Victoria, TX — October 18, 2025
Millions of Americans are expected to take part in nationwide “No Kings” rallies today, protesting what organizers call the authoritarian drift of President Donald Trump’s administration. The movement, which began in early 2025, has gained momentum with a second wave of coordinated demonstrations across more than 2,700 cities and towns.
Locally, rallies are planned in Victoria, San Antonio, and Austin — with Cuero residents joining the call for democratic accountability and civic engagement.
What Is the “No Kings” Movement?
The phrase “No Kings” draws from America’s founding rejection of monarchy and is now being used to challenge what critics describe as executive overreach. Organizers cite recent mid-decade redistricting efforts, expanded surveillance powers, and military strikes without congressional approval as signs of growing concern.
Where to Find a Rally Near You
Here’s a list of confirmed “No Kings” rallies in South Texas and beyond:
For a full interactive map of rallies nationwide, visit Newsweek’s protest locator or check Mobilize.us for real-time updates.
🗣️ Voices from the Movement
Organizers emphasize that the rallies are nonviolent and inclusive, welcoming people from all political backgrounds who believe in checks and balances. “This isn’t about party — it’s about principle,” said one Victoria organizer. “We’re here to remind our leaders that power belongs to the people.”
(Photo by Pat Trevino) AIR ATTACK — Cuero’s No. 14 WR- D’Zayvin Bonner, a junior stretches for the grab as defenders close in during Friday night’s 56–55 shootout
What a finish.
In one of the wildest district matchups of the season, the Cuero Gobblers delivered a jaw-dropping comeback in the final three minutes to stun the undefeated Sinton Pirates — and fans who stayed to the end witnessed a game that will be talked about for years.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) BREAKAWAY — Cuero’s ground game powers forward as defenders dive in vain during Friday’s 56–55 edge-of-your-seat win. – Cuero, Tx Oct 17, 2025
Those who left early missed a rally fueled by grit, heart, and unshakable teamwork. Cuero put up 56 points for the second week in a row — but this time, they came out on top, winning by a single point after losing by one just a week earlier. Redemption never tasted so sweet.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) BREAKAWAY — Cuero’s ground game powers forward as defenders dive in vain during Friday’s 56–55 edge-of-your-seat win. – Cuero, Tx Oct 17, 2025
After surrendering a season-high 57 points in a gut-wrenching road loss to Rockport-Fulton, the Gobblers returned to Gobbler Stadium determined to rewrite the narrative. And they did exactly that.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) HOLDING ON FOR DEAR LIFE — Sinton dives low, but Cuero’s runner keeps driving forward in a game defined by inches. – Cuero, Tx Oct 17, 2025
Cuero’s defense bent but never broke, holding strong against Sinton’s bruising backfield led by Mykha Green, who came in averaging 260 rushing yards per game. The Gobblers made the stops when it mattered most, proving they’re still district contenders, state hopefuls, and a defensive unit built to haunt opponents.
On offense, quarterback Jaxxon Marie, running back Camelo Perez, and wideout Walker Dietz orchestrated a fourth-quarter surge that erased a 21-point deficit — putting the exclamation point on a fairy-tale comeback. Cuero’s defense, not to be outdone, delivered the final blow with a last-second blocked Sinton field goal — sealing the historic win and sending Gobbler Nation into a frenzy.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) JUST SHY OF GLORY — Cuero’s receiver hauls in the pass and charges toward the end zone before Sinton’s defender drags him down inches from the finish. – Cuero, Tx Oct. 17, 2025
The final drive was a masterclass in composure and execution, with every player backing each other to the end.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) DRAGGED BUT DETERMINED — The Gobblers refuse to go quietly as Sinton’s tackler hauls down the runner near the 20 – Cuero, Tx Oct 17, 2025
This wasn’t just a win — it was a legacy moment. Ask any Gobbler alum, and they’ll tell you: games like this define who you are and what your team stands for.
With playoff seeding and bragging rights on the line, Cuero didn’t just win — they roared back, flipped the district standings, and made it clear: the road to the state championship still runs through Cuero.
Final score: Cuero 56, Sinton 55. One point. One team. One unforgettable night.
Source: Maxpreps
Meet the Contributor: Splash is a die-hard Gobbler fan, a self-proclaimed sports aficionado, and a Friday night lights loyalist. Whether he’s breaking down last week’s varsity thriller or teeing up Thursday’s JV matchup, Splash brings energy, insight, and hometown pride to every post.
Follow his coverage all season long—only in Cuero Online News.
On Thursday night in Sinton, both the Cuero JV and Freshmen squads delivered edge-of-your-seat performances, pulling off two thrilling victories that had fans on their feet and coaches beaming with pride.
The Freshmen Gobblers extended their undefeated streak to 8-0, showcasing poise beyond their years in a nail-biter that came down to the wire. With clutch plays on both sides of the ball, the young Gobblers held off a late Sinton surge to preserve their perfect record and continue their dominant run through district play.
Not to be outdone, the JV Gobblers followed up with a dramatic win of their own, improving to 7-1 on the season. The game was a back-and-forth battle, but Cuero’s defense came up big in the final minutes, sealing the victory with a key stop that sent the sideline into celebration.
Both teams showed the kind of grit, discipline, and heart that define Gobbler football — and their performances are a clear sign that Cuero’s pipeline of talent is alive and well.
With varsity riding high after last week’s comeback win over Sinton, the JV and Freshmen victories add to a growing sense of momentum across all levels of the program. As playoff season approaches, one thing is clear: the Gobblers aren’t just building for the future — they’re winning in the present.
Meet the Contributor: Splash is a die-hard Gobbler fan, a self-proclaimed sports aficionado, and a Friday night lights loyalist. Whether he’s breaking down last week’s varsity thriller or teeing up Thursday’s JV matchup, Splash brings energy, insight, and hometown pride to every post.
Follow his coverage all season long—only in Cuero Online News.
SPRING: Patricia “Tricia” Rene Fruit, 59, passed away Saturday, October 11, 2025. She was born March 29, 1966, in Wichita, Kansas, to Benedict J. Janacek and Virginia L. (Conyac) Janacek Kiltau. Tricia attended Emporia High School, where she met and then married the love of her life, Terry Fruit. The two attended prom together in 1982. They were married in Pasadena, TX, on March 16, 1985. This marriage demonstrated exactly what marriage should be. In good times and bad and the ugly stages of life. Although it was not always easy or perfect (the last six years being the toughest, while Tricia fought cancer with determination and grace). Terry and Tricia celebrated 40 years of marriage this year. Terry and Tricia built a beautiful life together, including three children, Samantha Rene, Michael Scott, and Nicholas Wayne. When it came time, Terry and Tricia welcomed son-in-law Jordan McManus, and daughter-in-law Alyssa Harvey, treating them like their own children. The two then became the best pawpaw and grandma to four grandchildren.
Until retirement, Tricia was a dedicated bus driver with Spring, ISD for twenty years. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, being with her family, playing bingo and watching her kids and grandkids grow. Her family describes her as stubborn, determined and full of love.
Tricia is survived by her loving husband, Terry Fruit; daughter, Samantha Rene; sons, Michael and Nicholas; four grandchildren; brother Christopher Janacek; sister Cathy Ernst.
She is preceded in death by her mother.
Visitation 4-7 p.m., Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home. Funeral Service 1 p.m., Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Nutt, of Houston officiating. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that any Memorials be to Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home to help defray funeral costs.
Victim Brandon Raspberry, 32, was found dead in 2022; confession surfaced during psychological evaluation
NIXON – Authorities in Gonzales County are continuing to investigate the 2022 fatal shooting of Brandon Raspberry, a 32-year-old man who was found dead inside his trailer at the Lazy J RV Park in Nixon, Texas. The shooter, now 11 years old, confessed to the killing during a psychological evaluation in 2024, stating that he shot Raspberry after the man told him to “shut up.” The boy was seven years old at the time of the incident.
Raspberry had recently moved into the RV park and was employed at Holmes Foods in Nixon. His body was discovered after he failed to show up for work for two days. According to court records and media reports, the child did not know Raspberry personally and acted alone. The Gonzales County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the confession but, due to the boy’s age at the time of the crime, he cannot be criminally charged under Texas law.
The case resurfaced in October 2025 when Gonzales ISD sought and was granted a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to prevent the child from attending school on any of its campuses. The district cited safety concerns stemming from the confession and the findings of the psychological evaluation, which reportedly documented a history of violent behavior.
The restraining order was approved by a judge on October 14, 2025, following a hearing in which school officials argued that allowing the child to attend classes would pose a risk to other students and staff. The child’s identity has not been publicly released due to his age.
Raspberry’s family has publicly called for changes to Texas law that would allow for accountability in cases involving very young offenders. His brother, Jonathan Fojtik, told reporters, “I couldn’t wrap my head around it,” describing the family’s ongoing grief and frustration over the lack of legal recourse.
The Gonzales County Sheriff’s Office has not issued a formal statement in response to recent inquiries. The case remains under legal review, and further proceedings are expected to determine long-term educational and custodial arrangements for the child.
Yorktown FFA students delivered an impressive performance at their first Leadership Development Event (LDE) contest of the season, held at Texas A&M University–Kingsville. Competing against schools from across the region, Yorktown’s teams and individual speakers earned multiple top-ten finishes, showcasing both preparation and poise.
The Senior Quiz team — composed of Cayden, Rylie, Kendall, and Kaylee — took home 1st place, setting a strong tone for the chapter’s season. In individual speaking events, Allyson placed 3rd and Brynnley 10th in Greenhand Creed Speaking, while Kendall secured 4th in Senior Creed Speaking.
Yorktown also made its mark in team events. The Ag Advocacy team of Evelyn, Avery, Allie, Kaylee, and Katie earned 5th place, and the Radio Broadcasting team — Andrew, Percy, and Zoe — placed 7th.
These results reflect the chapter’s commitment to leadership, communication, and agricultural literacy. As the season continues, Yorktown FFA members are expected to build on this momentum with continued participation in upcoming contests across the region.
Kevin Collins, 62, of Cuero passed away Sunday, October 12, 2025. He was born July 30, 1963, in Corpus Christi to Kenneth and Mildred Miller Collins. He married Lisa on March 25, 1995.
He is survived by his wife of thirty years, Lisa; daughter, Alexis Collins; sons, Connor Collins and Carter Collins and granddaughter, Bela Collins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Debbie Mikulenka and brother, Michael Collins.
On October 15, 2025, dozens of Pentagon reporters walked out after refusing to sign new media restrictions issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Reporters assigned to the Pentagon are now required to agree not to publish or pursue any information unless it has been formally cleared for release by the Department of Defense—even if that information is unclassified. Failure to comply could result in the loss of press credentials.
At 4 p.m. on Wednesday, approximately 50 reporters from major outlets, including ABC, CNN, Reuters, The Washington Post, CBS, and Fox News, turned in their Pentagon press badges and vacated their workspaces. This marked the first mass departure of the Pentagon press corps in modern history.
The walkout was in response to a new credentialing policy issued by Secretary Hegseth. The policy required reporters to:
Pledge not to solicit any unauthorized information, even if unclassified.
Submit all reporting for pre-approval by Pentagon officials before publication.
Agree to potential criminal penalties for violations of the policy.
Journalists and media organizations widely condemned the policy as a violation of First Amendment protections and a threat to independent reporting. The Pentagon Press Association called it “a message of intimidation,” and nearly every major news outlet refused to sign the agreement.
Reporters who have covered the Pentagon for decades publicly announced their resignations from the press corps. ABC’s Martha Raddatz posted, “I turned in my Pentagon pass today after 30 years because ABC will not sign the new restrictive requirements.” NPR’s Tom Bowman wrote, “Did I as a reporter solicit information? Of course. It’s called journalism.”
Retired General Jack Keane criticized the policy on Fox News, calling it an attempt to “spoon-feed information” and restrict transparency.
The policy was introduced amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to limit media access and control narratives around national security. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and vocal administration ally, has held only two press briefings in the past year and has restricted access to senior officials.
With the press corps now operating from outside the Pentagon, reporters say they will continue covering defense issues but without the institutional access that has historically supported in-depth reporting.
In Cuero, where civic pride runs deep and community relationships matter, one group continues to quietly support public safety from behind the scenes: the Cuero Citizens Police Alumni Association (CCPAAA).
Cuero Citizens Police Alumni (in blue shirts) volunteered at the pancake breakfast and regularly support community events.
Formed by graduates of the Cuero Citizens Police Academy, CCPAAA is a volunteer-based organization that partners with the Cuero Police Department to promote transparency, education, and community engagement. While not a law enforcement body, the association plays a supportive role in non-enforcement activities — helping with logistics, public events, and outreach efforts.
Cuero Citizens Police Alumni members Cynthia Orozco and Isabel Patton (left to right) volunteered at the recent pancake breakfast held during Turkeyfest 2025, continuing their ongoing support for community events.
The Citizens Police Academy offers residents a structured introduction to law enforcement operations, including patrol procedures, investigations, and community policing. Graduates who choose to join CCPAAA continue their involvement by volunteering time and energy to support the department and foster positive relationships between officers and the public.
While specific member activities vary, CCPAAA volunteers have historically assisted with public-facing events such as National Night Out, safety fairs, and community fundraisers. Their presence helps reinforce the idea that public safety is a shared responsibility — one that includes citizens, not just sworn officers.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Left to Right Rhonda Stasney, Lori and Sherry Ann Thibodeaux Love. This is a photo from last year’s Pancake breakfast during Turkey Fest.
In small towns like Cuero, visibility and trust go hand in hand. CCPAAA’s role is not to enforce laws but to serve as a bridge — helping residents better understand police work and encouraging respectful, informed dialogue. Their work contributes to a culture of transparency and mutual respect.
The association also provides a pathway for civic-minded individuals to stay engaged with public safety long after their academy training ends. Whether assisting with traffic flow at events or helping distribute educational materials, CCPAAA members offer valuable support that allows officers to focus on core duties.
During one of their classroom sessions.
The next Citizens Police Academy class is expected to open in early 2026. Graduates will be eligible to join CCPAAA and participate in future volunteer opportunities. For more information, interested residents can contact the Cuero Police Department or follow official announcements through city channels.