Published: November 18, 2008 07:27 am      

Front page briefs

Scoops for the troops

Area citizens are collecting ground coffee to send to the 2nd Brigade/First Infantry Bat. stationed at Camp Liberty in Iraq.

Asked what they wanted, many of the 4,000 soldiers in the brigade said coffee.

Donations of coffee, or cash to help mail the coffee, is being collected at First National Bank of Weatherford, 210 N. Main St.

The deadline is Dec. 2.

For more information, contact Carolyn Estes at (817) 341-0237.

Annual Skywatch Party Nov. 22 at state park

12th Annual North Texas Skywatch Amateur Astronomer’s Star Party is Saturday, Nov. 22, starting at 4:30 p.m. at Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway.

Event is free with a paid admission to the park. Entrance fees to the park are $5 per person, children 12 and under are free.

The Star Party is designed for amateur astronomers to share ideas and experiences, learn new techniques, swap equipment and observe in a dark sky location.

There will be a beginners astronomy slide presentation at sunset. All park visitors are welcome to attend. This event is a great opportunity for beginners to learn about astronomy and to have a chance to see the night sky through a wide variety of telescopes.

Music and a meal

The Weatherford Music Teachers Association is teaming up with Cracker Barrel Restaurant for Pianothon! 2008.

Throughout the weekend of Nov. 21-23, young musicians from Parker and Palo Pinto counties and their piano teachers will entertain restaurant guests by playing live music on the piano for pledges and tips.

“Our goal is to raise $2,500,” said Pianothon Chairperson, Steven Lent.

Every dollar raised is used to pay for trophies, ribbons, awards, piano festivals, contests, music scholarships and travel stipends for Ensemble Teams who play at the state convention.

For more information, call Lent at (817) 905-3293.

Christmas parade

To be a part of this year’s Mineral Wells Merchants Assoc. downtown Christmas parade on Dec. 6, call (940) 325-9232, ext. 201.

There will be prizes awarded in the categories of church; commercial/manufacturing; and civic.