CUERO, TX — September 24, 2025
As hurricane season peaks and unpredictable weather patterns continue to challenge South Texas, the Coastal Bend Regional Advisory Council is sounding the alarm: Are you ready?
September marks National Disaster Preparedness Month, and local officials are encouraging residents across DeWitt County to take proactive steps to safeguard their families and communities. The message is clear—disasters don’t wait, and neither should you.
📦 Four Steps to Readiness
The campaign outlines a simple, four-part strategy to help individuals prepare:
Make a Plan
Establish how you’ll contact loved ones during an emergency.
Choose a safe meeting spot.
Talk through your plan with your family.
Build a Kit
Stock up on water, food, and medicine for at least three days.
Include flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
Don’t forget pets and special needs.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local emergency alerts.
Know evacuation routes and shelter locations.
Follow trusted sources like Emergency Management and the Red Cross.
Get Involved
Volunteer with local emergency response teams.
Join CERT or your local health coalition.
Share preparedness tips with friends and neighbors.
Preparedness Starts with YOU
“This month, we’re asking everyone to take one small step each week,” said a spokesperson for the Coastal Bend Regional Advisory Council. “The time you spend now could save lives later.”
Local schools, churches, and community organizations are joining the effort by distributing flyers, hosting safety workshops, and encouraging families to review their emergency plans.
Why It Matters
From flash floods to chemical spills, Cuero and surrounding areas have faced their share of emergencies. Officials emphasize that readiness isn’t just about survival—it’s about resilience.
Whether it’s assembling a go-bag or checking on elderly neighbors, every action counts. And in a town like Cuero, where community ties run deep, preparedness is a shared responsibility.
VICTORIA, TX — Texas State Representative James Talarico, a Democrat from Austin, has officially entered the race for U.S. Senate, launching a campaign focused on fighting political corruption and restoring power to working-class Texans. Talarico, a former public school teacher and Presbyterian seminarian, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has already made headlines for raising over $1 million in just 12 hours after opening his campaign account.
Talarico will bring his message directly to South Texas this Thursday, September 25, with a campaign rally in Victoria. The event will be held at Club Westerner, located at 1005 W Constitution St, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM CDT.
The rally is part of Talarico’s statewide effort to connect with voters and build grassroots momentum ahead of the March 2026 Democratic primary, where he faces fellow Democrats Colin Allred and Terry Virts. The winner will likely challenge either Senator John Cornyn or Attorney General Ken Paxton, depending on the Republican nomination outcome.
Talarico’s campaign emphasizes economic fairness, political transparency, and opposition to “billionaire mega-donors” who he says have rigged the system against everyday Texans. His platform draws heavily from his experience in education and faith-based advocacy, and he’s gained national attention for viral clips challenging school voucher programs and religious extremism in politics.
Thursday’s rally in Victoria will include a short program, opportunities to meet the candidate, and campaign merchandise. The event is ADA accessible, and security will be present throughout the evening.
LOS ANGELES — Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned to ABC on Tuesday, September 23, following a weeklong suspension that sparked national debate over free speech, corporate accountability, and the boundaries of political commentary. The show’s abrupt removal from airwaves—after Kimmel’s controversial remarks about the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk—triggered a wave of public and industry backlash, culminating in a reported $4 billion drop in Disney’s market value.
While Disney has not officially attributed the stock decline to the Kimmel controversy, analysts noted that the timing aligned with widespread calls for boycotts, affiliate station revolts, and subscription cancellations. Major operators like Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group pulled the show from dozens of ABC affiliates, citing concerns over public trust and demanding accountability.
But the backlash wasn’t just about Kimmel’s comments—it was about principle. Thousands of viewers, celebrities, and media professionals voiced concern that Disney’s decision infringed on First Amendment values, even if the legal protections of free speech don’t directly apply to private corporations. “It’s not that people necessarily agreed with what Kimmel said,” noted one media analyst, “but they saw the suspension as a dangerous precedent—punishing speech that challenges political power.”
The ACLU, along with over 400 entertainers including Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, signed an open letter defending Kimmel’s right to express political views without corporate retaliation. The letter emphasized that while speech may be controversial, suppressing it under pressure from political figures or broadcast partners undermines democratic norms.
Behind closed doors, Disney executives including CEO Bob Iger and Entertainment Co-Chair Dana Walden negotiated with Kimmel’s team to resolve the standoff. According to insiders, the agreement to reinstate the show did not require a public apology, though Kimmel has remained silent on the terms.
The show’s return was marked by a lighthearted social media post featuring Kimmel and sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez with the caption, “We are back full of love.” However, not all affiliates have resumed airing the program—Nexstar and Sinclair confirmed continued preemptions in select markets.
The controversy has reignited broader conversations about the role of media companies in political discourse, and whether corporate decisions are being shaped more by pressure than principle. For now, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is back—but the debate over speech, accountability, and influence is far from over.
Timothy Wayne Hester, 63, of Nixon, Texas, passed away on September 21, 2025, at his home. He was born on November 18, 1961, in Waco Texas, to Martha and Marvin Wayne Hester.
He is survived by his children: Casey Hester, Carly Williams (husband Carter), Clint Hester and Cole Hester; his grandkids: Presley Williams and Winn Williams; siblings: Russell Hester (wife Connie) and Brad Hester; parents: Martha Hester and Wayne Hester
Memorial Service will be Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 5:00pm on 423 Hester Road, Nixon.
Ruth Ann Bluntzer, 86, of Goliad, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Victoria. She was born December 3, 1938, in Center Line, Michigan, to Gerhard George and Emma Marie Martha Collin Koenders.
She graduated from Marygrove College in Detroit, Michigan. She married Otto Bluntzer in Killeen, Texas, in 1962. She loved growing succulent cactus plants, gardening, and taking care of her house. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Alter society. She enjoyed crocheting, quilting, canning garden produce, and doing crossword puzzles.
She is survived by her husband of sixty-three years, Otto; daughter, Annie Marie of Rochester, NY; sons, Daniel James (Lisa) of Fairfax, VA, Thomas Michael (Jamie) of Lacey, WA, Matthew Clemens (Kristy) of Howell, MI and Eric Anthony of West Virginia and grandchildren, Glenn, Bernard, Yvonne, Evelyn, Garrett, Ryan, Christopher, Laurelae and Emma.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Martha Koenders Behnke; and brother, Roy Koenders.
Visitation will be held Thursday, September 25, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM. Funeral Mass will be held Friday, September 26, 2025, 10:00 AM at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Richard Bediako officiating.
Pallbearers include Glenn Bennett, Bernard Bennett, DanBluntzer, TomBluntzer, Matthew Bluntzer, and Eric Bluntzer.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Altar Society.
CUERO, TX — In a heartfelt gesture of community support, Denise Goebel, representing Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Hometown Harvest Committee, presented a $500 donation to the Friends of DeWitt County Children during the organization’s meeting on Monday night.
The donation, made on behalf of the Hometown Harvest Committee, underscores the group’s ongoing commitment to nurturing local partnerships and investing in the well-being of children across DeWitt County. The funds will help support essential services and outreach efforts aimed at meeting the needs of vulnerable youth in the area.
“This contribution will make a meaningful impact as we continue working to support our community’s kids,” said a spokesperson for Friends of DeWitt County Children. “We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity and shared vision of the Hometown Harvest Committee.”
The Hometown Harvest Committee, known for organizing seasonal events that celebrate local agriculture and community resilience, has increasingly focused on channeling proceeds and sponsorships toward youth-centered initiatives. Monday’s donation reflects that mission in action.
Goebel, a longtime advocate for family and youth programming through AgriLife, emphasized the importance of collaboration between civic groups and service organizations.
The Friends of DeWitt County Children continue to provide resources, advocacy, and support for children in need, and this latest donation will help expand their reach as the fall season brings new challenges and opportunities.
For more information on upcoming Hometown Harvest events or ways to support local children’s programs, residents are encouraged to contact Texas A&M AgriLife Extension or follow Friends of DeWitt County Children on social media.
YOAKUM, TX — On September 15, 2025, the Yoakum Police Department experienced a temporary outage of its primary phone line, 361-293-5234, disrupting routine communication for several hours. During the outage, calls to the main number were not redirected to backup lines, prompting the department to issue an urgent advisory with alternative contact numbers.
Residents were instructed to use 361-293-5235 and 361-293-5236 for non-emergency matters while technicians worked to resolve the issue. Emergency calls to 911 remained unaffected throughout the disruption.
The department acted quickly to notify the public via social media and local channels, urging residents to share the information widely to ensure vulnerable community members were informed. The outage coincided with a busy week of Homecoming events and increased public activity, making timely communication especially critical.
As of now, the issue has been fully resolved, and the main line is back in service. Officials thanked the community for its patience and cooperation and emphasized the importance of staying connected during infrastructure challenges.
This brief disruption served as a reminder of the need for contingency planning and rapid public outreach in small-town law enforcement. The Yoakum Police Department has since reviewed its protocols to ensure smoother transitions in future emergencies.
CUERO, TX — Every Friday morning in October, the Cuero Regional Hospital Café is flipping more than just pancakes—they’re flipping the script on how a small-town breakfast can fuel a big message.
From 7:00 to 9:00 AM, the café is hosting its “Think Pink, Eat Pancakes!” fundraiser in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For just $4.49, patrons can enjoy a plate of two fluffy pink pancakes crowned with whipped cream and sprinkles, served alongside two slices of crispy bacon and a complimentary cup of coffee.
Hospital staff say the event is designed to bring the community together around a shared cause while offering a cheerful start to the day. “It’s about more than breakfast,” said a spokesperson for the hospital. “It’s about visibility, solidarity, and reminding folks that early detection saves lives.”
The pink pancakes are more than a novelty—they’re a symbol. Each bite serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against breast cancer and the importance of regular screenings, education, and support for those affected.
Local residents have already begun marking their calendars, with many planning to attend in honor of loved ones. The café expects a strong turnout from hospital staff, patients, and community members alike.
Whether you’re stopping by before work or making it a family outing, the message is clear: come hungry, leave happy, and show your support—one pink pancake at a time.
CUERO, TX — The Cuero ISD Education Foundation is turning up the volume on community impact with its annual Concert for Classrooms, set for November 8 at 7 p.m. at the Cuero ISD Performing Arts Center. This year’s headliner none other than ABBAMANIA, the world’s #1 ABBA tribute band, bringing disco fever and educational funding together in one unforgettable night.
From “Dancing Queen” to “Waterloo,” ABBAMANIA’s internationally acclaimed show promises pitch-perfect harmonies, dazzling costumes (designed by the original Mamma Mia seamstress), and a full-scale concert experience that’s already wowed audiences alongside the San Diego, Boston, and London Symphonies.
But this isn’t just about music—it’s about mission. Every dollar raised supports innovative classroom grants, student programs, and professional development across Cuero ISD. These funds help educators go beyond traditional budgets to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences for students.
Sponsorship Spotlight: “One Hit Wonder” ($500)
For those looking to make a meaningful impact without breaking the bank, the “One Hit Wonder” sponsorship offers:
🎟️ Two VIP concert tickets with prime seating
🌟 Your name featured in event lights and printed program
🍽️ Access to the exclusive VIP Party at Cuero Country Club (4:00–6:30 PM)
❤️ The satisfaction of knowing your support fuels real change in local classrooms
🎫 Tickets go on sale September 29—and with ABBAMANIA’s global reputation, they won’t last long. Whether you’re a lifelong ABBA fan or a proud supporter of Cuero’s educators, this is your chance to dance, donate, and make a difference.
To sponsor or learn more, visit the Concert for Classrooms page or contact a Foundation board member at 361-275-4628.
📅 Mark your calendars: November 8, 7 PM.
Because in Cuero, even a one-hit wonder can help shape a lifetime of learning.
By Cuero Online News | Hispanic Heritage Month Feature
It is Hispanic Heritage Month across the United States. The month-long observance that began on Monday, September 15, and ends October 15 honors the contributions and achievements made by generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society. Here in Cuero we would like to shine a spotlight on local artist and muralist Rafael Acosta Jr., whose artistic legacy and dedication to public art have made a lasting impact across DeWitt County and South Texas.
Rafael Acosta Jr. – Cuero, Tx
Acosta’s murals and paintings are more than aesthetic—they’re declarations. They speak to the land, the people, and the layered history of a region shaped by the people of this community. Acosta art depicts rugged Texas terrain, wildlife, cowboys, turkeys, longhorns, horses, roosters, cacti, and scenes of rural life.
Raised in Cuero and a graduate of Cuero High School’s Class of 1976, Acosta was known early on for painting portraits of his classmates. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theology, he continued developing his craft as a self-taught muralist. While he’s traveled extensively—visiting 46 countries—his artistic focus remains grounded in the everyday imagery of small-town Texas. His murals capture the spirit and deep connection to his South Texas roots.
Acosta returned to Cuero around 2018, and his first public mural—a rustic depiction of a young girl and her dog—was commissioned by Kleider-Shranks Antiques and Gifts and painted on the building’s façade. Soon after, he began collaborating with the Cuero Main Street program on a series of public mural projects, marking the start of a prolific chapter in his artistic career.
Rafael Acosta Jr. Cuero, Tx
His work has since been featured across numerous South Texas towns, blending regional pride with universal themes. That same year, he was commissioned to update an existing mural behind City Hall—a project that sparked the creation of Art Alley, now an iconic stretch of public art that draws visitors from across the region. By 2019, Acosta had completed a two-story mural honoring the 1912 Cuero Turkey Trot, cementing his role as the town’s lead muralist and cultural storyteller.
Rafael Acosta Jr. – Cuero Main Street Project.
Today, his work can be found in Cuero, Kenedy, Seguin, Edna, Nixon, and most recently, Yoakum, where his grand-scale mural at The Grand Theater and Game Room was completed in the summer of 2025. The piece is now the city’s first official public art installation.
Muralist – Rafael Acosta Jr. 200 Block of West Main St. Yoakum, Texas – Commissioned by Theater owner Tammy Steinmann
When reflecting on the people who shaped his artistic path, Rafael Acosta Jr. points to several early mentors: Cuero High School art teachers Kenneth Liesmann and Dorothy Adcock, as well as his Uncle Eugene Acosta, whose own creative legacy left a lasting impression. Eugene’s sculptural work once earned a place of honor in the Rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol, where his bust of President John F. Kennedy was publicly displayed. For Rafael, that kind of recognition wasn’t just inspiring—it affirmed that artistic talent ran deep in the family.
But his deepest influence came from his mother one that shaped his decision to pursue art full-time. It was generational wisdom that had been passed down from his grandfather to his mother and now she to him, “Son, my father once told me, that any work done with integrity elevated it to nobility.”
Muralist – Rafael Acosta Jr.
That became a defining moment in Rafael’s life. He said it erased all doubt about his path and gave him the clarity to commit fully to his craft. It wasn’t just about using his talent—it was about respecting it and pushing it as far as it could go.
As Hispanic Heritage Month continues, Acosta’s story stands as a tribute to the power of Latino creativity. His murals don’t just decorate—they document. From Cuero’s alleyways to Yoakum’s theater wall, Rafael Acosta Jr. has painted South Texas in full color. His work is a living archive—a testament to the artistry, endurance, and cultural richness of the region’s historic communities.
Cuero Online News is proud to sponsor Hispanic Heritage Month coverage through October 15. Each week, we’re spotlighting a Hispanic individual who has made an impact—whether through art, leadership, community work, or cultural influence. Nominees can be living or historical figures, including those who have passed but left a lasting legacy in DeWitt County. If you know someone whose story deserves to be told, send your nomination to cueroonlinenews@gmail.com. We welcome submissions from every corner of DeWitt County.
