July 12, 2024 – Cuero – In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, which made landfall in Matagorda County, Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) crews have been working tirelessly to restore normalcy. One such dedicated crew member is Chris Jasso, who shared his experience of the challenging yet rewarding week.
Photo courtesy of Chris Jasso
Chris and his team have been waking up at 3 am, getting to the shop by 4:30 am, and hitting the road by 5 am to reach Bay City by 7 am. After coordinating with other counties in an hour-long meeting, they head out to their assigned areas in the county to clean up debris, fallen limbs, and trees. In just one day, they covered 30 different spots and hauled 19 loads of debris to a collection area.
Photo courtesy of Chris Jasso
Working all day in the humidity and heat, they finish around 4 pm, head home, and get back around 7 pm. Despite the long, exhausting days, the gratitude from the local community makes it all worthwhile says Chris. People wave as they pass by, give thumbs up, and mouth ‘thank you’, making the exhaustion well worth it.
Photo courtesy of Chris Jasso
While most of the area now has power, there are still places without. Linemen are all around, working to restore power, replace poles, and get lines off the roads. Being part of this massive group helping out gives a sense of pride and fulfillment.
Chris acknowledges that while they were on the side of the county that wasn’t too badly affected, the west side of the county faced more destruction. Other TxDOT crews were working there, facing even more challenging conditions.
Photos courtesy of Chris Jasso
The photos courtesy of Chris Jasso provides a glimpse into the hard work and dedication of the TxDOT crews. Their efforts underscore the resilience of our community in the face of adversity.
July 12, 2024 – Public health officials urge Texans to be vigilant in protecting against mosquito bites after confirming the first Texas case of West Nile virus and 10 travel-associated dengue cases for 2024. Precautions should be taken in Texas and while traveling internationally to countries where dengue is endemic.
The first case of West Nile in 2024 was reported in a Montgomery County resident who has been diagnosed with West Nile fever. As of today, the Texas Department of State Health Services has identified nearly 800 mosquito samples infected with West Nile virus in 24 counties.
West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Most people exposed to the virus don’t get sick, but about 20 percent develop symptoms like headache, fever, muscle and joint aches, nausea and fatigue. In a very small proportion, less than one percent, the virus affects the nervous system, leading to the more serious West Nile neuroinvasive disease that can cause neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and even death.
All of the dengue cases reported in Texas so far in 2024 were acquired while traveling internationally, but a small number of dengue cases have been acquired from mosquito bites in southern Texas in recent years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently alerted health care providers about the increased risk of dengue virus infections in the United States in 2024 based on an unprecedented number of cases being reported globally and higher-than-expected cases identified among U.S. travelers. Most dengue virus cases in the US have been linked to travel to places where the virus is endemic, including most tropical countries of the South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, South and Central America and Africa.
Dengue virus is transmitted by infected mosquitoes and about 25 percent of infections become symptomatic. After about three to 14 days, infected people may develop a fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle aches, joint pain, bone pain, pain behind the eyes and headaches. Most people recover completely within two weeks. However, about one in 20 symptomatic people develop a severe infection called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever that can be fatal if untreated.
“Unfortunately, many mosquitoes in Texas are capable of spreading diseases, such as West Nile and dengue. These diseases are often mild, but some people will develop severe illness,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer Shuford, MD, MPH. “So, it is important for Texans to know how to protect themselves against mosquito bites.”
Heavy, widespread rain from Hurricane Beryl has left behind standing water that provides mosquitoes ample breeding ground to multiply. An increase in nuisance mosquitoes may initially occur in areas impacted by the storm. This may be followed by an increase in the types of mosquitoes that can spread diseases like West Nile. People working on clean up and recovery should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites.
macro photo Striped mosquitoes feed on blood on human skin. Mosquitoes are carriers of dengue fever and malaria.
The Texas Department of State Health Services urges people to not give mosquitoes a biting chance by following these steps to protect themselves and their families from West Nile and other diseases spread by mosquitoes.
WEAR long sleeves and pants. Create a barrier to mosquito bites by covering up.
APPLY insect repellent. Use EPA-registered repellent such as those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol or 2-undecanone.
REMOVE standing water. Emptying out water that accumulates in toys, tires, trash cans, buckets, clogged rain gutters and plant pots will deny mosquitoes a place to lay their eggs and reproduce.
People should also keep mosquitoes out of their homes by using air conditioning and making sure window and door screens are in good repair. DSHS urges people with West Nile or dengue symptoms to contact their health care provider and mention any exposure to mosquitoes.
There were 154 cases of West Nile disease in Texas last year and 13 deaths.* Over the last five years, Texas has had 497 cases and 68 deaths. There were 79 cases of dengue in Texas last year, including one locally acquired case in Val Verde County. Mosquitoes remain active in much of Texas into November and December.
* Cases and attributed deaths for 2023 are provisional.
Worker sprays territory with insecticide for mosquitoes or pests or herbicides for weeds with motorized sprayer.
July 11, 2024 – YOAKUM, Texas — Hurricane Beryl made its third landfall on July 8, 2024, at approximately 3:30 a.m. as a category 1 storm with 80-mph winds. In the wake of Hurricane Beryl, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) crews from the Yoakum District have been instrumental with the cleanup of roads.
Hurricane Beryl left a trail of destruction, with fallen trees and downed power lines littering the area. As soon as it was safe to do so, TxDOT crews were out on the roads, making assessments for damages and beginning the arduous task of clearing debris.
The Yoakum District crews played a significant role in these efforts, particularly in Matagorda, where the hurricane’s impact was severe. Their swift and efficient response has been crucial in restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of the roads for the residents of Matagorda County.
The TXDot crews from the Yoakum District played a significant role in Matagorda, clearing debris caused by the recent devastation of Hurricane Beryl. The area was littered with fallen trees and downed power lines.
The Yoakum ISD 2024-2025 will hold registration for the upcoming school year.
Yoakum Primary Annex
Yoakum Primary Annex will have registration for new Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students on July 23 and July 24 from 9:00 a.m. – noon and from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. If you have any questions, you may call Yoakum Primary Annex at 361-293-3312 beginning July 29.
Yoakum Primary School
Yoakum Primary School will have registration for all students on Wednesday, July 31, from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the Yoakum Primary School cafeteria. A current Proof of Residency will need to be presented for all students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. If you have any questions, you may call Yoakum Primary School at 361-293-2011 beginning July 29.
Yoakum Intermediate School
Yoakum Intermediate School will have registration for all incoming third, fourth, and fifth grade students on Thursday, August 1, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. A current Proof of Residency will need to be presented for all students registering for the 2024-2025 school year. If you have any questions, you may call Yoakum Intermediate School at 361-293-2741 beginning July 29.
Yoakum Junior High School
Yoakum Junior High School will have registration for all 2024-2025 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students on Wednesday, July 31, from noon – 6:00 p.m. in the Yoakum Junior High School mall. A parent/legal guardian MUST accompany each student during registration as signatures are required by both parties. Incoming 12-year-olds will need to bring their immunization records with them to registration. If you have any questions, you may call Yoakum Junior High School at 361-293-3111 beginning July 29.
Yoakum High School
Yoakum High School will have registration for new students on Thursday, August 1, from 8:00 a.m. – noon.
MANDATORY Freshman Orientation will be on Thursday, August 1, from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Schedule Pick-up will be on Thursday, August 1, as follows:
Freshmen: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Sophomores: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Juniors: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Seniors: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The following documents need to be presented when enrolling a new student to Yoakum I.S.D.
For the child:
Certified Birth Certificate
Social Security Card
Up-to-Date Immunization Record
Records from the previous school, including
Last report card or withdrawal records
STAAR and/or achievement test scores
Information on Special Ed., 504, ESL, TELPAS G/T, At-Risk, Retention
Legal Guardianship Documents
For the enrolling person (must be a parent or legal guardian):
Valid Driver’s License or State-issued Photo I.D. Card
Proof of Residency (current utility bill or lease agreement with service address and name printed on it)
If you have any questions, you may call Yoakum High School at 361-293-3442 beginning July 29.
July 11, 2024 – CUERO, Texas — A few days ago, the Dollar General store located at 1141 N Esplanade St in Cuero was the target of a break-in. The incident is currently under investigation by the City of Cuero Police Department.
According to Chief of Police Steve Ellis, investigators are diligently working on the case. As of this date and time, no suspects have been identified. The team is in the process of gathering evidence and compiling a list of stolen items.
Details of the Break-In
It appears that perpetrators gained entry through the front door of the store. A photograph from the scene shows the extent of the damage, with plywood temporarily put up at the entrance of the door as a result of the break-in.
The Dollar General Corporation and the local community are cooperating fully with the police department to aid in the investigation. We urge anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and contact the City of Cuero Police Department.
We will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. The safety and security of our community remain our top priority.
**Join The DeWitt/LaVaca County Democratic Women**
Cuero, Texas – July 11, 2024 – The Dewitt Lavaca County Democratic Women is excited to announce an open invitation to all women in Dewitt and Lavaca County to attend their regular meeting on Friday, July 12, at 11 am at Maya’s Restaurant in Cuero. Our goal is to inspire, educate and motivate fellow democrats to become more involved in the political process and to empower them through education, networking, and support.
With the General Elections right around the corner plans are being made to organize local political activities, provide support to the community, and engage in discussions about current events and legislation that will affect our future.
In addition to the meeting, the organization is proud to announce the launch of its new website, www.dewittlavacatxdemocratwomen.wordpress.com/ and an updated Facebook page. These platforms will serve as a hub for news, updates, and information about the organization’s activities and initiatives.
The group is sponsoring a “Get Out the Vote” postcard writing workshop, which will take place on August 11 and October 6 at 1 pm, at Maya’s Restaurant. The event welcomes anyone interested in participating.
For more information about these events or the DeWitt/LaVaca County Democratic Women, please contact Margaret Vandeveer at dewittlavacatxdemocraticwomen@yahoo.com
CUERO, TX — During their regularly scheduled meeting held Monday July 8, 2024, the Cuero City council voted to appoint Judge Sheila Garza Medina, and as Associate Judge, Hallie Hall. The appointment fills the municipal judge position vacated by Gary J. Schroeder.
The typical term for a municipal judge in Texas is two years. However, there are no specific term limits for municipal judges. Their tenure is typically subject to reappointment or replacement by the city council or the mayor.
Municipal courts in Texas deal with a range of cases, including traffic violations, fine-only misdemeanors, truancy, city ordinance infractions, and misdemeanor state law offenses within the municipality’s boundaries.
In Texas, a municipal court judge who is not a licensed attorney is required to complete a 32-hour course on the performance of their duties within one year of their election or appointment. Additionally, the judge must finish at least a 12-hour course in the calendar year following the one in which the initial course was completed. This course must receive approval from the Texas Judicial Council.
8 th Graders: (Front) Julianna Chapas and Kamryn Villa, (Middle Row) Gracie Diebel, Emmalyn Bell, Addison McClellan, (Back) Alison Chilek, Emma Garibay, Rose Hogan, Maria Gonzales 7 th Graders: (Front) Evalyn Williams, Lainey Dyer, Nini Haynes, (Back) Lily Hogan, Mascot Bailey Dolan, Camren Jurosek, and Kinsley Marie
They completed 3 intense days of Cheer Camp. The squad received superior ribbons for Band Chant, Situation Chant, and Game Day Cheer evaluations. In addition, ALL members received an All-American nomination. They were also recognized as a Superior Junior High Squad. Below is a list of the individual awards that were also earned at camp. These girls really excelled this week. Please give them a congratulations when you see them. GO MEAN GREEN!!!
All American Cheerleaders: Gracie Diebel, Kamryn Villa, Alison Chilek, and Addison McClellan
Pin It Forward Award: Addison McClellan, Rose Hogan, Maria Gonzales, and Lainey Dyer
Individual Awards: Most Spirited: Evalyn Williams Super Leadership: Maria Gonzales and Kinsley Marie Star Flyer: Nini Haynes All-Star Cheerleader: Gracie Diebel Technical Excellence: Bailey Dolan Dynamic Dancer: Alison Chilek, Addison McClellan Marvelous Motions: Kamryn Villa, Julianna Chapas, Bailey Dolan High Jumper: Gracie Diebel Safe Stunter: Rose Hogan Star Jumper: Kamryn Villa Star Backspot: Emma Garibay Star Base: Emmalyn Bell Most Improved: Lainey Dyer Leadership: Kinsley Marie
Picture & information submitted by: Cuero ISD Parent
CUERO, TX — The City of Cuero, in collaboration with the Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commission and funded by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), is hosting a Tire Recycling Event at the Cuero Recycling Center, located at 1315 E Broadway. The trailer at the center is estimated to hold approximately 600-800 tires, varying with the tire sizes.
The event will take place on the following dates and times:
Saturday, August 10th: 7am – 12pm
Monday, August 12th: 7am – 6pm
Tuesday, August 13th to Thursday, August 15th: 7am – 12pm
This event is free of charge until the trailer is full and is open exclusively to residents of the City of Cuero and DeWitt County.
Please note the following restrictions:
Businesses are not eligible for this free service.
Acceptable tire types include passenger, light truck, semi, lawnmower, golf cart, and ATV tires.
No tires larger than 17.5×25 are accepted.
Tires must be off rims.
Each household can dispose of up to 10 tires until the trailer is full.
Tires are the number one breeding ground for mosquitoes that carry harmful diseases. This event is part of our ongoing commitment to public health and environmental sustainability. We encourage all eligible residents to take advantage of this opportunity to safely dispose of their unwanted tires.
For more information, please contact the City of Cuero’s Recycling Center.
The City of Cuero is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens by promoting economic growth, providing quality services, and protecting our natural resources.
