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Edgmon competes in “a shoot off against some of the best in the world”

Devine High School student, William Edgmon competed against some of the best in the world.

Devine High School student, William Edgmon, claimed two National Championships in two of the events he entered during the Fitasc international shoot off.
This was William’s 9th year to compete in the National Sporting Clays competition. “Nationals is considered the World Series for sporting clays,” said the Edgmon family. “It is the biggest event of the year with 49 states represented and 7 countries. William had an outstanding performance at this year’s Nationals and claimed 2 National Championships in two of the events he competed in.”
Edgmon earned Master Class 1st Place and Junior Class (Ages 16-21) Runner-up in what the Egdmons describe as “a shoot off against some of the best in the world.”
In addition, in the 5-stand event, he ended up Master Class 1st place and Junior Class (Ages 16-21) Runner-up!
Edgmon participated in his first Nationals shooting event at just 8 years old.
“He has an amazing talent, and we are so proud of him!” the Edgmons add.

County reviews subdivision infrastructure agreements

By Anton Riecher
Medina County commissioners took action Monday to update public improvement districts agreements governing infrastructure improvements for various housing subdivisions across the region.
Clay Binford with McCall, Parkhurst and Horton, representing the county as special counsel, took the opportunity to bring the commissioners up to speed on the infrastructure projects involved.
Chapter 312 of the state’s local government code requires that the commissioners “affirm the plan or change the plan that we adopted at the time we put these public improvement districts in place,” Binford said.
A public improvement…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!

Turkey Bingo Nov. 16th at St. Joseph’s in Devine

Mark your calendars for St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Turkey Bingo on Sunday, November 16th from 2 to 5 pm at the St. Joseph’s Hall located at 108 S Washington Drive in Devine.
There will be several bingo packages available and special bingo games. The Guadalupañas will be selling various concession items to keep you energized and focused on the games.

Ordinary Heroes & Veterans Day Coke

“Happy are those who dare courageously to defend what they love.”
-Ovid (Roman poet)

The Vietnam War, pitting communist North Vietnam against South Vietnam and its primary ally the United States, was a long and divisive conflict. It occupied American attention and involvement for over 20 years, with our combat forces in-country and on the ground from 1965-1973. Over 58,000 Americans lost their lives in the war. Those who served in Vietnam answered their country’s call when needed. They deserve our gratitude and respect for their service.
One of those who served was Mr. Ricardo Cortez, a combat- wounded veteran from Lytle, Texas. I recently had the honor of speaking with Mr. Cortez and wanted to share his story.
Ricardo (Richard) Cortez was just 18 years old in 1965 when he was drafted into the Army during the war in Vietnam. He experienced much as a member of the U. S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division (nicknamed the Ivy Division for the pronunciation of the unit’s number in Roman Numerals – IV). While engaged in combat operations, Mr. Cortez saw plenty of action. From Camp Jackson Hole, near the Cambodian border in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam, men of the 4th Infantry were tasked with continuing search and patrol missions. They scouted and tracked enemy positions engaging North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces at every opportunity. The 4th Infantry endured some of the worst fighting of the war. After volunteering for an extra support and combat mission, Mr. Cortez was wounded when his unit was ambushed as their convoy navigated the Ho Chi Minh Trail inside Cambodia. In the midst of a firefight, the truck he was driving hit a landmine. Blown from the cab with severe injuries, he survived the fight, saved by stalwart Army medics and a medevac helicopter crew.
After treatment in-theater, he was sent to hospital in the Philippines and was later transferred to Madigan Army Medical Center in Seattle for recovery and rehab. With Purple Heart in hand, Mr. Cortez was discharged in 1967 (during his combat tours he also received a Bronze Star). In 1978 he joined the Army Reserve and went on to serve during the Gulf War in Operation Desert Storm as a 1st Sergeant with the 1st Cavalry Division. He currently serves as a member of the Honor Guard with his local VFW chapter. In the past 22 years he has helped perform ceremonial duties for more than 2,000 military funerals.
Leading a proud military legacy, Mr. Cortez’s sons have also served. Army veterans Sergeant First Class Dion Cortez and Staff Sergeant Richard Cortez, Jr. are proud of their dad. Along with Mr. Cortez and his twin brother Henry, both sons served in the Gulf War. Mr. Cortez’s life has been marked by a heart for service. He loves his country, and he was proud to serve. He is an ordinary hero. And those are the best kind.
Recently, students at Lytle High School produced a short documentary film about Mr. Cortez and his family’s military service. They were awarded a bronze medal for the film in the state finals for the UIL Young Filmmakers competition. You can watch the documentary on YouTube (“He Will Continue to Serve – UIL Young Filmmakers State Bronze Medal 1-3A Documentary Award”).
Mr. Cortez’s heart for service continues today with what started out as a simple idea to raise the spirits of his comrades. And this service is tied to America’s favorite soft drink, Coca-Cola.
Historically, the Coca-Cola Company has been a great supporter of our military. During WWII, the company pledged to supply every service member in uniform with a bottle of Coke. At the request of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, they even set up portable bottling plants to supply American G.I.s and Marines in combat with Coke. Today the company continues to support the military through partnerships with the USO and other organizations.
Albert Cortez, Mr. Cortez’s youngest son, shared with me his father’s artistic bent and new creative project idea involving Coke. His dad collects empty pill bottles and other containers. After disinfecting the containers, he creates a collage on each, using pictures for a military service theme along with Coca-Cola logos. He and his boys like Coca-Cola. He then fills the bottles with candy and other small gifts, giving them out to veterans and other VFW friends. He also passes these out to patients and nurses at the local hospital. His containers are beautiful, patriotic, and show his love for America…and Coke.
Inspired, Mr. Cortez had the brilliant idea of presenting this to the Coca-Cola Company. He would like to design special commemorative Coke cans for Veterans Day. I think this idea for Veterans Day Coke cans, designed and created by a veteran, is a genius-level marketing concept. Americans would surely love patriotic Veterans Day Coke cans.
I have forwarded a copy of this column, along with Mr. Cortez’s contact info to the Coca-Cola Company in hopes that they adopt his idea and enlist his help in creating Veterans Day Coke!
Thank you, Mr. Cortez. You are an inspiration to us all. We honor you, your beautiful wife Ninfa, and your family as you continue to serve…

© 2025 Jody Dyer
typewriterweekly.com

“Smile, You’re on Camera”Medina County Sheriff team cracks down on illegal dumping

George Perez faces third degree felony charges after illegally dumping a motorcycle off the bridge into San Francisco Perez Creek. During the course of the investigation, deputies discovered that the motorcycle had been reported stolen. Perez was subsequently arrested and booked into the Medina County Jail on October 31, 2025.
Sheriff Randy Brown stated, “We have deployed cameras in various locations around the county. It’s absolutely sickening that anyone would think it’s acceptable to dump their garbage on our county roads or into our creeks and waterways. Let this be a warning, we are watching, and you will be arrested when caught.”

Local Police Report

Natalia Police Report

10/27/2025 – Officer responded to an accident on FM 471 and 8th, no injuries reported.
10/27/2025 – Officers were dispatched to Mustang Ridge for a suspicious person; officers made contact with a male individual and resolved the situation.
10/28/2025 – Officer was dispatched to the 6th and Pearson for an accident that had occurred, no injuries reported.
10/28/2025 – Officer initiated a traffic stop on Hwy 132 when vehicle refused to stop and began to pursue the vehicle, it came to a stop at CR 6721.
11/1/2025 – Officers were dispatched to the 300 Blk of Aubrey for a civil matter.

Devine Police Report

October 24
8:41AM – Complainant advised of speeding vehicle up and down Littleton Dr during weekday mornings between 7 and 8 am.
14:00PM – Complainant on Hondo Ave E called in reference to hurricane fence being cut and someone going onto property. Requesting documentation for employer (AEP).
21:57PM – Shop owner on Hondo Ave W advised they are remodeling and will be on location all night.
22:51PM – Complainant on Dixon Dr reported suspicious activity. Police identified male who were moving his pickup truck home after business hours.
October 25
5:00AM – Down powerline in crosswalk and business parking lot on Hondo Ave. AEP notified; public works provided barricades for outside lanes.
6:45AM – TXDot notified that lights at four corners SH 132, Colonial Pkwy, W Hondo Ave and Windy Knoll Dr are all flashing red.
22:29PM – Complainant on Jack Nicklaus Dr report hearing possible shots fired in area. Check area but unable to locate. Area appeared to be okay.
23:38PM – Officer issued warrant to male subject on Rossville Rd. Subject jailed. Cited for poss of drug paraphernalia.
October 26
4:39AM – Officer dispatched to major accident on IH 35 MM 122 S.
11:21AM – Complainant on College Ave notified of tree falling on powerlines northeast corner of intersection. Public works set barricades, no traffic hazard.
11:56AM – Officer dispatched to IH 35 SB to assist – traffic not moving over for Love’s repair vehicle with disabled 18 wheeler.
16:53PM – Complainant on IH 35 S called regarding possible vehicle fire. No flames seen only smoke. Fire department made scene and spoke with vehicle owner.
17:30PM – Officer initiated stop on Transportation Dr N. Cited female driver for DWLI.
October 27
19:47PM – Complainant on Rossville Rd observed a female who appeared to be about to jump fence into backyard when complainant was returning to residence. Located female and advised her to stay off the property.
19:50PM – Officer dispatched to Hondo Ave E for a minor accident.
21:00PM – Complainant on IH 35 SB advised of gray car speeding with tail lights off. Unable to locate.
21:00PM – Complainant on Colonial Pkwy called regarding male subject seen in parking lot near electric box. All was clear.
23:22PM – Officer intiated stop on Transportation Dr. Female subject was cited for DWLI.
23:25PM – Natalia PD requesting assistance on traffic stop due to other people coming up to stop.
October 28
8:37AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave W called in reference to 18 wheeler that lost its trailer and is blocking traffic. Truck moved off roadway.
10:50AM – Complainant on Briscoe Ave called in reference to incident that occurred one week ago – someone struck her mailbox.
13:23PM – Complainant on Hayden Ave advised of male subject in all black clothing yelling on property. Subject was identified by police. Subject departed in black Hyundai. Unable to locate.
October 29
7:23 AM – Officer dispatched to Hondo Ave E for a major accident.
8:56AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave E called in reference to bags found while taking out trash near gas pumps. One contained a firearm. Officer took possession and logged into property.
9:42AM – Late entry occurred on 10/23/25 at 1940 hours. Officer initiated stop on Hondo Ave W and cited male driver for DWLI.
16:18PM – Complainant on College Ave. called in reference to a possible burglary. Officers made location but nothing was taken. Door was possibly blown open by heavy winds.
18:40PM – Officer dispatched to assist MCSO with execution of search warrant.
October 30
8:05AM – Complainant on Hayden Ave. called in reference to a suspicious vehicle that parks overnight under oak tree each day. Driver was identified; all good.
8:44AM – Complainant called in reference to a phone scam. No money exchanged or sent.
19:50PM – Complainant on Upson Dr N reported loud music and yelling coming from the residence. No loud music was heard, kids were yelling, all okay.
22:06PM – Complainant on Windy Knoll called about male and female arguing in roadway, slamming vehicle doors. Officer checked area but unable to locate.
23:30PM – Complainant on Hondo Ave advised she and her son were in a verbal disturbance in parking lot. Caller advised nothing physical, only wanted it documented.
October 31
22:24PM – Complainant on IH 35 reported gray Dodge Caravan almost hit guardrail and exited MM122. Officers check area but unable to locate.

Lytle Police Report

Monday, October 27
12:24 AM – Wyatt Earp @ Open Range Way – Officer responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle that resulted in the citation and release of a 19 year old male for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
10:07 AM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer received a phone call from a male regarding a lost wallet with credit cards, a driver’s license, and $130 cash while at the HEB Plus on the 25th.
10:26 AM – 14300 Blk. Railroad St. – Officers discovered an unauthorized brush fire without a permit. The resident was advised of the burn ban.
10:58 AM – Wisdom Rd. @ Newton St. – Officer initiated a traffic stop for an expired motor vehicle registration and discovered that the vehicle had two different license plates. Both plates were confiscated.
11:34 AM – 14930 Main St. – Officer spoke to a male regarding an incident that occurred in Paris, Texas. The caller was advised to call the Lamar County Sheriff’s Office.
12:52 PM – 14930 Main St. – Officer responded to a report of loud music from a black pickup but was unable to locate it.
1:09 PM – 19500 Blk. IH 35 – Officer responded to a two-vehicle non-injury accident.
Tuesday, October 28
12:20 AM – 20200 Blk. IH 35 – Officers responded for a 911 hang up but could not locate the caller.
7:16 AM – S. Somerset St. @ Lytle-Somerset St. – Officers responded a report of road rage and contacted both drivers. Everything was okay.
10:15 AM – N. Somerset St. @ Oak St. – Officer was flagged down for information regarding how to report credit card fraud for an incident that occurred in Devine.
11:48 AM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to a report of a possible shoplifter. A juvenile and her mother were issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
12:18 PM – Lytle PD – Officer met with a complainant regarding surrendering old ammunition. The ammo was placed in safekeeping for destruction.
5:06 PM – FM 2790 @ Laredo St. – Officer received a phone call regarding a reckless driver who threw a beer at him. The incident occurred outside the city limits of Lytle, and he was referred to the Medina County Sheriff’s Office.
6:28 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to assist a patient having a medical emergency.
11:34 PM – 19700 Blk. IH 35 – Officer observed a silver Volvo that had been parked on the side of the road for the past five days. The vehicle was impounded to prevent a possible accident.
Wednesday, October 29
11:03 AM – 15100 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to a report of a Halloween Skeleton being stolen from the front of the store, valued at $75.
1:41 PM – 14400 Blk. Main St. – Officers responded to a verbal disturbance. The female departed before the officer’s arrival.
1:48 PM – Lytle PD – Officer met with a male regarding an altercation at the Burger King Drive-thru.
2:02 PM – Assist Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office – 200 Blk. Brooke Meadow – Officers responded outside the city limits of Lytle to assist with an active verbal disturbance.
2:56 PM – 15300 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to a report of a found syringe. The syringe was with a vial for cancer treatment and was placed back into the trash can.
3:30 PM – Lytle PD – Officer met with a male regarding an update on a previous criminal mischief case.
4:30 PM – Assist Atascosa EMS – 15400 Blk. Laredo St. – Officer responded to assist a patient having a medical emergency.
6:31 PM – Assist Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office – 280 Blk. Falling Leaf Dr. – Officer responded outside the city limits of Lytle to assist with an active medical alert alarm. Upon arrival, it was discovered to be a false alarm.
Thursday, October 30
1:39 AM Main St. @ McDonald St. – Officers initiated a traffic stop for driving without headlights, resulting in the citation and release of a 25 year old female for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
3:03 AM – Assist Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office – FM 3175 @ Ala Blanca Dr. – Officers responded outside the city limits of Lytle to assist with a vehicle vs deer traffic accident.
11:55 AM – 14800 Blk. Lytle-Somerset St. – Officer responded to a report of a box truck in the roadway.
12:19 PM – Houston St. @ N. Prairie St. – Officers responded to a report of a male wearing a black cap, red sweater, and black jeans jumping the fence at the Primary School but could not locate him.
12:21 PM – Assist Medina County Sheriff’s Office – CR 6710 @ Canal Road – Officer responded outside the city limits of Lytle to assist with a male evading on foot. MCSO detained the suspect without the assistance of the LPD.
5:55 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a two-vehicle non-injury accident.
6:10 PM – 15400 Blk. Cottage St. – Officer responded to an information report regarding the Lytle ISD. The information was relayed to the Medina County Sheriff’s School Resource Officer.
8:30 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to speak with an elderly female having a disagreement with her adult son.
10:54 PM – IH 35 – Officer responded to a report of a reckless driver and was unable to locate the vehicle.
11:15 PM – 14500 Blk. Open Range – Officer observed a suspicious vehicle. Everything was okay.
Friday, October 31
8:49 AM – FM 2790 @ FM 463 – Officer observed a stranded vehicle and assisted in pushing the car out of the roadway.
8:52 AM – 6300 Blk. SH 132 – Officer spoke to a complainant regarding a piece of plywood leaning against the business.
8:54 AM – 3800 Blk. SH 132 – Officer spoke to a complainant on the phone regarding speeding 18-wheelers outside the city limits of Lytle.
9:30 AM – Lytle PD – Officer spoke to a complainant regarding a traffic accident that occurred on October 25th that was not reported to the Lytle PD.
11:49 AM – 14600 Blk. FM 2790 – Officers attended the Bank Halloween event.
2:05 PM – 15200 Park Place – Officers responded to an active alarm. The resident advised it was a false alarm.
2:09 PM – 20200 Blk. IH 35 – Officers responded to a report of an intoxicated male. The male was not intoxicated. Everything was okay.
3:10 PM – 14800 Blk. Railroad St. – Officer received a phone call about a male in blue scrubs hitchhiking.
5:30 PM – 18900 Blk of FM 2790 – Officers provided a bus escort for the Cross-Country Team.
5:38 PM – 15800 Blk. CR 681 – Officer observed an unauthorized burn. The resident extinguished the fire.
7:05 PM – 15300 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to unlock a 2006 Mitsubishi Galant.
7:11 PM – Saddle Ridge @ Huckleberry – Officers were flagged down for a report of a male drinking and driving. a 37 year old male was cited and released to his spouse for an open container violation.
8:48 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to a report of a foul odor coming from the back of a pickup to discover it was rancid shrimp from a recent fishing trip to the coast.
9:50 PM – 19500 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to an unwanted customer with a CTW. A 39 year old male was arrested on a Criminal Trespass Notice issued in January 2025. Subject was booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
9:56 PM – IH 35 Frontage Rd. @ FM 3175 – Officers initiated a traffic stop for a male on an ATV. A 50 year old male was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated and booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
10:58 PM – 19000 Blk. N. Prairie St. – Officers responded to the death of a 72-year-old male.
Saturday, November 01
12:01 AM – Rocky’s Circle – Officers responded to a report of a vehicle going door-to-door, asking for candy. The driver and occupants were asked to leave the area.
3:30 AM – 19500 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to a report of a male sleeping behind the wheel in the drive-thru. A 39 year old male was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated and booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
11:38 AM – 18900 Blk. FM 2790 – Officers provided a bus escort for the Lytle High School Band.
12:03 PM – 14600 Blk. FM 2790 – Officers responded to a report of a smash-and-grab out of a glass case. The two males stole approximately. $17,000 worth of gold chains. The case is under investigation.
12:17 PM – 15200 Blk. Main St. – Officers responded to a report of a suicidal male. The 51-year-old male was transported to the Camino Real Crisis Center for an Emergency Detention.
12:48 PM – 19700 Blk. Bruce St. – Officers responded to a report of a suicidal female. The 31-year-old female was transported to the Camino Real Crisis Center for an Emergency Detention.
1:30 PM – 19965 FM 2790 – Officer responded to the Camino Real Crisis Center to transport a 31-year-old female to Laurel Ridge Treatment Center for a higher level of care.
6:54 PM – 15100 Blk. Magnolia St. – Officers responded to a verbal family disturbance.
7:18 PM – 19400 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a hit-and-run traffic accident with no reported injuries.
11:04 PM – IH 35 Frontage Rd. @ Lytle-Somerset St. – Officers initiated a traffic stop for driving on the improved shoulder, which resulted in a vehicle pursuit. An 18 year old male was arrested for Evading Arrest or Detention in a Vehicle, and Evading Arrest or Detention on foot. Subject was booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
Sunday, November 02
12:33 AM – All Railroad Crossings in Lytle – Officers responded to a detached Union Pacific Train Detachment. Union Pacific was advised, and the situation was resolved shortly after.
1:42 AM – FM 2790 & IH 35 Frontage Road – Officer responded and provided a bus escort for the Lytle High School for the LHS Band.
11:02 PM – McDonald St. @ IH 35 Frontage Rd. – Officers initiated a traffic stop for a defective headlight, which resulted in the citation and release of a 25 year old male for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

HARTS Christmas Social Dec. 8 in Devine; no meeting in November

Huajilla Area Retired Teachers and Staff members attended the TRTA District 20 Fall Conference in Boerne on October 23. Pictured above are Dottie Wolff, assistant to HARTS President; Cindy Howard, Health and Safety chair; Lola Hill, former book project chair; Walter Huegele, former book project committee; Irene Dubberly, District 20 Membership and Volunteer Services Chair committee chair and HARTS Secretary; Sam Dubberly, Member Services and Retirement Ed chair; Maria Elizondo, Treasurer. Not pictured are Bertha Benedetti, Parliamentarian, and Joe Benedetti.

The Huajilla Area Retired Teacher and Staff (HARTS) held its monthly meeting on Monday, October 27 at the First Baptist Church in Hondo beginning at 10 am. Lewis Stroud offered the opening prayer and blessing, followed by members singing “God Bless America.”
President Earline Schlortt welcomed the 50 members and 3 guests. A special welcome was extended to Sally Bader who recently retired from Hondo ISD as a high school business teacher. Schlortt then introduced the current officers including past president Marianne Garrett, then recognized Wendy Maxwell, Marianne Garrett, Ethel Martin, Kathleen Outlaw, Jean Sexton, Jim Rigby, including herself as October birthday celebrants, and Lewis Stroud, who will observe his birthday in November. Members honored birthday celebrants with the birthday song.
The minutes from the September meeting and the Treasurer’s report were accepted for filing
Communications Chair Betsy Polgue reported that a thank you note acknowledging Karen Muennink for scholarship funds donated in memory of her mother, May Belle Howard, as well as for Troy Langfeld, Joan Langfeld, Brenda Langley and Ted Outlaw. Nora Winkler, who has donated and stored numerous books for the Book Project, was also thanked for her hard work on the Book Project Committee.
Polgue has also sent sympathy cards to the families of former educators who have passed away and has sent get well cards to members who have had surgeries and other medical issues.
Membership chair Elaine Neuman reported that there are 172 state members and of those, 91 have local status.
Ken Hanson, Legislative Chair, reminded members to vote early, or on November 4 on the 17 state propositions as well for local communities who have additional items on the ballot. Members can log in the League of Women Voters site or the Medina.tx.org for additional explanations about the propositions.
Cindy Howard, Health and Safety chair, called attention to a home safety checklist handout and advised members to check with their doctor to determine whether they should get vaccinated against the flu, Covid, shingles, pneumonia and RSV.
In the absence of Darlene Haby, Howard added that the books in storage need to be moved and sorted prior to the December meeting when they will be distributed to various groups. Schlortt added that on National Night Out, members Bertha Benedetti and Cindy Howard in Medina Valley/Castroville; Irene Dubberly, Elaine Neuman, John and Evelyn McAnelly in Hondo, and Earline Schlortt, Dottie Weynand, Esther Johnson in D’Hanis, all manned a booth, giving out free books. There will be other opportunities to provide these books free for the taking.
Brenda Prestage, Volunteer Services chair, reminded members to keep up to date with their volunteer hours through the end of the year.
Newly assigned volunteers for the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation informed members that November is Foundation Month, but since no meeting is held in November, members were asked to donate at this meeting and at the January meeting.
Wendy Maxwell, New Teacher Basket chair, thanked all who helped her with the new teacher baskets which were presented to one new teacher at each of the schools in the area: D’Hanis, Devine, Medina Valley, Sabinal, Leakey and Pearsall, and many members were able to see the photos of the winners in the local newspapers. This was an opportunity for public school staff to be introduced to and learn about the retired segment of the education profession.
Schlortt introduced guests Melissa Ramos, District 20 TRTA President, and her husband, Jesse Ramos on the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation Board. Jesse indicated that a generous donation to TRTF has resulted in additional funds to members who have serious needs that may go beyond the $200 to $500 generally provided, citing examples such as victims of the Guadalupe River flooding. Additionally, first-year teacher grants and classroom teacher grants are available, and all applications can be completed online.
Melissa Ramos provided a brief summary of the District 20 Fall Conference in Boerne which was attended by 150 TRTA members from the 13-county area. Ramos touched on Social Security and the repeal of the WEP and the GPO, federal provisions which denied rightfully earned Social Security to public school, firefighters, and law enforcement retirees, citing that retirees were from “double-dipping” from two retirement systems. Issues continue with surviving spouses who were denied applying for the benefits due them from the deceased spouse’s contributions. Many older people who have received a one-year (2024) retroactive lump sum payment will be burdened with much higher taxes which they may not be able to afford. The myriad of scenarios often requires specific resolution from the Social Security Administration, so members must become their own advocate to search the answers to their specific situation.
Dottie Weynand added more information which was covered at the Fall Conference which was attended by nine HARTS members.
D’Anna Baucom, AMBA representative provided extensive information about lucrative financial investments and other insurance, new travel options, cancer, dental and vision plans, long term care and other health solutions and details of the extensive services that come with the medical emergency air and ground transportation, among other services and programs available only to TRTA members.
Prior to adjournment, President Schlortt recognized TRTA retiree and Hondo Anvil Herald reporter Linda Perkins, with a small appreciation gift. Ms. Perkins, a former Hondo high school English teacher.
Schlortt reminded members about membership dues, and TRTF donations. She also requested that any member who has not done so consider volunteering for any committee.
There will be no meeting in November; the Christmas Social will be on December 8 at Triple C Restaurant in Devine beginning at 11 am. More information will be posted on Facebook and by email.

PIRATES ARE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONS ONCE AGAIN!

Jacob Cantu, Diego Reyna, Adrian Reyna, Sebastian Garcia, Nathan Garza, Bryan Montes-Rodriguez and Jaden Castro present the trophy in front of the Lytle’s home crowd before the Pirates’ game against Crystal City.

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
Back-to-back!
The Lytle Pirate Cross Country team put a stamp on their claim to being one of the best if not the best Class 3A team from the state of Texas over the last several seasons. Multiple State appearances and now claiming the distinction of being back-to-back State Champs says a ton about the incredible successes of Head Coach Gilbert Ruiz’s squads over…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!

Warhorses make school history at State Cross Country Meet

Warhorse Cross Country runners Shawn Lowe, Urijah Velasquez, Zach Guerra, Brody Lane, Zane Fritz, Ryan Botello, and Jesus Cisneros pose in front of their team tent prior to State competition.

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
Devine High School Cross Country teams have had a history of success, but that success level reached never attained heights on November 1 in Round Rock as the Warhorses became the first team in its existence to run in the State Meet.
Head Coach Hannah Thompson, assistant coach Erica Squier, and runners Urijah Velasquez, Zach Guerra, Shawn Lowe, Ryan Botello, Brody Lane, Zane Fritz, and Jesus Cisneros hit the course at Old Settlers Park while standout runner Jake Riou was sidelined by an unfortunate injury during district competition. Daniel Ballesteros went…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!