Friday, December 30, 2011

More Friday sports headlines

The Central boys basketball team did well at the Calallen Tournament in Corpus Christi. Central was 3-1 during the tournament, with the only loss last Wednesday to Corpus Christi Carroll - a team that has yet to lose a game. The Bobcats bring an18-4 record record back home Tuesday against Abilene Cooper in the District 3-5A opener.

The Lake View girls team lost a close one to Breckenridge yesterday at the Breckenridge Tournament. The Maidens were ahead 35-25 after three quarters, but couldn't hold on and lost 42-41. Lake View is 5-11 on the season and will play again Monday at Alpine.

This Sunday the NFL playoff picture will be set, and if the Dallas Cowboys want to enter the post season they have to beat the NY Giants Sunday on the Giants' home turf. The winner of that game wins the NFC East and moves on to the playoffs. The Houston Texans are already in. They host the Titans on Sunday.

Gas prices

For those of you hitting the road for the New Year's holiday weekend, here's a check on gasoline prices. Triple-a's Daily Fuel Gauge report, updated this morning, shows the statewide average price for a gallon of gas in Texas is just under three dollars, 10 cents. That's up six cents from a week ago, but still well below the national average of three-26. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, prices in San Angelo today range from three-14 to three-25 a gallon.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

New Year's DUI patrols

If you're on the road this weekend, you'll have some company. The Tom Green County Sheriff's Office is increasing patrols of county roads. Additional deputies will be on patrol beginning tomorrow evening--New Year's Eve--and continuing after midnight. So, if you're planning to party, make arrangements to go home in a taxi or with a designated driver.


Hike in the park

Here's a way to recover from too much New Year's Eve celebrating: walk it off. Officials at San Angelo State Park are urging residents to start out 2012 on the right foot--and the left foot--with a special New Year's Day hike in the park. It will begin at the park's South Entrance, off FM 2288. Appropriate hiking gear is recommended for the three-mile trek through some rugged terrain. To find out more, call San Angelo State Park at 949-8935.

Showdown camping spaces

You can purchase camping spaces for the 6th Annual Showdown in San Angelo Drag Boat races starting at 8:30 next Wednesday morning. The races are scheduled for June 23rd and 24th at Lake Nasworthy. Each year, the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce leases about 40 camping areas on the grassy Meadows side of the lake. Spots range from 300 to 400 dollars. For more information, contact Sandra Pomroy at the Chamber.

Ag Business On The Rebound After Record Hard Year

Despite the drought in the Southwest, the nation's overall agriculture picture is positive with 2011 farm income 28 percent higher when compared to 2010. U-S Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has said farm exports reached a record high of $137.4 billion this year. In the Concho Valley, above-average December rainfall is helping the winter wheat crop but farmers and livestock producers are still recovering from a record hard year. Livestock inventories reported now to be at their lowest since the Great Depression. Agri-business experts say out region is on the comeback, however, if winter rains continue.

Airport incident

The Department of Public Safety is investigating an incident at the Eldorado Airport in which a private plane went off the runway. A pilot from Beeville was landing at the airport when a gust of wind apparently caught his plane on approach. The pilot was not injured.


Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Help for Grape Creek family

Monday night, a woman and her five grandchildren escaped a mobile home fire in Grape Creek with just the clothes on their backs. The Salvation Army has been helping out the Dupree family since then and now there's more help, thanks to the membership of the Grape Creek Baptist Church. Pastor Brad Winchester says the church is serving as a collection center for donations for the family. The immediate need is clothing. Monetary donations will be also accepted at the church, which is located at 9781 Grape Creek Road.

Fire in SW San Angelo

Faulty wiring is believed to have caused a housefire in southwest San Angelo Tuesday night. The fire started in the attic of the home on Briargrove and firefighters managed to contain the damage to the attic and part of the roof. The residents of the home escaped without injury.

Most Wanted surrenders

The latest fugitive to be featured as San Angelo's Most Wanted is no longer at large. Geronimo Ybarra Cavazos reportedly heard via the media that he was wanted and turned himself in to the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office. Cavazos was wanted for a Parole Violation-Burglary of a Habitation and a Tom Green County warrant for Felony Theft of Property.


Social Security still closed

Don't plan on visiting the Social Security office in San Angelo this week. ecause of water damage from a broken pipe, the office will be closed until next Tuesday. However, you can still access many services by calling the toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, or going online at social-security-dot-gov.

Congressmen Battle Proposed Defense Spending Cuts

West Texas Congressional representatives are trying to walk the fine line between across-the-board cuts in federal government spending and keeping defense funds from drying up. They're especially concerned about jobs and spending at facilities like Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo, where some civilian jobs have already been axed for the new year. The idea is to avoid across-the-board cuts and find specific savings that would accomplish the same thing instead. Congressmen Mac Thornberry and Mike Conaway say they're trying to buy time in order to ferret out those spending cuts before blanket cuts go into effect.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

SA man arrested in Abilene

A San Angelo man was arrested in Abilene after police say he admitted to driving a stolen vehicle. 23-year-old Raymond Ramirez was charged with driving a stolen Honda Fit. Ramirez was also charged with possession of a controlled substance and failing to maintain financial responsibility. He was in the Taylor County jail with bonds of more than four-thousand dollars.

TCG tobacco enforcement

Tom Green County will be one of 52 counties in the state participating in the Texas Tobacco Enforcement Program. County commissioners have approved a request from the sheriff's department for funding to help monitor the sales of tobacco to minors at retail locations. The money is coming from the state to help make parents, children and businesses aware of the law.

Social Security offices closed

A pipe broke over the weekend at the Social Security offices on Southwest Boulevard in San Angelo, leaving some three inches of water on the floor. The offices were closed Tuesday and will be again today. Workers have set up fans and heaters, trying to dry out the floors.


TCG Elections Office closing

First, there's the New Year's holiday--then, there's training for the staff. That's why the Tom Green County Elections Office will be closed from Friday through January 9th. But if you have business to take care of, such as filing a "Campaign Treasurer Appointment" or a "Campaign Finance Report," you can do that at the office of Tom Green County Clerk Elizabeth McGill at 124 West Beauregard.


TGC fireworks OK

If you want to bring in the new year with a bang, you can do so in Tom Green County. Because of recent rainfall, commissioners have not reactiviated the burn ban, so fireworks are allowed--but only in the county. They are still not allowed within the city limits of San Angelo.


Family burned out of home

The Red Cross is working to help a mother and her five children who escaped a fire in their mobile home in Grape Creek with only the clothes on their backs. The fire on Copper Mountain Circle Monday afternoon started in a double-wide home, which was unoccupied, then spread to the single-wide where the family was living. To make donations for the family, call the Red Cross at 658-4409.


Vehicle burglaries

Here's another reminder to lock your car, take your keys and keep valuables out of sight. That's how you discourage people from breaking into your car and taking things, which has been happening in San Angelo. Police have had reports of vehicle burglaries in the 34 hundred block of Millbrook Drive, the 33 hundred block of North Bryant Boulevard and the 29 hundred block of Sunset Drive. If you know anything about these burglaries, call San Angelo police or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP

Improvement Noted For Winter Wheat

Winter rain has perked up the winter wheat crop, which should be good news. But there's a problem: some ranchers have already turned their cattle onto what looked until recently like a marginal growth of winter wheat. Grazing obviously puts an end to wheat growth but agri-business experts say growers who stick by their crops may see dividends as moisture continues to arrive in the form of both rain and snow. That would be a relief as extension agents say the 2011 extreme drought stress resulted in the loss of about 240 million bushels of winter wheat in the Southern Great Plains.

Mega Monday

Retailers are saying the day after Christmas might have been the second-busiest shopping day of the year, behind only "Black Friday." San Angelo-area malls and stores were busy taking returns, redeeming gift cards and offering big discounts on what some were calling "Mega Monday."

Monday, December 26, 2011

Cut up large-item boxes

If you got a big-screen TV or similar big-ticket item for Christmas this year, don't leave the box out with the trash. That's a signal to criminals that you've got something worth stealing in your house. San Angelo police recommend that you cut up any large-item boxes and not leave them out for all to see.


UBS blood drive

O-negative blood is in very short supply in the Concho Valley and that has prompted United Blood Services of San Angelo to launch a new blood drive. If you donate from now through January 14th, you'll be in the running to win a flat-screen TV. United Blood Services is located at 2020 West Beauregard Avenue. Find out more info online at united-blood-services-dot-org.

Grape Creek fire


No one was injured as fire destroyed two homes on Copper Mountain Circle in Grape Creek Monday afternoon. All residents were found to be safe after an initial erroneous report that people were still inside the houses.


Sunday, December 25, 2011

San Angelo's Most Wanted

San Angelo`s Most Wanted this week is a fugitive sought for felony theft of property and parole violation. 49-year-old Geronimo Ybarra Cavazos is 5-8, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He is associated with addresses in the 14-hundred block of Roosevelt, the one-thousand block of Almond Circle and the 14-hundred block of Preusser. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Geronimo Ybarra Cavazos, call CrimeStoppers at 658-HELP.

Monday holiday closings

The Christmas holiday continues today for many government agencies. Among those you will find closed today are Texas state offices, Tom Green County offices, City of San Angelo offices, Federal offices and the U.S. Postal Service. The offices at Angelo State University are closed through next Tuesday, January 3rd. The San Angelo Independent School District is closed through January 4th. And the TRANSA bus service is not running today.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Hotel fire

It looks like a fire that burned the old Quality Inn on West Concho was a case of arson. San Angelo fire investigators say there were multiple points of origin for the blaze, which caused minimal structural damage to the vacant facility, but there was a lot of smoke damage.


Xmas tree recycling

It's still early to think about getting rid of your Christmas tree, but keep in mind that the city of San Angelo has two recycling sites. Starting next Tuesday and running through January 13th, you can drop off your tree at the SAFE Recycling Center on Warehouse Road or the Coliseum parking on on East 43rd Street. Just remember to take off the ornaments and other decorations first so you don't damage the city chippers.

Special weather statement

We're still expecting Christmas eve snow in the Concho Valley. The National Weather Service says a strong upper-level storm system will move across West Texas late tonight into tomorrow. A mixture of light rain or snow might develop as early as tomorrow across the Concho Valley. However, precipitation chances will increase markedly tonight and tomorrow. Accumulating snow is expeced to begin tomorrow night and continue through tomorrow. Total snowfall amounts of one to three inches are possible, especially to the north and weat of a line from Ozona to San Angelo to Sweetwater.


Top 5 weather events

The National Weather Service office in San Angelo has sent us a list of what it considers to be the top 5 local weather events from 2011. Number five: the San Angelo flash flood in August, number four: the Clyde downburst in May, number-three: the Abilene hail storm in April, number two: the powerful winter storm and cold in Abilene in February and the number-one local weather event in 2011: drought, wildfires and heat.


Thursday, December 22, 2011

Gas prices

With the holiday weekend just ahead and millions of Texans about to hit the road, here's an update on gas prices. According to Triple-A's Daily Fuel Gauge Report, the statewide average price for a gallon of regular gas is still dropping--now at three-oh-four--almost five cents a gallon less than last week. Gas-Buddy-dot-com finds gas prices in San Angelo ranging from three-oh-two to three-15 a gallon.

Iowa poll

A new poll backs up other results released this week showing that a Texan is the new frontrunner in the Republican presidential race in Iowa. But it's not Governor Rick Perry--it's Congressman Ron Paul. The survey shows Paul with 27 percent, two points up on Newt Gingrich. Among voters between the ages of 18 to 29, Paul gets almost 60-percent of the vote.

Robert Lee pipeline

Earlier this week, residents of Robert Lee were boiling water because of a water main break--now, they might be running out of water. To alleviate that situation, the city has contracted with Bronte for water and will be building a 12-mile pipeline to deliver that water. Mayor John Jacobs says the first load of pipe is due in today and construction will start after the first of the year, with completion set for April.


Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Christmas eve snow possible

There's a chance of a white Christmas eve in the Concho Valley. The National Weather Service says snow is possible across much of West Central Texas tomorrow night and Saturday. That's due to an upper level storm system developing over new Mexico and moving east into Texas. The best chance of snow is along and west of a line from Throckmorton to Abilene to San Angelo to Ozona. Snowfall accumulations of one to two inches will be possible.

Extradition process continues

A man accused in a three-year-old San Angelo murder case is still in Missouri and will likely be there for another month. 43-year-old James Owen Winchester was arrested by police in Joplin earlier this month. He's accused of murdering Kim Burton at a Cornell Street residence in March of 2008. A third extradition hearing was held in Joplin Wednesday and the judge set yet another hearing date for January 25th.

Golf Course Wants To Drill Water Wells

The private managers of San Angelo's historic Santa Fe Golf Course are asking the city for permission to drill water wells on the property. Officials of Two Pro Management asking the city council for permission to drill three or four wells in the hope of finding enough water beneath the property to alleviate what they say is a major operating expense, their city water bill. Company officials saying their water bills have doubled since they took over management of the city-owned golf course two years ago. Santa Fe has yet to make a profit and the prolonged drought is a major reason why. The course is situated along the banks of the Concho River and the operators are being warned not to tap into the river basin for their water supplies when they drill.

Ex-FLDS Leader's Bigamy Trial Will Be In San Angelo

A judge has ruled that the bigamy trial of a former FLDS leader will be held in San Angelo, not in other locations, as defense attorneys has requested. DIstrict Judge Barbara Walther ruling that 71-year-old Wendell Nielsen's trial will take place January 24th at the Tom Green County Courthouse. Nielsen is charged with three counts of bigamy, all of which will be tried at the same time. He rejected an earlier plea deal that would have resulted in ten years of probation because he said he didn't like the terms of the probation. Now, he faces up to ten years in prison on each of the bigamy charges. Neilsen will be the first FLDS leader actually tried on bigamy charges. Nine other former leaders of the religious sect have been prosecuted for sexual assaults on children.

Operation Holiday

It's never a good idea to drink and drive--or to exceed the speed limit--or to leave your seat belt unbuckled. It will be an especially bad idea over the Christmas and New Year's weekends. The Texas Department of Public Safety says all available troopers will be on patrol during "Operation Holiday," which is being funded through a one and a half million dollar grant from the Texas Department of Transportation.

Back to jets

Flights between San Angelo and Dallas-Fort Worth should be a little quicker next year. American Eagle Airlines is reportedly going to replace the turboprop planes currently in use at Mathis Field with Embraer regional jets, originally used here a few years ago. The jets carry fewer passengers but should be able to handle the traffic at Mathis.

Symphony Golden Ticket

You can support the San Angelo Symphony Guild by purchasing the Amazing Golden Ticket. Buying a Golden Ticket enters you to win a voucher for a 2012 MINI Cooper, a trip for two to London, England, or a beautifully designed ring from Holland Jewelers. You can find out more at www. san-angelo-symphony-dot-org.


Early-bird rodeo tickets

A reminder that the holiday ticket special for the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo continues today and tomorrow and next Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 AM to 5 PM each day. Tickets will go on sale at all ticket outlets to the general public on January 4th. The rodeo takes place February 16th through the 26th at the Coliseum.

Still no burn ban

Because recent state-wide moisture indicators continue to move closer to the normal range, Tom Green County Commissioners did NOT enact a burn ban Tuesday. Residents are still reminded that if they plan a controlled burn of brush, grass, etc, to contact the Sheriff's Dispatch Office to let them know in advance, be cautious and check the forecast a day ahead of time and never burn during windy conditions.

Fort Concho holiday closing

Don't plan on visiting Fort Concho this weekend. To allow its staff and volunteers time to enjoy the holidays, Fort Concho has announced that its offices and all tour buildings will be closed from Saturday through Monday. The fort will be open for limited service from 9 to 5 on Friday. Regular hours resume next Tuesday.

Boil water notice over

Good news for residents of Robert Lee. The city has notified us that Robert Lee water customers no longer need to boil their drinking water. After receiving results of bacteriological samples, officials say the water is safe for consumptions. Anyone with questions can call Robert Lee City Hall.


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Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Defense Bill Raises Military Pay

The new Defense Authorization Bill means good news for the economy of the Concho Valley. AMong the items in that legislation: pay raises for service members at Goodfellow Air Force Base. The bill provides a military pay hike of one-point-six percent which will be on top of Goodfellow's already-approved annual payroll of 306-million dollars. That makes the military the only branch of the federal government to see pay raises any time soon. The salaries of all other federal employees remain frozen.

SA officials honored

Two city of San Angelo officials have received national recognition. Parks and recreation director Carl White and civic event manager Anthony Wilson were given the Askew Award by the American Academy of Certified Public Manager. That was for research the pair did on parks near Lake Nasworthy.


Rodeo ticket sales

Early-bird ticket sales got underway in San Angelo Monday for one of the biggest rodeos in the country. The annual PRCA Rodeo returns to the Coliseum in mid-February. It's listed as one of the top 10 rodeos in the country when it comes to prize money. In San Angelo, 60-thousand dollars will be given out just on Saturday night.

Monday, December 19, 2011

DIal-A-Lawyer Dispenses Free Legal Advice

Last week, we told you about a free one-day dial-in legal clinic that was available to qualified individuals in the Concho Valley. Legal Aid of Northwest Texas now says its San Angelo office was able to help about twenty people during the Dial-A-Lawyer event. It was held to commemorate Legal Aid's sixtieth anniversary. People were encouraged to call in and see if they were financially eligible, then ask about any questions on legal issues they might have. The volunteer attorneys say the response was lower than expected but that almost everyone was helped.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

City Xmas schedule

In observance of Christmas, City of San Angelo offices will be closed this Friday and next Monday. On Saturday, Christmas Eve, there will be no residential or commercial trash pickup and the landfill will be closed.

Sports Complex honored

The Sports Complex of the Year as named by the Texas Turfgrass Association is right here in San Antonio. The Texas Bank Sports Complex was honored at the association's winter conference and awards banquet in San Antonio.


House fire

A house fire Saturday in the 500 block of Spaulding on east San Angelo caused extensive damage to the residence. It might have started in a trash can. The fire is under investigation.

Convicted man sought

San Angelo Police are asking for your help in locating a man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. Last Tuesday, 45-year-old Juan Ramon Medrano Junior of San Angelo was found guilty at a trial in Eagle Pass. Medrano failed to show up in court the next day to find out he was being sentenced to 55 years in prison. He may be headed to San Angelo driving a 2011 tan or charcoal brown Dodge pickup truck. Medrano is 6 feet tall,170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. If you know anything about the whereabouts of Juan Ramon Medrano Junior, contact San Angelo Police.

Shannon CATCH honoree

The CATCH in Motion program coordinator at Shannon Medical Center was honored earlier this month. September Summers received a 2011 CATCH Champion Award from the University of Texas CATCH team. CATCH stands for Coordinated Approach to Child Health. Summers received the award for her work towards the improvement of school health and her dedication in helping children develop healthy habits.


Stephens Library computer classes

The Stephens Central Library will offer free computer classes in January with registration beginning today. The schedule includes a new class, Kindle and Overdrive Basics. It will instruct users on how to check out downloadable eBooks for use on their Kindle. All computer classes are located in the computer lab on the second floor of the Stephens Central Library at 33 West Beauregard. You can find out more at t-g-c-library-dot-com.


Friday, December 16, 2011

Winchester murder case

A man arrested for a three-year-old San Angelo murder case was in court in Missouri Thursday. 43-year-old James Owen Winchester was arrested earlier this month by police in Joplin. Winchester is accused of murdering Kim Burton at a residence in the 33-hundred block of Cornell Street in March of 2008. He is awaiting extradition back to San Angelo. As the extradition process continues, Winchester is scheduled for yet another hearing in Joplin next Wednesday.

Health Foundation announces grants

11 area non-profit organizations recently picked up some big bucks. The San Angelo Health Foundation announcing grants totaling more than one-point-eight million dollars. Recipients included Angelo State University's new College of Health and Human Services, the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts and Sterling County EMS.


Security in San Angelo

If you live in San Angelo, you should feel secure. According to a new study, San Angelo ranks as the 17th most secure place to live among 138 small towns in the United States. The rankings, by the Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, take in a number of factors, including as crime, extreme weather, risk of natural disasters, housing depreciation and life expectancy.



Showdown camping spots

You can purchase camping spaces for the 6th Annual Showdown in San Angelo Drag Boat races starting at 8:30 Wednesday morning, January 4th. The races are scheduled for June 23rd and 24th at Lake Nasworthy. Each year, the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce leases about 40 camping areas on the grassy Meadows side of the lake. Spots range from 300 to 400 dollars. For more information, contact Sandra Pomroy at the Chamber.

Genealogist to speak

A professional genealogist will present “Finding Your Ancestors in the Republic of Texas” at the next meeting of the San Angelo Genealogical and Historical Society. Teri Flack has studied genealogy at Samford University and at the National Archives in Washington, DC. The meeting will begin at 7 PM, on Tuesday, January 3rd at the Trinity Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall on YMCA Drive. It's open to the public, free of charges.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Texas Cotton Crop Taking A Hit

The Texas cotton crop took a beating this year because of the prolonged drought. Now, word that the state's entire cotton industry is in a slump. One indicator: The Cotton Classing Offices, which normally hire dozens of people each to sort through cotton and push it through a machine to determine its quality. Quantities of incoming cotton to test have been so low that many fewer workers were hired this year. Some industry experts saying the Texas cotton crop is down by as much as 75 percent this year, many saying it's the worst cotton season in over thirty years.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Phishing scam

They call it phishing but there's no rod and reel involved. San Angelo police have issued a warning about a possible phone scam. They've been getting reports from people who say they received an automated message on their phones where the caller says he's from a local bank. He claims that the account holder's debit card has been suspended. If you receive such a call, do not provide any personal information.


Local man arrested for Midland crime

A San Angelo man was arrested here last Thursday and is now jailed in Midland County. On November 18th, 28-year-old Kevin Duane Thorp allegedly asked an 85-year-old woman for directions as she waited at a stop sign in Midland. Thorp then allegedly put a pistol in the woman's face, took her purse and left in a pickup. He's charged with aggravated robbery.


SA Man Charged In Robbery Of 85-Year-Old Woman

A San Angelo man arrested in the armed robbery of an 85-year-old woman. Police in Midland say 28-year-old Kevin Thorp is accused of robbing the woman at a stop sign in Midland in November. Officers say Thorp first asked the woman for directions, then pointed a hand gun at her and stole her purse. He's in jail in Midland today.

Robert Lee still boiling

That boil-water notice continues for residents of Robert Lee. The water main break that occurred over the weekend was repaired Monday and the water is back on. However, city officials are still waiting for test results on water samples. So, in the meantime, boil any water to be used for drinking, cooking or making ice.



TCG fireworks OK

If you want to bring in the New Year with fireworks in Tom Green County, it's allowed. County commissioners decided not to ban the activity, given the area's recent moisture. However, lighting any kind of fireworks is NOT allowed with the city limits of San Angelo.


Target practice OK

A Dove Creek landowner has gotten the OK to combine two five-acre tracts of land for the purpose of conducting target practice. Tom Green County Commissioners, acting on the advice of attorneys, approved the request from Corby Maskill, despite protests from his neighbors who are concerned about the safety of guns being shot.


Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Hydraulic fracturing rules

The Texas Railroad Commission on Tuesday adopted one of the nation’s most comprehensive chemical disclosure rules for hydraulic fracturing chemicals. The rule will require Texas oil and gas operators to disclose on a national public website all the ingredients and water volumes used to hydraulically fracture wells in Texas.

New ASU positions

Angelo State University is creating two new positions this month designed to enhance coordination and communication between the university and the ASU Alumni Association. The two positions--executive director and office manager for the association --will report to the ASU Office of Development and Dr. Jason Penry, whose title will be expanded to vice president for development and alumni relations.

Schools report

The San Angelo Independent School District has gotten a good report card from the state. A report from the Texas Education Agency was presented to the school board Monday. It shows that students' scores are improving on the TAKS test as well as the SAT and ACT college entrance exams. And fewer students are dropping out.



Monday, December 12, 2011

Robert Lee water

Residents in Robert Lee have their water back as crews worked to locate and repair a leak in a water main line under Highway 208. Classes are expected to resume today in Robert Lee ISD schools, which were closed Monday because of the leak. Residents are still under a boil-water order until further notice.


Nutcracker tix available

Tickets are still available for The San Angelo Civic Ballet's 2011 performance of The Nutcracker. It opens this Friday and runs for four performances through Sunday, December 18th. All performances will take place at Lake View High School Auditorium. You can purchase tickets to The Nutcracker at the Civic Ballet office located at 15 West Beauregard or online at san-angelo-civic- ballet-dot-org.


Four County School Districts Join Suit Against State

Four Tom Green County school districts have now joined in that lawsuit against the state over school funding. School boards in San Angelo, Water Valley and Grape Creek have joined Cristoval in suing the state over what they claim are unfair funding practices. The school districts participating in the Texas Taxpayer and Student Fairness Coalition say some districts receive thousands of dollars more per student than others -- and they want those inequities explained and changed.

School Board To Vote On Redistricting Map

The San Angelo Independent School District Board will vote tonight on a new redistricting map. While many school districts in Texas have battled over various versions of redistricting maps, there's only one under consideration in San Angelo. The map addresses population growth in the district by making adjustments to the single member districts of the six board members elected by district. The map does not deal with school zones or boundaries for campuses.It's important that a vote come soon because the map must be reviewed and approved by the U-S Department of Justice -- along with redistricting maps from every other state -- and that could take up to ninety days.

Democratic Candidates File

Another candidate has field to run for Tom Green County Sheriff. This time, it's Democrat Walter Bryant. He'll run for nomination in the March primary, hoping to face off against a Republican. That field currently led by Sheriff's Captain Steve Mild. In another filing, Jesse Martinez has filed to run for the District One seat on the Tom Green County Commission. Martinez also a Democrat. Thursday is the last day candidates can file for the March primaries.

Robert Lee school canceled

Classes are canceled today for the Robert Lee Independent School District. That's because of a water main breaks in the city. Robert Lee residents are also under a boil water notice; all water used for drinking, cooking and making ice should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption.


Music and art fundraiser

You can help out music and art education in San Angelo ISD schools this week. The Angelo Canvas Project gets underway tomorrow evening and continues through Thursday evening. A five-by-eight canvas will be erected inside Sealy Flats, on which local artists have each painted one square foot. This week, you can buy one or more of the other squares to paint at 25 dollars each. When it's done, the entire canvas will be auctioned off--again to benefit music and art in San Angelo schools.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Democratic candidates

Two Democrats filed for office in Tom Green County last week. Walter Bryant is running for sheriff and Jesse Martinez is a candidate for county commissioner in Precinct One. Thursday is the deadline for candidates to file for the primaries, which are scheduled for March 15th.

Financing options seminar

If you're looking to fund a business start-up or expansion, the ASU Small Business Development Center has a free seminar for you. "Financing Options: How to Find Funding for Your Business" is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon from 4 to 6:30 at the ASU Campus in the Rassman Building. You can sign up at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-e-d-u.

Congressional candidate

District 11 Republican Congressman Mike Conaway is facing a challenge from within his own party. Chris Younts, a partner at Younts Insurance Agency in San Angelo, filed last week for a place on the ballot. In a statement, Younts called Conaway "out of touch" and said "enough is enough, it is time to make a change."



Friday, December 9, 2011

Drought Conditions Lessen

Less than half of Texas remains in the so-called Exceptional Drought stage following rain in several areas of the state recently. The U-S Drought Monitor Map shows forty-three percent of the state is still in the Exceptional Drought stage -- but that's well down from the nearly eighty-eight percent of the state that was in that classification in October.

Still in Missouri

Last week, San Angelo police announced an arrest in a three-year-old murder case. 43-year-old James Owen Winchester was arrested by police in Joplin, Missouri. Winchester is accused of murdering Kim Burton at a residence in the 33-hundred block of Cornell Street in March of 2008. He is awaiting extradition back to San Angelo. In Joplin Thursday, Winchester appeared for an extradition hearing. The judge appointed a defense attorney and scheduled another hearing a week from today.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Second Saturday

Shannon's Healthier Choice program and H-E-B present Second Saturday Cooking Connection. Participants can learn about healthy meals, perfect portions and well-balanced diets for diabetics and those at risk for diabetes. It happens tomorrow from 10 AM to 12 noon at H-E-B on Sherwood Way. There is no cost to attend Cooking Connection.

Minor Texas Earthquake

Texas has had another minor earthquake. The U.S. Geological Survey says the 2.7 magnitude earthquake happened at 4:54 p.m. Wednesday and was centered 16 miles east-northeast of Cleburne. No damage or injuries were immediately reported. USGS says the last earthquake in Texas happened Nov. 24. The 3.0 magnitude quake was centered 17 miles north-northeast of Snyder, in West Texas. A rare South Texas earthquake with a 4.8 magnitude happened Oct. 20, centered 37 miles northwest of Beeville. Nobody was hurt and no major damage was reported.

Central TexasGun Battle Wounds Deputy, Kills Suspect

A man is dead and two deputies were wounded after a domestic disturbance call to a home near a central Texas lake climaxed in a shootout.
Hill County Sheriff Jeffrey Lyon said a deputy approached the home at Lake Whitney when an armed man emerged and opened fire, wounding the deputy in the shoulder.The man returned to the house and barricaded himself with his ex-wife inside. The woman escaped, and another deputy approached to make contact. The man said he'd come out shooting and did, wounding the deputy in the leg before return fire took the suspect down.

Anti-Kid Smoking Group Blasts Texas Efforts

A group that targets smoking among teens is blasting Texas' use of funds in smoking-prevention programs. The group Campaign For Tobacco-Free Kids says that while the Lone Star State collects almost two billion dollars a year from cigarette taxes and its settlement with big tobacco manufacturers, only about five-and-a-half million gets spent on programs to prevent youth smoking. That, says the group, amounts to less than a penny per year per child in Texas. The group ranking Texas 39th among states in spending for smoking cessation programs for youth.

Road renamed for veterans

A stretch of roadway was officially renamed on Wednesday, Pearl Harbor Day, in honor of the thousands of local military veterans who have given their all in service to the country. A special dedication ceremony was held at Kids Kingdom Park. Veterans and officials from Goodfellow Air Force Base, along with San Angelo and Tom Green County officials, were on hand as more than two miles of River Drive was renamed Veterans Memorial Drive.


Wednesday, December 7, 2011

State Parks Hard Hit, Need Help

Texas Parks and Wildlife is sending out an S.O.S message to the public. They need your help to keep state parks across Texas operating as the department faces a $4.6 million budget gap.Texas state parks attract millions of visitors annually, but this year was different. The prolonged drought and many wildfires significantly reduced visitor levels at many park,s which rely heavily on visitor fees which make up nearly half of their $69 million operating budget.

Indicted For Stealing From Non-Profit Organization

A San Angelo woman has been indicted on charges she stole money from the non-profit organization where she worked. Court records show 44-year-old Angela Clayton was indicted by a Tom Green County grand jury for stealing between twenty and a hundred-thousand dollars from Samaritan Counseling Center, where she worked as an office manager. Police affidavits reportedly show that the center reported that 35-thousand dollars that was supposed to be deposited in 2010 and early this year disappeared. Clayton's pre-trial hearing is set for Monday.

Residential Mail Thefts Reported

Someone's stealing mail from residential mail boxes around San Angelo. Postal officials confirming at least eight areas of the city in which mail has been stolen lately. It's a federal crime and police and postal inspectors urge you to report any mail theft immediately. Also not to leave your mail, which typically increases quite a bit this time of year, sitting in your mailbox, especially if you're expecting a check of package delivery.

Mailbox thefts

Keep an eye on your mailbox. San Angelo police say they're investing several recent incidents of mailbox theft. It's happened on West Avenue L, Stanton Street, San Jacinto, Lindenwood, Nueces, West Concho and Alta Vista. Police remind you that stolen mail can lead to stolen money and/or stolen identify theft. If you know anyting about these thefts, you can remain anonymous and call Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP.


Tuesday, December 6, 2011

ADA seminar

The ASU Small Business Development Center will be hosting a free seminar for small business owners to learn about what ADA--the Americans with Disabilities Act--is, how it pertains to them, and how they can be sure to be compliant with new guidelines that will be mandatory next year. It will take place tomorrow, 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Rassman Building. Find out more at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Parks need help

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department hosted 11 news conferences at different locations across the state Tuesday, appealing to the public to visit state parks and make donations to help offset a revenue loss caused by heat, drought, wildfires and a resulting drop in park visitor revenue. That's left a four-point-six million dollar gap in the 2012 park system operating budget. Officials say they want to alert people now while there is still time to help.

No burn ban

Because recent state-wide moisture indicators are moving closer to the normal range, Tom Green County Commissioners did NOT enact a burn ban Tuesday. Residents are still reminded that if they plan a controlled burn of brush, grass, etc, to contact the Sheriff’s Dispatch Office to let them know, be cautious, check the forecast and never burn during windy conditions.


Gunfire On Amtrak Train

If you've ever ridden Amtrak's "Texas Eagle" long-distance train from San Antonio to Chicago, you know it's normally a nice, relaxing trip. Not this time. As the train was sitting at Union Station in Dallas, gunfire broke out between plain-clothes police and a passenger. Officers were searching the train when they say a passenger produced a handgun and opened fire. One passenger and a train crew member were hospitalized.

Council Okays Airport Terminal Project

Also at today's City Council meeting, a bid was approved for reconstruction of the main terminal at San Angelo Regional Airport. The five-point-nine-two-million-dollar proposal got the green light despite at least one question about why the expense is worth it, given that San Angelo is currently served by only one airline. American Eagle had cut daily flights to three before adding a fourth in August. Airport officials responded that the reconstruction is a move toward the future, when it's hoped additional air service will become available.

Council Approves Redistricting Plan

The San Angelo City Council today unanimously approved a third redistricting proposal, one that represents a compromise over distribution of the city's minority populations. Objections had been raised to earlier plans, one of which allegedly favored African-Americans and the other, Hispanics. The plan approved today was hailed by representatives of both communities as a solid compromise. The move came during a special public hearing at the Council's first meeting since it considered the two earlier proposals in November.

Hazardous weather outlook

Once again this morning, the National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a hazardous weather outlook for an area including the Concho Valley. Areas of light snow or flurries will be possible over western portions of the Concho Valley this morning. Black ice on roadways could produce icy and dangerous conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses. That's until temperatures climb above freezing, which should be around noon.


Monday, December 5, 2011

Storage Unit Arrests

Caught in the act of robbing storage units. That's what police say happened last night on South Jackson Street. A sharp-eyed San Angelo police officer on routine patrol spotted two men closing a storage unit without locking it at South Jackson Storage, then driving off in a pickup with obscured license plates. That was enough for a traffic stop. The officer noticed bolt cutters in the truck along with a number of items that could have been taken from storage units. A subsequent search confirmed that three units had been broken into and contents stolen. Officers arrested 58-year-old Erasmo Rodriguez and 41-year-old Gabriel Garcia, both of San Angelo, on burglary charges.

Hazardous weather statement

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a hazardous weather statement: SNOW OR RAIN and SNOW MIX WILL CONTINUE ACROSS MUCH OF THE CONCHO VALLEY THIS MORNING. SNOWFALL ACCUMULATIONS ARE GENERALLY EXPECTED TO REMAIN BELOW ONE INCH...WITH MOST ACCUMULATIONS OCCURRING ON EXPOSED SURFACES AND GRASSY AREAS. ICY SPOTS ON ROADWAYS WILL ALSO BE POSSIBLE. MOST OF THE PRECIPITATION SHOULD END BY MID MORNING.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

SAISD redistricting

Redistricting will be among the topics at tonight's meeting of the San Angelo school board. Members will consider a third version of a new district map, which is required following the latest U.S. Census to reflect changes in population among the six districts in the San Angelo Independent School District. The board is expected to vote on a plan next Monday, then the U.S. Justice Department has 60 days to review it.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Coat drive

The first wave of donations in the 2nd Annual Give a Coat / Share the Warmth Coat Drive was dropped off Thursday at the Salvation Army. You can donate gently used or new coats at the Dry Clean Super Center on Sherwood Way or at the Salvation Army. This drive is to help those who need a coat for the winter. They are being distributed through the Salvation Army. The drive will end on December 31st, however, Dry Clean Super Center takes clothing and coat donations year round.

Burglar sought

Tom Green County Sheriff's investigators are still looking for one of two men who tried to burglarize a welding business in Ballinger. The owner said the suspects were two men heading toward San Angelo on Highway 67 in a red Chevy Blazer. The vehicle was spotted and stopped by a sheriff's deputy. The passenger ran off but the driver was arrested. 41-year-old Jose Lewis Flores is charged with driving with an invalid license.

Stiff burglary sentence

A San Angelo man convicted of burglary is facing a very long stretch behind bars. 37-year-old Luis Martinez Granada pleaded guilty this week to burglarizing two homes. An initial charge of kidnapping was dismissed but he still received a sentence of 35 years in prison. Granada's alleged accomplice, Rachel Bradley, goes on trial in March.


Arrest in 2008 murder

San Angelo police have made an arrest in a three-year-old murder case. 43-year-old James Owen Winchester was arrested by police in Joplin, Missouri. Winchester is accused of murdering Kim Burton at a residence in the 33-hundred block of Cornell Street in March of 2008. He is awaiting extradition back to San Angelo.


Shannon groundbreaking

Shannon Clinic officially broke ground Thursday on a new and expanded location in north San Angelo. The 18-thousand square-foot facility is located in the 26-hundred block of North Bryant Avenue. It will be open seven days a week with radiology and lab services available on site. The clinic is set to open in late summer 2012.

Vandal sought

San Angelo police are investigating an act of vandalism at a local church. Someone broke several windows in a church located in the 18-hundred block of West Beauregard. If you know anything about this incident, you're encouraged to contact San Angelo police--or you can remain anonymous and call Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP.


Texas Works On Long-Range Water Plan

Texas is moving toward adopting its next five-year state water plan. The severe or extreme drought conditions that affect virtually every area of the state are moving the Texas Water Development Board to consider approving a new water plan Dec. 15 after postponing a decision at its last meeting. An adopted plan is due Jan. 5 to Gov. Rick Perry and legislative leaders. It's a look ahead to the next 50 years and is the product of work done by regional water planning groups. One major message of the new water plan, at least in the draft that's now available: Texas' population is projected to grow from its current 25 million to 46 million by 2060, and demand for water is expected to increase 22 percent during that time. However, existing water supplies are expected to decline about 10 percent.




Prison In Robbery-Kidnapping Case

A San Angelo man gets thirty-five years in prison on a pair of robbery charges. 37-year-old Luis Granado, Junior, had also been charged with kidnapping after [plice say he threatened and then kidnapped a 65-year-old woman who was housesitting one of the homes he robbed. The kidnapping charge was dropped after Granado pleaded guilty on the two curglary counts. You might remember the story, which we told you about at the time. Granado took the woman who had been housesitting to her own apartment and then ransacked it, looking for valuables. Then Granado and a female accomomplice lef the apartment to get cigarattes. Which is when the woman called police.

Power outage

Some 800 households lost power in southwest San Angelo early Wednesday morning. AEP blames an equipment malfunction at its substation in Southland Hills. Power was back on in about an hour and a half.

Plane crash kills San Angelo woman

A San Angelo woman was one of two people who died in a private plane crash in New Mexico. Her sister confirms that 30-year-old Tracy Martinez was in the single engine Cessna. Search crews found the plane's wreckage Wednesday in the foothills between Roswell and Ruidoso. The plane was registered to a pilot from Snyder named Jerry Greene. Martinez was employed in the business office at San Angelo's Community Medical Center.


Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Principal finalist

A principal who just joined the San Angelo ISD is a finalist in the Principal of the Year program of the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. Merl Brandon had served as principal of Miles High School since 1999, where he was regional Principal of the Year three times. Brandon began his duties as Central Freshman Assistant Principal on Monday.


Tree of Angels

The victims of violent crime will be honored this evening. The Tom Green Coalition Against Violence holds its Tree of Angels ceremony starting at 6:30 PM at the First United Methodist Church. You can get more information about the Coalition Against Violence by calling 325-658-8631.

Roscoe memorandum

Angelo State University has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Roscoe Independent School District and Western Texas College. The agreement will allow graduates of Roscoe Collegiate High School to seamless ly transfer and continue their education at ASU. The presidents of Angelo State and WTC and the Roscoe ISD superintendent signed the memorandum at a ceremony in Roscoe on Tuesday.

Jean Ryon to be honored

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce and members of the community will recognize Jean Ryon for her civic contributions later today. Ryon is a former City Council member who has been active in numerous civic organizations and activities in San Angelo. The event is open to the public at 2 PM at the Visitors Center Riverview Room, 418 West Avenue B.

American Airlines bankruptcy

The only commercial airline serving San Angelo announced Tuesday that it's filing for bankruptcy protection. But at Mathis Field, airport director Luis Elguezabal said the Chapter 11 filing by American Airlines will have no impact on San Angelo travelers for the time being. American Airlines operates American Eagle, which has four daily San Angelo flights--those could be reduced to three over the winter because of fewer people flying. The bankruptcy has put on hold American Airlines plans to spin off American Eagle.


Rick Perry flub

Another embarrassing flub for Rick Perry. The Texas governor and Republican presidential candidate was speaking Tuesday at a college in New Hampshire when he asked for those 21 years and older in the audience to vote for him on November 12th and those under 21 to work hard on his behalf. Perry apparently forgot that the voting age is 18 and the presidential election next year is on November 6th.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

The King and I

The San Angelo Broadway Academy Youth Theatre will open its 2011/2012 season this Christmas with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s production of The King and I, December 9th, 10th and 11th at the Coliseum. The production involves 78 students ages 8-18 from around the Concho Valley. Tickets are 10 dollars for adults and eight dollars for students 10 and under and can be purchased in advance online at s-a-broadway-academy-dot-org.

No burn ban

Once again this week, the Tom Green County Commissioners' Court has decided not to reinstate the burn ban. City-county Emergency Management Coordinator Ron Perry says indicators still have not reached the point at which a burn ban must be enacted. Perry does remind residents that if they plan a controlled burn, they should notify the Sheriff's Dispatch Office, check the forecast a day before and never burn during windy conditions.



New FLDS trial

A former FLDS member is getting a new trial. That ruling Monday from Judge Barbara Walther in the case of Wendell Neilsen. He had pleaded guilty in October to bigamy charges. Neilsen's new trial is set for January 23rd.



Symphony hiring director

Sometime in the next four months, the Board of Directors of the San Angelo Symphony is planning to hire a new executive director. If you're interested, send, fax or email your resume to the Symphony. The deadline is December 12th.

Redistricting battle

On Monday, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott and former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement asked the U.S. Supreme Court to grant an emergency stay. They want to stop the federal district court in San Antonio from imposing what they consider unlawful redistricting maps upon the State of Texas. The State’s appeal requests that the Supreme Court review the redistricting case on an expedited basis, reverse the federal district court’s decision and prohibit the district court’s interim map from being implemented.


Honor for Darby

An honor for a local state lawmaker. The Texas Association of Counties has named Representative Drew Darby a Friend of County Government for his work during the 82nd Legislative Session. TAC decided to honor Darby for a number of reasons, including his sponsorship of bills important to county and district clerks and county treasurers. It's the second time Darby has won the award.

Palmer running for DA

The First Assistant District Attorney for the 51st District has made it official. On Monday, Allison Palmer filed her application to be placed on the ballot for the office of District Attorney. Palmer has been a prosecutor in the Concho Valley for 16 years, including the last eight under current DA Steve Lupton, who has endorced Palmer to succeed him.


Monday, November 28, 2011

1 Jailed, 1 Sought In ATM Holdup Attempt

A San Angelo man charged with aggravated robbery and another being sought in a holdup at an A-T-M. Police say the suspects didn't have much of a chance as officers arrived at the Bank of America branch on Sherwood Way in about three minutes. Today, 22-year-old Dorian Lee is in the tom Green County Jail on felony robbery charges. Officers looking for a second suspect, who's described as a Black male wearing a dark jacket or sweater and armed with a handgun. Investigators say the two tried to rob two people as they were making a deposit for a local business. The robbers got nothing, however, because the money was already inside the A-T-M. No injuries reported.

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Robbery at ATM

A man was arrested Saturday night for a robbery at an ATM machine at the Bank of America on Sherwood Way. The victims told police that they had just made a deposit in the ATM when they were approached by a man with a handgun. He fled on foot and was later found in the 27-hundred block of West Harris and identified by the victims. 22-year-old Dorian Lee was transported to the Tom Green County Jail and booked for aggravated robbery.



San Angelo's Most Wanted

San Angelo`s Most Wanted this week is a fugitive sought for probation violation--engaging in organized crime, plus three warrants from Tom Green County and another from Lubbock County on various charges. 30-year-old Tanya Raquel Manning is a white female, 5-4, 200 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. He last known address was in the 1200 block of Howard Street and she was driving a 2006 white Chevy Malibu. If you know anything about Tanya Raquel Manning, call Crimestoppers at 658-HELP.

ASU space shows

Angelo State University's Global Immersion Center, formerly the Planetarium, will present three public astronomy shows during its 2011 holiday schedule beginning this Thursday. "Season of Light" will run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; "Cosmic Journey" will run Thursdays and "Stars: Powerhouses of the Universe" will run Fridays. The GIC is located in the Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building on Vanderventer Street.

Shannon award

San Angelo's own Shannon Medical Center has received the 2011 Trauma Center Award from the Texas Department of State Health Services. The award was presented in Austin at the annual EMS Conference. It honors a designated trauma facility in Texas that has demonstrated leadership and high standards in implementing injury prevention programs and providing trauma patient care to the citizens and visitors of Texas. Shannon is one of 265 designated trauma facilities in the state.

Candidate for sheriff

There's a hat in the ring for sheriff of Tom Green County. Sheriff's Captain Steve Mild will officially file his candidacy for Sheriff this morning at Republican party headquarters. The 38-year-old Mild is the first to announce for the sheriff's race, which is expected to attract several candidates. The primary election is scheduled for March 6th.


Thursday, November 24, 2011

Fatigue Major Factor In Holiday Accidents

Concho Valley law enforcement agencies are cautioning that there's a big danger to driving over the four-day Thanksgiving weekend -- and it may not be the one you think. Drunk driving, of course, is always a serious concern and often produces lethal results. But veteran police officers and troopers say fatigue is a major factor in accidents over long weekends, once that isn't often discussed. It's more of a factor on longer weekends since people tend to work longer days to get ready, then drive long distances, then drive back, all in a relatively short period of time. Officers recommend allowing more time for travel and rotating drivers to ease up on fatigue. Thanksgiving ranks as one of the deadliest times of year to be on the road. Last year, the Texas Department of Transportation reported 36 deaths from 40 fatal crashes from the Wednesday through Sunday surrounding the holiday.

Minorities Benefit In Redrawn Congressional Maps

Minorities will make up the majority of voters in three additional Texas congressional districts under a proposed redistricting map released by a federal court. The map is expected to give Democrats an advantage in the 2012 elections as they seek to win back the House. Minorities now are the majority in 10 of 32 Texas districts. The new map will raise that to 13 of 36 if the court gives the map final approval, as expected. The San Antonio-based federal court drew the maps after minority groups sued the state, contending a redistricting map drawn by the Republican-led Legislature does not reflect the growth in the state's Hispanic and black populations.



Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Eliminate Burns When Frying Turkey

If you're the kind of chef who likes to fry their Thanksgiving turkey instead of bake or roast it, the San Angelo Fire Department says you need to be careful -- really careful. Several people receive burns every Thanksgiving, some of them serious, because they don't take extra precautions when frying turkeys. The Fire Department says the most important thing to remember is, before you set the turkey into that pot of red-hot oil on the grill, turn off the flame. By turning off the flame before putting the turkey in the pot, you eliminate any chance of a flame-up due to oil spills. Concho Valley first responders say that's what causes many burns and ruins many Thanksgiving celebrations.

Donation Helps Volunteer Fire Departments

The Texas Forest Service's Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Fund is growing. The fund was started to provide money for rural fire departments whose resources were hit hard by the wave of devastating wildfires that roared through many areas of the Lone Star State over the summer and early fall. Now, the Forest Service says Land O' Lakes through its corporate foundation is donating ten thousand dollars to the fund. Volunteer fire departments were the first line of defense as wildfires hammered tens of thousands of acres for over six months.

Black Friday Comes To San Angelo

Despite some backlash against early store openings on Thanksgiving Day, retailers could see a record number of shoppers on Black Friday this year.
An estimated 152 million people are expected to shop over Black Friday weekend, up 10% from last year. Here in the Concho Valley, some retailers think Black Friday will be strong because so many stores are actually opening up tonight and that gives consumers at least six more hours to shop. Among the major big box stores, Wal-Mart will kick things off at ten o'clock tonight. Then, at the stroke of midnight, Target and Best Buy plan to open their doors. The critical shopping day generally sets the tone for consumer spending throughout the holiday season. Many retailers took a gamble by opening earlier, even though some consumers and retail workers rallied against the encroachment into Thanksgiving Day.

Holiday gas prices

Good news if you're planning to hit the road for the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend--filling up is a little cheaper. According to Triple-A, the statewide average price of regular gasoline today is three-16 a gallon, down by six cents a gallon from last week and 15 cents a gallon from one month ago. A check of gas-buddy-dot-com finds San Angelo gas prices ranging from three-09 to three-thirty a gallon.

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

ASU-Korea agreement

The presidents of Angelo State University and Sejong University in Seoul, South Korea, have signed an agreement establishing a program that will bring 100 new Korean students a year to the ASU campus to complete their undergraduate degrees. ASU President Joseph Rallo and Sejong President Woo-Hee Park signed the agreement in Seoul earlier this month for the program that will begin in the spring of 2012.

Shannon groundbreaking

Shannon Clinic will mark the groundbreaking of its new and expanded location in north San Angelo with a special ceremony next week. The 18-thousand square-foot facility will be open seven days a week with radiology and lab services available on site. The clinic is set to open in late summer 2012. The public is invited to the groundbreaking next Thursday, December 1st at 10 AM in the 2600 block of North Bryant Avenue.




Buy local

As you do your holiday shopping, the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce is reminding you to buy local. Chamber officials say that when you shop locally, you're supporting business, adding to the tax base and expanding long-term shopping opportunities for area residents. They add that more than 50 percent of dollars spent locally remain in the San Angelo economy to multiply, create jobs and support commerce.

Still no burn ban

According to City-County Emergency Management Coodinator Ron Perry, indicators in Tom Green County have not yet reached the point at which a burn ban is required. Based on that information, county commissioners did not reinstate the ban on burning. However, commissioners again remind you that if you do plan a controlled burn of brush, grass or the like, contact the Sheriff's Dispatch Office to let them know in advance, check the forecast the day before a burn and never burn during windy conditions.

School Trustees Table Redistricting Map

Trustees of the San Angelo Independent School District are checking out the latest in a series of redistricting maps required following the 2010 census. This one, known as Plan 6-C, addresses concerns about growth in The Bluffs neighborhood and other changes to the city's population since the 2000 Census. Other questions remain,m however, and the board decided to table the map for further study. Trustees have until December to meet the deadline to submit the map to the Justice Department for approval.


County Powers Cristoval Park Cameras

Concerns about criminal activity at a Cristoval park have led to the approval of security video surveillance there. Tom Green County will provide power for video cameras that will keep an eye on Pugh Park along the South Concho River. Area residents said they've been concerned about criminal mischief including drug dealing at Pugh Park and raised the four thousand dollars needed for the video system. An effort to power it with solar energy proved too costly so the county has now agreed to provide the power.

School board meeting

The San Angelo ISD school board meets in regular session this evening and will consider joining with other Texas districts in suing the state because of inequality oin state funding. The board will also discuss the redrawing of school district boundary lines based on population increases and shifts. The meeting starts at 5:30 at the district administration builidng.


Highway 67 wrecks

A wreck and then another wreck on US Highway 67 west of San Angelo Monday morning. Authorities say 31-year-old Kristin Steven Ballard was driving a truck from the Rocker B Ranch near Mertzon to San Angelo when he missed a curve, hit a guardrail and struck some mesquite trees. Ballard was injured. Later, the driver of a pickup, apparently distracted by the accident scene, drove off the highway and roared his vehicle. He was cited for speeding.


Monday, November 21, 2011

Free concert

There's a free concert tonight: Angelo State University Chorale and members of the Midland and San Angelo Symphonies are set to perform Brahms' German
Requiem. Austin soprano Janeene Williams and San Angelo baritone, Dr. Scott Raines, will be the featured soloists. The performance will be conducted by Dr. Pamela Lee, director of choral activities at ASU. That's at 7:30 in the McNease Convention Center at 500 Rio Concho Drive.

Free computer classes

The Stephens Central Library will offer free computer classes in December. Registration is required and is now underway. All computer classes are located in the computer lab on the second floor of the library at 33 West Beauregard. A calendar of scheduled classes is available to view on the Tom Green County Library website, t-g-c-library-dot-com.

Hunn Drowning Ruled Accidental

An autopsy has ruled out foul play in the death of a San Angelo man whose body was discovered at Lake Nasworthy back in July. INvestigators now say there's no sign of foul play in the death of 22-year-old Kenneth Hunn, whose body was found floating near a retaining wall at the lake on the last Sunday in July. At the time, the death had been ruled "questionable". Detectives now say nothing has come in to prove it was anything other than an accidental drowning.

Semi Driver Injured In Tankersley Wreck

A semi crash near San Angelo this morning traps the driver -- and another crash happens at the same site while rescue workers try to free him. Reports say 31-year-old trucker driver Kristin Ballard of Winters was hauling water to a local ranch when his tractor-trailer rig went off the road on U-S 67 South near Tankersley around three o'clock this morning. Ballard reported dazed but conscious. Rescue crews say he was trapped in the crushed cab of his rig for over half an hour before they could free him. Authorities credit a van full of truckers heading for an oil drilling site with spotting the wreckage in a mesquite thicket. While rescue workers were prying Ballard out of the wreckage, a pickup heading the same direction lost control, hit a guardrail and flipped onto its side. The driver reportedly climbed out uninjured.

Goodfellow Day

Goodfellow Air Force Base said its annual thank you to the San Angelo area this weekend with Community Appreciation Day. The base was open to the public for activities including demonstrations of martial arts and drills. And you could get a head start on your holiday shopping with Santa's Market, more than 150 tables of handmade arts and crafts.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Turkeys for donors

The holiday season is a time of year when blood is needed more than ever. Now through Wednesday, United Blood Services of San Angelo is offering those who donate a free frozen turkey in time for Thanksgiving. UBS is located at 2020 West Beauregard Avenue and will also be holding a mobile blood drive tomorrow at Community Medical Center from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. To schedule an appointment, call 223-7500 or go online at united-blood-services-dot-org.

Young Professionals of San Angelo

If you're interested in joining the Young Professionals of San Angelo in the coming year, you're invited to attend the 3rd Annual YPSA Christmas Party. The organization's mission is to provide networking and professional development opportunities to young professionals of San Angelo. The party is coming up Friday, December 9th at 7 PM at Vino Dipinte on Orient Street and RSVP is required. For more info, contact jessica-at-y-p-san-angelo-dot-org.

ASU Nursing Grant

Angelo State University's Department of Nursing has been awarded a 117-thousand dollar grant from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for increasing the number of ASU nursing graduates. For the 2011 academic year, ASU graduated 221 students through its various nursing programs, up from 176 in academic year 2010. Among the 40 non-health related institutions receiving awards, ASU posted the fifth-largest increase in 2011 nursing graduates

San Angelo's Most Wanted

San Angelo's Most Wanted this week is a fugitive sought for Probation Violation for felony forgery of a financial instrument. 19-year-old Tiffany Roxanne Rines, also known as "Bonnie Blue," is 5-2, 130 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. She has a tattoo on her back and wears glasses at times. Her last known address was in the 2000 block of Colorado. If you know anything about Tiffany Roxanne Rines, you're encouraged to call CrimeStoppers at 658-HELP.


Friday, November 18, 2011

Goodfellow AFB thanks the community for a good year

Goodfellow Air Force Base opens up tomorrow to say thanks to the community on Community Appreciation day. The base thanks the public for the support this year, including invitations to parades, special dinners and other civic events. Saturday the base will open its gates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a chance for the public to eat, shop and watch demonstrations from the men and women on base. Children can even have photos taken with Santa between 1 and 3.



Thursday, November 17, 2011

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark nationally recognized

An honor for Fort Concho National Historic Landmark. It's been declared the “Best Preserved Fort” by the readers of True West magazine, which is the oldest true western magazine. Publishing began in 1953. The magazine conducted an online poll, and readers picked Fort Concho as the most well-preserved fort in the country. The landmark will receive its recognition in True West’s special 2012 edition that will cover the “Best of the West” in various categories.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Hidden in Plain Sight

In an effort to help the community, especially parents, take a proactive approach to addressing substance abuse; Oasis Baptist Church is hosting Hidden in Plain Sight: What Every Parent Needs to Know Now this evening. The church is at the corner of Bowie and 38th Streets in San Angelo. This event is free and open to the public.

ASU holiday concert

Angelo State University's Concert and Community Chorales will perform Brahms' "A German Requiem" for its annual Holiday Concert. The singers will be joined by members of the Midland and San Angelo symphonies. That's next Tuesday in the McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. and is open free to the public.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Attorney indicted

A grand jury in Nolan County has indicted a longtime Sweetwater attorney. John Young is charged with aggravated assault for allegedly pointing a nine millimeter handgun at a Sweetwater police officer. Police say Young was intoxicated at the time of the incident on June 12th. Officers got the gun away from him after a struggle.



Trials underway

A couple of trials are underway at the Tom Green County Courthouse. A San Angelo man is charged with attempted capital murder and aggravated assault on a public servant. In May of last year, 24-year-old Richard Dennis allegedly got out of his car after a chase through the city and shot a police officer. The officer was wearing a bulletproof vest and was not seriously injured. And a Christoval man is accused of attacking real estate agent Brenda Jackson after a home invasion in October of 2010. 25-year-old Abram Clark is charged with aggravated robbery.




Give a Coat Drive

The 2nd Annual Give a Coat / Share the Warmth Coat Drive is underway. You can donate gently used or new coats at the Dry Clean Super Center located on Sherwood Way or at the Salvation Army. This drive is to help those who may need a coat this season and they will be distributed through the Salvation Army. The drive will end on December 31st, however, Dry Clean Super Center takes clothing and coat donations year round.

No TGC burn ban

This morning, City-County emergency Management Coordinator, Ron Perry, informed the Tom Green County Commissioners’ Court that indicators have not yet reached the point in which a burn ban is required. Based on that information, NO burn ban was enacted. However, The Court has a few reminders for citizens planning a controlled or monitored burn of brush, grass, etc. One, contact the Sheriff’s Dispatch Office (655-8111) to let them know about the planned burn. Two, be cautious, check the forecast the day before a planned burn. And, three, Never burn during windy conditions.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Most Wanted fugitives caught

This week's San Angelo's Most Wanted is no longer at large. 41-year-old Rubin Hilario Moreno was wanted on a parole violaton and charges including aggravated sexual assault of a child. A police investigation led to Moreno being arrested during a traffic stop. By the way, Inez Cisnero Delacruz, who was arrested after a standoff last Thursday night, was also a former San Angelo's Most Wanted.

Business Plan seminars

If you have a new or growing business, a strong business plan is essential. The ASU Small Business Development Center is conducting two free seminars on that topic this week. "How to Write Your Business Plan" is this evening and "Business Plan Financials" is tomorrow evening. Both are held from 6 to 8:30 PM in the Rassman Building on the Angelo State Campus. You can register at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

ASU Turkey Trot

Angelo State University's ASUFit fitness and wellness program will host its fourth annual Turkey Trot free to the public this Saturday at 10 AM. Registration will take place from 8:30 to 9:45 in front of the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. Races will include a 5K run, a one-point-five mile fitness walk and two children's categories. As always, awards for the 5K race will be pumpkin pies.

Robert Lee water notice

A notice for residents of Robert Lee. Due to reduced pressure resulting from a water main break, the Texas Commission on Environmental has required the City of Robert Lee’s Water Treatment Plant to notify all customers to boil their water prior to consumption. To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and for making ice should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes. In lieu of boiling, you may purchase bottled water or obtain water from some other suitable source.


Thursday, November 10, 2011

CAC trial postponed

The trial of the former director of the Children's Advocacy Center of Concho Valley has been postponed. Debra Brown was originally scheduled to stand trial starting yesterday but a federal judge has rescheduled the proceedings for February 6th. Brown is accused of stealing more than 237-thousand dollars from the CAC.


Wednesday, November 9, 2011

New retailer in San Angelo

Just in time for the holiday shopping season, a brand new retailer is opening its doors in San Angelo. Marshall's is holding its grand opening this morning at the site of the former Old Navy Store at Sunset Mall. The store manager says they'll be giving away free shopping bags to the first 500 customers. Marshall's features women's, men's and children's clothing, plus home merchandise.


Fashion Falloout

Angelo State University will host a “Fashion Fallout” business fashion show next Tuesday in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The show will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will feature ASU students, faculty and staff modeling business casual and professional fashions. It is designed primarily to help students dress for success after they graduat. Sponsored by the ASU Career Development Office and Dillard's, the show is open free to the public.

Tool Box Bash

Habitat for Humanity of San Angelo presents the annual Tool Box Bash today. The organization's sponsoring partners come together each year to help Habitat with its mission to build simple, decent, affordable homes for families. Today, it's a groundbreaking and wallraising for a new home at 708 North Adams Street for Lucy Gomez and her three children. Lucy will complete the required 300 hours of “sweat equity” and several homeowner education classes before signing the closing documents on her new home in the spring.


Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Shannon open house

Shannon's orthopedic physicians as well as sports medicine and outpatient physical therapy services are now accessible in one location at the new Shannon Orthopedics Center. The Center exists to provide a comfortable, easily-accessible atmosphere for Shannon's orthopedic, sports medicine and physical therapy patients in the Concho Valley.The public is invited to attend an open house at the Center, located inside Shannon Southwest Clinic, 4450 Sunset, next Tuesday from 4 to 6 PM..

Still no TGC burn ban

The Tom Green County Commissioners’ Court did NOT reinstate a Burn Ban Tuesday morning, based on recommendation from the City-County Emergency Management Coordinator. Ron Perry based his recommendation on the moisture received throughout much of Tom Green County Monday night as well as current Forest Service indicators.


Library award

Stephens Central Library of Tom Green County hasn't been open very long, but it's already an award winner. The Library has been named a winner in the Best Renovation/Rehabilitation category of the 2011 Texas Downtown Association Presidents Awards Program. The award recognizes excellence in rehabilitation of the interior or exterior of an existing building. Judges thought the renovation transformed the building into a wonderful asset for downtown that welcomed library visitors.

Diversity Awards

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce held its 13th annual Diversity Awards Luncheon on Tuesday. Three local business owners were honored at the McNease Convention Center including Joe Ramos, owner of Tejas Manufacturing, Beth and Michael Martinez, owners of Dress it Up, The Venue and Horizon Signs and Branding and A.L Harrington, owner of Holiday Cleaners.

Jessop gets maximum sentence

A former FLDS bishop got the maximum sentence allowed from a Coke County jury Tuesday. 75-year-old Frederick Merril Jessop had been convicted the day before of performing an illegal marriage between FLDS leader Warren Jeffs and a 12-year-old girl. Jessop was sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined 10-thousand dollars.

Election Day Today

Election day in the Concho Valley and just about everywhere, the only decisions voters are making are Yes or No. Those are the options available for the ten 10 propositions on the ballot. All are state constitutional amendments on a variety of changes to law that must be ratified by a popular vote to take effect. The choices for each proposition are "Yes" or "No." Polls open until seven o'clock this evening through the Valley.

Civilian Air Force Layoffs Hit Goodfellow

Fears that a recent wave of cutbacks in civilian workers at U-S air bases would affect Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo have become reality. The Air Force today says that about fifty of Goodfellow's seven hundred civilian employees will be let go under a major belt-tightening by the armed forces. Across Texas, military installations from all branches of the service are reportedly losing 358 civilian positions. Last week the Air Force announced the elimination of about 9,000 jobs to keep the civilian workforce from growing above 2010 levels and to allow the addition of the top-priority positions in other areas, according to the Department of Defense.

Jessop Trial In Penalty Phase

The former polygamist sect bishop who's been found guilty of marrying a 12-year-old girl to 50-year-old sect leader Warren Jeffs is now in the penalty phase of his trial in Robert Lee. Testimony today in the trial of 75-year-old Frederick Jessop today brought out that he participated in marriage ceremonies involving 16 underage girls and had more than 20 wives himself. An attorney general's investigator testified this morning that several marriage ceremonies involving both Jeffs and Jessop occurred when Jeffs was a fugitive on the FBI's 10 Most Wanted list.

FLDS Bishop convicted

A former FLDS bishop has been found guilty in Coke County. A jury on Monday convicted Frederick Merril Jessop of conducting an unlawful marriage between FLDS leader Warren Jeffs and a 12-year-old girl. Jessop's trial continues today with the punishment phase. He could get two to 10 years in prison.




Monday, November 7, 2011

Oyster recall

A recall is in effect for frozen oysters sold in Texas grocery stores. The Food and Drug Administration says certain ASSI Brand frozen shucked oysters in three-pound bags are tainted by norovirus, a virus that causes gastroenteritis.

EAS test tomorrow

Local emergency management authorities remind you that a first-ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System will take place this Wednesday at 1 PM. At that time, virtually all broadcast and cable programming in the United States will be interrupted at the same time with the standard emergency tone and message. But, don't be alarmed--like they say, this is only a test.

Habitat ReStore

If you're looking to do some home improvements, save some money and help a good cause, you might want to check out Habitat for Humanity's Warehouse ReStore this Saturday morning. Just five dollars for doors, windows, commodes, light fixtures and large blinds. Mini blinds just a dollar and paint, just one dollar a gallon. The Habitat for Humanity Warehouse ReStore will be open to the public on Saturday morning from 8:30 to 11:30. It's located at 401 North Chadbourne Street.

Election day

It's too late to vote early but you can still vote on time today--election day. Polls are open from 7 AM to 7 PM with a statewide ballot consisting of 10 proposed amendments to the Texas Consitution. Early voting ran from October 24th through November 4th and, in the state's 15 most populous counties, more than 167-thousand registered voters cast a ballot.


Oklahoma Quake Aftershocks Reach West Texas

Reports coming in today that that earthquake that rumbled through Oklahoma on Saturday was even felt in parts of west Texas. The Magnitude five-point-six quake was the strongest ever recorded in Oklahoma and reports say as many as ten aftershocks were felt all the way down in western Texas. No damage or injuries reported in the Lone Star State. And more may arrive. The U-S Geological Survey says aftershocks will likely continue for several days and could continue for months.

New Leader At Central Freshman Campus

The San Angelo School District's Central Freshman Campus has a new number two. Merle Brandon will take over as assistant principal later this month. Brandon has been principal of Miles High School since 1999. He's been named Region Fifteen Principal of the Year three times including this year and is also enrolled in the Educational Leadership doctoral program at Texas Tech.

Election Day Tomorrow

About a thousand of TOm Green County's 58-thousand registered voters took advantage of early voting. It closed Friday. Election day is tomorrow, or maybe it should be called yes-or-no day. That's because the ballot will contain ten propositions and constitutional amendments, each of which will be decided by a Yes or No vote. Polls in Tom Green County will be open from seven until seven tomorrow.

Constable candidate

Another hat in the ring for Princinct Four Constable. 45-year-old Thomas Delgado, a Tom Green County Mental Health Deputy, says he's running in order to give back to the community. Delgado has been a deputy since 2010. He graduated from Central High School and went to Angelo State University.


Sunday, November 6, 2011

Winter Weather Awareness Day

This Thursday is Winter Weather Awareness Day in Texas, as designated by the National Weather Service, the state Division of Emergency Management and the state Department of Public Safety. Residents are reminded that parts of West Central Texas have been crippled by blizzards the past two years. You are encouraged to have a plan of action: prepare before a winter storm, check the forecast before traveling, monitor temperatures, travel according to highway conditions and have a way to receive warnings.

Doing Biz with Government

If you have a small business, there's a good chance you have goods or services of use to local, state and federal agencies. Find out more at the "How to do Business with the Government" forum, hosted by the Angelo State University Small Business Development Center. The free event takes place Thursday, 9 AM to noon at the West Texas Training Center on North US Highway 67. You can register online at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Facebook and Twitter Bootcamp

You can learn how to use social media in your business at a workshop called "Facebook and Twitter Bootcamp," presented by the Angelo State University Small Business Development Center. It will be Wednesday from 3 to 5:30 PM at the Rassman Building. Cost is 50 dollars per person. You can register online at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Congressman Conaway Endorses Perry Bid

San Angelo Congressman Mike Conaway says he's backing Governor Rick Perry's bid for President. Conaway's endorsement means that two of the three West Texas congressmen now support Perry. Only representative Mac Thornberry remains undeclared.

Last Day For Early Voting

Last day of early voting for next Tuesday's election. A number of constitutional propositions on the ballot. Just under nine hundred people have filed early ballots at last report. You can vote today until seven at the Keyes Building on Beauregard Avenue in San Angelo.

District Attorney To Step Down

The Concho Valley will have a new district attorney. Steve Lupton says he will step down after fifteen years as 51st District Attorney when his current term expires on December 31st, 2012. With Lupton's announcement, first assistant district attorney Allison Palmer announced that she will run for the position. Palmer has served in her current post for eight years and was an attorney in the D-A's office the previous eight years. Lupton is serving his fourth term as District 51's chief prosecutor.

Veterans Day Parade Tomorrow

San Angelo's annual Veterans Day Parade kicks off tomorrow. As always, it's held on the Saturday before Veterans Day and kicks off a week of salutes to Concho Valley veterans and current military personnel. More than a hundred entries will participate in this year's parade, which includes twenty new ones. Grand Marshal is Colonel Mark Damiano, C-O of Goodfellow Air Force Base and the 17th Training Wing. Among many floats will ones reflecting the 175th anniversary of the Texas Revolution and the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. More than five hundred active members of the military are set to march, too, and the Marines will be collecting toys for their annual Toys For Tots campaign. San Angelo's Veterans Day Parade is tomorrow morning at eleven in downtown San Angelo.

Freeze warning

A freeze warning is in effect this morning for all of West Central Texas, including all of the Concho Valley. The National Weather Service says sub-freezing temperatures are expected with a hard freeze in low-lying areas and river valleys. Most areas will see low temperatures between 28 and 32 degrees but a few locations might drop to the 22 to 25 degree range.


Thursday, November 3, 2011

Conaway endorses Perry

San Angelo Congressman Mike Conaway has announced which candidate he's supporting for the Republican presidential nomination. Conaway says as long as Governor Rick Perry--quote--"is in, trying to get this job, then I'll be on his list." The congressman points to Perry's 11 years' experience as governor and his ability to campaign, saying "He's one hardworking dude when it comes to campaigning."

Red Dirt Roundup

Angelo State University will host its sixth annual Red Dirt Roundup this evening. The southwestern-themed event is open free to the public. Activities will include live music, a mechanical bull, a chili cook-off, a roving fiddler, roping lessons, decorting your own bandana and an appearance by the ASU mascot, Dominic. The Red Dirt Round up begins at 7 PM in the courtyard of ASU's Centennial Village residence hall on W Avenue North.

Early voting ends today

Today is your final chance to vote early in the state's constitutional amendment election. You can get more information on the 10 proposed amendments, plus voting locations if you decide to go to the polls on Tuesday, at vote-texas--that's v-o-texas-dot-org.

D.A. not seeking re-election

The man who has served as District Attorney for the 51st Judicial District for 15 years is going to step down at the end of his fourth and current term. Stephen Lupton announcing Thursday that he will not seek re-election next year as the D.A. for Tom Green, Coke, Irion, Schleicher and Sterling counties. Lupton says he'll continue practicing as an attorney. He has also endorsed First Assistant District Attorney Allison Palmer as a candidate to replace him.


Discover ASU

One week from tomorrow, it's "Discover ASU," a day of activities at Angelo State University to help high school students and their families learn about educational opportunities and campus life at the university. The day will include information sessions, campus tours and lunch--plus free admission to events such as the football game between Angelo State and Tarleton State at San Angelo Stadium. You can find out more about Discover ASU and register at angelo-dot-e-d-u-slash-events.

Early voting--one more day

Tomorrow will be your final chance to vote early in the state's constitutional amendment election. You can get more information on those amendments, plus voting locations if you go to the polls on Tuesday, at vote-texas--that's v-o-texas-dot-org.

Dyess AFB Cuts Civilian Workforce

The latest in a series of budget cuts by the Department of Defense may cost up to 49 civilian workers at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene their jobs. The workers are being laid off in response to a directive from the Secretary of Defense to stop civilian growth above fiscal year 2010 levels. The Air Force reduced allocations at Dyess AFB by 49 positions, but that doesn’t directly translate into people. The number of civilians that may be affected is unknown at this time. No word so far.on whether such cuts in the civilian workforce will happen at Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo.

Early Voting Ends Friday

Tomorrow is the last day to cast an early ballot for next Tuesday's election. Among ten propositions on the ballot are Prop 2, which would allow the Texas Water Development Board to issue additional bonds for water projects, and Prop 3, which would allow the State Higher Education Coordinating Board to continually issue bonds to fund college student loans. Proposition 8 is another high-profile ballot item that would allow for lower property tax valuations based on water stewardship, similar to the appraisals allowed for agriculture and wildlife management. A landowner already must qualify for the agriculture valuation to get the water designation. Early voting available at the Edd Keyes Building in downtown San Angelo until seven o'clock tomorrow night.



Freeze warning

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a freeze warning for all of West Central Texas, including all of the Concho Valley. The warning will be in effect from 1 AM to 9 AM tomorrow. Most areas will see low temperatures between 28 and 32 degrees but a few locations might see lows in the mid 20's. These temperatures will kill unprotected sensitive vegetation.


Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Prowler sought

San Angelo Police are looking for a prowler in the southwest part of the city. There have been recent reports of a prowler and suspicious activity in the 27-hundred block of Oak Hills Trail. If you have any information about this, call San Angelo Police or, remain anonymous and call Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP.


Diversity Awards

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Diversity Awards Luncheon at the McNease Convention Center next Tuesday at 11:30 AM .
Honored will be three local organizations whose owners or managers have demonstrated a spirit of achievement and ethnic or gender diversity. Judge Sam Medina of Lubbock will be the featured speaker. Reservations for the luncheon may be made by contacting Lara Coleman at the Chamber.

Lunch and Learn

The Concho Valley C.A.R.E.S. Coalition will host their next Lunch and Learn next Wednesday at noon at River Crest Hospital located on Hunters Glen Rd in San Angelo. Trooper Shawn Baxter and Retha Fortenberry, from the Texas Department of Public Safety and Standard Sales, will join the coalition to discuss holiday driving and social hosting safety tips. For more information, go online to c-v-cares-dot-org.