Water usage

Water usage is up a bit in San Angelo this week. On Tuesday, city residents used 12-point-one million gallons of water compared to 11 million on the same date last year. A reminder that new restrictions start tomorrow with watering only allowed once every 14 days.

ASU's new dean

Angelo State University has named a new dean of its College of Graduate Studies. Dr. Susan Keith, a member of ASU's kinesiology faculty, will take over the position on January 1st. The position opened up last fall when Dr. Brian May, who had a dual appointment as graduate dean and provost, was named ASU president. Dr. June Smith has served as interim dean for the past year. Dr. Keith joined the ASU faculty in 1997 as an assistant professor and has since been promoted to associate professor and professor. She has extensive experience teaching graduate studies.

Vehicle vs restaurant

A vehicle crashed into a San Angelo restaurant Wednesday afternoon. It happened around 1:30 at the McAlister's Deli on Sherwood Way. Police say that a 61-year-old San Angelo woman was trying to park her 2013 Nissan Altima in a parking space and had almost come to a complete stop. That's when the Altima reportedly accelerated, drove over the sidewalk, and hit a sign and a tree before colliding with the exterior of the building. The crash caused an estimated 10-thousand dollars in damages. No injuries were reported.

eDay

Angelo State University's Small Business Development Center is hosting the second annual eDay. This is an educational event open free to the public to promote entrepreneurship. It will be held next Thursday, November 7th, in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. Highlights will include an eLounge for networking, obtaining information and snacking, as well as a variety of breakout sessions. Registration can be done on the ASU website or at the door.

Shannon recognition

A San Angelo hospital has been recognized nationally. Shannon Medical Center was named a Top Performer on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America. The Joint Commission recognized Shannon for exemplary performance in using evidence-based clinical processes that are shown to improve care for certain conditions. The hospital is recognized for its achievement on the following measure sets: heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, and surgical care.

Felony DWI arrest

A major crash in San Angelo Tuesday evening might have been caused by a drunk driver. It happened in the 44-hundred block of Knickerbocker and involved a Dodge Ram and a car. Two people were transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries: 26-year-old Jeremy Todd Johnson and a six-year-old boy. An officer investigating the crash noticed a strong odor of alcohol on Johnson's breath. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested for felony DWI because a child was in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Motel burglary arrest

San Angelo police responded Tuesday afternoon to reports of suspicious activity at a local motel. A man was reportedly entering rooms at the Days Inn on South Jackson Street and removing property. On the way to the motel, police learned that the man had left and gone to the Stripes convenience store on South Bryant Boulevard. 24-year-old Leston Kade Heflin of Mertzon was found sitting behind the store. It turned out that he had an outstanding warrant out of Travis County and was a person of interest in another San Angelo Police Department investigation. Police say property stolen from rooms at the Days Inn was found in a room Heflin was occupying without paying. He was charged with burglary of a habitation and his outstanding arrest warrant.

NaNoWriMo

National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo, starts its 15th year on Friday and the Tom Green County library will have a kickoff open to the public. It's scheduled for 5 PM in the Sugg Community Room at the Stephens Central Library on West Beauregard. NaNoWriMo of Berkeley, California, expects over 500-thousand writers around the world to participate this year. The challenge is to write a novel of at least 50-thousand words by 11:59 pm on November 30th.

Water usage

For the first time in a while, water usage was up on Monday. San Angelo residents and businesses used 10-point-six million gallons of water on Monday compared to 10-point-three million on the same date last year.

PKP inaugural honor society

Angelo State University's new chapter of the Phi Kappa Phi national honor society will induct its inaugural class of 104 students during its first initiation ceremony next Tuesday, in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. and is open free to the public. PKP is the one of the nation's most prestigious academic honor societies for students in all academic fields. ASU received its charter for a local chapter last spring.

ASU book fair

Angelo State University's Mu Gamma chapter of the Kappa Delta Pi international honor society for education will host a book fair next week to benefit education students. The book fair will run from Monday through Friday in the Carr Education-Fine Arts Building on Dena Drive. The sale will begin at noon Monday and will close at noon Friday. Books for sale are from Scholastic Incorporated., a publishing company that specializes in books, magazines and educational programs for children.

Watering restrictions

Outside watering will be limited to once every 14 days beginning this Friday, in keeping with the City of San Angelo's drought contingency ordinance. With approximately 15 months of available water supply, San Angelo is in Drought Level Two, the second stage of the City's three-phased drought plan. Under the ordinance, outside watering is currently restricted to once every seven days. From November 1st through March 31st, those restrictions tighten to once every 14 days. Watering is also limited to no more than one inch per application.

Fort Concho tonight

You can experience history in a new light at Fort Concho which is offering its annual special night tours this week. Refreshments and orientation will start at 8 o'clock at the Barracks 1 Visitor Center on South Oakes Street this evening. These special tours will show the fort and some interiors in the evening darkness. Guides will share stories about the post and note some of the soldiers who died while serving at Fort Concho. Tickets can be purchased at the Fort Concho Visitor Center prior to the event.

RR crossing repairs

A reminder that repairs began Monday on the railroad crossing on South Bryant Boulevard, also known as U.S. Highway 87, between Avenue L and Avenue K. Lane restrictions will narrow Bryant to one lane in each direction, north and south. The construction and the restrictions are anticipated to last eight days.

Water usage

San Angelo is on water-conservation streak. On Sunday, the city's residents and businesses used 10-point-three million gallons of water compared to 12-point-two million on the same date last year.

Gas prices down

After gas prices jumped on the announcement of the government reopen, Triple-A reports that increases in oil production and inventory and the possibility of sanctions against Iran pushed them back down. The nationwide average price of regular today is three-28 a gallon, down seven cents from a week ago. In Texas, the statewide average of three-04 is down by seven cents. In San Angelo, gas-buddy-dot-com says the price of regular ranges from two-98 to three-15 a gallon.

Traffic counters

You might have noticed traffic counters stretched across some local roadways. The Transportation Planning and Programming Division of TxDOT is collecting traffic data at almost 25-hundred locations in Tom Green County through November 21st. These 24-hour counts will be collected on all system roadways by contract personnel. For more information, contact the San Angelo Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Business plan seminar

ASU's Small Business Development Center hosts part one of a free seminar, “How to Write Your Business Plan" from 6 to 8:30 tonight at the City's Business Resource Center on North Chadbourne. This seminar is for prospective entrepreneurs looking for a road map to success that need a business plan. They will learn how to write a business plan. Part two of the seminar will be held next Tuesday evening. You can find out more online at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Traffic stop, drug bust

A San Angelo police traffic stop turned into a drug bust over the weekend. Late Sunday night, an officer attempted to pull over a Chevy pickup for a traffic violation on North Chadbourne, but the truck did not stop. The officer activated his siren and the vehicle eventually pulled over on Volney Street. Police say the driver, identified as 42-year-old Charlie McDonnell of San Angelo, said he did not stop because he knew his driver's license was suspended. It also turned out that McDonnell had an outstanding arrest warrant for manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance. And a search of the vehicle turned up methamphetamine. McDonnell was arrested for the warrant and various other charges.

Public information awards

The City of San Angelo’s Public Information Office has won six statewide awards – one first place honor and five second-places – for its programming on SATV. The awards were handed out Thursday night at the annual conference of the Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors. San Angelo took top honors in the Use of Humor category for a commercial starring a swimsuit-clad Parks and Recreation Director Carl White on the opening weekend of Love Municipal Pool.

Water usage

The city continues to conserve water. Saturday, San Angelo residents and businesses used 10-point-three million gallons of water compared to 13-point-two million on the same date last year. And, on Friday, San Angelo used nine-point-four million gallons of water compared to 14-point-five million the year before.

Need to identify

San Angelo police are asking for the public's help in identifying two people in connection with the burglary of a building and the use of stolen credit cards. The burglary occurred at the Dollar General at 509 North Main Street. The suspects are a male and a female; you can find their pictures and a link to surveillance video on the police department's Facebook page. There is also information on how to report any knowledge of the suspects' whereabouts.

ASU business seminar

The Angelo State University College of Business will host a seminar on managing an organization's reputation this Friday in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The seminar, titled "Because Everyone Is Watching," will run from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Discussion topics will include what it means to manage an organization's reputation, tips to enhance the reputation and strategies to protect it. Cost is 25 dollars per person.

Water usage

The city of San Angelo says conservation works. On Wednesday, residents and businesses used 10-point-four million gallons of water compared to 15-point-seven million on the same date last year.You can save water by using the sprinkler in an area where your lawn needs it the most when your kids want to cool off. But remember, watering is allowed only once every seven days, and never between noon and 6 p.m.

Fire Truck or Treat

The San Angelo Fire Department and San Angelo Fire Fighters Association is inviting the public to 11th annual fire "Truck or Treat." You can visit your local fire station from six to eight PM on Halloween night, next Thursday, October 31st, get some candy and see a fire truck. One request: do not park in front of the fire trucks; they still have to respond to calls.

Water usage

Another day, another one or two million gallons of water saved. On Monday, San Angelo residents and businesses used 11-point-one million gallons of water compared to 12-point-nine million on the same date last year.

SAPD most wanted

Making the list of the San Angelo police department's most wanted is a sex offender. Fedencio Sosa is 48 years old and is wanted on an active warrant for failing to register as a sex offender. If you know anything concerning the whereabouts of Fidencio Sosa, call the SAPD's 24-hour tip hotline: 855-TIPS-24-7.

ASU meat judgers

Angelo State University's Meat Judging Team made an excellent showing at the 2013 American Royal Intercollegiate Meat Judging Contest. That was held last Sunday in Omaha, Nebraska. ASU finished third out of 17 teams and produced the top-scoring individual contestant: Clay Kelley of Ballinger, who finished ahead of more than 60 other competitors. Next up for the team is the Cargill Meat Solutions Intercollegiate Meat Judging Contest on November 3rd in Friona.

Shannon most affordable

San Angelo-based Shannon Medical Center is the most affordable hospital in Texas. That's according to NerdWallet Health-dot-com, a website that claims to help consumers make better decisions about healthcare and insurance. It ranked the 10 most affordable hospitals in the state and Shannon came out number-one. Factors considered for each hospital include location, number of affordable treatments offered and patient satisfaction.

Water usage

On Sunday, San Angelo used 12-point-nine million gallons of water, the same amount as on the same date last year. San Angelo is in Drought Level 2. A year ago, the city was in the less restrictive Drought Level 1.

RR crossing construction

The replacement of two railroad crossings will cause traffic delays in San Angelo beginning next week. On Monday, workers will begin replacing the railroad crossing on South Bryant Boulevard between Avenue L and Avenue K, a project expected to last eight days. Lane restrictions at times will narrow Bryant to one lane in each direction. Following the work on Bryant, construction crews will move to Knickerbocker Road to replace the railroad crossing at Austin and Currier streets. Lane restrictions are expected to again last eight days.

Fort Concho night tours

You can experience history in a new light as Fort Concho offers its annual special night tours next week. Refreshments and orientation will start at 8 o'clock at the Barracks 1 Visitor Center on South Oakes Street on Monday and Tuesday evenings. These special tours will show the fort and some interiors inthe evening darkness. Guides will share stories about the post and note some of the soldiers who died while serving at Fort Concho. Tickets can be purchased at the Fort Concho Visitor Center prior to the event.

Gas price update

As forecast, retail gas prices moved higher last week after the government struck a deal to reopen and raise the debt ceiling. But Triple-A says the jump in pump prices was premature and it's likely they will plateau in the coming weeks. Nationwide, the average price of regular is three-35 a gallon, up one cent from a week ago. In Texas, the average price of regular is three-11 a gallon, up two cents from a week ago. In San Angelo, gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular ranges from three-03 to three-19.

School supply drive

Several Angelo State University student groups are joining with the Give More HUGS nonprofit organization and San Angelo's Teacher Supply Store for a holiday school supplies drive to benefit local children. The drive begins today and will run through November 15th with drop-off stations on the ASU campus and at the Teacher Supply Store on North Chadbourne. All types of school supplies will be accepted, along with children's clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, undergarments and socks.

Counterfeit money warning

The San Angelo Police Department is warning local business establishments about a circulation of counterfeit currency. Recently, police were made aware of several counterfeit 20 dollar bills being passed at a local business. Retailers are advised to carefully inspect currency and not rely solely on the use of counterfeit money detector pens. If you suspect you have received counterfeit currency, please report it the Police Department. If you have any information about persons involved with creating or passing counterfeit currency, you can call SAPD's 24 hour Tip Hotline 1-855-TIPS-24-7.

Lake Nasworthy meeting tonight at McNease

People this evening can offer input on developing and improving Lake Nasworthy.

A meeting begins at 6 p.m. at McNease Convention Center in San Angelo.

People can share their feedback on the plan, which the city council may consider approving when it meets Nov. 5.

The blueprint includes five development zones around the lake.

Early voting starts today

Early voting begins this week in Tom Green County.

The hours run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays from today to Oct. 30. On Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, early voting takes place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. No early voting takes place during the weekend.

Two places host early voting. One sits on the second floor of the Keyes Building on West Beauregard Avenue between South Randolph and South Irving streets in San Angelo. Veribest Baptist Church near FM 2334 and FM 380 in Veribest serves as the other early voting site.

Voters can use a D-P-S document as a form of identification. These include a driver's license, an election identification certificate, a personal identification card, and a concealed handgun license.

People can also use U-S military identification cards with photos, American citizenship certificates with photos, and American passports as identification.

Voters can no longer use voter registration certificates to check in for voting. Those without identification can vote provisionally, but must present I-D by 5 p.m. Nov. 12 at the election office to make their ballots count.

Election officials continue accepting ballot by mail applications through this Friday.

ASU helping with school supplies drive

Several Angelo State University student groups are joining with the Give More HUGS nonprofit organization and San Angelo’s Teacher Supply Store for a holiday school supplies drive to benefit San Angelo children.

The drive will run from Oct. 22 through Nov. 15 with drop-off stations on the ASU campus and at the Teacher Supply Store, 310 N. Chadbourne St. ASU drop-off points will be in the Carr Education-Fine Arts Building, Houston Harte University Center, Porter Henderson Library, Mathematics-Computer Science Building, Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building and Rassman Building.

All types of school supplies will be accepted, including pencils, pens, folders, notebooks, erasers, rulers, paper, pencil sharpeners, markers, crayons, glue, colored pencils and backpacks. Children’s clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, undergarments and socks, will also be collected.

“The goal of this initiative is to provide the necessary tools for learning and to spread holiday cheer during the upcoming holiday season,” said Chris McGilvery, ASU teacher education instructor and president of Give More HUGS. “We are collecting basic school supplies and clothing for the many children in need.”

Participating ASU student organizations include Kappa Pi, Kappa Delta Pi, the Council of Exceptional Children, Alpha Phi Omega and the student chapter of the Texas State Teacher’s Association.

The Give More HUGS organization was founded in Lamesa to help schools, teachers and students in need. More details are available online at www.givemorehugs.org.

For more information on the school supplies drive, call McGilvery at 806-759-5401.

Cruz not bothered by criticism from other Republicans

Ted Cruz says his fellow Senate Republicans "dive bombed" the House G-O-P's efforts to derail the Affordable Care Act through a spending bill.

On C-N-N's "State of the Union," Cruz says the Senate turned its back on the House when it voted to end the shutdown. The Tea Party-supported lawmaker says the verbal flogging he has received from fellow Senate Republicans has not fazed him at all, adding that he does not work for the party bosses in Washington.

Cruz has accused congressional G-O-P leadership of trying to put the debate over the Affordable Care Act in the rear view mirror. He also stands firm in his crusade to kill the healthcare law and refuses to rule out the possibility of forcing another government shutdown when it comes time to pass a spending bill in January.

Senate Republicans have chastised Cruz over his shutdown strategy.

Cowboys win, Texans and Stars lose

Tony Romo threw for 317 yards to lead the Cowboys over the Eagles in Philadelphia yesterday 17-3. The Cowboys now lead the NFC East by one game over the Eagles.

The Texans lost their fifth straight yesterday with a 17-16 setback in Kansas City against the Chiefs. The Texans lost linebacker Brian Cushing to a season-ending lower leg injury in the third quarter.

The Stars lost in Anaheim to the Ducks yesterday 6-3. The Stars have now lost four out of their last five.

Water usage

In the wake of all the rainfall over the past weekend and earlier this week, San Angelo continues to conserve water. On Wednesday, city residents and businesses used 10 and a half million gallons of water compared to 11-point-one million on the same date last year.

SAPD drug drop-off

A reminder from San Angelo police: there is a prescription drug drop-off box located in the policle department's lobby. If you need to get rid of any old or unwanted prescriptions, you are welcome to stop by and drop them off! The address is 401 East Beauregard. The drop-off box is accessible from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday.

Young burglars apprehended

San Angelo police apprehended a pair of young burglars early Thursday morning. Officers checked on two subjects at the corner of Preusser and Emerick, who were on bicycleswith no lights attached. Both are juveniles. An investigation revealed that one of them had an outstanding city warrant and was in possession of an IPAD and cash that was taken in a vehicle burglary in the 700 block of South Park. A search of the other juvenile revealed him to be in possession of a Class “B” misdemeanor amount of Marijuana and an IPAD as well.

San Angelo's most wanted

San Angelo's Most Wanted is a fugitive sought on an active warrant for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Greg Bautista is 30 years old, 5-11, 160 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. If you know anything about the whereabouts of Greg Bautista, call the San Angelo Police Department's 24-hour tip line. That number is 855-TIPS-24-7.

Former SAPD cop dies

A former officer with the San Angelo Police Department has died. Clay Crabb served four years with the SAPD before joining the Austin Police Department. Crabb died from injuries sustained in a car accident; it happened while he was off-duty, but on his way to work. San Angelo Police Chief Tim Vasquez said--quote--"many of us were blessed to work with him and know him. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends and the Austin Police Department.

ASU screening

Angelo State University's Department of Physics and Geosciences will present a screening of the documentary film "Switch" next Wednesday. That will take place in the ASU Planetarium located in the Vincent Nursing-Physical Science Building on Vanderventer Street. The screening will begin at 7 p.m. in the Planetarium and is open free to the public. The film is hosted by Dr. Scott Tinker, state geologist of Texas, "Switch" is a nonpartisan effort designed to unite diverse audiences in a shared understanding of energy.

RiverFest Kids' Court

A Kids' Court full of inflatable jump houses, pony and barrel train rides, a petting zoo, a face painter and performers will replace a last-minute cancellation of the planned carnival at River Fest. The Kids' Court will offer family-friendly activities, much of it free, from one to 7 PM this Saturday, the second day of the two-day event. River Fest will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Santa Fe Park and the recently completed improvements to the Concho River downtown with a wide array of events, including two concerts and a color run.

ASU center number 22

Angelo State University's Houston Harte University Center has been named one of the "25 Most Amazing Student Union Buildings in the U.S." by BestCollegeReviews-dot-org, an independent online college and university ranking guide. Overall, ASU's University Center was ranked number 22 in the U.S. and represents the only Texas institution in the top 25. The rankings encompass numerous factors, including architectural notability and student satisfaction.

Judge Brown resigning

The Tom Green County Judge is stepping down. That announcement Tuesday from Mike Brown, who's served in the position for 19 years. Brown saying its time for him to explore other opportunities. He's planning to move to Alpine, where he has a house that is undergoing renovation. His resignation is effective December 1st. The Commissioners court will need to appoint an interim judge to serve until the next election in November 2014

3rd murder trial

A San Angelo businessman will be going on trial for murder for a third time. Frederick Mueller will go on trial January 6th. A judge in Colorado set the date during a hearing Tuesday afternoon. After the two previous trials resulted in hung juries, Mueller's attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the case. A ruling on the motion is expected within two weeks. Mueller is accused of second degree murder in the death of his former wife, local physician Leslie Mueller.

Water usage

The skies are clearing after several days of rain and the city of San Angelo reminds residents and businesses to turn off their sprinklers; Mother Nature has taken care of your lawns. On Monday, San Angelo was saving water again, using 10-point-three million gallons of water compared to 12-point-seven million on the same date last year.

Hit and run suspect sought

The San Angelo Police Department is asking for the public's assistance in locating a suspect involved in a hit and run crash last Saturday, October 12th. It happened around 6:50 PM at the intersection of Knickerbocker Road and Sunset Drive. The suspect vehicle was described as a tan older model Chevrolet Impala driving by a white male. The vehicle ran a red light and struck a 2008 Dodge Caliber, injuring the 28-year-old female driver. The suspect vehicle left the scene headed southbound on Knickerbocker, likely with extensive front-end damage. Anyone with information is urged to contact San Angelo police or call the 24-hour tip hotline at 855-TIPS-247.

Untimely death

San Angelo police are investigating what they are calling the untimely death of a young man. Early Sunday morning, an officer went to Shannon Hospital where an unconscious white male had been brought by private vehicle. He was was identified as 23-year-old Nicholas Hanks. It was determined that the Hanks had been at a party out in the county in the 5880 block of FM 1223. He had gone to get something to eat when his friends realized he had passed out. They immediately transported him to Shannon. Results of a toxicology report are pending.

Anti-bully Run Walk

The San Angelo Police Department says there is still time to register for the 1st Annual Anti-Bully Walk Run. Proceeds from the event will benefit the SAPD D.R.E.A.M. program. Organizers say it's a great opportunity to stand together and raise awareness about bullying. All ages are encouraged to participate. The Anti-Bully Walk Run will take place on Saturday, October 26th at Kids Kingdom on River Drive.

County judge candidate

There's a new hat in the ring for the office of Tom Green County Judge. Richard Easingwood, a former county commissioner from District Four, officially announced his candidacy Monday. Green retired from the commission position in December 2010 after 12 years on the job. Easingwood ran against current County Judge Mike Brown in the 2010 Republican Primary. He says GOP officials have told him Judge Brown will not be running for another term.

Flash flood watch

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a flash flood watch for an area including the counties of Tom Green, Irion, Concho, Crockett, Schleicher and Menard. It's in effect through tomorrow morning. You can expect widespread heavy rainfall of one to two inches, with locally higher amounts in excess of three inches. Urban street flooding will be a primary concern due to poor drainage and extreme runoff. Normally dry creeks and streams will catch excess runoff and might flood low-lying roadways. The storms can also include dangerous cloud-to-ground lightining.

Traffic stop, drug bust

A San Angelo man arrested on several charges after police locate narcotics during a late night, weekend traffic stop. On Saturday, police conducted conducted a traffic stop on a white, 2012 Toyota Corolla near the 600 block of West Avenue K for a traffic violation. Officers smelled the odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle. A search of the driver, who initially gave them a false name, officers located 245 dollars in cash, about 12-point-seven grams of marijuana and a substance that field tested positive for approximately 35.5 grams of methamphetamine. A search of the vehicle turned up 12-hundred-15 dollas in cash. The driver was eventually identified to be 28-year-old Peter Anthony Rios, who was arrested on multiple charges.

City council night meeting

A reminder that the San Angelo City Council will be doing something unusual this week--meeting at night. The Council will convene in open session at 5:30 p.m. at the Convention Center and the meeting is open to the public. Topics up for discussion include the Red Arroyo trail project, the Gun Club hill road, the watering of parks and the West Texas Water Partnership. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city's Facebook page.

Development corporation board meeting

The board of the City of San Angelo Development Corporation, which administrators the half-cent sales tax, will meet this week. Members will discuss and consider payments to the West Texas Water Partnership, participating in a Cline Shale study, and the economic development efforts of the Chamber of Commerce. The meeting is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Convention Center and is open to the public.

Water usage\

In the wake of the weekend rains, the city of San Angelo urges residents and business to turn off their sprinklers. The city continued saving water on Saturday, using 10-point-six million gallons of water compared to 14-point-five million on the same date last year.

Gas price update

With the government shutdown continuing, retail gasoline prices didn’t fluctuate much from last week and remain stable near the lowest average of the year. That's according to Triple-A, which says the nationwide average price for regular is three-34 a gallon, one cent less than last week. The Texas statewide average of three-09 fell three cents. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-17 to three-32 a gallon.

Heavy rain expected

But it appears Mother Nature is about to do your watering for you. The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement for west central Texas, including the Concho Valley. Forecasters say there is a potential for heavy rainfall to develop starting tomorrow night and continuing through Tuesday. Widespread rainfall amounts of one to two inches are expected with locally higher amounts possible.

Water usage

It's been a good week for water conservation in San Angelo. On Wednesday, city residents and businesses used 11-point-eight million gallons of water compared to 15-point-two million on the same date last year.

Habitat ReStore opens

You can save big this weekend on new and used building materials as the Habitat for Humanity Warehouse Restore opens to the public. They're selling paint for just a dollar a gallon, mini blinds for a dollar. Five dollars gets you large blinds, doors, windows, commodes and light fixtures. Save money on those home improvements and help a good cause: Habitat for Humanity's ReStore will be open tomorrow morning from 8:30 to 11:30. The address is 401 North Chadbourne Street.

Watch Your Drink volunteers needed

Later this month, the Concho Valley Rape Crisis Center will be conducting the Watch Your Drink Campaign, which is intended to educate the public about the dangers of date rape drugs like Rohypnol and GHB and encourage club goers to party safe. The WYD campaign is scheduled for Friday, October 18th at 8:30 pm. Volunteers are needed to go to area clubs and bars to post signs and leave informational materials for patrons. If you are interested in volunteering, you can call 325-655-2000.

ASU's top-ranked online grad program

Angelo State University's College of Graduate Studies is one of the Top 50 Online Graduate Programs in the U.S. for the 2012-13 academic year. That's according to GraduatePrograms-dot-com, an online guide that recognizes higher education graduate programs, based on student evaluations. Overall, ASU's graduate program is ranked No. 18, ASU President Brian J. May said the ranking is--quote--"a further testament to the quality of our graduate program."

Evening city council meeting

Mark your calendar for next Tuesday when the San Angelo City Council does something unusual. It will be holding an evening meeting starting at 5:30 at the McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive. This is a departure from the Council’s traditional meeting time of 9 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. The suggestion came from Single Member District 4 Councilman Don Vardeman, who said his constituents had requested the Council meet in the evenings when they would be more available to attend.

Small business management program

The next Angelo State University Small Business Development Center Small Business Management Certificate Program is coming up. An eight-week course will begin October 22nd at the Business Resource Center. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners learn the basics of how to start, run, and grow a small business in the Concho Valley. For more information or to register, call the ASU Small Business Development Center or go to the university website at angelo-dot-edu.

Concho Xmas volunteers needed

It takes hard work, holiday spirit and about one-thousand volunteers to make Christmas at Old Fort Concho a success. This year’s events are scheduled for December 6th, 7th and 8th. Volunteers are needed to work two-hour shifts in many areas throughout the weekend. For more information on volunteering for Christmas at Old Fort Concho, you can find contact names and numbers on the City of San Angelo's Facebook page or go online to fort-concho-dot-com.

ASU Disability Awareness Celebration

Angelo State University's Multicultural Center will host a Disability Awareness Celebration next week. It's scheduled for Wednesday in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. Themed "Because We are EQUAL to the Task," the celebration will commemorate October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month by paying tribute to the accomplishments of people with disabilities and reaffirming ASU's commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all citizens. Activities will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main lobby of the University Center and are open free to the public.

San Angelo recognized

The Texas Municipal League has recognized and honored the City of San Angelo for its annual blitz to transform blighted neighborhoods and for its partnership with the Upper Colorado River Authority to educate citizens about stormwater issues. City officials collected the City Spirit and the Public Works awards for cities with populations greater than 25-thousand at the TML's annual state conference in Austin on Wednesday. Said Mayor Dwain Morrison, "I've always known the City of San Angelo has an outstanding staff of public servants. Today, the rest of the state knows that, too."

Fort Concho art contest

Local school children have the chance to design a logo for future Christmas at Fort Concho events and compete for prizes at the same time. The Fort Concho staff has announced its student art competition. Registration must be completed by November 1st, with pictures submitted by November 7th. Submissions will be displayed during the Christmas event at the Fort, December 6th, 7th,and 8th. You can find more info and an entry form at fortconcho-dot-com.

Water usage

San Angelo continues to save water this week. On Monday, city residents and businesses used 10-point-seven million gallons of water compared to 14-point-three million on the same date last year. They used more water on Tuesday, 11-point-eight million gallons but that was still less than last year's 14-point-seven million.

Gas prices down again

Weakened demand and the government shutdown combined to push oil prices lower over the past week and Triple-A says that, as a result, retail gas prices also fell. The national average of three-34 a gallon for regular is down five cents from last week and that is the lowest price since January. The Texas statewide average of three-11 is down five cents from a week ago. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-dollars even to three-24 a gallon.

ASU orchestra fundraiser

Angelo State University's Orchestra and Friends will host a day of music and food sponsored by the Fiddle Fire chuckwagon and catering business to benefit the ASU orchestra program. The fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, October 13th, at Fiddle Fire, on South Oakes Street. It will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature a variety of musical performers, as well as opportunities for patrons to purchase breakfast, brunch and barbecue lunch plates for 10 dollars each. All proceeds will benefit the ASU orchestra program.

ASU Holland Symposium

Climate change will take the spotlight as internationally known scientist and Nobel Peace Prize-winner Dr. Michael E. Mann addresses Angelo State University's 2013 E. James Holland University Symposium on American Values. It is scheduled for Monday, October 28th, in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. Dr. Mann's presentation, "The Hockey Stick and the Climate Wars," will be covered in two sessions at 2 PM and 7:30 PM. Both presentations and receptions following are open free to the public.

Water usage

Speaking of water, over the weekend, San Angelo residents and businesses conserved water. On Sunday, San Angelo used 10-point-two million gallons of water compared to 16-point-one million on the same date last year. The city reminds you to do your part and be water smart.

Duncan, Darby reception

Texas Retired Teachers Association District 15 is hosting a reception honoring Senator Robert Duncan and Representative Drew Darby on Thursday afternoon. It's scheduled from 3:30-to five o'clock in the Suggs Community Room on the third floor of the Tom Green County Stephens Central Library in downtown San Angelo. The organization says Duncan and Darby are being shown appreciation for their dedication to Texas and their commitment to education and educators.

Warehouse tours

The San Angelo Performing Arts Coalition will hold tours of the old Coca-Cola warehouse and the City Auditorium on West College Avenue from 6 to 8 PM Thursday. The coalition has plans to repurpose the warehouse into a performing arts center, and the auditorium will receive renovations to its seating, sound and lighting, and other amenities. There will be short performances by artists and organizations from Angelo Civic Theatre, Twin Mountain Tonesmen, Be Theatre, San Angelo Broadway Academy and the San Angelo Symphony.

Lake Nasworthy public meeting

Input on the draft of a plan to develop and improve Lake Nasworthy will be gathered at a public meeting later this mont in San Angelo. It will take place at 6 p.m. Monday, October 21st, at the McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive. Citizens are encouraged to attend to share their feedback on the plan, which the San Angelo City Council is expected to consider approving on November 5th. The blueprint, which calls for five development zones around Lake Nasworthy, can be viewed at the city's website.

ASU Natural History open house

Angelo State University's Department of Biology will host an Open House for its Angelo State Natural History Collections this Thursday. The event will run from 5 to 7 PM in the Cavness Science Building on Dena Drive. Activities will include a presentation by Dr. Terry Maxwell, professor of biology, titled "Natural History Writing" at 6, as well as tours of the Natural History Collection and a reception. The collection contains more than 100-thousand specimens of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and plants from the Concho Valley and around the world.

ASU health fair

Angelo State University will host its sixth annual ASUFit Health and Wellness Fair next Monday. It's the largest health fair in the Concho Valley and will be held from 11 AM to 5 PM in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. More than 50 vendors will be on hand, providing information and resources realted to fitness, healthy living and wellness. While they last, Shannon Clinic will provide flu shots, which will be free with the showing of a health insurance card. You can find out more at the ASU website at angelo-dot-edu.

Health insurance help

If you're looking for help with the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, you can find assistance at Shannon Medical Center. Certified application counselors are available to help those who are currently uninsured, those who have questions about the Marketplace and those who need help filling out an application. Eligible applicants must be enrolled by December 15th for coverage to begin on January 1st, 2014. The open enrollment period runs through March. You can find out more online at shannon-health-dot-com.

Bee swarm kills Wall woman

Sheriff's deputies say a swarm of bees killed a Wall woman on Thursday.

Bessie Wilde, 87, had died by the time help arrived.

Lt. Christina Lopez tells the San Angelo Standard-Times that neighbors tried helping Willde, but the swarm prevented them from doing so.

Lopez says deputies and firefighters wore protective gear to recover the body. She claims investigators determined the bees attacked Wilde as she rode a lawn mower on her property.

Park dedicated to Padron

A park in San Angelo now bears the name of a native who died while working as a policeman.

The dedication of Jamie Padron Memorial Park took place Saturday.

Padron died after confronting an armed man inside a Walmart in Austin.

KXAN reports the park includes new playground equipment, a pavilion, new walkways, and a refurbished ball field and courts.

ASU's SBDC holding women's business roundtable

Angelo State University’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will host the 15th annual Women’s Business Roundtable on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the Cactus Hotel in downtown San Angelo.


Titled “Texas Sized Dreams,” this year’s event will run from 4:30-8:30 p.m. with JoAnna Alexander, owner of Alexander Resource Group in San Angelo, as the keynote speaker. Activities will include discussion sessions on networking, pricing, recordkeeping, mentoring, customer service, leadership and financing, as well as vendor and exhibitor booths, a catered dinner, coffee and desserts. Registration is $30 per person and the deadline to register is Oct. 11. Each attendee will receive a goodie bag, and door prizes will be awarded throughout the event.


“Attendees of the Women’s Business Roundtable event always walk away with something new,” said Jessica Lambert, SBDC training coordinator, “such as a new idea for their business, a new business contact, new inspiration or a new friend. And to us, that makes a successful event.”


Current sponsors include Legacy Sponsor First Financial Bank of San Angelo, as well as KIDY/Fox, Sam’s Club, the San Angelo Standard-Times, Celebraciones Bellas, Bel-Ami Dermatology, Matchless Photography, Prosperity Bank, Traditions Wedding and Event Planning and Flowers by Vel.


Registration for this year’s event is available online at www.angelo.edu/services/sbdc/womens_business_roundtable_event.php.
For more information, contact Lambert at 325-942-2019 or jessica.lambert@angelo.edu.

Road repavings begin today in San Angelo

The repaving of four streets in San Angelo begins today.

The reconstruction project affects the following stretches of road:

Main Street from the Houston Harte Expressway to 18th Street
14th Street between Main and Chadbourne streets
Oakes Street between 14th and 11th streets
19th Street from Highway 87 west to the railroad tracks

Construction should finish by the end of the month. The streets do not close during construction, but traffic may drop to one lane with flaggers controlling the flow. Drivers may find delays throughout the project.

Street repaving

The city of San Angelo begins a street reconstruction project on Monday during which four streets will be repaved. Those streets are Main Street from the Houston Harte Expressway to 18th Street, 14th Street from Main to Chadbourne streets, Oakes Street from 14th to 11th streets, and 19th Street from U.S. Highway 87 west to the railroad tracks. The one-point-three million dollar project is scheduled to be completed by the end of the month. During construction, the streets will not be closed, but traffic may be reduced to one lane.

Flu shots

Flu season is on the way and flu shots are available now from the San Angelo-Tom Green County Health Department. Flu vaccines are given during the Health Department’s weekly immunization clinic. That happens on Tuesdays from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1 to 4:30 p.m. You can find the health department in Suite nine at 2030 Pulliam. Children seeking the flu vaccine must present updated shot records at the time of the visit. There are a limited number of adult doses, therefore adults are encouraged to call ahead to confirm in advance the availability of the vaccine.

Water usage

It was a day of water conservation in San Angelo on Wednesday. City residents and businesses used 12-point-two million gallons of water compared to 13-point-seven million on the same date last year. Watering is allowed once a week, but city officials say there's been enough rain recently that you shouldn't need to water.

Shutdown impact on city

City of San Angelo officials say they have been fielding citizen calls about how the federal government’s partial shutdown is impacting City operations, particularly WIC--Women, Infants and Children. They say it’s not. No city operations, including WIC, San Angelo Regional Airport or federally-funded programs in the Neighborhood and Family Services Department, are currently being impacted. WIC’s offices are operating as they normally do from 7 a.m.-noon and 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Should that change, the city will issue an alert on its Facebook page.

Police need ID help

The San Angelo Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a man who used a stolen bank card to make a purchase. It happened at the Stripes Convenience Store at 1821 North Bryant Boulevard, shortly after midnight on Thursday, September 19th. You can find surveillance photos of the suspect on the SAPD Facebook page. Anyone with information about this subject is asked to contact the police. To remain anonymous call the SAPD’s 24 hour Tip Hotline 1.855.TIPS.247.

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.. For more information, go to sbdc-dot-angelo-dot-edu.

Battle of the Bands

The Central High School Bobcat Band will host the 2013 San Angelo Battle of the Bands Marching Festival this Saturday at San Angelo Stadium. Competition will begin at 8 AM with bands from across West Texas competing throughout the day for trophies in Classes 1-A, 2-A, 3-A, 4-A and 5-A. Best in show awards will be given for drum major, percussion and brass. The judges come from San Angelo and from school distrcits, including Wylie, Plainview and Abilene. The cost of admission is five dollars.

Water usage

San Angelo residents and businesses were in a water-saving mode on Tuesday. The city used 11 million gallons of water compared to 11-point-one million on the same date last year. Keep in mind that under San Angelo's current drought restrictions, watering in the city is limited to once a week and one inch per application.

ASUFit

The San Angelo-Tom Green County Health Department will be closed on October 14th, that's a week from next Monday, as its staff participates in the 6th annual ASUFit and SAISD Health and Wellness Fair. The fair will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the University Center at Angelo State University. It will feature dozens of vendors plus membership discounts, health tests, flu shots, exercise demonstrations, information about fitness-related events, healthy snacks and giveaways. You can find out more online at angelo-dot-edu-slash-asu-fit.

Perry at OC Fisher

The dry O.C. Fisher Reservoir lakebed served as a backdrop for Governor Rick Perry on Wednesday as he urged voters to approve Proposition 6 on November 5th. The measure would appropriate two-billion dollars to create the State Water Implementation Fund to support local water projects. The money would come from the state's Rainy Day Fund, therefore it would not mean an increase in taxes. The governor was joined by State Senator Robert Duncan, Tom Green County Judge Mike Brown and other local leaders.

Celebration of Animals

The third annual Celebration of Animals, presented by Concho Valley PAWS and Sunset Mall is scheduled for this evening. The public is invited to attend and bring their pets--on a leash. The event is in honor of World Animal Day and the Feast of St. Francis, Patron Saint of Animals. The ceremonies include the recognition of local animal heroes who will be presented with "PAWS Superhero Awards". Bishop Michael Pfieffer and Pastor Karen Schemeltekopf will offer a prayer and a blessing for the animals present.

Central homecoming parade, rally

Central High School is inviting the public to attend its homecoming parade and community pep rally tonight. The parade will begin at 6:30 at the Central campus. The theme this year is "Lights, Camera, Cats," which features a Hollywood motif. The parade begin near the Concho River at the intersection of Park and West 1st Street. It will follow a route along North David and Pecos Street before turning on to Cottonwood. The pep rally follows.

Conaway vs Reid

As the partial shutdown of the federal government continues, finger-pointing in Washington is underway. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid accused Republicans of holding the government hostage in a futile effort to inhibit ObamaCare. From the GOP side, 11th District Congressman Mike Conaway took to the House floor to fire a blast at Reid, saying--quote--"this my way or the highway attitude that the leadership in the Senate has taken is beneath the dignity of this body."

Sheriff Joe Hunt dies

A man who served for 10 years as sheriff of Tom Green County has died. Joe Hunt passed away Tuesday afternoon at his ranch home in Scheicher County at the age of 68. His 43-year career in law enforcement included 21 as a Texas Ranger. Hunt was elected Tom Green County sheriff is 2001 but retired before the end of his last term in 2011 because of health issues stemming from a heart attack he had suffered in 2004.

Water usage

Despite the weekend rainfall, water usage in San Angelo is up from last year so far this week. On Monday, San Angelo residents and businesses used 11-point-three million gallons of water compared to 11-point-one million on the same date in 2012.

Rookie cop apps

For those onsidering a career in Law Enforcement, the San Angelo Police Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Rookie Police Officer. The last day for filing an application is a week from Friday, October 11th. The Civil Service Exam is scheduled for October 19th. Find out more at the SAPD Facebook page.

ASUFit Cyclocross Series

Angelo State University's fourth annual ASUFit Cyclocross Series will begin later today with Race One of the five-race bicycle series. It starts at 6:30 p.m. on the off-road trails and open space adjacent to the ASU Softball Complex on Johnson Street. Registration will be from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. in the Softball Complex parking lot. All races in the series are open free to the public and will include divisions children and adults. The ASUFit Cyclocross Series will continue with races each Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. through October 30th at the same location.

SAPD wins shooting competition

The San Angelo Police Department Pistol Team was a big winner at the recent National Shooting Competition in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was held September 14th through the 19th and SAPD won in the team categories of four-man revolver, four-men semi-automatic and four-man service weapon. In the individual competition, San Angelo police officers placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd in 17 different categories. The Team attended the competition with money raised from fundraisers held in the months prior to the event.

Water usage

In the wake of Saturday's downpours, the city of San Angelo reminds you that there is no need to water. On Sunday, San Angelo used 11-point-two million gallons of water, slightly up from 11 million on the same date last year.

Lake Nasworthy meeting

The City of San Angelo has scheduled a meeting to discuss the plan for Lake Nasworthy. It has been put together with input from a wide variety of San Angelo citizens and groups. The plan is designed to provide guidance for future decisions in and around Lake Nasworthy to capitalize on the area's unique features. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 21st at 6 PM at the McNease Convention Center on Rio Concho Drive.