San Angelo house fire

Seven units of the San Angelo Fire Department responded to a housefire Sunday afternoon in the northeast section of the city. It happened around 2 o'clock in the 600 block of East 25th Street. It took firefighters about 25 minutes to bring the blaze under control because of the unusual layout of the home. The couple living there escaped without injury.

NYE drinking and driving

If you plan to be on the road tonight for New Year's Eve, you are advised to plan ahead. The Texas Department of Public Safety urges you to get a designated driver or PASS--person appointed to stay sober. TxDOT says that even if you think you're okay to drive after one or two drinks, you could be wrong. Not only will you be endangering your life and others, you could stand to lose a lot of money; the common DWI arrest carries a minimum fine of 17-thousand dollars.

Swearing-in ceremonies

Several new Tom Green County and other officeholders will officially begin their new jobs tomorrow. New Year's Day swearing-in ceremonies will be held in Courtroom A of the county courthouse. Those taking office will include Sheriff David Jones, 51st District Attorney Allison Palmer, and County Commissioners Steve Floyd and Ralph Hoelscher, along with county constables and the tax assessor.

City holiday closings

A reminder: City of San Angelo offices will be closed today and tomorrow for the New Year's holiday. Offices will reopen at 8 AM Wednesday. There will be no trash pickup tomorrow, New Year's Day.

Gas price update

As 2012 comes to an end, Triple-A says gas prices are climbing and will continue to do so in the new year if a deal is made to avoid the fiscal cliff. If there is no deal, then gas prices are likely to drop as demand falls. The national average price of regular gas is three-29 a gallon, five cents more than last week. The statewide average in Texas is three-11, up six cents. And, according to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-02 to three-19 a gallon.

Small business certificate program

The Angelo State University Small Business Development Center presents the Small Business Management Certificate Program. It's an 8-week course that begins January 8th. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners learn the basics of Small Business Management and earn a certificate upon completion. Enrollment cost is 50 dollars and seating is limited. To find out more about this program or to register, go online at angelo-dot-edu-slash-sbmcp.

Fireworks safety

The San Angelo Fire Marshal's Office wants to remind city residents about the fire danger associated with using fireworks for New Year's Eve. While Tom Green County remains under a burn ban and shooting fireworks inside the city limits is illegal, there are no restrictions in place on the use of fireworks in unincorporated Tom Green County. For residents who insist on using fireworks, Fire Marshal Ross Coleman has some simple guidelines to avoid starting a fire: one, select an area free of dry grasses and other dead vegetation; two, always have plenty of water available to extinguish a fire should one start. Keep a bucket of water nearby. And, three, do not use fireworks when the weather forecast calls for winds above 10 miles an hour.

Gas price update

After a steady decline since November, retail gas prices have inched back up as 2012 comes to an end. That's according to Triple-A, which reports the national average price of regular gasoline is three-27 a gallon, four cents more than last week. The statewide average in Texas is three-08, also up four cents. In San Angelo, gas-buddy-dot-com shows the price of regular ranges from three-01 to three-19 a gallon.

College Hills fire

San Angelo firefighters responded to a townhouse in on Lindenwood in College Hills at around eight-thirty Thursday morning. A fire that apparently began in the home's chimney had spread to the roof and building structure by the time they arrived. A man inside the home at the time of the fire reportedly escaped without injury

Hazardous weather outlook

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a hazardous weather outlook for portions of west central Texas, including the Concho Valley. Patchy light freezing drizzle is possible this morning, mainly west of a line from Haskell to Anson to Bradshaw. Any accumulations of ice are expected to be confined to elevated surfaces.

Candidate filing dates

Want to run for mayor of San Angelo? The first day to file and submit an application for a place on the May 11th General Election ballot will be January 30th and the last day to file is March 1st. Candidate positions include Mayor, and Single Member Districts 2, 4, and 6. Candidate Packets for individuals interested in filing for a place on the ballot will be available for pick up from the City Clerk on Wednesday, January 16th. The Office of the City Clerk is located in City Hall, 2nd Floor, Room 210.

Xmas tree recycling

A reminder that the City of San Angelo offers residents two locations to recycle their non-artificial Christmas trees. Now through Friday, January 11th, residents can drop off their trees at the SAFE Recycling Center, 702 Warehouse Road, or the Coliseum parking lot, 50 East 43rd Street. Trees can be dropped off any time and the City will run them through a chipper as needed. Trees must have all ornaments and decorations removed to prevent damage to the chippers.

Slumber party

The San Angelo Nature Center on Knickerbocker Road will host a New Year’s Eve
slumber party for children from 8 PM Monday to 8 AM Tuesday. The youngsters will play games, make crafts, watch movies, and interact with and learn about the Nature Center animals. Participants, who must be at least 5 years old, will need a sleeping bag, pillow, pajamas and any other sleepover supplies. An evening snack and a light breakfast will be provided. The cost is 25 dollars for Nature Center members and 35 for non-members. All fees must be paid by tomorrow.

City office closings

City of San Angelo offices will be closed Monday and Tuesday, December 31st and January 1st for the New Year’s holiday. Garbage will not be collected and the landfill will be closed on New Year’s Day. Trash for those customers will be picked up on the next regularly scheduled day. City offices will reopen at 8 AM on Wednesday, January 2nd. Fort Concho will be open for limited service and self-guided tours on Monday.

Teen charged with murder

A teenager is in the Tom Green County Jail facing a murder charge. Sheriff David Jones says deputies were called out early Sunday morning to an all-night party in Dove Creek and found 19-year-old Samuel Harrison dead at the scene from an apparent gun shot wound. According to Jones, Harrison was an invited guest at the party and had been involved in confrontations with several other guests. Later on Sunday, deputies arrested 17-year-old Trestin Wollner, who was charged with first-degree murder and was being held on 100-thousand dollars bond.



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Christmas gift tip

Even if you made out like a bandit this Christmas, San Angelo police remind you, don't advertise your new gifts to burglars by leaving boxes out for trash pickup- it's like advertising "I got a new flatscreen...come steal from me!" Burglars looking to target homes often drive through our neighborhoods after Christmas taking note of the discarded boxes. Instead of leaving them intact, crush the boxes and put them in a dark garbage bag so potential burglars won't know what you got. 10 extra minutes could save you from falling victim to home burglary. Be safe and be sure to report suspicious activity to San Angelo police.

Post-Xmas protection

Law enforcement authorities encourage you to take a few steps to protect yourself following the Christmas holiday. Be careful how you dispose of gift packaging, because crooks keep an eye on trash. Put a television box or other electronic box in a closed container, because if it's out in view, they will know that you have new items in the house.You should keep a record of all of your valuables' serial numbers, and remember to lock up your home.

Donate blood for tickets

Give the gift of life and you could receive the gift of music. United Blood Services of San Angelo is giving donors a chance to win two tickets to see George Strait in concert on January 18th in Lubbock. Those who donate now through January 12th will be entered to win concert tickets, hotel accomodations and gas money. You can find United Blood Services at 202 West Beauregard.

Hazardous weather outlook

If it's not a white Christmas in the Concho Valley, it will at least be a cold one. According to a hazardous weather outlook issued by the National Weather Service at San Antonio, a strong Canadian cold front will bring in much colder air tomorrow, with strong north winds making it feel even colder. Wind chills will fall into the single digits tomorrow night. There could even be a few snow flurries althought snow accumulations are not expected.

Unemployment

Unemployment continues to fall across the state and locally. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the statewide unemployment was six-point-two percent in November, down from six-point-six percent in October and remains well below the national rate of seven-point-seven percent. In San Angelo, the jobless rate dropped to four-point-five percent in November, down from four-point-eight percent in October and five-point-five percent one year ago.

Xmas tree recycling

The City of San Angelo will provide two locations for the recycling of non-artificial Christmas trees. From this Wednesday through Friday, Januaru 11th, residents can drop off their trees at the SAFE Recycling Center on Warehouse Road, or the Coliseum parking lot on East 43rd Street. Trees can be dropped off any time and the City will run them through a chipper as needed. Trees must have all ornaments and decorations removed to prevent damage to the chippers.

Holiday shopping tips

If you're going to be out this Christmas Eve fighting the holiday shopping crowds, here are a few reminders from the San Angelo police department: avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, stay alert to your surroundings, and be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse--they are the prime targets of criminals in crowded areas. For more holiday shopping tips, go to the San Angelo police Facebook page.

Holiday warning

The San Angelo Police Department reminds you that criminals take advantage of the holiday season to prey on those who are unsuspecting and generous. When you get a knock at the door, be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. And only donate to a recognized charitable organization.

Shannon accreditation

For the second time, the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons has granted three-year accreditation with Commendation to the cancer program at San Angelo's Shannon Medical Center. Shannon received the accreditation for demonstrating compliance with the standards including cancer committee leadership, cancer data management, clinical services, research, community outreach and quality improvement. In addition, Shannon received Commendation in the areas of prevention and early detection education, timely clinical review of patient cases, and continual quality improvement.

Gas price update

If you're one of the 84-million Americans expected to hit the road over the holidays, you'll find that gas prices, which had been falling, have leveled off. According to Triple-A, the nationwide average price of regular gas is three-24 a gallon, down by one cent from a week ago. The Texas statewide average price is three-05 a gallon, the same as last week. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-01 to three-12 a gallon.

Nature Center HoliDaze

The San Angelo Nature Center hosts its HoliDaze event tomorrow. It takes place from four to six PM. You're invited to bring a camera for pictures with Santa, enjoy the petting zoo and participate in winter crafts. Members are admitted free; non-members ages four and up are three dollars and you can purchase an annual family membership for 20 dollars on that night only. The San Angelo Nature Center is located at 7409 Knickerbocker Road.

Burn ban reminder

A reminder as we head into the holidays that Tom Green County is once again under a burn ban. County commissioners reinstated the ban, under which residents in unincorporated areas will not be able to burn trash but can still use propane or gas stoves for cooking outdoors. Otherwise, only prescribed burns will be allowed. The burn ban will be in effect for 90 days.

Gas price update

Triple-A predicts that more than 84-million Americans will hit the road for a holiday vacation this year and they will find that gasoline prices continue to fall. The current nationwide average price of regular gas is three-23 a gallon, down five cents from a week ago. The current average price in Texas is three-04 a gallon, down seven cents a gallon from a week ago. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-02 to three-12 a gallon.

SAISD and SAPD

The San Angelo Independent School District reports that it has been advised that, working in partnership with the San Angelo Police Department, enough police officers will be provided to cover all campuses in the school district for the school day today. A spokesperson says the SAISD is very grateful for its partnership with the San Angelo PD and truly appreciate of their support. San Angelo ISD will close after classes today for the Christmas holidays. All campuses and facilities will re-opn on Monday, January 7th.

Sports Headlines for Thursday

Tis the season to pass out the football honors. All-district 14-1A Coach of the year honors went to Mason's Kade Burns. Mason's Miguel Castillo was named Newcomer of the Year, and Elliott Bibb of Mason was named Offensive MVP.

Dallas Cowboys cornerback Brandon Carr was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week. Carr came up with a huge interception in overtime that set up the field goal that beat the Steelers. And, for the second time this season, Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week.

The Lone Star Winter Baseball Camp is coming up next week in San Angelo. It's for ages 8 to 18, and it runs December 27 through 29. Today is the last day to register to avoid a late fee.

More info: Kevin Brooks at 325-763-9358 or kevin.brooks@angelo.edu; or John Anderson at 605-310-4752 or john.anderson@angelo.edu.

Library plea

Last June, someone assaulted an employee, damaged property and smashed a large window at the Stephens Central Library. On Tuesday, 40-year-old Juan Daniel Lizardo admitted to being that person as he pleaded guilty in 51st District Court to two felony counts. Lizardo was sentenced to five years' probation and ordered to pay 44-hundred dollars in restitution.

House Energy Caucus

A state representative from San Angelo has announced the creation of a new legislative caucus of the Texas House designed to focus on energy production and the issues facing areas impacted by the energy industry. Republican Drew Darby says membership in the House Energy Caucus is open to members of the House who represent legislative districts with significant annual production of crude oil, natural gas, coal, lignite, wind, or solar electricity.

Nature Center NYE

If you're looking for a place for the kids on New Year's Eve, you're invited to drop them off at the San Angelo Nature Center. A fun evening is promised, including games, crafts and movies--plus an evening snack and light breakfast. Children must be at least five years old and should bring a sleeping bag, pillow, pajamas and anything else needed for a sleepover. The cost is 25 dollars for members, 35 for non-members. The San Angelo Nature Center is located at 7409 Knickerbocker Road.

CrimeStoppers coordinator retiring

The coordinator of San Angelo's Crime Stoppers program is retiring after 28 years with the San Angelo Police Department. For 25 years, Linda Ashton has worked in the Crime Stoppers program and has served as coordinator for the last 12 years. Police Chief Tim Vasquez says Ashton has--quote--"helped reduce crime in our community making it a better place for everyone." Ashton will be honored in a ceremony at the police department tomorrow morning.

3-vehicle crash

San Angelo police say alcohol was a factor in a crash late Tuesday night involving three vehicles. They say a San Angelo man was eastbound on West Houston Harte when his Chevy truck hit a sign causing a tire to burst. The driver, identified as 20-year-old James Bejarano, allegedly fled the scene eastbound to the 4000 block of Houston Harte where he stopped in the center lane, turned out the truck lights and passed out. The driver of a Dodge Caliber headed northbound didn't see the parked truck, crashed into it and spun sideways and was then hit by a GMC Yukon attempting to get around the truck. The driver of the Caliber was not hurt; the other two drivers sustained non-incapacitating injuries and were treated at Shannon Medical Center. Bejarano was arrested for driving while intoxicated.

City holiday closings

The City of San Angelo has announced that city offices will be closed December 24th and 25th and December 31st and January 1st for the Christmas and New Year's holidays. Garbage will not be collected and the landfill will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Trash for those customers will be picked up on the next regularly scheduled day. Fort Concho will be open for limited service and self-guided tours on December 31st.

TCG burn ban

Tom Green County is once again under a burn ban. County commissioners reinstated the ban, under which residents in unincorporated areas will not be able to burn trash but can still use propane or gas stoves for cooking outdoors. Otherwise, only prescribed burns will be allowed. The burn ban will be in effect for 90 days.

School safety

In the wake of last Friday's massacre at a Connecticut elementary school, officials of the San Angelo ISD have updated their safety procedures. New rules include notifying all parents if a weapon, look-alike weapon or even a toy gun is found on campus. The device in question will be confiscated and not returned and local police will be alerted and will be part of the investigation.

City offices holiday closings

If you have business with the city of San Angelo, you'll have to work around the holidays. City offices will be closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Nature Center HoliDaze

The San Angelo Nature Center hosts its HoliDaze event this Saturday. It takes place from four to six PM. You're invited to bring a camera for pictures with Santa, enjoy the petting zoo and participate in winter crafts. Members are admitted free; non-members ages four and up are three dollars and you can purchase an annual family membership for 20 dollars on that night only. The San Angelo Nature Center is located at 7409 Knickerbocker Road.

Whooping cough cases up

Tom Green County is experiencing a spike in the number of cases of whooping cough. The San Angelo Health Department reports that seven cases of pertussis, which is commonly known as "whooping cough," have been reported in Tom Green County this year, six of which have occurred since the first week of December. There were no reported cases of pertussis in 2011. Uninsured residents can obtain the vaccine for the disease from the Health Department on Pulliam Street for 14 dollars 85 cents during the weekly immunization clinic on Tuesdays from 8 to 11:30 AM and from 1 to 4:30 PM.

Fire weather watch

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a fire weather watch for tomorrow afternoon that includes the Concho Valley. West winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour, gusting to 40 miles an hour, combined with humidity at 15 to 20 percent makes conditions favorable for wildfires. Any fires that start will have the potential to spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommend. That fire weather watch will be in effect from noon to 6 tomorrow.

City council today

It's a busy morning ahead for the San Angelo City Council, which will have a special joint meeting with the Downtown Development Commission at the Convention Center starting at 9 o'clock. That will be followed at about 10:30 by the regular council meeting with will include discussions of the City's website costs, water conservation and water billing issues. You can find a link to an agenda on the city's Facebook page.

San Antonio amber alert

San Angelo police have passed along an Amber Alert issued in San Antonio. Authorities say 11-month-old Jonathan Jose Guillen Junior was taken by Jonathan Guillen Senior, a 23-year-old Hispanic male who is 23 years old, 5-8, 185 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes and wearing a white muscle shirt with black or red shorts. Guillen is driving a black 2002 Chevy Trail Blazer with a Texas license plate number of 7CZTJ. If you know of their whereabouts, call 9-1-1.

Arrest and handgun recovered

San Angelo Police recovered a handgun during a late Friday night arrest. An officer ran a routine license plate check on a vehicle traveling southbound on Pecan Street and found the vehicle was linked to a wanted subject. After the vehicle came to a stop in front of a residence on East 11th Street, it turned out that the driver, 53-year-old Jose Alvarez of San Angelo, had outstanding city warrants. A passenger, 18-year-old Jose Rivas of San Angelo, tried unsuccessfully to flee and a handgun was found on the ground. Both men are facing multiple charges.

ASU appointment

A graduate of Angelo State University and a former Ram athlete, has been named a development officer in ASU's Office of Development and Alumni relations. Kevin Pepper, a member of the class of 1998, will begin his new job effective January 2nd. Pepper will report to the development office and also work closely with athletics to raise support for the Rams and Rambelles.

AM2 School safety

In the wake of the Connecticut school shooting, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott on Monday urged school districts across Texas to review their safety plans and implored districts that have not submitted their school safety plans to make doing so a priority. Abbott, who is a board member of the Texas School Safety Center, said “While we are saddened by the tragedy in Newtown, we can’t let another second tick by without getting school districts prepared to encounter the same type of situation in our state.”

Goodfellow Holiday Exodus

Goodfellow Air Force Base is scheduled to begin the 2012 Holiday Exodus this Friday. The Holiday Exodus allows Goodfellow students to take two weeks off in celebration of the holidays, and allows for downtime from training.The Carswell Fitness Center is used as the marshaling area for the student's bus transportation. The Taylor Chapel on base will hold events such as a Burger Burn at the new Crossroads building and will have live holiday music at the Event Center.

Fire danger Wednesday

The National Weather Service at San Angelo says the Concho Valley can expect elevated to critical fire weather conditions on Wednesday. That's when above-normal temperatures will combine with gusty west winds and low relative humidity values.

Gas price update

Triple-A predicts that more than 84-million Americans will hit the road for a holiday vacation this year and they will find that gasoline prices continue to fall. The current statewide price of regular gas in Texas is three-05 a gallon, down six cents a gallon from a week ago. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three dollars even to three-14 a gallon.

Good economic news

Good news from the San Angelo Chamber Of Commerce, which notes the latest sales tax report shows an increase of almost 14 percentover the same month a year ago. That marks the 27th straight month of sales taxes increasing year over year. The year-to-date increase is 11-point-seven percent over last year. In addition, 19-hudnred more people held a job in Tom Green County compared to a year prior, and single-family residential home sales were up 20 percent over last year. Unemployment in San Angelo is at four-point-eight percent.

Crockett County fatal crash

One person was killed and another injured in a one-vehicle rollover on Interstate 10 in Crockett County. It happened Saturday morning, four miles west of Ozona. The teenage driver was headed eastbound in a Ford F-50 which drifted off the roadway; he overcorrected and the vehicle went back across the eastbound lanes and into the center median where it flipped over three times. Both occupants were from Georgia: 18-year-old Mason Taylor Felt, the driver, was transported to Shannon Medical Center in critical condition. The passenger, 51-year-old Richard Lee Felt, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Reduce Your Use Grants

Later this morning, WTU Retail Energy will present four San Angelo nonprofits with Reduce Your Use Grants. Under the grant program, nonprofits whose applications are approved are awarded up to 25-hundre dollars to fund energy-efficient upgrades. Those organizations receiving the grants are Central Texas Opportunities, Children's Advocacy Center of Tom Green County, Fort Concho Foundation and Fort Concho Museum and Sonrisas Therapeutic Riding.

Holiday DWI patrols

As you hit the road during the holiday season, keep in mind that the Texas Department of Public Safety will increase DWI patrols from starting this Friday and continuing through January 1st. DPS troopers will focus DWI patrols in high-risk locations at times when alcohol-related crashes are most frequent. The enhanced patrols that target intoxicated drivers are funded through a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation. During last year's Christmas/New Year holiday enforcement effort last year, DPS troopers made more than 11-hundred DWI arrests, and about 350 were the direct result of the increased patrols.

Gas price update

Texas gas prices continue to drop as some get an early start on their holiday travels. Triple-A Texas spokesman Doug Shupe says lower crude oil prices and lower demand are helping drop prices at the gas pump. The statewide average dropped a nickel this week to three-dollars-nine-cents a gallon. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-08 to three-16 a gallon.

Mayor cleared

Good news for San Angelo's mayor. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has cleared Alvin New of charges that he illegally watered his land with Concho River water. The Christoval landowner who filed the complaint wasn't satisfied, claiming that New received preferential treatment. According to the Standard Times, New says--quote--"Water causes a lot of emotions."

Health foundation grants

The San Angelo Health Foundation has announced that grants totalling nearly 430-thousand dollarsare being awarded to 14 local non-profit organizations. Among those getting money will be the Adult Enrichment Center for implementation of a marketing plan, the Christoval Fire Department for an EMS response vehicle, Family Services Center in Brownwood for expanding mental health services, Meals for the Elderly to buy a delivery truck, the San Angelo Early Childhood for playground resurfacing, the San Angelo Garden Club for a misting system for the Water Lily Collection and theMuseum of Fine Arts for educational programs and project needs.

Driver crashes into apartment

A San Angelo man arrested after crashing into west side apartment complex early Thursday morning. Just before 2 AM. San Angelo Police arrived at the College Hills West Apartment Homes on Millbrook Drive. They found a 2013 Chevrolet Uplander had crashed into building #6 before coming to rest inside a boiler room and pushing the contents of the room through the bedroom wall of the adjoining apartment. There were two adults and two children in the apartment but no one was injured. The driver was standing outside of the vehicle and was identified as 33-year-old Steven Schelhorn. Alcohol was determined to be a contributing factor of the crash. and Schelhorn was charged with Driving While Intoxicated.

ASU arrests

Police at Angelo State University arrested six students from last Saturday to Monday. They are facing potential second-degree felony charges in connection with a campus burglary on October 21st. That's when someone entered a student's room without premission and vandalized it. ASU police say surveillance footage showed the six students entering the room, apparently intending to assualt the female resident. The students have all been released on bail and will now await the decision of a grand jury as to what charges they will face.

12-12-12 baby

A San Angelo newborn has a very easy birthday to remember: Josie Gwen Sides was born at Shannon Medical Center on Wednesday--twelve, twelve, twelve. Josie weighed in at four pounds three ounces; she's 18 inches long. She came into the world at 12:22--just 10 minutes too late to say she was born at 12-12 on 12-12-12.

Wreaths Across America

On Saturday, members of the San Angelo community will gather together to honor veterans during the holiday season as part of the annual Wreaths Across America Day. The San Angelo Composite Squadron and Texas Leadership Charter Academy Cadet Squadron have volunteered to conduct the WAA ceremony. It will be held at the All Veteran Cemetery Plot at Belvedere Memorial Park on Arden Road. Seven ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember all soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who served, honor their sacrifices, and to teach younger generations about the high cost of freedom.

Toy drive

San Angelo Police are thanking the staff at San Jacinto Elementary School who helped the Police Department gather toys for Healthy Families of San Angelo’s annual Toy Drive. The toys will be presented at Healthy Families Annual Christmas Party next Tuesday. The event will feature a visit from Santa. To learn more about Healthy Families San Angelo visit h-f-s-a-t-x-dot-com.

Shooting investigation

Just before 11 o'clock Wednesday morning, San Angelo Police responded to a 911 call of a shooting victim in the 600 block of West 16th Street. Upon arrival, police found a man about 30 years old with what appeared to be a gunshot wound. Fire Department Personnel responded to the scene and transported the victim to Shannon Medical Center. His condition was not immediately known nor is the type of firearm used. Officers were advised on scene that the man was shot while standing in the front yard of a residence. At this time, there is no information on a suspect.

Chadbourne collision

A collision took place during Tuesday's after-school rush hour on North Chadbourne. San Angelo police say a woman driving a Toyota Avalon collided with a woman driving a Chevrolet pickup truck at the intersection of Chadbourne and 24th Street. The driver in the pickup went to Community Medical Center. The Avalon wound up against a telephone poll and police cited the driver of that that vehicle for failing to yield right of way. Chadbourne traffic was blocked for awhile as workers cleared debris.

Craigslist scam

The San Angelo Police Department has taken several reports of scams occurring through Craigslist. Here's an example: you receive an email offering to buy your item, or service. A cashier's check or personal check is offered for your sale item, as a deposit for real estate, or for your services. The value of the check often far exceeds your item; the scammer offers to "trust" you, and asks you to wire the balance via a money transfer service, Banks will often cash these fake checks AND THEN HOLD YOU RESPONSIBLE WHEN THE CHECK FAILS TO CLEAR, including, in some cases, criminal prosecution. One important tip from Craigslist to avoid such scams: Deal locally with folks you can meet in person.

Stolen car arrest

A Brownwood woman faces charges for stealing a vehicle in San Angelo. Early Tuesday morning, a San Angelo police officer patrolling the area of North Main Street observed a white 2002 Buick Le Sabre traveling north and recognized it as having been reported stolen from a residence on River Oaks Street on Monday morning. Additional officers were called to the scene to assist as the officer followed the vehicle to the Allsup's Gas Station on North Main Street. The driver was taken into custody without incident and identified as 24-year-old Shawna H. Worley of Brownwood.

Texas DPS records

The Texas Department of Public Safety's Texas 10 Most Wanted Program set new records in 2012. Those were for total apprehensions, gang member apprehensions, sex offender apprehensions and total rewards paid by the Texas Crime Stoppers Program. So far this year, DPS and other agencies have arrested 30 Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives and Sex Offenders, including 20 gang members, and 93-thousand dollars in rewards have been paid for tips that resulted in arrests.

Police graduation ceremony

17 cadets are one step closer to protecting and serving the citizens of San Angelo after graduating from the local Police Academy. Monday morning at 9 o'clock, the San Angelo Police Department's Basic Police Officer Class 2012-A will participate in a Graduation and Swearing in Ceremony at the McNease Convention Center located at 500 Rio Concho Drive. The ceremony is open to the public.

City official leaving

San Angelo's Community and Economic Development Director is leaving. Shawn Lewis has accepted the position of assistant city manager in Longmont, Colorado. The move will reunite Lewis with former San Angelo City Manager Harold Dominguez, who joined Longmont as its City Manager in April. Lewis was selected from 182 applicants and four finalists. His final day with the City of San Angelo will be December 24th.

Stadium vehicle burglaries

Several vehicle burglaries were reported Friday night at the San Angelo Stadium. San Angelo police say it appears that the suspects targeted vehicles with purses and other valuables that were in plain sight while the game was going on. All the vehicles reportedly had forced entry. Police remind you that it generally takes a mere few seconds to secure your valuables, but it will take only a few seconds more for a thief to break in and steal valuables left in plain sight.

Two arrests on Ridgecrest

San Angelo police report a couple of arrests made Saturday in the 3500 block of Ridgecrest. That's where officers found 32-year-old Jerred Denton, who was wanted on a grand jury indictment for burglary of a habitation. 26-year-old Danielle Galindo was also arrested at the scene for hindering apprehension.

Special weather statement

The coldest temperatures in almost a year were expected overnight across West Central Texas, including the Concho Valley. The National Weather Service at San Angelo says lows were forecast in the teens and lower 20's. Caution should be taken to protect your pipes, your pets and any cold-sensitive plants. Temperatures will remain below normal this afternoon with a hard freeze likely again tomorrow morning. A warming trend will start tomorrow afternoon.

ASU commencement

More than 500 students are scheduled to graduate during Angelo State University's fall commencement ceremonies this Saturday in the Junell Center/Stephens Arena on South Jackson Street. Graduates of the College of Education and the College of Health and Human Services will walk across the stage during a 10 AM ceremony. Graduates of the College of Arts and Sciences and College of Business will walk the stage at 2 PM. All of ASU's commencement activities are open free to the public.

Chamber luncheon

The Chamber of Commerce December Membership Luncheon will feature new San Angelo City Manager as the guest speaker. This will be an opportunity to meet Daniel Valenzuela and hear about his vision for our community. The luncheon will be held today from 11:30 AM to 1 PM at McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive. It is sponsored by the City of San Angelo and Shannon Medical Center The cost is 15 dollars per person.

Special weather statement

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a special weather stateement. The coldest temperates in almost a year are arriving across West Central Texas, including the Concho Valley. There have been wind-chill readings this morning in the teens and afternoon highs will only be in the 40's. Temperatures will plunge after dark tonight, with readings falling into the teens and lower 20's by sunrise tomorrow. You're advised to protest pipes, pets and any cold-sensive plants. Temperatures will remain below normal tomorrow afternoon and a hard freeze is again likely Wednesday morning. A warming trend will start Wednesday afternoon.

Gas price update

Retail gas prices are forecast to decrease throughout the end of the year. According to Triple-A, both oil and gas prices dropped last week after the value of the dollar increased to a two-week high. The national average price of regular gas is three-35 a gallon, four cents less than last week. The statewide average in Texas of three-10 also decreased four cents. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-08 to three-18 a gallon.

Sales permits required

A reminder from the San Angelo Police Department: all sales groups must obtain a sales permit in order to sell products within the city. A group selling magazines and coupon cards tried to obtain permits last week but did not meet the eligibility requirements for all the sales staff. Later it was learned some of the staff were soliciting without permits in the southwest portion of town. As a result, the issued permits for the group were revoked. If anyone approaches you in public or at your home, they are required to display a city-issued permit. Otherwise, you can report them to San Angelo police.

Man swallows object during arrest

Just after 9 am Thursday morning Police stopped a pickup on North Chadbourne for a tail light out and no front license plate. After a traffic investigation, the thirty-nine year old Hispanic male driver was found to have a suspended driver’s license. A brief struggle ensued, and as officers attempted to gain control, he threw an object to the ground and began fighting with the officers and later swallowed the object believed to be a controlled substance. The man then began having trouble breathing and the officers initiated resuscitative efforts and called for medical assistance. He was then taken to Shannon by ambulance. His condition was unknown yesterday afternoon and his identity was not being released.

Fort Concho Christmas Begins

The 1880's Frontier will be alive and well this weekend at Old Fort Concho National Historic Landmark downtown. From this afternoon till Sunday afternoon it's the 31st annual Christmas at Old Fort Concho at 630 South Oakes. Thousands of visitors will be taking part in the many activities for all ages throughout the weekend, with live music, food, Santa and many vendors selling unique holiday gifts. The opening ceremony begins at 3 pm this afternoon. Ticket prices are 7 dollars for adults, 5 for seniors and military, and 3 dollars for kids. Weekend passes are also available. For more information go to Fort Concho dot com.

Christoval ISD Election Saturday

The Christoval ISD Board of Trustee election will be held Saturday. Hours will be 7 am to 7 pm. Voting for precinct 422 will be conducted at the Christoval Community Center in Christoval, and precinct 423 will be conducted at the Knickerbocker Community Church on FM 2335, in Knickerbocker. For more information, contact the election office at 325-659-6541.

Tree of Angels Ceremony

Crime Victims and their families and friends gathered for a special ceremony last evening at the Stephens Central Library. It was the 11th annual tree of angels ceremony, sponsored by the Tom Green County Coalition Against Violence. It was time of healing as family and friends of a victim and survivors of a violent crime were invited to bring an angel ornament to place on the special tree. Organizers the event helps heal the wounds caused by a violent crime which affected their lives.

Wreaths Across America ceremony planned

On Saturday December 15th local residents will gather to honor veterans during the holiday season as part of the annual "Wreaths Across America" day. The San Angelo Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol and TLC Academy Cadet Squadron have volunteered to conduct the ceremony at the All Veterans Cemetery Plot at Belvedere Memorial Park on Arden Road. Seven ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who served, honor their sacrifices, and teach younger generations about the cost of our freedoms. The same ceremony will be conducted simultaneously at over 750 participating locations all across the Country.

Suspect arrested with help from YouTube video

A wanted person is arrested off a tip from exposure through social media. 28 year old Tiffany Marie Alcerreca was wanted on an MTR-Fraud Use and Possession of Identifying Information, Miscellaneous Felony and 3 City Warrants. In August she and Michael Glenn were identified from a surveillance video that was posted to the city police Youtube Channel and Facebook page. The two were shown on video using a stolen credit card to purchase items. San Angelo Crime Stoppers received information about Alcerreca’s whereabouts and notified Denton County Crime Stoppers. On Wednesday she was arrested by the Denton County Sheriff’s Office.

Christoval voting

We're not completely done with elections just yet. The Christoval ISD Board of Trustee election will be held tomorrow. Voters can cast ballots from 7 AM to 7 PM. Precinct 422 voting will take place at the Christoval Community Center in Christoval, and precinct 423 voting will be take place at the Knickerbocker Community Church on FM 2335.

Social media tip

San Angelo police report that a wanted subject was arrested from after a tip generated by exposure through social media. 28-year-old Tiffany Marie Alcerreca had been wanted on an several charges and warrants from Denton County dating back to 2010. In August 2011, she and a man were identified from a surveillance video that was posted to the SAPD Youtube Channel and Facebook page. It allegedly shows the pair on video using a stolen credit card to make a purchase. San Angelo Crime Stoppers received information about Alcerreca’s whereabouts and notified Denton County Crime Stoppers and she arrested by the Denton County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday.

Suspect swallows drug

Just after 9 o'clock Thursday morning, San Angelo police stopped a 1991 Chevrolet truck near the Park Motel on North Bryant Boulevard for a defective tail light and no front license plate. Officers say the 39-year-old Hispanic man's driver's license was suspended and he put up a brief struggle as they attempted to arrest him. He also swallowed what is believed to have been a controlled susbstance and then appeared to have difficulty breathing. The man, whose name has not been released, was taken to Shannon Medical Center for treatment.

Wreaths Across America

One week from tomorrow, members of the San Angelo community will gather together to honor veterans during the holiday season as part of the annual Wreaths Across America Day. The San Angelo Composite Squadron and Texas Leadership Charter Academy Cadet Squadron have volunteered to conduct the WAA ceremony. It will be held at the All Veteran Cemetery Plot at Belvedere Memorial Park on Arden Road. Seven ceremonial wreaths will be placed to remember all soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who served, honor their sacrifices, and to teach younger generations about the high cost of freedom.

Wounded Warrior 5K

Angelo State University's Air Force ROTC Detachment 847 raised two-thousand-700 dollars for the Wounded Warrior Project through a 5K run on campus last Saturday. About 380 runners participated in the event. The Wounded Warrior Project is a national organization that raises awareness and support for injured service members and develops programs to assist them.

Fatal motorcycle crash

A crash in Sutton County Tuesday night took the life of a San Angelo man. The Texas Department of Public Safety says 23-year-old William Jacob McLaughlin was riding his 1983 Yamaha motorcycle east on loop 467 when he ran a red light. The motorcycle crashed into a Nissan Quest minivan that was southbound on U.S. 277. McLaughlin was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Hunt for Heroes report

An initial report on last month's "Hunt for Heroes" train accident in Midland was released Wednesday in Washington. Investigators say the train struck the semi-tractor-rig carrying 24 passengers from the "Hunt For Heroes" float in the right rear and carried it 30 feet before it hit a sheriff's department vehicle. Four veterans died and five people were seriously injured. As a result, all of the "Hunt For Heroes" events scheduled in San Angelo were cancelled.

Last week, two military veterans and their wives who were riding on the "Hunt for Heroes" float filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against Union Pacific railroad and the company that provided the flatbed trailer used as a float.

SAPAC new home

The San Angelo Performing Arts Coalition is getting a new home. The city council this week approved a lease agreement betwen the city and the coalition for the west mezzanine of City Hall. In return, the coalition is investing two and a half million dollars to finish renovations at the City Auditorium. That's a performing arts center attached to City Hall that seats 15-hundred.

ASU SBDC new location

After 23 years of operating from the second floor of the Rassman Building on the Angelo State University campus, the ASU Small Business Development is moving off-campus to the newly renovated Business Resource Center at 69 North Chadbourne Street. Despite the change in location, the center will continue to be affiliated with ASU and will maintain its mission of helping local and area individuals and businesses get the information and resources they need to be successful. The SBDC is also retaining its phone number, e-mail addresses and mailing address.

SAPD community meeting

The San Angelo Police Department will be hosting a Community Neighborhood Meeting this Sunday from three to 4:30 PM at Glenn Meadows Baptist Church located at 6002 Knickerbocker Road. Residents of sectors three and four will have the chance to meet Officers who work in their area, learn about Crime Fighting Strategies and Holiday Safety Tips and ask questions. Residents are encouraged to attend to become partners with the San Angelo Police Department in a joint effort to deal with crime issues within their neighborhood.

Hit and run suspect sought

San Angelo police are searching for a suspect who fled the scene of a hit and run crash. Just before 11:00 p.m. on Monday, at the intersection of Campus and Avenue J, a late 90’s or early 2000 model dark-green Dodge Durango failed to yield at a stop sign and collided with a person on a bicycle. The cyclist was injured as a result of the crash. The vehicle was last seen traveling west on Avenue J. The suspect vehicle could have damage to the front left and/or left passenger side of the vehicle.

Traffic stop drug bust

An early Tuesday morning traffic stop led to a brief chase and drug arrest in north San Angelo. An officer tried to stop a vehicle in the 600 block of West 29th Street for a traffic violation. The white 2004 Cadillac Deville occupied by three individuals turned north on North Bryant Boulevard and eventually stopped in the parking lot of a Sonic Restaurant. At that point, one of the passengers got out and fled, discarding objects as he ran. Police caught up to the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Hector Saenz of San Angelo. And they found a handgun and two bags of methamphetamine. Saenz was arrested on multiple charges.

Robbery suspect sought

San Angelo Police are asking for the public's help in identifying and locating a robbery suspect. Sunday night, a man armed with a gun held up the clerk at the West-T-Go located at 7th and Chadbourne Street. The suspect fled the store with an undisclosed amount of cash and was seen running to the north side of the store where he got into the front passenger side of a vehicle, which headed eastbound on 8th Street. The suspect was described as being a black male in his twenties, long black hair tied back in a green scarf, goatee-style facial hair, wearing a light colored collared shirt, blue jeans, and urban style boots. If you know anything about the case, contact San Angelo police or call Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP.

ASU search

An 11-member search committee has been named by Angelo State University President Brian May to make recommendations for a new provost and vice president for academic affairs. Doctors Javier Flores and Andrew Siefker will co-chair the search committee. The top candidates will be invited to campus for interviews during the spring semester. A successful search will result in an offer being extended to the finalist by May 1st.

Helping Hands applications

The Helping Hands organization says applications are now available for assistance for low-income elderly homeowners in need of repair work on their homes. Applications are being taken at the Galilee Community Development Corporation offices on South Oakes Oakes by appointment only. The deadline for applications for the April project is Friday, January 18th. Helping Hands, in partnership with community volunteers, restores the homes of low-income elderly homeowners making them safe, secure, and weatherproof, all at no cost to the homeowner.

San Angelo men arrested

Two San Angelo men have been arrested in Bangs. Lance Sanchez and Dustin Schaaf, both 29, were arrested Sunday morning after police responded to an anonymous call of suspicious activity taking place in the parking lot of Allsup's convenience store. More than six-thousand dollars and four firearms were seized from the men. According to police, Sanchez and Schaaf were on their way to Brownwood from San Angelo and stopping along the way to collect money from drug trafficking. Sanchez and Schaaf are in the Brown County Jail on 20-thousand dollars bond each, charged with money laundering and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Cop-shooting court appearance

The man charged with capital murder in the shooting death of a former San Angelo police officer is scheduled to appear in court next week. 25-year-old Brandon Daniel of Austin is charged with shooting Austin police officer Jaime Padron in a Walmart last April. Daniel and his defense attorneys will be present for the hearing in Austin district court next Monday. His trial is scheduled for next year.

Crash involves pregnant woman

A crash Monday afternoon in San Angelo sent a pregnant woman to the hospital. Police say the drivers of two SUVs south bound on Abe Street collided near the intersection with Washington street. One of the drivers was a pregnant woman who was transported to Shannon Medical Center. Police cited her for making an improper left turn.

Faculty fellow

A member of the Angelo State University history faculty has been awarded a conference faculty fellowship for the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education's national conference scheduled for March in San Antonio. As a faculty fellow, Dr. John Klingemann will arrive two days prior to the conference to take part in organized workshops designed to promote Hispanic persistence and advancement in academics. Faculty fellows also make presentations during the annual meeting, which will explore the theme "Toward a Latino Attainment Agenda: Shaping Our Own Destiny."

Text your police tips

San Angelo police remind you that you can send them anonymous tips on criminals or suspicious activity through text messaging. Simply text TIP SAPD plus the tip information to 888777. You can also attach photos to your tips. As the police department puts it, they need your help and they need your eyes and ears to help us keep San Angelo safe.

Shoplifting arrest

San Angelo police recovered a weapon and narcotics during a shoplifting arrest at an eastside grocery store on Sunday. An officer detained a couple he believed to be shoplifting at the Lowe's Marketplace at 2 South Main Street. They had a baby with them and stolen items were recovered from a diaper bag. A search of the male turned up a handgun, drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. 24-year-old Steve Zuniga and 26-year-old Jasmin Torres, both of San Angelo, were arrested. Both face theft charges; Zuniga also faces gun and drug charges.

Dachshund rescue

San Angelo firefighters resuscitated a dachshund caught inside a home that caught on fire Saturday morning. It was in the two-thousand block of Junius. The homeowner escaped and another dog inside was not hurt. Firefighters say the fire was centered in the home's front bedroom and was likely caused by a faulty electrical cord.

Accident

A crash at the intersection of Melrose Street and Amberton Parkway on Saturday evening left two people injured. According to investigators, the driver of a Chevy Minivan was southbound on Amberton Parkway, failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with a car. The two injured were transported to Shannon Medical Center.

City seeks artist

If you have an artistic side, or an art collection, that you'd like to display, the city of San Angelo has a blank canvas for you. It's the City Council chambers at the Convention Center. You can go to the city of San Angelo's Facebook page for the City's public art application and more details.

Gas price update

Triple-A says gas prices have stabilized and are expected to show little change through the end of the year. In Texas, the statewide average price for regular is three-14 a gallon, down one cent from last week. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price in San Angelo ranges from three-10 to three-21 a gallon.

Shannon honor

Shannon Medical Center has earned a place on the Target Stroke Honor Roll and the Get With the Guidelines®- Stroke Gold Plus Achievement Award. Target Stroke is a national quality initiative campaign of the American Heart and American Stroke Association designed to improve outcomes for ischemic stroke patients. Hospitals placed on the honor roll must meet door-to-needle times of 60 minutes or less in at least 50 percent of ischemic stroke patients treated with the clot-busting drug TPA.

Chamber luncheon with Valenzuela

The Chamber of Commerce December Membership Luncheon will feature new San Angelo City Manager as the guest speaker. This will be an opportunity to meet Daniel Valenzuela and hear about his vision for our community. The luncheon will be held at McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive, Tuesday, December 11th. The luncheon is sponsored by the City of San Angelo and Shannon Medical Center The cost is 15 dollars per person and a reservation is required by Friday.