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Anthony Wayne Molnoskey – October 20, 1958 to April 24, 2025 (66)

Anthony Wayne Molnoskey, 66, of Amarillo, Texas passed away in peace on Thursday, April 24, 2025. He was born in Yoakum, Texas on October 20th, 1958, to Paul and Margaret (Pavelka) Molnoskey.

Shortly after graduating from Yoakum High School, Anthony joined the US Army, during which time he attained the rank of Sergeant.  While in the Army he served in the 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper as well as being a Green Beret and military instructor. He was presented several awards and medals during his 7 years of service and was honorably discharged.

He is survived by his daughter Maggie Spears (Charles) and two grandchildren, mother Margaret Molnoskey, as well as brothers Michael (Laurie) Molnoskey, and Christopher (Melanie) Molnoskey, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Molnoskey as well as his grandparents.

Private family services were held on Tuesday April 29, 2025, with a Rosary at 10:30 am followed by Funeral Service with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating.  Burial followed at Yoakum Restland Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St Joseph Catholic Church.

The Family would like to extend their appreciation to the VA Hospital staff in Amarillo, Texas for the excellent care provided Anthony in his final days.

Yoakum Bulldogs Tennis Team Takes District Championship Victory

The Yoakum Bulldogs have once again demonstrated their exceptional prowess on the tennis courts, capturing the coveted title of District Champions. Their extraordinary performance throughout the competition was a showcase of talent, determination, and teamwork, with players earning top honors across several categories.

Leading the charge was Isaac Martinez, who claimed 1st place in boys’ singles, displaying unwavering skill and perseverance in every match. Lane Zinke followed closely with an impressive 2nd place finish in boys’ singles, further reinforcing the strength of the Bulldogs’ lineup.

In doubles action, Griffin Ruppert and Santiago Huerta secured 2nd place in boys doubles, showcasing remarkable coordination and strategy on the court. Meanwhile, the team of Jesus Rivas and Zac Raz earned a well-deserved 3rd place in boys’ doubles, adding to the Bulldogs’ outstanding achievements.

Special recognition goes to Coach Mendez for his guidance and leadership, which were instrumental in the team’s success. His dedication not only shaped the players’ skills but also captured the triumphant moments that defined this season.

This latest victory reflects the hard work and dedication of the players and underscores their commitment to excellence. The Yoakum Bulldogs have represented their community with immense pride and sportsmanship, setting a high standard for success.

Way to go, Bulldogs! Yoakum Proud!

Michael David Pokluda – March 1, 1956 to April 27, 2025 (69)

SHINER: Michael David Pokluda, age 69, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025. He was born March 1, 1956, in Shiner to Steve and Mary Kalivoda Pokluda.  He was a self-employed carpenter for over 50 years continuing the business with his brothers that was started by their father. Staying busy doing woodwork, projects with his grandsons, building things and restoring old cars was his passion.
Michael was active in the community being involved in several organizations. He was on the board of directors for the Shiner Game & Fish League and served the citizens of Shiner as a member of the Volunteer Fire Department for 35 years. One of his most treasured past times was organizing the Shiner Volunteer Fire Department Annual Auto show which just completed its 15th year. Early each morning he would open Howard’s and make the coffee before playing dominos with his buddies. Michael was a mentor to many and always accepted a challenge when it came to repairing or building something new. His motto was “do it right or don’t do it at all.”  In January of 2022 he “retired” but didn’t fully understand the meaning of retirement continuing to do small jobs for many people.
Survivors: wife, Karen Zimmerman Pokluda; daughter, Kimberly Zaruba (Randy); son, Brian Pokluda (Michele); grandchildren, Kyle Zaruba, Blake Zaruba and Jax Pokluda; brothers, Eugene Pokluda (Barbara) and Patrick Pokluda; sister-in-law, Georgie Pokluda.
Preceded in death by his parents, brother, Daniel Pokluda and a sister-in-law, Darlene Pokluda.
A Celebration of Life service will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 2, 2025, at Shiner Lutheran Church with Pastor Chris Heinold and Pastor Daniel Volkmann officiating.  Memorial contributions may be given to Shiner Lutheran Church or Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.

In Light of Recent Events: Dina Menn Responds


Editor’s Note:

In response to the recent article titled “A Battle for the Top: Unpacking Yorktown’s Valedictorian Debate”, Dina Menn has provided the following statement. Ms. Menn wishes to address claims made during the public comment portion of a Yorktown ISD school board meeting, as well as concerns regarding the portrayal of events in the article. Her statement is published here in its entirety, exactly as submitted.


I was recently contacted by a newspaper regarding Sydnie Krueger’s public allegations. Sydnie spoke during the public comment portion of a Yorktown ISD school board meeting, where she attributed her Salutatorian ranking to my actions. Virginia Gilstrap, who attended that meeting and later wrote an article, should have taken the time to verify the facts before publishing, as there are always two sides to every story.  It’s important to remember that anyone can attend a board meeting and make public comments, even if those statements are untrue or defamatory.

As a professional, I am committed to maintaining confidentiality and will not discuss Sydnie’s academic record, course selections, or details from meetings with her and her parents.

Information regarding course offerings—including Honors, AP, OnRamps, Victoria College Dual Credit classes—and the GPA point system has always been provided to students and parents. Additionally, any schedule changes require the completion of a schedule change form signed by a parent.

I consistently encourage students and their families to visit colleges and meet with academic advisors to review degree plans. This helps ensure that any dual credit courses taken in high school align with their post-secondary goals. Given the variety of colleges, degree plans, and career pathways available, I strongly advocate for students to have ongoing discussions with both their parents and college advisors to make informed decisions about life after high school.

Dina Menn


Disclaimer:

Cuero Online News is an independent publication and is not affiliated with The Cuero Record or its sister paper, The Yorktown News-View. These publications operate entirely separate and maintain distinct editorial teams and content policies.


6th Annual Hometown Harvest: Farm to Table Family Style Dining in the middle of Main

 

Cuero, TX – On Monday, April 28, 2025, Cuero’s Main Street came alive with the vibrant celebration of the 6th Annual Hometown Harvest on Main. From 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, attendees enjoyed an unforgettable evening filled with farm-fresh food, live music, and community connections.

The event featured a farm-to-table, family-style meal service, showcasing the finest local ingredients and culinary creativity. Guests indulged in a delectable menu that included Texas beef, stuffed turkey breast, fresh salad and sides, bread, and desserts. To enhance the dining experience, the meals were perfectly paired with a selection of beer and wine.

Entertainment was in full swing with live music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Food demonstrations offered attendees the opportunity to learn from local culinary experts, who shared creative ways to incorporate fresh, locally sourced flavors into everyday cooking.

Organized by Cuero Main Street, the event underscored the town’s strong commitment to supporting local agriculture and fostering community engagement. Proceeds from this year’s celebration will benefit De Witt 4-H, De Witt County GO TEXAN, and Friends of De Witt County Children, further showcasing Cuero’s dedication to uplifting the community.

Guests had the unique opportunity to savor Cuero’s best offerings while enjoying the camaraderie of neighbors and visitors alike. Hometown Harvest on Main proved to be an extraordinary evening that celebrated the richness of Cuero’s heritage and the vibrant spirit of its downtown district.

Cuero Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser: Get Involved

CUERO, TX – The Cuero Volunteer Fire Department is gearing up for its annual fundraiser, set to take place on June 20-21. This highly anticipated event promises to be bigger than ever, following last year’s incredible turnout with a record-breaking 112 teams. With this year’s participation expected to grow, the event will be a sanctioned International Barbeque Cookers Association and Champions Barbecue Alliance State Championship.

The department is seeking sponsors to help make this event a success. Whether you’re interested in cooking, volunteering, judging entries, or exploring sponsorship opportunities, there’s a role for everyone to contribute to the community and the cause. All funds raised will go toward the upkeep and purchase of vital fire and rescue equipment to protect Cuero and surrounding areas.

Join the Cuero VFD in making this fundraiser a memorable and impactful event. Donations can be made via PayPal at CueroVFD.

For more information or to get involved, please contact the Cuero Volunteer Fire Department. Facebook Cuero Volunteer Fire Department

Upcoming Event: Cinco de Mayo Purse Bingo

CUERO, TX – Get ready for a festive evening of fun and prizes! The Guadalupanos invite you to join them for a Cinco de Mayo Purse Bingo event on Friday May 2nd at 6 PM, taking place at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hall, located at 202 Graham Street in Cuero.

This exciting event features bingo games with fabulous purse prizes, along with a delicious meal of Carne guisada served with rice and beans. Tickets are available for $40 per person and include dinner, drinks, and adult beverages. Don’t wait—tickets can be purchased at the church office or contact anyone listed in the links below.  Make sure to secure your tickets early!

Bring your friends and family for a fun-filled evening of food, drinks, and bingo while celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the community. Mark your calendars for May 2nd and join the Guadalupanos for an unforgettable night!

(1) Facebook Roseann and David Varela

(1) Facebook Michael Ruiz

(1) Facebook Mary Jane Ruiz

(1) Facebook Sabrina Varela

(1) Facebook Mary Clark

(1) Facebook Samantha Solis

(1) Facebook Jon Eric Rodriguez

Southwest Engineers Celebrates Grand Opening in Cuero, Texas

On Thursday, April 24th, Southwest Engineers hosted its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new location, 1505 N Esplanade, Cuero, Texas. The event, held at 2:30 PM, marked an exciting milestone for the company and its commitment to serving the local community.

Guests were welcomed with light refreshments and the opportunity to participate in a door prize drawing, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The gathering was a perfect blend of celebration and networking, offering attendees a chance to connect with the Southwest Engineers team and learn more about their vision and services.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony highlighted the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the engineering industry. Southwest Engineers expressed gratitude to the Cuero community for their support and enthusiasm in celebrating this special occasion.

With this new chapter officially underway, Southwest Engineers looks forward to contributing to the growth and development of Cuero and beyond.

$1 Million Texas Lottery Scratch-Off Ticket Sold in Yoakum

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Yoakum, Texas—A local convenience store has become the site of a life-changing event after a Texas Lottery scratch-off ticket sold at Snappy’s Market #4 produced a $1 million winner. The lucky ticket, part of a popular Texas Lottery scratch-off game, was purchased at the store located at 611 U.S. Hwy 77A in Yoakum.

The winner, a resident of nearby Shiner, has chosen to remain anonymous, in accordance with Texas Lottery guidelines. This remarkable prize marks the third of four top prizes awarded in this particular scratch-off game.

For Snappy’s Market #4, the winning sale is a moment of pride and celebration. As for the mystery winner, they now join a distinguished group of Texans whose lives have been forever changed by the Texas Lottery’s exciting games.

With only one top prize remaining in this scratch-off game, Texas Lottery players might feel a renewed sense of hope and thrill, knowing that life-changing winnings could still be within reach.

Carol Edwards Chumchal – December 18, 1945 to April 23, 2025 (79)

SHINER: Carol Edwards Chumchal, 79, passed away peacefully in her home on April 23, 2025, following a lengthy struggle with cancer.  Born Carol Laraine on December 18, 1945, to Victor James and Edith Gwendoline Edwards in the United Kingdom, she would have celebrated her 80th birthday this year.

Carol grew up in England where she attended school alongside her sister, Gillian Dawn.  In her teenage years she met Freddie James Chumchal while he was serving abroad with the United States Air Force.  Carol and Freddie married in England where they welcomed their first child, Darren Paul.

The three moved to Texas, home to Freddie, where Carol would learn to acclimate to a new culture and meet new family and friends.  After settling in Yoakum, Amy Beth was adopted in 1974.  Carol worked at Tex Tan for several years while living in town and made many friendships that would last her lifetime.  Carol and Freddie eventually built a home on their land where they farmed and would spend their remaining days.

Carol’s greatest joy could be found in conversation, friendship, companionship, and laughter.  She loved her family and her faithful friends dearly.

Carol is survived by her son, Darren Chumchal and his wife, Lori, of Lake Jackson, TX and their three daughters, Laurel, Sam, and Corey, and their children. Her daughter, Amy Chumchal DeMarque and her husband David reside in Dallas, TX with their two children, James and Annabeth.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Freddie James Chumchal, her parents, and her sister, Gill Whitby.

Deacon Joe Machacek officiating. Burial at Shiner Catholic Cemetery.