Good Things Summer Series: Empowering Small Businesses in Cuero
Staff
June 14, 2025
The Good Things Summer Series is back for another insightful session, this time at the Cuero Country Club! If you’re a small business owner looking for actionable strategies to boost growth, this free lunch and learn event on June 18 at 12 PM is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
What to Expect
This session is packed with expert insights on branding, AI-driven strategies, and business growth to help small businesses thrive in an evolving market. Whether you’re looking to refine your brand identity or implement cutting-edge technologies, our speakers will provide practical tools and guidance you can apply immediately.
Meet the Experts
- Donald Jirkovsky – Business Growth Strategist, ActionCOACH of the Coastal Bend
Donald is a seasoned business coach specializing in growth strategies that drive success. His expertise helps entrepreneurs streamline operations, maximize profits, and cultivate sustainable business models. - Teri R. Moten, MBA, CAIO – Your Business Solver
Teri is a dynamic problem solver, bringing a wealth of experience in business development, branding, and leadership. Her insights will inspire and empower small business owners to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.
Event Details
📍 Location: Cuero Country Club, 1305 E South Railroad St, Cuero, TX
🕛 Time: 12 PM
🍽 Lunch: Provided – just bring your questions and an appetite for growth!
This free event is designed to provide practical, real-world solutions tailored to the needs of small businesses. Whether you’re a startup founder, an established entrepreneur, or simply looking for ways to refine your strategy, this session is sure to deliver valuable insights.
Mark your calendar and come ready to learn, network, and take your business to the next level!
Will you be attending? I’d love to hear what aspect of business growth excites you the most.
RSVP here: https://buff.ly/zRT5VV0
Catherine “Cathy” Louise Hagan- December 10, 1955 to June 16, 2025 (69)
YOAKUM: Catherine “Cathy” Louise Hagan, age 69, passed away Monday, June 16, 2025. She was born December 10, 1955 in Shiner to Charles and Helen Salena Fikac.
She retired from H.E.B. after 40 years of service and was a Catholic. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sporting events, watching all sports, cooking and baking.
Survivors: husband, Dale Hagan; son, Ronald Wayne Biehunko (Rebecca); grandchildren, Rayleigh Biehunko and Brodey Biehunko; sisters, Pat Schurig (Tommy) and Janice Thomas (Greg); brothers, Charlie Fikac (Leslye) and Rudy Fikac (Sara); sisters-in-law, Angie Fikac and Cindy Jemelka (Mark); brothers-in-law, Kim Hagan (Susan), Robbie Hagan (Kathy) and Mark “Buzz” Hagan (Pam).
Preceded in death by: parents; brothers, Infant Joseph Fikac and Bobby Fikac; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Allen Ray and Virginia Hagan.
Visitation 9:30 a.m. with rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 19, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Entombment St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum.
Pallbearers: Brodey Biehunko, Caden Jander, Eric Patek, Derrek Ward, Bradley Fikac and Robbie Hagan.
Memorial contributions may be given to Crown Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women Join No Kings Protest in Victoria
By Pat Trevino
June 14, 2025
VICTORIA, TX—Members of the Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women joined demonstrators in Victoria on June 14 as part of the nationwide No Kings Day of Defiance. The protest, held at Pattie Dodson Health Center, was one of many across Texas and the country, aimed at standing against authoritarianism and billionaire-first politics and the militarization of the country. It’s aim is to reassert the fundamental values of democracy, equality, and civil liberties.
The No Kings movement, backed by a coalition of civic and grassroots organizations, seeks to push back against policies perceived as favoring billionaire interests over everyday citizens. Organizers emphasized that the protest was bipartisan, welcoming all who believe in the U.S. Constitution and the principle that no individual is above the law.
Participants in Victoria gathered with signs, music, and speeches, echoing similar demonstrations in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and other major Texas cities. The Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women, known for their advocacy efforts, stood alongside fellow protesters to voice concerns over political trends they see as undermining democratic institutions.
The No Kings protests coincided with Flag Day and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, as well as a military parade in Washington, D.C., which organizers criticized as a display of political dominance. The movement has gained traction in recent weeks, fueled by reports of federal crackdowns on nonviolent demonstrations and concerns over civil liberties.
Despite the somber backdrop of the recent political violence in Minnesota, organizers reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful protest. “This is about unity, not division,” one demonstrator in Victoria stated. “We are here to remind our leaders that democracy belongs to the people.”
With protests spanning the nation, the No Kings movement continues to draw attention to issues of governance, civil rights, and political accountability. Whether the momentum will translate into policy changes remains to be seen, but for those in Victoria, the message was clear: democracy must be defended.
Jesse Paul Maldonado Jr.- August 5, 1972 to June 10, 2025 (52)
Jesse was a devoted outdoorsman whose love for nature was matched only by his love for family and friends. Jesse found peace and happiness in the great outdoors. He was especially known for his love of barbecuing—grilling was not just a hobby for him but a way to bring people together. His BBQs became cherished gatherings where laughter, stories, and good food were shared freely.
He thrived in the company of others and had a natural ability to make those around him feel welcomed, supported, and cared for. He was the kind of person who showed up, no matter the time or place. Whether it was lending a hand with a project, offering a shoulder to lean on, or simply being present, Jesse was there. Those who knew him could count on him without hesitation, if ever there was an emergency or dire need.
He is survived by his mother, Mary Maldonado, his children, Ashlyn Maldonado, Devon Murillo, Dylan Maldonado, Derek Maldonado, his grandchildren, Owen, Jayton, Jaxton, Londyn, Levi, Liam, his brothers, Joseph Maldonado, and Jacob Maldonado, his sisters, Monica Garcia, Dolores “Dee” Maldonado-Covington, his nieces and nephews, Nikole, Emily Grace, John Wesley, Amaris, Jace, Oaklynn Mae, Kaden, and Kai and extended family.
Jesse is preceded in death by his father, Jesse Maldonado Sr., his grandfather, F.C. Franco and grandmother Josephina Franco, his aunt, Guadalupe Rangel, and uncle, Robert Maldonado.
Jesse was a loving son, brother, father, and grandfather and friend that will be dearly missed.
Visitation was Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church beginning at 9 AM.
Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 10 AM.
Interment will follow at the Nixon Latin Cemetery.
Mario Ruiz Salas – November 6, 1953 to June 7, 2025 (71)
Mario Ruiz Salas, age 71 of Runge, Texas passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Victoria, Texas. Mario was born on November 6, 1953, in Runge, Texas to Raul Salas Sr. and Anita Ruiz Salas.
Mario is preceded in death by his parents, Raul and Anita (Ruiz) Salas; brother, Frank Altamirano Sr., son in-law, Larry Hopkins; brother in-law, Adolfo Garza; niece, Arlene Altamirano; nephew, James Altamirano; great nephews, Michael Ramirez, and Adrian Acevedo.
He is survived by his children, Annie Hopkins, Mario (Lisa) Salas Sr; Jessica ( Roger) Salas; grandchildren, Aaron Villanueva, Desiree Salas, Larrissa Hopkins, Mariah Hopkins, Mia Reyes, Mario Salas, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Brooklynn Villanueva, Madilynn Perez, Easton Smart; siblings, Lola Garza, Raul (Santos) Salas, Silvester Salas, Severo (Susan) Salas Sr., Celia Mendoza; nieces and nephews, Rachel Acevedo, Adolfo Garza Jr., Lee Ann Serrano, Lola Wozniak, Daniel Salas, Gabriel Salas, Victoria Salas, Andrew Salas, Severo Salas Jr., Steven Salas, Ree Anna Salas, Lanae Oleveda, Monique Castaneda, Dalene Casarez, Jennie Mendoza, Natalia Mendoza, Felix Mendoza III, Raul Mendoza, Randy Mendoza, Frank Altamirano Jr., Jason Altamirano, Ira Altamirano, Ernest Altamirano, Ruby Villanueva.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, at Finch Funeral Chapel in Runge, Texas. A rosary will be recited there, beginning at 7:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held the following day on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at St Anthony’s Catholic Church in Runge, Texas with Father Robert Ploch officiating. Burial will immediately follow the services, at Runge Latin American Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Henry Salas, Armando Acevedo III, Gabriel Salas, Severo Salas Jr., Steven Salas, Agustin Serrano III, Amos Wozanik, and Manuel Aguirre. Honorary Pallbearers Mario Salas Sr., Mario Salas Jr., Aaron Villanueva, Raul Salas Sr., Silvester Salas, Severo Salas Sr., Adolfo Garza Jr., and Roger Reyes.
Strong Community Engagement as Rep. A.J. Louderback Returns to District for Legislative Update
By Staff Writer
June 14, 2025 – Yoakum, TX
Local leaders and residents gathered in high spirits recently as State Representative A.J. Louderback (HD30) provided a legislative update at the Republican Women of the Yoakum Area meeting. The event, held in Yoakum, drew an engaged audience interested in hearing firsthand about the outcomes of the 89th Texas Legislative Session and the work being done in Austin.
Representative Louderback, who returned to the district alongside staff members Teri and Allyson, addressed a range of topics during the session recap—including public safety measures, property tax relief, and ongoing infrastructure investments aimed at supporting rural communities like Yoakum.
“It’s always energizing to be back home and connect with the people I represent,” said Rep. Louderback. “Events like these give us the opportunity to listen, share progress, and ensure that state policy reflects local priorities.”
Attendees expressed appreciation for the open dialogue, noting the importance of staying informed about state decisions that impact daily life in DeWitt and surrounding counties. The presence of legislative staff also gave constituents the chance to ask questions, raise concerns, and share feedback directly with those helping to shape upcoming policy initiatives.
The gathering was part of a larger effort by local civic groups to foster informed and active political engagement. The Republican Women of the Yoakum Area continue to host regular meetings and guest speakers as part of their mission to strengthen conservative leadership and community connection in South Texas.
For updates on Rep. Louderback’s legislative initiatives or to contact his office, residents are encouraged to visit the official Texas House of Representatives website or follow his district updates via social media.
City of Cuero Parks & Golf Administration – Mosquito Spraying to Begin Soon, Weather Permitting
By Staff Writer
June 14, 2025
The City of Cuero Parks & Golf Administration would like to inform residents that seasonal mosquito spraying will begin soon to help reduce mosquito populations and support public health.
Per regulations from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), spraying is strictly prohibited when wind speeds exceed 10 mph. As a result, spraying may be delayed during windy conditions, but our crews will be on the roads with 1–2 trucks as soon as weather allows.
Important Safety Reminder:
If you see a mosquito control truck in your area, please move indoors immediately. Spraying cannot proceed if people are outside in the vicinity. Your cooperation ensures that treatment is safe, effective, and in compliance with state guidelines.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we work to keep Cuero healthy and mosquito-free. For updated information go to: https://www.facebook.com/parksandgolf
Nationwide “No Kings” Protests Mobilize Communities in Defense of Democracy
By Staff Writer
June 13, 2025
Hundreds of towns and cities across America are lighting up with action on Saturday, June 14, as the No Kings Day of Defiance sweeps the country. Organized by a broad coalition of civic and grassroots groups, the peaceful protest aims to stand against creeping authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics and the militarization of the country. It’s aim is to reassert the fundamental values of democracy, equality, and civil liberty.
Galvanized by recent reports of forceful federal crackdowns on nonviolent demonstrations and community disruptions—such as immigrant detentions in Los Angeles, failure of due process, masked ICE Agents, and the recent handling of Senator Alex Padilla, Democrat of California, who was forcibly removed on Thursday from a news conference being held by Kristi Noem, the homeland security secretary. Padilla was shoved out of the room and brought to his knees, handcuffed after he interrupted Ms. Noem during a press conference at a federal building in West Los Angeles.—the movement calls for a loud and united response from everyday citizens.
“Donald Trump wants tanks in the streets and a made-for-TV display of dominance for his birthday,” reads a joint statement from Indivisible organizers. “But real power isn’t staged in Washington — it rises up everywhere else… from city blocks to small towns… we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism and show the world what democracy actually looks like.”
Among the local partners adding their voices is the Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women, who collaborate with likeminded groups to organize events that invite participation from across the political spectrum. Though many of the national organizations have progressive roots, No Kings is intentionally bipartisan, welcoming all who believe in the U.S. Constitution and the principle that no individual is above the law.
Planned as a family-friendly, peaceful protest, the demonstrations will feature speakers, signs, music, and moments of reflection—aiming not to incite, but to unite.
Protests will take place at major sites around Texas, including:
- Victoria – Pattie Dodson Health Center @ 10 am
- Austin – Texas State Capitol
- Dallas – Klyde Warren Park
- Houston – Discovery Green
- San Antonio – Travis Park
- El Paso – San Jacinto Plaza
- Corpus Christi – Cole Park Amphitheater
- Fort Worth – Sundance Square
- Lubbock – Mahon Library Plaza
- McAllen – Archer Park
- Amarillo – Ellwood Park
In a statement echoing the urgency of the moment, a member of the Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women remarked, “We show up not just to protest a parade, but to stand up for human rights for democracy, our freedoms, and for the future of our country.”
For a full list of protests near you, visit the No Kings event map or reach out to local organizers such as the Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women.
In a time of uncertainty, the message couldn’t be clearer: the people will not be ruled—they will be represented. 🗳️📣🗽
Robert Leon Oliver- August 8, 1949 to June 8, 2025 (76)
Robert Leon Oliver, close friend and relative to many in the DeWitt County community, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025. Robert was an esteemed citizen of DeWitt County, a generous philanthropist and the founder and Chairman of the Board of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. He has left a profound legacy of love and commitment not only to his family and friends, but for the entire city of Cuero. He was born in Refugio, Texas on August 8, 1949, to Gale Oliver Jr. and Frances Hamilton Oliver. Besides his loving parents, Robert was greatly influenced by his maternal grandmother, Clare Wofford Hamilton of Cuero.
From a very young age, Robert had a keen appreciation and curiosity about his family history. He spent many memorable summers and holidays with his grandparents at their ranch in Cheapside Texas. Through the years, he came to respect his family’s rich ranching heritage and deep ties to the land. After graduating from Refugio High School, Robert followed his older brother Alex, breaking with family tradition and instead of becoming an Aggie, he enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin. While at the University of Texas, Robert became a member of the Acacia Fraternity and the University of Texas Longhorn Marching Band. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism degree in Advertising Studies.
After graduation from College, Robert moved to Vail, Colorado. He had a strong desire to travel and explore the world, so he took a job in a restaurant until he earned enough money for his first trip to Europe. That trip awakened his passion for travel, architecture, art, beautiful gardens and especially history; all of which he cultivated throughout his lifetime prompting his desire to renovate, restore and repurpose almost every historical building he ever saw! Following his travels to Europe and Asia, he came back to Vail where he first managed a small boutique hotel. It’s then he started his career in real estate management. He became owner and president of the Plaza Lodge Properties in Vail, a property management company consisting of townhomes, condominiums, private homes and commercial buildings. While living in Vail, Robert served on the founding board of the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, a 1.5 acre high altitude garden consisting of athletic fields and a custom playground for children.
After returning to Cuero in 1995 to help care for his mother, Robert rekindled former acquaintances and made new friendships as he settled into a small community. He became active in historic preservation right away and was Chairman of the Cuero Heritage Museum from 1998 to 2001 where he curated many exhibits. His passion for history and ranching heritage guided his dream to establish a museum dedicated to the ranching heritage of South Central Texas. In 2000, he led stakeholders and community leaders in establishing the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. Through his leadership and tireless efforts, they created a mission statement, organized by laws, navigated application and authorization processes, led two capital campaign efforts, obtained and oversaw restoration of the Knights of Pythias Hall and construction of a two story annex adjacent to the hall. The museum opened its doors in 2013, and Robert has been instrumental in the success of the award winning museum since its inception. His vision has grown to include several other historical structures on the museum campus as well as Peebles Park and the Steen Roundabout. Always striving to improve things, Robert’s future plans included a major expansion to the museum that will house Native American artifacts, Texas pioneer items and Western Art. His goal and driving force was always to create spaces that draw people from all walks of life together to enjoy each other, learn new things and celebrate the history and heritage of the community.
Robert was a prolific visionary, a lover of art and music with a profound passion to experience, notice, appreciate, savor, teach and share the many examples of the arts and culture he found all around him with friends, family and especially his nieces and nephews. He generously took many opportunities to spend his time and knowledge with them, sharing his love of the arts, never missing an opportunity to get together and just generally having a great time! He was also a man of the land. His dedication to caring for and improving the landscapes around him was endless.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Gale Oliver Jr.; his brothers, Gale Oliver III (Gay) and Alexander Hamilton Oliver (Nance).
He is survived by his partner, Hebert Rojas-Silva; brother, William Thornton Oliver (Coylene); nieces, Kathy Oliver (Brian Chandler), Kristen Jesulaitis (David), Clare Duffin (Donald), Amory Felder (Robby) and nephews, Gale Hamilton Oliver (Tricia), Will Oliver (Leslie), and Greyson Oliver. He adored his great nieces and nephews, Elizabeth, Clare, Parker, Will, Jackson, Kyle, Oliver, Tripp, Porter, Anderson, Tillie and Hamilton.
A private family service will be held for Robert with burial to follow at Hillside Cemetery. At a later date there will be a Celebration of Life to honor Robert on the campus of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the Robert Oliver Memorial at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum or the charity of your choice.