Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Development Corporation meeting

The City of San Angelo Development Corporation, which administers the half-cent sales tax for economic development, will consider hiring a consultant to help seek additional air service at the airport and joining the Cline Shale Alliance when it meets this morning. That gets underway at 8:30 at the Convention Center. The meeting is open to the public. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city of San Angelo facebook page.

Candidate filings

Three more candidates have filed for San Angelo City Council seats that will be on the May 11th ballot. Marty Self is the third candidate to file for the Single-Member District 2 seat. Sally Francis Ayana is the second candidate to file for the SMD 4 seat. H.R. “Winkie” Wardlaw III is the third candidate to file for the SMD 5 seat. The final day to file for a place on the ballot is this Friday, for mayor and SMDs 2, 4 and 6; and March 11th for SMDs 1 and 5.

Nature Center spring break

The San Angelo Nature Center’s spring break day camp offers a behind-the-scenes look at the care of its animals along with games, crafts, movies and more. The camp, themed “Keeper for a Day!,” is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12th, for kindergartners through second-graders; and Wednesday, March 13th, for third through sixth-graders. Pre-registration is required. To register, call the Nature Center or visit them at at 7409 Knickerbocker Road.

Strategic planning

The San Angelo City Council met Tuesday at the McNease Convention Center for a strategic planning workshop to establish priorities for the coming fiscal year. Much of the discussion revolved around capital improvements such as streets, a new police station and improvements to tourist attractions.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

ASU student award finalist

A third-year student in Angelo State University's Honors Program has been named a finalist for the prestigious Harry S. Truman Foundation Scholarship Competition. Winners are awareded 30-thousand dollars each for graduate studies in preparation for careers in public service. A psychology major from San Angelo, Sean Motl is completing his pre-med requirements at ASU. By being named a finalist for the Truman Scholarship, he now moves on to the regional interview round to be conducted March 8th in Fort Worth.

Shooting arrests

San Angelo police have arrested four men allegedly involved in a Friday night shooting. The suspects are believed to have been in a white pickup truck that approached two boys, 13 and 14, in the area of Avenue R. Eventually, someone got out of the car and fired at the boys, who ran away and were uninjured. Within four hours, police had round up the pickup truck and the suspects: 18-year-old Maurillo Pintado, 17-year-old Johnny Garcia and 23-year-old Adrian Sarzosa, all of San Angelo; and 17-year-old Miguel Angel Hernandez of Grape Creek. They are facing charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.


Monday, February 25, 2013

High wind warning

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a high wind warning for west central Texas, including the Concho Valley. It's in effect from nine AM to eight PM today. Strong west to northwest winds of 35 to 45 miles an hour with gusts up to 60 miles an hour are possible. They will make driving difficult for motorists driving high-profile vehicles along north and south oriented roadways. Some tree branches would be broken and a few weak trees could be toppled. Other possible impacts include minor shingle damage, loose objects tossed around and blowing dust.

Parks meeting

The master plan for City of San Angelo parks will be up for discussion when the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meets this week. That is scheduled for Thursday afternoon at 3:30 at the McNease Convention Center. The meeting is open to the public. You can find a link to the agenda on the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

City council strategic workshop

The San Angelo City Council will conduct a strategic workshop tomorrow morning at nine o'clock at the McNease Convention Center. The meeting is open to the public. You can find a link to the agenda on the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

Outstanding warrants published

As promised, the list of oustanding San Angelo Municipal Court warrants was in Sunday's Standard-Times. It took up 12 pages of tiny type. Last Wednesday was the deadline for citizens with outstanding City warrants to contact the Municipal Court. They will also be targeted in an annual warrant roundup involving the City Marshal's Office, the San Angelo Police Department, the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, and other area law enforcement agencies.

Gas price update

Motorists are paying more for a gallon of gas than they ever have in the month of February. Triple-A says there won't be much relief at the pump in the next couple of weeks as U.S. refinery maintenence typically peaks in March, meaning more cuts in output. The statewide average price of regular gasoline in Texas is three-63 a gallon, eight cents more than last week. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price in San Angelo ranges from three-56 to three-74 a gallon.

SAPD pot bust

Early Friday morning, San Angelo Police responded to the Tuscany Apartment Complex located on South Jackson St. in reference to a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot. When officers arrived, they found the reported vehicle, a 2013 Ford Expedition, occupied by two men. They also detected the odor of marijuana coming from the driver and vehicle and saw a substance resembling marijuana inside the vehicle. The later found about two pounds of pot inside the vehicle. The driver, 46-year-old Raul Saucedo of San Angelo, and his passenger, 24-year-old Leopoldo Navarez, were arrested for possession of marijuana and transported to the Tom Green County Jail.

Counterfeit money

San Angelo Police are warning local businesses that counterfeit currency has been circulating in the area recently. Earlier this month, officers seized counterfeit currency and equipment used in the counterfeiting process from a local motel. 28-year-old Adam Alvarez of Midland was arrested. Retailers are warned to carefully inspect currency and not rely solely on the use of counterfeit money detector pens. In this recent case, the counterfeit bills being passed were made from actual currency where the numbers depicting the bill's denomination had been altered. If you suspect you have received fake money, contact San Angelo police.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Latest fire conditions

There are no red flag warnings or fire weather warnings for today or tomorrow in the Concho Valley. However, the National Weather Service at San Angelo says Sunday might be a different story. Forecasters say fire weather conditions might approach critical levels on Sunday afternoon as dry and windy conditions develop behind a Pacific front.


Development Corporation reappointments

The San Angelo City Council has reappointed several members to the board of the City of San Angelo Development Corporation. They are Larry Teague, Randy Brooks, Chris Cornell, Tony Villarreal, Pedro Ramirez and Scott Tankersley. Their terms expire in February 2015. The Council will consider reappointing John Bariou at its March 5th meeting.

Civic Events Board meeting

The Civic Events Advisory Board will discuss recent City Council action regarding the San Angelo Bandits pro indoor football team and the allocation of hotel taxes when it meets next week. The meeting is scheduled for next Thursday at 11 a.m. at the McNease Convention Center. It is open to the public. You can find a link to the full agenda on the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

Photo contest

The deadline for entering SNAPS, the Public Art Commission's first citywide photography contest, is rapidly approaching. Entries are due by next Friday, March 1st. Up for grabs is a 150-dollar first prize and a showing at the Coop Gallery. You can find a link to details on the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Restaurant fire

A San Angelo restaurant was extensively damaged by fire Wednesday afternoon. The blaze broke out at the Catfish Corner at 1313 West Beauregard just after 3 PM. Restaurant employees assisted guests in evacuating and no one was injured. Police closed off one block along Beauregard and Colorado while firefighters brought the fire under control. It apparently started in an electrical breaker box inside the building.

More city council candidates

Two more candidates are stepping forward to compete for seats on the San Angelo City Council. A longtime resident of Single Member District Five, David McBride, filed Wednesday for the seat held by Kendell Hirschfeld, who is running for mayor. And local real estate broker and business owner Rodney Fleming is filing for the Single Member District One seat. Fleming makes the official announcement this morning at City Hall.

Red flag warning

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a red flag warning for critical fire weather conditions for an area including the Concho Valley. The warning is in effect from noon to six PM today. A strong upper level storm system will move through the area today. Behind the system, strong winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour, wlong with very dry air, will move into the area. Conditions will be favorable for the rapid spread of wildfires. Outdoor burning of any kind is discouraged.

City Council meeting today

The San Angelo City Council meeting that originally was to have been held Tuesday was postponed for lack of a quorum. It has been rescheduled for this morning at 11:15 at the McNease Convention Center. It is open to the public and will be streamed live on the Internet. You can find a link to the meeting agenda by going to the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Mueller retrial

A judge in Colorado has approved a re-trial for Fred Mueller of Wall beginning April 29th.. Mueller had been held in jail in Colorado for a year before being released from jail on bond Saturday following a mistrial in his murder case. He is accused of killing his wife in Colorado in 2008 and has pleaded not guilty.

Hazardous weather outlook

Portions of West Central Texas, including the Concho Valley, are under a hazardous weather outlook. The National Weather Service at San Angelo says strong storms are expected tonight into tomorrow morning. A few might reach severe levels, producing large hail, damaging winds and dangerous cloud to ground lightning. And elevated fire weather conditions are expected tomorrow because the the combination of gusty winds, warm temperatures and relative humidity values below 20 percent.

Warrant roundup

A reminder that citizens with outstanding City warrants who don't want their name published in the San Angelo Standard-Times must contact the Municipal Court no later than today. Those who fail to do so will also be targeted in an annual warrant roundup involving the City Marshal's Office, the San Angelo Police Department, the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, and other area law enforcement agencies.

Tattoo convention

The 4th Annual West Texas Tattoo Convention begins Friday in at the McNease Convention Center in San Angelo. The event includes special guest appearances by Oliver Peck and three other judges from the show "Inkmaster" and Freddy Negrete from the upcoming film "Tattoo Nation." One-day passes are $16.50; a three-day pass is 31.50! Come by, call or click to get your tickets. You can find out how and where to buy them by going to the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

ASU faculty concert

Two members of the Angelo State University music faculty will present a clarinet and piano concert tomorrow evening. The recital by Doctors Timothy Bonenfant and Martha Saywell will begin at 7:30 in the in the Carr Education-Fine Arts Building on Dena Drive. The program is open free to the public and will include musical pieces written by Claude Debussy, Max Reger, Bela Kovacs and Franz Anton Hoffmeister.

The Real CSI

Angelo State University will host a presentation by the director of the Houston Police Department Crime Lab this week. Irma Rios will talk about her career path to becoming a crime lab director in her lecture, "The Real Life Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)." It will begin at noon Friday in Room 110/111 of the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive and is open free to the public. Attendees are invited to bring a brown bag lunch or purchase lunch from the University Center food court.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Burning advisory

An advisory from the City of San Angelo/Tom Green County Emergency Management Agency: increased winds are expected this week. Although the County Burn Ban was lifted one week ago today, you are encouraged not to burn unless it is absolutely necessary. Be cautious and utilize all safety measures when conducting burning activities outdoors. Consistent monitoring of weather conditions is important for fire safety.

City Council meeting Thursday

The San Anngelo City Council meeting that originally was to have been held today has been rescheduled for 11:15 AM Thursday. You can find a link to the meeting agenda by going to the City of San Angelo's Facebook page.

Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day

Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day, an annual celebration that marks the contributions of the famed black troops of the western frontier, takes place this Sunday afternoon from two to four at Fort Concho. Guest speaker will be Captain Lakeshia Logan, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Afghanistan's Operation Enduring Freedom, who is stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base. The event is free and open to the public.

DREAM essay winners

This Friday, San Angelo Police will host an awards presentation for the Fall D.R.E.A.M. Essay Contest Winners. D.R.E.A.M. is the Drug Resistance Education and Mentoring Program was developed by the Police Department to address local needs and concerns affecting the youth in our community. The Essay winners are first place, Jackson Free from Bonham Elementary; second place, Jovonna Albert from Austin Elementary and, third place, Christopher Reyna from Bonham Elementary.

ASU Black History celebration

In recognition of February as Black History Month, Angelo State University's Multicultural Center will host a Black History Celebration this week. The celebration will run from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday in the lobby of the Houston Harte University Center and is open free to the public. Activities will celebrate the African-American influence in the arts, and will include poetry readings, music and an art display.

ASU book signing

The Friends of the Porter Henderson Library and West Texas Collection at Angelo State University will host a book signing this week for a San Angelo author. Gerron Hite wrote and compiled photos for the book, San Angelo: 1950s and Beyond. Hite will discuss his research and sign books, beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday in the West Texas Collection Gallery on the second floor of the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Hazardous weather outlook

The National Weather Service at San Angelo has issued a hazardous weather outlook for portions of West Central Texas, including the Concho Valley. Elevated fire weather conditions are expected this afternoon, especially south of a line from Robert E. Lee to Eden to Mason. That's due to a combination of gusty winds, above-normal termperatures and dry air.

Voter registration

There are now 10 candidates who have filed their candidacies for six San Angelo City Council seats in the May 11th election. If you want a say in the election, you must register to vote or update your registration, if needed. The deadline is April 11th. Voter registration applications are available at the Tom Green County Election/Voter Registration Office in the Edd B. Keyes Building on West Beauregard, at all three Tom Green County library locations and online at votetomgreencountry-dot-org. The deadline is April 11th.

City council meeting canceled

The San Angelo City Council meeting scheduled for tomorrow at nine AM has been canceled. If you have any questions, you're invited to contact the City of San Angelo, City Clerk at 657-4405.

ASU writers conference

Angelo State University's 17th annual Writers Conference will feature an award-winning Cuban-American author this week in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. Cristina Garcia will conduct a public reading Friday evening at 7 followed by a book signing. A National Book Award finalist, Garcia is the author of six novels, including "Dreaming in Cuba," "A Handbook to Luck" and "The Lady Matador's Hotel." The conference, which focuses on fiction, poetry, nonfiction and drama, is open free to the public.

ASU guest speaker

A retired U.S. Ambassador who witnessed the horrors of genocide in Rwanda will be the featured speaker for Angelo State University's Foreign Affairs Speakers Program next week. Robert E. Gribbin will present "Where is Africa Going?" on Monday at 1 p.m. He will then speak on "Conflict and Terrorism in Africa" at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Both presentations will be in the C.J. Davidson Conference Center in the ASU Houston Harte University Center, on Rosemont Drive, and are open free to the public.

Gas price update

We are now paying more for a gallon of gas than we did at this time a year ago. Triple-A blames multiple factors, including the recent snowstorm in the Northeast, concerns over Iran's nuclear efforts and economic news. The nationwide average price of regular gas is now at three-71, up 13 cents from a week ago. The statewide average price in Texas is now three-55 a gallon, up 15 cents. Gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-45 to three-69 a gallon.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Scott Campbell funeral

The funeral of a former State Representative from San Angelo will take place this weekend in Austin. Visitation for Scott Campbell is scheduled for this evening from five to seven at Harrell Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held tomorrow at 2 PM at Christian Life Church in Austin, followed by graveside services at the Texas State Cemetery. Campbell's family has posted on Facebook that they they have been overwhelmed by messages and calls of encouragement as well as prayers.

Ports to Plains

The impact of increased oilfield activity on roadways, West Texas' rail system and higher education will be among the topics discussed by members of the Ports-to-Plains Alliance at a Southern Work Group Task Force meeting today in San Angelo. The public and the local business community will have an opportunity to learn about the Ports-to-Plains initiative and to participate in discussions at an open session at Angelo State University's LeGrand Alumni Center on University Avenue. The city says registration has ended; they have a full house.

River clean up

The Upper Colorado River Authority, in partnership with the City of San Angelo and the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, is looking for groups, organizations and individuals to participate in “Clean Up Our River!” The event will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 23rd, as part of World Water Week. Volunteers will start at the Red Arroyo near Buffalo Wild Wings on Sherwood Way, picking up debris as they continue toward Home Depot on West Houston Harte Expressway. The Red Arroyo flows directly into the Concho River, and with it, any trash.

Stolen vehicle recovered

On Wednesday evening, a San Angelo police officer using an Automatic License Plate Reader received an alert indicating a vehicle near Bell Street and Paint Rock Road was stolen. The officer radioed for backup and followed the 1996 Chevy S10 pickup to a parking lot in the 100 block of Paint Rock Road. The driver, later identified as 44-year-old David Torres of Abilene and a 51-year-old female passenger were taken into custody at gunpoint. Torres was transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident. The passenger has not been charged and was released at the scene.

ASU award nominees

Three Angelo State University staff members have been nominated for the third annual Chancellor's Colonel Rowan Award for Excellence in Execution. They will be honored at an awards ceremony next Thursday in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The nominees by title and department are Sarah Logan, assistant vice president for the Research and Accountability Department; Michael Martin, director of graphics for Communications and Marketing; and Wendy Storms, director of educator support services for the Educator Preparation Information Center.

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Afternoon collision

A collision during after school rush hour blocked traffic on Bryant Wednesday afternoon. It happened at 14th and North Bryant at around 3:15. Police say a woman driving a Kia ended up in the median -- and knocked over a tree. A three-year-old girl was also in the car -- but there were no reports of any serious injuries. Traffic was reduced to one lane on northbound Bryant.

More city candidates

Two more candidates have filed their candidacies for a pair of San Angelo City Council seats on the May 11th ballot. Robert Banskter Senior is the second candidate to file for the Single-Member District 1 seat. Barbara Pratt is the first candidate to file for the Single-Member District 5 seat. Both seats have unexpired one-year terms, which will be filled during a special election held concurrently with the regular election. The final day to file for a place on the ballot is March 1st for mayor and SMDs 2, 4 and 6, and March 11th for SMD 1 and 5.

ASU wool judging

Angelo State University's Wool Judging Teams placed first and third at the 2013 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Collegiate Wool Contest last Saturday. ASU's Gold Team beat out nine other teams, all from Division I universities. Texas Tech University's Red Team placed second and ASU's Blue Team placed third Individually for ASU, Katie Austin placed second overall, just three points behind the winner.

ASU enrollment update

Angelo State University's spring enrollment figures mirrored the fall with another record graduate enrollment and a drop in undergraduate numbers. The spring totals at ASU for graduate enrollment are 898 students, up by 47 from a year ago. Undergraduate enrollment was five-thousand-251 students, down by 87 from a year ago. ASU President Brian May said--quote--"Our strategies for increasing graduate enrollment continue to work, and we are modifying our strategies in undergraduate recruitment to bring similar long-term results."

Downtown San Angelo commended

Downtown San Angelo, Inc. has been commended for successful annual progress as a designated Main Street community. That announcement from the Texas Historical Commission's Texas Main Street Program. Besides San Angelo, 66 other designated Main Street programs in Texas were recognized and all will be further recognized as Nationally Accredited by the National Main Street Center at a conference in New Orleans in April.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Ex-state representative dead

A former state representative from San Angelo has died. The body of Scott Campbell was found earlier this week in his home in Austin. The cause and time of death were not immediately known. Campbell served as state representative from Central West Texas from January of 2003 to January of 2007. He was most recently state coordinator of the Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Program. Scott Campbell was 58.


Officer remembered

San Angelo police officer Jaime Padron, who was killed on duty in Austin last year, was remembered on Tuesday. Members of the Austin police department traveled to San Angelo to present Padron's parents and daughters each with a shadowbox full of medals and objects in honor of the fallen officer. Local law enforcement officers also showed support of Padron's family.

CIP Forum

Some 50 people turned out at Lincoln Middle School last night for the second of two public forums on San Angelo's Capital Improvement Plan. City staff is gathering public input on the proposed 2013-18 Plan, which prioritizes the addressing of large capital needs. Street, water, drainage and park projects are included along with the current renovation of San Angelo Regional Airport's terminal and planned improvements at City Auditorium.

City employees saluted

This week, more than 120 employees will be recognized for their loyal service to the City of San Angelo and to the public. Their years of service range from five to 35 years. Cumulatively, they have a total of 17-hundred-40 years of experience working for the City. Service awards will be presented to employees celebrating milestone anniversaries. The ceremony will be Friday at 2 p.m. at the McNease Convention Center, 500 Rio Concho Drive, and is open to the public.

TGC burn ban lifted

On Tuesday, Tom Green County commissioners lifted the county’s burn ban following recent rainfalls and increased moisture on the ground. City of San Angelo Fire Marshal Ross Coleman says that although the ban has been lifted, “property owners still remain cautious and utilize all safety measures when conducting burning activities outdoors.” Outdoor burning inside the city limits of San Angelo is prohibited. Coleman advises citizens cooking with outdoor grills inside the city limits to use propane as a fuel source.

Texas Blue Alert

A police officer in Grapevine has been seriously injured prompting the activiation of the Texas Blue Alert Network. Police are searching for a WHITE, 2008, FORD, EXPLORER with a TEXAS, License Plate Number of 19ZJW8. Law enforcement officials believe this vehicle to be associated with the serious injury of officer Jamie Pardinas, involving a serious risk or threat to the public and other law enforcement personnel. If you have any information regarding this vehicle, call the Grapevine police department.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

District 4 seat unfilled

The San Angelo City Council held a special meeting Monday morning to discuss the Single-Member District Four seat that was left vacant when Fredd Adams was resigned. However no vote was taken. Mayor Alvin New said he would not approve an appointment because voters should be the ones to fill the vacancy during the May 11th election. There are no candidates for the seat so far.

Hazardous weather outlook

The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for portions of west central Texas, including the Concho Valley. You can expect elevated to near critical fire weather conditions today south of Interstate 20. That's because of gusty west winds and relative humidities around 20 percent.




Health care lecture

Employers can learn how they'll be affected by health care reform later this month at Angelo State University's 2013 Wells Fargo Distinguished Lectureship in Business. Liliana Salazar, a senior vice president and employee benefits compliance practice co-leader for Wells Fargo Insurance, will speak on February 27th in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The lecture will be open free to the public.

Ports-to-Plains meeting

The impact of increased oilfield activity on roadways, West Texas' rail system and higher education will be among the topics discussed by members of the Ports-to-Plains Alliance at a Southern Work Group Task Force meeting later this week in San Angelo. The public and the local business community will have an opportunity to learn about the Ports-to-Plains initiative and to participate in discussions at an open session from on Friday at Angelo State University's LeGrand Alumni Center on University Avenue. You can find out how to register on the city's Facebook page.

Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day

The city of San Angelo reminds you to mark your calendar: later this month, Fort Concho will celebrate the black troops who served there on Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day. The event will feature history and music and will take place February 24th from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. in the Fort's commissary.

Outstanding warrants

A reminder that citizens with outstanding City warrants who don't want their name published in the San Angelo Standard-Times must contact the Municipal Court no later than February 20th. Those who fail to do so will also be targeted in an annual warrant roundup involving the City Marshal's Office, the San Angelo Police Department, the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, and other area law enforcement agencies. Chief City Marshal John Gonzales said publication of warrant lists helps generate leads that officers pursue during roundups. Last year's roundup resulted in 365 arrests.

Capital Improvement Plan forum

The second of two public forums on San Angelo's Capital Improvement Plan will be held tonight. City staff is gathering public input on the proposed 2013-18 Capital Improvement Plan, which prioritizes the addressing of large capital needs. Street, water, drainage and park projects are included along with the current renovation of San Angelo Regional Airport’s terminal and planned improvements at City Auditorium. The forum gets underway at 6 p.m. at Lincoln Middle School, 255 Lake View Heroes Drive.

Free computer classes

The Stephens Central Library will offer free computer classes in March with registration beginning Friday, February 22nd at 9 a.m. All computer classes are located in the computer lab on the second floor of the Stephens Central Library at 33 West Beauregard. A calendar of scheduled classes is available to view on the Tom Green County Library website, tgc-library-dot-com. Registration is required and classes fill up quickly.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Gas price update

Snow storms in the northeast and the ongoing switch to summer-blend fuel are two factors keeping gasoline prices on the increase. That's according to Triple-A, which says that trend is expected to continue into April. The current statewide average price of regular gas is three-40 a gallon, up five cents from last week. Gas-buddy-dot-com indicates the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-32 to three-45 a gallon.

Special city council meeting

The San Angelo City Council is holding a special meeting this morning. It will start at 9:30 AM at the Convention Center. Council members will consider appointing someone to fill the vacant Single-Member District 4 seat through the May election.

Voter registration

A reminder that to be eligible to vote in the May 11th San Angelo City Council election, City residents who are not registered or who need to update their registration must submit a voter registration application to the Tom Green County voter registrar by April 11th. Applications are available at the Tom Green County Election/Voter Registration Office on the second floor of the Edd B. Keyes Building on West Beauregard and at all three Tom Green County library locations. Applications may also be printed at vote-tom-green-county-dot-org.

San Angelo safe

The San Angelo Police Department has announced that the city ranks in the top one-third of the safest U.S. cities with a population of 75-thousand or more. According to the CQ Press’s 2013 release of City Crime Rankings, San Angelo ranks as the 124th safest city in the nation. In Texas, San Angelo ranks 16th among cities with a population of 75-thousand to 300-thousand.

SAISD award

Officials of the San Angelo Independent School District have been notified that the district has once again earned the top award from the state Comptroller's office. The SAISD received a Gold Leadership Circle Award by scoring 18 out of 20 possible points on the ratings criteria. It's the fourth consecutive year that the district has earned the Gold Leadership Circle Award.

Orphan train

At one time, 200-thousand children from New York were given away across the United States; they were put on trains and many wound up in Texas. You can learn about this little-known piece of state and U.S. history on next month at the Stephens Central Library. "Riders on the Orphan Train" is told through film, music and readings and is for all ages. There is no cost to attend the program, which is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5th at 6 PM at the Stephens Central Library.

Son allegedly stabs father

Last Thursday afternoon, San Angelo Police responded to a report of an aggravated assault in the 600 block of East 45th Street and found a man bleeding from a head wound. Police learned that he and a co-worker were working at the residence when the victim's son and nephew showed up. The son allegedly assaulted his 47-year-old father with a knife and fists. The co-worker was reportedly threatened with a knife by victim's nephew but was not injured. The suspects reportedly fled the location in a vehicle driven by a female. The victim was treated and released from medical care at the scene. Soon after, police located and arrested 23-year-old Jonathan Vasquez, 18-year-old Christopher Garcia and 17-year-old Savanna Havner, all of San Angelo, on aggravated assault charges.
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Friday, February 8, 2013

Capital needs forum

More than 75 citizens attended a public forum at the McNease Convention Center last night to share their views on San Angelo's highest-priority capital needs. A second forum will be next Tuesday evening at six 6 at Lincoln Middle School. The public input will aid the City Council in determining which projects should be included in the 2013 to 2018 Capital Improvement Plan.

City election update

San Angelo City Councilmember Kendall Hirschfeld has filed his candidacy for mayor, the third candidate to formally announce that he will seek the office in the May 11th election. As a result, the Single-Member District 5 seat Hirschfeld currently holds will be on the ballot in a special election to be held on the same day. An unexpired term in the Single Member District 1 seat will also be filled in the special election; incumbent Paul Alexander is also running for mayor.

AM1 Warrant roundup

Citizens with outstanding City warrants who don't want their name published in the San Angelo Standard-Times must contact the Municipal Court no later than February 20th. Those who fail to do so will also be targeted in an annual warrant roundup involving the City Marshal's Office, the San Angelo Police Department, the Tom Green County Sheriff's Office, and other area law enforcement agencies. Chief City Marshal John Gonzales said publication of warrant lists helps generate leads that officers pursue during roundups. Last year's roundup resulted in 365 arrests.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Better city drivers

75 City of San Angelo employees who recently completed a yearlong driver risk management and safety trial study seem to be better drivers. According to the city, they reduced the frequency of risky driving events 47 percent, while the severity of those events decreased 50 percent. The employees who participated in the DriveCam program will be recognized at a breakfast next Monday at the McNease Convention Center.

Animal shelter adoption

17 alumni from the San Angelo Animal Shelter will be available for adoption this weekend. Sadie’s Rescue, a local pet adoption group, adopted the dogs from the Animal Shelter and placed them in foster homes until permanent owners could be found. The adoption event is scheduled for this Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM at PetSmart on Sunset Drive. You can preview the dogs available for adoption at Sadie-dot-org.


Burglary arrests

Last Saturday, San Angelo police found a man suspected in the burglary earlier that day of a GPS device from a vehicle at a 7-Eleven on West Beauregard. The suspect was across the street at the El Patio Motel, where an employee said her purse was missing. Officers say both missing items were found when they went to the room of 37-year-old James A. Riddle of San Angelo. Also in the room was 29-year-old Contessa Horton of San Angelo. Both were arrested on various charges and outstanding warrants. Police say further investigation indicated that Riddle had burglarized at least four other vehicles.

ASU philosophy degree

A new degree is being offered by Angelo State University. The Department of Political Science and Philosophy has added a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy to begin with the 2013 fall semester. The new program will allow ASU students currently pursuing a minor in philosophy to continue their studies to the bachelor's degree level, and will allow new students to declare a major in philosophy. You can find out more by going online to the Philosophy page on the ASU website.

Concho Valley PAWS events

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Concho Valley PAWS has partnered with a Texas Master Florist to create floral arrangements that will be delivered to the recipient by a Concho Valley PAWS volunteer and a rescue dog. All the proceeds from the sale of these arrangements go to benefit the programs of Concho Valley PAWS. Supplies are limited; you can place an order by calling 656-PETS. And, this Saturday at one o'clock, there will be a PAWS on Parade adoption event inside Sunset Mall in front of Bealls.

Another mayoral candidate

Another hat is about to go into the ring for mayor of San Angelo. Single Member District Five Councilman Kendall Hirschfield will hold a rally and news conference today at Miss Hatties to announce his candidacy in the May 11th election. Hirschfield has served on the council since 2010. According to a statement from his campaign, he's demanded leaner city budgets, more accountability from city-hired contractors and a more business-friendly approach by city departments.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Water billing appointment deadline

A reminder from the City of San Angelo: The Water Billing Office on West First Street will be open this Saturday for customers who have a question or concern about their account and have made an appointment. The deadline for making an appointment is 5 p.m. today. You can schedule one by calling 657-4323.

Fort Concho event upcoming

The city of San Angelo reminds you to mark your calendar: later this month, Fort Concho will celebrate the black troops who served there on Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day. The event will feature history and music and will take place February 24th from 2 p.m.-4 p.m. in the Fort's commissary.

Blackshear cleanup

The San Angelo City Council has approved City employees' participation in a neighborhood cleanup in the Blackshear area on April 26th. The same sort of neighborhood blitz has previously occurred in the Fort Concho, Reagan and Lincoln neighborhoods.

SAPD recruiting

San Angelo police chief Tim Vasquez says--quote--"We are looking for dedicated men and women who truly want to be part of something great and rewarding. I'm inviting you to be part of our team." The police department is now recruiting. Application deadline is this Friday. The test date is Saturday, February 16th. You can find out more at s-a-p-d-jobs-dot-org.

Walmart TV theft stopped

Last Saturday, an off-duty San Angelo police officer shopping at the Walmart located on Sherwood Way saw a male subject he recognized to be a person of interest in several recent thefts. He notified Walmart loss prevention staff who began surveillance of the man. Eventually, he was seen leaving the store with a flat screen television without paying for it. He was detained by the officer and loss prevention personnel until uniformed officers arrived. 30-year-old Rhea E. Brown of San Angelo has since been identified as a suspect in the recent thefts of five other TVs from Walmart.

College Goal Sunday

In an effort to assist students in beginning the process of seeking financial aid for college, the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce and its P-16-plus Education Partnership will host College Goal this Sunday. It will take place from two to four p.m. in the Sunset Mall Community Room. Volunteers and financial aid professionals to help families of college-bound students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the federally required form for students seeking financial aid. All San Angelo area high school students and their parents are invited to attend.

City council candiates

Two people have filed their candidacies for the Single-Member District Two seat on the San Angelo City Council in the May 11th election. Joe Grimes and Jim Turner are the first candidates to file for the District Two seat, which has been represented by Dwain Morrison since 2003. Morrison recently filed as a candidate for mayor. A total of four seats are on the ballot. All are for two-year terms, except the SMD 1 race, which is for an unexpired one-year term created by incumbent Paul Alexander's filing for mayor.


TCG burn ban

The burn ban in Tom Green County is back. On Tuesday, county commissioners authorized restrictions on outdoor burning for the next 90 days. City of San Angelo Fire Marshal Ross Coleman is asking residents in unincorporated areas not to conduct outdoor burning because of high winds and low humidity, which dramatically increases the danger of wildfires. Outdoor burning inside the city limits of San Angelo is prohibited.

Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Powerball

The jackpot in the Poweball game, played in 42 states, including Texas, and the District of Columbia, remains at 208-million dollars. A single winner could take a lump-sum payout of 130 millon dollars. There hasn't been a winner since November; the next drawing is tomorrow night.

Mueller defense rests

The defense rested Monday morning in the trial at Gunnison, Colorado of Frederick Meuller, the San Angelo man accused of murdering his wife, retired doctor Leslie Mueller, in 2008. Frederick Mueller elected not to take the stand on his own behalf. One or more rebuttal witnesses are expected to testify today — a final step before closing arguments.

Valentine's at Nature Center

The San Angelo Nature Center will host a Valentine's Day event for children whose parents are looking to enjoy the evening without the kids. The four-hour party will include interaction with Nature Center animals, crafts, pizza and a snack. It will be limited to 20 children.The cost is 20 dollarrs per child for Nature Center members and 25 for non-members. Reservations and payments must be received at the Nature Center on Knickerbocker Road, by next Tuesday.

City council agenda

The San Angelo City Council faces a full agenda for today's meeting. Items up for discussion include the vacancy in the Single-Member District 4 seat, moving water from Twin Buttes' south pool to the north pool, a report on how well the employee wellness program has worked, revisions in how the hotel tax is allocated, and the City's possible participation in a Blackshear neighborhood cleanup project. You can find a link to the full agenda on the city's Facebook page.

Capital needs forums

San Angelo residents are invited to share their thoughts as to what should be the City's capital improvement priorities during a pair of public forums this week and next. City staff is preparing the 2013 to 2018 Capital Improvement Plan, which prioritizes the addressing of large capital needs. Each forum will begin at 6 p.m. The first forum will be this Thursday at the McNease Convention Center, 500 Rio Concho Drive. The second forum is next Tuesday at Lincoln Middle School, 255 Lake View Heroes Drive.

Water billing open Saturday

A reminder from the City of San Angelo: The Water Billing Office will be open this Saturday for customers who have a question or concern about their account and have made an appointment. The deadline for making an appointment is 5 p.m. Wednesday. You can schedule one by calling 657-4323 to schedule an appointment. The water billing office is located at 122 West First Street.

Financial statements seminar

If you have your own business, you can get a crash course in "Understanding Financial Statements." A seminar conducted by the Angelo State University Small Business Development Center will be held this evening from 6 to 830 PM in the Business Resource Center Training Room on North Chadbourne Street in San Angelo. There is no cost to attend. Registration is required; you can sign up online at s-b-d-c-dot-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Accounts receivable seminar

Tired of not getting the payments you are due for your work? Then you might want to check out the ASU Small Business Development Center seminar "How to Improve Your Accounts Receivable!" It will be Thursday evening from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. in the Business Resource Center Training Room on North Chadbourne Street in San Angelo. Registration is required; cost is 10 dollars, payable online at s-b-d-c-angelo-dot-e-d-u.

Monday, February 4, 2013

Powerball jackpot

It was before Christmas the last time that somebody matched the winning Powerball numbers; the jackpot for Wednesday's drawing is at 208 million dollars. That would amount to a lump-sum payment of 130-million dollars for a single winner.

Prairie dog sees shadow

On Saturday, Groundhog Day, we are told that Emmy the Prairie Dog, who resides at the San Angelo Nature Center, saw her shadow, meaning we're in for six more weeks of winter.

Gas price update

A positive economic outlook and other factors have sent oil prices higher and, as a result, Triple-A says gasoline prices are rising faster than expected. The national average price of regular gas is three-51 a gallon, up 16 cents from a week ago. The statewide average in Texas of three-35 is 18 cents more. According to gas-buddy-dot-com, the price of regular in San Angelo ranges from three-26 to three-39 a gallon.

Sunday, February 3, 2013

Car vs phone poll

Early Sunday morning, San Angelo Police responded to a single-vehicle traffic crash near North Chadbourne and 30th Street. They found a heavily damaged 2006 Dodge Ram Truck occupied by two people. The 29-year-old male driver and 26-year-old female passenger were transported to Shannon Medical Center. Investigators say the truck was northbound on Chadbourne when the driver lost control of the truck and collided with a telephone pole, causing the pole to shear in half. Officers found containers of alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle and detected the odor of alcohol from from the driver. Charges may be filed later.

San Angelo shooting

Early Sunday morning, San Angelo Police were called to the Nueva Vista Apartment complex on North Lillie, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, police located the suspect and two shooting victims, who all knew each other, inside an apartment. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Elias Bihl of San Angelo, was immediately taken into custody without incident. The shooting victims, a 26 year-old male and 32 year-old male, were transported to Shannon Medical Center and reported in stable condition. Bihl is charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Candidates file

San Angelo City Councilmembers Charlotte Farmer and Dwain Morrison have filed their candidacies for the May 11th Council election. Farmer filed for re-election to the Single-Member District 6 seat she has held since 2005. Morrison, who has served as the Single-Member District 2 representative since 2003, filed his candidacy for mayor.The final day to file for a place on the ballot is March 1st.

Tom Green wreck

A two-vehicle crash in Tom Green County on Friday morning left a mother and daughter injured. The Highway Patrol says 25-year-old Kayla Annell Munoz of Sterling City was southbound on US 87 north of Water Valley when she looked in the back seat at her daughter and drove her Mazda SUV into the rear of a Ford pickup. The driver of that vehicle, 86-year-old Carl Thomas Duncan of San Angelo, drove off the west side of 87. Munoz wound up in the median. She and her five-year-old daughter were transported to Shannon Medical Center with non-incapacitating injuries. Munoz was cited for failure to control speed.

Friday, February 1, 2013

Christoval guns in school

Trustees of the Christoval Independent School District voted this week to allow qualified school employees to carry handguns on campus. Christoval superintendent David Watkins said this was a necessary step to protect the student body and the faculty, pointing out that being a rural school, it would take several minutes for law enforcement to respond to a shooting.

City Council candidate

Trinidad Aguirre Jr. has filed his candidacy to fill an unexpired one-year term in the Single-Member District 1 seat on the San Angelo City Council in the May 11th election. Full two-year terms in the mayor’s seat and Single-Member Districts 2, 4 and 6 are up for election. The vacancy in SMD 1 was created when incumbent City Councilmember Paul Alexander filed his candidacy for mayor. The final day to file at the City Clerk's office for a place on the ballot is March 1st.

Nature Center Valentine's Day

The San Angelo Nature Center will host a Valentine's Day event for children whose parents are looking to enjoy the evening without the kids. The four-hour party will be limited to 20 children. The cost is 20 dollars per child for Nature Center members and 25 dollars for non-members. Reservations and payments must be received at the Nature Center on Knickerbocker Road, by Tuesday, February 12th.

Leadership Texas

A member of the faculty at Angelo State University has been named to the 2013 class of Leadership Texas. Dr. Amy Williamson, an assistant professor of curriculum and instruction, will participate in a year-long leadership development program taking place in four Texas cities. Now in its 31st year, Leadership Texas is designed to help women become better, more informed leaders in Texas communities, organizations and corporations.

Civil War series continues

The rise and implications of slavery in Texas will be explored by an academic pioneer in digital research and information mining during the fifth installment in Angelo State University's 2012-13 Civil War Lecture Series. That's coming up next Friday at 7 p.m. at Fort Concho. Andrew Torget of the University of North Texas will speak on the topic, "The Problem of Slavery in Early Texas."

Theft suspect still sought

San Angelo Police are still looking for a theft suspect and have some updated vehicle information. Sometime weekend before last, someone stole equipment from a construction site near the 4200 block of Autumnwood Trail on the west side of the city. Surveillance video captured the suspect vehicle driving away from the area, towing a stolen stone mixer. The vehicle is a 90's model red Ford, long-bed pickup truck with a white headache rack, white rails, and a bug guard. The right rear rim is different from the other three. There is body damage to the tailgate and right side of the truck. If you know anything about this case, you're encouraged to contact San Angelo police or call Crime Stoppers at 658-HELP.