Last Monday, we got bout 2 tenths of an inch of rain. On Wednesday, we got the rest, another inch. Hallylouya! And as usual, we ask for more. The weather was cooperative in the sense that it did not rain while we were fixin up the road that we are paving. As a result, Ron Outlaw was dissatisfied with the dust that was created by traffic until we got the paving done. Then he was ok with it. Got his truck all dusty. It was coming up on his annual washing anyway. There were a couple of vacant seats at Commissioners Court with the Judge and Commissioner Sittre missing. For some reason, the meeting went faster. There was an item on the Agenda concerning the purchase of the Community National Bank and Hondo National Bank properties but, I suggested that we wait until the entire Court was present to vote on this item. We were introduced to our new Medina County Ag Agent. His name is Taryn Titsworth and he hails from Angelo State…not A&M. Did more vacating and replatting and found out that the new subdivision that was supposed to go in north of Hondo (in their ETJ) was denied. In many ways, this is a good thing. There was also some speed limit adjustments made and an area of CR 446 was voted to have “No Through Truck” signs posted to keep 18 wheel trucks off that section of roadway. By this Thursday, we should be finished with our 4.2 mile paving project and will move on to another smaller section of road that we need to resurface out towards Great Oaks off of CR 7711. I see that Devine has a new Councilman and both Propositions passed as a result of the latest election. Very poor showing in both instances. We have another election coming up soon…a State Senator runoff on May 24th. I hope we show up in better numbers. Satisfied with your government’s efforts to build back better yet? If not, show up and change the players….specially at the National level. We will start our 2022-23 Budget preparations on May the 17th at 9 AM in the Commissioners Courtroom in the Medina County Courthouse Annex. This is open to the public and basically is just a “State of the County” informational meeting. Keep praying for rain. Only 229 days till Christmas and 236 until there is a new Commissioner for Pct 4.
This month, so far has been a busy one. Like always the first week of the month was full of meetings, both in the day time and also in the evenings. I only missed one, so that’s pretty good. It was one of those things; I just didn’t feel like getting dressed and going out that evening. Last week Tuesday, we had our monthly Auxiliary meeting, after that, several of us went to our work shop and began working on tray favors for Father’s Day. As usual, it was a great group and we got a lot done, and when finished, we had lunch and it was my afternoon to work in our Gift Shop which was not busy at all. Since we’re having all sorts of interesting things going on with celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Hospital, I was asked if I minded stuffing envelopes, so I spent the rest of the afternoon doing just that, as well as part of Wednesday morning finishing up. When I got home and was cleaning house and doing laundry, my washer quit, so the blanket I was washing went to my sweet sister to finish getting clean, and being the honey she is, it came home Thursday, washed, dried and folded. The washer repairman came, as did a plumber and it was all straightened out. Saturday, my daughter and her little granddaughter came to visit me, brought me beautiful cards, plants and a wind chime. We had lunch and then went outdoors and played with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, (always bubbles at Granny’s house), and then went across the pasture to my brother’s stock pond (tank!) to go fishing, lots of giggles and laughter as two small catfish were caught and then back home for ice cream…this little great-granddaughter runs true to form…loves her ice cream, just like her late Papaw and all of her cousins! It was a totally awesome day for me and I think also for her. She has grown so much in the past three or four months, and chatters like a little magpie. This coming week will be busy also, as Thursday evening, there is a big program at our museum to celebrate 100 years of Healthcare in Yoakum, with live music, etc. Friday morning, the 13th we will be dedicating an oak tree that the Auxiliary has donated and planted in celebration of the anniversary. It will be a great program, with various speakers and City dignitaries being present. The hospital employees will be wearing special yellow t-shirts and all Auxiliary members are supposed to be present wearing our dress uniforms, with our pink jackets, white blouses, white pants and shoes. I think it will be pretty awesome! Afterwards, we will be serving cookies, punch and coffee, inside, by the gift shop. My only hope is that the weather will cooperate and be as beautiful as it has been all weekend. Sunday was a beautiful Mother’s Day, I went to early church as usual and came home, my friend came by bringing treats, and so, we had several different types of kolaches and doughnuts for breakfast and then got busy with a lot of book work pertaining to the 100th anniversary. She left; I heated up some leftovers for my lunch and then had a nice, long, nap! Now it’s time to get to work. It’s a little late to tell you much about Mother’s Day celebrations, because last week, I was so concentrated on Cinco de Mayo, that I didn’t realize that this Sunday was Mother’s Day, and it’s much earlier than usual this year. I hope as many as possible of you had a truly beautiful Mother’s Day with your loved ones. I’ve talked to several of my children, and received cards from several of the others, and of course that wonderful visit with that little great-granddaughter on Saturday. Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year and had its beginnings in Grafton, W. VA., and in the churches in Philadelphia the first time on May 10, 1908. This day, set aside for our Mothers, was started in response to a suggestion by Miss Anna Jarvis. By 1911, there was not a state in the nation that did not observe Mother’s Day. Leaflets were printed in ten different languages for use in various countries. In 1913, by a unanimous vote, The House of Representatives passed a resolution commending the observance of Mother’s Day and calling upon the President, his Cabinet, the Senators and Representatives and all officials of the Federal Government to wear a white carnation on the second Sunday of the month to observe Mother’s Day. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson, issued a proclamation officially designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day, and also directed that the U. S. Flag should be displayed on all public buildings on that day. Since that time, it has become a custom to wear white flowers (usually carnations) if your mother is deceased and red flowers if she is still living. It will soon be time to start thinking about salads and other lighter foods, so today here are a couple of really delicious chicken salads. Light Chicken Salad 3 or 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced 1 large Granny Smith apple, chopped* 2/3 cup finely diced celery 1/3 cup sweet pickle relish 1 cup toasted walnuts, chopped 2 to 3 tablespoons sunflower seeds Enough light mayonnaise to moisten Cook chicken breasts in water seasoned with salt and a small amount of onion and celery, cool until you can handle the meat, remove skin and bones and cut into small pieces. Wash the apple, and cut it up, and add to the chicken, add remaining ingredients along with enough light mayonnaise to moisten. Serve with crackers, Melba toast or bread rounds. Cut the apple into small pieces and place them in some 7UP to keep them from darkening. Lightly Spicy Chicken Salad 3 cups cooked, diced chicken, 4 sliced green onions, including tops ½ cup diced green bell pepper 1 avocado diced and tossed with lemon juice to prevent discoloration ½ cup bottled chili sauce (Hunt’s, DelMonte)** 4 tablespoons mild picante sauce ½ teaspoon dry mustard ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon chili powder Combine chicken, onions, bell pepper and avocado in mixing bowl. Combine chili sauce, picante sauce, dry mustard, black pepper and chili powder in a bowl and mix well. Pour over chicken mixture until coated thoroughly. Serve with tortilla chips. Garnish with additional avocados if desired.*Instead of all green bell pepper, you could use a combination, of bell pepper and mild fresh jalapeño peppers, this would make for a spicy dish. **This is found in the aisle with the ketchup and the store brand (if they have one) is OK also.
Today as we hit the ranch road, and I braced myself for some big bumps, the kids began laughing and chuckling and making noises like they were on a rollercoaster. In anticipation of each hole coming up, they shrieked, “Get ready! Here it comes!” And oh man, as we approached the cattle guard, they really got excited. They were making noises so funny and loud I couldn’t help but laugh and get into it. It kind of got me to thinking about lemons and lemonade. When life gives us lemons, they say, “make lemonade.” So when life gives us bumps, pretend like you are on a fun rollercoaster. I can remember when I turned 18 and went off to college in San Angelo, I felt so out of place. There were one way streets and smooth sailing roads, none of the familiar potholes of Devine. I remember actually writing an essay about it, because I kind of missed it. When I hit a pot hole, I know where I am. It’s always fun seeing life through the eyes of a child. Every little bump in the road is exactly what you want to make of it. You can groan, or you can make the best of it.
Anna Maria Contreras, age 67, of Devine, Texas, passed away on May 2, 2022, in San Antonio. Anna was born in Devine, Texas on March 16, 1955, to Felipa and Tomas Contreras. Anna is preceded in death by her parents: Tomas and Felipa Contreras; brother: Ramon Contreras; and sisters: Martha C. Morales, and Juanita Guzman. Anna is survived by her daughter: Rene Contreras; sisters: Petra Calvert, and Darlene Hernandez; brothers: Andres Contreras, and Joe Contreras (Imelda); goddaughter: Regina Reyes; and numerous nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., followed by recitation of the rosary at 9:00 a.m., and a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. at St. John Bosco Catholic Church. Services are under the direction of Hondo Funeral Home.
Shirley Jane Christiana, 86, of Devine passed away Friday, May 6, 2022, at her residence. Shirley is preceded by her husband, Nicholas Raymond Christiana Sr., parents, Hollis Reuben and Edith Guidry Temple, sisters, Marion Temple Lablanc, Dolores Butner. She is survived by her daughters, Josephine Harris (Michael), Shirley C. Hutson (David), Juanita Christiana, son, Nicholas Christiana Jr. (Christy), her faithful dog Toby, sister, Barbara Ann Barnhill, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Memorial services will be at a later date. Anyone who wishes to sign the online guest book, share memories, or leave condolences please visit www.hurleyfunerlahome.com Arrangements under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home, 303 W. College Ave, Devine, Tx. 78016, (830)663-4445.
Sophia Munoz Espinoza, age 75, passed away peacefully May 7th, 2022. She was born March 20th, 1947, in Devine, Tx to Jose and Maria Munoz. She later married the love of her life, Roberto Espinoza on May 14th, 1968. Sophia loved life and all that it offered her. She was a woman of strong faith, with a heart of gold. Her family and grandchildren meant the world to her. She loved playing bingo with friends and family, and her daily visits with her grandchildren. She enjoyed her phone calls with her sisters, or just cooking a hot meal for anyone that would stop by and visit. If you knew Sophia you would say she was the most generous, selfless, caring person. She extended her gracious love to anyone and everyone in need of it. “This is my commandment: love each other just as I have loved you”. John 15:12 Sophia is preceded in death by her father Jose Munoz, mother Maria Munoz, brothers Emilio Munoz, Ernesto Munoz, and Joe Munoz. Sophia is survived by her beloved husband Roberto Espinoza. Children Benito Espinoza and Michael Espinoza (Edna), sister Olivia Fraga (Rey), sister Mary Lou Aguilar (Robert), sister Rosalinda Peña (Luciano). Grandchildren Melissa Petry, Ashley Martinez, Jordan Martinez, Stephanie Espinoza, Amy Espinoza Jeffcoat (Mark), Christian Espinoza, Michael Ryan Espinoza, Laura Espinoza, Joseph Espinoza. Great Grandchildren Aiden Espinoza, Emmalee Espinoza, Wyatt Belor, Neveah Espinoza, Ezra Jeffcoat, Ava Jeffcoat, Avery Garza. Visitation will be Monday, May 16, 2022, from 2:00PM-9:00PM at the Hurley Funeral Home Devine Chapel with a Rosary being recited at 7:00PM. Services will conclude at the funeral home. Anyone who wishes to sign the online guest book, share memories, or leave condolences, please visit www.hurleyfuneralhome.com Arrangements under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home, 303W. College Ave., Devine, Tx. 78016, (830)663-4445
Rosemary Dingman, age 70 of Devine, Texas went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. She was born August 11, 1951, to parents, Roy Haskell Ferguson, Jr., and Mildred Obena Layton Ferguson, in Gastonia, North Carolina. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister-in-law, Kelly Ferguson; Aunt, Dorothy Nichols; Nephews, Jason Starnes and Trent Lovelace. Rosemary is survived by her husband of 43 years, Lester G. Dingman; children, Garrett Dingman and wife, Samantha, Donald Land, Jr. and wife, Lindsey; Heather Dingman, Matthew Dingman and wife, Kelly, Justin Dingman and wife, Crystal; daughter-in-law, Katresa Ray; Grandchildren, Amber, Blake, Austin, Nathan, Austyn, Justice, Nick, Dayton, Trenton, Jasmine, Alyssa, Evan, Madilyn, Gracelyn; twelve great-grandchildren; sister, Carolyn and husband, Steve Lovelace; brother, Roy Ferguson III; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Services were held Monday, May 9, 2022, with a fellowship at 1:00 P.M. and Celebration of Life starting at 2:00 P.M. at the Devine Christian Church, 1479 CR 5710, Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 665-9070. Floral arrangements were to be delivered to the Church. Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories, or sign the online guestbook may do so at www.hurleyfuneralhome.com
Sarah Amber Haass of San Antonio, Texas, was called home Thursday, May 5, 2022 at the age of 35. She will be missed by her survivors, parents Tim and Melba Haass of Devine, brother Tim Haass of Moore, Monica Lascano, and niece Bailee Mae Haass of Moore. The world lost a sweet soul who will be missed by many family members and friends. After graduating from Devine High school, Sarah worked several years for Hondo and San Antonio Police Departments, and was currently employed by Kahlig Auto Group, as Human Resources Coordinator. Sarah was a dedicated employee working full time while also earning her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M San Antonio. She was also completing her master’s degree from West Texas A&M University. Sarah had signed up to be an organ donor in 2011. She continues to make an impact on this earth with at least three positive matches from her donation. Memorial services will be held Thursday, May 12, 2022, at 11:00AM at the Hurley Funeral Home Chapel in Devine. Services will conclude at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Texas Organ Sharing Alliance. Anyone who wishes to sign the online guest book, share memories, or leave condolences please visit www.hurleyfuneralhome.com Arrangements under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home, 303 W. College Ave., Devine, Tx. 78016, (830)663-4445.
John is a very loving and kind 13 year old, who is competitive and loves to play basketball, football, & soccer. Along with his athletic ability, John is very friendly and makes friends wherever he goes, as he has a great sense of humor and enjoys making others laugh and smile. John is open to new adventures and opportunities, as he enjoys participating in a range of activities, ranging from riding his bike, running track, to taking part in Sunday school. John is seeking to become part of a loving and active family, who will encourage him to explore and develop his talents in sports and extracurricular activities. He will do well with a family who has other children or where he can be an only child; he also likes being around animals and will do well in a family with pets. If you think you could be John’s forever family or for another Texas child please contact the department at 1-800-233-3405, for more information about adoption or visit www.adoptchildren.org where the schedule of adoption information meeting for Texas are posted.
