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Board opts for “hard reset”

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ESD1 Chief Clint Cooke addresses the ESD2 board Thursday during the ESD2 special meeting to discuss contract negotiations. (Photo by Anton Riecher)

Negotiates with new group to provide fire dept. services in Devine

By Anton Riecher
Taking unanimous action, the Medina County Emergency Services District No. 4 board of commissioners voted Thursday to enter into contract negotiations with Castroville-based ESD No. 1 to take charge of managing local fire protection.
Board member Jerry Stevens said the vote was in keeping with his call for a “hard reset” in emergency response leadership.
“Something had to change,” Stevens said. “We had to look at doing things differently.”
On a motion by Abigail Beadle, seconded by Stevens, the board voted to negotiate a contract with ESD1 for no more than $900,000 annually. By choosing the ESD1 proposal, the board rejected a competing proposal by the volunteer fire department membership board to extend its current management contract.
ESD1 Chief Clint Cooke said he expects to have the final details for the contract in place within a week. ESD2 board president Todd Summers said a final contract would be presented at the regular monthly meeting Sept. 16.
ESD2 board member Ken Nighswander told the audience gathered for the meeting that choosing the ESD1 proposal was not only good for the community but for the firefighters.
“We feel we can bring this to a competitive level,” he said. “I think it’s going to help everyone.”
The vote also…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!

In Memory of Miss Mustang 1962….

A lifelong Mustang, businesswoman and cornerstone of the community July 1, 1945 – August 29, 2025

By Ruby Vera
How does one start to put into words how one person can effect and affect so many in a very short time on this earth. Well, Dianna was one of these type of people, always with that smile, making you feel like you were the most important person at that very moment you were speaking with her, and she was the first to be there for you – no matter what. I have tried to remember what all she brought to this community – during her school years, marriage, and as a business woman. There is not enough space to do her justice, but I am going to try.
Dianna, excelled in all she set her mind to do. A lifelong MUSTANG from the 1st grade to her graduation in 1963. She bled Blue and White. I am going to focus on her High School years – where she was a “A and A/B” student, and as a freshman made the Girls Basketball team – then called the “Palominos.” She was in the Future Homemakers of America; a Majorette in the Rancheretts (before there was a Mustang Band); and was Queen of the Fall Festival. This set a pattern of her involvement throughout the four years in High School. She was a class officer for three of her high school years; she was voted Miss Mustang in 1962; Senior Favorite 1963; FFA Sweetheart and so on and so on, One of her favorite things she loved to do was twirl a baton. In 1962 she joined the Brand New “Natalia Mustang Band under the direction of Mr. Richard Cortez and played the trumpet. Dianna was one of the original Majorette’s for the Natalia Mustang Band.
In addition to all her other school activities add – Editor of the School Newspaper “The Stirr-up”, homecoming Queen, and lettered all four years in Basketball and was Captain that year.
She then married Charles Brown Jr and went to work at “Brown’s Grocery”. I can still hear her voice when you called “ always so distinctive – almost like a “little song” and no matter who was calling – you could actually hear her smile over the phone. I don’t ever remember a time when Dianna was not at the store – even when she became a mom to Tiffany and Chuck. She was always there – from the time they opened until they closed.
Dianna will be missed by all of us – I just wish I could have told her before she passed into her Eternal Life, how very much she was loved by the entire community. Let this serve me as a reminder to let the folks who have brought so much into your life know “just how much they have done to bring a smile to your face and make your heart a little lighter.”

A trailblazerwith an “unwavering belief in justice”

Emilio and Alama enjoyed the rural country life, making their home on their ranch in Natalia, Texas. They enjoyed raising cattle, attending St. John Bosco Catholic Church and being a part of their church family and participating in community events.
Alma Lopez Cavazos of Natalia passed away on Monday, August 11 and is being remembered not only for her trailblazing career and service to her community, but for her kindness, strength, love for everyone, and unwavering belief in justice. She leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. She was laid to rest last weekend on Sunday, September 5th.
“Alma Lopez Cavazos was the very first Hispanic female elected Chief Justice of an Appellate Court in the United States. She lived here in Natalia with her husband Emilio Cavazos where they loved raising cattle, attending church, and being a part of the community of Natalia for the past 30 plus years”, said friend Ruby Vera. “I enjoyed working with her on her campaigns and admired her willingness to help those in need of advice anytime she was asked. She was a role model for all women and leader”.
“Alma was the first Municipal Court Judge to serve when the Natalia Police Department was formed in 1995,” said Vera. “She specialized in immigration and family law”.
Encouraged by her law school friend Frank Herrera, Alma pursued a judgeship. He secured a meeting with Governor Ann Richards resulting in Alma’s historic appointment in 1993 making her the first Hispanic woman to serve on the Fourth Court of Appeals and only the second in the United States to serve on an appellate court. She was later elected chief justice, becoming the first Hispanic woman to be elected chief justice of an appellate court in the United States and highest-ranking justice on the first all-female appeals court in the United States. She served with distinction until her retirement in 2008.
Alma Lopez Cavazos’ full history and service can be viewed on the obituary page.

You’re invited….BUST N BURN this weekend in Devine…

The 12th Annual DJ Carlson Memorial BUST N BURN will take place this Friday and Saturday, September 12&13 at The Farm, 2238 FM 2200 West, Devine just past the airport in memory of DJ Carlson.
New this year- a steak cooking contest on Friday with a first place winner and a local Champion, open to all competitors.
And a Kid’s Q cookoff for kinder through high school seniors on Saturday with a 4pm turn in time. Meat will be provided by the sponsor DCDC for the kids cookoff.
The public is welcome to join in on the weekend events with the purchase of a $10 cover charge wrist band (covers both days) feature a barbeque cook-off (State Championship Cook-off), a 12 station sporting clay shoot, corn hole tourney, and music.
Champions Barbeque Alliance State Championship Cook-off will feature chicken, ribs, brisket, and pork butt; with a $5000 Pay Out.
The 12 station registered sporting clay shoot always draws a lot of sponsors and teams and many awards and buckles are given including scholarships. A $1,000 YOUTH scholarship is given to the top male as well as the top female youth in the clay shoot! Plus many other buckles are won by kids in the various age groups. There is still space for teams in all categories.
Please tell all the kids you know that enjoy hunting to join in on the youth shoot. There are a lot of prizes and beautiful buckles.
Friday cookers arrive at 10 am and start setting up (5pm cook meeting, 7pm steak, 8pm Chef’s choice, 9 pm dessert). Cornhole registration starts at 6:15pm with a 8:00pm start time. Karaoke will liven up the night on Friday from 7-11 pm.
On Saturday shooter registration is at 8:00 am. Shoot will start after all teams are registered, shooters meeting and prayer.
Silent Auction tickets sold all day Saturday with winners drawn that evening after the awards and during the dancefeaturing the Matt Hawk Band from 8-12 midnight. Charlie Collins will open up the live music from 6-8 pm.
A $10 cover charge wrist band will cover both days.
Food will be available on Saturday and drinks, but BYOB both days.
The event will be hosted at The Farm, 2238 FM 2200 West, Devine, just past the Devine going towards Yancey.
To register for the BBQ contact Misty Stricker at 830-200-1015. To register for the clay shoot or any further question contact Shannon Frazier 210-471-1856 or Stacie Mann 210-410-4712 or Kelli Maxwell 979-219-1385.
For more details see bustnburn.com or their facebook account.

Huge Art show in Lytle Sept. 27

Do you have an interest in painting and/or drawing? Do you want to find a place to paint and draw with others with the same interests? Every Tuesday morning the Lytle Friendship Art Club meets from 09:30 until Noon at the Church of Christ located at 15340 Main Street Lytle, TX.
Additionally, we will hold our annual Art Show at the Lytle Community Center on September 27, 2025, and a food truck will be on the premises. Participants’ artwork will be on display, kicking off around 9am. Additionally, there will be an exhibit for high school students on display. Artists will also be showing and selling their fine art work and finely executed crafts. If you are a fine artist or create original crafts, please feel free to contact us at friendshipartclub@gmail.com. We also have a drawing to raise money for the Scholarships granted to deserving high school students who pursue their education and have proved their ability and love of visual art. Tickets will be sold before and during the show. Please call Jane Brown at 210-415-2546, for additional information.

Roberto Alvarado

Roberto Alvarado, born July 21, 1960, in San Antonio, Texas, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on August 8, 2025.
He is survived by his devoted mother, Maria Alvarado; his wife, Irma Alvarado; his daughter, Elizabeth; and his sons, Robert and Rodney Alvarado.
Roberto is also survived by his siblings Donna (Jose) Ortiz, Melissa (Frank) Gonzales, Tina (Freddie) Mendez, Michael (Irene) Alvarado, Leonard (Grace) Alvarado, Michael Angelo Alvarado, and Robert (Tiffany) Alvarado. He is also survived by extended family, lifelong friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his father Roberto Alvarado Sr., grandmother Michaela Sauceda, grandparents, Thomas and Cristina Alvarado, sister Graciela Alvarado, brother Rodney Alvarado, and his niece Lorraine Alvarado.
Roberto will always be remembered as a jokester, protector, and a passionate musician. He had a smile that welcomed everyone he met. He would buy donuts to make people’s day. He discovered his gift for drumming at the age of 15 and went on to perform with several bands over the years, including Los Immigrantes del Sur, Cielo Azul (which later became La Mafia), Pilo Salazar, Texas Tejas Band, Mysterio Band, Virgina y Sus Cuatro Copas, Liberty Band, and Freddy Fender. That is only a few to name.
His talents earned him recognition, and in August 2025, he was honored by the Tejano Legends Houston Chapter 9, receiving a certificate of Recognition and plaque for his musical contributions and lasting friendships in the Conjunto world.
These last few months were not easy. Roberto faced throat cancer, osteomyelitis in his spine, and long hospital stays. But through it all, he never gave up. He never complained. He never asked, “Why me?” He stayed gracious. He stayed funny. And he stayed grateful – especially to those who cared for him. When our mom asked him gently, “Are you okay?” He just smiled and said: “Hey, don’t worry about it.” His strength amazed those around him.
Even while battling two aggressive illnesses, he responded with humor, gratitude, and dignity. He was deeply appreciative of all the little things his daily, facility, and hospital staff did for him. His outlook was one of peace.
Roberto’s rhythm may have stopped here on Earth, but his music and spirit continue. We’ll carry you in our hearts – always.
Rest peacefully. We love you.

Billie Ruth Patteson Collins

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude that we announce the passing of Billie Ruth Patteson Collins, a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 30, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on February 19, 1939, Billie embodied a spirit of compassion and strength, firmly rooted in her faith and love for family.
A loving spirit, Billie poured her heart into creating a warm and welcoming home. She found joy in nurturing not just her family but also in caring for those around her, treating friends and neighbors like extended family. Her laughter and kindness uplifted all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Billie’s love for music was evident in the way she filled her home with the sounds of piano, violin, banjo, and guitar, enchanting her loved ones with melodies that resonated with joy and warmth. Her passion for singing brought light into many hearts and cherished moments shared with her family. She delighted in spending family get togethers playing volleyball with her children and grandchildren, each game a testament to her vibrant spirit and love for connection.
Her devotion to her family was unparalleled. She is survived by her beloved children, Darrell Mellene (Lou), Debbie Banks, Dorene Mellene, Brenda Mellene, Dennis Crouch (Tiffany), Denise Crouch; grandchildren Donna, Lanelle, Marty, Robert, Priscilla, Lyndsey, Jessica, Grant, Sarah, Dawson, Kaleb; great-grandchildren Tracy, Tammera, Alanah, Jayden, Matthew, Michael, Hayden, Jeremey, Kylee, Kyndel, Olivia, Sophie, Maricela, James, Faithlynn, Gracelynn, Hayden, Avery Layne, Cannon Wayne; sisters Willie Mae Mullins, Bobbie Nell Davidson. Each stood as a testament to her legacy of love, strength, and encouragement.
She is preceded in death by her parents Ada Mae and Hollin Boyd Patteson; husband Richard Collins; brothers Jimmy Patteson and Johnny Patteson; grandson Dalton Scott Crouch; great-grandson Carter Slae Mott.
Billie also had a special place in her heart for her cherished plants, much like she did for her family.
As we gather to honor her remarkable life, we invite you to join us for visitation on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 8:00 A.M. until service time at 12:00 P.M. at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas with interment to follow in Sand Brach cemetery.
Together, we will celebrate Billie’s life-a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, laughter, and the nurturing spirit she so generously shared.
Though Billie has departed from our midst, her memory will forever bloom in the hearts of those she touched. May her joyful melodies echo on and her legacy of love continue to inspire us all.

Dianna Lee Brown

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Dianna Lee Brown of Natalia, Texas. Dianna was born in Natalia, Texas, on July 1st, 1945, and passed away on August 29th, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas.
Dianna was one of a kind; sweet, loving, giving, and kind-hearted. She never had a bad word to say about anyone. To know her was to love her.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Doris and Doil Richardson, and father, Forrest Antrim, as well as her brothers, Gary Richardson and Woody Richardson.
Dianna is survived by her husband and best friend of sixty years, Charles Brown; daughter, Tiffany Brown; and son, Chuck Brown (Vanessa). She will be missed greatly by her five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, as well as multiple nieces, nephews, and friends.
Services will be held at Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas.
A public viewing will be held in her honor on Thursday, Sept 11, 2025, from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, with a Funeral Service on Friday, Sept 12, 2025, from 10:00 am – 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Moore Memorial Cemetery.
If you would like to express your condolences or share a memory, you may do so at www.primerosefuneralservices.com
Funeral Arrangements are under the care of Primrose Funeral Services in Devine, Texas. 303 West College Ave, Devine, Texas 78016

Alma Lamar Lopez Cavazos

Alma Lamar Lopez Cavazos, beloved wife, sister, aunt, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, August 11, 2025, with her loving husband by her side. She was born in Laredo, Texas on August 17, 1943 to Alejandro and Olivia Lopez. At a young age, Alma and her family moved to San Antonio, Texas, where she and her two sisters were lovingly raised.
At the age of five, Alma would accompany her father to nearby counties on election day to watch the political process, shenanigans, and political arguments that occurred during election days. Her exposure to the political environment at a young age would influence her career in politics. Her maternal grandmother urged her to be “la nunca vista” – something that’s never been seen before.
Alma excelled at Graebner Elementary and Burbank High School on the south side of San Antonio before continuing her education at San Antonio College and St. Mary’s University, where she earned a B.B.A. degree. Although her father hoped she would attend UT Austin for law school, Alma followed her own path and enrolled at St. Mary’s University School of Law, where she was one of just four women in the program.
After earning her doctorate in jurisprudence in 1968, Alma began her legal career working alongside Attorney Frank J. Green, where she gained experience in immigration law and further strengthened her Spanish language skills. She went on to establish her own private practice, specializing in immigration and family law for more than two decades.
Encouraged by her law school friend Frank Herrera, Alma pursued a judgeship. He secured a meeting with Governor Ann Richards resulting in Alma’s historic appointment in 1993 making her the first Hispanic woman to serve on the Fourth Court of Appeals and only the second in the United States to serve on an appellate court. She was later elected chief justice, becoming the first Hispanic woman to be elected chief justice of an appellate court in the United States and highest-ranking justice on the first all-female appeals court in the United States. She served with distinction until her retirement in 2008.
Alma’s legacy extended far beyond her judicial decisions. She broke barriers for Hispanic and other women in the legal profession. St. Mary’s University School of Law honors her contributions each year with the Alma L. Lopez Women in Leadership Award. Even in retirement, she remained active in the legal community, volunteering her time and advocating for women in law and for survivors of domestic violence.
Alma married the love of her life, Emilio Cavazos, on March 3, 1983. Their marriage was a true partnership, built on unwavering support, and deep affection for one another. Their bond was an inspiration to all who knew them.
Alma is preceded in death by her parents, Alejandro and Olivia Roach Lopez, her mother-in- law Guadalupe Cavazos, her aunt Suzanna “Susie” Garza, her uncle Daniel Garza, nephew Daniel Valero, her brothers-in-law Arthur Cavazos and Johnny Cavazos.
In addition to her husband, Emilio, she is survived by her sisters Sylvia “Syl” Valero and Sandra “Sandy” Nemic (husband – Theodore), daughter Elizabeth Cavazos (husband – Bryan Kersten), son Emiliano Cavazos (wife – Kathy), granddaughters Katie Roberts (husband – Brock) and Kelli Elrod (husband – Jimmy), nephews Vince Valero (wife – Jessica) and Mark Valero (wife – Letty), sister-in-law Sandra Cavazos Ayala (husband -Sam), brothers-in-law Bernie Cavazos (wife – Veronica) and George Cavazos (wife – Keke), sister-in-law Mary Cavazos, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Alma Lopez will be remembered not only for her trailblazing career and service to her community, but for her kindness, strength, love for everyone, and unwavering belief in justice. She leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Her funeral Mass was celebrated on Sunday, September 5, 2025 at Mission San Jose Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas and burial at Mission Burial Park South.

Melvin Edward Koehler, Jr.

Melvin Edward Koehler, Jr., lovingly known as Mel, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the age of 64. He was born September 16, 1960, in Brunswick, ME, to Melvin and Irene Koehler of San Antonio, Texas, who have preceded him in death.
Mel is survived by his brother Mack (Lisa) Koehler, sister Marjorie Koehler, and brother Michael Koehler. He is loved by his nieces, Amanda, Laci, and Skyra, and his nephew, William. He was also admired by his great nephews, Jack, Tanner, David, Brayden, Luke, Kai, Koehler, and Wade, along with one great niece, Cory.
Mel was a proud graduate of Stinson Vocational School through Harlandale ISD, class of 1983. It is there that he made his famous half-court shot at a basketball game that earned him the nickname “Ice Man” after George Gervin, amongst his classmates. After high school, Mel became a dedicated employee at Tex-Spice in Devine, Texas. He worked there diligently, packing and labeling spices for 30 years until he retired in 2013. After retirement, Mel enjoyed spending time at home, watching sports, and being with his family. Before his death, he was a resident of Pleasanton South Rehabilitation Home, where he looked forward to playing bingo with his friends.
Mel led a life filled with the love of his family and the love of sports. He was a simple man with a big heart and a plethora of knowledge of all things Dallas Cowboys. The loyalty he had didn’t end with his teams; it poured into all those who knew him and those who treated him with kindness. He never knew a stranger and was always up for a conversation about the upcoming games. His family is rejoicing knowing that he now has the best seat in the house for all his favorite sporting events.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hillcrest Funeral Home. A service will be held on September 19, 2025, at 9 am at 1281 Bandera Rd, San Antonio, TX, with a burial to follow at Mission South Cemetery, 1700 SE Military Dr, San Antonio, TX.