Yoakum, Texas — The Yoakum Police Department is urging residents to stay vigilant after a recent spike in vehicle and home burglaries reported over the past week.
According to the department, several of the vehicle burglaries occurred during the early‑morning hours between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., and in many cases, the vehicles had been left unlocked. Police also reported one residential burglary that took place during daylight hours.
Affected areas include: • Mathew St. • Elk St. • Rose St. • Montgomery St. • Ranney St. • Clark St.
Officers are encouraging all residents to take simple but important steps to protect their property:
Lock vehicle doors
Lock residential doors and windows
Remove valuables from vehicles overnight
Report suspicious activity immediately
“Help us help you. If you see something, say something,” the department emphasized in its message to the community. Officers noted that increased awareness and cooperation from residents can make it more difficult for criminals to target local neighborhoods.
Anyone with information about these incidents or who observes suspicious activity is asked to contact the Yoakum Police Department.
I’m writing this anonymously because I don’t need half of Cuero knowing my business — you know how fast news travels around here. A sneeze on one side of town becomes pneumonia by the time it reaches the other.
Anyway, here’s what happened.
The other morning, I’m sitting at home enjoying my coffee when my neighbor comes barreling across the yard like he’s being chased by someone with a chain saw. And I’m thinking why is he coming to my house? I don’t need any Texas Chain saw drama! He’s yelling, waving his arms, and hollering, “HELP! HELP! I NEED YOUR HELP! CALL 911!”
Naturally, I panic. And I yell at him. What happened? You okay? Why are you running? I immediately think I need to grab my gun.
Nope, this fool about gave me a heart attack.
Turns out, his electricity got shut off because he “forgot” to pay the bill…. And now he’s standing in my yard demanding I call 9‑1‑1 because, and I quote, “This is a humanitarian crisis!”
I told him 9‑1‑1 is for emergencies, not for people who treat their bills like optional suggestions. But he insisted there had to be SOME number to call.
So, Zorro… what number do people call when life goes sideways but it’s not a police situation?
Signed,
Anonymous in Cuero
Dear Anonymous,
Amigo… you’ve just described a situation that is more common than folks admit. Every neighborhood has at least one person who thinks every inconvenience is a national disaster.
Let’s paint the picture.
The Great Cuero Utility Meltdown
Your neighbor comes sprinting across the yard like he’s reenacting a scene from a telenovela. He’s dramatic. He’s sweaty. He’s convinced the universe is personally attacking him because his electricity won’t turn on.
He wants you to call 9‑1‑1. You want to call 9‑1‑1 — but only to report him for being a pain in the you know what.
But you’re right: This is NOT a police matter. No crime. No danger. Just a man who needs a payment plan and maybe a calendar reminder.
So who DO you call?
Not the sheriff. Not the fire department. Not your cousin who “knows a guy.”
The number he needed — the number MOST people need when life gets messy but not criminal — is:
2‑1‑1
At least that’s what the folks at Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commission tell me.
What 2‑1‑1 can help with:
Utility shut‑off assistance
Rent help
Food programs
Mental health support
Transportation
Local shelters
Disaster resources
And basically anything that makes people say, “I don’t know who to call.”
It’s free. It’s confidential. It’s available 24/7 — even when your neighbor’s electricity isn’t.
Why this matters
9‑1‑1 is for emergencies. 2‑1‑1 is for everything else that feels like an emergency but won’t land anyone in the ER.
Your neighbor didn’t need law enforcement. He needed information, resources, and maybe a chill pill (lol). You handled it like a true hero, amigo. Not all emergencies require sirens. Some just require the right number.
May 8, 2026 — Hallettsville, Texas The DeWitt/Lavaca Democratic Women, in partnership with the Lavaca Democratic Party, announced plans for a public rally in Hallettsville on Saturday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to noon.
According to the organizers, the event is described as an anti‑Trump and pro‑U.S. rally and will take place in front of Crossroads Bank on Highway 90‑A (Fairwinds). Community members of all ages are invited to attend and are encouraged to bring signs expressing concerns about issues such as rising costs, the war in Iran, and other topics important to them. Parking will be available near the event site.
For additional information, organizers can be reached at DeWittlavacadems@gmail.com or by contacting Lavaca Democratic Party Chair Marilyn Thibodeaux at marilynkthibodeaux@gmail.com.
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
$60,000.00 $0.00
COMMERCIAL-DEMOLITION
101 W Main Street Commercial Cuero 77954 Weaver & Jacobs Constructors, Inc. Weaver & Jacobs
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$275,700.00 $100.00 Demo
$275,700.00 $100.00
COMMERCIAL-ELECTRICAL
111 N. Terrell Commercial Cuero 77954 $0.00 $0.00 Temp Meter
$0.00 $0.00
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
Ventilation South Texas Ventilation
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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
$8,500.00 $125.00 Change Out AC
$8,500.00 $335.00
COMMERCIAL-ROOF 310 E Broadway St Commercial Cuero 77954 Covey Rise Roofing
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$200,000.00 $770.00 Roof
206 W Main St Commercial Cuero 77954 Serrano Brothers
Fence Co. Serrano Brothers
Fence Company LLC
$12,000.00 $80.00 Roof
$212,000.00 $850.00
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.
