Afternoon sports headlines

It's a big weekend for Angelo State baseball, looking for a playoff spot. The Rams are in sixth place now and the top six teams make the playoffs. They're playing Cameron in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Lake View is in Stephenville tonight for the opening round of the Class 4A State Softball Playoffs. The Maidens will take on Burleson at 8 o'clock.

The Rangers are on the west coast tonight at the A's, and the Astros host the Brewers.

The Spurs made it a series with a win over the Grizzlies Wednesday. San Antonio still trails 3 games to 3, with game 6 tonight.

Fun Saturday Events

Tomorrow morning, the Concho Kennel Club hosts the People and Pooch Dog Walk at San Angelo State Park's South Entrance at 9 a-m. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is a high heeled charity run that starts at 10 o'clock at the Tome Green County Courthouse. Hoops for Hunger starts at Kirby Park at nine. And, the Day of the Woman Expo is at Angelo State University.

Free Credit Monitoring from Comptroller's Office

Texas Comptroller Susan Combs has personally apologized for the data security lapse by her agency, that exposed personal information of three point five million Texans for over a year. She announced there is free credit monitoring for anyone affected. Enrollment for the service is now open at 877-219-1189 (or txfreecredit.csidentity.com)

House Approves Redistricting Map, Darby's District Grows

The redistricting map that won approval from the Texas House this week expands San Angelo’s district from four to nine counties. West Texas will lose one seat. Next the Senate will vote.

New Wildfire Forces Evacuations of Reece Road

The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Department is evacuating around the Reece Road subdivision, south of San Angelo, as a new wild fire has broken out in a bar ditch on U-S 2-77 from Airport Road to Ridge Lane. Bulldozers have been working to cut fire breaks south of the blaze.
The Texas Forest Service says a wildfire in Kimble County that started Tuesday has burned around 7000 acres and destroyed ten structures, including a family home, south of Junction. Crews have the Oasis fire 60 percent contained, today. There’s still isolated torching and active burns, when it hits surface fuels. Four firefighters have been injured battling the flames. Evacuation orders have been lifted.
The Wildcat Fire in Coke County is now listed as 95 percent contained and smoldering.
The Scott Ranch fire in Irion County is now 90 percent contained. The Texas Forest Service says crews made significant progress knocking that one down, yesterday. It’s still creeping and smoldering. And there’s potential for growth, with the weather.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect until eight p-m. There’s potential for explosive fire growth. Don’t park a vehicle in tall grass. Dispose of any lit materials carefully and responsibly. A burn ban is in effect. And, a wind advisory is in effect until eight.

Afternoon Sports headlines

Angelo State is in sixth place, with the top six teams making the playoffs. There are four teams within a game and a half of the final playoff spot. ASU plays Cameron Friday and Saturday, the fourth place team.

Finally a break in the NFL stalemate. The NFL has told its teams and players to get back to football, at least for now. Beginning tomorrow, players can resume voluntary workouts at team facilities, meet with coaches and go over playbooks. The NFL draft begins tonight.

The Rangers beat the Blue Jays last night and are playing the last game of the series this afternoon. Houston has one more in the series with the Cardinals tonight.

The Spurs looked more like the Spurs last night, beating the Grizzlies in San Antonio. Memphis still leads the series three games to two. Game six is in Memphis tomorrow night.

The Mavericks can wrap up their series tonight and move on to the second round if they can beat Portland. It's on the west coast, so it's a 9:30pm Central start.

Careless Drivers Causing Grass Fires

The San Angelo Fire Department is urging everyone to be even more vigilant, with critical fire weather conditions. They have had to respond to a number of roadside grass fires, this week, caused by drivers throwing cigarette butts out of vehicles.

Wildfire Update Thursday

The Texas Forest Service says the Scott Ranch fire in Irion County is 100 percent contained. Crews are going to remain in the area, as the growth potential is extreme. It burned over 10-thousand acres.
The Wildcat fire is 80 percent contained. Crews are patrolling to put down any hotspots or flare ups. It has burned over 159-thousand acres.

Howard College Traffic Danger

The Provost at Howard College is campaigning to make her campus more safe. LeAnne Byrd says there needs to be a change at the entrance to campus off North U-S Highway 67, East of San Angelo. During morning rush hour, students line up to turn left into the campus parking lot, while commuters are heading into town. The speed limit is 70 miles per hour. Byrd has asked the city to lower the speed limit or create an alternate entrance into campus with the completion of Smith Boulevard.

San Angelo Student Wins NASA Scholarship

Three students from Angelo State University have received prestigious scholarships from the NASA Texas Space Grant Consortium. One of them, Bethany Droll, a junior computer science major, is from San Angelo.

Drugs Found at Meadow Creek Apts

San Angelo police arrested a 30 year old San Angelo man on three felony drug charges. They say Philip Valles had marijuana, ecstasy, LSD and 18-hundred dollars cash in his place at Meadow Creek Apartments. He’s being held in lieu of a 25-thousand dollar bond.

House Passes Redistricting

The Texas House passed its redistricting map, early this morning, after a long debate. The vote was 92 to 52.

Wine and Food Festival Tonight

And, tonight and tomorrow, the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts is hosting the Wine and Food Festival at Fort Concho.

Crime Stoppers Most Wanted Fugitive

Crime Stoppers needs your help locating their latest Most Wanted Fugitive. 48 year old Greg Alan Hughes is wanted for a probation violation. He was convicted of injury to an elderly person. He’s described as white, five foot ten, 210 pounds, blonde hair, blue eyes, with a last known address on Navajo. Tips are anonymous at 6-5-8 HELP.

Afternoon sports headlines

The San Angelo Colts have signed lefties Logan Williamson and Frank James to another season. Both were starters last year. James spent last season with the rival Coastal Bend Thunder.

It's do or die for the Spurs tonight as they try to hang on in the NBA playoffs. One more win for the Grizzlies and they advance. Memphis surprisingly leads the series three games to one.

Despite the lockout being lifted, NFL players aren't being allowed to work out. All teams it appears are telling their players they need more clarification on the ruling first. Eight Dallas Cowboys were turned away Tuesday.

The Rangers will try again tonight against the Blue Jays after dropping the first two games of the series. The Astros play Lance Berkman and his new team, the Cardinals, again tonight. The Astros got a dramatic win last night in the bottom of the ninth.

Wildcat Fire Today

At the Wildcat Fire in Coke County, Texas Forest Service says there are just some areas smoldering. There were no hot spots or flare ups yesterday. And, last night's rainfall helped. It's still 80 percent contained, but again, there's explosive fire growth potential, with the weather today.

Fill the Boot for MDA!

Firefighters in San Angelo are working on a different campaign, this week. For the 12th year, they're going to collect for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
They'll ask you to help fill the boot, starting tomorrow, at Harris and Abe, 29th and Bryant, Johnson and Knickerbocker and Sherwood Way and Avenue N. M-D-A charges no fees for comprehensive medical services and research programs. About 100 area families use their services for help dealing with neuromuscular disease.

Rio Vista Spruce Up

Some city offices will be closed Friday, so employees can take part in their annual neighborhood blitz. About 400 city workers will spend the day in service, painting fourty houses, cleaning alleys and picking up trash in the Rio Vista neighborhood. They will be organizing from Saint Mary's Church on Avenue N.

Solar Summit

The Lone Star Solar Summit is coming to San Angelo, this week. Texas Wind Energy Clearinghouse is hosting the event, with experts, developers, engineers and solar energy partners available to talk about the latest possibilities for solar energy for landowners and businesses.

Who Do You Think You Are?

The Stephens Central Library is giving you a chance to find out more about your roots. Fun with Family Trees is a free class about genealogy. Tomorrow is the last session. Susan Ball, the president of the San Angelo Genealogical and Historical Society will show people how to use family search dot org.

Red Flag Warning

A Red Flag Warning is in effect until eight p-m. Critical fire weather conditions, today, with the strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures. The National weather service says conditions are probably for regional wildfire outbreaks.

Wildcat Latest

Crews are continuing to focus on patrolling the Wildcat Fire around Bronte. It’s 80 percent contained, with smoldering in scattered dozer fires. There were no hot spots or flare ups reported yesterday, but the growth potential is high today and tomorrow.

Menard Deaths in 190 Crash

A head on collision on U-S 190, just west of U-S 83 resulted in the deaths of 59 year old Juan Saiz and 52 year old Anita Ramon of Menard, yesterday afternoon. Police say 19 year old Corbin Timms of Menard was driving west on 1-90 and crossed the center line. He was treated and released. No one in the crash was wearing a seat belt.

Comptroller Breach Costs

The State Comptroller’s office estimates it’s cost one point eight million dollars to try and repair the damage from the security breach last left personal information, including names and social security numbers, vulnerable online. Three point five million Texans had those details accessible to the public for more than a year. Letters went out to all who were affected, a call center for questions was set up, and two different information technology consultants have been consulted, since the error came to light.

Mayfest Needs Bands

Mayfest will be Saturday, May 7th in Winters City Park on Novice Road. There will be arts and crafts vendors, games, food, a car show. And, the live entertainment includes a battle of the bands. The Winters Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for bands to compete. The deadline to enter is April 29th. Proceeds benefit Paladin’s Kids, a program for at risk youth.

Organ Transplant Seminar

You can find out more about kidney and pancreas transplants tomorrow at the San Angelo Visitors Center. The Dallas Methodist Transplant Center is having a free seminar for all patients, their families and potential organ donors, starting at six o'clock.

Egg Hunt is On

Easter Fest starts tomorrow at 11 a-m at the Texas Bank Sports Complex. At least ten thousand people are expected to attend the Tree of Life Church’s annual event. U-S Customs will kick off the egg hunt with a jet flyover and more than 100 volunteers are helping out.

Serious Car Accident

A 27 year old San Angelo woman is in Bexar County Jail after a car accident in San Antonio. Police say Elizabeth Norton was driving about 90 miles per hour when she lost control of the vehicle, which crossed the center lane of North Hackberry Street, drove over the concrete embankment for Interstate 35, went airborne over six lanes of traffic and flipped on the far side of the interstate. She’s been charged with intoxication assault. A passenger in her car, 25 year old Jason Green suffered a broken neck in the crash.

Afternoon sports headlines

The San Angelo Colts have re-signed catcher Trey Carter and added outfielder Clay Calfee--both players' names can be found in the Angelo State Rams baseball record books.

The Mavericks lost to the Trailblazers last night, but still have the series lead 2 games to 1. Game 4 happens tomorrow and Game 5 will be Monday.

The Spurs tied their series with the Grizzlies this week 1-1, and Game 3 is tomorrow.

The Rangers slipped out of first place in the division this week after losing a series to the Angels. They'll try to rebound this weekend in a series with the Royals. The Astros are on the road against the Brewers.

Here in the Concho Valley, young people ages 7 to 14 will have a chance to attend the MLB All-Star Game this summer by competing in the Aquafina Pitch, Hit and Run Challenge. That's coming up this Saturday at Foster Field after the ASU baseball games and the following Saturday at Southern Little League at 1030 AM.

Senate Budget Plan Advancing

The State Senate Finance Committee passed a 176 point five billion dollar budget plan that provides some funding to state services that were cut. But, committee chairman, Steve Ogden, says they’ll need three billion dollars from the rainy day fund to balance the budget. The House version of the bill did not use the rainy day fund and reduces spending by 23 billion.

Wildcat Update Friday

Lightning was the cause of the Wildcat fire on April 11th. Fire authorities say it is still 75 percent contained. Crews will be patrolling and clearing up the lines, today and all weekend. Over 200 firefighters are still working the blaze that has burned over 159-thousand acres.

Storms Possible Tonight

The National Weather Service says there’s a chance of thunderstorms tonight that could be severe. Deadly lightning, large hail and damaging winds are all threats.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Spurs have evened the series with the Grizzlies after a win last night. The Mavericks take on Portland tonight, trying to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series.

A lightning strike at the ASU Softball Complex caused a three-hour delay and cancellation of the second game of a doubleheader yesterday, but the Belles did manage to sneak in a 4 to 3 win over St. Mary's. The Belles are home tonight against Abilene Christian, with a double header against them tomorrow.

Hoops for Hunger is happening next Saturday, April 30th. It's a double-elimination, 3-on-3 charity basketball tournament, and 100 percent of the proceeds go to Meals for the Elderly. It's from 9-5 at Kirby Park next Saturday, but the registration deadline is Monday. You can register at Stott's Chiropractic, or www.stottschiro.com

The San Angelo Colts are holding a press conference this afternoon to announce the signing of two more players, both formerly of Angelo State.

Good Friday

Tomorrow is Good Friday, a holiday for many businesses and some local offices. Tom Green County offices, the Stephens Central Library, city offices, school district offices and some state of Texas offices will be closed. Federal offices, banks and Angelo State University will be open. The Postal Service will be delivering mail.
Be aware that after noon, there will be a procession through several streets on the east and southeast part of San Angelo, prior to Catholic services, tomorrow.

Local Shows Tonight

San Angelo Reads, with another film noir classic, at the Stephens Central Library, tonight. There will be a free showing of Touch of Evil in the Community Room at 6:30.
The Arts at A-S-U program is performing One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, tonight through Sunday in the Carr Education Fine Arts Building.

Darby Hosts Local Students

Republican State Representative Drew Darby had some guests in Austin, yesterday. A number of high school students from the area got a tour of the Capitol and a chance to explore the Texas State Archives and Texas General Land Office. They were selected as part of the Legislative Leadership Academy with Concho Valley Partnership.

Senate Finance Committee Votes

In Austin, the Senate Finance Committee agreed to use three billion dollars from the state’s rainy day fund to help balance its version of House Bill 1. Then, the committee approved the budget bill and sent it to the Senate Floor.
Yesterday, the committee passed a school finance bill that sends funding to public schools that creates a four billion dollar shortfall.

Plane to San Angelo Diverted

There was a scare in the air this week. An American Eagle plane traveling from Dallas to San Angelo with 33 passengers and four crew members had to turn around and land at the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, near Dallas, after crew reported a burning smell in the cockpit. Flight 47-46 landed safely. The passengers were bused to the Dallas Airport and booked on other flights.

Wildcat 75 Percent Contained

Fire crews continue to construct control lines and conduct burnout operations on the Wildcat fire. Today, authorities say it’s 75 percent contained, with a total toll of over 159-thousand acres. Winds are still gusting to 25 miles per hour, today.

Afternoon sports headlines

The NFL has released the schedule for the fall, despite the labor issues that threaten the season. The Cowboys will start the season on the road, at the Jets and at the 49ers. The traditional Thanksgiving Day game will be against the Dolphins. The Texans open up with the Colts at home September 11.

The Mavericks are up on the Trailblazers two games to none in their NBA playoff series. The Spurs try to avenge a game one loss to the Grizzlies tonight in San Antonio. After this, the series will move to Memphis.

The Astros beat the Mets yesterday and have them again tonight. The Rangers will try again against the Angels after losing last night 15-4. That series is tied 1-1.

Tomorrow afternoon, at the Sonora vs. Wall baseball game, Wall Middle School’s Leadership group, CORE, will give free snow cones and popcorn to families that donate a case of water. All donations will be given to local firemen battling the surrounding fires. The game starts tomorrow afternoon at 2:30.

Free Forum for Small Business

Tomorrow, the A-S-U Small Business Development Center is hosting a free forum called, Doing Business with the Government. It’s from 9 a-m to 2 p-m at the West Texas Training Center on U-S 67.

Vehicle Break In Arrests

Three men have been arrested for breaking into vehicles on Todd Lane. Someone saw them looking into parked cars and phoned San Angelo Police. They were found later with CDs, a laptop, an iPod, a guitar and other property that was reported stolen. 19 year old Christian Wilson, 21 year old Angelo Garcia and 23 year old Lester Wilson, all of San Angelo, are facing charges.

Most Wanted Arrest

One of San Angelo’s Most Wanted was picked up by U-S Marshals and Customs and Border Protection Officers. Guadalupe Saldana Junior was wanted for aggravated sexual assault of a child. We told you about him recently through Crime Stoppers. Officers received information placing Saldana in Mexico, and they arrested him at the port of entry in Eagle Pass.

Pharmacy Burglary Arrest

Police have arrested a 52 year old San Angelo man for that robbery of the medical arts pharmacy building, last week. They released surveillance video and got a tip about the suspect. Police say Kenneth Lancaster has been charged with burglary of a building.

Donating to the Firefighters

The best way to donate to the firefighters is to send money to your local volunteer department, so they can buy what they need. You can also take donations to the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Department, Robert Lee or Bronte City Halls.

Wildfire Price Tag

Texas Forest Service reports the pricetag for fighting wildfires across Texas, this week, is two million dollars a day. This season, it has cost around 70 million dollars.

Evacuations Lifted - Wildcat Update

All evacuations from the Wildcat fire have been lifted. Firefighters have the blaze up to thirty percent contained, today. Winds will be out of the northeast, so fire officials say their priorities are along the southwestern flank. An incident management team has arrived to help relieve some of the local volunteers who’ve been working, non-stop. The fire is closing in on 159-thousand acres burned. F-M 26-62 between Highway 2-0-8 and 2-77 is still closed. But, R-M 20-24 is now open. Still, a reminder to stay out of the area, unless absolutely necessary.

Latin in Appeal

The San Angelo Independent School District board heard from some Central High School students this week who wanted to make a case for Latin language classes. They’re slated to be cut in the next district budget. The students say Latin is helping prepare them for the A-P Placement Exam.

Head Start Registration Open

Registration for Head Start and Early Head start is open today through Thursday from 8:30 to four p-m on Brown Street. Students must be three or four years old by September first to attend.

Plane Crash Victims ID Delayed

Both of the victims in that crash of an experimental aircraft, yesterday, were confirmed to be active duty military personnel. Their identities have not been released, because their families have not yet been notified.

Parked Trailers Clarification

In other news, the San Angelo City Council Members voted to change a little known ordinance that prohibited people from parking trailers on residential streets. Now, it’s allowed for people doing work, between six a-m and ten p-m.

Wildcat Update

The Wildcat fire continues to burn. Day six, and it’s being called very aggressive on the east side, where firefighters are conducting burnout operations today. A number of evacuations are still in effect for Highways 277 and 208 near Tennyson, Robert Lee and Bronte. The most recent is for residents bounded by Farm to Market Road 26-62 and along 2-77 South to the Goodyear Proving Grounds. Fire authorities wanted to clear the area for a massive air tanker drop zone.

Hot Weather But Burning is Banned

Record High Temperatures are expected today. A Red Flag Warning is in effect. The winds are set to taper off a bit.
Tom Green County Commissioners issued a declaration of disaster today, and an order that prohibits burning for the county. All outdoor burning, even barbecues, and the sale and use of fireworks are prohibited. You could be charged with a misdemeanor and receive a fine of up to 500 dollars.

Afternoon sports headlines

The San Angelo Colts signed three players today. Familiar faces include infielder Landon Camp and pitcher Caleb Rodgers. Camp returns with the second most home runs in Colts history for a single season with 24 last year. Rodgers has played his entire pro career with San Angelo and is entering his fifth season. The Colts also added a fresh face in the outfield, Jareck West. West is a former Oakland A's prospect drafted in the 25th round in 2007.

The Angelo State women's basketball has signed one of the top high school players in Texas. Cassi Stegall of Hico High School is a two-time All-State Selection.

The Rangers are a game up on division rival LA, with game two of the series tonight. The Astros have another crack at the Mets.

The Mavericks try to gain a stronghold on their NBA playoff series with the Trailblazers. Game two is in Dallas. The Spurs try to even the series with the Grizzlies tomorrow.

Severe Weather Advisories

A Red Flag Warning is in effect until seven p-m. There are extreme fire weather conditions in the forecast, this afternoon. There are also dangerous conditions on the water, with a Lake Wind Advisory in effect.

PHA Units Available

The Public Housing Authority is taking applications for all bedroom sizes. There are three bedroom single family units available, being leased temporarily on a first come first served basis, if approved. You can apply in person, tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday, between nine and 11:30 a-m, at 420 East 28th Street.

Speak Out on Redistricting

There will be a public hearing about redistricting in San Angelo tomorrow, at the City Council Meeting. It starts at nine a-m in the McNease Convention Center. Council members will also take public views on an ordinance addressing whether trailers, R-Vs and semis should be allowed to part in residential areas.

Latest on Wildcat Fire and Evacuations

There are some new areas of evacuation in Coke County, due to the Wildcat fire. All of FM 2662 and 2034. The fire is in its fifth day, just ten percent contained. Firefighting units from around the state are working today, with priorities in the Poverty Canyon and Live Oak Ridge areas on the east and southeast flank. There are 40 to 50 homes in the path of the fire in rural areas of Southern Coke County. So far, about 130-thousand acres have burned.
Shelter is available in the Robert Lee Community Center on Park Road. Three bulls have been confirmed lost in the flames and smoke. Tom Green County extension agent Steve Sturtz is taking donations of hay for livestock that’s been evacuated.
Texas Forest Service has ordered more aerial resources to help, including four modular airborne firefighting systems and a DC- 10 airtanker for air reconnaissance and fire retardant drops.
Once again, fire officials ask that everyone who is not involved in the fire and emergency operations stay clear of the area, especially along Highway 277 to Bronte. Heavy smoke is reducing visibility, and crews need to do their work.

Mandatory Evacuations from Wildcat Fire

The Wildcat fire continues to burn near March and Sutton Roads. At this point, there is a mandatory evacuation order for all residents in Ricky Acres, Rollin Acres and Walnut Grove.

Latest on the Wildcat Fire

Fire Crews are still working on the Wildcat Fire. It’s burning in the area of March and Sutton Roads. There are no mandatory evacuations, at this time, but some houses have been evacuated voluntarily. The Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office says they have had to shut down the road near March and Wren, mainly because so many people are driving out to look at the fire. They ask that people please stay clear of the area to allow the firefighters to do their work and also for safety reasons. If you have livestock you’re concerned about, you can take them to the Fairgrounds.
The blaze started near Robert Lee and was considered 60 percent contained, yesterday, but high winds, last night blew it South and into the county. It’s still moving South South East. The Salvation Army is on the scene and would appreciate donations of drinks and food, so they can keep the volunteer fire crews fueled in the effort.

Critical Fire Weather

A Red Flag Warning is in effect through this evening. Critical Fire Weather Conditions. San Angelo Firefighters put out several small fires, yesterday, one at Angelo State University, one in a dumpter and one in some leaves near Johnson’s Funeral Home. Again, be very careful with disposal of matches and cigarettes.

AFB Contract Workers Injured

Two contract workers at Goodfellow Air Force Base were taken to Shannon Medical Center by ambulance, yesterday, with first and second degree burns, after a flare at the gas pipes they were working on. Base officials are investigating the cause of the flash.

State Redistricting Hearing

The State House Redistricting Committee is hearing testimony on the preliminary map, released this week. It expands Representative Drew Darby’s district from four to seven counties.

Rodeo Association Honor

The Concho Valley CARES Coalition and Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley have given the Random Acts of Prevention Award to the San Angelo Rodeo Association, for providing a safe and kid friendly environment and posting “no alcohol allowed” signs at entry ways to the Carnival section.

Things to Do Saturday (in High Heels!)

You can support Relay for Life in Tom Green County and get a great breakfast with the Wesley Wave Runners tomorrow at the Applebees in San Angelo. Five dollars for all you can eat, and you can event get your pancakes to go.
The Santa Rita De-Clutter the Draw is tomorrow from ten a-m to two p-m. Local kids are participating to raise money for Malaria No More.
And, it should be an interesting site at the Tom Green County Courthouse, when hundreds of men and women slip into high heels for a race to raise money for the Concho Valley Rape Crisis Center. Walk in Her Shoes starts at eleven a-m.

Colts bring two back

The San Angelo Colts are bringing back to important pieces of their 2010 team. Player/coach Joe Rhomberg and second baseman Mark Ramos are coming back. Rhomberg, has been a part of the Colts since 2006, while Ramos had a big rookie year for San Angelo and solidified their second base spot. Both will play the same roles this year as the Colts look to get back to the playoffs after just missing it last season.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Angelo State men's basketball got its first signee today in Dakota Rawls, one of the top players in the region. Rawls helped lead the Bronte Longhorns to back to back State Championship appearances and averaged more than 20 points per game.

Former Angelo State linebacker Tyrell McCrea is going to play arena football. He's signed a contract with the New Orleans Voodoo and will join the team as a two-way player at linebacker and fullback.

Lakeview has three track and field athletes that qualified for the regional meet. Long distance runner James Christensen qualified in the 1600 and the 3200. Robert Sanchez will run the 800, and Dakota Bailey from the Maidens team will pole vault. The regional meet is May 3 and 4 in Abiliene.

In the NBA playoffs this weekend, the #1 seeded Spurs will play Memphis at home Sunday. The Mavericks will host the Trailblazers Saturday night.

Veribest PO Meeting

Standing room only at the United Methodist Church in Veribest Tuesday night, when the U-S Postal Service held a public hearing about the possible closing or consolidation of the Veribest branch of the post office. About 80 people turned out to protest the proposal. The decision is now in the hands of officials in Fort Worth and will likely not be made until next year.

Church Moves into Kmart

The old Kmart building on Loop 3-0-6 is getting a new purpose. It’s going to be the new home of the Glen Meadows Baptist Church. The one thousand member congregation has outgrown its location west of the loop, on Knickerbocker Road and has been considering expansion for over a year. It’s a property swap, with the owners of the Kmart building taking over the current church site. Renovations will start this summer.

Helping Abused Horses

A local builder is donating shelters for abandoned horses in Tom Green County. When the animals are neglected or abused, the county steps in, taking custody of 14 horses since October. Michael Biggerstaff has donated the work and materials for four stalls, a divided corral and building to store feed near the Tom Green County 4-H building and Humane Society on U-S 67 North.

Song and Dance Tonight

Tonight, the B-Y-U Idaho Dance Alliance has a free performance at the River Stage on Avenue A at seven o’clock. And, A-S-U’s Chamber Singers and Vocal Ensemble will perform songs from Glee during the 9th annual Pops at the Pavilion Concert at the LeGrand Alumni and Visitor Center Pavilion at 7:30.

Go Blue Friday

Tomorrow, you’re encouraged to wear blue to show support for child abuse prevention. The Children’s Advocacy Center of Tom Green County has designated April 15th Go Blue Day.

Solar Incentives

State Representative Drew Darby introduced a bill that sets up a five year rebate program, through the Public Utility Commission, that would provide incentives for solar energy projects in Texas.

Comptroller Hotline Getting High Volume

Demind is high for that call center set up for people trying to find out if their personal data was left unprotected on the Texas Comptroller’s Office public server. People have reported waits of up to an hour to get an answer, during high volume times. The phone lines are open 24 hours a day. It’s 8-5-5 4-7-4 20-65.

Getting Tough on Human Traffickers

Governor Rick Perry is expected to sign a measure that imposes tougher penalties on human traffickers and for those who engage in child prostitution. The House and Senate have both approved the bill.

Underage Drinking Panel

There was an Underage Drinking Awareness Panel at River Crest Hospital over the noon hour, today, sponsored by Concho Valley CARES Coalition and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley. April is Alcohol Awareness Month. More than 60 percent of San Angelo teens report that all types of alcoholic beverages are easy for them to obtain.

Red Flag Warning Likely

Fire Weather Conditions will become critical, this evening, behind a dryline. Gusty winds and very dry air will lead to a red flag warning.

Help with Wildfires

Estimates are that nearly 25-thousand acres have burned, in wildfires this week, especially Encino 2 and the one near Carlsbad. Dozens of homes have been threatened, but none reported lost. One did have some damage. The continuous duty is hard on the volunteer firefighters. The smoke is reducing air quality.
Tom Green County Emergency Management staff can give you information on how to protect your home from a wildfire. Call 6-5-7 42-89.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Angelo State softball team is in Austin today for a double header against St. Edwards. The Belles have already beaten the Hilltoppers three times this season, and their record overall is a strong 33-5.

Lakeview softball takes on Waco High in Waco tonight. They need a win in order to stay in the playoff hunt. The Maidens are a game out of third place right now.

The Texas Rangers not only have the best record in Major League Baseball, but they're the only team in history to make the World Series, and then the next season win 9 of their first 10 games. The Rangers have one more game against the Tigers tomorrow, then they have an off day Thursday before a weekend in New York against the Yankees. The Astros have another game tonight against the Cubs after losing last night.

The Dallas Mavericks got an overtime win over the Houston Rockets last night to move a 1/2 game ahead of the Lakers for the second seed in the Western Conference playoffs. One game left in the regular season tomorrow night against the Hornets.

New to the Pachyderm

Mayor Alvin New is the guest speaker Wednesday at the San Angelo Pachyderm Club’s luncheon meeting. The Mayor will talk about the city budget, the big water deal and progress on the Ports to Plains Highway proposal. The meeting is at Nacho’s Restaurant on Loop 3-0-6 and is open to the public.

JoiningForces.gov

The President and First Lady announced a new project, called Joining Forces, today. Its purpose is to recognize extraordinary military families. And, it gives all Americans an easy way to show gratitude to service members and their families. You can send a note of thanks or find ways to get involved at joining forces dot gov.

SAISD: Sick Days and Speakers

The School Board met last night and tightened up the rules for public forums. Anyone who wants to address the board must now fill out a form before the meeting begins and limit their remarks to five minutes.
Board members also voted to set a limit on the attendance incentive for school workers. The employees who work every scheduled day can accumulate local and state sick days, and there never used to be a limit, but now you can’t rack up more than 80 days. Anyone who has more than that is frozen at that amount, now.
Also, seven district teachers who were hired with federal stimulus funds had their contracts extended for the 2011-2012 school year.

No Lunch, But Still Appreciation

A tight budget means cutting back on the extras, and Tom Green County says the annual employee appreciation day off and luncheon is off, this year. But, they will still have a raffle for door prizes, and the county wants to bring in a speaker. Mark Warren will give a team building lecture to county managers at the Stephens Central Library on Thursday.

Encino 2 Ranch Fire Latest

Firefighters and volunteer crews are keeping an eye on that Encino Two Ranch fire, west and northwest of San Angelo. It’s burned about seven thousand acres. One ranch home was damaged. Crews were able to create a fire line with a back burn, yesterday. And, a change in wind direction today is helping keep the fire contained. Fire weather conditions are still elevated today.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Spurs have the number one seed in the NBA playoffs locked up, and the Dallas Mavericks still have a shot at the #2 seed after beating Phoenex 115 to 90 yesterday. The Mavs play the Rockets tonight, and the Hornets Wednesday, and that will wrap up the regular season.

The Texas Rangers have major league baseball's best record overall at 8-1. They won two of three over the Orioles in Baltimore over the weekend and continue the road series tonight in Detroit. The Astros are taking on the Cubs tonight trying to grab their third win of the season.

The Angelo State softball team had a good weekend; the Belles sweeping a three-game series from Eastern New Mexico, including both ends of a doubleheader on Saturday.

The ASU baseball team split a pair with Central Oklahoma on Saturday, but the Rams won the weekend series, two games to three.

Library Week PM

This is National Library Week, and you can celebrate and save some money, if you owe fines on overdue books. Bring a new, unexpired can of food into any one of the three local branches, and the library will waive the fines on one item, no matter how high. The canned goods will go to the Concho Valley Regional Food Bank.

ASU Honors Campaign

Angelo State University students are rallying to try and save the Honors Program. Shortly after school officials announced they are phasing honors out to bolster other programs, the Facebook page of the A-S-U Honors Program became the Take Back the A-S-U Honors Program page, serving as a campaign hub.

Veribest Post Office Meeting

The post office in Veribest is in danger of closing. If you want to help save it, there’s a public meeting with representatives of the United States Postal Service tomorrow night. They will explain why the Veribest is one they have on the short list for closure, to save money and what options there are to cover the delivery area.

West Texas Fires

The Texas Forest Service says yesterday was the single worst fire day that Texas has ever seen. Firefighters from 25 states are battling more than a dozen blazes, including one that has burned more than 60-thousand acres southeast of El Paso. Some storms overnight helped, but crews could not use air tankers much this weekend, because of gusty winds.

Personal Information Made Public

Some disturbing news from State Comptroller Susan Combs. She announced today that sensitive personal identity information of three point five million Texans, names, addresses, social security numbers, was exposed online to the public for about a year, through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, Employees Retirement System of Texas and the Texas Workforce Commission. The Attorney General is looking into the matter. If your information was vulnerable, you should receive a letter about it, by next week.

Rally for Crime Victims

There’s a rally to honor local crime victims and their families, today, at the San Angelo Visitor Center. The Tom Green County Coalition Against Violence invited Police Chief Tim Vasquez and a survivor of family violence to speak.

SAISD Today

The San Angelo Independent School District Board of Trustees meets today to hear financial and other monthly reports and set the agenda for the regular meeting, where they will vote on action items. That’s scheduled for April 18th.

Afternoon sports headlines

After snapping that 10-game losing streak, the Angelo State baseball team is in action at home this weekend. The Rams host Central Oklahoma at Foster Field in a single game tonight at 7 and a doubleheader tomorrow starting at 1. The Rams are 12-12 in conference play, with 12 games left in the season. That puts them in 9th place in the conference.

The #10 ranked Angelo State softball team will be “Battlin' Cancer, One Pitch at a Time” during a three-game home series tonight and tomorrow against Eastern New Mexico. The Belles are trying to raise awareness about young adult cancer.

The Wall High School softball team continues a great season tomorrow afternoon, hosting Grape Creek at 4. So far, the Lady Hawks are 24-1-and-1.

The Rangers haven't lost yet this season, and start a weekend series in Baltimore tonight. The Astros are back at home tonight against the Marlins after beating the Reds yesterday.

Operation Finally Home

Operation Finally Home will break ground on a mortgage free custom built home for Lance Corporal Samuel Marley and his family tomorrow morning, at 10 a-m. The Home Builders Association of San Angelo and Clark Construction will start the project on Sheffield Drive in The Bluffs, and the community is invited. Marley was injured in Iraq in 2007 and medically retired from the Marine Corps

Veterans Benefits Fair

There’s a free veterans benefits fair at the Coliseum from 10 a-m to 1 p-m, tomorrow. Information on land, housing and home improvement loans, help with claims and benefits.

Dazzling Weekend Downtown

Tomorrow, there are literally dozens of fun and interesting things to do in San Angelo. It starts with Walk M-S at Kids Kingdom Park at 9 a-m. It’s Second Saturday in historic Old Town, with artisans and vendors setting up shop from 10 to four. The Wooly Bully Festival will have games and contests all day on Concho Avenue. There’s another chicken giveaway at Rust Street Ministries from 9 a-m to noon. Mah Jongg for Murals continues at First Methodist Church. The Sunset Mall Motor Show is on from ten to five.

Events at ASU This Weekend!

At Angelo State University, more than 700 elementary and high school students are competing in the Texas Computer Education Association State Robotics Arena and Inventions Contest. That’s all day at the Junell Center.
The Angelo State University Residential Programs office is hosting the Big for a Day Bash to support Big Brothers Big Sisters, from noon to three at A-S-U’s Centennial Village.
And, tomorrow is Passport Day. All the services you need to get yours will be set up in the A-S-U Center for International Studies, from 10 to three.

Shutdown Implications

What would a government shut down mean for you? Most federal workers and government contractors will be furloughed. Military personnel will be on the job but may not be paid on time. No new approvals of loans by the Federal Housing Administration or the Small Business Administration. No I-R-S processing of paper tax returns or refunds. No issuing of regular passports or visas. You will still get your Social Security checks but don't expect anyone to be around to answer your questions about benefits.

San Angelo CBP Arrest Identified

A few weeks ago, we told you a local woman arrested by U-S Customs and Border Protection officers, after she was stopped at the Del Rio International Bridge and they found seven firearms and ammunition in her Dodge Caliber. During the search, she threw down her purse, and tried to run across the bridge, but she was taken into custody. Department of Homeland Security now identifies the woman as 39 year old Sonia Rodriguez of San Angelo. She’s been charged with weapon smuggling.

Mah Jongg for Murals

Tomorrow is also the start of Mah Jongg for Murals. The Mah Jongg tournament begins at 9 a-m and raises money to light the nine murals downtown. There’s also lunch, a silent auction and prizes at the First Methodist Church Heritage Hall.

Chicken Giveaway

Tomorrow, Rust Street Ministries starts giving away 88-hundred pounds of chicken. Be at 8-0-3 Rust Street between 9 a-m and noon to receive a chicken, a box of cereal and dried fruit.

"I Can't Drive... 85?"

The Texas House has passed a bill that would allow the speed limit on some highways to be raised to 85 miles per hour, the highest in the nation. The Senate is considering a similar bill.

Best Buy Bandit

San Angelo Police are trying to find the man who has stolen laptops from local Best Buys. He’s described as five foot ten, 180 pounds, with black hair, a thin beard and no moustache. Security footage shows him walking into a store, browsing for a time, then leaving, only to return a few moments later to grap several laptops and walk out the door. He’s done this in San Angelo twice, also Weatherford and Abilene. The getaway vehicle is a dark pickup, mid 2000s model. Crime Stoppers will take your anonymous tips at 6-5-8 43-57.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Central High School boys soccer team may not have made the playoffs this season, but the Bobcats' junior forward, Preston Arteaga, was named the District 3-5A MVP. Two other Central players - defender Ray Obena and midfielder Anthony Graham - who earned first-team honors. Midfielder Ruben Dominguez and goalkeeper Bryan Syler were named to the second team.

There's only a week left in the NBA regular season, and the Dallas Mavericks aren't looking like some teams in playoff form. A loss last night to the Nuggets dropped the Mavericks close to fourth place. The Oklahoma Thunder are only a game behind them. The Spurs have clinched home court advantage throughout the playoffs in the Western Conference. The Rockets are on the verge of being eliminated.

The Texas Rangers on the other hand have started the season on fire, at 6-0, sweeping both the Red Sox and the Mariners. Today is a day off for the Rangers before hitting the road tomorrow to start a series in Baltimore. The Houston Astros are playing Cincinnati this afternoon before returning home to face the Marlins this weekend.

School Bus Cited

San Angelo Police are charging a school bus driver with failure to yield the right of way, after he cut off a motorcycle. About 6:30 yesterday morning, the bus, with five students on board, was traveling east on Avenue L and tried to take a left on Oakes Street, Police say 70 year old Robert Garcia caused the accident, when he cut in front of the motorcycle. There were no injuries.

Motor Home Rear Ended

State troopers are investigating an accident on U-S 67 North, this morning. A motor home was towing a vehicle, which was rear ended by a sedan. No word yet on injuries.

Rally Day in Austin

Lots of public demonstrations in Austin, today. This morning, Catholic bishops and other members of the Church rallied on the South Steps of the Capital for Catholic Faith in Action Advocacy Day. At 11, a group gathered to show support for the budget proposal on the north steps. And for this afternoon, more than fourty busses with over five thousand people converged at Waterloo Park for the Save Our State march and rally. They want lawmakers to make education and health care a priority and use money from the Rainy Day Fund to cover spending.

Power Generators Review

The Public Utility Commission of Texas is going to be taking a look at Texas power generators. State Senators passed a bill that authorizes a report on whether they are prepared to provide continuous electric utility service, even during weather emergencies. The measure was prompted by the cold snap last February that created some rolling blackouts.

American Commercial College

Some local students have joined a lawsuit against American Commercial College, claiming the school lied to them about credits being able to transfer to other schools. Julie Johnson is the attorney who filed the complaint with the Texas Workforce Commission.

Wanted: Student Art

Tom Green County is looking for student artwork to use in displays through out the Edd B Keyes Building. For County Government Month, they want to show art from county kids on the glass walls of the administration building’s mall. It would also help conceal the empty library space. Deadline is April 20th.

Help with Pecans

Tonight, there’s a free workshop to help you plant and care for pecan trees from the Agri Life Extension Office at the Tom Green County 4-H Center, starting at 6 o’clock.

Stay of Execution

There’s been a stay of execution for convicted Fort Worth killer Cleve Foster, who was to be the first death row convict to be put to death with pentobarbital. The execution was scheduled for six o’clock tonight, but the U-S Supreme Court wants more time to rule on whether he had proper legal counsel during his trial. He was convicted of raping and killing a woman in 2002.

Buffalo Cause Accident

No major injuries, but traffic was tied up for a while yesterday, near the intersection of Hunters Glen Road and Arden Road. A woman driving a minivan with five kids on board slowed down to look at the buffalo. A jeep slammed into the back of the vehicle, about 4:40.

County Commissioners Taking Bids

Tom Green County is taking bids on the Mount Susan property, east of Christoval and north of Pugh Park, May sixth. The 930 acres could be used for grazing or hunting. And, money from the lease would be used for park maintenance.
Commissioners also renewed the County’s contract with Shannon Medical Center's Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, providing pharmacy services to those who cannot afford it. They approved the use of donations to the Sheriff’s Office to buy former Sheriff Joe Hunt’s gun and named a private road in the northeast area of the county Dandy Road.

Council Approves Prayer for Rain

San Angelo City Council members approved a proclamation that calls for Sunday, April 17th to be a day of prayer for rain.
They also heard from TxDot Engineer Donald Peterson that the historic Lone Wolf Bridge might be refurbished on schedule. The plan is to reopen the bridge as a pedestrian walkway by May. The project is federally funded.

Most Wanted: Ernesto Garcia

Texas Crime Stoppers needs your help finding 28 year old Ernesto Alonso Garcia. Garcia is a Mexican citizen, but a permanent resident in the U-S. His last known address was in Edinburg. He’s wanted for murder, aggravated assault and marijuana trafficking. Garcia has used almost a hundred aliases, but he has two nicknames, Rooster and Gallito, and has Garcia tattooed across his back. Call with your tips, 800 2-5-2 84-77.

Abram Clark Indictment

A 25 year old Christoval man is charged with aggravated robbery. A Tom Green County Grand Jury indicted Abram Clark. Police say he threatened real estate agent Brenda Jackson with a knife, as she arrived in her home in Christoval, last fall, and locked her in a closet.

Developement and Downtown Drinking on Agenda

The San Angelo City Council meets tomorrow morning at the Convention Center. Members are considering a proposal from the San Angelo Development Corporation that there should be a review of the new development process, with an eye to making it a bit easier. That analysis could cost up to 35-thousand dollars.

Council members will have a second reading of an ordinance that would repeal the ban on outside consumption of alcohol downtown. They could cancel the upcoming city election, since no candidates are opposed. And, they’ll discuss the Lone Wolf pedestrian bridge project. The meeting starts at 9 a-m.

Baby Jessica Birthday

Baby Jessica is all grown up. The toddler we remember, who fell into the abandoned well, turns 25 years old, tomorrow. She is a stay at home mother of two now. And upon turning 25, she receives the trust fund that grew out of the sympathy of strangers who watched her ordeal for two and a half days. Some 800-thousand dollars.

Darby Trying to Help ASU Nursing

In Austin, the House is debating the general appropriations bill, or budget for the next two years. There are more than three hundred amendments tacked on to House Bill One. One of them was filed by Representative Drew Darby and calls for a 500-thousand grant to Angelo State University. That money would help make up for funding cut by the state, especially in the nursing program.

Habitat Warehouse Sale

Also, the Habitat Warehouse Re-Store is open to the public. From 8:30 to 11 a-m, you can pick up building materials at a discount in the warehouse on North Chadbourne Street. Revenues go into the active building program.
Work continues on a house on West 18th Street, where volunteers raised the walls, this week. Crews will be working to build a home for The Fleming Family into the summer.

Master Gardeners Plant Sale

There are some deals available tomorrow. The Master Gardeners Plant Sale is at the Tom Green County 4-H Center. It opens at eight a-m, and organizers expect a crush of plant lovers. They will have thousands of plants that the master gardeners have sprouted from seeds or cuttings. Admission is free, and proceeds help fund horticulture education programs.

Senate Finance $ for Health

The Senate Finance Committee adopted most of the recommendations made recently by the Medicaid subcommittee, voting to restore four point three billion dollars in health spending. Senators vowed to find more money for health care in the coming weeks.

Afternoon sports headlines

You can buy individual game tickets for the 2011 San Angelo Colts season starting today. They're available at the ticket window at Foster Field, by phone at 94-COLTS and online at sanangelocolts-dot-com.

Today is opening day for the Texas Rangers at home against the Boston Red Sox. The American League Championship banner is being hoisted up at the stadium, after last season's World Series appearance. No pressure, but President and CEO Nolan Ryan has already said he expects the Rangers to repeat as division champs. The Houston Astros look to get off to a good start this season today in Philadelphia.

On the worst losing streak of the season, the Angelo State baseball team looks to right the ship today and tomorrow in Oklahoma against Northeastern State. Angelo State softball is home this afternoon against Midwestern State, and tomorrow against Southeastern Oklahoma. They have Central Oklahoma at home tomorrow.