Laughter, good food, and a whole lot of tug-of-war spirit filled the air yesterday evening as Cuero residents gathered for the annual Meet & Greet — a celebration of community partnerships, public service, and hometown pride.
The event, hosted with support from Cuero Fire Department, brought together local organizations, law enforcement, and families for an evening of connection and fun. From setup to teardown, Cuero Fire Department went above and beyond — and yes, they took home the tug-of-war win this year
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who made the evening possible:
HEB, The Texan, Norma’s House Child Advocacy Center, TDCJ – Stevenson Unit Staff, DJ Tony, Ortega’s Rainbow Sno, Cuero ISD, Bush’s Chicken, and the Civilian Police Academy Alumni, who served up some truly unforgettable food.
Special thanks to Yoakum Police Department, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and PHI Air Medical Victoria for showcasing their equipment and engaging with attendees.
The event wasn’t just about fun — it was a reminder of the strength and generosity that define Cuero. From child advocacy to public safety, every organization present plays a role in keeping our community resilient and connected.
As the sun set and the last snow cone was slurped, one thing was clear: Cuero shows up for each other. And we’ll be ready to do it all again next year — volunteers and all.
Cuero Online News Editorial Published October 3, 2025
Texas lawmakers say they stand for law and order, but some are pushing bills that target the very groups exposing domestic terrorism. Organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), known for tracking white supremacist violence, are now being labeled “radical” and “anti-American” by politicians like Rep. Chip Roy.
The real aim? To silence watchdogs, block criticism, and protect extremist ideologies — even when those ideologies are coming straight from the mouths of our own elected officials. This isn’t just cowardice. It’s calculated deception. These politicians know exactly what they’re doing — stoking fear, fueling hate, and then pointing fingers elsewhere when the violence erupts. They want the power that comes from rage, but not the blame that comes with bloodshed.
The same figures who spread conspiracy theories and traffic in coded hate are now scrambling to avoid accountability. Their rhetoric is fueling violence, yet they recoil when the public starts connecting the dots.
Figures like La Blanc and others — all white, all politically aligned with far-right grievance — have recently made headlines not just for inflammatory statements echoing white supremacist manifestos, but for acts of violence. La Blanc, a self-identified MAGA supporter, killed four worshipers at a Mormon church in Michigan, ramming his truck into the building before opening fire and setting it ablaze — a massacre steeped in religious hatred and extremist symbolism. And while Tyler Robinson was not politically affiliated, his act of violence was rooted in the toxic rhetoric that continues to polarize and radicalize Americans.
In the past month, five violent incidents have underscored the urgency of confronting domestic extremism — not silencing those who expose it. Yet some lawmakers are pushing legislation to defund or criminalize watchdog groups like the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), accusing them of “targeting conservatives” while ignoring the actual threats SPLC tracks daily.
Consider the case of Tyler Robinson, who assassinated Charlie Kirk at a Turning Point USA event in Utah. Robinson’s motive reportedly stemmed from outrage over Kirk’s anti-transgender rhetoric — a tragic example of how ideological grievance, amplified in a toxic media ecosystem, can turn deadly. But instead of addressing the radicalization pipeline, some lawmakers are blaming SPLC for “dividing America.”
Meanwhile, white supremacist Skyler Philippi pleaded guilty to plotting a drone bomb attack in Tennessee. In Louisiana, a man killed three children in a Catholic church, with white supremacist symbols found in his home. In Colorado, 16-year-old Desmond Holly opened fire at Evergreen High School after being radicalized online. And in Texas, Joshua Jahn attacked a Dallas ICE facility, killing a detainee and injuring two others — driven by anti-government extremism and conspiracy theories. All the more reason we need the SPLC to continue exposing and tracking extremist individuals and incidents — especially when lawmakers would rather silence the messenger than confront the threat
These are not isolated tragedies. They are the result of a political climate that rewards rage and punishes truth.
Yet instead of confronting this threat, Texas lawmakers are pouring billions into ICE raids that target cooks, housewives, and small business owners — immigrants who contribute to our communities — while ignoring the white men radicalized in their own ranks. They criminalize labor and family but protect ideology and violence. They chase headlines about border security while turning a blind eye to the domestic terror growing in their own backyards.
AJ Louderback and Lois Kolkhorst
And now, powerful billionaires like Elon Musk have the audacity to attack the groups that expose this hate. Musk has publicly called for the SPLC to be “shut down,” labeling it a “criminal organization” and accusing it of inciting violence. His rhetoric escalated after the SPLC included Turning Point USA in its Year in Hate and Extremism report — a move that drew outrage from far-right influencers and their allies. Musk reposted claims that the SPLC had “incited the murder” of Charlie Kirk, despite no evidence linking the SPLC to the shooter.
This isn’t just about Musk. It’s a coordinated effort to flip the narrative — twisting the story to cast those who expose threats against the American public as villains, while shielding extremist ideologies from scrutiny. When billionaires and politicians join forces to smear watchdogs and silence truth-tellers, it’s not just intentional — it’s a calculated attack on accountability, designed to protect the very forces pushing our country toward violence.
Let’s be clear: Texas is a hotbed for white supremacist activity. According to the Anti-Defamation League, the state leads the nation in white supremacist propaganda and has seen a surge in extremist events, including the deadly Allen mall shooting in 2023. Nearly 100 hate and anti-government groups operate here, many headquartered in North Texas. Yet instead of confronting this threat, lawmakers are targeting those who expose it.
The silence surrounding the 2019 El Paso massacre is telling. A white supremacist, radicalized by Trump-era rhetoric, drove hundreds of miles to murder 23 people in a Walmart. His manifesto echoed the same “invasion” language used by politicians and media figures who now claim to be victims of liberal bias. There were no select committees formed to investigate the ideological pipeline that led to that massacre. No subpoenas for the Facebook groups or political influencers who fed him lies. Instead, we get bills that aim to investigate the SPLC, accuse journalists of inciting violence, and protect figures like Chip Roy and A.J. Louderback, whose social media posts routinely spread hate and misinformation.
The real question isn’t why the SPLC is under attack. It’s who benefits from its silence. Politicians who rely on fear-based messaging to mobilize voters. Law enforcement veterans like Jackson County’s Louderback, who use their platforms to spread anti-immigrant rhetoric under the guise of public safety. And a sprawling media machine — cable hosts, podcasters, influencers — who rake in millions by spewing hate, amplifying conspiracy theories, and turning outrage into revenue. Now, tech billionaires are joining the chorus, eager to control the narrative while dodging accountability. They don’t want watchdogs. They want silence.
This isn’t about protecting the public. It’s about protecting power. Texas lawmakers aren’t writing bills to stop violence — they’re writing bills to stop anyone from exposing it. They’re shielding white nationalist networks, laundering extremist rhetoric through religion, and punishing the watchdogs who dare to name it. They call it patriotism. They wrap it in scripture. But it’s not faith. It’s fear. And it’s being codified into law.
The SPLC isn’t the threat. Journalists aren’t the threat. Immigrants aren’t the threat. The real danger comes from those who criminalize truth-telling, sanctify silence, and build careers on hate. Texans must decide whether we stand with the people who expose violence — or with the ones who legislate its protection.
When lawmakers and billionaires speak like this, watchdogs aren’t the problem — they’re the proof.”
Rep. Chip Roy
Rep. Chip Roy has made multiple controversial statements that have been widely criticized as hateful or inflammatory toward specific groups, particularly Asian Americans, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Rhetoric by Rep. Chip Roy Targeting Mexicans or Mexican Immigrants
Lynching Reference at Anti-Asian Hate Hearing (March 2021)
During a House Judiciary Committee hearing on violence against Asian Americans, Roy said:
“There’s old sayings in Texas about find all the rope in Texas and get a tall oak tree.”
The comment, made just days after the Atlanta spa shootings that killed six Asian women, was widely condemned as glorifying lynching.
Roy doubled down, saying:
“I meant it. We need more justice and less thought police.”
Rep Chip Roy Request to Investigate Southern Poverty Law C and “Radical Left” (September 2025)
While the comment was aimed at drug traffickers, critics noted the racial undertones and historical lynching references. The remark was condemned by Asian American lawmakers and civil rights groups but also interpreted by some as a veiled threat toward Mexican cartels and border crossers.
Framing Mexican Cartels as Terrorist Armies
Roy has repeatedly called for designating Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. While this reflects legitimate policy debate, his framing often blurs the line between cartel actors and broader Mexican communities:
He has described the border as “a war zone” and claimed that “Mexican cartels control our territory.”
In speeches, he’s referred to cartel violence as “an invasion,” language that civil rights groups say fuels anti-Mexican sentiment.
“Open Borders Are Killing Americans”
Roy has used graphic language to describe crimes committed by undocumented immigrants, often emphasizing Mexican nationality or origin:
He has accused the Biden administration of “facilitating the invasion of our borders” through taxpayer-funded programs that assist migrants, many of whom are Mexican.
Opposition to Legal Protections for Mexican Immigrants
Roy has opposed DACA and other legal protections for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children, many of whom are Mexican. He’s argued that such programs “reward lawbreaking” and “encourage more illegal crossings.”
SPLC Criticism
Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation: The SPLC has flagged Roy’s support for bills that target LGBTQ+ rights, including efforts to defund Pride events and diversity programs in the military, as part of a broader “anti-equality agenda.”
Association with SPLC-targeted groups: Roy has defended organizations like the Family Research Council and Turning Point USA, which have appeared on SPLC’s “Hate Map.” His recent letter linking SPLC’s reporting to violent incidents has been described by civil rights advocates as inflammatory and conspiratorial.
ACLU Criticism
Immigration and Border Policy: The ACLU has condemned Roy’s support for mass deportation policies and his framing of immigration as an “invasion,” arguing that such language dehumanizes migrants and fuels xenophobia.
Free Speech and Surveillance: Roy’s call for a congressional committee to investigate media, NGOs, and donors has raised alarms about civil liberties and political targeting. The ACLU has warned that such proposals could chill dissent and violate First Amendment protections.
Elon Musk
Notable Right-Leaning or Hate-Linked Rhetoric by Elon Musk (2023–2025)
1. Attacks on Civil Rights Organizations
Musk has repeatedly called the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) “evil,” a “scam,” and a “criminal organization,” demanding it be “shut down”.
He also labeled the Anti-Defamation League (ADL)—a group founded to combat antisemitism—as a “hate group,” falsely claiming it “hates Christians”.
2. Platforming Extremists on X
After acquiring Twitter (now X), Musk reinstated banned accounts including Donald Trump and far-right figures like Nick Fuentes, a known neo-Nazi.
He dismantled content moderation teams and allowed hate speech to flourish, including antisemitic and misogynistic content.
3. Support for Far-Right Movements Globally
Musk has publicly supported nationalist leaders and movements in Argentina, Italy, the Netherlands, Brazil, and Ireland.
He encouraged voters in Germany to “move beyond Nazi guilt,” a statement widely condemned as historically insensitive.
4. Amplifying Conspiracy Theories
Musk promoted claims that the SPLC and ADL were targeting conservatives for political reasons, linking them to violence against figures like Charlie Kirk.
He echoed vaccine skepticism and election denial rhetoric promoted by Turning Point USA.
5. Engagement with Racist Content
Musk reportedly subscribed to and financially supported a pro-apartheid X account that glorifies white supremacy in South Africa.
He posted racist memes targeting Sen. Elizabeth Warren after she called for ethics standards for government-affiliated tech CEOs.
6. Political Donations and Influence
Musk became the largest political donor in the U.S., contributing over $270 million to support Donald Trump and other Republicans.
His influence has shaped GOP priorities, especially around deregulation, immigration, and social media control.
AJ Louderback: Rhetoric and Affiliations Echoing White Nationalist Themes
1. Use of “Invasion” Language
Frequently describes immigration—especially by Mexican and Central American migrants—as an “invasion.”
This term is widely used in white nationalist manifestos and has been linked to real-world violence, including the El Paso shooting in 2019.
2. Promotion of Border Militarization
Advocates for militarized enforcement and citizen patrols along the southern border.
Praises private militias and vigilante groups that have been accused of racial profiling and unlawful detentions.
3. Partnerships with Far-Right Media
Regular guest on platforms hosted by Steve Bannon, Mike Cernovich, and other figures known for amplifying white nationalist narratives.
Uses these appearances to promote mass deportation, anti-immigrant conspiracies, and distrust of federal agencies.
4. Framing NGOs and Churches as “Traffickers”
Accuses humanitarian organizations—including faith-based groups—of “colluding” to smuggle migrants into the U.S.
This framing mirrors white nationalist claims that globalist or religious institutions are undermining national sovereignty.
5. Opposition to Legal Protections for Immigrants
Opposes DACA, asylum protections, and refugee resettlement programs.
Frames legal immigration pathways as “tools of the radical left” and “incentives for lawlessness.”
6. Dehumanizing Language
Refers to undocumented immigrants as “illegals,” “criminals,” and “invaders” in public posts and interviews.
Rarely distinguishes between cartel actors and families fleeing violence, contributing to broad stigmatization.
CUERO, TX — Justice of the Peace Blanca McBride has officially announced her candidacy for re-election in Precinct 2, marking her intent to continue serving the community with the same integrity and dedication that have defined her tenure over the past two terms.
In a public statement released last week, McBride emphasized her commitment to fairness, consistency, and respect for all individuals who enter her courtroom. “Justice requires not only experience, but a willingness to learn and adapt,” she said, noting her ongoing efforts to stay informed on new legislation and judicial procedures to ensure that the court reflects current standards and best practices.
McBride, who has served as JP since 2018, is known for her professional demeanor and strong work ethic. Her approach to the bench has been marked by a balance of legal rigor and compassionate leadership — qualities she says are essential to the role.
“Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” McBride stated. “I’ve listened, learned, and led with care. I’m committed to continuing that work with dedication and compassion.”
As the election season unfolds, McBride’s announcement adds momentum to the DeWitt County ballot, which includes a proposed tax increase affecting Yoakum voters, as well as 17 statewide Constitutional Amendments. Voters in Precinct 2 will also have the opportunity to weigh in on her re-election bid during the upcoming election cycle.
McBride concluded her announcement by thanking constituents for their trust and support, expressing her hope to continue serving the people of Precinct 2 with professionalism and heart.
For more information on local races and ballot items, residents are encouraged to contact the DeWitt County Elections Office or visit their official website.
DeWitt County voters have until Monday, October 6, 2025, to register to vote in the upcoming November 4 election, which will decide the fate of 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution.
These amendments encompass a broad range of issues, including property taxes, infrastructure funding, education policy, water conservation, and more. While no statewide candidates are on the ballot this cycle, the decisions made in this election will shape how Texas allocates resources and governs key public systems.
Locally, voters may also see propositions or runoff races depending on municipal and school board filings. The DeWitt County Elections Office urges residents to check their registration status and ensure their information is up to date.
Long-term impact on public funding, education, and infrastructure
Eligible residents can register in person at the DeWitt County Elections Office or by mailing a completed voter registration form postmarked by Oct. 6. Forms are available at libraries, post offices, and online at VoteTexas.gov.
For questions or assistance, contact the DeWitt County Elections Office at (361) 275-0859.
The City of Yoakum is calling on residents to help shape the future of their community by attending a pivotal public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan. Scheduled as part of the City Council meeting on Tuesday, October 14th at 5 PM, this session will unveil the draft goals, objectives, and action steps that will guide Yoakum’s development for years to come.
Why It Matters
The Comprehensive Plan is more than a document—it’s a blueprint for Yoakum’s growth, infrastructure, housing, and overall quality of life. The draft presented at this meeting reflects community feedback gathered through the initial public meeting and survey. Now, residents have another opportunity to weigh in before the plan moves forward.
Your feedback continues to shape the plan. A brief follow-up survey is available in both English and Spanish. Use the language toggle in the top left corner to switch languages:
🔗 Take the Survey
Attend the Public Hearing
The October 14th City Council meeting is your chance to ask questions, share ideas, and ensure the plan reflects the community’s vision. Whether you’re concerned about housing, roads, parks, or economic development, your voice matters.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the nation’s oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization, proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Cynthia E. Orozco as its National Historian. Widely recognized as the foremost authority on LULAC’s founding, growth, and influence, Dr. Orozco brings an unparalleled depth of scholarship and devotion to documenting the struggles and triumphs of Latinos in the United States.
“Dr. Orozco’s appointment as National Historian ensures that our nearly 100-year legacy will not only be preserved but elevated to the place it deserves in American history,” says Roman Palomares, LULAC national president and chairman of the board. “Her body of work reflects the passion, rigor, and vision we need to inspire future generations of Latinos and all Americans,” he added.
Dr. Orozco, Professor Emeritus of History and Humanities at Eastern New Mexico University–Ruidoso, is a nationally respected scholar, author, and lecturer whose works have reshaped the understanding of Mexican American, Chicano, and Latino history. Her landmark publications include No Mexicans, Women, or Dogs Allowed: The Rise of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement (UT Press), one of the press’s best-selling academic books of the past decade, and Agent of Change: Adela Sloss-Vento, Mexican American Civil Rights Activist and Texas Feminist, which earned the Texas State Historical Association’s Best Book in Texas Women’s History Award in 2020.
Her latest book, Pioneer of Mexican American Civil Rights: Alonso S. Perales, profiles the principal founder of LULAC. Her co-edited volume, Mexican Americans in Texas History, further solidifies her role as the preeminent chronicler of Latino contributions to American society.
“This appointment confirms what I have known since 1978, and that is that I would do my part to empower our community through history,” says Orozco. “The LULAC story is full of struggles and achievements, yet our history is unknown. Our history is our strength,” she stated.
Among her numerous honors are the National Association for Chicana and Chicano Studies Scholar (2023), the National LULAC Education Raymond Telles Award (2023), and her elections to the Executive Board of the Organization of American Historians and the Alliance for Texas History. She is also a Ford Foundation Postdoctoral and Dissertation Fellow and a Fellow of the Texas State Historical Association.
Through her lifelong commitment to research and teaching, Dr. Orozco has given voice to the milestones, sacrifices, and victories that shaped Latino civil rights in the United States and Puerto Rico. In her new role, she will continue to illuminate the movement’s history, safeguarding its lessons and values for millions who may not yet know their lineage or the events that paved the way to today’s progress.
SHINER: Mildred Mae Hewig Seidenberger passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Mildred was born November 3, 1927 in Shiner, Texas to William P. and Hettye (Herder) Hewig,
Mildred spent her nearly 98-year-lifetime as a source of love and joy to those who knew her. She lived her entire life in or near Shiner, working and caring for the family farms, quilting, crafting, and serving her community. A devout Christian, Mildred dedicated her time to many ministries over the years and always emphasized the importance of faith and education to her family. As a child, she attended the Menger school and worked locally at Kaspar Wire Works and then at TexTan in Yoakum. Mildred had a fun and feisty side to her personality but was most known for the way she loved and nurtured everyone she encountered – friend, family, or new acquaintance, she welcomed all to her table, always ensuring that both bellies and hearts were full in her presence.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Laura Schroeder of Smiley, TX, grandchildren, Jennifer (Brian) Gottschalk of New Braunfels, TX, Gary (Julie) Schroeder II of Fort Collins, CO, Fanci (Jordan) Baker of Alamogordo, NM, Kasie (Courtney) Carroll of Buda, TX, and Colt (Lori) Brown of Poth, TX, her great-grandchildren, Avery, Autumn, Grayson, Hudson, Lilith, Liam, Elliot, Olivia, Luz, and Arch, as well as cherished nieces and nephews and their families.
Mildred is preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Max Schroeder, Jr., as well as her beloved husband of 53-years, Daniel Seidenberger; son, Judge Gary J. Schroeder; three infant brothers: Franklin, Elo and Leonard Hewig, and adult siblings, Earl Hewig, Roy Hewig, Willis Hewig, Irene McLeroy, and Irma Nolley.
Rosary recited at 10:00 a.m. with Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 6th at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner with Father Jacob Mendoza officiating. Burial to follow at Shiner City Cemetery.
Pallbearers: Gary Schroeder II, Brian Gottschalk, Colt Brown, David Hewig, Kyler, Hewig and Derek Schlenker.
Honorary pallbearers are her nephews Leroy Hewig, Warren McLeroy, and Wade McLeroy.
In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the Daniel and Mildred Seidenberger Scholarship Fund, which has been established for St. Paul Catholic High School in Shiner, TX. Please send memorials to First National Bank of Shiner or P.O. Box 73 Gonzales, Texas 78629.
The family would also like to express unconditional thanks to Andrea Strait, Candace Rodriguez, and the staff at Alzcare in Cuero for the love and care provided.
CUERO — The DeWitt/LaVaca County Democratic Women will host its monthly meeting on Friday, October 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Maya’s Restaurant in Cuero. The gathering is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend.
In a continued effort to foster civic engagement and inclusive dialogue, the organization welcomes both women and men from the area to join its ranks and participate in upcoming activities. The group advocates for community involvement, voter education, and policy awareness across DeWitt and Lavaca counties.
DeWitt County Residents Must Register by Oct. 6 to Vote in Nov. 4 Election
Yoakum is holding elections and there are 17 constitutional amendments on the ballot. IMPORTANT YOU VOTE!!!!
CUERO, TX — Women across DeWitt County and beyond are invited to mark their calendars for the highly anticipated Sisterhood Conference, returning October 10th and 11th with a powerful theme: “Fashioned.” Hosted by My Faith Family, this annual gathering promises two days of life-giving messages, inspiring worship, and unforgettable community moments.
Special guest speaker Charlotte Gambill will headline the event, joined by Kara Joines and other voices committed to empowering women through faith and fellowship. The conference kicks off Friday evening with boutique shopping, worship, and an after-party, followed by Saturday sessions filled with encouragement, connection, and purpose-driven teaching.
Tickets go on sale September 1st, with sponsorship opportunities offering perks like early seating, exclusive merchandise, and recognition. Organizers encourage attendees to bring their friends, daughters, and sisters for a weekend designed to uplift and unite.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual renewal, meaningful connection, or simply a space to be reminded of your worth, Sisterhood Conference 2025 is a celebration of strength, grace, and the divine design within every woman.
ACLU Criticism
