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Yoakum ISD welcomes new director of bands

June 11, 2025

YOAKUM, Texas — Yoakum Independent School District has named Victor M. Posada as its new director of bands, bringing years of experience and a passion for music education to the Bulldog family.

Posada was born in Eagle Pass, Texas, and developed a love for music at CC Winn High School. He later attended the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in music education.

His career began at Crystal City High School, where he served as percussion director. Under his leadership, the percussion section won multiple Best Drumline awards and advanced to the State Marching Band Contest in 2016. His students excelled in ATSSB Region auditions, earning placement in region bands, and soloists and ensembles received Division 1 ratings at UIL contests.

From 2018 to 2021, Posada returned to Eagle Pass as percussion director at Eagle Pass High School. His percussion section continued to earn Best Drumline awards, produce TMEA region qualifiers, and excel in UIL and Texas State Solo & Ensemble contests. His team was on track for a TECA state championship before the COVID-19 pandemic.

From 2021 to 2025, Posada was director of bands at Crystal City ISD, where his program won multiple awards, including Best Woodwinds, Brass, Guard, Percussion and Overall Band in Class 3A. His bands earned sweepstakes ratings, reached the area finals in 2022 and 2024, and produced multiple ATSSB region qualifiers as well as four ATSSB all-staters between 2022 and 2025.

Posada remains dedicated to fostering musical excellence and inspiring students. He now looks forward to leading Yoakum ISD’s band program and building on its strong tradition in music education.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Norelly, and their dog, Luna, as well as composing and arranging music.

The Yoakum community is excited to welcome Posada and looks forward to his leadership in the years ahead.

Dewitt County 4-H Senior Livestock Judging Team Wins State Title, Heads to Nationals

June 6, 2025

The Dewitt County 4-H Livestock Judging Project’s senior team has claimed victory at the state contest, earning the top spot and securing their place at the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) in Louisville, Kentucky this November.

The team showcased their expertise across multiple categories, achieving high rankings in several divisions. In swine judging, the group secured second place, with standout performances from Wyatt, who placed second, and Percy, who finished fourth in individual hog rankings. Their beef team emerged victorious, claiming first place, with Wyatt earning the high point cattle award, while Percy placed sixth

Sheep judging proved to be another area of success, with the team earning third place, while Sawyer ranked tenth individually. The group excelled in the reasons category, securing the first-place team ranking, with Wyatt taking the top individual spot, followed by Percy in fifth place.

Overall, individual placements reflected the team’s strong performance, with Wyatt achieving third-high individual and Percy earning ninth-high individual honors.

With their state victory, the Dewitt County 4-H senior livestock judging team now sets their sights on the national stage at NAILE, where they will compete against top teams from across the country. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the program and demonstrates the team’s dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence in livestock evaluation.

As preparations for the national contest begin, the team continues to hone their judging abilities in anticipation of representing Texas at one of the most prestigious livestock competitions in the country.

JoAnn Kennedy Brumley -January 2, 1940 to June 10, 2025 (85)

JoAnn Kennedy Brumley, 85 of Dinero, TX passed away on Tuesday, June 10th, 2025, at 11:00AM.  She was born January 2nd, 1940, in Edgar, TX to the late Marvin and Lora Collins Kennedy. She graduated from Cuero High School in 1958 and went to Victoria Junior College.  She attended First Baptist Church in Cuero, TX where she accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.  She married Ken Brumley in 1958, and they resided in Victoria and Gregory-Portland, TX.  She worked as an administrative assistant at Gregory-Portland and Victoria I.S.D and retired after 25 years of service.

Ken and Jo Ann loved camping and traveled most of the U.S. in their travel trailer, but their favorite vacationing spot was the Frio River, and they vacationed there every summer with their three children and grandchildren.

She loved reading especially her Bible, listening to Christian and country music, playing games, and most of all spending time with her family. She loved her 7 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.  She was a member of First McKinney Baptist Church in McKinney, TX.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Kenneth Brumley of 53 years; sisters, Lillian Coppedge of Cuero, TX, Mildred Davis of Houston, TX, Violet Corley of Laurel, MI, Nina Volk of Pierre, SD and Ruth Ahrendt of Victoria, TX and brothers; W.P. Kennedy of Imperial Beach, CA and Thomas Rex Kennedy of Milano, TX.

She is survived by her son, Alan Brumley (Shana); her daughters, Allyson Cissna (Jay), Andrea Lauper (Brian); seven grandchildren, Alyssa Cooley (Daniel), Kaitlyn Mullins (Kendall), Lindsey Murray (Chris), Sarah Zabel (Travis), David Zabel (Kalie), Brooke Trickett (Charles) and Lauren Lauper (Trey); nine great-grandchildren, Quinn, Mabry and Hallie Murray, Avery, Erin and Luke Trickett, Caroline and Britton Cooley and Birdie Jo Mullins; sister-in-law, Janice Beard; brother-in-law, Billy Brumley of Vidor, TX and many nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held Saturday, June 14th, 2025, 9:00 A.M. at Freund Funeral Home.  Funeral services will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Tim Williams officiating.  Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include David Zabel, Chris Murray, Daniel Cooley, Charles Trickett, Kendall Mullins, Greg Yanta and Tim Yanta.

Honorary Pallbearers include Jimmy Coppedge and Larry Coppedge.

Memorial Contributions may be made to The American Heart Association Research or American Lung Association.

Local First Responders Receive Specialized Well Control Emergency Training

JUNE 9, 2025

CUERO, TX – First responders from multiple agencies gathered for an intensive Well Control Emergency Response Training session hosted by Devon Energy and Wild Well Control at the Devon Energy Cuero Field Office in DeWitt County.

Personnel from the Lavaca County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, as well as members of the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department and Sweet Home Volunteer Fire Department, participated in the training designed to enhance preparedness for potential oil and gas well control incidents.

The session reinforced best practices and response protocols, ensuring that emergency personnel are equipped with the latest knowledge and strategies to handle well control situations safely and effectively. By refining techniques and emphasizing safety measures, the training aimed to strengthen the community’s overall emergency response capabilities.

Local officials expressed their appreciation to Devon Energy and Wild Well Control for providing this essential training, underscoring its significance in safeguarding both first responders and the broader community.

This collaborative effort highlights the ongoing commitment of emergency services to maintain readiness and protect residents in the event of an industrial emergency.

Yorktown FFA Cultivates Leadership, Community Service, and Career Success

YORKTOWN, TX – The Yorktown FFA continues to foster premier leadership, personal growth, and career success among its students, encouraging participation in leadership contests, service events, and hands-on projects that strengthen career skills.

This commitment to excellence was recently demonstrated through the outstanding achievements of two local students in the Texas FFA State Degree Check. Rylan Rau earned a Gold ranking for his Agricultural Services proficiency application, securing an impressive second place finish in the state. His dedication to agricultural services and strong work ethic helped him excel in this competitive field.

Raylan Rau
Garrett Menn

Meanwhile, Garrett Menn received a Silver ranking for his proficiency application in Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication, placing in the Top 12 of Texas. His skills and expertise in agricultural mechanics underscore his dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

Both students’ applications were recognized as Area Winners, reflecting their commitment to excellence in agricultural studies. Their achievements stand as proof of their hard work, perseverance, and dedication, making their community proud.

Yorktown FFA continues to inspire and support students as they pursue leadership opportunities, serve their community, and advance their careers in agriculture. Congratulations to Rylan Rau and Garrett Menn for their exceptional accomplishments, which set a high standard for future agricultural leaders in Texas.

Longtime Dietary Aide Honored for 32 Years of Service at Whispering Oaks Rehab and Nursing

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.

Australian Retired Officer Visits Yoakum Police Department for Patch Exchange

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.

SUMMER STAYCATION FREE POOL & SPLASHPAD DAY JUNE 12, 2025

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

SUMMER STAYCATION FREE SNOWCONES @ ALEXANDER PARK WEDNESDAY JUNE 18, 2025

AT ALEXANDER PARK SPLASH PAD ON JUNE 18TH FROM 5:00PM-7:00PM FOR A FREE SMALL SNOWCONE (ONE PER PERSON).