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Manuel Reyna, Sr. – October 26, 1965 to July 13, 2025 (59)

Manuel Reyna, Sr., age 59, of Victoria, Texas, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, in Victoria. He was born on October 26, 1965, in Cuero, Texas, to the late Senon Sr. and Nicolasa Reyna.

Family and friends gathered for visitation on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, followed by a Holy Rosary at 12:30 PM and a Memorial Service at 1:00 PM at Grace Funeral Home, located at 2401 Houston Hwy. in Victoria.

Manuel had a deep passion for fishing and gardening, and he cherished the time spent teaching his children and grandchildren about mechanics and sharing his love for classic American Muscle Cars. He especially enjoyed playing board games with family and constructing model cars. Known for his friendly nature and willingness to help others, Manuel left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Diana Reyna; daughters, Theresa Vela (John) and Amy Rocha (Lupe); son, Manuel Reyna, Jr. (Samantha); siblings, Philip Reyna and Senon Reyna, Jr.; grandchildren, Carmella Vela, Kaine Rocha, and Kailee Rocha; as well as numerous other loving family members and friends.

Manuel was preceded in death by his parents, Senon Sr. and Nicolasa Reyna; sister, JoAnn Reyna; brother, Herman Reyna; son, Michael Reyna; and niece, Caitlyn Reyna.

Memorial donations may be directed to Diana Reyna.
Thoughts and memories may be shared online at www.gracefuneralhome.net.

Arrangements were handled with care by Grace Funeral Homes & Cemeteries.

CHURCH PICNIC DAY 3 OF THE RESTORATION FOUNDATION CELEBRATION

🕊️ Restoration Foundation Celebration Closes with Community Church Picnic at Historic Daule Grounds

By Staff Writer | August 2, 2025

CUERO — The Restoration Foundation invites the community to gather for a joyful afternoon of fellowship, food, and music as the Restoration Foundation Celebration concludes with a Church Picnic on Saturday, October 12, beginning at 12:00 PM.

Held on the historic Daule School grounds at 301 Daule Street, the picnic is open to everyone and promises a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere filled with live performances, delicious food, and heartfelt community spirit.

🎶 What to Expect:

  • Uplifting live music and performances
  • Plenty of food and refreshments
  • Opportunities for fellowship and reflection
  • A celebration of renewal, legacy, and unity

This event marks the final day of the multi-day Restoration Foundation Celebration, which honors the 77-year legacy of Daule School and supports the ongoing efforts to restore the historic building. The Church Picnic offers a chance to unwind, connect, and celebrate the shared vision for Daule’s future.

📲 RSVP Today
Use the QR code or email [insert email here] to reserve your spot and help organizers plan for food and seating.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the Restoration Foundation or simply looking to enjoy a meaningful afternoon with neighbors, this picnic is a chance to be part of something special.

🎶 Flaco Jiménez, Legendary Tex-Mex Accordionist and Conjunto Icon, Dies at 86

 

By Staff Writer | August 2, 2025

SAN ANTONIO — The world of Tejano and conjunto music is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved pioneers. Leonardo “Flaco” Jiménez, whose masterful accordion playing helped define the Tex-Mex sound and carry it to global audiences, has died at the age of 86.

Jiménez’s family announced his passing August 1, 2025 on his official Facebook page, sharing that he was surrounded by loved ones. No cause of death was provided, and the family has requested privacy during this time of grief.

Born March 11, 1939 into a musical dynasty in San Antonio, Flaco inherited his love for the accordion from his father, Santiago Jiménez Sr., a foundational figure in conjunto music. Drawing inspiration from German and Czech polkas that permeated South Texas, Flaco developed a style that was both deeply traditional and universally joyful — a sound he often described as alegre, or happy.

Though he began by playing local dances in San Antonio’s West Side, Flaco’s talent eventually earned him international acclaim. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, he collaborated with a wide range of artists including Ry Cooder, Carlos Santana, the Texas Tornados, Bob Dylan, and the Rolling Stones. His contributions earned him multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and cemented his status as the definitive Tex-Mex accordionist.

Despite his fame, Flaco remained rooted in his community and culture. He was a mentor to younger musicians and a proud ambassador of San Antonio’s musical heritage. His influence can be heard in the work of contemporary artists like Josh Baca of Los Texmaniacs, who credits Flaco with bringing the Mexican-American spirit to genres like blues, rock, and country.

Texas music historian Hector Saldaña described Flaco as “San Antonio’s Louis Armstrong,” a comparison that speaks to his cultural impact and enduring legacy.

As tributes pour in from around the world, one thing is clear: Flaco Jiménez didn’t just play the accordion — he gave voice to a region, a tradition, and a people. His music will continue to echo across generations.

Good Luck to Cuero Select Track Club at the 2025 Summer Games of Texas!

By Staff Writer | August 2, 2025

CUERO — Athletes, families, coaches, and board members from the Cuero Select Track Club are headed to College Station, TX this weekend for the 2025 Summer Games of Texas, hosted by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF). The track and field events run July 31 through August 3 at premier venues across Bryan and College Station.

💚💙💚 Good luck to all participating athletes!
The club has already celebrated several state qualifiers, with more athlete announcements coming soon. A few athletes are missing from the group photo, but their achievements will be recognized in upcoming posts.

📲 Live Results Link:
Track and field results for the Games of Texas can be followed live at AthleticLIVE.

🎉 Event Highlights Include:

  • Opening Ceremonies: Friday, August 1
  • Track & Field: July 31 – August 3
  • Other sports: Swimming, Tennis, Golf, Esports, and more

 Cuero Cross Country Builds Momentum Ahead of Season Opener in Yoakum

By Staff Writer | August 2, 2025

CUERO — The Cuero Cross Country program has wrapped up its fourth week of summer training, with as many as 29 junior high and high school runners hitting the pavement daily in preparation for the upcoming 2025 season.

The team’s first meet is scheduled for Saturday, August 16 in Yoakum, where athletes will compete against regional rivals in what promises to be a strong season kickoff.

               

Led by Coach Van, the program continues to grow and is currently recruiting new runners to add depth and energy to its roster. Students interested in joining are encouraged to reach out to Coach Van directly for more information.

The summer training sessions have focused on endurance, pacing, and team-building — laying the foundation for a competitive fall season. With a mix of returning athletes and new faces, Cuero Cross Country is shaping up to be a program to watch.

Chamber of Commerce Brings Fashion & Flavor to Cuero’s VFW Hall

By Staff Writer | August 1, 2025

CUERO — Fashion, flavor, and fun will take center stage at this year’s Savor the Flavor: Cuero’s Tasting & Style Show, happening Thursday, August 7 at the Cuero VFW Hall. With only a few tables left, organizers are encouraging guests to grab their crew and reserve their spot before it’s too late.

This vibrant event blends culinary delights with runway fashion, showcasing the best of Cuero’s local boutiques, eateries, and entertainment. Attendees can expect an evening filled with:

Runway fashion from Classy B’s Boutique, Rendezvous Boutique & Marketplace, A Special Stitch, Friends on Main, June’s Pearl’s, and Be.cuerotexas
🍷 Tastings from 5D Tavern – Cuero, Cuero Pecan House, Cuero Pecan House Café, Mad Batter Cheesecakes, Werner’s Catering, The EVthing, AlphaLyfe Nutrition, Kbs BBQ, and more
🎶 Live entertainment to keep the energy high
🎁 Swag bags and raffle prizes for lucky guests
🏆 Awards for Best Style and Showmanship
💆‍♀️ Chair massages by Amber Grimaud and Courtney Toller, licensed massage therapists

🎟️ Tickets are $50 per person, with reserved tables for 10 available at $500.
🎯 Purchase yours now at: cuero.org/…/savor-the-flavor-tasting-and-style

Alegandra Gonzales – January 15, 1945 to July 31, 2025 (80)

Alegandra “Sandra” Gonzales, 80, of Nordheim passed away Thursday, July 31, 2025. She was born January 15, 1945 in Dewitt County to Cruz and Esmeregilda Pina Garcia. She married the love of her life Jose Gonzales Sr. on February 17, 1963.

 She is survived by her sons Jaime (Norma) Gonzales, Joey (Dawn) Gonzales Jr., daughter Irma Schwab, grandchildren Ashley (Devin) Smith, Joshua Gonzales, Bianca Gonzales, Joseph Schwab, Christopher Schwab, Destiny Gonzales, Jase Gonzales and great grandson Kai Smith. She is also survived by her sister Sylvia Olguin.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Jose Gonzales Sr., sisters Adelia Nunez and Alicia Garza.
Visitation 5-7 pm Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Massey Funeral Home. Funeral service 10 am Sunday, August 3, 2025 at Massey Funeral Home. Interment to follow at St. Ann’s Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Isaac Perez, Jason Perez, Christopher Schwab, Joshua Gonzales, Johnny Nunez and Jace Gonzales.

Back to School Bash Promises Fun, Supplies, and Community Spirit

By Staff Writer | August 1, 2025

CUERO — The countdown is on for one of the most anticipated events of the season: the Back to School Bash, happening Thursday, August 7 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Cuero Intermediate School (CIS) Cafeteria and back parking lot.

Hosted by Cuero ISD, the event is designed t  o give students a joyful send-off into the new school year — and it’s packed with activities for the whole family.

🎒 Highlights include:

  • 🖍️ Free school supplies for students
  • 🎟️ Door prizes
  • 🎶 Live music
  • 🏰 Bounce house, face painting, crafts, and more
  • 🍔 Food, drinks, and plenty of community fun

Local businesses and vendors are invited to take part in the celebration. There’s still time to sign up and join the festivities — interested participants can contact Danielle Laird at dlaird@cueroisd.org or call 361-275-1900 ext. 413.

The Back to School Bash is more than just a party — it’s a show of support for Cuero’s students and families, ensuring every child starts the school year with the supplies they need and the encouragement they deserve.

Kenneth Ray Holster – October 19, 1946 to July 17, 2025 (78)

Kenneth Ray Holster, 78, of Cuero passed away Thursday, July 17, 2025 with his loving companion Tia by his side.  He was born October 19, 1946 at the Burns Hospital in Cuero to Harry and Adaoise Meadows Holster.  Kenny worked as a delivery driver for Kasper Wire Works until his retirement.  On November 22, 2022, Kenny re-united with his ex-wife, Tia Cook and they rekindled their relationship from fifty-one years ago.  He enjoyed visiting many different bridges and train engine events, especially “Big Boy Union Pacific 4014” and “The Road Trip”.  In 2024 he went on a road trip with his brother, Greg; sister, June; companion, Tia and Cousins, Jackie Alsup from Kerrville and Jan from Montana.  Some of his favorite memories were trips to the Cheyenne Rodeo in Wyoming with his family, visiting Pawpaw’s old family farm in Clyde, TX and the 2024 friends and family road trip.

Kenny enjoyed trips to various train events, doing puzzles, collecting coins, rocks with holes, Indian and Buffalo memorabilia as well as lighthouses and locomotives.  He has a 13 ½ lb. cat names Pasquale and boy did he love that cat.  She would walk up to him, turn around with her rear-end facing him expecting a good, long scratch by her tail!

He is survived by his loving companion, Tia Cook; sisters, June Benton (Charles), Carol Ann Richards (Carver) and Gayle Wagner; brother, Greg Holster; good friends, Bobby Nami and Kenneth Parker; friends, Billy & Kathryn Nami, Bobby & Dorothy Heyer and John & Terri Eichols and previous neighbors,  Bill & Helen Serece.  He also became acquainted with his new neighbors, Carl and Lora Beth Wright.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Carroll Wagner.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, 2:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home with Pastor Kenneth Parker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Association, SNYPD or Cuero Pet Adoptions.

DeWitt/LaVaca County Democratic Women to Host August Meeting in Cuero

The DeWitt/LaVaca County Democratic Women will hold their next monthly meeting on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Maya’s Restaurant in Cuero. The gathering is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend.

The organization, which serves both DeWitt and Lavaca counties, provides a platform for civic engagement, voter education, and community dialogue. Members include residents from across the region who are committed to promoting democratic values, supporting local candidates, and fostering inclusive conversations around policy and representation.

Meetings typically feature guest speakers, updates on legislative issues, and opportunities to connect with others who are passionate about local governance and grassroots advocacy. Whether you’re a longtime member or simply curious about the group’s work, the August meeting offers a welcoming space to learn, share, and get involved.