CHS Culinary Students Earn Prestigious ServSafe Certification
Cuero, Tx -Sixteen Advanced Culinary students at Cuero High School have successfully completed the rigorous ServSafe Food Managers certification exam this spring, marking a significant milestone in their culinary education.
The students dedicated six weeks to an intensive training course designed to prepare them for the certification, which is the final step in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) culinary pathway. Earning this credential not only demonstrates their proficiency in food safety and management but also significantly enhances their employability in the food service industry.
The ServSafe Food Managers certification is widely recognized and respected in the culinary world, ensuring that those who achieve it have a thorough understanding of food handling, sanitation, and workplace safety. With this accomplishment, the students have positioned themselves for a variety of career opportunities in restaurants, catering, hospitality, and other food-related fields.
Cuero High School faculty and staff, including culinary instructor Mrs. Notaro, expressed their pride in the students’ achievements. Completing such a demanding course and passing the certification exam is no small feat, and the students’ hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed.
The certified students include Evelynn G., Catherine B., Aleriah J., Chloe C., Aubrey B., Deja B., Heath T., Isia Z., Aiden A., Jaylin G., Brynna T., Joe R., Jaelen G., Johnathan P., Hayden C., and Jayden W.
As they move forward, these newly certified culinary students are well-equipped to contribute their skills to the workforce, ensuring food safety and excellence in service wherever their careers take them.
Yorktown FFA Chapter Shines at Area XI Convention, Advances to State
The hardworking members of the Yorktown FFA chapter have once again demonstrated their dedication and excellence at the Area XI Convention, showcasing their skills and earning multiple accolades in various competitive events.
Coming off the excitement of a successful banquet celebration, the chapter wasted no time as they hit the ground running early in the morning. Several key milestones were achieved, including the completion of Lonestar Degree verifications, National Proficiency Award checks, and chapter officers fulfilling their responsibilities as voting delegates.
Among the highlights of the event was the outstanding performance of two students whose National Proficiency Applications have advanced to the state level. Garrett Menn, recognized for his work in Agricultural Mechanics Design and Fabrication, and Rylan Rau, honored in Agricultural Services, have dedicated countless hours to their respective fields, and their efforts continue to pay off. Their advancement is a testament to their perseverance and passion.
In addition, the chapter secured first place in the Community Service Project competition, an achievement made possible thanks to the generosity of those who donated clothing items in support of the initiative.
The chapter’s Career Development Event (CDE) and Speaking Development Event (SDE) teams also demonstrated commendable efforts, earning several district-level placements:
- Tractor Tech Team (Andrew Hahn, Kylan Respondek, Brock Puente) – 4th Place District
- Vet Tech Team (Layne Geffert, Allie Geffert, Taylor Roberts) – 3rd Place District
- Horse Judging Team (Evelyn Merks, Taylor Gips, Brianna Cox, Randen Zungia) – 6th Place District
- Jr. Prepared Speaking (Katie Bolting) – 6th Place District
As the school year nears its end, the accomplishments of the chapter members serve as a reflection of their dedication and enthusiasm for agricultural education and leadership. With momentum building, the students and advisors look forward to continued success at the upcoming state-level competitions.
The chapter remains committed to excellence, proving that their journey is far from over. They may be wrapping up another academic year, but their drive and ambition ensure that they are always moving forward toward new goals and greater achievements.
Yorktown High School Celebrates a Year of Achievement
Yorktown High School recently held its highly anticipated End-of-the-Year Celebration, honoring students for their hard work and dedication throughout the academic year. The event was a joyous occasion, recognizing outstanding achievements in academics, attendance, and extracurricular excellence.
A heartfelt thank-you was extended to the generous scholarship sponsors, whose contributions provided thousands of dollars in financial awards to deserving students. Their support plays a vital role in shaping the futures of Yorktown’s graduates.
The ceremony highlighted the achievements of students who earned red chords, dual-credit chords, and honors chords, recognizing their commitment to academic rigor. Additionally, students were celebrated for perfect attendance, Y Awards, A-B Honor Roll, subject awards for academic excellence, and top performance on the STAAR assessments.
A special moment in the evening was dedicated to honoring the school’s highest academic achievers. Valedictorian Malayshia Thomas, Salutatorian Sydnie Krueger, and Honor Student Brylee Clayton were recognized for their exceptional dedication to their studies and their inspiring leadership among their peers.
Yorktown High School takes pride in its students and their accomplishments, and this celebration served as a reminder of the bright futures that await them. With gratitude for the support of educators, sponsors, and families, the school looks forward to another successful year ahead.
Ronald “Ronnie” James Jansky – July 22, 1964 to May 13, 2025 (60)
VICTORIA, TEXAS: Ronald “Ronnie” James Jansky, 60, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025. He was born on July 22, 1964, in Hallettsville, Texas to Charles A. and Dorothy (Holik) Jansky.
Ronnie graduated from Hallettsville High School in 1982. Because of his love for trucking, he started RJ Trucking in 2014, which is still operating today. He also loved being with his family and friends, camping and hunting; especially with his “crew” at Honig Ranch.
Ronnie is survived by his three children, Derek and Kelsey Jansky, and Loren and husband Kevin Kostelnik and their children, Julie, Dylon, and Damon Kostelnik, his former spouse and kidney donor Lisa Jansky: brothers Glenn Jansky and wife Evelyn and Dennis (Coon) Jansky and wife Sheila.
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dorothy (Holik) Jansky.
Visitation 3 to 6 pm, with Rosary recited at 6 pm on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Yoakum funeral home.
Funeral Service will be held at 10 am on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hallettsville, TX with Rev. Christopher Bediako officiating. Burial to follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of South Texas, a charity close to his heart; or Sacred Heart Catholic Church or School in Hallettsville.
William Lafayette Cotton – July 15, 1934 to May 8, 2025 (90)
In Loving Memory of William Lafayette Cotton
William Lafayette Cotton, 90, of San Francisco, California, passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025. He was born on July 15, 1934, in Waco, Texas, to proud parents William M. and Velma Cotton, the eighth of eleven children.
In December 1956, William married Alma Louise Wimbish in Cuero, Texas. From this union, two children were born: Rhonda Irene Cotton and William Lafayette Cotton, Jr. Before this marriage, he welcomed another daughter, Sheila Cotton.
A dedicated member of the African American Episcopal Zion Church in San Francisco, William faithfully served as a trustee board member. His devotion to faith and service was reflected in every aspect of his life.
In 1952, William entered the United States Military Armed Forces, serving his country with honor in Korea and Vietnam, as well as in Germany and Thailand. His military focus was security and police functions, and he retired from active duty in July 1980. Prior to his retirement, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
Following his military career, William returned to Texas, channeling his knowledge and experience into public service. He worked for the State of Texas as a probation officer in DeWitt County before transitioning to a role with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a parole officer. Later, he contributed to the Child Support Enforcement Division with the State of Texas Attorney General’s Office, overseeing South Texas and the Upper Gulf Coast areas, with his primary office in Victoria.
William was an active and respected presence in the Victoria community. He served on several boards, offering his wisdom and leadership to foster positive change. His commitment to justice, service, and community left an enduring legacy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William M. and Velma Cotton; his beloved wife, Alma Louise-Wimbish Cotton; his brothers, A.D. Cotton and John Cotton; his sisters, Vertna Cobbs, Codell Cotton, Gladys Gregory, Mildred Brown, Ella Marie Cotton, and Velma Weaver; and his daughter, Rhonda Cotton Robinson.
William leaves behind his son, William Lafayette Cotton, Jr.; his daughter, Sheila Cotton; his granddaughters, Qiana Robinson and Shaneen Robinson; his grandsons, Maxwell McKinley Cotton and Jaxson Paul Cotton; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. He also leaves behind his special friend, partner, and confidant, Edna (Miller) Collier.
Services for William will be held in San Francisco, California, on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
A visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at First United Methodist Church in Cuero, followed by a service at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Lindsey Smith. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery.