IRS Scam Warning

San Angelo police report that an Internal Revenue Service scam is circulating in the local area.  According to the IRS, immigrants are frequently targeted. Potential victims are threatened with deportation, arrest, having their utilities shut off, or having their driver’s licenses revoked. Callers are frequently insulting or hostile - apparently to scare their potential victims. If you’ve been targeted by this scam, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC-dot-gov.

Stranded Motorist Trick

San Angelo police have issued an alert following reports outside Tom Green County of thieves posing as stranded motorists & robbing victims who offer assistance. Irion County Sheriff Officials confirmed two separate incidents where unsuspecting victims stopped to help what appeared to be a stalled vehicle with two Hispanic female occupants. Both victims reported that as they offered help, a third suspect, a Hispanic male who was hiding nearby, jumped out and rushed them. One victim was robbed of money. The other victim was able to drive off just prior to the act.  Both victims described the suspect vehicle as a small, red passenger car.

National Cowboy Day

Fort Concho will celebrate National Cowboy Day later this month.  That will happen on Saturday, July 26th, and include a hearty cowboy breakfast of eggs, sausage, biscuits, hash browns and gravy, all cooked over an open fire. Coffee will be ready at 8 a.m., with the dinner bell for the classic morning meal ringing shortly after in the Barracks 5 courtyard off Henry O. Flipper Street.  National Cowboy Day is celebrated across the American West with a wide range of activities to mark the heritage of the American cowboy.  You can find ticket prices and other information at fort-concho-dot-com.

Truck v. Bank

San Angelo police continue to investigate the Monday evening incident in which a truck crashed into a bank building on West Loop 306.  Police say that a red, 2001 Chevrolet Silverado collided into the north wall of the bank and continued through building to damage the east wall. The driver, 21-year-old Christopher Doty of San Angelo and a 19-year-old male passenger were taken to Shannon Medical Center by ambulance. Both were treated for non-incapacitating injuries. Driving While Intoxicated is suspected in the accident and police are awaiting toxicology results.

Bishop Still Sought

San Angelo police continue to seek the public's help in tracking down a burglary suspect who escaped from Shannon Medical Center on Sunday. Police say that 36-year-old Bradley Bishop of San Angelo has warrants for burglary of a building and possession of methamphetamine.  Bishop is described as a white male, 5-11, 180 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.  You can find his picture on the SAPD Facebook page. If you know anything about Bradley Bishop’s whereabouts, contact the SAPD. To remain anonymous, call 1-855-TIPS-24-7.

Nature Center Camps

The San Angelo Nature Center hosts day camps this month. Each five-day session contains nature activities allowing children to explore the center and its inhabitants. It also covers the Spillway Road Nature Trail. The first session runs July 14th through 18th for kindergartners and first- and second-graders. The second session runs July 21st through 25th for kids in grades three through six. Each day of activity lasts from 8 in the morning to noon. You can register by calling or visiting the Nature Center.

Rainfall and Lake Levels

The city of San Angelo is out with the latest numbers on rainfall: Year to date - 10-point-five-six inches.  That's slightly less than normal but almost three inches more than last year.  As for lake levels, Nasworthy is at 84 percent of capacity, Ivie 19 percent, Twin Buttes 13 and Fisher two percent.  Nasworthy is down five percentage points and Ivie one from last week.

Vigilante Group

The ACLU of Texas is calling a civilian militia which plans to patrol the Mexican border a vigilante group. ACLU of Texas Executive Director Terri Burke says the "coalition of Patriots" are just "anti-immigrant, hate-based vigilante groups" who won't help at all. She also says the border is under control and communities are safe. Militia members are promising to be in Laredo in the next few weeks.

Credit Union Crash Suspect Identified

The driver of the pickup truck that ran into a credit union last night has been identified as Christopher Ray Doty, 21, of San Angelo. The lobby at the southwest branch of Concho Educators Federal Credit Union, at 3215 W. Loop 306, was shut down today as crews worked to clean up the building and assess the damage. Concho Educators CEO says estimates of the damage will between $40,000 to $50,000 if there is no structural damage to the building. If there is structural damage, he said, "it could run into the $100,000 range." The crash is being investigated as a possible driving while intoxicated, but no arrests have been made pending toxicology reports.

President Meets With Gov Perry

President Barack Obama has offered to meet Texas Governor Rick Perry to discuss the border crisis during his visit to Texas after the governor declined to meet him on the tarmac when he arrived. The Governor suggested a meeting instead, and that's what will happen in Dallas tomorrow. In a statement from the Governor's office, the two will discuss the humanitarian and national security crises along the southern border. On Sunday the governor criticized the Obama administration for not moving more quickly to address the problem saying "They either are inept or don't care."

The President is coming to Texas this week to raise money for Democratic candidates running in November congressional elections, but the White House says he will not be visiting the border.

Also today, President Obama asked the U.S. Congress for $3.7 billion in emergency spending on  to address the cross-border surge of children from Central America. Tens of thousands of children under 18 who have flocked to the United States in recent months overwhelming  public resources. The White House has yet to say how many of the roughly 52,000 children that have been apprehended this year have been sent back to Central America

New Garbage Deal

San Angelo's city council has approved solid waste contracts that mean new curbside recycling and bulk trash pickup services.

The city says the deals also mean Republic Services paying it millions of dollars to operate the landfill while shouldering millions more in liabilities.

Residential customers continue receiving garbage collection twice per week, once for recyclable materials and once for other waste.

The contract also includes quarterly pickup of bulk items like furniture and large appliances.  Bulk waste collections begin after the start of October.

The city says with the new services, most residential customers' total monthly solid waste bills increase nearly four dollars.

The rate for commercial customers depends on the frequency of collection and the size of their bins.  The customer determines both.

The city also says it intends to hire a contract manager to ensure everyone follows the agreements.

The collection contract lasts 10 years.  Two options that coincide with the landfill's life may extend that contract another 10 years.

Police Investigate Dead Body

San Angelo Police Detectives and Crime Scene Technicians continue to investigate a dead body that was located yesterday morning in an abandoned trailer at a property in North San Angelo. At approximately 9:37 a.m., San Angelo Police were dispatched to Kay’s Old Fashioned Barber Shop where a customer told police that he'd  discovered the body at a nearby location. He took police to the location in the 100 block of E. Twenty-Fifth Street, inside one of the abandoned trailers. It appears it was a male who had been dead for some time. The body sent to Lubbock for an autopsy.

Sitel Layoffs

Most of Sitel's workforce has received layoff notices for this summer.

Other employers continue recruiting many of the 348 at-risk workers.  However, Mike Buck from Concho Valley Workforce Development tells the Standard-Times that Sitel employees need to keep working there until the company officially lets them go.

Buck says sticking around to the end would allow the employees to maintain their benefits.

A chamber of commerce report identifies Sitel's local branch as Tom Green County's eighth-largest employer.

Water Restrictions Relaxed

San Angelo has relaxed its watering restrictions to allow watering twice per week.

However, the city council continues urging people to use water conservatively.

Water utilities director Ricky Dickson says the city has slightly more than two and a half years of surface water supply.  That does not include the Hickory Aquifer, which begins working this fall.

The city continues prohibiting watering between noon and 6 o'clock in the afternoon.  It also continues prohibiting runoff of over 150 feet down any street, gutter, alley, or ditch.

Sports Update

The Astros lost last night to the Atlanta Braves three to two.  There's another one tonight at seven-ten when the teams have their rematch at Minute Maid Park.  Collin McHugh will be on the hill for Houston.

The Rangers just hope for a better day. Ian Kinsler homered in his first at bat against his former team, and the Detroit Tigers beat the Rangers in Arlington last night eight to two. The teams reconvene tonight at seven-oh-five.  Joe Saunders will pitch for the Rangers, looking for his first win of the season.

Also in baseball last night, the Colts defeated the Rio Grande Valley WhiteWings three to one. The teams play again tonight at Foster Field at seven-fifteen.

The Central Bobcats Booster Club will have the 1st annual golf tournament at San Angelo Country Club on Monday, August 4th. It’s a four-man scramble and proceeds benefit the Central athletes thru the booster club.

TAME Trailer Encourages Science

Hundreds of San Angelo kids had fun learning science yesterday at the Trailblazers science on wheels exhibit outside of Stephens Central Library. The Trailblazer trailer had about 20 engineering exhibits people of all ages can interact with. The 40-foot traveling trailer is the idea of the Austin-based Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering. TAME encourages students to have a STEM — science, technology, engineering, math — career because few college students pursue those fields. The organization encourages minorities to pursue a STEM career. Currently, women only make up 22 percent in those careers. Members of the San Angelo Colts and a few players from the Wall High School football team volunteered, showed the participants how to interact with the exhibits and explained the science behind it.

San Angelo Water Report

San Angeloans used 1,582,000 gallons less water on June 24 than they did on the same date last year. The city of San Angelo pumped 11,702,000 gallons yesterday. Lake Nasworthy water level is at 89 percent with 9,125 acre-feet, Twin Buttes is at 13 percent water level with 23,265 acre-feet and O.H. Ivie water level is at 20 percent with 109,023 acre-feet.

Blood Drives

United Blood Services of San Angelo is continuing its emergency critical appeal for O Negative blood type.  At the latest count, UBS had only 11 pints on hand and it should have 67 pints.  In fact, all negative blood types are in low supply.  Mobile blood drives are scheduled on Wednesday from 4 to 6:45 PM at College Hills Baptist Church on Johnson Street and on Friday from 11 AM to 2:15 PM at Concho Educators FCU on West Loop 306.  Blood that is donated at UBS blood drives stays local and is used to save the lives of patients at Shannon and Community Medical.  

Teacher Pay Raise

Teachers in the San Angelo Independent School District will make more money in the upcoming school year. The SAISD Board of Trustees voted for raises totaling more than four-million dollars last night.  Teachers, along with librarians, registered nurses, and other employees, will receive a 14-hundred dollar general pay raise.  Starting salaries will be increased by 500 dollars to 37-thousand-500 dollars.  The compensation plan also includes a one-thousand dollar health insurance supplement.

Grape Creek ISD Theft

Some unauthorized bank transactions have been made from the Grape Creek ISD and the local law enforcement along with the FBI are investigating. At least $200,000 had been stolen as of yesterday afternoon through 64 automated clearinghouse withdraws. The sheriffs office is looking into the total amounts withdrawn and where they were deposited. The school district was alerted about the theft last week after recieving a call from a bank in Olney, Illinois regarding a $4,500 withdrawal. That's when they noticed an additional 64 unapproved withdrawals. Authorities are looking at each transaction, including names, account numbers, routing numbers and the amount withdrawn.

AECT Scam

The Association of Electric Companies of Texas has warned people of unsolicited calls and emails that threaten to cut off electricity to those who do not share personal information.

This edict has responded to a scam affecting people statewide.

The personal information includes bank accounts and Social Security numbers.

AECT says the scammers do not have the ability to cut service, but people may experience more service interruptions during the summer because the heat increases the prospect of losing it.

CEO John Fainter says law enforcement, electric companies, and consumer organizations continue investigating the scams.

Never provide Social Security, credit card, or bank account numbers to anyone requesting them through unsolicited phone calls and emails.

Senior Centers

Two senior centers in San Angelo close early on Wednesday, July 9.

The Station 618 and Santa Fe Crossing shut down at 2 o'clock that day to aloow the cleaning of carpets at both places.

The early closing does not affect Santa Fe Crossing's weekday lunch program or any programming scheduled before that time.

Crash Hits Beauregard Bridge

A Giddings man was taken to Shannon Medical Center for non-incapacitating injuries after an early morning crash that caused damage to Beauregard Bridge. Jesus Perez, 21 told police he had been drinking alcohol and fell asleep behind the wheel just before the crash. Heis Dodge Ram Pickup crashed through the guardrails on the north side of Beauregard Bridge after crossing over the median.

Water Usage UPD

San Angelo was saving water on Wednesday. City residents and businesses used 11-point-one million gallons of water, compared to 11-point-four million on the same date a year ago.

Single-Vehicle Accident

A single-vehicle accident north of San Angelo last night left the driver in the hospital. According to a member of the Grape Creek Volunteer Fire Department, it happened on March Road, near US 87 North. A pickup truck rolled off the roadway, flipped back rightside up, made a circle in the field and ejected a man. His name and his condition were not immediately released.

Rick Perry

Governor Rick Perry says he's better prepared if he decides to run for president in 2016. Perry told reporters in Washington, DC his failed 2012 run was "very humbling" and painful. And Perry admitted he "stepped in it" last week in San Francisco when he compared homosexuality to alcoholism, but declined to elaborate.

Furniture Theft Conviction

The trial of a San Angelo man accused of stealing lots of furniture ended Thursday. A jury convicted 40-year-old Mark Anthony Serrano and sentenced him to 25 years in prison. Serrano had been accused of stealing more than 100 pieces of furniture from the Trend Furniture store. That was a third-degree felony but, because of prior convictions, was upgraded to second-degree and 25 years is the mandatory minimum punishment, along with a fine of up to 10-thousand dollars.

Farmers Market

The annual grand opening of the Concho Valley Farmers Market is just a day away. It is scheduled for 7 AM to noon tomorrow. The vendors, who come from a 75-mile radius around San Angelo, will be offering locally grown and seasonal fruits, vegetables and plants under the Farmers Market Pavilion at 609 South Oakes Street, across from Fort Concho. The grand opening will feature live music, door prizes and free coffee and lemonade.

UBS Still Needs Blood

United Blood Services of San Angelo continues to struggle with chronically low supplies of O Negative Blood Type. Supplies have been low since June 6th. UBS has four pints on hand but needs to have 67 pints. All Negative blood types are low. You can call for an appointment to give blood at the United Blood Services Donation Center at 2020 West Beauregard. For more information, visit UnitedBloodServices-dot-org.

Debris Dumping Locations

A reminder that the City of San Angelo has established two temporary areas for citizens removing storm debris from their property: One is the Coliseum parking lot, just north of Lake View Stadium. The other is the large parking area at the east end of Henry O. Flipper Street next to Fort Concho. The public is welcome to drop off their debris at any time at either location through week's end.

High Speed Chase

A police chase in San Angelo ended with the arrests of two juveniles and the recovery of a stolen vehicle. It happened early Wednesday morning after an officer saw two vehicles northbound on South Bryant Boulevard that had apparently collided. One of them, a white Chevy Impala, led police on a chase with speeds reaching 100 miles an hour until the driver lost control and hit a traffic signal pole at Washington Drive. The driver, a 13-year-old boy, was not injured and was taken into custody. The other car, a blue Dodge Neon was found a short time later and turned out to have been stolen on Sunday. The driver of that car, a 14-year-old boy, was also arrested.

Neighborhood Fishin'

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Neighborhood Fishin' program stocks the Concho River near Celebration Bridge with approximately 600 catfish. With the support of a generous donation from Field & Stream Sporting Goods, the program will stock the river with 12-inch catfish again this tomorrow. The fish start biting immediately after their release into the river.

Operation Broken Heart

A man was arrested in Tom Green County as part of a month-long undercover investigation of people who use the Internet to target children. The Office of the Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force collaborated with state and federal law enforcement agencies to conduct “Operation Broken Heart.” 28-year-old Christopher Lara is among 23 suspected child predators taken into custody. Those arrested are accused of possessing, producing or distributing child pornography; engaging in commercial and online solicitation of children for sexual purposes; and/or traveling abroad to sexually abuse foreign children.

Tower Faller ID

The San Angelo Police Department has released the name of the man who fell to his death from a downtown telephone tower on Tuesday afternoon. He was 28-year-old Cody Freeman of The Colony, a contractor with MTSI.

Federal Clean Water Act

The Tom Green County commissioners have voted to oppose a potential expansion to the federal Clean Water Act.The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers proposed a rule placing ditches, ponds, flood plains and other areas connected to downstream navigable waters, under federal control. The commissioners adopted a resolution in opposition of the rule today, which remains in the public comment phase until Oct. 20, and will send it to the Texas Legislature.

Changes to Sign Ordinance

The San Angelo City Council has approved changes to the the city’s sign ordinance - but not unanimously. The measure, that will allow for businesses to place portable signs for 180 days in a year and to place free-standing signs on a street corner - passed by a vote of 4-2. Councilwoman Elizabeth Grindstaff says she voted against the change because she wants to protect the community and its character. Mayor Dwain Morrison, who voted for the measure, said he believed it should be up to the business owner to decide how long to leave a sign out.

BBB Needs Nominees

Every October, the Better Business Bureau in San Angelo recognizes Outstanding Service by local Businesses. All nominated businesses are highlighted and praised for their service to customers and one is selected to receive a crystal trophy as the Outstanding Business of the Year. If you know of a business or company that has gone above and beyond in customer service, you can nominate them by writing a letter to the Better Business Bureau or by going online to san-angelo-bbb-dot-org and clicking on "Compliment a Business." The deadline for nominations is September 8th.

Fatal Fall

Shortly before two o'clock Tuesday afternoon, San Angelo Police responded to the report of an unconscious person at 378 South Chadbourne Street. Upon arrival, police were met by San Angelo Fire Department personnel who advised that a man had fallen from a telephone tower and died.  Police say the victim was a a contractor with MTSI out of Richardson, Texas.  He was about 140 feet above ground doing repair work on the tower when he experienced issues with his safety equipment and fell to his death.  Police were not releasing the victim's name until next of kin have been notified.

Blood Drives

United Blood Services is continuing an urgent appeal for O Negative blood donations. UBS says it should have 67 pints of O negative on its shelves but it only has four pints.  A mobile blood drive is being held today at Shannon Medical Center on East Harris from 9 AM to 6:30 PM.  Donors get a choice of two movie passes or 10-dollar Starbucks or Gift Shop gift card.  Another drive takes place tomorrow at Jim Bass Ford at 4032 Houston Harte from 2.30 to  5.30 PM in support of Katy Murray – for every four pints of blood donated, Katy’s medical account will be credited for one.  Call UBS for an appointment at either blood drive or at the donation center on West Beauregard.  The number is 223-7500.

July 3rd Pops Concert

The 27th annual San Angelo Symphony July 3rd Pops Concert is coming up, when else, on Thursday, July 3rd. It will be held at the Bill Aylor Senior Memorial RiverStage on the banks of the Concho River at 16 East Avenue A. The gates will open at noon; the Community Band will begin at 7:00 pm, followed by the San Angelo Symphony at 8:30 pm. This concert, which draws more than 35-thousand in attendance, is now the 4th largest in the state of Texas. For more information, go to san-angelo-symphony-dot-org.

Shannon Retirement

A urologist whose career at Shannon Medical Center has spanned four decades is retiring. Dr. Gail Flood began practicing at Shannon in July of 1979. A reception for Dr. Flood is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25th from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Shannon Women’s & Children’ Conference Room at 201 East Harris. Current and former patients, staff and the public are invited to attend.

Water Usage UPD

Despite more recent rainfall, on Tuesday, San Angelo water usage was up from the year before. City businesses and residents used 11 and a half million gallons of water compared to 11-point-three million on the same date in 2013. A reminder that, under San Angelo's current drought restrictions, outside watering is limited to once every seven days at no more than 1 inch per application. Watering is prohibited from noon to 6 p.m.

Wednesday Night Storm

Thousands of people in Tom Green County lost power as a storm blew through San Angelo last night. Winds topped 60 miles an hour, according to the National Weather Service, knocking down trees and power lines. As a result, American Electric Power says more than 21-thousand customers were without power and some might not have it restored until today or later. Damage reportedly included a collapsed barn or similar structure in Grape Creek. And, according to the Standard Times, there was extensive damage at the Multi-Chem building on Sunset Drive and a scoreboard at Old Bobcat Stadium blew over.

Saturday Crash

Police say a man could not control the speed of his vehicle in a San Angelo collision from the weekend.

KSAN-TV reports officers responded to the intersection of North Howard and Coleman streets on Saturday night.

The 55-year-old man driving a Jaguar rear-ended a Nissan at the intersection.

The 25-year-old woman driving the Nissan went to Shannon Medical Center with minor injuries.

Tom Green County Treasurer

The Texas Association of Counties has honored Tom Green County’s longtime treasurer and a handful of other officials around the state.

The San Angelo Standard Times reports the Conference of the County Investment Academy has recognized Dianna Spieker for her job performance.

The Texas Public Funds Investment Act requires county commissioners courts to designate an investment officer to invest county funds.

Spieker has spent 15 years in the academy program.

ASU Provost Search

Angelo State's president has approved a search committee to recommend a new provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Two people lead this committee of 12: Vice president for student affairs and enrollment management Javier Flores, and physical therpay professor and faculty senate president Heather Braden.

The university hopes to fill the position by the end of the year.

Nancy Allen continues serving as interim provost.  She has done so since Brian May left ascended from that position to university president last November.

Big Spring VA

The director of the West Texas VA Health Care System in Big Spring says his facility doesn't exhibit any misconduct.

The national probe into VA facilities has flagged Big Spring as one that needs further investigation.

The San Angelo Standard Times reports Michael Kiefer saying the initial audit shows no willful misconduct at this facility.  He says the auditors describe his staff members as "dedicated and passionate people who care about veterans."

Kiefer says auditors have found a couple of areas of non-compliance with the VA’s scheduling directive.  They have made suggestions on how to fix those problems.

The report does not say why Big Spring needs a second review.

July Pops Concert

The San Angelo Symphony continues preparing for its July 3rd Pops Concert.

It takes place that night at the Bill Aylor Sr. Memorial RiverStage on East Avenue A.

The gates open at noon.  The community band plays at 7 o'clock.  The symphony starts performing at 8:30.

The symphony calls the concert the fourth-largest in the state, saying it draws 35,000 people.  It includes the Fort Concho cannos, the men and women of Goodfellow Air Force Base, and -- of course -- fireworks.

Water Problems

San Angelo's city council yesterday met in Bronte to discuss water conservation.

The water utilities director told lawmakers that leaks cause the city to lose a quarter of its annual water supply.

KLST-TV reports the mayor describing this information as something that hit him "out of the blue."

The leakage comes from the two-foot iron galvanized pipes under the ground in North San Angelo.  The 60-year-old pipes connect several neighborhoods to the water treatment plant.

The pipe system may cost $100 million dollars to replace.  At the moment, it would take 69 years to install new plastic pipes at $1.3 million annually.

Other water goals for the city include a water conservation plan and a diversified long-term water supply in the next decade.

The city council seeks to reduce the amount of water wasted to 13 percent in five years.

3-Vehicle Crash

San Angelo police say two people were injured in a three-vehicle crash on Saturday afternoon.  It happened just after 5 PM at 7th and Chadbourne.  The driver of a Ford Expedition was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-incapacitating injuries. Police suspect 29-year-old Margaret Delrio was under the influence of an intoxicant at the time of the crash.  They say Delrio was heading westbound on 7th when she ran the red light at Chadbourne. This caused her to collide with a Ford F150 northbound on Chadbourne. The driver, a 48-year-old man, was taken to a hospital, also with injuries said to be non-incapacitating.  The force of the collision caused his vehicle to go across Chadbourne and hit a Chevy Tahoe.  No one in the Tahoe was injured.

Farmers Market

The annual grand opening of the Concho Valley Farmers Market is less than two weeks away.  It is scheduled for 7 AM to noon on Saturday, June 21st.  The vendors, who come from a 75-mile radius around San Angelo, will be offering locally grown and seasonal fruits, vegetables and plants under the Farmers Market Pavilion at 609 South Oakes Street, across from Fort Concho. The grand opening will feature live music, door prizes and free coffee and lemonade.

Fatal Crash

A San Angelo man was arrested by the DPS early Sunday in connection with a multivehicle crash on Saturday night outside the city that killed two people and injured two others.  20-year-old Richard Michael Garcia III was booked into the Tom Green County Jail on two counts of criminally negligent homicide, accident involving injury, racing on highway causing serious bodily injury, and driving while intoxicated.  Garcia is blamed for causing the wreck involving four vehicles about 15 miles west of San Angelo on US 67.  Killed in the crash and pronounced dead at the scene were 21-year-old Stephen Tyler Wadsworth and 22-year-old Emily McKenna Word, both of San Angelo.

ASU Promotes from Within

After conducting a nationwide search, Angelo State University has chosen someone already at the school to become the new vice president for finance and administration.  Angie Wright, who has 23 years of administrative experience at ASU, has been serving in that job on an interim basis for the past 15 months. Wright is also a graduate of Angelo State as well as Lake View High School.

Burglar Caught

Thanks to a tenacious cop, a San Angelo man wound up behind bars shortly after leaving a house he had burglarized.  Police responded just after noon Thursday to a burglary reported in the 100 block of East 23rd Street.  The victim provided a description for the suspect, who had fled the house just moments earlier.  An officer who made several sweeps of the area eventually located a man who matched the description: 22-year-old Estevan Trujillo, who was found to have a knife and a screwdriver. Trujillo was transported to the Tom Green County Jail without incident and charged with Burglary of a Habitation.

Water Main Break

Life has returned to normal following a water main break in San Angelo.

KLST-TV reports a crew ruptured a major main at Southland Boulevard and Green Meadow Drive.

The water department says a private company laying pipe dug into the ground with a small tractor in front of the fire station.

Some nearby residents complained of low water pressure.  Additionally, water shot out of the pipe almost hit power lines.

Hit and Run

San Angelo Police continue looking for a hit and run driver from Tuesday.

Police say the driver dragged a woman 500 feet before leaving the scene on Knickerbocker Road.

They now describe the vehicle as possibly tan-colored, contrary to inital reports of white or cream.  This tan-colored possibly extended cab or four-door may also tow a rust-colored trailer with a rust-colored tractor.

Someone last saw the truck traveling southwest towards Lake Nasworthy.

Police also now describe the suspect as a white man between ages 30 and 50.  They say he has curly strawberry-blond hair cut to the middle of his neck.  He may wear a dark blue baseball cap.

The woman remains under medical observation in Dallas with severe injuries.

Meth Arrest

A police dog in San Angelo used his nose to put a man in the county jail.

The dog smelled drugs during a traffic stop Wednesday night on East 42nd Street.

Officers found meth in the vehicle that 47-year-old Randy Summerlin drove.

Police charged Summerlin with criminal possession of a controlled substance.

New Web Pages

San Angelo's development services department has something new on the city's website: A page for each of the city's 24 neighborhoods.

Residents, business owners, and visitors can now find information about commercial developments, public infrastructure improvements, and demographic data.Each page includes a PDF map that shows assets like schools, churches, fire stations, and parks.Each page includes a PDF map that shows assets like schools, churches, fire stations, and parks.

The pages also feature interactive maps showing locations and types of development projects.

Water Use in San Angelo

The city has a 18-month supply of water remaining and residents are using less water this year than last. San Angeloans used two-million-three-hundred-sixty-nine-thousand gallons less water on May 29 than they did on the same date last year. The city of San Angelo pumped 10,297,000 gallons yesterday; on May 29, 2013, the city pumped 12,666,000 gallons. San Angelo remains in drought level 2 which means outside watering is allowed once every 14 days with no exceptions given for new landscapes. Watering outdoors still is prohibited from noon to 6 p.m., when evaporation rates are highest. No more than 1 inch of water is allowed for each application.

Lake Nasworthy water level is at 95 percent with 9,698 acre-feet, Twin Buttes is at 8 percent water level with 15,577 acre-feet and O.H. Ivie water level is at 20 percent with 112,834 acre-feet. As of May 28, 8.27 inch of rainfall was received in 2014; by May 28 last year, 6.38 inches had fallen. Normal rainfall for this time of year is 7.69 inches. A burn ban is NOT in effect for Tom Green County. Outdoor burning within San Angelo city limits is prohibited.

Shoplifter Arrested

San Angelo police apprehended a suspected shoplifter and seized property he had allegedly stolen.  Officers responded early Wednesday morning after receiving a call regarding a shoplifter who had just left Wal-Mart Supercenter on West 29th Street with a 37-inch television. A perimeter was established and the suspect was located, captured and arrested.  Police say 21-year-old Joshua Noriega was found to be in possession of a driver's license and debit card that had been taken in a vehicle burglary the night before.  Those items were returned to the burglary victim and the TV was returned to Wal-Mart. 

Kidney Support Group

The next meeting of the Concho Valley Kidney Support Group is scheduled for next week. . The informal group is open to pre-dialysis, dialysis and post-transplant patients and their caregivers and loved ones. Kidney disease can be very scary, but it can be controlled, slowed and sometimes prevented. The group meets monthly on the first Tuesday of each month and covers various topics with occasional guest speakers.  Next Tuesday's meeting will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Legacy Room area on the second floor of Shannon Medical Center on East Harris

Water Supply in San Angelo

The City of San Angelo says water is still flowing into Ivie and Twin Buttes reservoirs, so there is still no firm calculation of San Angelo's available water supply. The Water Utilities director says it's safe to say that once the runoff has reached its destination, the supply will total more than 18 months.  Next Tuesday, the city council is scheduled to discuss drought restrictions.  In the meantime, current restrictions remain in effect: outside watering is limited to once every 14 days at no more than one inch per application, and watering is prohibited from noon to 6 p.m.

New Firefighters for SAFD

Nine San Angelo Fire Department cadets kicked off the holiday weekend by graduating from the academy. The new firefighters went through 14 months of training, during which they underwent the equivalent of four years of college paramedic training in 10 months at Howard College, passed a national registry exam to earn emergency medical technician and paramedic certifications, attended fire school to learn proper emergency responses, and were taught basics of driving fire apparatus. Fire Chief Brian Dunn said the graduates are eager to begin serving the public, and we’re eager to have their help. The graduates will initially be assigned to Fire Station No. 1 downtown. While at “central fire,” they will receive additional fire training, intensive supervision and valuable experience before being assigned to one of the SAFD’s seven substations.

Memorial Day Closures and Observances

Most City offices will be closed today in San Angelo, in observance of Memorial Day. City offices will reopen at 8 a.m. tomorrow. There will be no interruption of garbage collection or landfill operations today, although the offices of Republic Services, which provides both services under a contract with the City, will be closed.


The Public Information Office of San Angelo released the following notice regarding today's Memorial Day activities: "Because of the weather and the condition of the parade grounds, Fort Concho's Memorial Day activities today will be moved into the fort's Commissary Building."


At Fort Concho, exercises to honor the nation's military who have made the ultimate sacrifice will be conducted at 9 a.m. in th fort's Commissary Building. The guest speaker will be Brian Campbell, a retired U.S. Army colonel of the Medical Corps. Campbell enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1976 and served in both the Army and Marine Corps at various posts until 2006.


During the program, the Harmony Belles will perform patriotic music, and the Fort Concho Living History Program and the Sons of the Confederate Veterans will provide the color guard and artillery salute. The program and reception are organized by the Pocahontas Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Rainy Weather for Memorial Day Weekend

Severe thunderstorms and flash flood warnings marked the holiday weekend in Tom Green County. Widespread flooding and driving hazards continue. As of early yesterday morning, The Concho River near Bell St had risen to 9 ft from 2 ft around 9 PM Saturday night. A record rainfall of 2.39 inches was set at San Angelo Saturday, which broke the old record of 1.49 inches set in 1919.

Storm Runoff Totals

The storm runoff certainly helped with the area's water supply situation. As of yesterday afternoon, the Middle Concho River had a streamflow of 844 cubic feet per second and sharply rising. The Ivie was up 1000 acre feet by yesterday afternoon. The Concho River at Bell St. was up 564 cubic feet per second. The North Concho River was up 200cfs, the South Concho River: 3090cfs, and Dove Creek into Twin Buttes: 161cubic feet per second. San Angelo uses around 750 acre foot per month for indoor use and typically around 1000 acre foot for outdoor use in the summer months.

Dog Bite Claims

Texas In Top 5 Nationwide for Dog Bite Claims


Texas is among the top five states for dog bite claims according to a survey by State Farm Insurance. In fact, the company says they paid 4 million dollars in dog bite claims in the state last year alone. State Farm says homeowners insurance can help protect you in damages if your pet bites or attacks another person on your property including if the animal escapes and strikes while away from your home. The City of San Angelo Animal Shelter oversees cases that occur within city limits, adding that once a report is made the animal must be quarantined and monitored for rabies and disease. For stray dog pick ups or to report a dog bite incident within city limits call the City of San Angelo Animal Shelter . If the case occurs outside of the city limits call the County Sheriffs Office.

San Angelo Unemployment Down

More good news regarding San Angelo's workforce.  The city's unemployment rate improved again in April. It was down to three-point-six percent compared to four-point-two percent the prior month and four-point-nine percent a year ago. That compares to four-point-seven percent statewide and five-point-nine percent nationally.

Holiday Closings

Most City of San Angelo offices will be closed next Monday in observance of Memorial Day. City offices will reopen at 8 a.m. on Tuesday. There will be no interruption of garbage collection or landfill operations Monday, although the offices of Republic Services, which provides both services under a contract with the City, will be closed.  Love Municipal Pool opens for the Memorial Day weekend, with public swimming from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday and Monday.

Body ID Confirmed

The San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is confirming that the body located Sunday in the Twin Buttes area is that of missing Staff Sergeant Stephen Burpee. Two motorcyclists had found a vehicle in a heavily wooded area and called 911 to report what appeared to be a body inside the vehicle.  Burpee was transported to Lubbock for autopsy. At this time, police do not suspect foul play. Burpee was the subject of a Missing Person Alert issued last Thursday, and had been missing since last Tuesday.

Holiday at Nasworthy

If you're making holiday plans to visit the parks or hit the water at Lake Nasworthy, here are a few things to know:  Day passes to Middle Concho and Spring Creek parks are available at the entrance gates for three dollars per vehicle for City residents and six dollars for non-residents. Camping permits are six and 12 dollars. Because of Nasworthy's declining level, only three public boat ramps remain open: at the northern end of South Concho Park, at the entrance of Middle Concho Park and northeast of the San Angelo Nature Center on Knickerbocker Road.

Small Business Seminar

Angelo State University's Small Business Development Center is hosting a free seminar this week.  It's called Sales Tax Basics: Do I Have to Collect Sales Tax?, and is scheduled from 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday at the Business Resource Center on North Chadbourne Street. Registration is required. For more information, go online to sbdc-dot-angelo-dot-edu.

Unsolved Cases

The San Angelo Police Department is seeking the public's help in two unsolved Felony Criminal Mischief cases:  One occurred in the 500-700 blocks of Lake View Heroes Drive, possibly in April.  Someone used an unknown weapon, possibly an air gun or slingshot to shoot out four streetlights. The other took place along A & M Avenue, Sul Ross Avenue, Chatterton Drive, Tanglewood Drive, and Vista Del Arroyo Street, probably on the night of May 5th into the morning of May 6th.  Somone used an unknown object (possibly a firearm) to damage several vehicles' windows. If you have any information about these cases contact San Angelo Police or call the 24 hour Tip Hotline at 1-855-TIPS-24-7.

Farmers' Market

The Concho Valley Farmers Market’s thrice-weekly produce sales begin at 7 a.m. this Saturday with a spread of winter vegetables. Vendors, who come from a 75-mile radius around San Angelo, will be offering locally grown and seasonal fruits, vegetables and plants from 7 a.m. until they sell out (typically by noon) every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday thereafter. The farmers market gathers under the pavilion at 609 South Oakes Street across from Fort Concho. The farmers market typically charges customers one dollar for a bundle or a bowl of produce.

Fishing Derby

The City of San Angelo's Parks & Recreation Department hopes to reel in novice and avid anglers alike at its annual Hooked on Fishing derby.  It's scheduled for the morning of Saturday, June 7th, along the Concho River downtown.  The free event will be from 7:30 a.m., when registration begins at Celebration Bridge, until noon. Fishing competitions for the biggest fish in terms of length and for the most fish will be conducted in three age groups: 7 and younger, 8-12 and 13-17. Awards will be presented to the winners. Anglers should bring their own fishing poles and bait. No fishing license is required.

Highway Taxes

The speaker of the Texas House wants legislators to stop pulling money from the state highway fund. Joe Straus is proposing to keep the over one-billion dollars in the fund for next year's budget to provide needed revenue without raising taxes.

University of Texas Tuition

University of Texas System regents are delaying a vote on whether to increase tuition for in-state students. Regents said Wednesday they'd wait until May 20th to see if they can find recurring funding which won't require students to pay more for classes. Governor Rick Perry sent the board a letter asking them to not raise tuition. Regents did approve raising tuition for out-of-state students.

Angelo State Civil Engineering

Angelo State hopes to offer a civil engineering degree by fall of next year.

The Standard-Times reports a Texas Tech University System committee approving the new degree program on Monday.

Final say on all this comes from the board of regents today.

ASU president Brian May considers such an approval a historic moment for the university.

The program's first four years would cost $6.7 million.  That would include new faculty, more equipment, and new construction.  Private funding, federal grants, and institutional support would cover the cost.

May says ASU has received an anonymous $4.5 million donation for the program.

Hit and Run

San Angelo Police continue looking for a vehicle involved in yesterday's hit and run on North Bryant Boulevard.

The Standard-Times reports Officer Jimmy Byrne saying the search focuses on a white van.

The collision hospitalized a man and two women.  Their northbound Monte Carlo flipped into the median.

Byrne says this happened after a vehicle side swiped it.

This stretch of road has a speed limit of 65 miles per hour.

Military Appreciation Day

The Railway Museum in San Angelo tomorrow holds Military Appreciation Day.

The event coincides with national celebrations during Military Appreciation Month.

The museum offers free admission to all active-duty service members, retirees, and their dependents.  They simply need to show military identification at the depot.

Wanted Man

San Angelo Police continue looking for a wanted man.

Police want William Rees for burglary.

They describe the 28-year-old Rees as a white male standing 5'10" weighing 165 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.

Police warn people not to try to apprehend suspects themselves, as doing so may prove dangerous.  Anyone who sees Rees should call 1-855-TIPS-247.  People can also give tips over the Internet.

Water System

Next month, San Angelo's water department temporarily changes how it disinfects the water the public uses.

The department normally uses a mixture of ammonia and chlorine.  However, on June 2nd, it uses just chlorine.

This change may last all month.

The city calls this a normal procedure for municipal water systems, saying it ensures water safety by ridding mains of biological growths to produce the best drinking water possible.

The city says people may see more fire hydrant flushing next month.  Certain water lines with low flow must flush more often to ensure the water moves through the system properly.

People may also notice a chlorine odor and slight discoloration in the water.  The city says most symptoms less after a couple weeks, and they do not affect the water's safety.

Art Walk

The Downtown San Angelo Art Walk is coming up on Thursday.  The theme is a "Celebration of Girls and Women" with a fashion show taking place at 226 South Oakes.  The Art Walk will also feature San Angelo moms displaying In-Home Products and Services at the parking lot at 17 East Twohig.  And, starting at 7 PM, there will be music from "Sky Country" part of the United States Air Force Band of the West from Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

Fatal Accidents

San Angelo Police are investigating two separate crashes involving fatalities late Sunday night and early Monday morning.  The first one occurred on South Abe Street, where a Toyota 4-Runner struck a pedestrian.  55-year-old Ruben Holguin was transported to Shannon Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.  The driver of the Toyota was not injured.  The second crash happened on West Loop 306, where the driver of a motorcycle had lost control, hit a guardrail and was ejected from the bike.  36-year-old Christopher Perez was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lunch n Learn

The 2014 “Lunch ‘n’ Learn” Gardening Classes continue this week with advice on how to deal with the current drought and water restrictions.  Allison Watkins, AgriLife Extension Horticulturist, will be conducting the class on Turfgrass Care and Recovery. Learn how and when to replant, what grass works best for our area and how to maintain a healthy yard. The class is Friday from noon to 1 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Court on the second floor of the Ed B. Keys building, on West Beauregard. Cost is only five dollars per class with proceeds going to The People/Plant Connection to start building the education garden in Padron Park, formerly Rio Vista Park.

Armed Forces Day

Armed Forces Day takes place on Saturday at Fort Concho.

People can see the fort's ambulance wagon, which the site's mules can pull to offer rides for guests.

Soldiers from the 344th Military Intelligence Battalion at Goodfellow Air Force Base bring their full battle gear to the fort for a demonstration.

The soldiers plan on bringing a humvee, too.  They can explain to people how it operates, as well as show its extensive weaponry.

The celebration runs Saturday at the fort from 10 to 3.

Dog Park Walkathon

A fundraiser takes place Saturday to help build San Angelo's first dog park.

The event runs from 10 to 2 at Unidad Park on Vista Del Arroyo Drive off College Hills Drive.

This dog park walkathon includes walks around the park trail.  A prize goes to the walker who completes the most laps.

Participants should donate 10 dollars for the walk and may bring their dogs.

The fundraiser includes a silent auction, a fashion show for the dogs, and dog photos.

People can also donate 50 dollars towards pavers to memorialize and honor dogs.

An anonymous donor wants to match donations up to $15,000 through Saturday.

The dog park would include a fenced area for larger dogs and a separate one for smaller ones.  It would sit on city land, most likely as part of the larger Red Arroyo hike and bike trail project.

Construction cost estimates run between $75,000 and $150,000.

Tom Green Co Jail OT

Tom Green County has approved overtime pay for jail staff.

The Standard-Times reports the sheriff saying his office has lost three employees to oil field work in the last 10 days.

Sheriff David Jones says the law requires the jail to have 15 staffers for each shift.  Because of last year's 46 percent turnover rate, he says many workers have had to report for duty outside their normal shifts to meet that mandate.

SAPD Officers PC

San Angelo Police say three members of the department's pistol team has traveled to Charleston, South Carolina for this year's Palmetto State Pistol Match.

Sixty officers from around the country have participated in this year's match, including officers Brandon Farris and Brian Gesch and Sergeant Rusty Herndon.

Farris has won first place in nine categories, including the grand aggregate combined scores from all matches.

Gesch has taken first place in four events, and Herndon has won three events.

The police department says the team has raised money to pay for the competition's entry fees.  Several fundraisers continue as it prepares for the National Police Shooting Championship in September in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Farmers Market

The Concho Valley Farmers Market's thrice-weekly produce sales begin later this month.  The Market will open at 7 a.m. on Saturday, May 17th.  The vendors, who come from a 75-mile radius around San Angelo, will be offering locally grown and seasonal fruits, vegetables and plants from 7 a.m. until they sell out every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday thereafter. The farmers market typically charges customers one dollar for a bundle or a bowl of produce. The market gathers under the pavilion at 609 South Oakes Street across from Fort Concho.

ASU ROTC

Angelo State University's Air Force ROTC Detachment 847 will host its Spring Commissioning Ceremony for eight graduating cadets this Friday in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the University Center's C.J. Davidson Conference Center and is open free to the public. The guest speaker will be Air Force Lieutenant General Ronnie Hawkins, an ASU alumnus.

Neighborhood Blitz

Most City of San Angelo offices will be closed a week from Friday, May 16th, as City employees participate in the annual neighborhood blitz. They will spend their work day painting and making minor repairs to 26 selected homes in the Rio Vista neighborhood, cleaning alleyways and streets in the area, and attending to special projects. Those special projects include waterproofing the wooden playground structures at Kids' Kingdom Park, painting part of the pavilions at El Paseo de Santa Angela, repairing porches at Fort Concho, and replacing traffic signs. 

Bradford School Meeting

City of San Angelo officials will continue discussing the renovation of the Bradford Elementary School park with neighborhood residents at a meeting at 5:30 p.m. tomorrow, in the Bradford cafeteria, on East 22nd Street. The public is encouraged to attend. Parks and Recreation Director Carl White and Construction Manager David Knapp will talk about the design of the park’s renovations based on input received from the public last spring.

Fleeing a Traffic Stop

San Angelo Police continue looking for someone who escaped a traffic stop Saturday.

Police had stopped a vehicle on Walnut Street for an expired registration sticker.

As the officer approached the vehicle, a man ran out of it.  Despite police quickly setting up a perimeter, they could not find him.

The officer found an empty handgun holster on the passenger seat.

Police arrested 25-year-old Lydia Tanguma of San Angelo for driving with expired registration, as well as without a license or insurance.

Park Meeting

Discussion continues Thursday on renovations to the park at Bradford Elementary School.

The meeting begins at 5:30 in the school cafeteria.

Parks and recreation director Carl White and construction manager David Knapp intend to talk about the renovations' designs.

The meeting may help solidify direction for the design.  Officials expect the project to start this summer and finish in a year.

Kidnapping

San Angelo Police say a man kidnapped a woman and transported her to Rowena last week.

Police have accused 26-year-old Michael Mendoza of abducting a woman at gunpoint from north San Angelo.

Mendoza allegedly used a stolen vehicle to take the 22-year-old woman into Runnels County.  Sheriff's officials there asked SAPD to help with the investigation.

Mendoza reportedly kept the woman in a residence in Rowena.  Someone reported the vehicle stolen from the Sandpiper Apartments on North Bryant Boulevard in San Angelo on Friday.

After searching the 2012 Mitsubishi Galant, police found the handgun Mendoza apparently used to kidnap the woman.

ASU ROTC

Angelo State's Air Force ROTC detachment holds its spring commissioning ceremony on Friday.

The ceremony for eight graduating cadets starts at 10 o'clock at the University Center.

Davis Spokesperson Resigns

Wendy Davis has lost her spokesman.

Bo Delp has resigned, although he says the work he has done for the gubernatorial candidate has made him happy.  He claims he still supports Davis in her run.

Delp also says he continues considering "a number of other opportunities in Texas Democratic politics."  The campaign calls him very talented with a bright future.

Bobcat Chase

San Angelo Police say a chase in Santa Rita yesterday followed the discovery of a stolen vehicle.

Officers raced to Vaughn Street, and one of them found a man running from the vehicle toward Fairmount Cemetery and Angelo State.

The man found a parked Bobcat vehicle at the cemetery belonging to maintenance staff.  Police say he drove it through the fence and then into the neighborhood.

When the Bobcat approached Santa Rita Elementary, SAPD asked the school to go into lockdown mode.

The chase continued onto South Bishop, where the man hit a patrol car with the Bobcat.  He kept going at 25 miles per hour, driving through alleys on several streets before hitting a tree at Yuca and Jefferson.

Police took the man into custody, but he had to go to the emergency room at Shannon Hospital.  They say when Shannon clears him, he goes to the justice center on a litany of charges.

Women Build Week

Preparations continue for National Women Build Week in San Angelo.

A women's luncheon on Tuesday includes a women's panel.  It begins at Stephen's Central Library at 11:30.

On Thursday, a free clinic shows how to use hand and power tools safely.  That begins at 6:30 at Lowe's on Sherwood Way.

The WOMEN'S Work Day with the Lowe's Team comes on Saturday.  That happens at 8:30 at the corner of West 13th Street and Martin Luther King Drive.

Embezzlement

Perez Search

San Angelo Police continue looking for Daniel Perez.

The 15-year-old disappeared late Monday afternoon.

Police have searched the ground and water near the Irving Street Bridge. People last saw Perez there.

Officers from Lake Patrol and the Texas Game Wardens have helped by searching an expanded area along the river.

Detectives in SAPD's criminal investigation division have interviewed Perez, faculty at his school, and other people who know him.

Anyone with any information should call police at 657-4315. People can remain anonymous by calling 1-855-TIPS-247. They can also text TIP SAPD with a message to 888777.

Trash Audit

City staff in San Angelo continue working to finalize an internal audit of a trash company.

The study concerns customer fees with Republic Services. Staff ultimately present the audit to the city council.

Meanwhile, negotiations continue between the city and Republic on a new contract.

Like Republic, Texas Disposal Systems has also turned in a bid to the city. TDS president CEO and president Bob Gregory says Republic has charged San Angelo commercial customers 32 to 35 percent of their bills for a fuel and environmental recovery fee.

The city has not given such authorization.

The Standard-Times reports city manager Daniel Valenzuela saying if the audit shows an incorrect charge, then those accounts would see some compensation.

Davis Wants Less Testing

Gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis wants less testing of high school students.

The state Senate Democrat says the standardized tests put too much pressure on students instead of support them.

Davis also says the preschool education plan from fellow candidate Greg Abbott could lead to the testing of four-year-olds.

Abbott calls those claims absurd.

Traffic Advisory

A traffic reminder from the city of San Angelo: Irving Street between Concho Avenue and Veterans Memorial Drive is closed during daylight hours intermittently for about eight weeks as new sewer lines are installed across the street. The closures began today last Wednesday. Street closure and detour signs are being utilized to direct traffic in the area. At least one lane will be open to traffic at night. No work on the lines will occur after dark.

ABC Center Grand Opening

A grand opening is scheduled for tomorrow for the Autism Behavior Communication--or ABC--Center for Children. This is a new program of MHMR Services for the Concho Valley that works with children with autism and their families.  The celebration will be held at 902 Spaulding Street in San Angelo from 4:30 to 6:30.  The public is invited to meet the staff, take a tour and enjoy refreshments.

Extreme Fire Danger

Critical fire weather conditions are expected today in the Concho Valley.  The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning, in effect from 11 AM to 8 PM, for Tom Green, Nolan, Sterling, Coke, Runnels, Irion, Concho, Crockett and Schleicher counties. West winds 20 to 25 miles an hour will gust to 35 miles an hour with humidity down to 10 percent.  Any fires that start will spread rapidly.  Outdoor activities that may result in flames or sparks are strongly discouraged.

Join Hands Day

An event that is part of the national Join Hands Day project will take place tomorrow in San Angelo.  Royal Neighbors of America local San Angelo Service Chapter will partner with the Concho Valley Master Gardeners and a Girl Scout Troop to plant a Live Oak tree near the cabins at the San Angelo State Park. The tree-planting is scheduled for 6:30 PM tomorrow. Join Hands Day is celebrated annually the first Saturday of May with the goal of bringing together "multi-generational" groups to work together to make their community better.  You can find out more at join-hands-day-dot-org.

Wollner Sentenced

Trestin Wollner has received 11 years in prison for murder.

This follows Tuesday's conviction in the death of Sam Harrison at a party near Dove Creek the day before Christmas Eve 2012.

The district attorney's office says the then-17-year-old Wollner shot the 19-year-old Harrison with a shotgun. The two of them and a couple other people at the party had a fight at some point in the evening.

The office says Harrison lay down in a truck bed, only to have Wollner approach the truck with the shotgun. Harrison only wore boxers and socks as he approached Wollner in what witnesses described as between a power walk and a jog.

Assistant district attorney Jason Ferguson calls the right to self-defense an important one, but not an excuse to kill.

Wollner must serve five and a half years before any prospect of parole.

Town Hall Meeting

McNease Convention Center holds a voting center town hall meeting tomorrow.

The meeting features representatives from Lubbock County, the first county in the state to consolidate polling places into voting centers.

These people present the concept and discuss the protocol for making that change.

The Tom Green County Elections Office has proposed instituting voting centers.

The meeting begins at 11 o'clock tomorrow at the convention center.

Irving St Closed

Part of Irving Street in San Angelo has intermittent daytime closures for nearly the next two months.

The closure stretches from Concho Avenue to Veterans Memorial Drive.

The road closes so that crews can install new sewer lines across the street.

Closure and detour signs direct traffic in the area. At least one lane remains open to traffic at night. No work on the lines happens after dark.

The parking lot adjacent to The Bosque games court area along the Concho River has access only from the south during the daytime closures.

Faculty Fellows

Angelo State has formed its next group of Community-Engaged Faculty Fellows.

This group develops courses for this fall semester that the university hopes improves student involvement in the community.

ABC Center

The Autism Behavior Communication Center for Children has a grand opening next Tuesday.

It takes place at the A-B-C Center on Spaulding and North Browing streets in San Angelo.

The event begins at 4:30.

Healthy Seminars

Shannon Health & Wellness offers Words of Wellness Workshops that urge people to incorporate healthy behaviors into their daily routines.

One seminar has the title "Portion Distortion."  It runs on Tuesday and Wednesday next week.

Another workshop called "Get Fit for Your Life!" takes place a couple times next month.

For more information, contact Shannon Health, or visit www.wordsofwellness.org.

Bradford

San Angelo continues discussing renovations to Bradford Elementary School park with people who live in the neighborhood.

A meeting on this takes place May 8 at 5:30 in Bradford's cafeteria.

Carl White from parks and recreation and construction manager David Knapp plan on discussing the renovations' design.  People gave input on the design last spring.

The city says next month's meeting helps solidify the design's direction, which finishes in the coming months.

The project may actually begin this summer.  It takes a year to complete.

ASU Top Grade

Angelo State has named a San Angelo native this year's Presidential Award winner.

Wall High School graduate Sean Motl has emerged as the top graduate in his class at ASU.  He has majored in psychology and minored in chemistry.

Motl receives recognition at the university's commencement May 10.  Following graduation, he attends the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School to prepare for a career in global health and human rights in Francophone Africa.

ASU Professor Poetry Contest

An Angelo State professor has won first prize in a poetry contest from Jewish Currents magazine.

The poem from Chris Ellery has won the second annual Alexander and Dora Raynes Poetry Competition.

Ellery's poem "Shekinah" has emerged as the best of 700 poems nationwide.  The poem illustrates the friendship of two boys -- an Arab and a Jew -- in Bethlehem right before the partition of Palestine.

Poet and playwright Joan Larkin has judged the contest, saying Ellery's poem "explores family and brotherhood simply and beautifully."

The works of all 40 finalists make up a new poetry collection that the magazine's book imprint publishes next month.

Water Usage Update

On Sunday, San Angelo was saving water. City residents and businesses used 10-point-one million gallons of water compared to 12-point-five million on the same date last year.

Rainfall-to-Date

Weekend showers increased San Angelo's year-to-date rainfall to zero-point-five-two inches--just over half an inch--which is more than 4 inches below normal. Unfortunately, the city's Water Utilities Department reported that did nothing to raise lake levels. Ivie Reservoir remains at 12 percent of its capacity, Twin Buttes is down to two percent and Nasworthy has shrunk to 53 percent.

ASU Research Symposium

More than 40 Angelo State University students will present the results of their academic research and creative endeavors during the Third annual Undergraduate Research Symposium Thursday, in the Houston Harte University Center on Rosemont Drive. The symposium will run from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and will include student interaction with community members who are interested in research activities on campus.

Assault Arrest

On Sunday night, San Angelo police responded to the Creekside Apartments on Knickerbocker Road in reference to an Assault in progress. Upon arriving on scene, officers confronted a white male leaving an apartment and the subject refused to comply with verbal commands as he pushed passed officers. Attempts to subdue him with a Taser were unsuccessful and the man then ran toward an area behind the apartments. That's where police say he was finally taken into custody after a lengthy struggle. He was identified as 24-year-old Jerry Lee Smith.

SA Unemployment

San Angelo's unemployment rate continues to drop. The jobless figure last month four-point-two percent compared to four-point-six percent in February and four-point-nine percent in March of 2013. About one-thousand more people have jobs than a year ago. The March rate of four-point-two percent compares five-point-three percent statewide and six-point-eight percent nationally.

HUD Funding Meetings

The City of San Angelo has scheduled public meetings to discuss funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. San Angelo will get getting an estimated 700-thousand dollars from ghd Community Development Block Grant Program and almost 250-thousand dollars from the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. Citizens and interest groups are invited to get information and provide input at a meeting this evening at 6 o'clock at Southside Recreation Center on Ben Ficklin Road and next Tuesday at 6 PM at the Carl Ray Johnson Recreation Center on North Farr Street.

Easter Events

This weekend's Easter events include First Baptist Church's Easter egg hunt from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Firefighters Memorial City Park on East Twohig Avenue. And TLC's 14th Easter Fest will be at Texas Bank Sports Complex on Rio Concho Drive, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. It's free for the whole family. There will be food, drinks, face painting, rock climbing and the Texas largest Easter Egg Hunt.

Water District Manager Fired

For the second time in the last year and a half, the Tom Green County Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 has an opening for a district manager. On Wednesday, board members voted unanimously to fire Linda Schneeman. According to the Standard-Times, Schneeman said after the meeting--quote--"I knew they were going to fire me. I've been threatened a lot." Schneeman was hired in October 2012 to replace Yantis Green who resigned in the wake of a federal embezzlement scandal.

Nature Center Easter

The San Angelo Nature Center on Knickerbocker Road will host an Easter event on Saturday from 1 to 4 PM. The festivities include an egg hunt, a petting zoo, photo stations (participants are encouraged to bring a camera) and free candy. The cost is one dollar per person for Nature Center members. Non-members pay between one and four dollars, depending on age.

Discover ASU

Angelo State University will welcome high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors and their families to campus on Saturday, April 26th, for "Discover ASU." It's a daylong program for high school students to learn about campus life and educational opportunities at the university. You can find out more about Discover ASU or register by calling the ASU Admissions Office or going online at myfuture-dot-angelo-dot-edu.

Good Friday Closures

City of San Angelo offices will be closed tomorrow in observance of Good Friday. If you have City business to conduct, you're asked do so today. There will be no interruption of trash service this weekend.





The Southside and Carl Ray Johnson recreation centers, and Station 618 and Santa Fe Crossing senior centers will be closed tomorrow.

Water Usage

Residents and businesses were saving water over the weekend.  On Saturday and Sunday, San Angelo used 11-point-eight million and 11-point-five million gallons of water, respectively, compared to 11-point-nine million and 13-point-three million on the same dates last year.

New Fertilizer Rules

The state Fire Marshal wants new rules on how fertilizer plants handle ammonium nitrate. Chris Connealy told a legislative committee in Austin that plants should store the chemical in fireproof containers or have automatic sprinklers. Connealy believes those requirements would help prevent disasters like last year's explosion in West.

Davis Bomber Sentenced

A homeless man is going to prison for seven years for a fire at state Senator Wendy Davis' office. Tarrant County prosecutors say Cedric Steele received the sentence following a guilty plea for arson. Steele admitting to throwing several Molotov cocktails at Davis' office in March 2012. No injuries were reported.  Davis is currently seeking the Democratic Party's nomination for governor.

San Angelo School Make-Up Days

A reminder for students in the San Angelo Independent School District and their parents.  To make up for two days when winter weather kept schools closed, officials say classes will take place this Friday--Good Friday.  The other make-up day will be on Monday, May 19th. Schools were closed on December 6th and February 11th by weather that left roads, parking lots, and other places icy and unsafe.

SAPD Lieutenant

A San Angelo Police Department Lieutenant, along with 221 other law enforcement officers, recently graduated from the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, Virginia. The 256th Session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 47 states. The class also included members of law enforcement agencies from the District of Columbia and 23 foreign countries. Lieutenant Mike Hernandez, who oversees the San Angelo Police Department Community Services Division, was among the selected few chosen to attend his year’s session.

Water Usage UPD

Water-saving continued on Friday in San Angelo as city residents and businesses used 11-point-eight million gallons of water compared to 12-point-three million on the same date last year.  To show why conservation is important, San Angelo rainfall year-to-date is at one-third of an inch.  Last year at this time it was over two and a half inches and normally it would be over four inches.

Shots fired, suspect arrested

Last Thursday evening, San Angelo police responded to the Bella Vista Apartments in the 4100 block of Ben Ficklin Road for several reports of shots fired. Upon arriving, officers found a Honda Accord that had damage consistent with rounds fired from a handgun.  The woman who was the target of those gunshots was unharmed and not in the vehicle at the time of the incident. After an all points bulletin was issued, the suspect was located at the Arden Ridge Apartments.  22-year-old Mark Edwin Jones the Second was arrested on a charge of deadly conduct.

Pedestrian Bridges Closed

The Concho River's pedestrian bridges will be closed this week. The low pedestrian bridge, east of the Visitors Center and nearest to the Girl Scouts' offices, has been temporarily closed for repairs. As part of the river improvement project, the bridge's wood decking is being replaced. It is scheduled to reopen tomorrow morning. The high pedestrian bridge, west of the Visitors Center, is scheduled to be closed Wednesday morning for concrete repairs, maintenance and touch-up painting. The bridge should reopen no later than next Monday, April 21st.

Family Day

Angelo State chemistry students and faculty help SAMFA host Family Day Art and Science this Saturday.

The event shows the connections between art and science in a fun family setting.

Activities include students leading art and science experiments, art in the SAMFA education studio, interactive tours in the galleries with chemistry students, and chemistry magic shows.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hit and Run Suspect

San Angelo Police want help in identifying a hit and run suspect who left a crash scene yesterday.

Police say a silver older model Buick headed south on Gunner Street and through the stop sign at Avenue Q.

The car hit an eastbound motorcycle and did not stop, heading eastbound on Avenue R. Police believe it may have damage to its right back side.

Witnesses at the scene describe the suspect as a Hispanic male.

The 44-year-old motorcyclist went to San Angelo Community Medical Center for treatment.

School Make Up Dates

San Angelo school officials say classes now take place on Good Friday and a day next month to make up for lost time.

Classes now happen on Friday, April 18 and Monday, May 19.

The new dates result from winter weather closing schools on December 6 and February 11. It left roads, parking lots, and other places icy and unsafe.

Kids Marathon

Shannon Medical Center is inviting all area elementary students to join them for the CATCH in Motion Kid's Marathon Final Lap Celebration next Thursday, April 17th, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at San Angelo Stadium. The event will give students a chance to run the last lap of the 26-point-two miles they've been running since they start of the spring semester. After crossing the finish line, students get a water bottle and the first 500 finishers get a medal and a t-shirt.

ASU Jazz Concert

Angelo State University's Jazz Ensemble will perform its spring concert next Tuesday, April 15th, in the ASU Auditorium. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. and is open free to the public. The ASU Auditorium is located in the Mayer Administration Building on West Avenue N. The show includes songs by Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, George Gershwin and Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein. For more information, contact the ASU Department of Visual and Performing Arts.

Perry in South Pacific

Governor Perry is in the South Pacific helping out in an effort to find remains from servicemen missing since World War Two. It's a two-week trip organized by the BentProp project looking for downed aircraft in a series of islands now called Palau. The project has about 80 MIAs listed believed downed in flight missions in the area.

President and Mrs. Obama to Visit Fort Hood

President Obama and first lady Michelle Obama are expected to visit Fort Hood Wednesday for the memorial service of victims in last week's tragedy. The president's last visit to Fort Hood was to speak at the memorial service for the 13 killed in the 2009 massacre. They're also scheduled to be in Austin this week for festivities celebrating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act.

Gas Prices Up

Gasoline prices continued their spring push this week amid tightened supplies and increasing demand. That's according to Triple-A, which says the national average for a gallon of regular is the highest since August. It's currently at three-58 a gallon, up three cents from a week ago. In Texas, the statewide average is three-40, up four cents. In San Angelo, gas-buddy-dot-com reports the price of regular ranges from three-24 to three-47 a gallon. Triple-A says prices may move a little higher in the coming weeks, but the end is likely in sight for many drivers across the country.

Dog Therapy

Registration is open for therapy dog preparation classes beginning tomorrow. The four-week training class, open to dogs 1 year or older, will run from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Saturdays. Classes cost $80 per dog/owner team, and owners must provide proof of rabies vaccination. Therapy dogs are volunteer dogs, along with handlers, taken to schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other therapeutic settings to interact with patients.

To enroll in the class, complete a registration form at dogjazz.com.

Fort Hood Shooter ID

The soldier responsible for Wednesday's deadly shooting at Fort Hood never saw combat in Iraq.  Army Secretary John McHugh told the Senate Armed Services Committee today Specialist Ivan Lopez served as a truck driver in Iraq for four months. He said Lopez bought the weapon used in the shooting off base and never registered it with the post. Lopez took his own life after killing three fellow soldiers at the army base, and injuring 16. Lt. General Mark Milley says a memorial service will be held next week to honor the victims.

Progress at Meet and Confer

The City of San Angelo (COSA) and the San Angelo Coalition of Police (SACOP) made some strides at this week's Meet and Confer meeting. For the past eight months the two sides have been at an impasse over a proposed police pay raise. At the latest meeting, they've agreed on a starting point for negotiations, City staff and SACOP began making plans for how to move forward.

South Orient Railroad Rehab

The South Orient Rail Line, which runs from San Angelo to Presidio, is getting some much-needed TLC. To extend renovations to Fort Stockton, they are asking for support to get more funding. The South Orient Railroad fell into the hands of Texas in 2001. Rehabilitation began eight years later on the Eastern-most part of the line to San Angelo. TxDOT made it a plan to continue construction Westward. Next up, Fort Stockton, and surrounding counties are all on board. Brewster County Commissioner, Mike Pallanez says they've submitted a letter to TxDOT Rail Division in support of their application for grant money to rehabilitate the line between Fort Stockton and San Angelo. TxDOT Rail Division says, "At a national level, this project will support the goal of energy independence, in addition to providing future potential to export goods from the U.S. to Mexico."

SAPD recover stolen vehicle

You may have noticed San Angelo police in the midst of a search around Christoval Road and South Chadbourne street areas yesterday. They were looking for a man wanted for vehicle theft. The man, described to be a hispanic male in his mid 40's with a stocky build and short haircut was on foot in the area. Police were searched areas of Dellwood, Crestwood and South Chadbourne streets. Police found both the suspect and the vehicle - a stolen landscaping truck. The suspect was arrested and charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Registration Set for Therapy Dog Classes

Registration is open for therapy dog preparation classes beginning tomorrow. The four-week training class, open to dogs 1 year or older, will run from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Saturdays. Classes cost $80 per dog/owner team, and owners must provide proof of rabies vaccination. Therapy dogs are volunteer dogs, along with handlers, taken to schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other therapeutic settings to interact with patients.

To enroll in the class, complete a registration form at dogjazz.com.

Cub Scouts Pick Up Litter

The lot behind Target and the former Big 5 Sporting Goods is no longer an eyesore thanks to some Cub Scouts. Cub Scout Pack 374 and their parents spent most of a recent afternoon picking up the litter - and a lot of it - behind Target. By the end of the clean up effort, plastic shopping bags, litter, bottles and other debris in the area were gone. The scouts teamed up with a charter at Sierra Vista Methodist Church to organize the cleanup.

DeCoty Fire

Fire fighters responded to a fire at the DeCoty Coffee Company plant on Austin Street yesterday just after noon. While the plant has an internal fire brigade, they needed assistance with the fire that was in the in the plants's roaster chimney area. The San Angelo Fire Department discharged 90 pounds of dry chemical extinguisher into the building’s chimney system from the roof. Battalion Chief Ricky Long said the dry extinquisher did most of the work, and less than a five gallon bucket of water was necessary to cut the heat. Long said he has responded to multiple fires at DeCoty and that  the SAFD actually trains at the building. DeCoty may have to replace two sections of pipe and melted insulation material to repair the damage.

Dog Park Meeting

Those in favor of the development of a dog park in San Angelo met last night for a public meeting. The group is trying to come up with ideas for doing some private fundraising. Last month, the City Council voted to move forward with the idea presented to them by a local girl scout. Fundraisers, grants and walkathons are some ideas proposed to cover the costs. Proposed locations for dog park are near Lone Wolf Bridge or near College Hills. The second location would be cheaper with development costs ranging from $50-$150,000. The plan is to ensure the sapce is at least  2 acres with separate parks for smaller and larger dogs.

WIC Division Manager Retiring

The WIC Division manager for the City of San Angelo and six surrounding counties will retire at the end of this month. Gloria Hale has worked for the organization for 22 years, and served as manager for  9 years. Her career includes more than 35 years as a registered nurse. WIC - which stands for Women, Infants and Children - is a city-administered nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children eat well, learn about nutrition and stay healthy.

Woman Carrying Rifle

San Angelo Police are relieved no was was injured by a woman walking around with what appeared to be a rifle on Monday. Police responded to the report of the woman and asked her several times to drop the gun before she finally did. The 25 year old woman - who as it turns out was carrying a pellet gun - was released to the custody of Tom Green County Mental Health Deputies.

SASSRA Scholarship

A man whose been working at the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Association for more than 40 years is being honored.  The association has announced a new scholarship bearing the name of Kermit Wendland.  It's worth 16-thousand dollars.  SASSRA currently has 35 local students on scholarship at universities across the state.  Recipients are required to take part in 4-H, FFA or Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.

Health Foundation Grant

The San Angelo Health Foundation has handed out more than one-point-two million dollars in grants that will fund projects by six local nonprofit organizations.  The Foundation gave the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council for the Concho Valley one million dollars to use in constructing a new residential treatment facility and detox center.  Almost 50-thousand dollars went to the Concho Valley Home for Girls and Children’s Emergency Shelter for improvements and furnishings. 30-grand went to New Horizons to fund foster placement services for children from the San Angelo area.  Other awards when to the Odeon Preservation Association, the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts and Young Life San Angelo.

Two Guys Crime Spree

Two guys spotted breaking into cars at Wingstop Knickerbocker Road last week. They noticed somebody watching -- threatened the person with a knife and said they had a bomb. Cops showed up quickly -- arresting 38 year old Robert Gomez and 17 year old Jonathan Correa. Turns out Correa -- had 13 outstanding warrants. And, neither of the guys actually had a bomb

Civil War and Baseball

The Civil War 150th Anniversary Lecture Series continues tomorrow night at Fort Concho with "Baseball During and After the Civil War." The Fort Concho baseball team will play a vintage baseball game on the fort's parade grounds from 6 to 7 PM. The game will feature the rules and equipment that would have been used during the Civil War. Afterward, in the Fort Concho Stables on Henry O. Flipper Street, ASU History Professor Dr. David Dewar will explore myths of the early game and note how the Civil War helped turn the sport into the national pastime. The evening is open and free to the public.

Walmart Shooting and Robbery Update

The San Angelo Police Department has released additional details regarding the officer-involved shooting incident that occurred Monday at the Walmart Supercenter on West 29th Street. The suspect has been identified as 42-year-old Charles D. Welborn. Police say no gunshots occurred inside of the store. It is believed that the sound of gunshots reported by witnesses was the result of glass breakage when Welborn used an object to smash the store’s gun case. The officer fired three shots, all of which struck Welborn. The suspect remains hospitalized. The extent of his injuries and current medical condition is unknown.

Robbery Suspect Sought

San Angelo Police are looking for a man who robbed a 7-11 convenience store located on South Pierce on Saturday night.  Witnesses told officers that an unidentified male wearing a black ski mask and carrying a handgun walked into the store, approached the counter and fired a single shot into a display case. After he fired the round, the suspect left with an undisclosed amount of money and property. No one was injured during the incident.   The suspect is described as a light-complected Hispanic or White male, small build, about 5-9, 160 pounds, wearing a white shirt, black pants, and white shoes. If you know anything, contact San Angelo police; to remain anonymous, call 1-855-TIPS-24-7.

Dog Park Meeting

A public meeting to discuss fundraising for the development of a dog park in San Angelo will be conducted next week.  It's scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the McNease Convention Center.  It's being organized by Girl Scout Megan Allgeier, who has adopted the park as her Girl Scout Gold Project, with assistance from the City of San Angelo’s Parks & Recreation Department. The meeting will inform attendees about the proposed dog park and raising the funds for its development. Last week, the city council approved the concept of developing a dog park on public property, utilizing funds raised through donations, sponsorships and fundraisers.

Cable/Internet Merger

ZipNet of San Angelo is merging with SpeedConnect, a broadband Internet provider whose technology supports higher usage demands.  The two companies made the announcement Monday.  They will provide high-speed Internet, DISH TV service and telephone packages. There will be an open house tomorrow from 11 AM to 1 PM with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 PM at 4301 College Hills Boulevard.

ASU Tri-Beta Award

For a record eighth time and for the fourth time in the last nine years, Angelo State University's Epsilon Sigma chapter of the Tri-Beta biology national honor society has been named the recipient of the Lloyd M. Bertholf Award as the top chapter in the nation for the 2012-2013 academic year. The ASU chapter is the first eight-time winner of the award out of the more than 560 Tri-Beta chapters in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Four Rescued from Fire

Seven people were saved by police during an apartment fire in San Angelo Saturday morning.  Officers were dispatched to the Creekside Apartment complex on Knickerbocker after a female caller, who lives in an upstairs unit with her 10-year-old daughter, told dispatch she was afraid to cross over the flames and escape. An officer carried the girl down the stairs as the mother followed.   Police proceeded to a downstairs unit where they were able to awaken a female resident from her smoke-filled apartment and escort her to safety. Four additional residents were located and escorted to safety. No injuries reported; cause of the fire is under investigation.

Showdown Postponed

Because of low water levels on Lake Nasworthy, Lucas Oil has just announced that the Showdown In San Angelo, originally slated for June 27th through the 29th, has been moved to the weekend of September 12th through the 14th. San Angelo Chamber of Commerce spokesperson, Jenni Campbell, said, "We decided it was the best option to call the race this early so racers, spectators, sponsors and volunteers could plan appropriately for September's race."

Frontier Day

Frontier Day is coming to Fort Concho.  It's a celebration San Angelo’s diverse agricultural heritage featuring a wide assortment of exhibits, demonstrations and children’s activities and it's scheduled for Saturday, April 26th. n Billed as a “fabulous family day” at “America’s best preserved frontier fort,” the 2014 edition of Frontier Day will be from 7 a.m. until noon at Fort Concho, 630 South Oakes Street. Admission is free to the fort’s second-largest annual event.

Health Department Moving

The City of San Angelo/Tom Green County Health Department will be closed this Wednesday through Friday as it moves its offices at 2030 Pulliam Street. from Suite 9 to Suite 8.The Health Department will be open for appointments on Monday and will conduct its weekly immunization clinic from 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. and from 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. tomorrow. The Health Department offices will reopen for its normal business hours in its new location in Suite 8 next Monday.

Roadwork and Delays

There's some roadwork to be aware of for your drive around San Angelo: detours for U.S. 67 are set up during the bridge replacement project at U.S. 277. All traffic will be routed to the southbound U.S. 67 existing bridge while the northbound bridge gets replaced. Southbound U.S. 277 ramp to northbound bridge U.S. 67 will be closed. The U.S. 67 frontage road extension project will cause delays from PaulAnn Boulevard to Howard College.

The FM 388 widening project is causing delays on Bell Street to Loop 306. The right hand lane will be closed during daylight hours from eastbound on Bell Street to the north entrance gate of Goodfellow Air Force Base. Construction is in place for a pedestrian rail for the bridge sidewalk westbound between Stoneham Street and La Mesa Lane; so expect delays.

Burn Ban

The Tom Green County Commissioners Court convened yesterday morning for their weekly meeting, and they decided that the countywide burn ban will remain in effect. Burning within San Angelo city limits is also prohibited.

Council Prevents Man Camps

During the San Angelo City Council Meeting, AJ Fawver, planning manager, said staff will meeting with County Commissioners next week on RV & mobile home park regulations. The Proposed ordinance for an annual operator permit calls for a $425 fee for new parks, a $250 annual renewal fee, and a $100 transferownership fee. The purpose of the fee's is to stop the burgeoning growth of "mancamps." The plan calls for grandfathering in all current RV and mobile home parks so they aren't subject to the new ordiance because it could cause hardship to them - but it was proposed that any expansions would be required to meet the new regulations. Other suggestions were to increase the new operator permit fee to $600, then removing renewal fee, or making the new park fee $1,000 and doing away with the supplemental fee, and possibly bumping owner transfer fee to $500.  The council motioned and approved by a vote of 4-3, for a $1,000 feea new parks, $600 transfer permits, and $425 expansion. A motion to exempt existing parks from the ordinance was approved 6-1.

Council Considers House Boat on Lake

Police boats stored by Mathis Field Airport could be moving to the water if a new proposal goes through. The city council is considering building a Police Department Boat House at Lake Nasworthy. During the meeting, Tad Logan, pres of Lake Nasworthy Homeowners Assoc., said current response times are 20 minutes, and that having boats on the lake could get it down to only 5 minutes. Lt. Wes Bodden, with Lake Police said that from a public safety standpoint what we're doing right now doesn't make any sense. In cases of a drowning or crash, Bodden said, 20 minutes is not an acceptable response time. Police Chief Tim Vasquez said it’s really about public safety & being able to get those boats out there as quick as possible. The city council will now look into costs and funding for the project which could cost around $60-$70,000.

Dog Park Moving Forward

A new dog park could be coming to San Angelo. The city council voted to move forward with the idea. Proposed locations for dog park are near Lone Wolf Bridge or near College Hills. The second location would be cheaper with development costs ranging from $50-$150,000 Ideally, the dog park would be 2 acres with separate parks for smaller and larger dogs. The city is working on a collaborative plan with the Girl Scouts to raise the money for the park. Fundraisers, grants and walkathons were some ideas proposed by local girl scout,  Megan Allgeier - who presented her research and ideas to make the dog park a reality. Kandi Pool said the San Angelo Association of Realtors said they would be willing to help with the project where they can. The council approved item and gave the dog park the green light to move forward. No city money was requested. Not everyone is thrilled with the idea of a dog park. Some residents feel money should be directed to infrastructure, street maintenance, and water supply.

World Water Event

March 22 is World Water Day. To remind the community of its precious resource and raise awareness of practical solutions, the Upper Colorado River Authority will be hosting events all week in San Angelo. The first event is this evening at, 7pm as Dr. Christy Youker, the UCRA Education Director will speak as part of ASU Speakers Series on “Our Community. Our Water,” at ASU's Vincent Building. The address is part of the Geosciences Department speaker series. Then tomorrow from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m, students will display their work on watching local waterways as part of the ArtWalk. Their work will be shown at the UCRA Education Center, 417 S. Oakes St.

Feral Hog App

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service developed a new app, Feral Hog Management, to help landowners learn the legal strategies available to impede the growing population of feral hogs. The app is available for 99 cents in Apple’s iTunes store.

Dead Beaver Pulled out of Concho

A dead beaver was hauled off to the city landfill after Animal Control pulled it out of the Concho River at Glenmore Park. Public safety officials were called to the area Saturday when a passerby reported something floating in the river. An Animal Control official said it appeared to have been dead for some time and was bloated several times its normal size and covered in flies. Because the city no longer has an incinerator, Animal Control staff took it to the landfill.

Garcia Indicted for Fire

A Tom Green County grand jury has indicted Humberto Garcia on an arson charge. In August of last year, police responded to an apartment fire in connection with a standoff in north San Angelo. Garcia was taken to a hospital for treatment. The standoff started after officers tried to serve a parole violation warrant at the Resort at Riverside apartments on North Bryant, but they could not enter because of the fire.

SAISD Workshop

The San Angelo Independent School District Board of Trustees will meet at 5:30 p.m. today for a workshop in the administration building. Discussion topics will include a heating and cooling unit at Austin Elementary, a food service fire sprinkler project and various paving projects.

Spring Break Traveling Tips

Spring Break is coming to a close, and DPS Trooper Shawn Baxter wants to keep tired drivers off the road. Following the week-long festivities, fatigue is common for spring breakers, making for a long drive home. Baxter says it's important to get plenty of rest before hitting the road for that trip back home.He also suggests to share the driving with another passenger, stopping every two hours to take a break.

Student Talent Focus at ASU

Angelo State University’s Friends of Art and Music Education will host the 17th annual Collage Reception from 7-9 p.m. tomorrow in the Carr Education-Fine Arts Building. The reception will feature students from the theater, art and music programs performing, creating and displaying various pieces from their repertoires throughout the EFA Building. Admission is $3 for students and $5 for the general public, and refreshments will be served. Donations to FAME will be accepted, with all proceeds going into the organization’s scholarship fund to benefit ASU fine arts students.

SAISD Transfers

San Angelo ISD will begin accepting in-district and out-of-district student transfer applications for the 2014-2015 school year next Monday.  Applications may be obtained at campus offices or at the administration building at 1621 University.  In-district applications can be downloaded from the SAISD website.  Those interested in out-of district transfers should call or visit the SAISD Pupil Services Office. 

SBDC Oilfield Conference

The Angelo State University Small Business Development Center will co-host a conference on oilfield-related issues for small businesses next month.  The conference is titled "Doing Business in the Oilfield: Where Does Your Small Business Fit?" and will feature a number of guest speakers.  It's scheduled for Tuesday, April 8th, at the LeGrand Alumni and Visitors Center, on University Avenue.  Cost of the conference is 15 dollars per person.  You can find out more and register online at sbdc-dot-angelo-dot-edu.

ASU Best for Vets

Angelo State University's College of Business has been named one of the nation's 64 Best Business Schools for Veterans.  That comes from the Military Times organization's Best for Vets: Business Schools 2014 rankings. The ASU College of Business is ranked No. 17 out of 64 business schools on the list and is one of seven business schools in Texas to earn the "Best for Vets" designation. The rankings focus on culture and curriculum and factor in academic quality, outcomes and policies; school culture; student support; and cost.

Disaster Class

San Angelo's Community Emergency Response Team will be conducting training for those who wish to take a  20-hour course in Disaster Preparedness. The classes are scheduled for Saturday, March 28th, through Sunday, the 31st and will be held at the Grape Creek Fire Department.  Class will be limited to 20 people.  For  more information, contact Assistant Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Bea Ramsey.  The office number is 944-9666.