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Local First Responders Receive Specialized Well Control Emergency Training

JUNE 9, 2025

CUERO, TX – First responders from multiple agencies gathered for an intensive Well Control Emergency Response Training session hosted by Devon Energy and Wild Well Control at the Devon Energy Cuero Field Office in DeWitt County.

Personnel from the Lavaca County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, as well as members of the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department and Sweet Home Volunteer Fire Department, participated in the training designed to enhance preparedness for potential oil and gas well control incidents.

The session reinforced best practices and response protocols, ensuring that emergency personnel are equipped with the latest knowledge and strategies to handle well control situations safely and effectively. By refining techniques and emphasizing safety measures, the training aimed to strengthen the community’s overall emergency response capabilities.

Local officials expressed their appreciation to Devon Energy and Wild Well Control for providing this essential training, underscoring its significance in safeguarding both first responders and the broader community.

This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing commitment of emergency services to maintain readiness and protect residents in the event of an industrial emergency.

Yorktown FFA Cultivates Leadership, Community Service, and Career Success

YORKTOWN, TX – The Yorktown FFA continues to foster premier leadership, personal growth, and career success among its students, encouraging participation in leadership contests, service events, and hands-on projects that strengthen career skills.

This commitment to excellence was recently demonstrated through the outstanding achievements of two local students in the Texas FFA State Degree Check. Rylan Rau earned a Gold ranking for his Agricultural Services proficiency application, securing an impressive second place finish in the state. His dedication to agricultural services and strong work ethic helped him excel in this competitive field.

Raylan Rau
Garrett Menn

Meanwhile, Garrett Menn received a Silver ranking for his proficiency application in Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication, placing in the Top 12 of Texas. His skills and expertise in agricultural mechanics underscore his dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

Both students’ applications were recognized as Area Winners, reflecting their commitment to excellence in agricultural studies. Their achievements stand as proof of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication, making their community proud.

Yorktown FFA continues to inspire and support students as they pursue leadership opportunities, serve their community, and advance their careers in agriculture. Congratulations to Rylan Rau and Garrett Menn for their exceptional accomplishments, which set a high standard for future agricultural leaders in Texas.

Longtime Dietary Aide Honored for 32 Years of Service at Whispering Oaks Rehab and Nursing

Cuero, TX—The halls of Whispering Oaks Rehab and Nursing were filled with celebration June 7, 2025, as staff, residents, and community members gathered to honor Lydia Martinez, who has dedicated an impressive 32 years of service as a dietary aide at the facility.

Since joining Whispering Oaks over three decades ago, Martinez has been a cornerstone of the community, known for her unwavering kindness, compassionate spirit, and commitment to ensuring residents receive not only nutritious meals but also a daily dose of warmth and care. Her presence has been a source of comfort for both staff and residents alike, fostering a sense of family within the facility.

Colleagues describe Martinez as an indispensable part of the Whispering Oaks team, bringing dedication and heartfelt service to every interaction. Her efforts extend far beyond the kitchen—whether lending a listening ear or offering a reassuring smile, she has touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.

“Lydia is truly the heart of Whispering Oaks,” said a fellow staff member. “She has brought so much joy and care to this facility over the years, and we are endlessly grateful for everything she has done.”

As the community celebrates her remarkable journey, Martinez’s legacy of compassion continues to inspire those around her. Whispering Oaks expressed its sincere gratitude for her decades of service, recognizing the profound difference she has made in the lives of so many.

Her contributions stand as a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference. Martinez’s extraordinary legacy will remain an integral part of Whispering Oaks for years to come.

Australian Retired Officer Visits Yoakum Police Department for Patch Exchange

On June 4, 2025, the Yoakum Police Department had the distinct honor of welcoming Brian, a retired police officer from Australia, as part of his international journey to trade department patches.

Brian, who has been traveling across various regions to exchange patches with law enforcement agencies, made a special stop in Yoakum, Texas where officers proudly participated in the tradition. Along with the exchange, the department presented Brian with a challenge coin, symbolizing camaraderie and mutual respect between officers across borders.

During his visit, Brian shared stories from his experiences as a police officer in Australia and listened to anecdotes from his counterparts in Texas, highlighting the universal bond among those who serve and protect.

The department expressed appreciation for his visit, wishing him safe travels as he continues his journey. Brian’s patch exchange serves as a reminder of the strong ties within the global law enforcement community, where traditions like this help foster unity and understanding beyond geographical boundaries.

SUMMER STAYCATION FREE POOL & SPLASHPAD DAY JUNE 12, 2025

CITY OF CUERO PARKS DEPT WANTS YOU TO JOIN THEM FOR THEIR FIRST SUMMER STAYCATION EVENT WITH FREE ADMISSION TO THE POOL & SPLASHPAD ON JUNE 12TH FROM 12:00PM-9:00PM

SUMMER STAYCATION FREE SNOWCONES @ ALEXANDER PARK WEDNESDAY JUNE 18, 2025

AT ALEXANDER PARK SPLASH PAD ON JUNE 18TH FROM 5:00PM-7:00PM FOR A FREE SMALL SNOWCONE (ONE PER PERSON).

Yoakum’s 97th Annual Tom-Tom Festival: A Celebration of Tradition, Community, and Fun

June 8, 2025
Yoakum, Texas, came alive once again as the 97th Annual Tom-Tom Festival brought together locals and visitors for a weekend of excitement and tradition. From June 5th to June 8th, 2025, the festival honored the town’s rich tomato-growing heritage with a spectacular lineup of events, including rodeo action, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment.

The streets buzzed with energy as the Grand Parade showcased vibrant floats, while festival-goers enjoyed BBQ cook-offs, carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, and thrilling rodeo performances. The weekend was packed with unforgettable moments, from the Tom-Tom Royalty Pageant to the Ranch Rodeo finale, ensuring that the spirit of Yoakum remained as strong as ever.

Whether you were there for the music, food, or community spirit, the Tom-Tom Festival proved once again why it’s a cherished tradition that continues to bring generations together. See you next year! 🎉🍅

(Send pictures @ Tom Tom Festival to: cueroonlinenews@gmail.com)

 

Rally in Cuero Honors Veterans on D-Day

June 6, 2025
By: Pat Trevino 

On June 6, a passionate group of demonstrators gathered at the Cuero De Witt County Courthouse to voice their concerns about veterans’ affairs and legislative protections. The rally, which took place from 4:45 to 6:00 PM, was deliberately scheduled on D-Day, a day of immense historical significance. Organizers chose this date to honor the sacrifices made by service members during the Allied invasion of Normandy in 1944—a turning point in World War II that marked the beginning of the liberation of Europe from Nazi control.

Demonstrators rallied in the 90°F heat (heat index makes it feel like 113°F) making every step of the march a test of endurance and standing in solidarity for the rights of veterans. Yet, despite the relentless sun beating down, participants stood firm, holding their signs high and refusing to waver in their commitment to protecting veterans’ rights.

(photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025 – Demonstrators make their way to the corner of Broadway and Esplanade.

The event was a nonpartisan rally spearheaded by the De Witt and Lavaca County Democratic Women, emphasizing that advocacy for veterans transcends political divides. Demonstrators marched from the courthouse to the corner of Esplanade and Broadway, holding signs that read “Stay Away from VA,” “Protect the PACT Act,” and “Don’t Let DOGE Cut VA Support.” Their message was clear: they wanted to safeguard veterans’ benefits and ensure continued support for those who have served.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans in Cuero on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway.

The PACT Act ensures that veterans suffering from conditions linked to toxic exposure such as burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances receive the care and compensation they deserve. Plus, it expanded eligibility for veterans from the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway, Cuero. Tx

DOGE – Department of Government Efficiency which was spearheaded by Elon Musk gutted funding as well as essential contracts vital to Veterans health care. The Department of Veterans Affairs is slashing 83,000 jobs.  The VA employs over 17 percent of the federal agency that provides health care for millions of veterans, according to reports by The Associated Press.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans in Cuero, Tx.

The cuts affected funding from cancer care to the ability to assess toxic exposure. The broad spending cuts has immediate and potentially unintended consequences, generating significant concern not just among Democrats but also Republican lawmakers.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway. Cuero, Tx

As the demonstrators braved the scorching heat, they did so not just in protest, but in pursuit of awareness—hoping their voices would ignite action. Their determination was a call to the public, urging citizens to rally behind veterans, demand accountability, and reach out to lawmakers to protect essential benefits. On a day that honors sacrifice and resilience, they stood as a modern reminder that the fight for veterans’ rights is far from over and requires the collective strength of a nation.

June 6, 1944, was an Allied invasion of Normandy during WWII. Often referred to as D-Day, it is the largest seaborne invasion in history. This invasion turned the tide of the war.

Alfred Kutzer- March 17, 1938 to June 4, 2025

YOAKUM: Alfred Kutzer, 87, passed away Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Alfred Kutzer, a strong-willed and hardworking man with a heart as big as the land he loved, passed away surrounded by family and the legacy he built with his own hands. Born on March 17, 1938, Alfred lived a life rooted in purpose, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.

On June 4, 1965, he married the love of his life, Waldean, a marriage that withstood all the ups and downs of life for exactly 60 years. Together they raised seven children—a testament to their enduring love and shared commitment to family. A provider in every sense, Alfred worked for 35 years at Alcoa, where he earned the respect of his peers through a strong work ethic and no-nonsense attitude. Outside of work, Alfred found his peace in the open fields. He had a passion for farming and ranching, pouring his time and energy into the land with the same grit he brought to every part of his life. Though known for his short fuse and rough edges, those who truly knew him saw the goodness in his heart—a man whose actions always spoke louder than his words. Alfred’s greatest pride was his family. Every early morning and long day’s work was done with them in mind. He lived not for recognition, but to make sure those he loved had what they needed. His legacy is one of hard work, devotion, and a deep, unshakable love that will live on through his children and all who were lucky enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.

Survivors are his wife, Waldean (Smith) Kutzer of Yoakum; their 7 children, Rex Kutzer (Claire) of Yoakum, Amanda Davis (Michael) of Hallettsville, Cindy Rodriguez (Dennis) of Yoakum, Kathy Frazer (Brian) of Sweet Home, Matt Kutzer (Denise) of Yoakum, Patti Kutzer of Yoakum and Mark Kutzer (Susan) of Yoakum; 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; sister, Nina Bunch of Magnolia; and numerous extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Ida Mae (Bausch) Kutzer; sister, Claudia Rimel and brother, Jim Kutzer.

Visitation 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.

Private Graveside Service 10 a.m., Friday, June 13, 2025, at Hebron Cemetery.

Pallbearers are his sons, Rex, Matt and Mark and grandsons, Tyler, Michael, Bretley, Tate and Beaux.

Memorials may be given to Hope Baptist Church.