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Harmony Stokely Honored in District Lions Peace Poster Contest

by Staff Writer | December 16, 2025

YORKTOWN, TX – Yorktown student Harmony Stokely has been recognized for her artistic vision and commitment to peace.

Harmony recently received her check for placing third in the District Lions Peace Poster Contest, a program that encourages young people to express their ideas of peace through creativity and art. The contest, sponsored by Lions Clubs International, invites students worldwide to share their vision of a more harmonious future.

Her poster stood out among many entries across the district, earning her a place among the top young artists. The award presentation was shared on the Yorktown Lions Club Facebook page, where community members celebrated Harmony’s accomplishment and praised her dedication.

The Peace Poster Contest has been a tradition for more than three decades, inspiring youth to reflect on themes of unity, compassion, and hope. Harmony’s achievement not only highlights her talent but also underscores the strong support of the Yorktown community in nurturing creativity and leadership among its youth.

Congratulations to Harmony Stokely for representing Yorktown with pride and vision!

Wayne West – August 23, 1935 to November 30, 2025 (90)

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Wayne West, 90 years old of Victoria, passed away November 30, 2025. He was born August 23, 1935, in Pandora (Wilson County) Texas to the late James Nelson West and Myrtie Wright West.

He married Martha Rae Walters West on September 4, 1971, at University Park Baptist Church in San Antonio, Texas.

Wayne was a member of Pandora Baptist Church until 1983 when he transferred to Northside Baptist Church in Victoria. He graduated from Stockdale High School in 1953. He was a farmer and rancher. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He received his Pre-Jump Training with the Department of the Army July 31, 1962. Wayne was a member of the Parachute Club at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He was also a member of the Herman Sons Grand Lodge, Dacosta No 265. Wayne was a member of the Western Dance Club at Decosta and DEAA Dance Club of DuPont. Wayne and Martha loved to dance. Wayne was an I & E mechanic for DuPont and retired after 27 years.

He is survived by his wife, Martha Rae Walters West; nephews, Michael E. Marshall and Dennis Marshall; Lola Spring: niece and God Child, Lisa Starr, Scott, Kiley, Kaydence and Colt Starr; numerous other family members and friends.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Audrey Nell West, Eunice West Marshall; brother, James N. West.

Visitation will begin at 12:30 pm, Monday December 8, 2025, at Finch Funeral Chapel, 400 S 4th St, Stockdale, Texas 78160. Burial will follow at 1:30 pm at the Steele Branch Cemetery, Stockdale, Texas.

Free Holiday Hayrides Offered by Cuero Volunteer Fire Department

Staff Writer | December 10, 2025

CUERO — The Cuero Volunteer Fire Department is inviting the community to enjoy free holiday hayrides throughout December.

The rides are scheduled every Wednesday evening during the month, giving families and friends a festive way to celebrate the season. Pickup will start at 6 p.m. at the Cuero High School Baseball Fields, located across from Cuero Lube & Tire, LLC. The final ride of each evening will depart at 9:30 p.m.

Organizers emphasized that the event is designed to bring neighbors together in a safe, family‑friendly environment while highlighting the spirit of giving that defines the holidays. The hayrides are made possible through the efforts of the Cuero Volunteer Fire Department, with support from Cuero Lube & Tire, LLC.

Community members are encouraged to bundle up, bring loved ones, and enjoy the festive rides under the December night sky.

Dolores A. Saenz – January 7, 1945 to December 10, 2025 (80)

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Dolores A. Saenz, 80, of Cuero passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2025.  She was born January 7, 1945 in Cuero to Henry and Carmen Alvaredo Uresti. She married Emilio Saenz Jr. on October 15, 1966 in Cuero.  She was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Penny Saenz and Patricia Saenz; son, Norman Saenz; grandchildren, Matthew Saenz, Victoria Saenz, Leland Garcia, Catalina Sanchez and Olivia Sanchez and great-granddaughter, Aralynn Saenz.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Emilio; brothers, Albert Uresti and Rudy Uresti and sisters, Amelia Rivera, Olivia Benavides, Della Sumner and Joyce Janssen.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM.  Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Father Michael Odartey-Lamptey officiating.  Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Karl Saenz, Randy Saenz, Dennis Janssen and Donald Miller.

Honorary Pallbearers include Matthew Saenz, Leland Garcia and Baldemar Saenz Jr.

The family would like to acknowledge Dr. Hill and Dr. Willers for the exceptional care given. Thank you to Dr. Jennifer Gonzales for the wonderful care and compassion you have given to our family.  Thank you to Whispering Oaks Nursing Home and staff members – Danielle Wade, Caroline Boone, Monica Aguayo, Janice Parr, Rivera McKaine, Nancy Lancaster, Stephanie Guerra and Melissa Garza for the kind, compassionate and attentive care.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Freund Funeral Home to help defray funeral and headstone expenses.

Holiday Cheer Fills the Halls at St. Michael’s and Our Lady of Guadalupe Christmas Gathering

Pat Trevino | December 10, 2025

CUERO — On December 6, 2025, members of St. Michael’s and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church gathered for a festive Christmas party at the parish hall. The event was a collaborative effort hosted by the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Daughters, Altar Society, Guadalupanos, and Guadalupanas, who joined forces to create a warm and welcoming celebration for the church community.

Photo by Pat Trevino

The main entrée of tender, flavorful brisket was generously provided by the hosting organizations, while families contributed a delicious array of side dishes and desserts. The buffet showcased a wide assortment of homemade favorites, including cheesy macaroni, potato salad, green bean casseroles, guacamole salad, banana pudding, tres leches cake, and more.

Photo by Pat Trevino

In addition to the meal, guests enjoyed a variety of games and social activities. A raffle added excitement to the evening, with prizes awarded to lucky winners. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, conversation, and the spirit of togetherness.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) Welcoming guests with warm smiles, this gracious couple greeted attendees at the entrance and helped them register for festive door prizes. Their cheerful presence set the tone for a joyful gathering.

Organizers noted that the event was a heartfelt success, bringing joy to parishioners of all ages. “It’s always special when our church families come together like this,” one volunteer shared. “The food, the fellowship, the fun—it’s what Christmas is all about.”

Photo by Pat Trevino

The evening concluded with smiles and full hearts, marking another memorable chapter in the church’s tradition of holiday celebration.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) With holiday cheer and a splash of hospitality, these two kept spirits bright as they served up a festive selection of wine and beverages to guests throughout the evening.

PHOTO GALLERY

 

Robert Lee Wimbish – June 2, 1964 to November 24, 2025 (61)

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CUERO: Robert Lee Wimbish, passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 61. He was born on June 2, 1964, in Yoakum, Texas, to the late Edward and Mildred (Milton) Wimbish.

Robert is survived by his brothers, David Wimbish and Michael Wimbish, and his sister, Shirley Wimbish. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews: Dakavion Herron, Drevion Herron, Nova Herron, Desiree Wimbish, Cashet Jones, David Wimbish Jr., Eddie Odom, J.R. Odom, Jessica Odoms, Glen Wimbish, A’Layah Odom, LeVeon Gilkey, and Urban Nunley.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Dora Wimbish Odom; and his niece, Missy Odom.

A Memorial Service 11 a.m., December 12, 2025, at Thiele Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum, Texas, with interment to follow at Lockhart Cemetery in Cuero, Texas.

🎄 Holiday Schedule for Utilities Office & City Hall 🎄

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Staff Writer | December 10, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, please take note of the following schedule adjustments for the Utilities Office and City Hall:

  • Friday, December 16
    Offices will be closed from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM for the annual Employee Christmas Luncheon.
  • Monday & Tuesday, December 24–25
    In observance of Christmas Day, offices will be closed and will reopen at 7:30 AM on Wednesday, December 26.
  • Tuesday & Wednesday, December 31–January 1
    In observance of New Year’s Day, offices will be closed and will reopen at 7:30 AM on Thursday, January 2.

We appreciate your understanding and wish everyone a joyful and safe holiday season!

Jay Anthony Metting – July 12, 1957 – December 6, 2025 (68)

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Jay Anthony Metting, 68 of Cuero, went to be with Our Lord on December 6, 2025, after a two year fight with cancer.

Jay is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Laurie Buchhorn Metting; his sons, Dustin Metting (Meredith) of Cuero, Austin Metting (Jamie) of Temple, Thomas Diehl (Amber) of Victoria and Timothy Diehl (Jenni) of Yorktown; and daughters, Teresa Hiles (Chris) of Cuero and Lacie Metting of Cuero.  Those he loved best called him Papa, and he leaves behind 15 grandchildren, Clayton, Devon, Tabitha, Ethan, Cadan, Evan, Kellan, Madelynn, Gavin, Harper, Kylie, Turner, Julia, Graham and Karlie and one great grandchild, Amelia Ann.  Jay is also survived by sisters, Grace Binz (Dwight), JoAnn Reitz (Maurice); and his brother, Ernest Metting, Jr. (Carla) and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and close friends.

Jay was born on July 12, 1957 to Ernest Metting, Sr. and his wife, Mildred Dentler Metting in Yorktown.  He was the youngest of 5 children.  From a young age he loved music and taught himself how to play the guitar.  Jay loved to entertain and brought joy with his smooth voice.  For much of his life he was in bands, most notably Silver Wings and Neon Light Cowboys. He also got much enjoyment performing with Bear and Mike.  Jay graduated from Yorktown High School in 1975.  Most of Jay’s career was spent working in administration with KBR.

Jay loved being a Papa and adored his grandchildren.  He spent lots of time crunching ice, making tuna salad, fishing, hunting, and playing guitar with his little people.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Irene Brieden.

With grateful hearts we want to acknowledge the care Jay received during his 2 ½ year illness.  Thank you to Delia and Teresa at CRH outpatient for always treating him with professionalism and true concern.  Dr David Hill for always willing to accommodate us. Dr.  Jafri at Detar Blood and Cancer Center and Jessica (hospitalist) at Detar Navarro for years of compassionate care.  MD Anderson team of health care workers for their kindness and care.  Thanks to the staff of TPN and Dr. Dugi for their care.  Lastly, a very special thank you to the generous people who give the gift of life by donating their blood.

Visitation will be held at Freund Funeral Home in Cuero on Thursday, December 11, 2025 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.  Funeral Service will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 10 a.m.  Interment will follow at Memory Gardens of Cuero Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to donor’s choice.

 

Dewitt Lavaca Counties Democratic Women and Men Celebrate Quilt Raffle Success

Pat Trevino | December 8, 2025

Twelve-year-old Ayden Flores had a stroke of good fortune recently when his name was drawn as the winner of a handmade quilt raffled by the Dewitt Lavaca Counties Democratic Women and Men.

Ayden, the son of Jesse Flores and grandson of Margaret Vargas, proudly accepted the quilt alongside his father. The moment was captured with club members Isabel Patton, Angie Bowles, and Susana Weber, who helped organize the raffle and presented the prize.

The raffle was part of the club’s ongoing efforts to support community engagement and raise funds for local initiatives. Quilts, often treasured for their craftsmanship and tradition, symbolize warmth, family, and community—making Ayden’s win especially meaningful.

Club members expressed joy in seeing a young recipient take home the prize, noting that raffles like these not only raise funds but also strengthen ties among families and neighbors.

Ayden’s win serves as a reminder of the simple joys found in community gatherings and the lasting impact of traditions carried forward by local organizations.



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Send your news release to cueroonlinenews@gmail.com
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🥋 Cuero Athletes Shine at Waco International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Pat Trevino | December 8, 2025

WACO, TX — The mats at the Waco International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship were alive with intensity and skill this past weekend, and Cuero’s own Family Jiu Jitsu Karate team left a powerful mark on the competition. Rising star Dawson Draper and seasoned competitor Josh Spivey both delivered standout performances, showcasing the strength of Cuero’s martial arts community on an international stage.

Josh Spivey 3rd Place – Master 2/Gi/Blue/Ultra Heavy 2nd Place – Master 2/Gi/Blue/Open Class

For Dawson Draper, the tournament was a debut to remember. Competing in his first-ever IBJJF event, Draper captured a silver medal, winning his opening match and proving that preparation and grit can carry a newcomer to greatness. His performance drew praise from coaches and teammates alike, who noted his composure under pressure and refusal to back down. Draper’s silver medal is more than a personal milestone—it’s a symbol of Cuero’s growing presence in competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

🏆 Josh Spivey’s Podium Sweep

Veteran competitor Josh Spivey added to the team’s success with an impressive run across multiple divisions:

  • 3rd Place – Master 2 / Gi / Blue / Ultra Heavy
  • 2nd Place – Master 2 / Gi / Blue / Open Class
  • 2nd Place – Master 2 / No-Gi / Blue / Ultra Heavy
  • 1st Place – Master 2 / No-Gi / Blue / Open Class

Spivey’s consistency and dominance across both Gi and No-Gi divisions underscored his experience and adaptability, earning him recognition as one of the event’s most versatile competitors.

Josh Spivey 2nd Place – Master 2/Blue/No-Gi/Ultra Heavy 1st Place – Master 2/Blue/N0-Gi/Open Class

The Waco International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship is part of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s global circuit, attracting athletes from across Texas and beyond. Hosted at the Extraco Events Center, the tournament features divisions for all ages and belt levels, with medals serving as stepping stones toward national and world championships. For local athletes, medaling at Waco is a prestigious accomplishment that places them among the sport’s rising talents.

🥋 Family Jiu Jitsu Karate: Cuero’s Training Ground

Both Draper and Spivey train at Family Jiu Jitsu Karate in Cuero, TX, a school known for its inclusive environment and commitment to building confidence through discipline. The academy emphasizes fundamentals, perseverance, and community support—values that were on full display in Waco. Coaches encourage anyone interested in martial arts to take that first step, reminding prospective students that “the grind starts with one step.”

The success of Draper and Spivey has energized Cuero’s martial arts community, inspiring younger students and reinforcing the academy’s reputation as a place where champions are made. Their achievements highlight not only personal dedication but also the strength of a program that continues to grow and thrive in South Texas.

 



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Send your news release tocueroonlinenews@gmail.com
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