Talarico Draws Crowd in Victoria, Urges South Texans to Embrace “Politics of Love”
By Pat Trevino, Cuero Online News
VICTORIA, TX — On Thursday evening, September 25, Club Westerner was packed wall-to-wall as Democrat State Representative James Talarico brought his campaign message directly to South Texas. The rally, held from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at 1005 W Constitution St, drew a diverse and energized crowd — including several attendees from Cuero who made the short drive to hear him speak.
Talarico didn’t mince words when addressing what he sees as the true fault line in American politics. “The biggest divide in our country is not left versus right,” he told the crowd. “It’s top versus bottom.” He argued that the ultra-wealthy — the billionaires who own social media platforms, cable news networks, and political influence — have a vested interest in keeping everyday Americans angry and divided. “Our unity is a threat to their wealth and their power,” he said, drawing cheers from the audience.
“In that big ugly bill, they gutted our health care, they defunded schools, and they did all that to cut taxes for their donors”
This theme has become central to Talarico’s Senate campaign. In recent interviews and speeches, he’s repeatedly called out what he terms “billionaire megadonors” for manipulating public discourse. “Their algorithms tear us apart,” he said. “They want us focused on how different we are instead of how much we have in common.” Talarico’s critique spans both parties — he’s denounced donor influence across the aisle, insisting that concentrated wealth has corrupted the political system and drowned out the voices of regular Texans.
By reframing the political struggle as one between concentrated power and everyday people, Talarico is tapping into a growing hunger for systemic change. “It’s been ten years of politics as bloodsport,” he said. “Politics that tears families apart and leaves us all feeling terrible.” His call for a “politics of love” — one rooted in compassion, shared values, and economic justice — resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom said they were ready to help build that movement from the ground up.
He invoked his faith as a moral compass, urging listeners to love their neighbors — not just those who look, vote, or worship like them, but all neighbors. “Despite our differences,” he said, “we all want the same things: a safe neighborhood, a good job, a well-funded public school, and the ability to see a doctor when we need one.”
“There is something broken in America,” Talarico said, drawing loud applause. “Our economy is broken, our political system is broken. Even our relationships with each other feel broken. That’s because the most powerful people in the world want it that way.”
The crowd responded with cheers and standing ovations throughout the evening, especially when Talarico declared, “There is a deep hunger in this state and in this country for a different kind of politics — not a politics of hate, not a politics of tribes, not a politics of division, but a politics of love.”
After his speech, most attendees stayed to meet Talarico, take photos, and share personal concerns. Among them were numerous Cuero residents who said they felt moved by his message and immediately signed up to volunteer for his campaign.
“I came here skeptical,” said one Cuero volunteer. “But when he spoke about healing what’s broken in America, I felt that and I’m ready to help.”
Talarico’s campaign appears to be gaining traction in DeWitt County, with Cuero residents now organizing local volunteer efforts. As the race heats up, South Texas may prove to be a pivotal region — not just for votes, but for a renewed vision of civic unity.
For more coverage on local politics and community events, visit Cuero Online News.
Larry Wayne Evans – October 13, 1949 to September 23, 2025 (75)
HALLETTSVILLE: Larry Wayne Evans, also known as “Pop”, entered into his eternal rest, surrounded by his loving family on September 23, 2025 at the age of 75. He was born October 13, 1949 in Yoakum to Joe and Maggie Mae (Martin) Evans.
Larry grew up in Lavaca County, never wandering too far way. On October 21, 1972, he married Delores Ann Young and they welcomed two children, Terri Lynn and Brian Wayne Evans. Years passed and he gained another son, when Terri married Nick Bennetsen. Larry’s work as a truck driver kept him on the roads. He never met a stranger and would stop to talk to everyone. He always had a story to tell and a smile on his face. He loved to talk about the good old days. He was proud of his kids, but nothing compared to his pride of having grandchildren, Keene Chase “Boog” and Arielle Paige “Tootie Mae”. They truly were the light of his life. He loved riding the country backroads with Keene and holding on for dear life. He was always ready to ride shotgun with Terri and tell her how to drive the entire time. He was a proud Hallettsville Brahma and attended many Lady Brahma volleyball games and track meets for Arielle and football games for Caleb. He was even a model for Britt when he let her trim his hair. Larry loved going to deer camp with his boys, playing dominoes, watching westerns, and convincing you to let him have dessert before dinner. He went on many adventures, but his last trip was to see his “Tootie” graduate from Texas State University in May.
Larry is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Delores Evans; daughter, Terri Bennetsen and husband Nick; son, Brian Evans; grandson Keene Bennetsen (Brittany Baker); granddaughter, Arielle Bennetsen (Caleb Cuellar); very loved grandpup, Whiskey; sisters, Judy Jernigan and Linda Boedeker; brother, Joe Lee Evans.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe Evans and Maggie (Martin) Gordon and step-father, Allen Gordon; beloved grandparents, Tom and Elizabeth Martin.
Visitation 4 to 6 p.m., with Memorial Service at 6 p.m., Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Richard Crain officiating. Private burial to be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to Shriner’s Children Hospital, St. Jude’s Children Hospital or Hospice of South Texas.
His family would like to give special thanks to the Hospice of South Texas staff who provided the wonderful care and attention to our Pop.
Michael Alfred Huck – August 22, 1955 to September 23, 2025 (70)
YOAKUM: Michael Alfred Huck, 70, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025. He was born August 22, 1955 in Austin, TX to George Anthony Huck and Hermine Engst Huck-Alexander. Mike found his soul mate Gwen Gomez in 1979 and they married a year later.
Mike was a proud veteran and served in the United States Army providing operational and mechanical support to his unit. Upon honorable discharge he continued to apply the skills he mastered and went to work as a mechanic and service writer. He then began his career with State Farm Insurance as an auto claims estimator and after thirty-five years, retired as a property claims trainer. During his career at State Farm, he achieved his goal of obtaining his Bachelor of Arts Degree with honors from Texas A&M – Corpus Christi.
He was known and loved for his ability to speak expertly on a variety of subjects and had the ability to repair anything he put his hands on. Mike’s hobbies over the years included mountain biking, fresh and saltwater fishing, building and racing RC cars, building and playing guitars for fun and joined local folk bands. He was also an excellent photographer, focusing on nature and restoring antique cameras, winning many local photography competitions. He spent his spare time making sure that his children and grandchildren experienced his love of the outdoors. He lived life to the fullest and he always kept everyone he knew laughing with his sarcastic and deadpan sense of humor. Mike was warm, generous and loving to all people and animals and always had a dog by his side. He will be missed greatly by all those who knew him as a relative and a friend.
Survivors are his beloved wife, Gwen Huck; son. Joshua Huck (Kateryna Ivashchenko) of Greece; daughters Christine Munoz (Marc) of Houston and Sarah Miller (Matthew) of Corpus Christi; grandchildren, Marc Munoz, Jr., Mason Munoz and Camryn Miller; Fur baby, “Zara”.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents George Huck and Hermine Engst Huck-Alexander.
Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Corpus Christi, TX with Pastor Kevin Jennings officiating. A reception will be held immediately following the memorial service in the church’s Fellowship Hall.
Flowers for the service may be ordered from Castro’s Flower Shop in Corpus Christi.
Westhoff Warriors Lead Inspiring “Saw You at the Pole” Gathering
WESTHOFF, TX — September 24, 2025
Before the first bell rang Wednesday morning, students, staff, and community members gathered around the flagpole at Westhoff ISD for a moving “Saw You at the Pole” event—an annual student-led tradition rooted in prayer, unity, and reflection.
This year’s program was entirely planned and executed by the students themselves, showcasing the leadership and heart of the Westhoff Warriors. From selecting scripture readings to organizing the group song and even designing the printed program, students took full ownership of the morning’s message.
As the sun rose over the school grounds, attendees were welcomed with verses that emphasized hope, courage, and community. A heartfelt group rendition of a worship song followed, echoing across the campus and setting a tone of unity and reverence.
“This wasn’t just a school event—it was a student movement,” said one staff member. “They didn’t just participate. They led. And they led with purpose.”
The program reflected a deep sense of pride and faith, with students demonstrating not only spiritual maturity but also organizational skill. The printed handouts, designed and distributed by the students, guided attendees through the morning’s reflections and prayers.
Parents, teachers, and local residents joined in, forming a circle of support around the students. The turnout was a testament to Westhoff’s tight-knit spirit and the value placed on student voice and initiative.
As the final prayer was spoken and the flag stood tall against the morning sky, one thing was clear: the future of Westhoff ISD is in capable, compassionate hands.
Saw You at the Pole 2025 wasn’t just an event—it was a declaration. Of faith. Of leadership. Of community.
Meyersville Students Gather in Unity for “See You at the Pole”
MEYERSVILLE, TX — September 24, 2025
As the sun rose over Meyersville ISD this morning, students gathered hand-in-hand around the campus flagpole for See You at the Pole, a nationwide student-led tradition rooted in prayer, reflection, and community spirit.
The early-morning event brought together children and teens in a circle of unity, offering a quiet yet powerful start to the school day. With heads bowed and hands joined, participants took a moment to reflect, pray, and stand together in hope and positivity.
A Tradition of Togetherness
“See You at the Pole” began in 1990 and has since grown into an annual movement across schools in the U.S. and beyond. For Meyersville students, it’s more than a tradition—it’s a chance to lead with heart and begin the day grounded in purpose.
Community Support
Faculty and staff quietly supported the moment, allowing students to take the lead while ensuring a safe and respectful environment. The scene—sunlight casting long shadows across the grass, a circle of young voices lifted in unity—was a reminder of the strength found in togetherness.
As the school day began, the message lingered: hope, unity, and faith are alive and well in Meyersville ISD.
Yoakum Community Hospital Celebrates Rehab Week with Heart, Humor, and Healing
YOAKUM, TX — September 24, 2025
At Yoakum Community Hospital, the rehab team isn’t just restoring mobility—they’re lifting spirits, too. This week, the hospital is proudly celebrating Rehab Week, honoring the tireless work of its Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), and Speech Therapy departments. And yes, even the lead physical therapist gets a moment to recharge—preferably horizontal.
A light-hearted photo circulating from the hospital’s therapy room shows Wade Zidek, DPT, dubbed “Lead Physical Therapist / Part-Time Lunch Napper,” catching a few winks while surrounded by smiling colleagues. The playful scene is a snapshot of the camaraderie and compassion that define the rehab team’s culture.
These departments put in the daily work to get you the quality of life you deserve. They’re the backbone of healing—whether it’s helping someone walk again, regain speech, or simply live with less pain. And they do it with heart.”
From stroke recovery to post-surgical rehab, the OT, PT, and speech therapy teams at YCH serve patients across the region with skill, empathy, and a healthy dose of humor.
While the week includes educational sessions and patient appreciation events, it’s also a time for staff to celebrate each other. The photo of Zidek and his team—complete with exaggerated “shhh” gestures and cheeky grins—reminds everyone that healing is a human process, and laughter is part of the medicine.
Community members are encouraged to stop by, send a thank-you note, or post a message of appreciation using hashtags like #RehabWeek, #ruralhealthcare, and #PTOTspeechtherapy.
Cuero Residents Urged to Take Action During National Disaster Preparedness Month
CUERO, TX — September 24, 2025
As hurricane season peaks and unpredictable weather patterns continue to challenge South Texas, the Coastal Bend Regional Advisory Council is sounding the alarm: Are you ready?
September marks National Disaster Preparedness Month, and local officials are encouraging residents across DeWitt County to take proactive steps to safeguard their families and communities. The message is clear—disasters don’t wait, and neither should you.
📦 Four Steps to Readiness
The campaign outlines a simple, four-part strategy to help individuals prepare:
- Make a Plan
- Establish how you’ll contact loved ones during an emergency.
- Choose a safe meeting spot.
- Talk through your plan with your family.
- Build a Kit
- Stock up on water, food, and medicine for at least three days.
- Include flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
- Don’t forget pets and special needs.
- Stay Informed
- Sign up for local emergency alerts.
- Know evacuation routes and shelter locations.
- Follow trusted sources like Emergency Management and the Red Cross.
- Get Involved
- Volunteer with local emergency response teams.
- Join CERT or your local health coalition.
- Share preparedness tips with friends and neighbors.
Preparedness Starts with YOU
“This month, we’re asking everyone to take one small step each week,” said a spokesperson for the Coastal Bend Regional Advisory Council. “The time you spend now could save lives later.”
Local schools, churches, and community organizations are joining the effort by distributing flyers, hosting safety workshops, and encouraging families to review their emergency plans.
Why It Matters
From flash floods to chemical spills, Cuero and surrounding areas have faced their share of emergencies. Officials emphasize that readiness isn’t just about survival—it’s about resilience.
Whether it’s assembling a go-bag or checking on elderly neighbors, every action counts. And in a town like Cuero, where community ties run deep, preparedness is a shared responsibility.
James Talarico Launches U.S. Senate Bid, Plans Campaign Rally in Victoria This Thursday
September 23, 2025
VICTORIA, TX — Texas State Representative James Talarico, a Democrat from Austin, has officially entered the race for U.S. Senate, launching a campaign focused on fighting political corruption and restoring power to working-class Texans. Talarico, a former public school teacher and Presbyterian seminarian, announced his candidacy earlier this month and has already made headlines for raising over $1 million in just 12 hours after opening his campaign account.
Talarico will bring his message directly to South Texas this Thursday, September 25, with a campaign rally in Victoria. The event will be held at Club Westerner, located at 1005 W Constitution St, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM CDT.
The rally is part of Talarico’s statewide effort to connect with voters and build grassroots momentum ahead of the March 2026 Democratic primary, where he faces fellow Democrats Colin Allred and Terry Virts. The winner will likely challenge either Senator John Cornyn or Attorney General Ken Paxton, depending on the Republican nomination outcome.
Talarico’s campaign emphasizes economic fairness, political transparency, and opposition to “billionaire mega-donors” who he says have rigged the system against everyday Texans. His platform draws heavily from his experience in education and faith-based advocacy, and he’s gained national attention for viral clips challenging school voucher programs and religious extremism in politics.
Thursday’s rally in Victoria will include a short program, opportunities to meet the candidate, and campaign merchandise. The event is ADA accessible, and security will be present throughout the evening.
For more information or to RSVP, visit Talarico for Texas.
Disney Reinstates Jimmy Kimmel After Backlash Over Suspension and $4 Billion Market Drop
Staff Writer | September 23, 2025
LOS ANGELES — Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned to ABC on Tuesday, September 23, following a weeklong suspension that sparked national debate over free speech, corporate accountability, and the boundaries of political commentary. The show’s abrupt removal from airwaves—after Kimmel’s controversial remarks about the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk—triggered a wave of public and industry backlash, culminating in a reported $4 billion drop in Disney’s market value.
While Disney has not officially attributed the stock decline to the Kimmel controversy, analysts noted that the timing aligned with widespread calls for boycotts, affiliate station revolts, and subscription cancellations. Major operators like Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group pulled the show from dozens of ABC affiliates, citing concerns over public trust and demanding accountability.
But the backlash wasn’t just about Kimmel’s comments—it was about principle. Thousands of viewers, celebrities, and media professionals voiced concern that Disney’s decision infringed on First Amendment values, even if the legal protections of free speech don’t directly apply to private corporations. “It’s not that people necessarily agreed with what Kimmel said,” noted one media analyst, “but they saw the suspension as a dangerous precedent—punishing speech that challenges political power.”
The ACLU, along with over 400 entertainers including Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, signed an open letter defending Kimmel’s right to express political views without corporate retaliation. The letter emphasized that while speech may be controversial, suppressing it under pressure from political figures or broadcast partners undermines democratic norms.
Behind closed doors, Disney executives including CEO Bob Iger and Entertainment Co-Chair Dana Walden negotiated with Kimmel’s team to resolve the standoff. According to insiders, the agreement to reinstate the show did not require a public apology, though Kimmel has remained silent on the terms.
The show’s return was marked by a lighthearted social media post featuring Kimmel and sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez with the caption, “We are back full of love.” However, not all affiliates have resumed airing the program—Nexstar and Sinclair confirmed continued preemptions in select markets.
The controversy has reignited broader conversations about the role of media companies in political discourse, and whether corporate decisions are being shaped more by pressure than principle. For now, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is back—but the debate over speech, accountability, and influence is far from over.