children start at 6 a.m. until school starts, and after school until 6 p.m. The ASYMCA also offers services on teacher in-services days and spring and winter breaks. The ASYMCA also offers Summer Camp when school is out from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and ASYMCA provides a variety of activities, field trips, playtime, arts and crafts and youth development activities. The Armed Services YMCA Killeen-Copperas Cove Family Cen-
18 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
ter is at 501 Clara Drive, Copperas Cove. This facility holds activities for the whole family, as it offers a basketball court, snack bar, teen center and fitness area. The building offers a staffed child-watch area for members who work out, get personal train-
ing or are involved in Zumba, yoga, martial arts, running group, Home School P.E., boot camps and Bitty Sports, with some offered free with memberships or at low cost. For more information, call 254634-5445 or go to www.asymca.net or facebook.com/asymcakilleen.
Boys & Girls Club, Scouts offer positive programs for kids The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Texas provide diverse programs and activities that are structured around five core areas: character and leadership, education and career, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation and specialized programs. Children ages 6 to 18 in Bell, Coryell and Lampasas counties have a safe haven to learn, play and grow. Besides the individual clubs, there are clubs located in 16 middle and high schools throughout Killeen and Copperas Cove. In addition to three locations in Killeen, the Boys & Girls Club also operates facilities in Copperas Cove, Lampasas and Gatesville. • The Boys & Girls Club of Copperas Cove at 2777 Farm-to-Market 116 features a computer lab, arcade and movie room, and learning lab. • The Lampasas Club at 107 N. Main St. offers a full meal after school and
Boy Scouts
homework assistance, plus a technology and learning center and sports activities year-round. • Gatesville Branch: 2533 E. Main St., Gatesville, TX 76528. Call 254-8658347.
Boy Scout programs provide the opportunity for area youths to learn to grow into strong men and adults of great character. In the Copperas Cove and Killeen area, the Leon Valley District of the Longhorn Council of the Boy Scouts serves boys and young men ages 6 to 20. The Leon Valley District encompasses Copperas Cove, Fort Hood, Gatesville, Harker Heights and Killeen. The Pecan Valley District covers Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts in Lampasas, San Saba, Lometa and several other cities. Programs include levels for boys in first through 12th grades, and the program achieves the Boy Scout objectives of developing character, citizenship and personal fitness. For more information, go to www. beascout.org or call 254-251-1178.
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Copperas Cove chamber promotes business, tourism 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 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 about what is happening in the city, including a member directory and a community calendar. Also in charge of tourism, the chamber facilitates a large variety of annual events and activities, such as the Fort Hood Challenge bike race, Rabbit Fest and Krist Kindl Markt.
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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. For more information, call 254-5477571 or visit 204 Robertson Ave., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or go to www.copperascove.com.
ing business owners to find out how they are and if they are struggling with anything. The BREP specialist also assists start-ups by offering business counseling, workshops, networking events and more. One aspect of this is the Entrepreneur Center, which was opened to the community in July 2014 and offers space for businesses to lease for a low fee which includes rent, utilities, janitorial, maintenance and more. copperas Cove EDC This was designed to give budding The Copperas Cove Economic entrepreneurs a taste of running a Development Corporation operates business with low overhead. with a staff of four and is led by a The city is in the process of hiring board of directors appointed by the a new executive director to run the City Council. EDC. More information on the EDC The EDC is responsible for bringand its projects can be found in the ing in new businesses to the city and Return on Investment Report, located also nurturing existing businesses. at www.copperascove-edc.com/meThe EDC also has a Business Reten- dia/1317/Community-Return-on-Intion and Expansion Program as well vestment.pdf. as an Entrepreneur Center. The busiFor more information, call 254-547ness retention specialist visits exist7874 or go to copperascove-edc.com.
Area Festivals & Events
The area offers fairs and festivals throughout the year, including:
MARCH
The Army Marathon — This marathon raises money for qualified veteran charities. Runners can choose from a full marathon, half marathon, 5K or the handcycle marathon. Go to: thearmymarathon.com
APRIL
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 30,000 people annually. The familyfriendly 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 its world-famous spurs with music, events, food and other special activities. Go to: spurfest.com National Night Out, Copperas Cove — The city precedes off 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 visits to neighborhood block parties. Organized by the police department, the event features carnival-style games, bounce houses, police demonstrations and more.
OCTOBER
Monster Dash — The Rotary Clubs of Copperas Cove, Harker Heights and Killeen join to raise funds for youth oriented, local projects. Go to: www.ci.harker-heights. tx.us.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 horseshoing, weaving and candle-making demonstrations. The highlight is a Civil War re-enactment. It also features a barbecue cook-off.
December
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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Copperas Cove ISD educates about 8,000 students Copperas Cove Independent School District serves about 8,000 students from Copperas Cove, as well as portions of Coryell and Bell counties, including parts of Fort Hood. The district surpassed its projected peak enrollment for this year and peak enrollment is projected to reach more than 8,200 students this year. The district operates one premier pre-kindergarten facility, six 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 498 students in 2015. Due to the district’s close proximity to Fort Hood, many Covites are affiliated with the federal government, and military students make up nearly 40 percent of the student population.
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The district is led by Superintendent Joseph Burns, who is a former Texas Superintendent of the Year. Burns came to the district at the end of the 2011-2012 school year after serving as a superintendent in both the Hubbard and Kirbyville school districts. Deputy Superintendent of Operations and Support Richard Kirkpatrick manages facilities and student services. He is a former Copperas Cove High School principal. Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction is Dr. Katie Ryan, who is a former superintendent in both Fairfield and Rogers ISDs. Cove ISD’s 11 campuses met the state standard for the 2014-2015 school year with more than 20 designation distinctions. Of the 11 campuses, seven received distinctions in science, math reading, closing performance gaps, student
progress and post-secondary readiness. Recognized not only for academics and excellent test scores, Copperas Cove ISD is known for its highly successful fine arts programs in band, choir and theater arts as well as its athletics producing several players in the NFL and WNBA as well as a national champion dance line. It is also respected for its career readiness programs in 32 areas of certification. The Cove ISD board of trustees approved a $78.2 million budget for the 2015-2016 fiscal year that kept residents’ property tax rate the same. The budget is about a $100,000 increase over the previous fiscal year. The district is served by a sevenmember elected board, which is a former Texas School Board of the Year. It is led by President Joan Manning with members Mike Wilburn, Harry Byrd, Inez Faison, Jim Copeland, Karen Harrison and Doug Cook.
How to enroll
All new students in the Copperas Cove Independent School District must register in person before attending school. Returning students may register online. The district holds new student registration times with each elementary, middle and high school campuses in August and in both May and August for the premier pre-K center. Parents of pre-kindergarten 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,
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 pre-kindergarten, if applicable. Tuition is waived for military dependents living outside of CCISD. For information, call 254-547-1227 or go to www.ccisd.com.
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Continue your education at Central Texas College Central Texas College is a public, two-year 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.
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CTC began offering online-only and distance education courses 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. In the fall 2015 semester, CTC began its Evening and Weekend College Program allowing students with busy day and work schedules to complete
all courses necessary for an associate degree or certificate of completion to on the weekend or through evening courses. CTC also reaches out to pre-college students by working with area high schools to offer dual and concurrent credit early admission programs. CTC, in partnership with the Killeen Independent School District, is home to the Early College High School. Ninth-grade students begin earning college credits toward an associate’s degree while simultaneously completing their four-year high school diploma. The school’s chancellor is Jim Yeonopolus. Elected board members include Don Armstrong of Killeen, Bill Beebe of Copperas Cove, Mari Meyer of Harker Heights, Elwood Shemwell of Copperas Cove, Jimmy Towers of Killeen, retired Brig. Gen. Rex Weaver of Killeen and Scott Isdale of Belton. Call 254-526-7161 or go to www.ctcd.edu.
Get advanced degrees at A&M-Central Texas Texas A&M University-Central Texas is an upper-level university serving Copperas Cove-area residents. Located in Killeen, the university offers 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 a 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 38 undergraduate programs and 17 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 201, near the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery at 1001 Leadership Place in Killeen. The university 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, also opened its doors in the fall of 2014. The $38 million, 125,500-square-foot building moved several departments that were previously located at the old Fairway Middle School in Killeen,
thus centralizing the campus. In addition to a library, the building houses the university’s science laboratories, conference facilities, classrooms, student affairs, counseling center, and finance departments, as well as others. The university last year received $36 million for a third multiuse building to help meet the infrastructural needs of this growing regional institution. The U.S. Army transferred more than 662 acres of land for the campus to The Texas A&M University System on Sept. 4, 2009. The university had an enrollment of over 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. For more information, go to www. tamuct.edu.
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Many Coryell County residents are farmers, ranchers 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 1,057 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
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CORYELL COUNTY OFFICIALS
COUNTY JUDGE: John Firth, 254-865-5911, ext 2222, county_judge@coryellcounty.org COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 1: Jack Wall, 254-248-2005, 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: Wyllis Ament, 254-290-4726, wyllis.ament@coryellcounty.org COUNTY CLERK: Barbara Simpson, 254-865-5911, ext 2235, county_clerk@coryellcounty.org COUNTY ATTORNEY: Brandon Belt, 254-248-3180, county_attorney@coryellcounty.org COUNTY SHERIFF: Johnny Burks, 254-865-7201, 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
Camp Hood (now Fort Hood) in the early 1940s took about 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 fivemember Commissioners’ Court made up of a county judge elected at-
large and four commissioners elected from single-member precincts. Other officials elected at-large include the county clerk, county sheriff, county tax assessor/collector, county treasurer, county attorney and county court-at-law judge, the 52nd Judicial District Court judge, district clerk and district attorney.
Lampasas offers small-town charm, convenience 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. The city was founded in 1883, and today it is run by a council-manager style of government led by Mayor Christian Toups, Mayor Pro Tem Misti Talbert, and council members TJ Monroe, Chuck Williamson, Chris Harrison, Robert McCauley 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 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 an-
nual 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. Kathi Masonheimer is the executive director of the Economic Development Corporation, The EDC recently approved a $1.7 million loan to finance utilities to one of the city’s business parks on U.S. Highway 183. Plans are still brewing for a new civic center, and the Sports Complex on Farm-to-Market 580 has been chosen as the tentative site. Officials are preparing to begin the bidding process for a new city hall. The new facility will be located on the same property as the current city hall and will house both the council chambers and the city court. Learn more about the city at www. lampasas.org.
Lampasas ISD
The Lampasas Independent School District spans three counties and provides instruction to about 3,390 students, including several who live in the Copperas Cove area. The district has five campuses: Taylor Creek Elementary, Kline Whitis Elementary, Hanna Springs Elementary, Lampasas Middle School and Lampasas High School. 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. 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. Learn more about the district at www.lampasas.k12.tx.us.
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Kempner nestled between Cove, Lampasas Kempner City Secretary Trudy Davis employed an old adage when speaking of life in the small city west of Copperas Cove: “The living is easy.” “There’s not a lot of stress going on,” said Davis, who has been with the city for seven years. “The people are nice, and it’s fairly convenient. If you want to go to the big city, there’s Austin an hour away, and Georgetown is 45 minutes away, and of course Temple is only an hour away.” Incorporated in 1997 and touted as the Gateway to Lampasas County, Kempner is located 12 miles east of Lampasas and five miles west of Copperas Cove. The city of 1,089 was founded in 1882 and named after Harris Kempner, a Texas philanthropist, banker and railroad magnate. The owner of Alfredo’s Mexican Restaurant, which currently has locations in Lampasas and King-
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sland, is planning to open a to-go restaurant in Kempner this fall, Davis said. The U.S. Census Bureau lists Kempner as spanning a total of 2.2 square miles, and families are served by the Lampasas Independent School District. The city operates under a mayorcouncil form of government led by Mayor Carolyn Crane. Council members include 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 provides emergency services through the Kempner Volunteer Fire Department and police chief David Sheedy leads the Kempner Police Department supported by two full-time officers.
Get a driver’s license
Upon moving to Texas, individuals can legally drive with a valid, unexpired license from another state or country for up to 90 days. Within that time, individuals must apply in person. Residents must prove their residence is in Texas and they have lived here for at least 30 days. For more information, go to www.txdps.state.tx.us.
VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Texas residents must register their vehicles in the state within 30 days of moving and should do so prior to applying for a Texas driver’s license. Proof of insurance and an inspection from a Texas Department of Public Safety inspection station is needed. Active-duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces and nonresident, full-time students attending a Texas college or university are not required to register or title their vehicles in Texas. Call 254-634-0265 or go to www.txdot.gov.
Airport, bus system provide transportation in Central Texas The Copperas Cove area is served by the Killeen-Fort Hood Regional Airport. Daily commuter flights to three airline hubs connect travelers to destinations throughout the world. American Airlines offers eight daily departures to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport; United offers three daily departures to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport; and Delta provides two departures daily to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Opened in 2004 and expanded in 2011, the airport is located in southwestern Killeen at 8101 S. Clear Creek Road. Major improvements to both U.S. Highway 190 and State Highway 201 make it easy to access from anywhere in Central Texas. The Ted C. Connell Terminal Building was named for the man who originally brought air service to Killeen in 1966. It spans 87,000 square feet and houses the three airlines, a
HOP on public transit
Hill Country Transit District operates The HOP, Central Texas’ regional public transit system. Urban service is provided in Copperas Cove, Killeen, Harker Heights, Belton and Temple, with a direct connector route providing stops in Harker Heights, Nolanville, Belton and Temple. Each month, more than 50,000 ridgift shop, Subway and Green Beans ers use the fixed-route bus service, Coffee. and more than 10,000 riders each Seven rental car companies as well month use the Special Transit Seras taxis and shuttles provide ground vice, a door-to-door service provided transportation. by The HOP in these urban areas. Paid short- and long-term parking The HOP operates 14 fixed routes is adjacent to the terminal, and the — one each in Copperas Cove, Harker first 30 minutes of parking is free. Heights and Belton; three in Temple; The airport also offers exemptions to six in Killeen; and two that serve pricertain veterans and military award marily as connector routes between recipients displaying exempt license major cities in the service area. plates. Route and schedule information is Find information about the airport, also at www.takethehop.com or call flight schedules, services and fees at 254-933-3700 and select option 3 for www.flykilleen.net. customer service.
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Metroplex provides area health care Metroplex Adventist Hospital has been serving the Central Texas area for more than 35 years. The hospital opened its doors in 1978 to serve the growing population of the area, including a growing military community. The hospital originally had 10 physicians on staff. Today, Metroplex has more than 300 physicians in 43 specialties. The 232-bed, multi-campus Metroplex Health System, a faith-based organization, employs about 1,200 area residents and cares for more than 125,000 patients each year. Metroplex operates in tandem with the Adventist Health System, which is the nation’s 10th largest health care organization. In 2008, regional health care provider Baylor Scott & White Health partnered with Adventist Health System to acquire a minority interest in Metroplex. Over the past few years, Metroplex
has invested tens of millions of dollars in new facilities and expanded health care services based on community need and support.
ROLLINS BROOK
Metroplex Health System also operates a number of valuable community services, including Rollins Brook Community Hospital, a 25-bed critical access hospital in Lampasas. Rollins Brook offers many technological services including a 24-hour emergency center, a state-of-the art laboratory, medical and surgical rooms, CT scanning, digital mammography and cardiopulmonary services with EKG and stress testing, sleep disorder center, bone density testing and wound care therapies. For more information about the Metroplex Health System, go to www.mplex.org.
Food pantries serve residents in need There are several area food pantries the serve the Copperas Cove area.
Baptist Benevolence Ministry
Baptist Benevolence Ministry is a collection of five Copperas Cove Baptist churches where Copperas Cove families can get food, clothing and financial assistance from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. It operates at 507 N. Fifth St. Its operations are limited to families receiving food once a month. Call 254-542-6780.
My Brother’s House Food Pantry
My Brother’s House” Food Pantry is operated by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas Cove. It serves Copperas Cove and Kempner residents with proof of identification. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. It is at 107 Lyons St. in Copperas Cove. Contact Lynn Capps at 254-547-5206 to volunteer for assistance, or go to http://hf-cc.org/st-vincent-de-paulsvdp. 30 2016 Copperas Cove Newcomers
ARMY MEDICAL HOMES In keeping with improving access to care, Fort Hood’s Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center has three Army-run, community-based medical homes which are primary care clinics located off-post in the communities where Fort Hood families live, including one in Copperas Cove. Each patient partners with a team of health care providers, physicians, nurses, behavioral health professionals, pharmacists and others to develop a comprehensive, personal health care plan. Each clinic is capable of servicing more than 8,000 patients, with 30 exam rooms, a medical lab and a pharmacy in each. • The Copperas Cove Medical Home Clinic is at 458 Town Square on West U.S. Highway 190. • The Killeen facility is at 3404 Kaydence Court, off Elms Road near Stan Schlueter Loop. • The Harker Heights Medical Home is in the Market Heights shopping center at 201 E. Central Expressway.
The Cove Little House
The Cove Little House is operated by the Church of Christ and started with mothers in the congregation sharing clothes. Clothing items for all ages, household goods, and emergency food are offered free of charge to anyone in need. It is open to the public 10 a.m. to noon each Tuesday at 306 W. Avenue E. in Copperas Cove. Call 254-547-3509.
Cove House Emergency Homeless Shelter
Copperas Cove gives food once a month to those living in Copperas Cove, Kempner, Fort Hood and Lampasas. Hours of operation are from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at 108 E. Halstead Ave. in Copperas Cove. Call 254-547-4673.
WIC offices in area
Texas Women, Infants and Children Nutritional services include nutrition and breast-feeding counseling and food vouchers. Call for information or to make an appointment at one of the following four sites: • Copperas Cove: 213 W. Avenue D, 254-547-9571. • Fort Hood: Building 289 on Battalion Avenue, 254532-8680. • Killeen: 111 Santa Fe Plaza, 254-526-2033.
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