🎶 Harmony in the Pines: Cuero Choir Finds Its Voice at SFA Camp
Cuero Online News| August 12, 2025
Though the calendar has turned to August, we’d be remiss not to shine a spotlight on a quiet triumph from mid-July—one that marked the beginning of a new chapter for Cuero ISD’s choir program.
From Wednesday, July 13 through Saturday, newly appointed choir director Mrs. Tertia Cain led four Cuero High School students to the Small School Choir Camp at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. It was her first official venture in the role, and it set the tone for a season of growth, connection, and musical excellence.
🎵 A Camp Built on Community and Craft
The camp welcomed students from across Texas, offering immersive training in vocal technique, diction, pronunciation, and ensemble performance. Participants were divided into soprano, alto, tenor, and bass sections, allowing for focused instruction tailored to each voice type. Students stayed in the dorms, forging friendships and refining their skills in preparation for the All-State Choir auditions.
One of the camp’s highlights was a masterclass led by Dr. Jeffery Redding, a nationally acclaimed conductor and educator whose career spans prestigious performances at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and international festivals in Italy and Oman. Currently Director of Choral Activities at West Orange High School in Winter Garden, Florida, Dr. Redding has conducted honor choirs across more than 30 states and serves as a conductor for Disney’s Candlelight Processional at Epcot. His presence at the camp brought not only technical expertise but a deep sense of purpose—reminding students and educators alike that music is a vehicle for transformation.
Directors in Harmony
While students rehearsed and performed, choir directors gathered for collaborative lunches and professional development. For Mrs. Cain, it was a chance to connect with fellow educators, exchange ideas, and reaffirm her commitment to nurturing young voices—not just as singers, but as thoughtful, connected members of their community.
A Quiet Triumph Worth Celebrating
This moment may have slipped past the headlines, but it deserves its place in our collective memory. Cuero Online News celebrates Mrs. Cain and her students for stepping into the season with heart, harmony, and hope. Their journey at SFA wasn’t just about music—it was about laying the foundation for a program that uplifts, inspires, and unites.
As the school year begins, we look forward to hearing the echoes of this experience in every note sung, every rehearsal held, and every life touched by the power of song.
🏈 Let’s Get This Season Started, Yoakum!
Yoakum| August 11, 2025
The wait is over—football season is here, and the Yoakum Bulldogs are fired up and ready to roll! Join us this Friday night at Bulldog Stadium for a preview of the grit, heart, and hustle these athletes have been building all summer long.
JV kicks off at 6PM, with Varsity to follow.
Bring your spirit, wear your blue, and let’s show these Bulldogs that their community is behind them every step of the way.
Let’s pack the stands, raise the volume, and set the tone for a season of pride and perseverance.
Go Dogs! 🐾
Franklin Eugene White – September 13, 1959 to August 8, 2025 (65)
CUERO: Franklin Eugene White, passed away on August 8, 2025 at the age of 65. Franklin was born in Dewitt County on September 13, 1959 to Stanley and Rosie White Price.
Franklin is survived by his 3 children, sons: Chris White and Shawn Washington and daughter: Michele Washington; his mother, Rosie White Price; grandchildren: Loren Washington-Bryant, Israel Washington, Julian Washington, and Madeline Beltran and 2 great grandchildren; his brothers: Brandon Price, Michael Price, James Price, Christopher Clay, Rosales Clay, and Joseph Jones, and sisters: Stephanie Clay, and Darlene Carroll.
Franklin is preceded in death by his wife, Bridget White; his father, Stanley Price; sister, Jackie Kellum; brothers, Harold Price and Fred Clay.
A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025 with Funeral Services at 11 a.m. at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, Yoakum, Texas. Burial to follow at Pleasantville Cemetery.
Claudio Gonzales Jr.- July 22, 1953 to August 8, 2025 (72)
Claudio Gonzales Jr., 72, of Cuero passed away Friday, August 8, 2025. He was born July 22, 1953 in Cuero to Claudio Sr. and Maria I. Gonzales. He married Mary Alice DeLeon on March 26, 1976 in Cuero. He worked for Mount Vernon Mills as a textile worker.
He is survived by his wife of forty-nine years, Mary Alice; sons, Claudio D. Gonzales (Monica) and Erik Gonzales (Nannette); sisters, Margaret Glass, Mary Gisler and Esmeralda Anzaldua; brothers, Joe Gonzales and Jesse Gonzales as well as seven grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Minnie Mascorro, Beatrice Gonzales, Cecilia Navarro, Tomasa Gonzales, Carmen Fernandez, Geneva Vargas and Irene Gonzales and brother, Tony Gonzales.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 13, 2025, 9:00 AM at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral Services will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Marcellus Wesley officiating.
You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.
📵 Cambios en el Uso de Dispositivos Personales en las Escuelas Públicas de Texas
11 de agosto de 2025
A partir de este año escolar, todas las escuelas públicas de Texas—including Cuero ISD—deben cumplir con la Ley HB 1481, que prohíbe el uso de dispositivos de comunicación personales (como teléfonos celulares y relojes inteligentes) por parte de los estudiantes durante el día escolar mientras estén en propiedad escolar.
Este cambio tiene como objetivo apoyar la concentración de los estudiantes, reducir distracciones y fomentar un ambiente de aprendizaje más saludable. 
Reglas Clave:
• Los dispositivos deben estar apagados y guardados durante el horario escolar
• Las infracciones pueden resultar en medidas disciplinarias, según el Código de Conducta Estudiantil
• Pueden aplicarse excepciones para el uso instruccional bajo supervisión docente (programas BYOD)
Sabemos que este cambio representa un gran ajuste, y estamos comprometidos a colaborar con las familias para que la transición sea fluida y con apoyo. 
Si tiene preguntas o inquietudes, comuníquese con el administrador de su campus o visite nuestro sitio web para ver los detalles completos de la política.
Trabajemos juntos para ayudar a nuestros estudiantes a prosperar—libres de distracciones y completamente comprometidos.
#CueroFuerte #HB1481 #EnfoqueEnElAprendizaje
📵 New Statewide Policy: No Personal Devices During the School Day – Cuero ISD Updates Device Policy
Starting this school year, all Texas public schools—including Cuero ISD—are required by House Bill 1481 to prohibit student use of personal communication devices (like cell phones and smartwatches) during the school day while on school property.
This change is designed to support student focus, reduce distractions, and create a healthier learning environment. 📚✨
🔹 Devices must be turned off and stored away during school hours
🔹 Violations may result in disciplinary action, as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct
🔹 Exceptions may apply for instructional use under teacher supervision (BYOD programs)
We know this is a big shift, and we’re committed to working with families to make the transition smooth and supportive. 💬 If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your campus administrator or visit our website for full policy details.
Let’s work together to help our students thrive—distraction-free and fully engaged. 💙🐾 #CueroStrong #HB1481 #FocusOnLearning
🕊️ Texas Rangers Release names of July 4th Flood Victims – “Forever Engraved in Our Hearts”: Kerr County Mourns Lives Lost
Staff Writer | August 10, 2025
Nearly a month after devastating floods swept through the Texas Hill Country, the full weight of the tragedy is being felt across Kerr County and beyond. On July 4, torrential rains caused the Guadalupe River to surge more than 36 feet, unleashing a wall of water that claimed the lives of 119 people—many of them families gathered for summer celebrations.
The Texas Rangers released the names of the victims this past Friday, offering a sobering glimpse into the scale of loss. The list includes residents from across Texas—from Midland to Beaumont—as well as visitors from Florida, California, and Alabama. The youngest victims were just one year old; the oldest was 91.
Among those lost were a mother and daughter from Florida vacationing in Hunt, a family of three from California, and three individuals from Alabama. Entire households were swept away, leaving behind communities forever changed.
“These names are not new to our community; they are our family, friends and neighbors, and they are forever engraved in our hearts,” said Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring and Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly in a joint statement. “Our search is not over. Two families are still waiting to bring their loved one’s home.”
State officials confirmed that two individuals remain missing. Their names were not released, but the search continues, driven by the tireless efforts of first responders and volunteers.
The tragedy has drawn an outpouring of support from across the state. Vigils have been held, flags lowered, and families embraced by neighbors and strangers alike. The City of Kerrville and Kerr County have shown remarkable resilience in the face of heartbreak.
“In unity, we find strength; in compassion, we find healing; and in resolve, we find the will to carry on,” the statement continued.
Below is the full list of victims as released by the Texas Rangers. Each name represents a life lived, a story cherished, and a community grieving. May their memory be a blessing
These are the victims and where they were from:
- Carol Andrews, 65, from Athens
- Joyce Badon, 21, from Beaumont
- Mary Baker, 8, from Beaumont
- Linda Bason, 78, from San Antonio
- Anna Bellows, 8, from Houston
- Lila Bonner, 9, from Austin
- Robert Brake, 67, from Abilene
- Joni Brake, 66, from Abilene
- Elizabeth Bryan, 61, from San Antonio
- James Bryan, 62, from San Antonio
- John Burgess, 39, from Liberty
- Julia Burgess, 39, from Liberty
- James Burgess, 1, from Liberty
- John Burgess V, 5, from Liberty
- Ella Cahill, 21, from Beaumont
- Brian Carpenter, 36, from Austin
- Blake Carpenter, 3, from Austin
- Chloe Childress, 18, from Houston
- Martha Crawford, 61, from Houston
- Michelle Crossland, 50, from Midland
- Cody Crossland, 45, from Midland
- Molly Dewitt, 9, from Houston
- Lucy Dillon, 8, from Houston
- Ronald Duke, 80, from Hunt
- Richard Dunlap, 73, from Andrews
- Josephine Dunlap, 68, from Andrews
- Katheryn Eads, 52, from Cibolo
- Richard Eastland, 70, from Austin
- Steve Edwards, 72, from San Angelo
- Penny Ferguson, 76, from Odessa
- William Ferguson III, 82, from Odessa
- Katherine Ferruzzo, 19, from Houston
- Jayda Floyd, 22, from Odessa
- Miriam Frizzell, 72, from Abilene
- Ellen Getten, 9, from Houston
- Sally Graves, 91, from Ingram
- Hadley Hanna, 8, from University Park
- Blair Harber, 13, from Dallas
- William Harber, 76, from Dallas
- Charlene Harber, 74, from Dallas
- Brooke Harber, 11, from Dallas
- Josephine Hardin, 28, from Weston, Fla.
- Alyson Hardin, 64, from Weston, Fla.
- Aidan Heartfield, 22, from Beaumont
- Deana Hillock, 57, from San Antonio
- Virginia Hollis, 8, from Bellville
- Charlotte Huff, 55, from Kerrville
- Janie Hunt, 9, from Dallas
- William Huston, 61, from Sherman
- Al Iorio, 66, from San Antonio
- Mary Kate Jacobe, 8, from Houston
- Madelyn Jeffrey, 11, from San Antonio
- Penelope Jeffrey, 70, from San Antonio
- Emlyn Jeffrey, 70, from San Antonio
- Robert Kamin, 50, from Humble
- Melissa Kamin, 45, from Humble
- Dee Ann Knetsch, 66, from Canyon Lake
- Gary Knetsch, 60, from Canyon Lake
- Lainey Landry, 9, from Houston
- Rebecca Lawrence, 8, from Dallas
- Hanna Lawrence, 8, from Dallas
- Kellyanne Lytal, 8, from San Antonio
- Tianna Mabey, 66, from Ovilla
- Claire Manchaca, 21, from Conroe
- Sarah Marsh, 8, from Birmingham, Alabama
- Bailey Martin, 23, from Odessa
- Amanda Martin, 44, from Odessa
- Robert Martin, 46, from Odessa
- Linnie McCown, 8, from Austin
- Blakely McCrory, 8, from Bellaire
- Clayton Meadows, 29, from Hamilton
- Harley Moeller, 6, from New Braunfels
- Megan Moeller, 33, from New Braunfels
- Jake Moeller, 38, from New Braunfels
- Virginia Naylor, 8, from Dallas
- Jose Olvera, 70, from Hunt
- Alicia Olvera, 67, from Hunt
- Richard Pagard, 71, from Kerrville
- Clay Parisher, 1, from Austin
- Eloise Peck, 8, from Dallas
- Bradley Perry, 49, from League City
- Abby Pohl, 8, from Austin
- Cynthie Ragsdale, 68, from Hunt
- Joel Ramos, 43, from Midland
- Tasha Ramos, 48, from Midland
- Kyndall Ramos, 17, from Midland
- Tanya Ramsey, 46, from Lewisville
- Carlos Romero, 1, from Kerrville
- Leonardo Romero, 42, from Kerrville
- James Rushing, 64, from Sulphur Springs
- Cynthia Rushing, 53, from Sulphur Springs
- Julian Ryan, 27, from Ingram
- Ileana Santana, 66, from Mobile, Ala.
- Mila Santana, 5, from Wichita Falls
- Camille Santana, 38, from Wichita Falls
- Eddie Santana Negron Sr., 69, from Mobile, Ala.
- Mollie Schaffer, 76, from Houston
- Shon Scott, 53, from Andrews
- Margaret, Sheedy, 8, from Houston
- Alvaro Miranda Sigala, 69, from San Antonio
- Renee Smajstrla, 8, from Ingram
- Michael Smith, 67, from Dripping Springs
- Pamela Smith, 64, from Dripping Springs
- Mary Stevens, 8, from Austin
- Greta Toranzo, 10, from Houston
- Natalia Venzor, 24, from Kerrville
- Roy Walker, 63, from Hunt
- Mark Walker, 51, from Kentfield, Calif.
- John Walker, 14, from Kentfield, Calif.
- Sara Walker, 50, from Kentfield, Calif.
- Jeffrey Wilson, 55, from Coldspring
- Amber Wilson, 45, from Coldspring
- Shiloh Wilson, 12, from Coldspring
- Reece Zunker, 36, from Kerrville
- Holland Zunker, 3, from Kerrville
- Lyle Zunker, 7, from Kerrville
- Paula Zunker, 35, from Kerrville
- Jeffrey Ramsey, 63, from Lewisville
- Cecilia Steward, 8, from Austin
Kerr County – River of Angels – Tribute to flood victims (Kerr County Texas – Aug 10, 2025)
Irene Maldonado (Pompa) – October 23, 1932 to August 6, 2025 (92)
SMILEY– Irene Pompa Maldonado, 92, of Smiley, Texas, passed away on August 6, 2025. Irene was born on October 23, 1932, to parents Jeremiah Pompa and Gorgania Madrid Pompa, in Pilgrim, Texas.
Irene was like a mother to Susan Pompa. She was a humble, sweet, kind, introvert, very independent and proper person. She was an old school kind of a person and helped others with no hesitation. She was a parishioner at St Philip Benizi Catholic Church-Smiley and very passionate with her faith. She would go to church regularly and volunteer to help the church in any way.
She is survived by niece/daughter, Susan Pompa and numerous nieces and nephews.
Irene is preceded in death by her parents; Jeremiah Pompa and Gorgania Madrid Pompa; her husband: Saturnino Maldonado; brothers: Pascual Pompa, E.M. Pompa and sisters: Isabel Pompa Peña, Hermenia Ortega and Anita Gonzales.
Visitation will be Monday, August 11, 2025, 9:00am -10:30am at St Philip Benizi Mission, Smiley Texas followed by Rosary at 10:30am and continue with Funeral Mass at 11:00am.
Interment will be at the Burriola Cemetery-Smiley.
In the lieu of flowers, please contribute to St Philip Benizi Mission-Smiley.
🍻 Full House, Big Wins, and Even Bigger Smiles at Yoakum’s BINGO & Brews Night
Yoakum | August 10, 2025
Yoakum locals showed up in full force during the recent and highly anticipated BINGO & Brews event August 1, 2025. It was a night of laughter, lively competition, and community spirit at the Yoakum Community Center. The Yoakum Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the event and delivered on every promise—and then some.
From the moment doors opened at 6:00 PM, the energy was electric. By the time the first game kicked off at 7:00, the room was packed with friends, neighbors, and visitors ready to test their luck and enjoy a night out. The crowd was diverse—seasoned BINGO pros sat elbow-to-elbow with first-timers, all sharing in the thrill of the game and the joy of being together.
With over $2,500 in prizes awarded throughout the evening, cheers erupted across the hall as lucky winners claimed everything from gift baskets to local experiences. But the fun didn’t stop at the BINGO cards—guests also enjoyed a bustling silent auction, door prize giveaways, and plenty of refreshments to keep the good times rolling.
Photos from the event capture the heart of the night: smiling faces, raised glasses, and tables full of laughter. It wasn’t just a game night—it was a celebration of Yoakum’s vibrant community and the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to bring people together.
Proceeds from the event will support future Chamber programming, helping to keep Yoakum lively and connected all year long.
Stay tuned for photo highlights and community shout-outs—because if one thing’s clear, BINGO & Brews was a hit.