Afternoon sports headlines

Lakeview has named a new head football coach. At a special meeting today at the San Angelo School District offices, the administration named Doug Kuhlmann as the new coach. He was an Angelo State Quarterback during their 1978 National Title season, and worked at Lakeview about 30 years ago as the offensive coordinator.

The San Angelo Colts announced that they will first make individual tickets available on-line Friday April 1. Then beginning Friday April 15 regular tickets will also be available for the upcoming 2011 Colts season. There are a few fireworks nights you may want to check out. All games are at Foster Field, and opening day is May 25.

Angelo State has dropped to 2nd, behind Alabama Huntsville, in the latest National Coaches Poll for NCAA Division II Softball. Midwestern State is ranked 3rd.

It's opening day for Major League Baseball with just a few teams in action. The Rangers kick off their season at home tomorrow against Boston, and the Astros are on the road against the Phillies.

Colts Tickets

The San Angelo Colts have released their promotional schedule for the upcoming season, with three nights of fireworks and a number of giveaways. Tomorrow, individual tickets will be available online through an early bird program.

New Police Officer and Award

The San Angelo Police force has a new officer. Troy Goodlow was sworn in by Chief Tim Vazquez and will continue his training as a certified officer. Vazquez also presented Public Safety Dispatcher Laura Banda with the Silent Hero State Award for her efforts during a recent robbery, which involved a shooting.

Synthetic Marijuana Ban

The Texas Senate voted to ban the production, sale and possession of several new forms of synthetic marijuana, sold under names like K-2, Spice and Genie. The Texas Poison Center Network received over 550 calls about bad reactions to them in 2010. They’re popular with teens.

Gas Prices Good for Rainy Day

While you probably don’t like higher gas prices at the pump, caused by unrest in the Middle East, Texas oil is also getting a higher price per barrel. And, a percentage of that revenue goes into the state’s rainy day fund. No telling for sure what kind of windfall that means, but it’s going to help with future budgets.

Budget Battle in the House

The Budget battle is being waged, in earnest in Austin. Today in the House, all amendments to House Bill Four were voted down or withdrawn. It’s a supplemental appropriations measure that enacts one point five billion dollars in cuts and 650 million in spending. As lawmakers make more gains on closing that four billion dollar deficit, they will also vote on House Bill 275, which taps into the state’s rainy day fund. Representative Drew Darby co-authored both bills and expected them to pass.
Tomorrow, House members start debate on House Bill one, which is the two year budget bill. With 370 amendments, there likely will not be a vote until Saturday or Sunday.

Drag Boat Races VIPs

Tomorrow morning, you’ll have another chance to reserve premium table seating for the Drag Boat Races. Front row seats in the V-I-P Tent are available for a thousand dollars each, and include weekend admission, lunch, transportation from the gate and some more perks. Call the Chamber at 6-5-5 41-36.

Rosa's Cafe 2

The San Angelo school district Board of Trustees approved a bit to purchase over three acres of land south of the School District’s Administration Building. B-D-C Limited Family Partnership of Fort Worth plans to build another Rosa’s Cafe there, on land which has been used for football and soccer practice.

Sexual Predator Panel

The Senate voted to create a new state agency to oversee violent sexual predators. The Office of Violent Sex Offender Management would have a three member governing board appointed by the governor.

Prison Health Care

In Austin, Governor Rick Perry has some aides pushing for legislation that would turn some of the health care system for convicted criminals over to private contractors.

Jeffs in Court

Warren Jeffs had another pretrial hearing at the Tom Green County Courthouse. The judge asked the status of the defense team and sealed a witness list and list of extraneous offenses. A leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Jeffs is facing charges of sexual assault of a child and bigamy.

Hailey Dunn Help

In Colorado City, officials confirmed they believe missing 13 year old Hailey Dunn is dead. No one has reported seeing the 8th grader since December 27th. There is now a 15-thousand dollar reward for information leading to the whereabouts of her body. The tipline is 800 8-4-3 56-78.

Police Cruiser Accident

A San Angelo police officer was treated and released after his cruiser was clipped by a truck and slammed into a utility post. The officer was driving west at the intersection of Oakes and 19th Street with his emergency lights on, headed to a fire department call, about 5:30 yesterday afternoon.

Emergency Training at Goodfellow

More training, today at Goodfellow Air Force Base. Military and city emergency personnel responded to a mock event with victims feigning injuries. Yesterday’s drill had teams responding to an active shooter.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Lake View boys soccer team won their playoff opener yesterday in Lubbock, beating Canyon Randall 2-0. Lake View moves on to the sectional round to face Amarillo Caprock on Friday. A chance for revenge, since Caprock knocked the Chiefs out of the playoffs last year.

The Lake View girls soccer team couldn't get past Canyon High, and they lost in Lubbock 3-0. Canyon High scored two goals in the first 11 minutes of the game.

Another honor for an Angelo State softball player. The Belles' Claire Molina has been named Lone Star Conference South Division Pitcher of the Week.

Abilene Christian introduced a new head basketball coach today. He's Grant McCasland, who spent the last two years as head coach at Midwestern State in Wichita Falls.

Today is the deadline for nominations for the Bobcat Athletic Hall of Fame. You can go to www.bobcathalloffame.com for the nomination form. The induction is March 17, 2012.

Afternoon sports headlines

Still no new head football coach for Lake View High School. The school board will have a special meeting at noon on Thursday and more should come from that.

Central baseball is tied for first place with Midland Lee, so it's a big game today. Central hosts the Rebels this afternoon Nathan Donsky Field. Both teams are 3-1 in district play.

Lake View baseball are hosting Waco High. So far the Chiefs are 0-2 in district play .

Lake View softball hosts Killeen High and so far Killeen is winless in district.

The Central softball team is home against Abilene.

In a civil suit filed Friday in Dallas, Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant is being sued by a New York-based company for non-payment of 246-thousand dollars worth of jewelry. Another suit has also popped up from a Texas-based jeweler, alleging Bryant hasn't paid for jewelry and personal loans that total in excess of $600,000.

Aldawsari Plea

Trial date is set for May second for Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari. Yesterday, the former college student plead not guilty to buying chemicals and equipment to build a weapon of mass destruction. He appeared in the federal courthouse in Lubbock.

Most Wanted Arrest

San Angelo’s Latest Most Wanted Fugitive has been arrested. Jaime Ramirez was taken into custody, yesterday, on a parole violation for aggravated robbery.

Power Struggle at FLDS

Warren Jeffs might not be in control of his polygamous church, after all. One of the senior members has filed papers with the Utah Department of Commerce to take over as president of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. William Jessop says he wants to provide leadership, while Jeffs is jailed and awaiting his bigamy trial in Texas.

Gambling Hearing

Today, members of the Committee on Licensing and Administrative Procedures are hearing about several gambling proposals and planning to create one gambling measure to send to the House, everything from Las Vegas style casinos, to slot machines at tracks and bingo halls.

Restoring Safety Funding

In Austin, a Senate subcommittee has recommended restoring more than 373 million dollars in funding to the Texas Departments of Criminal Justice and Public Safety, to bring back some programs that have been cut. The full Senate Finance Committee will vote on the recommendation.

Marshal Training

Peace officers from across the state are in San Angelo this week, taking classes on new state mandates, courtroom security and firearms. It’s the Texas Marshals Association’s annual training session.

Library Custodian

Just days away from the grand opening of the Stephens Central Library, and Tom Green County Commissioners want to be sure it’s clean. Today, they approved funding for another part time custodial position. The new library is about three times bigger than the old one.

Afternoon sports headlines

The San Angelo Relays happened over the weekend, and the Central boys finished second in Division I. The Lake View boys finished fourth in Division II. The very quick Daniel Perez of Central won the 200 meter dash.

The Central baseball team picked up a win over Odessa Permian over the weekend.

Not such a good story for the Angelo State baseball team. They have an eight game losing streak going now after losing three to Tartleton State Friday and Saturday. The guys will be on the road this Friday and Saturday in Oklahoma, against Northeastern State.

The number one ranked Angelo State softball team had a better outcome against Tartleton State, winning two out of three. The Belles record is 27-3 now. They're playing the Lonestar Crossover tournament at home this weekend.

The Texas Rangers have the Diamondbacks this afternoon as they get ready to kick off the regular season against the Red Sox Friday. The Astros start the season on the road Friday against the Phillies.

Dodgeball Results

YOUTH Cares held its second annual dodgeball tournament, this weekend at T-L-C Academy on Melrose Avenue. The teen committee of the Concho Valley Cares coalition uses the money raised to send members to the national conference of Community Anti Drug Coalitions of America. A lot of fun, probably some bruises, and congratulations to the Ballbarians, who won the championship, this year.

Training Causes Traffic

Tomorrow, there could be delays, if you are driving around Goodfellow Air Force Base. There are training activities scheduled, which could cause congestion in the morning, around Paint Rock and Perimeter Roads, Kearney, Eola and parts of South Chadbourne Street.

Tuesday Job Fair

The West Texas Training Center is hosting a job fair, tomorrow, from nine a-m to one p-m at the facility on U-S 67. It’s open to anyone looking for a job.

State Park Body Identified

Some sad closure for the family of Brian Plunkett. D-N-A testing has determined that the body found last October at San Angelo State Park was the Louisiana man, who was last seen in the park, last June. Tom Green County Sheriff’s deputies are continuing the investigation into Plunkett’s death, interviewing more suspects, this week.

School Board Cuts on the Table

More tough talk about budget cutting tonight for San Angelo Schools. The District’s Board of Trustees is meeting in the Administration Building on University Avenue. The meeting is open to the public, but Trustees will be discussing specific terminations during a closed session. District administrators made some recommendations to try and offset the expected shortfall in state funding, which could be as much as nine million dollars over the next two years. Trustees will talk about the 35 layoffs, a salary freeze and more potential cuts.

Afternoon sports headlines

After one game this afternoon against Tartleton State in Stephenville, Angelo State will have a double header tomorrow. The Belles are ranked #1. The Rams baseball team is looking to snap a five-game losing streak this weekend against Tarleton State.

Three Angelo State University athletes were honored by the Lone Star Conference with track and field honors. Trevor Rodgers was named the Men's Track Athlete of the Week, Bree Bennett was named the Women's Track Athlete of the Week and Kelsey Wilson was named the Women's Field Athlete of the Week.

Those hoping that Rangers closer Neftali Feliz would be a starter this year are disappointed. He'll be in the bullpen as the closer. After trading away ace Cliff Lee, the Rangers rotation looks like this: CJ Wilson, Colby Lewis, Tommy Hunter, Matt Harrison and Derek Holland. The Rangers play the Rockies tonight in spring training. The Astros have the Yankees tonight, and the Nationals tomorrow.

Fun Stuff to Do this Weekend

This weekend, the Home and Garden Expo continues at the Wells Fargo Pavilion. The San Angelo Schools Foundation has Bringing Books to Life at the Museum of Fine Arts. And, the Tom Green County Friends of Library Book Sale is at the McNease Convention Center.

Concho River Clean Up

Tomorrow is World Water Day, and you can join in, right here. Volunteers will meet at ten a-m in the parking lot off Irving Street at the river crossing. Wear long pants and closed toe shoes, bring disposable gloves, tools, trash bags and help in the Concho River Clean Up Project. There will even be an art project for kids.

Speed Limit Law

The House Transportation Committee approved a measure that would raise speed limits to 75 miles per hour in much of the state and eliminate night time speed limits.

Dire Job Projections

The Legislative Budget Board says Texas will lose 335-thousand jobs, if the latest House budget proposal passes, as is. The House and Senate are adjourned for the weekend.

Jaime Ramirez Wanted

Crimestoppers is looking for your help tracking down Jaime Ramirez. The 23 year old has family in San Angelo and has lived on East 30th Street. He’s wanted for a probation violation, after an aggravated robbery. Ramirez is six foot four, 295 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Call 658-4357 with your tip, or text to CSSA at 274637.

Local Woman Arrested by CBP

Customs and Border Patrol detained a San Angelo woman, after agents found four assault rifles, semi automatic handguns, a nine millimeter pistol and ammunition in her car at a Del Rio port of entry. She reportedly threw down her purse and tried to run, but was taken into custody.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Central High School girls soccer team will open the Class 5A playoffs against Fort Worth Paschal at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Abilene Wylie. Central is on a roll, they've posted shutouts in the past five games and they went through 12 district games without a lost. Their record is 13-7-3.

After today's first round of District 3-5A golf at the Odessa Country club, the Central High boys team will head to San Angelo Monday for round two at the Brentwood Country Club. The third round will be April 7 in Abilene, and the final round April 12 in Midland.

Bobcat Athletic Hall of Fame nominations through 3-31

The Bobcat Athletic Hall of Fame is still taking nominations for its Class of 2012. Nominations can be made through March 31st. Honorees will be inducted March 17, 2012, at the McNease Convention Center. We'll post nomination information for you.

{Nomination forms are available at www.bobcathalloffame.com and at the athletic office in the SAISD administration building, 1621 University Ave.

Lunch With the Coach

Angelo State University Alumni got to talk strategy with the new head football coach today. Will Wagner and his staff members were special guests at a luncheon for the San Angelo Chapter of the Alumni group in the LeGrand Alumni and Visitors Center.

Voter ID Passes House

House members had a heated debate about the voter I-D bill, yesterday, but passed the Republican sponsored measure in a late night session, 101 to 48. It’s a tougher version than the one State Senators passed, requiring all Texans to show a valid photo I-D to vote. You’ll need a driver’s license or state issued I-D, military I-D or passport.

Robbed at Bellagio

Police are charging 21 year old Manuel Ruiz Constancio with aggravated robbery. Monday night, a man told officers he was robbed at gunpoint while trying to pick up some of his cousin’s belongings at Bellagio Apartments.

Corona Indecency Trial

Jury trial continues for Ray Corona in the Tom Green County Courthouse, today. The 32 year old San Angelo man is facing life in prison for indecency. Jurors heard opening arguments in District Judge Jay Weatherby’s courtroom, this morning. And, the prosecution called a detective who investigates crimes against children to testify.

Afternoon sports headlines

A new head football coach could be named at Lakeview High School as soon as next week. The closing date on the job listing is this Friday, and the school says it hopes to have a recommendation for the board Monday night. The Standard Times reports they're interviewing 12 applicants.

It's turning into a roller-coaster season for the Angelo State baseball teams. At Fort Worth on Tuesday, ASU dropped a doubleheader to Southern Arkansas, 12-nothing and 11 to 9. After winning 10 games in a row, the Rams are now on a five-game losing streak. They'll try to get things going in the right direction Friday at home against Tarleton State.

The Texas Rangers are back in action today after a day off yesterday and a rainout Monday. They're playing the Diamondbacks in Arizona. The Astros have the Pirates today and the Rays tomorrow. Opening Day is just over a week away.

Afternoon sports headlines

The number-one ranked Angelo State women's softball team suffered only its second loss of the season on Friday to Incarnate Word, just the second loss of the season. Belles rebounded Saturday with a doubleheader sweep of the Cardinals. They'll take on Tarleton State this weekend.

After a ten game win streak, the Angelo State baseball team lost three over the weekend. They'll play three at home against Tarleton State this weekend.

After a win over the Kansas City Royals yesterday, the Texas Rangers take on the Milwaukee Brewers this afternoon in Arizona. The Astros dropped a game yesterday to the Braves, and they're taking on the Detroit Tigers today. Opening day is less than two weeks away.

The Dallas Mavericks got a blowout win over Golden State last night, and analysts say the Mavs will have five or six games here to pad their record with wins as they play sub-par teams and gear up for the playoff stretch.

Wild Weather Season

It’s a particularly tough fire weather season. And, the National Weather Service wants everyone to be prepared for more weather emergencies. This is Flood Safety Awareness Week and the start of tornado season. The Red Cross has 72 hour kits available, if you’d like to make sure you have the basic necessities on hand.

What's Going on this Weekend

This weekend, there’s Toenail Trail Days Music Festival and Craft Fair at City Park. Children are invited to the Third Saturday Downtown Rodeo, tomorrow morning in the parking lot behind M-L Leddy’s on Oakes Street. And, the Angelo Civic Theatre is holding a Cleaning the Closets Garage Sale, tomorrow on Sherwood Way.

Finding Funds for Texas Schools

In Austin, State Senators are pushing six billion more dollars into public education than the budget writers included in their first draft. A Senate Finance Committee voted to recommend the additional money. The plan goes to the full Finance Committee next week.

Main Library Closing

Getting closer to moving day, the Tom Green County Library’s Main Branch will be closed, starting Sunday. They will re-open as the Stephens Central Library on Beauregard, Monday, April 4th. You can return books to Angelo West Branch or the North Angelo Library, or the book drop at the Edd B. Keyes Building.

Billie Jean Dunn in Court

The mother of missing 13 year old Hailey Dunn was in court today, charged with hindering apprehension and prosecution, possession of dangerous drugs and obstruction of justice. 33 year old Billie Jean Dunn from Colorado City was arrested, last night. Investigators reportedly found a toothbrush, hairbrush, iPod and jacket belonging to Hailey in her mother’s bedroom and took them into evidence. The girls has been missing for three months. She’s described as white, with hazel eyes and brown hair, five foot one, weighing 120 pounds. There’s a 15-thousand dollar reward for information leading to her being found.

PM sports headlines

For the third week in a row, the Angelo State women's softball team is ranked number-one in the country in Division II by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association. The Belles are 23 and 1 on the season and will host Incarnate Word today.

Spring training in Arizona, the Rangers committed seven errors in a sloppy loss to the Padres 15 to 5. Tonight, the Rangers take on the Indians with Matt Harrison on the mound. After a game today against the Marlins, the Astros have the Cardinals and Braves in matchups this weekend. Opening day is less than two weeks away.

Many basketball fans are excited about the NCAA tournament this weekend. The Houston rodeo is utilizing a tournament format this weekend too. Most pro rodeos decide their champions by an aggregate score. Preliminary rounds have been going on this week, and after the final round, which is scheduled for Saturday, the winner in each event will pocket $50,000.

State Senate on Lineups

The Texas Senate passed a bill designed to improve the way police set up their personal and photo lineups, when investigating cases.

Burton Murder Still Unsolved

One year ago, this weekend, Kim Burton was found beaten to death in her College Hills home. The case is still unsolved. Witnesses reported seeing a small pickup truck, possibly green, outside the Cornell Avenue house. Crime Stoppers is offering up to one thousand dollars for information leading to an arrest in the case. Call Crime Stoppers at 6-5-8 HELP, or you can text your tip to C-S-S-A at 2-7-4-6-3-7 or Crimes.

Promoting Non-Wind Energy Efforts

In Austin, state lawmakers are trying to promote more renewable energy sources, which could pump up solar, geothermal and biomass industries. One bill would encourage utilities to seek out non-wind and renewable sources for about two percent of the state’s electricity usage by 20-21. Another bill would put more teeth into a measure that already requires 500 megawatts be purchased from non-wind renewable sources.

San Angelo Teams Up for Water

Strength in numbers. San Angelo, Abilene and Midland are taking a regional approach to handling water resources in the future. Mayor Alvin New announced the partnership, at the same time Mayors in Abilene and Midland had their own press conferences, today. The idea is to work on projects that will ensure all three municipalities have water well into the future. Abilene has been looking at a reservoir proposal for Hendrick River Ranch, near the Throckmorton Shackleford County line. It would cost 244-million dollars and take years to finish.

Afternoon sports headlines

The San Angelo Colts have added some power to their lineup, signing first baseman-outfielder Daryl Jones for the 2011 season. Jones, a former draft choice of the San Diego Padres, has 50 career home runs.

The Angelo State baseball team hasn't been on a roll like this in three years. With Tuesday's doubleheader sweep of Henderson State, the Rams now have won nine games in row, their longest winning streak since they won nine straight during the 2008 season. Friday the Rams will play two against No. 13 St. Mary's to begin a stretch of nine games in eight days. The Rattlers are 18-5 this season.

A pair of Rams were honored by the Lone Star Conference on Wednesday. Second baseman Zach Cohen was named the LSC Hitter of the Week while James Conlee was named the LSC Pitcher of the Week.

The Rangers play the Padres tonight and the Astros have the Marlins tomorrow at noon.

Afternoon sports headlines

The Angelo State baseball team is red hot. The Rams swept a doubleheader from Henderson State at Fort Worth, 5 to 1 and 5 to 4, pushing their winning streak to nine games, second-longest streak in ASU history.

In powerlifting, Central boys Tim Meza and Robert Martinez qualified for the state powerlifting meet with their performances last weekend at the regional meet in Abilene. Meza won the super heavyweight division with a combined lift of 1,485 pounds. Martinez was the runner-up in the 242-pound division with a combined lift of 1,475 pounds. The two will compete at the state meet March 26 in Abilene.

The Houston Astros are hosting the Washington Nationals this afternoon after a win over the Orioles yesterday in a slugfest. The Texas Rangers play the Colorado Rockies tonight after a loss to the Dodgers on Tuesday. Elvis Andrus of the Rangers got the chance to play with his brother Erold Andrus for the first time in a major league game.

Fire Weather Danger Up

Hot and Dry, this week. So, the National Weather Service says the fire weather danger is elevated, through Friday, mainly west of a line that runs from Sterling City to Sweetwater to Haskell.

Rep. Darby on the Latest Budget

In Austin, the House Appropriations Committee voted to take three point one billion dollars out of the Rainy Day Fund to cover a deficit in the current budget, which ends in August. Governor Rick Perry says he’ll approve that plan, but lawmakers must now write the next budget without touching the remaining balance in the fund. Republican Representative Drew Darby says it’s going to be tough, because they’re about 23 billion dollars short, if services continue at existing levels. So, that means cuts.

Historical Commission Commitment

Despite the cuts, House leaders say there will be funding for the Texas Historical Commission in the next budget. Governor Perry had proposed closing the Commission or merging it with another similar group to save money.

Cotillions Coming

Think more kids need good manners? The National League of Junior Cotillions plans to establish a program in Tom Green County, focusing on etiquette, building character and social dance skills for middle and junior high school students. They’re looking for a Cotillion director.

Join the Art Walk

The Downtown San Angelo Art Walk is tomorrow (Thursday). Not a bad place to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. With galleries and exhibits open from six to nine p-m.

Afternoon sports headlines

Angelo State Rams baseball is the hottest team in the Lone Star Conference right now after winning seven straight. This afternoon, ASU baseball plays Henderson State at LaGrave Field in Fort Worth in a doubleheader.

The Central baseball team is home this afternoon against Midland High. The Lake View baseball team is on the road this afternoon in Big Spring.

The Lake View boys soccer team has dropped two district games in a row. They'll try to get things headed in the right direction tonight against Brownwood at 7pm. The girls play at 5:30 from San Angelo stadium. Central girls soccer is at Odessa Permian this afternoon. Central boys will play Odessa Permian at 6:30 in Odessa.

The Texas Rangers are taking on the LA Angels this afternoon after a win over the Dodgers yesterday. The Houston Astros are taking on the Orioles.

Comptroller Revises Revenues

State Comptroller Susan Combs has revised the 20-11 revenue estimate by three hundred million dollars. She says sales tax collections are stronger than expected, and that will reduce the budget deficit to four billion.

Rainy Day Fund Still in Limbo

In Austin, Governor Rick Perry’s Aides did not appear before the House Appropriations Committee. And, there’s been no vote on whether to take money out of the rainy day fund, to cover the state’s budget deficit. Republican Representative Drew Darby co-authored the measure.

Green Plea Bargain

43 year old Ricky Allen Green pleaded guilty to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and injury to a child, yesterday, avoiding a trial set to start next week. The San Angelo man was charged with beating a three year old boy with a hammer and other abuses. Under terms of the plea agreement, he’ll serve a number of sentences concurrently, spending a maximum of 25 years in prison.

New Sheriff

There’s a new sheriff in town. Tom Green County Commissioners appointed Chief Deputy Truman Richey to serve as interim sheriff. He’ll replace Sheriff Joe Hunt, who is retiring March 31st. The appointment will continue until the next general election for Sheriff, which is November of 20-12.

Afternoon sports headlines

In high school basketball: for the second year in a row, Bronte made it to the 1-A Division-2 state championship game and came up short. The Longhorns lost, this time to Paducah, 45 to 30 on Saturday night. But it was a great season, with a 33-4 record and their fourth runner-up finish in school history.

It was a championship weekend for Angelo State's Andria Nussey. Running her last race as a member of the Angelo State track and field team, Nussey won the 800, and claimed ASU's first ever individual indoor track and field National Championship at the Albuquerque Convention Center Saturday.

In spring baseball the Texas Rangers are taking on the LA Dodgers this afternoon. It's the debut for the Rangers newest acquisition, Adrian Beltre. He has missed all of the spring games so far with a calf strain. The Astros are hosting the Phillies in Florida.

School District Transfer Apps

You’ll be able to submit a transfer application with the San Angelo Independent School District, one week from today. If your child wants to change schools within the district or transfer in from another district, applications are available at school offices, the Administration building on University Avenue and on the school district web site: http://www.saisd.org

SAISD Adding Up Budget Cuts

Budget math is on the syllabus tonight for the San Angelo Independent School District Board . The Assistant Superintendent of Business Support Services presents his proposal for dealing with the multimillion dollar reduction in state funding at tonight’s Board Meeting. Jeff Bright says staff reductions are inevitable. His recommendations begin with terminating contracts of some twenty teachers who are on probation.

Code Compliance Fight Against Blight

The city’s Code Compliance Department handed out 1153 notices of violation in January and February of this year. Manager James Flores says his crews responded to 203 citizen complaints, mainly for junk and unsightly conditions. If you have a complaint, call 657-4409.

Darby Withdraws Challenge to OPIC

In Austin, Republican State Representative Drew Darby has withdrawn his attempt to shut down the Office of Public Insurance Counsel. After meetings with office officials, last week, Darby says he has concerns about redundancy but feels the office still plays an important role.

Sanctuary City Limits

Today, the House State Affairs Committee is discussing a change in the sanctuary city bill, a piece of legislation that Governor Rick Perry says is a priority. Some lawmakers want school districts excluded from the measure, saying schools should not ask about immigration status.

Guns on Campus

This week, the Texas House will take up a bill that would allow people who have a concealed handgun license to carry their weapons into college classrooms and buildings.

Be a Storm Spotter

And, the San Angelo National Weather Service Office is hosting a SKYWARN Storm Spotter Training Class. It’s free for anyone who would like to know more about storm spotting for the upcoming storm season. A Basic and Advanced session runs from nine a-m to noon tomorrow at Trinity Lutheran Church on Y-M-C-A Drive in San Angelo.

What's Going On This Weekend

This weekend, the Fort Concho Cavalry and the eighteen hundreds baseball team will have practices, open to the public. The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts has a Family Day Focus on Egypt, tomorrow.

Find Mandy Shae Wilson

Crime Stoppers is looking for your help in locating a fugitive, named Mandy Shae Wilson. She has also used aliases, Katie O’Malley, Vicky Wilson and Jadon Covenough. She is a 29 year old white female, five feet four inches, two hundred pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, wanted for felony forgery. Call Crime Stoppers with any leads, at 6-5-8 HELP.

Rainy Day Fund on the Table

House lawmakers are moving closer to dipping into the State’s Rainy Day Fund to close a four point three billion dollar deficit in the current budget, even though Governor Rick Perry has said he doesn’t want to touch the nine point four billion dollar reserve fund. Ninety of the 150 members of the House would have to approve the measure.

School Budget Protests

In Austin, more protests over the budget are planned for this weekend. Tomorrow, thousands of education advocates, parents, teachers and librarians, will be at the Capitol to protest a multi-billion dollar budget cut for public schools.

Disability Connections Rally

If you wondered what the shouting was about, supporters of Disability Connections held a rally on the lawn of the Tom Green County Courthouse, this morning. The local center for independent living is protesting the cuts proposed for the state’s health and human services budget.

Afternoon Sports Update

The San Angelo Colts have announced the re-signing of Colts Co-Captain Jason Crosland. He's the Colts single season and all-time homerun king. In 2010 Jason was among the league leaders in several offensive categories including homeruns and RBIs and again won the United League homerun title. Crosland begins his fifth season with San Angelo.

Two volleyball stars at Grape Creek High School have signed on to continue their careers at two different junior colleges. Gabby Rodriguez is going to Clarenden College and Taylor Robbins is going to Ranger College.

The Bronte Longhorns go for a state title this weekend at the boys State basketball tournament. They play tomorrow night at 7 at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin.

The Rangers host the White Sox this afternoon in spring baseball after beating Oakland yesterday. The Astros lost to the Mets yesterday and play the Nationals later on tonight.

Local Women of Distinction

Tonight, the Girl Scouts of Central Texas will celebrate: Doctor Carol Ann Bonds, Suzi Marshall, Kathy Munoz, JoAnne Powell and Doctor Jane Rider as Women of Distinction. The Awards Dinner is at the Convention Center.

Darby's Bill in Committee

In Austin, The House Appropriations Committee is taking up a bill co-authored by San Angelo State Representative Drew Darby that would allow lawmakers to dip into the Rainy Day Fund to cover the current budget deficit.

Breakfast for Champions

This morning, students at Fannin Elementary school had a special guest. The U-S-D-A Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services was checking out the free breakfasts offered as part of the new Breakfast for Champions program.

Parking Garage Closed

The city of San Angelo is closing that old parking garage just south of the new Tom Green County Library building at Twohig and Irving Streets. Severe corrosion has caused structural problems that would cost more than one million dollars to repair.

Aldawsari Indicted

In Lubbock, a federal grand jury indicted 20 year old Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari on a single count of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction. Prosecutors say Saudi Arabian man, in Texas on a student visa, bought all the components to build a bomb online. He faces up to life in prison.

Mistrial in the Shooting of ASU Student

The prosecution and defense say they’ll try again, in the murder trial of 51 year old Ray Lemes of San Antonio. He’s charged with killing 19 year old Angelo State University Student Tracy Glass. State District Judge Lori Valenzuela declared a mistrial in Bexar County, yesterday, because the jury reported back from deliberations that one of the jurors had independently researched some legal definitions.

Spring Break Season

The Spring Break Season starts tomorrow. And, the Texas Highway Patrol plans to have extra cruisers looking for intoxicated drivers. A grant from the Texas Department of Transportation will cover more enforcement in high risk locations.

Afternoon Sports Update

Rocky Rawls is is hoping this time is the charm, as the the Bronte High School basketball team travels to the UIL state tournament in Austin this weekend. Rawls has been to the title game three times as a coach and has yet to win a title. The Longhorns play Roxton Friday night at 7pm.

The San Angelo Central softball team picked up a win in the district opener yesterday against Abilene High. In high school baseball, the Central Bobcats took advantage of five errors by Abilene High and got the 8-5 victory. Central Coach Chad Krempin was pleased with the win, especially since it came on the road.

The Dallas Mavericks hope to keep their momentum going tonight against the New Orleans Hornets. The Spurs play Detroit.

3 Rings of Fun!

The circus is in town. Circus Gatti has its World Famous Elephants, the Liberty Ponies, and Moto Metal Riders tonight and tomorrow at the San Angelo Coliseum. The show is called Pushing the Limits.

State Capital Roundup

In Austin, the House Transportation Committee heard a series of bills related to cell phone use and driving, today. During his testimony, State Representative Tom Craddick from Midland collapsed and hit his head. The Republican’s office says he’s fine, just got a little dizzy, because he’s taking pain medication for an infected tooth. His bill calls for a ban on texting while driving.
The State Senate Health and Human Services Committee approved a bill that would ban smoking in bars, restaurants and other indoor public places in Texas. That’s headed to the full Senate for a vote.
Friday is the last day lawmakers can file a bill. State Senator Robert Duncan says he plans to propose a constitutional amendment allowing a state wide property tax.
And, State Representative Drew Darby is asking for a rider on the House Appropriations Budget Bill that would close the Office of Public Insurance Counsel. The San Angelo Republican and insurance title company owner says the office is not performing its intended function and overlaps with the state Department of Insurance.

Tracking Down Some Burglars

San Angelo Police have a suspect in custody, after a burglary was reported in the 12-hundred block of East 19th Street. The victim said he ran, after waking to find two men in his home. Later, police found 18 year old Arron Varrillo with some of the stolen items. He was charged with burglary of a habitation. Officers are still investigating.

Policing the Library

Tom Green County Commissioners are trying to prevent more vandalism at the new downtown County library. Yesterday, they voted to add security cameras outside the building. Someone poured oil on a statue and into planters, last week.

New Sheriff for Tom Green County

Tom Green County is getting a new Sheriff, perhaps sooner than expected. Sheriff Joe Hunt told members of the County Commissioners Court in a closed executive session, yesterday, that he’s retiring, effective March 31st, for health reasons. The five court members must vote to appoint an interim sheriff next Tuesday morning. Sheriff Hunt did made a recommendation.

Water Main Break

Construction workers say changes in the weather likely caused an eight to ten inch water pipe to burst, this morning, on Beauregard Avenue, between Chadbourne and Oakes Streets. The water was turned off in all buildings on the block, while city crews worked on the line. And, First United Methodist Church had to cancel an Ash Wednesday service at noon.

Party for Mardi Gras

Tonight, you can celebrate Mardi Gras and help a great cause. The eleventh annual Meals for the Elderly Mardi Gras Celebration is at the McNease Convention Center, with raffles, food, fun and probably some beads, until nine o'clock.

Red Flag Warning

A Red Flag Warning is in effect, through this evening. The National Weather Service says low humidity and gusty winds are making for extremely dangerous wildfire conditions. Tom Green County Commissioners extended the burn ban, today.

Texas Drivery Responsibility Program in Trouble

This week, lawmakers are considering eliminating the Texas Driver Responsibility program. It requires those charged with offenses like Driving while Intoxicated and failure to have insurance to pay state surcharges. Nearly sixty percent of those with surcharges are unwilling or unable to pay, and they owe the State more than one point one billion dollars.

Right now, there's an amnesty program which would allow drivers to pay ten percent of the original amount they owed. But the Department of Public Safety says less than eight percent of people eligible have signed up, so far.

ASU Student Murder Trial

A 51 year old San Antonio man is on trial in Bexar County, charged with the murder of 19 year old Angelo State University student, Tracy Glass. Defense attorneys say Ray Lemes is protected under the castle doctrine, because he thought Glass was an intruder in his home. They're presenting their case today.

New County Board

Tom Green County has a new Bail Bond Board, required by the state, after the county's population topped 110-thousand in the last Census. Judges, clerks, attorneys, bondsmen and the county treasurer are meeting to set the ground rules for this new regulatory panel. The new rules would make Tom Green a closed county, meaning only registered bail bondsmen would be able to work.

Charter School Expansion

The Texas Leadership Charter Academy is growing. The publicly funded charter school announced plans to build a twelve thousand square foot education building and even bigger high school gymnasium, this summer, on Melrose Avenue. They should be completed in time for the fall semester.

Governor Wants to Preserve Rainy Day Fund

And, as the budget process continues, Governor Rick Perry is asking members of the House Republican Caucus leave the nine point four million dollars in the state’s Rainy Day Fund. Last week, the State Comptroller testified that budget shortfalls will likely force the State to tap into the money. But, Governor Perry asked Caucus members to find other ways to cover the budget.

State Rep Darby in Appropriations

In Austin, Republican Representative Drew Darby questioned a recommendation to close some of the thirteen state supported living centers for the developmentally disabled, including one in San Angelo. The House Appropriations Committee will submit a budget to Texas Health and Human Service, this week.

SAPD has an App for That

The Police are trying to make it even easier for citizens to leave tips, with a new mobile app debuting, this week. If you need to get information to police, you can still call or email, there’s also text and Facebook messaging. And now, you can download TipSubmit to your iPhone or other smart phone device.

Talk Back to San Angelo Police

The San Angelo Police Department wants to know what you think about the job they’re doing. They say they’re looking for more people to take a resident survey, especially in the east, south and northern parts of San Angelo. Just a couple of questions you can access at sanangelopolice.org. Or, you can call the police department to get a mail in survey.

Chamber of Commerce Award

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce will announce the winner of the Jefferson Civic Leader of the Year Award, tomorrow, during the monthly membership luncheon at the Fort Concho Commissary. The Award winner will represent San Angelo at a national competition, this summer, in Washington, D-C.

Afternoon sports update

Brock defeated San Saba this morning in the Girls State Basketball tournament in Austin, 37-32. The San Saba girls led most of the game, but couldn't hold off #1 Brock at the end.

The Central High School girls soccer team beat Abilene High 2-1 in a shootout earlier this week to remain in second place in the District 3-5A standings. The Lady Cats play again tomorrow at Midland High.

The Lake View boys soccer team clinched a share of the district title as they shutout Brownwood 3-0. The Chiefs improve to 8-0 in district play with four games left in the regular season. It looks like they will be the #1 seed out of their district.

The Dallas Mavericks go for eight wins in a row tonight as they host Indiana. The Spurs still lead the division, and try for win number 51 on the season as they entertain Lebron James, Dewayne Wade, and the Miami Heat.

Spelling B-E-E

Tomorrow, more than two dozen students from Tom Green, Irion and McCulloch counties will participate in the 23rd Annual Standard Times Spelling Bee. They're competing to win a free trip to Washington, D-C to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee at the end of May.

Welcome to the United States of America

More than twenty people, from countries like China, Nigeria, Spain and Mexico, waved miniature American flags, as they were granted U-S citizenship at the O-C Fisher Federal Building, yesterday. The U-S District Court holds a naturalization ceremony for citizenship every quarter.

State Sonogram Measure Moves On

Members of the Texas House gave preliminary approval to that controversial bill that requires a woman to get a sonogram before an abortion. The debate continued into late last night, as Democrats tried a series of amendments. Lawmakers must now reconcile the House version, with a less stringent bill passed by the Senate.

Rangers sign six

The Texas Rangers Michael Young requested a trade and that's still on the table, but six other players have just been signed and won't be going anywhere. That includes shortstop Elvis Andrus and pitcher Alexi Ogando.

San Angelo Scam Alert

San Angelo police are warning you to be aware of a possible fraud scheme. Reportedly, two women driving in a black car are preying on the sympathy of residents, passing out a flyer with a tragic story and asking for money to help the family cover funeral costs. They were last seen in the area of Norma and Bell. Call San Angelo Police, if you see this kind of activity.

Old Time Pit Fire Accidental

San Angelo's Fire Marshall Don Vardeman says the blaze that burned Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que did start out in the restaurant's cooking pit. An employee fired up the pit for the day and moved to a different part of the building to work. A build up of grease likely fueled the flames out of control. It's been ruled an accident.

Drier Means Fire Conditions Elevated

Drier air moving back into the Concho Valley, this afternoon. The National Weather Service says there are elevated fire weather conditions, mainly west of a line from Sweetwater to San Angelo to Ozona.

Today in the Texas House

The Texas House is debating that controversial bill that would require woman to get a sonogram before an abortion.
This morning, State Comptroller Susan Combs testified to the House Appropriations Committee that lawmakers should use some of the State's rainy day fund to help close the four point three billion dollar budget deficit in the current budget
And, a bill was filed that would allow slot machines at race tracks and Indian reservations.

Marrow Donor Registry Drive

On Saturday, some students from Lee Middle School will be asking you to get your cheek swabbed at Sunset Mall. It's part of their project for the Texas Research Institute for Young Scholars. Their goal is to get folks registered with the National Marrow Donor Program and raise money for the Be the Match Registry, which helps find compatible donors for patients with deadly diseases.

Texas Indoor New Year

This weekend, you can celebrate Texas Indoor New Year at the San Angelo Coliseum, with the Angelo R-C. It's a local group of radio controlled flying enthusiasts. Watch pilots from all over the south remotely glide and zip through their indoor demonstrations. TINY runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, at the Coliseum. Admission is free.

Steel Penny Pub Case Closed

The Steel Penny Pub will close on April fourth. Owner Ed Fawcett says he voluntarily surrendered the license to sell alcohol, because it's just too expensive to fight his case with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. A request for permit cancellation was filed after a fatal crash last year that killed a bicyclist on Knickerbocker Road.

Austin's Agenda: Voter IDs and Sanctuary Cities

New I-D requirements for Texas voters on a fast track in Austin, this week. The bill would require a photo I-D for most people trying to vote. Today, lawmakers are hearing testimony about legislation designed to crack down on illegal immigrants in so-called "sanctuary cities." And, House are debating legislation that would require a woman to get a sonogram before having an abortion.

Burn Ban and Wildfire Update

There's a burn ban in effect for Tom Green County. County Commissioners voted to impose the ban, yesterday, citing all the recent wildfires around the Concho Valley, dry vegetation and winds forecast to pick up again, even more, later in the week. You may have seen some smoke in the southeast part of the county, near Christoval yesterday. That was part of a controlled burn, near Susan Peak Road. Texas Forest Service reports that huge fire in Crocket County is near ninety percent contained, today.

Blazing Bar-B-Que Investigation

The Fire Marshall is poking through the debris at Old Time Pit Bar B Que, trying to figure out what caused the fire that shut down part of South Bryant Boulevard, this morning. Five fire units were called to the restaurant, shortly after seven a-m. The blaze burned more than half the building, the rest has heat, smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported. The investigation is centering on the pit area of the kitchen.

Council Shifts on Expansive Soils Building

San Angelo City Council members asked City staff to work up some policies for contractors who place home foundations on expansive soils. After a presentation from Building Official Al Torres, the Council unanimously agreed the City should do more to monitor builders, possibly including bonding, warranty and general liability insurance.

City Council Members Pour Over Water Rates

San Angelo City Council members voted to change the water rate schedule for untreated water. The new base rate will be seventeen dollars and 94 cents per month, with a block rate structure for usage. Also at today's meeting, Finance Director Michael Dane spoke to the Council about how the Hickory Aquifer water supply project could impact water rates.

Grass Fires Investigation and Aftermath

Fire officials are still assessing all the damage from wildland blazes Sunday and Monday. At least 13 houses were destroyed in a Mitchell County. Livestock, barns and equipment burned. Investigators say a downed power line near oil pumps in the northwestern part of the County may have sparked one of the largest fires, which winds pushed up to fourty miles per hour. More than 120-thousand acres burned, battled by scores of volunteer fire departments from all over Concho Valley. Ozona's Fire Chief wants to thank all the citizens who brought water, juice and food to firefighters who put in extended shifts.

What's Your Take On US 190/I-10?

If you'd like to weigh in on the U-S 190/I-10 improvement project, there's a public open-house style meeting tonight, from six to eight o'clock at the Schleicher County Civic Center. Representatives from the Texas Department of Transportation will be available to answer questions.

Jeffs Takes His Case to Capitol Hill

The head of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is keeping himself busy, in his Big Lake jail cell. Reportedly, Warren Jeffs sent letters to President Barack Obama, his Cabinet members and members of Congress, demanding he be released from jail or suffer God's wrath. Jeffs has a trial date this summer for sexual assault and bigamy.

National Beauceant President Visits

The President of the Social Order of the Beauceant is making her official visit to San Angelo. Katie Ryland will be at Miss Hattie's Café on Concho Avenue for dinner. Then, the women's Masonic Assembly will meet at their Lodge Hall at seven.

Garage Sale Limits Set

Two garage sales per year. The San Angelo City Council set the maximum number at two for every owner of a property, after receiving complaints that some residents were practically running garage sale businesses, out of their homes. Council members are going to talk about whether you'll need to register to hold a sale, get a permit and possibly pay a fee, at a future meeting.