Home Blog Page 6

Friends of the Yorktown Public Library Announce Monthly Meeting

Cuero Online News | Aug 20, 2026

The Friends of the Yorktown Public Library will hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday, September 2nd at 8:30 a.m. in the Library Meeting Room. Community members are invited to attend and take part in discussions about upcoming library events and programs.

The Friends of the Yorktown Public Library is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all donations made to the group are fully tax‑deductible. The organization works throughout the year to support library services, enhance community programming, and promote literacy and learning opportunities for residents of all ages.

For additional information, the public may contact the Yorktown Public Library at 361‑564‑3232.

Mandatory Shotgun Safety Meeting Aug 30, 2026

Cuero Online News | Aug 20, 2026

The DeWitt County 4‑H Shotgun Sports program has announced a mandatory shotgun safety meeting for all current members and youth interested in joining the county’s shotgun team. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM and will take place at the Knock‑Away Skeet Club, located at 1481 Award Lane in Cuero.

The safety meeting serves as the official kickoff for the upcoming season and is required for all participants. To join the team, youth must be in at least the 3rd grade and eight years old, and every member must be fully registered through 4‑H Online before attending practices.

During the meeting, families will receive important safety information, meet the coaching staff, and learn more about the team’s structure and expectations. The agenda includes refreshments, discipline demonstrations, eye‑dominance testing, and opportunities for new shooters to become familiar with the program. Coaches Matt Thigpen, Brian Gomez, Jacob James, Steve Breeden, Lorin Bruns, and Don Roeder will be present to guide participants and answer questions.

The team’s regular schedule consists of club meetings and practice on the second Sunday of each month, with additional practice sessions held on fourth Sundays, subject to change as needed.

For more information, families may contact club leaders Debbie Roeder at 281‑610‑9112 or Leslie Breeden at 903‑312‑7536.

Sandra Shaw – January 27, 1942 ~ July 18, 2026 (age 84)

YOAKUM: Sandra Jo Narans Shaw, age 84, formerly of Houston passed away July 18, 2026. She was born January 27, 1942 in Beaumont, Texas to Clyde and Helen Narans.

She was an office clerk and worked in the H.R. Department. She loved her family dearly and brought much joy to her to spend as much time as possible with them. She enjoyed reading, watching movies, the water & beach, working in the yard, cooking and doing seamstress work.

Survivors: daughter, Karrie Fiedler (Fred); son, Kris Shaw (Shelley); grandchildren, Emily Henderson, Brandon Goebel, Logan Goebel, Alicia Droddy, Kristopher Shaw, Garrett Shaw, Abigail Ladner-Shaw and Brianna Duhon; 13 great-grandchildren and a sister, Linda Bernard.

Pastor Adam Jaquez officiated. Burial at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Welsh, Louisiana.

Memorial contributions may be given to Alzheimer’s Research.

Stephen Grasshoff Obituary

HALLETTSVILLE: Stephen Louis Grasshoff, passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at the age of 66. He was born February 24, 1960 in Rosenberg to Danward “Boots” and Patricia (Neimann) Grasshoff.

Steve grew up with a love for hunting and fishing, and those passions stayed with him throughout his life. If he wasn’t in a deer stand, he was on the water with a fishing pole in his hand or at home building fishing rods. Some of his happiest memories were made outdoors, especially with his dad, best friends, and his 3 boys.

Steve proudly ran the Bel-Air and several other restaurants alongside his parents for many years. He loved sharing stories and making sure no one left with an empty stomach. The friendships he built and the lives he touched through those years meant so much to him.

His love for his mom knew no bounds and never wavered. More than anything, Steve loved being a dad. His three boys were his greatest pride and the center of his world. Then came his grandchildren, and they somehow managed to steal that top spot. There was no title he cherished more than “PawPaw Steve.” His grandbabies always knew they could count on a “kiss and a hug” and all the love in his heart.

Steve could tell a story like no one else and never met a stranger. He was the kind of person who made people feel welcome, whether they were family, lifelong friends, or someone he’d just met. He was a wonderful son, a loyal friend, a loving father, and the best PawPaw. Steve leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and love that will be carried in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. He is survived by his sons; Jake Grasshoff and wife Devin of Hallettsville, Jameson Grasshoff and wife Lisette of Falls City and Seth Grasshoff of Hallettsville; his mother, Patricia Grasshoff of Hallettsville and the mother of his children, Cindy Grasshoff; five grandchildren, Rhyann, Gianna, Briggs, Jaycee, Ridge and grand dog Titus; sister, Tracy Gold (Dale) of Moulton.

He is preceded in death by his father, Danward “Boots” Grasshoff.

Funeral Service were held at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Patrick Melton officiating. Private family burial was held at 3 p.m., Tuesday at Oak Hill Cemetery in Flatonia.

Pallbearers are Cameron Besetzny, Nolan Besetzny, Hayden Besetzney, Blaine Besetzny, Aaron Stock and Scott Henke.

Honorary pallbearers are Mark Herfort, Rusty Wallace, Ralph Besetzny, Skip Steffek and Dale Gold.

Memorials may be given to: Texas Youth Hunting Program at https://www.texas-wildlife.org/ways-to-give/ways-to-give-twaf/ 

It’s Not Rocket Science: Tracking Dan Patrick’s Push Against THC and His Support From Texas Alcohol Distributors

By Pat Treviño, | August 18, 2026

Most Texans don’t need a scientific explanation to wonder why Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has taken such a hard line against the state’s hemp‑derived THC industry. It’s not rocket science. When a politician pushes aggressively to shut down a fast‑growing market that many Texans support, it’s reasonable to ask who benefits.

A review of public campaign‑finance records shows a clear pattern: major alcohol distributors—who stand to lose market share to THC beverages—are among Patrick’s largest financial supporters. Below is a timeline linking key donations to legislative actions.

2019 — Hemp Becomes Legal in Texas

  • Texas passes House Bill 1325, legalizing hemp and hemp‑derived products.
  • THC beverages and edibles begin appearing in stores statewide.
  • Alcohol distributors warn lawmakers that THC drinks could become a major competitor.

2020–2022 — THC Drinks Grow; Alcohol Donors Stay Active

  • Delta‑8 and hemp‑derived Delta‑9 beverages surge in popularity.
  • Alcohol distributors begin lobbying for “clarification” bills.
  • Campaign‑finance records show recurring contributions to Patrick from alcohol‑industry donors, including:
    • John Nau, CEO of Silver Eagle Distributors
    • Beer Alliance of Texas PAC
    • Wholesale Beer Distributors of Texas

During this period, Patrick begins publicly criticizing hemp‑derived THC.

2023 — Early Signs of a Coming Crackdown

  • Patrick states THC beverages are “dangerous” and “unregulated.”
  • Senate committees begin studying THC products.
  • Alcohol‑industry contributions continue.

2024 — Major Donations and Major Legislative Action

This is the year the pattern becomes unmistakable.

April 12, 2024 — Large Donation from Silver Eagle Distributors

  • Silver Eagle Distributors donates $250,000 to Patrick.
  • CEO John Nau personally donates $100,000 shortly afterward.
  • Total: $350,000 in early 2024.

Spring–Summer 2024 — Patrick Escalates His Rhetoric

  • Calls THC products “poison.”
  • Labels sellers “drug dealers.”
  • Claims the industry targets children, though no statewide data supports widespread youth use.
  • Announces plans to “shut down” THC beverages.

Summer–Fall 2024 — Beer Lobby Mobilizes

  • Wholesale Beer Distributors of Texas circulate materials supporting Patrick’s THC ban.
  • Beer Alliance of Texas PAC donates $25,000 in December 2024, with additional contributions reported earlier in the year.

Fall 2024 — Senate Bill 3 Introduced

  • SB 3 proposes a full ban on hemp‑derived THC beverages and edibles.
  • Alcohol distributors testify in favor of the bill.

2025 — Continued Donations and Legislative Pressure

  • Patrick continues pushing SB 3 and related restrictions.
  • TransparencyUSA filings show additional large contributions from alcohol‑industry donors, including:
    • John Nau$275,000 (2025–2026 cycle)
    • Recurring contributions from Silver Eagle Distributors
    • Ongoing support from Beer Alliance of Texas PAC

Patrick urges lawmakers to “finish the job” and eliminate THC beverages.

2026 — THC Ban Becomes a Priority

  • Patrick announces that banning THC beverages is a top priority.
  • Alcohol‑industry donors remain among his largest contributors.
  • SB 3 and related bills are revived and pushed aggressively.

What the Timeline Shows

The timeline reveals a consistent pattern:

  • Large alcohol‑industry donations precede major anti‑THC actions.
  • Beer distributors publicly support Patrick’s ban, citing competition concerns.
  • Patrick’s rhetoric intensifies after major contributions.
  • Legislation aligns with donor interests, targeting THC beverages—the alcohol industry’s fastest‑growing competitor.

No source claims direct causation, but the correlation is clear and well‑documented.

For Texans trying to understand the political pressure behind the THC crackdown, the timeline offers a straightforward explanation. It’s not rocket science.

Cuero Online News Readers are encouraged to confirm campaign‑finance information with trusted sources such as FollowTheMoney.org, OpenSecrets.org, and TransparencyUSA.org.

Louis Steven Liendo III “Steve Monroe” – December 26, 1956 to July 7, 2026 (69)

Los Angeles, California — Louis Steven Liendo III, known to his family and friends as Steven, and professionally by his stage name “Steve Monroe,” passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, California, on July 7, 2026, at the age of 69. He was born on December 26, 1956, to Louis Mary Liendo and Frances Escamia Liendo, who preceded him in death.

As a young boy, Steven was a proud member of Boy Scout Troop 244 in Cuero. He later graduated with the Cuero Gobbler Class of 1975 and, shortly after, answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, where he served with honor and dedication.

After his military service, Steven followed his lifelong dream of working in the arts and moved to California, where he built a life centered around creativity and expression. His passion for film led him to appear in Clash of the Titans, Michael Jackson’s iconic “BAD” music video, and the first Muppets movie. He continued to participate in various film and video projects, each one reflecting his determination, talent, and love for the craft.

Beyond acting, Steven was a gifted sketch artist.  His portraits carried a gentle, thoughtful quality that revealed the depth of his artistic soul.  Art was his language, and through it he shared pieces of himself with the world.

Steven loved his family deeply. He is survived by his siblings: Raul Liendo (Rosemary), Joseph “Bubba” Liendo (Dianne), Yvonne Ruschaupt (Michael), Tina Bauer (Donald).  He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored him and carried his love with them always.

Steven was cremated in Los Angeles, and his ashes have been lovingly brought home to Texas.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the German School in Cuero, Texas. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, remember, and honor Steven’s life.

Steven’s journey was filled with art, adventure, and heart. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in every memory shared and every life he touched.

Charles Leslie Cox – December 28, 1942 to August 11, 2026 (83)

Mr. Charles Leslie Cox Jr., 83, of San Antonio, passed away peacefully at Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans’ Hospital on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, surrounded by his daughters. Charles was born on December 28, 1942, in Humble, to the late Charles L. Cox Sr. and Mary Lorena Hennesey Cox. He loved the flag and served his country in the United States Army aboard “The Wild One,” an ammunition and supply boat in Vietnam. Charles married Linda Faye Johnston Cox on January 3, 1985, in Victoria.

He was a crane operator for most of his life and built the world’s largest oil derrick for Brown & Root. Later, Charles operated a crane from San Antonio to California to Buffalo & Plattsburgh, New York. In New York, one of his most notable jobs was installing the large gears on the Whiteface Mountain Gondola in Lake Placid. He enjoyed his retirement years in San Antonio, surrounded by family and friends. Charles was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He loved nothing more than being around his family, watching the Dallas Cowboys, and enjoying western movies. He will surely be missed.

Charles is survived by his daughters, Terry Block of Kerrville, Carol Ann Hargrove Meyers (John) of Rosenburg, Tammy Winter (Bruce) of San Antonio, Sherry Bohl (Ronnie) of Meridian, MS, and Charlene Pratt (James) of Kyle, SD; stepdaughter, Christina Jarvis (Hugh Simonek); sisters, Mary Ann Lucas and Betty Jo Sanders; brothers, James Ray Cox, Luther Martin Cox, and Mike Cox; grandchildren, Nikki Winter, Abby Winter, Mariah Bohl, Skyler Cox, James Pratt, Kyle Pratt, Eric Coughlin, Taylor Coughlin, Vince Block, Joshua Fallowell, Tishonda Aley, Heather Aley, Melanie Aley, Nathan Aley, and Brittany Sweatt; and great grandchildren, Madeleine, Morgan and Lily Rodriguez, Callie Olivarez, Sawyer, Finn and Archer Coughlin, Xavier and Kyren Coughlin, and Banks Michelle Sweatt.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Cox; his parents; daughter, Belinda Cox Coughlin; brother, Carl Cox; and grandson, Raymond Olivarez.

Father Michael Odartey-Lemptey officated the funeral service.  Burial followed at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include James Lucas, Lonnie Lucas, Ronnie Lucas, Stephen Lucas, Timothy Sanders, Hugh Simonek, and Nathan Aley. Honorary pallbearers include James Cox, Luther Cox, and Mike Cox.

Levi LaDuke – June 13, 2025 ~ August 1, 2026 (age 1)

I’ll hold you in my heart until I hold you in Heaven.

Levi James LaDuke, child of God, passed away while he slept on August 1, 2026. Levi was born on June 13, 2025, in Victoria and is the son of John and Ragen LaDuke of Yorktown.

His mommy and daddy survive him, his grandparents Charlie Rangnow and Lori Barlow of Cuero, Genie (Eric) LaRoux of Arkansas, great-grandfather Ron Peterson of Cuero, aunts and uncles, Stacy (Fred) Finney of Cuero, Stuart (Rachel) Barlow of Cuero, Jamie LaDuke of Arkansas, and cousins Jackie Finney, Ace and Stevie Barlow all of Cuero, Samantha LaDuke of Arkansas. Little Levi also left behind many other extended family members and dear friends.

Levi was preceded in death by grandfather Steve Barlow, great-grandmother Linda Peterson (MeMaw), grandfather Willie LaDuke and great-grandmother Rosie Summerville.

Though we ache with sorrow, we will forever carry Levi’s love, smiles and giggles with us.

Visitation will be Aug 11, 2026 from 9-11am at Massey Funeral Home in Yorktown, TX. Rosary will begin at 10:30am with graveside service concluding at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Meyersville, TX, with Father Richard Bediako presiding.

To lay Levi to rest are pallbearers; Charlie Rangnow, Fred Finney, Stuart Barlow and Jamie Hancock. Honorary pallbearers are Nik Kristic, Madison McIntosh, Jeanne Heller and Andy Claughton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Levi James LaDuke memorial fund at TDECU in Cuero, TX.

Levi, you were a blessing from God and we will cherish you forever.

📣 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT – “A THC Gummy Could Land Granny in Jail.”

“A THC Gummy Could Land Granny in Jail.”

Many Texans are sounding the alarm about the state’s new THC penalties. People are watching lawmakers hand out felony charges for something as small as a THC gummy — even when it’s used by seniors who are dealing with chronic pain, arthritis, cancer treatments, or sleepless nights.

Meanwhile, the crimes that truly devastate families — murder, rape, child abuse, violent assaults — remain in a completely different universe of harm. That contrast is fueling public outrage.

The message people keep repeating: Texas lawmakers are treating THC like a major threat while violent offenders are the ones tearing communities apart. And now, under these laws, a grandmother trying to ease her pain with a gummy could end up in handcuffs.

This PSA isn’t about promoting THC — it’s about questioning whether the punishment matches the reality of the substance. Because no one believes Granny should be facing a felony for trying to sleep through the night.


🍬 Gummies (Delta‑8, Delta‑10, THCP, THCA, or THC) If the gummy is roughly the size of a Jolly Rancher and contains concentrated cannabinoids, Texas law can classify it as a State Jail Felony, punishable by: 180 days to 2 years in state jail Up to $10,000 in fines. Texas counts the entire weight of the gummy, not the THC inside it.
Brownies or Edibles-A single brownie containing hemp‑derived cannabinoids can trigger the same felony penalties because Texas treats edibles as THC concentrates.
THC or Delta‑8 Drinks -Drinks often contain concentrated cannabinoids. Under Texas law, these can lead to: Felony charges 2 to 20 years in prison, depending on total weight

Vape Cartridges

Most vape cartridges contain 50–90% cannabinoids. Texas counts all of this as illegal THC.

Penalties range from:

  • State Jail Felony to
  • Second‑Degree Felony (2–20 years in prison)

Also read: https://cueroonlinenews.com/new-york-expands-legal-cannabis-access-as-texas-enforces-harsh-thc-penalties-leaving-hemp-consumers-confused/