Principal finalist

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

Tree of Angels

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

Roscoe memorandum

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

Jean Ryon to be honored

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

American Airlines bankruptcy

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

Rick Perry flub

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

The King and I

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

No burn ban

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

New FLDS trial

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

Symphony hiring director

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

Redistricting battle

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

Honor for Darby

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

Palmer running for DA

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

1 Jailed, 1 Sought In ATM Holdup Attempt

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

Robbery at ATM

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

San Angelo's Most Wanted

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

ASU space shows

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

Shannon award

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

Candidate for sheriff

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

Fatigue Major Factor In Holiday Accidents

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

Minorities Benefit In Redrawn Congressional Maps

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

Eliminate Burns When Frying Turkey

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

Donation Helps Volunteer Fire Departments

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

Black Friday Comes To San Angelo

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

Holiday gas prices

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

ASU-Korea agreement

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

Shannon groundbreaking

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

Buy local

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

Still no burn ban

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

School Trustees Table Redistricting Map

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

County Powers Cristoval Park Cameras

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

School board meeting

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

Highway 67 wrecks

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

Free concert

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

Free computer classes

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

Hunn Drowning Ruled Accidental

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

Semi Driver Injured In Tankersley Wreck

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

Goodfellow Day

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

Turkeys for donors

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

Young Professionals of San Angelo

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

ASU Nursing Grant

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

San Angelo's Most Wanted

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

Goodfellow AFB thanks the community for a good year

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

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark nationally recognized

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

Hidden in Plain Sight

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

ASU holiday concert

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

Attorney indicted

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

Trials underway

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

Give a Coat Drive

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

No TGC burn ban

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

Most Wanted fugitives caught

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

Business Plan seminars

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

ASU Turkey Trot

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

Robert Lee water notice

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

CAC trial postponed

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

New retailer in San Angelo

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

Fashion Falloout

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

Tool Box Bash

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

Shannon open house

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

Still no TGC burn ban

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

Library award

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

Diversity Awards

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

Jessop gets maximum sentence

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

Election Day Today

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

Civilian Air Force Layoffs Hit Goodfellow

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

Jessop Trial In Penalty Phase

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

FLDS Bishop convicted

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

Oyster recall

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

EAS test tomorrow

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

Habitat ReStore

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

Election day

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

Oklahoma Quake Aftershocks Reach West Texas

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

New Leader At Central Freshman Campus

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

Election Day Tomorrow

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

Constable candidate

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

Winter Weather Awareness Day

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

Doing Biz with Government

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

Facebook and Twitter Bootcamp

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

Congressman Conaway Endorses Perry Bid

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

Last Day For Early Voting

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

District Attorney To Step Down

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

Veterans Day Parade Tomorrow

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

Freeze warning

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

Conaway endorses Perry

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

Red Dirt Roundup

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

Early voting ends today

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

D.A. not seeking re-election

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

Discover ASU

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

Early voting--one more day

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

Dyess AFB Cuts Civilian Workforce

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

Early Voting Ends Friday

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

Freeze warning

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

Prowler sought

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

Diversity Awards

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

Lunch and Learn

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

Power accident

AEP customers in the Wall area lost power Tuesday afternoon when cotton stripper hooked into an electric wire and pulled down at least four power poles. It happened as the machine was turning south onto Chadbourne Street from FM Road 765. The driver stayed inside the cotton stripper while the lines were de-energized and was not injured. But he was cited for driving an over-height vehicle.

FLDS legal update

Testimony began today at the Coke County Courthouse in the trial of former FLDS Bishop Frederick Merril Jessop, accused of conducting an unlawful marriage between Warren Jeffs and a 12-year-old girl. Another FLDS member was in Coke County, pleading no contest to charges of bigamy and sexual assault of a child. In a plea deal, Leroy Johnston Steed was sentenced to seven years in prison.

Electricity Town Hall Meeting

One week from today, anyone who uses electricity is invited to an Electricity Town Hall Meeting in San Angelo. It's being hosted by State Representative Drew Darby and the Texas Office of Public Utility Counsel. Topics to be covered include shopping for electric providers and how to reduce your costs, energy efficiency and ways to reduce electricity use, smart meters and more. That's next Wednesday at the McNease Convention Center from 11:30 to 1:30.

No burn ban yet

The Tom Green County Commissioners’ Court has decided NOT to reinstate the burn ban, at least for another week. That was based on recommendation by City-County Emergency Management Coordinator, Ron Perry, who again cited Forest and Weather Service indicators as being below levels that require that a burn ban be put in place.

If you're planning a burn, remember to let the Sheriff's Dispatch Office know and also check weather conditions. And, instead of burning your trash, you can take it to the San Angelo Landfill once per month by simply presenting a water or electric bill.

2011 Diabetes Update

Shannon Medical Center will host the 2011 Diabetes Update weekend after next. The seminar will feature expert speakers and topics including the latest on pumps and continuous glucose monitoring, healthy eating with diabetes, and exercise with a Zumba demonstration. The seminar is free of charge and will be held on Saturday, November 12th, at the McNease Convention Center.
Pre-registration is required at (325) 659-7194.

Surprise Plea In FLDS Trial

A surprise guilty plea by a former F-L-D-S member today. Leroy Steed telling a judge in Robert Lee this morning that he was pleading no-contest to two charges of bigamy and one of sexual assault on a child. Steed was immediately sentenced to seven years in prison on the bigamy counts and another seven on the child sexual assault charge. An additional charge of tampering with evidence was dismissed. Steed's plea came as the trial of former F-L-D-S President Fredrick Jessop was just getting under way. Steed becomes the tenth of twelve men in the sect to be prosecuted using evidence from the April 2008 state raid on the Yearning For Zion Ranch in Schleicher County.

Perry, Cain In Texas Dead Heat

So far, it looks like Texans can't make up their minds between Governor Rick Perry and GOP Presidential challenger Herman Cain. A U-T poll finds the two in a virtual dead heat for the frontrunner position. Cain is favored by 27 percent of respondents, Perry by 26 percent. The rest of the field lags far behind. In fact, of the remaining four candidates included in the poll, none tallied more than two percent.

SAMan On Probation Indicted On Assault Rifle Charge

A San Angelo man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possessing an assault rifle while he was already under indictment for aggravated assault. Court records show 24-year-old Theron Pearson of San Angelo was indicted by a grand jury in Lubbock and has pled not guilty to the weapons charge. Pearson was arrested with what police say was an assault rifle while he was free on bond from an assault charge dating back to 2010. Trial date on the weapons charge now set for December in Lubbock.

San Angelo Most Wanted Is Behind Bars

He was on San Angelo's Most Wanted List last week. Today: he's in jail. The Marshal's Service and San Angelo Police say 30-year-old Jason Whitlock was tracked down in an operation that included officers of the Department of Homeland Security. Whitlock was wanted for a parole violation on a drug charge and for evading arrest with a vehicle. He was arrested yesterday.

Texas GOP poll

Whose the favorite in the Republican presidential race among Texas voters? A University of Texas poll conducted last month asked 800 registered voters whom they would vote for if the primary was held today. Governor Rick Perry tied with Herman Cain, although the survey was taken before recent allegations of sexual harassment involving Cain. Ron Paul came in a distant third.