Soil and Water Conservation Districts in Area III will elect a member to the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The election will be held at 5:30 p.m. in Cuero, Texas at the Friar Ag Center– Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building.
Area III is located in the Gulf Coast and South Texas Plains region of Texas. The Area is home to 46 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) that service 50 counties.
The current TSSWCB member for Area III is José Dodier Jr. of Zapata, Texas. Dodier has been a member of the TSSWCB since May 2005.
“Since its beginning, the TSSWCB has been governed by five board members. Each respective board member is elected in a convention type election by delegates from SWCDs within the state district that the member resides. However, with the enactment of S.B. 1828 by the 78th Legislature, two Governor appointees also serve on the TSSWCB to create a seven-member board,” said Rex Isom, TSSWCB Executive Director.
Elections occur annually to comply with the soil conservation laws of Texas. The elections are held in state district conventions and TSSWCB members serve two-year staggered terms. Since this is an odd numbered year, TSSWCB member elections are being held in Areas I, III and V.
Elected State Board members must be 18 years of age or older, hold title to farmland or ranchland, and be actively engaged in farming or ranching. The Governor appointees must be actively engaged in the business of farming, animal husbandry, or other business related to agriculture and wholly or partly owns or leases land used in connection with that business. They, however, may not be a member of the board of directors of a conservation district.
Established in 1939, TSSWCB administers Texas’ soil and water conservation law and delivers coordinated natural resource conservation programs through the state’s 216 SWCDs. Additionally, TSSWCB is the lead agency for planning, implementing, and managing programs for preventing and abating agricultural and silvicultural nonpoint sources of water pollution. TSSWCB also works to ensure that the state’s network of 2,000 flood control dams is protecting lives and property by providing operation, maintenance, and structural repair grants to local government sponsors.
“In short, the services and programs provided by the TSSWCB target rural Texas farmers and ranchers through SWCDs, but the results of these services benefit all Texans,” said Isom.
April 18, 2025 – Today, communities across the nation recognize the dedication and sacrifice of electrical lineworkers in honor of National Lineman Appreciation Day. These hardworking men and women risk their lives daily to ensure a steady and reliable power supply, facing dangerous conditions to restore electricity in times of crisis.
Often the first responders when storms or natural disasters strike, linemen work tirelessly to repair damaged infrastructure, keeping homes, businesses, and hospitals running. Their commitment to safety, innovation, and service remains the backbone of modern civilization, allowing us to enjoy uninterrupted access to power.
As we celebrate this day, we extend our deepest gratitude to the linemen who serve with unwavering determination and resilience. Their contributions are vital to the well-being of our communities, and today, we proudly recognize their invaluable work.
For those wishing to show appreciation, consider thanking a lineman, sharing a message of gratitude, or learning more about the challenges they face in their profession. Their dedication deserves to be honored not just today, but every day.
Democrat James Talarico has criticized Governor Greg Abbott’s claims that vouchers are popular among Texans, alleging that Abbott resorted to threats and intimidation to sway lawmakers against an amendment proposing a statewide vote on the issue. The Texas House recently passed Senate Bill 2, a $1 billion private school voucher program, which has sparked significant opposition and debate among voters.
While proponents, including Abbott, have championed the bill as a win for school choice, critics argue that it undermines public education and fails to address deeper systemic issues. A.J. Louderback, a supporter of the bill, emphasized amendments designed to safeguard the program, such as public audits, stricter residency checks, and protections for homeschooling families and religious education. However, many voters and lawmakers remain dissatisfied, asserting that the bill prioritizes private schooling at the expense of public schools.
The bill’s passage coincided with the approval of a $7.7 billion package to boost public school funding, which critics claim falls short of addressing budget deficits and inflation. The voucher program, which allows families to use taxpayer dollars for private schooling, has been met with skepticism, particularly regarding its implications for rural and underserved communities.
This divisive legislation has left Texans questioning its impact on the state’s education system. Many are calling for a stronger focus on public education reform rather than diverting resources to private institutions.
YOAKUM: Jeanette Edgar, 83, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025. She was born August 2, 1941, to Elo and Henrietta (Bolech) Jahn.
Most commonly known as “Janet”, she was married to her beloved C.A. Edgar for 64 years until his passing in January 2024. Both C.A. and Janet made the decision many years ago to donate their body to science at the time of death. When C.A. died, Janet followed his wishes, and his body went to Baylor College of Medicine. Her daughters, Kathy and Jacqueline have followed Janet’s wishes and donated her body to Baylor.
Janet retired from Tandy Brands after 30 years of service. Janet loved working in her yard and especially loved decorating her yard and home for Christmas. She was an excellent seamstress and crocheted many beautiful afghans that have been passed onto to her family. She has lived in the same neighborhood for over 60 years, and everyone was bonded like family. She was one of the last remaining from the neighborhood and it will never be the same. May the legacy of acceptance and friendship be carried on from all those who have gone before us.
Survivors are her daughters, Kathy Jurica and husband Harvey and Jacqueline Vesely; grandchildren, Jessica Poole (Glen), Melissa Matter (Jeremy), Vanessa Gann (Tod), Lyssa Oliver (Darrell), Christa Richter (Scott) and Deidra Vesely (Meghan); 7 great-grandchildren, Jonah Poole, Asher Matter, Colson Poole, Jesse Matter, Parker Gann, Rhett Richter and Rylan Richter; and her special fur baby, Stewie; sister, Shirley Grubert and brother, Leo Jahn and wife Cynthia; numerous extended family, nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her parents, Elo and Henrietta Jahn, husband C.A.
Edgar.Memorials contributions may be given to Dorothy O’Conner Pet Adoptions Center, 135 Progress Drive, Victoria, Texas 77905
SHINER: Alfred “Fred” Alvin Chumchal, passed away Monday, April 14, 2025 at his home at the age of 92, due to heart failure. He was born October 21, 1932, in Gonzales to John Anton and Christina (Slovacek) Chumchal. He completed the 8th grade at Kokernot School before returning home to help his aging parents with chores, egg picking, cotton, making molasses and feeding the animals.
Fred married Ida “Puppe” Louise Schierschwitz on June 21, 1955, in the Shiner Lutheran Church, the second marriage to be performed in the then “new” church. Together they were blessed with three daughters, Faith Ann, Hope Diane and Charity JoAnn. Puppe succumbed to colon cancer in 1985. Later, Fred entered into a committed relationship with Virgie (Shulak) Barta on July 24, 1989, and with Virgie came four daughters, Connie, Tammy, Bridgette and Bernadette. Virgie succumbed to cancer in 2024.
Fred’s career began at TexTan in Yoakum, where he worked for about 13 years in various positions. On weekends, he worked maintenance at the Shiner Nursing Home and eventually left TexTan to become the maintenance supervisor at the Nursing Home, where he was known for his many skills, van driver, barbecue master, and fixer of all things broken. Fred’s dedication kept him at the nursing home for 27 years until his retirement in 1992. Even in retirement, Fred remained active, using his commercial driver’s license to continue serving the community by driving the ambulance for Shiner Emergency Services and delivering Meals on Wheels throughout Lavaca County, where he enjoyed meeting and visiting new friends.
Fred’s charm was legendary. Known as a “charmer” by all who met him, especially women, he had an uncanny ability to make others feel special. His quick wit, warm smile, and effortless charisma lit up every room, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His playful humor, heartfelt conversations, and knack for remembering the little details about people endeared him to all. Fred’s passions included cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, gardening, and barbecuing, especially his famous chicken, for which he shared his sop recipe with many. He enjoyed country drives to check on oil wells, cattle, and fields. His nightly ritual of half a can of Seagram’s Jamaican Me Happy brought him quiet joy. Fred’s sense of humor remained intact throughout his life, evidenced by his love of lighthearted jokes, including his infamous farting Santa doll.
He is survived by his daughters, Faith Darilek (Ron) of Shiner, Hope Baron (Senen) of Houston, Charity Kneifel (Byron) of Dripping Springs and Virgie’s daughters, Connie Komoll (William) of Gonzales, Tammy Tatum (Heath) of Kyle, Bridgette Heiman (Dave Petteys) of Shiner and Bernadette Hodges of Shiner; grandchildren, Nolan Darilek of Austin, Johanna Darilek of Clear Lake, Sierra Kneifel-Sohutskay (David) of Minnesota, as well as Virgie’s grandchildren, Brittany Tousek, Justin Komoll, Taylor, Tyler and Ryan Tatom, Harley Petteys and Bradon, Clayton and Gracie Baker. He is also survived by cherished friends and neighbors including Debra Calhoun, Lillie Krebs and Joe Mesa.
Fred is preceded in death by his parents, his two wives, son-in-law, Jeff Hodges; and his siblings: John, Joseph (Christine Rebecek), Genevieve (Elwood Smith), Albert (Mary Picha), William, Louis (Filomena Polasek), Julius (Margaret Zbranek), Bettie (Benny Vavricka), Richard (Evelyn Fehner), Edwin (Gladys Seidenberger), Edna (Robert Peterek), Isabella (Adolph Schaefer), Rosie (Johnnie Hundl), and Felix (Jeanette Boedeker). He was the last surviving child of John and Christina Chumchal’s 15 children.
Burial at Shiner Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Ron Darilek, Nolan Darilek, Senen Baron, Byron Kneifel, Kenny Chumchal and John Hundl.
Honorary pallbearers are Victor Chumchal, Joe Mesa, Elvis Brooks, Lillie and Brandy and all the caregivers and Crown Hospice team who cared for him.
Memorials may be given to Crown Hospice or charity of your choice.
Fred will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather and friend who lived life with a kind heart and open hand. His life’s work was centered on making the world a better place, one kind gesture at a time. The family appreciates all the loving care and support offered to Fred on his journey through his life.
YOAKUM: Lois Mae (Brenek) Taylor, age 88, left all the suffering and pain of this temporary world, and entered eternally into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, April 14, 2025. She always knew and believed there to be a place for her in his eternal love and light because she praised him without fail. She can now finally rest and be by his side eternally.
Lois was born March 10, 1937, in Sweet Home to James and Katherine Brenek.
As a girl she would help her family pick cotton and Charleston Grey watermelons. As an adult she loved canning, gardening and watching Fox News. From a younger adult all the way into her 50’s and 60’s, she worked many places, to many to list them all as there wasn’t much she couldn’t do. She worked at the bus station back when Yoakum had one, Meals on Wheels delivering fresh prepared hot meals to seniors in the Yoakum area and then for Tandy Brands in their belt assembly department. She always loved to sit out in the yard or on the porch in the evenings when the breeze would blow and talk with the Lord as well as her grandkids and all their friends. Every morning she’d sit at the kitchen table very early before anyone else was up, when it was dark outside and drink her instant coffee and read her bible. Her bible had so many scribbles, notes and highlights that only she could read the actual text anymore. The only bottled water she’d drink was Ozarka.
Survivors: grandsons, Leonard Lopez (Rebecca) and Shawn David Lopez (Alexandra); great-grandchildren from Shawn and Alex–Emily, Baylie, Samuel, Spencer and Silas & great-grandchildren from Leonard and Rebecca–Autumn and Jordyn; sister, Hattie Kvinta and her family.
Preceded in death by: parents; husband O.C. Taylor; daughter, Sandy Worden; son, Mike Williams; grandson, Joshua Worden; sisters, Nannie Power and Betty Fitch; brother, Franklin Brenek.
Graveside service 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at Yoakum Oak Grove Cemetery.
The family wants to thank everyone who was involved in Lois’ life in a positive way. She loved us all and forever will.
Cuero residents eagerly seized the chance to attend a non-partisan Candidate Forum. The well-attended forum was held Wednesday, April 16, at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Park Clubhouse on 201 Harmon Drive. Attendees heard directly from local candidates running for the Hospital Board, City Council, and School Board. The forum provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to ask questions, engage with the candidates, and gain deeper insights into the issues affecting their small community.
In a refreshing contrast to the discord often seen in larger city governments or among contentious politicians, Cuero’s candidates demonstrated respect for one another and their opponents throughout the forum. They adhered to the allotted response times, fostering an atmosphere of civility and professionalism. This approach not only encouraged meaningful dialogue but also empowers voters to make informed decisions as they prepare to cast their ballots in the upcoming May 3, 2025, election.
The forum was hosted by the Cuero Chamber of Commerce, The Cuero Record, and the De Witt Lavacca County Democratic Women. Angie Cuellar, Chamber of Commerce Director gave an introduction, Maggie Cromeen Executive Director of the Cuero Deveopment Corporation was the moderator and Sara Blain with the Chamber was the timekeeper. The forum was praised for its nonpartisan and organized approach.
Photo by Pat Trevino
The evening began with the Cuero City Council race, featuring three candidates vying for two at-large positions. District 1 and District 4 city council members, Shannon Henson and Tony Allen will be on the May 3, 2025, ballot unopposed, for seats they currently hold.
Candidate Adam Arroyo is an educator and coach at Cuero ISD. He is currently serving as a Councilman. He was appointed in June 2024 as a Councilmember At-Large to complete the term left vacant by Emil Garza, who transitioned to the role of Mayor of Cuero. Joining Arroyo in the race are Russell Mobley and Charles Tounley, both eager to bring their visions to the council.
Adam Arroyo highlighted his experience serving on the City Council, noting that, he has gained firsthand knowledge of council operations. He explained that decisions are made collectively after thorough review of agenda materials. Arroyo also shared that the city has successfully secured approximately $8.4 million in grants, which come with specific stipulations and must be used for designated projects. He emphasized the importance of continuously seeking out new grants and funding opportunities to support Cuero’s development and infrastructure needs.
Photo by Pat Trevino
Russell Mobley shared his vision of preserving Cuero’s charm while enhancing the quality of life for underserved areas. He expressed strong support for initiatives focused on streamlining the permit process and assisting small businesses. A recurring theme in his remarks was his commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity, with a particular emphasis on addressing the needs of underserved areas in town—a point he highlighted multiple times.
Photo by Pat Trevino
Charles Tounley retired from Texas Gas Services after 33 years of service. With 25 years of experience in community engagement, he has served on multiple boards and committees, contributing to local initiatives. Tounley envisions Cuero growing to a population of around 10,000, emphasizing the need to bring high-quality jobs to the area. He advocates for attracting industries that manufacture products locally—goods that can be shipped elsewhere—to reduce the city’s reliance on state and federal funding. His approach prioritizes economic self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.
The forum then shifted focus to the candidates for the De Witt Hospital District Board of Trustees. Pedro Gonzalez, a professional engineer with decades of experience in managing large-scale projects, budgets, and facilities, highlighted his extensive expertise as a key asset for the role. A Cuero resident for five years, Gonzalez shared that the hospital was one of the factors that impressed him enough to settle in the area. He emphasized the importance of improving communication and keeping the public well-informed about developments within the district. Gonzalez also outlined his priorities, which include ensuring top-notch services, managing costs effectively, and planning for necessary capital expenditures to maintain fully functional facilities.
Photo by Pat Trevino
Faye Sheppard, a seasoned healthcare professional and attorney with over five decades of experience, also addressed the audience. Currently serving as Vice-Chairman of the Board, Sheppard emphasized her dedication to strengthening healthcare services in the community. She emphasized her dedication to being a responsible steward of the hospital’s mission, values, and resources. Her focus is on ensuring the hospital operates efficiently while delivering the highest quality healthcare to the community.
Photo by Pat Trevino
Sheppard seeks re-election and hopes to continue her impactful service on the Board, advocating for accessible, high-quality healthcare for all residents, regardless of their ethnicity or background. She emphasized her commitment to ensuring that every individual receives the best care the hospital can provide, reinforcing her dedication to equitable and comprehensive healthcare services within the community.
Martin Leske is seeking re-election as hospital trustee, bringing a strong academic and professional background to the role. He earned dual degrees in Finance and Economics from Texas Tech University in 2004, followed by an MBA in 2016. During his tenure, the foundation’s endowment tripled, contributing over $500,000 toward hospital improvements, including education, equipment, and capital expenditures.
Photo by Pat Trevino
As a Hospital Trustee, Leske has prioritized maintaining the hospital’s financial stability, recruiting and retaining top medical personnel, and ensuring access to high-quality healthcare for all residents. He emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges through strategic problem-solving, focusing on people, processes, and communication to meet the community’s needs effectively.
The final segment featured school board candidate. Sean Douglas presented his platform, while Mary Jane Henson was unable to attend due to a family bereavement. Despite her absence, the forum maintained its momentum, showcasing the dedication of all involved.
Douglas’ platform focused on several key priorities:
Strengthening Education Programs: Promoting modern, inclusive teaching methods and extra-curricular programs to better prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
Enhancing Community Engagement: Ensuring open communication between the school district, parents, teachers, and local leaders to address pressing concerns collaboratively.
Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency: Advocating for prudent budget management to maximize resources while holding district leadership accountable.
Photo by Pat Trevino
Douglas emphasizes that his candidacy is rooted in his belief that every student deserves a safe, well-resourced learning environment that cultivates both academic excellence and personal growth.
As the event transitioned between candidates—starting with those for council, followed by the hospital board, and finally the school board—there was a brief intermission during which attendees mingled, chatted with candidates, and connected with others in the crowd. Throughout the evening, candidates captivated the audience with thoughtful responses to both prepared and public questions. Light refreshments were served, adding to the welcoming atmosphere and encouraging conversation among attendees. The event underscored the significance of prioritizing candidates’ visions over party affiliations, serving as a shining example of civility and mutual respect.
As Cuero looks to the future, the forum underscored the community’s commitment to progress and collaboration. With candidates offering diverse perspectives and solutions, the event provided a valuable opportunity for residents to make informed decisions ahead of the elections. Forums like this play a vital role in promoting democracy.
Juanita “Janie” Colunga Morin Zelinger, 79, of Cuero passed away Monday, April 14, 2025. She was born March 23, 1946 in Rio Hondo to Paciano and Marie Colunga Morin. She married Charles A. Zelinger on July 22, 1983 in Rio Hondo, Texas. She enjoyed fishing, being around her family and going to church.
She is survived by her sons, Pedro Garza III and Ruben Garza; sister, Becky Molnar; brother, Paciano Morin III; grandchildren, Christina Garza, Pedro Garza IV and Jacob Porter; great-grandchildren, Andrew Porter and many others.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of twenty-three years, Charles; daughter, Linda Porter; sisters, Connie Morin and Frances Berronez and brothers, Paciano Aden Morin Jr. and Robert Berronez.
Cuero, Tx April 7, 2025Cuero residents came together for an open-house workshop designed to shape the future of their community. The event, provided a platform for discussions, brainstorming, and sharing insights on ways to enhance Cuero as a place to live, work, play, and grow.
Locals had the opportunity to voice their ideas and contribute to meaningful conversations about the town’s development. Organizers encouraged participation, ensuring that a diverse range of perspectives were heard in this important initiative.
For those who were unable to attend in person, an online survey was made available in both English and Spanish, allowing residents to provide input at their convenience. This accessible option ensured that all community members had a chance to contribute their thoughts, regardless of their schedules.
The collaborative effort aimed to pave the way for a thriving Cuero, reflecting the vision and aspirations of its residents. With strong participation and engagement, the event marked a significant step toward lasting change and progress for the community.
If you were not able to attend the in-person workshop, you can still provide your input to help shape the future of Cuero! Click the link below to respond. https://arcg.is/1DH8qD0
