Tuesday August 31 WALKERS AND VOLUNTEERS NEEDED THE ALZHEIMERS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEMORY WALK IS FAST APPROACHING AND THERE IS STILL A NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS AND FOR WALKERS. THE EVENT IS DESIGNED TO RAISE FUNDS FOR RESEARCH AND TO ALSO EDUCATE THOSE ABOUT THE DEBILITATING DISEASE. YOU CAN SIGN UP INDIVIDUALLY OR CREATE YOUR OWN TEAM AND SIGN UP BY GOING TO MEMORYWALK2010.KINTERA.ORG/FAF/HOME. DONATIONS CAN BE MADE THERE AS WELL FOR YOUR TEAM. THE WALK IS SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 18TH AND WILL BEGIN AT THE HAYNES PAVILION IN THE COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. REGISTRATION BEGINS AT 830AM WITH THE WALK BEGINNING AT 9AM. YOU CAN ALSO CONTACT MEMORY WALK COORDINATOR RICK STOVALL FOR MORE INFORMATION AT 432-816-8508
BSISD TRUSTEES TO MEET TO APPROVE BUDGET TRUSTEES OF THE BIG SPRING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING TONIGHT TO APPROVE THE BUDGET FOR THE UPCOMING FISCAL YEAR. THE BUDGET TOTALS MORE THAN 30 MILLION DOLLARS THIS YEAR WITH 16 MILLION OF THAT MONEY EARMARKED FOR CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION AND THE REMAINING TO BE FOR SALARIES FOR TEACHERS AND AIDES WHO WILL RECEIVE A ROUGHLY THREE PERCENT RAISE. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IS IN GOOD FINANCIAL SHAPE EVEN WITH THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN. THE RESERVE FUND IS HEALTHY BUT THE DISTRICT WOULD LIKE TO INCREASE IT AS A SAFEGUARD. THE TAX RATE FOR THE NEW BUDGET WILL BE SUBSTANTIALLY HIGHER DUE TO THE VOTER APPROVED BOND ISSUE RISING FROM ONE DOLLAR AND TWELVE CENTS TO JUST UNDER ONE DOLLAR AND FORTY FIVE CENTS PER ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS OF VALUATION. THE MEETING IS SCHEDULED TO START AT 515PM IN THE HIGH SCHOOL BOARD ROOM.
Monday August 30 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD APPROVES PROPOSAL TO ASSIST WESTERN CONTAINER THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD HELD A SPECIAL MEETING TODAY; THE BOARD APPROVED A PROPOSAL FROM THE CITY OF BIG SPRING AND THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD FOR ONE MILLION DOLLARS TO ASSIST IN REFURBISHING AND/OR REPLACING THE FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM AT THE WESTERN CONTAINER AIRPARK FACILITY. INCLUDED IN THE PROPOSAL WERE LEASE AGREEMENTS FOR EITHER 5 OR 10 YEARS, THE PRESENT LEASE EXPIRED IN JUNE OF THIS YEAR. OTHER ITEMS DISCUSSED IN THE MEETING IS THE INTEREST EXPRESSED BY A WIND TURBINE BLADE REPAIR FACILITY TO MOVE THEIR OPERATION TO BIG SPRING.
ROBBERY SUSPECTS FROM THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT IN REFERENCE TO A ROBBERY THAT OCCURRED AT APPROXIMATELY 430AM ON AUGUST 26TH TWO WHITE MALES ROBBED THE 7-11 STORE AT 1801 GREGG STREET. ONE SUSPECT APPEARED TO BE IN HIS LATE TEENS OR EARLY TWENTIES, SLENDER IN BUILD WITH DARK CURLY SHORT HAIR AND WAS WEARING A WHITE HOODIE AND SUNGLASSES. HE WAS ARMED WITH A SHOTGUN, THE SECOND SUSPECT LOOKED TO BE IN HIS MID TEENS WITH A LARGE BUILD, RED CURLY HAIR AND A LOT OF FRECKLES ON HIS FACE, WAS WEARING A BLACK SLEEVELESS T SHIRT AND A GREEN TOBOGGAN CAP. THE TWO FLED WITH AN UNDISCLOSED AMOUNT OF CASH. IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION ON THESE SUSPECTS PLEASE CONTACT DETECTIVE MARK DAILY AT 264-2553 OF CRIMESTOPPERS AT 264-TIPS (8477)
Friday August 27 RECORD ENROLLMENT AT HOWARD COLLEGE HOWARD COLLEGE HAS ONCE AGAIN SET AN ENROLLMENT RECORD. 4,075 STUDENTS ARE PRESENTLY ENROLLED AT CAMPUSES IN BIG SPRING, SAN ANGELO, LAMESA AND SOUTHWEST COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF BEATING LAST YEARS RECORD OF 4,009. THE INCREASE IN ENROLLMENT HELPS HOWARD COLLEGE WEATHER THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN DUE TO THE ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF TUITION AND FEES THAT WILL BE COMING IN. THE ADDED BONUS IS THE AMOUNT OF STATE AID FOR SCHOOLS IS PRIMARILY DETERMINED BY THE NUMBER OF HOURS STUDENTS ARE IN CLASSES AND IN LABS.
Thursday August 26 GRASS FIRE THREATENS SAND SPRINGS RESIDENCE BURNING EMBERS IGNITED A GRASS FIRE IN SAND SPRINGS THAT NEARLY BURNED A MOBILE HOME WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. THE FIRE SPREAD TO A FENCE BEFORE VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTERS ARRIVED AND QUICKLY EXTINGUISHED THE BLAZE. WHILE THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE HOME AN ACRE AND A HALF OF LAND BURNED BEFORE THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED.
THREE ARRESTED FOR SHOPLIFTING FROM WALMART. THREE MEN ARE IN CUSTODY AFTER THEY WERE NOTICED WALKING OUT OF THE WALMART WITH ITEMS THEY HAD NOT PAID FOR. 19 YEAR OLDS JONATHAN LANDRY, FABYON HARRIS AND PHILIP JACKSON LEFT THE WALMART WITH SEVERAL ITEMS INCLUDING A BIG SCREEN TELEVISION. POLICE WERE ABLE TO LOCATE THE THIEVES AFTER OBTAINING THEIR LICENSE PLATE NUMBER FROM A SECURITY VIDEO. POLICE FOUND THE THREE IN THEIR VEHICLE ON SOUTH BIRDWELL LANE AND APPREHENDED THEM. ALL THREE WERE CHARGED WITH THEFT.
Tuesday August 24 COUNTY COMMISSIONER’S COURT THE HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT APPROVED SEVERAL RESOLUTIONS FOR LOCAL AGENCIES TO APPLYR FOR GRANT MONIES. THE SENIOR CENTER WILL NOW SEEK GRANT MONEY FOR THEIR MEALS ON WHEELS PROGRAM AND THE WATER CONTROL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT IS SEEKING FRANT MONEY TO USE TO IMPROVE THE WATER LINES IN SAND SPRINGS. THE COURT ALSO APPROVED THE PURCHASE OF LAND IN SAND SPRINGS. THE COUNTY PURCHASE THE LAND THE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT SITS ON IN THE SEVENTIES BUT NO SURVEY WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME. DURING EXPANSION IN THE NINETIES PART OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT BUILDING WAS ERECTED ON PROPERTY ADJACENT TO THE COUNTY PROPERTY. A RECENT SALE OF THE ADJACENT PROPERTY BROUGHT THE SITUATION TO LIGHT AND THE COUNTY AGREED TO PURCHASE THE .055 ACRES FOR $4500.
TRUSTEES APPROVE HOWARD COLLEGE BUDGET HOWARD COLLEGE TRUTEES APPROVED THE FISCAL YEAR BUDGET FOR 2010-2011 YESTERDAY. THE NEW BUDGET IS 9 MILLION LESS THAN LAST YEAR’S, THE SWCID BUDGET WAS CUT BY 500 THOUSAND DOLLARS COMPARED TO LAST YEAR. THE CUTS WERE MANDATED BY THE STATE. THE GOOD NEWS IS THE DORM RENOVATIONS AT THE COLLEGE WERE COMPLETED JUST IN TIME FOR STUDENTS TO MOVE IN. OTHER CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ON CAMPUS ARE PROCEEDING ON SCHEDULE. TRUSTEEES ALSO APPROVED A $1.7 MILLION DOLLAR BID FOR WORK TO BE DONE AT THE PRACTICAL ARTS BUILDING, THE ORIGINAL AMOUNT TO BE SPENT ON THE BUILDING WAS 460 THOUSAND DOLLARS, THE ADDITIONAL FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE DUE TO OTHER CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS COMING IN UNDER BUDGET.
Monday August 23 SOLAR ENERGY FARM COMING TO BIG SPRING THE PAPERWORK HAS BEEN SIGNED BY A SOLAR ENERGY GROUP FOR THE POTENTIAL SOLAR FARM IN BIG SPRING. IF ALL GOES SMOOTHLY HELIOS WILL PURCHASE THE 300 ACRE PLAT FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD FOR 85 THOUSAND DOLLARS AND THEN THE SITE PREPARATION PHASE OF THE PROJECT COULD START AS EARLY AS OCTOBER. HELIOS PLANS TO DEVELOP A 30 MEGAWATT FACILITY ON THE LAND. THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE OF THE PROJECT WOULD TAKE ONE AND A HALF TO TWO YEARS TO COMPLETE AND BRING 150 TO 200 CONSTRUCTION JOBS TO THE ARE. THE PROJECT WOULD CREATE 5 PERMANENT POSITIONS IN BIG SPRING. THE GROUP WILL ALSO DEVELOP A PROGRAM IN TANDEM WITH HOWARD COLLEGE AND THE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTS CREATING A TRAINING LAB FOR STUDENTS. HELIOS LAUDED THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD FOR THE SPEED IN WHICH THEY MADE THINGS HAPPEN FOR THIS PROJECT.
Friday August 20 BIG SPRING MAN ACQUITTED A BIG SPRING MAN HAS BEEN FOUND NOT GUILTY IN HIS INFANT SONS DEATH. 23-YEAR OLD JESSIE COLLINS WAS ON TRIAL FOR THE APRIL 2009 DEATH OF HIS TWO MONTH OLD SON. AUTOPSY RESULTS SHOWED THE CHILD DIED OF BLUNT FORCE TRAUMA TO THE HEAD; COLLINS CLAIMED HE ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED THE CHILD. THE JURY DELIBERATED FOR APPROXIMATELY AN HOUR BEFORE RETURNING A NOT GUILTY VERDICT.
GEO GROUP MERGES WITH CORNELL GEO GROUP A PRIVATE PROVIDER OF CORRECTIONAL, DETENTION AND RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT SERVICES TO ALL LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT HAS MERGED WITH CORNELL COMPANIES. GEO ACQUIRED CORNELL FOR STOCK AND CASH. GEO NOW MANAGES AND OR OWNS 119 FACILITIES WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 81 THOUSAND BEDS AND 8 NON RESIDENTIAL SERVICES CENTERS WITH A TOTAL CAPACITY OF 14 HUNDRED BEDS. THE MERGER IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE GEO REVENUE BY AS MUCH AS 400 MILLION DOLLARS ANNUALLY.
Wednesday August 18 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BACKS EXPANSION OF MEDICAL CLINIC THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD HAD A BUSY MEETING LAST NIGHT PASSING A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE EXPANSION OF THE HOWARD COUNTY MEDICAL CLINIC. WHILE NO FUNDING HAS BEEN SECURED IT IS THE START OF A PROCESS TO OBTAIN FEDERAL FUNDING. THE CLINIC ITSELF WOULD BE A SATELLITE OF SOUTH PLAINS RURAL HEALTH SERVICES. SOUTH PLAINS COULD THEN APPLY FOR FUNDS TO EXPAND TO HOWARD COUNTY PUTTING THE CLINIC ONE STEP CLOSER TO ACHIEVEING THE EXPANSION THEY DESIRE SO THEY CAN BETTER SERVE UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED RESIDENTS OF HOWRD COUNTY. IN OTHER ACTIONS THE BOARD APPROVED A NEW SOLAR PROJECT FOR THE AREA. RRE BIG SPRING SOLAR LLC HAS REQUESTED FIRST OPTION TO PURCHASE 300 ACRES OWNED BY THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD IN ORDER TO BUILD A SOLAR FACILITY THAT COULD HAVE A CAPACITY OF 60 MEGAWATTS. THEY ARE PRESENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF COMPLETING THE NECESSARY PAPERWORK TO FINALIZE THE DEAL THAT WOULD GIVE THEM A 120 DAY OPTION ON THE LAND PURCHASE. IF THE LAND MEETS THEIR SPECIFICATIONS THE COMPANY WOULD SPEND 240 MILLION DOLLARS TO CONSTRUCT THE FACILITY OVER A 2 TO 3 YEAR PERIOD BRINGING HUNDREDS OF JOBS TO THE AREA. THE BOARD ALSO APPROVED A 14 THOUSAND DOLLAR FORGIVEABLE LOAN TO AMERICAN LIMESTONE FOR PURCHASE OF EQUIPMENT FOR THE COMPANY. THE LOAN WOULD BE FORGIVEABLE IF THE COMPANY MEETS CERTAIN PAYROLL AND EMPLOYMENT BENCHMARKS WITHIN A FIVE YEAR SPAN.
Tuesday August 17 AQUATIC CENTER STILL ON SCHEDULE IT COULD BE CLOSE BUT THE CITY IS STILL PLANNING ON MAKING THE SCHEDULED DATE OF MAY 2011 FOR THE OPENING OF THE NEW AQUATIC CENTER. ARCHITECTS ARE PUTTING THE FINISHING TOUCHES ON THE DRAWINGS FOR THE NEW FACILITY AND THE PROJECT WILL GO OUT FOR BIDS AUGUST 24TH. THE COUNCIL EXPECTS TO OPEN THE BIDS IN LATE SEPTEMBER. A DECISION ON AWARDING THE CONSTRUCTION BID WOULD BE MADE SOME TIME AFTER THAT. PRESENTLY THE DESTRUCTION OF THE OLD CITY POOL CONTINUES AND HOPES ARE THEY CAN CONTINUE TO USE BULLDOZER ONLY TO CLEAR THE SITE IN PREPARATION FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW AQUATIC CENTER. A LARGE ROCK WAS DISCOVERED DURING THE DEMOLITION PROCESS AND IF IT CANNOT BE CLEARED BY THE BULLDOZER IT MAY REQUIRE THE USE OF A LARGER EXCAVATION DEVICE OR BLASTING TO REMOVE THE ROCK.
Saturday August 14 PROPOSED TAX RATE FOR BSISD SET FOR FINAL APPROVAL AUGUST 31ST. THERE WERE NO CHANGES TO THE PROPOSED BUDGET AND TAX RATE PRESENTED BY THE BIG SPRING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT. THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL REMAINED AT $1.4495 PER 100 DOLLARS OF VALUATION. IT IS EXPECTED THE AVERAGE INCREASE IN PROPERTY TAXES WILL BE JUST UNDER 69 DOLLARS PER HOUSEHOLD. THE FINAL MEETING ON THE BUDGET IS SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 31ST AT 5:15 PM IN THE HIGH SCHOOL BOARD ROOM. IN OTHER ITEMS ON THE AGENDA. THE BOARD DID APPROVE AN INTEREST PAYMENT OF JUST OVER 193 THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE RECENT BOND ISSUE THAT IS DUE DURING THE UPCOMING FISCAL YEAR TH BOARD DID AWARD FLAGSHIP STATUS TO KBST RADIO FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR. WE WILL BE BRINGING YOU BIG SPRING STEER FOOTBALL ALL SEASON LONG AND WILL BRING ALL DISTRICT ACTION FOR VOLLEYBALL, BASKETBALL, BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL PLUS OTHER SELECTED EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR
Friday August 13 CITY EMPLOYEES PURCHASE FIRE TRUCK FOR SISTER CITY. ARRANGEMENTS ARE PRESENTLY BEING MADE TO DELIVER A FIRE TRUCK TO OUR SISTER CITY IN SAN MUGUEL EL ALTO, MEXICO. THE OLD ENGINE WAS RECENTLY PURCHASED BY A GROUP OF CITY EMPLOOYEES FOR ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS. THE 1987 PIERCE FIRE ENGINE HAD BECOME EXTREMELY COSTLY FOR THE CITY TO KEEP UP AND THE CITY EMPLOYEES KNEW OF THE NEED FOR A FIRE ENGINE IN SAN MIGUEL. THE TRUCK HAD BEEN PUT ON A GOVERNMENT WEBSITE BUT NO BIDS CAME IN AND THAT IS WHEN THE CITY EMPLOYEES DUG DEEP AND PURCHASED THE VEHICLE.
SUSPECTS ENTER NOT GUILTY PLEAS IN JUNE HOME INVASION ROBBERY INDICTMENTS THREE MEN INDICTED ON CHARGES RELATED TO THE JUNE HOME INVASION ROBBERY IN BIG SPRING HAVE PLEAD NOT GUILTY. CLIFFORD ANGLIN, FELIX JARAMILLO AND PHILLIP MARTINEZ WERE INDICTED ON AGGRAVATED ROBBERY FOR THEIR PART IN THE ROBBERY DURING WHICH THE HOMEOWNER WAS PISTOL WHIPPED IN FRONT OF HIS TWO SMALL CHILDREN. TRIALS FOR ALL THREE MEN ARE SET FOR NEXT MONTH. TWO OTHERS HAVE BEEN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE CRIME, 28 YEAR OLD ABEL GUZMAN HAS NOT BEEN INDICTED YET, AND A 16 YEAR OLD JUVENILE WHO’S CASE IS BEING HANDLED IN THE JUVENILE COURT SYSTEM.
Monday August 9 CROSBY NEW VP OF REFINING FOR ALON USA JIMMY CROSBY HAS BEEN INTODUCED AT VICE PRESIDENT OF REFINING FOR ALON USA SATURDAY. CROSBY HAS BEEN WITH THE COMPANY SINCE 2000 WHEN HE WAS GENERAL MANAGER OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING AND HAS 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE RFEFINERY INDUSTRY. CROSBY HAS ORIGINALLY BEEN SCHEDULED TO TAKE OVER AS REFINERY MANAGER IN 2009 BUT A RESPIRATORY ILLNESS HOSPITALIZED HIM FOR SEVEREAL MONTHS.
INDICTMENTS HANDED DOWN IN HOME INVASION BURGLARY. THREE SUSPECTS HAVE BEEN INDICTED IN THE JUNE 3RD HOME INVASION BURGLARY THAT OCCURRED IN BIG SPRING. CLIFFORD LEON ANGLIN, FELIX LEE JARAMILLO AND PHILLIP G. MARTINEZ WERE ALL CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED BURGLARY FOR THEIR PART IN THE INCIDENT. MARTINEZ HAS ALSO BEEN INDICTED ON A CHARGE OF DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE FROM DECEMBER 2009. THE THREE ARE PRESENTLY BEING HELD AT THE HOWARD COUNTY JAIL. TWO OTHERS HAVE BEEN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION WITH THE CRIME 28 YEAR OLD ABEL GUZMAN AND A 16 YEAR OLD JUVENILE.
Friday August 6 HELP FOR THE BIG SPRING AND HOWARD COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTS. EAGLE SCOUT CANDIDATE MATTHEW THOMPKINS AND WESTERN BANK PRESIDENT JOHN SCOTT HAVE TEAMED UP TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR THE BIG SPRING AND HOWARD COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO SPOT HYDRANTS. THOMPKINS AND SCOTT CAME UP WITH THE IDEA OF INSTALLING BLUE REFLECTORS ON THE ROADS TO SIGNIFY A FIRE HYDRANT IS NEARBY. WESTERN BANK PURCHASED NEARLY 11 HUNDRED REFLECTORS, 800 OF WHICH WOULD BE USED IN BIG SPRING WITH THE REMAINING BEING USED IN COAHOMA AND FORSAN. SCOTT IS PRESENTLY ORGANIZING THE INSTALLATION OF THE REFLECTORS WITH HOPES OF HAVING THEM ALL INSTALLED BY THE START OF SCHOOL. RIGHT NOW THE GREATER BIG SPRING ROTARY CLUB, A LOCAL BOY SCOUT TROOP AND FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH YOUTH GROUP HAVE COMMITTED TO INSTALLING THE REFLECTORS BUT MORE VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A PART CONTACT JOHN SCOTT AT WESTERN BANK 466-0000. VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED FROM COAHOMA AND FORSAN AS WELL.
HOWARD COLLEGE CONSIDERING RAISES HOWARD COLLEGE IS CONSIDERING RAISES ACROSS THE BOARD FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES. WITH THE STATE MANDATED CUTS HAVE ALSO COME A REDUCTION IN THE PORTION OF HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS PAID FOR BY THE STATE. THE COLLEGE IS CONSIDERING THE RAISES TO HELP OFFSET THE ADDITIONAL AMOUNT OF MONEY EMPLOYEES WILL BE PAYING FOR THEIR HEALTH INSURANCE. THE RAISES WILL NOT AFFECT THE TAX RATE OF SET FOR THE 2010-2011 FISCAL YEAR.
Wednesday August 4 GOOD NEWS FOR BIG SPRING ISD THE STATE OF THE BIG SPRING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT CONTINUES TO RISE. A VOTER APPROVED SIXTY MILLION DOLLAR BOND ISSUE WILL BRING MUCH NEEDED RENOVATIONS AND UPGRADES TO THE DISTRICT. NOW COMES THE WORD EVERY SCHOOL IN THE DISTRICT HAS BEEN RATED AS ACADEMICALLY ACCEPTABLE, THE FIRST TIME THAT HAS OCCURRED SINCE 2007. MOSS ELEMENTARY RECEIVED RECOGNIZED STATUS AND THE GOAL SET BY SUPERINTENDENT STEVEN SALDIVAR IS FOR THE ENTIRE DISTRICT TO BE RECOGNIZED IN 2011, A GOAL HE FEELS THE DISTRICT WILL ATTAIN. SALDIVAR CITED THE TEACHERS FOR THEIR HARD WORK IN GETTING THE DISTRICT BACK UP TO ACCEPTABLE STATUS.
GARCIA CLAIMS 5TH STRAIGHT CITY GOLF TITLE CHARLES GARCIA CLAIMED HIS FIFTH CONSECUTIVE CITY GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP SHOOTING A 144 FOR THE TWO DAY EVENT. SUZIE HERNANDEZ WON THE WOMEN’S COMPETITION WITH A 151 AND JIM ROGER WON THE SENIOR DIVISION WITH A 154. IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP B FLIGHT COLIN CARROLL CAME AWAY WITH THE VICTORY SHOOTING A 150, MIKE MCMILLAN WON THE SECOND FLIGHT WITH A 167, BOB SCHAFER TOOK THE THIRD FLIGHT WITH A 164 AND JEFF ATKERSON TOOK THE 4TH FLIGHT WITH A 191
Friday July 30 CITY COUNCIL WORKING ON BUDGET AND CHARTER THE BUDGET FOR THE CITY APPEARS TO MOVING ALONG SMOOTHLY. THE CITY COUNCIL HAS DECIDED TO POSTPONE MEETINGS IT HAD SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT AND TOMORROW NIGHT. AS OF RIGHT NOW THE BUDGET APPEARS TO BE BALANCED. IT IS LOOKING LIKE THE PROPERTY TAX WILL GO DOWN BY NEARLY 1 AND A HALF CENTS FOR THE UPCOMING YEAR DROPPING BELOW ONE DOLLAR PER 100 DOLLARS OF PROPERTY VALUATION. IN OTHER NEWS THE CITY AWARDED THE BID FOR THE NEW COMPACTOR FOR THE LANDFILL TO WARREN CAT. THE NEW COMPACTOR WILL COME WITH A COST OF 347 THOUSAND 5OO DOLLARS BUT WITH BUYBACK GUARANTEES AND THE EXTENSION OF THE LIFE OF THE LANDFILL BY TWO AND A HALF YEARS WILL OFFSET THE COST OF THE COMPACTOR. THE COUNCIL ALSO DISCUSSED POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THE CITY CHARTER, ONE CHANGE WOULD BE ADDING IN TERM LIMITS FOR THE MAYOR AND FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS. IN ADDITION THE COUNCIL WILL LOOK AT POSSIBLY ADJUSTING THE MAYORS VETO POWER TO REQUIRE A TWO THIRDS MAJORITY VOTE TO BE OVERRIDDEN, PRESENTLY IT TAKES A SIMPLE MAJORITY TO OVERRIDE THE VETO. THOSE ITEMS WILL BE DISCUSSED AT A LATER DATE.
STATE GIVE OK FOR NATURE CENTER IT WAS GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS FOR THE FRIENDS OF THE STATE PARK. THE GROUP HAS BEEN SEEKING STATE AND LOCAL FUNDING FOR THE PROPOSED NATURE CENTER. STATE OFFICIALS VISITED RECENTLY AND WERE GIVEN A TOUR OF THE SITE AND WERE SHOWN PLANS FOR THE NATURE CENTER. A LETTER FROM TPDW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CARTER SMITH DID GIVE AN OFFICIAL STATE OK FOR THE PROJECT BUT FUNDING WILL NOT COME ANYTIME SOON, HOWEVER THE STATE WILL OFFER ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANCE. FRIENDS OF THE STATE PARK HAVE RAISED ABOUT 70 THOUSAND DOLLARS SO FAR. PLEDGES AND DONATIONS FOR THE PROJECT CAN BE MADE LOCALLY AT THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT 215 WEST THIRD STREET.
Tuesday July 27 RECOMMENDED BUDGET CUTS COULD LIMIT WEST TEXAS CENTERS FOR MHMR
A GOVERNOR DIRECTED TEN PERCENT BUDGET REDUCTION MAY CAUSE WEST TEXAS CENTERS FOR MHMR TO SEE FEWER PATIENTS IN THEIR SERVICE AREA AND CAUSE THOSE IN NEED OF HOSPITALIZATION TO GO WITHOUT. ALL STATE AGENCIES WERE ORDERED BY GOVERNOR RICK PERRY TO REDUCE 2012-2013 BUDGETS BY TEN PERCENT EARLIER THIS SUMMER. THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES FUNDS WEST TEXAS CENTERS FOR MHMR AND THE BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL. THAT AGENCY HAS RECOMMENDED A 138 MILLION DOLLAR CUT IN ITS BUDGET. 90 MILLION OF THAT WILL COME FROM MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, FOUR MILLION WILL COME FROM SUBSTANCE ADDITION SYSTEMS AND 44 MILLION FROM THE STATE HOSPITAL SYSTEM. THE TEXAS COUNCIL OF MHMR CENTERS BELIEVES MORE THAN TWENTY THOUSAND TEXANS WILL LOSE ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE IF THE LEGISLATORS ADOPT THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATIONS. PRESENTLY TEXAS IS RANKED 49TH IN STATE FUNDING FOR MENTAL HEALTH.
NEW ADDITIONS TO BIG SPRING POLICE
THERE ARE SOME NEW MEMBERS TO THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT. THREE NEW MOBILE CRIME UNITS HAVE REPLACED THE TAHOES THAT HAD BEEN USED FOR SUCH PURPOSES IN THE PAST. THE FORD TRANSITS HAVE BEEN MODIFIED FOR THE TECHNICIANS AND WILL BE A MUCH BETTER FIT FOR THE TYPE OF WORK THEY WILL BE DOING. HAVING THREE VEHICLES WILL ALSO ALLOW MORE COVERAGE FOR THE CRIME UNIT. TWO OF THE VEHICLES WERE PURCHASED WITH MONEY FROM THE CITY BUDGET, ONE WAS PURCHSED USING GRANT MONEY.
Thursday July 15 Coppell Mayor, Teenage Daughter Dead in Possible Murder-Suicide
(Coppell, TX) -- Residents in the Dallas-area community of Coppell, Texas are woke up to shocking news Wednesday morning. Their mayor and her teenage daughter were found shot to death at their home last night and police are investigating this as a possible murder-suicide. Coppell city spokeswoman Sharon Logan says Mayor Jayne Peters did not show up at City Hall for Tuesday night's city council meeting. No one had heard from her all day so, about 7:45 p.m. police were sent to her home where the two women were found dead. Police were still at the house into the early morning hours but there are few details available. Peters and her 19-year-old daughter lived in the home alone. Corinne Peters graduated from Coppell High School in June. Jayne Peters had served on the Coppell City Council since 1998 and became mayor last year.
Study Ranks Texas Number One For Business
(Austin, TX) -- A new CNBC study ranks Texas as America's Top State for Business. Governor Rick Perry said Tuesday that the designation reinforces the fact that the Lone Star State is the best state in the nation to live, work and raise a family thanks to its low taxes, reasonable and predictable regulations and skilled workforce. Perry says those policies have helped keep the state's economy comparatively strong through the national economic downturn and will continue to make Texas globally competitive in the future. CNBC scored each state using publicly available data to determine the rankings. States received points based on ten broad categories including cost of doing business, economy, education, quality of life, technology and innovation, transportation and cost of living.
HC Dedicates Building To Honor McKinney
Howard College will be recognizing one of their own during a building dedication ceremony to be held Monday, July 19th for the recently named Don McKinney Center for Career Technical Education.
The occupational trades building was recently renamed by the HC Board of Trustees and on the 19th will officially be dedicated during a ceremony honoring McKinney and others that were instrumental in the initial planning and construction of the building.
McKinney, who passed away in December of 2008, served the Howard County community for over 36 years as an active member of the Howard College Board of Trustees.
“Don McKinney was driven with a passion for education,” said Dr. John Freeman, Howard College Board of Trustees Chairman. “We are very grateful for his years of service and are pleased to have the opportunity to dedicate this building in his honor.”
The official ceremonies will begin at 1:15 pm in at the McKinney Center for Career Technical Education located south of Memorial Stadium on the HC campus. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Immediately following the ceremonies, refreshments and building tours will be provided.
MARK BARR SEEKS INTEREST IN 2011 COUNTY FAIR
AS KBST NEWS REPORTED TO YOU LAST YEAR WHEN THE DECISION WAS ORIGINALLY MADE, THE HOWARD COUNTY FAIR WILL NOT TAKE PLACE THIS YEAR. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THE HOWARD COUNT FAIR AT THAT TIME HAD A SPLIT VOTE IN FAVOR OF TAKING A BREAK FOR ONE YEAR AND THEN LOOK INTO "WHAT NEXT?". THE FAIR BOARD MET THIS WEEK AND ARE LOOKING TO THE FUTURE, BUT ARE ALSO HOPING TO SEE SOME INTEREST FROM OTHERS. ONE OF THE REASONS THEY DECIDED TO TAKE A BREAK THIS YEAR IS THE NEED FOR THOSE WHO ARE WILLING TO VOLUNTEER TO MAKE A HOWARD COUNTY FAIR ACTUALLY HAPPEN. COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR SPOKE WITH KBST WEDNESDAY AND WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM HOWARD COUNTY RESIDENTS THAT WOULD BE WILLING TO PUT ON NEXT YEAR'S COUNTY FAIR. MANY OF THOSE WHO HAVE PARTICIPATED IN THE PAST ARE GETTING OLDER, AND SOME "YOUNGER BLOOD" IS BEING SOUGHT. TIME, AND IN SOME CASES, A LITTLE "MUSCLE WORK" ARE REQUIRED FROM VOLUNTEERS TO MAKE IT ALL GO SMOOTHLY FOR THE WEEK OF THE HOWARD COUNTY FAIR. IF YOU WOULD BE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING FOR THE 2011 HOWARD COUNTY FAIR, OR HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ON THE ISSUE, PLEASE CALL HOWARD COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR SOON AT HIS COURTHOUSE OFFICE. THE NUMBER IS 264-2202, DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS. JUDGE BARR IS OUR GUEST MONDAY ON "KBST MORNING MAGAZINE".
BIG SPRING MAN INDICTED FOR EXPOSING SELF
A BIG SPRING MAN HAS REMAINED INCARCERATED IN A LUBBOCK COUNTY JAIL FACILITY SINCE BEING CHARGED WITH EXPOSING HIMSELF TO CHILDREN THROUGH A MOTEL WINDOW IN LUBBOCK LAST MONTH. 52 YEAR OLD KELLY DEAN ALLEN HAS NOW BEEN INDICTED FOR INDECENCY WITH A CHILD BY A LUBBOCK GRAND JURY. THE SUSPECT WAS IN HIS MOTEL ROOM WHEN THE INCIDENT ALLEGEDLY OCCURRED. NO OTHER DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE.
Wednesday July 14 BIG SPRING MAN CONVICTED OF ILLEGAL GAMBLING A BIG SPRING MAN HAS BEEN CONVICTED IN FEDERAL COURT ON INTERNET GAMBLING CHARGES. 55 YEAR OLD PHILIP DELL CLARK WAS CONVICTED OF TWO COUNTS OF OPERATING AN ILLEGAL GAMBLING ENTERPRISE AND TWO COUNTS OF MONEY LAUNDERING, ACCORDING TO COURT RECORDS. THE ILLEGAL ACTIVITY TOOK PLACE BETWEEN APRIL 2007 AND SEPTEMBER 2009 IN PORT ARTHUR, HENDERSON, NEDERLAND AND BEAUMONT, TX. SENTENCING WILL COME LATER. CLARK FACES UP TO 55 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON ON THE CONVICTIONS.
“NOT GUILTY” VERDICT IN INDECENCY TRIAL A BIG SPRING MAN WAS FOUND “NOT GUILTY” IN A SHORT TRIAL TUESDAY IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT. FREDDY HINOJOSA WAS CHARGED WITH INDECENCY WITH A CHILD IN A CAST THAT WAS REPORTED IN 2008. JURY SELECTION WAS MONDAY AND THE TRIAL GOT UNDERWAY TUESDAY MORNING. THE “NOT GUILTY” VERDICT CAME DOWN JUST A FEW HOURS AFTER THE TRIAL BEGAN.
State Law Requires Meningococcal Vaccine For College Students
(Undated) -- A new state law requires new or transfer students who plan to live in Texas college dorms to get vaccinated against meningococcal disease. Texas Medical Association officials say the new law may protect college students from the deadly disease that strikes young adults living in close quarters, such as dormitories. Officials say the new law is named the "Jamie Schanbaum Act" after the woman who contracted the disease back in 2008 while attending The University of Texas at Austin. Schanbaum survived the disease, but lost her legs and most of her fingers because of it. Fort Worth infectious disease specialist Dr. Donald Murphey says meningococcal comes on quickly, with symptoms much like the flu, and can be fatal within 24 hours. It's a bacterial infection that spreads through coughing and sneezing, sharing drinks or utensils, and kissing or other person-to-person contact. This is the first year for the requirement, so college students must get vaccinated at least ten days before moving onto campus.
One Day Trimmed From Stock Show Schedule
(Fort Worth, TX) -- Next year's Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo will be condensed down to 23 days instead of the traditional 24-day run. Stock Show president Brad Barnes says they didn't want their last day to compete with the Super Bowl, which will be played 18 miles to the East. He still believes attendance would have been the same on Super Bowl Sunday. He also says the new 23-day run will be permanent.
CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES ENDS WITH WITHDRAWAL OF REQUEST
NUMEROUS BIG SPRING RESIDENTS SPOKE DURING BOTH THE CITY PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD MEETING MONDAY NIGHT AND DURING THE TUESDAY EVENING CITY COUNCIL MEETING, MOST AGAINST A PROPOSED SENIOR CITIZENS APARTMENT COMPLEX THAT WAS PLANNED FOR THE RESIDENTIAL AREA NEAR BILGER, SOUTH OF COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. BUT BEFORE ANY DECISION COULD BE VOTED UPON BY CITY COUNCIL, THE DEVELOPERS WITHDREW THEIR ZONE CHANGE REQUEST IN THE COURSE OF DISCUSSION AND ABRUPTLY WALKED OUT OF THE MEETING. COUNCIL WENT AHEAD AND VOTED ON THE ISSUE AND IT FAILED. THAT WAS THE WAY THINGS APPEARED TO BE GOING ANYWAY AFTER MANY RESIDENTS WITH HOMES IN AND NEAR THE PROPOSED ZONE CHANGE AREA SPOKE OUT AGAINST THE IDEA, AND SO DID MOST CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TUESDAY NIGHT. THE PROPOSAL WOULD HAVE CHANGED THE AREA FROM A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING ZONE TO MULTIPLE FAMILY SO AS TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN APARTMENT COMPLEX CATERING TO THOSE 62 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER. THE PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD HAD PLACED NUMEROUS RESTRICTIONS AND RULES TO ENSURE THE INTEGRITY OF THE PROJECT WITHIN THE NEIGHBORHOOD, BUT RESIDENTS WEREN'T BUYING IT. CITY COUNCIL ALSO MOSTLY EXPRESSED THAT THE PROPOSED SENIOR CITIZENS COMPLEX WAS A GOOD IDEA, BUT WISHED IT COULD BE BUILT ON SOME OTHER PROPERTY ALREADY ZONED IN OUR COMMUNITY FOR SUCH A MULTIPLE DWELLING PROJECT. BIG SPRING IS A STATE CERTIFIED RETIREMENT COMMUNITY. THE APARTMENT COMPLEX WAS A PROPOSED $7 MILLION PROJECT, BUT AS WE STATED, WILL NOT BE MOVING FORWARD IN THE SUGGESTED NEIGHBORHOOD.
Tuesday July 13 COUNCIL TO HEAR ZONE PROPOSAL FOR PLANNED APARTMENTS BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY IS SCHEDULED TO HEAR A FIRST READING OF A REZONING ORDINANCE THAT WOULD ALLOW FOR A NEW SENIOR CITIZENS APARTMENT COMPLEX TO BE BUILT IN BIG SPRING. COLONIAL HILLS WOULD APPEAL TO AND ONLY ACCEPT SENIOR CITIZENS AS RESIDENTS IN AN APARTMENT COMPLEX PLANNED FOR AN AREA NEAR BILGER, SOUTH OF COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. THE ORDINANCE BEFORE CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY WOULD CHANGE THE ZONING IN THAT PORTION OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD FROM SINGLE FAMILY TO MULTPILE FAMILY DWELLING. THE READING BEFORE CITY COUNCIL WILL DEPEND ON ITS APPROVAL BY THE ZONING BOARD DURING THEIR MONDAY EVENING MEETING.
CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER PROMOTIONAL MEDIA IN AN EFFORT TO PROMOTE BIG SPRING, CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY WILL VOTE ON A PROPOSAL FOR AN AGREEMENT WITH A COMPANY CALLED C.G.I. COMMUNICATIONS. IF APPROVED, THE CITY WOULD ALLOW C.G.I. COMMUNICATIONS TO COMPILE VIDEO OF OUR COMMUNITY AND PRODUCE SEVERAL 2 MINUTE PROMOTIONAL VIDEO PROGRAMS THAT WOULD BE ACCESSIBLE THROUGH A CITY OF BIG SPRING LINK TO THEIR COMPANY WEBSITE, AND POSSIBLY ALSO TO BE SHOWN ON SUDDENLINK CABLE CHANNEL 17. IF CITY COUNCIL APPROVES THE THREE YEAR AGREEMENT IT WOULD COST THE CITY NOTHING. THE COMPANY WILL TRY TO SELL LOCAL SPONSORSHIPS TO LOCAL ADVERTISERS.
University Dorm Named After Racist Could Undergo Name Change
(Austin, TX) -- A student dorm on the campus of the University of Texas is facing a name change. The Simkins Residence Hall was named in the 1950s for William Stewart Simkins, who was a member of the Ku Klux Klan in the 1800s. The name change is being recommended by a 21-member advisory group that has concluded keeping the name of the building compromises the university's reputation. The name Creekside Dormitory has been suggested as a replacement. Simkins taught at the university's law school from 1899 until his death in 1929. Former University of Texas law professor Tom Russell did research on Simkins and uncovered his racist past. Simkins helped form the Ku Klux Klan in Florida after the Civil War. Russell says the school named the building after Simkins in the 1950s when the university faced the issue of allowing in African-American students. Portraits and a bust of Simkins were prominently displayed in the law school building even through the 1990s.
HANG GLIDING COMPETITION RETURNS TO BIG SPRING THE U-S HANG GLIDING CHAMPIONSHIPS RETURN TO BIG SPRING IN ABOUT A MONTH. THE EVENT GETS UNDERWAY IN AND AROUND THE MCMAHON-WRINKLE AIRPARK AUGUST 15TH-20TH. THE HANG GLIDING CHAMPIONSHIPS BRING DOZENS OF COMPETITORS AND THEIR SUPPORT CREWS WHO STAY IN OUR COMMUNITY FOR ONE WEEK. THE BIG SPRING AREA HAS BECOME VERY WELL KNOW FOR A GREAT MIXTURE OF EXCELLENT HANG GLIDING WEATHER CONDITIONS AND WONDERFUL WEST TEXAS HOSPITALITY. DAVID GLOVER WILL ONCE AGAIN BE COORDINATING THE EVENT THIS YEAR. IN THE PAST BIG SPRING HAS EVEN HOSTED THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS. ALTHOUGH NO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP THIS YEAR, THE U-S HANG GLIDING COMPETITION WILL ATTRACT PARTICIPANTS FROM NORTH AMERICA AS WELL AS OTHER COUNTRIES.
LOCAL AGGIE EVENT BRINGS JACKIE SHERRILL HERE THE LOCAL AGGIE CLUB HAS A SERIES OF BIG EVENTS THIS WEEKEND IN BIG SPRING THAT WILL INCLUDE A SPECIAL GUEST. JACKIE SHERRILL WILL BE A PART OF THE FESTIVITIES THIS SATURDAY THAT INCLUDES A GOLF TOURNAMENT. SKEET SHOOT, A MEET AND GREET WITH COACH SHERRILL AND MORE. ALL PROCEEDS GO TOWARD THE AGGIES SCHOLARSHIP FUND. THE GOLF TOURNAMENT TAKES PLACE AT THE BIG SPRING COUNTRY CLUB AND IS A FOUR PERSON SCRAMBLE WITH REGISTRATION AT 7:30 AM SATURDAY AND A SHOTGUN START AT 8 AM. THE SKEET SHOOT IS THAT AFTERNOON STARTING AT 3 O’CLOCK AT THE BOB AND JESSICA PRICE RANCH, FOLLOWED BY DINNER, THE MEET AND GREET WITH JACKIE SHERRILL AND THE LIVE AUCTION AT THE MOSS CREEK RANCH. HERE IS THE CONTACT AND R.S.V.P. INFO FOR EACH WEEKEND EVENT: GOLF TOURNAMENT- LYNN MORRIS 432-268-3333 SKEET SHOOT- KELLY GASKINS 432-517-0471 DINNER, MEET AND GREET AND LIVE AUCTION SARAH THOMAS 432-270-8868 ONCE AGAIN, ALL PROCEEDS FROM THIS WEEKEND’S EVENT GO TO THE TEXAS A&M SCHOLARSHIP FUND.
CHALET REVAMPS STORE, CHANGES HOURS
BIG SPRING – The Chalet Resale Shop operated by the Big Spring State Hospital Volunteer Services Council will revise its store hours beginning Monday.
The Chalet, 115 East 2nd Street, will open at 10 a.m. and close at 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. On Saturdays, The Chalet will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Other changes include a redesigned “Book Nook” that is more user-friendly and stocks more reading material, Chalet Co-Chair Ruth Nanny said.
“We have a volunteer who used to own a book store who can help shoppers make a book selection,” Nanny said.
The Chalet also features a large selection of bridal dresses and accessories as well as evening gowns.
Donations of good, used clothing and small household items are accepted during store hours. Volunteers also are needed to staff The Chalet.
For more information, call the hospital at 432 268-7535.
Monday July 12 FATAL ACCIDENT NEAR BIG SPRING
A FATAL ACCIDENT ON I-20 NEAR BIG SPRING TOOK THE LIVES OF TWO PEOPLE AND INJURED SEVERAL OTHERS. THE FAMILY OF FIVE WERE TRAVELING BETWEEN BIG SPRING AND MIDLAND WHEN THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND OVERCORRECTED, LEAVING THE ROAD AND ROLLING THE VEHICLE NEAR MILE MARKER 169. TWO PEOPLE, THE GRANDPARENTS OF THE FAMILY, WERE KILLED. THE ADULT PARENTS AND A GRANDCHILD WERE WERE INJURED AND TRANSPORTED TO SCENIC MOUNTAIN MEDICAL CENTER WHERE THEY WERE TREATED AND RELEASED. NO NAMES WERE AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT. NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE REPORTED INVOLVED IN THE FATAL ACCIDENT JUST WEST OF BIG SPRING FRIDAY EVENING.
Doctors Dropping Out Of Medicaid
(Undated) -- The "Dallas Morning News" reports in its Sunday edition that a number of north Texas doctors are planning to drop out of Medicaid because the government is expanding the scope of the program while at the same time reducing reimbursements paid to doctors who provide the care. The newspaper says only about 15-thousand of the state's 48-thousand practicing physicians are active in Medicaid, and the number has steadily declined over the past two decades. State lawmakers, meanwhile, have told the "Morning News" their problem is they have to deal with an 18-billion-dollar budget shortfall. Medicaid covers more than three-million poor, and the paper says many of them have nowhere else to go.
(Austin, TX) -- State sales tax revenue last month increased two-point-two-percent compared to June 2009. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs says total sales tax revenue last month totaled one-point-61-billion-dollars. She says total sales tax collections have exceeded year-ago levels for a third consecutive month. Net collections in the oil and gas and manufacturing sectors expanded, but collections from the retail sector were down from the year-ago level. Combs says while overall economic activity is no longer contracting, a resumption of solid growth in sales tax collections is not yet evident.
INDECENCY WITH A CHILD TRIAL MONDAY A BIG SPRING MAN ACCUSED OF INDECENCY WITH A CHILD WILL GO TO TRIAL IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT IN BIG SPRING MONDAY WHEN JURY SELECTION IS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN. FREDDY HINOJOSA IS ACCUSED OF INDECENCY WITH A CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 17. ASST. DISTRICT ATTORNEY ROBIN ORR WILL TRY THE CASE FOR THE STATE. THE DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR MR. HINOJOSA IS DON RICHARD. THE INDECENCY WITH A CHILD INCIDENT THAT LED TO THIS TRIAL WAS REPORTED BACK IN 2008, BUT ACTUALLY OCCURRED WELL BEFORE THEN, ACCORDING TO ROBIN ORR.
Friday July 9 C.R.M.W.D. SEES SOME EFFECT FROM RAINS GENERAL MANAGER FOR THE COLORADO RIVER MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT, JOHN GRANT, WAS A GUEST THURSDAY ON “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”, AND AMONG TOPICS DISCUSSED: RECENT RAINS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON AREA LAKES WITHIN THE C.R.M.W.D. SYSTEM. ACCORDING TO GRANT, LAKES SPENCE, THOMAS AND IVIE HAVE SEEN MINIMAL INCREASES IN LEVELS SINCE RAINS BEGAN A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, BUT IT’S ALL STILL POSITIVE. RECENT RAINS WILL ALSO IMPROVE GROUND WATER CONDITIONS, AND MORE RAIN ON THE WAY COULD SEE MORE FALLING ON THE C.R.M.W.D. “CATCHMENT” AREAS. JOHN GRANT TOLD KBST NEWS THAT THE RAIN ALSO HELPS THE C.R.M.W.D. BECAUSE WHEN IT RAINS PEOPLE USE LESS WATER TO DO THINGS LIKE WATER THEIR LAWNS, UNLESS OF COURSE THEY ARE ON AN AUTOMATED SPRINKLER SYSTEM. IN THAT CASE, GRANT RECOMMENDS HOMEOWNERS TURN THEIR AUTOMATED SYSTEMS OFF DURING RAINY PERIODS TO HELP CONSERVE WATER FOR THE NOT-SO-WET FUTURE, WHICH WILL COME. IT IS WEST TEXAS, AFTER ALL. WATER CONSERVATION IS A MESSAGE THE C.R.M.W.D. WILL ALWAYS DELIVER, RAIN OR NO RAIN.
Tropical Depression Forms In Gulf Of Mexico
(Undated) -- There's a new tropical depression churning in the Gulf of Mexico. Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida say the poorly-organized storm system formed late Wednesday and should come ashore along the Texas-Mexico border sometime Thursday. While the tropical depression remains largely unorganized, there are still concerns about what impact another major storm could have on efforts to clean up the massive BP oil spill. The region is still recovering from its recent brush with Hurricane Alex. As for now, the current storm system is located about 210 miles southeast of Brownsville. Its maximum sustained winds have been clocked at 35 miles per hour and a tropical storm warning has been issued for the lower Rio Grande valley along the border, from south of Baffin Bay, Texas all the way to Rio San Fernando, Mexico.
Attorney General Weighs In Against Rangers' Pre-Packaged Bankruptcy Plan
(Arlington, TX) -- The Texas Rangers' already-murky bankruptcy plans are now even muddier with the intervention of the state Attorney General. Wednesday, Greg Abbott asked the federal bankruptcy judge to toss out the team's re-organization plan because Abbott believes various tax-collecting governmental bodies get short-shrift. Some of the team's major lenders already oppose the plan because it will allow Tom Hicks to sell the team to Nolan Ryan and Chuck Greenberg for a lower bid than one offered by a Houston businessman. Even the federal bankruptcy trustee in the case wants to the judge to intervene by dumping the Rangers' bankruptcy lawyers because their close ties to Hicks led them to favor the Ryan-Greenberg bid. All of these roadblocks are may well delay the sale until after the July 31st Major League Baseball trading deadline. Many fans have been hoping new owners, with deep pockets, will be in place in time for the Rangers to acquire a top-of-the-line pitcher in time for the pennant stretch drive.
Rangers Fan Who Fell Receives Souvenir: The Foul Ball That Led to His Fall
(Arlington, TX) -- The Rangers fan who fell 30 feet from the Ballpark in Arlington's middle deck is now out of intensive care. Tyler Morris is at JPS in Fort Worth where he was moved to a regular hospital room yesterday. He has a skull fracture and a twisted ankle but his doctors think he'll be fine and should be sent home soon. Morris, a firefighter in Corinth, lunged for a foul ball Tuesday night and fell right over the second-deck railing. Despite the hard landing in the lower deck, he was conscious and able to speak with paramedics. Since Morris seemed to be feeling okay yesterday, he was getting a lot of visitors, including Rangers president Nolan Ryan who brought a souvenir; the foul ball that led to the fall.
“RAIDERS” FILM PRESENTATION POSTPONED THE SCHEDULED MOVIE PRESENTATION IN THE PARK, ORIGINALLY PLANNED FOR FRIDAY NIGHT, HAS BEEN POSTPONED DUE TO THE WEATHER FORECAST. THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY’S PRESENTATION OF “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” THAT WAS TO BE SHOWN TO THE PUBLIC FRIDAY NIGHT IN THE PARK AMPHITHEATER HAS BEEN MOVED TO JULY 31ST, A SATURDAY NIGHT. THE EVENT WILL STILL TAKE PLACE AT DARK INSIDE THE AMPHITHEATER THAT NIGHT, AND IS STILL FREE TO THE PUBLIC. ONCE AGAIN, “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” OUTDOOR MOVIE FOR THIS FRIDAY HAS BEEN MOVED TO SATURDAY, JULY 31ST.
CONTINUANCE GRANTED IN COP KILLER CASE A TRIPLE MUDER TRIAL THAT WAS TO TAKE PLACE IN BIG SPRING THIS SUMMER WILL NOT HAPPEN ON THE SCHEDULED TRIAL DATE. LARRY NEIL WHITE WAS SET TO GO ON TRIAL AUGUST 17TH IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SEPTEMBER 2007 SHOOTING DEATHS OF THREE ODESSA POLICE OFFICERS. MR. WHITE’S ATTORNEYS HAD SUCCESSFULLY REQUESTED A CHANGE OF VENUE TO HOWARD COUNTY LAST YEAR. BECAUSE OF LARRY NEAL WHITE’S POOR HEALTH DUE TO A BATTLE WITH CANCER, THE SUSPECT’S ATTORNEYS HAD RECENTLY REQUESTED A CONTINUANCE, AND THAT HAS NOW BEEN GRANTED BY A JUDGE. REPORTS SAY THE 90 DAY CONTINUANCE WILL ALLOW LARRY NEIL WHITE TO UNDERGO ANOTHER CHEMO-THERAPY TREATMENT FOR HIS STAGE 4 CANCER. NO NEW TRIAL DATE HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED.
Thursday July 7 PORTION OF HIWAY 87 SHUT DOWN
TRAVEL NORTH TO LUBBOCK COULD TAKE LONGER THAN YOUR USUAL JOURNEY DUE TO A FLOODED HIGHWAY 87. HIGHWAY 87 BETWEEN LAMESA AND TAHOKA HAS BEEN CLOSED BECAUSE OF FLOODING AND STANDING WATER. TRAFFIC IS BEING EXITED OFF 87 THERE AND SOME OF IT IS BEING RE-ROUTED TO BROWNFIELD ON HIGHWAY 137, THEN UP TO LUBBOCK. LAST REPORT WAS THAT THE SITUATION IS INDEFINITE, BUT TXDOT CREWS CONTINUE TO PUMP WATER OUT OF THE LOW LYING AREA WHERE THE FLOODING PERSISTS. NEARLT 10 MILLION GALLONS OF WATER HAD BEEN REMOVED FROM THERE AS OF WEDNESDAY EVENING.
Police Chief Makes First Public Statement Since Shootout Involving His Son
(Dallas, TX) -- Saying he's ready to get back to work, Dallas Police Chief David Brown is making his first public appearance since the death of his son who was killed in a Father's Day shootout with police in Lancaster where an officer and a civilian were killed by David Brown Junior. The chief has been grieving for more than two weeks but early this morning he spoke at a breakfast gathering of the North Texas Crime Commission. The speaking engagement was booked some time ago and Chief Brown decided he wanted to be there. He arrived in uniform and opened his remarks with some observations about his son's death. He also acknowledged a City Hall investigation into the controversy over the procession to the cemetery following his son's funeral. Two of Brown's top lieutenants ordered about a dozen motorcycle officers to accompany the procession, saying they were worried about possible accidents on Central Expressway. But the escort enraged many, including a large number of Dallas rank-and-file officers who viewed it as a kind of tribute to a drug-user and a cop-killer. Autopsy results showed that David Brown Junior had used PCP in the hours leading up to his shooting rampage.
Emergency Management Warn About Hurricane Flooding
(Austin, TX) -- Hurricane season is in full swing, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management is advising all Texans to plan for the effects of a storm. Officials say a hurricane or tropical storm from the Gulf of Mexico can cause major flooding, potentially affecting Texas counties hundreds of miles away from the area where it makes landfall. Rains produced by Hurricane Alex have been no exception, especially in the Rio Grande area. Weather and emergency management officials says if there is water running across a road, drivers should save their lives and their cars by turning around and choosing a different road. Six inches of water can cause tires to lose traction and begin to slide, while 12-inches of water can float many cars.
New List Focuses On Wanted Sex Offenders In Texas
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Department of Public Safety is targeting the state's most dangerous fugitive sex offenders. DPS has instituted the Texas Ten Most Wanted Sex Offenders program so the public can help locate the fugitives who are considered a threat to communities. The program identifies violent sex offenders who have either violated parole or failed to comply with sex offender registration. A one-thousand-dollar Crime Stoppers reward is being offered for tips leading to the arrest of one of the offenders. You can call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS. The Ten Most Wanted Sex Offenders are available on the DPS website at www.TXdps.state.TX.us/wanted.
SUPPORT GROUP MEETS THURSDAYS The West Texas Center for MHMR and the West Texas VA Health System will be participating in the Bring Everyone in The Zone program. The program is a support group for those suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. Some of the symptoms of the disorder are flashbacks, upsetting dreams, anger, self destructive behavior and trouble sleeping. West Texas Centers for MHMR acquired grant money for the program. Meetings are confidential and are led by those who are also suffering from PTSD. The group will meet Thursdays at 6:30pm at the VA Medical Center at 300 Veterans Boulevard. The meetings are free. For more information contact West Texas Centers veterans liaison officer Will Hoggard at 432-213-0494.
FOUR ARRRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES SEVERAL INDIVIDUALS WERE ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES WEDNESDAY. THE ARRESTS INVOLVED MARIJUANA POSSESSION AND FOUR PEOPLE WERE ARRESTED EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING. DETAILS WERE NOT AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT, BUT COUNTY JAIL LOG INFORMATION SHOWS THAT FOUR PERSONS WERE ARRESTED WEDNESDAY MORNING AND CHARGED FOR POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA, LESS THAN 2 OZ. THEY ARE: JOHNATHAN STERLING JACKSON, MICHAEL LEE PRESCOTT, RUBEN JAMES PEREZ AND RANNEL BRADLEY FOSTER. ALL FOUR WERE LAST REPRTED IN THE HOWARD COUNTY JAIL WEDNESDAY.
Wednesday July 6 Tarballs Found On Texas Beaches
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas General Land Office is working with the U.S. Coast Guard to respond to the state's first confirmed impact from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill following the discovery of tarballs on the coast. Officials say most of the five gallons of tarballs have been removed from the Bolivar Peninsula and Galveston Island. Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson previously said the state's impact from the spill would be in the form of tarballs, and he says the discovery shows their modeling is accurate. Patterson adds that any Texas shores impacted from the spill will be cleaned up quickly and that BP will be picking up the tab.
Crews worked Monday to remove about one gallon of tarballs from Crystal Beach on Bolivar Peninsula and about four gallons from East Beach on Galveston Island. Most of the tarballs range from three-eighths of an inch in diameter to just over an inch. Stewart Beach will be cleaned Tuesday after high tide and before the influx of beachgoers.
VETERANS BENEFITS FAIR SATURDAY A LOT OF TEXAS MILITARY VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES AREN’T AWARE OF SOME OF THE ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OUR STATE OFFERS IN ADDITION TO FEDERAL BENEFITS. KBST NEWS SPOKE THIS WEEK WITH TEXAS STATE LAND COMMISSIONER JERRY PATTERSON. THE TEXAS STATE LAND BOARD OVERSEES MANY VETERANS PROGRAMS. THE LAND BOARD IS ONE OF SEVERAL AGENCIES PARTICIPATING IN A VETERANS “BENEFITS FAIR” THIS SATURDAY AT THE UTPB GYMNASIUM STARTING AT 9 AM. FOR EXAMPLE THE TEXAS LANDBOARD OFFERS LOW INTEREST RATES TO TEXAS VETERANS FOR MORTAGES AND LAND PURCHASES, AND YOU CAN APPLY THESE BENEFITS TO ALREADY EXISTING FEDERAL BENEFITS IN MANY CASES. FIND OUT MORE INFORAMTION. THERE IS NO OBLIGATION. THE BENEFITS FAIR FOR VETERANS IS THIS SATURDAY FROM 9-1 AT THE UTPB GYM IN ODESSA.
BIG SPRING ANNIVERSARY APPROACHING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS FOR OUR BIG SPRING V.A ARE SOON APPROACHING! THINGS WILL BEGIN JULY 16TH, 10 AM, JUST OUTSIDE THE V.A. EVERYONE IS INVITED TO ATTEND THE EVENT, WHICH WILL INCLUDE AN OPENING CEREMONY, FOLLOWED BY TOURS AND REMINISCING, ACCORDING TO V.A. SPOKESWOMAN IVA JO HANSLICK. COME BE A PART OF THIS IMPORTANT ANNIVERSARY FOR A BIG SPRING ESTABLISHMENT.
Driver Dies After Jumping From Big Rig During Intentional Crash
(Houston, TX) -- A man who allegedly tried to crash his big rig to collect insurance money is dead after jumping from the moving vehicle in Houston this morning. Police say the incident happened on the Highway 59 North feeder road near Calvacade about 2:00 a.m. Authorities say a friend of the victim was traveling behind the truck when the driver jumped out and hit his head on the concrete. The witness told investigators that the driver planned to jump from the truck before it slammed into a concrete pillar to get the insurance payment.
10 STATE AND LOCAL OFFICIALS MEET ON PROPOSED “NATURE CENTER” AS KBST NEWS HAS REPORTED IN THE PAST, THERE’S A BIG EFFORT LED BY LOCAL RESIDENT JERRY WORTHY TO OBTAIN FUNDING FOR A NATURE CENTER AT OUR BIG SPRING STATE PARK. A NATURE CENTER WOULD BE A PHYSICAL STRUCTURE DESIGNED TO EDUCATE AND INFORM VISITORS ABOUT THE SURROUNDING HISTORY AND INDIGENOUS WILDLIFE IN OUR STATE PARK, WHICH IS VERY RICH. THE LOCAL SUPPORTING GROUP HAS BEEN MEETING OFTEN OVER THE PAST YEAR TO PLAN AND PROMOTE THE NATURE CENTER, WHICH WILL BE FUNDED LARGELY BY PRIVATE DONATIONS, AND HOPEFULLY WITH LOTS OF HELP FROM THE TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT. TEXAS PARKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CARTER SMITH WAS AMONG STATE OFFICIALS WHO GATHERED TUESDAY TO VISIT THE PARK AND TALK ABOUT THE PROPOSED NATURE CENTER IN BIG SPRING. SMITH TELLS KBST NEWS THAT HE IS VERY IMPRESSED WITH THE LOCAL VISION AND GRASS ROOTS EFFORT LED BY JERRY WORHTY TO BRING THIS PROJECT TO FRUITION IN THE FUTURE. OTHER STATE OFFICIALS MEETING IN BIG SPRING TUESDAY ON THE SUBJECT OF A PROPOSED NATURE CENTER AT THE STATE PARK INCLUDED STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOE HEFLIN, WHO CAUTIONS THAT WHILE THE SUPPORT IS VERY POSITIVE, IT IS ALSO VERY IMPORTANT FINANCIALLY IN THESE LEAN BUDGET YEARS AHEAD. THE PROPOSED NATURE CENTER WILL COST SEVERAL MILLION DOLLARS TO COMPLETE AS PLANNED. SUPPORTERS SAY IT WOULD FURTHER PROMOTE VISITATION TO OUR STATE PARK AND OVERALL TOURISM IN WEST TEXAS. THE GROUP KNOWN AS “FRIENDS OF THE STATE PARK” ARE CURRENTLY TAKING PLEDGES FOR FUTURE DONATIONS TO THE NATURE CENTER.
SENATOR SELIGER COMMENTS ON IMPORTANT APPOINTMENT STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER WAS RECENTLY APPOINTED BY LT. GOV. DAVID DEWHURST TO A VERY IMPORTANT POSITION THAT WILL EFFECT THE WAY WEST TEXAS IS REPRESENTED IN OUR STATE CAPITAL. AS WE REPORTED LAST WEEK SENATOR SELIGER HAS BEEN NAMED AS CHAIRMAN OF THE POLITICAL REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE, THE GROUP THAT WILL DEFINE HOW THE NEW POLITICAL DISTRICT LINES SHOULD BE DRAWN AFTER THE 2010 CENSUS IS COMPLETE. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH KEL SELIGER DURING A VISIT TO BIG SPRING THIS WEEK. HE SAYS THE CHAALLNEGES ARE MANY AS TEXAS GROWS IN POPULATION, BUT ALMOST ALL OF THAT NEW GROWTH IS GOING TO THE LARGER CITIES AND NOT NECESSARILY WEST TEXAS CITIES. POLITCIAL REDISTRICTING IS BY ITS OWN DESCRIPTION IS A “POLITICAL” PROCESS, AND NEVER VERY PRETTY AS BOTH PARTIES, REPUBLICAN AND DEMOCRAT, STRUGGLE FOR THE MOST CONTROL OF HOW LINES ARE DRAWN. THE REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE KEL SELIGER NOW CHAIRS IS MADE UP OF A GOOD MIX OF REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS. SENATOR SELIGER IS A REPUBLICAN. OUR OTHER AREA VOICE IN AUSTIN IS STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOE HEFLIN, A DEMOCRAT, BUT HE DOES NOT SERVE ON THE REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE.
Tuesday July 5 "POPS" CONCERT UPDATE
HERE'S AN UPDATE ON THE WEEKEND'S PATRIOTIC INDOOR "POPS" CONCERT. ALTHOUGH THE DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM HOLDS THOUSANDS, IT WAS NO SMALL CROWD THAT WEATHERED THE CONTINUOUS RAIN AND STEPPED INTO THE LAST-MINUTE VENUE CHANGE SATURDAY NIGHT. AN ESTIMATED 700 PEOPLE CAME OUT TO ENJOY THE WONDERFUL PRESENTATION BY THE BIG SPRING SYMPHONY AND CHORUS, ALONG WITH DANCING AND OTHER ENTERTAINMENT FROM REPRESENTATIVES OF BIG SPRING'S SISTER CITY, SAN MIGUEL EL ALTO, MEXICO.
QUAIL AND JUDY DOBBS HONORED AT COAHOMA EVENT
SPECIAL HONORS WENT TO TWO VERY SPECIAL AND DESERVING PEOPLE OVER THE WEEKEND DURING COAHOMA'S ANNUAL "FREEDOM PARADE" AND RELATED EVENTS. QUAIL AND JUDY DOBBS WERE HONORED AS "CITIZENS OF THE YEAR" BY THEIR COAHOMA FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. WITH A LONG HISTORY OF SERVICE TO THE HOWARD COUNTY COMMUNITY OVER THE YEARS, QUAIL DOBBS IS CURRENTLY A COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE AND JUDY HAS SERVED THE COAHOMA I.S.D. FOR NEARLY THREE DECADES. QUAIL WAS ALSO BESTOWED THE HONOR OF "COAHOMA'S FAVORITE SON" SATURDAY.
LOCAL SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT NOMINATED
STEVEN LONG, THE SUPERINTENDENT FOR THE GLASSCOCK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT HAS BEEN HONORED. HE WAS RECENTLY NOMINATED FOR "SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR" THROUGH THE TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL BOARDS. HE IS ONE OF 18 SUPERINTENDENTS NOMINATED. THE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE YEAR WILL BE NAMED IN SEPTEMBER.
OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE MEDICAL FLIGHT CRASH
OFFICIALS WITH THE FAA AND NTSB ARE INVESTIGATING A FATAL CRASH OF A MEDICAL FLIGHT PLANE EARLY SUNDAY MORNING IN BREWSTER COUNTY, NEAR ALPINE, TX. ALL FIVE PEOPLE ON BOARD DIED IN THE CRASH, AND ITS CAUSE REMAINS UNDER INVESTIGATION. THE MEDICAL FLIGHT WAS CARRYING MARY FOLGER OF MIDLAND, THE PATIENT, AND HER HUSBAND GUY RICHARD FOLGER, ALSO OF MIDLAND. OTHERS ON BOARD WERE THE PILOT, 59 YEAR OLD TED CAFFAREL, AND TWO FLIGHT NURSES, 42 YEAR OLD TRACY CHAMBERS OF ALPINE AND 49 YEAR OLD SHARON FALKENER OF FORT DAVIS. THE FLIGHT CREW WORKED FOR O'HARA FLYING SERVICE. THE FLIGHT WAS DEPARTING ALPINE AND HEADED FOR A MIDLAND HOSPITAL WHEN THE CRASH OCCURRED ABOUT A MILE AFTER TAKE OFF, KILLING EVERYONE ON BOARD.
Monday July 4 "POPS" EVENTS SPLIT / "PART 2" JULY 16
AS PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED, THE RAINEY WEATHER CAUSED THE ANNUAL "POPS IN THE PARK" SYMPHONY PERFORMANCE AND FIREWORKS TO BE REORGANIZED. THE BIG SPRING SYMPHONY AND CHORUS PRESENTATION WAS MOVED INDOORS OVER THE JULY 4TH WEEKEND AND PERFORMED THE PATRIOTIC MUSIC PROGRAM SATURDAY NIGHT AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM. THE FIREWORKS PORTION OF THE PROGRAM HAS BEEN MOVED TO ANOTHER DATE, JULY 16TH, BUT STILL AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. THE PROFESSIONAL FIREWORKS WILL CROWN THE "UNDER WEST TEXAS SKIES" EVENT WITH NEWS WEST 9, THE BIG SPRING C.V.B. AND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. THE OTHER HIGHLIGHT OF THE EVENT WILL BE THE RETURN OF "VOCAL TRASH" IN CONCERT AT THE PARK AMPHITHEATER THAT EVENING, JULY 16TH. IT WILL ALL BE FREE TO THE PUBLIC.
"RAIDERS" MOVIE PRESENTATION FRIDAY
SPEAKING OF THE PARK AMPHITHEATER IN BIG SPRING, THE VENUE WILL ALSO PLAY HOST TO THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY'S "RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK" OUTDOOR MOVIE PRESENTATION THIS FRIDAY, JULY 9TH, ALSO FREE TO THE PUBLIC. COME SEE THIS HOLLYWOOD ADVENTURE CLASSIC WITH HARRISON FORD, PROJECTED ONTO THE GIANT INFLATABLE SCREEN WITH PROFESSIONAL SOUND, AND ONCE AGAIN, IT'S FREE. THE MOVIE WILL BEGIN AT DARK THIS FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE HISTORICAL PARK AMPHITHEATER. JUST BEFORE THE FEATURE PRESENTATION, ORGANIZERS WILL PRESENT THE FINALISTS IN THE "INDIANA JONES SHORT FILM CONTEST". CONCESSIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON SITE. THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY FRIDAY MOVIES PRESENTATION IS ALSO SPONSORED BY THE BIG SPRING CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU.
RAINS DON'T RUIN SISTER CITY VISIT
EVEN THOUGH A BIG PART OF THEIR PLANNED ITINERARY INCLUDED LOCAL JULY 4TH FESTIVITIES LIKE "POPS IN THE PARK", THE RECENT RAINS HAVEN'T SPOILED THE VISIT OF LEADERSHIP FROM BIG SPRING'S SISTER CITY IN MEXICO, SAN MIGUEL EL ALTO. MEMBERS OF THE CITY'S CIVAL SERVICE, CITY COUNCIL AND OTHERS HAVE BEEN VISITING THE BIG SPRING COMMUNITY OVER THE PAST TWO WEEKS. THE SAN MIGUEL EL ALTO MAYOR AND HIS WIFE HAVE BEEN PART OF THE MEXICAN ENTOURAGE, TRAVELING MANY HOURS THROUGH INCLEMENT WEATHER TO ARRIVE HERE, MOST OF THEM LAST WEEK. MANY OF THE REPRESENTATIVES OF BOTH CITIES HELD A CULTURAL EXCHANGE FRIDAY AT THE HERITAGE MUSEUM. CIVIC AND CITY LEADERS HAVE BEEN EXCHANGING MANY IDEAS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OVER THE LAST WEEK OR SO, AND AS WE HAVE PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED, EXCHANGED MATERIAL GIFTS AS WELL.
FIREWORKS ALWAYS ILLEGAL IN CITY LIMITS
EVEN THOUGH JULY 4TH HAS COME AND GONE, THE SPIRIT, AND LEFTOVER FIREWORKS, LIVE ON. THE LATTER IS A NUISANCE FOR MANY RESIDENTS AS FOLKS WITH LEFTOVER FIREWORKS WILL GO ON POPPING THEM OFF UNTIL THEY FINALLY RUN OUT. JUST A REMINDER THAT USING FIREWORKS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF BIG SPRING IS ILLEGAL AND YOU CAN BE ISSUED A CITATION FOR A FINE WHEN CAUGHT. LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HAVE RESPONDED TO A LOT OF CALLS ABOUT FIREWORKS IN THE CITY, DAYS BEFORE AND INCLUDING SUNDAY, JULY 4TH.
CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION REMAINS
BECAUSE WE LIVE IN A SEMI-ARID CLIMATE, WEST TEXANS HAVE LEARNED TO NEVER CURSE THE RAINFALL, EVEN IF A LOT OF IT COMES DOWN ALL AT ONCE, AS OF LATELY. WHAT ISN'T USED RIGHT AWAY BY CROPS AND LAWNS, CONTRIBUTES TO OUR GROUNDWATER AND AREA RESERVOIRS WITHIN THE COLORADO MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT. AND, AS WE KNOW, MANY OF THOSE AREA LAKES ARE ONLY AT VERY SMALL PERCENTAGES OF THEIR CAPACITIES. EVENTS LIKE HURRICANE ALEX, WHILE CREATING LOCAL DANGERS LIKE FLASH FLOODING AND SOME INCONVENIENCES FOR OUTDOOR EVENTS, ARE LIFE GIVING AND NECESSARY IN THE BIG PICTURE OF THINGS HERE IN WEST TEXAS. THE CHANCE OF RAIN REMINS IN ONE FORM OR THE OTHER THROUGH MUCH OF THIS WORK WEEK. THE RAIN AND CLOUDS WILL CONTINUE TO BRING COOLER TEMPS THAN USUAL, WITH HIGHS REMAINING IN THE 80'S THIS WEEK, ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE.
Friday June 25 Environmental "Superhero" Honored With Volunteer Award
(Fort Worth, TX) -- An environmental "superhero" volunteer for Keep Fort Worth Beautiful is being honored for her work. Susan Johannes received Keep Texas Beautiful's prestigious Volunteer of the Year award this week in Austin. The stay-at-home mom and fitness instructor turned her passion for educating children about healthy lifestyles and protecting the environment into a superhero persona. As "Green Girl," complete with her superhero costume, Johannes leads educational programs for schools, churches and civic organizations. Keep Fort Worth Beautiful promotes citywide litter cleanup in neighborhood parks and creeks, graffiti removal and tree plantings.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles To Fly Along Texas-Mexico Border, Coast
(Washington, DC) -- The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle flights along the Texas-Mexico border and throughout the Gulf region. U.S. Senator John Cornyn said Wednesday afternoon that the approval paves the way for Customs and Border Protection to base UAVs at the Corpus Christi Naval Air Station and begin operations on September first, 2010. The FAA approved a 2008 request just last month, allowing UAV operations on the West Texas border from El Paso to Big Bend. A second request for the Corpus Christi COA was submitted in March 2010 to completely cover the Texas border and portions of the coast. Cornyn and U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison pressed FAA Administrator J. Randolph Babbitt to allow the UAV expansion, and the Texas Republicans say the FAA's approval will enhance security along the border.
Gov. Perry: Texas to Honor Those Impacted by Gulf Oil Spill
AUSTIN– Gov. Rick Perry has proclaimed Sunday, June 27, 2010, as a Day of Prayer in Texas for the Gulf Coast, following the explosion and sinking of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig that took 11 lives and has led to economic hardship for many others throughout the region.
"The Deepwater Horizon oil spill has impacted numerous lives along the Gulf Coast, especially those families who lost loved ones as a result of this incident,” Gov. Perry said. “I am joining Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour and Alabama Gov. Bob Riley in declaring June 27th a day of prayer to honor those who lost their lives and the many who have lost their livelihood as a result of this tragedy.”
Gov. Perry urges Texans of all faiths and religious traditions to offer prayer for the healing of individuals, the rebuilding of communities and the restoration of the entire Gulf Coast environment in the wake of this disaster.
POLICE CONTINUE TO SEEK HOME INVASION SUSPECTS
AFTER MAKING NUMEROUS ARRESTS RELATED TO THE CASE AND PUTTING OUT INFORMATION TO THE PUBLIC ABOUT ANOTHER SUSPECT, BIG SPRING POLICE CONTINUE THEIR INVESTIGATION AND ARE SEEKING MORE SUSPECTS IN THE ONGOING INVESTIGATION OF A HOME INVASION ROBBERY THAT TERRIFIED A BIG SPRING FAMILY SEVERAL WEEKS AGO. ONE MAN WAS INJURED IN THE COURSE OF THE CRIME, BUT WAS TREATED AND IS RECOVERING. THE FAMILY HAS TWO YOUNG CHILDREN THAT WITNESSED THE SCARY INCIDENT AS FIVE OR MORE SUBJECTS BURST INTO THEIR HOME ON STATE STREET THAT NIGHT AND DEMANDED MONEY AND GOODS. AS WE REPORTED THE NEST DAY TWO SUSPECTS WERE ARRESTED BY BIG SPRING POLICE ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CRIME, AND TWO OTHER ARRESTS SOON FOLLOWED WITHIN DAYS. AS KBST RECENTLY REPORTED POLICE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR 26 YEAR OLD CLIFFORD ANGLIN, AND CRIMESTOPPERS IS OFFERING A $1,000 REWARD FOR DETAILS LEADING TO HIS ARREST. POLICE SGT. TONY EVERETT TOLD KBST NEWS THURSDAY THAT THERE MAY BE MORE SUSPECTS BEYOND ANGLIN AND THEY REMAIN VERY ACTIVE ON THIS CASE.
Thursday June 24 BIG SPRING V.A. TO CELEBRATE 60TH THE BIG SPRING V.A. IS SOON CELEBRATING IT’S 60TH ANNIVERSAY. IT WASN’T TOO LONG AGO SOME PEOPLE WEREN’T SURE THE FACILITY WOULD STILL BE OPEN FOR THIS IMPORTANT EVENT, BUT THE V.A. REMAINS HERE WITH AN EXPANDED MISSION, AND NEW CONSTRUCTION TAKING PLACE. THE ANNIVERSAY IS BEING MARKED WITH A SPECIAL EVENT ON JULY 16TH AT THE BIG SPRING V.A. SPOKESWOMAN IVA JO HANSLICK SAYS THEY ARE ASKING THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN THE BIG SPRING V.A. OVER THE YEARS TO CONTACT HER OFFICE. YOU CAN REACH IVA JO HANSLICK AT HER BIG SPRING V.A. OFFICE AT 264-4824. YOU MAY EMAIL HERE AT iva.jo.hanslick@va.gov . The toll free number is 1-800-472-1365.
LARGE ITEM PICK UP FOR DISTRICT 4 FRIDAY THE CITY OF BIG SPRING WILL ONCE AGAIN BE OFFERING LARGE ITEM PICK UP WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE THIS FRIDAY IN DISTRICT 4, WHICH IS BASICALLY CENTRAL AND SOUTH-CENTRAL BIG SPRING. YOUR CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE IS GLORIA MCDONALD. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS SERVICE FROM THE CITY AND GET RID OF LARGE ITEMS SUCH AS OLD FURNITURE OR APPLIANCES, AND YOU LIVE IN DISTRICT 4, YOU MUST CONTACT CITY HALL IN ADVANCE (BY THURSDAY) AND LET THEM KNOW YOU PLAN TO HAVE A LARGE ITEM OR ITEMS CURBSIDE FOR PICK UP IN DISTRICT 4 THIS FRIDAY MORNING. CALL 264-2504 TO BE PUT ON THE LIST.
Avoid Child Deaths In Overheated Cars
(Undated) -- Each year approximately three dozen children in the U.S. die from being left unattended inside hot vehicles. There have already been 15-fatalities this year because children were left behind in the heat. Lorrie Walker with Safe Kids USA says a child should never be left alone in a car even if you're just planning on running in to a store for a moment. According to Walker a child's body heats up three to five times faster than an adult's does and it only takes a few minutes for a child to become dangerously overheated. Cracking the windows does not help either. In fact sunlight coming through car windows makes that car work like an oven. There have been five such deaths this year in Texas, two in Missouri and one each in Alabama, Florida, Ohio, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Michigan and Kentucky.
U.S. Census Reports Texas Growing In Population
(Austin, TX) -- The state of Texas continues to grow with the population now at more than 24-point-seven-million residents. Information released from the U.S. Census Tuesday shows that the fastest growing city in the nation is Frisco, Texas, with a population growth of more than 200-percent at just over 102-thousand residents. Houston's population is up more than 14-percent at nearly two-point-three-million, ranking it as the country's fourth largest city. San Antonio's population grew more than 18-percent, ranking seventh on the list with about one-point-four-million people. Dallas' population is up about nine-percent at nearly one-point-three-million residents, ranking it as the ninth largest city in the U.S. "USA Today" reports that the Lone Star State has escaped much of the economic downturn because of a diversified economy that includes oil and high-tech industries.
Austin Named Best City For Job Growth By Monster.com
(Austin, TX) -- Monster.com has named Austin as the best city for job growth. The employment solution website attributed Austin's success in creating and sustaining jobs to its favorable business climate, growing clean energy and technology initiatives, and collaboration between university and business researchers. Monster.com states that the city's business-friendly political climate and high concentration of entrepreneurs also aid in the continual job growth. Austin's Economic Growth and Redevelopment Services Office Director Kevin Johns says this type of recognition only enhances the city's reputation as a great place to live, work and conduct business.
BIG SPRING ADOPTS VENDORS ORDINANCE ALTHOUGH CERTAIN STREET VENDORS HAVE BEEN SELLING THINGS LIKE ICE CREAM OUT OF THEIR VEHICLES FOR DECADES, THE CITY F BIG SPRING NOW OFFICIALLY HAS AN ORDINANCE FOR THOSE TYPES OF OPERATIONS. CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY ADOPTED AN AMENDMENT TO THE CITY CODE THAT ALLOWS VENDING FROM VEHICLES WHOSE OPERATORS SUBMIT AND PASS ALL THE REQUIREMENTS. THE ORDINANCE SHOULD MAKE FOR A SAFER AND MORE CONSISTENT OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT, WHICH INCLUDES RULES FOR SIGNAGE AND REQUIRES A BACKGROUND CHECK OF OPERATORS.
BASKETBALL TOURNEY WILL BRING THOUSANDS TO BIG SPRING THE HAROLD DAVIS WEST TEXAS SHOOTOUT IS COMING TO OUR COMMUNITY THIS WEEKEND. THE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT WILL BRING IN 35 GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS FROM ALL OVER THE STATE. THE TOURNAMENT WILL BE USING ALL AVALIABLE SPORTS FACILITIES SUCH AS DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM AND STEER GYMNASIUM AND ABOUT A THOUSAND YOUTH PARTICIPANTS, FANS AND SPONSORS WILL BEE COMING INTO THE COMMUNITY, STAYING IN OUR LOCAL HOTELS AND EATING AT OUR LOCAL RESTAURANTS. THE HAROLD DAVIS WEST TEXAS SHOOTOUT IS BEING BROUGHT HERE BY ROY GREEN, A FORMER HAWKS STAR ATHLETE. GIVE A BIG “BIG SPRING WELCOME” TO THE HUNDREDS OF VISITORS IN TOWN THIS WEEKEND FOR THIS HUGE GIRLS BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT.
Wednesday June 23 SECOND ARREST IN GAMBLING PROBE MONDAY THE HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE MADE A SECOND ARREST IN A BIG SPRING GAMBLING PROBE THAT HAS BEEN ONGOING FOR SEVERAL WEEKS. SCOTT EMERSON WAS ARRESTED ON MISDEMEANOR CHARGES RELATED TO GAMBLING MACHINES AT HIS BUSINESS, GOLD RUSH, AT 804 E. 3RD. HIS CHARGES WERE SIMILAR TO THOSE OF KARLA KAY NIX, WHO OPERATES BEDAZZLED, 1907 BIRDWELL LANE. NIX WAS ARRESTED A COULE OF WEEKS AGO. SCOTT EMERSON HAD AN ADDITIONAL CHARGE OF POSSESSION OF TOBACCO WHERE TAX IS DUE, RELATED TO HIS SMOKE SHOP. THAT CHARGE COMES FROM THE STATE COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE. THE GAMBLING INVESTIGATION IS BEING CONDUCTED RIGHT NOW THROUGH THE SHERRIF, POLICE AND COMPTROLLER OFFICE, THOUGH OTHER AGENCIES MAY GET INVOLVED LATER. THE THIRD BUSINESS, CHEROKEE INTERNET CAFÉ, 1600 E. 4TH, WAS ALSO PART OF A RAID IN MAY THAT NETTED OVER 100 MACHINES AND COMPUTERS RELATED TO GAMBLING, ACCORDING TO AUTHORITIES. 8 LINERS AND INTERNET GAMBLING COMPUTERS ARE THE PRIMARY DEVICES THAT WERE USED BY THE ESTABLISHMENTS, SAY INVESTIGATORS, WHERE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS ACTING AS STORE PATRONS PAID A FEE TO WIN CASH AND GIFT CARDS. THE OWNER OF CHEROKEE INTERNET CAFÉ HAS YET TO BE ARRESTED, AS OF TUESDAY.
Perry In China, Taiwan To Expand Texas Business
(Taipei, Taiwan) -- Governor Rick Perry will be heading back to Texas Wednesday after spending some time in Asia. Perry met with several business leaders and government officials in Taiwan on Monday and says his visit to China last week focused on jobs, exports and foreign investment in Texas. Perry and a delegation of Texas business and government leaders started their trip in China last week at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai. They attended the "Salute to Texas Week" at the U.S.A. National Pavilion and hope their visit will expand the state's visibility in the world marketplace. Perry's office says the governor's trips are being paid for by TexasOne, and no tax dollars were used.
Dallas Police Chief's Son Suspected In Officer's Murder
(Lancaster, TX) -- Authorities now believe the son of Dallas Police Chief David Brown was the suspect in a Sunday night shooting that left a Lancaster police officer and another man dead. Authorities believe 27-year-old David O'Neal Brown, Junior fatally shot 23-year-old Jeremy McMillan at the River Bend apartment complex about 6 p.m. Investigators say Brown also fatally shot Officer Craig Shaw when he responded to the scene. Shaw returned fire, killing Brown. Authorities say Brown's son had a prior misdemeanor drug conviction in 2003 after pleading no contest. Shaw is the first Lancaster police officer to be shot and killed in the line of duty.
Investigation Continues Into Father And Son Drowning Deaths
(Austin, TX) -- The investigation continues into the weekend drowning deaths of a father and his young son north of Austin. Police are wondering why 31-year-old Scott Douglas Hughes' car drove into Lake Georgetown around 2 Sunday morning. The bodies of Hughes and his five-year-old son Ethan Hughes were recovered from the lake. According to witnesses at a campground, the car backed into a tree and drove into the lake at a normal speed with the windows rolled up. Police are waiting on toxicology tests.
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The booming Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area added more residents during the past decade than any other city in the United States. According to the latest Census Bureau figures released Tuesday, the population of the sprawling Texas metro area grew by about 1.3 million people, or 25%, between April 1, 2000, and July 1, 2009. The population is now estimated at 6.5 million residents, but an exact count won't be available until the 2010 census is complete. The Palm Coast metro area in Florida had the highest percentage increase in growth. Its population exploded by 84% over the nine-years-plus covered by the Census Bureau report. But even after the jump there were only about 92,000 people living in the area. Dallas's attractions include a very favorable business climate, according to Mayor Tom Leppert. There's no corporate income tax, building costs are relatively reasonable and regulations are minimal. Helping to drive growth is the area's main airport, Dallas/Fort Worth International, the third busiest in the nation. What it has lacked in the past -- a vibrant downtown -- is starting to develop. Recent additions include a huge new arts center, urban park, light rail system and new housing. These have bolstered
Hutchison Strongly Supports John Glenn Statement on NASA First American to Orbit Earth Says Shuttle Retirement Should Be Put on Hold
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said she strongly supports former Ohio Senator and astronaut John Glenn’s statement highlighting the risks of relying only on the Russian Soyuz vehicles for American access to the International Space Station. Senator Hutchison has consistently stated that any compromise between the Constellation program and the President's budget proposal should include a short-term extension of the shuttle program in order to protect the nation’s $100 billion investment in the space station. She noted that additional shuttle flights would sustain and utilize the space station to conduct ground-breaking research and help maintain the primary justification for continuing America’s human space flight capability.
“Senator Glenn's thoughtful comments come from someone with a deep connection to the space program and a strong understanding of the current political process through which we must find a compromise,” said Senator Hutchison. “Conversations to date have failed to focus on preserving our capabilities in low Earth orbit with the lowest possible risk of loss to the space station. I strongly agree with Senator Glenn, and the concerns expressed by many others, that the simultaneous cancellation of the Constellation program and the retirement of the space shuttle threatens our access to and use of the space station. The decision to retire the shuttle fleet was made based on a plan to have commercial cargo resupply capabilities available soon after the final shuttle flight, and an expected station service date of 2015. The simple fact is that since the shuttle retirement decision was made, the service life of the space station has been extended until 2020 and new commercial cargo capabilities have experienced significant delays.”
Earlier this year, Senator Hutchison introduced legislation, S.3068 - the Human Space Flight Capability Assurance and Enhancement Act, to close the gap in U.S. human space flight that will occur if the space shuttle is retired before the next generation of space vehicle is developed. Senator Hutchison’s bill would let NASA extend the shuttle’s service if needed as work continues on a replacement vehicle. This short-term extension would allow a study to be completed to determine the parts and equipment needed to extend the space station’s service life from 2015 to 2020.
“We need time to assess the station's equipment needs from now until commercial cargo capabilities come on line to ensure the station's survivability and full utilization, both in the short run and until 2020,” Senator Hutchison said. “I have proposed several options to extend the space shuttle, some of which do not require additional flights. Unfortunately, the Administration has given no indication that it understands how the President's proposal changes assumptions and plans regarding the space station, or that it is willing to discuss options to extend the availability of the space shuttle. I hope that Senator Glenn adding his voice to those of other space luminaries like Neil Armstrong, Eugene Cernan, and Jim Lovell will result in a new direction for our discussion and our nation’s vaunted space program.”
CITY MANAGER DELIVERS AQUATIC CENTER COST CUTS
CITY MANAGER GARY FUQUA TUESDAY DELIVERED WHAT HE AND A SPECIAL COMMITTEE HAD BEEN ASKED TO DO BY CITY COUNCIL: COST REDUCTIONS ON THE PLANNED FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER. WHAT HAD STARTED OUT AS A $4.2 MILLION PLAN, IS NOW $500,000 LESS ACCORDING TO ESTIMATES. AFTER CITY COUNCIL AGREED DURING ANOTHER RECENT MEETING TO KEEP THE OVERALL DESIGN OF THE FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER, BUT REDUCE COSTS WHERE POSSIBLE, THE COMMITTEE WENT TO WORK. REDUCTIONS OR OTHER ADJUSTMENTS WERE MADE TO AREAS SUCH AS LANDSCAPING, CONCRETE, FENCING, WATER CLEANING PROCESSES, PAVING, THE VOLLEYBALL AREA AND LIGHTING. COUNCIL SEEMED PLEASED WITH THE COST SAVINGS. THE CITY MANAGER TOLD COUNCIL THEY WOULD PROCEED WITH THE FINAL DESIGN PLANS AND MOVE FORWARD ON THE AQUATIC CENTER. A SUMMER 2011 OPENING DATE IS STILL ON THE CALENDAR.
CITY WILL NOT USE NEW LOGO
CITY COUNCILWOMAN GLORIA MCDONALD TUESDAY ASKED FOR DISCUSSION AMONG OTHER COUNCIL MEMBERS ON WHETHER OR NOT TO MOVE FORWARD ON A NEW CITY OF BIG SPRING LOGO AND SLOGAN THAT WAS DESIGNED LAST YEAR AND HAS ALREADY BEEN USED ON SOME CITY STATIONARY AND OTHER PRESENTATIONS, SUCH AS CABLE CHANNEL 17. MCDONALD TOLD COUNCIL THAT IT WAS HER CONCERN IT WILL COST SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF MONEY TO PLACE THE NEW CITY LOGO ON EVERYTHING FROM CITY UNIFORMS TO VEHICLES AND OTHER PLACES. MCDONALD STATED SHE HAD NOTHING AGAINST THE LOGO DESIGN ITSELF, ONLY THE COST OF ADOPTING IT DURING THESE LEAN TIMES. THE NEW LOGO, BASICALLY BLUE AND GREEN IN COLOR, WITH THE SLOGAN "RICH HISTORY, BIG POSSIBILITIES" WAS TO REPLACE THE CURRENT EARTH TONE SIGNAL PEAK LOGO. THE CURRENT SLOGAN "BIG SKY, BIG HEART, BIG SPRING" HAS ALSO BEEN IN USE IN MANY VENUES REPRESENTING THE CITY. MAYOR TOMMY MCDONALD AGREED WITH COUNCILWOMAN MCDONALD ON THE POINT AND STATED HE THOUGHT IT AN UNNECESSARY EXPENDITURE TO ADOPT AND PLACE THE NEW BLUE AND GREEN LOGO. SINCE THE NEW LOGO HAD NEVER BEEN OFFICIALLY ADOPTED BY COUNCIL ANYWAY, NO ACTION WAS NECESSARY. COUNCIL AND STAFF VERBALLY AGREED TUESDAY THAT THE CITY WOULD JUST NOT PROCEED WITH USING THE NEW LOGO IN ANY FASHION. THE LOGO WAS DESIGNED LAST YEAR BY A CONSULTING FIRM HIRED THROUGH THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION TO HELP "BRAND" AND MARKET THE BIG SPRING COMMUNITY. THE NEW LOGO WAS PART OF THEIR PACKAGE. SIGNAL PEAK AND "BIG SKY, BIG HEART, BIG SPRING" REMAIN.
CITY WELCOMES SISTER CITY FIRE CHIEF
HE IS A SORT OF INDIVIDUAL "ADVANCE TEAM" FOR THE BIG SPRING SISTER CITY IN MEXICO. THE FIRE CHIEF FOR THE CITY OF SAN MIGUEL EL ALTO ARRIVED HERE A FEW DAYS AGO. HE IS VICTOR CORREJO, AND BIG SPRING FIRE CHIEF BRIAN JENSEN INTRODUCED HIM TO BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY DURING THEIR REGULAR MEETING. CORREJO RECEIVED A STANDING OVATION. OTHER REPRESENTATIVES FROM SAN MIGUEL WILL BE ARRIVING SOON TO MAKE THEIR SECOND VISIT IN AS MANY YEARS HERE. THE GROUP WILL BE IN BIG SPRING IN TIME FOR THE ANNUAL "POPS IN THE PARK!" JULY 3RD. THE STREET THAT PASSES IN FRONT OF OUR HISTORIC AMPHITHEATER AT CITY PARK WAS RENAMED LAST YEAR IN HONOR OF OUR SISTER CITY.
Tuesday June 22 -- Randy’s Roundup --
A Weekly Newsletter from Congressman Randy Neugebauer
June 21, 2010
Economic Impacts of Oil Moratorium Every day the deepwater oil rigs are closed for business, the economic impact on the Gulf states grows worse. Communities in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas are full of anxious workers ready to get back out on the oil rigs. But if President Obama has his way, that won’t happen for six months. Because of this job killing moratorium, I was pleased to be an original cosponsor of H.R. 5525, which would terminate the moratorium on deepwater drilling. As you may recall President Obama recently put a six-month deepwater drilling moratorium on oil rigs as a response to the Deepwater Horizon spill. With unemployment hovering at 10 percent, issuing a moratorium on offshore production has left thousands of Americans without a job and severely crippled local economies and related industries counting on this energy production. Let me be clear, the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf is certainly a tragedy. The damaging effects of the spill must be dealt with and those responsible must be held accountable. However, it is not cause to halt oil exploration. Instead, we should be looking for methods to ensure that exploration is being done in the safest, most environmentally-friendly way possible to prevent another spill of this magnitude. The reality is that today there is a global shortage of deepwater drilling rigs. The bottom line is that these rig operators will not sit around to wait for the President to do the right thing and reverse this decision. They will go where they are welcome and happily export these resources back to the United States. The ultimate goal is energy independence, but restricting domestic production is not the answer. Even as use of sustainable alternative energy sources grows, oil and natural gas must remain part of our plan. Domestic production creates welcome jobs and lowers our dependence on those less-than friendly nations. I hope that President Obama and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar will reconsider this decision. We don’t stop flying in planes after a tragic airline accident, and we shouldn’t stop producing energy from new sources after an energy accident. Instead, we learn from the accident in order to prevent future incidents. It’s time to stop the leak, clean up the spill and get our workers back on the job. I’m confident that we can continue drilling responsibly. The Empowerment Project
Check out the most recent episode of The Empowerment Project here.
Spending, debt, and deficit: all words that can be used to accurately describe the current federal budget situation. However, they are all things that could be addressed by implementing a balanced budget.
Last week on The Empowerment Project, I had the opportunity to sit down with Congressman Bob Goodlatte from Virginia to discuss H.J. Res 1, the Balanced Budget Amendment. With a national debt of over $13 trillion and the annual federal deficit forecasted to exceed $1 trillion for several years to come, this country needs a balanced budget that will allow Congress to rein in the levels of spending, taxing and debt. This isn’t a new concept. Already, 49 out of 50 states are required to balance their budgets. Why can’t the federal government do the same?
I have hard time understanding why the federal government thinks it can play by different rules than the American people. Families across the 19th District have to live within budgets. Any business, large or small, has to live within a budget if they want to stay in business for long. The same applies to local and state governments. People across the nation know what it’s like to have to tighten your belt and live within your means.
I am looking forward to the next episode of The Empowerment Project where my special guest will be co-founder of the 10th Amendment Task Force, Congressman Rob Bishop (R-UT). For more information on The Empowerment Project, I encourage you to visit www.randy.house.gov and click the Empowerment button.
Reminder: The Great American Peanut Debate - Last week to vote!
Calling all Texas peanut fans! Texas is competing to earn the title of “Best Tasting Peanuts in the Nation,” but we are currently in 3rd place behind Georgia and Virginia. I know the 19th Congressional District produces the nation’s best peanuts, but I need your help the make sure the rest of the country knows.
The winner of the Great American Peanut Debate will be announced June 25th at the annual Congressional baseball game in Washington. Click here to cast your vote for Texas peanuts. Encourage your friends to vote, too!
“Question of the Week”
The funding bill for current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and limited emergency needs is being held up in order to include additional “stimulus” funding for other programs, including aid to city and state governments. Do you think a narrowly tailored bill for essential war funding and disaster assistance should become a means to include other spending items?
Monday June 21 VA to Celebrate 60th Anniversary
Mr. Daniel Marsh, Director of the West Texas VA Health Care System, is requesting assistance from our local communities to ensure our 60th Anniversary recognizes those who have contributed to our history. Veterans, former employees, construction workers that helped to build our VA Medical Center and anyone else that can share stories or memorabilia to personalize our 60th Anniversary Celebration are encouraged to contact our VA Historical Committee.
Sixty years ago on July 17th, Big Spring VA admitted its first patient. The 60th Anniversary Celebration will take place on the campus of our VA Medical Center on July 16th, at 10:00 a.m. The celebration will begin with an outdoor program and will then move indoors to meet, greet, and visit with past friends and acquaintances. Tours of the medical center along with refreshments will complete the celebration.
If you know of anyone that can and will contribute to our celebration, please contact Iva Jo Hanslik, 264-4824, Meghan Bias, 264-4824, or Cheryl Justice, 263-7361, ext. 7042.
Texas Unemployment Rates Remains Steady, Jobs Added
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas unemployment rate remains steady at eight-point-three-percent for May. The state added more than 43-thousand jobs last month, marking the fifth consecutive month of employment gains. Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Tom Pauken says employers in most industries in Texas added jobs last month, and the state's annual job growth rate is now back in positive territory. Professional and Business Services expanded by ten-thousand-200 jobs in May, Leisure and Hospitality employment grew by 96-hundred jobs, and Trade, Transportation and Utilities added 82-hundred jobs. More Texans are employed than ever before at more than eleven-point-two-million workers. The Texas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate continues to trend well below the U.S. rate of nine-point-seven-percent for May.
DRIVER IN ROLL OVER CHARGED WITH DWI
A ONE VEHICLE ROLL OVER THURSDAY ON I-20 NEAR BIG SPRING INJURED SEVERAL PEOPLE, AND NOW THE DRIVER IS CHARGED WITH DWI. THE ACCIDENT INJURED SEVEN PEOPLE INSIDE THE SUV. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE, 46 YEAR OLD ENRIQUE ALVEREZ OF BIG SPRING, HAS NOW BEEN CHARGED WITH DWI. THE ONE VEHICLE ROLLOVER OCCURRED ON I-20 AND FM 1208 THURSDAY. REPORTS SHOW THAT THE SEVEN PEOPLE INJURED SUSTAINED NON-LIFE THREATENING INJURIES.
RELAY RE-DO GOES VERY WELL
IN THE FULL SPIRIT OF THE RELAY FOR LIFE, IT WAS THE "RELAY RE-DO" SATURDAY AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM. BEGINNING WITH THE TRADITIONAL SURVIVORS WALK AND ENDING WITH A BEAUTIFUL PURPLE AND WHITE BALLOON RELEASE OUTSIDE, RELAY ORGANIZERS PULLED IT ALL OFF AGAIN WITH AN INSPIRATIONAL EVENT. IT WAS ALL MADE NECESSARY BECAUSE OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS BACK IN MAY FOR THE ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED OUTDOOR EVENT AT BLANKENSHIP FIELED. WHEN ALL WAS SAID AND DONE SATURDAY AFTERNOON, THE RELAY ENDED WITH THE TRADITIONAL AWARDS CEREMONY AND THE ANNOUNCEMENT THAT THIS YEAR'S RELAY RAISED OVER $175,000 AND COUNTING. CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE WHO MADE IT WORK!
Friday June 18 VA to Celebrate 60th Anniversary
Mr. Daniel Marsh, Director of the West Texas VA Health Care System, is requesting assistance from our local communities to ensure our 60th Anniversary recognizes those who have contributed to our history. Veterans, former employees, construction workers that helped to build our VA Medical Center and anyone else that can share stories or memorabilia to personalize our 60th Anniversary Celebration are encouraged to contact our VA Historical Committee.
Sixty years ago on July 17th, Big Spring VA admitted its first patient. The 60th Anniversary Celebration will take place on the campus of our VA Medical Center on July 16th, at 10:00 a.m. The celebration will begin with an outdoor program and will then move indoors to meet, greet, and visit with past friends and acquaintances. Tours of the medical center along with refreshments will complete the celebration.
If you know of anyone that can and will contribute to our celebration, please contact Iva Jo Hanslik, 264-4824, Meghan Bias, 264-4824, or Cheryl Justice, 263-7361, ext. 7042.
Gruesome Find Shocks Southwest Airlines Cargo Agent In Little Rock
(Little Rock, AR) -- A gruesome find in Little Rock shocked a Southwest Airlines cargo agent who looked inside plastic containers and discovered dozens of human heads apparently headed for Love Field where they were to be shipped to a Fort Worth medical lab. As many as 60 heads were packaged by an Arkansas consulting company, intended to be used in education programs for doctors. The heads are now at the county morgue in Little Rock while investigators examine paperwork to see if they were obtained and shipped legally. The FAA says no packaging rules were violated but Dallas-based Southwest Airlines says its concern focuses on whether the containers were properly labeled.
POLICE ARREST FOURTH HOME INVASION SUSPECT BIG SPRING POLICE CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE A HOME INVASION ROBBERY AT A RESIDENCE ON STATE STREET JUNE 3RD AND HAVE NOW MADE FOUR ARRESTS IN THE CASE. THE FIRST TWO ARRESTS TOOK PLACE THE EVENING THE FAMILY WAS TERRORIZED BY ROBBERS INSIDE THEIR HOME. A THIRD ARREST TOOK PLACE IN BIG SPRING SOON AFTER, 21 YEAR OLD PHILLIP G. MARTINEZ. NOW, 28 YEAR OLD ABLE GUZMAN WAS ARRESTED WEDNESDAY ON A WARRANT FOR AGGRAVATED ROBBERY IN THE CASE. POLICE SGT. TONY EVERETT TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THEY CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE AND MORE ARRESTS WILL TAKE PLACE. THE FAMILY TOLD POLICE THAT FIVE OR MORE SUSPECTS TOOK PART IN THE HOME INVASION ROBBERY OF THEIR HOME JUNE 3RD WHERE SUBJECTS FORCIBLY ENTERED THE HOME IN THE 400 BLOCK OF STATE STREET THAT NIGHT AND DEMANDED GOODS AND CASH, PISTOL WHIPPING THE FATHER IN THE PROCESS. THE INJURED MAN WAS TREATED AND RELEASED FOR HIS WOUNDS. NO ONE ELSE WAS HARMED DURING THE CRIME THAT EVENING, BUT THE FAMILY, WITH TWO SMALL CHILDREN, WAS OBVIOUSLY TERRORIZED BY THE INCIDENT. FIREARMS WERE USED IN THE COURSE OF THE HOME INVASION ROBBERY, BUT NO ONE WAS SHOT. BESIDES THIS LATEST SUSPECT, ABLE GUZMAN, BEING ARRESTED IN THE CASE, 31 YEAR OLD FELIX JARAMILLO, 21 YEAR OLD PHILLIP G. MARTINEZ AND A 16 YEAR OLD MALE JUVENILE HAVE ALSO BEEN CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED ROBBERY.
POLICE SEEK NEXT SUSPECT BIG SPRING POLICE THURSDAY AFTERNOON RELEASED MORE INFORMATION ON THEIR HOME INVASION ROBBERY INVESTIGATION THAT INCLUDES ALL OF THE ARRESTS SO FAR, AS WELL AS INFORMATION ON ANOTHER SUSPECT THEY ARE SEEKING IN RELATION TO THE JUNE 3RD ROBBERY. HE IS 26 YEAR OLD CLIFFORD ANGLIN. POLICE SGT. TONY EVERETT SAYS CLIFFORD ANGLIN IS BELIEVED TO BE IN WEST TEXAS AND IF SPOTTED, IS TO BE CONSIDERED ARMED AND DANGERSOUS. IF YOU SEE CLIFFORD ANGLIN CONTACT THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPT. AT 264-2550 OR CRIMESTOPPERS AT 263-8477. IF YOU KNOW OF THE SUSPECT’S WHEREABOUTS, REMEMBER CALLERS MAY REMAIN ANONYMOUS AND NO CALLER I.D.TO THE CRIMESTOPPERS HOTLINE IS EVER USED. CRIMESTOPPERS IS OFFERING UP TO A $1,000 REWARD FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO THE ARRESTS AND CONVICTION OF THIS SUSPECT, CLIFFORD ANGLIN.
Hutchison Supports Medicare Reform Amendment
(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison is supporting an amendment to the tax extenders bill that would provide relief for doctors. Hutchison says the Thune Amendment would provide relief for doctors by adding an additional year of the "doctor fix" and reform the nation's broken medical malpractice system. Hutchison says Medicare pays doctors in a fundamentally broken way, and too many seniors are unable to find a doctor that takes Medicare because the federal government has proven that it is an unreliable business partner. The Texas Republican says the country needs a long-term solution so that the best and brightest will choose medicine for their career and will serve Medicare patients. The number of medical students choosing primary care has dropped 50-percent since 1997, and the country could face a physician shortage of more than 150-thousand physicians in the next 15 years.
BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD PREPARES BOND ISSUE
THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD THURSDAY RECEIVED AN UPDATE ON THE PROGRESS OF OBTAINING SCHOOL BOND FUNDING FOR THE $60 MILLION NEW SCHOOLS AND RENOVATIONS BOND ISSUE THAT PASSED VOTERS' APPROVAL IN MAY. IT IS A COMPLICATED THING WHEN YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT THAT MUCH MONEY, AND THERE'S A LOT OF BEHIND-THE-SCENES WORK AND EFFORT TO PREPARE AS THE MONIES NEED TO BE A ACQUIRED THROUGH THE BEST ORGANIZATIONS AND AT THE MOST FAVORABLE INTEREST RATES. VINCE VIALLE, A MANAGING DIRECTOR WITH "SPECIALIZED PUBLIC FINANCE INC." ADDRESSED BIG SPRING SCHOOL TRUSTEES THURSDAY WITH HIS RECOMMENDATIONS, AND THE BOARD APPROVED. THE NEXT MAJOR STEP IN THE SCHOOL BOND ACQUISITION PROCESS WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE JULY 22ND BOARD MEETING WHERE TRUSTEES WILL CONSIDER ISSUANCE OF THE $60 MILLION IN BONDS AND AWARD THEM TO THE UNDERWRITERS WHO ARE FINANCING THEM. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IS SCHEDULED TO ACTUALLY RECEIVE THE FUNDS ON AUGUST 12TH. THAT WILL ALOW ALL THE OTHER PROCESSES TO BEGIN TO UNFOLD WHICH WILL EVENTUALLY LEAD TO THE BEGINNING OF CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS PROJECTS. THOSE INCLUDE THREE ENTIRELY NEW SCHOOLS, AND MAJOR RENOVATIONS TO OTHERS IN THE B.S.I.S.D.
THURSDAY NIGHT BIG SPRING SCHOOL TRUSTEES ALSO AGREED TO PROCEED RESEARCHING SOME IMPROVEMENTS TO THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL FIELD, THAT WAS BUILT IN THE 1950'S. TO IMPROVE APPEARANCE AND FUNCTIONALITY, SCHOOL OFFICIALS WANT TO CONCENTRATE ON THE INFIELD, BACKSTOP AND DUGOUT AREAS. TRUSTEES ONLY AGREED THURSDAY TO DISCUSS THE ISSUE FURTHER IN THE NEAR FUTURE, AND MAYBE ADOPT A PLAN TO MAKE BASEBALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS IN PHASES OVER SEVERAL YEARS. NONE OF THE PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS WOULD BE PAID FOR OUT OF THE BOND ISSUE RECENTLY APPROVED BY VOTERS, BUT WOULD BE FUNDED THROUGH THE GENERAL FUND BALANCE, SAY SCHOOL OFFICIALS.
Thursday June 17 BIG SPRING COWBOY REUNION AND RODEO OPENS THURSDAY THE 77TH YEAR OF THE BIG SPRING COWBOY REUNION AND RODEO BEGINS TODAY WITH THE RODEO PARADE IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING, STARTING AT 5:30. ENTRIES GATHER AT 3RD AND OWENS. THE PARADE WILL CIRCLE 3RD AND 4TH STREETS BETWEEN SCURRY AND OWENS. MIKE MATHIS RETURNS AS THIS YEAR’S PRCA RODEO ANNOUNCER AND MARK SWINGLER OF AUSTIN BRINGS HIS UNIQUE ACTS TO THE BIG SPRING RODEO BOWL AS THE RODEO ACTION GETS UNDERWAY 8 O’CLOCK NIGHTLY. CARR PRO RODEO IS PRODUCING THE STOCK THIS YEAR. THAT COMBINED WITH SOME GREAT COWBOYT ALENT WILL MAKE FOR EXCITING COMPEITION EACH AND EVERY NIGHT AS THE RODEO RUNS THROUGH SATURDAY. ENTERTAINMENT EACH NIGHT AFTER THE RODEO COMPETITION STARTS ABOUT 9:30 INSIDE THE FAIR BARNS BEGINNING WITH THE KBEST COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN THURSDAY NIGHT. FREE ADMISSION TO COME AND WATCH SOME FANTASTIC AREA TALENT COMPETE FOR A PLACE IN THE COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN FINALS! THEN FRIDAY NIGHT IT’S TONY BOOTH. TICKETS ARE $10. SATURDAY NIGHT AARON WATSON RETURNS. OPENING FOR ARRON WATSON IS THE NOEL OLIVAS BAND. TICKETS ARE $20. ADVANCE TICKETS FOR THE RODEO WILL SAVE YOU A COUPLE OF BUCKS. JUST $8 FOR ADULTS AND $4 FOR KIDS. AT THE BIG SPRING CHAMBER OFFICE, WARD’S WESTERN WEAR, WESTERN BANK LOCATIONS, COMPASS BANK, WELLS FARGO, CITIZENS EDERAL CREDIT UNION, HEB, LONESTAR BANK, AND THE STATE NATIONAL BANK. KIDS UNDER 6 GET IN FREE.
DEMOLITION OF OLD POOL FACILITY NEARLY COMPLETE THE OLD CITY POOL AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK CAME DOWN A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, BUT THE ACCOMPANYING BATH HOUSE THAT HAS LOOKED OVER THE POOL AREA FOR DECADES IS ALSO NOW COMING DOWN. DEMOLITION OF THE BATH HOUSE BEGAN WEDNESDAY AND DEBRIS IS BEING HAULED AWAY. IT’S ALL MAKING WAY FOR THE NEW FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER THAT WILL BE BUILT AT THE SAME LOCATION. THE NEW WATER FACILITY IS EXPECTED TO BE OPEN BY NEXT SUMMER. CITY OFFICIALS ARE STILL WORKING OUT SOME FINE TUNING COST REDUCTIONS THAT CITY COUNCIL DEBATED AND AGREED TO RECENTLY, BUT THE OVERALL AQUATIC CENTER DESIGN THAT INCLUDES SLIDES AND A “LAZY RIVER” REMAINS. THE FACILITY IS DESIGNED TO HOLD ABOUT 600 PEOPLE ONCE IT IS OPENED IN 2011.
Sen. Hutchison’s Statement on President Obama’s Address to the Nation
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) tonight released the following statement in response to President Barack Obama’s address to the nation concerning the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico:
“It is deeply frustrating that neither BP nor the federal regulators had the plans in place to prevent and respond quickly to this tragedy. Today, nearly two months after the spill began, our focus and attention must remain on the massive cleanup and the lessons to prevent future disasters. The results of the investigations, rather than emotions or politics, must guide our energy policy moving forward. I am concerned the administration is attempting to capitalize on public outrage over the spill in order to push through a cap and trade bill that will significantly raise energy prices for all Americans and add more burdens on businesses. Right now, the President’s number one priority needs to be keeping the jobs in the energy sector from going overseas and restoring the Gulf of Mexico.”
Peer to Peer Support Now Available
Peer to Peer Support will now be available locally for veterans, active duty, guard, reserves, and their families. Volunteers in our community have successfully completed the Bring Everyone In The Zone Peer to Peer Facilitator Training and are fully prepared to help. Peer to Peer Support Meetings Begin: Our Peer to Peer Support meeting will be held at the VA (300 W Veterans Blvd) 4th floor waiting room on June 17th at 6:30 p.m. For more information, please contact: Will Hoggard, Veteran Liaison Officer @ 432-213-0494.
Dispute Over Pollution Control In Texas
(Austin, TX) -- The Environmental Protection Agency said yesterday it was taking control over issuing operating permits for two more facilities in the Lone Star State. The move further escalates the fight over air quality regulations for Chevron Phillips Cedar Bayou and Garland Power and Light. EPS Regional Administrator Al Armendariz said, quote, "The state has refused up to this point to issue good permits, and we have a legal responsibility to ensure the Clean Air Act is implemented." Governor Rick Perry countered by accusing the federal government of putting, quote, "a target on the backs of hardworking Texans."
DICKENSON – BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
BIG SPRING - Pat Dickenson is Big Spring State Hospital's June Volunteer of the Month.
Dickenson began volunteering at The Chalet – the hospital’s resale shop - in 1996 and has become a favorite among shoppers for her attentive nature to their needs.
The 14-year volunteer also has attended many of the State Volunteer Services Council trainings and State meetings.
Alley Kat Designs will donate a rose bud vase to Dickenson in her honor.
Big Spring State Hospital's Community Relations office chooses a Volunteer of the Month from the hospital's corps of approximately 100 volunteers. Each month, a volunteer who goes above and beyond what is expected of him or her duties is chosen for the recognition.
Wednesday June 16 RELAY RE-DO THIS SATURDAY
JUST A FEW DAYS AWAY FROM THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE RE-DO THIS SATURDAY AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM. ORGANIZERS ARE ANXIOUS FOR A GOOD TURNOUT, ESPECIALLY WITH ALL THE OTHER THINGS GOING ON THIS WEEK AND WEEKEND. BUT IT SHOULDN’T BE A CONCERN SINCE THERE IS SUCH A COMMITMENT TO THE LOCAL RELAY EACH YEAR. THE ORIGINAL MAY EVENT WAS THE FIRST ONE EVER TO BE CANCELED ENTIRELY DUE TO WEATHER, BUT THE RELAY COMMITTEE HAVE PUT TOGETHER A VERY GOOD “INDOOR” VERSION FOR THE COLISEUM THIS SATURDAY. SURVIVORS ARE ESPECIALLY ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND, BUT EVERYONE IS INVITED TO COME AND HONOR RELAY “BIRTHDAYS” AND REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE PASSED. THIS IS A MAJOR COMMUNITY EVENT EACH YEAR, SO MAKE THE RELAY RE-DO ANOTHER SUCCESS AND COME TO DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM THIS SATURDAY MORNING. THINGS GET UNDERWAY AT 10 AM AND GO TO AROUND 3 O’CLOCK.
PICS AND VIDEOS STILL NEEDED FOR “POPS” EVENT HOWARD COLLEGE’S CINDY SMITH IS ONCE AGAIN PRODUCING A SPECIAL VIDEO HONORING THOSE WHO SERVE IN THE MILITARY. LOCAL FAMILIES ARE STILL ENCOURAGED TO GET STILL PHOTOS AND VIDEOS TO CINDY AS SHE PREPARES TO PRODUCE THIS YEAR’S TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS FOR THE “POPS IN THE PARK” EVENT JULY 3RD AT THE AMPHITHEATER. YOU MAY CONTACT CINDY AT HER HOWARD COLLEGE EMAIL ADDRESS, BUT DO SO SOON AS THE DEADLINE IS APPROACHING. YOU CAN EMAIL HER AT csmith@howardcollege.edu .
John Mayer Backs Viral Sensation Zach Anner For Oprah's "OWN Show" -- Singer John Mayer is backing viral Internet sensation Zach Anner, who is trying to snag a spot on Oprah Winfrey's OWN cable channel. The young Austin, Texas resident has cerebral palsy. He has posted an audition video online for Oprah to screen for her "Your OWN Show" contest. In it, he calls his condition, quote, "the sexiest of the palsies," and pitches a travel show that is, quote, "designed to inspire people who never thought they could travel." The wheelchair-bound Anner dons a wig and botches dinner to make his point that a travel show is his best bet. Mayer mentioned it on his blog Sunday and got a shout-out back from Anner. The singer then said to him in a video blog, quote, "You're really funny. And I think I speak for everybody when I say I want to see this show. I want to see more of Zach."
Mayer is so behind Anner's proposed travel show for Oprah's search for "Your OWN Show," that he has promised to write and record the theme song for it. He says, quote, "I'd like to provide the theme song for this amazing show. And if you ever want to come out on tour and see what it's like...you are welcome to come to any show you like."
Tuesday June 15 SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS MONDAY NIGHT SEVERE WEATHER CROSSED THE AREA MONDAY NIGHT. LOTS OF HIGH WINDS, CLOUD TO GROUND LIGHTNING, HAIL AND EVEN A TORNADO WARNING FOR DAWSON COUNTY EARLY IN THE EVENING. MOST OF THE STORMS MOVED OFF TO THE EAST AND NORTHEAST, BUT NOT BEFORE BRINGING THUNDERSTORMS TO MOST OF WEST TEXAS. A REPEAT IS POSSIBLE TUESDAY FOR SOME OF THE AREA TUESDAY, ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE.
Delegates Elect Texas Republican Party Chair / Local Delegates attend
(Dallas, TX) -- The Republican Party of Texas has a new chairman. More than five-thousand delegates voted to elect Steve Munisteri at the party's 2010 convention in Dallas Saturday. The Houston resident told the delegates that together they will move united into November to deliver victory for Republican candidates at all levels of government. He said he and his staff will be hard at work today focusing on the upcoming election, with the re-election of Governor Rick Perry as their top priority. Perry is congratulating Munisteri on his election, saying that he will play an integral role in fortifying the momentum of the Republican party's values, which are based on principles of limited government, restrained spending and personal liberty. A group of twelve representatives from Big Spring and Howard County attended the Dallas convention, among them Howard County Republican Party Chair Craig Bailey.
GOOD NEWS / BAD NEWS AT COLLEGE TRUSTEES MEETING HOWARD COLLEGE HEARD GOOD NEWS AND THEN NOT SO GOOD NEWS DURING THEIR MONDAY MEETING. FIRST, THE GOOD NEWS. THE HOWARD COLLEGE BOND CONSTRUCTION PROJECT CONTINUES TO COME IN UNDER COST PROJECTIONS, BRINGING IN SAVINGS AND ALLOWING SOME EXPANSION OF THE SCOPE OF THE CAMPUS RENOVATIONS. SOME OF THOSE SAVINGS ARE BEING TRANSITIONED INTO WORK AT THE ADMINSTRATION BUILDING RESTROOMS. ORIGINALLY THERE HAD BEEN PLANS FOR AESTHETIC IMPROVEMENTS IN APPEARANCE IN THAT LOCATION, BUT UPON GETTING INTO THE WALLS AND PLUMBING THERE, WORKERS DISCOVERED SOME REAL PROBLEMS TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE FORM OF RUSTING CAST IRON PLUMBING. TRUSTEES MONDAY GAVE STAFF THE GO AHEAD TO SPEND UP TO APPROXIMATELY $134,000 IN THAT AREA. THE COLLEGE FITNESS CENTER WILL ALSO GET ABOUT $50,000 IN AIR CONDITIONG AND HEATING INSTALLED, SOMETHING THAT AREA HAS NEVER HAD BEFORE. THEN, COLLEGE TRUSTEES WERE INFORMED BY LEE GEORGE OF LEE GEORGE CONSTRUCTION THAT THE PHASE III BIDS FOR THE SCIENCE BUILDING RENOVATIONS CAME IN ABOUT $450,000 UNDER THE ORIGINAL COST ESTIMATES. PHASE III WILL RUN ABOUT $1.6 MILLION, SO MORE GOOD NEWS.
STATE FUNDING NEWS STILL NOT GOOD THE BAD NEWS FOR HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES MONDAY CAME FROM COLLEGE PRESIDENT DR. CHERYL SPARKS, WHO INFORMED THE GROUP WHAT MOST HAD ANTICIPATED: STATE FUNDING CUTS LOOK TO BE INCREASING AND NOT DECREASING. YOU WILL RECALL THAT HOWARD COLLEGE AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS HAVE ALREADY BEEN REQUIRED TO ADJUST THEIR BUDGETS FOR A FORTHCOMING 5% DECREASE IN STATE FUNDING DUE TO PROJECTED REVENUE SHORTFALLS IN TEXAS. DR. SPARKS SAYS THEY ARE HEADED TOWARD AN ADDITIONAL 10% IN CUTS, AS THE STATE HAS ASKED ENTITIES TO SUBMIT PLANS IN THOSE REGARDS. WITH A TOTAL OF ABOUT $2.7 MILLION IN STATE FUNDING CUTS OVER THE NEXT BIENNIUM, 2012-2013, DR. SPARKS SAYS THIS WILL BRING ABOUT SOME REAL CHALLENGES FOR ADMINISTRATION AND COLLEGE TRUSTEES, SINCE THE COLLEGE IS ALREADY WORKING WITH A VERY LEAN BUDGET. KEEP IN MIND THAT NONE OF THE COST SAVINGS BEING INCURRED WITH THE BOND PROJECT MENTIONED PREVIOUSLY CAN BE USED FOR ANYTHING ELSE BUT CONSTRUCTION. COLLEGE ADMINSTRATION WILL BE COMING BACK TO TRUSTEES WITH MORE SPECIFIC BUDGET FIGURES DURING THE AUGUST BUDGET WORKSHOP. THUSFAR, HOWARD COLLEGE HAS SUCCESSFULLY STRIVED TO NOT RAISE TUITIONS FOR ITS STUDENTS, BUT THERE IS CERTAINLY NO GUARANTEE THAT CAN CONTINUE. NO DOUBT THE NEXT TEXAS LEGISLATURE WILL BE UP AGAINST NUMEROUS BUDGET CHALLENGES WHEN THEY NEXT CONVENE IN JANUARY. THEY WILL HAVE THE FULL ATTENTION OF ENTITIES LIKE HOWARD COLLEGE.
ABATEMENT FOR PCCA APPROVED PUBLIC HEARINGS AND THEN APPROVALS FOLLOWED FOR A TAX ABATEMENT REQUEST FOR PLAINS COTTON COOP ASSOCIATION MONDAY. IT STARTED WITH HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT AND FOLLOWED OVER TO HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES. IT’S AN ONGOING PROCESS THAT BEGAN LATE LAST YEAR AS PCCA IS MAKING EXPANSIONS BOTH IN THEIR WAREHOUSE SQUARE FOOTAGE AS WELL AS EMPLOYEE NUMBERS. THE TAX ABATEMENTS BEING GRANTED TO PCCA ARE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES PARTIALLY FACILITATED THROUGH THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TERRY WEGMAN SAYS THIS LATEST AGREEMENT ON THE PCCA $2 MILLION FACILITY EXPANSION IS VERY SIMILAR TO THE PREVIOUS AGREEMENT REACHED EARLIER THIS YEAR FOR THEIR PREVIOUS EXPANSION. IT ALLOWS FOR 100% TAX ABATEMENT FOR THE FIRST TWO YEARS, 70% THE THIRD YEAR, 50% FOR THE FOURTH YEAR AND 30% FOR THE FIFTH AND FINAL YEAR, SAYS WEGMAN. HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES ALSO APPROVED THE TAX ABATEMENT AGREEMENT DURING THEIR MONDAY MEETING. BOTH AGREEMENTS CAME AFTER PUBLIC HEARINGS DURING THE INDIVIDUAL ENTITY MEETINGS ON THE ISSUE. PCCA WAREHOUSES COTTON AT THEIR FACILITY JUST NORTH OF BIG SPRING.
COAHOMA INDEPENDENCE PARADE COAHOMA HAS AN INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITION OF THEIR OWN, AND THIS YEAR IS NO EXCEPTION, EXCEPT THAT THE CELEBRATION WILL ONCE AGAIN BE EXCEPTIONAL! SATURDAY, JULY 3RD WILL BRING THE ANNUAL “POPS IN THE PARK” TO BIG SPRING IN THE EVENING, BUT COAHOMA WILL START THAT SATURDAY MORNING OFF WITH THEIR TRADITIONAL PARADE AT 10 O’CLOCK, AND THEY’RE HOPING FOR A GREAT CROWD. EACH YEAR AFTER THE PARADE COAHOMA HAS A BIG GET TOGETHER AT THEIR CITY PARK, AND THEY WILL DO THAT AGAIN AND EVEN BIGGER. COAHOMA MAYOR WARREN WALLACE TELLS KBST NEWS THEY HAVE A “REAL SHINDIG” PLANNED WITH COMPETITIONS, FOOD AND MUSIC. WE’LL BE TALKING MORE ABOUT THE COAHOMA JULY 3RD CELEBRATIONS IN THE NEAR FUTURE, BUT THIS IS A “HEADS UP” THEY PLAN A BIG TIME AGAIN AND WANT YOU TO BE A PART.
Monday June 14 West Texas VA Healthcare System Cadet Youth Nursing Volunteer Program
The West Texas VA Healthcare System (WTVAHCS) is pleased to announce we will be offering the annual VA Cadet Nursing Youth Volunteer Program this summer. It is a 6 week program which will be held June 21- July 30, 2010 and will include a two day mandatory orientation on June 24 and 25 at the Big Spring VA Medical Center.
The program is a great opportunity for the youth of our community. It is designed to promote the understanding of nursing careers and to recruit future nurses. It is our goal to provide youth interested in the nursing profession with an observation and hands-on experience of nursing tasks in a supervised environment. Each cadet will volunteer a minimum of sixteen hours weekly in divided shifts and will be mentored in a variety of hospital settings including medical-surgical, extended care, outpatient clinics, radiology, operating-room, ophthalmology and emergency care departments.
Only twelve candidates will be selected so please turn in your applications as soon as possible. Each application must include a written essay expressing why the candidate is interested in nursing. Selection will be based on applications, essay and an interview of each candidate. You must be at least 14 years old to apply, with no maximum age limit.
Applications are available by calling the WTVAHCS at 263-7361, Ext. 7179 or may be picked up at the volunteer office. The deadline to turn in applications is June 18 and can be mailed or delivered to the WTVAHCS Nursing Office.
COWBOYS, RANGERS Personalized License Plates Up For Auction
(Arlington, TX) -- A personalized Texas license plate emblazoned with the name COWBOYS will go up for auction in September, but don't expect Jerry Jones to bid on it. The team's billionaire owner can most likely out-bid all comers, but a Cowboys spokesman says he won't because it's more important for a fan somewhere to be driving around with that plate which is one of 30 personalized tags up for auction on September 22nd at Cowboys Stadium. Another option will be a RANGERS version. The auction is held by a private company that has a contract with Tex-DOT, which receives a share of the proceeds.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEET / CONSIDER ABATEMENT HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WILL CONSIDER A TAX ABATEMENT FOR A LOCAL BUSINESS DURING THEIR MONDAY MORNING MEETING AT 10 O’CLOCK. A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD AND THEN COMMISSIONERS WILL MAKE A DECISION ON A TAX ABATEMENT FOR PLAINS COTTON COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION. THE BUSINESS HAS A MIXED HISTORY WITH COMMISSIONERS COURT IN THE PAST. PLAINS COTTON COOP WAREHOUSES COTTON AT ITS BIG SPRING FACILITY AND CONTINUES TO EXPAND ITS OPERATION HERE, BOTH IN SQUARE FOOTAGE AND EMPLOYEES. IN OTHER BUSINESS TODAY COMMISSIONERS WILL HEAR FROM SHERIFF STAN PARKER ON A GRANT CONTRACT REQUEST FOR THE STATEWIDE AUTOMATED VICTIM NOTIFICATION SERVICE. COMMISSIONERS ARE SCHEDULED TO TAKE A BREAK AND THEN CONTINUE THEIR MEETING IN THE AFTERNOON FOR A BUDGET WORKSHOP WITH COUNTY AUDITOR JACKIE OLSON.
COLLEGE TRUSTEES MEET MONDAY HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES WILL CONSIDER A TAX ABATEMENT MONDAY FOR PLAINS COTTON COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, NOT LONG AFTER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS DO THE SAME EARLIER IN THE DAY. THE GROUP WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE MATTER AT THE START OF THEIR 12:30 PM MEETING, AND THEN CONSIDER THE MEASURE. THE SPECIAL COLLEGE TRUSTEES MEETING WILL ALSO INCLUDE AN UPDATE FROM ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS ON THE CAMPUS CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, INCLUDING WORK AT THE ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING AT THE FITNESS CENTER, AND THE PHASE III BIDS. THE MEETING WILL ALSO INCLUDE INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE LEGISLATIVE APPROPRIATION REQUEST FOR THE 2012-2013 BIENNIUM.
BUSY WEEK IN HOWARD COUNTY THIS IS ONE BUSY WEEK IN HOWARD COUNTY. THIS IS RODEO WEEK AND THINGS GET UNDERWAY OFFICIALLY THIS THURSDAY WITH THE PARADE FOR THE 77TH ANNUAL BIG SPRING COWBOY REUNION AND RODEO. THE PARADE WILL START THURSDAY AT 5:30 PM IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING. GRAND ENTRY AND PROFESSIONAL RODEO COMPETITION NIGHTLY THIS THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY STARTING AT 8 PM AT THE RODEO BOWL. THE KBEST 95 COLEGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN STARTS OFF THE EVENING ENTERTAINMENT IN THE FAIR BARN AFTER RODEO COMPETITION THURSDAY NIGHT. IT’S TONY BOOTH FRIDAY NIGHT, NOEL OLIVAS BAND AND ARRON WATSON FOR THE BIG SHOW SATURDAY NIGHT. THIS SATRUDAY MORNING KICKS OFF THE HOWARD / GLASSCOCK COUNTIES AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE “RE-DO” AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM. REGISTRATION IS AT 9 AM AND EVERYTHING GETS UNDERWAY AT 10 AM. RELAY RE-DO WILL LAST UNTIL ABOUT 3 PM SATURDAY. THE HUGE COMMUNITY EVENT WAS CANCELED LAST MONTH DUE TO BAD WEATHER, BUT JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING THAT WAS ORIGIANLLY SCHEDULED WILL TAKE PLACE IN ONE FORM OR THE OTHER AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLESIUM DURING THIS SATURDAY’S EVENT. ALL ARE INVITED.
Friday June 11 AUTHORITIES MAKING GAMBLING ARRESTS LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HAVE MADE AN ARREST RELATED TO AN ILLEGAL GAMBLING RAID A FEW WEEKS AGO AT THREE BIG SPRING BUSINESSES. KARLA KAY NIX WAS ARRESTED WEDNESDAY ON MISDEMEANOR CHARGES OF KEEPING A GAMBLING PLACE, POSSESSION OF GAMBLING EQUIPMENT AND GAMBLING PROMOTION. SHE OPERATES “BEDAZZLE” ON BIRDWELL LANE. OFFICIALS SAY MORE ARRESTS MAY SOON FOLLOW AS WARRANTS ARE ISSUED. THE OTHER TWO BUSINESSES INVOLVED IN THE RAIDE THREE WEEKS AGO WERE CHEROKEE INTERNET CAFÉ ON EAST 4TH AND GOLD RUSH ON EAST 3RD. THE ORIGINAL RAID INVOLVED THE HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE, BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE COMPTROLLERS OFFICE. THE CHARGES STEM FROM THE BUSINESSES OPERATION OF ELECTRONIC GAMING MACHINES KNOWN AS “8 LINERS” AS WELL AS INTERNET / COMPUTER BASED GAMING. THE STING INVOLVED AGENTS POSING AS CUSTOMERS WHO ENTERED THE BUSINESSES, AND LAW ENFORCEMENT SAYS MONEY CHANGED HANDS AS AGENTS PAID A FEE AND THEIR WINNINGS WERE REWARDED IN THE FORM OF GIFT CARDS AND CASH.
Cleanup Underway In New Braunfels After Flooding
(New Braunfels, TX) -- Cleanup is underway in New Braunfels after the area received up to 12-inches of rain in a short period of time Wednesday, flooding the Guadalupe River. A 65-year-old man was killed when he was swept away by floodwaters Wednesday morning while camping. Dozens more were rescued. Homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and vehicles were swept downstream by the raging floodwaters. National Weather Service meteorologist Aaron Treadway says the water has receded in New Braunfels, but the Guadalupe River is expected to peak in Cuero and Gonzalez on Friday and Saturday. Flood warnings are in effect in those areas. Treadway says the last big flood event for the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels was back in 2002, and Wednesday's flood was just below that level of destruction. Landa Park, pools, some city parks and other attractions in New Braunfels are closed until further notice.
Texas Republican Convention Getting Underway In Dallas
(Dallas, TX) -- Thousands of Republican delegates are heading to Dallas for the party's state convention. Republican leaders will pump up the crowds as they near the upcoming November election. Republican incumbents including Governor Rick Perry, Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst and Attorney General Greg Abbott are set to speak to GOP supporters on Friday. Republican delegates will elect a State Party Chairman and State Republican Executive Committee members, and also adopt a party platform. The Republican Party of Texas Convention runs through Saturday at the Dallas Convention Center. The Texas Democratic Party Convention will be held in Corpus Christi later this month.
OLD SOREHEAD TRADE DAYS THIS WEEKEND
The streets of Stanton will once again be filled with wares of every variety and the smell of festival-style food Saturday and Sunday, as the small West Texas town gears up for Old Sorehead Trade Days. The city will once again open its arms to visitors from all over the region during the annual event, which will feature an array of vendors and services for everyone in the family. According to organizers, one of the largest draws for the event, which is held three times each year, is the food. This trade days will feature two “food court” areas for visitors to check out. The first will be located by the single traffic light near First National Bank and Stanton Drug, with a second area near the Stanton Community Center. “Many visitors come to the trade days just to sample the dishes the food vendors have to offer,” said Bud Lindsey, spokesman for the event. “All kinds of food are available. Curly fries, funnel cakes, turkey legs, roasted corn, seafood and Mexican food. There are all kinds of soft drinks and bottled waters in the food court areas.” Old Sorehead Trade Days will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and continue until 6 p.m. It will resume Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. “Scattered around the town, a visitor may find just about anything from trash to rare collectibles,” said Lindsey. “We’ll have antiques for sale in the Antiques on Main store and throughout the trade days — Coca-Cola collectibles, Humble Oil and Sinclair Oil signs, wagon wheels — if you can dream of it, it’s most likely at Old Sorehead Trade Days.” For those that aren’t familiar with the streets of Stanton, trade days volunteers will be on duty to help direct visitors to the different areas, including parking areas for the handicapped and overflow parking. Golf carts will also be available to help get shoppers to and from their vehicles. Lindsey said those wanting to take in the entire affair may want plan on spending quite a bit of time in Stanton. “If you want to see everything at the Old Sorehead Trade Days, you need to plan to come early and stay late,” he said. “Admission is free and anyone who needs information on the event can call our trade days hotline at (432) 756-2006, or visit us on the Web at www.stantontex.com.”
Thursday June 10 OLD SOREHEAD TRADE DAYS THIS WEEKEND THE COMMUNITY OF STANTON CELEBRATES THEIR “OLD SOREHEADS”, BECAUSE THEY’RE OUTNUMBERED BY ALL THE FRIENDLY FOLKS. “OLD SOREHEAD TRADE DAYS” HAPPENS ONLY THREE TIMES A YEAR AND THIS WEEKEND DOWNTOWN STANTON WILL BE BUSY WITH ALL KINDS OF FOOD, FUN AND ENTERTAINMENT. BEST OF ALL, IT’S ALL FREE TO COME AND SHOP AND ENJOY ALL OF THE VENDORS AND OTHER THINGS BEING OFFERED. OLD SOREHEAD TRADES DAYS IS THIS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY WITH SATURDAY HOURS 9 AM TO 6 PM AND SUNDAY FROM NOON TO 5 PM. TO FIND OUT MORE GO TO http://www.stantontex.com .
Second Deadly Gas Line Explosion In Two Days In Texas
(Darrouzett, TX) -- A natural gas pipeline exploded on Tuesday, the second in as many days in the Lone Star State. The latest happened left two people dead in the northeastern town of Darrouzett. Authorities say the blast happened when a work crew struck a pipeline. Monday's explosion in the Cleburne area, near Dallas, left one person dead.
Gulf Oil Spill Helping Austin Tourism
(Austin, TX) -- The Gulf of Mexico oil spill is helping Austin tourism. There are reports that hotel room sales are up eight-percent from last year. Texas tourism officials report record business around the state's coastal areas and lakes. Vacationers are apparently choosing places like Lake Travis rather than risk Gulf state beaches impacted by the oil spill being called America's worst environmental disaster.
Ross Perot's Friends Mark 80th Birthday With Surprise Party
(Plano, TX) -- Dallas billionaire Ross Perot won't turn 80 until late this month but about a thousand of his closest friends got the jump on him with a little surprise party in Plano Tuesday. Among Perot's pals who showed up was real estate magnate Ebby Halliday who serenaded him with her ukulele. Happy birthday greetings came by video from other luminaries like computer king Michael Dell, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, comedian Jay Leno and Cent-Com commander, General David Petraeus. Beside founding two multi-billion dollar companies, Perot is also well-known for his support of military families and POW's. Also attending the gathering, dignitaries from Perot's boyhood home of Texarkana announced they will re-name a bridge over I-30 in his honor. Perot's friends say they had to stage the surprise party nearly three weeks early because Perot tends to avoid celebrations by leaving town around the end of June. He was born on June 27th in 1930.
FILM SOCIETY PRESENTS “RAIDERS”
The Big Spring Film Society and the Convention and Visitors Bureau are proud to present the Steven Spielberg classic, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Friday, July 9th 2010 in the Comanche Trail Park Amphitheatre. The event will begin at dusk, and concessions are available on site. Come out and join us as we celebrate one of the greatest films of all time.
CHAMBER OFFERS LOS COBOS RAFFLE
The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce wants you to get your passport ready and bags packed for a trip to Raintree’s Club Regina Los Cabos, September 4-11, 2010. Board Members and Staff are selling raffle tickets for this wonder end of summer Get-Away Package. Trip is courtesy of Don Knight, BSHS Graduate of 1978. This beautiful resort is located to the extreme south of the Peninsula of Baja, California, where the Sea of Cortes blends with the Pacific Ocean The package consists of 1 bedroom, mini kitchen, sleeps 4 maximum/4 private. Air fare is not included. Tickets are $10 each from any Chamber Board members or you can purchase tickets from the staff at the Chamber Office, 215 W. 3rd. Drawing will be held July 3, 2010 at Pops in the Park and you do not have to be present to win. Only 500 tickets will be sold. So get your tickets today!!
Wednesday June 9 VANDERBILT "NOT GUILTY"
IT ONLY TOOK A JURY A HALF HOUR TO MAKE THE DECISION. "NOT GUILTY" WAS THE VERDICT HANDED DOWN TUESDAY FOR BRYSON O'NEIL VANDERBILT, WHO HAD BEEN ACCUSED OF ABUSE TO THE ELDERLY IN A CASE STEMMING BACK TO 2007 AT THE LAMUN-LUSK-SANCHEZ TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOME. ATTORNEY WAYNE FROST SUCCESSFULLY DEFENDED THE ACCUSED AND THE CASE WAS PROSECUTED BY DISTRICT ATTORNEY HARDY WILKERSON IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT. THERE IS ONE OTHER INDICTED PERSON IN A RELATED CASE AT THE VETERANS HOME- CONNIE MAY JOHNSON. HER COURT DATE WILL BE LATER. THE ALLEGED ABUSE TO THE ELDERLY CASES GAINED A LOT OF STATEWIDE ATTENTION THIS YEAR WHEN THEY BECAME MORE PUBLICLY KNOWN, AND ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE CASES AND ONES SIMILAR WERE MADE BY STATE OFFICIALS SUCH AS LAND BOARD COMMISSIONER JERRY PATTERSON AND STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER. BOTH HAVE CALLED FOR CLOSER SCRUTINY OF TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOMES.
CITY COUNCIL APPROVES WAIVER FOR SETTLES PROJECT
BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY ONCE AGAIN DEBATED ON ECONOMIC ISSUES, BUT THIS TIME IT WASN'T THE CITY POOL ISSUE, IT WAS THE SETTLES HOTEL RENOVATION PROJECT. SETTLES DEVELOPER BRINT RYAN HAD MADE A REQUEST TO THE CITY TO WAIVER BUILDING PERMIT FEES FOR THE $20 MILLION DOWNTOWN PROJECT, WHICH WOULD COME TO LESS THAN $50,000. MAYOR TOMMY DUNCAN AND CITY COUNCILMAN FOR DISTRICT 5 CRAIG OLSON QUESTIONED THE FAIRNESS OF THE PERMIT FEE WAIVER TO OTHER BUSINESSES IF GRANTED. BOTH NEWLY-ELECTED COUNCIL MEMBERS BROUGHT UP THE FACT THAT THE CITY'S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD HAD ALREADY COMMITTED $3 MILLION TOWARD THE PROJECT. SETTLES PROJECT GENERAL MANAGER KRIS RYAN REMINDED COUNCIL THAT HIS BROTHER WAS PAYING FOR MUCH OF THE COST OF THE RENOVATION NOW UNDERWAY WITH HIS OWN MONEY. THE SETTLES IS IN A REINVESTMENT ZONE, AND ELIGIBLE FOR ECONOMIC INCENTIVES. KRIS RYAN ALSO REMINDED COUNCIL THAT THE DILAPIDATED BUILDING WAS A LIABILITY TO THE CITY JUST A FEW YEARS AGO. COUNCILMAN OLSON THEN STATED HIS CONCERNS FOR THE SETTLES AS A SELF-SUSTAINING BUSINESS PROSPECT UPON COMPLETION. AFTER THE DISCUSSION AND INPUT CITY COUNCIL VOTED 4-2 TO APPROVE THE WAIVER OF BUILDING PERMIT FEES, WITH HORTON, STAULCUP, MCDONALD AND HANSEN "FOR", DUNCAN AND OLSON "OPPOSED". COUNCILMAN MANUEL RAMIREZ WAS ABSENT FROM THE MEETING.
Exploratory Deepwater Drilling In Gulf Of Mexico Grinding To A Halt
(New Orleans, LA) -- In the wake of the Deepwater Horizon catastrophe eight-weeks ago tonight, the "Times-Picayune" reports 25 active deepwater drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico are ceasing operations and five others won't start up. The newspaper says that word came Monday via a news release from the Minerals Management Service, an arm of the U.S. Department of the Interior. It follows a six-month moratorium on exploratory deepwater drilling recommended by Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and supported by President Obama.
Tuesday June 8 POLICE MAKE A THIRD ARREST IN HOME INVASION CASE AFTER TWO INITIAL ARRESTS LAST WEEK, ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CRIME, BIG SPRING POLICE HAVE MADE ANOTHER ARREST RELATED TO A HOME INVASION STYLE ROBBERY LAST THURSDAY. THE INCIDENT TERRORIZED A FAMILY WITH CHILDREN IN THE 400 BLOCK OF STATE STREET. THAT NIGHT POLICE ARRESTED 31 YEAR OLD FELIX JARAMILLO OF BIG SPRING AND A 16 YEAR OLD MALE JUVENILE. OVER THE WEEKEND POLICE MADE A THIRD ARREST. SATURDAY NIGHT INVESTIGATORS PICKED UP 21 YEAR OLD PHILLIP G. MARTINEZ ON A WARRANT. CHARGES INCLUDE AGGRAVATED ROBBERY RELATED TO THE HOME INVASION INVESTIGATION AS WELL AS NUMEROUS OTHER CHARGES THAT ARE LISTED AS POSSESSION OF MARJUANA, THEFT, DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, FAILURE TO APPEAR, POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, AMONG OTHER CHARGES. POLICE SAY THERE MAY BE FURTHER ARRESTS IN THE HOME INVASION CASE FROM LAST WEEK IN WHICH ONE OF THE FAMILY MEMBERS, THE FATHER, WAS PISTOL WHIPPED IN FRONT OF HIS YOUNG CHILDREN DURING THE COURSE OF THE ROBBERY. HE WAS TREATED AND RELEASED. THERE WERE NO OTHER INJURIES. THE FAMILY TOLD POLICE THERE WERE FIVE OR MORE INDIVIDUALS POSSIBLY INVOLVED IN THE ROBBERY, WHERE SEVERAL SUBJECTS REPORTEDLY BURST INTO THE HOME AT THE FRONT AND SIDE ENTRANCES AND DEMANDED MONEY AND GOODS AT GUNPOINT.
PUBLIC INVITED TO MENTAL HEALTH TRAINING
BIG SPRING – West Texas Centers for MHMR and Howard College are offering Mental Health First Aid June 29 and 30th to people who are interested in knowing how to respond to people with mental health problems.
The two-day class will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Howard College. Classes are free and available to the first 25 respondents. To register for this class please contact the Howard College Registrar’s Office at 432-264-5106
Mental Health First Aid helps those experiencing mental health problems before they can get professional help and support, said West Texas Centers for MHMR CEO Shelley Smith, LMSW.
“It is similar to ‘First Aid’ and ‘CPR’,” Smith said. “It is designed to give members of the public key skills to help someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. It is not geared toward professionals in the mental health field, but they can learn from this training.”
Mental health problems – such as depression, anxiety, impulse control and misuse of alcohol and other drugs – are common in the United States, Smith said. More than one in four American adults will have a mental health problem in a year.
The National Council on Community Behavioral Healthcare has begun working with communities throughout the nation, including West Texas Centers for MHMR to implement Mental Health First Aid to arm the public with skills to help individuals who are developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.
The clinical and qualitative evidence behind the program demonstrates that it helps the public better identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness, thus improving outcomes for individuals experiencing these illnesses.
Participants of Mental Health First Aid are introduced to risk factors and warning signs for mental health or substance use problems; engage in experiential activities that build understanding of the impact of illness on individuals and families; and learn information about evidence-supported treatment and self-help strategies. Participants receive a course manual and a certificate at the completion of the course.
Participants from all walks of life are encouraged to attend the Mental Health First Aid training. Participants from past nationwide trainings have been from the following community groups: Educators and School personnel, College and University personnel, Human Resource professionals, Members of Faith-based Communities, Homeless Shelter staff and volunteers, Law Enforcement personnel, Substance Abuse professionals, Service organization volunteers (such as Rotary, Kiwanis, etc.), Victim Services personnel and volunteers, Advocacy Group personnel and volunteers, and Caring citizens who want to learn more about mental illness.
For more information on Mental Health First Aid, visit www.thenationalcouncil.org or to register for the free Mental Health Training please contact Howard College Registrar’s Office at 432-264-5106.
Howard County Receives Gold Designation for Financial Transparency (AUSTIN) — Howard County recently received a gold designation in the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle by setting the bar in its financial transparency efforts. More than 100 local governments across Texas have earned a spot in the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle by posting budgets, financial reports and/or check registers online. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs launched the program in December 2009 to recognize cities, counties, school districts and other local governments that have taken their first steps toward openness, shown continued progress or even exceeded transparency standards. “Howard County has met a high standard for transparency and received gold status in the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle by posting its budget, financial report and check register online,” Combs said. “We appreciate the work of county officials who shine a light on spending and ensure greater accountability to the taxpayers.” Through the Leadership Circle program, the Comptroller’s office awards certificates based on a self-scoring checklist that evaluates how local governments provide online access to their expenses and revenue. Local governments receiving a gold, silver or bronze Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle award have opened their books to the public and provide clear, consistent pictures of spending with detailed information on how tax dollars are allocated and spent. These top-ranking entities provide information online in an easily accessible, user-friendly format and set up features that allow taxpayers to easily drill down for more detailed information. “When we talk about transparency in terms of government spending, we’re opening financial records for public examination so taxpayers can see exactly where their money is going,” Combs said. “We’re promoting greater accountability and raising expectations for customer service and government transparency at all levels.” For tips and a step-by-step guide to achieve local government transparency, as well as a complete list of local governments in the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle sorted by city, county and school district, visit www.TexasTransparency.org/local/. New entities are typically added on a weekly basis. As part of an ongoing effort to set new standards for transparency and accountability in state government, Combs has taken proactive steps since January 2007 to provide an open window on state spending. Transparency efforts in Texas have yielded cost savings of $51 million since 2007. To view the state’s transparency efforts and tools, go to www.TexasTransparency.org.
Elton John performed at Rush Limbaugh's wedding Elton John and Rush Limbaugh may seem like an unlikely pair to be found at the same event, but perhaps a wedding is as good a place as any to put politics aside. As Rush Limbaugh, an outspoken conservative commentator, tied the knot for the fourth time in Palm Beach on Saturday, Elton John was on hand to help celebrate the occasion with a performance. Although there are reports that Sir Elton was paid $1 million for the appearance, a representative for the singer would only confirm that he did indeed perform at Limbaugh’s wedding. The 59-year-old Limbaugh married Kathryn Rogers, 33, whom he met six years ago during his third divorce, according to People.
Texas Republican Convention Scheduled In Dallas
(Dallas, TX) -- The Republican Party of Texas Convention will be held this weekend in Dallas, bringing out thousands of GOP supporters from across the state. Republicans running for statewide offices are expected to speak throughout the convention, including Governor Rick Perry. Republican delegates will elect a State Party Chairman and State Republican Executive Committee members, and also adopt a party platform. Committees will meet this week to discuss platform proposals, which will then be presented at the convention this weekend. The convention runs through Saturday at the Dallas Convention Center. The Texas Democratic Party Convention will be held in Corpus Christi later this month.
Two Tons Of Marijuana Seized At Border
(Laredo, TX) -- More than two tons of marijuana are off the street after a significant seizure at the Texas-Mexico border late last week. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Laredo Port of Entry seized the marijuana from a tractor trailer hauling a commercial shipment of wheat pellets. The truck was referred for a secondary examination on Thursday, and officers discovered 144 bundles of marijuana co-mingled with the shipment. The drugs weighed nearly 44-hundred pounds. The 29-year-old Mexican driver was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
Monday June 7 FORSAN LADY BUFFS WIN STATE TITLE
YOU COULD SAY THEY ARE BESIDE THEMSELVES. TWO CONSECUTIVE STATE TITLES FOR THE FORSAN LADY BUFFS. UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF COACH SHANNA ROBERTS THE FORSAN GIRLS SOFTBALL TEAM TOOK DOWN BLUE RIDGE SATURDAY IN AUSTIN IN A GAME BROADCAST ON KBST SPORTS WITH BILL NORRIS. CONSECUTIVE CLASS 1A SOFTBALL TITLES... NOT BAD AT ALL FOR WHAT WAS AN UPSTART TEAM FIVE YEARS AGO! CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FORSAN LADY BUFFS!
COAHOMA SCHOOL BOARD TO NAME NEW COACH
COAHOMA SCHOOL TRUSTEES MEET MONDAY IN THE SCHOOL BOARD ROOM AT 7 PM. IT'S ANTICIPATED THAT SCHOOL OFFICIALS WILL ANNOUNCE THEIR SELECTION FOR THE NEW COAHOMA HEAD FOOTBALL COACH ADN ASST. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR TO REPLACE COACH STACEY MARTIN, WHO LEFT THE COAHOMA SCHOOL DISTRICT LAST MONTH. NO NAME HAS BEEN RELEASED AS TO WHO THE NEW REPLACEMENT WILL BE, BUT COAHOMA SUPT. RANDY BROWN CONFIRMS THAT THEY HAVE MADE AN OFFER TO AN INDIVIDUAL AND HE HAS ACCEPTED. THE OFFER WAS MADE AFTER RECEIVING NUMEROUS APPLICATIONS AND CONDUCTION EIGHT INTERVIEWS.
Friday June 4 80 YEAR OLD POOL BEING DEMOLISHED THE CITY POOL AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK IS CURRENTLY BEING DEMOLISHED. THE 80 YEAR OLD FACILITY IS BEING REMOVED TO MAKE WAY FOR A $4 MILLION FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER THAT RECEIVED CITY COUNCIL’S FINAL APPROVAL TUESDAY AFTER A LENGTHY DEBATE ON THE MATTER. DEMOLITION OF THE OLD POOL BEGAN ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CITY COUNCIL VOTE THIS WEEK, WHICH INCLUDED A DECISION TO CUT COSTS A MUCH AS POSSIBLE BUT DID NOT ALTER THE OVERALL DESIGN OF THE AQUATIC CENTER AS PREVIOUSLY APPROVED. THE NEW FACILITY WILL BE BUILT AT THE EXACT SAME LOCATION AS THE OLD POOL, WHICH WAS CLOSED LAST YEAR DUE TO A.D.A ISSUES AND OTHER NEW FEDERAL REGULATIONS THAT WERE GOING TO BECOME QUITE EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR AND RENOVATE. AT THE TIME, CITY COUNCIL UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN, DECIDED TO CONSTRUCT AN ENTIRELY NEW FACILITY. CITY MANAGER GARY FUQUA STATED THIS WEEK AFTER CITY COUNCIL’S FINAL VOTE THAT IT IS HIS BELIEF THE NEW AQUATIC CENTER CAN BE COMPLETED AND READY FOR LOCAL KIDS AND THEIR FAMILIES BY SUMMER 2011, POSSIBLY AS SOON AS MAY 31ST .
Perry To Have Knee Surgery Friday
(Austin, TX) -- Governor Rick Perry will have surgery Friday (today) to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee. The one-hour arthroscopic outpatient surgery will be performed by Doctor Carey Windler in Austin. Windler performed the same procedure on the 60-year-old governor's right knee back in 2001. Perry has notified Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst about the procedure so that he may be prepared to assume the governor's duties while he is temporarily unable to serve.
Alon USA Announces Acquisition of Bakersfield Refinery From Flying J DALLAS, June 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alon USA Energy, Inc. (NYSE:ALJ - News) (the "Company") announced today that it has completed the acquisition of the Bakersfield, California refinery from Big West of California, LLC, a subsidiary of Flying J Inc. Jeff Morris, Alon's CEO, commented, "The Bakersfield refinery, which is being acquired at a very attractive price, avoids hundreds of millions of dollars in anticipated costs to construct a hydrocracker for our California refineries, and will enable us to operate it as an integrated unit with our Paramount refinery, allowing us to significantly increase throughput at our California refineries and increase West Coast refining margins by processing vacuum gas oil from our Paramount refinery at Bakersfield. Additionally, we were able to accomplish the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Big West without incurring additional debt to Alon or its subsidiaries." "We are very pleased to have the opportunity to join ranks with a strong group of employees, which we believe will facilitate the integration of the Bakersfield refinery into our refinery portfolio under our current corporate infrastructure. Our acquisition of Bakersfield will allow us to potentially save up to 100 jobs in the Bakersfield area once the refinery has recommenced full operations." The Company anticipates using certain equipment from Bakersfield at its other refineries while processing vacuum gas oil from its refinery in Paramount, California at the Bakersfield refinery. The purchase price of the Bakersfield transaction, including substantially all of the assets of Big West, consists of $40 million in cash. The Company also acquired the Bakersfield refinery's existing inventory as of the closing date of the transaction. The Bakersfield refinery is located in California's Central Valley and has the capacity to refine up to 70,000 barrels per day of crude oil. The refinery is supplied by crude oil produced in the San Joaquin Valley with its products marketed in California, and is a major provider of motor fuels in central California.
One Year Mark For WHTI At Land, Sea Ports
(Undated) -- It's been one year since the U.S. Customs and Border Protection implemented travel document requirements for land and sea ports along the U.S. borders. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires passports or other acceptable documents at U.S. borders with Canada and Mexico. CBP's preliminary analysis indicates that the implementation has had no negative impact on wait times at ports of entry. The initiative has had a positive impact on apprehensions, with false claims to U.S. citizenship up 25-percent on the southern border. The national compliance rate has been steady at 95-percent. The requirement went into affect on June first, 2009.
Students Should Get Vaccinated Now To Avoid Long Lines
(Undated) -- The Texas Department of State Health Services is encouraging parents to get their children vaccinated now to avoid the back-to-school rush later this summer. New requirements announced last year state that before attending the first day of school, kindergarteners and first-graders need to have had two varicella or chickenpox vaccines, two hepatitis A vaccines and two MMR vaccines. Seventh through 12th grade students must have had one booster shot of the Tdap vaccine, and seventh- and eighth-graders need to get two doses of chickenpox vaccine if they have not had the illness and one dose of the meningitis vaccine. For the 2010-2011 school year, the requirements also will apply to first- and eighth-graders who did not receive the required vaccines in kindergarten or seventh grade.
Texas Republican Convention Scheduled In Dallas
(Dallas, TX) -- The Republican Party of Texas Convention will be held next week in Dallas. Republicans running for statewide offices are expected to speak throughout the convention, including Governor Rick Perry. Republican delegates will elect a State Party Chairman and State Republican Executive Committee members, and also adopt a party platform. Registration begins next Thursday at the Dallas Convention Center, and the convention runs through Saturday. The Texas Democratic Party Convention will be held in Corpus Christi later this month.
Thursday June 3 New Website To Help Draw Businesses To State
(Austin, TX) -- A new interactive site will help companies across the globe relocate and expand to the Lone Star State. Governor Rick Perry announced Tuesday that the Governor Economic Development and Tourism division is launching TexasSiteSearch.com. It's an interactive mapping tool and property database that combines powerful business research in one location. TexasSiteSearch.com builds on the familiar Google Maps platform and adds interactive functionality by allowing users to overlay key geographic assets, including commercial airports, seaports and universities, in unique layers on the map. It also provides thousands of available commercial and industrial properties that can be searched by property type, size and location.
Texas Will Not Seek RTTT Education Funds
(Austin, TX) -- The state of Texas will not apply for the second round of federal Race to the Top education funds. Governor Rick Perry said Tuesday that the state's application would be penalized by the U.S. Department of Education for refusing to commit to adopting national curriculum standards and tests or incurring related ongoing costs. Perry says the administration's attempt to quote, "bait states into adopting national standards is an effort to undermine states' authority to determine how their students are educated." Perry says abandoning state standards and adopting new nationalized standards would cost Texas taxpayers three-billion-dollars and would likely weaken the rigorous college and career-ready standards and assessments already in place. Texas became one of the first states to forgo participating in the first round of RTTT.
CITY BEGINS LONG BUDGET PROCESS AFTER A LENGTHY DISCUSSION AND 6-1 VOTE TO MOVE AHEAD WITH THE FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER TUESDAY, COUNCIL THEN WENT INTO DISCUSSION OF OTHER MONEY MATTERS: THE COMING YEAR’S FISCAL BUDGET. PLANNING FOR THE CITY OF BIG SPRING BUDGET USUALLY BEGINS THIS TIME OF YEAR SO A TO ALLOW PPLENTY OF TIME TO DEVELOP CONCEPTS AND GOALS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR WHICH STARTS IN OCTOBER. TUESDAY WAS THE FIRST PLANNING MEETING FOR CITY COUNCIL AND CITY STAFF THIS GO ‘ROUND, AND AS USUAL, IT WAS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EACH CITY COUNCIL MEMBER TO VOICE AN ISSUE OR ISSUES THEY WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADDRESSED IN THE COMING YEAR. MAYOR TOMMY DUNCAN CONTINUED TO STRESS HIS DESIRE TO SEE THE TAX RATE SHRUNK FROM THE $1.01 IT IS NOW. HE ALSO WANTS CONTINUED EFFORTS ON CITY WATER QUALITY, AS WELL AS ROAD IMPROVEMENTS. COUNCILWOMAN STEPHANIE HORTON IS CONCERNED ABOUT WATER QUALITY AND WANTS TO CONTINUE TO RECEIVE MORE OF THE CITY WATER SUPPLY FROM THE O.H. IVIE RESERVOIR AS IT HAS RECENTLY. HORTON WAS ALSO CONCERNED ABOUT THE APPEARANCE OF THE CITY’S WEST SIDE. CITY COUNCILWOMAN JOANN STAULCUP STATED SHE WOULD LIKE TO SEE A SYSTEMATIC REPLACEMENT PROGRAM FOR MACHINERY AT THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT. STAULCUP ALSO WANTS TO MAKE SURE THE CITY IS PUTTING BACK ENOUGH MONIES FOR THE IMPENDING CLOSURE OF THE CITY LANDFILL. CITY COUNCILMAN MANUEL RAMIREZ WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE ATTENTION PAID TO CITY STREETS, ESPECIALLY ON THE CITY’S WEST AND NORTH SIDES. CITY COUNCILWOMAN GLORIA MCDONALD WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE CITY EVENTUALLY PHASE INTO THEIR FLEET THE USE OF VEHICLES THAT CONSUME ALTERNATIVES FUELS. MCDONALD ALSO ADDRESSED TOURIST ATTRACTION IDEAS BASED ON RAILROADS, AND WOULD LIKE TO INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF WHAT’S AVAILABLE AT THE CITY COMPOST SITE. CITY COUNCILMAN CRAIG OLSON EXPRESSED HIS CONCERNS ABOUT CITY TAXES AS WELL AS SPENDING. HE STATED THAT THE CITY SHOULD NOT DEVELOP A TASTE FOR WORLD CLASS FACILITIES THAT DON’T FIT ITS SPENDING LIMITS. COUNCILMAN TERRY HANSEN WANTS MORE EFFORTS TAKEN TO RE-OPEN THE HISTORICAL CITY AUDITORIUM, WHICH HAS BEEN CLOSED DUE TO A.D.A. ISSUES FOR A YEAR AND A HALF.
Wednesday June 2 State Ranked For Driver Smarts
(Undated) -- Could you go into a driver's license office today and pass a written driver's test? The 2010 GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test survey ranked how well drivers would do on a test if it were taken today. When it comes to the most knowledgeable drivers, Texas ranked 35th among the states and Washington DC. The best at number one is Kansas while New York ranked last.
PLEAS IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT SEVERAL PLEAS IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT THIS WEEK. AMONG THEM, CHRIS RUIZ PLEADS GUILTY TO BURGLARY OF A BUILDING AND BURGLARY OF A HABITATION AND WILL GETS FIVE YEARS. CHRISTOPHER LYNN HOLT IS PLEADING GUILTY FOR AN AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON EARLIER THIS YEAR. HE PHYSICALLY ASSAULTED HIS WIFE AND THEN PREVENTED HER FROM SEEKING HELP FROM POLICE OFFICERS WHEN THEY ARRIVED AT THE SCENE. MR. HOLT HAS PLEADED TO A FOUR YEAR SENTENCE. COMING UP NEXT WEEK IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT, A JURY TRIAL FOR 25 YEAR OLD BRYSON O’NEIL VANDERBILT. HE IS CHARGED WITH ELDERLY ABUSE IN A CASE DATING BACK TO 2007 AT THE LAMUN LUSK SANCHEZ TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOME IN BIG SPRING THAT HAS RECEIVED A LOT OF RECENT PUBLICITY. THAT TRIAL WILL GET UNDERWAY WITH JURY SLECTION MONDAY MORNING.
Fans Angry About Being Pepper-Sprayed At Six Flags Concert
(Arlington, TX) -- A bunch of teenagers and young adults are fuming about the fumes they inhaled during a concert at Six Flags in Arlington over the weekend. Numerous cell phone video's are circulating showing long minutes of chaos as fans rushed the stage at the end of Saturday night's performance by a pop-punk band calling itself All Time Low. Some fans leaped onto the stage to get closer to the band-mates. They were driven back by a cloud of pepper spray but the source of the fumes is still in dispute. Six Flags blames Arlington police but the police department says they had just one off-duty officer working security there. A park spokeswoman says the band incited the audience, prompting rowdy behavior. In a profanity-laced posting on Twitter, one of the band members blasts both Six Flags and the police. The band also tells fans it would not be attending Sunday's scheduled performance at the Six Flags in San Antonio. According to management, the band dropped out, but All Time Low claims the park refuses to let them play.
Big Spring Cowboy Reunion & Rodeo
The board of directors of the Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo announces the calendar of events for the 77th annual rodeo. The dates for the 2010 event are: June 17, 18, & 19. The rodeo begins with the grand entry at 8:00 PM each night. Gates open to the public at 7:00 PM. The rodeo bowl is located one block south of the intersection of FM 700 and Business 20 West. The rodeo parade begins at 5:30 PM on Thursday, June 17th. The parade will circle 3rd and 4th streets between Scurry and Owens. Entries assemble at 3rd and Owens where the parade starts. Mike Mathis, well known PRCA rodeo announcer will emcee the rodeo. Mike announces on horseback, which adds to the excitement of the evening. Carr Pro Rodeo produces the event and provides the stock. Mark Swingler of Austin, TX, brings his unique acts and stunts to the arena in the form of an escaped prisoner car act and several unique skits all designed to please the whole family. He has served on the PRCA board of directors and holds many awards for his barrel man and specialty acts. The Cowboy Golf Tournament, which benefits the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund is scheduled for Friday, June 18th at the Big Spring Country Club with an 8:00 AM shotgun start. Call the club at 432-267-5354 for reservations. Teams participate in 4 man (or woman) scrambles. Thursday night entertainment includes free admission to the Colgate Country Showdown. This community event allows local contestant winners to showcase their talents and move on to the state finals. Contact KBeST radio @ 432-267-6391 for entry information. The local event begins Thursday, June 17th at 9 PM in the Howard County fair barn next to the rodeo bowl. It is sponsored by the dental office of Dr. David Ward. The Rodeo dance on Friday, June 18th will feature TONY BOOTH. Dancing begins at 9:30 PM. The admission is $10 per person. On June 19th, Saturday night entertainment begins at 9:30 PM with NOEL OLIVAS and Band. He opens for the headliner, AARON WATSON. Admission is $20 per person. Both dances will be held in the fair barn, next to the rodeo bowl. Mutton Bustin’ is scheduled for each night of the rodeo. There is a $20 entry fee per child. Contact Diane Hofacket at 432-267-8041 for more information
Tuesday June 1 RANDY WHITE TO SPEAK AT FUNDRAISER FORMER DALLAS COWBOY GREAT RANDY WHITE WILL BE THE GUEST SPEAKER AT THE BIG SPRING SALVATION ARMY ANNUAL BANQUET JUNE 10TH. THE TICKETED EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER FROM 6:00-8:30 PM. ONE OF THE TOUGHEST AND STRONGEST DEFENSIVE TACKLES EVER TO PLAY THE GAME, RANDY WHITE WAS DUBBED “MANSTER”, PART MAN AND PART MONSTER, BY TEAMMATE CHARLIE WATERS. WHITE WAS WITH THE DALLAS COWBOYS FOR 14 YEARS. HE WILL BE THE FEATURED SPEAKER AT THE BIG SPRING SALVATION ARMY FUNDRAISING EVENT JUNE 10TH. THERE WILL ALSO BE A SILENT AUCTION THAT WILL INCLUDE AN AUTOGRAPHED FOOTBALL, JERSEY, PHOTOGRAPHS AND MORE. COST FOR THE EVENING IS $30 A PERSON OR $200 FOR A TABLE OF EIGHT. TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS EVENT CONTACT THE BIG SPRING SALVATION ARMY AT 811 WEST 5TH STREET, OR CALL 267-8239.
(Dallas, TX) -- A few minutes before the Saturday night drawing, someone bought a 64-million dollar winner at a Dallas convenience store. The Lotto Texas ticket was purchased a little after 10 p.m. Saturday at a 7-Eleven on Garland Road in the Casa Linda neighborhood. The total jackpot was 97-million but the ticket-buyer selected the cash value option which works out to 64-million. The Lotto Jackpot has been growing since August.
CITY COUNCIL TO RECONSIDER AQAUTIC CENTER IT WAS A HOT TOPIC BEFORE AND DURNING THE RECENT MAY 8TH BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS, AND IT RETURNS TO THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA DURING A SPECIAL BUDGET MEETING THIS (TUESDAY) EVENING. NEWLY ELECTED BIG SPRING MAYOR TOMMY DUNCAN HAS PLACED AN ITEM ON THE AGENDA THAT CALLS FOR “CONSIDERATION OF CHANGE TO THE SCOPE OF WORK IN THE ARCHITECT’S AGREEMENT WITH WATER TECHNOLOGIES, INC. FOR THE BIG SPRING AQUATIC CENTER AND TAKE ACTION IF NECESSARY” IS HOW THE AGENDA ITEM READS. WHAT IT SAYS IS THE NEW MAYOR WOULD LIKE TO POSSIBLY SCALE DOWN THE SIZE AND EXPENSE OF WHAT HAS PREVIOUSLY BEEN APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL AS A REPLACEMENT FOR THE AGING AND CLOSED CITY POOL AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. BOTH TOMMY DUNCAN AND NEWLY ELECTED DISTRICT 5 CITY COUNCILMAN CRAIG OLSON SPOKE OUT AGAINST THE CURRENT PLAN BEFORE BEING ELECTED. THIS WILL BE THE FIRST TIME EACH MAN WILL GET TO OFFICIALLY WEIGH IN ON THE MATTER AS A REPRESENTATIVE ON CITY COUNCIL. THE REMAINDER OF THE TUESDAY NIGHT MEETING WILL BE THE FIRST OF A SERIES OF CITY BUDGET DISCUSSIONS AND GOALS FOR THE COMING FISCAL YEAR.
Monday May 31 CONTOVERSIAL ARTILCE APPEARS IN HIGH SCHOOL PAPER A BIT OF JOURNALISTIC DRAMA ENDS THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL YEAR. BIG SPRING SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT STEVEN SALDIVAR CONFIRMS TO KBST NEWS FRIDAY MORNING THAT THE INSTRUCTOR OF JOURNALISM, WILLIAM RIGGS, RESIGNED FRIDAY MORNING. THE RESIGNATION STEMMED FROM A CONTROVERSIAL ARTICLE WRITTEN BY A BIG SPRING STUDENT THAT APPEARED IN THE SCHOOL PAPER. WE ARE TOLD THE ARTICLE WAS AN EDITORIAL DISCUSSING THE LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA. SUPT. SALDIVAR TELLS KBST NEWS THAT SCHOOL OFFICIALS LEARNED OF THE ARTICLE AS IT WAS BEING RELEASED TO STUDENTS THURSDAY. RELEASE OF THE PAPER WAS HALTED AT ABOUT 200 COPIES. NORMAL DISTRIBUTION IS AROUND 900. SUPT. SALDIVAR SAYS THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IS “VERY EMARRASSED” THAT THE ARTICLE WAS ALLOWED TO BE WRITTEN AND PUBLISHED AND THAT THEY SPEND TIME AND ENERGY DISCOURAGING DRUG USE, AND THAT “THIS TYPE OF ARTICLE IS NOT WHAT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT STANDS FOR.” AT THE TIME OF OUR STORY KBST NEWS HAS NOT READ THE CONTROVERSIAL ARTICLE OR SPOKEN WITH THE INSTRUCTOR, BILL RIGGS, WHO RESIGNED.
HOWARD COUNTY ACCIDENT KILLS ODESSA MAN A ONE VEHILCE ACCIDENT SUNDAY EVENING IN EAST HOWARD COUNTY TOOK THE LIFE OF AN ODESSA MAN. 56 YEAR OLD JOHNNY LEE POUND OF ODESSA WAS WESTBOUND ON I-20 SUNDAY EVENING WHEN HE SOMEHOW LOST CONTROL OF HIS HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE NEAR MILE MARKER 195, IN THE RATTLESNAKE GAP AREA. AS HE LOST CONTROL OF HIS MOTORCYCLE HE CROSSED INTO THE HIGHWAY CENTER MEDIAN WHERE HE COLLIDED WITH THE BARRIER THERE. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH SGT. THOMAS MOORE OF THE D.P.S., WHO SAID THE DECEASED WAS NOT WEARING A HELMET. JOHNNY LEE POUND WAS THE ONLY PERSON INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT. NO OTHER VEHICLES OR INJURIES WERE REPORTED INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT SUNDAY EVENING. D.P.S. CPL TOMMY SALMON WAS THE PRIMARY INVESTIGATOR OF THE ACCIDENT SCENE.
FIRE AT CITY COMPOST SITE CREATES LOTS OF BLACK SMOKE THE CAUSE OF A FIRE AT THE BIG SPRING CITY COMPOST SITE WAS NOT KNOWN SUNDAY EVENING BUT THE FIRE GENERATED LOTS OF BLACK SMOKE AT TIMES THAT COULD BE SEEN FOR MILES. DEPUTY CHIEF RON PHILLIPS SPOKE TO KBST NEWS AT THE SCENE SUNDAY AND SAID CREWS WERE STANDING BY AND CONTROLLING THE FIRE WITH A TANKER TRUCK, BUT FOR THE MOST PART IT WAS GOING TO HAVE TO BURN ITSELF OUT. NO ONE WAS HURT AND NO PRIVATE PROPERTY WAS DAMAGED OR THREATENED. THE FIRE WAS NOT AT THE MAIN COMPOST SITE, BUT AT AN AREA WHERE THERE’S LOTS OF WOOD AND OTHER SIMILAR DEBRIS. THE FIRE WAS CALLED IN JUST AROUND 6:30 AND COULD STILL BE SEEN BURNING AT SUNSET SUNDAY EVENING.
Friday May 28 NICE RAINS BRING MOSQUITOES WE ARE AHEAD OF NORMAL FOR RAINFALL IN BIG SPRING AND HOWARD COUNTY FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR AND WE ARE JUST NOW ENTERING THE RAINY SEASON. WITH THE NICE MOISTURE COME THE MOSQUITOES. THE CITY OF BIG SPRING HAS ALREADY BEGUN TO SPRAY FOR THE PESTS, ESPECIALLY AROUND LOW LYING AREAS WHERE WATER NORMALLY STANDS AND BREEDS MOSQUITOES. ASST. CITY MANAGER TODD DARDEN TELLS KBST NEWS THAT IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD, PLEASE CONTACT THE CITY AND THEY WILL ADDRESS IT. ANOTHER WAY TO HELP PREVENT MOSQUITOES AROUND YOU HOME IS TO MAKE SURE THERE ARE NO STANDING AREAS WITH WATER OR CONTAINERS THAT HOLD RAINWATER LIKE OLD TIRES, KIDDY POOLS, ETC. CHANGE THE WATER REGULARLY IN YOUR OUTDOOR PETS WATER BOWLS AS WELL.
Report: Workers Fought Before Deadly Oil Rig Explosion
(Kenner, LA) -- Employees of oil company BP and rig operator Transocean reportedly fought bitterly about the operation of the doomed rig hours before it exploded in the Gulf of Mexico. "The Wall Street Journal" reports the disagreement was about how to start shutting down the well. A Transocean worker who clashed with the BP employee in charge of the operation was killed in the explosion. The details were revealed in testimony before the Coast Guard and the Minerals Management Service in Kenner, Louisiana.
Transocean chief mechanic Douglas Brown told the panel there was heated disagreement over the way BP was handling the rig. He said the BP employees ultimately prevailed in the fight, because BP was in charge of the operation. Brown recalled the rig's primary driller, Dewey Revette, objected to the operations BP planned on board the rig. Revette died when the Deepwater Horizon exploded eleven hours after the fight.
Gulf Oil Spill Estimated To Be Worst Spill In U.S. History
(Undated) -- The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is now estimated to be the worst in U.S. history. U.S. Geological Survey Director Marcia McNutt told reporters that anywhere from half a million to a million gallons of oil have been leaking from the site of the collapsed Deepwater Horizon rig every day. Previous estimates by the Coast Guard and BP had put it at just over 200-thousand gallons per day. Using the latest figures, up to 28 million gallons of oil have been released into the Gulf of Mexico since the rig collapsed. The previous record oil spill was the Exxon Valdez disaster in 1989. That leaked about eleven million gallons of oil into Alaska's Prince William Sound.
Man Pleads Guilty In Dallas Skyscraper Bomb Case
(Dallas, TX) -- The man accused of attempting to blow up a Dallas skyscraper has pleaded guilty in the case. Authorities said late Wednesday that Hosam Maher Husein Smadi has pleaded guilty to attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction. He admitted that he took possession of a truck that he thought contained a bomb back in September 2009 and then parked the vehicle in the parking garage under the 60-story Fountain Place building in downtown Dallas. He then activated the timer and got into a waiting vehicle with an undercover law enforcement agent where Smadi used a cell phone to remotely detonate the fake bomb. He now faces up to 30 years in prison as part of the plea agreement.
Thursday May 27 “FOUR OBJECTS” STILL LIFE SHOW AT HERITAGE MUSEUM THE HERITAGE MUSEUM ON SCURRY STREET OFFICALLY OPENS A UNIQUE ART SHOW OF LOCAL ARTISTS KNOWN AS “THE CABOOSE WATERCOLOR SOCIETY. A RECEPTION TO OPEN THE SHOW WILL TAKE PLACE FROM 5 TO 6 PM THURSDAY, MAY 27TH, AT THE HERITAGE MUSEUM. THE CABOSSE GROUP FORMED IN 1997. THIS SHOW FEATURES WATERCOLORS FROM THE PARTICIPATING ARTISTS AND THEIR INDIVIDUAL TAKES ON THE SAME FOUR OBJECTS, AND PAINTED IN A VARIETY OF WAYS, ACCORDING TO NANCY RANEY, MUSEUM DIRECTOR. THE RECEPTION FOR THE FOUR OBJECTS STILL LIFE ART SHOW IS THURSDAY FROM 5 TO 6 PM. EVERYONE IS INVITED TO DROP BY AND VIEW THE ART AND VISIT WITH THE ARTISTS.
More Texans Planning To Travel This Memorial Day Weekend
(Dallas, TX) -- More Texans will be traveling this Memorial Day weekend. Triple-A Texas spokesman Dan Ronan says the economy is getting better and many people have extra money in their pockets, so they're taking those vacations that they've put on the back burner over the past couple of years. Ronan says three-point-two-percent more Texans are expected to travel this weekend compared to 2009 with about two-point-53 million Texans taking a trip. About two-point-two-million-people will travel by vehicle, up three-point-six-percent compared to last Memorial Day weekend. Air travel is projected to increase by less than one-half of one percent to 167-thousand flyers, while travel by boat, bus or train will be up one-percent to 164-thousand. Triple-A projects the number of Americans traveling this holiday weekend will increase five-point-four-percent from 2009, with about 32-point-one-million travelers taking a trip away from home.
Ammo Seized At Texas-Mexico Border
(Brownsville, TX) -- Nearly two-thousand rounds of assault rifle ammunition are off the streets after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized the shipment at the Brownsville Port of Entry this week. Officer referred an outbound car headed to Mexico for a secondary examination at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge Monday. Officers discovered 19-hundred-94 rounds of undeclared ammo hidden throughout the Chrysler Sebring. The 23-year-old driver and his 19-year-old male passenger, both U.S. citizens and residents of Brownsville, were taken into custody and turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. San Antonio's ICE special agent in charge Jerry Robinette says the suspects' arrests demonstrate the team's dedication to pursue those who pose a threat to public safety and the well being of local communities. Robinette says authorities will continue to target criminal organizations and ensure compliance with immigration and customs laws and make certain that the nation's borders are secure at all times.
Cornyn Says Obama's Order For Border Troops Too Little
(Washington, DC) -- President Obama has ordered the deployment of 12-hundred National Guard personnel to the U.S.-Mexico border. U.S. Senator John Cornyn says he appreciates the President's acknowledgement that his Administration has done too little to secure the border, but adds Obama's proposal still comes up short. Cornyn says temporary fixes are no solution to long-term challenges. The Texas Republican has introduced an amendment that he says reflects the real needs of federal, state and local law enforcement. Cornyn says with the right equipment, more personnel, and better infrastructure, those agencies can be much more effective in keeping communities safe. Cornyn is urging the President to support his amendment, which he says would demonstrate a real presidential commitment to border security.
American Airlines To Train Replacement Flight Attendants
(Fort Worth, TX) -- In case there's a strike, Fort Worth-based American Airlines is making arrangements to have fill-in flight attendants. The carrier is asking American Airlines management personnel in the DFW area if they'd be willing to take flight attendant training and actually staff flights. They're asking for about four-thousand volunteers. The airline's flight attendants union is calling for better pay and benefits in a new contract, but talks haven't gone well and last week, union members authorized a strike.
COLLEGE LEADERS ARE KBST GUESTS THURSDAY HOWARD COLLEGE PRESIDENT CHERYL SPARKS AND VICE-PRESIDENT TERRY HANSEN ARE OUR SCHEDULED GUESTS THURSDAY ON “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”. COLLEGE TRUSTEES AND ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS, ALONG WITH FACULTY AND STUDENTS HAVE BEEN MANEUVERING AROUND LOTS OF NEW CONSTRUCTION ON THE BIG SPRING CAMPUS FOR THE PAST YEAR OR SO, AND THE DORM RENOVATIONS ARE ALSO NOW UNDERWAY. WE’LL GET AN UPDATE FROM SPARKS AND HANSEN ON THE PROGRESS OF THE BOND PROJECTS, AS WELL AS HOW THINGS ARE GOING IN OTHER AREAS SUCH AS STATE FUNDING HIGHER LEARNING. JOIN US AT 8:15 AM FOR MORNING MAGAZINE ON KBST.
Wednesday May 26 Click It Or Ticket Underway In Texas
(Undated) -- Texans are reminded to buckle up as Click It or Ticket gets underway. The statewide campaign increases patrols for unbuckled drivers and passengers through June sixth. A new Texas law went into effect last September, requiring everyone inside a vehicle to be secured by a safety belt or in a child safety seat, regardless of where they are sitting. Children younger than eight-years-old must be in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they are taller than four-feet-nine-inches. Fines range from 25 to 250-dollars plus court costs.
Drone Presence to Help Protect Southern Border Raises Aerial Coverage Along Texas, New Mex., Ariz., Calif. Borders to 7 Days a Week
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) today introduced an amendment to the emergency war supplemental to make $144 million available to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to expand the presence of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, along the southwestern border of the United States. The funding would allow CBP to obtain and operate at least six new drone systems and hire systems pilots with the goal of covering the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California every day of the week.
“Failure of the federal government to effectively secure our borders threatens the safety of border communities and puts our national security at risk. To address illegal immigration and to protect communities from the violence associated with narco-terrorism and drug and arms trafficking, we must employ state-of-the-art border monitoring and security techniques,” said Hutchison. “I have introduced legislation that will give border enforcement officials the resources and the manpower to monitor all 2,000 miles of our shared border every single day. UAVs and other high-tech tools must be a part of our 21st century approach to keeping our nation safe.”
The CBP reports that only about 700 miles of the 2,000 mile-long southern border are under effective control. Portions of the southern border that are ineffectively monitored become open portals for drug cartels, arms dealers, human traffickers, and even terrorists. Aerial surveillance using UAVs is a force multiplier, and it allows border enforcement officials to more efficiently and consistently monitor the border and respond to illicit activity.
Last week, Sen. Hutchison, ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, convened a meeting between Federal Aviation Administrator J. Randolph Babbitt and members of the Texas Congressional Delegation. Administrator Babbitt committed to working closely with CBP to approve the use of UAVs along the entire Texas border before the end of the summer. He also agreed to create a streamlined process so that future requests to expand UAV coverage in Texas and the rest of the nation can be approved much more quickly than has been experienced to date.
Having gained support for increased UAV deployment among key federal officials, Sen. Hutchison’s amendment provides the funding and direction to quickly implement drone procurement, operation, and maintenance.
The amendment makes available $144,000,000 to CBP, and the amount is offset by uncommitted funding from the American Recovery and Investment Act. Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) are cosponsors.
Obama To Send 1,200 National Guard Troops To U.S.-Mexico Border
(Washington, DC) -- President Obama has called for the deployment over 12-hundred more National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. An administration official says the move will provide more time for law enforcement agencies to train border agents. The Obama administration is also expected to request half a billion-dollars to increase border security.
Tuesday May 25 Social Studies Curriculum Standards Get Final Vote
(Austin, TX) -- Changes are coming to the state's social studies standards curriculum. The State Board of Education considered 213 amendments to the K-through-12 standards during two days of lengthy debate last week, and approved the new standards in a series of nine-to-five votes on Friday. The updated Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills will be effective in the 2010-2011 school year, when educators will receive training and write curriculum guides. The new standards will then be used in classrooms beginning in the 2011-2012 school year.
Work on the social studies curriculum began in January 2009 and attracted intense international attention and comment, with standing-room-only crowds watching the board debate many sensitive topics. Approved amendments that attracted considerable debate include analyze Abraham Lincoln's ideas about liberty, equality, union and government as contained in his first and second inaugural addresses and the Gettysburg Address. Other approved amendments include examining the reasons the Founding Fathers guaranteed religious freedom by saying that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, and compare that to the phrase "separation of church and state." New standards also include explaining instances of institutional racism in American society and discussing the solvency of long term entitlements such as Social Security and Medicare. The board also voted to add a direct reference to the election of President Barack H. Obama and to require World History students to explain the political philosophies of individuals such as Thomas Jefferson.
Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday This Weekend In Texas
(Austin, TX) -- Texas Comptroller Susan Combs is reminding Texans about this Memorial Day weekend's third-annual Energy Star Sales Tax holiday on many new appliances. Shoppers don't have to pay state and local sales and use taxes on certain energy efficient products including air conditioners, refrigerators, dishwashers or other major appliances. The tax holiday also applies to many energy efficient ceiling fans, incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs, programmable thermostats and installation and delivery charges. Combs expects Texans to save about three-million-dollars overall in state and local sales taxes during this weekend's event, which runs from May 29th through May 31st. More information about the tax holiday is available at http://www.texaspowerfulsmart.org.
COMMISSIONERS APPROVE NEW BUILDING / LONG VOTES AGAINST HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MONDAY VOTED TO APPROVE A CONTRACT WITH I.B.I.C. FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW WAREHOUSE AND OFFICE SPACE FOR THE COUNTY ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT. COSTS WILL COME TO ABOUT $100,000, WHICH IS ABOUT A $9,000 DISCOUNT…ONE REASON THE COUNTY HAS CHOSEN TO WORK WITH I.B.I.C. ON THIS PROJECT, THE FIRST ONE WITH THE COMPANY. WHILE ALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGREE THE NEW SPACE COUNTY ROAD AND BRIDGE IS NEEDED, COMMISSIONER JIMMIE LONG VOTED AGAINST THE PROJECT, TELLING KBST NEWS THAT IT ISN’T WITHIN THE CURRENT FISCAL YEAR BUDGET. IN DEFENSE OF THE CURRENT DECISION BY COMMISSIONERS TO APPROVE THE NEW BUILDING NOW, HOWARD COUNTY IS ANTICIPATING AN $80,000 GRANT FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT BY GOING “GREEN” WITH THEIR RECENT COURTHOUSE ROOF REPAIR, SO THAT WILL OFFSET MUCH OF THE COSTS OF THE NEW $100,000 ROAD AND BRIDGE BUILDING. IN OTHER BUSINESS, COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR STATED MONDAY IT MIGHT BE A GOOD IDEA TO MORE OFFICIALLY ESTABLISH SPEED LIMITS SIGNAGE ON SOME COUNTY ROADS WHERE IT ISN’T ALREADY POSTED, AND THAT IT COULD BE A FUTURE AGENDA ITEM FOR DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE BUDGETING.
10 LAW ENFORCEMENT BUSTS GAMBLING BUSINESSES
In a joint investigation conducted by the Howard County Sheriffs Office, Big Spring Police Department and the State Comptrollers Office, Search Warrants were executed on 3 businesses suspected to be involved in Illegal Gambling operations. The warrants were executed at approximately 10:00pm on Friday May 21, 2010 on the following businesses.
Bedazzle 1907 Birdwell Lane Ste. G Big Spring, Tx 79720
Cherokee Internet Café 1600 E. 4th St Big Spring, Tx 79720
Gold Rush 804 E. 3rd Big Spring, Tx, 79720
In a search of the locations approximately 120 8-Liner Machines and Internet based computer operated gaming machines, cash proceeds, documents and items used in the gambling operations were seized, According to Howard County Sheriff Stan Parker.
During the investigation, undercover officers entered each business, paid a fee and were paid in cash or Visa cards with a cash value.
No arrest were made at the time the search warrants were executed. Criminal cases are being prepared for arrest warrants on those involved in the Illegal Gambling Operations.
SUSPECT RECEIVES MORE CHARGES / BOND INCREASED A BIG SPRING MAN ALREADY CHARGED WITH SEVERAL CRIMES NOW FACES MORE CHARGES, INDICTMENTS AND A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN HIS JAIL BOND. 48 YEAR OLD JUAN GUERRA WAS RECENTLY INDICTED ON FOUR COUNTS OF UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CRIMINAL INSTRUMENT, TWO MORE COUNTS THAN CHARGES HE WAS ORIGINALLY ARRESTED FOR A FEW WEEKS AGO. IF YOU WILL RECALL, JUAN GUERRA HAD BEEN OBSERVED DRIVING SLOWLY AROUND AREAS IN MIDLAND WHERE CHILDREN WERE AT PLAY. AFTER LAW ENFORCEMENT STOPPED THE MAN AND INVESTIGATED FURTHER THEY FOUND SEVERAL ITEMS…GUNS, GAGS, HAND TIES AND OTHER SUSPICIOUS MATERIALS THAT LEAD OFFICIALS TO BELIEVE GUERRA PLANNED ON AN ABDUCTION. THEY ALSO FOUND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY ON IS HOME COMPUTER AFTER A WARRANT WAS SERVED FOR HIS BIG SPRING APARTMENT SHORTLY AFTER HIS ARREST SEVERAL WEEKS AGO. MIDLAND COUNTY ATTORNEY TERESA CLINGMAN SAYS TWO ADDITIONAL CHARGES WERE ADDED AFTER EACH ITEM WAS COUNTED SEPERATELY AND GUERRA’S BOND, WHICH WAS OVER $620,000 IS NOW OVER $1 MILLION. HE REMAINS JAILED IN THE MIDLAND COUNTY DETENTION CENTER .
Monday May 24 COLLEGE TRUSTEES TO SWEAR IN NEW OFFICERS HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES MEET MONDAY MORNING WITH THE PUBLIC PORTION OF THEIR AGENDA BEGINNING 12:30 PM AFTER THE LUNCH BREAK. AMONG AGENDA ITEMS NEW OFFICERS ON THE BOARD WILL BE SWORN IN. NONE OF THE TRUSTEES UP FOR RE-ELECTION MAY 8TH WERE CHALLENGED, SO THERE WAS NO ACTUAL ELECTION FOR HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES ON THE BALLOT. THE MONDAY MEETING AGENDA ALSO CALLS FOR UPDATES ON THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ACROSS THE BIG SPRING CAMPUS AND AN UPDATE ON STATE BUDGET CUTS AND THE COLLEGE’S 5% BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS IT MADE EARLIER THIS YEAR IN ANTICIPATION OF STATE REVENUE SHORTAGES. TRUSTEES WILL ALSO ADDRESS BUDGET PLANNING.
NEUGEBAUER ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW WEBSITE
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) announced the launch of his recently upgraded official website, www.randy.house.gov:
“Representing the people of the 19th Congressional District is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. In an effort to make communication between you and my office easier, I have launched a new website that is more accessible and user-friendly.
“My website, www.randy.house.gov, is a virtual one-stop shop for constituent services. I encourage you to use my new website to sign up for Randy’s Roundup--my weekly e-newsletter. Additionally, you can get information on the latest legislative issues in Congress, learn more about internships and my Empowerment Agenda, schedule a tour for your next visit to Washington, DC or request a flag to be flown over the Capitol.
“You can also view pictures and videos, and find links to connect with me on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. The weekly survey question is available for you to answer, and you can read my blog without even leaving the homepage.
“I hope that you will take a moment to explore what my website has to offer, and check back often for new features. My staff will be updating this site continuously to ensure that it is a useful tool for the people of West Texas and the Big Country. If you have any suggestions, please don’t hesitate to send me an email. I would love to hear from you.”
Coast Guard Commandant Thad Allen Explains BP Relationship
(Washington, DC) -- The man leading the response by the Obama administration to the massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico says the work going on to solve the problem is unprecedented. Speaking on CNN's "State of the Union," Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Thad Allen said this spill has different challenges than the disaster created by the Exxon Valdez in the late 1980s. Allen added while there is a lot of frustration as to how long it's taking to cap the well, quote, "the fact of the matter is we're on entirely new ground here on how we deal with oil spill responses."
He defended the administration's response to the spill, which opponents have criticized as too slow and too cozy with BP. Allen said there is a collaboration between the government, BP and the rest of the oil industry and said there is a "lot of oversight." When asked if he trusted BP, Allen responded he trusts the oil giant's CEO Tony Hayward, saying he has been given straight answers by him. He also warned a permanent solution to the oil leak might not be in place until August. The Deepwater Horizon rig exploded and sank on April 20, causing the gushing of oil.
Friday May 21 LOCAL FAMILY RPOUD OF “EMMY” WINNER…AGAIN LOCAL RESIDENTS SUSAN LEWIS AND BOB LEWIS, A.K.A. “TUMBLEWEED SMITH” ARE VERY PROUD OF ALL OF THE CHILDREN. BUT THEY WERE EXTRA PROUD OF ONE OF THEM AGAIN WHEN THEY RECENTLY GOT THE NEWS THAT B.Z. LEWIS HAS RECEIVED TELEVISION’S PRESTIGIOUS “EMMY” AWARD. AND THIS ISN’T HIS FIRST. THE LATEST EMMY FOR B.Z. LEWIS IS FOR HIS MUSICAL PRODUCTION WORK FOR A CBS TELEVISION AFFILIATE IN THE SAN FRANSICO BAY AREA. LEWIS OWNS STUDIO 132 IN OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA AND IS A PARTNER IN “POP TUNA”, A SUCCESSFUL COMPANY THAT HAS CREATED MUSIC FOR MOVIES, VIDEO GAMES AND TELEVISION. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LEWIS FAMILY!
RECENT “LARGE ITEM PICK UP” LARGE SUCCESS AS WE’VE PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED ON KBST NEWS, THE CITY OF BIG SPRING HAS RESUMED THEIR POPULAR “LARGE ITEM PICK UP” THIS YEAR, MOVING FROM DISTRICT TO DISTRICT DURING SPECIFIC TIMES PICKING UP UNWANTED “LARGE” ITEMS SUCH AS OLD FURNITURE AND APPLIANCES AND DISPOSING OF THEM PROPERLY. THE SERVICE IS PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE BY THE CITY OF BIG SPRING TO LOCAL RESIDENTS WHO ARE OTHERWISE UNABLE TO TRANSPORT LARGE ITEMS TO THE LANDFULL. THE CITY HAS ALREADY COVERED DISTRICT 1 AND DISTRICT 2 IN RECENT MONTHS. CHAD AVERETT, CODE ENFORCEMENT SUPERVISOR WITH THE CITY FO BIG SPRING, TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THE RECENT DISTRICT 2 LARGE ITEM PICK UP WAS A HUGE SUCCESS. CITY CREWS REMOVED 61 TONS OR 122,000 POUNDS OF UNWANTED ITEMS FROM DISTRICT 2! THE CITY WORKED TWO CREWS WITH FIVE TRUCKS TO COMPLETE THE HUGE TASK IN JUST ONE DAY. THE HOPE FOR AS MUCH SUCCESS FOR THE NEXT LARGE ITEM PICK UP EFFORT. THIS WILL BE IN DISTRICT 3 NEXT FRIDAY, MAY 28TH. DISTRICT 3 IS BASICALLY SOUTHWEST BIG SPRING. IF YOU LIVE IN DISTRICT 3 AND WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN LARGE ITEM PICK UP MAY 28TH, CONTACT CITY HALL AT 264-2505 TO LET THEM KNOW, OR IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. THAT’S FRIDAY, MAY 28TH ONLY, DISTRICT 3 ONLY.
WAR VETERAN DISCOVERS PLATOON LEADER AT MEMORIAL THIS IS AN AMAZING STORY THAT OCCURRED IN BIG SPRING THIS LAST TUESDAY, MAY 18TH. YOU WILL RECALL THE UNVEILING AND DEDICATION OF THE GEORGE H. O’BRIEN MEMORIAL IN FRONT OF THE BIG SPRING V.A. LAST YEAR. IT IS PLACED NEAR GREGG STREET, OR HIGHWAY 87, AND HAS BECOME A PART OF THE DAILY VIEW FOR MANY LOCAL MOTORISTS AS THEY PASS BY. GEORGE H. O’BRIEN, A GRADUATE OF BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL, WAS A UNITED STATES MARINE AND KOREAN WAR HERO WHO RECEIVED THE MEDAL OF HONOR, THE HIGHEST DISTINCTION FOR U-S MILITARY SERVICE. ON TUESDAY, ANOTHER VETERAN OF THE KOREAN WAR JAMES MEINEKE AND HIS WIFE WERE PASSING THROUGH BIG SPRING HEADED SOUTH ON THEIR WAY FROM CRAIG, COLORADO TO SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS TO VISIT FAMILY. BIG SPRING V.A. SPOKESWOMAN IVA JO HANSLICK TELLS KBST NEWS THAT AS THE MEINEKE’S APPROACHED THE GREGG AND FM 700 INTERSECTION BRIDGE WHERE THE GEORGE H. O’BRIEN MEMORIAL IS PLACED, JAMES MEINEKE GLANCED OVER AND SAW THE STATUE AND COMMENTED TO HIS WIFE “THAT LOOKED LIKE A MARINE” AND DECIDED TO PULL OVER AND TAKE A CLOSER LOOK. IT TURNED OUT THAT GEORGE O’BRIEN WAS MEINEKE’S PLATOON LEADER IN THE KOREAN WAR, AND HAD SAVED HIS LIFE. GEORGE O’BRIEN HAD RESCUED A WOUNDED JAMES MEINEKE FROM UNDERNEATH SEVERAL OTHER SOLDIERS THAT HAD BEEN KILLED DURING BATTLE. O’BRIEN’S MEDAL OF HONOR WAS AWARDED FOR HIS LEADERSHIP ON OCTOBER 27TH, 1952 AS HE WAS SERVING AS THE PLATOON LEADER OF COMPANY H WHEN HE SPEARHEADED THE CAPTURE OF AN ENEMY HILL, HIMSELF WOUNDED BY ENEMY FIRE. HE LATER RETIRED FROM THE MILITARY SERVICE AND RETURNED TO WEST TEXAS AND EVENTUALLY PASSED AWAY IN 2005. HIS FRIEND AND BIG SPRING RESIDENT JERRY WORTHY RECENTLY TOOK ON THE PROJECT OF COMMISSIONING A BRONZE MONUMENT TO GEORGE H. O’BRIEN THAT, AS WE SAID, WAS UNVEILED AND DEDICATED JUST LAST YEAR. IVA JO HANSLICK TELLS KBST NEWS THAT DURING THE PROCESS OF CREATING AND PLACING THE MONUMENT, THERE HAD BEEN DISCUSSION OF POSIITIONING IT CLOSER TO THE V.A. MAIN BUILDING, BUT THE FINAL DECISION WAS TO PLACE IT CLOSER TO THE ROADWAY SO PASSERSBY COULD VIEW IT. THAT LED TO JAMES MEINEKE’S ONE-IN-A-MILLION DISCOVERY AS HE DROVE THROUGH BIG SPRING. WHEN JAMES MEINEKE WENT INSIDE THE BIG SPRING V.A. TUESDAY TO TALK WITH IVA JO HANSLICK ABOUT THE DISCOVERY HE HAD MADE AT THE GEORGE H. O’BRIEN MEMORIAL, HE ALSO LEARNED THAT PLANS ARE IN THE WORKS TO RENAME THE BIG SPRING V.A. AFTER O’BRIEN. MEINEKE SAYS HE PLANS TO CONTACT HIS SURVIVING WAR BUDDIES AND POSSIBLY ARRANGE A MEETING IN BIG SPRING FOR WHEN THE V.A. IS OFFICIALLY RENAMED FOR GEORGE H. O’BRIEN, POSSIBLY LATER THIS YEAR. IVA JO HANSLICK ALSO INTRODUCED MEINEKE TO JERRY WORTHY. THE TWO HAD NEVER MET BEFORE, AS FAR AS WE KNOW. JOIN US FOR FRIDAY’S “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY” AS WE AIR THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW WITH IVA JO HANSLICK ON THIS TOUCHING STORY.
TEENS AND FAMILY URGED TO SIGN TEXTING PLEDGE A LOCAL EVENT SATURDAY WILL UNDERSCORE THE DANGERS OF TEXTING AND DRIVING, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE MORE PRONED TO THE NEW GADGETS TREND…TEENS AND YOUNG TEEN DRIVERS. THIS SATURDAY, MAY 22ND, THE SONIC DRIVE IN ON FM 700 WILL HOST AN EVENT THAT WILL BRING AWARENESS TO THE DANGERS OF “DISTRACTED DRIVING” BY TREATING THE TOPIC WITH ALL THE SERIOUSNESS IT DESERVES, AS WELL AS FUN AND EDUCATIONAL ITEMS, PEOPLE AND PRIZES. DROP BY THE SONIC ON FM 700 SATURDAY BETWEEN 1 PM AND 5 PM FOR “SCHOOL’S OUT SAFETY”, A FREE EVENT FOR KIDS, TEENS AND FAMILIES, AND SIGN THE PLEDGE TO NOT TEXT AND DRIVE. THERE’LL BE FREE GIFTS, AND YOU CAN REGISTER TO WIN SOME GREAT PRIZES. WHILE YOU’RE THERE, TAKE THE “TEXT AND DRIVE” TEST. YOU’LL SEE HOW IMPOSSIBLE IT IS TO TEXT, DRIVE AND STAY ALIVE! MEET LOCAL TEAM MASCOTS, LAW ENFORCEMENT, JUDGES AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL PERSONNEL.
Thursday May 20 “RELAY FOR LIFE” RE-DO SCHEDULED AFTER THE 16TH ANNUAL “RELAY FOR LIFE” WAS CANCELED DUE TO SEVERE WEATHER LAST FRIDAY, LOCAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS MET TUESDAY AND ANNOUNCED A NEW GAME PLAN FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT. ACCORDING TO RELAY CO-CHAIRS VICKI STEWART AND DIANE WOOD ON “KBST’S MORNING MAGAZINE” PROGRAM WEDNESDAY, THE “RELAY FOR LIFE RE-DO” WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY, JUNE 19, INSIDE THE HOWARD COLLEGE DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM. WHILE NOT AN OVERNIGHT EVENT, THE “RE-DO” WILL BE FULL OF MANY OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT MAKE UP THE SPIRIT OF RELAY FOR LIFE SUCH AS THE “SURVIVOR’S LAP” AND “LUMINARIA”. REGISTRATION JUNE 19TH WILL START AT 9 AM, AND THINGS WILL OFFICIALLY GET UNDER WAY AT 10 AM. “RELAY RE-DO” WILL LAST UNTIL ABOUT 3:30 PM. DETAILS ARE STILL BEING WORKED OUT, AND WE’LL UPDATE YOU ON KBST. THAT’S JUNE 19TH, DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM.
Cornyn Statement on Scheduled Kagan Hearing Date
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Republican Leadership, today released the following statement after Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) announced his decision to schedule Solicitor General Elena Kagan’s nomination hearing for June 28th:
“I’m disappointed that the Chairman set a date so soon. We have just started receiving documents regarding Solicitor General Kagan’s nomination, and we have been promised tens of thousands more. When I met with Solicitor General Kagan yesterday, she told me that the still-unreleased documents will give us invaluable insight into how she would approach her job as a member of the Supreme Court. It is unreasonable to schedule the nomination hearing without knowing, when, or if, we will have those documents.”
NEUGEBAUER ANNOUNCES WINNER OF 2010 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) released the following statement today announcing Dawn Chapman of Clyde as the winner of the 2010 Congressional Art Competition:
“Each year, the Congressional Art Competition allows us to showcase the many talents of young people across the nation. This competition has once again shown that we have exceptional artists in the 19th Congressional District, and I applaud the hard work of those who participated.
“I especially want to congratulate our 2010 Congressional Art Competition winner, Dawn Chapman, on her winning photograph of raindrops. Dawn’s creative eye captured a very simplistic, spontaneous image. I look forward to seeing her photograph every time I walk through the Capitol.”
Dawn’s artwork will hang in the Cannon Tunnel in the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, DC. Dawn, a sophomore at Clyde High School, is the daughter of Kenny and Joy Chapman. Pamela Gilbreth Watkins, art teacher at Clyde HS, encouraged Dawn to submit her photograph for the competition. Dawn will visit Washington, DC with her family to meet Congressman Neugebauer and be honored for her accomplishment in June.
CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER COMMENTS ON AG HEARING CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER HOSTED A RECENT AGRICULTURE HEARING IN LUBBOCK TEXAS THAT BROUGHT NUMEROUS MEMBERS OF THE CONGRESSIONAL AG COMMITTEE TO WEST TEXAS. THE PRIMARY PURPOSE WAS TO HEAR FROM AG PRODUCERS ON THE TOPIC OF THE FARM BILL. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH CONGREEMSN NEUGEBAUER ABOUT SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE HEARINGS THAT TOOK PLACE MONDAY ON THE TEXAS TECH CAMPUS. THE CONGRESSMAN SAYS THAT TWO KEY AREAS DISCUSSED WERE THE “SAFETY NET” LEGISLATION CURRENTLY A PART OF THE FARM BILL, AND MOST PRODUCERS AGREE IS SATISFACTORY, AS WELL AS CROP INSURANCE ISSUES, THAT HE SAYS COULD USE SOME IMPROVEMENTS. THE FARM BILL IS NEVER AN INEXPENSIVE INVESTMENT FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT, AND SOME NON-AG STATES MAY NOT UNDERSTAND ITS IMPORTANCE. CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER, A WELL KNOWN FISCAL CONSERVATIVE, DEFENDS THE COST OF SUPPORTING U-S AGRICULTURE THROUGH LEGISLATION SUCH AS THE FARM BILL BY COMPARING IT TO ENERGY POLICY, WHICH HE SAYS IMPROPERLY MAINTAINED OVER THE PAST DECADES LED TO DEPENDENCE, NOT INDEPENDENCE. NEUGEBAUER SAYS HE’D LIKE TO HOST MORE AG COMMITTEE HEARINGS IN WEST TEXAS IN THE FUTURE.
NEW OFFICERS FOR B.S.I.S.D. BOARD AFTER THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS, THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD SWORE IN ELECTION WINNERS AND ANNOUNCED NEW OFFICERS DURING A RECENT BOARD MEETING. AS WE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, BOARD PRESIDENT MIKE DAWSON CHOSE NOT TO RUN FOR ANOTHER TERM, AND CHAD WASH WAS ELECTED TO TAKE HIS SEAT ON THE SCHOOL BOARD MAY 8TH. TRUSTEE JEFF BRORAMAN, FORMER VICE-PRESIDENT, HAS MOVED TO THE POSITION OF PRESIDENT. TONY KENNEDY IS NOW VICE-PRESIDENT AND MARIA PADILLA IS SECRETARY. YOUR BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD IS NOW MADE UP OF TRUSTEES PHIL FURQUERON, JEFF BRORMAN, MARIA PADILLA, CHAD WASH, TONY KENNEDY, IRENE GALLAN AND ALAN PARTEE.
Wednesday May 19 CRAIG OLSON WINS RECOUNT THE REQUESTED RECOUNT OF BALLOTS IN THE MAY 8TH BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 RACE WAS COMPLETED BY MIDDAY TUESDAY. THE INCUMBENT CITY COUNCILMAN TROY TOMPKINS HAD REQUESTED THE RECOUNT IN WHAT WAS A VERY CLOSE RACE, AND IT ENDED VERY CLOSE AFTER THE RECOUNT. CRAIG OLSON, WHO WAS ALWAYS IN THE LEAD BY SEVERAL VOTES ENDED UP MAINTAINING THAT LEAD AND WINNING THE ELECTION BY SIX VOTES AFTER THE COMPLETION OF THE RECOUNT. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH TROY TOMPKINS AFTER THE FINAL OUTCOME OF THE CLOSE ELECTION WAS KNOWN TUESDAY. CRAIG OLSEN, ALONG WITH MAYOR ELECT TOMMY DUNCAN WERE SWORN IN DURING THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL MEETING, IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE COUNCIL OFFICIALLY CANVASSED THE MAY 8TH ELECTION. CRAIG OLSON COMMENTED ON THE CLOSE RACE, AS WELL AS THE NEW RESPONSIBILITIES HE FACES AS A CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE FOR DISTRICT 5. BIG SPRING’S NEW MAYOR TOMMY DUNCAN TELLS KBST NEWS HE LOOKS FORWARD TO SERVING WITH HIS FELLOW CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES IN HIS NEW TERM. AS WELL AS THE CITY’S ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF AT CITY HALL. TOMMY DUNCAN ALSO WANTED TO THANK AGAIN FORMER MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN FOR HIS TEN YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. BECAUSE THE DISTRICT 5 BALLOT RECOUNT WAS COMPLETED ON TIME AND CANVASSING OF THE ELECTION AND SWEARING IN OF THE WINNERS TOOK PLACE TUESDAY EVENING, THE POSTED WEDNESDAY BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL NOT BE NECESSARY, ACCORDING TO CITY SECRETARY PEGGY WALKER. THE WEDNESDAY MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELED.
NEUGEBAUER TO COMMENT ON RECENT AG HEARING AS WE PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED, U-S CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER HOSTED A FIELD COMMITTEE HEARING ON AGRICULTURE THIS WEEK IN LUBBOCK, BRINGING MEMBERS OF THE CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE TO WEST TEXAS. THE PUBLIC HEARING TOOK PLACE ON THE TEXAS TECH CAMPUS IN LUBBOCK EARLIER IN THE WEEK, AND SPECIFICALLY ADDRESSED ISSUES REGARDING THE FARM BILL. KBST HAS ARRANGED TO SPEAK WITH CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER AS HE RETURNS TO WASHINGTON AND CATCH UP ON THE LATEST TOPICS THAT CAME OUT OF THE LUBBOCK HEARINGS. WE WILL BE INTERVIEWING NEUGEBAUER ON WEDNESDAY AND PLAN TO REPORT BACK TO YOU WITH EXCERPTS OF THE CONVERSATION SOON AFTER DURING OUR KBST NEWS CASTS.
BP Claims 40-Percent Of Oil Being Captured
(Cocodrie, LA) -- The mile-long pipe inserted into the ruptured well in the Gulf of Mexico is now collecting about 40-percent of the escaping oil. BP officials say the pipe is siphoning off about two-thousand barrels a day, double the amount announced on Monday. BP chief executive Tony Hayward said, quote, "I do feel that we have, for the first time, turned the corner in this challenge." A permanent solution to stop the leak is still being sought. As BP crews capture more leaking oil, the clean up continues. The company estimates the cost to clean up the oil mess has reached 625-million dollars so far, and will certainly surpass a billion dollars.
Meanwhile, BP is trying to clean up its image, too. The company said on Monday it would provide grants to Gulf states to help them continue to promote tourism. The current spill is another disaster that over the last five years has tarnished BP's image. In 2005, a fire at BP's Texas City refinery killed 15 workers and injured 180 others. A year later two leaks in corroded BP-owned pipelines in Alaska dumped about five-thousand barrels onto Prudhoe Bay's western tundra. At the time it was the largest spill ever on Alaska's North Slope.
Tuesday May 18 Texas Offering Cash To Employers For Hiring Workers
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Workforce Commission is offering employers a little incentive to hire unemployed Texans. Texas employers could earn up to two-thousand-dollars through the state's Back to Work program, by hiring workers who have been receiving unemployment benefits. Texas Workforce Solutions representatives across the state will work with employers to jump start hiring and help them earn cash for each eligible employee.
State Emergency Management Chief Dies
(Austin, TX) -- Funeral arrangements are pending for the head of the DPS Texas Division of Emergency Management. DPS officials say Jack Colley suffered a heart attack earlier this month and passed away on Saturday at the age of 62. During his 12 years with the DPS, Colley was involved in the response and recovery to many of Texas' largest incidents, disasters and emergencies, including the Space Shuttle Columbia crash in 2003, Hurricane Rita in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008. Colley also coordinated the effort to shelter thousands of Katrina evacuees and led the monumental evacuation of more than three-million Texas residents as Hurricane Rita threatened the southeast Texas coast just weeks after Katrina. Colley also served as the Assistant Director of the Texas Office of Homeland Security and was the State Administrative Agent for all Federal Homeland Security Programs within Texas.
LAURA BUSH IN MIDLAND WEDNESDAY SHE MADE SEVERAL APPEARANCES RECENTLY ON NUMEROUS NEWS PROGRAMS INCLUDING FOX AND CNN, AND NOW LAURA BUSH COMES TO MIDLAND THIS WEEK TO PROMOTE HER NEW BOOK “SPOKEN FROM THE HEART”. THE BOOK SIGNING EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON FROM 3 TO 6 O’CLOCK AT THE GEORGE W. BUSH CHILDHOOD HOME IN MIDLAND ON OHIO AVE. THE BOOK NOT ONLY TALKS ABOUT THE WHITHOUSE YEARS, BUT ALSO OF THE FAMILY’S TIME IN AUSTIN AND MIDLAND, TX.
“RELAY” WILL REGROUP DURING TUESDAY MEETING AFTER A CANCELATION DUE TO VERY BAD WEATHER FRIDAY OF THE 16TH ANNUAL “RELAY FOR LIFE”, THE ORGANIZERS WILL REGROUP DURING A COMMITTEE MEETING TUESDAY. THE EVENT HAS NEVER BEEN COMPLETELY CANCELED BEFORE, BUT SEVERE WEATHER INCLUDING TORNADO WARNINGS FRIDAY AFTERNOON COMPELLED ORGANIZERS TO ABRUPTLY CANCEL THE HUGE EVENT FRIDAY. WEATHER IS THE ONLY CHALLENGE THAT HAS EVER HAD AN EFFECT ON “RELAY” IN PAST YEARS, CAUSING IT TO BE MOVED TO THE BLANKENSHIP PARKING LOT ONE YEAR, ANOTHER YEAR CAUSING A POSTPONEMENT AND LAST YEAR MOVING THE OPERATION OVER THO THE A.T.C. ON BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS. IF ANY NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE TO BE MADE, WE’LL PASS THOSE ALONG TO YOU LATER THIS WEEK.
OSHA: "Systemic Safety Problem" Persists At BP Refineries
(London) -- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the U.S. Justice Department are considering legal action against BP. Senior OSHA official Jordan Barab told London's "Financial Times" U.S. regulators have noticed a "systemic safety problem" at BP's refineries. Last October, OSHA fined the British energy giant more than 87-million dollars for failing to fix safety violations following a deadly 2005 explosion at its Texas City refinery that killed 15 people. Barab told the "Times," quote, "They say they want to improve safety. But it doesn't always translate down to the refineries themselves." The Justice Department is reviewing the case. It could bring criminal charges against BP if it determines the company violated agreements it made with OSHA in the aftermath of the Texas City blast. The news comes as BP is struggling to stop the massive oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico.
First Baptist Dallas Commits To 115-Million Dollar Building Project
(Dallas, TX) -- First Baptist Church in Dallas is calling it the largest building program ever in an America protestant church. Members of the downtown Dallas mega-church met Sunday and agreed to a 115-million dollar, three-year building program that will re-shape the campus near San Jacinto and North Saint Paul Street. Head pastor Robert Jeffress says groundbreaking would be on July 11th with construction to be completed in time for Easter Sunday in 2013. The key feature of the building plan is a three-thousand seat sanctuary along with a new education complex, parking structure and a sky-bridge over Saint Paul. While several older buildings will be demolished, the historic 1890 sanctuary would be preserved for special services like funerals and weddings. Dallas mayor Tom Leppert, an active member of First Baptist, calls the project an "...important addition to downtown..." that will mesh nicely with the city's pending Convention Center hotel and major construction in the adjacent Arts District.
Monday May 17 VOTE COUNTING PROCEDURES MOVING AHEAD AS WE’VE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, BIG SPRING CITY COUNCILMAN TROY TOMPKINS FORMALLY REQUESTED A MANUAL RECOUNT OF THE 800 OR SO BALLOTS FROM THE MAY 8TH ELECTION. HIS POLITICAL CHALLENGER IN THE RACE IS CRAIG OLSON, WHO STILL LEADS BY SIX VOTES AFTER AN ACCOUNTING OF SEVERAL PAPER BALLOTS THAT HAD GONE INADVERDANTLY UNCOUNTED ELECTION DAY. BUT WITH THE RACE STILL VERY CLOSE, TROY TOMPKINS REQUESTED THE MANUAL RECOUNT THURSDAY. FRIDAY, HOWARD COUNTY ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATOR SAUNDRA BLOOM TOLD KBST NEWS THAT SHE AND OTHER OFFICIALS WERE STILL WORKING OUT THE DETAILS OF THE RECOUNT PROCEDURE, BUT THE PLANS WERE TO COMPLETE THE RECOUNT IN TIME FOR THE OFFICIAL CANVASSING OF THE MAY 8TH ELECTION BY BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL THIS COMING TUESDAY EVENING. TUESDAY’S CITY COUNCIL MEETING IS A MAKE UP MEETING OF THE MAY 10TH MEETING THAT WAS CANCELED DUE TO THIS ONGOING POST-ELECTION PROCESS. THE CANCELED MEETING INCLUDED THE VOTE CANVASSING AND SWEARING IN OF CANDIDATES, WHICH SHOULD NOW OCCUR ON TUESDAY, MAY 18TH.
Friday May 14 Texas' Budget Shortfall Increases
(Austin, TX) -- The state's budget shortfall is now estimated to be as high as 18-billion-dollars. House Speaker Joe Straus said during a House Appropriations Committee hearing Wednesday that the state needs to look for creative ways to balance the budget, including the possibility of four day work weeks. Committee Chairman Jim Pitts suggested expanding gambling within the state to bring in extra funds. The state is also expected to make spending cuts across the board to help make up the shortfall. The estimated budget shortfall has been at about eleven-billion-dollars, but state officials now say it's between 15 and 18-billion.
New Child Safety Seat Law Enforcement Begins In June
(Austin, TX) -- Law enforcement officers across the state will begin issuing citations for violations of the new booster seat laws on June first. The recent changes to the child passenger safety law now require all children younger than eight years old, unless they are already taller than four-feet-nine-inches tall, should be in the appropriate child safety seat system anywhere inside the vehicle. The law also requires that all safety seat systems be installed according to the manufacturers' instructions. The law went into effect on September first of last year, but officers could only issue verbal or written warnings for the first nine months. Fines beginning next month are 25-to-250-dollars, plus court costs.
Report: No Dangerous Chemicals Found In Dish Residents
(Dish, TX) -- The tiny Denton County community of Dish got some good news this week. But there are still doubts about a report from the state Department of State Health Services which says Dish residents do not have high levels dangerous chemicals in their systems because of natural gas drilling. Experts took samples of blood and urine from more than two dozen Dish residents, representing about one-third of the town's households. The tests were ordered because two nearby natural gas wells were found to have abnormally high levels of benzene, a known carcinogen. Mayor Calvin Tillman has been a critic of drilling operations and says he still has questions about the report. Even so, he calls the findings good news, overall.
RELAY FOR LIFE KICKS OFF FRIDAY THE 16TH ANNUAL “RELAY FOR LIFE” FOR THE HOWARD / GLASSCOCK COUNTIES CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY KICKS OFF FRIDAY AT BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL’S BLANKENSHIP FIELD. A CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS IN THE FORECAST HAS NEVER DAMPENED THE PLANS OF LOCAL “RELAY” ORGANIZERS IN YEARS PAST, AND DOESN’T SEEM TO HAVE ANY EFFECT THIS YEAR, OTHER THAN THE USUAL CONTINGENCY PLANS SHOULD STORMS BREW FRIDAY NIGHT. CO-CHAIRS FOR THIS YEAR’S RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT, VICKY STEWART AND DIANNE WOOD WERE GUESTS THURSDAY ON “KBST’S MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”. THEY CONTINUE TO INVITE PEOPLE OUT FOR ACTIVITIES STARTING AS SOON AS FRIDAY AFTERNOON AT THE RELAY SITE. THE “SURVIVORS WALK” WILL BEGIN AT 8 PM FRIDAY. THE EVENT’S MAIN TENT WENT UP WEDNESDAY AND WILL BE FOLLOWED BY THE RISING OF A SMALL TENT CITY VERY SOON AT BLANKENSHIP FIELD. RELAY ORGANIZERS CONTINUE TO REMIND PARTICIPANTS TO BE VERY CAREFUL WITH THE NEW TRACK RECENTLY INSTALLED BY THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT SO AS NOT TO DAMAGE IT. RELAY WALKERS ARE ALSO ASKED TO USE THE “OUTSIDE LANES” OTHER THAN THE FIRST TWO INSIDE LANES, TO ALLEVIATE WEAR AND TEAR ON THE NEW TRACK. THINGS WILL WRAP UP SATURDAY MORNING WHEN THIS YEAR’S “RELAY FOR LIFE” NUMBERS ARE ANNOUNCED AND RECOGNITIONS MADE.
NAME OF SHOOTING VICTIM RELEASED BIG SPRING POLICE CONTINUE TO INVESTIGATE A SHOOTING THAT OOK PLACE WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON IN THE 1600 BLOCK OF CARDINAL STREET ON BIG SPRING’S WEST SIDE. INVESTIGATORS ARE STILL LOOKING INTO THE SHOOTING AND HAVE NOT RELEASED ANY FURTHER DETAILS OTHER THAN THEY WERE CALLED OUT TO A SHOOTING WEDNESDAY AROUND 4 PM AT 1609 CARDINAL WHERE THEY FOUND 33 YEAR OLD TOBY PORTER WOUNDED BY A GUNSHOT TO HIS CHEST. HE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL IN CRITICAL CONDITION AT THE TIME. NO FURTHER WORD ON HIS CURRENT CONDITION, MOTIVE FOR THE SHOOTING OR ANY SUSPECT. THE VICTIM REMAINED AT SCENIC MOUNTAIN MEDICAL CENTER AS OF THURSDAY, ACCORDING TO POLICE SGT. TON Y EVERETT.
POST MAY 8TH ELECTION PROCESS MOVES FORWARD TROY TOMPKINS CONFIRMED TO KBST NEWS THURSDAY MORNING HIS INTENT TO OFFICIALLY REQUEST A MANUAL RECOUNT OF THE NEARLY 800 BALLOTS FOR THE VERY CLOSE MAY 8TH CITY COUNCIL RACE BETWEEN TOMPKINS AND CHALLENGER CRAIG OLSON. AFTER THE WEDNESDAY “PAPER BALLOT” COUNT IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT, OLSON IS NOW 6 VOTES AHEAD OF TOMPKINS. THERE ARE 30 DAYS LEGALLY ALLOWED FOR THE VOTE RECOUNT FROM THE DAY OF THE REQUEST, BUT MOST LOCAL OFFICIALS BELIEVE THAT WILL BE COMPLETED MUCH SOONER. CITY MANAGER GARY FUQUA TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THIS WEEK’S TUESDAY CITY COUNCIL MEETING THAT WAS CANCELED DUE TO THE ONGOING POST-ELECTION PROCEDURES WILL BE POSTED FOR A TUESDAY, MAY 18TH MAKE UP MEETING. AT THAT MEETING IT IS EXPECTED THAT MAYOR-ELECT TOMMY DUNCAN WILL OFFICIALLY BE SWORN IN, AND MORE THAN LIKELY THE WINNER OF THE DISTRICT 5 CITY COUNCIL RACE, PROBABLY CRAIG OLSON, BUT PENDING COMPLETION OF THE REQUESTED RECOUNT.
Thursday May 13 PAPER BALLOTS COUNTED / NO DIFFERENCE IN DISTRICT 5 RACE KBST NEWS WAS IN 118TH DISTRICT WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON WHEN THE LOCKED BOX OF UNCOUNTED PAPER BALLOTS WAS OPENED BY ELECTIONS ADMINSTRATOR SAUNDRA BLOOM IN FRONT OF DISTRICT JUDGE ROBERT MOORE III. THERE ENDED UP BEING NINE ELIGIBLE BALLOTS AND OF THOSE TWO VOTES WENT TO CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 CANDIDATE CRAIG OLSON AND ONE WENT TO INCUMBENT TROY TOMPKINS. AS FAR AS THE UNCOUNTED BALLOTS ARE CONCERNED THAT MEANS THAT CRAIG OLSON WINS THE RACE BY 6 INSTEAD OF 5 VOTES. TROY TOMPKINS IS STILL ANTICIPATED TO REQUEST A MANUAL RECOUNT OF THE MAY 8TH BALLOTS IN THE DISTRICT 5 ELECTION THURSDAY, AS HE ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY HE WOULD DELAY HIS RECOUNT REQUEST UNTIL THE UNCOUNTED BALLOTS WERE ACCOUNTED FOR.
MEDIA RELEASE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT\ 05-12-2010
05-12-2010 3:55 PM
OFFICERS RESPONDED TO 1609 CARDINAL IN REFERENCE TO SHOTS FIRED. UPON ARRIVAL OFFICERS FOUND THAT AN ADULT MALE HAD BEEN SHOT IN THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CHEST AREA. THE VICTIM WAS TRANSPORTED TO SCENIC MOUNTAIN MED CENTER BY AMBULANCE. AS OF THIS REPORT HE IS LISTED IN CRITICAL CONDITION AND WAS BEING PREPARED FOR SURGERY. INVESTIGATORS ARE INTERVIEWING WITNESSES AND THE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES. NO FURTHER AT THIS TIME.
DET. SGT TONY EVERETT PIO
Texas Budget Gap Increases
(Austin, TX) -- The fiscal picture for the Lone Star State is becoming more blurry. Chief budget writer Jim Pitts said Tuesday the projected shortfall is now at least 18-million dollars. House Speaker Joe Straus urged lawmakers to seek possible ways to reduce spending, and said every cost-saving plan should be considered. One option is to tap into the Rainy Day Fund, which is expected to be over eight-billion dollars when the legislature meets in January.
Odessa Permian Player Found To Be a 22-Year-Old Impostor From Florida
(Odessa, TX) -- A West Texas high school is stunned to hear that a classmate was arrested yesterday and even more stunned to learn why. A 22-year-old man was taken in for presenting bogus identification to police who say Guerdwich Montimere posed as a 16-year-old student at Permian High School in Odessa so he could play basketball. Montimere led the Panthers to post-season play in February. But questions about his true identity arose and yesterday, Odessa police say he admitted to a ruse that began in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where Montimere helped Dillard High School to the 2007 Class 5-A state semi-final. Then he accepted a scholarship to play at a community college in Freeport, Illinois. But he apparently dropped out after a few months. Odessa investigators say he next surfaced there in 2009, pretending to be a 15-year-old and enrolled at a Junior High before moving onto the high school last Fall. He claimed to be homeless, so he was allowed to live with Permian's basketball coach who says he never dreamed his player was an imposter. Because Montimere was clearly ineligible, it's almost certain Permian will have to forfeit its entire 2009-2010 season that ended with a first-round playoff loss to El Paso's Americas High School.
NEW BUFFALO ART AT HISTORIC SPRING YOU ARE INVITED TO TAKE A DRIVE OR WALK BY THE HISTORIC SPRING AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK AND SEE A NEW ARTISTIC ADDITION. MANY YEARS AGO THE BUFFALO ROAMED THROUGH THIS AREA AND STOPPED BY THE BIG SPRING, AND NOW THEY’VE RETURNED, IN THE FORM OF ART ANYWAY. AS KBST NEWS FIRST ANNOUNCED, THE BIG SPRING CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU COMMISSIONED STUDENTS AT THE WELDING DEPARTMENT ON SWCID CAMPUS TO DESIGN AND CONSTRUCT METAL BUFFALO FOR THE PARK. THE IDEA CAME TO C.V.B. DIRECTOR DEBBIE WEGMAN WHEN SHE SAW THE STUDENTS’ EXCELLENT CREATION OF A GIANT METAL RATTLESNAKE NEAR THE FLAGPOLES AT SCWID CAMPUS. DEBBIE CONTACTED WELDING INSTRUCTOR RANDY KEY AND REQUESTED THEY TAKE THE PROJECT ON. THE WHOLE THING IS NOW COMPLETED AND IN PLACE NEAR THE HISTORIC SPRING. THE ADULT AND BABY BUFFALO WERE OFFICIALLY UNVEILED WEDNESDAY MORNING. WE SPOKE WITH RANDY KEY, WHO TOLD US THAT AT FIRST HEWASN’T SURE OF TAKING ON THE PROJECT, BUT HIS CREATIVE STUDENTS WERE ENTUSIASTIC ABOUT, SO THEY BEGAN ABOUT THREE MONTHS AGO. KEEP BIG SPRING BEAUTIFUL WAS ALSO ON HAND AT THE SPRING DURING THE WEDNESDAY CEREMONY TO UNVEIL ONE OF THEIR NEW LIMESTONE PARK BENCHES. THE NEW BENCH INCLUDES THE NEW CITY OF BIG SPRING LOGO. THE TWO METAL BUFFALO AND PARK BENCH NOW STAND NEAR THE CIRCULAR DRIVE AREA OF THE HISTORIC SPRING, SO DROP BY AND HAVE A LOOK.
NEUGEBAUER ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF YouCut PROJECT
WASHINGTON, D.C. – As a member of the House Republican Economic Recovery Working Group, Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) issued the following statement after the Working Group launched YouCut, a first-of-its kind initiative designed to change the culture of spending in Washington to a culture of savings. “Washington has a spending problem and can no longer afford to delay the tough choices that need to be made to return America to its rightful place as the world’s unquestioned economic leader. “The choices that we make today will directly determine the type of America our children and grandchildren will inherit tomorrow. The question is whether we leave them with greater opportunity or greater debt as they scramble to pay the bills we left behind. While we won’t be able tackle the debt problem in one swoop, we must begin to address the root of the problem: a culture of spending in Washington. “That’s why we are launching YouCut. Beginning today, people from the 19th District and around the country can vote—both online and on their cell phone—on spending cuts they would like to see the House of Representatives enact. House Republicans will then offer an up-or-down vote on bringing up the spending cut that receives the most public support. The people of West Texas and the Big Country will have direct input on what spending they think the federal government and the taxpayers can do without. To vote on this week’s spending cuts or learn more about YouCut, please visit: http://republicanwhip.house.gov/YouCut/. Every Monday the winning spending cut will be announced.
GRISSOM, DAUGHTERY NAMED BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL RN, LVN OF THE YEAR
BIG SPRING – Big Spring State Hospital Wednesday named Roxy Grissom RN of the Year and Kimberly Daughtery LVN of the Year during the hospital’s annual luncheon and awards ceremony celebrating the hospital’s nurses. Big Spring State Hospital Nursing Services hosts the luncheon and awards ceremony each year during National Nurses Week. National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6, also known as National Nurses Day, through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The hospital employs about 100 nurses who provide around-the-clock care for patients in the 200-bed hospital. “This hospital appreciates the incredible dedication that you give to our patients.” Superintendent Ed Moughon said. “We are responsible for some of the most disabled folks in West Texas, and I know many of you are pulling double shifts and are coming in on your days off to cover shifts, and I want you to know how much I appreciate it.” Moughon said the hospital will add a crop of newly graduated nurses to give the current staff some relief. “We plan on using them,” he said laughingly to many smiles in the room. Grissom was noted in her nomination as a nurse who often came in early and stayed late, especially when her co-worker’s husband was extremely ill. “Roxy often would come in to cover the unit,” Nurse Manager Laura Wilson wrote in her nomination form. “She steps in and takes over the LVN or STL duties if needed and does an excellent job.” “She is reliable, hardworking and a strong patient advocate. She is a loud and persistent advocate for our clients. I don’t know how we would do it without her.” Daughtery, who works on the hospital’s Medical Unit, was honored for being respectful of the patients and being a team player. “She engages the patients in activities and also will participate in activities with them,” said Joelda Garza, Rehabilitation Therapist Technician, who nominated Daughtery. “She is dedicated to the patients by demonstrating outstanding skills,” Garza wrote. “She is caring, compassionate, respectful, and is always going above and beyond helping all staff from the Big Spring State Hospital campus.” The nurses were treated to a luncheon of Chef’s Salad, bread sticks, and dessert among a background of soft white lights with the theme of an Enchanted Evening. They were presented with a soft-pack cooler and given a chance to receive door prizes contributed by the nurse managers and hospital administrators. The theme of National Nurses Week 2010 was – “Nurses: Caring Today for a Healthier Tomorrow.” Big Spring State Hospital is a 200-bed hospital managed by the Department of State Health Services.
Wedesday May 12 CITY COUNCIL CANCELED DUE TO ELECTION DISCREPANCY AS WE’VE REPORTED, CITY COUNCILMAN TROY TOMPKINS HAS REQUESTED A MANUAL RECOUNT OF BALLOTS FROM THE MAY 8TH DISTRICT 5 ELECTION. ON ANOTHER RELATED ISSUE, THERE WERE APPARENTLY 12 PAPER BALLOTS THAT WERE NOT COUNTED IN THE SATURDAY EVENING ELECTION PROCESS. THOSE PAPER BALLOTS WERE FILLED OUT BY VOTERS WHO CAST THEIR BALLOTS “CURBSIDE”, WHO FOR SOME REASON COULD NOT COME INTO THE POLL LOCATION TO CAST A BALLOT. BECAUSE OF THE CLOSENSS OF THE ELCTION IN THE DISTRICT 5 RACE, THE CITY HAS REQUESTED THOSE 12 BALLOTS BE INCLUDED INTO THE ELECTION RESULTS. THAT ISN’T AN EASY PROCESS WE ARE TOLD. CITY SECRETARY PEGGY WALKER TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THEY ARE PETITIONING DISTRCIT COURT TO ALLOW THE 12 PAPER BALLOTS TO BE COUNTED AND IF THAT IS GRANTED WILL PLACE THE BALLOTS IN A LOCK BOX FOR 24 HOURS, ACCORDING TO LAW. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON THE BOX WILL BE OPENED AND THE HOWARD COUNTY ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATOR WILL THEN COUNT THE BALLOTS AND APPLY THOSE VOTES INTO THEIR SPECIFIC RACES. APPARENTLY ONLY THREE OF THE 12 BALLOTS INCLUDE THE DISTRICT 5 RACE, SO THE LIKELYHOOD OF IT CHANGING THE OUTCOME OF THAT CITY COUNCIL RACE IS SLIM. BUT THIS ALL AFFECTS THE REST OF THE PROCESS SUCH AS THE CITY COUNCIL’S PLANNED CANVASSING OF THE VOTE AND SWEARING IN OF ELECTION WINNERS AT THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY NIGHT. THAT MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELED AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR LATER THIS WEEK, WE ARE TOLD.
Security Guard Says He's Being Framed For Sixth Floor Museum Heist
(Dallas, TX) -- A Sixth Floor Museum security guard insists he's being framed for last week's high-profile burglary. Two men were seen in a pick-up with a safe dangling from a hoist. They crashed the truck outside the museum but got away on foot. Three days later, Dallas detectives arrested Patrick Cleveland on Friday. He made bail and now tells the Dallas Morning News the other suspect is making his story up. Detectives say the other man fingered Cleveland as the mastermind of the scheme. Cleveland, though, claims he was asleep in Grand Prairie at the time. In another development, investigators have confirmed that a second safe was stolen that morning. While the larger safe was left behind with the crashed pick-up, the burglars got away with a smaller one containing more than a thousand dollars in cash and about 800-dollars worth of jewelry. The safe was found the next day but it had been emptied.
NEUGEBAUER EARNS 100% CONSERVATIVE RATING
WASHINGTON – Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) released the following statement after receiving the “Defender of Liberty” award from the American Conservative Union for his perfect 100 percent rating and dedication to conservative principles in 2009:
“As an employee of the 19th District of Texas, it is my job to represent the conservative values of my constituents. I am honored to receive the ‘Defender of Liberty’ award on behalf of the people of West Texas and the Big Country.
“Holding true to the conservative principles that this nation was founded on is now more important than ever. I will continue to push for limited government, policies that won’t bankrupt our nation, and a strong national defense in Congress.”
American Conservative Union Chairman David Keene said, “This Defender of Liberty award is a reflection of Representative Randy Neugebauer’s outstanding record in support of conservative principles on a wide range of issues of concern to grass roots conservatives in 2009 and someone to whom conservatives can turn to for leadership. At a challenging time when the fundamental principles on which the American system of government are being challenged, Representative Neugebauer stands with those who are trying to preserve those principles.”
UT Cutting Jobs
(Austin,TX) -- Officials at the University of Texas announced yesterday the school has given pink slips to 122 employees for this fiscal year, and will shed scores of positions next year. The decision is part of a plan to trim the budget and pay for merit raises. Governor Rick Perry and state lawmakers have ordered agencies and public universities to cut five percent from their state-funded budgets. UT President Williams Powers Jr. said yesterday at a Faculty Council meeting, quote, "The legislative session does look challenging."
KEL SELIGER ON REDISTRICTING CONTINUING OUR SERIES OF A RECENT INTERVIEW WITH STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER, WE SPOKE WITH HIM ABOUT THE RECENT U-S CENSUS AND ONE OF THE RESULTING OUTCOMES OF THE POPULATION COUNT THAT TAKES PLACE EVERY TEN YEARS. POLITICAL REDISTRICTING IN ONE OF THE RESULTS THAT CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON COMMUNITIES AS DISTRICT LINES GET REDRAWN AND SOMETIMES POLITICAL REPRESENTATION CAN MAKE SUBSTANTIAL SHIFTS. AND IT ISN’T ALWAYS PRETTY, SAYS SELIGER, AND AS WE’VE WITNESSED IN PREVIOUS POLITICAL REDISTRICTING CYCLES. ONE OF THE CHALLENGES WE FACE IN WEST TEXAS IS A SHRINKING POPULATION. SENATOR SELIGER SAYS THE 31ST DISTRICT WHICH HE REPRESENTS WILL PROBABLY GROW IN THE NUMBER OF COUNTIES WHEN REDISTRICTING LINES ARE DRAWN NEXT YEAR, GOING FROM THE CURRENT 26 COUNTIES TO 40 OR MORE. AND WHEN NEW LINES ARE EVENTUALLY DRAWN, SOMETIMES OUR CURRENT REPRESENTATION IN AUSTIN AND WASHINGTON CAN CHANGE AS WELL. THAT’S ANOTHER REASON HAVING AN ACCURATE CENSUS COUNT IS SO IMPORTANT.
Security Guard Says He's Being Framed For Sixth Floor Museum Heist
(Dallas, TX) -- A Sixth Floor Museum security guard insists he's being framed for last week's high-profile burglary. Two men were seen in a pick-up with a safe dangling from a hoist. They crashed the truck outside the museum but got away on foot. Three days later, Dallas detectives arrested Patrick Cleveland on Friday. He made bail and now tells the Dallas Morning News the other suspect is making his story up. Detectives say the other man fingered Cleveland as the mastermind of the scheme. Cleveland, though, claims he was asleep in Grand Prairie at the time. In another development, investigators have confirmed that a second safe was stolen that morning. While the larger safe was left behind with the crashed pick-up, the burglars got away with a smaller one containing more than a thousand dollars in cash and about 800-dollars worth of jewelry. The safe was found the next day but it had been emptied.
Tuesday May 11 UNANSWERED QUESTIONS FOR CLOSE CITY COUNCIL RACE AS KBST NEWS REPORTED TO YOU SATURDAY NIGHT AND IN OUR FOLLOW UP REPORTS TO MAY 8TH ELECTION COVEREAGE, THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL RACE BETWEEN INCUMBENT TROY TOMPKINS AND CHALLENGER CRAIG OLSON WAS VERY, VERY CLOSE, WITH RETURNS SHOWING A NARROW VICTORY FOR OLSON BY FIVE VOTES. OUR INITIAL REPORTS STATED THAT TROY TOMPKINS HAS THE OPTION TO REQUEST A RECOUNT, AND THAT REMAINS TRUE, ALTHOUGH TOMPKINS HASN’T MADE ANY ANNOUNCEMENTS AS OF MONDAY AFTERNOON. WE ARE ALSO TOLD THERE ARE OTHER REMAINING QUESTIONS ON THE ACCURACY OF RESULTS IN THE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 RACE AND KBST HAS MADE SEVERAL INQUIRIES TO THE ELECTION ADMINISTRATOR’S OFFICE AND THE CITY SECRETARIES OFFICE. BOTH WERE STILL SORTING THROUGH THE DETAILS OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN THE CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 RACE. THE WHOLE ISSUE SEEMS TO HINGE ON WHAT COUNCILMAN TROY TOMPKINS DECIDES TO DO STARTING WITH A POSSIBLE RECOUNT REQUEST, AND AS WE SAID, HE IS NOT CURRENTLY COMMENTING. ONE THING IS FOR CERTAIN…THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL’S TUESDAY EVENING MEETING AGENDA INCLUDES THE FORMAL “CANVASSING” OF THE ELECTION VOTES, STANDARD PROCEDURE, FOLLOWED BY THE SWEARING IN OF RECENTLY ELECTED OFFICIALS. IN THIS CASE IT WOULD BE THE NEWLY ELECTED MAYOR, TOMMY DUNCAN, AND THE NEWLY ELECTED CITYCOUNCILMAN FOR DISTRICT 5, CRAIG OLSON. CITY COUNCIL IS SCHEDULED TO MEET AT 5:30 TUESDAY EVENING. MORE WILL BE KNOWN BY THAT TIME.
LOCAL FILM SOCIETY GETS ASSISTANCE FUNDING IT ALL BEGAN AS AN IDEA BY LOCAL RESIDENT BRANDON JOHNSON TO BRING TOGETHER PEOPLE WHO ARE INTERESTED ABOUT MOVIES ON ALL LEVELS: WATCHING AND TALKING ABOUT MOVIES, NEW AND CLASSIC, EVEN MAKING MOVIES. SO JOHNSON CREATED THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY SEVERAL YEARS AGO. HE THOUGHT BIG AND CONTINUES TO DO SO, AND NOW, WITH A SOME FUNDING ASSISTANCE TO CONTINUE HIS EFFORTS. THE BIG SPRING CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREA RECENTLY SAID “YES” TO A FUNDING REQUEST TO HELP IN THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY’S POPULAR OUTDOOR MOVIE PRESENTATIONS THAT HAVE RECENTLY ATTRACTED HUNDREDS OF ATTENDEES. THE FAMILY ORIENTED MOVIES HAVE INCLUDED VENUES LIKE THE STATE PARK AND THE COMANCHE TRAIL LAKE, AND PLANS TO PRESENT “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” IN JULY AT THE PARK AMPHITHEATER AND ANOTHER MOVIE PRESENTATION ATOP THE STATE PARK IN AUGUST WILL NOW GET SOME ASSISTANCE IN FUNDING FROM THE C.V.B. THE GRANT WILL ASSIST WITH EXPENSES FOR THE BIG SCREEN AND SOUND EXPENSES TO GO ALONG WITH OTHER PRIVATE DONATIONS AS IN THE PAST. C.V.B. DIRECTOR DEBBIE WEGMAN SAYS THE HOPE IS TO CONTINUE TO BUILD ON THE OUTDOOR MOVIE PRESENTATIONS’ POPULARITY AND BRING IN PEOPLE FROM OUT OF TOWN. THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY IS ALSO WORKING ON DEVELOPING A LOCAL FILM FESTIVAL THAT WOULD DRAW PEOPLE HERE FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES. BRANDON JOHNSON TELLS KBST NEWS HE IS VERY GRATEFUL FOR THE ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE FROM THE C.V.B. AND IS FURTHER INSPIRED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH OTHER FILM SOCIETY MEMBERS FOR BIGGER AND BETTER EVENTS IN THE FUTURE. THE BIG SPRING CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU COMMITTEE ALSO RECENTLY APPROVED ASSISTANCE TO THE EARLY CARS CLUB “ROD RUN” COMING HERE AUGUST 30TH AND THE UPCOMING HAROLD DAVIS WEST TEXAS SHOOTOUT BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT SCHEDULED HERE IN JUNE, WHICH WILL DRAW OVER 50 TEAMS FROM OUT OF TOWN, ACCORDING TO BIG SPRING C.V.B. DIRECTOR DEBBIE WEGMAN.
TASK FORCE CONVENES AT BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL TO GATHER INPUT ON GROWING NEED FOR MENTAL HEALTH INPATIENT CARE
BIG SPRING – Public input is needed to address the growing need for mental health care in the state of Texas.
Members of a task force appointed by the Texas Department of State Health Services, which manages the 12 state hospitals in Texas, including Big Spring State Hospital will listen to public comment Friday, May 21, from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the Big Spring State Hospital Allred Building Auditorium.
Big Spring State Hospital is one of 12 state hospitals whose employees provide care for people with mental illness who can’t be cared for in the community through local mental health mental retardation or MHMR centers.
MHMR centers provide care for people with mental illness who live in the community. When it is determined that they need intensive treatment to manage their illness they are placed in a psychiatric hospital, said Shelley Smith, CEO of West Texas Centers for MHMR and a member of the task force.
“The mental health authorities, state hospitals, local jails, courts and other systems of care all are responsible for treating people with mental illness,” Smith said. “Our goal through this hearing is to bring all the interested parties together to help people living with mental illness. We all have our concerns and ideas on how to fix the system for our customers, but we all need to be on the same page so we are not duplicating services or not meeting someone’s needs.”
The 26–member task force involves a broad spectrum of Texans who are interested in improving the continuity of care for people living with mental illness. Many people living with mental illness travel through multiple systems of care, Smith said.
“Often one hand does not know what the other hand is doing,” Smith said. “This task force will bring all the parties to the table and work on the best solution for our customers.”
“We want to provide the best care in the most efficient way possible with the least amount of disruption to our customer’s lives,” she said.
Access to care is one of the most critical issues affecting the public mental health system in Texas, Smith said. To address this issue, the Texas Department of State Health Services has assembled a Continuity of Care Task Force to recommend ways to handle this growing problem
The Task Force has met three times and will wrap up its findings on June 18 during the Texas Council of Community MHMR Centers State meeting in Houston before presenting a final report to the Department of State Health Services on Sept. 30.
Two public forums have been held so far in LaGrange and Harlingen with a third scheduled for May 11 in Dallas. The fourth will be in Big Spring on May 21 with a final forum set for May 27 in Austin.
Task force members are looking at ways to compensate for the increase in forensic patients and longer-term patients who account for most of the patients treated in state hospitals. Forensic patients are those who overlap the mental health system and the criminal justice system, said Howard County Sheriff Stan Parker, who also is a member of the task force.
Patients are on waiting lists for state hospitals because of the increase in forensic commitments, Smith said. Also of concern to the task force is the length of stay for some patients who stay in the hospital longer than a year.
“Law enforcement officers also are responsible for transporting patients to the state hospital – sometimes from several hundred miles away,” Parker said. “To lawmen in small counties where only one or two deputies are covering a huge area, this takes away valuable personnel from their home county leaving the citizens unprotected. You also are talking about a great deal of overtime pay as well to transfer the patients.”
Many recommendations are on the table, including changing the mental health code, which is out of date with regard to the current system, residential alternatives to hospitalization, and the trend of defense attorneys raising the competency issue too often and too soon.
“The mental health system is in a great state of flux,” Smith said. “We have many, many issues we have to address. That is why we want to hear from the public. That is who we serve and that is who we need to tell us how to fix the system.”
SEN. SELIGER COMMENTS ON SCHOOL BOND / EDUCATION FUNDING STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER WAS IN BIG SPRING FOR A VISIT ON MONDAY, WHICH ALSO HAPPENED TO FOLLOW THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. LOCALLY THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT’S $60 MILLION SCHOOL BOND DISSUE WAS ON THE BALLOT AND PASSED VOTER APPROVAL. KEL SELIGER SITS ON THE TEXAS SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE, SO THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND IS OF INTEREST TO HIM. SELIGER TELLS KBST NEWS THAT VOTERS APPROVING THE $60 MIL TOWARD NEW SCHOOL FACILITIES HERE SHOWS SUBSTANTIAL COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR LOCAL QUALITY EDUCATION EFFORTS. A SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION IS CURRENTLY ORGANIZING STATE EDUCATION FUNDING FORMULAS IN PREPARATION FOR THE UP COMING TEXAS LEGISLATIVE SESSION, WHICH ISN’T EASY, SAYS SELIGER, WITH SHRINKING REVENUES AND TEXAS LEADERSHIP CALLING FOR 5% BUDGET DECREASES ACROSS THE BOARD, AS WE’VE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED. OUR VISIT WITH SENATOR KEL SELIGER COVERED SEVERAL TIMELY TOPICS, AND WE’LL BE REPORTING THOSE CONVERSATIONS IN FUTURE KBST REPORTS.
Sen. Cornyn Statement on Nomination of Elena Kagan to United States Supreme Court
WASHINGTON—U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Republican Leadership, today released the following statement after President Obama’s nomination of Solicitor General Elena Kagan to replace Justice John Paul Stevens on the U.S. Supreme Court:
"Now that President Obama has nominated Solicitor General Elena Kagan to replace Justice John Paul Stevens on the U.S. Supreme Court, the Senate must provide its advice and consent. It is essential that the Senate perform this Constitutional duty in a thorough manner and give Ms. Kagan’s record a full and fair review.
"There is no doubt that Ms. Kagan possesses a first-rate intellect, but she is a surprising choice from a president who has emphasized the importance of understanding 'how the world works and how ordinary people live.' Ms. Kagan has spent her entire professional career in Harvard Square, Hyde Park, and the DC Beltway. These are not places where one learns 'how ordinary people live.' Ms. Kagan is likewise a surprising choice because she lacks judicial experience. Most Americans believe that prior judicial experience is a necessary credential for a Supreme Court Justice.
"If confirmed as a life-tenured justice, Ms. Kagan’s rulings could affect the life, liberty, and property of Americans for generations. So we must learn completely about her judicial philosophy and commitment to our founding principles. And we must ensure that she rejects judicial activism and holds fast to the belief that justice is blind.
"Ms. Kagan failed to answer many questions posed by senators prior to her confirmation as solicitor general. This failure led many members to oppose her nomination. I hope that she will now more willingly respond to reasonable and relevant questions.
"America deserves a nominee who reveres the law and applies it impartially. Through the confirmation process, I look forward to determining whether Ms. Kagan meets this high standard and is fit to serve as an associate justice."
SEVERAL SMALL LOCAL FIRES MONDAY
A RED FLAG WARNING WAS UP FOR MOST OF WEST TEXAS INCLUDING HOWARD COUNTY MONDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING. LOCAL FIRE FIGHTERS WERE CALLED OUT TO SEVERAL FIRES IN HOWARD COUNTY, BUT WERE ABLE TO KEEP THEM TO RELATIVELY SMALL IN SIZE. NONE OF THE FIRES GREW TO ANY LARGER THAN ABOUT SEVEN ACRES, EVEN WITH THE VERY HOT, WINDY AND DRY CONDITIONS. ONE SMALL FIRE WAS CALLED IN MONDAY AFTERNOON ON FM 700, NEAR ROBINSON DRILLING. ANOTHER JUST EAST OF COAHOMA, NEAR SNYDER FIELD ROAD, AND ONE MORE FURTHER EAST NEAR MILE MARKER 198 ON I-20. NO STRUCTURES WERE REPORTED DAMAGED.
Monday May 10 VOTERS SAY “NO” TO TWO BIG SPRING INCUMBENTS WHILE BIG SPRING VOTERS SAID THEY DIDN’T WANT THEIR CURRENT MAYOR TO SERVE ANOTHER TERM, OTHER AREA VOTERS CERTAINLY SEEMED POSITIVE FOR PROGRESS WHEN IT COMES TO SPENDING MONEY ON WORTHWILE PROJECTS AS BOND AND SALES TAX ISSUES WERE APPROVED.
FIRST, BIG SPRING MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN, WHO HAS SERVED IN THAT POSITION FOR THE PAST DECADE, LOST TO ONE OF HIS THREE CHALLENGERS, TOMMY DUNCAN. WHEN SATURDAY EVENING CAME TO A CLOSE FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS, MAYOR MCEWEN LOST TO DUNCAN WITH ONLY 37% OF THE VOTE. TOMMY DUNCAN GOT OVER 55% OF BIG SPRING VOTER APPROVAL. RUSS MCEWEN SPOKE WITH KBST NEWS SATURDAY NIGHT, AND WHILE OBVIOUSLY DISAPPOINTED, SAID HE GOT THE MESSAGE, BUT ALSO WISHES TOMMY DUNCAN BEST WISHES. TOMMY DUNCAN WAS AT THE COURTHOUSE SATURDAY NIGHT WHEN IT BECAME OBVIOUS HE WAS MAYOR-ELECT OF BIG SPRING. HE WAS GRATEFUL TO HIS SUPPORTERS AND DESPITE THEIR POLITICAL DIFFERENCES, THANKED MAYOR MCEWEN FOR WHAT HE HAS ACCOMPLISHED OVER THE LAST TEN YEARS. THE OTHER TWO BIG SPRING MAYOR CANDIDATES TRAILED BEHIND WITH SHANNON THOMASON RECEIVING ABOUT 6% OF THE VOTE AND OSCAR VELASCO GETTING ABOUT 2%. THINGS WERE A LOT CLOSER IN THE OTHER BIG SRPRING CITY COUNCIL RACE SATURDAY AS CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 INCUMBENT TROY TOMPKINS APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN DEFEATED BY ONLY FIVE VOTES BY CHALLENGER CRAIG OLSON. OLSON’S VOTES PUT HIM JUST OVER 50% AND TROY TOMPKINS RECEIVED 49.7%. NO WORD AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT IF TOMPKINS WILL ASK FOR A RECOUNT. THE CITY COUNCIL WILL CANVAS THE ELECTION DURING THEIR TUESDAY MEETING, AND HOWARD COUNTY ELECTION ADMINISTRATOR SAUNDRA BLOOM SAYS AFTER THE CANVASSING, TOMPKINS MAY REQUEST A RECOUNT IF HE SO CHOOSES, BUT AT HIS OWN EXPENSE.
BIG SPRING $60 MILLION BOND PASSES THE BIG SPRING I.S.D. WILL GET THREE NEW SCHOOLS AND SOME MAJOR RENOVATIONS ELSEWHERE AS VOTERS SAID “YES” TO A $60 MILLION BOND ISSUES ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT. OVER 60% OF SCHOOL DISTRICT RESIDENTS WHO VOTED APPROVED THE ISSUE AND 39% VOTED AGAINST IT. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH SUPT. STEVEN SALDIVAR SATURDAY EVENING, WHO SEEMD RELEIVED THAT THE SCHOOL DISTRICT WILL NOW GET SOME MUCH NEEDED NEW CAMPUSES AT MARCY, WASHINGTON AND GOLIAD, WITH EXPANSIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS AT OTHER CAMPUSES LIKE MOSS ELEMENTARY, THE JUNIIOR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOL. STEVEN SALDIVAR IS OUR GUEST ON THE MONDAY EDITION OF “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY” STARTING AT 8:15 TO TALK ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT, AND HOW THE DISTRICT WILL GO ABOUT THIS MAJOR $60 MILLION PROJECT.
GLASSCOCK COUNTY APPROVED THEIR SCHOOL BOND AS WELL, 62% TO 38%. MARTIN COUNTY RESIDENTS APPROVED A BOND FOR A NEW HOSPITAL, SAYING “YES” WITH A 83% TO 17% VOTE. THE CITY OF COAHOMA WILL NOW HAVE NEW FUNDING FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THEIR COMMUNITY AS VOTERS OVERWHELMINGLY APPROVED A HALF-PENNY SALES TAX AND THE FORMATION OF AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. OVER 77% OF COAHOMA VOTERS APPROVED THE INITIATIVE.
THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD HAS A NEW MEMBER TO BE SWORN IN. CHAD WASH WON THE RACE FOR DISTRICT 5, TO REPLACE MIKE DAWSON, WHO CHOSE NOT TO RUN AGAIN. CHAD WASH DEFEATED CANDIDATES JEREMY BLOUNT AND MICHELE HAMBY WITH 57% OF THE VOTE. BIG SPRING SCHOOL TRUSTEES PHIL FURQUERON AND JEFF BRORMAN BOTH RAN FOR ANOTHER TERM WITHOUT CHALLENGERS. COAHOMA SCHOOL BOARD WINNERS WERE MICHAEL BROOKS AND BRANDON ATKINS.
TOTAL VOTER TURNOUT IN HOWARD COUNTY FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS, INCLUDING EARLY VOTING, WAS 3,290. TWO THIRDS OF THAT WAS EARLY VOTING, WHICH HAS GAINED MORE POPULARITY OVER THE YEARS.
BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL HONORS NURSES, NAMES RN, LVN OF THE YEAR
BIG SPRING – Big Spring State Hospital administrators will honor the hospital’s nursing staff and name the RN of the Year and LVN of the Year Wednesday, May 12, during a luncheon in the hospital’s Allred Building Auditorium.
The yearly award is given to an RN and LVN who has demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and who continually improves the lives of the patients through his or her daily contact.
Big Spring State Hospital Nursing Services hosts the luncheon and awards ceremony each year during National Nurses Week for the nursing staff.
National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6, also known as National Nurses Day, through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing The theme of National Nurses Week 2010 is – “Nurses: Caring Today for a Healthier Tomorrow.”
Big Spring State Hospital is a 200-bed psychiatric hospital for people with mental illness in West Texas.
Friday May 7 “DAY OF PRAYER” IN BIG SPRING THE “NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER” WAS RECOGNIZED IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE UNITED STATES THURSDAY, DESPITE ONE WISCONSIN JUDGE’S RULING IT IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL. EVEN THE CURRENT WHITEHOUSE ADMINISTRATION IS AGAINST THAT RULING. BUT ALL POLITICS ASIDE, HOWARD COUNTY RESIDENTS SHOWED FOR THE DAY’S EVENT IN BIG SPRING AT FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. GARRETT HALL WAS FILLED WITH ATTENDEES WHO CAME TO LISTEN TO WORDS OF INSPIRATION FROM COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT LEADERS AND CLERGY. PASTOR RANDY COTTON WAS AMONG THOSE WHO SPOKE BRIEFLY. KBST CONVERSED WITH PASTOR COTTON AFTERWARDS. HE EXPRESSED HIS CONCERN THAT THERE IS A TREND BY SOME TO MOVE AWAY FROM THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER EVENT, ESPECIALLY IN THESE CHALLENGING TIMES. PROJECTIONS OF ABOUT 30,000 NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER EVENTS WERE EXPECTED ACROSS THE COUNTRY THURSDAY.
NEUGEBAUER RECEIVES ‘SPIRIT OF ENTERPRISE’ AWARD
WASHINGTON – Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) released the following statement today after being recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for his outstanding support of pro-business, pro-growth legislation during the first session of the 111th Congress:
“Small businesses are the economic engine of our nation and job creation is more important now than ever. It’s an honor to once again receive the Spirit of Enterprise Award on behalf of the people of the 19th Congressional District and small businesses across the nation.
“At a time when our economy is struggling to recover, families remain concerned about their jobs and small businesses are trying to create jobs. One of my top priorities in Congress this year will be working to prevent job-killing tax increases and promote good government policy that spurs economic growth and strengthens our ability to create new jobs.”
Congressman Neugebauer has received this award every year since taking office in 2003, and has an 88 percent cumulative rating.
“The Chamber applauds Representative Neugebauer for supporting the private sector and job growth through these difficult times,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber. “He has demonstrated great courage and we commend him.”
“RELAY FOR LIFE” IS COMING! JUST ONE WEEK NOW UNTIL THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL “RELAY FOR LIFE” FOR HOWARD AND GLASSCOCK COUNTIES! TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BIG SPRING “RELAY FOR LIFE” EVENT, GO TO http://www.relayforlife.org/bigspringtx
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT SALE SATURDAY THE HOWARD COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS ARE PRESENTING THEIR PLANT SALE THIS SATURDAY AT JONES AND WEST 4TH. THE SALE IS 8 AM TO 2 PM AND WILL INCLUDE NUMEROUS PLANTS, TREES AND LANDSCAPING IDEAS THAT ARE DESIGNED TO WORK IN OUR WEST TEXAS CLIMATE. YOU WILL ALSO GET THE EXPERT ADVICE FROM LOCAL MASTER GARDENERS ON SPECIFIC PLANTS AND THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS ON PLANTING AND CARE. YOU CAN EVEN ENQUIRE ABOUT BECOMING A MASTER GARDENER. THAT’S THE MASTER GARDENERS PLANT SALE SATURDAY FROM 8 AM TO 2 PM AT 1601 WEST 4TH.
Thursday May 6 Waco Representative Wants Committee To Discuss Legalized Gambling
(Waco, TX) -- Like it or hate it, you can bet legalized gambling will make for some hot debate in the state legislature next year. Waco Democratic Representative Jim Dunnam recently circulated a letter to colleagues, saying gaming should be among several options for lawmakers trying to bridge an expected budget gap. But right now, he says hardly anyone wants to admit even thinking about the issue, largely because House Speaker Joe Straus quote, "has committed to remaining uninvolved in the process because of his conflict of interest." The Straus family invests in horse tracks and racing and he has often said he would stay out of debates on those issues to avoid the appearance of a conflict. So, Dunnam is proposing a bi-partisan committee made up of various House interest groups who would meet to talk about this in public so key decisions aren't made behind closed doors.
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER THIS WEEK THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER WILL BE RECOGNIZED THIS THURSDAY IN BIG SPRING, AND EVERYONE IS INVITE TO ATTEND. THE PRAYER EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT NOON THURSDAY AT BIG SPRING’S FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. LOCAL COMMUNITY AND CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP WILL BE TAKING PART IN THE PROGRAM WITH SPECIAL GUEST EVELYN BENDER, WHOSE LATE HUSBAND EVERETT WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN KEEPING THIS TRADITION IN OUR COMMUNITY OVER THE YEARS. EVERYONE IS INVITED TO MEET AT GARRETT HALL, FIRST UNITED METHODIST ON SCURRY THURSDAY AT NOON. THE PROGRAM WILL END IN TIME FOR YOU TO GET BACK TO YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE.
JOB FAIR
Workforce Solutions of the Permian Basin, Howard College and The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Business Development Committee will be hosting a Job Fair for the Big Spring - Howard County Area, Thursday, May 6, 2010 for 3:30 to 6:00 pm at the Don McKinney Career and Technical Education Center on the Howard College Campus. Building is located across from the Memorial Stadium parking lot.
Participating employers include, Air Force, ALON Refinery, Big Spring State Hospital, Border State Electric, Census Bureau, City of Big Spring, Cornell Companies, CRMWD, Dollar General, HEB, Mary Kay, maurices, State National Bank, VA Medical Center, Walmart and West TX Centers for MHMR. Also the Tom Land with the Howard College Job Training Department will be conducting tours of the new welding, electrical and heavy equipment training stations now being offered at Howard College.
I.C.E. ASSIST LOCAL INVESTIGATIONS, SAY POLICE BIG SPRING POLICE SAY THEY GREATLY APPRECIATE THE ASSISTANCE FROM FEDERAL AGENCIES SUCH AS I.C.E., IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT. YOU MAY RECALL THAT THE RECENT NARCOTICS OPERATION IN OUR COMMUNITY SUNDAY INVOLVED I.C.E. LT. TERRY CHAMNES WITH THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT SAYS THAT I.C.E. HAS BEEN A BIG HELP WITH THIS ONGOING INVESTIGATION AND PREVIOUS INVESTIGATIONS, ESPECCILAY WHEN IT COMES TO GANG ACTIVITY. EVEN THOUGH THE RECENT NARCOTICS SWEEP TOOK PLACE SUNDAY, LT. CHAMNES SAYS I.C.E. AGENTS REMAINED IN THE AREA FOR TWO MORE DAYS CONTRIBUTING THEIR RESOURCES. CHAMNES SAYS I.C.E. ALSO HELPS LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY INVESTIGATIONS. WHILE THAT MAY SOUND STRANGE, LT. CHAMNES SAYS MUCH OF THE CHILD PORN ORIGINATES OR IS SENT ACROSS INTERNATIONAL BORDERS, SO IT BECOMES THE BUSINESS OF FEDERAL CUSTOMS. I.C.E. RESOURCES BECOME INVALUABLE WHEN IT COMES TO LOCAL INVESTIGATIONS OF CHILD PORN, LT. CHAMNES TELLS KBST NEWS.
POLICE ARREST KNIFE WIELDER
BIG SPRING POLICE ARRESTED A MAN TUESDAY NIGHT AT A WESTSIDE CONVENIENCE STORE FOR THREATENING ANOTHER MAN WITH A KNIFE. ACCORDING TO BIG SPRING POLICE LT. TERRY CHAMNES POLICE WERE CALLED OUT TO A DISTURBANCE TUESDAY EVENING AT THE 7-11 STORE ON WILLIA. THE SUSPECT, 36 YEAR OLD MARIO ROBERT OVALLE, HAD GOTTEN INTO AN ARGUMENT WITH ANOTHER MAN AT THAT LOCATION. THE ARGUMENT TOOK PLACE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE STORE, AND AT ONE POINT, THE SUSPECT WAS CHASING THE OTHER MAN AROUND INSIDE THE 7-11 STORE, THREATENING HIM WITH A KNIFE. WITNESSES SAY THE SUSPECT PROCLAIMED SEVERAL TIMES HIS ASSOCIATION WITH A KNOWN GANG, THE BARIO AZTECA, DURING THE INCIDENT. POLICE ARRIVED AND ARRESTED MR. OVALLE. NO ONE WAS HURT. ROBERT MARIO OVALLE WAS CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON.
Texas Ranks Number One For Business In CEO Poll
(Austin, TX) -- A new poll shows that Texas is the best place in America to do business. "Chief Executive Magazine" polled more than 650 corporate CEOs, who, for the sixth year in a row, gave Texas top honors for the state's openness to business, reasonable regulatory environment, level of taxation and quality of workforce and living environment. Texas is the world's 12th largest economy, where 70 percent of all new U.S. jobs have been created since 2008. The state's tax credits and incentives to businesses choosing to locate or expand are among the most aggressive, with the Texas Enterprise Fund the largest deal-closing fund of any state, with grants totaling 377-million-dollars disbursed in 2008. The CEO poll lists other top ten states as North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Nevada, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, Utah and South Carolina. The worst five states are California, New York, Michigan, New Jersey and Massachusetts.
TRAILER FIRE BIG SPRING FIRE FIGHTERS WERE CALLED OUT TO A STRUCTURE FIRE EARLY WEDNESDAY MORNING JUST AFTER MIDNIGHT. THE FIRE WAS IN 100 BLOCK OF GRANT STREET ON BIG SPRING’S WESTSIDE. THE OLDER TRAILER WAS A TOTAL LOSS, AND HAD BEEN OCCUPIED RECENTLY ACCORDING TO NEIGHBORS, BUT HAD NO FUNCTIONING UTILITIES. ACCORDING TO THE FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE, NO ONE WAS IN THE TRAILER AND NO ONE WAS HURT IN THE FIRE. CAUSE OF THE FIRE WAS BELIEVED TO BE ACCIDENTAL.
RELAY FOR LIFE COUNTDOWN JUST 8 DAYS AWAY FOR “RELAY FOR LIFE” FOR HOWARD AND GLASSCOCK COUNTIES, MAY 14TH AND 15TH AT BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL’S BLANKENSHIP FIELD. TO FIND OUT MORE JUST GO TO http://www.relayforlife.org/bigspringtx
Wednesday May 5 Aikman Helping Effort To Get 2016 Super Bowl For Arlington
(Arlington, TX) -- They haven't even played the 2011 Super Bowl at Cowboys Stadium yet but the planning is already in motion to secure the 2016 game for Arlington. Cowboys legend Troy Aikman currently serves as vice-chairman of the current Super Bowl host committee, which is chaired by fellow Cowboys Hall-of-Famer Roger Staubach. Now, Bill Lively, the committee president, tells the "Star-Telegram" that Aikman is in line to lead the effort to land the 2016 game, which will be designated Super Bowl 50. Super Bowl 45 will played at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington nine months and two days from today.
POLICE BELIEVE RECENT DRUG SWEEP HAS IMPACT
BIG SPRING POLICE BELIEVE THIS PAST SUNDAY’S SERIES OF NARCOTICS ARRESTS WILL HAVE AN IMMEDIATE IMPACT, AT LEAST FOR NOW, ON DRUG DEALING IN OUR COMMUNITY. AS KBST NEWS REPORTED, 20 ARRESTS WERE MADE SUNDAY, OTHERS ARE ANTICIPATED, AND MOST OF THE ARRESTS WERE SUSPECTS BELIEVED TO BE DEALING DRUGS, NOT JUST USERS. DURING MONDAY’S POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS CONFERENCE, SGT. TONY EVERETT STATED THAT WHILE THE RECENT OPERATION WAS SIGNIFICANT, THERE ARE STILL PLENTY OF DEALERS OUT THERE, AND THE BIG SPRING NARCOTICS DIVISION WILL CONTINUE THEIR PURSUIT. SUNDAY’S NARCOTICS OPERATION INVOLVED SEVERAL LOCAL AND STATE AGENCIES. THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT’S NARCOTICS DIVISION WAS FORMED AND FUNDED BY BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL IN LATE 2007.
New Poll Shows Americans Want Immigration Reform
(Undated) -- A new poll suggests about two-thirds of Americans want the federal government to do a better job securing the borders. A "USA TODAY/Gallup Poll" says eight in ten Americans are concerned that illegal immigration is a burden to schools, hospitals and other services and 77-percent believe it affects wages. However, 77-percent of those polled are concerned that stricter laws would mean illegals immigrants and their families, who have been in the country for years, would be forced to leave. The poll also shows 64-percent are sympathetic to illegal immigrants for wanting to better the lives of themselves and their families.
POWER OUT TUESDAY AFTERNOON SEVERAL HUNDRED BIG SPRING RESIDENTS WERE WITHOUT POWER TUESDAY AFTERNOON. POWER WAS OFF FOR ABOUT 1,100 TXU CUSTOMERS FOR ABOUT AN HOUR TUESDAY. MOST OF THOSE AFFECTED WERE ON BIG SPRING’S NORTH SIDE. POWER WAS OUT FOR ABOUT AN HOUR. JIM CLEMENTS, AREA MANAGER FOR ONCOR ELECTRIC DELIVERY SAYS THEIR INTITIAL INVESTIGATION INTO WHAT CAUSED THE POWER OUTAGE INDICATED TWO CROSSBARS SUPPORTING POWER LINES NEAR NORTH BIRDWELL LANE FAILED AND CAUSED THE LINES TO CROSS, KNOCKING POWER OFF. WINDS DIDN’T APPEAR TO BE FACTOR.
Tuesday May 4 House Republicans to Launch 10th Amendment Task Force Rep. Neugebauer Answers Call to Change Washington
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Randy Neugebauer (R-TX), Republican Study Committee (RSC) Chairman Tom Price (R-GA) and nine other co-founding Members will officially launch the newly formed 10th Amendment Task Force during an event on Thursday, May 6th. In an effort to answer America’s call to change Washington, the Task Force will work to decentralize power from Washington back to regions, states, local governments and individuals. The Task Force, a project of the RSC, aims to usher in a “New Era of Federalism” and will work to ensure that the principles within the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution serve as a framework for Republicans to fundamentally alter the way government interacts with and touches people on a daily basis.
Gulf State Attorneys General Form Coalition To Address Oil Spill
(Austin, TX) -- Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott is joining other Gulf Coast state attorneys general to coordinate response to the oil spill that is threatening the coastline. The five state attorneys general met Sunday in Alabama to get a briefing from BP and discuss how to work jointly to protect their states' natural resources, coastal businesses and taxpayer dollars following the spill. No oil from the spill has reached the Texas coast, but the situation could change with the wind and tidal patterns. Abbott says the Gulf States Coalition's top focus is ensuring that BP makes good on its promise to pay expenses incurred during the clean-up effort. BP has agreed to pay costs associated with the assessment, mitigation and cleanup; real and property damage caused by the oil; personal injury caused by the spill and commercial losses including loss of earnings or profit. BP officials say five-thousand barrels of hydrocarbons are leaking into the Gulf of Mexico each day after a series of explosions last month at the off-shore drilling site killed eleven-workers and caused the leak. Nearly 24-thousand barrels of an oil-water mixture have been removed from the Gulf since the leak began.
“RELAY FOR LIFE” IS COMING! LESS THAN TWO WEEKS NOW UNTIL THIS YEAR’S ANNUAL “RELAY FOR LIFE” FOR HOWARD AND GLASSCOCK COUNTIES! ACTUALLY, ABOUT TEN DAYS AND COUNTING UNTIL A CITY OF TENTS, AND HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WILL SEEMINGLY POP OUT OF NOWHERE THE AFTERNOON OF FRIDAY MAY 14TH AT BLANKENSHIP FIELD. ALL OF THE TRADITION OF “RELAY” WILL BE THERE AGAIN THAT FRIDAY EVENING AND SATURDAY MORNING, AND EVEN MORE ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN PLANNED THROUGHOUT THE EVENING THIS YEAR. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BIG SPRING “RELAY FOR LIFE” EVENT, GO TO http://www.relayforlife.org/bigspringtx
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER THIS WEEK THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER WILL BE RECOGNIZED THIS THURSDAY IN BIG SPRING, AND EVERYONE IS INVITE TO ATTEND. THE PRAYER EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE AT NOON THURSDAY AT BIG SPRING’S FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH. LOCAL COMMUNITY AND CONGREGATIONAL LEADERSHIP WILL BE TAKING PART IN THE PROGRAM WITH SPECIAL GUEST EVELYN BENDER, WHOSE LATE HUSBAND EVERETT WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN KEEPING THIS TRADITION IN OUR COMMUNITY OVER THE YEARS. EVERYONE IS INVITED TO MEET AT GARRETT HALL, FIRST UNITED METHODIST ON SCURRY THURSDAY AT NOON. THE PROGRAM WILL END IN TIME FOR YOU TO GET BACK TO YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE.
Big Spring Police Department Narcotic Division
MEDIA RELEASE
On May 2nd, 2010 the Big Spring Spring Police Department Narcotic Division assisted by members of the Big Spring Police Department Criminal Investigtion Division, Howard County Sheriff Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Howard County District Attorney’s Office, and Immigration Custom Enforcement(ICE) San Angelo Office, executed numerous narcotic arrest warrants. These arrests culminated from an approximate six month investigation into the Drug Trafficking within the City Limits of Big Spring and surrounding Howard County. This investigation lead to the arrest of 20 individuals and the seizure of 14.80 ounces of marijuana, 42.26 grams of crack cocaine, 50.59 grams of powder cocaine, and 2.11 grams of methamphetamine. Also, ten (10) guns were seized and numerous miscellaneous stolen tool’s were recovered.
Those arrested are as follows:
1. Jarrel Lamont Williams b/m 11/17/1987 Delivery Controlled Substance, Felony 2 Delivery Controlled Substance Drug Free Zone, Felony 1
2. Danielle Rae Mier w/f 01/19/1990 Delivery Controlled Substance, Felony 2 Delivery Controlled Substance, Felony 2
17. Beverly Ortega w/f 04/15/1988 Delivery Marijuana, State Jail Felony
18. William Sneed w/m 01/29/1975 Possession Controlled Substance, State Jail Felony
19. Jessica Brooks w/f 07/25/1987 Delivery Marijuana, State Jail Felony Delivery Marijuana, State Jail Felony
20. Keelie Parks w/f 05/31/1991 Delivery Marijuana, State Jail Felony
Monday May 3 OVER HALF MILLION BOND SET FOR BIG SPRING SUSPECT
A BIG SPRING MAN ARRESTED ON SEVERAL CHARGES IN MIDLAND LAST WEEK REMAINS IN CUSTODY WITH OVER HALF A MILLION IN BOND SET. 48 YEAR OLD JUAN JOSE GUERRA OF BIG SPRING WAS ARRESTED WEDNESDAY NIGHT IN MIDLAND JUST AFTER HE WAS PULLED OVER BY MIDLAND LAW ENFORCEMENT AND I.C.E. AGENTS. GUERRA WAS PULLED OVER BY OFFICERS AFTER A WITNESS REPORTED STRANGE BEHAVIOR AS THE SUSPECT WAS DRIVING AROUND A NEIGHBORHOOD REPEATEDLY AND SLOWLY AT TIMES. HE HAD ALSO DRIVEN PAST AN AREA WHERE CHILDREN WERE AT PLAY. UPON BEING STOPPED AND INTERVIEWED, MIDLAND OFFICERS DECIDED TO INVESTIGATE FURTHER AND FOUND NUMEROUS ITEMS IN THE BIG SPRING MAN'S VEHICLE THAT RAISED EVEN MORE SUSPICIONS. THOSE ITEMS INCLUDED, A HANDGUN, PIPE, DUCT TAPE, STUN GUN AND MEDICATION NOT PRESCRIBED TO THE SUSPECT. IT ALL ADDED UP TO MATERIALS THAT COULD BE USED FOR AN ABDUCTION AND RAPE, OR WORSE, SAY AUTHORITIES. LAW ENFORCEMENT ALSO EXECUTED A SEARCH WARRANT FOR GUERRA'S BIG SPRING RESIDENCE AND TOOK ITEMS FROM THERE, AND REPORTS INDICATE IMPROPER PHOTOGRAPHS OF CHILDREN ON HIS COMPUTER. AT THIS TIME JUAN JOSE GUERRA REMAINS IN CUSTODY ON OVER $625,000 BOND THAT NOW INCLUDE CHARGES OF POSSESSION AND PROMOTION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND DRUGS AND WEAPONS CHARGES. THANKFULLY LAW ENFORCEMENT IN MIDLAND WAS ABLE TO ARREST THE SUSPECT BEFORE ANYONE COULD BE HARMED. THE SUSPECT'S EXACT BIG SPRING ADDRESS WAS NOT KNOWN AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT. APPARENTLY THE SUSPECT HAD NO RELATED PRIORS TO THIS ARREST.
Job Fair This Week
Workforce Solutions of the Permian Basin, Howard College and The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce Business Development Committee will be hosting a Job Fair for the Big Spring - Howard County Area, Thursday, May 6, 2010 for 3:30 to 6:00 pm at the Don McKinney Career and Technical Education Center on the Howard College Campus. Building is located across from the Memorial Stadium parking lot.
Participating employers include, Air Force, ALON Refinery, Big Spring State Hospital, Border State Electric, Census Bureau, City of Big Spring, Cornell Companies, CRMWD, Dollar General, HEB, Mary Kay, Maurices, State National Bank, VA Medical Center, Walmart and West TX Centers for MHMR. Also the Tom Land with the Howard College Job Training Department will be conducting tours of the new welding, electrical and heavy equipment training stations now being offered at Howard College.
Invited are all job seekers looking for a job, looking for a change or part-time, to stop by. For those who would like to train for something new or enhance their training in welding and electrical you may want to see about enrolling in a class information will be available for that as well. Workforce Solutions will also have information to help you find that right job.
May 1, 2010 DAVE WHEATON NAMED PROGRAM DIRECTOR, BIG SPRING RADIO CLUSTER
BIG SPRING, TEXAS - KBST FM 95.7 / KBST AM 1490 / KBTS FM 94.3-Big Spring is proud to welcome Dave Wheaton as Program Director for the radio group. Wheaton brings nearly twenty years of radio broadcasting experience, the past four of which were spent in East Texas at KBHT-FM as their Program and Music Director. His first day is May 3rd. “It is a great opportunity to come in and work on helping a station that already has so much going for it”, says Wheaton. “I’m grateful to Malinda Flenniken for giving me a chance to join her team. The staff I will be working with is solid, and I feel like I will fit very well here. I am very excited about the challenge, and the opportunity to bring my family to Big Spring and become involved in the community.” Wheaton, a graduate of Kellogg College in Battle Creek, Michigan started his broadcasting career at several stations in Michigan and Indiana. He moved to Crockett, Texas in 2006 to become Program Director of KBHT FM. In 2008, he created a weekly syndicated program, “Coming Home with Dave Wheaton”, which features interviews and music of independent Texas musicians. In 2009, the Academy of Texas Music awarded Wheaton the prestigious Palmwood Award for his dedication to the advancement of independent Texas music. He has also been nominated Disc Jockey of the Year in the Texas Music Awards in 2009 and again this year. The winner will be announced May 15th at the TMA ceremony in Marshall, Texas. “Radio and music have been a part of my life as long as I can remember,” Wheaton says, “and I truly love the music that is made here in Texas. I am very fortunate to be involved in this scene.” In addition to serving as Program Director, Wheaton will be performing other duties for the Big Spring radio group. You can expect to hear Dave on the air during Texas Country Afternoons on 95.7 KBST FM.
EARLY VOTING WRAPS UP THIS WEEK
EARLY VOTING FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS IS WRAPPING UP THIS WEEK. EARLY VOTING IN HOWARD COUNTY IS TAKING PLACE DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS THROUGH TUESDAY AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE, THIRD FLOOR. THERE WILL BE A "BRANCH VOTING" LOCATION FOR ONE DAY, MONDAY MAY 3RD, AT THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY. EARLY VOTING THERE WILL RUN SIMULTANEOUSLY WITH THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE LOCATION. ELECTION DAY IS THIS SATURDAY, MAY 8TH. IN HOWARD COUNTY THERE WILL BE TWO VOTING LOCATIONS OPEN FROM 7 TO 7 THIS SATURDAY: THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY AND COAHOMA COMMUNITY CENTER.
Friday April 30 Cornyn Introduces Border Security Legislation
(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn is working to keep border communities safe with new legislation. The Texas Republican introduced "The Southern Border Security Assistance Act" Wednesday after a recent briefing about border violence in El Paso. Cornyn says the legislation co-sponsored by U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison would fight border violence, while strengthening the morale and effectiveness of state and local law enforcement officers and sending a message to cartels that Americans will not give in to violence. Cornyn says for many in Washington, border violence is merely a talking point, adding that talk is cheap and means nothing until resources are delivered that keep border residents safe. The legislation would create a 300-million-dollar border grant program for state and local law enforcement within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border to provide equipment, upgrades to critical information systems and hire additional officers.
ExxonMobil Reports First Quarter Profit
(Irving, TX) -- ExxonMobil is reporting a first quarter profit of six-point-three-billion-dollars. That's up 38-percent compared to the four-point-five-billion-dollar profit in the first quarter of 2009. ExxonMobil Chairman Rex Tillerson says the results reflect higher crude oil realizations and stronger chemical margins. He adds the company's solid financial position enabled ongoing investment at record levels, with capital and exploration spending at six-point-nine-billion-dollars for first quarter 2010, up 19-percent compared to last year.
Defense Department Welcomed To Fight To Contain Oil Leak
(Houston, TX) -- The owner of the rig leaking oil into the Gulf of Mexico says the Defense Department is welcome to help battle the massive slick. BP and the Coast Guard are struggling to contain the slick that is threatening the shoreline of four states. The sunken oil rig is five-thousand feet below the surface of the sea off the coast of Louisiana. The Coast Guard says it's spilling five time more oil than previously thought. The oil began to escape after the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon earlier this month.
NEUGEBAUER ANNOUNCES HOUSE AGRICULTURE COMMITTEE FIELD HEARING IN LUBBOCK
LUBBOCK, TX – Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) announced today that he will host a House Committee on Agriculture field hearing on the 2012 Farm Bill in Lubbock on Monday, May 17th.
“It is an honor to host a field hearing in Lubbock to discuss with local farmers and ranchers what’s working in agriculture policy and what needs to be improved. This is great opportunity for producers in West Texas to share their vision for agriculture policy,” Neugebauer said. “The Agriculture Committee is holding these hearings around the nation to hear directly from farmers, and as one of the most productive and diverse agriculture areas of the country, I look forward to hearing what Texas producers have to say.”
Neugebauer will be joined by Members of the House Agriculture Committee, including Chairman Collin Peterson (D-MN) who will lead the hearing.
DETAILS: Monday, May 17th 9:00 a.m. CDT Texas Tech Museum Texas Tech University Lubbock, TX Full Committee on Agriculture - Public Hearing RE: To review U.S. agriculture policy in advance of the 2012 Farm Bill.
Thursday April 29 CITY WATER IMRPOVEMENTS / NOTICES WILL STILL GO OUT AS KBST NEWS HAS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, MANY OF THE ISSUES FACING THE CITY OF BIG SPRING AND ITS WATER SOURCE ARE BEING RECTIFIED, BUT CITY OFFICIALS ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY THAT BIG SPRING RESIDENTS WILL STILL RECEIVE REQUIRED WATER QUALITY NOTICES FOR THE MARCH AND APRIL TIME FRAMES. ASST. CITY MANAGER TODD DARDEN SAYS THAT SINCE THE CITY AND C.R.M.W.D. HAVE BEEN BLENDING PREVIOUS WATER SOURCES WITH WATER FROM THE O.H. IVIE RESERVOIR TURBIDITY LEVELS IN OUR WATER ARE CURRENTLY WITHIN STANDARDS. ADDITIONALLY, WARMER WEATHER HAS BEEN KILLING OFF THE GOLDEN ALGEA, WHICH HAD ALSO BEEN CONTRIBUTING TO THE PROBLEM. BUT EVEN THOUGH THERE IS NOW SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT, THE CITY STATED WEDNESDAY THAT TURBIDITY LEVELS IN OUR WATER EXCEEDED THE ALLOWABLE STANDARDS UP TO APRIL 19TH, AND WATER QUALITY NOTICES WILL STILL BE REQUIRED FOR MARCH AND APRIL.
High court rules cross doesn't violate separation of church and state Washington (CNN) -- The Supreme Court narrowly ruled Wednesday that a white cross, erected as a war memorial and sitting on national parkland in the Mojave Desert, does not violate the constitutional separation of church and state. The 5-4 conservative majority said Congress acted properly when it tried to transfer land around the Mojave Memorial Cross to veterans groups, an effort to eliminate any Establishment Clause violation. The land then would have been declared a national memorial. A federal appeals panel had blocked that land swap. "It is reasonable to interpret the congressional designation as giving recognition to the historical meaning that the cross had attained," Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote. "The Constitution does not oblige government to avoid any public acknowledgment of religion's role in society." But even among the conservatives who voted to allow the cross to stand, there was strong disagreement about how similar disputes should be settled, an indication of the contentious nature of church-and-state cases. At issue before the justices was whether the display violates the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which says that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." More specifically, can one individual who protests the cross have legal standing to take his case to court and prevail? And do congressional efforts to minimize the appearance of a constitutional violation carry any weight? The 6-foot Latin cross was first erected in 1934 by a local Veterans of Foreign Wars unit in a remote part of the California desert to honor war dead. It has been rebuilt several times over the years, and Easter services take place on the site annually. The land now is part of the Mojave National Preserve, a unit of the National Park Service, encompassing 1.6 million acres, or 2,500 square miles. A former Park Service employee brought suit, saying such symbols represent government endorsement of the Christian faith.
Howard College Inducts Anna Smith Into Hall of Fame
BIG SPRING – Among the traditional team recognitions during the annual athletic banquet held Tuesday night, Howard College added a special honor to the program and inducted Anna Smith into the Hawk Athletics Hall of Fame. Smith, who joined the Howard College family in 1959 and retired in 1977, was the Director of Women’s Physical Education, Dean of Women and eventually Dean of Students. Throughout her tenure with the Hawks, she coached women’s volleyball and basketball as well as men’s and women’s varsity tennis. “We are so proud to induct Anna into our Hall of Fame,” said Dr. Cheryl Sparks, President. “We are honored to recognize her legacy and the impact that she has had on our college and athletic programs.” Smith has long-served in various roles throughout the community advocating for our youth. She has served on various committees and boards on both a local and state-wide basis. She served on the Executive Board for the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation and was a member of the committee that was instrumental in getting health education recognized on all levels in our public schools. Additionally, she was selected as a regional member of the Governor’s Council on Life Time Sports. Smith has been the recipient of five meritorious sports awards from the Kiwanis Club of Big Spring and was among HC administrators and board of trustee members in the ground breaking ceremony for the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum. “Anna Smith is a very classy lady,” added Sparks. “Her accomplishments are many but even more importantly she served as a crucial role model for our students and helped navigate them through the lessons of life.” Among other awards handed out, Calvin Belvin was given the traditional “Above and Beyond” award which is handed out annually to a Howard College staff or faculty that has extended that extra effort to help support Hawk Athletics. Although the focus for the evening was on sports and achievements within athletic competitions, , the annual “Team Academic Excellence” award is annually given to the athletic team with the highest grade point average (GPA). This year’s award went to the Women’s Softball Team for their hard work in achieving a 3.25 GPA for the year. The 2010 NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball National Championship team received special recognition from Lisa Brooks with Congressman Randy Naugebauer’s office, Stefanie Wilkerson with State Senator Kel Seliger’s office and Willia Ledford with State Representative Joe Heflin’s office. All three ladies were on hand to offer congratulatory messages and proclamations. “This is a great night for Hawk Athletics,” said Sparks. “Our student athletes have accomplished so much and it’s nice to take the time and give them credit for their hard work and discipline.”
Big Spring Economic Development and Howard College Receive Award for Workforce Excellence
On April 22, 2010 in Arlington, Big Spring Economic Development was awarded the Workforce Excellence Award in the category of cities with a population of 15,001 to 40,000 by the Texas Economic Development Council. The Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) is an Austin-based, statewide, non-profit professional association dedicated to the development of economic and employment opportunities in Texas.
In early 2009, the Big Spring Economic Development Board (BSEDC) met with the Howard College Department of Workforce Training (HCDWT) to discuss methods by which the BSEDC could assist HCDWT in training efforts for incumbent employees, dislocated adult workers and at-risk youth in the Howard County area. Subsequent meetings led to the participation and partnerships of several local key businesses and industry members, who stated, collectively, that new training should stem from green energy concerns across the Permian Basin. Owners and staff of Price Construction, the Colorado Water Municipal Water District, Alon, Western Container, Paint & Safety and others, met with BSEDC members and HCWDT administrators to ascertain the largest and fast growing employer needs in the area. All parties agreed that the biggest employment needs are in the areas of welding, heavy equipment operation, hydraulics, and electrical. The ability to place qualified workers in these fields would greatly encourage economic development efforts in Howard County by supplying viable employees to employers who are currently experiencing a worker shortage. The shortage, it was agreed, had stifled economic projects, created the need to look outside the area for employees.
The group created a plan to incorporate intense workforce training in the above areas through the Howard College Department of Workforce Training, with curriculum development input from employers and instructors. All courses would have to be certified through a national trade organization for appropriate, up-to-date, state-of-the-art curriculum. This major objective would necessitate a roster of qualified instructors; purchase of new, viable equipment and software; renovation of the HC workforce building and a written plan to recruit, nurture and retain students for the duration of the coursework. In addition, with assistance from HC personnel and human resource departments from participating business and industry, students would receive entry into the workforce.
Because of the partnership between BSEDC and HCWDT, training opportunities were increased for dual-enrollment students in the three area independent school districts. Juniors and seniors from Coahoma High School, Forsan High School and Big Spring High School are now able to enroll in the classes and obtain credit or certification while still enrolled in high school. Howard College is now at work collaborating with each of the districts on the best methods to ensure recruitment of students while acknowledging their high school schedules. In addition to the BSEDC, Howard College and the three area school districts, local employers have committed to a continual expression of their needs in order to provide HC with insight and strategy for appropriate training.
The BSEDC funding to Howard College has encouraged new partnerships in the community that will assist in economic development to the region. Importantly, the funding has created many opportunities for individuals to positively change their current unemployment status, their standard of living and to engage in future opportunities for advanced training.
Perhaps the most significant benefit of the program was the coming together of several public and private entities to serve a very important united cause to positively impact our community. Partnerships were formed and new liaisons were created among organizations and individuals to directly affect not only economic development for Howard County and Big Spring, but to provide training and employment to those in need, and who will, as a result of enrolling in, and completing, the training, become productive members of the labor force.
Wednesday April 28 Hawk Men Advance Two For College National Finals Rodeo
TARLETON – The final stop for the Southwest region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) was Tarleton State University in Stephenville Texas this last weekend and the Hawks secured scores to advance two members to the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) to be held in Casper Wyoming, June 13-19, 2010. Jason Schaffer has been in the spotlight all year as the freshman cowboy works all three timed events. Jason qualifies to the CNFR this year as the #2 man in the All-Around. Schaffer will compete in the steer wrestling and the team roping (heading), being partnered with heeler Seth Hall of Odessa College. JW Townsend is the second Hawk to qualify to this year’s CNFR in the team roping. Townsend ropes with former Hawk, Clay Norrel of Tarleton State University. This will be the second trip to the finals for Townsend. JW finished his season in the #2 position of the heeling competition for the tough Southwest region. While performing in Stephenville, Jason Schaffer collected his second All-Around title of the year. Jason accumulated points in the tie down roping and steer wrestling. He posted times of 9.1(8th) and 8.6 (2nd) for third in the average race of the tie down roping. In the steer wrestling, Jason won fourth in the first round with a 7.1 and was unable to stop the clock in the short round. Steer wrestlers Cullen Teller and Rhett Anderson joined Schaffer in the short round. Teller was tenth in the first round and 25.3 in the short to finish fourth in the average. Anderson was third in the long round with a 6.7 second effort and he also had a no time in the final round. Payton Norrel and partner Stewart Kinley of NMJC were third in the first round of team roping with a 6.3 second run. A broken barrier left the team at 15.6 for fifth in the round and fifth in the average. The Southwest region is known for its tough competition among the men and women and the Hawks have held their own to turn out a successful season. “Just being able to advance out of the region is a huge step,” said coach Greg Kernick. “This region is tough and seems to get tougher every year.”
Hawk Baseball Hosts Breast Cancer Awareness Game
The Howard College Hawk baseball team invites you to join them on Saturday, May 1st at noon for the 3rd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness game at Jack Barber Field on the campus of Howard College as they work to win a conference series and strike out breast cancer!
This year’s event will prove to be even bigger and better as the Hawks join forces with their fans and special sponsors to make the day fun while they work to raise funds for this worthwhile cause. In addition to championship style baseball between your own Howard Hawks and Clarendon College, there will be drawings for items such as autographed baseballs, bats, and t-shirts. A silent auction will be held during each game which will include an autographed national championship jersey and more. Fans must be present to win the drawings and the auctions will conclude with the last out of each ballgame.
Special guests will be throwing out first pitches to show support for breast cancer survivors as well as those who are currently fighting breast cancer and honor those who may have lost the battle.
The day would not be possible without special sponsorships such as Back In Motion, D-Bat, Imprint Texas, Bear Claw Knife & Shear, Leonards Pharmacies, Comet Cleaners, Dr. John Myers, D.D.S., Dr. David D. Long, MD, PA, Rick Hamby Law Office, Sidewinders Booster Club, Big Spring Abstract & Title Co, Inc., Rod’s Garage, and Burns Graphics.
Pink t-shirts, donated by Burns Graphics, are on sale now at the Howard College Bookstore on the campus of Howard College for $15 each. The shirts will be on sale throughout the week and at the games on Saturday. A limited supply is available and all proceeds will be donated to the cause.
For more information on the breast cancer awareness game and Hawk baseball, visit the Hawk Athletic Website at http://www.hchawk.com.
“RELAY FOR LIFE” WANTS TO PROTECT NEW TRACK EACH YEAR THE ANNUAL “REALY FOR LIFE” HAS TAKEN PLACE IN BIG SPRING AT THE HIGH SCHOOL’S BLANKENSHIP FIELD. THIS YEAR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IS VERY PROUD OF THEIR BRAND NEW RENOVATIONS AT BLANKENSHIP, WHICH ALSO INCLUDE A NEW TRACK. “RELAY FOR LIFE” OFFICIALS WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT THE NEW TRACK IS WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND IS LEFT IN THE CURRENT LIKE-NEW CONDITION AFTER THE EVENT MAY 14TH AND 15TH. LONGTIME “RELAY” PARTICIPANT HOWARD STEWART WANTS TO REMIND EVERYONE THAT THERE ARE SOME NEW RULES THIS YEAR WHEN IT COMES TO THE TRACK. AMONG THEM;…. SETTING UP YOUR CAMPSITES. IT WILL BE A LITTLE MORE TROUBLE FOR PARTICIPANTS THIS YEAR BECAUSE NO VEHICLES ARE ALLOWEDTO ROLL ACROSS THE NEW TRACK SURFACE. BUT HOWARD SAYS A PLAN IS IN PLACE AND EVERYTHING WILL WORK OUT FINE. THEY ALSO ASK THAT EVERYONE NOT WALK ON THE FIRST TWO INSIDE LANES ON THE NEW TRACK BECAUSE THAT CAUSES MORE WEAR AND TEAR. PLEASE USE THE OUTSIDE LANES. “RELAY FOR LIFE” FOR HOWARD AND GLASSCOCK COUNTIES IS MAY 14TH AND 15TH AT BLANKENSHIP FIELD. IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO MAKE A TEAM. JUST GO TO http://www.relayforlife.org/bigspringtx TO FIND OUT MORE. AND EVERYONE IS ENCOURAGED TO COME BY THAT EVENING, EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT A MEMBER OF A TEAM. ALL CANCER SURVIVIORS ARE ALSO ENCOURAGED TO COME BY, AND IF YOU CAN, PARTICIPATE IN THE “SURVIVORS LAP”.
ILLEGAL BURNING EAST OF BIG SPRING IF YOU SAW A LOT OF BLACK SMOKE EAST OF BIG SPRING TUESDAY MORNING, THAT WAS AN ILLEGAL BURN. HOWARD COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT CHIEF TOMMY SULLIVAN TOLD KBST THAT HE WAS ON SITE SOON AFTER THE FIRE WAS STARTED. THE FIRE WAS LOCATED ON MOSS LAKE ROAD AND WAS A PILE OF OLD SHINGLES THAT HAD BEEN SET ON FIRE, CREATING A LOT OF SMOKE. SULLIVAN TOLD KBST NEWS AS THE TIME THAT HE WAS ATTEMPTING TO FIND WHO WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FIRE BECAUSE IT WAS VIOLATING SEVERAL STATE ENVIRONMENTAL CODES. FOR ONE, THE MATERIALS BEING BURNED INCLUDED ASBESTOS . THE FIRE WAS IN A PIT AND AT THE TIME WAS NO THREAT TO NEARBY PROPERTY OF PEOPLE.
B.S.I.S.D. OFFERS CAMPUS TOURS THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT IS OFFERING LOCAL RESIDENTS TOURS OF BIG SPRING SCHOOL CAMPUSES THIS THURSDAY STARTING AT 5:30 PM, AND ARE ALSO OFFERING BUSES TO TAKE RESIDENTS TO VARIOUS CAMPUSES. IF YOU’D LIKE TO TAKE THE BUSES THEY WILL DEPARTING THURSDAY AT 5:30 PM FROM THE EAST PARKING LOT OF BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL NEXT TO BLANKENSHIP FIELD. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT WANTS VOTERS TO SEE FIRSTHAND THE CONDITION OF BIG SPRING CAMPUSES IN LIGHT OF EARLY VOTING NOW TAKING PLACE FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. THE $60 MILLION BOND ISSUES IS ON THE BALLOT FOR BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT VOTER APPROVAL.
Tuesday April 27 MICHAEL STEVENS COMPLETES MISSION / LEAVES DISTRICT DR. MICHAEL STEVENS, THE FORMER INTERIM BIG SPRING SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT AND MOST RECENTLY DISTRICT CONSULTANT IS NO LONGER WITH THE BIG SPRING I.S.D. HIS SERVICES WITH BIG SPRING I.S.D. OFFICIALLY CONCLUDED AS OF FRIDAY. ACCORDING TO SUPT. STEPHEN SALDIVAR , MICHAELS STEVENS’S PRIMARY GOAL AS SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSULTANT WAS TO ASSIST IN DEVELOPING PLANS FOR THE FACILITIES RENOVATIONS FOR THE CURRENT SCHOOL BOND ISSUE, AND THEN HELPING TO COMMUNICATE THE NEEDS TO THE PUBLIC. BOTH OF THOSE ASPECTS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED AND THE $60 MILLION BOND ISSUE IS NOW IN THE HANDS OF VOTERS, SO DR. STEVENS HAS GONE BACK INTO RETIREMENT. MICHAEL STEVENS ORIGINALLY CAME INTO SERVICE AT THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT WHEN SUPT. MICHAEL DOWNES DEPARTED IN 2008. AFTER SERVING AS INTERIM SUPERTINDENT HIS SERVICES WERE RETAINED AS A CONSULTANT.
COUNTY AGREES TO “GRANT” FOR P.C.C.A. EXPANSION
IT DIDN’T TAKE LONG FOR HOWARD COUNTY TO TURN AROUND AND USE AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MEASURE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS RECENTLY ADOPTED. CHAPTER 381 IS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOL CREATED BY THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE SEVERAL YEARS AGO THAT COUNTIES MAY ADOPT TO ALLOW THEM TO OFFER GRANTS, LOANS AND IN-KIND SERVICES FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THEIR BOUNDRIES. MONDAY HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS APPROVED A “GRANT” IN THE FORM OF A PROPERTY TAX REBATE FOR THE PLAINS COTTON COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION, THAT HAS RECENTLY EXPANDED ITS COTTON BAIL STORAGE CAPACITY IN BIG SPRING, ACCORDING TO P.C.C.A. REPRESENTATIVE JAY COWART. P.C.C.A. HAD ORIGINALLY REQUESTED TAX ABATEMENTS FROM HOWARD COLLEGE AND HOWARD COUNTY AS PART OF AN INCENTIVE PLAN FOR RECENT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AT THEIR BIG SPRING COTTON STORAGE WAREHOUSE FACILITY, ABOUT $8 MILLION WORTH OF EXPANSIONS THUS FAR. HOWARD COLLEGE AGREED TO THE ABATEMENTS, BUT HOWARD COUNTY PASSED, AS WE REPORTED A FEW MONTHS AGO. THERE WERE SOME MISCOMMUNICATIONS ON THE HOWARD COUNTY PORTION OF THE ABATEMENT DEAL AT THE TIME, BUT THIS RECENT TAX REBATE “GRANT” APPROVED BY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WILL WORK THE SAME WAY AS THE ORIGINAL TAX ABATEMENT WOULD HAVE, ONLY THIS WILL BE IN THE FORM OF A REBATE, ACCORDING TO JAY COWART OF P.C.C.A. THE ABATEMENT AGREEMENT, OR IN THIS FORM, AND GRANT REBATE, P.C.C.A. WILL SEE A 100% REBATE FOR THE FIRST YEAR, 100% FOR THE SECOND YEAR, 70% FOR THE THIRD YEAR, 50% FOR THE FOURTH YEAR, AND 30% FOR THE FIFTH AND FINAL YEAR OF THE AGREEMENT. THE MOST RECENTLY ANNOUNCED EXPANSIONS AT THE BIG SPRING P.C.C.A. FACILITY, ABOUT $2 MILLION WORTH, WILL BRING ADDITIONAL EMPLOYEES AS WELL, AT LEAST TWO MORE EMPLOYEES, ACCORDING TO JAY COWART. COWART TOLD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MONDAY THAT THE NEW EXPANSION PLANS HINGED ON THIS REBATE AGREEMENT.
HC Dance Department to Host Show
The Howard College Dance Department will be hosting a dance concert at the Florence T. Hall Studio Theatre in the Hall Center for the Arts titled “Dance in America – Past, Present, Future.”
This year’s show will feature early dances like the Castle Walk and Charleston, and will continue through the century with dances like Latin Ballroom, Swing, Country and Western, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical and much more.
“We have put together a great show for our community with a wide variety of dances and music and we are excited about the performance,” said Eulaine McIntosh, adjunct dance instructor and director of the HC Dance Troupe. “The students have put in a tremendous amount of work while preparing for this and I’m certain the audience will have a great time.”
The sure to be toe tapping event requires a ticket for admission. Ticket costs are $5 for the general public and $3 for HC faculty, staff and students.
Ticket sales will be held in the Hall Center for the Arts lobby April 26th – 30th from 12:00 noon – 1:30 pm and then again from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm.
The show is scheduled to run nightly Thursday, April 29th – Saturday, May 1st at 7:30 pm with a matinee performance on Sunday, May 2nd @ 2:00 pm.
BILL WHITE SCHEDULED GUEST ON KBST TUESDAY DEMOCARATIC CANDIDATE FOR TEXAS GOVERNOR BILL WHITE IS THE SCHEDULED GUEST ON “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY” TUESDAY. WE’LL BE CONVERSING WITH WHITE VIA PHONE. THE FORMER HOUSTON MAYOR RECENTLY MADE A SWEEP THROUGH WEST TEXAS. IF YOU MISSED HIS RECENT VISITS, TUNE IN TUESDAY MORNING AS WE TALK ISSUES FACING TEXAS AND HIS IDEAS FOR STEERING TEXAS INTO THE FUTURE SHOULD HE WIN THE NOVEMBER RACE AGAINST INCUMBENT REPUBLICAN GOVERNOR RICK PERRY. BILL WHITE, 8:15 AM TUESDAY, ON KBST.
Judge orders Randy and Evi Quaid jailed
Los Angeles, California (CNN) -- Actor Randy Quaid and his wife, Evi, were booked into the Santa Barbara County, California, jail Monday after they showed up for a hearing on accusations that they defrauded an innkeeper and failed to pay a hotel bill. A judge set bail at $100,000 each for the actor and his wife, who missed several previous hearing dates, Santa Barbara District Attorney Arnie Tolks said. The judge did give them each $20,000 credit for a previous bond, but unless they can get make the remaining $80,000 each, they must stay in jail until another hearing Wednesday, Tolks said. The Quaids were handcuffed, taken from court Monday morning and escorted by sheriff's deputies for booking, he said. The couple were originally arrested in Presidio County, Texas, last September, accused of skipping out on a $10,000 hotel bill in Santa Barbara. Each faces felony charges of burglary, defrauding an innkeeper and conspiracy. Quaid, 56, is known for his roles in several films, including the "National Lampoon's Vacation" movies, "Kingpin" and "Brokeback Mountain."
Monday April 26 MAY 8TH ELECTIONS / EARLY VOTING STARTS MONDAY EARLY VOTING FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS BEGINS MONDAY APRIL 26TH, AND RUNS THROUGH MAY 4TH. IN HOWARD COUNTY, ALL EARLY VOTING TAKES PLACE AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE, THIRD FLOOR. CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD RACES, WHERE THEY APPLY, WILL BE ON THE BALLOT, AS WELL AS BOND AND TAX ISSUES, ALSO WHERE THEY APPLY. IF YOU ARE A REGISTERED VOTER IN HOWARD COUNTY, ELECTION DAY MAY 8TH WILL HAVE TWO POLLING LOCATIONS. BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY IN BIG SPRING AND COAHOMA COMMUNITY CENTER IN COAHOMA. IN BIG SPRING THERE ARE TWO VERY HOT CITY-WIDE BALLOT ITEMS: THE CITY MAYOR’S RACE AND THE $60 MILLION BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND ISSUE.
CITY OF BIG SPRING Public Service Announcement Large Item Pick-up
There will be a large item pick-up for District 2 (Manuel Ramirez) on Friday April 30, 2010 only. This Service is provided as a courtesy. It is intended to assist the elderly, handicap, or people that do not have a means to haul large items to the Land fill. If you are NOT in District 2 please DO NOT put items by the curb.
You must call 264-2504 to be put on the list
All items must be by the curb, in the City Right of Way, no sooner than 24 hours before the scheduled pick-up. DO NOT put items on top of or close to water meters, gas meters, or telephone poles. We need room for equipment. DO NOT stack items in the street. Items need to be separated as much as possible, lumber, metal, house hold furniture, such as stuffed couches and chairs etc. For information please call: 264-2504 Permits/Inspections http://www.mybigspring.com
COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN RETURNS TO BIG SPRING THE COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN IS RETURNING TO BIG SPRING THIS SUMMER! AMERICA’S #1 COUNTRY MUSIC TALENT SEARCH COMES TO THE HOWARD COUNTY FAIR BARNS AFTER OPENING NIGHT OF THE BIG SPRING COWBOY REUNION AND RODEO JUNE 17TH, AND KBEST 95 IS LOOKING FOR TALENT TO ENTER. THE BIG SPRING WINNER AT THE COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN WILL GO ON TO STATE COMPETITION AND POSSIBLY ON TO THE NATIONAL COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN AND WIN $100,000! CONTACT KBST RADIO FOR ENTRY INFORMATION TO THIS YEAR’S COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN IN BIG SPRING JUNE 17TH, AND KEEP LISTENING FOR MORE DETAILS!
COAHOMA KEEPS CLEAN UP TREND STARTING SEVERAL YEARS AGO, THE RESIDENTS OF COAHOMA TOOK A LITTLE BIT OF INSPIRATION FROM THE HOWARD COLLEGE RURAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE INITIATIVE (R.C.C.I.) AND HAVE MOVED FORWARD WITH A SERIOUS PROGRAM TO MAKE THE COMMUNITY LOOK BETTER. SATURDAY THE ORGANIZING GROUP NOW KNOWN AS COAHOMA PRIDE CONTINUED THEIR CLEAN UP EFFORTS ACROSS THE COMMUNITY. THIS TIME THE GOAL WAS REMOVING MORE OLD BUILDINGS, AS THEY HAVE DONE SUCCESSFULLY BEFORE. THE IMPROVEMENT WORK OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS HAS MOSTLY BEEN THROUGH VOLUNTEERISM, AND THE EFFORTS REALLY SHOW. BUT SOME COAHOMA RESIDENTS WANT TO TAKE IT UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL. AS WE’VE REPORTED PREVIOUSLY, THERE WILL BE A HALF-CENT SALES TAX PROPOSAL ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT FOR COAHOMA VOTERS. IF PASSED, THAT SMALL SALES TAX WOULD GO TOWARD BUILDING UP SPECIAL FUNDS SPECIFICALLY FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN COAHOMA. WE’LL BE TALKING MORE ABOUT THIS WITH COAHOMA LEADERSHIP IN THE NEAR FUTURE. IN THE MEAN TIME, TAKE A MOMENT AND VISIT COAHOMA. IT KEEPS GETTING BETTER!
Friday April 23 MAYOR CANDIDATE DEBATE WELL RECEIVED ALL FOUR CANDIDATES FOR BIG SPRING MAYOR IN THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS WERE PRESENT AND READY TO ANSWER QUESTIONS DURING THE MAYORAL DEBATE THURSDAY EVENING. RUSS MCEWEN, SHANNON THOMASON, OSCAR VELASCO AND TOMMY DUNCAN PARTICIPATED IN THE FRIENDLY DEBATE THAT LASTED ABOUT TWO HOURS. THE HOWARD COLLEGE CACTUS ROOM WAS FILLED TO CAPACITY BY INTERESTED VOTERS AND CANDIDATE SUPPORTERS. THE DEBATE WAS MODERATED BY MICHAEL QUINN SULLIVAN, PRESIDENT OF EMPOWER TEXANS AND TEXAS FOR FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY AND HE POSED QUESTIONS TO THE CANDIDATES THAT HAD BEEN COLLECTED BY THE LOCAL NEWSPAPER AND REVIEWED BY THE REPUBLICAN AND DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIRS OF HOWARD COUNTY. QUESTIONS PUT TO CANDIDATES INCLUDED THE CITY POOL ISSUE, CITY WATER QUALITY, THE LANDFILL, TAXES AND CITY EXPENDITURES. ALL FOUR CANDIDATES WERE RESPECTFUL TO EACH OTHER, OFFERED GOOD ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS ASKED, AND EACH WERE ABLE TO OFFER THEIR OWN TAKE ON ISSUES AND PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS. WHEN THE EVENING WAS COMPLETE, KBST SPOKE WITH THE PRIMARY ORGANIZER AND LOCAL RESIDENT DANA BAKER, WHO WAS GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF THE HELP SHE RECEIVED PUTTING THE DEBATE TOGETHER, THE CANDIDATE AND CITIZENERY TURNOUT TO THE EVENT, AND ENCOURAGED VOTERS TO GET OUT AND VOTE IN THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. EARLY VOTING FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTION BEGINS THIS MONDAY, APRIL 26TH, AND ALL EARLY VOTING IN HOWARD COUNTY TAKES PLACE AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE. THE MAY 8TH BALLOTS, DEPENDING ON WHERE YOU LIVE, WILL ALSO INCLUDE THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND ISSUE, CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD RACES, AND THE COAHOMA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SALES TAX ISSUE. MARTIN COUNTY ALSO AHS A HOSPITAL BOND ISSUE FOR VOTERS.
CITY TAP WATER FOLLOW UP INFO IN A FOLLOW UP TO OUR RECENT STORY ON BIG SPRING CITY WATER ISSUES, ASST. CITY MANAGER TODD DARDEN WAS A GUEST FOR A PORTION OF THE THURSDAY EDITION OF “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”. FOR THE FIRST PART OF THE PROGRAM WE AIRED THE BULK OF THE WEDNESDAY NEWS CONFERENCE BY ENGINEERING FIRM PARKHILL SMITH AND COOPER AS FIRM REPRESENTATIVE BUTCH DAVIS ADDRESSED THE RECENT CITY WATER ISSUES AND WHAT WAS BEING DONE TO BETTER MEET STATE QUALITY STANDARDS. TODD DARDEN INFORMED KBST LISTENERS THAT THE CITY’S WATER SOURCE, LAKE SPENCE, WHICH HAS VERY LOW LEVELS, IS NOW BEING MIXED WITH WATER FROM O.H. IVIE RESERVOIR, WHICH WILL IMPROVE WATER QUALITY. THIS WAS A COOPERATIVE EFFORT BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE COLORADO RIVER MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT. DARDEN ALSO STATED THAT CITY WATER HAS REMAINED WELL WITHIN QUALITY STANDARDS SINCE SUNDAY, AND ANTICIPATES THINGS WILL ONLY IMRPOVE OVER TIME. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO VIEW THE WEDNESDAY NEWS CONFERENCE THAT TOOK PLACE AT CITY HALL, YOU CAN GO TO http://www.mybigspring.com , OR TODD DARDEN SAYS THE NEWS CONFERENCE IS NOW AIRING THREE TIMES A DAY ON SUDDENLINK CABLE CHANNEL 17 AT 12:30 PM, 6:30 PM AND 10:30 PM. YOU CAN ALSO PHONE CITY HALL WITH ANY WATER QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE.
Rangers Sale To Group That Includes Nolan Ryan In Jeopardy
(Arlington, TX) -- The sale of the Rangers has taken a sudden twist that throws Hall-of-Famer Nolan Ryan's ownership into doubt. Ryan is a partner in a consortium headed by sports attorney Chuck Greenberg. The Greenburg group's offer was selected by team owner Tom Hicks whose financial straits forced him to sell the team he's owned for nearly 12 years. Many believe Hicks selected the Greenburg bid due to the participation of Ryan, the club president who remains a fan favorite 17 years after he retired as a player. However, rumors persist that the Greenburg offer was not the highest bid and that has angered more than three dozen lenders who are owed over 500-million dollars. Those lenders are apparently now holding up the sale, hoping to minimize their losses on Hicks' defaulted loans. However, Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig has said that he has authority to take control of the sale to help speed things along. He may even have authority to go over the heads of the lenders and force the sale of the team to the Greenburg group. But that would risk alienating the lenders who also provide financing to many other Major League owners. Any sale of the team must ultimately be approved by two-thirds of the other owners.
COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN RETURNS TO BIG SPRING THE COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN IS RETURNING TO BIG SPRING THIS SUMMER! AMERICA’S #1 COUNTRY MUSIC TALENT SEARCH COMES TO THE HOWARD COUNTY FAIR BARNS AFTER OPENING NIGHT OF THE BIG SPRING COWBOY REUNION AND RODEO JUNE 17TH, AND KBEST 95 IS LOOKING FOR TALENT TO ENTER. THE BIG SPRING WINNER AT THE COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN WILL GO ON TO STATE COMPETITION AND POSSIBLY ON TO THE NATIONAL COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN AND WIN $100,000! CONTACT KBST RADIO FOR ENTRY INFORMATION TO THIS YEAR’S COLGATE COUNTRY SHOWDOWN IN BIG SPRING JUNE 17TH, AND KEEP LISTENING FOR MORE DETAILS!
Thursday April 22 MAN ARRESTED ON “INJURY TO ELDERLY” CASE ONE OF TWO PEOPLE RECENTLY INDICTED ON ABUSE CHARGES HAS BEEN ARRESTED. ACCORDING TO INFORMATION FROM THE HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE, 25 YEAR OLD BRYSON O’NEIL VANDERBILT WAS ARRESTED TUESDAY ON CHARGES OF INJURY TO THE ELDERLY. AS WE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, THE CASE STEMS BACK TO 2007 AT BIG SPRING LAMUN- LUSK -SANCHEZ TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOME. THE OTHER PERSON INDICTED IN A RELATED CASE IS 52 YEAR OLD CONNIE MAE JOHNSON. THERE WERE NO RECORDS OF HER ARREST AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT. THE ABUSE CASES RECENTLY RECEIVED MORE ATTENTION AFTER THE INDICTMENTS, AND SUBSEQUENT STATEMENTS FROM STATE OFFICE HOLDERS LIKE STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER AND THE TEXAS STATE LAND BOARD COMMISSIONER JERRY PATTERSON. SENATOR SELIGER HAS TWO STATE VETERANS HOMES IN HIS DISTRICT, INCLUDING LAMUN-LUSK-SANCHEZ, AND COMMISSIONER PATTERSON’S OFFICE OVERSEES ALL SEVEN TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOMES IN TEXAS. THE INSTITUTIONS ARE RUN BY PRIVATE CONTRACTORS.
MAYORAL CANDIDATE DEBATE THURSDAY BIG SPRING VOTERS ARE INVTED TO ATTEND A DEBATE BETWEEN CANDIDATES FOR BIG SPRING MAYOR THURSDAY EVENING. THE EVENT IS SCHEDULED FOR 5 PM AT THE HOWARD COLLEGE CACTUS ROOM. ALL FOUR CANDIDATES, OSCAR VELASCO, SHANNON THOMASON, RUSS MCEWEN AND TOMMY DUNCAN HAVE BEEN INVITED, AND WE ARE TOLD HAVE MADE PLANS TO BE PRESENT. UNLIKE THE RECENT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “CANDIDATE FORUM”, THE MAYOR DEBATE THURSDAY WILL BE AN ACTUAL DEBATE FORMAT WITH A MODERATOR. QUESTIONS FOR THE DEBATE HAVE BEEN GATHERED RECENTLY THROUGH THE LOCAL PAPER, AND WILL BE THE SOURCE FOR THE QUESTIONS THE MODERATOR WILL POSE TO CANDIDATES. THE EVENT IS SCHEDULED FOR TWO HOURS, ONCE AGAIN, BEGINNING AT 5 PM THURSDAY, HOWARD COLLEGE CATUS ROOM.
CITY HOLDS NEWS CONFERENCE ON WATER ISSUES DUE TO ONGOING TAP WATER QUALITY ISSUES IN BIG SPRING AND SEVERAL STATE-REQUIRED WATER QUALITY NOTICES THAT HAVE GONE OUT TO RESIDENTS, THE CITY ASKED IT’S ENGINEERING FIRM PARKHILL, SMITH AND COOPER TO HOLD A NEWS CONFERENCE WEDNESDAY TO OFFER MORE INFORMATION IN THE WATER ISSUES AND ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE MEDIA AND OTHERS. THE ENGINEERING FIRM’S REPRESENTATIVE, MR. BUTCH DAVIS, VICE-PRESIDENT FOR P.S.C., WAS THE PRIMARY SPEAKER WEDNESDAY. THE FIRST ISSUE MR. DAVIS ADDRESSED WAS THE QUESTION OF CITY WATER SAFETY. HE SAYS THE WATER IS SAFE FOR ALL PURPOSES. MR. DAVIS SAYS THAT MUCH OF THE WATER QUALITY ISSUES IS DUE TO ONGOING LOW LEVEL CONDITIONS AT SOME OF THE COLORADO RIVER MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT RESERVOIRS, SUCH AS LAKE SPENCE, THE CITY’S CURRENT SOURCE FOR WATER FROM C.R.M.W.D. THE LOW LAKE LEVELS ONLY AMPLIFY THE SUBSTANCES THAT ARE NATURALLY OCCURRING IN THE LAKE WATER, AND THERE’S HAS ALSO BEEN A RECENT PROBLEM WITH “GOLDEN ALGEA”, WHICH AFFECTS WATER QUALITY, BUT IS NOT “UNSAFE”. OFFICIALS SAY WARMER WEATHER WILL KILL OFF THE GOLDEN ALGEA, WHICH SHOULD MAKE SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS IN THE COMING MONTHS. THE CITY IS ALSO WORKING WITH C.R.M.W.D. TO CHANGE THE SOURCE OF WATER, SUCH AS MOVING MORE TOWARD LAKE IVIE AS A SOURCE. BUTCH DAVIS SAYS THAT THE RECENT NOTICES ON CITY WATER QUALITY THAT RESIDENTS HAVE RECEIVED ARE NOT NOTICES THAT THE WATER SUPPLY IS UNSAFE IN ANY WAY. YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE BY CONTACTING THE CITY OF BIG SPRING, OR GO TO THE CITY’S WEBSITE http://www.mybigspring.com KBST PLANS TO AIR THE BULK OF THE WEDNESDAY NEWS CONFERECNE DURING OUR THURSDAY EDITION OF “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”, WHICH AIRS AT 8:15 WEEKDAY MORNINGS.
GM Announces Repayment, Investment
(Kansas City, KS) -- General Motors CEO Edward Whitacre Jr. announced this morning the repayment of government loans to the U.S. and Canada. Approximately eight-point-one billion dollars in loans and interest was repaid on Tuesday. Whitacre also revealed the automaker will invest 257-million dollars into factories in Michigan and Kansas. The Hamtramck and Kansas City plants will build the new generation of the Chevrolet Malibu. This morning's announcement regarding Hamtramck is addition to over 300 million dollars in improvements GM announced earlier. The plant will also be home for the production of the Chevrolet Volt which begins production in October.
BIG SPRING “TEA PARTY” RESCHEDULED / DATE ANNOUNCED YOU MAY RECALL THAT THE BIG SPRING “TEA PARTY” THAT HAD BEEN SCHEDULED FOR THIS PAST SATURDAY WAS POSTPONED DUE TO THE THREAT OF RAIN. ORGANIZERS HAVE JUST ANNOUNCED A NEW DATE FOR THE LOCAL TEA PARTY EVENT. THE EVENT IS SET FOR THIS SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT 4 O’CLOCK, AT THE HEART OF THE CITY PARK.
American Airlines Reports First Quarter Loss
(Fort Worth, TX) -- American Airlines' parent company AMR Corporation is reporting a net loss of 505-million dollars for first quarter 2010. Airline officials cite rising fuel prices and continuing economic challenges for the one-dollar-52-cents per share loss. The results compare to a net loss of 375-million dollars or one-dollar-35-cents per share for first quarter 2009. AMR CEO Gerard Arpey says as they move forward, they remain focused on continuing to bolster domestic and international networks, managing costs and finding ways to generate additional revenue.
Wednesday April 21 AUTHOR PAYS A PERSONAL VISIT TO STUDENTS AS WE REPORTED EARLIER, AUTHOR TOM PACE PAID A VISIT TO THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS TUESDAY TO TALK TO STUDENTS. IT WAS QUITE A SURPRISE FOR MANY OF THE YOUNG ADULTS WHO HAD BEEN READING TOM PACE’S BOOK “MENTOR: THE KID AND THE CEO”. SOPHOMORE ENGLISH TEACHER MIQUE YARBAR ASSIGNED THE INSPIRATIONAL BOOK FOR HER CLASS, AND AS A SORT OF AFTERTHOUGHT, BEGAN MAKING CONTACT WITH TOM PACE’S MANAGEMNT TO SEE IF HE WAS AVAILABLE TO COME TO BIG SPRING. IT ALL WORKED OUT. WE TALKED WITH MS. YARBAR ABOUT THE BOOK AND THE EFFORT TO GET THE AUTHOR HERE TO SPEAK TO BIG SPRING STUDENTS. SHE SAYS THE BOOK “MENTOR”, A BOOK ABOUT OVERCOMING CHALLENGES, REALLY HIT HOME FOR MANY OF HER KIDS. TOM PACE EXPLAINED TO THE STUDENTS ASSEMBLED TUESDAY THAT HIS LIFE WAS A MIXTURE OF FAILURES WITH SOME SUCCESSES HERE AND THERE, UNTIL HIS MENTOR, A MAN NAMED MALCOM, ENCOURAGED HIM TO OVERCOME HIS HUGE CHALLENGES, BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, ACHIEVE “SIGNIFICANCE”. MR. PACE REALLY ENGAGED THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS GATHERED AT THE ASSEMBLY TUESDAY, AND THEY SEEMD TO SINCERELY APPRECIATE HIS MESSAGE, BOTH IN PERSON AND IN THE BOOK MANY HAD READ. STUDENTS THEN RECEIVED AUTOGRAPHED COPIES OF TOM PACE’S BOOK. “MENTOR: THE KID AND THE CEO” IS A QUICK READ AND GETS RAVE CUSTOMER REVIEWS ON AMAZON.COM.
State Launching Online Tool To Help With College Application Process
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Education Agency is launching an online pilot program that will help high school students manage the complex college selection and application process. About 20-to-30-thousand high school students will be chosen from across the state to participate in the Online College Preparation Assistance Pilot Program. The one-point-five-million-dollar program will provide free college and career preparation tools for Texas students and their families in a single online resource. Research shows that, particularly for minority or low-income students, availability of information, access to financial aid and parental involvement and knowledge about college are strong predictors of college attendance and completion. The pilot program uses technology and individualized student information to help students stay on track to graduate, simplifies the college search, application, and selection process and helps students transition to other types of career training or directly to a career.
BIG SPRING SUPT. SALDIVAR “MORNING MAGAZINE” GUEST BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICIALS ARE MAKING EFFORTS TO EDUCATE VOTERS ON THE PROPOSED $60 MILLION BOND ISSUE ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT. SCHOOL DISTRICT CONSULTANT MICHAEL STEVENS MADE A SHORT PRESENTATION TO THOSE ASSEMBLED AT THE TUESDAY EVENING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CANDIDATE FORUM. SCHOOL SUPT. STEPEHEN SALDIVAR IS THE SCHEDULED GUEST ON THE WEDNESDAY EDITION OF “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”, AND THE BOND ISSUE AND FACILITY NEEDS IN THE BIG SPRING I.S.D. WILL TAKE UP THE MAJORITY OF THE PROGRAM. “MORNING MAGAZINE” AIRS WEEKDAY MORNINGS AT 8:15 ON KBST AM / FM.
Heroin-Cocaine Seized At Texas-Mexico Border
(Brownsville, TX) -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized nearly two-million-dollars worth of cocaine and heroin at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge over the weekend. Officers first discovered 12 packages containing 18 pounds of cocaine and nearly 13 pounds of heroin hidden in a northbound vehicle driven by a 58-year-old Mexican man. The second and third cases this weekend involved two Houston men who tried cross into Texas as pedestrians. They were found with a package of cocaine hidden in each of their shoes, totaling nearly nine pounds. CBP officers have referred the matters to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents for further investigation.
Capital Dome And House Chambers Undergo Three-Million Dollar Facelift
(Austin, TX) -- Major renovations of the Capital dome and the House chamber are underway. The 3-million dollar project is expected to take several months. The most visible change will include the Capital dome getting a fresh coat of paint. The metal ceiling of the House will be repainted for the first time in two decades. The House chamber should be ready for business by November. Scaffolding is expected to go up around the Capital by early June and be in place throughout the summer.
SLOW START FOR SEVERE WEATHER SEASON…SO FAR The 2010 spring severe weather season is off to its slowest start on record, according to forecasters from the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma. The agency, which is responsible for issuing forecasts for severe storms, releases daily forecasts that predict the level of severe weather and assigns it to three categories - slight, moderate and high. Typically, severe storms occur most often in the United States during the months of April, May and June. "It looks like we've gone the deepest into a year without our first MDT (moderate) or high risk," said Rich Thompson, a forecaster at the prediction center. "The previous latest date was March 21, 2005, so we're almost a month past that date." The 2005 severe weather season got off to a slow start as well, but turned out to be a record-breaking year for severe weather and tornadoes. Most of the tornadoes that occurred that year were associated with tropical storms and hurricanes that made landfall. The 2005 hurricane season was the worst on record, with 28 named storms, 15 hurricanes and seven major hurricanes –Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
CITY ADDRESSING WATER ISSUES
AS WE'VE REPORTED IN THE RECENT PAST, THE CITY OF BIG SPRING HAS BEEN FACING WATER QUALITY ISSUES OVER THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS. SOME OF IT IS CAUSED BY THE RESERVOIR SOURCE AND LOW LAKE LEVELS, AND SOME OF IT HAS BEEN CAUSED BY EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS AT THE TREATMENT PLANT. THE CITY HAS HAD TO SEND REQUIRED MAIL OUTS TO CITY RESIDENTS SEVERAL TIMES RECENTLY TO REPORT SUBSTANDARD DRINKING WATER CONDITIONS. THE CITY HAS STATED THERE HAS NEVER BEEN ANY HEALTH RISKS TO THOSE WHO DRINK CITY WATER, BUT CERTAIN "TURBIDITY" LEVELS HAVE BEEN ABOVE ACCEPTABLE, ACCORDING TO TEXAS QUALITY CONTROL STANDARDS. THE CITY IS ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM, AND PLANS A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THE ISSUE WEDNESDAY MORNING AT 10 O'CLOCK, CITY HALL. THE EVENT WILL INCLUDE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE CITY'S CONTRACTED ENGINEERING FIRM, PARKHILL, SMITH AND COOPER.
Tuesday April 20 BURGLARY ARREST
Investigators with the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and the Big Spring Police Department have been conducting a joint investigation relating to numerous Burglaries and Thefts in both the City and County during the past several weeks. On Sunday April 18, 2010 at approximately 8:52am members of the Howard County Sheriff’s Office arrested Chris Ruiz D.O.B 09/20/69 of Big Spring and charged him with two counts of Burglary of a Building that had just occurred in the Northern Portion of Howard County. During subsequent investigation following the arrest of Ruiz approximately $25,000.00 worth of stolen property was recovered as a result of this investigation. Investigators have been able to match a large amount of the stolen property back to the rightful owner, however the owner of some of the recovered property is not know. We are asking for area residence that have had property stolen recently and may not have reported it to call the Howard County Sheriff’s Office at 432-264-2231 and give a description of the property you have lost and your phone number. If we have your property we will make arrangements to return your property. Ruiz is currently in the Howard County Jail awaiting arraignment.
UPCOMING CANDIDATE OPPORTUNITIES THIS IS A BUSY WEEK FOR LOCAL CANDIDATES AS WELL AS INTERESTED VOTERS. THERE ARE TWO LOCAL EVENTS THIS WEEK THAT WILL ALLOW AREA RESIDENTS TO HEAR FROM CONTESTED CANDIDATES IN THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. FIRST, THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAS INVITED ALL CANDIDATES IN HOWARD COUNTY TO A “CANDIDATE FORUM” FOR THE EVENING OF TUESDAY, APRIL 20, DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER AT 6 PM. THIS WILL INCLUDE LOCAL CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES, AS WELL AS A BRIEF PRESENTATION BY THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT ON THE PROPOSED BOND ISSUE . THE TUESDAY CHAMBER EVENT WILL ALLOW PARTICIPATING CANDIDATES FIVE MINUTES TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES TO THE AUDIENCE AND TALK ABOUT ISSUES. THERE WILL BE A “MEET AND GREET” OPPORTUNITY AFTERWORDS. COMING UP THIS THURSDAY, APRIL 22, THERE WILL BE A DEBATE EVENT FOR ALL FOUR BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATES. THE DEBATE WILL TAKE PLACE AT 5 PM, HOWARD COLLEGE CACTUS ROOM. CANDIDATES RUSS MCEWEN, TOMMY DUNCAN, SHANNON THOMASON AND VICTOR VELASCO HAVE ALL AGREED TO PARTICIPATE. EARLY VOTING FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS STARTS APRIL 26, AND TAKES PLACE AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE, THIRD FLOOR.
MAIN STREET WORK CONTINUES WORKERS HAVE BEEN HARD AT IT ON MAIN STREET AS THINGS BEGIN TO NEAR COMPLETION OF THE STREET BOND PROJECT THERE. THE MEDIANS ARE BEING FILLED IN, WHILE WORK ON THE SURFACE IS NEARING COMPLETION. SOME ARE SOME NEW INCONVENIENCES FOR MOTORISTS ON MAIN AS IT APPROACHES 4TH STREET. THE CONTRACTOR IS REMOVING THE OLD BASE AT THAT LOCATION AND IT WILL BE REFORMED AND THEN RESURFACED. IN SOME LOCATIONS THE OLD BASE HAS BEEN DEEMED VIABLE FOR CONTINUED USE, BUT NOT IN THIS CASE.
AUTHOR TO VISIT HIGH SCHOOL
BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL GET A SPECIAL LITERARY TREAT ON TUESDAY. BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORE ENGLISH TEACHER MIQUE YARBAR ASSIGNED HER STUDENTS TO READ A BOOK BY NOTED AUTHOR TOM PACE A WHILE BACK. THE INSPIRATIONAL BOOK IS ENTITLED "MENTOR". THE STUDENTS ENJOYED THE BOOK, AND WILL NOW GET A OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR FROM THE AUTHOR DIRECTLY AND AT THEIR SCHOOL! MS. YARBAR HAS MADE SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR TOM PACE TO COME AND TALK TO BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TUESDAY. TOM PACE WILL BE ARRIVING BY PRIVATE JET TUESDAY MORNING AT THE BIG SPRING AIRPORT AND WILL BE PICKED UP AND DRIVEN TO BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL WHERE HE WILL ADDRESS STUDENTS IN THE MORNING AND THEN HANG OUT AND VISIT FOR MUCH OF THE SCHOOL DAY. KBST HOPES TO SPEND A FEW MINUTES WITH THE AUTHOR AS WELL AND WE'LL REPORT BACK TO YOU LATER. AND THANK YOU TO MS. MIQUE YARBAR FOR BEING A GREAT TEACHER AND GOING THE EXTRA MILE!
Monday April 19 Monday Marks 17th Anniversary Of Branch Davidian Compound Fire
(Waco, TX) -- Monday will mark the 17th anniversary of the end of the Branch Davidian standoff with federal authorities in Waco, Texas. The Branch Davidian compound was destroyed by fire on April 19th, 1993, killing dozens of followers inside, including many young children. The siege began in February of that year when federal agents stormed the Mount Carmel compound to issue an illegal weapons warrant to the sect's leader, David Koresh. Gunfire erupted as ATF agents approached the church with tanks, and four ATF agents and six Branch Davidians were killed. The FBI took over the investigation, and a standoff began. On April 19th, 1993, authorities fired tear gas into the building, ending the 51-day standoff with a blaze that destroyed the religious compound, killing all but nine members inside. More than 80 Branch Davidians and four ATF agents died during the standoff.
Surviving Branch Davidians rebuilt a chapel where the compound was destroyed by fire and have built several memorials. Over 80 trees were planted with granite markers representing the Branch Davidian members who perished in the fire. Branch Davidian members have been divided since Koresh came to the Waco church, and they are still divided today. Davidians separated from the Seventh Day Adventist church in the 1930s and from the Davidians, the Branch Davidian movement was born. A memorial service will be held at a Waco motel on Monday to remember those who died.
CITY MOVES CLOSER TO IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
IN A FOLLOW UP TO A STORY WE REPORTED LAST SUMMER, THE CITY OF BIG SPRING HAS MOVED ONE STEP CLOSER TO A MAJOR IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FOR BIG SPRING’S WEST SIDE. THE LATEST MOVE IS MOSTLY A PROCEDURAL ONE, BUT IMPORTANT NONE THE LESS. ACCORDING TO A DOCUMENT RELEASED FRIDAY BY THE CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE, A FORMAL “REQUEST TO RELEASE FUNDS” HAS BEEN MADE TO THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF RURAL AFFAIRS. THE FUNDS REFERRED TO ARE SOMETHING WE ANNOUNCED LAST SUMMER AS THE CITY WAS RECIPIENT OF A $800,000 GRANT THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD STABALIZATION PROGRAM WHICH WILL ALLOW FOR THE DEMOLITION OF ABOUT 45 “BLIGHTED PROPERTIES” ON BIG SPRING’S WEST SIDE. A PORTION OF THOSE SET ASIDE FUNDS MENTIONED WILL BE RELEASED FOR ABATEMENT AND DEMOLITION OF THESE PROPERTIES. ACCORDING TO CITY OFFICIALS, ONCE THAT STAGE IS COMPLETE, THERE ARE PLANS TO CONSTRUCT ABOUT FIVE NEW HOMES IN THAT AREA AND SELL THEM. ALL ACITIVITY WILL TAKE PLACE ON FORCLOSED PROPERTIES, ACCORING TO THE INFORMATION WE RECEIVED.
Texas Unemployment Rate Remains Unchanged For March
(Austin, TX) -- The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for March remains unchanged at eight-point-two-percent for the fifth consecutive month. Texas Workforce Commission officials say the state unemployment rate remains well below the March seasonally adjusted rate for the U.S. of nine-point-seven-percent. TWC Chairman Tom Pauken says the Lone Star State has started to experience job growth over the past several months despite the challenges of the national recession. He says growth in industries such as Manufacturing and Mining and Logging are positive signs. The Texas Civilian Labor Force grew by nearly 29-thousand workers last month. Leisure and Hospitality added ten-thousand-300 jobs in March for the largest job gain among all the major industries, and Education and Health Services employment grew by six-thousand jobs.
Meet the Candidate Forum The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Candidate Forum on Tuesday, April 20, 2010, Dora Roberts Community Center, 100 Whipkey Drive, 6:00 pm. The Chamber is encouraging everyone to come out and meet each of the candidates.
Agenda for the forum will be as follows, Dr. Michael Stevens with Big Spring ISD will give a 15 minute presentation on the School Bond. Immediately following we will allow each candidate to speak for 5 minutes. This will not be a question - answer forum. The audience will be able to meet one on one with the candidate’s after the forum. Forum MC and moderator will be Chamber President, David Justice.
The Chamber has sent out invitation letters to candidates in Coahoma and Big Spring for mayoral, city council, and school board races. Candidates have until April 16 to RSVP if they will or will not be attending the event. For more information or with any questions call the Chamber office, 263-7641.
Early voting is April 26 through May 4, with regular voting being on May 8. The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce does not endorse candidates; we host this event for the community in hopes that more people will get out and vote.
“CARS, STARS AND HANDLEBARS” EVENT HAS WINNER THE BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS’ FUNDRAISER “CARS, STARS AND HANDLEBARS” WAS A HUGE SUCCESS SATURDAY NIGHT. THE 4TH ANNUAL EVENT TOOK PLACE AT THE BIG SPRING COUNTRY CLUB AND HUNDREDS ATTENDED AFTER PURCHASING A $100 TICKET AND A CHANCE TO WIN A BRAND NEW 2010 VEHICLE FROM ONE OF THE LOCAL PARTICIPATING DEALERSHIPS: BOB BROCK FORD, POLLARD CHEVROLET AND HARLEY DAVIDSON. VOLUNTEERS THIS YEAR SOLD MORE TICKETS THAN ANY YEAR BEFORE, JUST UNDER 700, AND THE EVENING WENT OFF WITHOUT A HITCH AS THE ELIMINATION DRAWING BEGAN AROUND 5 PM. BY 9:45 PM SATURDAY IT WAS NARROWED DOWN TO THE LAST TEN CANDIDATES AND STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOE HEFLIN VOLUNTEERED TO ACT AS “AUCTIONEER” AS THOSE IN ATTENDANCE BID FOR THE REMAINING TICKETS. WHEN ALL WAS SAID AND DONE, LOCAL RESIDENT ANGIE SKAGGS WAS THE LAST NAME DRAWN AND SHE GOT HER CHOICE OF A FORD MUSTANG, CHEVY PICKUP OR HARLEY MOTORCYCLE. AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT, ANGIE WAS “UNDECIDED” WITH EXCITEMENT. THE EXACT AMOUNT OF MONIES RAISED FROM THE “CARS, STARS AND HANDLEBARS” EVENT THIS YEAR WAS NOT KNOWN AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT, BUT IT WAS ASSUMED TO BE SUBSTANTIAL. THE BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL VOLUNNTEERS EVENT IS PUT ON EACH YEAR TO RAISE FUNDS FOR VARIOUS PROJECTS THE GROUP CREATES TO BENEFIT THE PATIENTS…THINGS THAT ARE NOT FUNDED BY THE STATE BUDGET. THIS YEAR THE VOLUNTEERS CONTINUE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR A PROPOSED FAMILY VISITATION CENTER AT THE STATE HOSPITAL.
Friday April 16 FEDERAL GRAND JURY INDICTS BIG SPRING, TEXAS, MAN ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES
LUBBOCK, Texas — Fabian Duke Trejo, 25, of Big Spring, Texas, has been charged in a four-count indictment with various federal child pornography offenses, announced U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks of the Northern District of Texas. Trejo is currently in state custody on unrelated charges. Specifically, Trejo is charged with two counts of transporting an image of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, one count of receiving child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. According to the indictment, during the early morning hours of November 12, 2009, Trejo sent and received images of child pornography over the Internet.
An indictment is an accusation by a federal grand jury and a defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty. However, if convicted, the transportation and receipt counts carry a maximum statutory sentence of not less than five or more than 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, per count. The possession count carries a maximum statutory sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. In addition, Trejo could be ordered to serve up to a lifetime of supervised release. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Big Spring Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Sucsy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Lubbock, Texas, is in charge of the prosecution.
Jae Crowder Inks With Marquette
Howard College Hawk Basketball stand-out, Jae Crowder, made his intent official on Wednesday by signing on the dotted line with Marquette University Golden Eagles.
Crowder, as part of the National Champion Hawk Basketball team, led the Hawks this season in a number of different categories including scoring, rebounds, and steals. The sophomore dominated the game on a regular basis marking up an incredible 12 double-double's this season. In the national championship game he poured in 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. Crowder�s offense was solid all year as he scored in double figures in 32-of-33 games.
Crowder earned All-Tournament honors at the national tournament by averaging 19.8 points and tossing in 79 total points for the Hawks to seal the championship.
Recently, the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Men�s Basketball Coaches Association selected Crowder as the Division I Player of the Year. To accompany this honor, Crowder earned recognition as 1st Team All-Conference; 1st Team All-Region; Region 5 Player of the Year; 1st Team All-American and the CABC National Player of the Year.
Texas Foreclosures Up 48 Percent From Last Year
(Austin, TX) -- Nationwide foreclosures in the first-quarter are up 16 percent, and Texas numbers are way up. Real Estate company RealtyTrac reports Texas properties in some state of foreclosure increased 48 percent as compared to the first three months of 2009. Texas ranks 27th overall while Nevada, Arizona, and Florida lead the nation in foreclosures. RealtyTrac says about three-quarters of all foreclosure filings are in about ten states.
BIG SPRING SISTER CITY PLANS RETURN VISIT
YOU MAY RECALL THAT BIG SPRING’S SISTER CITY IN MEXICO, SAN MIGUEL EL ALTO, EXCHANGED GIFTS AND VISITS FROM REPRESENATIVES LAST YEAR. ACCORDING TO BIG SPRING CITY MANAGER GARY FUQUAY, A GROUP FROM SAN MIGUEL PLANS A RETURN VISIT THIS YEAR. MORE SPECIFICALLY, THE WEEKEND AROUND THE ANNUAL “POPS IN THE PARK” EVENT AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK AMPHITHEATER. SAN MIGUEL DIGNITARIES WERE HONORED AT THE SAME EVENT DURING THEIR VISIT HERE LAST YEAR WITH THE UNVEILING OF A NEW STREET NAME AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. CITY OFFICIALS HERE RE-NAMED STARLIGHT DRIVE TO SAN MIGUEL, IN HONOR OF OUR SISTER CITY. GARY FUQUAY SAYS SAN MIGUEL CITY LEADERSHIP ENJOYED THEIR TIME HERE LAST YEAR SO MUCH THAT THEY PLAN ANOTHER VISIT THIS SUMMER.
Rewards Increased For Information About Texas Top Ten Fugitives
(Austin, TX) -- You could be eligible for a higher reward if you help the state of Texas capture one of the Top Ten Most Wanted fugitives. Governor Rick Perry said Wednesday that the his office's Criminal Justice Division is providing additional funding for Texas Crime Stoppers and the Texas Department of Public Safety rewards from one-thousand-bucks per fugitive to at least five-thousand up to 50-thousand-dollars. Perry says Texas is committed to keeping families and communities safe and ensuring that individuals who commit crimes in the Lone Star State are apprehended and receive the appropriate punishment. He hopes the increased rewards will encourage Texans who may have details about the offenders to speak up. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the fugitives listed at www.TXDPS.State.TX.US should call 1-800-252-TIPS.
LOCAL “T.E.A. PARTY” SATURDAY YOU’VE BEEN HEARING ABOUT ALL OF THE “TEA PARTIES” GOING ON NATIONWIDE THIS WEEK. HOWARD COUNTY RESIDENTS HAVE PUT TOGETHER THEIR OWN TEA PARTY FOR SATURDAY. THE EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE STARTING AT 10 AM AT THE HEART OF THE CITY PARK IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING. A SIMILAR EVENT WAS HELD HERE LAST YEAR ON THE STEPS OF THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE. IN A RECENT KBST NEWS INTERVIEW WITH U-S CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER, THE WEST TEXAS REPRESENTATIVE STATED HIS BELIEF THAT THE TEA PARTY MOVEMENT’S GROWTH IN POPULARITY COINCIDES DIRECTLY WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S INCREASED INVOLVEMENT IN THE LIVES OF ITS CITIZENS. THE BIG SPRING TEA PARTY WILL GO FROM 10 TO NOON SATURDAY IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING, AND ORGANIZERS SAY IT WILL INCLUDE SPEAKERS AND MUSIC AS PART OF THE PROGRAM. EVERYONE IS INVITED.
RAINS BRING FLOODING
IT JUST KEEPS COMING. WEST TEXANS KNOW IT'S NOT POLITE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT THE RAIN, BUT IT WOULD BE NICE IF IT WERE A LITTLE MORE SPREAD OUT OVER TIME AND NOT ALL AT ONCE. WEST TEXAS, ESPECIALLY THE BIG SPRING AREA SAW VERY HEAVY AND WIDESPREAD RAINFALL THAT REALLY GOT GOING WEDNESDAY, AND WITH ONLY A FEW PAUSES, NEVER REALLY LET UP THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING WHEN WE FILED OUR REPORT. STREET FLOODING IN BIG SPRING AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES HAS BEEN COMMON, AND AT LEAST ONE ROAD WAS CLOSED AS OF THURSDAY NIGHT...FM 33 IN SOUTHERN HOWARD COUNTY. ALL OF THE USUAL STREETS HAVE SEEN FLOODING AND CAUSED HAVOC FOR MOTORISTS. MORE RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS REMAIN IN THE FORECAST.
Thursday April 15 Increased Security Measures At Texas Capitol Approved
(Austin, TX) -- New security measures will be put in place at the Texas State Capitol. The State Preservation Board approved Tuesday a comprehensive Texas Department of Public Safety plan to enhance security. The specifics are confidential, but the new security measures include metal detectors and x-ray machines, enhanced counter-surveillance teams, rapid tactical response teams and medical response training, and additional bomb-detection canines. More troopers will also be out on the streets and on foot, along with more bike patrols. DPS Director Steve McCraw says the plan will amplify security at the Capitol complex, while maintaining the public's right to timely access to the building. The changes come just months after a man allegedly fired off a gun outside the Capitol building in January. No one was injured in the shooting.
FILM SOCIETY MEETING THURSDAY THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY IS HOLDING AN ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING THAT IS ACUTALLY A MAKE-GOOD OF A MEETING THAT HAD TO BE RESCHEDULED FROM BACK IN MARCH. FILM SOCIETY FOUNDER BRANDON JOHNSON SAYS THE THURSDAY, APRIL 15TH MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS, HOWARD COLLEGE CAMPUS, AND WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET READY FOR THIS SUMMER’S OUTDOOR PRESENTATION OF “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” AT THE COMANCHE TRAIL PARK AMPHITHEATER. THERE WILL ALSO BE MORE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THURSDAY EVENING ABOUT A PROPOSED SHORT FILM CONTEST ON THE “RAIDERS” THEME, FINALISTS OF WHICH WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE “RAIDERS” MOVIE PRESENTATION NIGHT AT THE AMPHITHEATER THIS JULY, SAYS BRANDON. THE “RAIDERS” OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT IS JULY 9TH, AND WILL BE FREE TO THE PUBLIC. VOLUNTEERS WILL BE NEEDED TO HELP WITH CONCESSIONS AND CROWD CONTROL, SO IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN HELPING OUT, OR JUST WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY, FUTURE PLANS, AND THE “RAIDERS” SHORT FILM CONTEST, COME TO THURSDAY EVENING’S MEETING AT HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS, HOWARD COLLEGE, 7 PM. ALL ARE INVITED.
BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATE DEBATE PLANNED SOME LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE ORGANIZING A DEBATE FOR BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATES THAT IS SCHEDULED TO OCCUR APRIL 22ND, 5 TO 7 PM, AT THE HOWARD COLLEGE CACTUS ROOM. THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO ATTEND. ALL FOUR BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATES PLAN TO PARTICIPATE. ORGANIZER DANA BAKER TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THEY PLAN ON A TRUE DEBATE-STYLE EVENING BETWEEN THE CANDIDATES WITH QUESTIONS PRESENTED TO EACH CANDIDATE BY A MODERATOR AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR REBUTTALS. THE DEBATE EVENT IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, BUT THE CHAMBER DOES PLAN TO HOLD ITS TRADITIONAL CANDIDATE “FORUM” WITH ALL OF THE CANDIDATES FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS INVITED. THAT EVENT IS THE EVENING OF APRIL 20TH, 6 PM, DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER. UNLIKE THE PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED DEBATE, THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CANDIDATE FORUM WILL ALLOW CANIDATES TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES AND THEIR OPINIONS ON ISSUES, BUT THERE WILL BE NO CANDIDATE-TO-CANDIDATE ENGAGEMENT. THE EVENING WILL ALSO INCLUDE A SHORT PRESENTATION BY BIG SPRING I.S.D. REPRESENTATIVE MICHAEL STEVENS ABOUT THE $60 MILLION BOND ISSUE.
SMMC Looking for Patients’ Choice in Nursing
Scenic Mountain Medical Center (SMMC) is once again seeking to honor one of its nurses with the Patient Choice Award, which recognizes the quality care, comfort and compassion demonstrated in his or her daily work. Continuing the tradition of the last few years, the hospital is asking for input from the community, and one nurse chosen from the nominations will receive the Patient Choice Award at SMMC during Nurses’ Week, May 6-12. Scenic Mountain asks former patients and family members to be involved in spotlighting an exceptional nurse because patients are the ones directly impacted by outstanding care. “Sometimes it’s just too hard to spot one nurse when there are so many nurses in our hospital doing such an incredible job caring for our patients,” says Judy Roever, Chief Nursing Officer for SMMC. “That’s why we are asking patients to help us make the choice. They see the little things that matter so much on a very personal level.” If you or a family member have come to Scenic Mountain for inpatient, outpatient or emergency care in the last year and you have a nurse you’d like to thank for going the extra mile, don’t miss this chance. Nominations for the 2010 Patient Choice Award will be accepted until May 3rd. To nominate a nurse, send the nurse’s name and a few paragraphs explaining your nomination, along with your own name (and the name of the patient) address and phone number. E-mail, mail or fax your nomination by May 1st. E-mail nominations to: Kim_Howell@chs.net, mail to: Kim Howell, Marketing Director, Scenic Mountain Medical Center, 1601 West Eleventh Place, Big Spring, TX 79720, or fax to: 432-268-4732.
Wednesday April 14 AUTHOR ROBERT BRYCE GUEST AT COMING SPEAKER SERIES EVENT JOURNALIST AND CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED AUTHOR ROBERT BRYCE WILL BE THE GUEST SPEAKER AT THE HOWARD COLLEGE FOUNDATION SPEAKER SERIES NEXT MONDAY, APRIL 19, 7 PM, AT THE HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS. ROBERT BRYCE HAS A WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE ON U-S ENERGY ISSUES. HE’S AUTHORED SEVERAL BOOKS, AND WORKS AS THE MANAGING EDITOR OF HOUSTON-BASED MAGAZINE ENERGY TRIBUNE AND IS A CONTRIBUTING WRITER AT THE TEXAS OBSERVER AFTER 12 YEARS OF WRITING FOR THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE. KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH ROBERT BRYCE DURING A RECENT PHONE INTERVIEW. AMONG TOPICS HE WILL COVER DURING HIS BIG SPRING VISIT APRIL 19TH WILL INCLUDE WHAT HE CALLS THE MANY “MYTHS” ABOUT GREEN ENERGY, AND THAT AMERICA’S OBVIOUS FUTURE IS IN NATURAL GAS AND NUCLEAR. ROBERT BRYCE HAS APPEARED ON NUMEROUS NATIONAL PROGRAMS, INCLUDING CNN, PBS AND OTHERS. THE HOWARD COLLEGE FOUNDATION SPEAKER SERIES EVENT APRIL 19TH IS SPONSORED BY WELLS FARGO BANK, AND IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC. TICKETS ARE REQUIRED AND SPACE IS LIMITED, SO CONTACT HOWARD COLLEGE TODAY.
Meet the Candidate Forum The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Candidate Forum on Tuesday, April 20, 2010, Dora Roberts Community Center, 100 Whipkey Drive, 6:00 pm. The Chamber is encouraging everyone to come out and meet each of the candidates.
Agenda for the forum will be as follows, Dr. Michael Stevens with Big Spring ISD will give a 15 minute presentation on the School Bond. Immediately following we will allow each candidate to speak for 5 minutes. This will not be a question - answer forum. The audience will be able to meet one on one with the candidate’s after the forum. Forum MC and moderator will be Chamber President, David Justice.
The Chamber has sent out invitation letters to candidates in Coahoma and Big Spring for mayoral, city council, and school board races. Candidates have until April 16 to RSVP if they will or will not be attending the event. For more information or with any questions call the Chamber office, 263-7641.
Early voting is April 26 through May 4, with regular voting being on May 8. The Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce does not endorse candidates; we host this event for the community in hopes that more people will get out and vote.
Get Your Kids Vaccinated Before Back-To-School Rush
(Dallas County, TX) -- Texas parents are encouraged to get their kids up-to-date on vaccinations before the back-to-school rush that's expected later this summer. The 2010-2011 minimum state vaccine requirements for schoolchildren reflect the immunization mandates that were issued last year. The changes that became effective in August 2009 include vaccines for Hepatitis A, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella, Varicella, Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis, and Meningococcal.
Texas Republican Hopes Obama Lays Out Plan For NASA
(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn hopes President Obama will lay out a plan for future space exploration during his visit to Kennedy Space Center in Florida this week. The Texas Republican said Tuesday that the U.S. needs a clear vision for human space flight, adding that Obama has created tremendous uncertainty by proposing to end the Constellation program without identifying a viable alternative to it. Cornyn says that would leave NASA adrift and without a mission following a nine-billion-dollar investment into the program over the past seven years. He adds that ending the Constellation Program would also increase dependence on Russia to transport Americans to the International Space Station, which was built with billions of American taxpayer dollars. Cancelling the Constellation program and retiring the Space Shuttle would also cost the region surrounding the Johnson Space Center in Texas as many as seven-thousand direct jobs.
Grants Available To Combat Underage Smoking
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Comptroller's Office is handing out grants to schools and local law enforcement agencies to keep tobacco out of childrens' hands. The grants ranging from one-thousand to 150-thousand-dollars can be used for tobacco education, keeping schools and school events tobacco free and sting operations to catch retailers selling tobacco products to minors. Comptroller Susan Combs says consistent education efforts show kids and retailers that Texas is serious about preventing young people from taking up an extremely costly habit, in terms of money spent on tobacco and the high cost of tobacco related illnesses. The available grant amount for law enforcement agencies depends on the number of tobacco retailers within a jurisdiction, and school grants are based on the number of students who will be taught about the law prohibiting underage smoking.
KILGORE DEFEATED IN RUNOFF
INCUMBENT HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2 JERRY KILGORE WILL SPEND THE REST OF HIS TERM THIS YEAR AS A LAME DUCK. DONNIE BAKER DEFEATED KILGORE IN THE PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION TUESDAY. BOTH ARE REPUBLICANS AND THE TOP TWO VOTER GETTERS IN THE THREE WAY REPUBLICAN RACE BACK IN MARCH, THAT ALSO AT THE TIME INCLUDED MELANIE GAMBRELL. THE FINAL COUNT TUESDAY EVENING AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE WAS DONNIE BAKER WITH 440 VOTES, OR 63%...AND JERRY KILGORE WITH 260 VOTES, OR 37%. DONNIE BAKER WILL NOW GO ON TO THE GENERAL ELECTION IN NOVEMBER AND TAKE ON THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE FOR HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2 JIM SINCLAIR. AFTER THE RUNOFF RESULTS WERE IN, DONNIE BAKER TOLD KBST THAT HE WAS VERY PLEASED WITH THE WAY THINGS TURNED OUT, HAS GREAT RESPECT FOR HIS REPUBLICAN OPPONENT, JERRY KILGORE, AND LOOKS FORWARD TO MOVING ON TO NOVEMBER TO TAKE ON JIM SINCLAIR, WHO HE HAS BEEN FRIENDS WITH FOR MANY YEARS.
BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL
IT WAS A VERY SHORT BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY NIGHT. MUCH OF THE MEETING WAS SPENT RECOGNIZING LOCAL CITIZENS FOR THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COMMUNITY. MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN READ TWO PROCLAMATIONS TUESDAY. ONE WAS FOR "KEEP BIG SPRING BEAUTIFUL". FOUNDER PAT SIMMONS AND CURRENT PRESIDENT JOANN STAULCUP WERE PRESENT FOR THE RECOGNITION AS THE MAYOR THANKED THEM FOR THE ORGANIZATION'S CEASELESS EFFORTS TO BEAUTIFY THE COMMUNITY, AND MADE SPECIAL MENTION OF THE RECENT "TRASH OFF" THIS PAST SATURDAY.
MAYOR MCEWEN ALSO PRESENTED A PROCLAMATION TO BIG SPRING AIR PARK DIRECTOR COL. JIM LITTLE. AS KBST WAS THE FIRST TO REPORT TO YOU EARLIER THIS WEEK COL. LITTLE RECEIVED A PRESTIGIOUS STATE-LEVEL HONOR LAST THURSDAY FROM THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AS "GENERAL AVIATION AIR PARK DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR". AFTER THE TUESDAY EVENING MAYORAL PROCLAMATION COL. LITTLE GAVE MUCH OF THE CREDIT OF HIS SUCCESSES TO A VERY SUPPORTIVE STAFF, CITY COUNCIL AND AIR PARK BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
CITY COUNCILWOMAN STEPHANIE HORTON DURING COUNCIL INPUT TUESDAY ASKED THAT THE COMING MAY 8TH CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS "BE ABOUT TRUTH", AS SHE RELATED A PHONE CALL SHE RECEIVED RECENTLY FROM A RESIDENT THAT BELIEVED THE PLANNED FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER AT CITY PARK WAS GOING TO BE "AS BIG AS SCHLITTERBAHN", WHICH IS FAR FROM THE TRUTH. THE REPLACEMENT FOR THE OLD CITY POOL HAS THUS FAR BEEN A CENTER OF CONTROVERSY ON MANY LEVELS IN CITY POLITICS IN 2009 AND 2010.
CITY COUNCILMAN TROY TOMPKINS ALSO STATED IN REGARDS TO THE POOL ISSUE THAT HE IS REQUESTING PERFORMANCE NUMBERS AND OTHER OPERATIONAL FIGURES ONCE THE NEW POOL FACILITY IS OPEN IN 2011.
CITY COUNCILMAN MANUAL RAMIREZ TUESDAY ASKED CITY ADMINISTRATION IF THEY HAD LOOKED INTO A FOUR DAY WORK WEEK FOR CITY EMPLOYEES AS A COST SAVING MEASURE. CITY MANAGER GARY FUQUAY STATED THAT THE IDEA HAS BEEN LOOKED AT, BUT IS NOT PRACTICAL FOR MANY OF THE CITY DEPARTMENTS THAT OPERATE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. FUQUAY POINTED OUT THAT THE CITY SANITATION DEPARTMENT DOES OPERATE ON A ROTATING SCHEDULE SIMILAR TO A FOUR DAY WEEK. MAYOR MCEWEN ASK ADMINISTRATION STAFF TO KEEP THE IDEA IN MIND AS AN ITEM TO LOOK AT MORE CLOSELY, AS WELL AS OTHER EFFICIENCY ISSUES WHEN BUDGET TIME GETS NEARER THIS SUMMER.
Tuesday April 13 COUNTY APPROVES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOL HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MONDAY GAVE THEIR APPROVAL TO ADOPT A NEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOL PUT IN PLACE BY THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE SEVERAL YEARS AGO. IT’S CALLED “LOCAL GOVT. CODE CHAPTER 381” AND BASICALLY ALLOWS THE COUNTY TO PARTICIPATE IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BY OFFERING INCENTIVES TO POTENTIAL NEW BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY THAT MIGHT WANT TO EITHER RE-LOCATE IN HOWARD COUNTY OR TO ASSIST IN A CURRENT BUSINESS THAT MIGHT WANT TO EXPAND. THE MEASURE NOW ALLOWS HOWARD COUNTY TO OFFER GRANTS, LOANS OR “IN KIND” SERVICES AS INCENTIVES TO BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY, BUT ACCORDING TO A CONVERSATION WITH BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TERRY WEGMAN, WILL NOT BE A REDUNDANCY TO WHAT HIS ORGANIZATION ALREADY DOES. ALSO, THERE IS NO ADDITIONAL COSTS TO ADOPT THE NEW MEASURE.
REPUBLICAN PRIMARY RUNOFF TUESDAY POLLS ARE OPEN TUESDAY (TODAY) FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM FOR THE PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTIONS. THERE IS ONE LOCAL RUNOFF ELECTION ON THE REPUBLICAN SIDE BETWEEN HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2 JERRY KILGORE, AND HIS CHALLENGER IN THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, DONNIE BAKER. THERE’S ALSO A STATE SUPREME COURT JUSTICE RUNOFF ON THE BALLOT AS WELL, ACCORDING TO HOWARD COUNTY ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATOR SAUNDRA BLOOM. AS WE SAID THERE ARE TWO POLLING LOCATIONS FOR THIS RUNOFF ELECTION, COAHOMA COMMUNITY CENTER AND BIG SPRING MALL. WE’LL HAVE THE RESULTS FOR YOU THIS (TUESDAY) EVENING AND WEDNESDAY MORNING ON KBST NEWS. AFTER THE RUNOFF ELECTION IT WILL BE TIME TO START TALKING MORE ABOUT THE COMING MAY 8TH ELECTIONS FOR CITY COUNCIL, SCHOOL BOARDS AND BOND ELECTIONS. For more info, contact the elections Administrator office at 264-2273
CAREER ROUNDUP AND OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY HOWARD COLLEGE IS HOSTING TWO RELATED EVENTS TUESDAY (TODAY) TO SHOW OFF THEIR CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION FACILITIES AND PROGRAMS. A CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION “ROUNDUP” IS TAKING PLACE FOR HOWARD COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS DURING THE DAY, AND EVERYONE IS INVITED TO THEN COME OUT FOR A COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY (THIS) EVENING FROM 6:30 TO 8 PM AT THE DON MCKINNEY CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER ON THE HOWARD COLLEGE CAMPUS. THE HOWARD COLLEGE “MOBILE GO CENTER” WILL ALSO BE ON HAND. THERE WILL BE LOTS OF OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT HOWARD COLLEGE IS OFFERING IN THE WAY OF CAREER DEVELOPMENT: TOURS, DEMONSTRATIONS AND INFORMATION WILL ALL BE AVAILABLE. IT’S ALL FREE AND EVERYONE IS INVITED THIS EVENING. THE EVENT IS VERY CASUAL AND “COME AND GO”.
Monday April 12 FILM SOCIETY MEETING THURSDAY THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY IS HOLDING AN ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING THAT IS ACUTALLY A MAKE-GOOD OF A MEETING THAT HAD TO BE RESCHEDULED FROM BACK IN MARCH. FILM SOCIETY FOUNDER BRANDON JOHNSON SAYS THE THURSDAY, APRIL 15TH MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS, HOWARD COLLEGE CAMPUS, AND WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY TO GET READY FOR THIS SUMMER’S OUTDOOR PRESENTATION OF “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” AT THE COMANCHE TRAIL PARK AMPHITHEATER. THERE WILL ALSO BE MORE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THURSDAY EVENING ABOUT A PROPOSED SHORT FILM CONTEST ON THE “RAIDERS” THEME, FINALISTS OF WHICH WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE “RAIDERS” MOVIE PRESENTATION NIGHT AT THE AMPHITHEATER THIS JULY, SAYS BRANDON. THE “RAIDERS” OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT IS JULY 9TH, AND WILL BE FREE TO THE PUBLIC. VOLUNTEERS WILL BE NEEDED TO HELP WITH CONCESSIONS AND CROWD CONTROL, SO IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN HELPING OUT, OR JUST WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY, FUTURE PLANS, AND THE “RAIDERS” SHORT FILM CONTEST, COME TO THURSDAY EVENING’S MEETING AT HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS, HOWARD COLLEGE, 7 PM. ALL ARE INVITED.
West Texas Congressman Wants More Money for Border Security FORT HANCOCK, Texas (AP) - U.S. Rep. Ciro Rodriguez says he's asked Texas Gov. Rick Perry to dedicate more homeland security funds to counties on the border with Mexico. The San Antonio Democrat made the announcement Friday in the border town of Fort Hancock - where many Mexican families have settled while fleeing drug-war violence. The announcement follows last week's Associated Press report on the fears and subtle drug cartel intimidation felt at schools and elsewhere in Fort Hancock. Rodriguez says he wants $15 million in federal funds to border counties to help local authorities pay for increased patrols. Fort Hancock's located about 50 miles southeast of the violent Mexican city of Cuidad Juarez. The 23rd Congressional District is the largest district in the state, covering most of West Texas from San Antonio to El Paso. It includes portions of Bexar, El Paso and Sutton counties, as well as Brewster, Dimmit, Maverick, Presidio, Zavala, Crockett, Culberson, Edwards, Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Kinney, Medina, Pecos, Reeves, Terrell, Uvalde and Val Verde Counties.
BIG SPRING AIR PARK DIRECTOR RECEIVES HONOR
KBST NEWS LEARNED LATE LAST WEEK THAT BIG SPRING AIR PARK DIRECTOR JIM LITTLE WAS BESTOWED A VERY PRESTIGIOUS HONOR IN HOUSTON THURSDAY EVENING. COL. LITTLE RECEIVED THE "GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT MANAGER OF THE YEAR" RECOGNITION DURING THE ANNUAL TEXAS AVIATION CONFERENCE, THAT WAS HELD AT THE WOODLANDS THIS YEAR. THE CONFERENCE, AND THE HONOR GIVEN COL. LITTLE, IS UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. WE ARE TOLD THE AVIATION AWARD, WHICH IS THE HIGHEST OF ITS KIND, WAS A TOTAL SURPRISE FOR COL. JIM LITTLE, WHO WAS ACCOMPANIED ON THE CONFERENCE TRIP BY SEVERAL OTHER CITY OFFICIALS, MANY OF WHICH WERE ALSO PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT THE ANNOUNCEMENT. BECAUSE THE CITY AIR PARK CONSTANTLY WORKS WITH TXDOT, COL. LITTLE REGULARLY ATTENDS THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE, SO KEEPING THE AWARD A SECRET IN THOSE REGARDS WASN'T VERY DIFFICULT. JIM LITTLE HAS BEEN THE AIR PARK DIRECTOR FOR ABOUT EIGHT YEARS, AND ALONG WITH THE AIR PARK BOARD OF DIRECTORS, HAS BROUGHT MANY MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE HUGE FACILITY, FORMERLY WEBB AIR FORCE BASE. MOST OF THOSE IMPROVEMENTS, INCLUDING A COMPLETELY RENOVATED RUNWAY, ARE AIMED TOWARD FUTURE DEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION OF THE MISSION OF THE AIR PORT AND AIR PARK. THE RETIRED AIR FORCE COLONEL IS RECOGNIZED AS VISIONARY FOR THE HIS BELIEF IN THE POTENTIAL OF THE MACMAHON / WRINKLE AIR PARK AND BIG SPRING AIR PORT, AND THOSE EFFORTS ARE UNCEASING, ACCORDING TO MANY.
H.E.B. CHIP DIP RECALLED
A RECALL OF AN H.E.B. STORE BRAND CHIP DIP HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED. H.E.B. BRAND FRENCH ONION DIP, ALL SIZES, HAS BEEN RECALLED BECAUSE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SALMONELLA CONTAMINATION. NO ONE HAS BEEN REPORTED ILL AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT, BUT THE RECALL IS A PRECAUTIONARY ONE. THE RECALL IS FOR H.E.B. BRAND FRENCH ONION DIP ONLY, ALL CONTAINER SIZES, WITH A "SELL BY" DATE OF APRIL 15TH. EITHER THROW IT AWAY OR RETURN IT TO THE STORE. H.E.B. CUSTOMER SERVICE CAN BE REACHED AT 210-938-8357.
Scenic Mountain Medical Center Welcomes CEO and Family to Big Spring
BIG SPRING, TX --- Larry Rodgers has accepted the position of CEO at Scenic Mountain Medical Center (SMMC).
Rodgers has served as interim CEO since mid-February of this year, bringing a strong senior leadership background to the position. During the past two years, he has served as chief operating officer at College Station Medical Center. Prior to that, Larry served as assistant CEO at Moberly Regional Medical Center in Moberly, MO. Larry holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO., and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from William Woods University in Fulton, MO.
According to Rodgers, "I am looking forward to doing everything I can to help the SMMC team achieve our primary goal of providing exceptional service to our patients, physicians, staff and community. My family and I are enthusiastic about becoming a part of the Howard County community." Rodgers’ family will relocate from College Station to Big Spring at the conclusion of the school year.
Dr. Steve Ahmed, pediatrician and chief of the medical staff at SMMC, said, “We are excited to have Larry on-board and to work with the SMMC team providing exceptional care for our friends and neighbors.”
Board of Trustees Chairperson, Dr. Cheryl Sparks, commented, “The Board welcomes the Rodgers family to our community. We look forward to working with Larry as we move our vision for SMMC forward.”
Friday April 9 FORSAN ENCOUNTERS CENSUS PROBLEM RECENT 2010 CENEUS RETURN NUMBERS SHOW A FAIRLY GOOD RESPONSE RATE THUS FAR FOR HOWARD COUNTY RESIDENTS…ALL EXCEPT THE FORSAN COMMUNITY, WHICH SHOWS 0%. WE SPOKE WITH LOCAL OFFICIALS THURSDAY WHO EXPLAINED THE REASON FORSAN HAS A 0% RESPONSE RATE FOR THEIR CENSUS FORMS IS BECAUSE RESIDENTS NEVER RECEIVED THEM. THAT’ BECAUSE ALL OF THE FORSAN CENSUS FORMS WERE APPARENTLY MAILED TO PHYSICAL ADDRESSES. ALL FORSAN RESIDENTS RECEIVE THEIR MAIL AT P.O. BOXES, SO THE FORSAN CENSUS FORMS WERE NEVER RECEIVED. LOCAL CENSUS OFFICIALS TELL US THEY HAVE ESTABLISHED A LOCATION IN THE FORSAN COMMUNITY WHERE RESIDENTS CAN DROP BY AND PICK UP A SHORT CENSUS FORM TO FILL OUT. THAT LOCATION IS FORSAN BAPTIST CHURCH, WHERE THERE WILL ALSO BE SOMEONE THERE FROM 10 AM TO NOON MONDAY THRU FRIDAY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS.
JOB FAIR PLANNED
Howard College, the Workforce Solutions of the Permian Basin and the Big Spring Area Chamber of Commerce are planning a Job Fair for the Big Spring and Howard County Area. Fair will be Thursday, May 6, 2010, 3:30 to 6:00 at the Don McKinney Career and Technical Education Center on the campus of Howard College.
Any employer interested in participating will receive at table and two chairs at no cost to them. We have set a response deadline for April 19. If you are interested or have any questions please contact the Workforce Solutions of the Permian Basin, (432)263-8373.
The Chamber, working with its partners, is providing this Job Fair to the community at no cost to the businesses or prospective employees.
This will also give many to tour the new Don McKinney Career and Technical Education Center to see what the Howard College has to offer for those who wish to continue their education or for those seeking to change their occupation.
For more information Call Debbye ValVerde, 263-7641 Carla Gross - 263-8373 Tom Land - 264-5111
Appliance Rebate Program Runs Out Of Cash On First Day
(Austin, TX) -- Austin area residents hoping to get in on the appliance rebate program may be out of luck. The Energy Star program started Wednesday and ran out of money due to overwhelming demand. State officials were able to serve 39-thousand customers and had over 38 million, yes million, hits to the program website. The cash-for-clunkers style government program offers rebates up to 1600 dollars for old appliances traded up for energy efficient machines.
Youth Group Aims For World Record in Nacho Building
(Frisco, TX) -- With nearly two tons of nacho's, a Frisco church youth group is hoping to get into the Guinness book of world records. Teenagers and adults met at Northstar Church Wednesday to begin work on a 48-foot long trough that was then filled with all the makings for nacho's, including tortilla chips, cheese sauce, picante sauce and, of course, sliced jalapeno peppers. The group had at least 38-hundred pounds of ingredients on hand, more than enough to break the current Guinness nacho record which is a bit less than 32-hundred pounds. The church had a certified land surveyor on-site, with a scientific calculator in hand to tote up the poundage, chip by chip. The final total submitted to the Guinness people was three-thousand-555 pounds and four ounces.
“TRASH OFF” WITH KEEP BIG SPRING BEAUTIFUL “KEEP BIG SPRING BEAUTIFUL” IS ENCOURAGING LOCAL RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ANNUAL “TRASH OFF” THIS SATURDAY. CLEAN UP AROUND YOUR HOME OR NEIGHBORHOOD, OR FIND ANOTHER LOCATION THAT NEEDS A GOOD CLEAN. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO PICK UP TRASH CONTACT “KEEP BIG SPRING BEAUTIFUL” FOUNDER PAT SIMMONS AT 263-4607. OR, JUST DROP BY THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FRIDAY MORNING BETWEEN 9 AND NOON WHERE PAT WILL BE HANDING OUT FREE TRASH BAGS FOR YOUR SATURDAY CLEAN UP PROJECT.
Details Released In Texas Pipe Bomb Case
(Tyler, TX) -- The man accused in a chilling East Texas pipe bomb campaign reportedly had a beef with the government. Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms agent Robert Champion says the capture of Larry North was a collaborative effort with local and federal authorities. The 52-year-old North was arrested yesterday for allegedly planting 36 devices near Post Offices and other targets during what could have been a deadly spree. One device was discovered outside a Tyler, Texas shopping center and bomb squads diffused another five explosives stored inside the suspect's van.
Initial evidence indicates North was angry with the government, but investigators also turned up a separate motive involving a grievance over money. Agents started trailing the suspect sometime over the past week and reportedly saw him plant a device in a mailbox. During a search of North's home agents found what is being described as incriminating evidence. North is being held without bond. He's charged with a felony count of possessing unregistered explosives and could face terrorism-related charges.
New Filings For Unemployment Benefits Increase (Texas Note)
(Washington, DC) -- The number of new filings for unemployment benefits ticked upwards last week. The latest Labor Department report shows 460-thousand initial claims were filed, an increase of 18-thousand from the previous week. The total number of claims filed for the week ending March 27th, including continuing claims, was just over four-point-five-million. The insured unemployment rate was three-and-a-half-percent, a loss of a tenth of a percent from the week before.
Texas reported the biggest jump in initial claims for unemployment benefits in the week ending March 27th. It blamed the increase on layoffs in the finance, service and manufacturing industries. The week before that, Alaska reported the highest insured unemployment rate in the nation at seven-point-one percent. Oregon had an insured unemployment rate of six percent. Wisconsin, Montana, Idaho, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Nevada reported insured unemployment rates of around five and a half percent.
Thursday April 8 TEXAS LAND COMMISSIONER CALLS FOR MORE SCRUTINY
ON THE SAME DAY THAT KBST INTERVIEWED AND REPORTED TO YOU COMMENTS FROM STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER ON CONCERNS AT SOME TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOMES, TEXAS LAND COMMISSIONER JERRY PATTERSON WAS ISSUING HIS OWN STATEMENTS. THE TEXAS LAND BOARD OVERSEES TEXAS'S SEVEN STATE VETERANS HOMES, INCLUDING LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ IN BIG SPRING. COMMISSIONER PATTERSON HAS NOW CALLED FOR GREATER SCRUTINY OF THE QUALITY OF CARE AT THE STATE'S FACILITIES AND THE ELDERLY CITIZENS THEY SERVE. MORE STATE OFFICIALS ARE MAKING PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON THE MATTER SINCE RECENT INDICTMENTS OF TWO FORMER LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ EMPLOYEES ON CHARGES OF RESIDENT ABUSE BACK IN 2007, AND A RECENT ARTICLE IN THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS REVIEWING REPORTED PROBLEMS AT LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ, AS WELL AS THE STATE VETERANS HOME IN AMARILLO, BOTH WITHIN SENATOR KEL SELIGER'S DISTRICT. IN A TUESDAY KBST INTERVIEW, KEL SELIGER STATED HE HAS REQUESTED MORE INVESTIGATIONS INTO THE MATTER. LAND COMMISSIONER JERRY PATTERSON TUESDAY ALSO STATED THAT QUOTE "I WANT ANY ALLEGATION OF ABUSE PROSECUTED TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW. BUREAUCRACY SHOULD NEVER GET IN THE WAY OF CARING FOR OUR VETERANS". PATTERSON HIMSELF IS A VIETNAM VETERAN. OFFICIALS HAVE ALSO ANNOUNCED THERE WILL BE AN OPEN HOUSE AT THE LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ VETERANS HOME IN BIG SPRING APRIL 29TH. MORE DETAILS OF THE OPEN HOUSE WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON. THE CONTRATOR THAT OPERATES THE BIG SPRING STATE VETERANS HOME NORTH OF BIG SPRING IS SENIOR DIMENSIONS.
UPDATE 2-Alon says Big Spring units at planned rates Mon, Apr 5 2010 * Alon restarts Big Spring FCC after reliability work * Alon says all units running and planned rates NEW YORK, April 5 (Reuters) - Alon USA said all units at its 70,000 barrel-per-day refinery in Big Spring, Texas were operating at planned rates after scheduled maintenance on several units, a company spokesman said on Monday. A company spokesman said the refinery's long conversion configuration will allow the refinery to make up production lost during the March downtime. Earlier, the company made two filings with state environmental regulators about excess venting during the start-up of the gasoline-making fluid catalytic cracking unit. According to a company spokesman, the FCCU was down during the last week of March for reliability projects. Joseph Israel, a spokesman for the company said the reformer and hydrotreaters were down during the second half of March for planned catalyst works and turnaround. He said the crude unit ran at reduced rates during the planned work and that start-up over the weekend was successful.
Wednesday April 7 SELIGER CALLING FOR IMMEDIATE REPORT ON VETERANS HOMES KBST NEWS SPOKE WITH STATE SENATOR KEL SELIGER TUESDAY ABOUT THE RECENT MEDIA REPORTS INVOLVING ALLEGED ABUSE AT TWO TEXAS VETERANS HOMES WITHIN HIS DISTRICT IN AMARILLO AND BIG SPRING. SENATOR SELIGER STATED THAT THE REPORTS RAISE CONCERN IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCE, BUT HE BELIEVES THERE SHOULD BE AN EVEN HIGHER STANDARD FOR TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOMES. THE ISSUE HAS BEEN GIVEN ADDITIONAL MEDIA COVERAGE SINCE THE INDICTMENT OF TWO FORMER EMPLOYEES OF THE LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ VETERANS HOME IN BIG SPRING IN CASES DATING BACK TO 2007, AND A RECENT ARTICLE IN THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS ABOUT THE BIG SPRING AND AMARILLO HOMES. SENATOR SELIGER SAYS HE IS CALLING FOR AN IMMEDIATE REPORT TO HIS OFFICE BY THE DEPARTMENT OF AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES, D.A.D.S. SELIGER SAID HE PLANNED TO SPEAK WITH SOMEONE IN THAT OFFICE BY AS SOON AS TODAY (TUE).
New Technology Shortens Flights
(Dallas, TX) -- Southwest Airlines is changing the way it flies. Tuesday the low-cost air carrier started using new cockpit software in two-thirds of its fleet. The "Wall Street Journal" reports the new software will allow pilots to fly precise satellite-based navigation approaches to airports, which should save fuel, cut noise and reduce delays. The Dallas-headquartered company says the massive upgrade took three years of preparation and required retraining some six-thousand pilots.
The change allows Southwest to utilize new approaches to airports called Required Navigation Performance routes. Those are paths laid out in the sky that planes use into and out of airports. The new software allows for much narrower paths, removing overlap between different airports in congested cities. The new technology will immediately impact Southwest flights into major hubs like Chicago, New York, Houston and Dallas.
Pope Appoints Jose' Gomez of San Antonio
(Los Angeles, CA) -- Pope Benedict the 16th has named Archbishop of San Antonio Jose' H. Gomez to be the next archbishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the largest Roman Catholic diocese in the U.S. According to the archdiocese, Archbishop Gomez will serve alongside the current archbishop, Cardinal Roger Mahony, as Coadjuster Archbishop of Los Angeles. He will take over the archdiocese when Cardinal Mahony retires in 2011. Cardinal Mahony will introduce Archbishop Gomez to the public today, during a 10 a.m. press conference at Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral. Archbishop Gomez was born in Monterrey, Mexico in 1951. He is a priest of the conservative Opus Dei order. The Los Angeles Archdiocese covers Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.
NEW CLUBHOUSE OPENS AT CITY GOLF COURSE IT’S LITERALLY BEEN YEARS IN THE MAKING, BUT THE NEW CLUBHOUSE AT THE CITY GOLF COURSE OFFICIALLY OPENED TUESDAY WITH A SPECIAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY, FOLLOWED BY TOURS AND FREE HOTDOGS. GOLF PRO JACK BIRDWELL WAS CERTAINLY A HAPPY MAN WHEN COMPARING THIS NEW FACILITY TO THE OLD ONE, AND THEN A LONG STRETCH OF TIME WHEN THEY HAD ALMOST NOTHING IN WAY OF A CLUBHOUSE FOR MUNI GOLFERS WHILE THE NEW FACILITY WAS BEING COMPLETED. MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN SAYS THE NEW CLUBHOUSE IS THE PERFECT FINISHING TOUCH ON RENOVATIONS TO THE CITY GOLF COURSE OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS. THE COMPLETED GOLF COURSE, AND NOW A PLANNED NEW FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK, ARE CONSIDERED “QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENTS” BY SOME RESIDENTS, WASTES OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS BY OTHERS. MAYOR MCEWEN IS UP AGAINST THREE CHALLENGERS IN THE BIG SPRING MAYOR’S RACE MAY 8TH, MOST OF WHICH DISAGREE WITH SOME OF THE WAYS THE CITY HAS BEEN SPENDING ON PROJECTS.
Tuesday April 6 TWO ELECTIONS NEARING THERE ARE TWO ELECTIONS NEARING ON THE CALENDAR, ONE OF THEM A RUNOFF FROM THE MOST RECENT PRIMARY ELECTIONS. EARLY VOTING FOR THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF BEGINS APRIL 5TH AND JUST RUNS ONE WORK WEEK, ENDING APRIL 9TH. THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF ELECTION ONLY HAS ONE LOCAL RACE. REPUBLICANS JERRY KILGORE AND DONNIE BAKER FACE OFF FOR THEIR PARTY NOMINATION FOR HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2. THEY WERE THE TOP TWO VOTER GETTERS IN A THREE PERSON PRIMARY RACE ON THE REPUBLICAN SIDE EARLIER THIS MONTH. THE FINAL REPUBLICAN NOMINEE WINNER WILL GO ON TO THE NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION AND FACE THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2, JIM SINCLAIR. ONCE AGAIN, EARLY VOTING FOR THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF BEGINS APRIL 5TH AND TAKES PLACE AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE. FOLLOWING THE RUNOFF ELECTION, THERE’S THE MAY 8TH ELECTION WHICH WILL FEATURE LOCAL CITY COUNCIL, SCHOOL BOARDS AND BOND ISSUES. EARLY VOTING FOR MAY 8TH ELECTIONS WILL START APRIL 26TH AND RUN THROUGH MAY 4TH.
WORKFORCE TRAINING AVAILABLE
If you were laid off from Fiber Glass Systems between December 2008 and March 2010 and are interested in training, please contact the Workforce Solutions Permian Basin Big Spring office at 432-263-8373 or 1-800-749-8373. Training dollars are available to assist those affected by the lay-offs and ultimate plant closure.
OWN A PIECE OF TEXAS STADIUM THE LONG-TIME HOME OF THE DALLAS COWBOYS, TEXAS STADIUM, IS GOING DOWN. FINAL DEMOLITION OF TEXAS STADIUM IS SET FOR THIS SUNDAY. WANT A PIECE OF THE HISTORIC STRUCTURE? SAM SEGUNDO WITH LOCAL MINISTRY FAMILY FAITH CENTER, AND LIFE LESSONS FOR SUCCESS, HAS SEAT #12 FROM TEXAS STADIUM AND A FOOTBALL AUTOGRAPHED BY #12, ROGER STAUBACH. SEVERAL RESTAURANTS AROUND BIG SPRING HAVE A PLACE WHERE YOU CAN GET A RAFFLE TICKET, OR CALL 268-3025.
CITY OPENS NEW CLUBHOUSE A REFURBISHED MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE WILL FINALLY GET ITS NEW CLUBHOUSE. THE CITY OF BIG SPRING WILL HOST A RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE GRAND OPENING OF ITS NEW CLUBHOUSE AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK TUESDAY AT 11:30 AM. A HOT DOG LUNCH WILL FOLLOW AND THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO COME OUT, TAKE A TOUR AND HELP CELEBRATE.
EL PASO TEEN KILLED IN SHOOTOUT
EL PASO, Texas (AP) - Texas Rangers are investigating the shooting death of a 14-year-old West Texas boy who died in a shootout with police. Investigators said the boy was shot and killed Sunday night after reportedly firing several shots at Hudspeth County deputies and Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens. The officers were searching for him after he was reported missing earlier in the day. Investigators say the boy fired at officers from three different locations at the Gunsight Ranch in Hudspeth County. The officers fired back, killing the boy, at the third location. The Texas Rangers are leading the investigation.
Monday April 5 DALLAS MORNING NEWS ARTICLE ON LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ HOME
YOU MAY RECALL RECENT MEDIA REPORTS OF TWO FORMER EMPLOYEES AT THE LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ VETERANS HOME THAT WERE INDICTED A LITTLE OVER A WEEK AGO ON CHARGES OF ABUSE. THE CASES DATE BACK TO 2007. THE TWO INDICTMENTS BY THE HOWARD COUNTY GRAND JURY ARE FOR 25 YEAR OLD BRYSON VANDERBILT AND 52 YEAR OLD CONNIE MAE JOHNSON, AS KBST REPORTED THE WEEK THE INDICTMENTS WERE HANDED DOWN. IN THE APRIL 3RD EDITION OF THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS, REPORTER JAMES DREW WROTE A FULL LENGTH ARTICLE ABOUT THE CASE AND OTHER SIMILAR SITUATIONS AT THE LAMUN, LUSK SANCHEZ VETERANS HOME, AS WELL AS THE AMARILLO TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOME. THE ARTICLE QUOTES DISTRICT ATTORNEY HARDY WILKERSON, BIG SPRING POLICE DETECTIVES, AS WELL AS REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE LAND BOARD, WHICH OVERSEES ALL TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOMES. YOU CAN READ THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS ARTICLE IN ITS ENTIRETY AT THE LINK PROVIDED:
KBSB hopes all residents of Big Spring will join 15,000 communities with 2.3 million volunteers across America in the Great American Clean-up and "Don't Mess with Texas" Trash off Saturday, April 10th. Come and join us in a effort to make Big Spring a cleaner greener community to live.
In a ceremony in Houston, Tumbleweed Smith was commissioned an Admiral in the Texas Navy. The distinction, directly from the Governor’s office, is a means of honoring people for their service to Texas. The proclamation, signed by Governor Rick Perry, states that Tumbleweed has been diligent in preserving the rich oral history of the state. Governor Perry goes on to say, “Tumbleweed Smith is a real Texas treasure, whose body of work is like a time capsule of the story of Texas over the past forty years.”
Many Texas governors in the past have given the commission. Governor James Allred in 1936 may have been the first one to do so when he gave one to dancer Ginger Rogers when she appeared at the Texas Centennial celebration in Dallas.
The Texas Navy, Inc., now the Texas Navy Association, is a non-profit organization devoted to preserving the history of the Texas Navy. The Organization promotes awareness of Texas history with educational outreach to Texas public schools and maritime museums, and conducts historical events such as the on-going search for the lost Texas Navy Ship "Invincible".
Two Dallas Schools Best In State
(Dallas, TX) -- For the second year in a row two Dallas magnet high schools have been rated the best high schools in the state by Children at Risk, a Houston nonprofit group. Dallas ISD's School of Science & Engineering, and the School for the Talented & Gifted are listed Number 1 and Number 2. Children at Risk also ranked middle and elementary schools. Several Dallas schools scored well there, as did schools in the Richardson and Plano districts. Generally speaking, top-ranked grade schools fell into one of two categories. They were either selective magnet schools with double-digit student poverty rates, or affluent schools in wealthy suburban neighborhoods.
Less Cheating Reported On TAKS Tests
(Fort Worth, TX) -- According to a story in the Sunday edition of the "Fort Worth Star-Telegram," a renewed emphasis on test security has significantly reduced cheating on the mandatory Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills tests that will be administered in schools statewide this month. The paper says statistics show a 56-point-five percent decrease in students disciplined for irregularities such as cheating, or possessing a working cellphone during testing. Fifth and eighth-grade reading and math portions of TAKS will be administered on Tuesday and Wednesday. The bulk of the testing is scheduled for the end of the month.
Thieves Steal Bank ATM
(Mansfield, TX) -- The Police in Mansfield are looking for the thieves who used a stolen front-end loader to rip an ATM machine out of the Chase Bank branch wall at Highway 287 and Debbie Lane early Saturday morning. The front-end loader had been stolen in Garland. Mansfield Police say they are looking for at least two suspects.
Wounded Holdup Victim Dies
(Fort Worth, TX) -- The second victim of the March 23rd violent robbery of a Fort Worth Valero gas station has died. Seventy-year-old Jerry Barnett was making a delivery to that station when it was held up by four bandits. The 22-year-old clerk was shot and killed. Barnett was also shot. He died early Saturday morning. Four suspects have been arrested. They all worked at the auto parts store next door to the Valero station.
Baseball Season Means Traffic Headaches
(Arlington, TX) -- Arlington traffic planners are bracing themselves for the start of the major league baseball season. The Texas Rangers play their first home game Monday, and construction work on nearby Interstate 30 will continue to be a headache. TXDOT officials insist it will all be finished by this fall, although they are not willing to set a specific date. They say they were running well ahead of schedule until recent rain and snow stopped work for days at a time. The parking lots at Rangers Ballpark will open at 8 a.m. Monday for tailgating. The Ballpark opens at 10 a.m. The first pitch of the first game is scheduled for 1:05 p.m.
Piano Foundation Looking For New Director
(Fort Worth, TX) -- The "Help Wanted" sign is out at Fort Worth's Van Cliburn Foundation. The group has hired an international executive recruiting firm to help it find a new director. The idea is to have the new president on the job by the end of summer. That should give him, or her, time to prepare for the Cliburn competition for outstanding amateurs in 2011, and for the 2013 international piano competition. The Foundation is also trying to stabilize its organization. Since the 2009 competition, its previous President and Executive Director retired, and the staff members who were in charge of artist management, marketing, and finance have left the organization.
Friday April 2 32ND ANNUAL COAHOMA KINDERGARTEN RODEO A BIG CROWD SHOWED UP TO ROOT ON ALL THE COWBOYS AND COWGIRLS AT THE 32ND ANNUAL COAHOMA KINDERGARTEN RODEO THURSDAY. THE VOICE OF PROFESSIONAL RODEO ANNOUNCER BEN CLEMENTS BOOMED OVER THE P.A. AS ALL THE BRONC BUSTIN, BARREL RACIN AND MORE TOOK PLACE INSIDE THE COAHOMA ELEMENTARY GYM. JUST LIKE THE REAL THING, THIS RODEO HAD THE GRAND ENTRY, RODEO COMPETITION, GREAT ENTERTAINMENT AND SPECIAL GUESTS. EVEN MISS RODEO TEXAS DEVIN FELGER WAS THERE FOR THE BIG EVENT. QUAIL DOBBS HELPED KEEP THINGS GOING AND MEMBERS OF THE HOWARD COLLEGE RODEO TEAM WERE THERE TOO.
Brisket Prices Escalating, Barbecue Restaurants Scrambling For Alternatives
(Undated) -- Talk about adding insult to injury. One of the unforeseen consequences of the recession is a big jump in the price of brisket, the cut of beef Texans love for barbecue. In a sampling of Forth Worth barbecue restaurants, many of them tell the Star-Telegram they're paying much more for brisket, these days. In fact, just in the past year, the wholesale price has gone up 20 percent. Some restaurants have hiked their retail price by 50 cents-a-pound, or more. Many cattlemen say brisket prices often jump in February and March because of increased demand for corned beef on Saint Patrick's Day and for Jewish-style brisket on Passover. But the economy is another big factor. When times are tough, meat-lovers switch to cheaper cuts, like brisket, and that increased demand puts upward pressure on prices. Some of the barbecue restaurant owners say they're trying to promote other cuts of meat, like chicken or pork, until brisket prices come back to Earth.
Cornyn Welcomes Obama's Decision To Expand Offshore Drilling
(Washington, DC) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn is welcoming President Obama's decision to expand U.S. offshore oil and gas drilling. The Texas Republican says Obama is following through on the previous Administration's plans to expand areas previously off limits to domestic offshore production, but he adds the quote, "devil is in the details." Cornyn says officials should not ignore promising areas off the Gulf of Mexico, especially with the cost of gas increasing and job creation non-existent. Obama is opening waters off the Virginia coast to new oil and gas exploration. New offshore drilling has been banned for more than two decades, with the exception of the Gulf of Mexico. Obama said his administration is considering other potential new areas for offshore oil-and-gas development in the Gulf and the mid-and-south Atlantic region. The administration is halting oil and gas leases in Bristol Bay, Alaska, over environmental issues.
Austin Man Identified As Empire State Building Jumper
(New York, NY) -- The man who plunged to his death from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building Tuesday evening has been identified as 21-year-old Cameron Dabaghi. Originally from Austin, Texas, Dabaghi was a junior at Yale University. He is said to have left a suicide note behind in dorm room before leaping from the observation deck of the midtown Manhattan skyscraper. The fatal fall happened just after six o'clock Eastern time as more than half a dozen people were milling about the observation deck.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES DATE FOR CANDIDATE FORUM
THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE THURSDAY ANNOUNCED A DATE FOR THEIR CANDIDATE FORUM. INVITATIONS TO ALL HOWARD COUNTY CANDIDATES IN CONTESTED RACES FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS ARE NOW BEING MAILED OUT FOR THE APRIL 20 FORUM EVENT, ACCORDING TO CHAMBER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DEBBYE VALVERDE. THE CHAMBER CANDIDATE FORUM WILL TAKE PLACE AT DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER THAT TUESDAY EVENING STARTING AT 6 O'CLOCK. EACH CANDIDATE WILL BE ALLOWED FIVE MINUTES TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES AND ADDRESS ISSUES AND QUALIFICATIONS. BIG SPRING I.S.D. CONSULTANT MICHAEL STEVENS WILL ALSO MAKE A SHORT PRESENTATION THAT EVENING TO EDUCATE VOTERS ON THE $60 MILLION BOND ISSUE THAT WILL APPEAR ON BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT BALLOTS MAY 8TH. FOLLOWING THE FORUM, ATTENDEES WILL HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE CANDIDATES FOR ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATION AND QUESTIONS. THE EVENING WILL BE MODERATED BY BIG SPRING CHAMBER BOARD PRESIDENT DAVID JUSTICE. THE APRIL 20 CANDIDATE FORUM WILL TAKE PLACE BEFORE EARLY VOTING GETS UNDERWAY APRIL 26TH.
Thursday April 1 APARTMENT FIRE EARLY WEDNESDAY A FIRE AT A BIG SPRING APARTMENT COMPLEX DESTROYED OR DAMAGED SIX UNITS, BUT NO LIVES WERE LOST. THE FIRE BROKE OUT AT THE SUNSET RIDGE APARTMENTS AROUND 12:30 AM WEDNESDAY. FIRE FIGHTERS QUICKLY RESPONDED AND WERE ON THE SCENE IN JUST A FEW MINUTES, BUT NOT BEFORE SIX APARTMENTS RECEIVED DAMAGE, ACCORDING TO BIG SPRING FIRE MARSHAL CARL CONDRAY. NO ONE WAS HURT IN THE BLAZE THAT MAY HAVE BEGUN IN A TRASH CAN IN A LOWER FLOOR APARTMENT AND SPREAD UP AND OUT. OFFICERS WITH THE BIG SPRING P.D. AND HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT ALSO PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN MANPOWER EFFORTS, INCLUDING EVACUATION OF THE SURROUNDING APARTMENT UNITS. FIVE FIRE ENGINES AND TWO AMBULANCES WERE ON THE SCENE AND 15-20 THOUSAND GALLONS OF WATER WERE USED TO FIGHT THE FIRE. FIRE FIGHTERS WERE ON THE SCENE UNTIL ABOUT 5:45 WEDNESDAY MORNING. THE CAUSE, WHILE BELIEVED TO BE ACCIDENTAL, REMAINED UNDER INVESTIGATION AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT.
FIRE AT POLLARD BODY SHOP FIRE FIGHTERS WITH THE BIG SPRING FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDED TO A FIRE AT POLLARD CHEVROLET WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON. NO ONE WAS HURT IN THE BLAZE THAT BEGAN INSIDE THE OLD POLLARD TRUCK SHOP, NOW PART OF THE BODY SHOP, EAST OF THE MAIN BUILDING AT THE CAR DEALERSHIP. PRELIMINARY REPORTS SHOW THE FIRE BEGAN AS SOME SORT OF WELDING ACCIDENT THAT CAUGHT SEVERAL VEHICLES AND SOME TIRES ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS CALLED IN JUST BEFORE 3:30.
WIDESPREAD POWER OUTAGE WEDNESDAY
A LOT OF BIG SPRING RESIDENTS WERE WITHOUT ELECTRICITY WEDNESDAY MORNING DUE TO A MAJOR POWER OUTAGE. THE INTERUPTION BEGAN JUST BEFORE 11 AM AND LASTED AROUND ONE HOUR. ONCOR ELECTRIC DELIVERY SPOKESMAN JIM CLEMENTS TOLD KBST NEWS THAT THE CAUSE OF THE WIDESPREAD BLACKOUT WAS DUE TO AN EQUIPMENT FAILURE AT A MAJOR SUBSTATION IN NORTHEAST BIG SPRING. POWER WAS OUT PRIMARILY IN BIG SPRING'S NORTH AND SOUTHEAST AREAS, INSIDE FM 700. MOST POWER WAS RESTORED BY THE NOON HOUR.
KINDERGARTEN RODEO COMING! THE 32ND ANNUAL COAHOMA KINDERGARTEN RODEO IS COMING THURSDAY, APRIL 1ST, NO FOOLIN’! ALL THE FUN AND EXCITEMENT OF A RODEO WITH BRONC BUSTIN, BARREL RACIN, RODEO DANCIN AND MORE. AS ALWAYS LOTS OF SPECIAL GUESTS TOO LIKE QUAIL DOBBS, JODY NIX, RODEO CLOWN JIM BOB FELLAR, RODEO ANNOUNCER BEN CLEMENTS, MISS RODEO TEXAS DEVIN FELDER AND MANY MORE! OF COURSE THE COAHOMA COWBOYS AND COWGIRLS ARE THE STARS, AND EVERYBODY GETS IN FREE OF CHARGE. THINGS GET UNDERWAY THURSDAY MORNING AT 9 AM INSIDE THE COAHOMA ELEMENTARY GYM. BRING YOU FRIENDS AND BRING YOU CAMERAS FOR THIS LOUD AND COLORFUL EVENT. THE 32ND ANNUAL COAHOMA KINDERGARTEN RODEO, THURSDAY, APRIL 1ST!
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison to Finish Term in Senate Will Stay to Fight for Texas in U.S. Senate
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Saying that she has “always tried to do what is best for Texas,” U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, (R-TX) announced today that she will remain in the Senate to help fight for Texas and against the unprecedented expansion of the federal government. Hutchison was joined at the announcement by the Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and fellow Texas Senator John Cornyn (R-TX).
“For family reasons, I had planned to begin making a transition home to Texas this spring,” Hutchison said. “But it is clear to me that the stakes in our nation’s capitol have never been higher. President Obama’s victory on health care legislation has emboldened those who want an even bigger and more intrusive federal government.”
Hutchison noted that she has heard from significant numbers of constituents and colleagues since the March primary, urging her to stay in the Senate to complete her full term which ends in 2012. She also received a letter signed by every Republican member of Congress from Texas saying: “if you will stay and fight, we will fight alongside you.”
Hutchison said that the ongoing debate on health care, as the true costs come to light over the next months and years, and the proposed cap and trade legislation, which would devastate the Texas economy, promises to get more intense in the months ahead.
“On a personal level, this has been a most difficult decision, but after much deliberation, I have decided to complete my term. I will work alongside our great Texas congressional delegation to repeal and replace President Obama’s massive health bill, to stop cap and trade legislation and to cut the deficit the President is building that is putting our economy in peril.”
White House Defends New Oil Moves
(Washington, DC) -- The White House is defending the administration's new moves on oil exploration. Presidential spokesman Bill Burton said a comprehensive, well-rounded energy strategy is needed to boost the economy and reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil. The Interior Department will start allowing exploration for oil and natural gas about 50 miles off the coast of Virginia. Outside of the Gulf of Mexico, drilling has been prohibited in most offshore areas of the U.S. for more than two decades. In the daily White House news briefing, Burton brushed off criticism from environmentalists. He also said the moves may not cause a quick reduction in gas prices but argued that, over the long haul, it's going to save U.S. consumers money while promoting energy security.
UPDATE 1-Court approves Bakersfield refinery sale Wed Mar 24, 2010 5:41pm EDT HOUSTON, March 24 (Reuters) - A U.S. bankruptcy court in Delaware approved the sale of a shuttered refinery in Bakersfield, California, to Alon USA Energy (ALJ.N) subsidiary Paramount Petroleum Corp, an Alon executive said on Wednesday. The 68,000 barrel per day (bpd) Big West refinery was shut in 2009, after corporate parent Flying J Inc filed for bankruptcy in December 2008. Alon was the sole bidder for the plant, offering $40 million plus an amount equal to the inventory on hand. "We are pleased to pursue the purchase of the Bakersfield refinery, as an alternative solution to convert our vacuum gas oil production into gasoline and distillate products, in the California market," said Alon Chief Operating Officer Joseph Israel in statement. The refinery sale is one of several asset divestitures privately-held Flying J is undertaking to pay off its senior creditors, according to a plan filed earlier this year with U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware. Alon plans to send gasoil, an intermediate feedstock, to the Paramount refinery, which is in the Los Angeles suburb of Paramount, California. No closing date for the sale has been set, Israel said.
Wednesday March 31 COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNTS (BIG SPRING) THERE ARE SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES TO BRING THE KIDS OUT FOR AN EASTER EGG HUNT IN OUR BIG SPRING COMMUNITY THIS SATURDAY. THE FIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE IS INVITING EVERYONE OUT FOR AN EASTER EGG HUNT, HOTDOGS, AND LOTS OF OTHER FUN THIS SATURDAY AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. THINGS GET UNDERWAY AROUND THE OLD SETTLERS PAVILLION STARTING AT 10 AM SATURDAY. THE EAST EGG HUNT WITH 20,000 CANDY FILLED EGGS WILL BEGIN SOON AFTER. THE BIG SPRING V.A. EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION IS HAVING AN EASTER EGG HUNT SATURDAY IN CONJUCTION WITH THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. THE EVENT WILL START AT 11 AM SATURDAY AT THE BIG SPRING V.A. MEDICAL CENTER WITH NUMEROUS ACTIVITIES FOR THE FAMILY AND KIDS, WITH THE EASTER EGG HUNT ACTUALLY BEGINNING AT NOON SATURDAY. THE BIG SPRING LAMUN LUSK SANCHEZ TEXAS STATE VETERANS HOME JUST NORTH OF BIG SPRING WILL HAVE THEIR TRADITIONAL EASTER EGG HUNT SATURDAY AFTERNOON WITH 35,000 EGGS. THE LAMUN LUSK SANCHEZ EASTER EGG EVENT WILL BEGIN AT 3 PM SATURDAY. ALL EVENTS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. BRING YOU OWN BASKET TO COLLECT EGGS.
Texas Senator Slams Healthcare Reform
(Undated) -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn is ripping the healthcare overhaul bill, calling it a "historic mistake." The Texas Republican says one of the most perplexing things about the healthcare bill is the determination of the White House and the Democratic majority to quote, "shove this down the throat of the American people even though they've made it clear they don't support this bill." He says in the end, the voters always get the final say-so.
The Congressional Budget Office reports the bill would reduce Medicare Advantage benefits by half for 523-thousand Texans enrolled in the program. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission reports the bill will create 24-point-three-billion-dollars over ten years in new costs to Texas because of unfunded Medicaid expansions, forcing the legislature to raise taxes, raise college tuitions, decrease the quality of education, or all three. The Joint Committee on Taxation shows the bill would increase taxes for about seven-point-nine-million Texas households making less than 200-thousand-dollars. Cornyn says the bill should be replaced with solutions to lower costs including increasing competition by purchasing insurance across state lines, giving states incentives to lower costs and expand access, and reduce waste, fraud and abuse. President Obama is set to sign the final piece of healthcare legislation this morning at a community college in Virginia. The 153-page bill amends the main reform measure he signed last week.
ETF Going To Lubbock Company
(Lubbock, TX) -- An Emerging Technology Fund of one-point-five-million-dollars is going to a bio-technology company in Lubbock. MicroZAP specializes in food safety and was spun off from patented technology developed through cutting-edge food sterilization research at Texas Tech University's International Center for Food Industry Excellence. Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst joined Lubbock Senator Robert Duncan Monday for the announcement in Lubbock. Dewhurst says it's this kind of research, development and commercialization that will help universities like Texas Tech achieve Tier One status in Texas. He says creating more Tier One universities is critical to the state's future to provide greater opportunities in higher education and lead to more life-saving and life- improving innovation that can be commercialized and create new jobs.
U.S. Census Form Deadline Is Close
(Austin, TX) -- The deadline is near for Austin-area residents and for all Americans to complete the 2010 U.S. Census Form. Thursday April First is the final day to return the ten question form mailed to all U.S. households. Cities urge citizens to complete and mail the forms because each head counted is worth a certain amount of federal money given to cities. In other words, more people counted means more money for your city. Beginning in a couple of weeks, Census enumerators will visit households that don't return the forms.
LATIN KING AND QUEEN NATION GANG MEMBER SENTENCED TO 210 MONTHS IN PRISON FOR HIS ROLE IN DRUG CONSPIRACY
WASHINGTON - Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (ALKQN) member John Guzman, 31, of Big Spring, Texas, was sentenced today to 210 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Sam R. Cummings, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks for the Northern District of Texas.
Guzman pleaded guilty to a superseding indictment charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. Guzman has been in custody since his arrest in February 2009.
According to court documents, Guzman admitted that he was a member of a conspiracy that included Jose Robledo Nava, aka “Chino;” Luis Nava, aka “Flaco;” Reynaldo Nava, aka “Rat;” Robert Allen Ramirez, aka “Nesyo;” Marie Chavez, aka “Shorty;” Carol Ann Rivas Nava; Cecily Dominique Juarez; Jesus Martinez, aka “Solid;” David Hellums, aka “Cutthroat;” Eduardo Daniel Mares, aka “Pitt;” Gabriel Lee Gonzales; Michael Conde, aka “Psycho;” Guerrero Olivas, aka “Screech;” Eliseo Perez, aka “Wicked;” and others. Guzman admitted that he and the other participants in the conspiracy agreed to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine and marijuana. Guzman also admitted that he collected drug debts on behalf of the ALKQN. According to the superseding indictment, Guzman and his co-defendants acquired the cocaine and marijuana from Mexico and brought it to the South Texas region, where it was packaged, stored and transported to Big Spring, Lubbock and Midland, Texas for further distribution.
To date, 17 co-defendants have pleaded guilty and been sentenced for their roles in this conspiracy. Nava and Cole were found guilty on Feb. 24, 2010, by a federal jury in Lubbock on two counts of using a firearm to commit murder during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and one count of a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana. The jury also found Nava guilty on one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, one count of conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing in firearms and one count of possession of stolen firearms.
Nava and Cole were also found guilty for their involvement in a drive-by shooting in Big Spring on May 4, 2008, in which six people were shot with an AK-47 type rifle. According to the evidence presented at trial, the victims included Michael Cardona and Valerie Garcia, who was 26 weeks pregnant at the time of the shooting. Cardona and Garcia ultimately died as a result of their wounds. Evidence presented at trial proved that after the shootings, Nava ordered two of his co-conspirators to destroy the murder weapon.
Nava and Cole face a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set by the court.
Tuesday March 30 CONCERNED CITIZENS LAWSUIT REACHES SETTLEMENT
THE LAWSUIT BY THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL AGAINST THE CITY OF BIG SPRING APPEARS TO BE SETTLED, IF THE CITIZENS GROUP VOTES TO APPROVE THE AGREEMENT REACHED BETWEEN ATTORNEYS REPRESENTING CONCERNED CITIZENS AND THE CITY OF BIG SPRING. IN A NUT SHELL, THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL SCORED A VICTORY. IT ALL PLAYED OUT IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT BEFORE JUDGE ROBERT MOORE III MONDAY AFTERNOON. THE LAWSUIT CENTERED AROUND AN EMERGENCY CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 6TH OF THIS YEAR. DURING THE MEETING, WHICH THE CITY SAID WAS PRIMARILY DUE TO A BUDGET FINANCIAL EMERGENCY REGARDING A MISCALCULATION BY THE APPRAISAL DISTRICT, THE CITY ALSO VOTED TO INVALIDATE A PETITION BY THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL CALLING FOR A ROLLBACK ELECTION ON THE TAX RATE SET BY COUNCIL IN SEPTEMBER. IN THEIR LAWSUIT THE CONCERNED CITIZENS STATED THE INVALIDATION OF THEIR PETITION ITSELF WAS INVALID AS THE EMERGENCY CITY COUNCIL MEETING WAS NOT LEGAL ACCORDING TO THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT. THE CONCERNED CITIZENS HAVE ALSO WANTED A ROLLBACK ELECTION TO OCCUR SINCE THE PETITION WAS NEVER PROPERLY INVALIDATED WITHIN THE 20 DAY TIME FRAME.
AFTER HEARING BOTH SIDES, JUDGE MOORE STATED THAT THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT WAS INDEED VIOLATED BY THE CITY. THE OTHER REMAINING QUESTION WAS THE ROLLBACK ELECTION. WITHOUT GETTING TOO COMPLEX HERE, THE ARGUMENT WAS WHETHER OR NOT THE ROLLBACK ISSUE COULD EVEN BE MET, SINCE THERE HAVE BEEN TWO RECENT DOWNGRADES OF THE CITY'S REVENUES BECAUSE OF MISCALCULATIONS OF PROPERTIES BY THE APPRAISAL DISTRICT. ANY ELECTION NOW CALLING FOR THE ROLLBACK RATE WOULD ACTUALLY BE ASKING CITIZENS TO VOTE FOR A TAX INCREASE INSTEAD OF A TAX DECREASE AS ORIGINALLY DESIRED BY THE CONCERNED CITIZENS, AT LEAST ACCORDING TO ONE ARGUMENT IN COURT MONDAY. NEEDLESS TO SAY, THIS ISSUE WAS VERY CONFUSING FOR ALL PARTIES.
WHEN ALL WAS SAID AND DONE, JUDGE MOORE ASKED ATTORNEYS FOR BOTH SIDES AND THEIR CLIENTS TO CONSULT AND COME TO SOME SORT OF AGREEMENT. JUST BEFORE 5 O'CLOCK THE AGREEMENT REACHED HAS THE CITY PAYING $7,000 FOR ATTORNEY FEES, $328 FOR COURT COSTS, AND MAKING A $5,000 DONATION TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION FOUNDATION. IN TURN THE CONCERNED CITIZENS AGREE NOT TO CHALLENGE THE CITY TAX RATE UNLESS THE CITY ELECTS TO RAISE IT ABOVE THE CURRENT RATE. THE ROLLBACK ELECTION PETITION IS OFFICIALLY VALID, BUT THE ELECTION WILL NOT BE PURSUED AT THIS TIME.
BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATE DEBATE PLANNED SOME LOCAL RESIDENTS ARE ORGANIZING A DEBATE FOR BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATES THAT IS SCHEDULED TO OCCUR APRIL 22ND, 5 TO 7 PM, AT THE HOWARD COLLEGE CACTUS ROOM. THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO ATTEND. IT IS OUR UNDERSTANDING THAT TENTATIVELY ALL FOUR BIG SPRING MAYORAL CANDIDATES PLAN TO PARTICIPATE, BUT DETAILS ARE STILL BEING WORKED OUT. ORGANIZER DANA BAKER TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THEY PLAN ON A TRUE DEBATE-STYLE EVENING BETWEEN THE CANDIDATES WITH QUESTIONS PRESENTED TO EACH CANDIDATE BY A MODERATOR AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR REBUTTALS. THE DEBATE EVENT IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, BUT THE CHAMBER DOES PLAN TO HOLD ITS TRADITIONAL CANDIDATE “FORUM” WITH ALL OF THE CANDIDATES FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS INVITED. A DATE HAS YET TO BE ANNOUNCED FOR THE CHAMBER FORUM, BUT THEY WILL SOON BE SENDING OUT INVITATIONS TO ALL CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES IN HOWARD COUNTY, AND THE CHAMBER PLANS TO HOLD THE FORUM BEFORE EARLY VOTING BEGINS APRIL 26TH. UNLIKE THE PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED DEBATE, THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CANDIDATE FORUM WILL ALLOW CANIDATES TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES AND THEIR OPINIONS ON ISSUES, BUT THERE WILL BE NO CANDIDATE-TO-CANDIDATE ENGAGEMENT. WE’LL HAVE MORE ON BOTH OF THESE EVENTS IN THE NEAR FUTURE AS DETAILS ARE WORKED OUT AND ANNOUNCED.
Census 2010 Deadline Approaching Quickly
(Undated) -- Only 12-percent of Texas households have mailed back the 2010 Census form, compared to 20-percent across the country. The Census Bureau reported late last week that counties in the Valley fare the worst, with less than a four-percent return rate. Carson County in the Texas Panhandle had a 36-percent return rate. A Brookings Institution report shows that the state of Texas can expect to bring in more than 12-thousand-dollars in the next ten years for every Texan that's counted in the Census, so for every Texan missed, the state will miss out on critical funding for transportation, agriculture, health, housing and education. All of the information on the Census form is confidential and cannot be turned over to any other government agency. April first is the Census deadline, and Texans are urged to fill out the form and drop it in the mail. Beginning in mid-April, households that have not returned their form will be visited by an official Census enumerator to ensure a complete and accurate count.
Combs Commends Texas PTA For Work Combating Childhood Obesity
(Austin, TX) -- Texas Comptroller Susan Combs is commending Texas PTA for teaching children healthy habits and educating parents about health problems associated with childhood obesity. Texas PTA has a history of supporting improved school nutrition and efforts to reduce childhood obesity. The organization promoted healthy lifestyles through increased physical education and activity in Texas schools and sought rigorous implementation of the Texas Public School Nutrition Policy during the 81st legislative session. Combs says research shows healthy eating habits can improve attendance, energy levels, classroom participation, school behavior, test scores and academic success. She adds because good health is linked to learning ability, the state must ensure that tomorrow's adults develop healthy minds and bodies by eating nutritious food and engaging in physical activity.
Monday March 29 HOOPS, DREAMS AND GOALS THE 6TH ANNUAL “HOOPS, DREAMS AND GOALS” WAS ANOTHER HUGE EVENT IN THE COMMUNITY AND ALL OF THE NOISE AND FUN ROCKED THE ENTIRE DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM FRIDAY. MORE TEAMS, LOUDER CHEER SQUADS AND BIGGER ENTHUSIASM MADE THIS YEAR’S EVENT ANOTHER MEMORABLE ONE. WEST TEXAS CENTERS FOR MHMR STARTED THE IDEA SIX YEARS AGO, AND HOOPS, DREAMS AND GOALS HAS GROWN EVER SINCE. “HOOPS” GETS A LOT OF SUPPORT FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AS WELL. BIG SPRING MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN WAS ON HAND TO ADDRESS THE CROWD AND READ A PROCLAMATION TO KICK OFF THE EVENT. WE SPOKE WITH MAYOR MCEWEN, WHO SAYS HE’S INSPIRED EACH YEAR AND HONORED TO BE A PART OF THIS SPECIAL PROGRAM. MAYOR MCEWEN WAS JOINED BY OTHER HONORARY DIGNITARIES INCLUDING STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOE HEFLIN AND HOWARD COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR. KBST RADIO IS ALSO A PROUD CO-SPONSOR OF THE 6TH ANNUAL “HOOP, DREAMS AND GOALS”.
NEUGEBAUER: JAPAN MUST INCREASE ACCESS TO U.S. BEEF Washington, DC - Congressman Randy Neugebauer issued the following statement today after signing on as a sponsor of H. Res. 1196, a resolution expressing support for increased access for U.S. beef exports to Japan: “Texas leads the nation in cattle production, and in the 19th District, the cattle industry is at the core of the agriculture economy. U.S. beef is the safest in the world, and the restrictions Japan has placed on our beef exports are not based on science. “Texas beef producers would benefit from increasing beef trade with Japan. I urge my colleagues here in Congress to get behind this resolution to send Japan a strong message in support of expanding access for U.S. beef.” Dave Scott, rancher and president of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) said, “The long-time trade ban on U.S. beef by Japan is inexcusable. They continue to base their decision on flawed science and are violating international trade guidelines. Ranchers across the country work hard every day to ensure domestic and foreign consumers have safe, healthy and affordable beef.” Congressman Neugebauer is a member of the House Agriculture Committee and the Ranking Republican Member of the Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Subcommittee.
Friday March 26 Texas Death Row Inmate Granted Stay Of Execution
(Huntsville, TX) -- A Texas death row inmate set to die by lethal injection Wednesday night received a stay of execution. Texas Department of Criminal Justice spokesperson Michelle Lyons says the U.S. Supreme Court granted Henry Skinner a stay about 5:00 p.m. Central Time, one hour before he was scheduled to be executed. Skinner said that he was surprised by the decision adding quote, "I had made up my mind I was going to die." Skinner was sentenced to death for strangling his girlfriend Twila Busby and then beating her on the head with an ax handle at the home they shared in the Texas Panhandle back in December 1993. He also fatally stabbed her two mentally-retarded adult sons. His execution would have marked the fifth in the state of Texas this year.
Teen Falls From School Roof Top To Death
(El Paso, TX) -- El Paso police are investigating the death of a teenager who apparently fell from the roof of a middle school Wednesday morning. Police arrived at Bassett Middle School shortly before 7:00 a.m. and discovered 19-year-old George Springer dead on the ground with head trauma. Police found evidence that placed Springer on the roof top of the middle school, and his injuries were consistent with the fall. His body was discovered in a driveway that separates the middle school from Clendenin Elementary. Police say there were no signs of foul play.
Texas Unemployment Rate Holds Steady In February
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Workforce Commission reports that the state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate head steady at eight-point-two-percent in February. That number was unchanged from eight-point-two-percent in January 2010 and continued the trend of being well below the U.S. seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for February of nine-point-seven-percent. The Texas Civilian Labor Force grew by 40-thousand-200 workers in February and is now at more than 12-point-one-million workers. Total nonagricultural employment in Texas decreased by 13-thousand positions in February, with the bulk of that coming from Utilities, Construction and Leisure and Hospitality. Several industries added jobs including Professional and Business Services, Manufacturing, Mining and Logging.
LOTS TO DO IN OUR COMMUNITY THIS WEEKEND THERE’S A LOT GOING ON THIS WEEKEND IN BIG SPRING. HERE’S A BASIC REVIEW OF JUST A FEW OF THE EVENTS YOU’RE INVITED TO ATTEND: THE 6TH ANNUAL “HOOPS, DREAMS AND GOALS” FRIDAY AT DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM GREGG STREET “BLOCK PARTY” CELEBRATION SATURDAY ALL ALONG GREGG STREET BIG SPRING SYMPHONY AND GUEST PAUL WILLIAMS SATURDAY NIGHT AT DOROTHY GARRETT THE UNITED WAY GOLF TOURNAMENT SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AT BIG SPRING COUNTRY CLUB AMBUCS RATTLESNAKE ROUNDUP THIS WEEKEND AT THE HOW. CO. FAIR BARNS
TWO ELECTIONS NEARING THERE ARE TWO ELECTIONS NEARING ON THE CALENDAR, ONE OF THEM A RUNOFF FROM THE MOST RECENT PRIMARY ELECTIONS. EARLY VOTING FOR THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF BEGINS APRIL 5TH AND JUST RUNS ONE WORK WEEK, ENDING APRIL 9TH. THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF ELECTION ONLY HAS ONE LOCAL RACE. REPUBLICANS JERRY KILGORE AND DONNIE BAKER FACE OFF FOR THEIR PARTY NOMINATION FOR HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2. THEY WERE THE TOP TWO VOTER GETTERS IN A THREE PERSON PRIMARY RACE ON THE REPUBLICAN SIDE EARLIER THIS MONTH. THE FINAL REPUBLICAN NOMINEE WINNER WILL GO ON TO THE NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION AND FACE THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2, JIM SINCLAIR. ONCE AGAIN, EARLY VOTING FOR THE APRIL 13TH RUNOFF BEGINS APRIL 5TH AND TAKES PLACE AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE. FOLLOWING THE RUNOFF ELECTION, THERE’S THE MAY 8TH ELECTION WHICH WILL FEATURE LOCAL CITY COUNCIL, SCHOOL BOARDS AND BOND ISSUES. EARLY VOTING FOR MAY 8TH ELECTIONS WILL START APRIL 26TH AND RUN THROUGH MAY 4TH.
SETTLES WINDOWS PART 2 WE CONTINUE OUR INTERVIEW WITH THE HOTEL SETTLES PROJECT GENERAL MANAGER KRIS RYAN. AS WE SAID EARLIER, THE INSTALLATION OF THE HISTORIC WINDOWS BEGAN THIS WEEK AT THE SETTLES, A MILESTONE AS THE RENOVATION OF THE HISTORIC HOTEL REALLY STARTS TO GET UNDERWAY. RYAN SAYS THAT MUCH OF THE CONTRACT WORK WILL BEGIN SOON AFTER THE WINDOWS MAKE THE BUILDING “WEATHER-PROOFED”, SUCH AS DRY WALL, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING AND MECHANICAL. KRIS ALSO SAYS THAT HE, HIS BROTHER BRINT, AND OTHERS IN THE BIG SPRING COMMUNITY ARE REALLY GETTING EXCITED AS THE THREE YEAR EFFORT TO REACH THIS POINT IS FINALLY PAYING OFF. IN PREVIOUS INTERVIEWS, KRIS RYAN HAS SAID THE FIRST THREE FLOORS WILL BE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGE IN THIS OVERALL PROJECT DUE TO ALL OF THE HISTORIC RESTORATION THAT WILL GO ON THERE.
Thursday March 25 Cornyn Leads Effort To Request Judiciary Committee Hearing On Rising Border Violence
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, Ranking Member on the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Immigration, Refugees and Border Security Subcommittee, today wrote to Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., requesting a committee hearing as soon as possible to investigate the rising violence along our southern border, especially in light of the recent murders of two U.S. citizens with ties to the American Consulate in Ciudad Juarez. Sen. Cornyn’s letter was signed by fellow members of the Judiciary Committee, Sens. Orrin Hatch, Jeff Sessions, Lindsey Graham, Chuck Grassley, Jon Kyl, and Tom Coburn. Today’s letter comes as senior Administration officials meet to discuss the situation with Mexican officials in Mexico City.
Of the meeting in Mexico City, Sen. Cornyn said, “I’m glad to see the President and his Administration acknowledge that the cartel violence along the border represents a real security concern for the United States and have reached out to our friends in Mexico to hear how we can continue to coordinate our efforts to address this issue. We must also do more here in the United States to address the ongoing violence in neighboring border towns and adopt a proactive approach that will give immediate resources to state and local law enforcement in affected border communities.”
Sen. Cornyn continued, “I’m hopeful Chairman Leahy will agree to schedule a hearing as soon as possible to help identify the security needs and priorities for our border communities. I also urge the President to accept my invitation to visit the border region with me to hear firsthand from state and local officials who deal directly with these security challenges on a daily basis.”
Even Spending Is Bigger In Texas
(Undated) -- Big spenders like Texas. A new report by social money tracking website Bundle.com shows Austin, Texas, is the biggest city in consumer spending. Researchers took rent and mortgage out of the equation and determined the average resident there spends more than 67-thousand dollars a year on things like gas, shopping, travel and dining out. That's 77-percent higher than the national average of 37-thousand-782 dollars. Detroit is the lowest-spending city and the study indicates the recession forced locals there to really clamp down on the household budget.
Scottsdale, Arizona, took second place among the highest-spending cities, while New York City and Los Angeles didn't even make the top 25 after rent and mortgage was subtracted.
LANE BOND - BIG SPRING STATE HOSPITAL’S VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
BIG SPRING - Big Spring State Hospital’s Volunteer Services Council named Lane Bond as “Volunteer of the Month” for March. Bond began volunteering at Big Spring State Hospital in March 2005. He has logged 139 hours in that time.
He serves on the Volunteer Services Council Board; has participated in Denim & Diamonds; Cars, Stars & Handlebars; sings for our Valentines Day singing telegram fundraisers; and eagerly helps serve ice cream floats at the annual patient Summer Fun Day.
Bond also serves as the council’s personal photographer. He graciously takes countless photographs at many of the volunteers’ different activities.
NEW “OLD” WINDOWS BEING INSTALLED IN SETTLES AS PART OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE HISTORICAL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION OF THE SETTLES HOTEL, PROJECT OFFICIALS ARE INSTALLING HISTORIC WINDOWS INTO THE HOTEL, MANY OF THEM REFURBISHED ORIGINALS FROM THE HOTEL’S EARLIER DAYS. SETTLES PROJECT GENERAL MANAGER KRIS RYAN TELLS KBST NEWS THAT CREWS BEGAN INSTALLATION OF THE FIRST OF THE HISTORIC WINDOWS WEDNESDAY. OVERALL ACTIVITY AT THE SETTLES SITE HAS REALLY PICKED UP SINCE THE FIRST PART OF MARCH. COMPLETION OF THE SETTLES HOTEL RENOVATION IS STILL PROJECTED FOR SPRING 2011.
WEDNESDAY GRASS FIRE THREATENS HOMES
A 20 ACRE GRASS FIRE NORTH OF BIG SPRING WEDNESDAY COULD HAVE BEEN A LOT WORSE. THE AFTERNOON FIRE BEGAN WHEN WINDS AND SOMEONE BURNING TRASH MADE FOR A BAD COMBINATION AND SPREAD TO NEARBY BRUSH ON NORTH ANDERSON ROAD, ABOUT TWO MILES NORTH OF BIG SPRING OFF FM 700. HOWARD COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. CHIEF TOMMY SULLIVAN TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THE BLAZE THREATENED EIGHT HOMES IN THE AREA, BUT FIRE FIGHTERS FROM THE BIG SPRING AND HOWARD COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTS WERE ABLE TO KEEP THE FLAMES AT BAY. BUT NOT BEFORE TWO SHEDS WERE CONSUMED. NO ONE WAS HURT. SULLIVAN SAYS EVEN THOUGH WE'VE RECEIVED MOISTURE RECENTLY, THERE'S STILL LOTS OF DRY BRUSH AS FUEL FOR FIRES, SO USE COMMON SENSE WHEN YOU DECIDE TO BURN TRASH IN RURAL AREAS AND ALWAYS CHECK WEATHER CONDITIONS.
Wednesday March 24 CONGRESSMAN STANDS BEHIND BASIS FOR OUTBURST
U-S CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER APPEARED ON FOX NEWS' "HANNITY" TUESDAY NIGHT TO TALK ABOUT HIS CONTROVERSIAL OUTBURST ON THE FLOOR OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WHILE THE HEALTH CARE BILL WAS BEING DEBATED OVER THE WEEKEND. AS YOU'VE HEARD IN NUMEROUS REPORTS OVER THE LAST SEVERAL DAYS, CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER SHOUTED OUT THE PHRASE "IT'S A BABY KILLER" AS MICHIGAN REP. BART STUPAK WAS SPEAKING ABOUT THE BILL. NEUGEBAUER AND OTHERS FEAR THAT EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS AN EXECUTIVE ORDER PROMISED BY THE PRESIDENT AGAINST FEDERALLY FUNDED ABORTIONS IN THE LEGISLATION NOW SIGNED INTO LAW, SOME BELIEVE IT'S A WORTHLESS PROMISE AND THAT STUPAK, A DEMOCRAT AGAINST ABORTION, SOLD OUT HIS VOTE FOR THE HEALTH CARE BILL. NEUGEBAUER HAS SINCE APOLOGIZED FOR THE TONE AND TIMING OF HIS OUTBURST, AND THAT HE DIDN'T MEAN THE STATEMENT AS A PERSONAL ATTACK ON CONGRESSMAN STUPAK. BUT ON "HANNITY" TUESDAY NIGHT, NEUGEBAUER STATED THAT IN NO WAY WAS HE BACKING DOWN IN HIS BELIEF THE HEALTH CARE BILL ENDANGERS THE UNBORN, AND THAT HE IS NOT APOLOGIZING FOR REPRESENTING HIS CONSTITUENTS IN TEXAS' 19TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT.
Texas Joining Other States To Challenge Federal Healthcare Legislation
(Austin, TX) -- Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott is joining other state attorneys general to challenge federal healthcare legislation passed by the U.S. House Sunday night. The Texas Republican says Congress has violated the tenth amendment, which gives the states and individuals powers not delegated to Congress in the Constitution. Abbott says the legislation violates the U.S. Constitution and unconstitutionally infringes upon Texans' individual liberties. Democrats called the legislation a long-overdue overhaul of the nation's complex and costly healthcare system, which they say will guarantee high quality, affordable healthcare coverage for every American.
Austin Ranks Ninth On List Of Cyber Attack Prone Cities
(Austin, TX) -- Austin ranks ninth on a list of U.S. cities most prone to cyber attacks. Internet security company Symantec researched 50 cities, monitoring for cyber attacks that overtake personal computers, viruses, and worms. Symantec's research also shows Austin is more likely to be victimized by cyber attacks because of the city's high per capita Internet usage, as compared to other towns. Seattle, Boston, and Washington, DC are the top three cities most likely to be cyber attacked.
CITY COUNCIL HONORS HAWKS NATIONAL VICTORY
BEFORE GETTING DOWN TO NORMAL BUSINESS, BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY EVENING TOOK A FEW MOMENTS TO HONOR THE NATIONAL CHAMPION HAWKS BASKETBALL TEAM. AFTER SPEAKING A FEW WORDS AND PRESENTING AN OFFICIAL RESOLUTION, MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN ASKED EACH MEMBER OF THE HAWKS TO INTRODUCE THEMSELVES AND TELL WHERE THEIR HOMETOWN IS LOCATED. COACH MARK ADAMS THEN THANKED THE COMMUNITY FOR ALL OF THE SUPPORT.
CITY COUNCIL THEN HEARD A BRIEF REPORT FROM CHAD AVERETT ON THE RECENT AND SUCCESSFUL OFFICIAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT THAT OPENED THE NEW YOUTH SPORTS CENTER. THE EVENT WWENT VERY WELL AND RECEIVED NUMEROUS POSITIVE COMMENTS FROM PARTICIPANTS, ESPECIALLY ABOUT THE NEW FACILITY.
THEN IT WAS TIME FOR CITY BUSINESS. COUNCIL APPROVED THE LOW BID FOR TEN NEW GOLF CARTS FOR THE MUNICIPAL COURSE THAT CAME IN SLIGHTLY LESS THAN WHAT WAS BUDGETED. THE CITY IS PURCHASING DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER, YAMAHA, AND WILL PAY A LITTLE UNDER $35,000 FOR THE TEN CARTS.
COUNCIL APPROVED MOVING THE MAIN BIG SPRING POLLING LOCATION FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTION FROM THE DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM TO THE BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY DUE TO ANOTHER COMMITMENT AT THE COLISEUM.
AS WE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, COUNCIL TUESDAY HAD TO DEAL WITH ANOTHER BUDGET AMENDMENT DUE TO A PROPERTY APPRAISAL ERROR. COUNCIL APPROVED A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO ADJUST FOR A $66,000 REVENUE SHORTFALL BECAUSE OF THE MISCALCULATION. CITY SECRETARY PEGGY WALKER INFORMED CITY COUNCIL THAT TAXABLE PROPERTY VALUES FOR THE CITY HAVE DECLINED FROM AN ORIGINAL $558 MILLION DOWN TO ABOUT $543 MILLION DUE TO THE RECENT TWO APPRAISAL DISTRICT ERRORS.
COUNCIL AGREED TO A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING MORE COMPETITIVE PRICING IN ELECTRIC DELIVERY. PEGGY WALKER SAID TUESDAY THAT THE RESOLUTION, REPRESENTING MEMBER CITIES OF THE ELECTRIC STEERING COMMITTEE, WILL BE SENT TO THE STATE LEGISLATURE. THE RESOLUTION BASICALLY STATES THAT DEREGULATION DID NOT WORK AND THAT SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE TO CREATE A MORE COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT.
MUNICIPAL JUDGE TIM GREEN PRESENTED TO COUNCIL TUESDAY HIS UPDATED REPORT ON THE CITY'S RECENT PARTICIPATION IN A STATE-WIDE WARRANT ROUNDUP. THIS YEAR WAS A SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT OVER LAST YEAR, SAID JUDGE GREEN. OVER A SIX WEEK PERIOD IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH, HIS COURT COLLECTED ABOUT $130,000 FROM 648 WARRANTS THAT WERE CLEARED. LAST YEAR THE NUMBERS WERE AROUND $79,000 WITH 366 WARRANTS CLEARED. CITY COUNCILWOMAN GLORIA MCDONALD ASKED THE JUDGE HOW MUCH OF THAT THE CITY GETS TO KEEP. JUDGE GREEN DIDN'T HAVE AN EXACT FIGURE, BUT SAID EVEN THOUGH MUCH OF THE MONIES GO TO STATE FEES AND TAXES, THE SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF CASH COLLECTED WILL HAVE A POSITIVE LOCAL IMPACT.
Tuesday March 23 COUNTY COMMISSIONERS APPROVE AGREEMENT HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MONDAY APPROVED AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH THE HARRIS COUNTY EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THAT BRINGS HOWARD COUNTY A STEP CLOSER IN REACHING AN AGREEMENT WITH A HOUSTON COMPANY KNOWN AS I.D.I.Q. I.D.I.Q. CONSOLIDATES CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTING SERVICES WHICH CAN MAKE THINGS MORE SIMPLE FOR ENTITIES LIKE HOWARD COUNTY WHEN IT COMES TO CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH THE HARRIS COUNTY EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WAS NECESSARY TO ALLOW HOWARD COUNTY ACCESS TO THE CO-OP WHICH MAKES WORKING WITH I.D.I.Q. POSSIBLE, ACCORDING TO HOWARD COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR. THE ONLY COUNTY CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE IS A WAREHOUSE PLANNED FOR THE COUNTY ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT, AND HOWARD COUNTY MAY TAKE THAT OPPORTUNITY TO SEE WHAT KIND OF ASSISTANCE I.D.I.Q. CAN OFFER. NO MONEY IS BEING SPENT UP FRONT FOR ANY OF THE ACTIONS TAKEN SO FAR, SAY COUNTY OFFICIALS.
HOWARD COLLEGE’S SPARKS AND HANSEN KBST GUESTS BIG SPRING’S HOWARD COLLEGE CONTINUES TO GROW IN MANY WAYS WITH LOTS TO TALK AND BRAG ABOUT. FROM NATIONAL SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS TO GROWING ENROLLMENT AND AN EXPANDING CAMPUS, WE’LL BE DISCUSSING THOSE TOPICS AND MORE AS WE VIST WITH HOWARD COLLEGE PRESIDENT DR. CHERYL SPARKS AND VICE-PRESIDENT TERRY HANSEN DURING OUR “KBST MORNING MAGAZINE” PROGRAM THIS THURSDAY (MAR 25TH). IN HOWARD COLLEGE NEWS FROM THE MONDAY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING: HOWARD COLLEGE IS RENAMING IT OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCES BUILDING AFTER A LONG-TIME TRUSTEE AND COLLEGE SUPPORTER, THE LATE DON MCKINNEY. TRUSTEES MONDAY APPROVED THE NEW NAME AS THE DON MCKINNEY CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER. ALONG THE SAME TOPIC, HOWARD COLLEGE AND LOCAL PUBLIC SCHOOLS IN THE HOWARD COUNTY AREA ARE MOVING CLOSER TO INCREASED VOCATIONAL CAREER TRAINING FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO SERVICE REGIONAL EMPLOYMENT NEEDS IN AREAS LIKE ENERGY. COLLEGE TRUSTEES APPROVED A SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT MONDAY AND OTHER LEGAL DOCUMENTATION THAT MOVES FORWARD THIS CAREER TRAINING EFFORT IN HOWARD COUNTY. HOWARD COLLEGE ENROLLMENT CONTINUES TO GROW, AND ON ALL CAMPUSES. THE GROWTH IS EVEN MORE EVIDENT WHEN YOU LOOK AT INCREASES OVER THE LAST TEN YEARS. BARBARA WALKER REPORTED TO TRUSTEES MONDAY THAT HOWARD COLLEGE’S BIG SPRING CAMPUS ENROLLMENT HAS INCREASED 62% SINCE TEN YEARS AGO, SWCID 36%, LAMESA CAMPUS HAS GROWN 87%.
FIRST Robotics Competition Immerses Students In Science, Technology
(Dallas, TX) -- Governor Rick Perry is emphasizing the importance of science and technology education. Perry says when young people experience first-hand the challenges of problem-solving and the joy of those "eureka" moments, they'll better understand that science and technology aren't just stepping stones to a lucrative career but also provide essential life skills. Perry spoke to more than a thousand students last Friday at the FIRST Robotics Competition in Dallas. The competition immerses students in science and technology through competitions to design, build and program robots using engineering principles and a sports model of teamwork and competition. Perry announced last November a one-million-dollar investment from the Texas Workforce Commission to expand statewide student participation in robotics education programs. He has also proposed a 160-million-dollar initiative to expand the number and scope of Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Math academies and fund STEM scholarships.
NEUGEBAUER STATEMENT ON HEALTH CARE FLOOR DEBATE
“Last night was the climax of weeks and months of debate on a health care bill that my constituents fear and do not support. In the heat and emotion of the debate, I exclaimed the phrase ‘it’s a baby killer’ in reference to the agreement reached by the Democratic leadership. While I remain heartbroken over the passage of this bill and the tragic consequences it will have for the unborn, I deeply regret that my actions were mistakenly interpreted as a direct reference to Congressman Stupak himself. “I have apologized to Mr. Stupak and also apologize to my colleagues for the manner in which I expressed my disappointment about the bill. The House Chamber is a place of decorum and respect. The timing and tone of my comment last night was inappropriate.”
Monday March 22 Hawks Win 2010 NJCAA National Championship - 03/21/2010
If a nail bitin', hand slappin', yahoo yellin' game is what you were looking for in the 2010 NJCAA National Championship then the Howard Hawks delivered! In their second come-from-behind win of the tournament, the Howard Hawks are bringing the 2010 NJCAA Mens Basketball National Championship Trophy home to Big Spring! The Hawks defeated a tough Three Rivers College team 85-80 in overtime tonight to claim the title. In the words of Hawk Jae Crowder: "It's a brotherhood - when you come together, it's a great thing for a team and anything can happen," and this Hawk speaks the truth! The Hawk team followed their leader and coach Mark Adams and played with a never die attitude and just willed their way to a win time and time again. After being down 16 points Friday night in the tournament semi-finals with under 4 minutes left and then trailing tonight for most of the final game, the Hawks showed their character, discipline and fierce desire to win. They pulled together in true brotherhood fashion and found a way to win both games to take the championship they most certainly deserved. As the guys would say, they have most definitely "Earned The Right To Win" through their hard work and discipline.
Jae Crowder was named to the All Tournament Team after an amazing consistent performance and Josh Watkins was named as the 2010 William E. French Most Valuable Player of the tournament for his game changing performances for the Hawks all week long. Both players, so deserving of individual recognition, would be the first to say that it takes a team to win a championship and would share their awards with their team. Coach Mark Adams was also recognized as coach of the tournament after exhibiting his true leadership - keeping his team focused on the goal at hand. He coached them to victory all week long, helping them capture the dream even as they stared defeat square in the face on more than one occasion!
COMMISSIONERS TO CONSIDER CONTRUCTION AGREEMENT HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MONDAY WILL CONSIDER AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH HARRIS COUNTY’S EDUCATION DEPARTMENT. THE MOVE WOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH EDUCATION AND EVERYTHING TO DO WITH SIMPLIFYING HOWARD COUNTY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN THE FUTURE. BY APPROVING THE INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT, WHICH COSTS NOTHING, IT WILL ALLOW HOWARD COUNTY TO MOVE A STEP CLOSER IN OBTAINING AN AGREEMENT WITH A COMPANY KNOWN AS I.D.I.Q., BASED OUT OF HOUSTON. KBST RECENTLY REPORTED THAT REPRESENTATIVES OF I.D.I.Q. MADE A LENGTHY PRESENTATION TO HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO PROMOTE THEIR CONSTRACTING SERVICES ON CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. HOWARD COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR HAS PREVIOUSLY STATED THAT WORKING OUT AN AGREEMENT WITH SUCH A COMPANY COULD SIMPLIFY AND POSSIBLY REDUCE COSTS FOR FUTURE COUNTY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. HOWARD COUNTY HAS NOTHING MAJOR IN THE WORKS AT THIS TIME, BUT IS PLANNING TO BUILD A NEW WAREHOUSE FOR THE COUNTY ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT IN THE NEAR FUTURE. THE COUNTY MAY USE THAT OPPORTUNITY TO TEST OUT HOW THE I.D.I.Q. COMPANY OPERATES. COMMISSIONERS MEET MONDAY AT 10 AM, THIRD FLOOR OF THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE.
Friday March 19 Jury Finds Polygamist Sect Defendant Guilty
(Eldorado, TX) -- A member of the FLDS polygamist compound in west Texas has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a child. A jury convicted Merril Leroy Jessop Wednesday and also ruled that he violated Texas laws that prohibit bigamy. Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott says Jessop's trial now proceeds to the penalty phase. The state removed more than 400 children from the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints' Yearning for Zion ranch back in April 2008 after allegations that the kids were being physically and sexually abused. The children were returned to their families two months later following a Texas Supreme Court ruling. A total of 12 YFZ ranch-related suspects have been indicted for sexual assault of a child, bigamy or other charges in connection with a raid at the compound in Eldorado, Texas.
NEUGEBAUER COMMENTS ON PENDING HEALTH BILL REPUBLICANS ON CAPITAL HILL ARE DOING EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO STOP IT, BUT VIGOROUS EFFORTS CONTINUE BY DEMOCRATS IN CONGRESS AN D THE WHITE HOUSE TO PUSH THROUGH A HEALTH CARE BILL. AT THE TIME OF OUR THURSDAY REPORT AND INTERVIEW WITH CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER, IT APPEARED A VOTE MIGHT TAKE PLACE ON SUNDAY THIS WEEKEND. KBST SPOKE WITH THE CONGRESSMAN ABOUT THE COMPLEX AND CONTROVERSIAL PROCEDURES BEING USED TO GET THIS BILL PASSED. NEUGEBAUER SAYS HE AND MANY OTHERS ARE UNCOMFORTABLE WITH THE PROCESS, AND EVEN QUESTION ITS CONSTITUTIONALITY AT TIMES. CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER SAYS IF BY CHANCE THE HEALTH CARE BILL FAILS, MANY OF THE HEALTH REFORM ISSUES THAT THAVE BEEN DISCUSSED SHOULD BE ADDRESSED IN A NEW APPROACH, BUT IN A TOTALLY DIFFERENT MANNER THAN THIS CURRENT BILL PROPOSES, AND HE IS WILLING TO SIT DOWN AT THE TABLE AND WORK ON THOSE ISSUES. CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER SPOKE WITH US JUST OFF THE FLOOR OF CONGRESS WHERE HE SAYS IT HAS BEEN “QUITE HECTIC LATELY” AND IS SURELY EXPECTED TO BECOME EVEN MORE SO AS THIS PROCESS GOES INTO THE WEEKEND AS PROJECTED.
Thursday March 18 MARTIN COUNTY HOSPITAL BOND ON MAY BALLOT MAY 8TH WILL INCLUDE MORE THAN JUST CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES, THERE’S A COUPLE OF BOND ISSUES ALSO UP FOR SOME VOTERS TO DECIDE UPON. WE’VE MENTIONED THE $60 MILLION BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT BOND ISSUE THAT WILL BE ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT, BUT MARTIN OUNTY WILL ALSO HAVE A BOND ISSUE FOR IT’S HOSPITAL. THE $23 MILLION BOND ISSUE, IF APPROVED, WOULD PAY FOR A NEW 18 BED PRIVATE ROOM HOSPITAL THAT WOULD ALSO CONSOLIDATE SEVERAL MEDICAL SERVICES CURRENTLY SCATTERED AROUND STANTON. THE CURRENT HOSPITAL WAS BUILT IN 1949. THE SITE FOR THE NEW FACILITY IS PROPOSED ALONG I-20, NEAR THE NEW HOTEL IN STANTON. SUPPORTERS OF THE NEW MARTIN COUNTY HOSPITAL BOND PLAN PUBLIC FORUMS IN THE FUTURE IN STANTON, ACKERLY AND LENORAH, TO ANSWER VOTER QUESTIONS.
Rep. Heflin Meeting to Address Feral Hog Concerns
(Austin, TX - March 16, 2010) - Today State Representative Joe Heflin announced that he will meet with the Texas House Committee on Agriculture and Livestock concerning the feral hog population and its impact on agriculture and livestock operations. Concerned citizens are encouraged to attend and present testimony at the meeting on Wednesday, March 24, at 10 a.m., at the State Capitol.
Rep. Heflin said, “Feral hogs are an expensive and time-consuming problem for our farmers and ranchers. Fortunately, House Speaker Joe Straus has recognized that we need to address the issue and has asked our committee to work on ways to solve the problem when the Legislature convenes again in January.”
At the March 24 meeting the Committee will hear invited and public testimony on efforts to manage the feral hog population and to mitigate the damage they cause to livestock and agriculture operations. Public testimony will be limited to five minutes per witness.
Rep. Heflin encourages his constituents to attend the meeting and present testimony if they would like to do so. Alternatively, he said, constituents may write to him or call his office with their concerns, comments, and suggestions.
Rep. Heflin represents Texas House District 85, including Borden, Crosby, Fisher, Floyd, Garza, Glasscock, Hale, Howard, Jones, Kent, Lynn, Irion, Reagan, Sterling, Stonewall, and Terry Counties.
LOCAL MINISTER CONTINUES AWARENESS EFFORT BIG SPRING PASTOR KEN MCINTOSH CONTINUES HIS EFFORTS TO RAISE FUNDING FOR DRUG EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR LOCAL YOUTH. KEN IS PICKING UP TRASH, AND AS MUCH TRASH AS HE CAN BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF THE DAY THURSDAY. HE BEGAN TUESDAY. CALL KBST RADIO WITH YOUR PLEDGE AT 263-3095. KEN HAS BEEN CLEANING VARIOUS AREAS AROUND TOWN, BUT IF YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR AREA YOU’D LIKE HIM TO COME AND CLEAN UP, LIKE A VACANT LOT, HE’LL GLADLY ACCEPT YOUR PLEDGE OR CASH DONATION AND COME TO YOU. KEN HAS BEEN HARD AT IT SINCE TUESDAY, AND IS PICKING UP TRASH AT A RATE OF AROUND THREE BIG BAGS PER HOUR. YOU CAN PLEDGE BY THE BAG OR MAKE ANY SIZE OF DONATION. ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO A SPECIAL FUND ESTABLISHED THROUGH THE BIG SPRING AREA FOUNDATION AND MONIES WILL GO TO YOUTH DRUG PREVENTION AND EDUCATION IN OUR COMMUNITY.
Homeland Security Pulls "Virtual Fence" Funding
(Washington, DC) -- Funding for a "virtual fence" between the U.S. and Mexico is being pulled by the Department of Homeland Security. Secretary Janet Napolitano said 50-million-dollars is being taken away from the program, which was to put radar, sensors, video cameras and other devices along the border. The SBInet program will undergo further review as a result. Napolitano said the money, which had come from President Obama's massive economic stimulus, will be put toward other border security projects. SBInet started in 2006 but had been plagued by missed deadlines, higher than expected costs and technical issues. Senator John McCain of Arizona, who has championed immigration reform, welcomed the move. In a statement, the former Republican presidential nominee said he is pleased Napolitano will put the money to technology already available to secure the border from illegal immigrants.
Significant Cocaine Seizure At Texas-Mexico Border
(Laredo, TX) -- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers are investigating a significant cocaine seizure at the Texas-Mexico border. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted about two-million-dollars worth of cocaine last weekend at the Lincoln-Juarez International Bridge in Laredo. Officers referred a northbound van driven by a 36-year-old Mexican citizen for a secondary inspection on Saturday. A CBP canine alerted to the drugs, and officers discovered 61 pounds of cocaine in the fuel tank. Port Director Gene Garza says the significant seizure further shows the officers' commitment to keeping borders secure and drugs off the street.
BIG SPRING E.D.C. SAYS “YES” TO FIBER OPTIC PLANS ALTHOUGH IT ALL HINGES ON A LARGER OVERALL PROJECT, THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC BOARD OF DIRECTORS THURSDAY VOTED “YES” TO SUPPORT A FIBER OPTIC BUILD OUT IN THE FUTURE IN HOWARD COUNTY. THE REQUEST WAS MADE THROUGH LOCAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY WEST TEX TELECOMMUNICATIONS. ACCORDING TO BIG SPRING E.D.C. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TERRY WEGMAN, THE BOARD APPROVED ITS SHARE OF LOCAL MATCHING FUNDS SHOULD A REGION 18 EFFORT TO SECURE ABOUT $20 MILLION PROVE SUCCESSFUL. A RURAL EDUCATORS CO-OP WITHIN REGION 18, THE AREA PUBLIC EDUCATION ORGANIZATION HUB, IS SEEKING THE $20 MIL IN GRANTS TO INCREASE THE AVAILABILITY OF HIGH SPEED FIBER OPTIC COMMUNICATION ACCESS IN THIS AREA. HOWARD COUNTY’S SHARE OF A 70/30 MATCHING FUNDS AGREEMENT IS ABOUT $140,000, AND BIG SPRING E.D.C. VOTED TO APPROVE ITS SHARE OF ABOUT $41,000. IT’S A COMPLICATED PROCESS TO EXPLAIN COMPLETELY HERE, BUT BASICALLY, IF THE GRANT MONIES COME THROUGH AND THE E.D.C. MATCHING FUNDS ARE APPLIED, THE E.D.C. FUNDS WILL BE TREATED AS A LOAN AND PAID BACK. WHETHER OR NOT THE LARGER $20 MILLION IN GRANT MONIES ARE APPROVED WILL BE KNOWN LATE THIS YEAR.
Thousands Attend South By Southwest
(Austin, TX) -- In Austin this week, thousands of people are attending the South By Southwest Conference and Festivals. The 24th annual event at the Austin Convention Center is a huge festival featuring original music, independent films and new technologies. The music portion of the festival starting today, features over two-thousand performers on 80 stages in downtown Austin. South By Southwest also includes many panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities for everyone in or associated with the music industry.
Wednesday March 17 STORM DRAIN ON GOLIAD CAUSES PROBLEMS
WET CONDITIONS MAY HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO A STORM DRAIN WALL FAILING AND CAUSING SOME INCONVENIENCES FOR MOTORISTS UNTIL IT IS REPAIRED. THE SITUATION BEGAN WITH AN INCIDENT TUESDAY MORNING WHILE A TRUCK WAS STOPPED AT THE INTERSECTION OF GOLIAD AND 11TH. THE TRUCK WAS PARKED WITH THE STORM DRAIN UNDERNEATH, AND THE STORM DRAIN WALL THEN FAILED, LEAVING THE TRUCK TEMPORARILY STUCK. NO ONE WAS INJURED. THE CITY WILL CLOSE OFF GOLIAD FROM 11TH TO 12TH STREETS UNTIL THE REPAIR CAN BE MADE. CITY OFFICIALS SAY IT SHOULD RE-OPEN TO NORMAL TRAFFIC FLOW BY MONDAY.
STANTON MAN FOUND "NOT GUILTY"
FOR THE SECOND TIME IN TWO WEEKS, THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE HAS LOST A SEXUAL ASSAULT CASE AT TRIAL. THIS TIME THE CASE WAS IN MARTIN COUNTY. IN A TRIAL THAT GOT UNDERWAY THE SAME DAY, THE JURY CAME BACK TUESDAY AFTERNOON WITH A "NOT GUILTY" VERDICT FOR 41 YEAR OLD MATILDE CORTEZ, JR., IN A SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A CHILD CASE DATING BACK TO NOVEMBER 2006. ASST. DISTRICT ATTORNEY ROBIN ORR TRIED THE CASE FOR THE STATE.
Tuesday March 16 SBOE Adopts New Social Studies Curriculum
(Austin, TX) -- The State Board of Education will consider more updates and final adoption of new social studies curriculum standards in May. The board voted ten-to-five Friday to approve the new textbooks after considering about 300 amendments. Texas Education Agency officials say the wide-ranging debate over what should be taught in history classes covered everything from non-controversial items to heavily discussed topics including how the history of the Alamo should be taught and whether hip hop should be discussed in classrooms. The people who died at the Alamo will be discussed in seventh grade Texas history classes, but hip hop will not be part of the official curriculum standards. The public will have a chance to review the extensive revisions online next month and make comments or suggestions about the proposed curriculum
STORY CORRECTION IN FEBRUARY KBST RAN A STORY ABOUT THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL AND OUR INFORMATION INCLUDED A STATEMENT THAT READ “…CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL, A LOCAL GROUP THAT HAS FILED LAWSUITS AGAINST THE CITY ON PREVIOUS OCCASIONS…” . THIS WAS AN INCORRECT STATEMENT AND WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE WRONG INFORMATION.
South By Southwest Kicks Off In Austin This Week
(Austin, TX) -- The city of Austin is gearing up for the South by Southwest music festival. The event kicks off this Wednesday, and the city will be shutting down roads in the downtown area, centered around the Sixth Street entertainment district. City officials say a number of private parties and events in the downtown core and just east of I-35 may also create additional traffic delays. Austin enjoyed an economic boost of about 100-million-dollars from the 175-thousand South by Southwest participants in 2009. City officials say because of the expected turnout and decreased street parking options, anyone heading downtown is encouraged to share rides, bike or use public transit if at all possible. Capital Metro will run six Night Owl routes until 3:00 a.m. during the music festival.
OPERATION “TRASH DRUGS” GETS UNDERWAY LOCAL PASTOR KEN MCINTOSH OF BIG SPRING’S FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH IS TAKING OUT THE TRASH. ACTUALLY, HE’S PICKING IT UP…FOR 24 HOURS! MCINTOSH IS SEEING JUST HOW MUCH TRASH HE CAN PICK UP IN OUR COMMUNITY ON TUESDAY, WEDNESADAY AND THURSDAY, MARCH 16TH, 17TH AND 18TH, 8 HOURS EACH DAY. BEAUTIFICATION IS OF COURSE IMPORTANT, BUT HE IS ALSO RAISING AWARENESS OF TEEN DRUG USE AND THE PREVENTION OF IT. KEN IS ALSO TAKING PLEDGES AND DONATIONS FOR A SPECIAL FUND HE HAS HELPED ESTABLISH THAT WILL GO TOWARD LOCAL TEEN DRUG PREVENTION AND EDUCATION IN OUR SCHOOLS. SHOW KEN MCINTOSH YOUR SUPPORT THIS WEEK BY PLEDGING OR MAKING A MONETARY DONATION. PLEDGE FORMS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY, OR CALL KBST RADIO AT 267-6391 OF 263-3095 TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY OR THURSDAY. YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE ABOUT KEN MCENTOSH’S “OPERATION BIG SPRING CLEAN UP FOR DRUG AWARENESS” BY CALLING FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH AT 517-4821.
BIG SPRING E.D.C. TO CONSIDER BUSINESS LOAN THE BIG SPRING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. MEETS TUESDAY AND WILL CONSIDER A LOAN TO A LOCAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANY AS PART OF THE MEETING AGENDA. THE BOARD WILL VOTE ON WHETHER OR NOT TO GIVE A LOAN TO WEST TEX TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOR “THE INFRASTRUCTURE BUILD OUT OF A FIBER OPTIC NETWORK FOR HOWARD COUNTY”. THE TUESDAY MEETING AGENDA DOES NOT SPECIFY A LOAN AMOUNT. THE E.D.C. BOARD WILL ALSO CONSIDER AN ADDENDUM TO THE HOWARD COLLEGE CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE GRANT MADE LAST YEAR. THE BIG SPRING E.D.C. MEETS TUESDAY AT 5:15 PM IN THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD ROOM.
TRIAL BEGINS SEX ASSAULT CASE JURY SELECTION WAS COMPLETED MONDAY IN THE SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A CHILD CASE IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT FOR 40 YEAR OLD MATILDE CORTEZ, JR. MR. CORTEZ IS CHARGED IN THE ASSAULT THAT TOOK PLACE IN NOVEMBER OF 2006. THE TRAIL WILL BEGIN TUESDAY AND IS TAKING PLACE IN STANTON. THE CASE IS BEING PROSECUTED BY ASST. DISTRICT ATTORNEY ROBIN ORR. IF FOUND GUILTY THE DEFENDANT COULD GET UP TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON AND A $10,000 FINE. HE IS ACCUSED OF HAVING SEX WITH A PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF 17.
Monday March 15 CITY COUNCIL DRAWS CHALLENGERS AS WE REPORTED, THE FILING DEADLINE FOR CANDIDATES IN THE MAY 8TH ELECTION WAS THIS PAST MONDAY. THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL RACES ARE BOTH OCCUPIED WITH CHALLENGERS TO THE INCUMBENTS. THE BIG SPRING MAYOR’S RACE HAS DRAWN THE LONGEST LIST OF CONTENDERS AS INCUMBENT MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN HAS FILED FOR ANOTHER TERM, AS HAS LOCAL RESIDENTS OSCAR VALASCO, SHANNON THOMASON AND TOMMY DUNCAN. THE OTHER CITY COUNCIL POSITION UP FOR GRABS MAY 8TH IS CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5. INCUMBENT TROY TOMPKINS HAS FILED FOR ANOTHER TERM AND CRAIG OLSON HAS ALSO FILED FOR THE COUNCIL SEAT.
West Texas Man Sentenced For Failing To Pay Motor Fuel Tax
(Abilene, TX) -- An Abilene man will spend time in prison for trying to avoid paying motor fuel tax. The Texas Comptroller's Office says 51-year-old Tommy Eugene Aaron was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty this month to evading motor fuel tax in Travis County. Aaron was accused of stealing dyed diesel fuel valued at up to 20-thousand-dollars, storing it without a required permit, using it in vehicles driven on the highway and failing to pay tax on it. Dyed diesel is untaxed diesel fuel intended to be used in off-road vehicles such as farm tractors and construction equipment. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs says motor fuels tax is used to build and maintain Texas highways. Combs says her office will continue to pursue tax evaders to the full extent of the law to ensure that revenue for state operations gets collected.
WEEKEND GRASS FIRE THREATENS HOMES
A LARGE GRASS FIRE OVER THE WEEKEND THREATENED NUMEROUS HOMES IN HOWARD COUNTY. FIRE FIGHTERS RESPONDED TO THE BLAZE SATURDAY, ABOUT 9 MILES EAST OF BIG SPRING, NEAR SALEM ROAD. VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. CHIEF TOMMY SULLIVAN TOLD KBST NEWS SATURDAY AFTERNOON THAT THE 170 ACRE GRASS FIRE HAD AT ONE TIME THREATENED ABOUT 50 RESIDENCES IN THE SAND SPRINGS AREA NEAR SALEM ROAD, BUT THEY WERE ABLE TO PREVENT ANY SERIOUS DAMAGE OR INJURY. WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE CALM, SO WINDS WERE NOT A SERIOUS FACTOR IN FIGHTING THE FIRE. THE EXACT CAUSE OF THE GRASS FIRE WAS NOT KNOWN AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT.
HOWARD COLLEGE CHOOSES DORM CONTRACTOR
HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES LAST WEEK CHOSE A CONTRACTOR FOR THE RENOVATION OF THE MEN’S AND WOMEN’S DORMS ON THE BIG SPRING CAMPUS. THE SELECTION TOOK PLACE DURING A SPECIAL MEETING FRIDAY. R.B.R. CONSTRUCTION OUT OF WEATHERFORD, TX WAS SELECTED OUT OF SEVERAL BIDS SUBMITTED. NOW THAT THE CONTRACTOR IS IN PLACE, COLLEGE OFFICIALS HOPE TO GET THE RENOVATION OF THE DORMS UNDERWAY AND COMPLETED DURING THE SUMMER BREAK, WHICH WILL BE A CHALLENGE ALL ITS OWN. THE COLLEGE WANTS TO COMPRESS ABOUT 6 MONTHS WORTH OF WORK INTO 3 MONTHS. THE $3.5 MILLION PROJECT IS BEING PAID FOR MY A REVENUE BOND, OR BASICALLY DORM USER FEES.
Friday March 12 MISSOURI MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED HERE BIG SPRING POLICE, HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPUTIES AND THE U-S MARSHAL’S OFFICE LOCATED AND ARRESTED A MURDER SUSPECT IN BIG SPRING THURSDAY. THE SUSPECT IS WANTED FOR THE MURDER OF A 2 YEAR OLD IN A CASE OUT OF MISSOURI. HIS NAME IS BYRON LANG. THAT’S ACCORDING TO HOWARD COUNTY SHERIFF STAN PARKER THURSDAY AFTERNOON. THE ARREST TOOK PLACE AROUND 3:30 PM THURSDAY JUST AS THE SUSPECT WAS LEAVING A BIG SPRING RESIDENCE BY CAR. MORE DETAILS ARE EXPECTED THROUGH THE BIG SPRING POLICE DEPARTMENT FRIDAY.
Perry Commends Congress For Working To Block EPA Mandates
(Austin, TX) -- Governor Rick Perry is supporting Congressional efforts to block EPA endangerment findings regarding greenhouse gases. Perry sent a letter to members of Congress Wednesday, commending their efforts to overturn the the findings through a disapproval resolution. The state of Texas has already taken legal action in the U.S. Court of Appeals challenging the EPA's attempt to regulate carbon dioxide, methane and other gases under the Clean Air Act. Perry says the EPA's misguided plan paints a big target on the backs of Texas agriculture and energy producers and the hundreds of thousands of Texans they employ. Perry says Congress has a unique opportunity to prevent one-size-fits-all mandates from being imposed by unelected federal bureaucrats. He says Congress can instead recognize the rights of states to tailor economic and environmental policies in the manner that are in the best interest of their citizens. The governor says the state has reduced nitrogen oxide emissions by 46-percent, cut ozone levels by 22-percent and reduced carbon dioxide emissions more than nearly every other state, all without government mandates or extravagant fines.
TIME TO “SPRING FORWARD” IT’S TIME TO ADJUST YOUR CLOCKS THIS WEEKEND. BEFORE YOU GO TO BED THIS SATURDAY NIGHT YOU NEED TO “SPRING FORWARD” OR SET YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD ONE HOUR. THE OFFICIAL TIME TO CHANGE CLOCKS IS 2 AM. THIS IS ALSO A GOOD TIME TO CHANGE OUT THE BATTERIES IN YOUR SMOKE DETECTORS AND REVIEW EMERGENCY EXIT PLANS WITH YOUR FAMILY.
Detention Center Employee Pleads Guilty To Smuggling Contraband
(Midland, TX) -- A former Reeves County Detention Center employee faces prison time after pleading guilty in Midland Wednesday to accepting bribes in exchange for smuggling contraband to prisoners. U.S. Attorney John Murphy says 62-year-old Frank Williams, Junior, admitted to smuggling cell phones and tobacco to prisoner from 2006 to 2008. Williams was fired after security personnel caught him trying to sneak a package containing two cell phones, three cell phone chargers and a blue tooth headset, into the facility. He also acknowledged that one of the phones he smuggled into the prison was used by an inmate to continue drug trafficking activities. Williams faces up to 15-years behind bars and a 250-thousand-dollar fine at his sentencing in May.
SETTLES PROJECT STORY #2 WE CONTINUE OUR EXCERPTS REVIEW OF A RECENT KBST INTERVIEW OF KRIS RYAN, GM FOR THE SETTLES HOTEL PROJECT THAT HAS GOTTEN UNDERWAY IN FULL FORCE RECENTLY. KRIS RYAN WAS A GUEST ON “KBST’S MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY” EARLIER THIS WEEK. HE SAYS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF THIS PROJECT IS THE HISTORIC RENOVATION OF THE FIRST THREE FLOORS. THE OTHER FLOORS WILL MOSTLY BE “NEW CONSTRUCTION” AND NOT AS DIFFICULT. KRIS RYAN SAYS THEY ARE CONTINUING TO SEEK OUT ORIGINAL HISTORIC ITEMS FROM THE HOTEL, SOME OF WHICH WILL BE ON LONG TERM LOAN FROM INDIVIDUALS AND INSTITUTIONS LIKE THE HERITAGE MUSEUM. THE 1ST OF THIS MONTH (MARCH) IS BEING MARKED AS THE OFFICIAL “START DATE” FOR THE PROJECT,AND IT IS ANTICIPATED IT WILL GO ON FOR ABOUT 14 MONTHS WITH A GRAND OPENING BY SPRING OR 2011.
GRASS FIRES ERUPT THURSDAY AFTERNOON PASSING RAIN STORMS AND ASSOCIATED WINDS CAUSED SOME GRASS FIRES TO ERUPT WEST OF BIG SPRING. ACCORDING TO HOWARD COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. CHIEF TOMMY SULLIVAN, WINDS FROM PASSING STORMS CAUSED SOME ELECTRICAL LINES TO SPARK A COPLE OF GRASS FIRES. THE FIRST ONE STARTED NEAR CAUBLE ROAD AND COUNTY ROAD 18. FIRE FIGHTERS KEPT THAT TO UNDER TEN ACRES. THE OTHER FIRE BEGAN OUT AROUND ROCKHOUSE ROAD WEST OF BIG SPRING, AND FIRE FIGHTERS AT THE TIME WERE CONCERNED ABOUT THE FIRE THREATENING A NEARBY TANK BATTERY.
Thursday March 11 “SKY WARN” CLASSES THURSDAY THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE OUT OF MIDLAND, TX EACH YEAR TRAVELS AROUND WEST TEXAS MAKING EVENING PRESENTATIONS TO COMMUNITIES ABOUT SPRING STORMS AND THEIR POTENTIAL DANGERS. THE ANNUAL “SKY WARN” CLASS WILL BE COMING TO BIG SPRING THIS THURSDAY, MARCH 11TH. THE EVENING OF WEATHER WARNING INFORMATION WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS ON E. 4TH FROM 7 TO 9 PM, AND IS FREE TO ATTEND. THE SAME CLASS WILL ALSO BE HELD THE EVENING OF APRIL 5TH IN STANTON AT THE MARTIN COUNTY COURTHOUSE. THE SKY WARN CLASSES ARE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL WEATHER SPOTTERS AND THE INTERESTED PUBLIC IN GENERAL TO REFRESH THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A STORM. SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS, AND THE TORNADOES THEY SOMETIMES SPAWN, CAN OCCUR ANYTIME OF YEAR, BUT MOST OF THE DANGEROUS STORMS IN WEST TEXAS ARE CONCENTRATED IN THE SPRING AND SUMMER MONTHS.
SETTLES PROJECT GM TALKS TO KBST KRIS RYAN, GENERAL MANAGER FOR THE SETTLES HOTEL PROJECT, WAS A GUEST WEDNESDAY ON “KBST’S MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY”. KRIS’S BROTHER BRINT RYAN IS THE PRINCIPAL FORCE BEHIND THE RESORATION OF THE HISTORIC BUILDING THAT WAS CONSTRUCTED IN THE 1930’S. KRIS SPOKE OF THE MANY HURDLES HIS BROTHER AND OTHERS HAVE OVERCOME TO GET TO THIS POINT. VISIBLE ACTIVITY HAS REALLY PICKED UP SINCE MARCH 1 AT THE HOTEL SITE. RE-INSTALLATION OF THE HISTORIC WINDOWS AT THE SETTLES IS JUST ONE OF THE PROJECTS UNDERWAY RIGHT NOW. MULTIPLE CONTRATORS AND HISTORIC SPECIALISTS ARE INVOLVED IN THE OVERALL PROJECT, AND ACTIVITY WILL ONLY INCREASE IN THE COMING MONTHS AS VARIOUS PHASES OF RENOVATION AND CONSTRUCTION COME INTO PLAY. ONCE THE PROJECT IS COMPLETE, KRIS SAYS THE SETTLES WILL BE FULLY DEVELOPED TOP TO BOTTOM, SO TO SPEAK, STARTING WITH MEETING AREAS IN THE BASEMENT, TO A RESTAURANT ON THE FIRST FLOOR, TO A PENTHOUSE ON THE TOP TWO FLOORS. KRIS SAYS THERE WILL BE NO RESIDENTIAL AREAS, ONLY COMMERCIAL AND HOTEL SPACE. BRINT RYAN IS ALSO DEVELOPING ADJOINING PROPERTIES. THE 14 MONTH CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION PROJECT IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETE BY SPRING 2011. THE HUGE SIGN THAT SAT ATOP THE HOTEL SETTLES FOR DECADES WAS REMOVED LAST YEAR, BUT A NEWLY FASHIONED NEAR-DUPLICATE WILL CROWN THE STRUCTURE ONCE AGAIN UPON COMPLETION.
STATUE BLOWS OVER
IT WAS WINDY WEDNESDAY. HOW WINDY WAS IT? WELL…GUSTY CONDITIONS WEDNESDAY TOOK THEIR TOLL IN MORE WAYS THAN YOU’D EXPECT. THE STATUE OF LIBERTY BLEW DOWN. NOT THE ONE IN NEW YORK, BUT THE REPLICA STATUE THAT HAS BEEN PERCHED ON A STONE BASE IN FRONT OF BIG SPRING HISTORIC MUNCICIPAL AUDITORIUM. IT WAS FINE WEDNESDAY MORNING, UNTIL THE WINDS KICKED IN, AND THEN LADY LIBERTY WAS SEEN LYING ON THE GRASS BESIDE THE ITS BASE. CITY OFFICALS SAY THEY BELIEVE THE STEEL SUPPORT ROD THAT HELPED KEEPT THE STATUE IN PLACE HAD RUSTED THROUGH, AND A REALLY GOOD GUST OF WIND FINISHED THE JOB. THE STATUE WAS SLIGHTLY DAMAGED FROM THE FALL, BUT WILL NOW BE STORED AWAY. THE CITY HAS BEEN PLANNING TO RESTORE THE STATUE, ORIGINALLY ERECTED BY THE BOY SCOUTS SEVERAL DECADES AGO. TODD DARDEN SAYS THEY WILL NOW EXPEDITE THAT PLAN.
“BROWN OUT” CONDITIONS DUE TO WIND WEDNESDAY VERY WINDY CONDITIONS WEDESDAY NOT ONLY CAUSED CONCERNS FOR FIRE FIGHTERS, BUT DRIVERS EXPERIENCED DANGEROUS CROSS WINDS, AS WELL AS VERY LOW VISIBILITIES IN MANY LOCATIONS DUE TO BLOWING DUST. “BROWN OUT” CONDITIONS WERE REPORTED IN MANY AREAS, INCLUDING MARTIN COUNTY NEAR THE INTERSTATE. VISIBILITIES WERE DOWN TO A QUARTER OF A MILE AND WORSE AT TIMES.
CONGRESSMAN NEUGEBAUER SUPPORTS WOUNDED WARRIORS PROGRAM Washington, DC – Congressman Randy Neugebauer announced today that his Abilene office is now accepting applications for a District Representative/Constituent Caseworker via the Wounded Warrior Program. The Wounded Warrior Program works to place wounded veterans with a 30 percent or higher disability rating into fellowship positions with interested Members of Congress. “The Wounded Warriors Project has a noble mission that directly benefits combat veterans who have been severely injured while protecting our freedoms and liberties. When our wounded veterans return home, they very much want to continue to contribute to our great country in a meaningful way. The Wounded Warriors Program gives them the opportunity to do so. “I look forward to partnering with this program and increasing our success in reaching out to and helping wounded warriors and their families.” Wounded Warrior Program The Wounded Warrior Program was established to create fellowships that provide employment opportunities within the House of Representatives. The fellowships will provide veterans with experience and exposure to ultimately broaden their scope of transition opportunities. A position is currently available in Congressman Neugebauer’s Abilene Office. Applicants must have served on active duty since September 11, 2001. Any disabled veteran who has received either a Memorandum Rating of 30 percent or greater from their service Physical Evaluation Board or a VA service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or greater will be eligible to apply for positions with this program. Candidates for employment must have been honorably discharged and possess a high school diploma or GED certificate. To view the vacancy announcement, click here. Along with a current resume, please submit a DD214 and a letter from the VA indicating that you have a 30% or greater rating. All resumes and supporting documentation can be emailed to housewoundedwarriors@mail.house.gov. If you would like to learn more about the Wounded Warrior Program, I encourage you to visit the official House website.
Sales Tax Revenue Down, Collections Better Than Recent Months
(Austin, TX) -- Sales tax revenue in Texas is down. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs says the state collected one-point-six-billion-dollars in sales tax revenue in February, which was down eight-point-eight-percent compared to February 2009. Combs say after eight straight months of double digit declines, sales tax losses have begun to moderate. She says sales tax revenue continues to be down in major sectors including retail, oil and gas production and construction, but there was a slight uptick in the manufacturing sector. Her office will continue to monitor revenue, but Combs expects further declines in the near term before a return to sales tax revenue growth later this year.
Forbes Says Texas Is Poster Child For Economic Recovery
(Austin, TX) -- Austin ranks as the city best surviving the recession. Governor Rick Perry says Forbes' ranking highlights the relative economic strength in Texas' major metropolitan cities, which is good news for residents and those looking to move to a state with a strong economic future. Forbes says Texas is a poster child for economic recovery. Austin tied with Washington, DC for the number one spot on the list, and three other Texas cities made the top 10, including Dallas, San Antonio and Houston. Texas is faring well in the energy, tech, government and education industries, and the Lone Star State's housing prices didn't see the same run-up and speculation that led to the bubble burst in other parts of the country. Job growth is also expected to increase in Austin, Dallas and Houston, with the most projected job growth in San Antonio, where four military bases should help drive its expected eight-point-32-percent increase. Forbes looked at unemployment, rate of job growth and projections, home prices and cost of goods and services to determine rankings.
Andrade Named Texas Census Ambassador
(San Antonio, TX) -- Texas Secretary of State Hope Andrade will travel the state this month to promote participation in the 2010 census. Governor Rick Perry named Andrade the Texas Census Ambassador Tuesday. Perry says it's in the best interest of the state for every Texan to be counted in the census, in terms of representation and tax dollars flowing back to the Lone Star State. Andrade says the short census will only take a few minutes to complete, but those few minutes can have a significant impact on Texas for many years to come. The U.S. Census will begin arriving at homes in about a week, and the completed forms are due April first.
MAN “NOT GUILTY” OF SEXUAL ASSAULT A JURY WAS EMPANELED AND TRIAL BEGAN TUESDAY IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT FOR JACOB ANDREW FERRO. MR. FERRO WAS CHARGED IN TWO COUNTS OF AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT. AFTER JURY DELIBERATION WEDNESDAY, THE JURY CAME BACK WITH A “NOT GUILTY” VERDICT ON BOTH COUNTS. ASST. D.A. ROBIN ORR TRIED THE CASE FOR THE STATE. ROBERT MILLER WAS THE ATTORNEY FOR THE DEFENDANT.
Wednesday March 10 OFFICIALS BRACE FOR WINDY CONDITIONS AND FIRE DANGER AS WE’VE BEEN REMINDING LISTENERS, WEDNESDAY IS GOING TO PRESENT SIGNIFICANT FIRE DANGER CONCERNS DUE TO VERY WINDY CONDITIONS AND AN ABUNDANCE OF FUELS FOR FIRES IN THE FORM OF BRUSH AND DRY GRASS. HOWARD COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. CHIEF TOMMY SULLIVAN TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THE TEXAS FOREST SERVICE IS STATIONING TWO BULL DOZERS IN HOWARD COUNTY WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY DUE TO THE THREAT OF WILDFIRE IN WEST TEXAS. OFFICIALS ARE ASKING LOCAL RESIDENTS TO PLEASE USE CAUTION WITH OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES WHILE WINDY CONDITIONS REMAIN.
COLLEGE TRUSTEES RACES DRAW NO CHALLENGERS CANDIDATE FILING FOR THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS CONCLUDED MONDAY. IN THE HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES RACES, ALL OF THE INCUMBENTS WHOSE POSITIONS ARE UP FOR RE-ELECTION FILED FOR NEW TERMS. THERE WERE NO CHALLENGERS TO FILE, SO AN ELECTION ISN’T NECESSARY AT THIS TIME. THE INCUMBENTS ARE: MICHAEL FLOREZ, MURRY MURPHY, LARRY MCLELLEN AND MAXWELL BARR, TRUSTEE DISTRICTS 1, 2, 3, AND 4, RESPECTIVELY. MCLELLEN AND BARR ARE FILLING UNEXPIRED TERMS FOR THE LATE DON MICKINNEY AND HAROLD DAVIS, WHO BOTH PASSED AWAY LAST YEAR.
MARJ CARPENTER BOOK SIGNING THURSDAY FOR KBST LISTENERS THAT ENJOY THE MONTHLY MARJ CARPENTER PROGRAM “RIDIN’ FENCE” YOU’LL WANT TO DROP BY THE HERITAGE MUSEUM THURSDAY EVENING (MAR 11), PICK UP A COPY OF HER NEW BOOK, AND GET THE COLORFUL AUTHOR TO SIGN IT FOR YOU. MARJ WILL BE AT THE MUSEUM THURSDAY FROM 4:30 TO 6 PM FOR A WINE AND CHEESE RECEPTION AND BOOK SIGNING OF HER NEW COLLECTION OF STORIES ENTITLED “GET YOUR FOOT OUT OF THE DURN PETUNIAS: STORIES FROM MY LIFE”. WHILE THIS CERTAINLY ISN’T EVERY ADVENTURE MARJ HAS HAD OVER THE DECADES AS A NEWSPAPER JOURNALIST AND INTERNAITIONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, IT’S A START. AND YOU’LL WANT A COPY FOR YOU AND ONE FOR A FRIEND. MARJ TAKES YOU ON JOURNEYS THAT RANGE FROM THE WHITE HOUSE LAWN (THE STORY BEHIND THE BOOK’S TITLE) TO THE JUNGLES OF THE CONGO. MARJ HAS TRAVELED TO 126 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES OVER THE YEARS, SO THERE’S A LOT OF STORIES TO TELL…SOME SERIOUS AND SOME VERY FUNNY. DROP BY THE THURSDAY RECEPTION AT THE HERITAGE MUSEUM AND, AND AS MARJ RECENTLY SAID, AT LEAST TO JUST SAY HELLO! SHE’D LOVE TO VISIT. COPIES OF HER BOOK ARE AVAILABLE AT THE MUSEUM.
SETTLES PROJECT TOPIC THURSDAY ON “MORNING MAGAZINE” IT’S BEEN A LONG TIME COMING, BUT THE SETTLES HOTEL PROJECT IS SHOWING A LOT OF VISIBLE ACTIVITY THESE DAYS IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING AFTER A LOT OF “BEHIND THE SCENES” WORK THE PAST YEAR. THE RESTORATION OF THE HISTORIC HOTEL IS BEING UNDERTAKEN BY BUSINESSMAN BRINT RYAN. THE PROJECT GENERAL MANAGER IS HIS BROTHER KRIS RYAN, AND KRIS IS OUR SCHEDULED GUEST ON “KBST’S MORNING MAGAZINE WITH MIKE HENRY” WEDNESDAY. AS THE PROJECT REALLY GETS GOING NOW AFTER MUCH PREPERATION, KRIS WILL UPDATE LISTENERS ON WHAT GREAT EFFORTS IT HAS TAKEN TO GET TO THIS POINT, WHAT IS BEING DONE RIGHT NOW, AND WHAT THE COMING PHASES WITHIN THE PROJECT WILL INCLUDE. MORNING MAGAZINE AIRS WEEKDAY MORNINGS AT 8:15 ON KBST AM/FM.
Tuesday March 9 WINDY CONDTIONS CAUSE FOR FIRE CONCERNS THIS WEEK
WINDY CONDITIONS THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS ARE CAUSE FOR CONCERN FOR FIRE FIGHTERS, EVEN THOUGH WE’VE RECENLTY RECEIVED SOME RAIN, THERE’S STILL LOTS OF DRY BRUSH OUT THERE AS FUEL FOR ANY FIRES THAT BEGIN. AREA FIRE FIGHTERS HAVE BEEN KEPT BUSY RECENTLY WITH GRASS FIRES, INCLUDING A 180 ACRE GRASS FIRE NEAR VINCENT FRIDAY. PLEASE USE CAUTION OUTDOORS AS THERE ARE WINDY CONDITIONS IN OUR FORECAST THROUGH WEDNESDAY.
KIWANIS PANCAKE SUPPER IS FRIDAY THE KIWANIS CLUB OF BIG SPRING IS PRESENTING ITS ANNUAL PANCAKE SUPPER THIS FRIDAY AT THE HOWARD COLLEGE CAFETERIA. ANN DUNCAN SAYS “IT’S ALL YOU CAN EAT” AND JUST $5. KIDS 5 AND UNDER EAT FREE. THE PANCAKE SUPPER FRIDAY IS FROM 4 PM TO 7:30 PM. PANCAKES, BACON AND SAUSAGE AND BEVERAGES…AND AS WE SAID IT’S ALL YOU CAN EAT FOR JUST $5. PROCEEDS GO TOWARD NUMEROUS LOCAL KIWANIS YOUTH PROGRAMS. THAT’S FRDIAY AT HOWARD COLLEGE. TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM LOCAL KIWANIS CLUB MEMBERS AND AT THE DOOR.
AG's Office Warns Of Live Video Chat Room Website
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Attorney General's Office is warning parents about an increasingly popular website that gives users, including possible sex offenders, the opportunity to have live video chats with randomly selected participants. Officials say ChatRoulette.com users are paired with a random stranger for a video chat, and a login and registration are not required to come face-to-face with a total stranger. An AG's Cyber Crimes Unit investigation revealed that nearly half of the randomly selected users encountered immediately exposed themselves and conducted sexually explicit acts on camera. The Texas Attorney General's Office says parents should prohibit their children from accessing ChatRoulette.com.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEET HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HELD A REGULAR MEETING MONDAY. THE COURT HEARD A PRESENTATION OF THE COUNTY’S ANNUAL FINANCE REPORT FROM DON STEPHENS, WHO HAS PERFORMED THE AUDIT PREVIOUSLY. THERE WERE NO OUTSTANDING FEATURES TO REPORT. THE COUNTY IS SOLVENT. COMMISSIONERS ALSO HEARD FROM THE FIRM I.D.I.Q. WHO WANT TO HANDLE THE DETIALS OF ANY FUTURE HOWARD COUNTY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. THERE WAS NO ACTION TAKEN AFTER THE LENGTHY PRESENTATION. COUNTY TREASURER JACKIE OLSON PRESENTED PURCHASE REQUESTS FOR COMMISSIONER APPROVAL THAT INCLUDED $10,000 FOR THE SCANNING OF PLAT DOCUMENTS IN THE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE, ABOUT $1,700 FOR NEW TEAR GAS AT THE COUNTY JAIL, A NEW JUDGE’S CHAIR IN THE JUSTICE OF THE PEACE COURTROOM FOR ABOUT $1,100 AND $880 TO PURCHASE AN AD IN THE LOCAL PAPER.
CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AQUATIC CENTER FUNDING
BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL MONDAY APPROVED FUNDING FOR A NEW FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER AT COMANCHE TRAIL PARK. MOST OF THE FUNDING WILL COME THROUGH "CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION" AS WELL AS SOME OTHER REVENUES SET ASIDE FOR THE NEW CENTER. COST OF THE NEW AQUATIC CENTER IS APPROXIMATELY $4.2 MILLION. CITY COUNCIL'S APPROVAL OF FUNDING FOR THE FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER HASN'T COME WITHOUT CONTROVERSY, AND SOME RESIDENTS HAVE NOT APPROVED THE MEASURE MOVING FORWARD WITHOUT VOTER APPROVAL. LOCAL BUSINESSMAN CRAIG OLSON IS AMONG THEM AND HE ADDRESSED CITY COUNCIL MONDAY BEFORE THE BODY VOTED TO APPROVE POOL FUNDING. COUNCIL VOTED UNANIMOUSLY TO APPROVE THE AGENDA ITEM. MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN WAS ABSENT MONDAY, AND MAYOR PRO TEM STEPHANIE HORTON PRESIDED OVER THE MEETING.
FIRE DANGER CONTINUES / MONDAY EVENING REPORT
WINDY CONDITIONS AND LOTS OF AVAILABLE FUEL IN THE FORM OF DEAD GRASS AND BRUSH WILL CONTINUE FIRE CONCERNS IN OUR AREA THROUGH WEDNESDAY. AS OF MONDAY EARLY EVENING WE ONLY HAD ONE GRASS FIRE REPORT FROM THE HOWARD COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT FOR THE DAY. TOMMY SULLIVAN SAYS A FIRE BROKE OUT NEAR I-20 ON THE HIGHWAY'S NORTH SIDE NEAR MILE MARKER 175. IT BURNED ABOUT 25 ACRES BEFORE IT WAS CONTAINED. SULLIVAN SAYS THE GRASS FIRE PROBABLY STARTED BY A PASSING TRAIN.
Monday March 8 LOCAL BIG SPRING GRAD LANDS JOB WITH U-S SENATOR
CONGRATULATIONS TO A HOMETOWN YOUNG MAN, LOGAN CHURCHWELL, WHO HAS JUST LANDED A JOB WITH A UNITED STATES SENATOR. LOGAN STARTS HIS NEW JOB MONDAY IN WASHINGTON D.C. WORKING IN THE PRESS SECRETARY’S OFFICE OF UNITED STATES SENATOR JOHN ENSIGN, OF NEVADA. LOGAN COMES TO HIS NEW PROFESSION AFTER ALREADY SERVING IN INTERNSHIPS, INCLUDING RANDY NEUGEBAUER. LOGAN IS THE SON OF LOCAL RESIDENTS TOMMY AND LORI CHURCHWELL.
DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP BEGINS IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS LIVING WITH DIABETES, THEN YOU’LL BE INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT THE LOCAL DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP RECENTLY FOUNDED. THE GROUP WILL HOLD ITS FIRST OFFICIAL MEETING ON MONDAY, MARCH 8TH, AT THE DORA ROBERTS REHABILITATION CENTER. THE MEETING STARTS AT 7 PM, AND THE GUEST SPEAKER FOR THIS FIRST MEETING IS LOCAL PHYSICIAN LADD HOFFMAN. THIS NEW DIABETES SUPPORT GROUPS IS FOR ANYONE WHO HAS EITHER TYPE 1 OR TYPE II DIABETES, THEIR FAMILY, FRIENDS OF CAREGIVERS. THERE IS NO CHARGE TO ATTEND THE MEETINGS, WHICH WILL ALL TAKE PLACE AT THE DORA ROBERTS REHAB CENTER ON WEST 3RD, ON THE SECOND MONDAY OF THE MONTH, 7 O’CLOCK. FROM NEW HEALTH RELATED INFORMATION TO DIABETIC-FRIENDLY RECIPES AND DISCUSSION, YOU ARE INVITED TO COME AND LEARN MORE, SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND EXPERIENCES, OR JUST SIT BACK, LISTEN AND LEARN. ONCE AGAIN , IT IS ALL FREE.
“SKY WARN” CLASSES THURSDAY THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE OUT OF MIDLAND, TX EACH YEAR TRAVELS AROUND WEST TEXAS MAKING EVENING PRESENTATIONS TO COMMUNITIES ABOUT SPRING STORMS AND THEIR POTENTIAL DANGERS. THE ANNUAL “SKY WARN” CLASS WILL BE COMING TO BIG SPRING THIS THURSDAY, MARCH 11TH. THE EVENING OF WEATHER WARNING INFORMATION WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS ON E. 4TH FROM 7 TO 9 PM, AND IS FREE TO ATTEND. THE SAME CLASS WILL ALSO BE HELD THE EVENING OF APRIL 5TH IN STANTON AT THE MARTIN COUNTY COURTHOUSE. THE SKY WARN CLASSES ARE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL WEATHER SPOTTERS AND THE INTERESTED PUBLIC IN GENERAL TO REFRESH THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A STORM. SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS, AND THE TORNADOES THEY SOMETIMES SPAWN, CAN OCCUR ANYTIME OF YEAR, BUT MOST OF THE DANGEROUS STORMS IN WEST TEXAS ARE CONCENTRATED IN THE SPRING AND SUMMER MONTHS.
CARS AND STARS INVITATIONS MAILED TO MORE THAN 400 RESIDENCES
BIG SPRING – You can’t miss ‘em, and you won’t want to.
If you are a past contributor to the Volunteer Services Council at Big Spring State Hospital – chances are your mailbox contains a brightly colored orange envelope with an invitation to the social event of the season – the Fourth Annual Cars, Stars & Handlebars. And this time it’s going Hollywood, according to co-chairman Stacy Barr.
“Every year we give it a different theme from the year before, and this year we decided that we were going to ‘Go Hollywood!’ “, Barr said. “We thought it would be appropriate to shine big, bright Hollywood lights on this event because we like our patients to shine. We just think they are really special.”
This year’s “Cars, Stars and Handlebars Goes Hollywood!” will be Saturday, April 17, at the Big Spring Country Club. Invitations are $100 apiece and give patrons and a guest entry into the event, which includes hors d’oeuvres and a chance to win a new vehicle.
The event begins at 5 p.m. and hors d’oeuvres will be served an hour later.
Proceeds from the event and all volunteer fund-raisers and donations fund everyday patient activities and needs, such as clothing and toiletry items, and for celebrations, such as Christmas and Summer Fun Day, but it also funds long-range projects such as the construction of two Family Visitation Centers.
“The Family Visitation Centers are something we really need,” said Ed Moughon, Big Spring State Hospital Superintendent.
In the past, the Volunteer Services Council has funded construction of the Animal Assisted Therapy building, the Meditation and Butterfly Garden and the walking track.
“We could not do what we do without the help of the Volunteer Services Council,” Moughon said. “They are invaluable to this hospital.”
The Family Visitation Center buildings would provide a comfortable and safe space for families who want to visit their relatives who are undergoing treatment at Big Spring State Hospital, said Billie Christie, Director of Community Relations.
If you did not receive an invitation and would like to attend Cars, Stars and Handlebars Goes Hollywood! or would just like to make a donation, please call the Community Relations Office at (432) 268-7271 or (432) 268-7536.
MONDAY IS DEADLINE FOR MAY 8TH CANDIDATES JUST OFF THE HEELS OF THE MARCH 2ND POLITICAL PRIMARIES, THER’SE A WHOLE OTHER ELECTION COMING UP SOON. IT’S THE MAY 8TH CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS. AND THE DEADLINE FOR CANDIDATES TO FILE IS END OF BUSINESS TODAY, MONDAY MARCH 8TH. CITY COUNCILS, SCHOOL BOARDS IN OUR AREA, AS WELL AS SEVERAL POSITIONS ON THE HOWARD COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, ARE UP FOR RE-ELECTION THIS TIME. FOR BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT RESIDENTS, THERE’S ALSO THE $60 MILLION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BOND THAT WILL APPEAR ON THE BALLOT MAY 8TH. CANDIDATES INTERESTED IN FILING NEED TO GET THEIR PAPERWORK TURNED IN TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE OF THE ENTITY THEY ARE A CANDIDATE IN BY END OF BUSINESS TODAY. IF YOU ARE RUNNING FOR A CITY COUNCIL POSITION IN YOUR COMMUNITY, YOU WILL NEED TO FILE WITH YOUR TOWN’S CITY HALL. IF YOU ARE FILING FOR A SCHOOL BOARD RACE, YOU WILL CONTACT YOUR SCHOOL DISTRICT’S ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, ETC.
Friday March 5 JUDGE’S ASSISTANT UNDER INVESTIGATION A COUNTY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT IS NO LONGER EMPLOYED, AND AN INVESTIGATION BY THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE IS ALSO ONGOING. JAMIE WEAVER, SECRETARY TO HOWARD COUNTY JUDGE MARK BARR, WAS ORIGINALLY PLACED ON ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE WHILE INVESTIGATORS CURRENTLY LOOK INTO ALLEGATIONS RELATED TO THEFT AND RECORDS TAMPERING RELATED TO THE COUNTY’S HOT CHECK FUND. NO CHARGES HAVE BEEN FILED AND NO ARRESTS HAD BEEN MADE AT THE TIME OF OUR REPORT. JUDGE MARK BARR CONFIRMED TO KBST NEWS THURSDAY THAT THERE WAS AN ONGOING INVESTIGATION. THE AMOUNT OF MONEY THAT WAS REPORTED MISSING IS LESS THAN $5,000. THE JUDGE ALSO CONFIRMED THAT MS. WEAVER HAD BEEN PLACED ON LEAVE, AND THEN MORE RECENTLY DISCHARGED FROM HER DUTIES. HE WOULD COMMENT NO FURTHER BECAUSE OF THE INVESTIGATION. KBST SPOKE WITH DISTRICT ATTORNEY HARDY WILKERSON WHO ALSO HAD LIMITED COMMENTS, BUT CONFIRMED HIS OFFICE IS INVESTIGATING A MATTER INVOLVING ALLEGED THEFT AND GOVERNMENT RECORD TAMPERING, BUT WOULD NOT NAME A SPECIIFIC PERSON OR PERSONS. THE D.A. SAID THAT THE PARTICULAR ALLEGED CRIMES ARE PROBABLY THE LEVEL OF A 3RD DEGREE FELONY. AS WE SAID, THERE HAVE BEEN NO ARRESTS OR CHARGES FILED AT THIS TIME. THE HOT CHECK FUND IS HANDLED THROUGH COUNTY ATTORNEY JOSH HAMBY’S OFFICE. HE HAD NO COMMENT AT THIS TIME WHILE THE INVESTIGATION IS ONGOING.
Unemployment Rate In Texas Remains Unchanged
(Austin, TX) -- Texas' unemployment rate remains unchanged. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for January was at eight-point-two-percent, unchanged from the same rate in December 2009. Texas Workforce Commission officials say Texas' unemployment rate remains well below the national rate of nine-point-seven-percent. The Texas Civilian Labor Force continued to grow in January, reaching its highest level ever at 12-point-one-million workers. The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area had the lowest unemployment rate in January at six-percent.
DPS Warns Spring Breakers Not To Visit Border Cities In Mexico
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Department of Public Safety is issuing a warning to parents and Texas Spring Breakers. Officials say Spring Breakers should avoid traveling to border cities in Mexico. DPS Director Steven McCraw says there is an increase in Mexican drug cartel related violence in the northern Mexican border cities, so safety cannot be guaranteed to people who visit those areas. DPS will also have extra troopers on patrol looking for DWIs, speeders and seatbelt violators during the Spring Break season. DPS officials urge Spring Breakers to keep their friends close and don't accept drinks from strangers. Drivers are asked not to text, don't drink and drive and keep a fresh driver behind the wheel when traveling.
RadioShack Stock Surges on Leveraged Buy-Out Speculation
(Fort Worth, TX) -- RadioShack stock took a big jump yesterday because of speculation that the company may be a take-over target. The business press is swirling with rumors that a publicly-traded investment firm called Apollo Management, along with another private equity firm, are interested in a leveraged buy-out of Fort Worth-based RadioShack whose stock traded yesterday at a rate four times more than normal. Share prices were nearly six percent higher. RadioShack's stock has struggled in recent years, but Wall Street analysts say the company is enjoying a resurgence with higher wireless phone sales. The improved performance of its stock makes RadioShack a prime take-over candidate.
Thursday March 4 Voters Pass Five Propositions On Republican Primary Ballot
(Undated) -- Texas Republicans voted to approve five propositions on the primary ballot Tuesday. Four of the propositions passed with more than 90-percent of the vote. Ballot Proposition One asked if the Texas legislature should enact legislation that requires voters to provide valid photo identification in order to cast a ballot. Proposition Two requires every government body in Texas to limit budget increases and control government growth. Proposition Three addressed cutting federal income taxes. Republicans also voted to allow the word "God," prayers, and the Ten Commandments at public gatherings, public educational institutions and on government buildings and property. The fifth proposition passed with about 70-percent and asked voters to enact legislation requiring that a sonogram be shown to each mother about to undergo a medically unnecessary, elective abortion.
HERITAGE MUSEUM’S “BANKING” EXHIBIT OPENS THE HERITAGE MUSEUM PRESENTS A HISTORY OF BANKING IN THE BIG SPRING AREA AS A NEW EXHIBIT OPENS WITH A SPECIAL RECEPTION YOU ARE INVTED TO ATTEND THURSDAY EVENING (MAR. 4) FROM 5-7 PM. LOTS OF HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHS AND MEMORABLILIA WILL B E ON DISPLAY THAT INCLUDES LOCAL BANKING ESTABLISHMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR DECADES AND ARE STILL AROUND, TO FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS LONG GONE. FROM BANK PRESIDENTS TO HANDWRITTEN LEDGERS, IT’S ALL HERE. DROP BY THE HERITAGE MUSEUM ON SCURRY AND VISIT DURING THE THURSDAY RECEPTION, OR ANYTIME WHILE THE BANKING EXHIBIT IS ON DISPLAY BETWEEN MARCH 4TH AND MAY 8TH.
REP. HEFLIN WILL CO-HOST ENERGY SUMMIT HERE STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOE JEFLIN IS CO-HOSTING AN ENERGY SUMMIT IN BIG SPRING ON TUESDAY, MARCH 9TH. THE EVENT IS BEING PRESENTED BY HEFLIN, ALONG WITH TEXAS HOUSE ENERGY RESOURCES COMMITTEE CHAIR, JIM KEFFER, THROUGH THE PERMIAN BASIN PETROLEUM ASSOCIATION. REP. HEFLIN TELLS KBST NEWS THAT THE WEST TEXAS ENERGY SUMMIT IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE OF ALL THE DEVELOPMENTS AND DIVERSIFICATION HAPPENING IN ENERGY THAT INCLUDE OIL, GAS, WIND AND SOLAR. THE WEST TEXAS ENERGY SUMMIT NEXT WEEK WILL FEATURE A BROAD REPRESENTATION OF THE ENERGY INDUSTRY IN OUR REGION, INCLUDING EXPERTS IN SEVERAL FIELDS. JOE HEFLIN SAYS THE INFORMATION AND SYNERGY THAT COMES OUT OF THE WEST TEXAS ENERGY SUMMIT IN BIG SPRING WILL BE TAKEN INTO THE NEXT TEXAS LEGISLATIVE SESSION. THE ENERGY SUMMIT IS BY INVITATION ONLY AND WILL TAKE PLACE TUESDAY (MAR 9) AT THE DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER.
WARRANT ROUNDUP THIS WEEKEND AS WE PREVIOUSLY MENTIONED THERE WILL BE NUMEROUS LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES ACROSS THE STATE, AND LOCALLY AS WELL, THAT WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN A HUGE “WARRANT ROUNDUP” THIS WEEKEND. TENS OF THOUSANDS OF WARRANTS WERE RESOLVED IN TEXAS DURING THE ROUNDUP LAST YEAR, AND A THOROUGH SWEEP IS EXPECTED AGAIN THIS WEEKEND. WE SPOKE WITH AN OFFICER OF THE MUNICIPAL COURT WEDNESDAY, WAYNE WRIGHT, WHO INFORMED US THAT MUNICIPAL JUDGE TIM GREENS OFFICE WILL BE OPEN THIS SATURDAY STARTING AT 8 AM TO ALLOW THOSES WHO WANT TO COME IN AND MAKE THEIR ARRANGEMENTS BEFORE THEY GET ARRESTED AND THINGS GET MORE COMPLICATED. OR, EVEN BETTER, YOU MAKE WANT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE REST OF THIS WEEK AND TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS IF YOU HAVE ANYTING OUTSTANDING, INCLUDING TRAFFIC TICKETS. KEEP IN MIND THAT THE NEW HOWARD COUNTY JAIL IS NOW OPEN WITH LOTS OF SPACE, SO LAW ENFORCEMENT WILL HAVE NO PROBLEM MAKING ALL NECESSARY ARRESTS.
Alon USA Expands Executive Management Team Appointing Seasoned Executive as President DALLAS, March 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alon USA Energy, Inc. (NYSE:ALJ - News) ("Alon") announced today it has expanded its executive management team with the appointment of Paul Eisman, age 54, as President. With over 30 years of refining experience, Eisman joins Alon from Frontier Oil Corporation ("Frontier"), where he held the position of Executive Vice President of Refining and Marketing Operations. Prior to joining Frontier, Eisman held various positions at leading refiners, including Senior Vice President of Economics and Planning at Valero Energy Corporation and Executive Vice President of Corporate Development at Ultramar Diamond Shamrock Corporation. He also supported the industry as Vice President of North American Operations at KBC Advanced Technologies. "We are excited to have Paul join our team," said Jeff Morris, Alon's Chief Executive Officer. "I have known and respected him for many years and couldn't think of a better candidate for this new position. His knowledge and experience in the refining industry will help us execute our strategies."
Howard College Theater Department Stands Out At State Play Fest
BIG SPRING - Once again, the Howard College Theater Department stood out during their participation in the Texas Community College Speech & Theatre Association (TCCSTA) State Play Fest, February 24-27 hosted at Blinn College in Brenham, Texas. This year's performance of "When You Comin' Back Red Ryder?" lit up the stage as the cast and crew brought home numerous awards for their individual roles in the play as well as technical awards for production. The recognition given to the Howard College Theater Department was handed out as follows: Directors Choice Technical Superior: Kathy Cox for Technical Direction; Respondents' Choice Technical Excellent: Amanda Denton for Program Design, Kathy Cox for Lighting, Costume, and Scene Design, and Geoffrey Treece for Sound Design; Respondents' Choice Technical Superior: Kathy Cox for Technical Direction; Respondents' Choice Acting Excellent: Eric Valle, Rachael Villanueva, Michael (Pugs) Loftis, Maurich Africh, and Steven Boren; Respondents' Choice Acting Superior: Brody Smith; Superior Award Production: Howard College Once again, Howard College Theater was able to come away with the coveted Bill Morton Challenge Award which was handed out to Brody Smith. Four days before festival performance, the actor cast in the central role of Teddy needed to be re-cast. Brody Smith rose to the occasion. "Brody took the challenge head on and with the combined work and support of the cast, Brody was able to pull off this role at the top of his game," added Davidson. Howard College Theater will be putting on a limited public performance on Wednesday, March 10th and Thursday, Match 11th at 7:30 pm in the Florence T. Hall Studio Theater in the Hall Center for the Arts. Seating is limited and tickets will be sold in advance only in the lobby of the Hall Center for the Arts on Monday, March 8th and Tuesday March 9th between the hours of 11:30 am and 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm and 6:30 pm each day. Tickets will not be held for this performance. Ticket prices are $3 for HC students and staff and $5 for the general public.
Wednesday March 3 “STATE OF THE CITY” PRESENTED BY MAYOR BIG SPRING MAYOR RUSS MCEWEN PRESENTED HIS ANNUAL “STATE OF THE CITY” ADDRESS TUESDAY AT THE DORA ROBERTS COMMUNITY CENTER TO A FULL ROOM OF COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND LEADERSHIP. THE SPEECH, WHICH LASTED ABOUT 25 MINUTES, FOCUSED ON THE CHALLENGES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF 2009, AS WELL AS THE PAST 10 YEARS. IN THE COURSE OF HIS ADDRESS, MAYOR MCEWEN SPOTLIGHTED NUMEROUS INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS FOR THEIR COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS, AND COVERED TOPICS THAT RANGED FROM CITY AND COUNTY COOPERATION, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, LOCAL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION PROJECTS LIKE THE SETTLES AND DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING, AND FUTURE CHALLENGES TO OUR CITY. NOTING ACHIEVEMENTS MADE IN THE HUGE STREET PROJECTS NEARING COMPLETION IN BIG SPRING, THE MAYOR ASKED FOR CONTINUED PATIENCE FROM RESIDENTS FOR AREAS LIKE MAIN STREET, AND THE NEW MEDIANS THERE THAT ARE STILL BEING COMPLETED. MAYOR MCEWEN ALSO STEPPED OUT OF CITY BUSINESS INTO THE ARENA OF EDUCATION TUESDAY, THROWING HIS SUPPORT BEHIND THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT’S $60 MILLION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BOND, AND ENCOURAGING VOTERS TO APPROVE THE SCHOOL FACILITIES CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION PROJECTS WHEN THEY VOTE IN MAY. IN CONCLUSION, THE MAYOR CHALLENGED THE COMMUNITY TO MAXIMIZE ITS POTENTIAL AND CONTINUE TO LOOK FORWARD. RUSS MCEWEN HAS FILED FOR ANOTHER TERM AS MAYOR IN THE MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND ISSUE WILL ALSO APPEAR ON THAT BALLOT, ALONG WITH OTHER SCHOOL BOARD AND CITY COUNCIL POSITIONS IN OUR AREA. TUESDAY’S “STATE OF THE CITY” COMMUNITY LUNCHEON WAS CO-SPONSORED BY THE BIG SPRING AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND THE BIG SPRING C.V.B.
RESULTS FROM THE MARCH 2ND HOWARD CO. PRIMARIES ABOUT 23% OF ELIGIBLE HOWARD COUNTY VOTERS CAST BALLOTS FOR THE MARCH 2ND POLITICAL PARTY PRIMARIES, OR 3,844 VOTES CAST TOTAL. HERE IS A BREAKDOWN OF THE CONTESTED RACES IN HOWARD COUNTY: IN THE 118TH DISTRICT COURT JUDGE RACE THERE WERE TWO REPUBLICANS RUNNING FOR JUDGE ROBERT MOORE III’S JOB. JUDGE MOORE IS RETIRING AT THE END OF HIS TERM LATER THIS YEAR. LOCAL ATTORNEYS MIKE THOMAS AND TIM YEATS WERE THE ONLY TWO CANDIDATES AND NO CHALLENGERS FROM THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY, SO THE WINNER IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY IS FOR ALL INTENTS AND PURPOSES THE NEW DISTRICT JUDGE TO BE SWORN IN AT THE END OF THIS YEAR. TIM YEATS DEFEATED MIKE THOMAS IN ALL THREE COUNTIES IN THE 118TH DISTRICT. IN HOWARD COUNTY TIME YEATS RECEIVED 64% OF THE VOTE TO MIKE THOMAS’S 36%. IN GLASSCOCK COUNTY IT WAS YEATS WITH 232 VOTES TO MIKE THOMAS’S 114, AND IN MARTIN COUNTY IT WAS YEATS 298 TO THOMAS 256. TIM YEATS WAS AT THE HOWARD COUNTY COURTHOUSE FOR PART OF TUESDAY EVENING AND THANKED HIS SUPPORTERS, AND EXPRESSED HIS RESPECT FOR FRIEND MIKE THOMAS. CONTINUING ON THE REPUBLICAN SIDE OF HOWARD COUNTY PRIMARY RACES, THERE WILL BE A RUN OFF ELECTION IN APRIL FOR THE HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 2 RACE AS REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT JERRY KILGORE RECEIVED 37% OF THE VOTE AND REPUBLICAN CHALLENGER DONNIE BAKER RECEIVED 43%. NEITHER GOT OVER 50%, SO THERE WILL BE A RUN OFF IN APRIL, A DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED. THAT IS THE ONLY LOCAL RUN OFF ELECTION. THE OTHER REPUBLICAN CHALLENGER, MELANIE GAMBRELL, RECEIVED 19% OF THE REPUBLICAN VOTES. IN THE HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRECINCT 4 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY RACE IT WAS JOHN CLINE WITH THE MAJORITY OF THE REPUBLICAN VOTES, 55% TO CHALLENGER ROY DON BEAUCHAMP’S 45%. JOHN CLINE WILL GO ON TO RUN AGAINST THE ONLY DEMOCRAT IN THIS RACE, GARY SIMER WHO HAD NO COMPETITION IN THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY. IN THE HOWARD COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE RACE, INCUMBENT KATHRYN WISEMAN HAD ONE REPUBLICAN CHALLENGER WITHIN HER OWN PARTY, BUT DEFEATED DAVID BAIRD 72% TO 28%.
ON THE DEMOCRATIC SIDE OF THINGS, JIM SINCLAIR DEFEATED RICHARD BELEW FOR THE PARTY NOMINATION, 56% TO 44% TO GO ON TO NOVEMBER AND TAKE ON WHOEVER WINS THE REPUBLICAN RUNOFF ELECTION BETWEEN JERRY KILGORE AND DONNIE BAKER. AS WE MENTIONED, HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER FOR PRECINCT 4 GARY SIMER, A DEMOCRAT, WAS NOT CHALLENGED BY ANY OTHER DEMOCRATS, BUT WILL FACE REPUBLICAN JOHN CLINE IN NOVEMBER. HOWARD COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE CANDIDATE RICKY HUGES, A DEMOCRAT, WAS NOT CONTESTED TUESDAY, AND WILL MOVE ON TO NOVEMBER AND FACE REPUBLICAN KATHRYN WISEMAN, THE INCUMBENT.
Tuesday March 2 MARCH 2ND POLLING LOCATIONS IN HOWARD COUNTY POLLS ARE OPEN TUESDAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM FOR THE MARCH 2ND PRIMARIES. IN HOWARD COUNTY THERE ARE SEVERAL LOCATIONS TO CAST A BALLOT, AND YOU WILL GO TO YOUR PARTICULAR LOCATION ACCORDING TO THE PRECINCT NUMBER ON YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION. HERE ARE THE LOCATIONS:
ST THOMAS PARISH HALL (605 N MAIN)- 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 112, 103, 104, 105 BIG SPRING MALL (1801 E FM 700)- 22, 24, 25, 26, 205, 208 COAHOMA COMMUNITY CENTER (306 NORTH AVE)- 207, 207 C, 407, 408, 409 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, BIG SPRING (705 W FM 700)- 33, 34, 35, 304 DOROTHY GARRETT COLISEUM (1001 BIRDWELL)- 42, 44, 45, 46, 404, 405, 406
UPON ARRIVAL AT YOUR POLLING LOCATION YOU WILL BE ASKED WHICH PARTY YOU WANT TO VOTE WITH. YOU WILL BE DIRECTED TO YOUR VOTING BOOTH WHERE ONLY CANDIDATES FROM THE PARTY YOU HAVE SELECTED WILL BE AVAILABLE. FOR EXAMPLE, IF YOU WANT TO VOTE FOR A REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE IN A PARTICULAR RACE, YOU WILL ONLY BE ABLE TO SELECT BETWEEN REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES IN THE OTHER RACES. SAME IF YOU WANT TO VOTE FOR A DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE, YOU WILL ONLY BE ABLE TO VOTE FOR DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES IN OTHER RACES, NO REPUBLICANS. THIS IS A PARTY PRIMARY ELECTION. CANDIDATES THAT WIN THEIR PARTY’S NOMINATION TODAY, MARCH 2ND, WILL MOVE ON TO THE NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION, WHERE IF APPLICABLE, THEY WILL FACE THE CONTENDER FROM THE OTHER PARTY OR PARTIES AND A FINAL WINNER WILL BE VOTED INTO OFFICE. THE MARCH 2ND PRIMARY AND NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTIONS HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THE COMING MAY 8TH ELECTION , WHICH IS FOR CITY COUNCILS AND SCHOOL BOARDS.
HOWARD COUNTY CONTESTED CANDIDATES IN PRIMARY HERE ARE THE CONTESTED CANDIDATES IN THE MARCH 2ND POLITICAL PRIMARIES. OTHERS APPEAR ON THE BALLOT BUT ARE NOT CONTESTED WITHIN THEIR PARTY FOR THE NOMINATION TO GO ON TO NOVEMBER 2010.
HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRCT. 2: JERRY KILGORE IS THE REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT. HE IS CHALLENGED IN HIS OWN PARTY BY DONNIE BAKER AND MELANIE GAMBRELL. TWO DEMOCRATS ARE ALSO VYING FOR THEIR PARTY’S NOMINATION FOR THIS POSITION. THEY ARE RICHARD BELEW AND JIM SINCLAIR. HOWARD COUNTY COMMISSIONER PRCT. 4: DEMOCRAT GARY SIMER IS THE INCUMBENT. HE IS NOT CHALLENGED IN HIS OWN PARTY IN THESE PRIMARIES, BUT THERE ARE TWO REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES CONTESTING EACH OTHER TO GET THEIR PARTY NOMINATION AND MOVE ON TO NOVEMBER. THEY ARE JOHN CLINE AND ROY BEAUCHAMP. HOWARD COUNTY JUSTICE OF THE PEACE, PRCT. 1 PLC 2: THE REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT IS JUDGE KATHRYN WISEMAN AND IS CHALLENGED FROM WITHIN HER OWN PARTY BY DAVID BAIRD. THE WINNER WILL FACE DEMOCRATIC CHALLENGER RICKY HUGES IN NOVEMBER. 118TH DISTRICT COURT JUDGE: THE INCUMBENT, JUDGE ROBERT MOORE III, IS RETIRING AT THE END OF HIS TERM AND WILL NOT SEEK ANOTHER TERM. THERE ARE TWO LOCAL ATTORNEYS SEEKING THE REPUBLICAN PARTY NOMINATION TODAY. THEY ARE MIKE THOMAS AND TIM YEATS. THERE IS NO DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE, SO THE WINNER IN TODAY’S REPUBLICAN PRIMARY WILL TAKE THE DISTRICT JUDGE POSITION IN NOVEMBER, BARRING ANY EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES. DISTRICT 85, TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: JOE HEFLIN IS THE INCUMBENT. HE IS A DEMOCRAT AND NOT CHALLENGED FROM WITHIN HIS OWN PARTY, BUT THERE ARE TWO REPUBLICANS VYING FOR THEIR PARTY’S NOMINATION TO GO ON TO NOVEMBER AND CHALLENGE HEFLIN IN THE GENERAL ELECTION. THEY ARE JIM LANDTROOP AND DAVID ANDREWS. UNITED STATES CONGRESSMAN RANDY NEUGEBAUER IS NOT CHALLENGED DURING THE PRIMARIES, BUT WILL FACE CHALLENGERS IN NOVEMBER FROM THE DEMOCRATIC AND LIBERTARIAN PARTIES.
COLLEGE TRUSTEES HEAR STATE FUNDING UPDATE HOWARD COLLEGE IS BEING PROACTIVE WHEN IT COMES TO PROJECTED CUTS IN STATE FUNDING. AS WE HAVE PREVIOUSLY REPORTED TO YOU, THE STATE OF TEXAS HAS ASKED ALL STATE FUNDED AGENCIES TO REWORK THEIR BUDGETS WITH A PROJECTED FIVE PERCENT DECREASE IN STATE MONIES, IN ANTICIPATION OF A $10 - $19 BILLION REVENUE SHORTFALL FOR THE STATE. HOWARD COLLEGE PRESIDENT DR. CHERYL SPARKS INFORMED COLLEGE TRUSTEES MONDAY THAT THE HOWARD COLLEGE ADMINSTRATION HAS GONE AHEAD AND INACTED NEARLY $1.2 MILLION IN BUDGET CUTS IN ALMOST EVERY DEPARTMENT AND ARE SETTING THAT MONEY ASIDE. THE STATE AT THIS POINT HAS ONLY ASKED FOR AGENCIES TO WORK THE NUMBERS, BUT HOWARD COLLEGE HAS DECIDED TO GO AHEAD AND SET THE MONEY ASIDE NOW SO THERE WON’T BE ANY BUDGET SURPRISES IN CASE THE STATE OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCES CUTS AS SOON AS THIS SUMMER. IT’S STILL A GREAT UNKNOWN WHAT AND WHEN THE STATE WILL ACT ON PROJECTED REVENUE SHORTFALLS WHEN IT COMES TO FUNDING HIGHER EDUCATION. PRESIDENT SPARKS HAS ALSO SENT A LETTER TO STATE LEADERSHIP REQUESTING LEGISLATORS TO MAINTAIN CURRENT FUNDING LEVELS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGES LIKE HOWARD, NOTING THAT THE MONIES ARE WELL SPENT IN EDUCATING THE CURRENT AND FUTURE WORKFORCE TO GO OUT AND EARN SALARIES AND SPEND MONEY, THUS GENERATING TAX REVENUE FOR THE STATE. AS DR. SPARKS WORDED IT “SPEND MONEY TO MAKE MONEY”. COLLEGE TRUSTEES SIGNED OFF ON THE LETTER.
HOWARD COLLEGE JUGGLING PROJECTS HOWARD COLLEGE CONTINUES TO WORK THROUGH WHAT IS SOMETIMES COMPLEX EFFORTS TO COMPLETE, OR EVEN BEGIN, NUMEROUS CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ON THEIR CAMPUSES. COLLEGE VICE-PRESIDENT TERRY HANSEN UPDATED TRUSTEES MONDAY ON THE CURRENT CAPTIAL IMPROVEMENTS BOND PROJECT, AND THE COMING DORM RENOVATION PROJECT THIS SUMMER. COLLEGE OFFICIALS ARE STRIVING VERY HARD TO FINALIZE PLANS AND BIDS FOR THE COLLEGE DORMS RENOVATIONS. LAST MINUTE FINE TUNING OF BID SPECS SHOULD TAKE PLACE SOON AND BIDS AWARDED. THE COLLEGE IS USING WHAT IS CALLED A “COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL” FOR THE DORMS, AND ONCE THINGS ARE CONFIRMED, THEY STILL HOPE TO PERFORM ABOUT SIX MONTHS WORTH OF CONSTRUCTION IN ABOUT THREE MONTHS, WHILE THE MAJORITY OF CLASSES ARE OUT THIS SUMMER. THE PROJECT IS BUDGETED FOR ABOUT $3 MILLION. IT IS BEING PAID FOR THROUGH A “REVENUE BOND”, MOSTLY DORM USER FEES INCREASES, AND IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH MONIES THAT ARE FUNDING THE LARGER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT ELSEWHERE ON THE BIG SPRING COLLEGE CAMPUS. IN THE MEANTIME, TERRY HANSEN INFORMED TRUSTEES MONDAY THAT THE BOND PROJECT IS MOSTLY MOVING ALONG SMOOTHLY, ALL THINGS CONSIDERED, AND IS STILL SHOWING A BUDGET SURPLUS OF ABOUT $3 MILLION. IF A SURPLUS REMAINS THROUGH THE CURRENT PROCESS, THE COLLEGE WILL BE ABLE TO ADDRESS OTHER CONSTRUCTION IMRPOVEMENTS THEY HAD NOT ORIGINALLY PLANNED.
Census To Create 84-Thousand Jobs In Texas
(Undated) -- The U.S. Census Bureau is hiring thousands of workers in Texas to help conduct the 2010 Census. More than 84-thousand jobs will be created throughout the state during peak operations. Census takers work in their community and go door-to-door to explain the purpose of the census, conduct brief personal interviews and help neighbors complete their Census questionnaire. The temporary positions pay between eight and 24-dollars an hour based on position and location. The bulk of the hiring will be in March, and interested applicants should call 866-861-2010 for more information.
Monday March 1 New Law Effects Some Driver License Applicants
(Austin, TX) -- A new law will take effect on Monday that will require driver license applicants between the ages of 18 and 24 to complete an approved driver education course and a driving skills test. Applicants must submit a certificate proving that they successfully completed a driver education course approved by the Texas Education Agency before they can become a licensed driver in Texas. The 81st Legislature passed Senate Bill 1317 last year, creating the requirement and authorizing the development of a six-hour adult driver education course for this group of drivers. Applicants who present proof of successful completion of the approved course will not be required to submit to the written highway signs and traffic laws test, but must still pass the driving skills examination.
Dozens Of Longhorns Found Dead In East Texas
(Van Zandt County, TX) -- The SPCA of Texas will seize about 40 head of Longhorn cattle today from a rural Van Zandt County property where authorities say 50 other Longhorns have died. SPCA officials say the surviving Longhorns appear to be lethargic and dangerously underweight, do not have access to food and only have access to a water source that is contaminated by some of the dead cattle. The Van Zandt County Sheriff's Department served an unrelated search warrant yesterday, discovered the cattle's desperate situation and contacted the SPCA. If the SPCA of Texas is awarded custody of the animals, they would be individually evaluated for potential adoption or placement on a case by case basis.
UPDATE ON BIG SPRING CITY AND TRUSTEE FILINGS HERE’S THE LATEST (AS OF FRIDAY MORNING) ON THE LATEST CANDIDATE FILINGS FOR BIG SPRING CITY AND SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS IN THE COMING MAY 8TH ELECTIONS. IN THE CITY OF BIG SPRING, BIG SPRING CITY COUNCIL HAS TWO POSITIONS COMING UP FOR ELECTION MAY 8TH. THE MAYOR POSITION AND CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 5, CURRENTLY HELD BY RUSS MCEWEN AND TROY TOMPKINS, RESPECTIVELY. BOTH HAVE NOW FILED TO RUN FOR ANOTHER TERM. RUSS MCEWEN HAS FILED FOR ANOTHER TERM. HE HAS TWO CHALLENGERS. LOCAL RESIDENTS OSCAR VALASCO AND SHANNON THOMASON HAVE ALSO FILED FOR THE MAYOR RACE. IN THE DISTRICT 5 RACE, INCUMBENT TROY TOMPKINS HAS FILED WITH NO CHALLENGERS AS OF MIDDAY FRIDAY (FEB. 26). IN THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD RACES THERE ARE THREE POSITIONS COMING UP FOR ELECTION MAY 8TH. TRUSTEE PLACES 5, 6 AND 7 ARE CURRENTLY HELD BY MIKE DAWSON, JEFF BRORMAN AND PHIL FURQUERON, RESPSECTIVELY. MIKE DAWSON HAS ANNOUNCED HE WILL NOT SEEK ANOTHER TERM AFTER 12 YEARS ON THE SCHOOL BOARD. THUS FAR, THREE CANDIDATES HAVE FILED FOR THAT SCHOOL BOARD POSITION. THEY ARE MICHELLE HAMBY, CHAD WASH AND JEREMY BLOUNT. IN THE SCHOOL BOARD PLACE 6 AND 7 POSITIONS, INCUMBENTS FURQUERON AND BRORMAN HAVE FILED TO RUN AGAIN. NO CHALLENGERS HAVE FILED AS OF FRIDAY MORNING.
TRAFFIC LIGHTS COME DOWN
AS KBST NEWS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED, SOME OF THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS IN DOWNTOWN BIG SPRING ARE COMING DOWN. THE MOST RECENT LIGHT TO INTENTIONALLY BE REMOVED BY TXDOT OFFICIALS IS AT 4TH AND MAIN. 3RD AND MAIN TRAFFIC LIGHTS WERE REMOVED A FEW MONTHS AGO. THE REMOVALS WILL ALLOW FOR A SMOOTHER FLOW OF TRAFFIC FOR MOTORISTS ALONG 3RD AND 4TH STREETS. THE INTERSECTIONS ARE RECEIVING 2-WAY STOPS SIGNS FOR MAIN STREET MOTORISTS. PLEASE MAKE NOTE FO THIS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE ACCUSTOMED TO THE TRAFFIC SIGNALS.
EARLY VOTING TOTALS FOR HOWARD COUNTY 1,875 EARLY VOTING BALLOTS WERE CAST IN HOWARD COUNTY DURING THE EARLY VOTING PERIOD THAT CONCLUDED LAST FRIDAY FOR THE MARCH 2ND PRIMARIES. THAT IS JUST OVER 11% OF THE REGISTERED VOTERS IN HOWARD COUNTY. THERE WAS ALSO A LOT MORE INTEREST IN THE REPUBLICAN SIDE OF THINGS THAN THE DEMOCRATIC SIDE. ACCORDING TO INFORMATION FROM THE HOWARD COUNTY ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATION OFFICE, OF THE BALLOTS CAST ABOUT 90% OF THEM WERE FOR REPUBLICAN. WHEN A VOTER CASTS A BALLOT IN A PRIMARY, HE IS ASKED TO CHOOSE BETWEEN REPUBLICAN OR DEMOCRAT, AND THAT IS THE PARTY YOU VOTE IN. THERE ARE MORE REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES ON THIS ELECTION BALLOT THAN DEMOCRATS. THE ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, MARCH 2ND, AND THERE WILL BE SEVERAL POLLING LOCATIONS IN HOWARD COUNTY. WE WILL BE ANNOUNCING THEM STARTING TUESDAY MORNING, POSTING THEM TO OUR WEBSITE, OR YOU MAY CONTACT THE HOWARD COUNTY ELECTIONS OFFICE. POLLS WILL BE OPEN TUESDAY FROM 7 AM TO 7 PM.
HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES MEET HOWARD COLLEGE TRUSTEES HOLD A REGULAR MEETING MONDAY IN THERE BOARD ROOM. THE PUBLIC PORTION OF THE MEETING BEGINS AT 12:30, AFTER THE LUNCH BREAK. AMONG AGENDA ITEMS COLLEGE TRUSTEES WILL CONSIDER BIDS FOR THE COLLEGE DORM PROJECTS. THE PROJECTS ARE BEING PAID FOR BY A REVENUE BOND, BUT ACCORDING TO REPORTS, TRUSTEES ARE EXPECTED TO REJECT THE CURRENT BIDS FOR THE DORM PROJECTS BECAUSE THEY ARE HIGHER THAN ANTICIPATED. IN THIS CASE THE PROJECT SPECS WILL PROBABLY BE RECONSIDERED TO BRING THE COSTS DOWN. HOWARD COLLEGE STILL PLANS TO BEGIN AND COMPLETE THE DORM PROJECT DURING THE SUMMER BREAK THIS YEAR.
ROTARIANS DONATE BOOKS AS PART OF THE LITERACY PROGRAM, THE GREATER BIG SPRING ROTARY CLUB FRIDAY MADE A DONATION OF A HUNDRED NEW BOOKS TO WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY. GRANT MONIES AND FUNDS RAISED BY THE ROTARIANS MADE THE DONATION POSSIBLE. ROTARY MEMBERS WILL ALSO BE READING TO THE STUDENTS IN THE FUTURE.
Friday Febuary 26 Texas Leads Country In Catastrophic Weather Costs
(Austin, TX) -- The state of Texas leads all other states for the second year in a row in insured losses for weather catastrophes. The Insurance Council of Texas reports that the Lone Star State experienced ten weather catastrophes in 2009, causing nearly two-point-five-billion-dollars in losses. Colorado comes in second for insured losses last year at one-point-three-billion-dollars. Council spokesman Mark Hanna says Texas had a lot of hail and tornadoes in 2009, and it was hurricanes in 2008. He says it's been ice and snow so far for 2010. Texas had eleven catastrophic events in 2008, accounting for ten-point-two-billion-dollars in losses. That was eight-billion-dollars more than Louisiana, which was second on the list with two-point-two-billion-dollars in 2008.
Perry, Challengers Appear Jointly In Houston
(Houston, TX) -- With less than a week remaining before the primary election, the three Republican candidates for governor appeared together in Houston on Wednesday evening. The occasion was the Lincoln-Reagan Day Dinner. Incumbent Rick Perry, the longest-serving governor in state history, is seeking a third full term and was joined by challengers Kay Bailey Hutchison and Debra Medina. Polls show Perry with a lead of nearly 20 percentage points over Hutchison, who is considered his chief rival and is an outspoken supporter of term limits.
Dot's Place Bidding Farewell To Pfugerville
(Pfugerville, TX) -- It's hard for the regulars to believe, but the last chicken-fried steak will be served on Friday at Dot's Place in Pfugerville. After 30 years of homestyle cooking, 70-year-old Dorothy "Dot" Hewitt will be hanging up her apron and closing up the restaurant. She has had health problems and says it's time to move on. This week, the lines have been longer than usual, and some of the customers have been taking pictures of their last meals with their camera phones.
DPS Looking To Hire Highway Patrol Troopers
(Austin, TX) -- The Texas Department of Public Safety is looking for a few good men and women in law enforcement to become Highway Patrol Troopers. The department is holding an advanced, eight-week school for current Texas and eligible out-of-state law enforcement officers for the first time in its 75-year history. The first advanced recruit school will begin in mid-May, and applications are due by the end of March. Applicants must have an active state peace officer license and pass the physical readiness test. Out-of-state peace officers must have passed the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education licensing examination and provide proof of successful completion of a state approved basic police officer training academy. Officers will earn about three-thousand bucks a month while attending the advanced school, and the salary will increase after graduation. After gaining experience, troopers can compete for a variety of assignments including criminal investigative agents, intelligence and counter terrorism and Texas Rangers. More information can be found at www.joindps.com.
BIG SPRING V.A. ADDING SECURITY MEASURES
THE BIG SPRING V.A. IS ADDING MORE MODERN SECURITY MEASURES TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF PATIENTS AND STAFF. NEW MICROCHIP SECURITY I.D. BADGES ARE AMONG THE ADDITIONS. THE V.A. COMPUTER AND EMAIL SYSTEMS WILL ALSO INCLUDE ENCRYPTED CODING TO PROTECT INTERNAL V.A. AND PATIENT INFORMATION. NEW SECURITY MEASURES SUCH AS THE NEW I.D. BADGES WERE MANDATED BY THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION SEVERAL YEARS AGO.
SCHOOL BOARD OFFICIALLY PLACES BOND ON MAY BALLOT
THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOARD HELD A SHORT MEETING THURSDAY EVENING TO PLACE A $60 MILLION CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS BOND ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT. THE MEETING CAME TO ORDER AT 6 O'CLOCK, ONE PERSON SPOKE DURING PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE PROPOSED BOND, AND THE SCHOOL BOARD VOTED TO PLACE THE MEASURE ON THE MAY 8TH BALLOT. THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND ISSUE WILL ONLY APPEAR ON BALLOTS OF BIG SPRING SCHOOL DISTRICT VOTERS. MAY 8TH ELECTIONS ACROSS THE AREA WILL ALSO INCLUDE CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD RACES. THE BIG SPRING SCHOOL BOND WILL ASK VOTERS TO APPROVE $60 MILLION TO CONSTRUCT THREE NEW ELEMENTARIES TO REPLACE MARCY, WASHINGTON AND GOLIAD, AS WELL AS MAKE IMPROVEMENTS TO OTHER BIG SPRING SCHOOL CAMPUSES. SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICIALS WILL CONTINUE AN EFFORT TO EDUCATE THE PUBLIC BETWEEN NOW AND THE MAY 8TH ELECTION ON WHAT THEY SAY ARE VERY DESPERATE NEEDS IN THE DISTRICT.
Thursday Febuary 25 DRIVE BY HOMICIDE SUSPECTS GUILTY TWO SUSPECTS CHARGED IN A DEADLY 2008 DRIVE BY SHOOTING IN BIG SPRING HAVE BEEN FOUND GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS IN FEDERAL COURT IN LUBBOCK THIS WEEK. JOSE NAVA AND JAMES COLE WERE FOUND GUILTY BY THE JURY ON ALL CHARGES RELATED TO A DRIVE BY SHOOTING ON BIG SPRING’S EAST SIDE IN MAY 2008 THAT KILLED MICHAEL CARDONA AND VALERIE GARCIA. VALERIE GARCIA WAS PREGNANT AT THE TIME SHE WAS SHOT TO DEATH BY THE TWO MEMBERS OF THE LATIN KINGS GANG. THERE WERE SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE INJURED DURING THE MAY 2008 SHOOTING ON EAST 16TH. THE MURDER TRIAL BEGAN LAST WEEK IN LUBBOCK. SENTENCING FOR JOSE NAVA AND JAMES COLE WILL TAKE PLACE AT A LATER DATE IN LUBBOCK FEDERAL COURT.
CITY ISSUES STATEMENT REGARDING LAWSUIT
THE CITY OF BIG SPRING REMAINS CONFIDENT THAT ACTIONS IT TOOK BY CALLING A JANUARY EMERGENCY MEETING THIS YEAR WERE PROPER AND ACCORDING TO LAW. THE CITY ISSUED A SHORT STATEMENT THROUGH CITY ATTORNEY LINDA SJOGREN WEDNESDAY. THE STATEMENT IS IN RESPONSE TO A LAWSUIT FILED LAST WEEK BY MEMBERS OF THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL, A LOCAL GROUP THAT HAS FILED LAWSUITS AGAINST THE CITY ON PREVIOUS OCCASSIONS. THIS LATEST LAWSUIT COMPLAINS THAT AN EMERGENCY CITY COUNCIL MEETING CALLED FOR JANUARY 6TH WAS NOT LEGAL. NORMALLY, AN ENTITY SUCH AS THE CITY WOULD POST A MEETING NOTICE WITHIN 72 HOURS OF THE ACTUAL MEETING. THE CITY POSTED THE EMERGENCY MEETING AGENDA THE DAY OF THE MEETING. POSTING AND HOLDING AN EMERGENCY MEETING IS OF COURSE APPROPRIATE, BUT THE LAWSUIT BASICALLY STATES THAT THE BUDGET ISSUE GIVEN AS THE CHIEF CAUSE FOR THE JANURARY 6TH MEETING DID NOT QUALIFY AS AN EMERGENCY. THE MEETING AGENDA ALSO CALLED FOR THE CITY COUNCIL TO “INVALIDATE” A PETITION TURNED IN BY THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL 19 DAYS BEFORE. THE CITY HAD 20 DAYS TO DO SO. THE PETITION CALLED FOR A TAX ROLLBACK ELECTION. C.C.C. BELIEVES THAT ELECTION SHOULD TAKE PLACE SINCE THE JANUARY 6TH MEETING WAS NOT APPROPRIATE UNDER LAW, ACCORDING TO THEIR LAWSUIT. HERE IS THE STATEMENT ISSUED WEDNESDAY (FEB. 24) BY THE CITY OF BIG SPRING IN REGARDS TO THE RECENT LAWSUIT FILED IN 118TH DISTRICT COURT: “THE MAYOR WAS SERVED WITH THE PETITION IN THE LAWSUIT FILED BY THE CONCERNED CITIZENS COUNCIL ET AL LATE FRIDAY AFTERNOON. WE AT THE CITY WERE, AND STILL ARE CONFIDENT THAT THE CIRCUMSTANCES PRESENT ON JANUARY 6 OF THIS YEAR MET THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR AN EMERGENCY MEETING. WE WILL NOT MAKE ANY FURTHER COMMENTS REGARDING THE LITIGATION UNTIL WE FILE OUR ANSWER IN COURT.” LINDA L. SJOGREN CITY ATTORNEY
Killed IRS Employee's Family Sues Suicidal Pilot's Family
(Austin, TX) -- The family of the IRS employee killed in the suicidal plane crash at an Austin office building is suing the pilot's family. Sixty-eight-year-old Vernon Hunter's family has filed suit against Joseph Stack's wife in an attempt to find out if he left any assets behind before crashing a plane into the Echelon 3 building last Thursday. Hunter family attorney Daniel Ross says the litigation will also stop Vernon Hunter's autopsy results from being released and possibly viewed by any of Hunter's eight grandchildren. Joseph Stack is reported to have been angry with the IRS when he crashed the small plane into the office building where about 200 IRS employees worked.
Firearms, Books on Atheism, Demons Found In Church Arson Suspect's Home
(Tyler, TX) -- A stash of firearms and a collection of books about atheism and demon possession, all found in the home where one of the East Texas church arson suspects lived. Search warrants filed Monday and Tuesday suggest that investigators began collecting all sorts of evidence a few weeks after the first of ten church fires in and near Tyler. After several of the fires, they also gathered DNA samples from bricks and rocks used to break into the churches. After getting search warrants for the suspects' homes, local police and federal agents found books with titles like Demon Possession and The Atheist's Way. So far, investigators say neither man is saying why they were targeting churches.
FILM SOCIETY MEETING TO BE RESCHEDULED AS WE PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED, THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY HAD SCHEDULED AN ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING FOR THURSDAY, FEB. 25TH, AT THE HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS. THAT MEETING IS BEING POSTPONED DUE TO OTHER EVENTS THAT HAVE BEEN RESCHEDULED THIS WEEK DUE TO SNOW. BRANDON JOHNSON WITH THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY SAYS HE WILL ANNOUNCE A NEW MEETING DATE IN THE NEAR FUTURE AND WE’LL PASS THAT ALONG TO YOU.
Wednesday Febuary 24 Statewide Warrant Roundup Kicks Off Next Month
(Undated) -- Law enforcement officers across the state are urging residents to take care of outstanding warrants. The Great Texas Warrant Roundup kicks off March sixth. Jurisdictions across the state will share warrant information and arrest people with outstanding warrants. More than 204-thousand warrants were cleared statewide during the roundup last year.
BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY MEETING / PLANS THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY HAS BIG PLANS AGAIN FOR THIS YEAR WITH SEVERAL OUTDOOR MOVIE PRESENTATIONS. STEVEN SPIELBERG’S “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” WILL BE SHOWN APRIL 24TH AT THE HISTORIC AMPHITHEATER IN COMANCHE TRAIL PARK, AND “PLOTERGEIST” IS PLANNED FOR JUNE 18TH AT MOSS CREEK LAKE. AS ALWAYS, THE EVENTS WILL BE FREE TO THE PUBLIC. THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY WILL BE HAVING A PLANNING MEETING COMING UP NEXT WEEK, THURSDAY FEBRUARY 25TH, 7 PM, AT THE HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS ON THE HOWARD COLLEGE CAMPUS. ANYONE WHO IS INTERESTED IN THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY IS INVITED. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY OR ENTHUSED ABOUT ANNOUNCED PLANS AND WOULD LIKE TO HELP OUT, PLEASE ATTEND NEXT THURSDAY’S MEETING! THE “RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK” PRESENTATION IN APRIL NEEDS VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH CROWD CONTROL AND TO RUN THE CONCESSIONS BOOTH. THE CONCESSIONS BOOTH WILL HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR THE FILM SOCIETY WHICH IN TURN HELPS TO PAY FOR FUTURE PUBLIC MOVIE EVENTS AND KEEP THEM FREE FOR THE COMMUNITY. THERE WILL BE A LOT TO TALK ABOUT, IT’LL BE A FUN TIME, AND YOUR IDEAS FOR THE BIG SPRING FILM SOCIETY ARE VERY WELCOME, SO PLEASE MAKE A NOTE TO ATTEND THIS MEETING ON THURSDAY, FEB. 25TH, 7 PM , HALL CENTER FOR THE ARTS ON THE HOWARD COLLEGE CAMPUS. COME SUPPORT THIS EXCITING CONCEPT FOR OUR AREA!
Two Accused Church Arsonists Make First Court Appearance
(Tyler, TX) -- The two men accused of torching churches in East Texas made their first court appearance Monday, helping us learn more about how they were caught. For two months, churches in and around Tyler were terrorized they'd be next. A total of ten churches in Smith and Van Zandt counties went up in flames, beginning on New Years Day. Now, Texas Ranger Brent Davis says they caught up with the two arson suspects through a combination of tips and evidence from the scenes, including shoe-and-boot prints that appear to match up with the footwear worn by the suspects. Davis goes on to say the motive for the fires is still a total mystery. Nothing the suspects have said so far gives any hint.
Tuesday Febuary 23 WINTER STORM WARNING FOR OUR AREA WINTERY CONDITIONS ARE PREVAILING OVER WEST TEXAS AND THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ISSUED A WINTER STORM WARNING FOR WEST TEXAS LOCATIONS, INCLUDING BIG SPRING AND HOWARD COUNTY. SNOW IS LIKELY FOR THE PERIOD THROUGH TUESDAY. SNOW AND ICE ON BRIDGES AND OVERPASSES AND OTHER LOCATIONS ON ROADWAYS MAY CAUSE DRIVING PROBLEMS FOR MOTORISTS, SO PROCEED WITH CAUTION. IMPROVEMENTS ARE STILL EXPECTED AS WE GET INTO WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY.
Victim Of Austin Plane-Building Crash Identified
(Austin, TX) -- The FBI continues to investigate the plane crash into an Austin building last Thursday that left the pilot an
