The Wonder of Ruby
Virginia S. G ilstrap, reporter/ managing editor
She tried to elude her adoring fans, but this year’s Ruby Begonia finally submitted to an audience at Saturday’s Rally for Ruby on Main Street.
An evening of kids playing under the pavilion, music and margaritas (or pizza) paused for the main event of selecting this year’s Ruby Begonia as Cuero’s representative in the 2025 Turkey Trot.
One of the two Rio Grande turkeys, who were vying for the post, had other ideas. The feathers of the winning gobbler are not clipped until she receives her title, so not once, but twice one contestant flew the coop.
Ruby’s 2025 team includes, from left, Handler Kevin Wolf, Captain Corbin Goebel, Coach Sherry Oakes, and Community Handler Jon Eric Rodriguez.
As Ruby’s handlers first released her highness, she took flight from the intersection of Main and Esplanade down Main Street to the library. Many turkey aficionados were on hand at the other end to retrieve the wayward bird, and it was a good indicator of her plucky spirit.
Then on the street course, she decided she would rather be on the porch top of the former Green Cow Ice Creamery. Again a Turkeyfest volunteer was able to approach the spirited bird and bring her down to the common level.
After the other candidate waddled like a turtle down Main, it was clear that Cuero had her Ruby.
Children and a few adults gathered around her to wonder at her features.
Ruby’s next appearance will be in full street-racing form in September as she competes with Worthington, Minnesota’s Paycheck in the first heat of the annual showdown. She may have to wait until October, however, to see her adoring fans back home at Turkeyfest.
Above left, Pedro Gonzalez contributed both Rio Grande turkeys for the rally. After the selection, Ruby admirers paid their respects. (Staff Photos)
