Cuero, TX—The halls of Whispering Oaks Rehab and Nursing were filled with celebration June 7, 2025, as staff, residents, and community members gathered to honor Lydia Martinez, who has dedicated an impressive 32 years of service as a dietary aide at the facility.
Since joining Whispering Oaks over three decades ago, Martinez has been a cornerstone of the community, known for her unwavering kindness, compassionate spirit, and commitment to ensuring residents receive not only nutritious meals but also a daily dose of warmth and care. Her presence has been a source of comfort for both staff and residents alike, fostering a sense of family within the facility.
Colleagues describe Martinez as an indispensable part of the Whispering Oaks team, bringing dedication and heartfelt service to every interaction. Her efforts extend far beyond the kitchen—whether lending a listening ear or offering a reassuring smile, she has touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.
“Lydia is truly the heart of Whispering Oaks,” said a fellow staff member. “She has brought so much joy and care to this facility over the years, and we are endlessly grateful for everything she has done.”
As the community celebrates her remarkable journey, Martinez’s legacy of compassion continues to inspire those around her. Whispering Oaks expressed its sincere gratitude for her decades of service, recognizing the profound difference she has made in the lives of so many.
Her contributions stand as a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference. Martinez’s extraordinary legacy will remain an integral part of Whispering Oaks for years to come.
On June 4, 2025, the Yoakum Police Department had the distinct honor of welcoming Brian, a retired police officer from Australia, as part of his international journey to trade department patches.
Brian, who has been traveling across various regions to exchange patches with law enforcement agencies, made a special stop in Yoakum, Texas where officers proudly participated in the tradition. Along with the exchange, the department presented Brian with a challenge coin, symbolizing camaraderie and mutual respect between officers across borders.
During his visit, Brian shared stories from his experiences as a police officer in Australia and listened to anecdotes from his counterparts in Texas, highlighting the universal bond among those who serve and protect.
The department expressed appreciation for his visit, wishing him safe travels as he continues his journey. Brian’s patch exchange serves as a reminder of the strong ties within the global law enforcement community, where traditions like this help foster unity and understanding beyond geographical boundaries.
CITY OF CUERO PARKS DEPT WANTS YOU TO JOIN THEM FOR THEIR FIRST SUMMER STAYCATION EVENT WITH FREE ADMISSION TO THE POOL & SPLASHPAD ON JUNE 12TH FROM 12:00PM-9:00PM
June 8, 2025
Yoakum, Texas, came alive once again as the 97th Annual Tom-Tom Festival brought together locals and visitors for a weekend of excitement and tradition. From June 5th to June 8th, 2025, the festival honored the town’s rich tomato-growing heritage with a spectacular lineup of events, including rodeo action, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment.
The streets buzzed with energy as the Grand Parade showcased vibrant floats, while festival-goers enjoyed BBQ cook-offs, carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, and thrilling rodeo performances. The weekend was packed with unforgettable moments, from the Tom-Tom Royalty Pageant to the Ranch Rodeo finale, ensuring that the spirit of Yoakum remained as strong as ever.
Whether you were there for the music, food, or community spirit, the Tom-Tom Festival proved once again why it’s a cherished tradition that continues to bring generations together. See you next year! 🎉🍅
(Send pictures @ Tom Tom Festival to: cueroonlinenews@gmail.com)
On June 6, a passionate group of demonstrators gathered at the Cuero De Witt County Courthouse to voice their concerns about veterans’ affairs and legislative protections. The rally, which took place from 4:45 to 6:00 PM, was deliberately scheduled on D-Day, a day of immense historical significance. Organizers chose this date to honor the sacrifices made by service members during the Allied invasion of Normandy in 1944—a turning point in World War II that marked the beginning of the liberation of Europe from Nazi control.
Demonstrators rallied in the 90°F heat (heat index makes it feel like 113°F) making every step of the march a test of endurance and standing in solidarity for the rights of veterans. Yet, despite the relentless sun beating down, participants stood firm, holding their signs high and refusing to waver in their commitment to protecting veterans’ rights.
(photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025 – Demonstrators make their way to the corner of Broadway and Esplanade.
The event was a nonpartisan rally spearheaded by the De Witt and Lavaca County Democratic Women, emphasizing that advocacy for veterans transcends political divides. Demonstrators marched from the courthouse to the corner of Esplanade and Broadway, holding signs that read “Stay Away from VA,” “Protect the PACT Act,” and “Don’t Let DOGE Cut VA Support.” Their message was clear: they wanted to safeguard veterans’ benefits and ensure continued support for those who have served.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans in Cuero on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway.
The PACT Act ensures that veterans suffering from conditions linked to toxic exposure such as burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances receive the care and compensation they deserve. Plus, it expanded eligibility for veterans from the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 eras.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway, Cuero. Tx
DOGE – Department of Government Efficiency which was spearheaded by Elon Musk gutted funding as well as essential contracts vital to Veterans health care. The Department of Veterans Affairs is slashing 83,000 jobs. The VA employs over 17 percent of the federal agency that provides health care for millions of veterans, according to reports by The Associated Press.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans in Cuero, Tx.
The cuts affected funding from cancer care to the ability to assess toxic exposure. The broad spending cuts has immediate and potentially unintended consequences, generating significant concern not just among Democrats but also Republican lawmakers.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) June 6, 2025, Rally for Veterans on the corner of Esplanade and Broadway. Cuero, Tx
As the demonstrators braved the scorching heat, they did so not just in protest, but in pursuit of awareness—hoping their voices would ignite action. Their determination was a call to the public, urging citizens to rally behind veterans, demand accountability, and reach out to lawmakers to protect essential benefits. On a day that honors sacrifice and resilience, they stood as a modern reminder that the fight for veterans’ rights is far from over and requires the collective strength of a nation.
June 6, 1944, was an Allied invasion of Normandy during WWII. Often referred to as D-Day, it is the largest seaborne invasion in history. This invasion turned the tide of the war.
YOAKUM: Alfred Kutzer, 87, passed away Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family.
Alfred Kutzer, a strong-willed and hardworking man with a heart as big as the land he loved, passed away surrounded by family and the legacy he built with his own hands. Born on March 17, 1938, Alfred lived a life rooted in purpose, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.
On June 4, 1965, he married the love of his life, Waldean, a marriage that withstood all the ups and downs of life for exactly 60 years. Together they raised seven children—a testament to their enduring love and shared commitment to family. A provider in every sense, Alfred worked for 35 years at Alcoa, where he earned the respect of his peers through a strong work ethic and no-nonsense attitude. Outside of work, Alfred found his peace in the open fields. He had a passion for farming and ranching, pouring his time and energy into the land with the same grit he brought to every part of his life. Though known for his short fuse and rough edges, those who truly knew him saw the goodness in his heart—a man whose actions always spoke louder than his words. Alfred’s greatest pride was his family. Every early morning and long day’s work was done with them in mind. He lived not for recognition, but to make sure those he loved had what they needed. His legacy is one of hard work, devotion, and a deep, unshakable love that will live on through his children and all who were lucky enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.
Survivors are his wife, Waldean (Smith) Kutzer of Yoakum; their 7 children, Rex Kutzer (Claire) of Yoakum, Amanda Davis (Michael) of Hallettsville, Cindy Rodriguez (Dennis) of Yoakum, Kathy Frazer (Brian) of Sweet Home, Matt Kutzer (Denise) of Yoakum, Patti Kutzer of Yoakum and Mark Kutzer (Susan) of Yoakum; 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; sister, Nina Bunch of Magnolia; and numerous extended family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Ida Mae (Bausch) Kutzer; sister, Claudia Rimel and brother, Jim Kutzer.
Visitation 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.
Private Graveside Service 10 a.m., Friday, June 13, 2025, at Hebron Cemetery.
Pallbearers are his sons, Rex, Matt and Mark and grandsons, Tyler, Michael, Bretley, Tate and Beaux.
Dr. Harold Wayne Adickes, known fondly as Wayne, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, in the manner he wanted—at home, sleeping beside his cherished fish tank. He was 84 years old.
Wayne was born in Cuero, Texas, to Mary Aline Adickes (née Reed) and Edgar Adickes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, William Adickes.
He attended John C. French Elementary School in Cuero and graduated from high school in 1958. Wayne was the first in his family to attend and complete college. He spent two years at Victoria College before earning his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Stephen F. Austin Teachers College. While there, he served as President of the Student Affiliate of the American Chemical Society, setting a tone of leadership that would continue throughout his life.
Never one to be satisfied with the ordinary, Wayne went on to earn his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Texas Christian University (TCU) in 1965, becoming the first part-time graduate student in the university’s history. His doctorate was personally handed to him by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson; a highlight he would proudly remember all his life.
Wayne completed two postdoctoral fellowships: the first at Louisiana State University in New Orleans under Dr. A. I. Meyers, a pioneer in heterocyclic chemistry, and the second at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, under Dr. Harry Wasserman, a leading figure in organic chemistry.
Entering the job market during the downturn following the Moon landing, Wayne applied to more than 400 companies before securing a position at St. Regis Paper Company. There, he worked on developing paper that was electrically conductive in light but insulating in the dark. His work then took him to Addressograph Multigraph, where he helped develop specialty office printing paper. Three years later, St. Regis invited him back to lead development on proprietary paper products in upstate New York. Over the next nine years, he rose from Group Leader to Director of Research and Development.
Wayne went on to become Vice President of R&D at Tenneco’s Packaging and Paper Division before finding his true calling in academia. He accepted a position as Associate Department Head of Chemistry at the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he worked for 18 years, mentoring students and contributing significantly to the university community.
Upon retirement, Wayne returned to his hometown of Cuero, Texas. True to his character, he continued to contribute meaningfully to his community. He volunteered at the Cuero Heritage Museum, where he eventually became Director. Under his leadership, the museum was entrusted with the management of the Pharmacy and Medical Museum of Texas. Wayne oversaw extensive renovations and donated his personal collection of citrus reamers, now a featured exhibit.
In 2018, Wayne stepped back from his museum responsibilities, but he remained active in the local community through his involvement with the Cuero Main Street Program and the Lions Club.
Though Wayne never married or had children of his own, he deeply influenced the lives of many. He helped guide and support four young adults through college, both financially and personally. Two of them, Keith Nuese and Drew Johnson, became like surrogate grandchildren to him. Earlier in his life, he also volunteered at a mental health institution while living in New York, an experience he found both rewarding and emotionally challenging.
Wayne had many passions, chief among them gardening and collecting. His flower garden, grown entirely from seeds, was a source of great pride and beauty. His diverse collections included citrus reamers, Navajo sand paintings, carved waterfowl, Royal Doulton Toby mugs, Blenko colored glass bottles, paperweights, and more—each representing a story or curiosity that brought him joy.
Even in his final years, as he began to lose his eyesight and was diagnosed with a rare form of arthritis affecting his lungs, Wayne continued to live with purpose and joy. He stayed connected with friends, his surrogate family, and rekindled his love for aquariums, which brought him peace and happiness.
Wayne lived a life filled with curiosity, generosity, and passion. He leaves behind a legacy of intellect, mentorship, and quiet kindness that will be remembered by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at Freund Funeral Home.
What began as another late night of work quickly escalated into a tense and unsettling confrontation with law enforcement. As I sat at my desk, immersed in work for Cuero Online News, the sound of my front door jiggling caught my attention. Turning slightly, I saw my grandson’s friend, who had spent the night after their baseball game, trying to open the door.
I snapped at him—after all, it was nearly 2:00 AM, and the idea of anyone leaving the house at that hour was alarming. Prepared to reprimand him for trying to sneak out, I demanded to know what he was doing. But then he said something that stopped me cold: “I’m going outside to talk to the police officer.”
My focus sharpened instantly. Blocking him from opening the door further, I quickly assessed the situation. My office is just a few steps away from the entrance, meaning I am always aware of who comes and goes. The young boy had already cracked the door open, and instinctively, my mind raced—what if someone was posing as an officer, trying to lure him outside?
Then, I looked beyond him and saw the reality unfolding outside—four or maybe five police cars lined the street, their flashing lights illuminating my house. Two officers stood in my yard, one shining a flashlight directly into my face, despite my porch light being on. When I asked him to lower it, Officer Kuecker coldly informed me that the officer didn’t have to comply, refusing to adjust the blinding beam. The confrontation had begun.
Photo by Pat Trevino(Photo by Pat Trevino) Officers flashlight blinding my sight.
The officers stated they were searching for a suspect involved in a burglary at a nearby store, and that my grandson’s friend matched the description. I was stunned—these boys had been at a baseball game until late that evening, and I had been awake the entire time, working in my office. The 14-year-old guest had been upstairs on the balcony, talking on the phone, and there are no stairs from the balcony leading outside. If anyone had entered or exited my home, I would have known instantly.
(Photo by Pat Trevino)
Then, my son-in-law arrived, unaware of the chaos unfolding. Officers had already questioned him about who was inside, and he confirmed it was just the two boys who had played in the game until 10 PM. However, because I had previously said 9 or 9:30, they accused us of lying. Determined to clarify, my son-in-law offered to call the coach to verify the exact time.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Photo of Police Officer on the left side of property.
That was when a brief exchange took place between Officer Hernandez and my son-in-law—a tense yet measured discussion, free of raised voices or hostility, simply an attempt to clarify the situation. Then, without warning, another officer abruptly lifted his flashlight, aimed it directly at my son-in-law, and issued a stark accusation: “Are you threatening him?” demanded Officer Cantu, his voice cutting through the moment, his intent unmistakable.
Recognition hit me instantly—the same Officer Cantu who had failed to investigate a drunk driver who crashed into a telephone pole on my property a year or two earlier. That incident nearly cost my daughter and son-in-law their lives, and despite undeniable evidence—including footage from my neighbor’s security camera—Cantu had done nothing. The crash ripped all electrical wiring from my home, forcing me to pay over $2,000 in emergency repairs, because the city insisted the damage was on my property.
Photo by Pat Trevino – Leaving after I refused to allow officer to speak to a minor.
And now, once again, law enforcement was failing me—choosing intimidation over investigation.
They had surrounded my home with four or five patrol cars, treating my family like suspects. And why? Because all they had was a vague description—“a brown kid.”
Then came the final blow. “If it turns out they are involved, we will charge every adult here with interfering in an investigation—a felony,” Officer Cantu threatened.
The intimidation was undeniable. But I refused to yield.
As a homeowner, as a guardian of those boys, as someone who knew the truth—I stood my ground. I refused to let officers question a minor without parental consent, especially when the accusations had no foundation.
This encounter exposes deeper concerns—police conduct, racial profiling, and the abuse of authority within small communities. If officers can so easily threaten and intimidate innocent citizens instead of conducting thorough investigations, then who, exactly, are they protecting?
In Cuero, and in communities everywhere, we must ask—when does law enforcement cross the line from serving and protecting to intimidating and controlling?
Lieutenant Investigator Bethany Hobbs of the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office has achieved a significant milestone in her law enforcement career, graduating from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. This accomplishment places her among an elite group of officers nationwide, as less than 1% of law enforcement personnel are selected for this rigorous program.
The FBI National Academy is a ten-week course designed to enhance leadership, investigative techniques, and physical fitness among law enforcement professionals. Hobbs was chosen for the program after FBI agents recognized her potential during a local training session. She holds a master’s degree in criminal justice and has demonstrated exceptional skill in her field, notably playing a key role in recovering $300,000 in stolen funds from Nigerian cybercriminals in 2023.
(Contributed photo) Photo of Bethany McBride- Hobbs
Sheriff Carl Bowen praised Hobbs for her dedication and professionalism, stating that her selection for the academy is a testament to her commitment to excellence in law enforcement. The DeWitt County Commissioners Court approved funding to support her training, recognizing the value of the knowledge and expertise she would bring back to the department.
Hobbs has spoken about the importance of perseverance and balance in achieving success, emphasizing that true accomplishment comes from the determination to pursue both personal and professional goals.
Hobbs’ graduation from the FBI National Academy marks a proud moment for both the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office and the community she has served with dedication. Her commitment to excellence and leadership has set a new standard within the department, and her advanced training will undoubtedly strengthen local law enforcement efforts. As she steps into this next chapter, her expertise and unwavering dedication will continue to benefit the department and the citizens of DeWitt County for years to come.
