VICTORIA, TX -The Victoria Fire Department has announced that it is now accepting applications for its upcoming Hybrid Fire Academy, offering a flexible pathway for individuals seeking a career in the fire service.
Designed for motivated applicants who want to enter the profession while balancing work, school, or family responsibilities, the hybrid program combines online coursework with hands‑on, in‑person training. Department officials say the structure allows more people to pursue firefighting without the traditional scheduling barriers.
According to the department, the academy provides a comprehensive introduction to the fire service, including:
Hands‑on training with real‑world equipment and scenarios
Professional instruction from certified fire service educators
Career opportunities within a growing and essential field
A chance to serve the community with pride and purpose
The program is open to individuals who are ready to challenge themselves physically and mentally while committing to the high standards of the fire profession. Graduates of the academy will be prepared to pursue certification and begin their careers as firefighters.
The Victoria Fire Department encourages anyone interested in public service, emergency response, or a long‑term fire service career to apply.
Applications are now open, and prospective candidates are urged to submit their information as soon as possible to secure a spot in the academy.
CUERO, Texas — The Cuero High School Band program will celebrate a year of music, dedication, and student achievement at its annual Band Banquet on Friday, May 15, at the Cuero VFW. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the program and dinner beginning at 7 p.m.
The event is free to attend, offering families, supporters, and community members an opportunity to honor the hard work of the Gobbler Band, Color Guard, and Sideline Crew throughout the 2024–2025 school year.
Dinner will be catered by KB’s BBQ, with plates available for $15. Guests may purchase meals at the door or through an online link that will be released soon. All High School Band students, Color Guard members, Sideline Crew students, and Band Directors with their guests will receive their meals at no cost.
A highlight of the evening will be the recognition of graduating seniors, who will be honored for their years of service and leadership within the program. Seniors in attendance will also receive a special gift bag. Door prizes will be awarded to students throughout the night.
The banquet serves as a capstone event for the Cuero Gobbler Band, celebrating musical accomplishments, teamwork, and the strong tradition of student involvement in the district’s award‑winning fine arts program.
Meal ticket information will be shared as soon as the purchase link becomes available.
Cuero, Texas — May 8, 2026 Students at Cuero ISD Elementary got a special surprise during Career Dress‑Up Day when members of the Cuero Police Department stopped by to meet the kids, take photos, and talk about the many paths their futures could take.
The campus was filled with miniature versions of the community’s future workforce — police officers, deputies, doctors, nurses, wrestlers, baristas, teachers, ballerinas, cowboys, firefighters, and more. But according to the officers, there were definitely a few extra “future cops” in the mix.
Officers spent the morning visiting with students, answering questions, and posing for photos beside patrol units and equipment. The event gave children a chance to interact with law enforcement in a positive, relaxed setting while imagining themselves in the careers they hope to pursue one day.
The department shared that they “had a great time with all of the future police officers, deputies, doctors, nurses, wrestlers, baristas, teachers, ballerinas, cowboys, and even a few firefighters,” adding with a smile that “there were more cops though.”
Events like this continue to strengthen the relationship between Cuero ISD and local first responders, giving students a hands‑on look at public service while building trust and familiarity with the officers who protect their community. 0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000.2
The Cuero ISD Choirs, under the direction of Tertia Cain, presented their “Totally Rad” spring concert on May 7, offering a program that combined UIL competition pieces, state‑advancing soloists, and a lively set of 1980s favorites. The evening reflected steady musical growth, teamwork, and a genuine sense of fun shared by both the students and their director.
UIL Competition Selections
The concert opened with the choir’s UIL repertoire, featuring:
Regina Coeli — Davison
The Lone Wild Bird — Burchard
Crawdad Hole — Courtney
These selections allowed the students to demonstrate their developing ensemble skills and their ability to perform in contrasting styles.
State‑Advancing Soloists
The concert also included recognition for three students who advanced to the Texas State Solo & Ensemble Contest earlier this year. Their pieces were performed at the contest and represented an important milestone in their individual vocal studies:
While these students were acknowledged for their state achievements, the spirit of the evening truly belonged to the entire choir. The joy on the students’ faces — and the pride radiating from their families — made it clear that this concert was a celebration of everyone’s hard work, growth, and love of performing. Each singer contributed to the energy and success of the night, and the supportive atmosphere on stage reflected the strong sense of community within the program.
The second half of the concert shifted into a colorful, high‑energy 80s theme, and the students clearly had a blast with it. Their enthusiasm was contagious — big smiles, bold costumes, and a stage full of movement that kept the audience engaged throughout the set.
Any Way You Want It (Journey Medley) — soloists: Charlene Orch, Nadia Light, Landri Dyer
The ensemble singing showed continued growth, and the students performed with a confidence that comes from hard work and a supportive environment. The solo features added expressive, memorable moments to the set, and the overall atmosphere was upbeat and enjoyable.
Director Tertia Cain brought her signature energy to the stage, guiding the students with encouragement and creating an environment where they could relax, have fun, and enjoy making music together.
Senior Recognition
Cain also honored two graduating seniors — Landri Dyer and Merari Andino Romero — presenting each with flowers in recognition of their years of dedication to the Cuero Choir program.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Director Tertia Cain recognizes graduating seniors Merari Andino Romero and Landri Dyer during the Totally Rad Cuero Choir Concert, honoring their years of dedication to the program.
A Meaningful Night for Students and Families
The concert offered a genuine reflection of the students’ hard work throughout the year. It was an evening filled with progress, memorable solos, and a supportive audience that celebrated every step of the journey. The smiles, applause, and shared excitement made it clear that this performance was about more than music — it was about community, growth, and the joy of being part of something together.
Editor’s Note: Some performance videos are not included due to a lost phone containing the recordings. If any parents captured footage and are willing to share, please email it to cueroonlinenews@gmail.com.
San Antonio, Tx -At the IBJJF San Antonio International Open, Coach Josh Spivey stepped back onto the mats carrying more than competitive ambition. He carried the grit of Cuero, Texas, the expectations of his students, and the mindset that has shaped his journey as both a coach and an active Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor.
Spivey trains and teaches at Family Jiu-Jitsu Karate, located at 105 E. French St. in Cuero, where he balances coaching kids and adults with a demanding competition schedule. Known for testing himself often, he competes year‑round across Texas, sharpening his skills through constant drilling, cross‑training, and live rounds at multiple academies.
His return to the San Antonio Open came just weeks after suffering an injury at a Houston tournament—an obstacle that could have sidelined many athletes. Instead, Spivey treated it as another challenge. He stepped back onto the mat not because it was easy, but because the work still mattered.
That resilience reflects the spirit of Cuero: hardworking, disciplined, and unwilling to back down when things get tough.
According to BJJ Metrics, Spivey has earned 41 career medals, including 10 gold, 21 silver, and 10 bronze, with titles at IBJJF San Antonio, IBJJF Waco, IBJJF Dallas Summer, IBJJF Austin Summer, and NAGA. He currently holds a country ranking of 77 among U.S. blue‑belt ultra‑heavyweight competitors.
While he didn’t capture gold in his division at the San Antonio Open, the day still marked a victory. He showed up after being hurt. He competed. He stayed in the fight. And for the students watching him—kids and adults alike—that example matters more than any medal.
Spivey’s preparation extends beyond the academy. He works with 14 Degrees Fitness in Cuero to support his conditioning and nutrition, and he receives sponsorship support from Nation Athletic and 1st Phorm as he continues to chase major competition goals throughout 2026.
He also credits the team at Ohana Jiu Jitsu in San Antonio for helping support him throughout the event—an example of the brotherhood that defines the Jiu-Jitsu community.
Coach Spivey returns to competition Sunday for No‑Gi, looking to build momentum and continue representing Cuero on the big stage.
Gold or no gold, his message remains the same: Keep showing up. Keep working. Keep going.
PERMIT-NO RECEIPT-NO DATE-ISSUED ADDRESS DESIGNATION CITY ZIP APPLICANT CONTRACTOR JOB-VALUE FEES PAID SUBDIVISIONJOB DESCRIPTION COMMERCIAL-ADDITION/REMODEL
1202 E Broadway St Commercial Cuero 77954 Galloway & Company, Inc.
Joe R Jones Construction, Inc
$60,000.00 $0.00 Minor Remodel
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COMMERCIAL-DEMOLITION
101 W Main Street Commercial Cuero 77954 Weaver & Jacobs Constructors, Inc. Weaver & Jacobs
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COMMERCIAL-ELECTRICAL
111 N. Terrell Commercial Cuero 77954 $0.00 $0.00 Temp Meter
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COMMERCIAL-FENCE
1315 e broadway Commercial cuero 77954 sotx construction $0.00 $0.00 Fence
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COMMERCIAL-MECHANICAL
413 South Esplanade Commercial Cuero 77954 South Texas
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121 E Courthouse St Commercial Cuero 77954 J&i Air $0.00 $65.00 AC replacement
704 N. Esplanade Commercial Cuero 77954 Jahn Refrigeration
Co. Inc Jahn Refrigeration Co. Inc
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COMMERCIAL-ROOF 310 E Broadway St Commercial Cuero 77954 Covey Rise Roofing
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206 W Main St Commercial Cuero 77954 Serrano Brothers
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COMMERCIAL-SIDEWALK
2026-161 0 309 East Church St Commercial Cuero 77954 LTD Construction
CUERO, TX -The Cuero community is celebrating a remarkable milestone for twin athletes Bradley Hill and Brittany Hill, who have each signed with Our Lady of the Lake University to continue their track and field careers on scholarship. The siblings, known for their dedication, discipline, and strong presence in Cuero athletics, are the children of Melissa Alcazar and Jose Alcazar.
For the Hill twins, this moment represents years of hard work and a shared commitment to excellence that began long before their high school careers. Both have been standout members of Cuero Select Track Club, competing from ninth grade through the present and earning multiple state appearances along the way. Their parallel journeys — each unique in its own right — have now led them to the same collegiate destination.
Bradley Hill: A Hurdler and Jumper on the Rise
Bradley’s track journey began in the seventh grade, and over the years he has become known for his focus, consistency, and technical skill. Coaches describe him as an athlete who leads quietly but powerfully, always willing to put in the extra work that separates good athletes from great ones.
Cuero’s Bradley Hill signs his letter of intent to compete for Our Lady of the Lake University, surrounded by medals and mementos from his track career as the community celebrates his achievement.
At OLLU, Bradley will compete in the 60‑meter hurdles during the indoor season and transition to the 110‑meter hurdles and long jump outdoors. His high school career includes a trip to the Area Track Meet in the 300‑meter hurdles during his junior year, along with three T.A.A.F. State appearances in the 110‑meter hurdles, 100‑meter dash, and long jump.
Bradley plans to pursue a degree in Athletic Training, combining his passion for sports with a future in helping athletes reach their full potential.
Brittany Hill: A Powerful Competitor in the Throws
Brittany’s path has been defined by strength, determination, and steady improvement. She first competed in track during junior high and returned to the sport her senior year, quickly reestablishing herself as a force in the throwing events. Coaches praise her for her focus, her work ethic, and her ability to rise to the occasion in high‑pressure meets.
At OLLU, Brittany will compete in shot put and weight throw during the indoor season, and transition to discus and javelin outdoors. Like her brother, she has earned three T.A.A.F. State appearances, competing in discus and representing Cuero Select Track Club with pride.
(Contributed photo) Cuero’s Brittany Hill signs her letter of intent to compete for Our Lady of the Lake University, surrounded by medals and mementos from her track career as the community celebrates her achievement.
Brittany will pursue a degree in Criminal Justice, preparing for a future in public service while continuing her athletic career.
A Shared Journey, A Shared Celebration
Though Bradley and Brittany compete in different events, their stories are deeply connected — shaped by the same community, the same club, the same support system, and the same drive to succeed. Their signing with OLLU marks not only a personal achievement for each of them but also a proud moment for Cuero, which has watched the twins grow from young athletes into college‑bound competitors.
As the Hill twins prepare to take the next step in San Antonio, the Cuero community celebrates their accomplishments and the dedication behind them. Their journey reflects years of training, countless hours of practice, and the unwavering support of family, coaches, and teammates.
Cuero looks forward to cheering on Bradley and Brittany as they bring their talent, determination, and hometown pride to the collegiate stage — together.
Target will begin carrying hemp‑derived THC beverages in all Texas stores, joining a growing list of national retailers responding to consumer demand for alcohol‑free social options. The rollout includes brands such as Cann, WYNK, Trail Magic, Stigma, Gigli, Happi, and Good Feels—each offering low‑dose drinks designed for relaxation without intoxication comparable to alcohol.
Industry analysts say the move reflects a shift in consumer behavior, especially among adults seeking moderation and wellness‑oriented alternatives. The beverages typically contain 2–10 milligrams of THC, producing a mild euphoric or calming effect that users describe as “relaxed but clear‑headed.” Because the THC is absorbed through digestion, the onset is slower and smoother than smoking or vaping.
Supporters point to public‑health data showing the risks of alcohol and opioids:
Alcohol contributes to about 178,000 U.S. deaths per year (CDC).
More than 79,000 accidental opioid‑overdose deaths were recorded in 2023 (NIDA).
THC beverages have no known lethal overdose threshold and do not cause alcohol‑related organ damage.
Some older adults report that low‑dose THC drinks help manage chronic pain and reduce reliance on prescription opioids, though medical experts caution that such products should not replace professional treatment. Researchers note that cannabinoids can influence pain perception and relaxation, but effects vary by individual and dosage.
Public‑health officials continue to monitor the expanding hemp‑derived market as Congress prepares to tighten federal limits on THC content later this year. For now, retailers like Target are positioning these beverages as part of a broader trend toward functional, alcohol‑free social drinks—a category that blends wellness, moderation, and consumer curiosity.
DeWitt County voters will return to the polls on Tuesday, May 26, to decide the Republican runoff for County Commissioner, Precinct 2, after no candidate secured more than 50 percent of the vote in the March primary.
The runoff features:
Carl Smith (R)
Brenda Lopez (R)
Both candidates advanced after finishing as the top two vote‑getters in the Republican primary. The winner of the May 26 runoff will become the Republican nominee for Precinct 2 and move on to the November general election.
Only voters who participated in the Republican primary — or who did not vote in either party’s primary — are eligible to vote in this runoff, in accordance with Texas Election Code rules on primary participation.
Early voting for the runoff begins Monday, May 19, and runs through Friday, May 23.
UPCOMING ELECTION – MAY 26, 2026 PRIMARY RUNOFF
Where and When Can I Vote in the Primary Runoff Election? Click Here
*Select the May 26, 2026, Primary Runoff menu below for more information*
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 Joint Primary Runoff Election
Last Day to Register to Vote is on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked) is Friday, May 15, 2026.
Early Voting begins Monday, May 18, 2026 and ends on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Last Day to Receive Ballot by Mail Tuesday, May 26, 2026 OR Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 5:00pm if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00pm at the location of the election on Election Day.
Martes, 26 de Mayo, 2026 Elección Primaria
Conjuntasde segunda vuelta
El último día para registrarse para votar es el lunes 27 de abril de 2026.
El último día para solicitar la boleta electoral por correo (solo se requiere que el sobre sea recibido, no que tenga matasellos) es el viernes 15 de mayo de 2026.
La votación anticipada comienza el lunes 18 de mayo de 2026 y termina el viernes 22 de abril de 2026.
El último día para recibir la boleta electoral por correo es el martes 26 de mayo de 2026O el miércoles 27 de mayo de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m. si el matasellos del sobre es antes de las 7:00 p. m. en el lugar de votación del día de las elecciones.
Texas has open primaries, meaning you do not register by party. However, once you vote in one party’s primary in a given year, you are “affiliated” with that party for that year.
That means:
If you vote in the Democratic primary or runoff, you cannot vote in the Republican primary or runoff.
You also cannot participate in the other party’s convention that year.
This is required by Texas Election Code, and counties print this reminder on ballots to avoid confusion.
James Edward Shoun, 74, of Cuero, passed away Monday, April 27, 2026. He was born December 12, 1951, in Henryetta, Oklahoma, to Joseph James and Elizabeth Ann Lahey Shoun. James worked at the Corner Store and was known by many in the community.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Beckham; sons, Christopher Turner and James Shoun; his sister, Ila Kolander; and numerous grandchildren and great‑grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Valerie; and his brother, Robert “Bobby” Shoun.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Published by Cuero Online News as a community courtesy.
