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        <title><![CDATA[ Latest articles - DeWitt County Today ]]></title>
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        <lastBuildDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:13 -0500</lastBuildDate><item>
            <title><![CDATA[Cuero Regiotnal Hospital recognized for excellence in stroke care]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3153,cuero-regiotnal-hospital-recognized-for-excellence-in-stroke-care</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3153,cuero-regiotnal-hospital-recognized-for-excellence-in-stroke-care</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:13 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-cuero-regiotnal-hospital-recognized-for-excellence-in-stroke-care-1783443281.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Cuero Regional Hospital has received two American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines achievement awards for demonstrating its commitment to following the latest research-based guidelines for st</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Cuero Regional Hospital has received two American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines achievement awards for demonstrating its commitment to following the latest research-based guidelines for stroke treatment, helping save lives, support recovery and reduce hospital readmissions.</p><p>The hospital earned the recognition through the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines program, which recognizes hospitals that consistently follow evidence-based practices designed to improve patient outcomes.</p><p>According to the American Heart Association's 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report, heart disease and stroke remain the No. 1 and No. 4 causes of death in the United States, respectively. Studies show patients experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow proven treatment guidelines.</p><p>The Get With The Guidelines program combines the expertise of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association to help hospitals nationwide provide care aligned with the latest science-backed recommendations. Cuero Regional Hospital qualified for the awards by demonstrating a sustained commitment to improving the quality of cardiovascular care.</p><p>'Cuero Regional Hospital is committed to delivering high-quality care by adhering to the latest treatment guidelines and streamlining processes to ensure timely, appropriate care for heart attacks and strokes,' CEO Lynn Falcone said. 'Get With The Guidelines programs help our teams put proven science into practice every day, supporting better outcomes so more people in DeWitt County can live longer, healthier lives.'</p><p>This year, Cuero Regional Hospital received the following achievement awards: Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus Get With The Guidelines – Rural Stroke Gold 'These awards reflect Cuero Regional Hospital's commitment to caring for people in their community who need cardiovascular care,' said Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, chair of the American Heart Association Quality Oversight Committee. 'By following the American Heart Association's quality improvement protocols, CRH can help advance our shared vision of better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for patients, families and health care systems.'</p><p>Cuero Regional Hospital is committed to providing high-quality, safe and compassionate care to the DeWitt County community. The hospital operates a full-service emergency department 24 hours a day and offers a range of health care services to area residents.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00301016.jpg" alt=""></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Yorktown eyes budgeting options to cope with insurance rate spike]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3146,yorktown-eyes-budgeting-options-to-cope-with-insurance-rate-spike</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3146,yorktown-eyes-budgeting-options-to-cope-with-insurance-rate-spike</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:07 -0500</pubDate><description>Rising employee health insurance premiums have Yorktown city officials looking at options as they begin their annual budget planning process, members of the Town Council learned Monday at their regula</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Rising employee health insurance premiums have Yorktown city officials looking at options as they begin their annual budget planning process, members of the Town Council learned Monday at their regular monthly business meeting.</p><p>According to preliminary numbers presented by Texas Health Benefits Pool plan providers, employee costs for the city-provided health insurance plan will increase by as much as $107 per month per person — a full $317 per month for those with family coverage — which, as Mayor Bill Baker pointed out, could place a serious dent in most families' budgets.</p><p>'When you look at rates going up by that much, it makes the benefit to our employees practically unaffordable for most families,' he said.</p><p>In Yorktown specifically, those prices could impact the personal budgets of at least a dozen city workers once they take effect with the city's new fiscal year budget.</p><p>Like many towns its size, Baker said Yorktown already has a difficult time attracting qualified workers, especially when those employees can earn much more in larger cities. City benefits — things like health in- surance coverage and pension plans — are where officials try to make up those differences to stay competitive.</p><p>And it's not just Yorktown feeling the pinch of higher health insurance premiums, the mayor told fellow council members.</p><p>Rather, most everyone with a health insurance plan of any sort will be facing higher rates in the year ahead, based on what Baker learned at a recent regional conference hosted by the Texas Municipal League.</p><p>One option for dealing with those rate increases, discussed by the council Monday, came in the form of a potential one-time bonus for city employees to offset the increased costs.</p><p>The bonus option would allow workers to continue receiving their health plan benefits without paying more, but it also keeps the adjustment from becoming an across-the-board salary increase that would become a recurring annual expense for the city's coffers.</p><p>That bonus option remains on the table and will be formally considered as the city moves further along in its annual budget process in the coming weeks.</p><p>What the council did vote on Monday was accepting the plan renewal option with the state benefits pool provider so officials could lock in rates for the 2026-27 budget year.</p><p>Historically, the benefits pool option, which combines Yorktown city workers with those from other cities across Texas, has provided some of the most affordable health insurance options available.</p><p>As discussed at the June 29 meeting, however, officials said it may be time to investigate other alternatives moving forward.</p><p>In other business A collapsed culvert near the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce office — which opened a rather sizable hole in the sidewalk following recent rainstorms — has city crews working on solutions, none of which will come cheaply, the mayor said.</p><p>Officials discussed the problem during the city administrator's report and are moving forward with plans to install a large steel grate over the area temporarily while they work on a permanent solution beneath the street.</p><p>Alderman Mike Rippamonti provided an update on ongoing upgrades at the city's wastewater treatment plant.</p><p>Although recent rains and state permitting processes have delayed work for several weeks, Rippamonti said he has remained in regular communication with the project engineer and contractor, and plans are in place for significant progress in the coming weeks, dependent on a crucial concrete pour.</p><p>Council received an update on the city's annual water consumer report, which received a 'good' rating from the state. Notices will be mailed to customers in the coming weeks with utility bills.</p><p>The city also heard from several residents during the public comment portion of the meeting, including one speaker addressing recent dog attacks within the city limits (see related story) and two others seeking variances for mobile home installations within the city.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[DeWitt County Arrest Report]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3151,dewitt-county-arrest-report</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3151,dewitt-county-arrest-report</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:06 -0500</pubDate><description>Jail Average Daily Count – 100 Inmates Housed for Other Agencies – 19 June 26, 2026Caleb Sanchez, 37, of Cuero, Revocation of Probation/Theft Property &amp;gt;=$750&amp;lt;$2,500, Bond of $1,000, DCSO Jeremy </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Jail Average Daily Count – 100 Inmates Housed for Other Agencies – 19 June 26, 2026</p><p>Caleb Sanchez, 37, of Cuero, Revocation of Probation/Theft Property &gt;=$750&lt;$2,500, Bond of $1,000, DCSO Jeremy Willam Matejek, 32, of Nordheim, Resist Arrest/Search, Bond of $4,000, Sale/Distribute/Display Harmful Material to Minor, Bond of $4,000, DCSO Carl Elijah Camp, 20, of Cedar Hill, Possession Controlled Substance PG 2 &gt;= 1G &lt; 4G, Bond of $10,000, Possession Marijuana&lt; 2oz, Bond of $2,000, DPS Rowdy Riley-Blade Ward, 18, of Cuero, Possession Marijuana&lt;2oz, Bond of $2,000, DPS Esequiel Chapa, 44, of Victoria, Motion to Revoke/Aggravated Assault Deadly Weapon, Bond of $50,000, DCSO Juan Jose Jimenez, 46, of Yorktown, No/ Expired Registration, Fine of $317, No Liability Insurance, Fine of $629, DCSO Tina Marie Garcia, 64, of Cuero, Assault of Hospital Personnel on Hospital Property, Bond of $15,000, Public Intoxication, Bond of $500, Cuero PD Da’Mya Tashay Crawford, 22, of Cuero, No Driver’s License, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, Possession Drug Paraphernalia, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, DCSO Daniel Rodriguez Delossantos, 37, of Cuero, Speeding Over 41 MPH in a 30 MPH Zone, Bond of $500, Violate Promise to Appear, Bond of $500, Cuero PD</p><p>June 27, 2026</p><p>Jayden Xavier Juarez, 25, of Cuero, No Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, Driving While License Invalid Previous Convictions, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500. DCSO Angel Elaine Mraz, 39, of Yoakum, Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Member, Bond of $4,000, Yoakum PD Justin Dylan Ramirez, 22, of Troy, Possession Controlled Substance PG 2 &lt; 1G, Bond of $5,000, Cuero PD Darius Amiri, 37, of McAllen, Driving While License Suspended, Bond of $2,000, Cuero PD Ryleigh Brandberg, 21, of Troy, Possession Controlled Substance PG 2 &lt; 1G, Bond of $5,000, Cuero PD Juan Gerardo Perez, 39, of San Antonio, Motion to Revoke/Possession Controlled Substance PG1&gt;=1G&lt;4G (Hays Co), Bond of $15,000, Cuero PD</p><p>June 28, 2026</p><p>Kaleb Ze’Andre Enoch, 26, of Yoakum, Possession Controlled Substance PG2&gt;=1G&lt;4G, Bond of $10,000, Unlawful Carry Weapon, Bond of $4,000, DPS Reducindo Martinez, 51, of Cuero, Possession Controlled Substance PG1 &gt;=4G&lt;200G, Bond of $25,000, Possession Marijuana&lt;2oz, Bond of $2,000, DPS</p><p>June 29, 2026</p><p>Alvaro Ramirez III, 38, of San Antonio, Violate Bond/Protective Order, Bond of $4,000, DPS Harley Davis Sanderson, 33, of Austin, Motion to Revoke Probation/Forgery Government/ National Instrument/Money/Security, Bond of $50,000, DCSO Daniela Guillermina Oliva, 36, of Corpus Christi, Unauthorized Use of Vehicle, Bond of $5,000, DCSO Colby Allen Caruthers, 38, of Cuero, Violation Probation/Assault Family/House Member Impede Breath/Circulation, Bond of $30,000, Possession Drug Paraphernalia, Fine of $636.80, DCSO Jarrette Andrew Arrellano, 26, of Gonzales, Motion to Revoke Probation/Possession Controlled Substance PG1&lt;1G (Gonzales Co), Bond of $25,000, DCSO Justin Michael Mejias, 31, of Cuero, Possession Controlled Substance PG2&gt;=1G&lt;4G, Bond of $10,000, Violation Bond/Protective Order, Bond of $4,000, Violation Probation/Possession Controlled Substance PG 1/1-B &lt;1G Drug Free Zone, No Bond, Cuero PD Daniela Guillermina Oliva, 36, of Corpus Christi, Unauthorized Use of Vehicle, Bond of $5,000, DCSO</p><p>June 30, 2026</p><p>Christopher Paul Sandelovic, 44, of Victoria, Forgery Financial Instrument &gt;=$150K&lt;$300K, Bond of $15,000, DCSO</p><p>July 01, 2026</p><p>Nicole Lynn Davis, 49, of Yoakum, Driving While License Invalid, Bond of $500, VCO/ Reckless Driving, Bond of $500, Cuero PD Glen Edward McNary Sr, 62, of Cuero, No Driver’s License, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, No Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, DCSO Joseph Charles Hargrove, 55, of Yorktown, Parent Contributing to Non Attendance, Fine of $337.80, DCSO Titus Dewayne Clay, 44, of Cuero, Violation Probation/Theft Property &gt;=$100&lt;$750 (Victoria Co.), Bond of $8,000, Bail Jumping/ Failure to Appear (Victoria Co.), Bond of $8,000, DCSO Juan Carlos Gonzalez, 36, of Cuero, Public Intoxication, Bond of $500, Bail Jumping/ Failure to Appear, Bond of $500, DCSO Brittney Nicole Ortiz, 33, of Yoakum, Capias Pro Fine/Ran Stop Sign, Fine of $ 401.70, Capias Pro Fine/Fail to Maintain Financial Responsibility, Fine of $716.30, Capias Pro Fine/Violate Promise to Appear, Fine of $557.70, Capias Pro Fine/Violate Promise to Appear, Fine of $557.70, DCSO</p><p>July 02, 2026</p><p>Anthony Lamar Carter, 30, of Cuero, Parole Violation, No Bond, Cuero PD</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Common-sense screwworm guide for cattlemen]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3145,common-sense-screwworm-guide-for-cattlemen</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3145,common-sense-screwworm-guide-for-cattlemen</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:06 -0500</pubDate><description>As cattlemen watch the steady parade of new screwworm cases mount, more than a few are no doubt wondering: Isn&#039;t there something we can do now to help slow this down?Thankfully, the answer is yes.Vete</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>As cattlemen watch the steady parade of new screwworm cases mount, more than a few are no doubt wondering: Isn't there something we can do now to help slow this down?</p><p>Thankfully, the answer is yes.</p><p>Veterinarians highlighted several of those practices when roughly 1,200 area cattlemen gathered June 24 in nearby Hallettsville for the latest on the parasitic pest's reintroduction to Texas, which came just days earlier when a young calf tested positive for screwworm infestation in Zavala County, just west of Uvalde.</p><p>As of July 1, less than a month after the first Texas case appeared on June 3, the number of confirmed screwworm cases had climbed to 31, nearly all of them still south and west of San Antonio.</p><p>The following are some of the suggestions offered at the June 23 seminar:</p><p>Clean it up!</p><p>For starters, find and remove any objects on your place that might injure livestock, said Dr. Warren Migura, a veterinarian with Hallettsville Veterinary Hospital.</p><p>After all, the screwworm fly is attracted by the scent of blood. They'll land on an animal, lay their eggs in a wound and then fly off, leaving the larvae to do their damage before dropping to the ground to continue their life cycle and restart the process all over again.</p><p>'Now would be a good time to pick up that piece of loose tin you have out in the field, or hammer in any loose nails you might have sticking out around your barn,' Dr. Migura said. 'Fix those stray wires poking out in your loading chutes. Anything that can prevent a wound can go a long way in keeping the screwworm at bay for just a while longer.'</p><p>Screwworms don't need much more than a tick bite to infest a host, he said, so check your animals regularly for other parasites, such as ticks and fleas, and treat those as necessary.</p><p>Chill out!</p><p>If there's one thing the screwworm can't stand, it's the cold, Dr. Migura said.</p><p>'You may want to plan your calving season for the colder months of the year — about November to March in this part of the world — to better protect both your calves and your mama cows.'</p><p>Cattlemen also may want to reevaluate some of their other practices, such as castrating bulls or dehorning cattle, said Dr. Jacques Fuselier, a veterinarian with Merck Animal Health.</p><p>'Sure, there are several effective products out there to help reduce your chances of screwworm infestations, but simply shifting when you do certain things can go a long way in beating it back altogether,' he said.</p><p>Another common cattle-rearing practice involves branding and ear-tagging animals. Colder weather can help there, too.</p><p>Better brands</p><p>For years, fire branding served as the norm simply because cowboys could light a fire and heat a brand almost anyplace.</p><p>Those hot brands, however, can also cause unwanted wounds, especially when screwworm is a concern.</p><p>'We fire branded our cattle for years out at our place near Fort Stockton,' said rancher Warren Cude, vice president of the Texas Farm Bureau. 'But we started looking into freeze branding our cattle a few years back. Not only did it make what we thought was a far cleaner-looking brand, but it didn't leave a wound like fire branding did. We wouldn't go back now for the world.'</p><p>Parting thoughts</p><p>If you don't already have a relationship with your local veterinarian — or better yet, more than one — fix that now, before the screwworm arrives in your area, presenters stressed.</p><p>While arsenals of products are now available to effectively treat screwworm-infested animals, nearly all require a prescription. Having a veterinarian who is familiar with your operation will help determine which remedies are best suited to your needs.</p><p>As Texas State Veterinarian Dr. Bud Dinges stressed repeatedly in screwworm talks across Texas, ranchers need to be both vigilant and diligent.</p><p>'The best thing a rancher can put on his cattle is a pair of eyes,' he said. 'When you see something that concerns you, tell somebody about it.'</p><p>He also cautioned producers about the plethora of so-called 'experts' now flooding the internet with misinformation.</p><p>'We're moving forward with what the best science available tells us we should do,' Dr. Dinges said. 'Use your common sense about where you get your information. There's a lot of it out there that's not worth a plug nickel these days.'</p><p>For a wealth of reliable resources on the subject, visit screwworm. gov.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[CHS&#039;s Kendall Helms caps career with national medal]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3138,chs-039-s-kendall-helms-caps-career-with-national-medal</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3138,chs-039-s-kendall-helms-caps-career-with-national-medal</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:05 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-chs-s-kendall-helms-caps-career-with-national-medal-1783441741.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Trampoline and Tumbling by earning a silver medal at the 2026 USA Gymnastics Championships Recent Cuero High School graduate Kendall Helms closed out her competitive career with Full Force in Tulsa, O</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Trampoline and Tumbling by earning a silver medal at the 2026 USA Gymnastics Championships Recent Cuero High School graduate Kendall Helms closed out her competitive career with Full Force in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where teammate Ally Baughman became a USA Gymnastics national champion by winning the Level 9 trampoline title.</p><p>Three athletes from the Victoria-based program competed at the national championships June 20-24, facing many of the country's top competitors in Level 8 through Elite trampoline, double mini trampoline and power tumbling.</p><p>Baughman captured the Level 9 trampoline championship, earning the gold medal in a field of 41 athletes.</p><p>Helms claimed the silver medal in Level 8 double mini trampoline, finishing just six-hundredths of a point behind the national champion in a field of 67 competitors. She also placed fourth in Level 9 trampoline among 41 athletes.</p><p>The national championships marked Helms' final competition with Full Force before she heads to New York City this fall to attend college.</p><p>Also representing Full Force was Isabelle Briggs, who competed at her first upper-level national championships. Briggs finished 12th in Level 8 trampoline out of 54 athletes and placed 11th in Level 8 double mini trampoline among 79 competitors.</p><p>The athletes are coached by Chad Ganaway and Laura Reyna.</p><p>Baughman's national title also marked a milestone for Ganaway, giving the longtime coach at least one USA Gymnastics national champion in each of the past 26 consecutive years. His first national champion was Anna Gallia, who won gold at the 2000 USA Gymnastics Championships in Cincinnati, Ohio.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[A Message from the Mayor]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3149,a-message-from-the-mayor</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3149,a-message-from-the-mayor</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:04 -0500</pubDate><description>Hello, my fellow Cueroites, Great to be back from a well-deserved break. The first lady and I recently visited Seattle, Washington, and took a cruise to Alaska&#039;s lower area. Breathtaking. Alaska is tr</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Hello, my fellow Cueroites, Great to be back from a well-deserved break. The first lady and I recently visited Seattle, Washington, and took a cruise to Alaska's lower area. Breathtaking. Alaska is truly 'America's Last Frontier.' However, there is no place like home.</p><p>The boys and girls are back from Boys State and Girls State, respectively, with a better understanding of how government works. The local American Legions in Cuero and Westhoff have sponsored seven of our youth to these great programs in the last two years. The Cuero Rotary Club has also pledged to assist in sponsoring a few more.</p><p>On Monday, June 29, a special meeting was held by the City Council. Topics on the agenda included renewal contracts for the municipal court judge and associate judge and concluded with a budget workshop. The meeting lasted three hours. The city's newly hired financial director, Jessa Lee, a local born-and-raised Cueroite, was in attendance. Welcome to the city staff, Jessa.</p><p>On June 30, an agenda review for the July regular meeting was held and immediately followed by a congratulations and farewell gathering for two retired city staff members, Connie Hawes and Lisa Waterbury, and the departure of Sandra Osman, who will be relocating to North Carolina to be close to family. Thank you, ladies, for your service to the City of Cuero. Good luck in your new journeys.</p><p>The city celebrated the Fourth of July this past Saturday. Thank you to all the volunteers, organizations and businesses who participated in the success of the event. This year saw the city's first Fourth of July parade. By all accounts, I have received positive feedback on the parade. There were 15 entries, and I would like to thank the City of Goliad for joining us. The car show was a hit with 20 entries.</p><p>I was notified a few minutes before the start of the fireworks show that technical difficulties would delay the start by two hours. I made the decision to continue with the show. Despite the late start, everyone was in place, it was a Saturday night and I was assured the show would go on.</p><p>I was disappointed with a few comments on social media bashing the hard work and sacrifices made to make this free event possible. I invite those who shared negative comments to volunteer next year and show us how it is done. I made the decision and take full responsibility for any inconvenience it may have caused.</p><p>Thank you to all the first responder agencies who participated in the parade. Special shoutout to the Cuero Citizens Police Academy Association for patrolling the park area and keeping a watchful eye out to help ensure a safe event.</p><p>Budget talks will continue over the next couple of months, leading to the drafting and adoption of the fiscal year 2027 city budget. The council is carefully reviewing all revenue streams and expenditures. Utility rates are also under review. Unfortunately, the city is having to pay more to provide all the basic services, and a slight increase in basic service rates may be inevitable. All in all, the city still has some of the lower utility rates compared to cities of comparable size.</p><p>Have an awesome week. More to follow!</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00901025.jpg" alt=""></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Nordheim News]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3148,nordheim-news</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3148,nordheim-news</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500</pubDate><description>NordheimNewsGOD first...Heavenly Father, we make decisions that lead us in different directions and later find that we shoulda, woulda, coulda, and really paused for a moment to think it out. In our h</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="font-weight-bold">NordheimNews</p><p>GOD first...</p><p><i>Heavenly Father, we make decisions that lead us in different directions and later find that we shoulda, woulda, coulda, and really paused for a moment to think it out. In our haste, we learn too late the rush of deciding our intentions weren't meant to be. Lord, help us to open our hearts with the thoughts of, 'What would You have us to do?' We ask in the name of our dear Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.</i></p><p>Pray for those who are ill, grieving, suffering or are in harm's way.</p><p>There was a fire call at noon Friday, July 3, with Nordheim Volunteer Fire Department trucks all heading north on Cabeza and out of town. They all looked ready to fight a grass fire as I couldn't see any smoke or anything close by. Had to wait for them to return to see what it was all about.</p><p>The fire was inside a hay baler and was quickly put out. The area around it had burned only a short distance.</p><p>AtourKaffeeKlatch this past Thursday, we had 14 people show up. As I arrived at the parish hall, there was a strange car under the canopy at the rear of the hall. Of all people, it was Smokey and Janis bringing in goodies and spreading all sorts of delicious items across the table, especially a beautiful chocolate cake. It was for their 60th wedding anniversary. Fourteen people couldn't eat it all as there were still a few slices left. It didn't help those who were fighting being overweight and/or those who were diabetic. Had to wait about five hours to eat again. We reviewed pictures of their wedding so long ago. Smokey made some remarks about being married so long. They will not be repeated for his sake.</p><p>Went to church this past Sunday and was told there was a Koehler reunion in Yoakum at noon. Hadn't been to one for several years. Didn't have time to spread the word to my side of the family as some were out of town. Arriving in Yoakum, I did not exactly know where it was being held as I had only been there one time. Sometimes memory clicks in and God shows the way. It was held at Lakeside, so when I saw a sign that only had 'Lakeside' on it, I figured it was the right place. Walking into the building, I was a complete stranger and thought for a while I was in the wrong place. I didn't see any familiar faces until I saw my brother and his wife at the far end of the hall. Other than those two, I only recognized maybe a couple of others. Some had familiar faces, but the names escaped my memory. I was led to some of the people my age. They were so old. They were my age. We were shown some old pictures to see if we could identify the people in them, but they had been taken before I was born. Did talk to Geraldine and Don, but that was it. Didn't stay for pictures afterward as I had an emergency (old folks' kind).</p><p>Joke: A man said as he arrived in a small town one day, 'Everybody greeted me saying, 'Hello, partner.' Wherever I went it was, 'Hello, partner.' Then I went into the local bank to cash a check and it was, 'Howdy, stranger.'' Joke: A woman walked into a bar and marched straight to her husband, who was feeling no pain as he sat on his barstool. The woman took a sip of the booze he was drinking and spit it out in disgust. 'It tastes awful,' she said.</p><p>The man answered, 'And you think I'm having a good time every day.'</p><p>Stopped in Cuero at a gas station on my way home. Filled the gas tank, put up the gas hose and tried to open the door to my pickup. It was locked. Looked for my iPhone. It was locked inside. Began to panic. Almost had a convulsion fit. Just wanted to lay down on the hot concrete and cry. But then remembered how good God had been to me all day up to that time and was only testing me. Calmed down and found somebody with a cell phone who had stopped by for gas at the station and asked them to call the sheriff's department so I could get a locksmith. One arrived sometime later, opened my door and I was free again. Thank you, Lord.</p><p>At Kaffee Klatch, only a few remember when the screwworm was prolific back in our youthful days. Everyone who had animals, all kinds of livestock, knew it was important to check them for wounds because each one was subject to being affected by the fly, either at birth or after an injury. Even wildlife of all kinds wasn't escaping the infestation. I remember when an animal was infected, the worms that could be seen were taken out or flushed out, and then a black dressing that smelled like creosote was put on the wound. It was a time when neighbor helped neighbor. When you saw buzzards circling high above an animal, it was usually too late. Many ranchers lost cattle when they didn't check regularly. The government finally found a solution and is implementing it now. After the screwworm came the fire ants. It never ends.</p><p>See you all next week. Maybe...</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00902026.jpg" alt=""></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[It&#039;s kitten season again]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3142,it-039-s-kitten-season-again</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3142,it-039-s-kitten-season-again</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-it-s-kitten-season-again-1783442279.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>RecordPetsYes, it is definitely kitten season — again!Are you a diehard feline fanatic? Cat parents are sometimes teased about their steadfast allegiance to their furry companions, but at Pet Adoption</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="deck">RecordPets</p><p>Yes, it is definitely kitten season — again!</p><p>Are you a diehard feline fanatic? Cat parents are sometimes teased about their steadfast allegiance to their furry companions, but at Pet Adoptions of Cuero we love meeting true cat-aholics.</p><p>Think you might be one? Here are a few telltale signs: You have more photos of your cat on your phone than you do of your children.</p><p>You buy the biggest, fanciest cat tree you can find.</p><p>You play cat videos over and over — and your cat actually watches them.</p><p>You make sure there's always a sunny windowsill available for Garfield to enjoy.</p><p>You change your evening plans so Toonces doesn't have to stay home alone.</p><p>You shop for the latest cat toys and treats.</p><p>You've gotten a cat tattoo in honor of your favorite feline.</p><p>You only invite guests over if they're 'cat people,' too.</p><p>You installed a bird feeder outside your cat's favorite window to entertain Tom and Jerry.</p><p>And, of course, you adopt a kitten so your resident cat has a new playmate!</p><p>Pet Adoptions of Cuero has kittens, kittens and more kittens looking for loving indoor homes. They are vaccinated, litter box trained and ready to curl up in your lap and purr up a storm.</p><p>Stop by and meet them soon. Pet Adoptions of Cuero is open every day of the year from 8 a.m. to noon at 407 U.S. Highway 183 South in Cuero. For a late afternoon adoption visit, call 361-243-8540.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar01201028.jpg" alt=""></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Asking God for what you want]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3147,asking-god-for-what-you-want</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3147,asking-god-for-what-you-want</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500</pubDate><description>Many and most of us have always looked to heaven and ask God to give us certain things in life. The problem with us is that God always listens to us and will answer in some form or another and we are </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Many and most of us have always looked to heaven and ask God to give us certain things in life. The problem with us is that God always listens to us and will answer in some form or another and we are so naïve that we do not recognize what He is doing or has done. I am not talking about materialistic items even though He does provide ways for us to obtain these perishable things on occasion. Many will call out to God for strength, and He has given these people difficulties which make them stronger. Have you ever really stopped and thought about how our magnificent and all-powerful Heavenly Father answers our prayers? Have you ever asked for wisdom, and He gave you problems to solve? What about love and He gave you troubled people to help?</p><p>We are told by the Psalmist in Psalm 37:4-5; “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.”</p><p>As Christians we understand this verse. God always hears our prayers and answers them, but it may not be the way we want the answers to be. He may not allow us to have wants and desires but will always give us what we need.</p><p>I often pray for patience, and He has always placed me in situations where I was forced to wait. The older I have become the more I understand how God answers my prayers through experiences of life. For the ones that has asked for courage, have you ever realized that God gave you dangers to overcome? This could have been something personal or it could have been something about family or friends in need.</p><p>What about prosperity and our desires to have better things in life? Don’t you realize that God has given us the brawn and brains to work? If we do not heed to what God provides for us, then we will never realize the blessings He has for us.</p><p>God gives us opportunities to receive the favors that we ask for. He may not always give us what we want but will always give us what we need. We are told in James 4:3; “You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.”</p><p>For those of us that know Jesus as our Lord and Savior understand that He listens to our every prayer. We also understand that He will answer us even though it may not be in the form we want but in the way we need. God loves all of us and offers us the free gift of salvation to anyone that will listen to His calling. All you must do is believe in Him and accept Him into your heart as your Lord and Savior. He will guide you in your earthly walk and give you what you need.</p><p><i>Prayer: Thank you Jesus for always answering my prayers. Thank you for giving me understanding and realization to your answers. Amen.</i></p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Declaration of Independence read at courthouse]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3141,declaration-of-independence-read-at-courthouse</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3141,declaration-of-independence-read-at-courthouse</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-declaration-of-independence-read-at-courthouse-1783442275.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>RecordTownCommunity members gather at the DeWitt County Courthouse in Cuero for the annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 3 and 4 as part of the city&#039;s Independence Day obse</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="deck">RecordTown</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar01203034.jpg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Community members gather at the DeWitt County Courthouse in Cuero for the annual public reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 3 and 4 as part of the city's Independence Day observance. Photos by Larry Nuckels</p></figcaption></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Living History]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3135,living-history</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3135,living-history</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:02 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-living-history-1783441718.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Jack Boothe shows off his fine collection of revolutionary period firearms and other armaments that will still get the job done.Mark Collins took a stroll through 250 years of memories as the one and </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar01202030.jpg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Jack Boothe shows off his fine collection of revolutionary period firearms and other armaments that will still get the job done.</p></figcaption></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar01202031.jpg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Mark Collins took a stroll through 250 years of memories as the one and only George Washington himself, not only in the flesh but also more than a few messages aimed at the soul of America as well.</p></figcaption></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar01202032.jpg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Betsy Ross (Shannon Burge) explains her color choices for the new American flag.</p></figcaption></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[DeWitt County Activity Report]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3152,dewitt-county-activity-report</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3152,dewitt-county-activity-report</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><description>ACCIDENTS - 1 LOOSE LIVESTOCK - 3&amp;nbsp;06-26-2026Assist CPD with Suspicious vehicle on Stockdale, Cuero Warrant Service on S Gaebler, Yorktown Abandoned Vehicle on S Gaebler St, Yorktown Accident on W</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>ACCIDENTS - 1 LOOSE LIVESTOCK - 3&nbsp;</p><p>06-26-2026</p><p>Assist CPD with Suspicious vehicle on Stockdale, Cuero Warrant Service on S Gaebler, Yorktown Abandoned Vehicle on S Gaebler St, Yorktown Accident on W Main St, Yorktown Explosives on Cemetery Rd, Nordheim Criminal Mischief on E 7th St, Yorktown Animal Loose on Lucas Ln, Cuero</p><p>06-27-2026</p><p>Scam on Hwy 87 N, Cuero Assist Citizen on Hrabovsky Rd, Yoakum Missing Person on Mueller Lang Rd, Cuero</p><p>06-28-2026</p><p>Assault Physical on Sauer-Bade Rd, Cuero Loose Livestock on FM 682, Yoakum Suspicious Activity on Anderson Ave, Westhoff</p><p>06-29-2026</p><p>Loose Livestock on Gruenau Rd, Yorktown Fraud on Pope Ranch Rd, Nordheim Road Hazard on Hwy 77A, Yoakum Property – Damage on FM 239, Nordheim Fraud on W 8th St, Yorktown Assist Motorist on N Hwy 87, Cuero Assist Citizen on W Main St, Yorktown Assist Citizen on S Mehnert St, Yorktown Assist Other Agency on W 5th St, Nordheim Assist Motorist on E Morgan Ave, Cuero Suspicious Vehicle on S Gaebler St, Yorktown Scam on W 8th St, Yorktown Scam on N Range St, Yorktown Trespassing on River Oaks Rd, Cuero Property – Damage on N Hwy 183, Cuero Gas – Odor on Cabeza Rd, Nordheim Road hazard on N Hwy 183, Cuero</p><p>06-30-2026</p><p>Traffic Related on S Hwy 183, Cuero Property – Damage on Schlinke Rd, Cuero Animal Case on FM 1447, Cuero Found Livestock on Mccurdy Rd, Cuero Assist Motorist on N Hwy 87, Westhoff Property – Found on FM 240, Yorktown Loose Livestock on Lakeside Dr, Cuero</p><p>07-01-2026</p><p>Assault Physical on Rice-Davis Rd, Yoakum Warrant Service on N Gonzales St, Cuero Warrant Service on N Gonzales St, Cuero Animal Case on W 8th St, Yorktown Assist other Agency on N Hwy 87, Westhoff</p><p>07-02-2026</p><p>Disturbance-family on Mylius Ln, Yoakum Check Welfare on Westview Dr, Yorktown Illegal Dumping on N Hwy 87, Westhoff Missing Person on Frels Rd, Yoakum Trespassing on N Esplanade, Cuero Harassment on N West St, Yorktown Assist Motorist on Hwy 183 N, Cuero Suspicious Person on W Main St, Yorktown</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Cuero Livestock Commission]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3150,cuero-livestock-commission</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3150,cuero-livestock-commission</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><description>June 26, 2026We saw 879 head total this week (79 cows, 21 bulls, and 1 goat). Packer cows and bulls traded steady with last week&#039;s rates, but the calf market stole the show again with exceptional dema</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>June 26, 2026</strong></p><p>We saw 879 head total this week (79 cows, 21 bulls, and 1 goat). Packer cows and bulls traded steady with last week's rates, but the calf market stole the show again with exceptional demand.</p><p>Next weaned calf sale is August 5, 2026&nbsp;</p><p>NO SALE FRIDAY, JULY 3,</p><p><strong>2026 Market details: Packer bulls:&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Higher yielding 205.00-230.00&nbsp;</p><p>Lower yielding1 39.00-182.00&nbsp;</p><p>Packer cows: High yielding 179.00-187.00&nbsp;</p><p>Medium yielding 151.00-177.00&nbsp;</p><p>Poor &amp; Weak 129.00-135.00&nbsp;</p><p>Palpated: 5 bred $3100-$3700&nbsp;</p><p>Pairs: 3 pair $2750-$3550&nbsp;</p><p>Steer/Bull Calves: (AVGHIGH)&nbsp;</p><p>200-250 lbs. 661.00-790.00</p><p>250-299 lbs. 609.00- 680.00</p><p>300-350 lbs. 549.00- 650.00</p><p>350-400 lbs. 532.00- 655.00</p><p>400-450 lbs. 497.00- 560.00</p><p>450-500 lbs. 464.00- 505.00</p><p>500-550 lbs. 455.00- 505.00</p><p>550-600 lbs. 437.00- 475.00</p><p>600-700 lbs. 402.00- 515.00</p><p>700-800 lbs. 323.00- 380.00</p><p><strong>Heifer Calves :(AVG-HIGH)</strong></p><p>200-250 lbs. 662.00- 760.00</p><p>250-300 lbs. 582.00- 650.00</p><p>300-350 lbs. 487.00- 550.00</p><p>350-400 lbs. 475.00- 540.00</p><p>400-450 lbs. 449.00- 650.00</p><p>450-500 lbs. 433.00- 581.00</p><p>500-550 lbs. 422.00- 515.00</p><p>550-600 lbs. 390.00- 460.00</p><p>600-700 lbs. 370.00- 440.00</p><p>700-800 lbs. 325.00- 342.00&nbsp;</p><p>*Replacement heifers&nbsp;</p><p>Note: This range reflects the average price to highest price recorded in each weight class. Lower quality animals may fall below these figures in the actual low range. See the market tops report on our website for low-high prices.</p><p>We want to sincerely thank all our sellers and buyers for their business. We truly appreciate every single one of you! If we can help in any way, please give us a call at (361)275-2329 - barn or (361)293-4625 – Jake’s cell.</p><p>THANK YOU!</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Living History]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3144,living-history</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3144,living-history</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-living-history-1783442416.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>The spirit of &#039;76 was alive and well in Cuero last weekend - 1776, that is - as reenactors donned period attire to share a little local history and help celebrate our nation&#039;s sestercentennial. Gayle </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The spirit of '76 was alive and well in Cuero last weekend - 1776, that is - as reenactors donned period attire to share a little local history and help celebrate our nation's sestercentennial. Gayle and Tom Batts share a few family legends with their grandkids in a quiet corner at Friday's event in Cuero</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[DeWitt Briefs]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3143,dewitt-briefs</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3143,dewitt-briefs</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><description>Vacation Bible SchoolYorktown First Baptist Church will host Bible Alive 2026 Vacation Bible School July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to noon. The program is open to children who have completed kindergarten throu</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Vacation Bible School</strong></p><p>Yorktown First Baptist Church will host Bible Alive 2026 Vacation Bible School July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to noon. The program is open to children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade. Admission is free. Register online at fbcyorktown.org or call 361-564-6004.</p><p><strong>Texas Senate candidate to speak in Cuero</strong></p><p>The DeWitt/LaVaca Democratic Women will host Texas Senate District 18 candidate Erica Gillum on Tuesday, July 7, at the GVEC Community Room, 1015 E. Broadway in Cuero. A meet and greet begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 6 p.m. Gillum is the former mayor of Hempstead and previously served on the Hempstead City Council. Parking and the entrance are located at the back of the building. For information, email dewittlavacadems@ gmail. com.</p><p><strong>Lonesome Dove book discussion at museum</strong></p><p>The Hat Creek Literary Society will discuss Larry McMurtry’s Lonesome Dove on Wednesday, July 9, at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. Refreshments will be served at 6 p.m., with the discussion beginning at 6:30 p.m. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing info@chisholmtrailmuseum.org.</p><p><strong>Lonesome Dove photo exhibit continues</strong></p><p>The Lonesome Dove Photography Exhibition remains on display through July 11 at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. The exhibit features photographs taken during production of the 1989 television miniseries by producer Bill Wittliff. Normal museum admission applies.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00107013.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Thank you Veterans for your service!</figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lunch and Learn</strong></p><p>Yorktown Economic Development will host the Texas A&amp;M University- Victoria Small Business Development Center for a Lunch and Learn session titled 'Practical Social Media' on July 14. Seating is limited to 20 people and lunch will be provided.</p><p><strong>GriefShare social planned</strong></p><p>A GriefShare Social will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, in the TrustTexas Bank Community Room in Yorktown. The gathering will provide information about the GriefShare support program, and a new series of sessions will begin if there is sufficient interest. For more information, call Valda Lamprecht at 361-6497812 or Rosa Serrano at 361-564-8207.</p><p><strong>Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension Service Family and Community Health Agent Denise Goebel will host the annual Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp July 15-16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building in Cuero. The camp is open to DeWitt County youth ages 8 and older. Registration is $50 and limited to 25 participants. Call 361-2750816.</p><p><strong>Blood drive set July 16&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Cuero Regional Hospital will host a blood drive for the South Texas Blood &amp; Tissue Center from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 16, in the hospital's Education Classroom. Donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh 110 pounds, or be 16 years old, weigh at least 120 pounds and have parental consent. A photo ID, birth date and the last four digits of a Social Security number are required. Appointments may be made at SouthTexasBlood.org, though walk-ins are welcome. For blood donation questions, call 210-7315590. For location information, call Kathy Simon at 361-275-6191.</p><p><strong>Trade Skills Workshop&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library will continue its Trade Skills Workshop series for children ages 6-11 at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. The handson carpentry program will be presented by Pro-Fix Services LLC at the library, 207 E. Main St. Participation is free.</p><p><strong>Sip &amp; Play Game Night&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt Medical Foundation will host Sip &amp; Play Game Night on Friday, July 24, at 6:30 p.m. at The Venue on Church Street. The fundraiser will benefit Cuero Regional Hospital. Individual tickets are $40. Call 361-524-6103 or email nlantz@cuerohospital.org for tickets.</p><p><strong>Storytelling program planned at museum&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum will host “Ramblin’ Rita’s Totally Tall Tales” at 2:30 p.m. Friday, July 24. The family- friendly storytelling program, presented in partnership with the Cuero Municipal Library’s Summer Reading Program, celebrates National Day of the Cowboy and is open to all ages.</p><p><strong>Blood Drive in Yorktown&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Holy Cross Catholic Church will host a blood drive Sunday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1214 Zorn Road in Yorktown. Individuals age 16 and older may be eligible to donate with parental consent. For questions, call South Texas Blood &amp; Tissue at 210-731-5590.</p><p><strong>World Series of Cuero registration open</strong></p><p>Registration is underway for the 18th annual World Series of Cuero Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament, set for Saturday, Aug. 1, at The Venue on Church Street in Cuero. The event, hosted by the Cuero Chamber of Commerce Agriculture &amp; Visitor's Bureau, will feature a $5,000 grand prize, sponsorship opportunities and spectator activities. Players who preregister before July 18 will receive bonus tournament chips, and spectator tickets include lunch, refreshments and casino chips for blackjack and craps. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at 361-2752112 or visit Cuero.org.</p><p><strong>Dohmann family reunion set for Aug. 2&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The annual Werner F. Dohmann Family Reunion will be held Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Weesatche Community Center. Doors will open at 10 a.m., with a potluck meal scheduled for noon. Attendees are asked to bring a meat dish and a side dish to share. The reunion will also include a silent auction, photo booth, children's activities and door prizes. Family members are encouraged to bring Dohmann family photos or photo albums to share, along with games such as dominoes, cards, cornhole or horseshoes. Organizers encourage attendees to share the reunion information with other family members.</p><p><strong>Garage Sale Planned&nbsp;</strong></p><p>First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown will hold its annual garage sale Aug. 7-8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Aug. 9 from noon to 3 p.m. Donations are currently being accepted at the church fellowship hall, 234 N. Church St.</p><p><strong>Tree Dedication Planned</strong></p><p>The City of Cuero Tree Board will host a tree dedication ceremony in memory of Ray Kelley on Friday, Aug. 7, at 10 a.m. at Settler's Park. The dedication will honor Kelley as an educator, mentor, community leader and longtime principal of Cuero High School.</p><p><strong>Back-to-School Tailgate Set</strong></p><p>Yorktown ISD will host its Back-to-School Tailgate Party from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. The event will provide an opportunity for students, parents and community members to prepare for the 2026-27 school year.</p><p><strong>Bingo, Bags and Badges</strong></p><p>Norma's House will host its annual Bingo, Bags and Badges fundraiser Friday, Aug. 14, at the Yoakum Community Center. Doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50. Call 830-672-1278 for information.</p><p><strong>AA Meetings</strong></p><p>Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday and Friday at 7 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library.</p><p><strong>Unity Prayer</strong></p><p>Unity Prayer meets every third Monday of the month from 5:45-6:45 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library. For information, call 361-243-8684 or 361-243-1141.</p><p><strong>Senior Social Hour</strong></p><p>Crown Hospice hosts a Senior Social Hour at 10 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Yorktown Public Library. Bingo, prizes and snacks are provided free of charge.</p><p><strong>Family Storytime</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library hosts Family Storytime every Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. The program includes stories, crafts, snacks and activities for children ages 5 and younger.</p><p><strong>DeWitt County Shutterbugs</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Shutterbugs photography club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cuero Public Library, 207 E. Main St. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Email dcshutterbugs@yahoo. com for information.</p><p><strong>Grief Share</strong></p><p>Grief Share sessions are held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 401 E. Main St. in Yorktown. Call Valda Lamprecht at 361-649-7812 or Rosa Serrano at 361564-8208 for information.</p><p><strong>Senior Coffee Hour and Social</strong></p><p>The American Legion hosts a Veterans and Seniors Coffee Hour and Social each Wednesday at 10 a.m. at 310 S. Esplanade in Cuero. Call 361275-6334 or 775-3047802 for information.</p><p><strong>Turner Hall Bingo</strong></p><p>Turner Hall hosts bingo every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at 5245 State Highway 111 West. Call 361-293-5576 for information.</p><p><strong>Cuero VFW Bingo</strong></p><p>Cuero VFW Post 3972 hosts weekly bingo games at 7:30 p.m. each Thursday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit local charities, youth and veterans.</p><p><strong>Child Find Evaluations&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Child Find evaluations are available for children from birth to age 21 in Cuero, Meyersville, Nursery and Westhoff ISDs. To schedule an appointment, call Crystal Hamilton at 361-275-1903.</p><p><strong>Child Screening Services</strong></p><p>Free screening services are available for children from birth through age 5 in the Yorktown area. Screenings are held at Yorktown Elementary School. Call 361-5642252, ext. 3002, for an appointment.</p><p><strong>Genealogy Library</strong></p><p>The Cuero Heritage Museum, 124 E. Church St., houses a genealogy library with a searchable database of more than 480 books. Visit https:// chmgenealogy.libib.com or call 361-485-8090 for information.</p><p><strong>Explore Your Family History</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library provides free access to Ancestry.com when connected to the library's internet service through a partnership with the DeWitt County Historical Commission. Visit https://ancestrylibrary. proquest.co/ aleweb/ale/do/login.</p><p><strong>Lean On Me Organization</strong></p><p>The Lean On Me Organization assists families during times of bereavement. To volunteer or learn more, call Isabel Patton at 361-564-7868.</p><p><strong>Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed</strong></p><p>Meals on Wheels South Texas is seeking volunteers to help deliver meals in central DeWitt County. Deliveries are made Wednesdays from approximately 11 a.m. to noon. Visit mowstx.org or email volunteer@mowstx. org for information.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Chamber&#039;s Savor the Flavor showcases local businesses]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3140,chamber-039-s-savor-the-flavor-showcases-local-businesses</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3140,chamber-039-s-savor-the-flavor-showcases-local-businesses</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-chamber-s-savor-the-flavor-showcases-local-businesses-1783442009.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Local restaurants, boutiques and businesses took center stage Thursday evening as hundreds of residents gathered for the Cuero Chamber of Commerce&#039;s annual Savor the Flavor &amp;amp; Style of Cuero, an ev</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Local restaurants, boutiques and businesses took center stage Thursday evening as hundreds of residents gathered for the Cuero Chamber of Commerce's annual Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero, an event that continues to grow as one of the community's premier celebrations of shopping local and supporting small business.</p><p>Held at the Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building, the evening featured culinary competitions, a community fashion show, local vendors, raffles and networking, all designed to spotlight the businesses that contribute to Cuero's economy and quality of life.</p><p>Guests sampled signature dishes from area restaurants, watched local models showcase the latest fashions from Cuero boutiques and voted throughout the evening to recognize outstanding food and style presentations.</p><p>'This event is a celebration of everything that makes Cuero special,' said Angie Cuellar, executive director of the Cuero Chamber of Commerce. 'From our restaurants and retailers to the volunteers, sponsors and community members who support them, Savor the Flavor &amp; Style is about investing in our local businesses and creating opportunities for them to shine. We are grateful for everyone who helped make this year's event another outstanding success.'</p><p>Competition was fierce throughout the evening as attendees selected winners in several categories.</p><p>2025 Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero winners: Best Showmanship: Kevin Broll, KB's BBQ Best Soup/Salad: KB's BBQ Best Main/Side Dish: KB's BBQ Best Dessert/Coffee: Cuero Pecan House Best Style: Classy B's along with Posie Poodle styled by Dog-Gone-It Grooming The event featured food and beverage entries from KB's BBQ, Cuero Pecan House Café, 5D Tavern, 5D Steakhouse, Ventura's Tamales, Stir Soda, La Bella Tavola, La Flor and The EvThing. Fashion presentations and participating retailers highlighted merchandise from A Special Stitch, Beautifour, Be. Boutique, Ful-O-Pep, TX Soule/ Leather Creations by Renee Wilke, Shotsie Ray Boutique, Cuero Discount Pharmacy, Dog-Gone-It Grooming and Classy B's.</p><p>'This event demonstrates what can happen when our business community works together,' said Jon Eric Rodriguez, president of the Cuero Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. 'Every participating restaurant, boutique, sponsor, volunteer and Chamber member played a role in creating an evening that not only entertained the community but also showcased the strength of doing business in Cuero. Events like this help build relationships, encourage people to shop local and strengthen our local economy.'</p><p>The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to the event sponsors, participating businesses, Chamber ambassadors, volunteers, board members and staff whose efforts made the evening possible.</p><p>Special thanks are extended to event committee chairs Annette Rath and Teri Warwas for their leadership and creativity; the Cuero Livestock Commission for hosting the event; Shane Wilke of Shane &amp; Renee Total Entertainment for serving as emcee; Ryan's on Main for the welcome display; and The Balloon People of Texas for the event décor. Appreciation is also extended to the many businesses and sponsors who donated raffle prizes throughout the evening.</p><p>The Cuero Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to promoting local businesses, fostering community partnerships and supporting economic growth throughout Cuero and DeWitt County through advocacy, events and member services.</p><p>For more information about the Cuero Chamber of Commerce or upcoming events, contact the Chamber office at (361) 275-2112 or email cuerocc@cuero. org.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00101002.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>KB's BBQ was recognized with the Best Main/Side Dish award during the annual Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero.</figcaption></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00101003.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Classy B's, along with Posie Poodle styled by Dog-Gone-It Grooming, received the Best Style award during the Cuero Chamber of Commerce's annual Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero.</figcaption></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00101004.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>KB's BBQ received the Best Soup/Salad award at the Cuero Chamber of Commerce's annual Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero. — Submitted photos</figcaption></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00101005.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Representatives of Cuero Pecan House accept the Best Dessert/ Coffee award at the annual Savor the Flavor &amp; Style of Cuero.</figcaption></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Stars &amp; Stripes for Independence Day]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3139,stars-amp-stripes-for-independence-day</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3139,stars-amp-stripes-for-independence-day</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-stars-stripes-for-independence-day-1783441745.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Stars &amp;amp; Stripes for Independence DayResidents gathered in Yorktown on June 27 for the annual Stars &amp;amp; Stripes Celebration, enjoying an evening of patriotic festivities, family activities and fi</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Stars &amp; Stripes for Independence Day</strong></p><p>Residents gathered in Yorktown on June 27 for the annual Stars &amp; Stripes Celebration, enjoying an evening of patriotic festivities, family activities and fireworks at City Park.</p><p>The celebration began with the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem performed by Justin Trevino and Jonathan Guerrero of Verdigo, followed by the community's patriotic parade through town.</p><p>Throughout the evening, visitors enjoyed a youth car and truck show, homemade ice cream, salsa, dessert and appetizer contests, food vendors and live music by Matt Thigpen, Dr. Gordon Barth and David Williams. People's Choice awards and contest winners were announced before the annual fireworks show, sponsored by Skinny's Fireworks, capped off the evening.</p><p>The event, hosted by the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce, also included home and business decorating and pet photo contests, giving residents several opportunities to showcase their community pride during the annual Independence Day celebration.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00102007.jpg" alt=""></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00102008.jpg" alt=""></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00102009.jpg" alt=""></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00102010.jpg" alt=""></figure><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/07-06-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00102011.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>Community members gathered for Yorktown's annual Stars &amp; Stripes Celebration, which featured a patriotic parade, contests, live music, family activities and an evening fireworks display. Photo courtesy of the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce</figcaption></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Local author attends national LULAC convention in DFW]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3137,local-author-attends-national-lulac-convention-in-dfw</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3137,local-author-attends-national-lulac-convention-in-dfw</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-local-author-attends-national-lulac-convention-in-dfw-1783441738.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Past Texas LULAC State Director Joey Cardenas of Louise, author and National LULAC Historian Dr. Cynthia E. Orozco of Cuero, and author Yvette Benavidez Garcia of El Campo pose together during the Nat</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Past Texas LULAC State Director Joey Cardenas of Louise, author and National LULAC Historian Dr. Cynthia E. Orozco of Cuero, and author Yvette Benavidez Garcia of El Campo pose together during the National LULAC Convention in Fort Worth. Garcia is the daughter of Medal of Honor recipient Roy Benavidez</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Cuero seniors enjoy bingo, lunch]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3136,cuero-seniors-enjoy-bingo-lunch</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3136,cuero-seniors-enjoy-bingo-lunch</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-cuero-seniors-enjoy-bingo-lunch-1783442085.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Cuero Senior Citizens gathered June 29 for bingo and lunch prepared by church volunteers. Participants enjoyed games, prizes and fellowship, welcomed back Liz Loos following her recovery from an accid</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Cuero Senior Citizens gathered June 29 for bingo and lunch prepared by church volunteers. Participants enjoyed games, prizes and fellowship, welcomed back Liz Loos following her recovery from an accident and greeted several first-time attendees. Ronnie Dietz also distributed the July activity schedule.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Nearby groundwater districts receive state grant funds]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3132,nearby-groundwater-districts-receive-state-grant-funds</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3132,nearby-groundwater-districts-receive-state-grant-funds</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:14 -0500</pubDate><description>Groundwater conservation districts serving communities near DeWitt County will receive more than $650,000 in state grant funding over the next two years for groundwater monitoring, aquifer modeling an</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Groundwater conservation districts serving communities near DeWitt County will receive more than $650,000 in state grant funding over the next two years for groundwater monitoring, aquifer modeling and water management projects.</p><p>The Texas Water Development Board approved more than $7 million in groundwater science, research and data collection grants during its June 25 meeting, including several projects in South Central Texas.</p><p>The Gonzales County Underground Water Conservation District received $248,632 in fiscal year 2027 funding to develop a local numerical groundwater model supporting groundwater management throughout Gonzales County. The project will compile groundwater data and refine understanding of the county's aquifer systems.</p><p>The Victoria County Groundwater Conservation District was awarded $158,500 in fiscal year 2026 to conduct a land sub- sidence study using interferometric synthetic aperture radar technology and install a Global Navigation Satellite System station to monitor ground movement in Victoria County.</p><p>Other nearby recipients included the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District, which received $50,000 to study groundwater and surface water interactions between the Colorado River and alluvial aquifers in Bastrop and Lee counties, and the Fayette County Groundwater Conservation District, which received $77,385 to expand its groundwater monitoring infrastructure through the installation of continuous monitoring equipment.</p><p>Statewide, the board approved about $3.5 million in grants for fiscal year 2026 projects and another $3.6 million for fiscal year 2027. The grants support groundwater science, research and data collection projects that help local groundwater conservation districts better manage groundwater resources and plan for future water needs.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[An enduring, ever-evolving symbol of Freedom]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3128,an-enduring-ever-evolving-symbol-of-freedom</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3128,an-enduring-ever-evolving-symbol-of-freedom</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:10 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-an-enduring-ever-evolving-symbol-of-freedom-1782839849.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>The American flag has been recognized across the globe as a symbol of freedom for centuries. The Stars and Stripes is recognizable to billions of people worldwide, but the flag has undergone many chan</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>The American flag has been recognized across the globe as a symbol of freedom for centuries. The Stars and Stripes is recognizable to billions of people worldwide, but the flag has undergone many changes since the United States gained its independence from Great Britain. According to the National Flag Foundation, the national flag of the United States has been revised 27 times since American colonists fought for and won independence from British rule. Of course, many of those changes occurred when a new state or new states were added to the union. Each time a new state joined the union, the flag would have to be adjusted with the addition of an extra star. The 1777 flag included a star for each of the 13 colonies that eventually became one of the initial 13 states, but the modern flag now features 50 stars as representative of the 50 states. Though the flag certainly underwent many changes since the nation’s inception, the NFF notes the current flag has remained unchanged since 1960, when the 50-star version was officially adopted on July 4 in recognition of Hawaii becoming the fiftieth state in 1959.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Nordheim News]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3124,nordheim-news</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3124,nordheim-news</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:04 -0500</pubDate><description>NordheimNewsGOD first.... Heavenly Father, throughout our lives You test us with different kinds of storms, as the weather is tested with different kinds of storms each and every day. Some are bright </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p class="font-weight-bold">NordheimNews</p><p>GOD first.... Heavenly Father, throughout our lives You test us with different kinds of storms, as the weather is tested with different kinds of storms each and every day. Some are bright and sunny while others are dark and stormy. Our lives are like that. Lord, guide us safely through all those days as we confront the challenging days. Help us to see that Your love for us overcomes all those challenging days. Help us to see that Your love for us overcomes those challenges as we pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Pray for those who are ill, suffering, grieving or are in harm's way.</p><p>In Mouse City, Kansas, there was a big meeting of all the mice over the concern that the cats were depleting their population because the mice were getting fat and slow from eating all the grain. Their mayor, or Head Cheese as they called him, called in their head engineer to come up with something quick. It took him several days, and he came up with an idea to give every mouse a skateboard, which became a blessing to all the mice as they could zip from one place to the other, making it harder for the cats to catch them. The cats were amazed at the speed of the mice. But one cat commented, 'Wow! Meals on wheels!'</p><p>It was around the late '40s when Uncle Willie Remmers, the town constable, was the law at the dances at the Nordheim Shooting Club, as he was hired to do many times. A fight broke out at one dance due to too much spirits by young, overzealously intoxicated boys from out of town. One of the boys ran from Uncle Willie, hopped into his car and headed for Cuero with Willie in hot pursuit. As Willie got close, a whiskey bottle thrown out of the car by the boy broke the windshield of Willie's car. I never was told how this incident was resolved, but the young man married a girl from Nordheim and became a respectable citizen. The father of the girl was a member of the Nordheim City Council and owned the business that was later turned over to the young lad who told me of this event with him and Uncle Willie. There are only three or four people left who will remember who I'm writing about, so out of respect, I remain silent about the names.</p><p>At Koffee Klatch, we remembered Shirley Voelkel, who passed away, with only very few details of her life. Dennis remembered that she and her brothers were going to school in Nordheim until he was in the second grade. Those who lived in Karnes County and went to school in Nordheim were transferred to Runge School when redistricting took place in the early '50s.</p><p>We had a total of 14 people at KK this past Thursday and, as usual, there were two or three conversations going on at one time.</p><p>Everything but politics was talked about, with laughter and silliness the mood of the bunch. With the promise of two weeks of hot weather, farmers and ranchers are cutting hay that is almost too tall. Cotton is growing faster than the blooming stage and corn is past the roasting ear stage. It is really going to be busy, so watch out for equipment coming and going in traffic. No one is complaining, just thankful for all the rain.</p><p>FM 236 going south from Nordheim has been closed now for two months, and residents south of Willie Buesing Road need to take the long way around to get to Nordheim. It's either Old Charco Road to Pilsner Road to take pavement all the way or take Gus Mueller Gravel Road to Nordheim Cemetery Road to get here. The State Highway Department is placing culverts on FM 236 to widen the road and increase water flow at two places. Those living south of the two construction sites were surprised one day when construction began. They found out the hard way.</p><p>See you next week</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/06-29-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00901012.jpg" alt=""></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[It is no secret what God can do!]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3123,it-is-no-secret-what-god-can-do</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3123,it-is-no-secret-what-god-can-do</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500</pubDate><description>In this year of 2026, all of us should realize how blessed we are because of what happened on July 4th, 250 years ago. This is the day the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental C</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>In this year of 2026, all of us should realize how blessed we are because of what happened on July 4th, 250 years ago. This is the day the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. The document announced the separation of the 13 North American British colonies from Great Britain. It was a time the colonists opposed the increased British control of taxes and unpopular laws they imposed. July 4th is not considered a religious holiday however; it is a time to reflect on God’s goodness to us as a nation. Our freedom did not come easily as we went through many problems and controversies and as we continue to do today. Through the determination of our forefathers, their faith in God, wisdom, and courage, and through the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, our nation is a free and democratic system of government. This promises us a legal system that is based on our Judeo-Christian roots.</p><p>We are told in Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.” NKJV In 1951 Stuart Hamblem released a southern gospel song called “It is no secret what God can do”.</p><p>All of us in our personal struggles and problems we face in life, God will see us through them if we have Him in our heart and ask Him to lead us. I have spoken with many people who have called on God to help them through situations and He has. Their faith is unwavering when talking with Him and He answers all prayers. He doesn’t promise smooth paths, but He does lead us through our trials and tribulations if we acknowledge Him and listen to Him. Hamblem wrote his song after visiting with one of his friends and mentioning, “It’s no secret what God can do in a man’s life.” His friend encouraged him to write a song about what he just said.</p><p>These are the first verses and chorus he wrote: “The chimes of time ring out the news, another day is through; someone slipped and fell, was that someone you? You may have longed for added strength, your courage to renew; do not be disheartened, I have news for you. Chorus: It is no secret what God can do, what he has done for others, He’ll do for you. With arms wide open, He’ll pardon you, it is no secret what God can do.”</p><p>Even though this song was written many years after the Declaration of Independence, I believe our forefathers sought God for leadership and guidance and asked for His mercy on the thirteen colonies. God answered their prayers and built the thirteen colonies into a great nation.</p><p>Just as in our daily lives, Satan has attacked us and our nation in many ways. However, as a child of God and the great faith we have in this nation, God has blessed us with His presence and saving grace.</p><p>Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? If not, ask Him into your heart today and allow Him to lead you through anything you encounter!</p><p><i>Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your saving grace. Thank you for the opportunity to live in a God-fearing nation. Amen.</i></p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[A new chapter for the Yorktown News-View and Cuero Record]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3134,a-new-chapter-for-the-yorktown-news-view-and-cuero-record</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3134,a-new-chapter-for-the-yorktown-news-view-and-cuero-record</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:03 -0500</pubDate><description>To our valued readers and community members, we are announcing an important transition for our local news coverage. The Yorktown News-View is uniting its publishing operations with the Cuero Record to</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>To our valued readers and community members, we are announcing an important transition for our local news coverage. The Yorktown News-View is uniting its publishing operations with the Cuero Record to create a stronger, more sustainable home for area journalism.</p><p>While the Yorktown News-View will no longer print as a standalone paper, its legacy and dedication to local stories will live on. Moving forward, a special, dedicated Yorktown News section will be featured inside the Cuero Record once a month, publishing on the first Wednesday of every month. By combining our resources, our team will be able to deliver the high-quality, deeply researched reporting that our communities deserve. We are grateful for your continued loyalty and look forward to serving you through this exciting new chapter.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[DeWitt Briefs]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3117,dewitt-briefs</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3117,dewitt-briefs</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><description>Spirit of &#039;76 CelebrationThe DeWitt County Historical Commission will host its &#039;Spirit of &#039;76: Roots of DeWitt County&#039; celebration Friday, July 3, at the English-German Schoolhouse and Chisholm Trail </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Spirit of '76 Celebration</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Historical Commission will host its 'Spirit of '76: Roots of DeWitt County' celebration Friday, July 3, at the English-German Schoolhouse and Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum in Cuero. The event will feature living history presentations, Revolutionary- era programs, family activities, patriotic displays, ice cream and apple pie as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.</p><p><strong>Bingo and Homemade Ice Cream</strong></p><p>The Yorktown Historical Society will host Bingo and Homemade Ice Cream on Friday, July 3, at the Yorktown Historical Museum. The event is open to the public.</p><p><strong>Search for American Revolution Descendants&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Historical Commission is seeking information on local descendants of individuals who supported the American Revolution. Family stories and names may be included in programs celebrating America's 250th anniversary July 3-4. Email dewitt-county-archives@dwcotx.org or call Peggy Ledbetter at 361-648-0003.</p><p><strong>Cuero Fourth of July Celebration&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Cuero's Fourth of July Celebration will be held Saturday, July 4, at Cuero Municipal Park. Activities will include a parade, classic car show, food vendors, live music, free splash pad and pool admission, family activities and a fire- works display after dark. The event is part of the community's celebration of America's 250th anniversary.</p><p><strong>America's 250th Birthday Parade</strong></p><p>The Cuero Chamber of Commerce will host America's 250th Birthday Parade on Saturday, July 4, at 4 p.m. The parade will travel from Main Street to Cuero Municipal Park. Lineup begins at 3 p.m.</p><p><strong>Vacation Bible School&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Yorktown First Baptist Church will host Bible Alive 2026 Vacation Bible School July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to noon. The program is open to children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade. Admission is free. Register online at fbcyorktown. org or call 361-- 564-6004.</p><p><strong>Democratic women to meet July 7&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt/Lavaca County Democratic Women will hold their monthly meeting Tuesday, July 7, at the GVEC Electric Cooperative Community Room, 1025 E. Broadway in Cuero. A meet-andgreet will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 6 p.m. Organizers noted the meeting time and location have changed. The public is invited to attend. Parking and the entrance are located at the rear of the building. For more information, email dewittlavacadems@ gmail.com.</p><p><strong>Lunch and Learn</strong></p><p>Yorktown Economic Development will host the Texas A&amp;M University- Victoria Small Business Development Center for a Lunch and Learn session titled 'Practical Social Media' on July 14. Seating is limited to 20 people and lunch will be provided.</p><p><strong>Grief Share social planned in Yorktown</strong></p><p>Residents interested in learning more about the Grief Share program are invited to attend a Grief Share Social at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the TrustTexas Bank Community Room in Yorktown. Organizers will provide information about the Grief Share program and determine interest in starting another series of support sessions. For more information, contact Valda Lamprecht at 361-6497812 or Rosa Serrano at 361-564-8207.</p><p><strong>Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension Service Family and Community Health Agent Denise Goebel will host the annual Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp July 15-16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building in Cuero. The camp is open to DeWitt County youth ages 8 and older. Registration is $50 and limited to 25 participants. Call 361-2750816.</p><p><strong>Trade Skills Workshop&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library will continue its Trade Skills Workshop series for children ages 6-11 at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. The handson carpentry program will be presented by Pro-Fix Services LLC at the library, 207 E. Main St. Participation is free.</p><p><strong>Sip &amp; Play Game Night&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt Medical Foundation will host Sip &amp; Play Game Night on Friday, July 24, at 6:30 p.m. at The Venue on Church Street. The fundraiser will benefit Cuero Regional Hospital. Individual tickets are $40. Call 361-524-6103 or email nlantz@cuerohospital.org for tickets.</p><p><strong>Blood Drive in Yorktown&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Holy Cross Catholic Church will host a blood drive Sunday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1214 Zorn Road in Yorktown. Individuals age 16 and older may be eligible to donate with parental consent. For questions, call South Texas Blood &amp; Tissue at 210-731-5590.</p><p><strong>Dohmann family reunion set for Aug. 2&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The annual Werner F. Dohmann Family Reunion will be held Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Weesatche Community Center. Doors will open at 10 a.m., with a potluck meal scheduled for noon. Attendees are asked to bring a meat dish and a side dish to share. The reunion will also include a silent auction, photo booth, children's activities and door prizes. Family members are encouraged to bring Dohmann family photos or photo albums to share, along with games such as dominoes, cards, cornhole or horseshoes. Organizers encourage attendees to share the reunion information with other family members.</p><p><strong>Garage Sale Planned&nbsp;</strong></p><p>First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown will hold its annual garage sale Aug. 7-8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Aug. 9 from noon to 3 p.m. Donations are currently being accepted at the church fellowship hall, 234 N. Church St.</p><p><strong>Tree Dedication Planned</strong></p><p>The City of Cuero Tree Board will host a tree dedication ceremony in memory of Ray Kelley on Friday, Aug. 7, at 10 a.m. at Settler's Park. The dedication will honor Kelley as an educator, mentor, community leader and longtime principal of Cuero High School.</p><p><strong>Back-to-School Tailgate Set</strong></p><p>Yorktown ISD will host its Back-to-School Tailgate Party from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. The event will provide an opportunity for students, parents and community members to prepare for the 2026-27 school year.</p><p><strong>Bingo, Bags and Badges</strong></p><p>Norma's House will host its annual Bingo, Bags and Badges fundraiser Friday, Aug. 14, at the Yoakum Community Center. Doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50. Call 830-672-1278 for information.</p><p><strong>AA Meetings</strong></p><p>Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday and Friday at 7 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library.</p><p><strong>Unity Prayer</strong></p><p>Unity Prayer meets every third Monday of the month from 5:45-6:45 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library. For information, call 361-243-8684 or 361-243-1141.</p><p><strong>Senior Social Hour</strong></p><p>Crown Hospice hosts a Senior Social Hour at 10 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Yorktown Public Library. Bingo, prizes and snacks are provided free of charge.</p><p><strong>Family Storytime</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library hosts Family Storytime every Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. The program includes stories, crafts, snacks and activities for children ages 5 and younger.</p><p><strong>DeWitt County Shutterbugs</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Shutterbugs photography club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cuero Public Library, 207 E. Main St. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Email dcshutterbugs@yahoo. com for information.</p><p><strong>Grief Share</strong></p><p>Grief Share sessions are held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 401 E. Main St. in Yorktown. Call Valda Lamprecht at 361-649-7812 or Rosa Serrano at 361564-8208 for information.</p><p><strong>Senior Coffee Hour and Social</strong></p><p>The American Legion hosts a Veterans and Seniors Coffee Hour and Social each Wednesday at 10 a.m. at 310 S. Esplanade in Cuero. Call 361275-6334 or 775-3047802 for information.</p><p><strong>Turner Hall Bingo</strong></p><p>Turner Hall hosts bingo every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at 5245 State Highway 111 West. Call 361-293-5576 for information.</p><p><strong>Cuero VFW Bingo</strong></p><p>Cuero VFW Post 3972 hosts weekly bingo games at 7:30 p.m. each Thursday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit local charities, youth and veterans.</p><p><strong>Child Find Evaluations&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Child Find evaluations are available for children from birth to age 21 in Cuero, Meyersville, Nursery and Westhoff ISDs. To schedule an appointment, call Crystal Hamilton at 361-275-1903.</p><p><strong>Child Screening Services</strong></p><p>Free screening services are available for children from birth through age 5 in the Yorktown area. Screenings are held at Yorktown Elementary School. Call 361-5642252, ext. 3002, for an appointment.</p><p><strong>Genealogy Library</strong></p><p>The Cuero Heritage Museum, 124 E. Church St., houses a genealogy library with a searchable database of more than 480 books. Visit https:// chmgenealogy.libib.com or call 361-485-8090 for information.</p><p><strong>Explore Your Family History&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library provides free access to Ancestry.com when connected to the library's internet service through a partnership with the DeWitt County Historical Commission. Visit https://ancestrylibrary. proquest.co/ aleweb/ale/do/login.</p><p><strong>Lean On Me Organization</strong></p><p>The Lean On Me Organization assists families during times of bereavement. To volunteer or learn more, call Isabel Patton at 361-564-7868.</p><p><strong>Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed</strong></p><p>Meals on Wheels South Texas is seeking volunteers to help deliver meals in central DeWitt County. Deliveries are made Wednesdays from approximately 11 a.m. to noon. Visit mowstx.org or email volunteer@mowstx. org for information.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[County backs naming new VA clinic after DeWitt native son]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3121,county-backs-naming-new-va-clinic-after-dewitt-native-son</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3121,county-backs-naming-new-va-clinic-after-dewitt-native-son</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-county-backs-naming-new-va-clinic-after-dewitt-native-son-1782833012.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>DeWitt County commissioners last week joined a growing group of county officials across the region supporting naming the new Veterans Affairs clinic in nearby Victoria after a De-Witt County native, a</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>DeWitt County commissioners last week joined a growing group of county officials across the region supporting naming the new Veterans Affairs clinic in nearby Victoria after a De-Witt County native, a man who went on to become one of the most highly decorated soldiers of the Vietnam War. Their resolution passed unanimously Monday to endorse naming the area's VA clinic after the late Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez, a Medal of Honor recipient who was born Aug. 5, 1935, in the community of Lindenau in western DeWitt County.</p><p>His family would later call El Campo home after moving there when his father passed away during his boyhood.</p><p>The VA medical facility currently operates under the name Victoria VA Clinic and was built to serve the needs of some 20,000 veterans living in the Golden Crescent area.</p><p>By signing off on the measure, DeWitt County joins officials in Victoria, Jackson, Lavaca and several other counties in supporting the name change. Those county resolutions are being collected by Republican Congressman Michael Cloud's office, which will then take them to Washington, D.C., where he will introduce a similar measure on the floor of the House of Representatives to initiate the name change.</p><p>The resolution would then require congressional approval and, ultimately, the president's signature.</p><p>Cloud's office is where Benavidez's grandson, Matthew Benavidez, is about to take a position as a district field representative.</p><p>Matthew had previously worked as chief of staff for District 85 state Rep. Stan Kitzman, R-Pattison, but Kitzman was defeated by former Flatonia Mayor Dennis 'Goose' Geesaman during the GOP primary election.</p><p>Benavidez said he found the vote to be 'inspirational.'</p><p>'It has been almost 60 years since my grandfather's actions that day in Vietnam, 45 years since he was awarded the Medal of Honor, and almost 30 years since his passing, and he is still remembered and memorialized,' he said. 'I look at this as the actions of the community, and the veterans. They look at the name Roy P. Benavidez and see a beacon of hope, courage, sacrifice and commitment to his brothers in arms.'</p><p>Benavidez served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1976, returning to his El Campo home upon retirement. His family still lives in the community where Matthew Benavidez, his siblings and immediate cousins graduated from high school.</p><p>His grandfather's Medal of Honor stems from what the soldier dubbed 'Six Hours in Hell,' the title of a book about his time in the service.</p><p>Benavidez rescued eight men and recovered classified military documents on May 2, 1968, after volunteering for a rescue mission behind enemy lines.</p><p>He suffered a broken jaw, 37 bullet wounds and bayonet puncture wounds, returning to the forward operating base in dire condition. Assessing medics attempted to place him inside a body bag, but Benavidez mustered enough strength to spit a mouthful of blood into the face of a doctor looming over him, proving he was still alive.</p><p>'He did not do what he did to become a hero in the eyes of the nation, he did what he did to be a brother to his fellow man,' Matthew Benavidez said. 'He did not think about what would happen after the fact, he only thought in the moment.</p><p>'For the people of Texas to still remember the name, and remember the story, and carry on the legacy is truly inspiring,' he added. 'His story is what keeps me going in my pursuit to be a better person, and a better public servant.'</p><p>Benavidez was presented the Medal of Honor by President Ronald Reagan in 1981 after corroborating witnesses could be located. Benavidez died in 1998.</p><p>Veterans Affairs facilities are often named after military heroes, with the bestknown in Texas being Audie Murphy in San Antonio.</p><p>World War II-era soldier and fellow Texan Lt. Audie Murphy, featured in the movie To Hell and Back, is the most decorated soldier in U.S. history and a Medal of Honor recipient.</p><p>To the veterans for whom the hospital provides care, a trip there is not to the Audie Murphy Veterans Affairs Hospital, but simply 'Audie Murphy,' a man still revered by those who once wore the nation's uniform.</p><p>'I hope that this renaming will bring some sort of comfort to the veterans who visit the hospital, and instill a sense of purpose into everyone who reads his story. It is truly inspiring,' Matthew Benavidez said.</p><p>Shannon Crabtree, longtime editor of the Wharton County Leader-News in El Campo, also contributed to this report.</p><figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/wysiwig/06-29-2026-tcr-zip/Ar00101002.jpg" alt=""><figcaption>The bronze likeness of the late Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez — born in 1935 in the community of Lindenau — stands sentinel atop the hill across from the local high school along U.S. 87 on Cuero's east side. If approved in Washington, D.C., the new Victoria VA Clinic may also soon bear his name. Photo by Bobby Horecka</figcaption></figure> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[County begins budget talks]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3120,county-begins-budget-talks</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3120,county-begins-budget-talks</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-county-begins-budget-talks-1782832968.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>DeWitt County commissioners began their annual budget planning workshops with various county departments Monday. County officials heard from staffers at the county clerk’s office, the extension servic</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>DeWitt County commissioners began their annual budget planning workshops with various county departments Monday. County officials heard from staffers at the county clerk’s office, the extension service, the tax assessor- collector’s office, the veteran’s service officer, the district clerk’s office and Precinct 2 commissioner’s office.</p><p>Apart from the typical cost of living pay increases, a few minor staffing adjustments and various equipment purchase requests—ranging in price from a simple computer printer in one of clerk’s offices on up to the replacement of a roughly half-million dollar piece of road equipment in Precinct 2— no major budgetary surprises came to light as a result of Monday’s hearings.</p><p>One item raised with recurring regularity dealt with the county’s handling of longevity pay to employees.</p><p>A few years ago, De-Witt County approved a $100 per year pay incentive, payable to all hourly employees, based on the number of years each employee had worked for the county.</p><p>Noticeably absent from that longevity pay perk, however, were the salaried employees with the county, chiefly its elected officials and others like county extension agents and the county auditor, all of whom (barring those elected officials) receive the larger parts of their earnings from outside the county payrolls.</p><p>The county clerk’s office was the first on Monday to broach the possibility of including elected officials for the longevity pay benefit as well, and by the end of the day’s budget talks, requests slowly funneled in from all other departments as well.</p><p>No decisions were made on any of Monday’s budget hearing requests. Those will come later when the county approves its annual budget and tax rate in a couple of months.</p><p>These hearings are more discussion items for budget planners as they make decisions on the coming year’s expense line items.</p><p>In other business:</p><p>• Commissioners approved a one-time retention incentive bonus payable to two officers working in the Juvenile Probation Department, to make use of the remaining funds left over from a juvenile probation grant awarded to the county last year.</p><p>• The county received its annual report from the Texas County and District Retirement System, complete with plan assessments for the 2027 calendar year.</p><p>• Commissioners approved a division order with Devon Energy Production Co. for the Hansen A 9H Unit.</p><p>• The county approved several temporary rights of way along roadsides, including requests made by NMT Permitting, NexGen Water Solutions and Select Water Solutions, all in commissioner Precinct 3.</p><p>• Commissioners accepted an insurance claim settlement payment on a totaled 2025 Chevy Tahoe, lost in service of the county sheriff’s office.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Lindenau native could be honored in National Garden of American Heroes]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3119,lindenau-native-could-be-honored-in-national-garden-of-american-heroes</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3119,lindenau-native-could-be-honored-in-national-garden-of-american-heroes</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-lindenau-native-could-be-honored-in-national-garden-of-american-heroes-1782833054.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>A Medal of Honor recipient born in western DeWitt County could one day be honored with a statue in the proposed National Garden of American Heroes, a federally backed monument planned for the Black Hi</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>A Medal of Honor recipient born in western DeWitt County could one day be honored with a statue in the proposed National Garden of American Heroes, a federally backed monument planned for the Black Hills near Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.</p><p>The proposal comes just days after De-Witt County commissioners approved a resolution supporting efforts to name the new Veterans Affairs hospital in Victoria after Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez, who was born in the Lindenau community before lat- er making El Campo his home.</p><p>The garden would include 250 sculptures honoring Americans from all walks of life, although the project has been the subject of nearly six years of debate over whether it will ultimately become a reality.</p><p>Benavidez, a Medal of Honor recipient, is on the short list of proposed honorees. Other names on the list include George S. Patton Jr., John Adams, Ronald Reagan, Elvis Presley, Barbara Jordan, Nat King Cole, Red Cloud, Roberto Clemente, Audie Murphy, Francis Scott Key, Martin Luther King Jr., Walt Disney and Neil Armstrong.</p><p>The monument was first envisioned by President Donald Trump in Executive Order 13934, issued July 3, 2020. The project struggled with funding after President Joe Biden rescinded the order, but it was revived following President Trump's return to office in 2025.</p><p>As part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in May 2025, the garden received $40 million in funding through the Department of the Interior.</p><p>'We do not know if this garden will ever come to fruition, but for my grandfather's name to be among the names of some of the greatest American icons in the 250 years of our nation's history is truly an honor,' said Matthew Benavidez.</p><p>His father, Noel Benavidez, is one of Roy and Lala Benavidez's three children, along with Yvette Benavidez Garcia and Denise Prochazka. Each has children who have been taught about the legacy of the grandfather few of them were old enough to remember meeting.</p><p>The garden envisions classical or realistic-style renderings, only slightly larger than life, created from marble, granite, bronze, copper or brass.</p><p>'Out of all the American icons and heroes the President's team has selected the orphaned farmer boy from Cuero, Texas, who was in the right place at the right time to help his friends and brothers in arms,' Matthew Benavidez said.</p><p>'His name will be alongside the names of Betsy Ross, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson, Davy Crockett, Albert Einstein, William McKinley and George Washington, to name a few. It is such an honor to think his contribution to his community, to the military, to the youth and to the nation as a whole has had such a profound impact that he is considered to be recognized among the heroes who helped shape this nation,' he added.</p><p>Despite being one of the most recognized figures of the Vietnam War nationally, little in the area honors the Green Beret who, after being injured so severely doctors told him he would spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair, refused to accept that limitation. He taught himself to walk again by first crawling across the hospital floor and then pulling himself up against a wall.</p><p>His determination to stay on active duty led to another tour in Vietnam, a deployment that resulted in what he later called 'Six Hours in Hell' on May 2, 1968, when he volunteered for a rescue mission after learning three previous attempts had failed.</p><p>Facing odds estimated at 100 to 1, Benavidez, armed with only a knife and a medical bag, saved eight of 12 men, recovered classified documents and suffered 37 bullet, stab and shrapnel wounds.</p><p>And while it may not sound polite in the civilian world, few soldiers will forget that Benavidez came home alive because he somehow foundthestrength to spit in the face of the men who believed he was dead and were preparing to place him in a body bag.</p><p>After many more years of stateside service, Benavidez returned to El Campo with his wife and children upon his retirement in 1976. The town had thrown him a parade when the Army awarded him the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions during those six hours in hell.</p><p>He had also been nominated for the Medal of Honor. The military conducts an extensive investigation of every nomination, including requiring eyewitness testimony. In Benavidez's case, many of the witnesses had been killed or seriously wounded.</p><p>Lt. Col. Ralph R. Drake quickly began working to ensure Benavidez received the recognition he deserved. The eight rescued men testified, but the process ultimately required testimony from radio operator Brian O'Conner, who had left the United States after the war and did not know he was needed.</p><p>Somehow, however, O'Conner happened to read a story published in the El Campo Leader- News seeking witnesses and contacted officials.</p><p>President Ronald Reagan awarded Benavidez the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration, on Feb. 24, 1981.</p><p>Following his retirement, Benavidez traveled extensively, often asking only that his travel and lodging expenses be covered, speaking to military units and students about service, his wartime experiences and themeaningoftheWest Point motto, 'Duty, Honor, Country.'</p><p>Benavidez also became the first noncommissioned officer in U.S. history to receive a West Point saber.</p><p>'I do not often think about the impact he has had on people I have never met, but he truly is not only a Texas icon, but an American icon, and I am truly thankful to all those who remember his name and echo his story as a true American patriot,' Matthew Benavidez said.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[Coffee gathering brings veterans together]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3116,coffee-gathering-brings-veterans-together</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3116,coffee-gathering-brings-veterans-together</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><media:content url="https://static2.dewittcountytoday.com/data/articles/xga-4x3-coffee-gathering-brings-veterans-together-1782833331.jpg" type="image/jpeg" medium="image" /><description>Veterans and local seniors gathered Wednesday morning at American Legion Post 3 in Cuero for their weekly coffee and fellowship. Along with discussing upcoming Fourth of July activities and senior eve</description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Veterans and local seniors gathered Wednesday morning at American Legion Post 3 in Cuero for their weekly coffee and fellowship. Along with discussing upcoming Fourth of July activities and senior events, the group celebrated the upcoming 96th birthday of Ms. Kuecker by singing "Happy Birthday."</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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            <title><![CDATA[DeWitt Briefs]]></title>
            <link>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3133,dewitt-briefs</link>
            <guid>https://www.dewittcountytoday.com/article/3133,dewitt-briefs</guid>
            <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate><description>Spirit of &#039;76 CelebrationThe DeWitt County Historical Commission will host its &#039;Spirit of &#039;76: Roots of DeWitt County&#039; celebration Friday, July 3, at the English-German Schoolhouse and Chisholm Trail </description>
            <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p><strong>Spirit of '76 Celebration</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Historical Commission will host its 'Spirit of '76: Roots of DeWitt County' celebration Friday, July 3, at the English-German Schoolhouse and Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum in Cuero. The event will feature living history presentations, Revolutionary- era programs, family activities, patriotic displays, ice cream and apple pie as part of America's 250th anniversary celebration.</p><p><strong>Bingo and Homemade Ice Cream</strong></p><p>The Yorktown Historical Society will host Bingo and Homemade Ice Cream on Friday, July 3, at the Yorktown Historical Museum. The event is open to the public.</p><p><strong>Search for American Revolution Descendants&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Historical Commission is seeking information on local descendants of individuals who supported the American Revolution. Family stories and names may be included in programs celebrating America's 250th anniversary July 3-4. Email dewitt-county-archives@dwcotx.org or call Peggy Ledbetter at 361-648-0003.</p><p><strong>Cuero Fourth of July Celebration&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Cuero's Fourth of July Celebration will be held Saturday, July 4, at Cuero Municipal Park. Activities will include a parade, classic car show, food vendors, live music, free splash pad and pool admission, family activities and a fireworks display after dark. The event is part of the community's celebration of America's 250th anniversary.</p><p><strong>America's 250th Birthday Parade</strong></p><p>The Cuero Chamber of Commerce will host America's 250th Birthday Parade on Saturday, July 4, at 4 p.m. The parade will travel from Main Street to Cuero Municipal Park. Lineup begins at 3 p.m.</p><p><strong>Vacation Bible School&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Yorktown First Baptist Church will host Bible Alive 2026 Vacation Bible School July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to noon. The program is open to children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade. Admission is free. Register online at fbcyorktown. org or call 361-- 564-6004.</p><p><strong>Democratic women to meet July 7</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>The DeWitt/Lavaca County Democratic Women will hold their monthly meeting Tuesday, July 7, at the GVEC Electric Cooperative Community Room, 1025 E. Broadway in Cuero. A meet-andgreet will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 6 p.m. Organizers noted the meeting time and location have changed. The public is invited to attend. Parking and the entrance are located at the rear of the building. For more information, email dewittlavacadems@ gmail.com.</p><p><strong>Lunch and Learn</strong></p><p>Yorktown Economic Development will host the Texas A&amp;M University- Victoria Small Business Development Center for a Lunch and Learn session titled 'Practical Social Media' on July 14. Seating is limited to 20 people and lunch will be provided.</p><p><strong>Grief Share social planned in Yorktown&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Residents interested in learning more about the Grief Share program are invited to attend a Grief Share Social at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the TrustTexas Bank Community Room in Yorktown. Organizers will provide information about the Grief Share program and determine interest in starting another series of support sessions. For more information, contact Valda Lamprecht at 361-6497812 or Rosa Serrano at 361-564-8207.</p><p><strong>Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension Service Family and Community Health Agent Denise Goebel will host the annual Kids in the Kitchen Chef Camp July 15-16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building in Cuero. The camp is open to DeWitt County youth ages 8 and older. Registration is $50 and limited to 25 participants. Call 361-2750816.</p><p><strong>Trade Skills Workshop&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library will continue its Trade Skills Workshop series for children ages 6-11 at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. The handson carpentry program will be presented by Pro-Fix Services LLC at the library, 207 E. Main St. Participation is free.</p><p><strong>Sip &amp; Play Game Night&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The DeWitt Medical Foundation will host Sip &amp; Play Game Night on Friday, July 24, at 6:30 p.m. at The Venue on Church Street. The fundraiser will benefit Cuero Regional Hospital. Individual tickets are $40. Call 361-524-6103 or email nlantz@cuerohospital.org for tickets.</p><p><strong>Blood Drive in Yorktown&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Holy Cross Catholic Church will host a blood drive Sunday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1214 Zorn Road in Yorktown. Individuals age 16 and older may be eligible to donate with parental consent. For questions, call South Texas Blood &amp; Tissue at 210-731-5590.</p><p><strong>Dohmann family reunion set for Aug. 2&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The annual Werner F. Dohmann Family Reunion will be held Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Weesatche Community Center. Doors will open at 10 a.m., with a potluck meal scheduled for noon. Attendees are asked to bring a meat dish and a side dish to share. The reunion will also include a silent auction, photo booth, children's activities and door prizes. Family members are encouraged to bring Dohmann family photos or photo albums to share, along with games such as dominoes, cards, cornhole or horseshoes. Organizers encourage attendees to share the reunion information with other family members.</p><p><strong>Garage Sale Planned&nbsp;</strong></p><p>First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown will hold its annual garage sale Aug. 7-8 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Aug. 9 from noon to 3 p.m. Donations are currently being accepted at the church fellowship hall, 234 N. Church St.</p><p><strong>Tree Dedication Planned</strong></p><p>The City of Cuero Tree Board will host a tree dedication ceremony in memory of Ray Kelley on Friday, Aug. 7, at 10 a.m. at Settler's Park. The dedication will honor Kelley as an educator, mentor, community leader and longtime principal of Cuero High School.</p><p><strong>Back-to-School Tailgate Set</strong></p><p>Yorktown ISD will host its Back-to-School Tailgate Party from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11. The event will provide an opportunity for students, parents and community members to prepare for the 2026-27 school year.</p><p><strong>Bingo, Bags and Badges</strong></p><p>Norma's House will host its annual Bingo, Bags and Badges fundraiser Friday, Aug. 14, at the Yoakum Community Center. Doors open at 5 p.m. and bingo begins at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50. Call 830-672-1278 for information.</p><p><strong>AA Meetings</strong></p><p>Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday and Friday at 7 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library.</p><p><strong>Unity Prayer</strong></p><p>Unity Prayer meets every third Monday of the month from 5:45-6:45 p.m. at the Cuero Public Library. For information, call 361-243-8684 or 361-243-1141.</p><p><strong>Senior Social Hour</strong></p><p>Crown Hospice hosts a Senior Social Hour at 10 a.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Yorktown Public Library. Bingo, prizes and snacks are provided free of charge.</p><p><strong>Family Storytime</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library hosts Family Storytime every Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. The program includes stories, crafts, snacks and activities for children ages 5 and younger.</p><p><strong>DeWitt County Shutterbugs</strong></p><p>The DeWitt County Shutterbugs photography club meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cuero Public Library, 207 E. Main St. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Email dcshutterbugs@yahoo. com for information.</p><p><strong>Grief Share</strong></p><p>Grief Share sessions are held Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 401 E. Main St. in Yorktown. Call Valda Lamprecht at 361-649-7812 or Rosa Serrano at 361564-8208 for information.</p><p><strong>Senior Coffee Hour and Social</strong></p><p>The American Legion hosts a Veterans and Seniors Coffee Hour and Social each Wednesday at 10 a.m. at 310 S. Esplanade in Cuero. Call 361275-6334 or 775-3047802 for information.</p><p><strong>Turner Hall Bingo</strong></p><p>Turner Hall hosts bingo every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at 5245 State Highway 111 West. Call 361-293-5576 for information.</p><p><strong>Cuero VFW Bingo</strong></p><p>Cuero VFW Post 3972 hosts weekly bingo games at 7:30 p.m. each Thursday. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds benefit local charities, youth and veterans.</p><p><strong>Child Find Evaluations&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Child Find evaluations are available for children from birth to age 21 in Cuero, Meyersville, Nursery and Westhoff ISDs. To schedule an appointment, call Crystal Hamilton at 361-275-1903.</p><p><strong>Child Screening Services</strong></p><p>Free screening services are available for children from birth through age 5 in the Yorktown area. Screenings are held at Yorktown Elementary School. Call 361-5642252, ext. 3002, for an appointment.</p><p><strong>Genealogy Library</strong></p><p>The Cuero Heritage Museum, 124 E. Church St., houses a genealogy library with a searchable database of more than 480 books. Visit https:// chmgenealogy.libib.com or call 361-485-8090 for information.</p><p><strong>Explore Your Family History&nbsp;</strong></p><p>The Cuero Municipal Library provides free access to Ancestry.com when connected to the library's internet service through a partnership with the DeWitt County Historical Commission. Visit https://ancestrylibrary. proquest.co/ aleweb/ale/do/login.</p><p><strong>Lean On Me Organization</strong></p><p>The Lean On Me Organization assists families during times of bereavement. To volunteer or learn more, call Isabel Patton at 361-564-7868.</p><p><strong>Meals on Wheels Volunteers Needed</strong></p><p>Meals on Wheels South Texas is seeking volunteers to help deliver meals in central DeWitt County. Deliveries are made Wednesdays from approximately 11 a.m. to noon. Visit mowstx.org or email volunteer@mowstx. org for information.</p> ]]></content:encoded>
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