Starting a Business seminar

ASU's Small Business Development Center will host a free seminar, “Starting a Business? What you need to Know!,” next Tuesday from 6 to 8:30 PM at the City's Business Resource Center on North Chadbourne Street. The seminar will help answer basic business startup questions and share resources that will help prospective entrepreneurs along the way. Participants will learn the basics of writing a business plan, how to estimate startup costs, contacts and resources they will need and more. For more information, go to sbdc-dot-angelo-dot-edu.

ASU homecoming week

Angelo State University's 2013 Homecoming Week begins this Sunday and will include a variety of student and alumni events culminating Saturday, October 12th, with the Homecoming football game between the ASU Rams and Eastern New Mexico. This year's homecoming theme is "The Roaring '20s" in recognition of the 85th anniversary of ASU's founding in 1928. The majority of events will take place on Friday and Saturday, highlighted by the ASU Alumni Association's annual Homecoming Dinner on Friday in the LeGrand Alumni and Visitors Center.

Rental mediation services closing

The San Angelo Rental Housing Mediation Services is shutting down today. The program has been a partnership between Angelo State University and the city of San Angelo. It has helped educate the public concerning rental housing issues and guide tenants and landlords toward settling disputes. But federal funding cuts and other priorities have left the Mediation Services without a steady funding source and it will cease operating today.

Park rededication this weekend

Coming up this weekend, the City of San Angelo will rededicate Jaime Padron Memorial Park following its recent renovation. The park on Ben Ficklin Road until recently was known as Rio Vista Park. The City Council officially renamed it Jaime Padron Memorial Park earlier this year in memory of the former San Angelo police officer who died in the line of duty while working for the Austin Police Department on April 6th of last year. The rededication is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday and will include a ribbon-cutting, words about the park and its namesake, food and drinks, and other activities.

Water usage

The city of San Angelo says recent rainfall means that residents and businesses do not need to water their lawns for several weeks. Here are the latest numbers on water usage. On Saturday, the city used 10-point-nine million gallons of water; that was up from 10-point-four million gallons on the same date last year. On Friday, usage was down: 11-point-two million gallons compared to 12-point-five million a year earlier.

Gas prices down again

Gasoline prices will continue their downward trend. That prediction from Triple-A, which cites amicable talks with Iran's leadership, a possible government shutdown, and easing tensions with Syria as factors that have pushed oil prices lower. The national average price of regular is three-41 a gallon, seven cents less than last week. The Texas statewide average of three-17 is also down seven cents. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-04 to three-25 a gallon.

Coke County missing person

The Coke County Sheriff's Department and Texas Rangers are seeking information pertaining to the disappearance of a man named Brandon Mason Lawson on August 8th. Lawson's vehicle was found abandoned after running out of gas on US 277, south of Bronte. Lawson is approximately 5'09" and weighs about 230 pounds. He has brown hair, blue eyes and multiple tattoos and was last seen wearing a yellow shirt with camo shorts and white Air Max shoes. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Brandon Mason Lawson is asked to contact Crime Stoppers San Angelo at 658-HELP. You could be eligible for a reward of up to one-thousand dollars.

Water usage

Water conservation continued in San Angelo on Wednesday: city residents and businesses used 11-point-one million gallons of water compared to 13-point-five million on the same date last year. Remember that watering is limited to once every seven days at one inch per application.

Park cleanup

The Angelo State University men's and women's basketball squads are teaming with Goodfellow Air Force Base volunteers and other ASU sports programs and student groups to freshen up Kirby Community Park tomorrow. Some 200 volunteers will be repainting stripes on the park's basketball courts and hockey rink, resurfacing the playground, painting a fence and picking up trash from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the park at 1401 Edmund Boulevard.

Blood needed

United Blood Services is continuing an emergency critical appeal for type O-negative blood donors. During the past several weeks, demand for type O-negative blood has outpaced the supply. UBS says it should have a three day supply on hand but currently only one day. A mobile blood drive is scheduled for tomorrow at the Coliseum from 11 AM to 2 PM with each donor receiving a free ticket to the Unite and Conquer music festival. The United Blood Services Donation Center is located at 2020 West Beauregard and is open: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 6, Wednesday and Friday from 8am to 2pm and Saturday from 9am - 2pm.

Traffic stop, drug bust

An early Thursday morning traffic stop in north San Angelo led to drug-related arrests for two San Angelo residents. Just before 3:00 a.m, a San Angelo police officer stopped a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck in the 22-hundred block of Armstrong Street for a traffic violation. The officer located a substance inside the vehicle that field tested positive for methamphetamine as well as drug paraphernalia. The driver of the vehicle, 40-year-old Fannie Rollins also known as Barrientez was arrested for Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance. The passenger, 26-year-old Ryan Bradley, was arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Both were transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident.

Business Expo today

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce's one-day business-to-business trade show, Business Expo, is happening today. It provides a forum for local business owners to showcase their goods and services to other businesses and to the community. This is the Chamber's 22nd year in hosting the event, which moved this year to the McNease Convention Center. You can find out more about Business Expo at the Chamber website, san-angelo-dot-org.

Drug busts, arrests

Three San Angelo residents were arrested on drug charges this week after police served a search warrant at a residence in northwest San Angelo. It happened Tuesday afternoon in the 2300 block of Guadalupe Street as officers looked for 33-year-old wanted subject Trinity David Fiveash, who was located and taken into custody. The search turned up eight oucnes of methamphetamine, two semi-automatic handguns, scales and drug-packaging material, plus three-thousand dollars in cash. Two other men found in the residence were arrested; 36-year-old Jesse Eakins and 36-year-old Richard Jasso were charged with drug possession.

City seeks input

The city of San Angelo needs your input. Officials are considering improvements to an area along the Concho River, behind the new games area called “The Bosque,” and between Irving and Chadbourne streets. You can share your ideas for how you would like to see it developed on the City of San Angelo Facebook page

San Angelo unemployment

City officials report that San Angelo's unemployment rate in August was five-point-one percent, down a half percent from the month before. That compares to the statewide unemployment figure of six-point-three percent. Of the six Texas counties with unemployment rates below three percent, three are in the Concho Valley: Reagan and Sterling at two-point-seven percent and Sutton at two-point-nine.

Water usage

The city of San Angelo says you should have gotten enough rain last week that you won't need to water your lawn this week. So far, businesses and residents are conserving. On Monday, San Angelo used 10-point-four million gallons of water compared to 15-point-seven million on the same date last year.

SAPD Blue Watch

A reminder that the San Angelo Police Department is currently taking applications for membership in the SAPD Blue Watch Program. SAPD Blue Watch is a program created to transform traditional Neighborhood Watch groups into online crime prevention forums using Facebook closed groups. Potential members are screened to determine suitability for membership.You can apply online at the San Angelo police Facebook page.

Rental services program ending

San Angelo Rental Housing Mediation Services is about to shut down. The program has been a partnership between Angelo State University and the city of San Angelo. It has helped educate the public concerning rental housing issues and guide tenants and landlords toward settling disputes. But federal funding cuts and other priorities have left the Mediation Services without a steady funding source and it will cease operating on September 30th.

ASU fall enrollment

Angelo State University's graduate enrollment set another record for the 2013 fall semester. Meanwhile, undergraduate numbers declined from last year's levels. That results in an overall enrollment of six-thousand-536, the fourth highest ever for the university. ASU's fall enrollment includes students from 44 other states and 27 countries. Texas residents attending ASU represent 220 different counties.

Women's Business Rountable

Angelo State University’s Small Business Development Center will host the 15th Annual Women’s Business Roundtable Event next month. It's scheduled for Tuesday, October 15th, in the Cactus Hotel on Twohig Avenue in downtown San Angelo. This year’s event is titled “Texas Sized Dreams!” and will include presentations by women business owners, vendor exhibits, and networking opportunities. To learn more and to register, visit angelo-dot-edu-slash-roundtable.

Art-Ober-Fest

Downtown San Angelo, Incorporated, has announced that it will be hosting the annual Art-Ober-Fest in conjunction with Angelo State University's Homecoming parade. The event begins on Saturday, October 12th, at 8:00 am. Art-Ober-Fest will include a Lions Club pancake breakfast, a downtown arts and crafts show, a performance by Sahawee Indian Dancers and, of course, the ASU homecoming parade.

Fort Concho speaker series

The final installment of this year's Fort Concho speaker series takes place tomorrow. Larry Reimenschneider of the Concho Valley Archeology Society will be talking about "A Cowboy's Legacy in Stone." The presentation will be from noon-1 p.m. in the fort's commissary at 702 Burgess Street.

City job openings

The City of San Angelo is hiring. Among the openings: benefits representative, budget analyst, economic development coordinator, emergency dispatcher and project engineers. You can apply at the City of San Angelo website.

Traffic stop, drug bust

Two San Angelo residents were arrested during a Saturday night traffic stop after police discovered they were wanted and in possession of narcotics. After a 2006 Ford Mustang was pulled over on West Avenue N for a traffic violation, a records check revealed that the driver, a 17-year-old, had several outstanding warrants and an invalid driver's license. The passenger, 29-year-old Priscilla Solis, had an outstanding warrant for a probation violation. Both were taken into custody. A search of the car turned up marijuana and methamphetamine.

New Assistant Fire Chief

A 22-year veteran of the San Angelo Fire Department has been promoted to assistant chief. In his new position, Vernon Hancock is responsible for support services. That includes issues related to facilities, trucks, uniforms, contracts and administrative duties. Hancock calls it--quote--"a tremendous honor that comes with some heavy responsibility." The SAFD's other assistant chief, Scott Farris, oversees personnel and operations.

Padron Park rededication

The City of San Angelo will rededicate Jaime Padron Memorial Park following its recent renovation. The park on Ben Ficklin Road until recently was known as Rio Vista Park. The City Council officially renamed it Jaime Padron Memorial Park earlier this year in memory of the former San Angelo police officer who died in the line of duty while working for the Austin Police Department on April 6th of last year. The rededication is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 5th and will include a ribbon-cutting, words about the park and its namesake, food and drinks, and other activities.

Sealcoating reminder

A reminder that the City of San Angelo's annual program of sealcoating streets has concluded and the process of cleaning and removing loose rock along curbsides has begun. Residents on sealcoated streets are asked to refrain from parking in the street to allow the cleanup to more effectively occur. Any questions, call the city's Engineering Services Division.

Coffee with a Cop

This coming weekend, officers from San Angelo Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. The public invited to attend. The event begins at 6:00 pm. on Saturday, at Stango's Coffee Shop on South Chadbourne Street. "Coffee with a Cop" provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department's work in San Angelo's neighborhoods.

Lake levels up

The city reports that rain over the weekend helped boost lake levels. Twin Buttes is was up six inches and Ivie had risen about two inches. The rain also helped decrease water consumption. Saturday, San Angelo residents and businesses used nine-point-seven million gallons of water compared to 12-point-nine million on the same date last year. On Friday, the totals were nine-million gallons this year, 12-point-nine million last year.

City council meeting tomorrow

The San Angelo City Council will conduct a special meeting tomorrow to address three planning matters plus budget questions. It will get underway at 9 o'clock tomorrow morning at the Convention Center. The meeting is open to the public. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city's Facebook page.

Police contract talks

Contract talks between the city of San Angelo and the local Police Associations are underway. Last week, representatives of the Police Associations presented proposals to representatives of the City for consideration in the employment contract scheduled to take effect in October 2014. Items discussed included pay issues, sick and vacation pay, as well as the current hiring process.

Cave murder development

San Angelo police say investigators have followed up leads to partially identify a preson who might have information relating to the 2009 murder of Randy Lee Cave. His name and identifying details are not known. However, it's believed he may still reside in the San Angelo area. A composite drawing of the man can be seen on the SAPD Facebook page. Cave was found dead from a single gunshot wound inside his home on Waco Street in January of 2009. Police found no signs of forced entry or a struggle. Cave was 55 when he died; he owned Tennis Auction Company and ran the local youth bowling association.

Flash flood watch

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH CONTINUES FOR PORTIONS OF WEST CENTRAL TEXAS, INCLUDING THE CONCHO VALLEY UNTIL 7 O'CLOCK THIS EVENING. THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE AT SAN ANGELO SAYS YOU CAN EXPECT WIDESPREAD RAINFALL AMOUNTS IN EXCESS OF 2 INCHES., WITH ISOLATED AREAS RECEIVING NEAR 5 INCHES. URBAN STREET FLOODING DUE TO POOR DRAINAGE AND RUNNING WATER MAY CAUSE CARS TO STALL AND BE WASHED OFF THE ROAD. NORMALLY DRY CREEKS AND STREAMS MAY CATCH EXCESS RUNOFF AND BEGIN FLOODING LOW LYING ROADWAYS.

Flash flood watch

PORTIONS OF WEST CENTRAL TEXAS, INCLUDING THE CONCHO VALLEY, ARE UNDER A FLASH FLOOD WATCH UNTIL 7 O'CLOCK TONIGHT. THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAYS A COMBINATION OF GULF MOISTURE, MID AND UPPER LEVEL MOISTURE ASSOCIATED WITH HURRICANE MANUEL AND A SLOW MOVING COLD FRONT ARE RESULTING IN WIDESPREAD HEAVY RAINFALL ACROSS PORTIONS OF THE CONCHO VALLEY AND INTERSTATE 10 CORRIDOR. EXPECT ISOLATED RAINFALL AMOUNTS EXCEEDING 5 INCHES.

City pay raises

The San Angelo City Council this week approved pay raises for city employees. The increase is two-point-45 percent for employees who learn less than 45-thousand dollars per year and 490 dollars for employees who earn more than 45-thousand. The new wages will take effect with the new fiscal year, which begins October 1st.

Final flu-shot day

Today's the final day of Shannon Clinic's weeklong walk-in flu shot clinic. It takes place from 8 AM to 4:30 PM on the first floor of the downtown location, on East Beauregard. The clinic will accept and file insurance, or patients can pay 20 dollars per shot. No appointment is necessary. The clinic is open to anyone in need of a flu shot. For more information on the flu shot clinic, call Shannon Clinic at (325) 658-1511.

ASU Ed Dept honored

Angelo State University's Teacher Education Department has been honored by the Texas-based Quest for Quality program for a joint initiative with the San Angelo Independent School District. The program involves ASU students in the local Head Start/Early Head Start program. The initiative in field-based placements for students enrolled in ASU's Applied Child Development course was launched during the 2012-13 school year and is led by Dr. Sandra Maxedon, assistant professor of early childhood education.

Hazardous weather outlook

The Concho Valley and other areas of west central Texas are under a hazardous weather outlook. According to the National Weather Service at San Angelo, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected across the area today through Saturday morning. Locally heavy rainfall is a concern, and there is a potential for localized flooding, especially in urban areas. In addition, dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning will be possible.

Water usage

The recent streak of San Angelo using more water this year than last continued on Tuesday. City residents and businesses used 14-point-seven million gallons of water compared to 10-point-three million on the same date last year.

Sealcoating streets

The City of San Angelo’s annual program of sealcoating streets has concluded and the process of cleaning and removing loose rock along curbsides has begun. Residents on sealcoated streets are asked to refrain from parking in the street to allow the cleanup to more effectively occur. Residents who have questions or additional concerns can call the construction supervisors in the City’s Engineering Services Division.

Vehicle burglaries

The San Angelo Police Department received reports of several vehicle burglaries that occurred Tuesday night. The main target was apartment complexes near Sunset Mall. Once again the targeted vehicles were left unlocked. Common items taken were ipods, cell phones, and chargers. Police remind you to remember to lock your car, take your keys, and hide your belongings.

Business Expo

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce's one-day business-to-business trade show, Business Expo, is coming up next week. It provides a forum for local business owners to showcase their goods and services to other businesses and to the community. This is the Chamber's 22nd year in hosting the event, which is moving this year to the McNease Convention Center. Business Expo will take place next Thursday. You can find out more at the Chamber website, san-angelo-dot-org.

Emergency blood appeal

United Blood Services has announced an emergency critical appeal for type O-negative blood donors. During the past two weeks, demand for type O-negative blood has outpaced the supply. UBS says it should have 67 pints on hand but currently only has 5 pints. United Blood Services Donation Center is located at 2020 West Beauregard and is open: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 6, Wednesday and Friday from 8am to 2pm and Saturday from 9am – 2pm. Donors may call 223-7500 or visit United-Blood-Services-dot-org to make an appointment.

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Water usage

San Angelo's streak of using more water this year than last continues. On Monday, city residents and businesses used 15 million gallons of water compared to 11-point-one million on the same date last year. A reminder that uutside watering is allowed once every seven days, but never between noon and 6 p.m. Each application should not exceed one inch. Runoffs of 150 feet or more down any gutter, street, alley or ditch are prohibited.

Tax rate

The San Angelo City Council on Tuesday approved lowering the property tax rate by a half-cent to 77-point-six cents per 100 dollars of value. The city says the increase in property taxes for the average-valued home in the coming year will be less than one dollar.

Child Passenger Safety Week

This is Child Passenger Safety Week and the Texas Department of Transportation is now offering free safety seat inspections year-round by appointment. State law requires a child who is younger than 8-years-old and not taller than four-foot-nine to ride in a safety seat. To schedule a safety seat inspection, call a TxDOT district office or find a local contact at Texas-Click-It-or-Ticket-dot-com.

Fort Concho speaker

The next installment of Fort Concho's speakers series comes up tomorrow. Susan Ball of the San Angelo Genealogical Society will be talking about "No Country for Dull Men -- Concho Valley Life in the 1880s." Her presentation will be from noon to 1 PM in the fort's commissary at 702 Burgess Street.

Watering rules

A reminder from the city of San Angelo: outside watering is allowed once every seven days, but never between noon and 6 p.m. Each application should not exceed an inch. Runoffs of 150 feet or more down any gutter, street, alley or ditch is prohibited. On Sunday, San Angelo used 15-point-five million gallons of water compared to 10-point-four million on the same date last year.

Lily Fest

The eighth edition of Lily Fest, the annual celebration of San Angelo’s famed International Water Lily Collection at Civic League Park, will feature door prizes, live music and scores of the world’s most beautiful lilies. It's happening Saturday from 9:30 AM to noon in the water lily basins in Civic League Park, along North Park Street between Harris Avenue and Pecos Street. The festivities will include presentations of lilies by Kenneth Landon, the acclaimed “Indiana Jones of water lilies” who is curator of the International Water Lily Collection.

New city engineer

San Angelo has a new city engineer. Karl Bednarz has more than 30 years of engineering experience with the Texas Department of Transportation. Since 2009, Bednarz had been responsible for all construction, maintenance, traffic and utility activities for the San Angelo district. Bednarz said, quote, “I’m looking forward to being involved in all sorts of infrastructure projects that benefit the community in a host of ways.” Bednarz replaces Clinton Bailey, who is working for the City of Fredericksburg.

National Night Out

National Night Out 2013 will be celebrated on October 1st in most Texas cities, including San Angelo. Most of the country celebrated in August, which was a bit too warm for West Texas. National night out is an opportunity to get out and connect with neighbors, local first responders and community leaders. NNO is about networking and connecting with like-minded people who all want the same thing, to ensure his or her community is a safe place to live in play. There are seven National Night Out locations around San Angelo and you can find the list on the SAPD's Facebook page.

Coffee with a Cop

Laterthis month, officers from San Angelo Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. The public invited to attend. The event begins at 6:00 pm. on September 30th, at Stango's Coffee Shop on South Chadbourne Street. Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department's work in San Angelo's neighborhoods.

Roping Fiesta tickets

A reminder that tickets are now on sale for the 60th Annual Roping Fiesta, which is coming up in San Angelo next month. You can get them at the stock show office on West 43rd Street. You can find out more online at san-angelo-rodeo-dot-com.

ASU Civil War series

Angelo State University's Civil War Lecture Series, which is organized by the History Department to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the conflict, is about to begin its third year with eight events scheduled. The series will start tomorrow with a film and discussion on slavery and end April 22nd with a presentation on Civil War medicine.

Walk-in flu shot clinic

Shannon Clinic is hosting a walk-in flu shot clinic this week. It takes place today through Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM on the first floor of the downtown location, on East Beauregard. The clinic will accept and file insurance, or patients can pay 20 dollars per shot. No appointment is necessary. The clinic is open to anyone in need of a flu shot. For more information on the flu shot clinic, call Shannon Clinic at (325) 658-1511.

Gas prices down

The price of oil is retreating as the US and Russia met to discuss convincing Syria to surrender its chemical weapons. And, Triple-A reports gas prices continue their usual September decent. The national average price of regular is three-52 a gallon, five cents less than last week. The statewide average in Texas of three-30 decreased eight cents. In San Angelo, gas-buddy-dot-com shows the price of regular ranges from three-16 to three-34 a gallon.

Water usage up

The trend of conserving water did not continue through the weekend in San Angelo. On Friday, city residents and businesses used 16-point-five million gallons of water, compared to 12-point-eight million on the same date last year. On Saturday, the numbers were 15-point-three million this year and 12-point-seven million last year. The city of San Angelo reminds you "Do your part, conserve and be water smart."

City council agenda

The agenda for this week's San Angelo City Council meeting is packed. Items include the West Texas Water Partnership, Hickory Aquifer project, Lake Nasworthy development plan, downtown sidewalks, budget and property taxes, and the watering of parks. The meeting gets underway at 9 AM tomorrow at the Convention Center and is open to the public. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city's Facebook page.

Ongoing death investigation

Police were investigating following the discovery a deceased 61-year-old San Angelo resident inside a vehicle at a local park. Last Thursday night, officers responded to a report of someone said to be suicical at Santa Rita Park in the 1000 block of South Madison Street. Upon arrival, police found a 2007 Toyota SUV and, in the driver’s seat, a man deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. There is no evidence of foul play. and the victim's name was not immediately released.

AM1 Geocaching class

The whole family is invited to take part in Geocaching, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s activity of the month for September. Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache hidden at that location. A Geocaching 101 class will be held at San Angelo State Park this Saturday at 1:00 pm. The class will meet at the Chaparral Pavilion and learn about Geocaching basics and how to use a GPS unit.

Bike and pedestrian survey

The San Angelo Metropolitan Planning Organization has released the results of a survey regarding priorities for pedestrian and bicycle projects. 679 San Angelo residents were surveyed between April and June of this year. Among the findings: A large majority of respondents strongly agree that pedestrian and bicycle nfrastructure projects should be prioritized on the basis of both their safety and potential health and recreation uses for current residents. They also said the projects should be prioritized on the basis of the potential for tourism, economic development, and promotion of the community as a “healthy” place to live.

Stolen car and more

The recovery of a stolen vehicle has apparently led to San Angelo police solving other crimes. On Tuesday, officers found a 1995 Mercury Cougar that had been taken from Lake View High School crashed into a fence and they detained two suspects, 17-year-old Ty H. Adams and a 15-year-old, both from San Angelo. An investigation led to two other juveniles who involved in stealing the car: another 15-year-old and a 14-year-old. Police recovered a stolen laptop computer and numerous items of jewelry from one of the 15-year-olds. They say other thefts and burglaries might also be solved.

Water usage

More often than not, the city of San Angelo has been using less water per day than last year. The latest numbers bear that out. On Wednesday, residents and businesses used 12-point-eight million gallons of water, down from 14-point-two million on the same date last year.

SAPD rookie exam

The San Angelo Police Department is looking for a few good men and women. An entrance exam for rookie police officers is scheduled for October 19th at 8:30 a.m. at the McNease Convention Center, 500 Rio Concho Drive. Applications must be received by October 11th at 5 p.m. in the Human Resources Department, 72 West College Avenue, Room 201. Applications can also be submitted at san-angelo-texas-dot-us.

SAISD pre-K openings

San Angelo ISD has announced it has 50 current openings for young children in its Pre-Kindergarten program. Both morning and afternoon spaces are available for Pre-K, which is the district's half-day kindergarten preparation program. Among the eligibility requirements, the child must have turned four years old by September 1st. Parents may register their children at any Pre-K campus, including Alta Loma, Austin, Bradford, Glenmore, McGill, Reagan and San Jacinto.

Shannon certification

Good news for Shannon Medical Center: the hospital's Pulmonary Rehabilitation program has received a three-year certification by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. In a news release, the medical center says the certification recognizes Shannon Pulmonary Rehabilitation's commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care.

No HEB cutbacks

HEB supermarkets are not planning on cutting employee hours when the Affordable Healthcare Act kicks in next month. An HEB official said Wednesday that the company had already set up its benefit system to meet federal requirements so they won't have to make any changes. HEB also plans to help its workers by investing in several employee health centers.

9-11 remembered

The events of September 11th, 2001, were remembered in San Angelo Wednesday. The 12th annual 9-11 prayer service was held at the downtown 9-11 memorial. Local police and firefighters were on hand, along with personnel from Goodfellow Air Force Base, city officials and students. Catholic Bishop Michael Pfiefer spoke.

Water usage update

As drought watering restrictions continue, the city of San Angelo was conserving water on Tuesday. Residents and businesses used a total of 14-point-one million gallons of water; that compares to 15-point-eight million on the same date last year.

Color-Up fun run

The city of San Angelo says the ammo has arrived for the Color Up fun run that will take place during River Fest on October 18th. Runners will be bombarded with a rainbow of colored corn starch throughout the course. You can sign up now at color-up-5K-dot-com.

Burglary suspect sought

The San Angelo Police Department is asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect involved in several burglaries. The crimes occurred in the area of Honeysuckle Lane and Tanglewood Drive in the College Hills area. You can find surveillance photos of the suspect on the SAPD's Facebook page. If you know anything, contact the San Angelo Police Department or make an anonymous call to the 24-hour tip hotline, 855-TIPS-24-7.

9-11 cookout

Local first responders and their families are invited to a cookout tonight In commemoration of the 12th anniversary of 9-11. San Angelo Community Medical Center is hosting the event from 5 to 7 pm on the Medical Center's Front Lawn. along Knickerbocker Road. Hamburgers and Hotdogs will be served.

Water usage update

Here's the latest update on city water usage: On Monday, San Angelo used 15 million gallons of water compared to 15-point-two million on the same date last year. Watering is allowed once every seven days but never between noon and 6 p.m. Applications should never exceed 1 inch.

Chamber tourism awards

The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce held its annual Tourism Awards luncheon on Tuesday. The awards were presented to three big conventions that boosted tourism in the past year: the Texas Taxidermy Association's annual convention in the McNease Convention Center, the Texas High school Gymnastics Association's state meet, and the Region 10 Catholic Youth Ministry Conference in the Convention Center and Foster Communications Coliseum.

Vehicle thief sought

The San Angelo Police Department is asking for the public's help in finding the driver of a stolen vehicle. On Monday night, officers responding to a report of a suspicious vehicle found a Chevy Suburban in a field near 37th and Marx. The vehicle had been vandalized and it was confirmed as have been reported stolen earlier in the day from a residence on Oaklawn Street. The Suburban is white with a blue and white "Keep Christ in Christmas" bumper sticker. If you saw it driving around after 1:15 Monday afternoon, you are asked to contact the SAPD or you can call anonymously 24 hours a day to 855-TIPS-24-7.

ASU designated military-friendly

For the fifth consecutive year, Angelo State University has been designated as a "Military Friendly School" by G.I. Jobs magazine, which serves military personnel transitioning into civilian life. The publication ranks ASU among the top 20 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools across the nation that are doing the most to embrace America's military service members, veterans and spouses as students, and to ensure their success on campus.

Tom Green County bust

A drug bust in Tom Green County took place Saturday as sheriff's deputies searched a residence on West Avenue L and turned up cocaine, meth, an assault rifle, handguns, cash and more. Arrested on drug possession charges were 32-year-old Jaime Reyes Jr and 27-year-old Maricela Angelica Ruiz.

Water usage

In a relatively rare occurance on Sunday, San Angelo used more water this year than last: 15-point-two million gallons of water compared to 14-point-seven million on the same date last year. The city reminds you that San Angelo currently has less than 15 months of water supply, which is a worst-case scenario that assumes no rainfall or runoff.

Blood donation prize

United Blood Services of San Angelo says if you Rush in to Donate, You might rush out with a 200 dollar Visa gift card. Anyone who donates blood at the UBS donation center or any mobile blood drive from now through Saturday will be automatically entered the drawing for that prize. UBS says most blood shortages occur after a major holiday like the Labor Day weekend. They are located at 2020 West Beauregard; hours are noon to six today and Thursday, 8 AM to 2 PM tomorrow and Friday and 9 AM to 1 PM on Saturday.

ASU USDA grant

Two faculty members in Angelo State University's Agriculture Department have been awarded a three-year, 270-thousand dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Doctors Kirk Braden and Loree Branham will be using the money for a new meat and food science student research and outreach project. It will provide research opportunities to high school students in San Angelo, Midland, El Paso and San Antonio, as well as ASU undergraduate students

DWI crash

Police say a San Angelo man involved in a crash early Saturday morning was intoxicated. 24-year-old Rafael J. Martinez was allegedly driving a Dodge Ram 1500 that collided with a Toyota Tundra in the intersection of Sixth Street and North Chadbourne Street. A 24-year-old male passenger in the Dodge truck and a 54-year-old male who was driving the Tundra were each taken to a nearby hospital with incapacitating injuries. Their conditions were not immediately known. Martinez was transported to the Tom Green County Jail and charged with Intoxication Assault with a Vehicle causing Serious Bodily Injury.

Planetarium shows continue

A reminder that Angelo State University's Global Immersion Center, formerly the Planetarium, is presenting two full-dome public astronomy shows each Thursday in September. They take place in the Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building on Vanderventer Street. "Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity" runs at 7 p.m. and "Oasis in Space" runs at 8 p.m.

Gas prices down

Triple-A reports that oil prices inched up while debate over a possible U.S. air strike on Syria continued. Still, gas prices are beginning their usual decent following the Labor Day weekend. The national average price of regular is three-57 a gallon, two cents less than last week. The average in Texas is three-38, down three cents. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-22 to three-35 a gallon.

Labor Day shooting arrest

A San Angelo man has been arrested in connection with an ongoing shooting investigation. On Thursday evening, police executed an Arrest Warrant at a residence in the 300 block of North Main Street. 18-year-old Edward Jermaine Wilson is the suspect in a shooting incident that occurred over Labor Day Weekend in northwest San Angelo. A 27-year-old man sustained minor injuries in the shooting Monday morning at a residence in the 21-hundred block of Lakeside Avenue. Wilson is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Shannon flu-shot clinic

Shannon Clinic is hosting a walk-in flu shot clinic next week. It will take place Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM on the first floor of the downtown location, on East Beauregard. The clinic will accept and file insurance, or patients can pay 20 dollars per shot. No appointment is necessary. The clinic is open to anyone in need of a flu shot. For more information on the flu shot clinic, please call Shannon Clinic at (325) 658-1511.

Pot bust, arrests

San Angelo Police located several ounces of marijuana, a stolen handgun and cash during a search at a local apartment complex and made four arrests. It happened Thursday morning at the Plaza Square Apartments located at 4001 Sul Ross Street. Arrested on marijuana possession charges were 23-year-old Michael C. Jackson, 20-year-old Kealeia Loner, 24-year-old Afredo M. Tobar and 20-year-old Tyjhaune S. Wheless, all of San Angelo.

Fugitive dies near San Angelo

A man who had been on the run from the law for 41 years was found dead this week near San Angelo. Tom Green County sheriff's deputies got a call regarding an unattended death on Tuesday and the dead man was identified as Charles Johnson. However, an investigation revealed that he might have been living under an alias. They found out that Robert Leroy Parker had escaped from a prison in El Reno, Oklahoma in 1972. Parker, aka Charles Johnson, had been living in the San Angelo area for the past 11 years.

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, set aside to remind Americans to be ready for disasters and emergencies. During the month, the Texas Emergency Management Agency urges residents, businesses and local organizations throughout the state to commit to doing at least of the following tasks: learn about emergencies or hazards in your community and the proper response, build an emergency kit, make a communications plan and get involved in preparedness in your community.

FBI email scam

Local FBI officials and the San Angelo Police Department are warning about a recent Scam involving an infected attachment. Unknown persons are sending mass emails to people claiming to be a representative from FBI Headquarters. The representative claims someone has filed charges against you and you are under investigation. The email then prompts you to click on an attached Zip File and respond within 24 hours to avoid further action. Opening the file will infect your computer with malicious software or malware. The FBI never makes initial contact with citizens by mass email.

Water usage

Another day of water convervation for San Angelo. On Wednesday, city residents and businesses used 15-point-three million gallons of water compared to 16-point-two million on the same date last year.

City offices closed

City of San Angelo workers will be enjoying their annual employee appreciation luncheon. In the meantime, City Hall and the neighboring Community Development Building will be closed from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. And the Water Customer Service office will be closed from 11:15 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Crash sends San Angelo woman to hospital

A crash in San Angelo yesterday hospitalized a woman.

Two vehicles crashed near South Koenigheim Street and Avenue B.

Steven Quade from the police department tells the Standard-Times that a Kia Soul drove northbound in the left lane on South Koenigheim with a northbound Goodwill truck in the lane to the right.

Quade says as the Goodwill truck driver tried turning left at the intersection, it drifted into the same lane as the Kia.

Authorities have identified the Kia's driver as eighty-two-year-old Frances Kasarjian. Quade says she bled, but remained conscious.

The investigation continues. Quade says no one has issued citations.

West Texas lawmakers leery of Syria action

San Angelo's congressman remains undecided on Syria.

So does the rest of the West Texas delegation.

House Republican Mike Conaway urges the universal condemnation and confrontation of chemical weapons. However, Scripps Newspapers reports him saying he believes the President has not yet to present a plan that would fully address Syria's alleged use of chemical weapons and prevent future chemical attacks by the Assad regime on the Syrian people.

Conaway also says he has heard from people in district say they remain unconvinced. He says the President has the responsibility to make a case for military intervention, and Congress has the responsibility to vote on it.

Manslaughter sentence begins for Grape Creek man

A Grape Creek man with a twenty-year prison sentence has moved to a transfer unit in Fort Stockton.

The Standard-Times reports twenty-eight-year-old James Sherrer had spent time in the Crockett County Jail for running over a co-worker with his pickup.

Sherrer has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the death of thirty-one-year-old John Sepulveda of Weatherford.

An arrest affidavit indicates an argument over a cellphone charger led to the fatal confrontation. It shows Sam Busher at Mayco Well Service saying he saw Sherrer run over Sepulveda.

Sherrer may earn his release from prison in as soon as eight years.

Help available for domestic violence victims

Tom Green County's sheriff says anyone in an abusive relationship can call for help.

Tim Jones tells K-L-S-T T-V that without reporting problems, authorities cannot help people receive the services they need.

A man shot and killed his wife and her brother in Wall in July, and another man shot and killed his wife this past weekend in Grape Creek. Jones tells the station in each case, authorities did not receive any prior calls.

He says domestic violence tops his department's calls for service.

ASU football opens season tonight

Angelo State's football team opens the season tonight at home against Black Hills State. The game kicks off at seven o'clock. This marks the first time the Rams have played on a Thursday in six years.

Also tonight on the Angelo State scoreboard, the cross country team opens its season in Wichita Falls at the Strohman Dental Stampede. The women's Four-K starts at seven o'clock with the men's Six-K starting at seven-thirty. They run out of the Greater Wichita Falls Soccer Association Fields next to Memorial Stadium.

One more A-S-U note for tonight: Women's soccer visits New Mexico Highlands at seven o'clock.

The Texas Rangers gave up six runs in the sixth inning yesterday in Oakland and lost to the A's eleven to four. The result ties the A's with the Rangers for first place in the American League West, although both teams remain well ahead of the wild card cutline. The Rangers visit the Los Angeles Angels tonight at nine-oh-five.

In Houston, Trevor Crowe singled home Jonathan Villar in the bottom of the ninth to lift the Astros over the Minnesota Twins six to five last night. The Astros now travel to Cleveland to take on the Indians tonight at six-oh-five.

Whooping cough

Whooping cough is making a comeback in Texas. Health officials say the number of people who have the ailment statewide could be the most in over 50 years. The Texas Department of State Health Services urges you to make sure you're vaccinated. Whooping cough is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes.

Roping Fiesta tickets

Tickets are now on sale for the 60th Annual Roping Fiesta, which is coming up in San Angelo next month. You can get tickets at the stock show office on West 43rd Street. The dates of the roping are October 26th and 27th. Tickets are 12 dollars for Saturday, 10 for Sunday, and 20 for the Saturday night dance. You can find out more online at san-angelo-rodeo-dot-com.

Water usage

Here's the update on city water usage. On Monday, the city's residents and businesses used 14-point-one million gallons of water; that compares to 13-point-seven million on the same date last year. A reminder that under San Angelo's current drought restrictions, watering is allowed only once every seven days at no more than one inch per application.

Death at convenience store

On Monday evening, San Angelo Police and Fire personnel responded to the Stripes convenience store at 2718 Sherwood Way for the report of an unconscious man inside the men’s restroom. Employees said they were unable to check on his welfare because his body was obstructing the doorway. Rescue personnel got in and determined that the man was dead. Police found him to be in possession of heroin. It's suspected that the man, who was 26, died of a drug overdose. However, the investigation continues and an autopsy has been ordered. The victim's name was not immediately released.

ASU Civil War series

Angelo State University's Civil War Lecture Series, which is organized by the History Department to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the conflict, will continue in its third year and feature eight events during the upcoming academic year. The series will begin September 17tb with a film and discussion on slavery and end April 22nd with a presentation on Civil War medicine. The series is designed to enlighten the public about a complex and tragic period in American history.

Gas prices

As you head back to work today you’ll find gas prices across the nation to be higher but not in Texas. Triple-A says the average price of regular nationwide continues to rise--as of today, it is three-59 a gallon, up five cents from a week ago. In Texas, the statewide average price for regular is three-41 a gallon, virtually unchanged from a week ago. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-10 to three-44 a gallon.

Water usage

Water usage in San Angelo was up over the weekend. Each day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, city residents and businesses used more water than on the comparable date one year ago. On Sunday, the city used 15-point-two million gallons of water compared to 13-point-six on the same date in 2012.

City council meeting

The San Angelo City Council will continue discussing the coming year's budget and property tax rate when it meets at 9 o'clock this morning at the Convention Center. The meeting is open to the public. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city's Facebook page.

Community Challenge

According to the city of San Angelo, Mayor Dwain Morrison is up for the H-E-B Community Challenge! And asks, "Are you?" You can register for the challenge online to not only motivate yourself to be more active, but to prove to the rest of the state that San Angelo is committed to healthy lifestyles. As the challenge says, "It's time, Texas." And city officials say, "It's on, San Angelo!" You can find a link to the registration site on the city's Facebook page.

Computer scam alert

San Angelo police say citizens are once again reporting a common telephone scam. You get a call from someone claiming to be with the “World Wide Web” or “Microsoft” and they tell you they have found a problem or virus on your computer. Then they ask you to give them access to the computer so they can fix issue. Even if you wouldn't be fooled, please warn friends and relatives (especially elderly ones) who might not be aware of scams like this. Victims of this fraud could suffer anything from identity theft to having their computer hijacked and used to send spam or viruses without their knowledge.

Cinch Roping Fiesta tickets on sale tomorrow

Tickets for the 60th Annual Cinch Roping Fiesta in San Angelo go on sale tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock.

The fiesta runs at the San Angelo Fairgrounds October 25th, 26th and 27th.

The event brings an estimated 400 ropers and nearly 10,000 spectators to the city.

Murder arrests

Two San Angelo men have been arrested for capital murder for the shootings of two people that occured early Saturday morning in northwest San Angelo. Police arrived at the Greenwood Apartment Complex on Greenwood Street to investigate a report of shots fired. They found two people dead from apparent shotgun wounds: 22-year-old Alvaro Carrillo Junior and 22-year-old Tabitha Freeman. One suspect was located in Boerne and identified as 18-year-old Johnny Garcia; the other was found in Grape Creek and identified as 17-year-old Daniel Uvalle. Police say the shooting was a result of a confrontation between the parties.

Water usage up

Water usage in San Angelo was up over the weekend. On Friday, city residents and businesses used 15-point-one million gallons of water, compared to 14-point-eight million on the same date last year. On Saturday, they used 17-point-one million gallons; they used only 13-point-nine million the year before.

Officer in crash

A San Angelo Police Motors Officer was injured Friday morning in a traffic incident near the intersection of South Oakes Street and East Twohig Avenue. Police say the officer was traveling west on East Twohig when he saw an oncoming vehicle traveling south on South Oakes run a red light. The officer had to take evasive action and fell on his side with the motorcycle to avoid colliding with the vehicle. The other driver, a 70-year-old man, was cited for Disregarding a Red Light. The officer was treated at a hospital for minor injuries and released.

Barricade and fire

A San Angelo man was being treated at a local hospital after barricading himself and setting fire to an apartment in north San Angelo on Friday. It happened after officers arrived at the Resort at Riverside Apartment Complex on North Bryant Boulevard to execute an arrest warrant. Police say a 28-year-old man barricaded himself in the apartment and officers saw smoke coming out of the windows and front door. They eventually used a ram to break down the door and the suspect was transported to a nearby hospital were he was said to be in stable condition. In addition to the warrant, he'll be charged with four counts of arson.

SAPD warrant sweep

11 people were arrested after a recent warrant sweep in San Angelo with outstanding warrants ranging from drug possession and trafficking to organized crime. The San Angelo Police Department utilized teams of officers to serve the warrants last Wednesday. Police say two of the 11 attempted to flee. 31-year-old Courtney Fobb allegedly led officers on a brief foot pursuit before he was apprehended and found to be in possession of 11 grams of Crack cocaine. And 22-year-old Brandon R. Gonzales was chased for a mile before being captured by a K9 team.

Powerball rolls over

The latest Powerball jackpot was six figures and went unclaimed over the weekend. No one matched all six numbers in the Saturday night drawing and the grand prize is now worth 169-million dollars. However, there was a ticket purchased in Texas that won the Match Five Winners Power Play, worth two million dollars. The winning numbers were 2-7-25-40-56 and the Powerball-20. The next drawing is Wednesday night. Powerball is played in Texas and 42 other states, plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Gas price update

As the Labor Day Holiday weekend moves into its final day, gasoline prices are still on the rise. As of today, Triple-A reports the nationwide average price for a gallon of regular is three-59, up five cents from a week ago. In Texas, the average is virtually unchanged at three-42. And, according to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-25 to three-44 a gallon.