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UHV softball garners All-RRAC honors
UHV garnered six All-Red River Athletic Conference honors after going 27-12 in the regular season.
The Jaguars were led by four first team selections in Ashley Reyna, Madysin Leighton, Claire Blinka and Kaylle Lopez.
Reyna, a senior first baseman, is a repeat selection to the all-conference first team after leading the team in batting average (.480), doubles (19) and RBIs (41).
Leighton, a sophomore from Richmond, hit .421 for the Jaguars this season to earn her spot on the first team.
Calhoun product Blinka hit a team-leading five home runs while holding a .414 average in 87 at-bats.
Lopez, a sophomore catcher from Sinton, hit .352 with 23 RBIs and only two strikeouts in 159 at-bats.
East grad Cameron Steen was the lone second team selection for UHV after going 11-7 with a 2.96 ERA in 111.1 innings pitched.
Jackie Longoria was named to the Champions of Character team.
UHV lost 4-0 in the conference tournament semifinals to eventual champion Texas A&M-Texarkana on May 8.
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2022-05-15T01:49:36Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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UHV softball garners All-RRAC honors | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/uhv-softball-garners-all-rrac-honors/article_e22579ae-d3ea-11ec-a071-432710ed60d3.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/uhv-softball-garners-all-rrac-honors/article_e22579ae-d3ea-11ec-a071-432710ed60d3.html
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Nordheim’s Danielle Wilson spins up for an attempt in the Class 1A girls discus Saturday morning at the state track and field meet in Austin.
Travis Harsch for the Victoria Advocate
Moulton’s Estafania Colchado gets some distance from the field in the Class 1A girls 3,200-meter run Saturday morning at the state track and field meet in Austin. Colchado earned a bronze medal.
Nordheim’s Danielle Wilson releases a throw in the Class 1A girls discus Saturday morning at the state track and field meet in Austin.
AUSTIN — Nordheim is in the process of building a track for the high school.
But even before the construction is complete, the school can boast a pair of gold-medal winners.
Braylon Williams won the boys Class 1A 200-meter dash, and Emagen Styra won the girls shot put at the UIL state meet Saturday at Mike A. Myers Stadium.
“That’s pretty good. That’s pretty cool,” Williams said. “It makes me happy that we can bring something back to the city of Nordheim that always supports us.”
Styra won Nordheim’s first state medal since 2015 with a personal-best throw of 39 feet, 10 inches in the shot put.
Williams followed by winning in a personal-best time of 22.50 seconds in the 200.
“I think the difference was last year I went to regionals and got fourth in the 100 and 200,” Williams said. “Just having that experience and wanting to go harder and wanting to go deeper and get to state.”
Williams had to go to the track in Runge to practice, but it didn’t prevent him from coming into the meet as the second seed.
“I saw the times and I saw my time and I thought if I could just run my race like my coach (uncle Carlton Williams) always tells me. He tells me to stay in my lane and run my race. Run hard and don’t let anybody else control your race and if I do that, I’ll have a good one.”
Braylon Williams admits to being nervous, but leaned on Carlton Williams to calm him down.
“If you ask my coach, down there in the warmup area, I was getting pretty nervous,” Braylon Williams said. “He calmed me down and told me it’s just another race and a big opportunity.”
Styra planned on competing in the shot put when she began high school at Nordheim.
But after competing in the event as a freshman, the COVID-19 pandemic and an injury caused Styra to miss her sophomore and junior years.
Styra was virtually starting over when she reported for the first day of practice. But she went back to work with a positive attitude.
“It was just hard work in the weight room, hard work at practice every single day,” she said. “I never gave up. I always had the mindset of winning.”
Styra attributed her winning throw to the excitement of being at the state meet.
“”I got here and achieved my goal,” she said. “I was just coming here to have fun and go out with a bang.”
Styra plans to attend Texas Lutheran University to continue her track and field career. Williams is unsure whether he will play basketball or continue in track and field.
But neither will be going home empty handed.
“It means a lot,” Williams said. “I can show this to my friends and family and my coach and show them how we did it together.”
The cross country season proved to be a difficult time for Moulton’s Estefania Colchado.
Colchado, a sophomore, fractured her hip and was unable to participate.
“It ruined my whole season,” she said. “I hated it. I always got to see my teammates run. I had worked so hard during the summer and I couldn’t run.”
Colchado has no idea how the injury happened, but was determined to get back to running as quickly as she could.
“I just really missed running with my team and everything,” she said. “I couldn’t do that so I told myself, ‘if I want to get better, I just have to do it.’”
Colchado put in the miles and was able to return for the track season.
Her hard work paid off when she was able to participate and finished first in the 1,600-meter run and second in the 3,200 at the Region IV-1A meet in League City to qualify for the UIL state meet in both events.
Colchado’s first trip to Mike A. Myers Stadium was a success as she finished third in the 3,200 and earned a bronze medal in a time of 12 minutes, 19.28 seconds. She also finished sixth in the 1,600 in a time of 5:51.65.
“I feel like I achieved something and I worked for it,” she said. “It just feels better whenever you work for something your accomplishments mean more.”
Estefania Colchado
Emagen Styra
Braylon Williams
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2022-05-15T03:47:14Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Nordheim, Moulton athletes take medals at state meet | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/nordheim-moulton-athletes-take-medals-at-state-meet/article_62beefbe-d3cd-11ec-9dc1-3f5aed1d5906.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/nordheim-moulton-athletes-take-medals-at-state-meet/article_62beefbe-d3cd-11ec-9dc1-3f5aed1d5906.html
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Amanda Berry
Allison Lacey
Allison Lacey was recently promoted to city attorney for the City of Victoria. In this position, she will serve as the legal advisor for the City, a role that includes representing the City in legal proceedings as well as drafting and reviewing ordinances and other legal documents. Lacey began working as the assistant city attorney in 2015 and was promoted to deputy city attorney in 2021 before being promoted to her current role. Prior to working for the City, Lacey held roles as an assistant district attorney and family law practitioner. She is also on the boards of directors for the United Way of the Crossroads and Victoria Preservation Inc. She also serves as a mentor through the Victoria Business Education Coalition’s Mentor Connector program. Lacey earned her doctorate in jurisprudence from Texas Tech University in 2007.
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2022-05-15T03:47:20Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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In Good Company: | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/in-good-company/article_df385fec-d096-11ec-a2e7-7f970015b236.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/in-good-company/article_df385fec-d096-11ec-a2e7-7f970015b236.html
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Refugio’s Caleb Hesseltine recovered from ankle surgery just in time to step in and lead the Bobcats to the next round of the Texas high school baseball playoffs.
After only pitching twice this year for a total of 31 pitches, and only catching three games, Hesseltine caught Game 2 and pitched Game 3 of Refugio’s best-of-three area round series against Falls City.
Refugio (15-5) took game one Wednesday evening, defeating Falls City (17-6) 4-2. Falls City jumped out to a 4-0 lead after one inning in Game 2 Saturday afternoon in Beeville.
Down 5-2 in the bottom of the seventh, Refugio battled back, scoring three to tie the game at five.
The Bobcats stranded the winning run on second sending the game into extra innings. Falls City scored three in the top of the eighth and held Refugio scoreless in the bottom of the inning leading to a 8-5 Game 2 win for the Beavers.
“I’ve been here nine years and every time we had a break between game 1 and the next two games, we’ve lost every time. To lose game 2 the way we did today, being down the whole game, coming back and having the winning run on second base, not being able to push it in, that was tough. I’m just proud of how the kids battled back,” said Refugio head coach Jarod Kay.
Hesseltine stepped on the mound to start game 3, trying to give his team a chance at victory. He did just that as he pitched over six innings, striking out six, while allowing just one run in a 7-2 win in Game 3.
The pitching effort followed his eight innings behind the plate in Game 2.
“It was tough, I’m not going to lie, but I battled through. I just told myself that I have to be that guy, my team is counting on me. The guys behind me made great plays and the catcher did a great job,” said Hesseltine.
Refugio scored three in the first, one in the second, followed by a three-run fourth inning to jump out to a seven run lead.
Falls City pushed across a couple in the top of the seventh, but came up short, allowing Refugio to advance.
Hesseltine knew the Bobcats had what it would take to win Game 3.
“We knew we just needed to play better. We got a little rowdier in the dugout, and with being on the mound, I knew my team would have my back,” said Hesseltine.
Standing out offensively for Refugio were cleanup hitter Lukas Meza who went 5-for-8 with a double and three RBIs between the two games, and Jordan Kelley who added three hits and three RBIs for the Bobcats.
Falls City was led by Ayden Gates who threw 6 innings in game 1, striking out 7. He went 3-for-8 with three RBIs.
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2022-05-15T05:40:05Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Refugio wins Game 3 to advance to regional quarterfinals | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/refugio-wins-game-3-to-advance-to-regional-quarterfinals/article_01f856c4-d405-11ec-8dce-afb93a2ad9a4.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/refugio-wins-game-3-to-advance-to-regional-quarterfinals/article_01f856c4-d405-11ec-8dce-afb93a2ad9a4.html
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Alan Ray Reeb
CORPUS CHRISTI — Alan Ray Reeb, age 81, graduated into Heaven on May 5, 2022. He was born on February 9, 1941 to Paul Joseph Reeb and Ruth Catherine Reeb in San Benito, Texas. Alan was raised in Flour Bluff, Texas and proudly served his country in the United States Navy on the U.S.S Lexington. Alan retired from Halliburton and enjoyed hunting, fishing, building hot rods, building custom rods & reels and carpentry. Alan devoted his life to hard work to provide the best life that he could for his family. On August 20, 1960, he married Lucille Reeb, and they enjoyed 54 years of marriage together.
Alan is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Ruth, his loving wife Lucille and sisters Millie and Jean.
Left to cherish his memories are, his loving wife Gayna, son Alan (Karon), daughter Tammy (Vernon), son Terry (Kimberly) and his favorite baby Lily (a Maltese). Alan is also survived by 4 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Alan was a loving father and he will be dearly missed.
Family will receive friends at 1pm Friday May 20, 2022 at Seaside Funeral Home Chapel followed by a Memorial Service at 1:30pm, Inurnment to follow at Seaside Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of South Texas.
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2022-05-15T07:28:48Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Alan Ray Reeb | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/alan-ray-reeb/article_e4ca88fa-07fe-59f2-99a0-77c8813dafa8.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/alan-ray-reeb/article_e4ca88fa-07fe-59f2-99a0-77c8813dafa8.html
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EVANSVILLE, IN — Robert “Lopie” Lopez, 51, of Evansville, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, May 4, 202. A rosary will be held at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 followed by a funeral mass at 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 208 W. River St., Victoria, TX. To leave a comforting message please visit www.gracefuneralhome.net.
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2022-05-15T07:29:00Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Robert Lopez | Death Notices | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/death_notices/robert-lopez/article_1ab89da4-b69b-54d6-84a0-41380297088a.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/death_notices/robert-lopez/article_1ab89da4-b69b-54d6-84a0-41380297088a.html
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WOODSBORO — Kyle Glynn Morgan, owner of Morgan Mechanics and life-long resident of Woodsboro, Texas died on Wednesday morning, May 11th, 2022 at the age of 57 following a long illness. Kyle is survived by his wife, Cherie Gunn Morgan of Refugio, his mother, Martha Morgan of Woodsboro, his children; Kourtney, Kelsey and Taylor “TK” Morgan of Woodsboro and Maycee and Bailee Wright of Refugio, two granddaughters, Ellie and Natalie and two sisters, Vicky Dippel of Inez and Brenda Lamprecht (Gary) of Woodsboro. He was preceded in death by his father, Glynn Morgan. Kyle was born in Refugio, Texas to Glynn and Martha Morgan on August 12th, 1964. He graduated from Woodsboro High School in 1982 and became an auto mechanic by trade. In 1992, he opened his own mechanic shop in Woodsboro where he devotedly serviced vehicles across Refugio County and beyond. His dedicated and relentless employee, Quintin Sikes, played a large part in making this business a huge success, but he was not only Kyle’s employee, but his friend and brother. Kyle was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Woodsboro and, due to his heart and abilities, was often called upon by others in their time of need, which he routinely did for 30 years. Besides his total devotion to his family, children and Jesus, who were his reasons for existence, Kyle was an avid fisherman and bow hunter. He lived life to the fullest and never met a stranger. He was one of a kind and you always knew when he was present and exactly where he stood. If you had ever met him, you would never forget him. Donations can be made to First Baptist Church Woodsboro and Hospice of South Texas. Services entrusted to Moore Funeral Home, Inc. 402 South Alamo Street; Refugio, Texas 78377
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2022-05-15T07:29:24Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Kyle Glynn Morgan | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/kyle-glynn-morgan/article_444f43a1-49c8-5c57-8e4a-f1d0dec9e4e7.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/kyle-glynn-morgan/article_444f43a1-49c8-5c57-8e4a-f1d0dec9e4e7.html
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HOUSTON — “And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will take you to myself that where I am, you may be also” John 14:3.
Larry Casey McWherter passed away on Sunday, the 8th of May 2022, at the age of 79.
Larry was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on the 27th of December 1942, to Clayton and Rita McWherter. His parents were the foundation of his character, work ethic, and Christian faith. He spent his early years in New Orleans and moved to Victoria, Texas in 1954, graduating in 1961 from Victoria High School where he excelled in football and played for legendary coach Gordon Wood.
Larry returned to his home state to attend the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana) in Lafayette, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Upon graduating with a degree in business in 1966, he joined the Naval Air Reserve and began his career with Shell Oil Company in New Orleans. He then moved to Houston to pursue a career in commercial real estate with Coldwell Banker (now CBRE), where he became a sales manager and one of the firm’s consistent top producers.
After nearly 15 years at “CB,” Larry started his own real estate firm where he continued his successful brokerage career. Larry eventually returned to CBRE where he focused on land sales until his retirement. Throughout his career, he was generous with his time and mentored countless younger brokers, something in which he took great pride. Larry’s mentorship extended beyond his professional career, serving as a Big Brother in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program.
Throughout his life, Larry was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing all over the U.S. and Mexico, but his true passion (most would say obsession) was hunting quail in South Texas. Larry’s pursuit of “codorniz” knew no bounds and he relished his days in the field with his English pointers, fine shotguns, and good friends. Some of his best memories were weekends with his friends, his brother Ron, and his son Blake at Larry’s hunting leases near Goliad and Zapata, Texas. A father-son hunting trip to Argentina with Blake, Paul and Brian Austin was also very special to him. It was a trip of a lifetime and to no one’s surprise, he offered a few dog-training tips for the guides on their perdiz hunt.
Larry was a lifelong learner and history buff, reading every history book he could get his hands on, which enhanced his ability to tell many stories and recite historical trivia to friends, family, and anyone who would listen. He particularly loved Texas history and took pride in his extensive knowledge of his adopted home state.
Larry also appreciated western heritage and the “cowboy way.” He was a proud and active member of the Tejas Vaqueros since 1981, having served as No Nombre Camp Captain. Despite starting out as a “pilgrim” (one of his favorite sayings) many years ago, Larry became an accomplished horseman, winning multiple Vaquero rodeo events and buckles, including “All Around Champion” in 2017. Some of his best friends and fondest memories were thanks to the Vaqueros and he looked forward to spending time in “the canyon” every September. Larry also participated in the Rancher’s Ride each spring to prepare for the annual Vaquero ride. Larry was a long-time supporter of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. He served on several committees, including the Steer Auction and Breeders Greeters committees and held season tickets for many years.
In 1995, Larry doubled down on his love of all things country and bought a farm (“8 Oaks”) near New Ulm, Texas, where he enjoyed tending to his horses, training his dogs, and taking care of the property. He was active in the local community and serving as a regular guest reader to an elementary school in Columbus, Texas brought him particular joy. He was an active member of Industry United Methodist Church and the West End Christian Community Organization for many years.
In Houston, he attended Chapelwood United Methodist Church, which he recently joined. Larry’s faith in God, instilled at an early age by his parents, was abiding and Jesus Christ was his savior. We take comfort that he is with his Heavenly Father now and no longer suffering from the infirmities that afflicted him the past few years.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Rita and Clayton McWherter. He is survived by his brother, Ron McWherter and his wife Silvia; and nephew, Jared Clayton “Clay” McWherter; son, Clayton “Blake” McWherter and his wife Kelly; grandchildren, Katherine Grace and John Clayton McWherter; and many cousins and extended family. “Grandad” was especially proud of Kate and John Clayton and created many memories over the years showing them the ropes out at the farm. Larry loved his family and wanted to be with them at every opportunity.
A celebration of Larry’s life is to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon, Monday the 16th of May, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston, where John Adams, Larry’s cousin, is to officiate.
Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family and share remembrances of Larry during a reception to be held in the adjacent grand foyer.
In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in Larry’s honor be directed to The Alzheimer’s Association, 6055 S Loop E Fwy, Houston, TX 77087; or to the charity of one’s choice.
Please visit Larry’s online memorial tribute at GeoHLewis.com, where memories and words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.
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2022-05-15T07:29:30Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Larry McWherter | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/larry-mcwherter/article_6d5c1081-ed01-5e3c-afc1-bc2cbaacdca0.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/larry-mcwherter/article_6d5c1081-ed01-5e3c-afc1-bc2cbaacdca0.html
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Ralph Oscar Brown
PALACIOS — Ralph Oscar Brown, 74, of Palacios, TX passed away May 12, 2022 after a short illness. He was born on July 13, 1947 in Edna, TX to the late Oscar Homer Brown and Katherine Lenz Brown.
They moved to Palacios when Ralph was in the 7th grade. He was privileged to have played for the Palacios Sharks Class 2-A State Championship Football team 1964-1965. Memories never fade! On February 24, 1968 he married Mary Ann Brune. They had 54 years together.
He worked for Alcoa for 33 years. He was a member of the Pipefitters Local Union, Palacios Fire Dept., Masonic Lodge; American Quarter Horse Assoc. and Texas Quarter Horse Assoc. He loved to garden. He enjoyed vacationing in the mountains of New Mexico, and attending the horse racing in Ruidoso.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; sister Dorothy Brown and brother Kenneth Brown. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann; sisters Diana Michalik (Charlie), Doris Malaer (Albert) and Gloria Benner (Ronnie); brothers Homer (Cheryl), Leslie (Kay), and special family, the Aparicios.
The family will receive friends and loved ones Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at Palacios Funeral Home from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Services will be 10:00 am Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery. Pallbearers are Greg Hunter, Kenny Brune, Ryan Weed, Ernie Aparicio, Dave Aparicio and Nic Aparicio. Honorary pallbearers are Lance Brune and Yvonne Romas.
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2022-05-15T07:29:42Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Ralph Oscar Brown | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/ralph-oscar-brown/article_53fe43ee-38ca-529e-832c-474e880a2c76.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/ralph-oscar-brown/article_53fe43ee-38ca-529e-832c-474e880a2c76.html
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Santos Manuel Llanes
VICTORIA — Santos Manuel Llanes, age 79 of Victoria passed away Monday, May 9, 2022. He was born November 11, 1942, in Palacios to the late Justo Llanes and Catalina “Katy” Ramirez.
He retired from Alcoa in Point Comfort, Texas after 35 years as a Master Electrician.
He is survived by his wife Emma Maseda Llanes; sons Manuel Llanes, and Rudy Llanes of Victoria; and sister, Linda Garcia (Tony) of Palacios.
He is also survived by 2 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Albert Llanes.
Visitation will begin Monday, May 16, 2022, at 8am at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church with a Rosary to be recited at 8:15am. Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 9am. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.
Under the direction of Angel Lucy’s Funeral Home Victoria. 361-575-3212.
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2022-05-15T07:29:48Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Santos Manuel Llanes | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/santos-manuel-llanes/article_d2349bbe-352d-5f82-92e1-59590a214c15.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/santos-manuel-llanes/article_d2349bbe-352d-5f82-92e1-59590a214c15.html
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The Rev. Parmenio Florez sprinkles holy water at the end of a memorial service on Saturday south of Victoria. The annual memorial remembers the 19 immigrants who died in 2003 after being left in a locked trailer on U.S. 77.
Memorial attendees leave bottles of water on Saturday in memory of the immigrants who died in 2003.
Sisters Euphemia Santiago, left, and Rosa Maria, right, lead a hymn during a memorial service for 19 immigrants who died in 2003 on Saturday off U.S. 77 south of Victoria.
Memorial service attendees are reflected in an aspergillum on Saturday south of Victoria.
The Rev. Parmenio Florez prepares the Eucharist during a memorial service on Saturday south of Victoria.
A few dozen people gather on Saturday off U.S. 77 at the site where 19 immigrants died after being left in a locked truck in 2003.
The Rev. Parmenio Florez sprinkles holy water over the memorial on Saturday off of U.S. 77, south of Victoria.
The Rev. Parmenio Florez prepares to offer communion to memorial attendees on Saturday south of Victoria.
Offerings of flowers, water and toys mark the memorial site for 19 immigrants who died in 2003 on Saturday south of Victoria.
Memorial attendees observe Mass led by the Rev. Parmenio Florez on Saturday in memory of the 19 immigrants who died in 2003 south of Victoria off U.S. 77.
A few dozen gather on Saturday off U.S. 77 at the site where 19 immigrants died after being left in a locked truck in 2003.
The Rev. Parmenio Florez hands out communion during a memorial service on Saturday south of Victoria.
About 40 people gathered Saturday at noon alongside Fleming Prairie Road to honor 19 immigrants who died at that location 19 years earlier.
When those immigrants died on May 13, 2003, it was the deadliest human-smuggling case in U.S. history. At least 74 immigrants were packed into the back of a tractor-trailer, which the driver abandoned south of Victoria. Those packed in the back of the semi were left without water and those who perished did so from heat, dehydration or suffocation. Investigators estimated that temperatures reached 170 degrees inside the trailer.
As trucks pulled horse trailers and lawn equipment through the 7-Eleven parking lot across the street on Saturday, a Catholic ceremony was held in Spanish for those who died almost two decades ago. Buzzards wheeled above the mesquite trees beyond the barbed-wire enclosure and garlands of flowers topped bottles of water stacked along the roadside. The convenience store is located where the roadside truck stop once stood 19 years ago where the truck was abandoned.
The ceremony was conducted by the Rev. Parmenio Florez of Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church.
"We're going to be here as long as we can to remember them," said Martha Olvera, who attends the memorial each year. "Unfortunately every day we hear of people passing away because the government doesn't seem to want to do something about it."
Among those attending was Juan Hernandez, legal counsel to the Mexican Consulate in Houston. He said he monitors how Mexicans are treated in the U.S.
"My role is to assure that the rights of Mexican nationals are respected and they aren't discriminated against," Hernandez said. He said he was working with 37 Texas counties to watch for such events.
Immigrants interviewed for the trial of the driver in the wake of the deaths said they had entered the U.S. by crossing the Rio Grande River. The immigrants whose statements were included in court documents were from Guatemala, El Salvador, Mexico and Honduras.
Those who died were Marco Antonio Villasenor, Jose Antonio Villasenor, Serafin Rivera, Roberto Rivera, Hector Ramirez, Elisendo Cabanas, Edgar Gabriel Hernandez, Juan Carlos Castillo, Ricardo Gonzalez, Oscar Gonzalez, Catarino Gonzalez, Juan Jose Morales, Mateo Salgado, Chelve Benitez, Rogelio Dominguez, Jose Felicito Figueroa, Jose Mauricio Torres, Augusto Stanley Vargas and Jose Luis Ramirez.
The driver who abandoned the tractor-trailer, Tyrone Williams, was initially sentenced to life in prison. In total, Williams was convicted on 58 counts of conspiracy, harboring and transporting illegal immigrants. In 2011, Williams was given a new sentence of nearly 34 years in prison after a federal appeals court overturned the multiple life sentences he received.
"Immigration laws are so bad because they don't help people," Olvera said. "Immigration law doesn't treat people equally. We're fighting for that."
Sister Rosa Maria Rodriquez Trevino read from the Book of Acts at the ceremony. Acts shows how the early Christian church was established and how the teachings of Jesus Christ were brought into the structure of the church.
Because Christ was betrayed by one of the original apostles, Judas Iscariot, it cautions that that role in the early church had to be filled with new members. Trevino read the passage during the mass.
"Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us," Trevino read. "… For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.”
Gallery: Memorial for the 2003 deaths of 19 immigrants
Our Lady of Sorrows held its annual memorial service at the site where 19 immigrants died after being left in a locked truck in 2003 off of U.…
Human Trafficking In The United States
Mexican Consulate In Houston
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2022-05-15T17:46:21Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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19 immigrants who died in nation's worst human-smuggling case remembered | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/19-immigrants-who-died-in-nations-worst-human-smuggling-case-remembered/article_d937c67e-d3bf-11ec-92ab-1f8da6dd7aad.html
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Dayna Williams-Capone
By Dayna Williams-Capone
Are you a Victoria Public Library patron? If so, how can we improve our services? If not, how can we change that?
The scope of services offered by public libraries has changed greatly over the years, and we need to make sure we are still providing our patrons with the services they need. The library is crafting a strategic plan that will guide changes and innovations over the next few years, and we need your help to make sure the plan is a great fit for our community.
While it’s common for libraries to re-assess to make sure they are keeping up with the times, we also see this strategic plan as part of the unique growth and development taking place in our city government and in our community. With the finalization of the downtown master plan last year, there has been much talk of building a downtown that residents will want to visit. The library is part of downtown, and we want to do our part to build a community where all of our residents will enjoy living.
We are working with a consultant, Maureen Arndt, who has helped to reshape more than 220 libraries across the country. This is crucial because residents often don’t know what they want from their library, or they may not be aware of changes that have helped other communities. Ms. Arndt has helped us to provide information and formulate questions for our residents that will get them thinking about the possibilities.
We are currently in the public input phase of the strategic plan, which means now is your chance to let us know how you feel about your public library. Whether you’re a regular library visitor or you’ve never stepped through our door, we want to hear from you about how we can make the library better.
To take the survey, visit www.victoriatx.gov/library and click on the pop-up box to be taken to the strategic plan webpage. There, you’ll find links to the survey in English and Spanish. We’ll ask you a few simple questions about things like how often you use the library, which services you use the most and what types of services or amenities you’d like to be added. The deadline to respond is June 3.
In addition to the survey, we recently wrapped up a series of community meetings where residents had the opportunity to learn more about programs and changes being implemented in other libraries and discuss which ideas might work in our community. Meetings were held at the library, Vickers Elementary School and Meals on Wheels, and we also held virtual meetings with English classes at Victoria West High School.
After the survey closes, we’ll move out of the public input phase and focus on meeting with stakeholders before our consultant drafts the final plan, which we expect will be brought to City Council in the fall. I encourage all residents to take part in the survey so we can get an accurate picture of our community’s needs. If you have any questions, you can reach out to the library at 361-485-3301 or vpl@victoriatx.gov.
Dayna Williams-Capone is the director of the Victoria Public Library.
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2022-05-15T20:53:41Z
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City Corner: How can the library better meet your needs? | Government | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/city-corner-how-can-the-library-better-meet-your-needs/article_a675365a-d20b-11ec-aa27-773f4b8b7e98.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/city-corner-how-can-the-library-better-meet-your-needs/article_a675365a-d20b-11ec-aa27-773f4b8b7e98.html
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:6-8; quote by Robert Green Ingersoll
And Elam bare the quiver with chariots of men and horsemen, and Kir uncovered the shield.
And it shall come to pass, that thy choicest valleys shall be full of chariots, and the horsemen shall set themselves in array at the gate.
And he discovered the covering of Judah, and thou didst look in that day to the armour of the house of the forest.
The superior man is the providence of the inferior. He is eyes for the blind, strength for the weak, and a shield for the defenseless. He stands erect by bending above the fallen. He rises by lifting others.
Robert Green Ingersoll (1833-1899) was an American lawyer, writer, and orator during the Golden Age of Free Thought, who campaigned in defense of agnosticism. He was nicknamed “The Great Agnostic”.
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2022-05-15T20:53:59Z
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:6-8; quote by Robert Green Ingersoll | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-6-8-quote-by-robert-green-ingersoll/article_18c264a2-d13b-11ec-9184-b7b6f11d2f2a.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-6-8-quote-by-robert-green-ingersoll/article_18c264a2-d13b-11ec-9184-b7b6f11d2f2a.html
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Syndicated Column: The Economist: Double whammy
Things are tough for anyone trying to purchase a house, with a double whammy of rising prices and increasing interest rates. Inventories are very low, and supply chain issues and labor shortages continue to complicate construction.
The past couple of years have seen median sales prices of existing homes jump by close to $100,000 in many Texas markets. Costs of existing homes had been rising fairly steadily for almost a decade before the pandemic. As COVID-19 increased remote work options and the need for additional space in homes for work and school, many people started looking to buy. Stimulus packages increased available cash, further fueling demand, while monetary policy moves to stabilize the economy pushed interest rates to historic lows. The result was a steep increase in housing prices as demand far outstripped supply.
Over the past few months, typical mortgage rates have jumped from less than 3% to well over 5%, quite modest by historical standards (they were higher from the 1960s through late 2009), but substantially above recent experience. Although the Federal Reserve doesn’t directly control mortgage rates, tightening policy by reducing security purchases and raising the federal funds rate target generally signals other rates to rise. There is little doubt that Fed action is necessitated by inflation, but it also assures that borrowers will face higher costs.
Although there are many factors involved in individual loans, the change in mortgage rates is clearly affecting Texas homebuyers. For every percentage point the interest rate rises, monthly payments jump about $60 per $100,000 in loan value on a 30-year note. In the Austin area, for example, where the median sales price in March was over $520,000, the two percentage point increase we’ve seen since the beginning of the year means well over $500 per month added to the payment (with 10% down on a 30-year note).
Among the hardest hit groups are first-time buyers and those looking in lower price ranges. When prices for everything from food to gasoline are also rising, higher costs for housing are even more difficult for many to navigate. Housing values further translate to incremental property taxes and insurance costs, which affects even those who aren’t currently buying. Rents have increased sharply as well.
Construction challenges and price increases for essential inputs will keep new homes pricey and discourage building lower-cost residences which typically provide smaller profit margins. Interest rates will likely continue to rise as the Fed battles inflation, and there are notable near-term headwinds. There are early signs that the market may be calming down to some degree as people give up or are “priced out” of the market, but unfortunately, it’s unclear that relief is coming any time soon. Stay safe.
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2022-05-15T20:54:05Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Syndicated Column: The Economist: Double whammy | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/syndicated-column-the-economist-double-whammy/article_27c735a0-d2c5-11ec-bf48-b7d2d6554552.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/syndicated-column-the-economist-double-whammy/article_27c735a0-d2c5-11ec-bf48-b7d2d6554552.html
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A third member of the extremist Oath Keepers group pleaded guilty on May 4 to seditious conspiracy, admitting his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. The pleas provide more proof that the right-wing campaign to whitewash Jan. 6, playing down the extent to which the participants sought to stage an insurrection, is not just craven but also dangerous. The attackers did not behave like “tourists”; they were not unarmed; Jan. 6 was not a normal protest that got out of hand; the attack was not staged by far-left agitators posing as Trump supporters.
William Todd Wilson led a North Carolina cell of the Oath Keepers, a heavily armed far-right radical group. According to the Justice Department, Mr. Wilson admitted “he agreed with others to take part in a plan to use force to prevent, hinder, and delay the execution of the laws of the United States governing the transfer of presidential power. He and others used encrypted and private communications, equipped themselves with a variety of weapons, donned combat and tactical gear and were prepared to answer a call to take up arms.” The goal was “to stop the transfer of power by disrupting a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.”
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2022-05-15T20:54:17Z
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The Washington Post says Jan. 6 should have been a turning point in US politics | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/the-washington-post-says-jan-6-should-have-been-a-turning-point-in-us-politics/article_90e4e976-d2f0-11ec-84aa-3f72a53f802f.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/the-washington-post-says-jan-6-should-have-been-a-turning-point-in-us-politics/article_90e4e976-d2f0-11ec-84aa-3f72a53f802f.html
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Brush fire outside of Goliad on US-59 near Manahuilla Creek Sunday
Firefighters responded to a grass fire near Manahuilla Creek just outside Goliad on U.S. 59 at about 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. It’s an example of how the hot and dry conditions throughout the Crossroads are causing an ongoing fire threat, according to the National Weather Service.
The entire southern region of the United States is under an excessive heat warning, the weather service said on Sunday, with highs in the Crossroads at or approaching 102 degrees. Additionally, no rain is in the forecast for the region over the next several days.
While the current fire danger level is moderate in the Victoria area, the Texas A&M Forest Service expects it to be upgraded to a high rating by Tuesday. A high fire danger level means fires can start easily from most causes. Dry brush near the highway is the perfect fuel for these fires, according the Forest Service website.
County commissioners poised to implement burn ban at meeting
Drivers can help prevent highway brush fires by, first, staying on the road, the weather service reported. Hot exhaust pipes can spark fires when a driver pulls off the road and parks in dry grass. Also, drivers should never throw cigarette butts or other materials out of vehicle windows.
If a driver is pulling a trailer, towing chains must be secure and off of the road. Dragging chains can cause a spark, which will likely lead to brush fires that can rage out of control under current conditions, the weather service reported.
Counties within the Crossroads, except Matagorda or Lavaca, remain under a burn ban, along with at least 100 other Texas counties, according to the Forest Service website. Victoria County has been under a burn ban since May 10, while Goliad County has been under a burn ban since April 1.
The small fire near Goliad was extinguished quickly, and no injuries were reported, according to Emergency Services on site. The Goliad Fire Department was unavailable for comment.
Manahuilla Creek
Goliad Fire Department
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2022-05-15T23:39:05Z
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Dry conditions spark fire near Goliad | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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Plentiful sunshine. Near record high temperatures. High near 95F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph..
VICTORIA — A 40-year-old Victoria man by officers May 13 on a warrant charging him with possession of a controlled substance between 3-28 grams, and suspicion of assault causing bodily injury to a family member as well as resisting arrest or transportation.
VICTORIA — A 38-year-old Fannin man by deputies May 13 on a violation of probation warrant charging him with driving while intoxicated, a bond forfeiture warrant charging him with theft of property worth $750-$2,500, as well as a warrant charging him with bail jumping and failure to appear.
VICTORIA — An 18-year-old Austin man by officers May 13 om a warrant charging him with abandoning or endangering a child and criminal negligence, as well as 2 Class C misdemeanors.
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2022-05-16T19:30:30Z
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Blotter | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/blotter/article_01a0c612-d535-11ec-a0fb-2b1e08531f2f.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/blotter/article_01a0c612-d535-11ec-a0fb-2b1e08531f2f.html
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Victoria County Sheriff Justin Marr told the County Commission Monday morning that this summer will prove to be incredibly busy for law enforcement trying to deal with illegal immigration to Texas from Mexico.
"It's going to be a hot, expensive, busy year," Marr told commissioners.
Saturday, Victoria County remembered the deaths of 19 immigrants who perished inside an abandoned tractor-trailer south of the city on May 13, 2003. It remains the deadliest human-smuggling case in U.S. history. On that date, smugglers left Harlingen after packing at least 74 immigrants who entered the country illegally in a sealed tractor-trailer.
"It should be the duty of the federal government, but it falls on us," Marr said. "I like to see the feds do their job and secure our border."
Victoria County Judge Ben Zeller said the problem seems to be getting worse as time progresses. Marr told the commission that his office received a call three weeks ago from the Border Patrol at Corpus Christi requesting assistance to watch the river.
Along with the increased number of migrants, Marr said he expected drug trafficking to increase as well. He said fentanyl is expected to be increased for distribution by the Mexican cartels. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for pain management treatment of cancer patients.
Because of its powerful opioid properties, Fentanyl is added to heroin to increase its potency, or be disguised as highly potent heroin. That will mean more overdoses for those taking it who are unfamiliar with it, Marr said.
In other business, the commission approved the purchase for 9 SUVs for Marr's department to better handle the rough terrain his cruisers typically encounter. He said these would be high clearance SUVs that will be built for field service.
The commission also approved the election results from May 7, which said incumbent Victoria City Councilman Mark Loffgren retain his office against challenger April Butler. Loffgren led Butler by 1302 votes to 922.
The two were vying for the Victoria City Council Super District 6 seat. Loffgren has held the office since 2019. Super District 6 encompasses districts 3 and 4, generally the northern half of the city, to the north and west of Houston Highway and Sam Houston
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2022-05-16T21:45:22Z
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border | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/border/article_166f1a9a-d54d-11ec-b4b6-af432608ebcd.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/border/article_166f1a9a-d54d-11ec-b4b6-af432608ebcd.html
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city advance
During Victoria's City Council meeting tonight, council members will receive some preliminary information about possible changes to local noise ordinances.
The current city ordinance considers the volume of noise, the intensity of the noise, whether the nature of the noise is usual or unusual, whether the origin of the noise is natural or artificial, the proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities, the nature of the area within which the noise emanates and other factors.
Currently, on residential property, 60 decibels dB is allowed after 7 a.m. and before 10 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, the limit is allowed after 7 a.m. and before 12 a.m. on the following morning.
Williams said the idea is to formulate plans to attract additional development to the city without hindering other development. After receiving guidance from the council tonight, Williams said she thought a formal plan for updating the noise ordinance should be ready by mid July.
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2022-05-16T21:45:28Z
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city advance | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/city-advance/article_8f1f8fb2-d55a-11ec-bbca-5758edb95308.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/city-advance/article_8f1f8fb2-d55a-11ec-bbca-5758edb95308.html
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:9-11; quote by James L. Buckley
Ye have seen also the breaches of the city of David, that they are many: and ye gathered together the waters of the lower pool.
And ye have numbered the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses have ye broken down to fortify the wall.
Ye made also a ditch between the two walls for the water of the old pool: but ye have not looked unto the maker thereof, neither had respect unto him that fashioned it long ago.
Isaiah Isa.22:9-11
In the last analysis, of course, an oath will encourage fidelity in office only to the degree that officeholders continue to believe that they cannot escape ultimate accountability for a breach of faith.
James Lane Buckley (born 1923) is an American jurist, politician, civil servant, attorney, businessman, and author, who served as the Senior Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. He retired in 2000.
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2022-05-16T21:45:46Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:9-11; quote by James L. Buckley | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-9-11-quote-by-james-l-buckley/article_eccf4864-d13b-11ec-8de4-af7a6efec37f.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-9-11-quote-by-james-l-buckley/article_eccf4864-d13b-11ec-8de4-af7a6efec37f.html
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Guest column: Breakdown on the road
I ride a bicycle quite a bit on the weekends. I have various routes all over the county and plan my routes mostly based on which direction the wind is blowing. Around this time of year most of my rides are southeast into the wind on my way out so I can catch the wind on the way back.
From my house, I can ride “the triangle” if I catch U.S. 87, heading southwest, pick up Commerce Street (Farm-to-Market Road 616) to Bloomington, and then back northwest on SH 185. It works out to about 40ish miles and is mostly safe.
It’s the “mostly safe” part that usually catches people’s attention. There are a few things that increase the danger slightly. First, I always ride alone. It’s not because I don’t like other riders, but because I really enjoy the opportunity to have some time to just think. I do a lot of problem solving, scenario planning, and future thinking on my bike. Being alone is definitely more dangerous than riding with a group.
Another element of danger is a few dogs in Bloomington that are sometimes loose and create a few moments of high anxiety and high intensity interval training (it’s like an unplanned hit workout in the middle of an endurance activity).
My route is also slightly dangerous. Although there are wide shoulders on Port Lavaca Highway and SH 185, cars and trucks are moving around 75+ mph and that creates an element of danger. I have had to stop a few times when I get a flat and there is a decidedly dangerous feeling when those cars fly by just a few feet away.
The breakdown last week wasn’t me on my bike, though. It happened as I was coming over the bridge and about to turn toward Bloomington. A few miles ahead, I could make out a truck on the side of the road and a person kneeling next to the flatbed trailer behind the truck. As I got closer, I could see it was a man, and appeared a bit older than me. My initial thought was “danger.” I was going to have to ride onto the highway and off the shoulder because he was taking up most of the shoulder. That would put me directly with cars on the highway coming up behind me, not at all safe. Or maybe I should stop and try to walk my bike past, but then I would be walking up to this gentleman and that adds a different kind of danger (especially if he had a dog in the truck, I have this thing about dogs).
All my initial thoughts were about me. “What would happen to me if I...”
Then like a bolt, the question hit me differently. “What would happen to him if I don’t...”
I talk a lot about compassionate leadership and although it is almost reflexive, it’s not always. Compassionate leadership is more than empathy. Empathy is recognizing this guy is in a tough spot. I initially had empathy, but that was all. Empathy is better than not caring at all about the struggles of others, but sometimes empathy just isn’t enough to impact real change in the world. Empathy plus action (the feeling I need to do something about it if I’m able) is compassion.
As a colleague importantly pointed out, compassion wouldn’t have entered the equation if the motorist didn’t want help. My ability to be compassionate is at once about my willingness to help and the other’s willingness to accept that help. This balance of what would happen to me if I stopped and what might happen to him if I don’t is a lesson that is good to remember because it’s sometimes not natural.
As many of you know, the story is no different from the story of the Good Samaritan.
Needless to say, I stopped and offered to help John replace the tire. He was extremely grateful, and after a few minutes a bit bemused that he now had a story to tell about this goofy cyclist, in the not-so-modest spandex cycling gear, and who happens to be the Superintendent in Victoria who stopped to help him change a tire.
I told him nobody would ever believe him so he should probably keep it to himself.
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2022-05-16T21:45:58Z
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Guest column: Breakdown on the road | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/guest-column-breakdown-on-the-road/article_5abb0b9e-d522-11ec-851e-7f23b2eee4c9.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/guest-column-breakdown-on-the-road/article_5abb0b9e-d522-11ec-851e-7f23b2eee4c9.html
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During Victoria's City Council meeting Tuesday, council members will receive some preliminary information about possible changes to local noise ordinances.
Downtown Victoria community hears city's Master Plan, funding ideas
The current city ordinance considers the volume of noise, intensity of the noise, whether the nature of the noise is usual or unusual, whether the origin of the noise is natural or artificial, the proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities, nature of the area within which the noise emanates and other factors.
Currently, on residential property, 60 decibels is allowed after 7 a.m. and before 10 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, the limit is allowed after 7 a.m. and before 12 a.m. on the following morning.
Williams said the idea is to formulate plans to attract additional development to the city without hindering other development. After receiving guidance from the council Tuesday, Williams said she thought a formal plan for updating the noise ordinance should be ready by mid-July.
Danielle Williams, Victoria's new economic development director, said she hopes to have a study completed within a month that details why local consumers are traveling to Sugar Land and other locations to make their purchases instead of patronizing local stores.
Downtown development is spelled T-I-R-Z
Jeff Bauknight
Victoria Council
Victoria's City Council
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2022-05-16T23:51:59Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Victoria council to consider changes to noise ordinance | Government | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/victoria-council-to-consider-changes-to-noise-ordinance/article_8f1f8fb2-d55a-11ec-bbca-5758edb95308.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/victoria-council-to-consider-changes-to-noise-ordinance/article_8f1f8fb2-d55a-11ec-bbca-5758edb95308.html
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The Victoria Chamber of Commerce recently held a ribbon-cutting for Regional Steel Products, Inc., located at 4853 U.S. 87 S., on May 10.
Regional Steel celebrated 41 years of being the leading supplier of steel products to the South Texas region.
Regional Steel is committed to providing the same superior customer service as well as serving the community of Victoria and the surrounding areas.
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2022-05-16T23:52:05Z
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Regional Steel Products, Inc. ribbon cutting | Local News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/regional-steel-products-inc-ribbon-cutting/article_6a7408bc-d55c-11ec-9a4f-87486f20d3f6.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/regional-steel-products-inc-ribbon-cutting/article_6a7408bc-d55c-11ec-9a4f-87486f20d3f6.html
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Dinosaurs take over Yoakum
Walking with clipboard and pencil in hand, adorned with a plastic safari style hat, 7-year-old Calyx Smith was on a quest.
Smith was among the dozens of elementary-school children from Yoakum and Providence Christian Academy who stormed into the Yoakum High School gym on Monday morning to experience Dinosaur George’s Traveling Museum, a dinosaur exhibit with over 100 fossils and artifacts that educate children about prehistoric times and the dinosaurs that called it their home.
It was the first time the library held the event. After applying for several grants proved unsuccessful, through the Community Grant program sponsored by H-E-B, the supermarket chain provided $5,000 and an additional $1,000 came from from Friends of the Library to make the visit possible, she said. Sand used in the fossil dig was provided by Sweet Home Sand & Gravel.
By Tuesday, children of all grades from Yoakum ISD, St. Ludmilla, Ezzell School, St. Joseph Catholic School and Sweet Home School will have visited the library in hourlong waves to see everything the traveling museum had to offer. An estimated 800 kids were expected on Monday and the other 800 were due on Tuesday, she said. Home-schooled children were invited to visit from 4 to 5 p.m. and the museum will be open to the public from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Jiral said.
“It’s a communitywide event focused on dinosaurs and prehistoric times, just to better educate our children and give them something educational to do within the last couple of weeks of school,” Jiral said. “They just completed their STAAR testing and the teachers and the kids are looking for something exciting to do and we decided to bring it to Yoakum with the help of the school district.”
Being in business for the past 25 years, George Blasing, more famously known as “Dinosaur George,” is no stranger to walking into assemblies to enthusiastically educate kids on dinosaurs. Before all of this, Blasting worked as an executive in a big retail company. At the same time, he began to dig up dinosaur bones in the summer and started a collection, Blastings said. Through the years, the collection grew bigger and more complete until one day a married couple’s car broke down in front of his house and asked for help.
“I opened the door and the woman saw my house filled with these fossils and she was a science teacher from a very small, low-income inner-city that nobody would come and ever visit,” Blasing said. “She said, ‘Can you gather some stuff and come visit?’ I did and it changed my life.”
Blasing quit his executive job and dove into the prehistoric times and started the traveling museum, bringing joy and education to nearly 4 million students across the state of Texas over the past 25 years, he said.
“We focus our attention on Texas because it’s such a big state that has so many smaller communities that are not close to major cities, where the local students don’t get the opportunities to go to a major museum,” Blasing said. “Yoakum is a perfect example. There’s kids coming from all over the area to see this, some of these kids may never get the chance to go to a museum, but today it’s their own private museum."
Growing up in Hondo, Blasing said he is no stranger to small-town life. Most children only believe within the scope around them, he said.
“My hope is that they come in and they have a sense of wonder of what is going on worldwide,” Blasing said. “I hope to encourage more science, I hope to encourage them to look at things beyond the walls of their home, or their yard and their community.”
“Twenty minutes ago, a little girl walked by and yelled, ‘This is the best day of my life!’ I hear that a lot. I love seeing the kid’s eyes open when they walk in and see the size and scope, it’s the most rewarding thing in the world,” Blasing said. “Tomorrow will be the greatest day of their life when they see something else but I get to be a part of making it the best day of their life today.”
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2022-05-16T23:52:11Z
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Dinosaurs take over Yoakum | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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Victoria County Sheriff Justin Marr told county commissioners Monday morning that this summer will prove to be incredibly busy for law enforcement trying to deal with undocumented immigration to Texas from Mexico.
"It's going to be a hot, expensive, busy year," Marr said to commissioners.
Saturday, Victoria County remembered the deaths of 19 immigrants who perished inside a tractor-trailer abandoned south of the city on May 13, 2003. It remains the deadliest human-smuggling case in U.S. history. On that date, smugglers left Harlingen after packing at least 74 immigrants who entered the country illegally in a sealed tractor-trailer.
"It should be the duty of the federal government, but it falls on us," Marr said. "I'd like to see the feds do their job and secure our border."
Victoria County Judge Ben Zeller said the problem seems to be getting worse as time progresses. Marr told commissioners that his office received a call three weeks ago from the U.S. Border Patrol at Corpus Christi requesting assistance to watch the river.
Along with the increased number of migrants, Marr said he expected drug trafficking to increase, as well. He said fentanyl is expected to be increased for distribution by the Mexican cartels. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for pain management treatment of cancer patients.
Because of its powerful opioid properties, fentanyl is sometimes added to heroin to increase its potency, or be disguised as highly potent heroin. That will mean more overdoses for those who are unfamiliar with it, Marr said.
In other business, commissioners approved the purchase for nine SUVs for Marr's office to better handle the rough terrain their vehicles typically encounter. He said these would be high clearance SUVs that will be built for field service.
The commissioners court also approved the election results from May 7, which showed incumbent Victoria City Councilman Mark Loffgren retaining his office against challenger April Butler. Loffgren led Butler by 1,302 votes to 922.
The two were vying for the Victoria City Council Super District 6 seat. Loffgren has held the office since 2019. Super District 6 encompasses districts 3 and 4, generally the northern half of the city, to the north and west of Houston Highway and Sam Houston Drive.
Sam Houston Drive
Victoria County Comissioners Court
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2022-05-17T01:49:11Z
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More undocumented immigrants should wind up in Victoria, Victoria County sheriff says | Government | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/more-undocumented-immigrants-should-wind-up-in-victoria-victoria-county-sheriff-says/article_166f1a9a-d54d-11ec-b4b6-af432608ebcd.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/more-undocumented-immigrants-should-wind-up-in-victoria-victoria-county-sheriff-says/article_166f1a9a-d54d-11ec-b4b6-af432608ebcd.html
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Walking with clipboard and pencil in hand, adorned with a plastic safari-style hat, 7-year-old Calyx Smith was on a quest.
Smith was among the dozens of elementary-school children from Yoakum and Providence Christian Academy who stormed into the Yoakum High School gym on Monday morning to experience Dinosaur George’s Traveling Museum, a dinosaur exhibit with more than 100 fossils and artifacts that educate children about prehistoric times and the animals that once called it their home.
It was the first time the library held the event.
After applying for several grants proved unsuccessful, the Community Grant program sponsored by H-E-B supermarket chain provided $5,000, and an additional $1,000 came from from Friends of the Library to make the visit possible, she said. Sand used in the fossil dig was provided by Sweet Home Sand & Gravel.
By Tuesday, children of all grades from the Yoakum Independent School District, St. Ludmilla, Ezzell School, St. Joseph Catholic School and Sweet Home School will have visited the library in hour-long waves to see everything the traveling museum has to offer. An estimated 800 kids were expected on Monday and the other 800 were due on Tuesday, she said. Home-schooled children were invited to visit from 4 to 5 p.m. and the museum will be open to the public from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Jiral said.
“It’s a community-wide event focused on dinosaurs and prehistoric times, just to better educate our children and give them something educational to do within the last couple of weeks of school,” Jiral said. “They just completed their STAAR testing, and the teachers and the kids are looking for something exciting to do, and we decided to bring it to Yoakum with the help of the school district.”
Being in business for the past 25 years, George Blasing, more famously known as “Dinosaur George,” is no stranger to walking into assemblies to enthusiastically educate kids on dinosaurs. Before all of this, Blasing worked as an executive in a big retail company. At the same time, he began to dig up dinosaur bones in the summer and started a collection, he said.
Through the years, the collection grew bigger and more complete until one day a married couple’s car broke down in front of his house and asked for help.
“I opened the door, and the woman saw my house filled with these fossils, and she was a science teacher from a very small, low-income inner-city that nobody would come and ever visit,” Blasing said. “She said, ‘Can you gather some stuff and come visit?’ I did and it changed my life.”
Blasing quit his executive job, dove into the prehistoric times and started the traveling museum, bringing joy and education to nearly 4-million students across the state of Texas over the past 25 years, he said.
“We focus our attention on Texas because it’s such a big state that has so many smaller communities that are not close to major cities, where the local students don’t get the opportunities to go to a major museum,” Blasing said. “Yoakum is a perfect example. There’s kids coming from all over the area to see this. Some of these kids may never get the chance to go to a museum, but today it’s their own private museum."
Growing up in Hondo, Blasing said he is no stranger to small-town life. Most children only imagine within the scope around them, he said.
“My hope is that they come in, and they have a sense of wonder of what is going on worldwide,” Blasing said. “I hope to encourage more science. I hope to encourage them to look at things beyond the walls of their home, or their yard and their community.”
“Twenty minutes ago, a little girl walked by and yelled, ‘This is the best day of my life!’ I hear that a lot. I love seeing the kid’s eyes open when they walk in and see the size and scope. It’s the most rewarding thing in the world,” Blasing said. “Tomorrow will be the greatest day of their life when they see something else, but I get to be a part of making it the best day of their life today.”
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2022-05-17T01:49:17Z
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Dinosaurs take over Yoakum, hundreds of kids delighted by prehistoric exhibit | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/dinosaurs-take-over-yoakum-hundreds-of-kids-delighted-by-prehistoric-exhibit/article_b6738ba6-d55d-11ec-8e20-4bb9b2db374b.html
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A few passing clouds. Low around 70F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph..
George P. Bush speaks with Victoria County Republican Chairman Bill Pozzi on Monday evening in Victoria.
Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush spoke to potential Victoria County voters on Monday evening.
Bush appeared at the Victoria County Republican party’s monthly meeting at the Power Avenue Warehouse, 402 E. Power Ave. About 100 people attended the event.
Bush is a Republican candidate in next week’s primary runoff election for attorney general. He is challenging incumbent Attorney General Ken Paxton.
During a question and answer session, Bush attacked Paxton’s personal and legal troubles.
“Is it conservative to cheat on your wife? Is it conservative to take bribes from financial donors? Is it conservative to throw out the Constitution to get a pardon? I’m the true conservative in this race,” Bush said.
According to a recent poll, 37% of Republican voters said they would not vote for Bush, believing him to be in the moderate camp. Bush says his conservative values outweigh his opponent’s.
Bush said his family, as conservatives, has a proud legacy of public service. He urged voters to look at his conservative track record, which includes standing for the rule of law, he said.
Bush stressed his commitment to four policies in particular if he is elected.
First and foremost, he is committed to tougher border control, saying that it is the “most pressing issue.”
If the federal government isn’t going to secure the Texas border, he said, “It’s about time we assert our own sovereignty.”
Bush said he plans to finish construction of the border wall and heighten border security, adding he would require attorneys under his supervision to participate fully in border security issues at the border and not from an office in Austin.
Second, Bush said that as the top law enforcement official in the state, the attorney general has a duty to support Texas law enforcement. He said that if cities were willing to defund the police, then those cities should be defunded.
Bush also told the audience his mission is to fight human trafficking, which he said is on the increase in Texas.
Finally, Bush said he would work to discourage voter fraud by making it a felony violation.
“A misdemeanor is not going to deter the fraud,” Bush said, adding that voter fraud is prevalent in urban areas such as Harris and Dallas counties.
Bush also touched on his commitment to the anti-abortion agenda, criticizing a clerk who leaked the Supreme Court’s draft decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. He said the clerk was attempting to influence the decision.
“I’m pro-life. I believe life begins at conception. I’m a former federal justice clerk, and I think it’s a disgrace to the justice system that a liberal, progressive judicial clerk decided to release this to try to impact the decision,” Bush said.
Early, in-person voting began Monday. The runoff is May 24.
Goerge P. Bush talks to Victoria County voters photos
Land Commissioner George P. Bush met with Victoria County Republican voters Monday evening at the Power Avenue Warehouse.
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2022-05-17T03:42:04Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Bush attacks Paxton at Victoria County Republican meeting | Government | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/bush-attacks-paxton-at-victoria-county-republican-meeting/article_41be7ff8-d573-11ec-9bcf-03f398e6a5f2.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/government/bush-attacks-paxton-at-victoria-county-republican-meeting/article_41be7ff8-d573-11ec-9bcf-03f398e6a5f2.html
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EVANSVILLE, IN — Robert “Lopie” Lopez, 51, of Evansville, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.
He was born on July 1, 1970 in Victoria, Texas to Janie and Alex Lopez, Jr. After high school, Rob received a full ride scholarship to Texas A&M playing baseball. Rob continued to be a big fan of the Aggies after college. He worked as a lineman for CenterPoint Energy for over 12 years and was a member of the IBEW Local 16. Rob was a music enthusiast who loved playing the drums. He was very athletic and could play any sport, golf and baseball being his favorite. He had a love for riding motorcycle having two of his own named, Gracie and Ruby. Rob had a great sense of humor and enjoyed watching his cartoons. He a had a big heart and never met a stranger. Rob will be remembered as a loving father, son, brother and uncle.
Rob is survived by his daughter and the light of his life, Gabrielle “Bree” Lopez of Evansville, IN; his beloved cats, Sadie, Sierra, and Bobbie; his mother, Janie; his siblings, Alex “Buddy” Lopez III, Sylvia Lopez, Irene “Christy” Vela, Joseph “Tony” Gonzalez and Nora Cavazos all of Texas; several nieces and nephews and many extended family and friends.
Rob is preceded in death by his father.
A rosary will be held beginning at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, May 18, 2022 followed by a funeral mass at 1:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 208 W. River St., Victoria, TX.
Bree and the family would like to thank all the staff at IU Health University Hospital in Indianapolis for the love and care of Robert. They would especially like to thank Brant and Heather Sharp for all the care love and support as well as his many friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to GoFundMe link: Https://gofund.mela94fd34 or to any Old National Bank to the account “for the benefit of Bree Lopez.”
To leave a comforting message, or to share a fond memory, please visit www.gracefuneralhome.net.
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2022-05-17T07:11:30Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Robert Lopez | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/robert-lopez/article_205c4478-53dd-5001-9ae7-0e6eb0eaae42.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/robert-lopez/article_205c4478-53dd-5001-9ae7-0e6eb0eaae42.html
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Bakers are the 20th lowest-paying positions in Victoria.
Bartenders are the 18th-lowest paying jobs in Victoria.
Animal caretakers are the 13th-lowest paying positions in Victoria.
Hotel clerks are the 10th-lowest paying positions in Victoria.
Restaurant hosts are the sixth-lowest-paying positions in Victoria.
Childcare workers are the third-lowest-paying positions in Victoria.
Fast-food workers were the lowest-paid positions in Victoria.
The U.S. may be one of the wealthiest countries in the world, but there’s a growing trend of financial inequality, with middle-class households feeling the most impact.
In fact, the number of adults who live in middle-class households dropped from 61% in 1971 to 50% in 2021, according to an April analysis from Pew Research Center. On the other hand, the upper-income level rose from 14% to 21%.
The declining middle class in the U.S. can be attributed to various factors, including a decrease in unions and manufacturing jobs and an increased need for college-educated, tech-savvy employees.
The COVID-19 pandemic also played a major role in exposing the harsh financial gap, as those who fell under the middle- and upper-income brackets were able to keep their jobs and/or work remotely. At the start of the pandemic in the U.S., workers who fell under the lower-income tier found themselves unemployed or having to be out of work, even if temporarily, as their place of employment was closed.
Those who worked in the leisure and hospitality industries were hit the hardest financially. In December 2020, employment in the hospitality industry was down by 23% compared with prepandemic levels in February 2020, an unemployment rate that surpassed other industries. Service employees such as housekeepers, food preparation workers, kitchen cooks, automobile glass installers, and animal caretakers were some of the lowest-paying jobs in the nation.
Stacker compiled a list of the lowest-paying jobs in Victoria using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by average annual salary with information up to date as of May 2021.
20. Bakers
304th highest pay among all metros
Entry-level education requirements: No formal educational credential
19. Janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners
333rd highest pay among all metros
18. Bartenders
16. Cleaners of vehicles and equipment
15. Packers and packagers, hand
14. Teaching assistants, except postsecondary
331st highest pay among all metros
Entry level education requirements: Some college, no degree
13. Animal caretakers
12. Cashiers
11. Maids and housekeeping cleaners
10. Hotel, motel, and resort desk clerks
9. Cooks, fast food
8. Laundry and dry-cleaning workers
7. Dishwashers
6. Hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop
5. Food servers, nonrestaurant
4. Amusement and recreation attendants
3. Childcare workers
362nd highest pay among all metros
2. Dining room and cafeteria attendants and bartender helpers
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2022-05-17T10:35:17Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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20 lowest-paying professions in Victoria: Some workers must scrape by on $20K a year | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/20-lowest-paying-professions-in-victoria-some-workers-must-scrape-by-on-20k-a-year/article_92c51488-d55b-11ec-bc9c-9b0ca91c8a37.html
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John Pierce co-owns the Double J Eatery with his sister Lauren Tagliabue. His name was misspelled on Page 18 of the Best of the Best magazine that published on April 24, 2022.
Best chicken fried steak: Double J Eatery
Once you get a bite of Double J Eatery's chicken fried steak, there's no going back.
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2022-05-17T21:54:08Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Correction: John Pierce co-owns Double J Eatery | Best of the Best | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/bestof/correction-john-pierce-co-owns-double-j-eatery/article_a0ddfdac-d61c-11ec-b824-63b5758a1ec9.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/bestof/correction-john-pierce-co-owns-double-j-eatery/article_a0ddfdac-d61c-11ec-b824-63b5758a1ec9.html
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Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Rainy Day Fund: What is the optimal amount to be held in the Rainy Day Fund and what is the criteria for usage? What is your opinion on using the fund to pay down the state’s debt vs. using it to help citizens that have been harmed by catastrophes?
Taxes: In your opinion, what is the proper balance of tax revenues sources to fairly fund state government, including public schools?
Financial Obligations: What needs to be done, if anything, to ensure that Texas can meet its long-term financial obligations such as infrastructure maintenance, state employee pensions and health care coverage for public school teachers and employees?
Priorities: As Comptroller, what would be your highest priorities for the next four years, and how do you intend to accomplish them?
Janet T. Dudding (Dem)
Campaign Website http://janetdudding4texas.com
Qualifications: I’m a certified public accountant (CPA) who’s spent my adult life in governmental accounting, auditing, administration and even investigations.
Rainy Day Fund: Government Finance Officers Association recommends a minimum of 2 months of regular revenue or regular expenditures be maintained in a rainy day fund. Typically, rainy day monies mitigate the risk of unstable revenues or unexpected expenditures. Natural disasters fall into the second category.
The state of Texas’ general obligation debt currently is rated Aaa/AAA/AAA/AAA.
Taxes: The Texas Legislature added $6.5 billion dollars in funding to public schools in 2019. Yet per a 2021 SPLC report, Texas currently ranks 40th in the nation.
New revenue streams are needed. Legalizing adult-use cannabis could bring $1 billion in tax revenue (and decriminalization could save $300 million). Look at "green" taxes to build revenue streams from green energy.
Financial Obligations: Regarding infrastructure, Texas should accept the $35 billion of federal Infrastructure and Jobs Act dollars.
With fuel efficient vehicles, it would be interested to look at creating a revenue stream from alternative fuels to maintain roads.
Public school employees in all but ~12 school districts do not participate in social security and they should. Find the money.
Priorities: Comptroller has the bully pulpit on how our money is spent.
Expanding comp mental health and healthcare to 1.4 million adult Texans saves $100 million in state tax and our property taxes.
Work with local governments re broadband as a local utility, keeping the costs down and creating an income stream.
Work with state agencies, reduce methane emissions on state property.
Angel Luis Vega (Dem)
Strategist & Author
Campaign Website http://www.angelvega.com
Qualifications: I am a purpose-driven professional offering over 20 years in business strategy, finance, operations, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and large groups of people. Bachelor of Business Administration & Master in Management & Leadership. Rainy Day Fund: We should increase the fund to 25 billion & allocate 1.75 to 2 billion annually. The primary purpose of these funds should be for natural disasters and recession to support our communities, support people keeping their homes, adequately fund our schools, support any healthcare crisis, provide food assistance and guarantee public safety.
Taxes: Suppose we focus on boosting Texans entrepreneurship, attracting new business opportunities, eliminating the corporate tax loopholes, and reducing the unemployment rate to under 3%. In that case, the proper balance of tax revenue could be at 145 billion. For the spending budget, 140 billion annually, including public school funding and health care.
Financial Obligations: We need to have a transparent tax administration. Be effective in forecasting, identifying the fundamental long-term obligations, putting our community first without eliminating essential funds for our public school teachers, employees, retirees, and community programs. Invest strategically, attract more business ventures to the state and legalize recreational marijuana.
Priorities: I would focus on transparency, accountability, efficiency, optimizing the office's capabilities, boosting entrepreneurship, attracting new business opportunities, thriving jobs, and reducing unemployment under 3%. Guarantee retirement security and protect pensions. I will make decisions in the interest of all the people of Texas, not the special interest groups.
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2022-05-18T15:00:42Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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League of Women Voters: Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts | Election Central | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/election_central/league-of-women-voters-texas-comptroller-of-public-accounts/article_ffb12c28-d6b2-11ec-ac40-4fcef0d77f8a.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/election_central/league-of-women-voters-texas-comptroller-of-public-accounts/article_ffb12c28-d6b2-11ec-ac40-4fcef0d77f8a.html
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League of Women Voters: Texas Lieutenant Governor
Power Grid: What further changes, if any, are needed to ensure that Texas has sufficient power in times of extreme weather conditions?
Autonomy of State and Local Government: Under what circumstances should the federal government limit the authority of elected state officials? Under what circumstances should the state government limit the authority of elected local officials?
Public Safety: What are some solutions to enhance public safety in Texas? How do we balance these solutions with protecting civil rights?
Michelle Beckley (Dem)
Campaign Website http://www.michellebeckley.com
Qualifications: I was elected to the Texas Legislature in 2018 and became the first Democrat to ever represent District 65 in Denton County. I said I would fight for healthcare, education, & the environment and did. This led to an improved margin win in 2020.
Power Grid: The 87th legislature did not do enough. Texas needs to reverse the course of deregulation and consider the option of connecting back to the national grid. El Paso & Texarkana did not lose power like the rest of the state, both are connected to the national grid.
Autonomy of State and Local Government: Texas has been controlled by the GOP for over 25 years. State officials are running amuck due to checks & balances that no longer exist. The federal government needs to address the Voting Rights Bills. We saw our freedom to vote diluted as well as extreme gerrymandering in 2021.
The state government should not interfere with local health regulations.
Heath Care: The attacks on women's healthcare should not continue. I voted against HB8. There should not be $10,000 bounties on women & health professionals. A woman's choice on abortion is between her and her doctor.
Public Safety: I had a city come to me with the issue of a police officer that had been fired with cause now working at a neighboring city. Municipalities should be able to know this information upon hiring or the problems can't be addressed and will continue. Texas needs to look into solutions to address these issues and solve them.
Mike Collier (Dem)
Campaign Website http://CollierforTexas.com
Qualifications: Mike spent his career as a CPA and an auditor at PriceWaterhouseCoopers before becoming a CFO of a Texas energy company, helping create good-paying jobs. His experience as an accountant gives him a deep understanding of how our state's budget works.
Power Grid: For years, our state leaders were warned about the grid's vulnerability and did nothing. As a result, Texans froze, Texans died, and corporations got rich. We must winterize our gas supply, invest in smart grid technology, and increase power storage.
We must also ensure that Texas families do not pay more when companies pay less for an unreliable grid.
Autonomy of State and Local Government: If the behavior of any official is inconsistent with our constitutional rights, then it is the responsibility of the federal government, particularly the courts, to step in.
That said, local control is key to accountability, and it’s at the heart of a healthy democracy. So, as Lt. Governor, I will work closely with duly elected local partners—not against them.
Health Care: Mike will defend our constitutional rights so that women will be masters of their own health and their own destinies. The Principles laid down by Roe v Wade and have guided us for nearly the last fifty years are reasonable and are supported by the vast majority of Americans.
Public Safety: Mike will work to reverse laws that allow criminals to access firearms and put our communities and law enforcement officers at risk. Further, we all want law enforcement that we know, trust, and are accountable to our local communities. We must also invest more in mental health training and restorative justice to create safer, more prosperous communities across Texas.
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2022-05-18T15:00:49Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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League of Women Voters: Texas Lieutenant Governor | Election Central | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/election_central/league-of-women-voters-texas-lieutenant-governor/article_eb4972fa-d6ac-11ec-b37c-db66120d4a76.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/election_central/league-of-women-voters-texas-lieutenant-governor/article_eb4972fa-d6ac-11ec-b37c-db66120d4a76.html
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:12-14; quote by Desmond Tutu
And in that day did the Lord GOD of hosts call to weeping, and to mourning, and to baldness, and to girding with sackcloth:
And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.
And it was revealed in mine ears by the LORD of hosts, Surely this iniquity shall not be purged from you till ye die, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.
God is patient with us to become the God’s children he wants us to be but you really can see him weeping.
Desmond Mpilo Tutu (1931-2021) OMSG CH GCStJ was a South African Anglican bishop and theologian, known for his work as an anti-apartheid and human rights activist. He was Bishop of Johannesburg from 1985 to 1986 and then Archbishop of Cape Town from 1986 to 1996, in both cases being the first black African to hold the position.
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2022-05-18T21:53:49Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:12-14; quote by Desmond Tutu | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-12-14-quote-by-desmond-tutu/article_51d27278-d6c7-11ec-9fd6-5b49aa7285cf.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-12-14-quote-by-desmond-tutu/article_51d27278-d6c7-11ec-9fd6-5b49aa7285cf.html
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Victoria Fire Department Fire Capt. Nathan Ojeda bandages a student’s arm at the scene of a simulated drunken driving crash as part of the Shattered Dreams event at Victoria East High School on May 12.
City of Victoria first responders partner with VISD for Shattered Dreams
The event is hosted by the school district to teach students about the dangers of drunken driving. The Victoria Fire Department and the Victoria Police Department responded to the simulated wreck scene as they would to a real wreck, with firefighters providing medical attention to “injured” students and transporting them from the scene.
Shattered Dreams is one of multiple fire safety programs offered by the Victoria Fire Marshal’s Office to promote safety through education and outreach. To learn more, visit www.victoriatx.gov/fire.
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2022-05-18T23:59:56Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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City of Victoria first responders partner with VISD for Shattered Dreams | Local News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/city-of-victoria-first-responders-partner-with-visd-for-shattered-dreams/article_e55d73b2-d6e0-11ec-91e8-2f3870161047.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/city-of-victoria-first-responders-partner-with-visd-for-shattered-dreams/article_e55d73b2-d6e0-11ec-91e8-2f3870161047.html
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Eric Callaway poses after winning the 100-meter dash at the Western Athletic Conference track and field meet in Seattle.
SEATTLE — Sam Houston State’s Eric Callaway won the men’s 100-meter dash at the Western Athletic Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships held at Husky Track on the campus of the University of Washington.
Callaway, a junior from Victoria West, won the event in a time 10.36 seconds.
Callaway also finished second in the 200-meter dash with a time of 20.99 seconds.
Callaway graduated from West in 2017 where he lettered in football, powerlifting and track & field.
Callaway helped the Bearkats finish second in the team standings with a total of 135.5 points. Grand Canyon won the team title with 155.5 points.
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2022-05-19T02:01:49Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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West graduate Callaway wins WAC championship | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/west-graduate-callaway-wins-wac-championship/article_c2780f7e-d6ea-11ec-b152-4fa8e13f2b21.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/west-graduate-callaway-wins-wac-championship/article_c2780f7e-d6ea-11ec-b152-4fa8e13f2b21.html
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Melvin Roessler
VICTORIA — Melvin Roessler entered into rest on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at the age of 83. He was born July 21, 1938 to the late Ervin and Elvie Sparck Roessler. He graduated from Yorktown High School in 1956 and later married LaFern Rose Bruns on April 20, 1958. He worked as an auto mechanic at Atzenhoffer Chevrolet. Melvin also served in the Texas National Guard. He was a longtime member of First English Lutheran Church.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years LaFern Rose Bruns Roessler, his daughters Cheri Long (Keith), Beth Knezek (Rusty), and Susan Hale (Daryl). He is also survived by his grandchildren Travis Long, Eric Long, Robert Knezek, Blair Knezek Ripple (Justin), Morgan Hale, and Jess Hale Noesser (Tyler), and his great grandchildren Everett Noesser and Jett Ripple.
In addition to his parents, Melvin is preceded in death by his infant son Earl, and his brother Wayne Roessler.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, May 20, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. followed by a chapel service beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Grace Memorial Chapel, 8819 US Hwy 87 North, Victoria, TX with Pastor Chip Reynolds, officiating. Interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. To leave a comforting message, or to share a fond memory, please visit www.gracefuneralhome.net.
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2022-05-19T07:28:07Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Melvin Roessler | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/melvin-roessler/article_b82d00b8-13b7-537c-b271-92692fdf2cba.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/melvin-roessler/article_b82d00b8-13b7-537c-b271-92692fdf2cba.html
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Michael "Dexter" Paul Eaves
Michael “Dexter” Paul Eaves
VICTORIA — Michael Paul “Dexter” Eaves, 63, peacefully passed away on May 14, 2022. Dexter was born October 18, 1958, in Houston, TX to JW and Lillian Eaves and grew up in Alaska and Texas. He received his formal education from Texas State University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in education and was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He received his law degree from St. Mary’s School of Law. Dexter proudly served his country in the United State Marine Corps as a 1st Lieutenant. Dexter served his community as Victoria County Criminal District Attorney and then went on to establish a private practice in Victoria.
Dexter is survived by his four children, Sarah, Bruce, Jayne and Peter. He is also survived by his brothers John (Lee Ann) of Navasota and Joel (Mona) of Brazoria, along with numerous other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, JW and Lillian Eaves and his brother Sam.
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2022-05-19T07:28:13Z
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Michael "Dexter" Paul Eaves | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/michael-dexter-paul-eaves/article_9f2b8261-fd9a-5763-aac9-06414fbf41e0.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/michael-dexter-paul-eaves/article_9f2b8261-fd9a-5763-aac9-06414fbf41e0.html
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Partly cloudy early. Mostly sunny with gusty winds developing this afternoon. High 92F. Winds SSE at 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible..
Some clouds. Low around 75F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
A car decorated with shells on display in the exhibit "Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas" on Wednesday at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art in Victoria.
A horse figurine sits on top of a car in the exhibit "Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas" on Wednesday at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art.
A 1976 Chevrolet Caprice Classic on display in the exhibit 'Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas' on Wednesday at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art.
“Spoonazoid”, an art car made with over 6,000 discarded spoons from American Airlines in 2003.
A statue sits on the back of a car in the exhibit 'Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas' on Wednesday at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art.
A steering wheel of a car decorated with various shells and objects in the exhibit "Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas" on Wednesday at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art.
Art Cars
Over the years, the art car parade has been an occasion that residents of Victoria have gotten to enjoy through the Five Points Museum's founder Ann Harithas.
However, with Harithas' death in December, the art cars have taken on additional meaning this year through a new art exhibit at the museum.
The exhibit, which opened in late April at the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art, 1201 N. Moody St., will be on display through Sept. 11. It hosts a variety of art cars — all constructed out of various materials that highlight a theme of material culture.
"We call this show material culture, because in material culture the actual physical materials affect our human cultures, how we interact with each other," museum Chief Curator Maurice Roberts said. "I borrowed the term, because art cars are about materials — the transformation and how they may switch from one domain to another."
Each of the vehicles on display take materials from everyday life and use them to transform the vehicles into entirely new ones.
There is a car made out of seashells. There is a Chevy Suburban, which through creativity of the artist completely changes the vehicle's profile to look like a hearse made of airplane parts, urns, snow globes, a statue of the Virgin Mary and many other objects.
Art Car Parade highlights oddities, creativity on wheels (w/video, gallery)
By Bianca Montes bmontes@vicad.com Reporter
One of the most unique vehicles on display is called Spoonazoid, a vehicle that looks like a silver-scaled monster — made entirely out of spoons — that crawled out of the movies.
The artist made Spoonazoid out of leftover silverware from airlines after they stopped using metal silverware following 9/11, Roberts said.
"With art cars, the artists who make them don't always have drivability as their core motivation," Roberts said.
Every time Victoria hosts art car exhibits and parades, it gets a positive response from the community, he said.
"The car is just such a symbol of our culture. It's essential to how we work, how we play, and to see people transform a car like this or create an entirely new mode of transportation, I think it sparks their own imagination," Roberts said. "It sparks their own creativity, and it helps people break out of their own constraints and start thinking more creatively about their own lives."
Art museum to open at 5 points intersection
Harithas, a Victoria native, founded the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art in 2016 and had always been a big proponent of the art community in the region, Roberts said.
"It's always been important for her that art be accessible to everybody," he said. "She wanted to knock down the barriers that kept people from seeing art."
The art car in particular was a big passion for her. She was a key figure in starting the art car movement in Houston when she helped organize one of the first art car displays in 1998, Roberts said.
"It was so much fun for her," Roberts said. "When you drive a car like this down the street, people's faces light up. You can be driving by a guy who looks like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders, and he'll look up and see that, and whether it's because it's so cool looking, so absurdist or just so not what he was expecting to see, it changes people's days a little bit."
Although the art car parade in Victoria was canceled this year, Harithas was honored at the 2022 Houston Art Car Parade with the show being dedicated to her memory.
Harithas died when the museum was in the early stage of planning their parade this year, Roberts said.
"It wouldn't have been the right time to do it," he said. "She loved this place, and she loved Victoria, so we'll see what the future brings. We love that event, and it's a lot of fun to bring to Victoria."
Victoria Art Car Parade wraps up with exhibit, festival
However, at the museum's exhibit, there is a projection of Harithas' art cars from past parades in Victoria and Houston. The projection gives the illusion of seeing the parade on the museum's wall.
The projection display is a way of showing the collection that Harithas had such a passion for, Roberts said.
WHAT: "Material Culture: Art Cars from The Collection of Ann Harithas"
WHEN: Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. The exhibit is scheduled through Sept. 11.
WHERE: The Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art, 1201 N. Moody St.
MORE INFORMATION: Visit www.fivepointsmuseum.com or call 361-572-0016.
Maurice Roberts
Art Car Parade
Art Car Movement
Spoonazoid
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2022-05-19T09:07:57Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Art cars make bittersweet return to Victoria | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/art-cars-make-bittersweet-return-to-victoria/article_d3871770-d18a-11ec-bfa5-5f9d345f21df.html
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Serving one’s country is a challenging experience for men and women. Becoming a warrior in the service of others can bring immense pride. However, it can also result in physical and mental suffering.
According to a medical study of U.S. veterans in the American Community Survey Report by the U.S. Census Bureau, “veterans have distinctive health issues related to their military service and are more likely to suffer from trauma-related injuries, substance abuse, and mental health disorders than people who have never served in the armed forces.”
The highest percentage of veterans presently suffering from disabilities are Post-9/11 and Gulf War veterans – more than one-third have experienced a service-connected disability.
There are many ways individuals, organizations and the government assist our veterans. There are education benefits, housing assistance, job training, counseling, health programs and much more. These are all useful and necessary. However, there are also targeted programs for veterans that address a different need of combat veterans. Respite.
Think for a moment about your own daily life – working hard at a job, coping with health problems, managing family complexities, and all the other everyday issues life throws at us. What do you do to help yourself cope? Take a weekend trip, go on vacation, go to the beach, hang out with friends?
Now add to those challenges a physical or mental disability that impacts your life and makes all those things harder. On top of that, your disability was derived from the trauma of combat.
That desperately needed respite from daily struggles is recognized by a unique organization in the Crossroads called Warrior’s Weekend.
The 16th annual Warrior’s Weekend begins Friday. It is a remarkable event that brings in combat wounded veterans from across the country to provide them with a chance for connection with other veterans and a welcome escape from daily hardships. At the heart of the weekend is a fishing tournament in Port O’Connor on Saturday.
Retired Col. Mike Petrash, director of the Warrior’s Weekend organization’s Field of Honor, said the weekend is about more than a fishing trip, “even though that would probably be enough.”
“Whatever we can do for them is never enough,” Petrash said. “We can always do more.” He noted that 22 veterans commit suicide each day and the “divorce rate among the wounded is 95%.”
Wounded veterans will be given a chance to relax and recover and socialize this weekend. It is a time for fun and camaraderie.
Petrash said the fishing trip “is just the bait” to bring them into contact with other veterans who are experiencing similar circumstances and challenges. Many veterans feel like they are alone with their struggles and even feel guilty that they need help. After all, they are warriors, right? That toughness of spirit can become a burden as well as a blessing.
Buses filled with veterans will arrive at Parkway Church, 4802 John Stockbauer Drive, in Victoria at 2 p.m. Friday. They begin their weekend at the Field of Honor that is filled with flags posted in honor of each one of them. It’s a powerful beginning to their special time here.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the community came out to welcome them and show its support?
Please consider making the effort to demonstrate their service and sacrifice is appreciated and recognized and cheer their arrival on Friday. Even a warrior needs support.
Warriors Weekend
Support Vets
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2022-05-19T10:48:05Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Welcome our warriors, they deserve our support | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/welcome-our-warriors-they-deserve-our-support/article_4e5eb1b0-aed6-11ec-b010-4f06ef9a853c.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/welcome-our-warriors-they-deserve-our-support/article_4e5eb1b0-aed6-11ec-b010-4f06ef9a853c.html
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Partly cloudy skies. Low near 75F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
Victoria East’s Terrance Terrell, left, made his commitment to play football at East Texas Baptist University official, and Logan Garis signed a letter of intent to run track at Texas A&M-Kingsville on Thursday in the East gym.
Victoria East’s Logan Garis did not appear to have much chance of an athletic future.
He weighed 56 pounds in the seventh grade and coaches weren’t exactly begging him to play for them.
But Garis persevered, and the hard work paid off Thursday when he signed a letter of intent to run track at Texas A&M-Kingsville.
Garis was joined in a ceremony in the East gym by Terrance Terrell, who made his commitment to play football at East Texas Baptist University official.
Garis started his East track career as a distance runner before becoming a sprinter.
He had a time of 10.51 in the 100-meter dash this season and qualified for the regional meet in the 100- and 400-meter relay.
“This means a lot to me to show that I put that work in and proved everybody wrong,” Garis said. “I completed one of the goals on my dream list.”
Garis has never been to the Texas A&M-Kingsville campus or Javelina Stadium.
But he emailed Texas A&M-Kingsville coach Ryan Dahl after checking out the school’s engineering program and received an offer.
“I’m pretty happy,” Garis said. “I have to prove myself at the next level right now. I proved myself here, and I’ve got to prove myself there. It’s like restarting. I’ve got to work hard and build it back up, and hopefully, one day, I’ll be the top athlete there.”
Terrell played wide receiver for the Titans and had 43 receptions for 551 yards and eight touchdowns last season.
He had received interest from out-of-state schools but wanted to stay in Texas and began emailing and direct messaging NCAA Division III schools.
“I sent a message to East Texas Baptist, and the next morning they messaged me,” Terrell said. “I had a visit (to Marshall) about a week and a half ago, and I fell in love with it immediately. It was a beautiful campus.”
Terrell was disappointed East didn’t make the playoffs last season but is thankful for his high school career.
“There were a lot of ups and downs,” he said. “But it was a great learning experience. It was a great place, a great home, and great friends and family with a lot of brothers.”
Terrance Terrell
Logan Garis
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2022-05-19T17:58:40Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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East's Garis, Terrell to compete on the college level | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/easts-garis-terrell-to-compete-on-the-college-level/article_2da7e236-d797-11ec-8b5f-df3db1ede39b.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/easts-garis-terrell-to-compete-on-the-college-level/article_2da7e236-d797-11ec-8b5f-df3db1ede39b.html
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From left, Caden Mozisek, Andrew Rivera, coach Wes Kolle, Alex Leos and Josh Shannon pose together after the four made their college commitments official on Thursday.
Contributed photo by Kevin Alstrom
For high school athletes, being able to play at the next level is a dream come true. That dream was fulfilled for four Victoria East seniors Thursday afternoon.
The four baseball players each made their collegiate commitments official during a ceremony in front of their peers in the East gym.
Caden Mozisek and teammate Josh Shannon will be heading to LeTourneau University in Longview. Andrew Rivera will attend TCS Postgrad in McKinney while Alex Leos is heading to Holy Patriot University in Beaumont.
“These kids are going to be able to check that box off in their career as they go to the next level. This is something you dream about as a kid. To have these four kids check that box, it’s very rewarding not only as a coach, but as a program as well,” said East baseball coach Wes Kolle.
Mozisek, a three-year letterman who played multiple positions, was an all district performer on the field as well as an academic all-district and all-state student in the classroom while playing for East.
“It’s always been my goal and dream to play at the next level. I’m really excited to see what LeTourneau has to offer and at what level they play,” said Mozisek. “I’d also like to thank my family, God, and my coaches for helping me on this journey.”
Leos will be joining a brand new Holy Patriot program and is excited about the opportunity.
“It’s a huge blessing and I’m grateful for this opportunity. I’d like to thank my family, coaches, and everyone who believed in me,” Leos commented.
Shannon played first base for the Titans this year, earning all-district honorable mention as well as academic all-district during his high school career.
“I’m very excited. I’d like to thank God for this opportunity to go and show LeTourneau what I got. We visited the campus last week and liked it a lot. I think it’s a perfect fit for me,” said Shannon. “I’d like to thank my parents, family, teammates, coaches and everyone who helped me along the way.”
Rivera’s route will be a tad different as he will attend TCS Postgrad, a program that specializes in player development. Rivera will spend a year working on his game while taking courses at Collin County Community College. TCS plays a full schedule that allows the players to not lose a year of eligibility as they take nine hours of class.
“They have a lot to offer as far as the TCS Postgrad process goes. I feel like it’s the perfect place for me for where I’m at in my career,” said Rivera. “I’d like to thank my family, coaches, friends and everybody who helped me get to where I am today. I especially would like to thank my parents for all of their support.”
Andrew Rivera
Caden Mozisek
Alex Leos
Wes Kolle
Josh Shannon
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2022-05-19T23:24:54Z
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Four East baseball players set for collegiate careers | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/four-east-baseball-players-set-for-collegiate-careers/article_a7f70da8-d7b7-11ec-8512-977772956828.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/four-east-baseball-players-set-for-collegiate-careers/article_a7f70da8-d7b7-11ec-8512-977772956828.html
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The Nelson’s sparrow is one of the many birds found in our coastal marshes.
Contributed photo by Mike Williams
Nature Notes: Hidden bird life in the coastal marshes
By Martin Hagne
The habitats of the coastal areas along the Gulf of Mexico are diverse with wildlife, and bird species in particular are very abundant. From the ever-present gulls to the much less noticed wrens, the ancient looking brown pelican and the tall and stately great blue heron.
Just a bit farther inland lives a whole different group of birds such as the raptors and songbirds. This huge species diversity is due to the several “layers” of habitat types that starts at the Gulf and moves inland from there.
It goes something like this: the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the beach shoreline, the sand dunes, the coastal marshes and wetlands, the coastal prairies and eventually the bottomland forests. The coastal marshes and wetlands, coastal prairies, and bottomland forests are also intersected by numerous bayous, sloughs, and rivers adding more habitat types. No wonder our birdlife is so diverse.
One type of habitat that is less known is the coastal marshes and wetlands. Unless you are a biologist or you birdwatch, hunt, or explore, there is not much reason to visit such places. They may even look uninviting, and most are privately owned and off-limits. But in them live many bird species that thrive in these harsh environments.
As you move inland, the salty coastal environment is eventually mixed with fresh water from the bayous, rivers and rainfall. Here the habitat changes into the freshwater marshes with ponds and winding bayous. The freshwater and slight elevation change allows for an entirely different plant life to thrive. The dominant species are smooth cordgrass and sea ox-eye daisy. Others include sedges, rushes, grasses, and small woody shrubs.
As hostile as this environment seems, many bird species call it home. These are often very secretive birds, never leaving the confines of the marshy land and very thick plant life which they use for cover. With a little luck and knowledge, you can spy some of the following species.
Sedge wrens and marsh wrens are some of the tiniest birds here. They sport cryptic brown plumages and flit deep in the grasses, at times landing in the open for a brief glimpse. As with most of these coastal marsh birds they are best detected when they call or sing.
There are several species of rails here also. In size order they are king, clapper, Virginia, sora, yellow, and black rail as the smallest. The last two are super hard to find as they are the most secretive. Very few birders ever get to add them to their life list of birds seen.
A few sparrows also call these places home. Nelson’s sparrow and seaside sparrow are about as cryptic as wrens and behave much the same. Once again, the call alerts you to their presence. One warbler, the common yellowthroat, is fairly common in these environs and it can be seen along the edges near water at times. Even with it being common and quite colorful, it can be hard to find due its cryptic and skulking behaviors.
These are just a few of the many bird species that thrive in the coastal marshes, which just shows how diverse such habitats are. With increasing development, we humans are encroaching into these “bad lands” along the coast. As we study these birds at the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory we see less and less suitable habitat for them, and it’s important to conserve large tracts of these lands for our avian friends, and all the other important creatures, living an already tough life.
Martin Hagne is the Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. The GCBO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving the birds and their habitats along the entire Gulf Coast and beyond into their Central and South America wintering grounds.
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2022-05-19T23:25:14Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Nature Notes: Hidden bird life in the coastal marshes | Local News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/nature-notes-hidden-bird-life-in-the-coastal-marshes/article_e8447f76-d2f3-11ec-92aa-2b9f1efa6c33.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/local/nature-notes-hidden-bird-life-in-the-coastal-marshes/article_e8447f76-d2f3-11ec-92aa-2b9f1efa6c33.html
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:15-16; quote by Jacob Riis
Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, Go, get thee unto this treasurer, even unto Shebna, which is over the house, and say,
What hast thou here? and whom hast thou here, that thou hast hewed thee out a sepulchre here, as he that heweth him out a sepulchre on high, and that graveth an habitation for himself in a rock?
Look at a stone cutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred-and-first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before.
Jacob August Riis (1849-1914) was a Danish-American social reformer, “muckraking” journalist and social documentary photographer. He contributed significantly to the cause of urban reform in America at the turn of the 20th century.
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2022-05-19T23:25:26Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:15-16; quote by Jacob Riis | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-15-16-quote-by-jacob-riis/article_855e174a-d6c8-11ec-8cc2-973ff3a8a4a1.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-15-16-quote-by-jacob-riis/article_855e174a-d6c8-11ec-8cc2-973ff3a8a4a1.html
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Letter: Kevin Janak is qualified to continue to serve the people of Victoria County Precinct 2
My wife and I write in support of the reelection of Kevin Janak for County Commissioner, Precinct 2.
As residents of Precinct 2, we have been happy with Kevin’s 16 years of service. Kevin is no stranger to hard work. He is dedicated to his constituents and Victoria County. Kevin’s former roles as a member of the management team at Coleto Creek Power Station and a small business owner installing floors, chopping and selling firewood, and managing cattle have served him well in his role as County Commissioner from 2007 to present. For many years, Kevin has also volunteered his time and expertise to the Victoria Livestock Show to help the youth of Victoria County. Those familiar with Kevin know he is honest. Whether operating a power plant, installing floors, selling firewood, managing cattle, working with the Livestock Show or representing Victoria County, Kevin has done and continues to do so with integrity.
Kevin’s character, work ethic, and years of experience supervising employees and collaborating with stakeholders to address ongoing and emergent issues make him uniquely qualified to continue to serve the people of Victoria County Precinct 2.
We encourage you to join us and vote for Kevin Janak. Every vote counts.
Kenneth & Suzanne Krejci, Victoria
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2022-05-19T23:25:38Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Letter: Kevin Janak is qualified to continue to serve the people of Victoria County Precinct 2 | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/letter-kevin-janak-is-qualified-to-continue-to-serve-the-people-of-victoria-county-precinct/article_c1d2296c-d7a1-11ec-a023-ab1c529ff99c.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/letter-kevin-janak-is-qualified-to-continue-to-serve-the-people-of-victoria-county-precinct/article_c1d2296c-d7a1-11ec-a023-ab1c529ff99c.html
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Paxton has been attacking the Bush family name throughout the race for the moderate conservatism that was broadly representative of his family’s political dynasty, which includes two former presidents. The primary often tests which candidate can appeal to the party’s most ardent followers, and the Republican Party has increasingly moved toward the right in alignment with former President Donald Trump.
“Obviously, the voters will have access to that information,” Cornyn said. “They’ll make their own decision. I can’t predict what the outcome will be, but I do, as a former attorney general myself, I’m embarrassed by what we’re having to deal with.”
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2022-05-20T02:15:21Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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U.S. Sen. John Cornyn calls Ken Paxton scandals an “embarrassment” when asked about attorney general runoff | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/u-s-sen-john-cornyn-calls-ken-paxton-scandals-an-embarrassment-when-asked-about-attorney/article_710dbc2a-d7ca-11ec-b34c-e3d55dfcda87.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/u-s-sen-john-cornyn-calls-ken-paxton-scandals-an-embarrassment-when-asked-about-attorney/article_710dbc2a-d7ca-11ec-b34c-e3d55dfcda87.html
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Zaria Brigham lays out during Game 1 of the Class 5A regional semifinals game against Georgetown on Thursday evening in Marion.
Victoria West’s Sydney Harvey slides into second during Game 1 of the Class 5A regional semifinals game against Georgetown on Thursday evening in Marion.
MARION — Someone had to budge.
For 12 innings, neither Victoria West nor Georgetown wanted to be that team in Game 1 of their regional semifinal series.
In the end, Isa Torres’ walk-off RBI single gave the Lady Eagles a 4-3 win in the 13th inning after a nearly-4-hour battle.
West will need to win two games on Friday in order to keep its season going. Game 2 is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Marion High School.
“It’s definitely disappointing,” said senior center fielder Sydney Harvey. “I’m proud of my team for fighting and not giving up all the way through. I just wish that we would have ended up with the win.”
West (23-10) leaned on its defense, turning four double plays Thursday night.
The Warriors held Georgetown (31-3) to seven hits. Three came in the final inning.
Alexis James pitched all 12.1 innings for the Warriors.
“Honestly, it helped,” said West coach Jody Thompson. “(James) didn’t have to pitch as many pitches, so she could last the whole game. The defense stepped up, and I couldn’t be more proud of them.”
Maliea Huerta gave West the lead in the third inning with a two-run double after Katarina Zarate and Marisa Rosales reached base on a walk.
Sydney Harvey, Zarate and Rosales each singled in the fourth inning with Rosales driving in a run to extend West’s lead to 3-1 at the time.
Kennedy Miller tied the game in the fourth with a two-run home run over the left field wall in response to Rosales’ RBI base hit.
West failed to hit with runners in scoring position, however, going 3-for-16 in those situations.
The Warriors left the bases loaded in the fifth with an opportunity to extend their lead.
“Tomorrow, we have to do the big things in the crucial moments,” Harvey said. “We did them in the beginning of the game. But towards the end, we faded, and we didn’t. We didn’t depend on each other. We have to come out with that in order to get the win.”
Georgetown 4, Victoria West 3 (Georgetown leads series 1-0)
West 002 100 000 000 0 — 3 7 1
Georgetown 010 200 000 000 1 — 4 7 1
W: Maddie Hartley. L: Alexis James. Highlights: (W) Sydney Harvey 3-for-6, 1 2B, 1 R; Maliea Huerta 1-for-6, 2 RBI, 1 2B; Marisa Rosales 1-for-5, 1 RBI; (G) Kennedy Miller 1 HR, 2 RBI. Records: West 23-10; Georgetown 31-3.
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2022-05-20T04:55:39Z
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West falls in marathon to Georgetown to open regional semifinals | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/west-falls-in-marathon-to-georgetown-to-open-regional-semifinals/article_86af8f6a-d7b9-11ec-bf03-43fac5272dca.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/west-falls-in-marathon-to-georgetown-to-open-regional-semifinals/article_86af8f6a-d7b9-11ec-bf03-43fac5272dca.html
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OCHOA, ESMERALDA, 64, of Victoria, passed away on Monday, May 16, 2022. Services are pending with Grace Memorial Chapel, 361-578-3611.
MOORE, ANTHONY “TONY” JR., 74, of Yorktown, passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. Services are pending with Colonial Funeral Home, Victoria, 361-578-3535.
TAMBUNGA, AUGUSTINE “AUGGIE”, 60, of Yorktown, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2022. Services are pending with Finch Funeral Chapel of Yorktown, 361-564-2277.
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2022-05-20T07:19:10Z
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May 20, 2022 | Death Notices | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/death_notices/may-20-2022/article_d7d33fac-936b-5fce-851d-5fa800d001c2.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/death_notices/may-20-2022/article_d7d33fac-936b-5fce-851d-5fa800d001c2.html
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Dear Isabel,
I’m still finding it hard to believe that my little girl is graduating from high school. I know I am going to be a blubbering mess of a father this week as you walk to get your diploma. Just know, I was also a blubbering mess the day I watched you be born.
How could that be 18 years ago?
I want you to know that I am proud of the young woman you have become. I am proud of all your amazing achievements in high school. God has truly blessed you with incredible gifts.
I know the journey hasn’t been easy for you so far. You have faced some pretty daunting challenges along the way. I also know that you have many more challenges ahead of you. I don’t want to sugarcoat it for you. Life in this sin-filled world is often a struggle.
The Dread Pirate Roberts was right when he said, “Life is pain, princess.” You will have your heart broken at least once. You will have moments of disappointment and fear. You will have stomach aches and sickness and sorrow.
The truth is, life is hard. Work is hard. Marriage is hard.
Yet, the Dread Pirate Roberts only had it partly correct. On this journey, God has also prepared for you wonderful joys along the way. You will enjoy love and friendship and family. You will find satisfaction in college and work. You will experience triumphs and successes.
Appreciate those moments. Treasure them. Thank God for them. We don’t deserve all the good things God gives.
And when you face the dark days of life, turn to God in prayer. Cling to him. Trust in his love and forgiveness. Trust his promise that he will be by your side through it all.
When you were born, I dreamt of all the things I wanted for you – and still want for you. I want you to find love. I want you to find happiness. I want you to be all that you can be.
In the end, however, the only thing that really matters to me is that I get to spend eternity with you in heaven. That is why we didn’t just take you to school, to ballet, and to piano classes. We also took you to church, to Sunday School, and to Catechism classes.
The only thing that really matters to me is that you know and believe in your Savior Jesus – that you understand his amazing grace which saved you, which protects you, and which will guide you through the potholes and pitfalls of this world.
I know you are going to make some mistakes as you mature. I know when you leave the safe confines of our home, I won’t have much control over the choices you make. I know that you will struggle at times to figure out who you are and how you fit into this world. I know that you are going to make some choices of which neither God nor I will approve.
Just always remember, you have two fathers – one earthly and the other heavenly – who will always welcome you home with open arms. We will never stop loving you. You will never stop being our little girl.
And if you ever get confused which one I am, I’m the blubbering one.
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2022-05-20T09:33:47Z
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Andrew Schroer: Dear Isabel: a dad's letter of hope and love | Faith | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/features/faith/andrew-schroer-dear-isabel-a-dads-letter-of-hope-and-love/article_dc2b073c-d2fd-11ec-8231-53bc5e0e2ec1.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/features/faith/andrew-schroer-dear-isabel-a-dads-letter-of-hope-and-love/article_dc2b073c-d2fd-11ec-8231-53bc5e0e2ec1.html
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Hymns are at the heart of a traditional service.
Keith Cox works with the First United Methodist Choir from the organ during a rehearsal. Trudy Wortham in foreground, concentrates on her music.
Keith Cox works with the choir on a Wednesday night rehearsal inside the First Methodist Church.
Don Eastham in foreground, with Hugh Hanes and Jay Dougherty, behind Eastham, make up the lower vocal ranges for the choir.
Joye Tripson, left, Jay Dougherty, Don Eastham, Hugh Hanes, Keith Cox, Trudy Wortham, Suzie McReynolds, Connie Sistrunk, and Esther Mitchell.
In front, from left: Will Durham, Ruth Lopez, Liz Parker, Sara Byrd. In back, from left: Kyle Harrison, Caleb Durham.
From left: Ruth Lopez, Liz Parker, Sara Byrd, Caleb Durham, Heidi Bloebaum, Robert McKay.
From left: Sara Byrd, Caleb Durham, Heidi Bloebaum, and Robert McKay perform at an Ignite Sunday service.
The pipes on the organ at First United Methodist Church.
Congregation gathers for an Ignite Sunday service at First United Methodist Church.
Keith Cox works on a hymn with the traditional choir at First United Methodist Church.
At Ignite the words to the music is displayed so the entire congregation can join in. Contemporary worship leader, Will Durham (left), leads the group.
The sound of church music is varied, but the reasons are the same
There is more than one type of sermon going on when you consider the impact of a church’s music ministry. There is the spoken one by the pastor and a musical “sermon” that represents the message being given.
At First United Methodist Church in Victoria, there are two distinct types of music used in their worship services, a traditional choir with pipe organ in the main church and an adjacent service called Ignite that uses contemporary music to help people reach out to God.
Senior Pastor Wade Powell said some people criticize contemporary music as “singing love songs to Jesus” in which you could substitute any boy or girl’s name. Some, he said, think they lack substance. On the other end of the spectrum are those who say traditional church music is boring and slow.
“In a lot of ways, it comes down to a preference,” Powell said. “I don’t know if you would call them theological differences. In my mind, they are differences in where the music takes the worshiper.”
Powell said that at his church, they refer to the music at Ignite worship services as praise and worship music while the traditional music is described as hymns.
Associate Pastor Amanda Banda leads Ignite. She explained the contemporary music helps to build the flow of worship during the service. “You want to build energy,” she said, “and prepare their hearts for the message.”
“I try to be prayerful in choosing the music,” said contemporary worship leader Will Durham. “A lot of times, I’ll look at the scriptures that are being used, or Amanda will send me her sermon ahead of time, and I’ll think about the themes.” Durham seeks out music “that will allow people to express their praise to God and be able to connect with him and to be able to just have that time with him.”
Durham did not study music as a career but grew up in a musical home. “It was a part of my life growing up through choirs and playing instruments. … Some families, they want their kids to do athletics, and they play baseball or football, but we had to play instruments in my family,” he said.
Durham said he and the Ignite group are not there as performers. He sees his role as one that allows him to use his spiritual gifts in leading others in worship, “and helping others to connect to God.”
Inside the main church, Keith Cox, the interim director of music, rehearses each week with his small choir. He plays the church’s beautiful pipe organ.
Similar to the contemporary Ignite service, Cox thinks about what the text is going to be that Sunday “as far as themes, the scripture readings, what the pastor is going to be preaching on, and seeing where we can try to tie the text of the music with that.”
“I’m also looking at what’s going to make sense for the ensemble as well as for me,” he said. “Making sure that the parts and everything work with the makeup of people that we have. And, again, that the text and words have some good substance to them.”
When Cox demonstrates his playing on the pipe organ, it becomes obvious that he is experienced and comfortable with the instrument.
“In addition to playing with the hands, I’m also playing with the feet as well,” he said, showing the pedalboard under his feet.
Next, he showed the versatility of the instrument.
“The thing about an organ is that we have all these different sounds we can work with. … We can have something with a nice bass sound, and we have kind of a nice floaty sound up here.” He moved a variety of the stop knobs surrounding the three-tiered keyboard. “But we can also do things where we’re mixing different voices together.”
Cox, who also is an accomplished singer, describes his role as a complex one.
“One thing I find challenging is when trying to do this, I’m doing the accompaniment; I’m trying to keep time; and I’m also trying to listen, to hear what we need to work on.”
His choir is a mix of men and women, who have all spent many years singing in the choir.
Trudy Wortham grew up singing in a church choir in Port Lavaca and enjoys “just being able to sing praise to God.”
Esther Mitchell grew up around church music. “My dad was a preacher. There were four of us, and when he had a service, my siblings and I usually were the special music, and my mom was a pianist. So, we started early as a family.”
Mitchell sang in the choir in junior high school. Everyone in the family was musical and able to sing, but she is the one who most enjoys singing choral music.
“I just love choral music, and I love singing church music,” she said. She wishes there were more people involved in choirs. “It’s a real privilege.”
When asked why she likes the classics, rather than the contemporary music, she quipped, “I guess because I’m old.” But in a more serious tone, added, “There’s so much more intricacy, I think, in the music. It’s been around for so many years. There is so much beautiful choral music.”
Connie Sistrunk also was raised in a musical family. “My mother was an alto, and I sing soprano, and my sister was an alto.” From the time she was little, they sang harmonies together.
Joye Tripson, who also plays piano regularly at a local retirement community, said singing in the choir is “just part of who I am. I can’t worship without it. It’s just very much a part of my spiritual life. And, you know, sometimes I wake up in the morning, and I have hymns in my head.”
Another long-time choir member is Don Eastham. He joked that he “played the piano for three years. But now, I couldn’t even be able to find middle C.” Eastham said without the choir he never would have attended church. “Music just sets the stage for worship and opens your mind and heart for the message,” he said.
Hugh Hanes has been singing since high school. He came to Victoria in 1965 and started in the choir that same year. He said he learned to read music by attending choir practice.
“I’ve enjoyed music since I was young, too,” said Jay Dougherty. “And that’s how I learned to read music — just from being in a band when I lived in another state.” Although he grew up in the 1970s, he developed a love of classical music, something he attributes to his father.
Suzie McReynolds started singing about 50 years ago. She also plays bells at First United Methodist Church. “I keep retiring and going to sit down in the pews, and I just am not comfortable. This is where I belong,” she said, laughing. “I sing quietly because my voice is going.”
“We’re small, but we’re mighty. We’re dedicated,” Wortham emphasized. “We enjoy singing and being together.”
The main message about differences in music ministries, no matter how far apart they appear on the surface, is a simple one, Cox said.
“We’re one church,” he said.
Music Ministries
Music In Church
Contemporary Church Music
Music And Faith
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2022-05-20T09:33:53Z
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The sound of church music is varied, but the reasons are the same | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/the-sound-of-church-music-is-varied-but-the-reasons-are-the-same/article_ab846520-d7c0-11ec-86b5-d380071f7162.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/the-sound-of-church-music-is-varied-but-the-reasons-are-the-same/article_ab846520-d7c0-11ec-86b5-d380071f7162.html
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UHV coach Garrett Adair, left, tries to will Jaxon Langford’s putt into the hole during the Red River Athletic Conference golf tournament at Victoria Country Club on Tuesday.
UHV finishes 4th at NAIA golf championships
UHV made history in its second-ever appearance at the NAIA men’s golf national championships.
The Jaguars finished fourth with a team score of 1,155 through four rounds at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois. It’s the best finish by any UHV team at a national tournament.
UHV was led by Jaxon Langford, who shot rounds of 65, 75, 73 and 73 to finish in a tie for 19th.
The sophomore from Fredericksburg sat in fourth after his 6-under round to open the tournament.
Max Schliesing finished in a tie for 34th after rounds of 70, 72, 79 and 70 in his final tournament.
The Master’s University’s Jack Dudeck won the tournament with a four-day score of 276 (66-70-68-72).
Keiser University won the team title with a team score of 1,130, beating Dalton State by three strokes.
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2022-05-20T22:23:42Z
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UHV finishes 4th at NAIA golf championships | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/uhv-finishes-4th-at-naia-golf-championships/article_82f29ac6-d885-11ec-bf56-c73f5d57a154.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/uhv-finishes-4th-at-naia-golf-championships/article_82f29ac6-d885-11ec-bf56-c73f5d57a154.html
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St. Mary's Parish Picnic to be held June 12.
St. Mary's Parish Picnic is planned for June 12
The St. Mary's Parish Picnic will be held Sunday, June 12, at 1648 FM 340 in Hallettsville from 9:15 a.m. to 9 p.m.
A meal of stew and sausage, German potatoes, green beans, pickles, sauerkraut, bread and dessert will be available for purchase for $12, dine-in or take out.
There will be a live auction, country store, live music and many activities.
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2022-05-20T22:23:48Z
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St. Mary's Parish Picnic is planned for June 12 | Lavaca | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/counties/lavaca/st-marys-parish-picnic-is-planned-for-june-12/article_ac20c498-d7b5-11ec-802c-83b463814a46.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/counties/lavaca/st-marys-parish-picnic-is-planned-for-june-12/article_ac20c498-d7b5-11ec-802c-83b463814a46.html
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Veterans are greeted as they come in during Warrior’s Weekend 16 Friday in Victoria.
Veterans walk around the Field of Honor during Warrior’s Weekend 16 Friday in Victoria.
Veterans listen to a speech on the Field of Honor to kick off Warrior’s Weekend 16 Friday in Victoria.
Retired U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Stephen Maxwell salutes the veterans passing by in buses during Warrior’s Weekend 16 Friday in Victoria.
Veterans are greeted as they walk in to kick off Warrior’s Weekend 16 Friday in Victoria.
A group of motorcyclists enters Parkway Church during Warrior’s Weekend XVI Friday in Victoria.
The band plays during Warrior’s Weekend XVI on Friday in Victoria.
U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud delivers his remarks to veterans during Warrior’s Weekend XVI on Friday in Victoria.
People pass by during Warrior’s Weekend XVI on Friday in Victoria.
A person stands to greet the incoming veterans during Warrior’s Weekend XVI on Friday in Victoria.
Spectators wave to the incoming motorists during Warrior’s Weekend XVI Friday in Victoria.
Veterans walk around the Field of Honor during Warrior’s Weekend XVI Friday in Victoria.
Hundreds of wounded combat veterans were welcomed Friday afternoon to the flag-dressed Field of Honor near Parkway Church on John Stockbauer Drive to have their service recognized and honored.
Escorted by police Harleys and cruisers with lights flashing and sirens wailing, five tour buses and a number of vans and cars brought these service members to the event. Before the warriors dispersed into the field of flags to find the ones with their names on them, they were praised by retired Army Col. Mike Petrash, the event organizer.
“We’re honored by your presence today,” Petrash said.
U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Victoria, told the veterans their service to this country could not be ignored.
“Thank you for your service,” Cloud said to the 350 veterans who assembled in the field. “You are not forgotten. You are not overlooked.”
Retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Kimberlin Bain, 51, said Friday’s welcome made him proud to have served in Iraq, where he was wounded.
“People still care,” Bain said. “I’m proud to be an American. It was an emotional experience, even on the drive down here.”
Saturday, the Warrior’s Weekend Fishing Tournament will be held in Port O’Connor from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The weekend allows the community to honor those who fought for their country in the war on terrorism. They are from the different service branches, representing the Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Air Force. They are taken out on the water for a day of fishing and relaxation by volunteer captains aboard their boats.
Tommy Garrett, 47, came from Rogersville, Missouri, for the event. Garrett who served as an Army artilleryman, said he initially served from 1993 to 1997. He had stopped by his house on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, while working.
“I saw the second plane hit the building and left the house,” Garrett said. “I went down to the recruiting station.”
He served again from 2001 to 2006.
The Sept. 11, 2001, attacks saw a series of airline hijackings and suicide attacks by 19 militants linked to the Islamic extremist group Al-Qaeda against targets in the United States. Two planes rammed the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing extensive death and destruction. A third plane struck the southwest side of the Pentagon, the Defense Department’s headquarters, causing a fire. A fourth plane crashed in Pennsylvania after passengers fought against the hijackers. All 19 terrorists died.
Those attacks led to America’s war in Afghanistan, which ended last year, the longest war in U.S. history. Since 9/11, 2,448 American military personnel died from 2001 to 2021 in Afghanistan. Another 4,598 died in Iraq during two phases: the 2003 to 2011 operation, which started as an effort to oust then-leader Saddam Hussein and remove weapons of mass destruction from the country, and from 2014 to the present, in which the U.S. is battling the Islamic State group. The U.S. has said Iraq is winding down, but American troops are still being deployed there.
In Afghanistan, 20,752 American service members also were wounded in action during the war. In Iraq, more than 32,000 were wounded.
Master Gunnery Sgt. Stanton Pittman, 54, spent 26 years in the Marine Corps. He said it was inspiring to see what kind of assistance the community of Victoria expends for veterans.
“I’m amazed by the support from the community,” Pittman said. “I really enjoy what they are doing for the veterans.”
Warrior's Weekend 16 Fishing Tournament
Rep. Michael Cloud
Col Mike Petrash
Warrior's Weekend Fishing Tournament
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2022-05-21T01:35:23Z
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Wounded vets see 'people still care' as Warrior's Weekend kicks off | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/wounded-vets-see-people-still-care-as-warriors-weekend-kicks-off/article_688da6d8-d882-11ec-80ba-83becb8fa457.html
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Scattered showers and thunderstorms. Low 71F. Winds ESE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Sara Potts
By Sara Potts
If you find yourself reading the business section of the Advocate every Sunday, specifically every other Sunday when our firm’s articles are published, you may have noticed a trend in our firm’s recent articles. We have been covering Social Security as a way to add insight from different perspectives within our firm.
Our staff is made up of diverse backgrounds with different personal and professional experiences, but how many different ways can you really talk about Social Security? How much advance planning should you really do for a filing decision that doesn’t have to be made until your mid-60s?
Would you be shocked if I told you that I believe the answer could be somewhere around 40 years in advance? Like so many other things in life, the decisions that you make throughout your career, or maybe lack thereof, cause a ripple effect when it comes to your financial well-being, specifically your Social Security benefits, in retirement. I’ll walk you through a few examples and how to plan for them:
Breaks from the workplace: When analyzing clients’ Social Security statements, it is not uncommon to see that one spouse had left the workplace altogether or took a cut in income to accommodate for parenthood and the admirable job of raising children. Since Social Security looks at your earnings history for 35 years, any year that there is not income will draw down your potential benefit amount in retirement. This was part of the reasoning behind the creation of spousal benefits in 1939; to allow non-working spouses to receive 50% of the working spouses benefit amount. When planning for retirement and a lower Social Security benefit, it could be advantageous for people taking a break from the workplace to maximize a retirement account like a spousal IRA.
Self-employment: When owning your own business, it’s logical to think about and plan for ways to maximize your tax deductions. While as a self-employed individual you’ll be paying more out of your own pocket in Social Security taxes (15.3% when you combine the employee and employer tax), you’ll most likely see a smaller Social Security benefit. In order to offset a potentially lower Social Security benefit in retirement, people who are self-employed should plan to take advantage of retirement vehicles at their disposal, like a SEP IRA, solo 401(k), or even an HSA if you or your spouse have a high deductible health insurance policy.
Work in the public sector: If you or a family member have ever worked in the public sector in any form, you are probably familiar with the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These two provisions can affect how much, if any, benefits you may receive from Social Security. While some employers or professions in this sector may allow you to decide if you will have money withheld, others may not. If you fall into this group, it is crucial that you work with a professional to guide you down the right path.
In two separate cases, I have worked with a pastor and a school administrator to decide what the correct answer was for their financial plan. Both had different outcomes, but both moved forward with confidence knowing that they had made the right decisions based on their personal financial situations.
When it comes time to draw your Social Security benefits, don’t look back wishing you had known how your choices over the last 40 years would affect your retirement. This income source that you can’t outlive is too important to wait until age 62 to know the answer. Work with a Certified Financial Planner professional, to ensure that you’re making the right decisions for you and your financial future.
Sara Potts is a CFP Professional and Operations Manager with KMH Wealth Management, LLC
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2022-05-21T16:26:41Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Social Security – The 40-year decision | Business | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/business/social-security-the-40-year-decision/article_f098c7d0-d54c-11ec-844b-ff8229d7a973.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/business/social-security-the-40-year-decision/article_f098c7d0-d54c-11ec-844b-ff8229d7a973.html
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Matt Bochat
Ag in the Crossroads
Pasture & Nutrition Field Day
By Matt Bochat
As we ease into summer (or maybe blast into summer), it’s important for ranchers to take care of their pastures and herds in the areas of weed control, parasite management, herd nutrition and more.
Margins in the beef cattle industry are becoming tighter with rising input costs. Through the use of generous sponsors, Texas A&M Agrilife Extension offices of Victoria, Jackson, and Calhoun have partnered to bring you a field day free of charge. The sponsors include Purina Animal Nutrition, Corteva AgriScience, Texas A&M Agrilife Extension and the Jackson County Cattle Raisers Association.
The field day will be begin at 5 p.m. June 7 at the Mitchell’s Ranch at 2880 County Road 429, Lolita. The educational program will run from 5-7 p.m. with dinner served after the program. One credit in the integrated pest management category for licensed pesticide applicators will be available. In addition, multiple door prizes will be given out at the dinner.
This should be a fantastic opportunity for ranchers to learn more about nutrition and pasture management. We hope to make this an annual event that is rotated among the three counties. Victoria County is slated for next year’s field day.
Please RSVP prior to June 3 to the Victoria, Jackson or Calhoun County Extension offices at the following numbers respectively, 361-575-4581, 361-782-3312, and 361-552-9747.
Matt Bochat is a County Extension Agent – Ag/Natural Resources Victoria County Texas A&M Agrilife Extension.
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2022-05-21T21:35:47Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Pasture & Nutrition Field Day | Agriculture | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/agriculture/pasture-nutrition-field-day/article_d7f5e598-d2f2-11ec-ba46-eb91c64caf19.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/agriculture/pasture-nutrition-field-day/article_d7f5e598-d2f2-11ec-ba46-eb91c64caf19.html
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Cinco de Mayo auction rings up cash for students
Members and friends of the Latino community celebrated Cinco de Mayo this month with a silent auction to raise money for a new scholarship fund.
Organized by the Latino Faculty and Staff Association at the University of Houston-Victoria, the event was the young organization’s first scholarship fundraiser and took place on May 5 at the University Commons building. The funds will be used for the new Latino Faculty and Staff Scholarship Fund.
“One of our core values of LFSA is to find funds to help students,” said Karla Hernandez DeCuir, president of LFSA and senior director of enrollment management and external affairs for UHV in Katy.
LFSA’s mission is to support Hispanic students at UHV, which was designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution in 2013.
“The LFSA scholarship fund was created with the goal of helping our students continue their education while also supporting students who come from Latin backgrounds, whether they are of Latin origin themselves or want to support those students who have Latin origins,” she said.
The organization’s goal is to offer its first scholarship in the upcoming fall semester, with the recipient being selected based on GPA and an essay explaining how Latinos help strengthen the workforce, she said, adding, “Anyone, not just Latinos, will be able to apply.”
The auction generated sales of $859. In addition, donations from UHV employees will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the university, DeCuir said.
About 50 people, including UHV students and employees, dropped by during the two-hour event to peruse and bid on auction items, and attendees were also able to place bids online, she said. The auction included 29 donated items, including artwork, restaurant gifts, baked items, and gift cards ranging from $10 to $1,100 in value.
“This number far exceeded our expectations,” said Rebecca Montez, an association member and an assistant in UHV’s Human Resources and Talent Development Office. “It was really nice to see that everybody was willing to participate and donate to a good cause.”
The items were donated by 16 members of the community, including UHV employees and Victoria businesses. The largest gift was from Victoria AllStar Dance Academy, which provided venue space for up to 250 people for an event, such as a wedding, baby shower or other gathering.
LFSA leaders expressed gratitude to its Cinco de Mayo event donors:
Chick-fil-A Victoria
CrossFit 302
La Original Tortilla Company
Victoria AllStar Dance Academy
Del Papa Distributing
Integrity Defensive Arts
UHV Center for Regional Collaboration
Erika Vermillion
Catherine Swift
Ashley Sisson
Nicole Eugene
Erica Valle
Bianca Singh
The next LFSA event will be a virtual event featuring a keynote guest speaker on June 16. For more information, visit uhv.edu/latino-faculty-staff-association.
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2022-05-21T21:36:11Z
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Cinco de Mayo auction rings up cash for students | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/cinco-de-mayo-auction-rings-up-cash-for-students/article_11241746-d770-11ec-bf8e-1f95e5a37653.html
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MAY 22 – The Chamber of Commerce Hall has gone under the landlord’s padlock to protect himself from further loss of office rent.
Miss Margaret DuPre, who has been teaching school in Edinburg, has returned to her home in this city to spend the vacation months.
Mrs. H.C. Grahmann and daughter, Alfreda, have returned to their home in this city after an extended visit with relatives and friends in Cuero and San Antonio.
MAY 25 – Marking of the Jefferson Davis Highway began Monday and will be marked from the Jackson County line to the line of Goliad. The markings will be stripes about six inches wide, with red, white and red crossed with blue lettering, J.D.H. A petition or application was filed with the City Council Tuesday by Mrs. F.R. Pridham and Mrs. L.G. Kreisle, who are secretaries of the state and county, respectively, of the Jefferson Davis Highway Association, asking permission to mark the highway through the city of Victoria over certain streets. The petition was granted with certain modifications.
MAY 23 – Bill Coleman, the lumber man, threatened to use a boat to navigate the boulevard during the precipitation.
Jaycees are planning for a capacity turn-out at their “cotton-chopper hoe-down,” to be held Thursday night at the Country Club.
Al Lindsey recalling the time in Germany he invited German boys to come out and try the American game of baseball and being flooded with 1,000 of them anxious to learn our national pastime.
MAY 27 – Mayor H.W. Griffith announced he had been informed by the Magee-Hale Park-o-Meter Co. of Oklahoma City that Lawrence Skinner would be in Victoria to begin installation of parking meters here June 2.
All new conservation work on Victoria County farms and ranches under the Production Marketing Administration program has been ordered stopped, pending final disposition of the Department of Agriculture appropriation bill now before Congress, according to notice received by A.L. Breed, administrative officer.
Mike Stevens, Fred Warren and C.B. Thompson wading through flooded Spring Creek Sunday to be the first on the golf course.
MAY 24 – Victoria Jaycees won a number of awards at the Texas State Jaycee Convention in Corpus Christi over the weekend. Charles Schultz, local director and national director, said the Victoria club was represented by 30 Jaycees and 18 wives.
An open house will be held by the Victoria Camera Club Thursday in the Sam Houston Room of Victoria Bank & Trust Co.
Winner of five Academy Awards, including best picture, best actor, best film editing, best screenplay. “The French Connection,” El Rancho.
MAY 26 – Miss Maxine Haywood, a special education teacher in Victoria Independent School District for the past several years, has resigned to accept the position of director of four day care centers for retarded children in the Gulf Bend Center area. She is a member of President Nixon’s national advisory committee on mental retardation.
A reception was held on the second floor of the courthouse building Thursday afternoon for Miss Elsie Oetken, who is retiring May 31 after 52 years with the county. She served as county tax assessor-collector from 1945-1952. She is currently employed as a clerk in the county auditor’s office.
MAY 22 – The first-ever business expo in the Victoria area did some serious business Wednesday. More than 1,500 people visited almost 100 booths as the Victoria Business Expo brought companies together to share information about the services they provide. “We’re real happy about the show,” said Pattie Sagebiel, president of the Victoria Chapter of the National Association of Purchasing Mangers. “It’s good positive exposure for Victoria.” The trade show was hosted by the African-American Chamber of Commerce, Greater Victoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Victoria Chapter of NAPM. Proceeds will benefit the four sponsors. Sagebiel said the NAPM plans to use the money to send its 50 members to educational conferences.
MAY 28 – A regional FBI office should be open and fully operational by the end of June, but the three agents assigned to the office are already working in Victoria, said Don Clark, the special agent-in-charge of the Houston division. Bringing the FBI office to Victoria is the result of eight months of work by U.S. Sens. Phil Gramm and Kay Bailey Hutchison. The senators met with Victoria County Sheriff Mike Ratcliff and Police Chief Tim Braaten last July to discuss the need for opening an FBI office in Victoria. The three FBI agents will be housed in the Heritage Mark building on North Navarro Street, Clark said Tuesday.
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2022-05-21T21:36:17Z
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100, 75, 50 and 25 years ago: 1947, Three men wade through flooded creek to be first on golf course | Features | victoriaadvocate.com
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Dove is a 1-year-old female domestic shorthair mix with a grey tabby coat. She loves playing with toys and enjoys napping in the window.
Cleo is a 9-month-old female domestic shorthair mix with a tortoiseshell coat. She is a fun and playful kitten who does great around other cats her age.
Snow White is a 6 1/2-year-old female Great Pyrenees who weighs 87 pounds. She’s such a sweetheart and has a very friendly personality.
Gibby is a 1 1/2-year-old male miniature dachshund mix who weighs about 15 pounds. Once he feels confident in his new surroundings, he is a wonderful little companion with so much love to give.
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2022-05-21T21:36:29Z
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Pets of the week | Nonprofits | victoriaadvocate.com
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Ron Salazar
UHV MBA students formulate corporate strategies for business competition
For a winning group of University of Houston-Victoria Master of Business Administration students, a semester-long business analysis has proven to be more than just a group project. The four-person group left the 29th UHV College of Business Master of Business Administration Case Conference feeling more confident in their business skills and knowledge.
“All four of us come from different industries, and by having each of us weigh in, we were able to innovate from our broad experience and figure out the issue,” said Gavin Menezes of Houston. “I feel really blessed to be part of such a strong team.”
Menezes, his wife Tanisha Menezes, Arisbeth Harvey of Katy and Arturo Rodriguez of Beeville were on a team that was ranked first in the conference. The event was held May 7 through Microsoft Teams and included 46 students and 12 teams for the competition, as well as 26 business leaders and UHV College of Business alumni.
Graduate students in the “Seminar in Strategic Management,” capstone course spent the spring semester analyzing a company both individually and in teams. This semester, students prepared presentations about Southwest Airlines.
The group of MBA students in the program have worked hard and have been flexible with balancing their schoolwork along with their work and family lives during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Ron Salazar, a professor of management and one of the capstone course instructors.
“All of the teams made their best effort to advise Southwest Airlines, and there were many excellent results and outcomes,” Salazar said. “I am pleased with the number of good presentations at the conference.”
For the competition, students had to identify an issue with Southwest Airlines and present a solution. The first-place group analyzed the company and decided one of the key issues was the pilot shortage. The team concluded that when it comes to a shortage of employees, the company needed to look at how they care for the pilots and their families, and what strategies they are using to retain and recruit pilots. Gavin Menezes was able to provide some of his personal experience to the group for the project because he has been a pilot for 18 years. He decided to pursue an MBA to one day work in airline management.
“When it came to questions such as ‘what is this like’ or ‘is this limited to contract or regulation’ in regard to where the boundaries of the problems lay, I could give a little bit of insight of that aspect of the industry,” Menezes said.
Their recommendation included making improvements at the pilot training center; reaching out and engaging with regional airlines; have retiring pilots be hired as pilot training instructors; and to use their brand vision to be “the world’s most beloved airline” to recruit new pilots.
The solution had to be both profitable and attainable, said Arturo Rodriguez.
“We wanted to find the happy medium to make both the business and employees happy, because when people on both sides are happy in their jobs, then the business can continue to be profitable,” he said.
Everything they learned from UHV and the project has provided them with skills and knowledge they’ll be able to use in any management role, Tanisha Menezes said. She works as a senior manager at a health care research company.
“This course, and all my other MBA courses, have helped me to be a better manager,” she said. “It’s not about submitting assignments but engaging in discussions, reading materials and thinking outside the box for solutions.”
For Arisbeth Harvey, who works in the supply chain industry, the capstone course was different from the rest of her MBA courses and challenged her. The group appreciated the feedback Salazar provided them throughout the semester.
“There was a lot of back and forth and comments, and in the end, we were able to address his questions and pull off the presentation,” Harvey said. “Dr. Salazar was a great instructor to have for this course.”
Overall, Gavin Menezes appreciates his experience in the MBA program at UHV, as he has had difficulty in the past with his career and receiving a higher education degree as an immigrant.
“In my opinion, UHV is the leading program in the country to helping students like me succeed here in the United States,” he said. “When I came to UHV, it was clear to me that the university has invested in the right people and resources to help students overcome barriers and help us earn an accredited degree.”
Charlie Huang, a UHV associate professor of management, is the other instructor for the capstone course and praised the work the students in the program did in the competition.
“I am impressed with our students’ hard work in challenging themselves during this difficult time to finalize their educational journey at UHV,” Huang said. “Through commitment and hard work, they know they can aim higher and achieve something they could not imagine before. I am sure all faculty at the UHV College of Business are proud of them.”
The rest of the top teams are:
Second Place – Chang Cho, of Katy, Brian Hernandez, of Austin, Lester Hernandez Ortiz, of Spring and Helen Martinez, of Houston
Third Place – Aisha Ashafa, of Missouri City, Ariana Cardenas, of Richmond, Brigitte Nguyen, of Houston and Dale Yambao, of Cypress
Fourth Place – Kara Holland, of Cypress and Nicholas Armstrong, and Diana Villarreal, of Richmond
Fifth Place – Trevor Butler, of Burleson, Rosie McCusker, of Bay City, Latisha Perry, of Cypress and Dana Walker, of Pearland.
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2022-05-21T21:36:48Z
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UHV MBA students formulate corporate strategies for business competition | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Romans Rom.15:15-16; quote by Fred Rogers
Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,
That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
You know, you don’t have to look like everybody else to be acceptable and to feel acceptable.
Fred McFeely Rogers (1928-2003), also known as Mister Rogers, was an American television host, author, producer, and Presbyterian minister. He was the creator, showrunner, and host of the preschool television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which ran from 1968 to 2001.
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2022-05-21T21:36:54Z
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Bible verse - Romans Rom.15:15-16; quote by Fred Rogers | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---romans-rom-15-15-16-quote-by-fred-rogers/article_7055c41c-d6cb-11ec-b3fd-ffb8c1dba61f.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---romans-rom-15-15-16-quote-by-fred-rogers/article_7055c41c-d6cb-11ec-b3fd-ffb8c1dba61f.html
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Brad Keselowski (6) prepares for a NASCAR Cup Series auto race at Circuit of the Americas, March 27, in Austin. Kyle Larson last June held off a hard-charging Keselowski during a final 10-lap shootout in the All-Star. It was Keselowski's third runner-up finish in an All-Star race. Larson then won the fall playoff race at Texas.
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2022-05-21T23:15:51Z
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Runner-up Keselowski in different spot for NASCAR All-Star | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/runner-up-keselowski-in-different-spot-for-nascar-all-star/article_ae7bb8ba-d954-11ec-8a18-0fd65d9a3f3d.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/runner-up-keselowski-in-different-spot-for-nascar-all-star/article_ae7bb8ba-d954-11ec-8a18-0fd65d9a3f3d.html
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Veterans board their assigned vessels during the sixteenth Warrior’s Weekend fishing tournament on Saturday morning in Port O’Connor.
Flags cover the Field of Tribute outside of the Port O’Connor Community Center during the sixteenth Warrior’s Weekend fishing tournament on Saturday morning in Port O’Connor.
Veterans disembark from their buses and find their assigned boats during the sixteenth Warrior’s Weekend fishing tournament on Saturday morning in Port O’Connor.
Fishing rods are the tools of the day during the sixteenth Warrior’s Weekend fishing tournament on Saturday morning in Port O’Connor.
Veterans and boat crews disembark from Froggie’s Bait Dock during the sixteenth Warrior’s Weekend fishing tournament on Saturday morning in Port O’Connor.
From left, Travis Dufrene, 43, of Florida, and Richard Fuller, 48, of Atlanta. Both are former paratroopers with the 101st Airborne Division.
From left, Travis Dufrene, 43, of Florida, Michael Harmon, and Richard Fuller, 48, of Atlanta.
PORT O’CONNOR — Veterans who served their country in battle were treated to a fishing trip along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Saturday as volunteers came to take the vets out through waters off Port O’Connor where dolphins cavorted.
One of those wounded warriors, Brandon Lloyd, 44, of Florida, said the volunteers who pulled off this yearly tribute were incredible. Lloyd, a retired sergeant first class from the Army’s 101st Airborne Division, who was wounded twice — once in Iraq and once in Afghanistan — had nothing but praise of the group that held the event.
“This organization has helped me heal more than anything else,” Lloyd said. “The looks you see from the volunteers. You’re treated like royalty. The volunteers that pull this off are amazing.”
About 140 boats took the 340 veterans out in the morning while pelicans groomed themselves and seagulls glided in the skies above them. Warriors Weekend Executive Coordinator Kandace Monney said half of the veterans aboard the bus she rode in on were attending the event for the first time.
“I think they believe people have forgotten them. A lot of these guys went over there to fight and survived, but they are finding they can’t survive civilian life,” Monney said. “If we save one person this weekend, we did our job. It’s not a statistic.”
Warriors Weekend Director and retired Army Col. Mike Petrash told the Victoria Partnership Tuesday that veterans account for 22 suicides daily in this country. By bringing veterans together for this fishing experience, Petrash said it allows them to speak to each other about what troubles they might be experiencing in civilian life.
Monney said the size of the event and the number of veterans is what made it successful. While they had 425 boats on the 10th anniversary with 900 veterans, Monney said the post-COVID smaller scale made it more private.
“It made it more personable so the veterans can visit with each other,” she said. “By having it smaller, it’s more intimate. It makes it easier to provide individual attention.”
Monney said that 180 of the attendees flew in from all over the country. Other attendees drove in, including post traumatic stress disorder patients from Camp Valor and Camp Hope in Houston. Two of the attendees served together in the same unit, but had not seen each other until they were on the same bus, Monney said.
Former 1st Sgt. Richard Fuller, 48, of Atlanta, and former Staff Sgt. Travis Dufrene, 43, of Florida, served together in the 101st Airborne, the Screaming Eagles. It has been 21 years since they saw each other.
“It’s an act of God,” said Fuller.
Dufrene said Fuller’s mannerisms made him familiar.
“Just to be overseas with someone and meet them at an event like this is incredible,” Dufrene said.
A recent report on U.S. military deaths show suicide accounts for more than four times the number of deaths due to military operations. Thomas Suitt, who wrote the paper for Brown University’s Cost of War Project, said it highlights some of the reasons why people in the armed forces appear to take their lives at higher rates. Suitt suggested military conflicts since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks are in some ways very different from previous wars.
Suitt said the rate of suicides among active duty service members and post-9/11 veterans is outpacing the suicide rate of the civilian population, a trend he called a “significant shift.” Coming home from war, can be difficult and the various state and federal systems set up to deal with this transition and life after military service struggle to meet the need.
George Bigham, 76, served in the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant with the 101st Airborne. He is now 100% disabled because of the two gunshot wounds and shrapnel injuries he received during the Hamburger Hill battle in Vietnam in 1969 near the border with Laos. Bigham, who lost his colon and spleen in the battle, has taken part in Warriors Weekend events since 1991.
“I really enjoyed my time in the service,” Bigham said. “We had a mission. When we came back, we forgot what that togetherness was, forgot what that teamwork was. When we got back home, we wondered where did it go.”
Before the warriors dispersed into the field of flags to find the one with their names on it, they were praised by retired Army Col. Mike Petrash, the event organizer. "We're honored by your presence today," Petrash said.
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2022-05-22T00:51:21Z
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Warriors honored with Port O'Connor fishing trip | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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Sandra DeLaGarza
Jaclyn Brady
In Good Company: (copy)
Sandra DeLaGarza was named the 2022 Woman of the Year for both the independent Victoria leagues of the American Business Women’s Association; her primary Women Growing Together Express Network and secondary; Victoria Professional Express Network. In addition, she was named last year as the Top Ten Class of 2022. She has been in the financial industry for more than 38 years and serves as a vice president private banker at Frost.
Jaclyn Brady, graphic/web designer and communications specialist, has joined the team at Building Brands Marketing and serves as a campaign strategist. With more than 20 years of experience in the marketing industry, she brings insight into project management, strategic planning, creative vision and problem solving.
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2022-05-22T02:27:08Z
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In Good Company: (copy) | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/in-good-company-copy/article_568fd616-d52d-11ec-9282-634963bff822.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/in-good-company-copy/article_568fd616-d52d-11ec-9282-634963bff822.html
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Angel Cantu Delgado
CUERO — Angel Cantu “AC” Delgado, 87, died May 16, 2022 in Cuero, Texas. He was born September 24, 1934 in San Saba, Texas to the late Antonio and Cruz Cantu Delgado.
AC exemplified the epitome of a hard work ethic. AC grew up working the cotton fields in West Texas. He raised cattle, hogs and sheep, but his passion in life would be Delgado Painters, which he owned and operated and was the original founder of Andy’s Quick Stop in Cuero. AC will be remembered for his love of coffee, boxing, BBQ, Norteno music and sharing ice cream with his great grandchildren. AC was baptized July 1974 and was a member of the Cuero Kingdom Hall.
AC is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, his hunny, Pauline Morales Delgado whom he married in Lamesa, Texas, his sons: Angel, Jesse (GiGi), Gilbert and Juan Jose (Angie). His daughters; Elsa Delgado, Lucinda Fernandez and Mary Jane Ruiz (Michael), 20 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
AC is preceded in death by his parents, son; Steven Flores, grandchildren; Azalea, Jason and Joshua Delgado, siblings; Antonio, Susana, Jesus, Cosme, Ramon, Jose, Jesusa, Celestina, Consuelo, Gustavo, Guadalupe, Amalia, Emilia, Tomasa, Pedro and Refugio.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Nicholas Lemley, Dr. Valente Benavidez, Dr. Peter Nguyen and New Century Hospice.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 28, 2022 at 10am at The Cuero Clubhouse 210 Leonard Drive Cuero, TX 77954
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2022-05-22T07:53:03Z
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Angel Cantu Delgado | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/angel-cantu-delgado/article_98b1926c-0d04-546b-8c8d-95dae8bc70b7.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/angel-cantu-delgado/article_98b1926c-0d04-546b-8c8d-95dae8bc70b7.html
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Donald Joseph Gold
CORPUS CHRISTI — Donald Gold, a professional painter and resident of Corpus Christi, Texas passed away on May 16, 2022 at the age of 89 with his family by his side.
Don was born in Chicago, Illinois on August 22, 1932 to Morris Gold and Pearl Moore. He was the owner of Don and Jan’s Professional Painting in Victoria, Texas. On May 27, 1967 he married Jan, a nurses aide. On March 9, 1968, February 23, 1972 and March 6, 1974 respectively, he welcomed his three children, who were the most important part of his life.
Don is preceded in death by his wife and his parents.
Don is survived by his three children: Donald Gold, Jr. Tonya Shine (Anthony) and Joey Gold, Sr. (Cheryll). Grandchildren: Twyla, Tyanna, Alana, Joey, Jr., and Arianna; Great-Grandchildren: Luke, Trace, and Cheyenne.
Don never met a stranger; a short conversation with him made you feel as if you knew him for a lifetime. When Don wasn’t working, he enjoyed swimming and visiting the water park with his family every summer. He made sure to make time daily to visit with his friends at a local diner in Victoria. Don lived a long and fruitful life. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.
Services for Don are entrusted to Funeraria Del Angel-Everhart, 4901 Everhart Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CageMillsFuneralDirectors.com for the Gold family.
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2022-05-22T07:53:21Z
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Donald Joseph Gold | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/donald-joseph-gold/article_586f0f10-4bd0-58f7-a531-c68464ca12a7.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/donald-joseph-gold/article_586f0f10-4bd0-58f7-a531-c68464ca12a7.html
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Gloria Jane Schladoer Goff
VICTORIA — Gloria Jane Schladoer Goff, beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, community volunteer, and friend, was born in Comfort, Texas, on the Fourth of July in 1936 to Henry Schladoer and Minnie Pfeiffer. She passed away in Victoria, Texas on May 14, 2022, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Gloria is survived by her daughters, Holly Jene Goff Marcks (Jeff) and Laurel Rene Goff Loehlin (James); grandson, William Arren Broussard; brother-in-law, Kenneth Goff (Jan); sister-in-law, Betty Schladoer; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Elbert Wayne Goff, M.D.; her parents; her sister, Hedwig Lena Flach (Elvin); brothers, Paul Henry Schladoer (Florence), Eugene Chester Schladoer and Edgar Louis Schladoer (Carla). She was the youngest of five children, and bit of a surprise to her parents. She would continue to surprise and delight everyone she met for the rest of her life. She will be profoundly missed.
Gloria met her husband, Wayne, on a blind date while attending the University of Texas in Austin. They married, and moved to Galveston, Texas, where Wayne completed medical school at UTMB. They moved to Seattle, WA and Lexington, KY for medical residencies, and came back to Galveston with daughter Holly, and daughter Laurel soon to follow. She often joked that if she had had a third daughter, she would have had to name her Agarita; another bush. They moved to Austin in 1965, where they remained until Holly and Laurel went to college. They then moved to Victoria, where they remained for the duration.
Gloria always had a sparkle in her eye and smile on her lips. She rarely met a person who didn’t become a friend. She was the drum majorette in high school, as well as a member of the women’s basketball and volleyball teams. She was a terrific dancer and loved the Big Bands and crooners of the American Songbook. She loved the beauty of rocks and minerals, and was a life-long collector of specimens, a trait she inherited from her father. She had a great analytical and mathematical mind and would have made an excellent CPA or code-breaker, but went into Motherhood instead. She was a voracious reader and had a superb green-thumb, both passions she passed on to her daughters. She enthusiastically supported her daughters and grandson in everything they did. She volunteered and got involved with anything she believed in, especially libraries, and most especially, the Victoria Public Library.
The family would like to recognize the invaluable care provided to both Gloria and Wayne in their latter years by a devoted group of caregivers, including Lola Menchaca, Marcia Madrigal, Flora Rucker, Sandra Kay Jones, Misty Menchaca and Melissa Menchaca, as well as their husbands, children and grandchildren. We can never thank them enough for their thoughtfulness and dedication to Dr. G and GG.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 24th from 5 to 7pm at the Colonial Funeral Home, 1801 E. Red River in Victoria, Texas. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 25th at 2pm at the Immanuel Lutheran Church, 318 High Street in Comfort, Texas with burial to follow at the Comfort Cemetery. The memorial service will be live-streamed on Facebook and recorded.
Both the live service and the recording will be accessible at this address: https://fb.me/e/1KvcZgD0k
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice of South Texas or a charity of your choice. Flowers are lovely, but the deer at the Comfort Cemetery will eat them immediately.
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2022-05-22T07:53:34Z
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Gloria Jane Schladoer Goff | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/gloria-jane-schladoer-goff/article_732ae59f-9f45-5d35-8233-0d7ec8c7f4db.html
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TEMPLE — Hui Im “Kim” Rendon, age 83 passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. Visitation will be held Monday, May 23, 2022 from 5-7PM at Colonial Funeral Home, with rosary to be recited at 7PM. Funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at 9AM at Our Lady of Sorrows, with burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Kim is survived by her husband, Pedro Rendon, Sr.; son and daughter-in-law, Pedro Rendon, Jr. (Virginia); and her son, Daniel Rendon.
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2022-05-22T07:53:40Z
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Hui Im "Kim" Rendon | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/hui-im-kim-rendon/article_b784ee5b-4ea6-56b4-bf2c-1584d3eaa4c2.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/hui-im-kim-rendon/article_b784ee5b-4ea6-56b4-bf2c-1584d3eaa4c2.html
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Mario Joel Almaraz
YORKTOWN — Mario Joel Almaraz, 72, of Yorktown, passed away May 4, 2022. He was born Nov. 19, 1949 in San Antonio, Texas to Esther Garza Almaraz and the late Eloy I. Almaraz Sr. Mario was a 1967 graduate of Mary Carroll High School in Corpus Christi and served from 1967-1973 in the U S Army Reserve.
He retired from AT&T (Corpus Christi) after 30 yrs of service and moved to Yorktown, Texas where he enjoyed many happy years with his wife, family and friends. Mario was a lifelong avid motorcycle rider. He was a member of Gypsy Motorcycle Club for 52 years and a member of the Goldwing Road Riders Club.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years Carole Almaraz, mother Esther Almaraz, children Diana Groenke, Adam Martinez, David Davila, Timothy Davila, Andrew Davila and Robert Davila. He is also survived by two grandchildren Wesley and Kelsea Groenke and expected 3rd grandchild in December; his siblings and their spouses, Eloy I.Almaraz Jr. (Cathy), Alma Connor (Tim) and Lucy A. Leonard (Kevin) and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father Eloy (2003).
A memorial service will be 10:00 am Thursday, May 26, 2022 at Massey Funeral Home.
You are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.masseyfh.com
Memorials can be given to the charity of donor’s choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas 361-564-2900
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2022-05-22T07:53:43Z
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Mario Joel Almaraz | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/mario-joel-almaraz/article_4e8f85dc-3077-59a2-93b4-c29a9c4ac3e0.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/mario-joel-almaraz/article_4e8f85dc-3077-59a2-93b4-c29a9c4ac3e0.html
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Peter W. Hemphill
VICTORIA-Peter W. Hemphill, an expert in computer and radio/TV technology, was born in San Diego, CA on November 21, 1951 and passed away peacefully in Victoria, TX on Sunday May 8, 2022.
Peter grew up with six other siblings as well as being a member of a three man crew of triplets. He came out followed by his brothers, John and James. (He once told his mother he should be able to stay up later than the others because he was the oldest, by four minutes.) He continued to have this kind of humor throughout his life.
In 1970 Peter graduated from Friendswood High School in Friendswood, TX. A talented musician on trombone, he was a member of the Air Force Band in San Antonio until he was honorably discharged, after which he studied music at the University of Miami, Florida. He then decided to change his focus to Radio/TV technology and majored in this at Wichita State University in Wichita, KS. He worked for many years at KAKE-TV in Wichita and later for TV and radio stations in Lake Charles, LA,(KPLC-TV); Corpus Christi, TX and Victoria, TX where he moved to help take care of his parents. In Victoria he first worked with DJ John Ellis and later joined LA LEY Radio owned by Jerry Benevides and Alice Benevides, who both always gave Peter the greatest support. There he enjoyed working with Domiciano Aldape, Daniel Torres and the rest of the staff. He had great affection for them all.
Peter is survived by his sister Christine Lidvall (Willam Wandell); brother John Hemphill (Pat) nephew J.C.; brother James Hemphill (Sandi) nephews James Jr. and Phillip Andrew; and brother Frank Hemphill, Jr. who was the closest to him and lived with him for many years. Peter helped Frank immensely throughout his life. Also surviving him are his nieces Ariel Lumbard and Corinna Lumbard and his nephew Neil Lumbard.
Preceding him in death were his sister Maria Hemphill, his brother William (Bill) Hemphill, his parents Margaret L. Hemphill and Francis A. Hemphill, Sr.; and his sister Francine Lumbard.
The family wishes to thank Peter’s friends and colleagues for all the friendship and support you gave Peter throughout the years. We are also very grateful to Dr. Bakaj and all the healthcare professionals who were so kind and caring to Peter throughout his prolonged illness.
Peter’s remains will be interred in the cremation wall at the Houston National Cemetery on Friday, May 27, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. Those attending should be in lane 1 of the funeral lines by 1:15 to be escorted to the location.
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2022-05-22T07:53:49Z
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Peter W. Hemphill | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/peter-w-hemphill/article_352135f0-d825-5154-83cf-11d8ab423ae6.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/peter-w-hemphill/article_352135f0-d825-5154-83cf-11d8ab423ae6.html
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East High School valedictorian
Isaac Lu, 18, is a first-generation American from a Taiwanese family. He has earned the 2022 valedictorian title of success at East High School.
He will attend the University of Texas Red McCombs School of Business in the fall where he will study finance. After that, his goal is to take on New York City’s financial district.
Lu, whose four-year grade point average is 109.71, plans to land an internship in New York City with an “investment bank, maybe Goldman Sachs, or somewhere on Wall Street,” he says.
Lu is a member of the National Honor Society and the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society.
His favorite class was math, but his favorite teacher was Tamarah Medlin, the AP World History teacher.
He played for the East High School varsity basketball team.
In his free time, he trades stocks.
His parents are Andy and Stephanie Lu. The Lu’s emigrated to the United States when Isaac’s father earned a full-ride scholarship to attend the University of Mississippi.
Isaac Lu has a straight-forward principle he lives by: “I have a purpose and I will fulfill it.”
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2022-05-22T19:07:07Z
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East High School valedictorian | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/east-high-school-valedictorian/article_a3217a14-d9fd-11ec-a535-fb6afa424d21.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/east-high-school-valedictorian/article_a3217a14-d9fd-11ec-a535-fb6afa424d21.html
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The Victoria County Commissioners Court will hear from County Veterans Services Officer Lee Bowman on what the county is doing to assist veterans in the area at Monday morning's meeting.
Bowman, who served three tours as a U.S. Navy corpsman in Iraq, will present the court with an overview of what is being done locally for veterans, giving commissioners an idea of what services are being provided to vets as this past weekend's Warrior's Weekend event closes.
"The veterans service office helps connect local veterans with the services they've earned," said Victoria County Judge Ben Zeller on Sunday. "We're able to see a lot of vets on a monthly basis. I know COVID impacted things for a while, but it's returned back to normal. For a small office, quite a few veterans are seen."
A week from Monday, on May 30, Memorial Day will be celebrated. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving the U.S. armed forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May.
On this day many visit cemeteries and memorials to honor those who died in service. Traditionally, volunteers place an American flag on the graves of military personnel in national cemeteries. Memorial Day is also considered the unofficial beginning of summer in the U.S.
Zeller said that not all counties in Texas have veterans services offices. He said Victoria's office, located at 2805 N. Navarro St., has served as a model to other counties in the state.
A collaboration between that office and the University of Houston-Victoria has students perform work in the office. The Veterans Services Office also works with the Disabled American Veterans organization.
"It's been a collaborative effort from the start," Zeller said.
The office helps Victoria County residents, who have served in the armed forces, and their dependents. It provides services and information regarding veterans' federal, state and local benefits. It also helps vets file for compensation, pensions and assists with VA compensation claims, VA pension claims, request of military records and registration for VA health care.
On May 30, the Warrior's Weekend Field of Honor will host a flag retirement and hold a roll call honoring local KIAs (killed in action) at 7 p.m. at Parkway Church, 4802 John Stockbauer Drive.
The city of Victoria will hold the annual Memorial Day Weekend Bash on May 28 and May 29 in downtown Victoria at DeLeon Plaza. The two-day festival will feature 15 Tejano music acts, a car show, food trucks and more.
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2022-05-22T20:47:02Z
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Commissioners to hear about services provided locally to veterans | Government | victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:17-19 quote by Aldous Huxley
Behold, the LORD will carry thee away with a mighty captivity, and will surely cover thee.
He will surely violently turn and toss thee like a ball into a large country: there shalt thou die, and there the chariots of thy glory shall be the shame of thy lord’s house.
And I will drive thee from thy station, and from thy state shall he pull thee down.
The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of the child into old age, which means never losing your enthusiasm.
Aldous Leonard Huxley (1894-1963) was an English writer and philosopher. He wrote nearly 50 books—both novels and non-fiction works—as well as wide-ranging essays, narratives, and poems. Born into the prominent Huxley family, he graduated from Balliol College, Oxford, with an undergraduate degree in English literature.
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2022-05-22T20:47:14Z
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:17-19 quote by Aldous Huxley | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-17-19-quote-by-aldous-huxley/article_382aaf64-d6c9-11ec-a46d-439d57a9bdf3.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-17-19-quote-by-aldous-huxley/article_382aaf64-d6c9-11ec-a46d-439d57a9bdf3.html
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Syndicated Column: The Economist: Shot in the arm
The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (“ARPA-H”) was recently established as a new federal agency with the mission of transforming health research and innovation.
The concept is similar to that of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which has fostered countless breakthrough discoveries (and is about the coolest place on earth). ARPA-H is charged with finding solutions to society’s most challenging health crises, including cancer, Alzheimer’s, and AIDS. Moreover, treatments are to be broadly accessible to improve outcomes across the globe while simultaneously containing medical costs.
Texas would be an excellent location for ARPA-H, and I am pleased to be part of a coalition seeking to make that happen. In addition to the CPRIT commitment and success, the state has a long list of advantages — world-class health care institutions, research organizations, universities, national laboratories, and medical schools. The world’s largest medical center and the nation’s largest military medical complex are also in Texas. A large, growing, and diverse population and tens of thousands of graduates in key fields every year provide the requisite sustainable workforce. A culture of innovation and a regulatory environment conducive to getting things done are Texas hallmarks. I could go on … and on … and on.
A bold move of this magnitude requires a setting where ARPA-H can thrive and successfully fulfill its mission, with the necessary support to enhance its effectiveness. The ultimate location will vault ahead in biomedical technology and related fields. The world desperately needs this initiative, and Texas can make it happen. Stay safe.
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2022-05-22T20:47:26Z
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Syndicated Column: The Economist: Shot in the arm | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/syndicated-column-the-economist-shot-in-the-arm/article_ee4a1d48-d845-11ec-ac60-aba17586829a.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/syndicated-column-the-economist-shot-in-the-arm/article_ee4a1d48-d845-11ec-ac60-aba17586829a.html
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Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..
Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
By Ashley Scott
It’s officially senior season and we are so excited to be celebrating our graduating seniors for the rest of May.
After a wild couple of years, students and staff were able to return to some form of normalcy for the 2021-2022 school year. Looking back, it’s amazing how resilient our students and staff are.
In addition to congratulating and celebrating our seniors, I think that we should also say thank you to the campus principals, teachers, and staff who put in the time and work to help get all of our students to the next phase of their educational journey.
Now, on to the celebrations.
On Monday, VISD digital billboards will showcase seniors who have found their ‘and.’ These seniors, representing Victoria East and West high schools are students who will walk across the stage at graduation, they will have a high school diploma and… will leave us prepared for a successful launch into a career, military, college, and life to be a contributing member of society.
VISD is proud to say more of our seniors are Finding Their ‘And’.
The Class of 2022 has completed and submitted over 1,105 college applications.
So far seniors have earned over $750,000 in scholarships, and seniors continue to receive scholarships daily.
VISD has seniors who are military-bound following graduation.
Seniors are continuing to excel in athletics, committing to play collegiate sports at universities across the world, like Northumbria University, East Texas Baptist University, Texas A&M-Kingsville, LeTourneau University, Holy Patriot University, University of Houston-Victoria, McLennan Community College, Texas State University and Concordia University-St. Paul.
Seniors are majoring in music at Victoria College, Stephen F. Austin University, University of Texas, and Texas State University.
Seniors have earned 1,623 dual-credit hours. This is an increase of nearly 10% from the 2020-2021 school year. High school students can enroll in college courses and receive credit for high school and college.
One-hundred-fifty-seven seniors from Victoria East and West high schools have taken advantage of the ability to take dual-credit hours.
Two seniors from Victoria East and West high schools have taken advantage of the ability to take dual-credit hours and will be graduating high school a week after they graduated from Victoria College with an associate’s degree. Can you believe we have high school graduates that will go straight into their junior year of college?
Over 680 industry-based certifications from Career & Technical Education (CTE) were earned during the 2021-2022 school year, and this number isn’t even final because students will continue to test until the end of the school year and into the summer.
CTE enables VISD students to earn industry-recognized certifications that allow for a seamless transition into the workforce. To learn more about the IBCs available, visit www.visd.net/certifications.
Lastly, we have seniors who are first-generation high school graduates and seniors who will be first-generation college students. This is a truly epic accomplishment. No matter the path, because every student will have a different ‘And’.
VISD is committed to making sure every student is able to pursue their genius, whatever that may be. Class of 2022, we are #VISDProud of you and your accomplishments thus far.
Ashley Scott is the executive director of communications & public relations for Victoria ISD.
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2022-05-22T22:27:02Z
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School Matters: Celebrating our seniors | Education | victoriaadvocate.com
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Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph..
Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
Stephanie Lavender, left, and Tuleea Young, both respiratory therapists from Memphis, check the settings on a ventilator for a COVID-19 patient in the ICU of Memorial Medical Center on Aug. 20, 2021, in Port Lavaca. Respiratory therapists are among highest earners among community college graduates in Victoria.
Emree Weaver/ Special to the Advocate
Preschool teachers make the seventh highest-paying jobs for community college graduates in Victoria.
CHRISTOF STACHE / Getty Images
Paralegals earn the fifth-highest salary for community college graduates.
Instructor Chris Kallus conducts a review with students in the first year respiratory class at Victoria College. The class occurred March 30 before VC closed its campus. In Victoria, respiratory therapists earn the third-highest salaries among community college graduates.
Emree Weaver | eweaver@vicad.com
Dental hygienists earn most among community college graduates in Victoria.
Stacker News | Stacker.com
Although it all depends on what you make of it, choosing to further your education may lead to higher-paying job opportunities.
An associate’s degree takes just two years and offers more affordable tuition rates than a four-year school.
As of April, the average yearly salary for an individual with an associate’s degree comes out to $45,989.
Students have a plethora of specialties to choose from when obtaining a two-year degree, from industry-specific roles in health care or IT or a more generalized education path.
Salaries differ between areas of study, job type, experience and, of course, location.
A Georgetown University study that looked at job growth and education requirements through 2020 stated that 30% of job openings required “at least some college or an associate’s degree.” Students can choose to head right into the workforce after earning an associate’s, or continue their education toward earning a bachelor’s degree.
The unemployment rate for associate’s degree holders is only 2%, according to research from the Education Data Initiative. Having an associate’s degree under your belt is proven to increase one’s chance of holding a professional or management position in any number of industries, among them education and health, wholesale retail and trade and professional and business services.
Stacker compiled a list of the highest and lowest paying jobs that require a 2-year degree in Victoria using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by 2021 annual mean wage.
7. Preschool teachers, except special education
Victoria — Annual mean salary: $27,170; 470th highest pay among all metros; Employment: 90
National — Annual mean salary: $36,550; Employment: 370,940
Metros with highest average pay: Sacramento, California, area ($49,990); Ocean City, New Jersey ($49,720); Vineland, New Jersey, area ($49,560)
6. Civil engineering technologists and technicians
Victoria — Annual mean salary: $42,620; 292nd highest pay among all metros; Employment: 30
National — Annual mean salary: $56,590; Employment: 67,270
Metros with highest average pay: San Francisco-Oakland, California ($92,190); Vallejo-Fairfield, California ($83,250); Baton Rouge, Louisiana ($81,340)
5. Paralegals and legal assistants
Metros with highest average pay: San Jose-Santa Clara, California, area ($90,640); Seattle-Tacoma, Washington, area ($76,960); San Francisco-Oakland, California, area ($75,640)
Metros with highest average pay: Vallejo-Fairfield, California ($127,890); San Jose-Santa Clara, California, area ($118,480); San Francisco-Oakland, California, area ($118,100)
Metros with highest average pay: San Jose-Santa Clara, California, area ($113,450); San Francisco-Oakland, California, area ($109,330); Santa Rosa, California ($101,690)
2. Physical therapist assistants
Victoria — Annual mean salary: $64,390; 76th highest pay among all metros; Employment: 80
Metros with highest average pay: San Jose-Santa Clara, California, area ($85,960); San Francisco-Oakland, California, area ($78,740); Santa Barbara, California, area ($76,390)
Metros with highest average pay: Santa Barbara, California, area ($125,750); San Jose-Santa Clara, California, area ($122,660); San Francisco-Oakland, California, area ($119,320)
Stacker compiled a list of the lowest-paying jobs in Victoria using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by average annual salary.
Wholesale Retail
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2022-05-23T00:02:41Z
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Here's the highest-paying jobs in Victoria that require a 2-year degree | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/heres-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-victoria-that-require-a-2-year-degree/article_69e3c466-d861-11ec-aa37-ff60b7d22225.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/heres-the-highest-paying-jobs-in-victoria-that-require-a-2-year-degree/article_69e3c466-d861-11ec-aa37-ff60b7d22225.html
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Cloudy this evening with thunderstorms developing after midnight. Low around 70F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Voting concludes on Tuesday in the primary runoff election for the Precinct 2 seat on the Court of County Commissioners, as well as a handful of statewide races.
Incumbent Precinct 2 County Commissioner Kevin Janak faces Jason Ohrt in the GOP runoff. The winner of the primary will take the seat, as there is no Democratic challenger for the November election. Polling places are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Locations in Victoria County to vote on Tuesday.
In the results from March 1, Ohrt took 47.9% of the votes in the primary election, while Janak took 43.6%. Because neither garnered at least 50% of the vote, the May 24 runoff should resolve the divide.
Janak, 62, first elected in 2007, told the Advocate spending taxpayer dollars wisely is one of the most important responsibilities he has as commissioner. If elected, this would be his term as a commissioner.
“Yes I do believe with Kevin Janak, voters will get Kevin Janak,” he said. “I represent all of Victoria County and the county residents, and I mean all residents.”
Republican ballot.
Ohrt, 50, is executive director of the Vitality Court assisted-living facility. He told the Advocate he knows what it takes to attract high-paying jobs to the area, deliver results and preserve the quality of life in Victoria.
Democratic ballot.
“We need to have more accountability,” Ohrt said. “We need to know that the commissioners have the best interests of the citizens at heart.”
Also on the ballot are races for lieutenant governor, attorney general, comptroller of public accounts, commissioner of general land office, railroad commissioner and seats on the state board of education.
The League of Women Voters noted in its election guide, "Since many districts in Texas heavily favor one party over the other, the primaries often determine the winner of the General Election."
The group also noted that while valid identification is required, election officials cannot question a voter about the use of an ID type if it is on the list of approved identification; poll watchers may never question a voter about voter ID issues; and if you are harassed at the polls, call the Election Protection Voter Hotline, 866-687-8683.
Since many districts in Texas heavily favor one party over the other, the primaries often determine the winner of the General Election
Incumbent Precinct 2 County
Attorney General , Comptroller Of Public Accounts
Court Of County Commissioners
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2022-05-23T17:34:59Z
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Polls open Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for county commissioner, statewide primaries | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/polls-open-tuesday-from-7-a-m-to-7-p-m-for-county-commissioner-statewide/article_6c6ceba2-daa2-11ec-bf00-9be5db7d31c2.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/polls-open-tuesday-from-7-a-m-to-7-p-m-for-county-commissioner-statewide/article_6c6ceba2-daa2-11ec-bf00-9be5db7d31c2.html
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The Victoria County Commissioners Court
Lee Bowman is Victoria County's veterans service officer.
Lee Bowman's personal experiences trying to get his combat wounds treated formed his focus of helping others receive support from the Victoria County's Veterans Service Office.
Bowman was wounded three times serving as a Navy corpsman in Iraq with a Marine Corps unit. Dealing with state and federal agencies for medical assistance after he left the service first led him to work for the Texas Veterans Commission. He now is the Victoria County veterans service officer, still committed to helping other vets find relief.
"When they walk in, it's important. Some come in thinking it's a handout," Bowman told the Victoria County Commissioners Court on Monday. "I explain to them that it is not. They deserve it."
Precinct 1 Commissioner Danny Garcia said he had been informed that Victoria was the lead county in Texas for veterans services, giving Bowman credit for that ranking. The Veterans Services Office is at 2805 N. Navarro St.
Bowman places thousands of calls to veterans, to doctors and to agencies to seek aid for veterans in Victoria and surrounding counties.
"It's just a busy, busy office," Bowman told the commissioners court. "That is what your county office does. It serves those veterans."
The office helps Victoria County residents who have served in the armed forces and their dependents by providing services and information regarding veterans' federal, state and local benefits. The office also help vets file for compensation, pensions and assist with VA compensation claims, VA pension claims, requests for military records and registration for VA health care.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is the federal department providing lifelong health care services to eligible veterans at 170 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics across the country. Non-health-care benefits include disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, education assistance, home loans and life insurance. The VA also provides burial and memorial benefits to eligible veterans and family members at 135 national cemeteries.
"The way I was treated when I got back, when I tried to get answers, made it frustrating," Bowman said. "I want to get straight information for veterans. I make sure they go to the right area and get the right information."
Because the needs of the various veterans are so different, he said, it's not as simple as having a general list to follow of places to call or visit.
"I give them a detailed list that they can put on their refrigerator and follow," Bowman said. "Everyone is different."
He continued, "My goal is to get as many veterans as I can into the VA system, so they can all be there. That's what they deserve."
Part of the problem, Bowman said, was the difficulty navigating the various levels of bureaucracy.
"The more information they have, the more relief they have," Bowman said.
Incumbent Precinct 2 County Commissioner Kevin Janak faces Jason Ohrt in the GOP runoff. The winner of the primary will take the seat, as there is no Democratic challenger for the November election.
Lee Bowman
Veterans Service Officer
Victoria County's Veterans Service Office
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2022-05-23T20:03:16Z
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Personal experience gaining benefits led county's veterans service officer to help others | For Subscribers Only | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/premium/personal-experience-gaining-benefits-led-countys-veterans-service-officer-to-help-others/article_92fced12-dab6-11ec-944f-9f77cec4a357.html
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The 18-year-old Bloomington High School salutatorian was impressed the care provided to her grandmother while she was suffering with cancer. She decided in the 7th grade that she wanted to be a nurse.
"I guess I've always wanted to help others," Gomez said.
Toward that end, Gomez has taken college classes since her sophomore year. She plans to attend Victoria College with the aim of earning her nursing degree. She will graduate with a 3.82 GPA. Graduation is at 7 p.m. Friday at the Bloomington High School football stadium.
"I'm very proud of the work she has accomplished," her mother Esther Gomez said. "I think she is going to be successful in whatever she does. If she sets her mind on something she does it. She's hard on herself."
Gomez said she loved fishing with her father Trinidad. Once aboard her father's boat she was competing against him as to which would reach their limit first. Although she was sick, she met her quota before he did.
"She was determined to get her fish first," her mother said. "Then she started throwing up, but she was going to get those fish first. She waited until she got her fish. She's determined."
Gomez joked that the boaters nearby were appreciative.
"The other people fishing were happy I was feeding the fishes," she said.
In addition to her studies, Gomez served on the school's volleyball, softball and track teams as well as cheerleading.
"The most surprising thing was juggling all those activities," Gomez said. "The best part of high school was making memories with my friends and classmates."
Parents' names: Esther Gomez
College plans:
Bloomington High School graduation
WHAT: Bloomington High School 2022 graduation
WHERE: Bobcat Field, 400 E. 3rd St., Bloomington
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2022-05-24T00:21:16Z
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Bloomington salutatorian to pursue nursing career | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/bloomington-salutatorian-to-pursue-nursing-career/article_c1e0c7ae-dadc-11ec-b4bf-bb9d48ab056e.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/bloomington-salutatorian-to-pursue-nursing-career/article_c1e0c7ae-dadc-11ec-b4bf-bb9d48ab056e.html
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Dan and Lula Glazner
VICTORIA — Dan Reeves Glazner, 94, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Friday, May 20th, 2022. He joined his wife, Lula Mae Glazner, 91, who passed from this earth, Friday, August, 30th, 2019. Friends and family will gather for a celebration of their lives, Tuesday, May 24th at 2:00 PM at Grace Memorial Chapel @ Memory Gardens, 8819 US-87 North in Victoria. They will be laid to rest together at Memory Gardens Cemetery.
Dan was born July 6th, 1927, in El Campo to the late Louis Carter and Anna Rebecca Waugh Glazner. He met his love in high school, Lula Mae Hutton. Lula was born, May 17th, 1928 in San Antonio to the late Roy L. and Loma Lee Hutton. Dan joined the US Navy after high school, serving his country honorably during WWII. Dan and Lula were married in 1946, when Dan returned from service. Together they attended and graduated from Southwest Texas State University. They both achieved their Bachelor’s degree in education. Moving to Victoria, Lula began her teaching career, serving VISD for many years at O’Connor, Shields, and Vickers Elementary, Howell Middle School and Victoria Christian. Dan worked for over 15 years for Dupont as a Lab Analyst while he continued his education. He achieved his Masters Degree from Prairie View A&M in Education. In 1968, he then began teaching alongside Lula. Serving as a teacher and later a principal at the VISD Vocational School. Dan and Lula were longtime faithful members of Northside Baptist Church, participating in many ways to further serve their community and the Lord. When out of the class room, Dan enjoyed being outdoors and gardening. Their devotion to the children of the Victoria area will have long reaching affects on the progress of lives and success. They both will be deeply missed.
Lula was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Loma Hutton. Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Anna Glazner; his loving wife of over 72 years, Lula Mae Glazner; and his siblings, Doris Summers, Cora Anderson, Bob Glazner, Max Glazner, and Ross Glazner.
Dan and Lula are survived by their daughters, Cathy Waley and her husband, Ed and Donna Nondorf and her husband Mike; grandchildren, Wendi Olinger and her husband, Glen, Clay Waley and his wife, Bree, Sarah Evans and her husband, Jeffry, and Katy Redden and her husband, John; great-grandchildren, Ian Olinger, Ava Olinger, Lily Evans, Merit Waley, Wilder Waley and Lively Waley; along with numerous other loving family.
Memorial donations in Dan and Lula’s memory are requested to Northside Baptist Church.
Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.gracefuneralhome.net
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2022-05-24T07:51:59Z
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Dan and Lula Glazner | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/dan-and-lula-glazner/article_387a6ead-40b0-575b-b37b-d22c91ad8253.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/dan-and-lula-glazner/article_387a6ead-40b0-575b-b37b-d22c91ad8253.html
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Ernestina Thomas
VICTORIA — Ernestina Thomas, 69, of Victoria passed into rest on Tuesday, May 17, 2022. She was born January 31, 1953 in Alice, TX to the late Dempsey Earl and Olga Thomas. Ernestina was a resident of Victoria and she was a member of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.
Ernestina is survived by her son Michael O’Neil Todd, her daughter Monica Todd Harris and husband Derek, and her grandchildren Gabrielle V. Marques and Michael O’Neil Todd, Jr.
She is preceded in death by her parents, and her brother Joseph Earl Thomas.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Wednesday, May 25, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Grace Memorial Chapel, 8819 US Hwy 87 North followed by a memorial service beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Vernon J. Garza, officiating. To leave a comforting message, or to share a fond memory, please visit www.gracefuneralhome.net.
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2022-05-24T07:52:17Z
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Ernestina Thomas | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/ernestina-thomas/article_a6d3d0d4-08fb-5e38-893a-4e3ee4160f30.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/ernestina-thomas/article_a6d3d0d4-08fb-5e38-893a-4e3ee4160f30.html
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VICTORIA — Sharon Ann Dischinger Traylor, 77, lifelong resident of Victoria, TX, passed away May 18, 2022. She was born August 22, 1944 in Victoria to Ervin and Ruby Dischinger. Sharon attended Nazareth Academy and Sam Houston State University. She worked for Dr. Heinrich, D.D.S., for many years serving as his office manager. After the death of her husband Jimmy, she devoted her time at Hearthstone Assisted Living as the receptionist. She loved the community there and planning special things for the residents.
Sharon loved her family. Having no children of her own, she was especially devoted to her nieces and nephews never missing a birthday or holiday card, always finding time to stay connected with them. Talented crafter, Sharon enjoyed needlework of all types. Up until the very end, she was crocheting prayer shawls for the women at various nursing homes. A self proclaimed dumpster diver, she loved the hunt for a great bargain and loved the thrill of finding an amazing treasure.
She is survived by her brothers, Ronald “Ronnie” Dischinger (Mary) and James “Eddie” Dischinger; nephews, Steven Dischinger (Tandy), Mark Dischinger (Abbie), and Lee Dischinger; nieces, Monica Dischinger Rivers (John), Julie Dischinger Regan, and Amy Kucera (Jeremy); great-nephews, Jared Rivers, Seth Dischinger, Dylan Kucera and Jacob Kucera; great-nieces, Cameron Rivers, Alison Regan, and Jessica Dischinger.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jimmy” Traylor; her parents; and beloved pets, Levi and Robert..
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 26, 2022 from 9-10 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. A rosary will follow at 10 a.m. and then the mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Steven Dischinger, Mark Dischinger, Lee Dischinger, Mike Miori, Kurt Miori, and Rodney Horelka.
Honorary Pallbearers are Ronald and Eddie Dischinger.
BeBe, your sweet smile and kind heart will be greatly missed, but we are comforted in knowing that you are at home and at peace. We love you.
Memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.
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2022-05-24T07:52:35Z
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Sharon Ann Traylor | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/sharon-ann-traylor/article_b52b1d13-4180-5440-b47e-d1f6407f8cf1.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/sharon-ann-traylor/article_b52b1d13-4180-5440-b47e-d1f6407f8cf1.html
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Veronica Delgado
Dietitian Dish: Increase taking vitamins and nutrients to help mental health
By Maria Delgado
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Our brains work 24/7 and it requires enough supply of fuel from foods that we consume. It is important to consider that what we eat, directly affects the structure and how our brain functions.
Our brains need high quality foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help against oxidative stress. Consuming too much refined and highly processed foods can eventually lead to inflammation and impaired brain function. Consumption of refined carbohydrates can increase the risk of having long term depression and anxiety. Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals that come from poor diet, van lead to cognitive and behavioral dysfunction.
The following are some essential vitamins and minerals that can support mental health.
Thiamin or vitamin B1 is essential for biosynthesis of neurotransmitters.
Vitamin B12 or riboflavin can decreased migraine frequency by 50% when there is enough consumption.
Vitamin B3 or Niacin is essential for the production of dopamine which is a hormone that supports the brain’s reward system.
Vitamin B12, deficiencies can lead to agitation, low concentration, and insomnia.
Folate or folic acid deficiency is associated with the risk of developing depression, dementia, and cognitive decline.
Iron deficiency can lead to poor brain myelination and eventually apathy, fatigue, and depression.
Zinc plays a major role on dopamine production, which adequate intakes can support the reduction of depressive symptoms.
Some research has suggested that plant-based foods that are rich in phytochemicals make biochemical and nutritional contributions to brain function and mental health. Some phytochemical are flavanols found in onions, kale, and berries. Anthocyanins give red and purple pigments to apples, grapes, and purple cabbage.
Flavones is another example and it is mostly found in citrus foods.
It is time to increase the intake of all these vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients to improve our mental and physical health that could help us have a better quality of life.
Dietitian Diah
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2022-05-24T20:06:40Z
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Dietitian Dish: Increase taking vitamins and nutrients to help mental health | Good Living | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/features/good_living/dietitian-dish-increase-taking-vitamins-and-nutrients-to-help-mental-health/article_e4295738-db0c-11ec-b432-734b1a9ac0c2.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/features/good_living/dietitian-dish-increase-taking-vitamins-and-nutrients-to-help-mental-health/article_e4295738-db0c-11ec-b432-734b1a9ac0c2.html
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Partly cloudy skies early. Thunderstorms developing late. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 66F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%..
Partly cloudy skies early. Thunderstorms developing late. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 66F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%.
Patrick Kostella tees off on the 17th hole at the Victoria Country Club during the 2019 City Championship.
Charlie Blalock | cblalock@vicad.com
City Championship moved to Labor Day weekend
The 2022 Victoria City Championship golf tournament is getting a shake up.
The tournament played at The Club at Colony Creek, Victoria Country Club and Riverside Golf Course has previously been played during the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
From now on, the tournament will be played on Labor Day weekend, according to Riverside Golf Course Professional Rolando Hernandez.
“Spring is called the golf season even though you can play golf year-round in South Texas,” he said. “The idea is the three golf courses are busy enough that it’s tough to host the event the way we want to, for it to have all the things we want it to.”
The tournament, which began in 2010, features more than 100 men, women and junior amateur golfers from Victoria.
“For the last several years, we’ve had pretty decent turnout,” Hernandez said. “Not what they were five years ago. But with more people playing golf, we’re hoping to get back to the size of fields we were seeing several years back.”
The tournament is broken up into different flights with the men’s division flighted based on each golfer’s handicap. There were seven flights for the men during the 2021 championship.
The lowest gross score will win a trophy and there are medals for flight winners. Jake Truss won the tournament last year.
The tournament is open to any one who lives in the city of Victoria, or is a member at any of the three clubs. Entry is $125 per adult and $65 for juniors, and can be paid at any of the three courses.
Not only do golfers compete on the course, they’ve also been treated to a sit-down dinner and a guest speaker in the past.
“We just feel like we’ll have a better chance to be more prepared and deliver a better event,” Hernandez said. “That’s the biggest decision, making sure we can put in enough time to make sure it’s a good event, something guys are gonna look forward to and want to play in.”
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2022-05-24T21:58:51Z
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City Championship moved to Labor Day weekend | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/city-championship-moved-to-labor-day-weekend/article_acf5d694-db9b-11ec-a596-5f661b66c6ce.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/city-championship-moved-to-labor-day-weekend/article_acf5d694-db9b-11ec-a596-5f661b66c6ce.html
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Bible verse - Romans Rom.15:17-19; quote by Michelangelo
I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.
For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,
Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.
The greatest artist has no conception which a single block of white marble does not potentially contain within its mass, but only a hand obedient to the mind can penetrate to this image.
Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni (1475-1564), known simply as Michelangelo, was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect and poet of the High Renaissance.
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2022-05-24T21:59:15Z
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Bible verse - Romans Rom.15:17-19; quote by Michelangelo | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---romans-rom-15-17-19-quote-by-michelangelo/article_86332530-d6d6-11ec-92a0-136d9ea39910.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---romans-rom-15-17-19-quote-by-michelangelo/article_86332530-d6d6-11ec-92a0-136d9ea39910.html
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Letter: Founding fathers knew need for republic
What is the difference between a democracy and a republic? It is a difference important enough to our founders to write in Article IV Section 4 to “guarantee to each state in this Union a Republican Form of Government.” It is also in our Pledge of Allegiance to the Republic for which it stands. Republics are based upon the rule of law. What law? The Declaration of Independence references the “Laws of Nature and Natures God.” There is a moral standard necessary for a republic. Alexis de Tocqueville, “...while the law permits the Americans to do what they please, religion prevents them from conceiving, and forbids them to commit what is rash or unjust.”
He also noted that religion in “indispensable to the maintenance of republican institutions.” There are numerous references to this by our founders, one is by Benjamin Rush, “...the only foundation for a useful education in a Republic is to be laid in the foundation of religion.” A republic is government under rule of law.
Democracy is rule of the people, or majority. The people make rules as you go, in other words a fluid society, with little direction and virtually no foundation. James Madison noted that democracies were as violent in their end as they are short in duration. Plato wrote in “The Republic” there are stages of government from aristocracy to those wanting to be honored to oligarchy (clique that love money and vote themselves and friends favors) to democracy that digresses to unrestrained self behavior abandoning self-control back to an aristocracy giving authority back to a strong leader who appears to have all the answers. Many times the last leader(s) are tyrannical.
Considering where we are, Aristotle wrote, “Tolerance is the last virtue of a dying society.” We have lost our moorings. I heard of a survey question, “Do you need the Bible for morality?” A resounding no, with a significant number of professing Christians agreeing. My question, What is your definition morality? The prophet Jeremiah is correct in stating God wants to put His law in our hearts. Why? Because, our hearts are sick and in need of healing, individually and nationally.
Anthony Corte, Victoria
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2022-05-24T21:59:28Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Letter: Founding fathers knew need for republic | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/letter-founding-fathers-knew-need-for-republic/article_ee7f425e-daaf-11ec-aa4b-9bc4af7ee7b1.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/letter-founding-fathers-knew-need-for-republic/article_ee7f425e-daaf-11ec-aa4b-9bc4af7ee7b1.html
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Siggno
La Fiebre performs at 9:15 p.m. Saturday at the Memorial Day Bash in DeLeon Plaza.
Jay Perez performs at 7:45 p.m. Sunday at the Memorial Day Bash.
La Mafia will end Saturday evening's Memorial Day Bash from 10:45 until midnight.
Los Reyzer performs at 4 p.m. Sunday at the Memorial Day Bash.
Ricardo Castillon performs at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the Memorial Day Bash.
Solido performs at 9:15 p.m. Sunday at the Memorial Weekend Bash.
A big crowd is expected to fill DeLeon Plaza this weekend for Victoria’s annual Memorial Day Bash.
Clara Ramos, who chairs the committee organizing the event, said the bash is one of the largest concerts in South Texas and they are expecting lots of out-of-town visitors, in addition to local residents. There will be musical groups playing throughout the two-day celebration, each night ending with a Grammy award-winning band.
The original event began about 17 years ago and was a simple festival. But eventually it evolved into a more significant event, tied to Memorial Day weekend, Ramos said.
“This is not just about music. This is a time to think about our fallen soldiers,” Ramos emphasized.
At 5 p.m. Saturday, a ceremony will be held that will include veterans and their families and a full honor guard to recognize those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
The ceremony is an important aspect of the weekend.
“That’s what Memorial Day is all about,” Ramos said. “It’s not just about partying.”
She said it is important to remember that we wouldn’t have all of these wonderful things without their sacrifice.
The Memorial Day Bash includes activities for kids as well as adults. During the daytime hours, there will be bounce houses, balloon animals, face painting, art activities and more. A car and bike show will be on display as well.
Food trucks and vendors will be on hand, as well as 40 vendors.
American actor Jesse Borrego, who is known for his TV roles in “Fame,” “24” and “Dexter,” as well as in the film “Blood In Blood Out” is also expected to make an appearance.
The lineup of musical groups is impressive. For example, finishing off Saturday night will be La Mafia. Winners of two American Grammys and three Latin Grammys, La Mafia has an original Pop Grupero style that incorporated Spanish influences as well as English rock and pop music.
On Sunday the final performance is by Siggno, a Tejano band from Santa Rosa, Texas. This band received a BMI Music Award and a Latin Grammy Award, among other honors.
Frank Salazar, of Salazar Promotions, works all year long to book groups and bring top entertainers to the event. He said as soon as the Memorial Day Bash ends, he starts planning for the next year.
Salazar said he always tries to keep in mind that this event is for all ages and books music styles that will appeal to a wide range of people.
“We do things a little bit different from everybody else,” he said. “I go from the top down.”
Salazar explains that he decides on the headliners for the music event first. Once he has that locked down, he starts negotiating with other bands.
Salazar is convinced the Memorial Day Bash is “one little step away from becoming a statewide event.”
He said last years’ crowds were big, but this year is showing signs of being even bigger. “We have people coming in from out of state and from all over the state of Texas.”
Joel Novosad, executive director of Explore Victoria, said their analytics show a great deal of activity on social media.
There is “strong word of mouth in the community” Novosad said. “It is the most visited page on our website.”
That jives with Salazar’s impression. He said he is getting calls constantly about the event and most of the promotion seems to be through word of mouth and social media.
Novosad said the event is great for the financial health of the community as a whole. “People are obviously spending money on-site at the event – you also have people spending money outside of the event at hotels, restaurants, incidentals, purchasing gas in our community. It's obviously an economic impact event for the community.”
Nacido — 3 p.m.
Pronto — 4 p.m.
Ricardo Castillon — 5:30
Los Lost Boys — 6:30 p.m.
Los Musicales — 7:45 p.m.
La Fiebre — 9:15 p.m.
La Mafia — 10:45 p.m.
Presale tickets (ends Friday): $12 general admission per person; $20 2-day general admission for both days; $50 VIP admission (includes access to event, VIP area and free beer at the VIP area from 7-9 p.m.)
For presale tickets go to: Memorial Weekend Bash 2022 Saturday - Buy tickets (memorialbashtickets.com)
Gallery: Warrior's Weekend Day 2
Veterans embarked at Froggie's Bait Dock early Saturday morning for a day of fishing and bonding during the sixteenth Warrior's Weekend fishin…
+18 Gallery: Warrior's Weekend from the air
+12 Gallery: Warrior’s Weekend XVI arrival
VFW Post 4146 to host Wacky Wednesdays in June and July
Things To Do In Victoria
Tejano Music
Explore Victoria
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2022-05-25T10:35:24Z
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Memorial Day Bash leads the way into summer | Community News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/community_news/memorial-day-bash-leads-the-way-into-summer/article_13c87154-dbb2-11ec-8724-f7a326b14428.html
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From left to right, Roy Parker, Collin Hopkins, Samantha Lopez and David Hinojosa look at photographs of previous Victoria College Law Enforcement Academy classes during a celebration of the academy’s 100th class on Tuesday evening at the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts.
Victoria College Law Enforcement Academy Director James Martinez offers opening remarks during a celebration of the academy’s 100th class on Tuesday evening at the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts.
VC Law Enforcement Academy celebrates 100 classes
The Victoria College Law Enforcement Academy's 100th class graduates Wednesday evening.
City and college officials as well as past and present cadets gathered Tuesday evening at the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts where a reception was held, celebrating and honoring the academy's 39 years and 100 classes.
The keynote speaker was the first director of the academy, Warren Nichols. He was introduced by current Academy Director James Martinez.
Nichols led the academy from its inception in 1983 until 1995. He was a police officer in Arlington before he held the director's position and is currently the president of the College of the Mainland in Texas City.
VC honors 9/11 victims, first responders during Sept. 10 ceremony
Nichols is from Fort Worth and was a first-generation college graduate. He has held the president's position at Mainland since 2017, but he thinks fondly of his time at the helm of VC Law Enforcement Academy.
"It was 39 years ago when we created the academy," Nichols said, "To see the academy still growing is like birthing a baby. To watch it grow and have so much success is amazing."
VC Law Enforcement Academy graduates honored at ceremony
Three members from the fourth class, 1985, attended the reception. Capt. Charles Williamson, Officer Randal Branecky, and Lt. Greg Kouba, all from the Victoria County Sheriff's Office.
"We are the only three members of our class still serving in law enforcement," Kouba said.
Kouba was the youngest member of his class of 19 cadets, which was in session from April 1, 1985, until June 5, 1985.
At that time, Nichols said, the cost to attend the academy was $250, textbooks included.
Kouba's class spent 344 hours in session, much of it in the college's library basement as no facilities existed yet for the academy.
Victoria Police Department swears in 6 new officers
Another speaker was Lt. Ralph Buentello, of the Victoria Police Department.
Buntello graduated in class No. 15, during the fall of 1990.
"This academy has produced some of the best peace officers in the state, hands down," Buentello said.
One example of this excellence is the current class leader, Aundrea Powell.
Powell graduates Wednesday with an impressive grade point average of 86. Powell lives in Beeville and serves in the Navy Reserves in Corpus Christi. She will spend at least two years after graduation serving as a member of law enforcement in Beeville.
Powell spoke highly of Martinez.
"The director prepared us so well for everything," Powell said. "I just want to to say for any future people looking at law enforcement, this is the best academy you're going to have. This is the best director. He makes sure you're squared away. He's just, by far, one of the best men to work for. He's someone we'll all aspire to be. He inspires us every day."
U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud presented VC President Jennifer Kent and Martinez with a flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol, saying to members of law enforcement and academy cadets, "Scripture talks about not getting weary in well-doing. I hope you always feel your community's love and support."
VC graduates 20 cadets from Law Enforcement Academy
From the Victoria College Marketing Office
WHAT: Victoria College Law Enforcement Graduation
WHERE: Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St.
Warren Nichols
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2022-05-25T10:35:25Z
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VC Law Enforcement Academy celebrates 100 classes | Crime & Courts | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/crime/vc-law-enforcement-academy-celebrates-100-classes/article_8d887fc8-dbbe-11ec-9653-7bc06c844df9.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/crime/vc-law-enforcement-academy-celebrates-100-classes/article_8d887fc8-dbbe-11ec-9653-7bc06c844df9.html
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Faith Academy valedictorian Hannah Cornwell poses for a portrait at Faith Academy.
"We were all shocked," said her mother, Nina Cornwell, stifling tears as she recalled her daughter's battle with the deadly disease.
Hannah's mother credits her daughter's successful battle with cancer and academic achievements to two things. First, her daughter is a fighter at heart. Second, her classmates were there for her when she needed them the most.
That year, they dedicated the school's drama performance of "Aladdin" to her. At football games, players wore orange ribbons on their helmets in her honor.
And they wore T-shirts emblazoned with "Hope for Hannah C."
"What got me through it was the positivity," Hannah said. "Their joy brought me joy."
With 25 students per grade level, Faith Academy aims to foster a close knit-community. But it also aims to prepare students to be "world changers," a school representative said.
During her cancer battle, Hannah's teachers were willing to accommodate her, but they never stopped challenging her, her mother said. Looking back, her mother says that contributed to her daughter's indomitable spirit.
"There was no assignment that other kids didn't do. They never made excuses for her," she said.
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2022-05-25T10:35:27Z
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Faith Academy valedictorian found strength at school | Education | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/education/faith-academy-valedictorian-found-strength-at-school/article_c703e69a-dad1-11ec-8016-0b77b31732ff.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/education/faith-academy-valedictorian-found-strength-at-school/article_c703e69a-dad1-11ec-8016-0b77b31732ff.html
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Faith Academy salutatorian Ayanna Moten poses for a portrait at Faith Academy.
And it doesn't end until about midnight.
That's just a necessary fact of life for the Faith Academy salutatorian, whose days are jam-packed with hours upon hours of studying, athletic practices and community service.
"She is the most stubborn, determined young woman I have ever seen in my whole life," said her mother Teri Moten.
Apart from maintaining a 3.9 GPA, Ayanna finds time, and the dedication, to succeed in track and cheerleading, in which she was recognized as the most valuable player. She also serves as the president of the Christian Honor Society and has volunteered at Christ's Kitchen and Food Bank of the Golden Crescent.
High expectations have always been a central part of Ayanna's life. When she was born, her father, Bishop David Moten, said to her mother, "Our job as parents is to let her run free but keep her in a lane."
After graduating, Ayanna plans to pursue a career in business and marketing. She was inspired by her mother, who has found her own success in those fields. That success, the daughter said, is simply the result of never-ending hard work and a bottomless reservoir of dedication.
"Watching her inspired me. I want to be like her and follow in her footsteps," Ayanna said, adding, "She gives it her all."
When Ayanna's father suffered a massive stroke about 17 years ago, her mother found herself thrust into the midst of adversity. Her father's ongoing health issues meant her mother had to balance a household on top of a full-time career of running a business consulting practice.
Those hard times have caused Ayanna's mother to instill in her daughter many lessons, including the need to be fully financially independent and able to support a family.
But Ayanna has taken those lessons to heart, and her mother now sees a beautiful and bright future for her daughter, who is just as empathetic as she is driven. Already, Ayanna can "network like nobody's business" and is an honorary member with several professional business organizations, her mother said.
"There is no doubt in my mind that Ayanna is going to be a beacon of light to young women, especially women of color, around the world," her mother said.
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2022-05-25T10:35:30Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Salutatorian learned focus, hard work at home | Education | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/education/salutatorian-learned-focus-hard-work-at-home/article_dd7dda7c-dbb5-11ec-85e6-83ba624b38de.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/education/salutatorian-learned-focus-hard-work-at-home/article_dd7dda7c-dbb5-11ec-85e6-83ba624b38de.html
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Children visit a booth to learn about the Victoria Fire Department during the Victoria Public Library Fun Fest Kickoff Celebration in 2021.
Grupo Folklorico de Victoria performs in the Bronte Room during the Victoria Public Library Fun Fest Kickoff Celebration in 2021.
Victoria Public Library is holding its Fun Fest Kickoff Celebration to get warmed up for a fun-filled summer of reading and activities.
The kickoff is June 4 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Victoria Public Library. City departments and local nonprofits will provide games and activities. The event is the official start to the Victoria Public Library’s summer reading program. Kids and adults can pick up reading logs at the library and read books during the summer to win prizes. The event will include live performances from community groups in the library’s Bronte Room:
10:30 a.m.: YMCA Zumba
11:30 a.m.: Grupo Folklorico de Victoria
12:30 p.m.: Starlight Dance Studio
The library offers events for children, teens and adults throughout the summer. Information about individual events will be updated through the calendar at www.victoriatx.gov/library.
Events that have been planned so far include:
June 16: John O’Bryant magic show – 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Community Center
June 16: Nerf war for adults – 7 p.m. at the library
July 8: “Encanto” singalong – 4 p.m. at the library
July 14: Teen Amazing Race – 6:30 p.m. at the library
July 23: Paw print art – 10 a.m. at the library
July 29: Foam bubble party – 2 p.m. in the library parking lot
To receive updates about summer events, follow the Victoria Public Library on Facebook or Instagram.
Librarians face harassment as they navigate book bans
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2022-05-25T18:42:52Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Library plans celebration to kick off summer reading program | Community News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/community_news/library-plans-celebration-to-kick-off-summer-reading-program/article_ef6d671e-dc3e-11ec-9fa7-87b4d397be97.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/community_news/library-plans-celebration-to-kick-off-summer-reading-program/article_ef6d671e-dc3e-11ec-9fa7-87b4d397be97.html
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Bill Fort, Mike Treybig and Scott "Doc" Kurtz, left to right, were recently inducted into the Palacios High School Hall of Honor. Fort coached track and field and cross country, Treybig coached football and track and field, and Kurtz was the school's first athletic trainer and also coached baseball.
Bill Fort, Mike Treybig and Scott “Doc” Kurtz have combined for over a century in education.
A majority of that time has been spent in the Palacios school district.
Fort worked as a track and field and cross country coach, Treybig as a football and track and field coach, and Kurtz as an athletic trainer and baseball coach.
The three were recognized for their service with their induction into the Palacios Hall of Honor at the school’s athletic banquet held recently.
Fort spent 42 years in the Palacios school district. He had athletes qualify for 15 state meets and had five top five finishes at the regional meet.
Treybig has been a coach for 41 years, including 22 as an athletic director.
He has an overall record of 136-109-1 at Palacios, Sweeny, Industrial and Houston Marion Christian.
Treybig took over as head football coach at Palacios in 2005. The Sharks hadn’t made the playoffs since winning the state championship in 1964, but in 2007, Treybig led Palacios to the quarterfinals.
The Palacios boys 1,600-meter relay team won the Class 3A gold medal at this year’s state meet, and Bryan Thomas won a silver medal in the boys 400-meter dash.
Treybig has served on the board of directors for the state’s 7on7 program, and he won the UIL Sponsor Excellence Award in 2010.
Kurtz came to Palacios in 1987 and became the school’s first athletic trainer. He also coached baseball at the school.
Kurtz worked with the school’s athletes until retiring after a 41-year athletic training career.
Mike Treybig
Bill Fort
Scott Doc Kurtz
Palacios Hall Of Honor
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2022-05-25T22:13:59Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Palacios inducts coaches into Hall of Honor | Advosports | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/palacios-inducts-coaches-into-hall-of-honor/article_a2fa0662-db21-11ec-a8bb-8fea09a68dc1.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/advosports/palacios-inducts-coaches-into-hall-of-honor/article_a2fa0662-db21-11ec-a8bb-8fea09a68dc1.html
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As of Tuesday, six adults with COVID-19 were hospitalized with 553 total staffed hospital beds in Trauma Service Area S, according to the state health department. Seventeen ICU beds were available, and one was occupied in the trauma service area, which includes Calhoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Lavaca and Victoria counties. Hospitalization data is delayed by one day. The Victoria Advocate gathers all of its COVID-19 data from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Some data reported to the state is occasionally delayed, which can occasionally result in a large increase in new total cases when the cases are finally reported. When the Victoria Advocate reports “new total” cases, not all of those new cases are necessarily active cases, but rather that number reflects new cases added to the total number of cases reported in a county since the beginning of the pandemic. You can read more about how the state gathers its data here.
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2022-05-25T23:53:00Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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11 new COVID-19 cases reported in the Crossroads | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/11-new-covid-19-cases-reported-in-the-crossroads/article_cede00aa-dc6e-11ec-a205-77f3d741d608.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/11-new-covid-19-cases-reported-in-the-crossroads/article_cede00aa-dc6e-11ec-a205-77f3d741d608.html
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Hospice of South Texas
Hospice of South Texas gains national recognition
Crossroads-based Hospice of South Texas was recognized with Elite Status by Healthcarefirst Hospice Honors program last week.
The recognition of elite status of the local not-for-profit hospice is given by Healthcarefirst in recognition of hospices that provide the best patient and family caregiver experience.
The award is given to hospices that scored above the national average for quality care by evaluating the performance on a set of 24 quality indicator measures based on Hospice Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Survey results.
"It is a great honor to recognize that the patients' families are the ones who have rated their experiences with our organization so highly," Michael Chavez, Hospice of South Texas executive director said in a news release.
The evaluation period for this recognition was from October 2020-September 2021.
Hospice of South Texas scored higher than the national average on all 24 quality indicators, according to the news release.
"Our goal is and will always be to provide the highest quality of care to our patients and their families," Chavez said. "Every day we continue to work to improve quality of life for our patients from ensuring comfort, emotional support and education to the ability to live each moment more fully. It is a true honor to gain recognition for our commitment to quality care from those whose opinions matter most — the families of those in our care."
Consumer Assessment Of Healthcare Providers And Systems Survey
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2022-05-25T23:53:06Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Hospice of South Texas gains national recognition | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/hospice-of-south-texas-gains-national-recognition/article_affa5284-dbaa-11ec-b547-6f83317c7e28.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/hospice-of-south-texas-gains-national-recognition/article_affa5284-dbaa-11ec-b547-6f83317c7e28.html
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Memorial prayer service for Uvalde set for Thursday in Cuero
In response to Tuesday's mass shooting in Uvalde, First Presbyterian Church of Cuero, 302 McLeod St., will host a community prayer service at 6 p.m. Thursday.
The prayer service will be held at the Chapel Without Walls, located on the campus of First Presbyterian Church. The public is invited to attend and all are welcomed to join in prayer.
“Our hearts are broken for the innocent victims of the tragedy that occurred at Robb Elementary School and we need time to gather, reflect and pray for the families that lost
loved ones, as well as pray for healing for those that are hospitalized,” said the Rev. Stanley Larson, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Cuero.
Chairs will be provided for attendees.
Stanley Larson
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2022-05-26T01:36:01Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Memorial prayer service for Uvalde set for Thursday in Cuero | DeWitt | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/counties/dewitt/memorial-prayer-service-for-uvalde-set-for-thursday-in-cuero/article_49fa1e68-dc83-11ec-9d69-1393ceb57748.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/counties/dewitt/memorial-prayer-service-for-uvalde-set-for-thursday-in-cuero/article_49fa1e68-dc83-11ec-9d69-1393ceb57748.html
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Betty Jean Skrobarcek
REFUGIO — Betty Jean Skrobarcek went to be with the Lord May 23, 2022 at the age of 91. She was born February 22, 1931 in San Antonio to the late Roger and Helen Martin Shurley.
A Rosary will be recited at 10:30 am Monday, May 30, 2022 with a Funeral Mass at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Refuge, 1008 S. Alamo Street, Refugio. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Milton Skrobarcek and brother-in-law Calvin Skrobarcek.
She is survived by her sons Kelly (Jo Ellen) Skrobarcek and Jerry Skrobarcek; grandchildren Lindsay Waychoff and Jacob Skrobarcek; nieces Agnes Mae Skrobarcek and Kimberly (Robert Gooley) Joyner; great niece Rylie Searles and great nephew Tyler Searles.
Betty had been a member of Our Lady of Refuge since 1950. She was a gold member with St. Jude’s where she donated monthly for 42 years. She had been a beloved piano teacher for many years. She was known to be the number one fan of Barry Manilow for whom she adored for many many years.
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2022-05-26T06:19:19Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Betty Jean Skrobarcek | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/betty-jean-skrobarcek/article_ee1d81d5-6a68-5b12-af3b-1883be42c730.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/betty-jean-skrobarcek/article_ee1d81d5-6a68-5b12-af3b-1883be42c730.html
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Samuel "Sam" H. Green
Samuel “Sam” H. Green
RUNGE — Brother Samuel “Sam” Green, 79, of Runge, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022. He was born to the union of the late Nathaniel Green and Marion Deola Smith Green, May 12, 1943, in Runge, Texas. He received his education at Runge High School. He enjoyed bringing love in everything that he was involved in. Sam accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age at the Ecleto Morning Star Baptist Church.
Sam was a faithful man of God. For all those that knew Sam, he was a kind person who liked to hunt and fish. Plus, he had a great sense of humor.
Sam retired from the U.S. Navy, Master Chief with 27 years of service and 2 tours in Vietnam.
He leaves to cherish his memories; sisters, Jackie Calloway, and Dora Gonzales; brothers, Albert B Green, and Tommy Green.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mildred Clark, Rosemary Lewis, and Amma Fields; brothers, Rev. Clarence Green, Rubin Green, Raymond Johnny Green, and James Green.
Visitation will be Friday, May 27, 2022, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Finch Funeral Chapel in Runge. Funeral services will be Saturday, May 28, 2022, at 2:00pm at Finch Funeral Chapel in Runge. Interment following at Runge Pioneer Cemetery.
Arrangements with Finch Funeral Chapel - Runge 830 239-4862
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2022-05-26T06:19:56Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Samuel "Sam" H. Green | Obituaries | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/samuel-sam-h-green/article_3daf289b-699e-52dc-9bcd-c3e60d9a0194.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/obituaries/samuel-sam-h-green/article_3daf289b-699e-52dc-9bcd-c3e60d9a0194.html
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Don't allow lawmakers to 'thoughts-and-prayers' away the horrible Uvalde massacre
Nineteen elementary-school children and two teachers were senselessly killed on Tuesday in Uvalde, about 85 miles west of San Antonio.
Let’s not allow our lawmakers and state leaders to “thoughts-and-prayers” this one away.
Let’s not allow our lawmakers to take the same inaction they took when, nearly 10 years ago, another gunman went into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, and slaughtered 26 people, including 20 children, with an assault rifle.
We can all agree that you can support the Second Amendment and still entertain the idea of limits to the number of shells a military-style assault weapon in the hands of civilians should hold. Like the majority of NRA members, we can agree that informed background checks into mental health aren't a bad thing. We’re not quite sure how to move forward after this week's bloodshed. But surely something can be done by our leaders — other than having them “thoughts-and-prayers” their way out of this unfolding nightmare. There are ideas on both sides of the aisle, and surely when so many children are slain there’s room for meeting somewhere in the middle, working together to find a solution rather than moving to the far sides of the aisle.
Surely, they were horrified, these lawmakers and executives, after Sandy Hook. Which came after the shooting at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, in 1999 that claimed 13 lives and horrified the politicians of the day. And before the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, in 2018, which horrified many and even led others to claim performative art was at play.
Horrified alright. Horrified they’d lose precious gun-lobby money. So, the lawmakers did nothing. Well, not quite. They offered “thoughts and prayers” in abundance.
On Tuesday, it was more of the same regarding Uvalde, a town of 16,000. For shame.
Soon after the shooting, Gov. Greg Abbott said Texans “across the state are grieving for the victims of this senseless crime and for the community of Uvalde.”
“Cecilia and I mourn this horrific loss and we urge all Texans to come together to show our unwavering support to all who are suffering. We thank the courageous first responders who worked to finally secure Robb Elementary School.”
Thoughts. And prayers. But no action.
It was more of the same from Sen. Ted Cruz, who soon after Sandy Hook, as a freshman senator, debated the horrific idea of regulating assault rifles. His super PAC, The Courageous Conservatives PAC, also shot down the idea of such regulations in a 2015 radio ad for the wannabe GOP presidential contender. “Ted Cruz makes things happen,” it said. “After Sandy Hook, Ted Cruz stopped Obama’s push for new gun-control laws.”
On Tuesday, soon after the shooting, Cruz was even more noncommittal.
Thoughts. Uplifting prayers. No action.
Democrat Beto O’Rourke was no better, offering little substance after the Uvalde slaughter. “Our broken hearts are with Uvalde,” he said in a Twitter post on Tuesday. The next day, he attacked Abbott. "This is on you until you choose to do something," he shouted at the governor during a news conference. He was ejected.
Broken hearts. Blame. No action.
All of these high falutin Texans with so little to say. Remember the date.
But more importantly, remember the inaction and the names, the names of the victims — and don’t ever forget the names of the lawmakers who did nothing about it.
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2022-05-26T10:14:05Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Don't allow lawmakers to 'thoughts-and-prayers' away the horrible Uvalde massacre | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/dont-allow-lawmakers-to-thoughts-and-prayers-away-the-horrible-uvalde-massacre/article_af47c83e-dbce-11ec-b7a8-378561de68b6.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/dont-allow-lawmakers-to-thoughts-and-prayers-away-the-horrible-uvalde-massacre/article_af47c83e-dbce-11ec-b7a8-378561de68b6.html
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mem day advance
A retired Army special ops combat medic explained on Saturday night how a Texas soldier’s tragic death in Iraq brought him full circle the first time he participated in a Warrior’s Weekend in Port O’Connor. Sgt. 1st Class Brandon Lloyd, a retired Army special operations combat medic, told participants in Saturday night’s 2022 Warrior’s Weekend Muster about a soldier he lost in Tikrit, Iraq, in late 2003. His speech was the highlight of the Warrior’s Weekend Muster, which returned to the Victoria Community Center for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. A string of bad luck with COVID surges and inclement weather prevented organizers from holding the fundraiser for two years, but Saturday’s crowd packed the community center dome with veterans, supporters, games, auction items and memorabilia. Warrior’s Weekend Executive Coordinator Kandace Monney and President Ron Kocian said 2022’s fundraiser probably topped 2019’s record-breaking year. While unable to hold the usual fundraiser due to the pandemic, partnerships with Palace Bingo and 5D Steakhouse have enabled Warrior’s Weekend to continue holding fishing trips for wounded veterans over the past few years, albeit at a reduced scale. In 2022, the events will be at full capacity. Saturday’s program began at 2 p.m. with raffle buckets, a silent auction and various games. Attendees then tucked into rib-eye steak dinners before the evening ceremonies. The bustling crowd in the Community Center dome stilled for the solemn POW/ MIA ceremony, the roll call and the recognition of Gold Star families in attendance. But the conclusion was highlighted with stirring accounts by Lloyd, a retired Army special operations medic who also had been a scout sniper, and his friend, Dan Hernandez, a veterinarian and poet. Lloyd spoke both to his experiences on deployment and as an initially reluctant participant in a Warrior’s Weekend trip about a dozen years ago. He told the crowd on Saturday he was shocked when he arrived in Port O’Connor for his first weekend to find a large banner with a picture of Spc. Richard Arriaga — a soldier he’d tried to save while serving in Iraq seven years earlier. Arriaga, of Ganado, was killed in action on Sept. 18, 2003, in Tikrit at age 20. “Many things would happen in my life over the next seven and half years,” said Lloyd, who would spend 3 more years in Iraq and Afghanistan. “I was severely wounded once in each country.” He spent 18 months in and out of hospitals and had numerous surgeries. While assigned to the wounded warrior unit at Fort Campbell, a friend told Lloyd about Warrior’s Weekend. “I had absolutely no desire to put myself in a situation like that,” Lloyd said, explaining he didn’t think he was ready at the time. Reluctantly, Lloyd said he finally capitulated because the fishing appealed to him. Lloyd said after he arrived on the Warrior’s Weekend Field of Honor in Victoria, he was still trying to get his bearings. That’s when he heard Warrior’s Weekend Director and retired Army Col. Mike Petrash call Arriaga’s name during the roll call. Thinking it couldn’t be the same man, Lloyd said he boarded the bus to Port O’Connor, where he came face to face with the banner. “I couldn’t grasp that just by some random chance, I’m in the exact place, at the exact time, with an organization who is honoring a soldier that I lost on the battlefield — thousands of miles away, almost 8 years earlier,” Lloyd said. It was then that Lloyd introduced himself to retired Col. Petrash and Warrior’s Weekend President Ron Kocian, and later, Arriaga’s family. Kandace Monney said Lloyd has been a sort of ambassador for Warrior’s Weekend ever since, but Saturday was his first time sharing his story at the muster. “I’ve heard Brandon’s story before,” she said. “I’ve heard it from Brandon, but I’ll tell you that standing up there with him, and watching him tell his story like he was in the moment again — like he was back there again — really moved me.” Warrior’s Weekend 2022 will begin on Friday, May 20, when veterans flying in for the event will leave Houston in a convoy heading to Victoria. After driving through the main streets of towns including El Campo and Edna, the veterans will arrive in Victoria in the early afternoon and take John Stockbauer Drive to the Warrior’s Weekend Field of Honor at Parkway Church. From there, the veterans will take buses down to Port O’Connor before an early day of fishing on Saturday. Lodging and transporting between 400 and 450 people is no easy task, but organizers said the impact the weekend has on wounded veterans is palpable. “I mean, we’ve had people express that they were on the verge of suicide. And they came here, and they went home and sought help after this,” Monney said. “It’s a heavy burden to carry, and we carry it.”
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2022-05-26T21:45:15Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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mem day advance | | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/mem-day-advance/article_fbfeb1b6-dd3a-11ec-9e1b-7b32eab4a1b5.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/mem-day-advance/article_fbfeb1b6-dd3a-11ec-9e1b-7b32eab4a1b5.html
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Isabela Garza, St. Joseph High School's valedictorian, plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin.
Isabela Garza, is “a STEM girl, for sure.” Her favorite subjects are math and science. “I hope to either be a user experience designer, or work with AI (artificial intelligence).”
Despite her chosen career field, however, she said it was her English teacher, Bridget Boyle, who made a big impact during her years at St. Joseph High School, where she is this year's senior class valedictorian. "She was just one to really encourage the class and always be there for us and support us,” Isabela said.
It was in middle school that her love of STEM, short for science, technology, engineering and math, developed. “We had an elective called ‘robotics,’ and we would build these little robots and program them on our computers,” Isabela said. “I think that’s what really sparked my interest in it.”
She started learning more about AI and thought how “that’d be really cool to work in.”
Isabela’s mother, Dr. Adelaida Resendez, a pediatrician, said her daughter worked very hard to achieve her success.
“Since a little girl, Isa has always seemed to give her full effort to whatever she sets her mind to, whether it be in gymnastics, soccer, or academics,” she said.
Great grades don’t always come easily. When asked how she would feel with a grade of C, she said, “I would feel terrible, because I know that I’m capable of more than that. I can improve and do better.” She explained that in her first year at St. Joseph, she received a 50 on an English assignment. “I thought my world was ending for sure.”
She said pre-AP world history and AP U.S. history were a challenge, because they didn’t “resonate with me. I am not a history person.” However, good study habits and extra effort helped her overcome a general lack of interest.
“Being in a small school ... you’re around the same people all the time,” she said. She is looking forward to joining clubs and meeting and working with people from different backgrounds, adding “And attending games.”
“We are so excited to see what she will accomplish in the next chapter of her life at the University of Texas,” Resendez said, adding, “We pray that God guide her and give her the courage to follow her dreams.”
Isabela considers herself a bit of an introvert.
“I’m pretty shy when it comes to new people. I’ve never been one for public speaking. It’s something I need to work at,” she said.
But that won’t stop Isabela, because she said she is “becoming more comfortable in my own skin.”
Isabela's mother told her to "always believe in yourself." That is a lesson that has been taken to heart.
"You can't really improve on something outwardly if you're not secure in who you are," she said.
When asked what advice she would give other students, she joked, “I would say grades aren’t everything, but that’s a little hypocritical from me.” After thinking a moment, she said the best thing to do when undertaking any challenge is to “enjoy the journey.”
Parents: Dr. Adelaida Resendez and Dr. Dante Garza
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2022-05-26T21:45:21Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Isabela Garza: Looking forward to a new journey | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/isabela-garza-looking-forward-to-a-new-journey/article_d0b2cea0-dd05-11ec-9e2a-772341293871.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/isabela-garza-looking-forward-to-a-new-journey/article_d0b2cea0-dd05-11ec-9e2a-772341293871.html
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St. Joseph salutatorian Sarah Ybarra is a perfectionist and procrastinator but still aces exams.
“I kind of grew up going to football games. My dad would go to tailgate parties,” she said. Her twin brother, Caleb, who also will be going to A&M, attended football camps there. “We grew up visiting the town so often it kind of has always felt like a second home.”
Sarah said she grew up wanting to go into veterinary medicine but is “leaning toward general medicine.” She is keeping her options open and is looking forward to exploring different areas of the health care field while in college. Her mother, Charla Ybarra, explained that after the family had to have one of their pets euthanized due to cancer, she never said she wanted to be a vet again. So, that may have impacted her change of heart.
Unsurprisingly, Sarah describes herself as a perfectionist, which motivates her to keep her grades up. But she said she is also “a procrastinator. I stay up late. All my family will be sleeping, and I'll be up studying. That’s just what works for me.”
Her mother agrees.
“She’s always been a go-getter academically,” she said.
Outside of academics, Sarah enjoys cross-country running. This was a big change for her because prior to high school, she had never liked running at all. She said it was her brother who was the natural athlete.
In middle school “I was never particularly fast, so they always put me in the long-distance events, and I just hated running,” she said.
However, as a freshman in high school, she joined the cross-country team with her friends. She said the coach at the time was very encouraging.
“I just fell in love with it ever since,” she said.
Now, she enjoys running long distance outside of school, as well.
“She did cross country. She did soccer. She was involved in student council for all four years,” she said.
Sarah also developed a love of theater in high school. Her mother said she especially enjoyed working backstage and making many close friends. Ybarra said that growing up “people would probably classify her as shy,” but she explained that if Sarah wanted something “she would speak up for herself.”
Sometimes being a hard-working perfectionist can be awkward.
“There’ve been several times I felt like I was going to fail a test. I would walk out of the classroom and be like ‘I for sure failed that.’ Then I’d get it back, and it would be like a 90 or above,” she said.
Telling her friends she thought she failed was a bit embarrassing.
“I always felt so bad telling them because they'd be like, ‘Sarah, what did you end up getting on the test?’ I'm like, ‘Oh, yeah, I guess I didn't do as bad as I thought.’”
Sarah’s greatest challenge is learning to “not overextend myself.” Managing her time across many responsibilities and activities can be difficult. Whatever she is involved, it is important to Sarah always to be her best.
“I want to give all of my effort,” she said.
Guest column: Why would graduation rates matter to a community?
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2022-05-26T21:45:33Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Texas A&M is a family affair for St. Joseph HS salutatorian | News | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/texas-a-m-is-a-family-affair-for-st-joseph-hs-salutatorian/article_06289a7e-dd1a-11ec-bb66-ab454876ee4a.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/texas-a-m-is-a-family-affair-for-st-joseph-hs-salutatorian/article_06289a7e-dd1a-11ec-bb66-ab454876ee4a.html
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:24-25; quote by Peter De Vries
And they shall hang upon him all the glory of his father’s house, the offspring and the issue, all vessels of small quantity, from the vessels of cups, even to all the vessels of flagons.
In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall the nail that is fastened in the sure place be removed, and be cut down, and fall; and the burden that was upon it shall be cut off: for the LORD hath spoken it.
Who of us is mature enough for offspring before the offspring themselves arrive? The value of marriage is not that adults produce children but that children produce adults.
Peter De Vries (1910-1993) was an American editor and novelist known for his satiric wit. He has been described by the philosopher Daniel Dennett as “probably the funniest writer on religion ever.”
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2022-05-26T21:45:39Z
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www.victoriaadvocate.com
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Bible verse - Isaiah Isa.22:24-25; quote by Peter De Vries | Opinion | victoriaadvocate.com
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-24-25-quote-by-peter-de-vries/article_cb5a2b5c-d6ec-11ec-a529-5bfb60f24ce6.html
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https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/opinion/bible-verse---isaiah-isa-22-24-25-quote-by-peter-de-vries/article_cb5a2b5c-d6ec-11ec-a529-5bfb60f24ce6.html
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