Runnels County Register

09/08/2026

Winters Blizzards Athletes of the Week.

If you have a photo of these two, please post it or message me with it so I can have it in the newspaper.

Winters ISD Athlete of the Week
Male Athlete:

Woody Rios - JR - XC & Football:

Woody was our top finisher Wednesday at XC and played a great game defensively for the Blizzards on Friday night!

Female Athlete:

Wendy Garcia - SO - XC:

Wendy was our top finisher at XC Wednesday. Great job Wendy!

Coach Ryan Pannell

09/05/2026

Winters Blizzards Marching Band.

I also took photos of the cheerleaders and the band that I’ll post this weekend.

09/04/2026

Bearcat VICTORY!

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

This workshop is for any 4-H member and parent interested in learning more about the Food & Nutrition Project! For those that have previously participated, please join us as there are MINOR changes to this years rules and guidelines. Contact Kandice if you have any questions.

09/04/2026

Enrollment is OPEN! Please visit our website https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/counties/runnels-county/ to find enrollment instructions and the link to enroll!

09/03/2026

There has been a lot of talk and questions about Flock cameras and where they're located.

I've made some inquiries but haven't heard back yet.

If you want to see where they're at, you can go to:

Find license plate readers (LPRs) near you.

09/03/2026

Congratulations to Curiosities! The Ballinger Area Chamber of Commerce September Business of the Month.

Curiosities has been a community fixture since 1991. Carolyn Slaughter and Jerrie Wiley were the first vendors to rent space at Curiosities and have been active participants since that time.

Carolyn and Jerrie purchased Curiosities in 2009. Presently operated by Carolyn, this beloved shop offers everything from A to Z and strives to be your your “One Shop Stop For Gifts.”

Browse an eclectic selection including Da Vinci beads and jewelry, Willow Tree Collectibles, Webkinz Animals, Melissa & Doug Toys, children's items, Bibles, lotions, pillows, home décor, flags, mailbox covers, books, collectibles, signs, crosses, kitchen accessories, and collegiate merchandise.

Whether you're shopping for a special occasion or everyday finds, Curiosities has something for everyone.

Beyond retail, Curiosities also serves as a laundry and dry cleaning drop-off location for Rhyder X Press from Coleman, Texas, with convenient Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday pickups and next-day service.
Open Wednesday–Friday 11:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Saturday 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Social Media: Curiosities page
719 Hutchins Ave
Ballinger, Texas 76821
Store Phone: 325-365-540
Cell Phone: 325-718-9996
Email: [email protected]

09/01/2026

Does anyone know this Anabel or her family? I'd like to get a photo of her for the article. It will be on the front page. I'll need the photo by 10 p.m. tonight.

They can email it to me at [email protected].

National Youth Heart Ambassador wants kids to learn lifesaving habits early

At just 11 years old, Anabel “Stitch” Valencia of Winters, Texas, has already found her purpose: helping others.
The 2026-27 American Heart Association National Youth Heart Ambassador was inspired by watching loved ones battle heart disease. Her great-grandfather, William Clayton Wolfenden, struggled with heart issues before his death, and another great-grandmother continues her own heart-health journey today. Witnessing those experiences at a young age motivated Anabel to become an advocate for heart health and helping others.
“I just really hope to teach kids starting young,” Anabel said. “My friends have learned a lot, but I feel like kids can learn even more.”
Anabel, who will enter sixth grade at Winters Elementary School this fall, is one of only 15 students nationwide selected as a National Youth Heart Ambassador and one of just five youth advocates chosen for the program.
An active student-athlete, Anabel participates in basketball, softball and cheerleading. She also focuses on healthy habits at home, choosing nutritious foods, playing sports and encouraging friends to make heart-healthy choices. Instead of reaching for sugary snacks, she and her best friend often prepare healthier options such as avocado toast and fruit.
Her commitment to the American Heart Association extends beyond healthy living. Anabel has been a dedicated Kids Heart Challenge participant and was her school’s top fundraiser, raising more than $700 in 2025-26. She believes the program is about much more than fundraising.
“I want everyone to know that the American Heart Association saves lives,” she said. “The Heart Challenge is not just about a competition; it’s about raising funds to help save the lives of others.”
Anabel dreams of one day becoming a pediatric physical therapist, continuing a lifelong desire to help people in need. Family members involved in emergency response and community service have further inspired her passion for caring for others.
Whether she’s encouraging classmates to learn hands-only CPR, leading by example with healthy habits or sharing her family’s story, Anabel hopes her ambassador role will make a difference.
“Kids should be able to live their life and enjoy the things kids should be able to do,” she said.