In a powerful show of unity and preparedness, multiple public safety agencies joined forces on August 4 to conduct comprehensive walkthroughs at Westhoff ISD, Yorktown ISD, and Meyersville ISD. The initiative marks a proactive step toward ensuring student and staff safety as the 2025–2026 school year begins.
Representatives from the Texas Division of Emergency Management, DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office, DeWitt County Constables (Precincts 1 & 2), Cuero Police Department, Yorktown ISD Police Department, Yorktown EMS, Westhoff Fire Department, Golden Crescent Communications, and the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management participated in the coordinated effort.
The walkthroughs focused on evaluating emergency access points, communication protocols, and response coordination across campuses. Each agency brought its expertise to the table, reinforcing a shared commitment to safeguarding students, educators, and school staff.
“This isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about building trust and readiness,” said a spokesperson from the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management. “When our agencies collaborate like this, we send a clear message: safety is a community responsibility.”
These initial visits are part of a broader initiative to assess and strengthen safety measures at every public and private school in DeWitt County. Officials confirmed that walkthroughs will continue in the coming weeks, ensuring that no campus is overlooked.
The timing of the effort—just days before the academic year begins—underscores the urgency and dedication behind the scenes. From rural campuses to larger districts, the goal remains the same: a safe, secure environment where students can thrive.
The collaboration between law enforcement, emergency services, and school officials reflects a deeper ethos of community care. In a time when school safety remains a national concern, DeWitt County’s approach stands out for its transparency, inclusivity, and boots-on-the-ground engagement.
As the school bells prepare to ring, parents and educators alike can take comfort in knowing that safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a promise backed by action.
SMILEY– John Cruz Dominguez, 95, of Smiley, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 31, 2025. He was born on December 26, 1929, in Gillette, Texas, to Jesus Dominguez and Casianna Cruz Dominguez.
John attended school in Smiley, where he met the love of his life, Rachel. They were married on August 26, 1951, and celebrated 71 years of marriage in 2022. Together, they raised a loving family, beginning with their first daughter Josie, followed by twins Lisa and Yorly, and later Mary Lou, Norma, and Sylvia.
On October 25, 1959, John joined the United States Army at Fort Bliss. After his service, he worked as a truck driver and later as a supervisor for 18 years at Gonzales Poultry Company. Upon retirement, he launched his own produce delivery business, serving customers across South Texas.
John was a man of deep love and responsibility, values he instilled in his children. He cherished Saturday afternoons spent BBQ-ing and Saturday nights watching wrestling. Among the many family memories was raising his granddaughter Teran as one of his own and taking cherished vacations to Arizona to visit cousins.
A hardworking man, John ran a large hog farm and raised calves, chickens, goats, and roosters. One memorable story involved a feisty rooster that left his grandson Kevin with a cut on his forehead—needless to say, that was the last of “Mr. Bad Rooster.”
Above all, John was a man of faith. He spoke often of Jesus Christ, encouraging his family to open their hearts to Him. His spiritual legacy remains a guiding light for those he leaves behind.
John is survived by his children: Elisa Douglas, Violanda Villasana, Mary Lou Rhodes (Dennis), Norman Chaffin (Chris), Sylvia Aleman, and Teran Dominguez; grandchildren: Terry, Shanda, Michelle, Raquel, Michael, Kevin, Kody, Nicholas, Ashton, Dillon, and Francesca; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rachel Dominguez; daughter, Josie Dominguez; grandson, Mark Medina; and sons-in-law Lonnie Douglas and Mike Villasana.
Services
Visitation was held on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Finch Funeral Chapel – Nixon.
Funeral Service took place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Finch Funeral Chapel – Nixon.
Interment followed at Smiley Latin Cemetery in Smiley, Texas.
John’s life was a testament to love, faith, and family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
YOAKUM: Priscilla Barrera, 79, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025. She was born September 18, 1945, in Cuero to Gilbert and Irene (Saenz) Devereaux.
She married Noe Barrera, Sr., in 1965 and they enjoyed 51 years of marriage until his passing in 2016. Priscilla worked as a hairdresser and a leather worker.
Survivors are her daughter, Melissa Martinez of Yoakum; sons, Noe Barrera Jr., of Moravia and Ronald Barrera of Yoakum; grandson Matthew J. Martinez of Seguin; brothers, Gilbert Devereaux (Lori) and Ernest Ochoa (Suzette).
She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather, Pete Ochoa and her husband, Noe Barrera Sr.
Visitation 4 p.m. with Rosary recited at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.
Funeral Mass 10 a.m., Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. With Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Burial to follow at Yoakum Restland Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Jonathan Ochoa, Gabino “Gabby” Barrera, Ernest Ybarra, Alex Gomez, Victor Gomez, Chris Cisneros.
Honorary Pallbearers are: E.J. Filip, Ron Barrera and Matthew J. Martinez.
One of Priscilla’s last wishes was that those attending her funeral wear bright colors rather than black in celebration of her life.
James A. Lovell Jr., the legendary astronaut who steered NASA’s ill-fated Apollo 13 mission safely back to Earth, died Thursday in Lake Forest, Illinois. He was 97.
Lovell’s death was confirmed by NASA, which praised his “character and steadfast courage” in a statement Friday. “Jim helped our nation reach the Moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount,” said Acting Administrator Sean Duffy.
A Career Forged in the Stars
Lovell flew four space missions—Gemini 7, Gemini 12, Apollo 8, and Apollo 13—logging over 715 hours in space. He was the first person to journey to the Moon twice, though he never walked its surface. His Apollo 8 crew was the first to orbit the Moon and witness the iconic “Earthrise,” a moment credited with inspiring the environmental movement.
Apollo 13, launched in April 1970, was meant to be NASA’s third lunar landing. Instead, it became a harrowing survival story after an oxygen tank exploded en route. Lovell’s calm leadership helped guide his crew through four frigid days in the lunar module, ultimately returning them safely to Earth. His understated radio transmission— *“Houston, we’ve had a problem”—became immortalized in the 1995 film Apollo 13, where he was portrayed by Tom Hanks.
From Naval Officer to National Hero
Born in Cleveland in 1928, Lovell graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1952 and married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Gerlach, the same day. They remained together for 71 years until her passing in 2023.
Lovell was selected as an astronaut in 1962, joining NASA’s “Next Nine” alongside Neil Armstrong and John Young. He later co-authored Lost Moon, the book that inspired Apollo 13, and ran a restaurant in Illinois bearing his name.
A Legacy That Transcends Space
Lovell’s contributions earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Space Medal of Honor. Yet he often downplayed heroism, crediting NASA’s ingenuity and teamwork. “In some sense, it was very much of a success,” he said of Apollo 13. “Not that we accomplished the mission, but that we proved the capability of the people at NASA”.
He is survived by four children, eleven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
As the world looks to the stars, Lovell’s legacy remains a guiding light—proof that courage, humility, and ingenuity can turn crisis into triumph.
Apollo 13 – NASA, 1970. The prime recovery ship for the Apollo 13 mission hoists the Command Module aboard the ship, 1970. Artist NASA. (Photo by Heritage Space/Heritage Images via Getty Images)
But his most famous mission was also his most perilous. In 1970, he commanded Apollo 13, the third planned lunar landing. But an explosion in the service module crippled the spacecraft and endangered the lives of Lovell and his crew.
The now-famous line “Houston, we have a problem” was popularized by the 1995 film Apollo 13, where it was slightly altered for dramatic effect and attributed to Lovell, played by Tom Hanks. The screenwriters felt the past tense (“we’ve had”) lacked immediacy for a suspenseful moment
“Okay, Houston, we’ve had a problem here.” — Jack Swigert
“Ah, Houston, we’ve had a problem.” — Jim Lovell
The energy was electric at Cuero ISD’s Back to School Bash, where the Cuero Fighting Gobbler Marching Band and Color Guard kicked off the festivities with a spirited performance that set the tone for an exciting school year ahead. With proud parents, enthusiastic students, and future band members in attendance, the event was a celebration of community, commitment, and Cuero pride.
🎺 A Strong Start for the Marching Band & Color Guard
After three weeks of intense preparation, the Marching Band and Color Guard took center stage, showcasing the discipline and passion that define Cuero’s music program. Their performance wasn’t just entertainment—it was a powerful reminder of the role the arts play in building school spirit and student confidence.
Among the crowd were many new Jr. High Band students and aspiring Gobbler Band and Color Guard members, eager to join the ranks and carry on the tradition.
💚 Become a Band Booster—No Band Membership Required!
The Cuero Band Boosters are calling on all community members to get involved. Whether your child is in the band or not, anyone with a heart for the Gobbler Band can become a Booster. It’s a chance to:
🎉 Support student musicians and performers
🚌 Help fund travel, uniforms, and equipment
📣 Promote school spirit and community pride
As Band Booster President DD Geigle and Treasurer Erin Geiser shared at the event, “It’s not just about music—it’s about showing up for our kids and helping them thrive.”
📅 Looking Ahead
With the school year just beginning, the Band Boosters are gearing up for a season full of performances, competitions, and community events. From Friday night lights to parades and pep rallies, the Fighting Gobbler Band will be there—loud, proud, and ready to represent Cuero.
🙌 Get Involved
Want to make a difference? Join the Band Boosters and help ensure our students have the support they need to shine. Stay active in your child’s school life and help make this year one to remember.
After a season of inspiration, innovation, and community connection, the Good Things Summer Series is coming to a close—but not without one last impactful gathering. On Tuesday, August 20 at 12 PM, Cuero’s entrepreneurs, business owners, and civic leaders will come together for a final Lunch & Learn at the Cuero Country Club, and the invitation is open to all.
🍽️ What to Expect
This free event offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to:
🤝 Network with local changemakers and creative thinkers
💡 Learn from real-world experiences in business, tech, and community development
🎯 Gain insights you can apply immediately, whether you’re launching a venture or leading a team
Throughout the summer, attendees have explored topics ranging from AI integration to grassroots marketing, each session designed to spark ideas and foster collaboration. The final installment promises to build on that momentum with fresh perspectives and practical takeaways.
The Good Things Summer Series isn’t just about professional development—it’s about celebrating Cuero’s spirit of possibility. By bringing together diverse voices and fostering open dialogue, these gatherings have helped strengthen local ties and spark new collaborations.
Whether you’ve attended every session or are joining for the first time, this final Lunch & Learn is a chance to finish the summer strong—with good food, good company, and good ideas.
YOAKUM: Leona M. Tesar, age 96, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025. She was born December 25, 1928, in Yoakum, to John and Frances (Janak) Heidaker.
She was a hairdresser for 12 years, and also a dietician with Fort Worth ISD for 15 years. She had numerous nieces and nephews with whom she was close to.
Survivors: nieces Patricia Jurica of Sweet Home, Anna Brown (Royce) of Hallettsville, Mary Lou Meyer of Yoakum; nephews David Janak (Carleen) of Victoria, Dennis Heidaker (Mary) of Yoakum, Albert Koehler of Victoria; close friend Diana Darilek of Yoakum.
Preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Alphonse Tesar; brothers, Charles Heidaker, Laddie Heidaker and Edward Heidaker; sisters, Louise Koehler and Elizabeth Janak; numerous nieces and nephews.
Rosary recited at 10 a.m., with Funeral Mass to follow on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth, Texas on August 12, 2025.
Pallbearers are Donald Darilek, Matthew Moeller, Keith Janak, B.J. Drehr, Shaun Jurica, and Butch Moeller.
Memorials may be given to St. Joseph Catholic Church or Hospice of South Texas.
From August 8 to 10, Texans are invited to take advantage of the annual Tax-Free Weekend, a statewide initiative that offers meaningful savings on essential items just in time for the back-to-school season. Whether you’re a parent prepping for the classroom, a college student restocking dorm supplies, or simply someone looking to stretch your budget, this three-day event is designed to make a real impact.
🎒 What’s Included in the Tax Break?
During Tax-Free Weekend, shoppers can skip the 8.25% state sales tax on qualifying items priced under $100. Eligible purchases include:
👕 Clothing: Everyday wear, school uniforms, shoes, and more
📚 School Supplies: Binders, calculators, notebooks, pens, and art materials
🎒 Backpacks: For students of all ages, including those with wheels
👶 Diapers: Both baby and adult diapers are tax-exempt this year
This applies to both in-store and online purchases, giving families flexibility in how they shop.
💡 Why It Matters
For many Texas families, Tax-Free Weekend is more than just a shopping spree—it’s a chance to maximize budgets and prepare children for success without the added financial strain. With inflation still affecting household costs, skipping sales tax on essentials can lead to significant savings, especially for those buying in bulk or outfitting multiple children.
Retailers across the state often pair the tax break with additional sales, making it an ideal time to check off your school supply list, refresh wardrobes, or stock up on necessities.
🛒 Tips for Smart Shopping
To make the most of Tax-Free Weekend:
✅ Plan Ahead: Create a list of needed items and check store policies for returns and exchanges.
📱 Shop Online Early: Ensure online orders are placed within the tax-free window and shipped to a Texas address.
🧾 Keep Receipts: For budgeting and potential returns, hold onto your purchase records.
🕒 Beat the Rush: Visit stores early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds.
📍A Community Tradition
Tax-Free Weekend has become a cherished tradition in Texas, reflecting the state’s commitment to easing financial burdens and supporting education. For communities like Cuero and beyond, it’s a moment of shared purpose—where families, educators, and local businesses come together in preparation for the year ahead.
So, whether you’re grabbing crayons or sneakers, remember: August 8–10 is your window to save. Shop smart, shop local, and start the school year strong.
YOAKUM: Emilia Garza, 92, entered her heavenly rest on Saturday, August 2, 2025. She was born May 22, 1933, in Yoakum, one of the 12 children born to Manuel and Marcelina (Castro) Herrera.
She was a hard worker, having worked at Johnny Leopold’s Cleaner’s for many years. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Survivors include her daughters, Sylvia Garcia and Julie Adame, both of Yoakum, and Dominga Castro of San Antonio; her sons, Armando Garcia of Yoakum and Jesus Alfredo Garcia of Seguin; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sister, Josephine Luna of Taylor; her brother, Domingo Herrera of Austin; and many beloved extended family members.
Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Alfredo Garcia; sons, Joe Garza and Martin Garza; six sisters and two brothers.
A Rosary was recited at 10 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Burial followed at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Armando Garcia, Angel Garcia, Alfredo Garcia, Fautino Herrera, Santos Castro and Kael Reyes.
Memorials may be given to Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home to help defray funeral cost.
Roy P. Benavidez was born on August 5, 1935, in Lindenau near Cuero, Texas, to a Mexican American father, Salvador Benavidez Jr., and a Yaqui Native American mother, Teresa Perez. Orphaned by the age of seven, he was raised in El Campo by extended family and worked from a young age to support them. He enlisted in the Texas National Guard at 17 and later joined the U.S. Army, serving in Korea, Germany, and Vietnam.
He was a Green Beret with the elite 5th Special Forces Group, Benavidez became a legend for his actions on May 2, 1968, during a covert rescue mission in Cambodia. He sustained 37 separate wounds he was shot, stabbed, and hit by grenade shrapnel—he saved at least eight comrades in a six-hour battle. His heroism earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Ronald Reagan in 1981. (Intro -by COC)
This past Tuesday, August 5th beneath the bronze gaze of MSGT Roy P. Benavidez’s statue at the City of Cuero’s Memorial Park, a solemn crowd gathered, family, several out-of-town guests, veterans, local VFW members, the local American Legion, and various community members united in reverence to honor what would have been Roy Benavidez 90th birthday.
Cuero Mayor Emil Garza delivered a brief but heartfelt speech, officially proclaiming August 5th as “Roy P. Benavidez Day”—a gesture that affirmed the town’s enduring pride in its native son. During the ceremony, Benavidez’s daughters, Yvette Benavidez Garcia and Denise Benavidez Prochazka of El Campo, were visibly moved by the mayor’s proclamation and the presentation of a U.S. ceremonial flag, gifted on behalf of Congressman Cloud’s office.
(Contributed photo Left to right) Congressman Cloud’s representative, Mayor Emil Garza, Yvette Benavidez Garcia and Denise Benavidez Prochazka at the Heavenly Birthday of Roy P. Benavidez event. At Cuero Memorial Park August 5, 2025 -Cuero Online News
His daughter, Yvette Benavidez Garcia, shared this about her father, “My father always boasted of Cuero. In many of his speeches, he would talk about his hometown of Cuero. How it was the turkey capital of the World. This was home, he attended school here, went to church here, and was even an altar boy. This is where his parents and little sister are buried.” Cuero was home.
As the ceremony concluded, reflections from fellow veterans underscored Benavidez’s enduring impact. Such as retired U.S. Navy Commander James De Los Santos—a Cuero native now living in San Antonio. He had this to say about Benavidez,
“Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez’s legacy represents the highest ideals of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance,” he said. “What moves me most is that after his military career, he devoted himself to empowering others, especially young people and veterans. His message was clear: education, discipline, and purpose are the keys to success.”
De Los Santos reflected not only on Benavidez’s battlefield heroism, but also on his strength and courage in the face of adversity—losing his parents at a young age, confronting discrimination, and defying medical odds after being told he’d never walk again.
“Roy Benavidez’s story reminds me that true heroism isn’t just measured by battlefield valor; it’s measured by how you rise after you’ve been knocked down and how you choose to serve others when the spotlight fades.”
Honoring Roy Benavidez on his 90th birthday. August 5, 2025.
On the Day he became a legend
By May 1968, the Vietnam War had reached a fever pitch. Roy Benavidez—still recovering from a near-paralyzing injury that doctors said would end his military career—was about to face the ultimate test.
On the morning of May 2, 1968, in the dense jungle just across the border in Cambodia, a 12-man Special Forces team—many of them close friends of Roy Benavidez—was ambushed by North Vietnamese forces. Though stationed in Vietnam, Benavidez boarded a helicopter and entered the forbidden zone to save them armed with only a bowie knife.
What followed was six hours of hell. He charged through a hail of bullets to reach the wounded, taking bullets to the leg, face, and head. He dragged half the team to safety, retrieved classified documents from the fallen team leader, and was hit again—this time a grenade blast to the abdomen that left his intestines exposed. One account even describes him holding his guts in with one hand while firing his weapon with the other.
When the rescue helicopter crashed and the pilot was killed, Benavidez helped the survivors who were badly wounded, got everyone into a safe position, formed a defensive perimeter, directing air support until the final helicopter arrived.
He was shot again in the thigh. By now, Benavidez’s face was bloodied and swollen, his vision nearly blinded by the wounds. And yet, he kept going. As he carried a wounded comrade to a second helicopter, an enemy soldier charged and struck him with the butt of a rifle, then raised a bayonet to finish the job. Benavidez, acting instinctively, grabbed the blade with his bare hands, pulled it inward, and killed the attacker. The deliberate move slashed open his palm and drove the bayonet into his own arm.
When he was finally evacuated, Benavidez heard the triage doctor declare him dead. He tried to speak, to move—but his body was paralyzed, and unresponsive. He summoned every ounce of strength to gather saliva in his mouth and spit. That single act—defiant, primal, determined—saved Roy Benavidez.
Benavidez’s courage was not only personal—it was ancestral. His Yaqui lineage carries a legacy of resistance that echoes through time. I was reminded of the ancient archives I encountered during genealogical research: stories of the Yaqui Nation, fierce warriors whose defiance shaped history. For nearly 400 years, they resisted colonial rule, never surrendering, never signing a peace treaty. Their homeland became a fortress, their culture a shield, and their spirit—unbreakable.
Is it any wonder, then, that it would be a Yaqui who spat in the face of death, defied the odds, and reminded the world that surrender was never written into his bloodline?
For you there will be no sun, no death, no pain, no heat, no thirst, no hunger, no rain, no air, no illness, no family. Nothing will cause you fear. Everything has ended for you, except one thing: TO DO YOUR DUTY…
Before going into battle, a Yaqui soldier would commit to memory—and recite aloud—this sacred oath:
“Para ti no habrá sol, para ti no habrá muerte, para ti no habrá dolor, para ti no habrá calor, ni sed, ni hambre, ni lluvia, ni aire, ni enfermedad, ni familia. Nada te causará temor, todo ha terminado para ti, excepto una cosa:
Cumplir Con Tu Deber!
Pat Trevino Published Author, Photographer, Genealogist, and Blog Writer
