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Past DHS Pep Squads, Cheerleaders, & Mascots to be honored at DExSTA Homecoming on Sept. 26-27!

Click here to see who is pictured above.

1974-75 DEVINE HIGH SCHOOL PEP SQUAD-CHEERLEADERS-MASCOT
Front Row, Cheerleaders: Cindy White, Nanci Jette, BeeJay Brown, Sybilla Irwin, Julie Outlaw, Karen Howard. 2nd Row: Renee Outlaw, Frances Pike, Tina Gallegos, Delia Moreno, Hilda Chavera, Lydia Gallegos, Lydia Perez, Ona DuBose, Mary Alexander. 3rd Row: Virginia Word, Cheryl Schott, Susie Campsey, Ola DuBose, Candy McPherson, Doris Ehlinger. 4th Row: Lorraine Velasquez, Dee Ann McClary, Rhonda Brown, Lora Neuman. 5th Row: Rebecca Macias, Julie Anderson, Connie Clawson, Nancy Smith. 6th Row: Rachel Macias, Blanca Coy, Brenda Stone, Elidia Villarreal. Top Row: Brenda DuBose, Iliana Coy, Mary Ellen Ehlinger, (Pep Squad Beau) Ray Pulido, Mascot Cindy Stehle, Susan Wilkins, Krista Irwin, Terri Caldwell. *picture from the 1975 Devine High School yearbook

All former Devine Cheerleaders, Mascots, and Pep Squad members are invited to this year’s Homecoming to be recognized and honored for their contributions to the Warhorse-Arabian & Colt–Filly Spirit when they led the student body and fans at DHS, DMS, and DJHS in cheering at Pep Rallies, Athletic games and numerous events during their school years in Devine! Their enthusiasm, dedication, and lots of time and hard work, built a tradition of DEVINE SPIRIT that still continues today!
*Please join us at the Homecoming football game on September 26th where you will be recognized from the stands at Warhorse Stadium, and again on Saturday, September 27th, at the VFW hall (old Green Alamo) at the annual DExSTA Homecoming Social starting at 1:00pm. You will be in great company with cheerleaders, mascots, and pep squad members from various years, and a group picture will be taken for the paper! For more information, see the Facebook page for the Devine Ex-Students Teachers Association, of contact DExSTA president, Nancy Saathoff at 210-289-6205.

Redistricting bill heads to Abbott’s desk

Both the Texas House and Senate have passed a mid-decade redistricting bill that positions the GOP to pick up five additional congressional seats next year. Passage came after House Democrats ended their quorum-breaking walkout while still vowing to pursue legal challenges.
The bill dismantles Democratic strongholds around Houston, Austin and Dallas and increases Republican challenges of also picking up seats in South Texas, The Texas Tribune reported.
In response, California lawmakers seeking to counter Texas’ redistricting move have approved a special election for their voters to consider a new congressional map that would likely add five Democratic seats in California.
“This fight is far from over,” Rep. Gene Wu of Houston, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, said after the map’s passage in that chamber. “Our best shot is in the courts. This part of the fight is over, but it is merely the first chapter.”
Roy joins crowded race to replace Paxton
U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, a fiscal conservative often critical of President Trump and his fellow Republicans, has entered the race to replace Ken Paxton as Texas attorney general, The Dallas Morning News reported.
“Texas is under assault – from open-border, radical leftists, and faceless foreign corporations that threaten our sovereignty, safety, and our way of life,” Roy wrote. “It’s time to draw a line in the sand.” 
Roy, R-Austin, is in his fourth term in Congress. He joins several other Republican candidates, including state Sens. Joan Huffman of Houston and Mayes Middleton of Galveston, as well as Aaron Reitz, a former deputy attorney general under Paxton. Democrats who have announced plans to run include state Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas and former Galveston mayor Joe Jaworski, who ran unsuccessfully for the post in 2022.
Paxton has announced plans to challenge incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn in the March 2026 GOP primary.
House passes six bills providing flood disaster relief
The Texas House passed six bills last week aimed at addressing disaster relief, emergency communications systems and preparedness. The bills are in response to the catastrophic Hill Country floods over the July 4th weekend. At least 137 people were killed, primarily in Kerr County, including 27 children and staffers from Camp Mystic on the banks of the Guadalupe River.
The News reported the measures include a requirement that youth camps develop emergency management plans and submit them to the state. Legislation also calls for establishing the Texas Interoperability Council, which would create structure and grant programs for multiple agencies to communicate and coordinate on single disasters. That would include hurricanes and mass shootings.
One of the bill’s sponsors, state Rep. Drew Darby, R-San Angelo, spoke surrounded by a bipartisan group of lawmakers.
“When I speak on this bill, for this bill, I hope I’m not just speaking for myself, but for the lost children, the grieving families who have called us, met with us and shared their heartbreak and grief with us,” Darby said.
Former speaker Dade Phelan won’t seek reelection
Former Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, announced he would not seek reelection following a failed intra-party attempt to defeat him in the 2024 election and his subsequent stepping down as speaker. The Houston Chronicle reported Phelan served his district since 2015 and assumed the speakership in 2021.
In a statement, Phelan wrote on Facebook that “leading the House required tough choices, but I sought to chart a course inspired by the values we share in Southeast Texas. Looking ahead I will seek God’s path in mapping out my next chapter.”
Both Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Paxton backed Phelan’s primary opponent in 2024, following Paxton’s impeachment in the House while Phelan was speaker. Paxton was acquitted in the Senate. His successor as speaker, state Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, praised him.
“Dade is more than a colleague — He is a treasure to Southeast Texas, to the Texas House, and to the great Lone Star State,” Burrows said on social media.
Judge blocks law requiring Ten Commandments in classrooms
A San Antonio federal judge has temporarily blocked a Texas law that would require public schools to post the Ten Commandments in every classroom, the Chronicle reported. The suit was filed by a group of families who claimed the posting would potentially harm their children’s religious development.
“Ultimately, in matters of conscience, faith, beliefs and the soul, most people are Garbo-esque,” U.S. District Judge Fred Biery wrote, referencing a line from actress Greta Garbo in a 1932 movie. “They just want to be left alone, neither proselytized nor ostracized, including what occurs to their children in government-run schools.”
Paxton, whose office represented most of the school districts named in the suit, said he planned to appeal the ruling.
“The Ten Commandments are a cornerstone of our moral and legal heritage, and their presence in classrooms serves as a reminder of the values that guide responsible citizenship,” Paxton said in a statement.
Audit finds problems with winterizing energy grid
A new report from the State Auditor’s Office concludes that state oil and gas inspectors are not doing their job to adequately verify that Texas natural gas producers and their delivery systems can hold up under severe winter storms, according to the Texas Standard.
Since Winter Storm Uri in 2021 left much of the state’s power grid paralyzed, the Railroad Commission has been tasked by law with ensuring all parts of the gas supply chain to power plants can operate adequately in severe winter weather. However, the audit concluded that current rules allow gas companies to decide for themselves what is considered adequate winterization. Of 8,732 inspections conducted by the RRC in 2024 and 2025 winter seasons, only two violations were issued.
“The Commission stated that it relies on facility operators to determine which weatherization measures are needed and whether those measures are sufficient for that facility,” auditors found. “It did not compare facilities’ actual weatherization methods to the Commission’s best practices.”
The commission contends the low number of violations reflects the “successful implementation” of the legislation passed after Uri.
Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

Local Police Report

Natalia Police Report

08/18 – Officer responded to the 500 block of 4th street for a report of a rolling disturbance possibly shooting at each other. Responding officers found no evidence nor anything leading to a possible suspect(s).
08/18 – Officers responded to the 200 block of 5th street for an illegal dumping report. Arriving officer found that the items placed in an alley were being stored there temporarily by an adjacent neighbor.
08/19 – During a brief powerful storm officer responded to a citywide call for down trees and power. Officers coordinated with the electric company and County Emergency Management to restore normalcy in the city. There were no reports of any physical injury.
08/23 – Officer responded to the 400 block of County Road 6844 to assist Medina County Sheriff’s Deputy with a violent suspect. Upon the officers arrival other units from other agencies were already there so the officer stood by.
08/24 – Officers responded to a found property call near the 100 block of 4th street E. Upon arrival officers spoke with a citizen who found a bank card. Officers located the owner and returned the back card.
08/25 – Officers responded to the 100 Block of 4th street for a cell phone 911 hang-up call. Officers searched the area and spoke to several residents. Officer did not locate anyone to n distress or needing police services.

Devine Police Report

August 15
4:53AM – Complainant on Wilson Dr. called regarding an open car door on a white Dodge Durango. Officer made contact with owner; no missing objects.
17:47PM – Complainant on IH 35 S advised 18 wheeler was blocking parking area. Vehicle was moved.
21:10PM – Complainant on Teel Dr stated vehicles were at location playing loud music and reving engines. All was okay; made contact with event coordinator.
August 16
5:30AM – Complainant called in reference to heavy rain causing flooding underneath train trestle. On call city worker was notified.
11:04AM – Complainant on Mockingbird Ln called in reference to open door at residence. All okay, owners clearing out the house.
14:57PM – Officer responded to a minor accident on IH 35 S.
19:48PM – Complainant on Sayers Dr wanted to document ex-husband placing tracking device in her vehicle. Case under investigation.
August 17
7:40AM – Complainant on Upson Drive reported damage to building (window) and plywood was removed.
23:35PM – Complainant on Colonial Pkwy reported Hispanic male in orange shirt/blue jeans on street out front of residence acting suspicious. Subject identified by police and released to a family member.
August 18
2:15AM – Complainant on Warhorse Dr called in reference to two males at location, possibly throwing rocks and playing music loud. Individuals were working out; music was turned down.
11:35AM – Complainant on IH 35 S called in reference to a male that was assaulted by another male in front of the store. Charges pending.
13:26PM – Complainant on Wedgewood Way reported a disturbance – father-in-law was disputing with contractors.
15:18PM – Complainant on SH 132 reported work truck had all four tires slashed.
15:52PM – Officer responded to a minor accident on SH 132.
16:19PM – Late entry – minor accident on Wedgewood Way occurred at 1326 hours.
August 19
9:18AM – Complainant on Teel Dr wanted to report suspicious vehicle going by area after 2200 hours. Vehicle was located later; all okay.
9:27AM – Officer dispatched to Hondo Ave for minor accident. Vehicle was hit by another vehicle that took off. Vehicle was later located by officer and insurance information was obtained.
10:23AM – Male complainant on IH 35 S reported to store employee that his vehicle was stolen. Vehicle was located in parking lot by officer; complainant and vehicle reunited.
14:26PM – Complainant on Hondo Ave called in reference to suspicious activity regarding AEP vehicles and possible employees.
16:47PM – Officer assisted other agency with power outages on 7th St. Power lines down on homes and vehicles. Assisted in evacuating homes.
19:17PM – Complainant on Wilson Dr reported dog was stolen from backyard between 1000 – 1900 hours.
21:12PM – Complainant on Teel Dr called in reference to disturbance between two females by gas pumps. Parties departed prior to officer’s arrival. Other people on location couldn’t provide any information.
August 20
0:20AM – Complainant on IH 35 S called in reference to person in parking lot possibly looking into car windows. Located males in parking lot; departed location.
6:00AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave called in reference to individuals sleeping on side of building. Officer made contact with key holder who stated he was aware and did not mind them being there. Officer advised to call PD should any issue arise.
11:08AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave reported 17 year old male with THC vape (Narcotics offense). Subejct released to father.
12:55PM – Complainant on Hondo Ave reported lost brown men’s wallet.
12:58PM – Officer assisted 18 wheeler having issues in roadway of Hondo Ave.
16:28PM – Complainant on IH 35 NB reported 18 wheeler driving recklessly and unable to maintain lanes. Unable to locate.
19:45PM – Complainant on Bright Ave. called in reference to ex-boyfriend harassing her.
19:45PM – Officer booked male subject on Bright Ave. for intoxication into MCSO jail.
August 21
7:45AM – Officer observed male subject walking in roadway on Hondo Ave. Asked him to relocate to side.
7:55AM – Officer dispatched to Hickory Hwy for verbal disturbance. Son arguing with mom; parties separated.
10:51AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave reported suspicious vehicle with on occupant. All okay.
11:51AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave called in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Vehicle towed by business.
11:51AM – Officer dispatched to four corners for a minor accident.
22:45PM – MCSO called regarding a stolen plate on a Honda odyssey. Vehicle towed to Friendly Glenn’s Towing and TXLP placed in evidence locker.

Lytle Police Report

Monday, August 18
12:24 AM – 200 Blk. FM 3175 – Officers initiated a traffic stop for a defective headlight, which resulted in the citation and release of an 18 year old male for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
7:55 AM – 15000 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to the location for a suspicious male but was unable to locate the male who was reported to be watching the daycare.
12:00 PM – Lytle PD – Officer seized a $50 fake bill received as payment for food delivery in San Antonio.
3:46 PM – Saddle Ridge Blvd. @ Doc Holiday – Officer responded to a two-vehicle injury accident.
7:20 PM – 15400 Blk. Cottage St. – Officer responded to a report of suspicious activity but could not locate the vehicle.
9:00 PM – 14800 Blk. Harbour St. – Officers responded for a civil standby regarding a property exchange.
Tuesday, August 19
12:08 AM – 14400 Blk. Main St. – Officers initiated a traffic stop for an unreadable license plate, which resulted in the arrest of a 44 year oldmale for possession of a controlled substance. Subject was booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
7:19 AM – FM 3175 @ IH 35 Frontage Rd. – Officer responded to a report of an accident where the vehicles exchanged information.
4:06 PM – Lytle PD – Officer received a phone call regarding the above accident that occurred at 7:19 AM.
4:17 PM – 20000 Blk. Huckleberry St. – Officers responded to check on juveniles dropped off by the school bus. Everything was okay.
4:57 PM – 19700 Blk. IH 35 – Officer responded to an active alarm. The business was secure.
4:58 PM – 14900 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to a verbal disturbance.
7:27 PM – Railroad St. @ N. Somerset St. – Officers initiated a traffic stop for an expired motor vehicle registration, which resulted in the citation and release of a 22 year ole male for possession of drug paraphernalia.
10:45 PM – Main St. @ Bank St. – Officer provided traffic control for a disabled vehicle.
Wednesday, August 20
7:26 AM – Lytle PD – Officer opened an investigation.
7:35 AM – 14900 Blk. Lytle-Somerset – St. Officers assisted with two stray dogs.
8:30 AM – Lytle PD – Officer fingerprinted a female for employment purposes.
10:00 AM – IH 35 NB @ McDonald St. – Officer received a phone call regarding a homeless male walking in the lanes of the roadway.
2:55 PM – Lytle PD – Officer released property to the father of a jailed subject.
3:10 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer received a credit card found in the parking lot of the HEB.
3:17 PM – 20200 Blk. FM 3175 – Officer received a complaint regarding the trucks exiting the truck stop.
6:33 PM – 2200 Blk. FM 2790 – Officer assisted a stranded motorist with a ride to the gas station and back to his vehicle.
11:40 PM – Lytle PD – Officer was notified by a citizen about sleeping in his vehicle at a local fuel station.
Thursday, August 21
9:00 AM – Lytle PD – Officer obtained a written statement about an open investigation.
10:05 AM – Lytle PD – Officer was notified about a sexual assault that occurred in Bexar County. Officer stood by with the victim at the PD until Bexar County Sheriff’s Investigators arrived.
1:43 PM – Assist EMS – Atascosa County – 20200 Blk. FM 3175 – Officers were dispatched for an unresponsive female. The female was transported by EMS.
2:31 PM – Lytle PD – Officer was contacted about a neighbor dispute about yard trimmings.
4:21 PM – 14600 Blk. Main Street –Officer responded to an alarm call; the building was undergoing maintenance.
4:40 PM – 15000 Blk. Adams Street – Officer contacted a construction company filling their water truck with water from a Fire Hydrant.
5:40 PM – 14500 Blk. Chance Blvd. – Officer conducted a follow-up with the homeowner in reference to a civil matter.
10:10 PM –– Laredo Street @ N. Somerset Street – Traffic stop for no signal light resulted in the citation and release of a 21 year old male for possession of drug paraphernalia.
11:23 PM –– 63000 Blk of Cortez Street – Officer was dispatched for report of an unknown male banging on a house. Officers were unable to locate the male.
Friday, August 22
3:40 AM – Benton City Water – Officer assisted Atascosa County Sherriff’s Office with an active business alarm. The building was secure.
4:09 AM – 15400 Blk. Cottage Street – Officer was contacted about harassing phone calls.
11:30 AM – Adams Street @ Pine Street – Officer contacted a construction company filling their water truck with water from a Fire Hydrant.
3:32 PM – 19300 Blk. of McDonald Street – Welfare Check resulted in the citation and release of an 18 year old male driver and an 18 year old female passenger for possession of drug paraphernalia.
Saturday, August 23
1:01 AM – IH-35 Frontage @ McDonald Street – Officers were dispatched in reference to a reckless driver.
2:55 AM – 19525 McDonald Street – Officer conducted a welfare check on a male asleep in his vehicle.
4:45 PM – Assist Medina Co. – 200 Blk. of County Road 6842 – Lytle PD was dispatched to assist Medina County with a disturbance involving a Deputy being charged at with a brick.
6:01 PM – Lytle PD – Officer received a phone call about a civil matter – child custody.
6:45 PM – 14400 Blk of Main Street – Officer assisted with a vehicle unlock of a 2006 Chrysler 300.
10:08 PM – 19500 Blk. McDonald Street – Officer contacted a male who left his vehicle at the gas station with the windows down. The male was located at a nearby intersection who stated the vehicle had broken down.
Sunday, August 24
4:00 AM – 14900 Blk. of Main Street – Officer assisted Bexar County Sherriff’s Office with a welfare check on a Lytle resident after they found his vehicle wrecked and unoccupied in a ditch. Contact was made with the owner.
8:02 AM – 14830 Lytle-Somerset Street – Officer was dispatched for a minor two-vehicle accident.
2:22 PM – Main St @ Somerset St – Officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle due to the driver having an active Lytle PD warrant. A 51 year old male was arrested on the active Lytle PD warrant for Disorderly Conduct related to 251280 and booked into the ACSO Jail.
6:26 PM – IH 35 @ FM 3175 – Officer assisted with directing traffic due to an 18-wheeler being disabled in the roadway.
9:05 PM – 20000 Blk. Hyde Park – Officer responded to the area for the report of a suspicious vehicle. The officer was unable to locate.
9:18 PM – McDonald St @ Main St – Officer conducted a traffic stop on a motorcycle for a defective tail lamp. During the stop, the Officer determined the TXLDP displayed on the motorcycle did not belong to it. The LP was seized.

Burger in a bag fundraiser for Flood victims Aug. 23

Mickey Myers is organizing a Burger in a Bag fundraiser to benefit those affected by the horrific flooding in the Hill Country.
The burgers with trimmings, chips and bottle of water or soda will be $9. It will be held August 23 at 3 pm until sold out.
Fundraiser organizers at Foxy’s Bar are looking for donations of silent auction items, raffle items, burgers, chips, sodas, brown bags, and to go boxes. Message the Foxy’s Facebook page or come by to donate or to sign up to help.
Specifically this fundraiser will benefit the Together for Texas charity whose mission can be seen at the following link: https://give.salvationarmytexas.org/campaign/703236/donate

Cassandra Maldonado hired as the new Devine Municipal Court Clerk

The City of Devine hired Cassandra Maldonado as the new Municipal Court Clerk. Maldonado worked for the City of Devine from 2015 to 2020 before crossing the creek and taking a job at the City of Hondo. Welcome back Cassandra!
“I was raised in Devine, attended Devine ISD and graduated top 10% in 2004. In 2019, I graduated Cum Laude from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice, “ said Cassandra Maldonado.
“I have 19 years of City Government experience most of that being in the Municipal Court Department, however, I also have extensive knowledge of Utilities, Finance and Administration departments as well.
“I have a track record of success, and am poised to continue contributing to organizational success and efficiency as a dedicated Court Administrator for the City of Devine,” said Maldonado.

Sophia Benavidez hired as new Finance Director for City of Devine

The City of Devine announced the hiring of Sophia Benavidez as the new Finance Director. Benavidez is originally from Del Rio, Texas.
“Sofia resides in Devine, and brings a unique skill set with banking, business, and nonprofit organization experience. She will be trained and mentored by a certified Government Finance Officer that has over 30 years municipal finance experience.  We are excited to add Sofia to our team!,” said David Jordan, City Administrator.
“I bring an extensive background in banking, financial services, and business management, with a strong foundation in strategic planning, fiscal oversight, and operational leadership,” said Benavidez.
“Prior to this new role, I had the privilege of serving our community through my work with the Devine Volunteer Fire Department, where I supported both administrative and financial operations. This new chapter is more than a professional milestone—it’s an opportunity to continue serving the city with transparency, accountability, and a long-term vision for financial health. I’m honored to be part of Devine’s future,” Benavidez said.

St. Louis Day Festival Aug.24

Kicks off with Biergarten Aug. 23

As has happened for the last 143 years, the famed St. Louis Day Celebration will again open the gates to visitors from all over the state. Dubbed years ago, by the Texas Tourist Agency as “The Homecoming for the State of Texas,” the giant festival will again serve tons of barbecued beef, Alsatian style sausage, and food, drink, music, games and fun all day long for friends who make the trip each year to historic Castroville. According to the Visitors Center guest book, the last few years have attracted visitors from more than 100 Texas towns and cities, 17 different states, and 14 countries. In only its 14th year on the shady Koenig Park grounds is one of fastest growing and most popular attractions: The St. Louis Day Biergarten.
According to Frankie Kempf, Asst. Publicity Director, the Biergarten idea was born, appropriately enough, by a couple of parishioners sitting around a “kegerator” reminiscing about the fond memories of St. Louis Days gone by. The idea was presented to the general chairmen to have a Saturday evening biergarten party who then decided to give it a try, and now it hosts a huge crowd of visitors on Saturday evening the night before the actual celebration. So on August 23 at 6:30 p.m., the Super Saturday Biergarten Party will serve ice cold draught beer, wine, other refreshments and food, and live music for those who will make a weekend out of St. Louis Day. The Boardwalk games will be open for children Saturday night and the adults can enjoy the large Silent Auction, St. Louis Downs and the famous washer pitch and cornhole tournaments. Succulent all beef hot dogs, known as Sarge’s St. Louie Red Hots, pulled pork sandwiches and piping hot nachos will be served for guests as well. Also back by popular demand will be the giant pizza served by Dirt Road Cookers. As in previous years, the gala will be held under nature’s tent beneath the shady canopy of the park where party-goers will be able to spread out and do what is supposed to happen at a homecoming—visit with old friends and make new ones. Plenty of seating is available for those who wish to get off their feet, and it is not unusual to see guests bring their own lawn chairs and relax the night away to good music, ice cold beer and great conversation.
According to Biergarten entertainment chairman, Duane Garza, the Saturday night featured entertainers this year will kick off with a great local favorite Bret Mullins Band at 6:30 p.m. Texas Tempo, another great local favorite, will follow at 8:30 and dazzle the crowd with spectacular guitar and vocal talent until 11 p.m. Sunday, August 24, is the actual festival day when thousands of visitors will flock to “The Little Alsace of Texas.”
Besides the amazing BBQ plate, the day will be jam-packed with entertainment at two different venues on the grounds including the Biergarten Stage and the ever-popular Riverside Stage. Featured talent and bands this year include Fire on the Mountain Cloggers, the Alsatian Dancers of Texas, the Alamo City Community Marching Band, mariachis, local favorites Julie Guinther & Michele Mangold, and local Medina Valley High School senior and parishioner Chas Boehme will wow the crowd with his talents for the first time. Taking the stage at 3:30 will be the ever-so-talented Weston Ripps Band followed by crowd pleasers Jordan Gauna and The Yancey Highway Band. In addition, there will be the popular games for young and old including the popular bingo pavilion. Our Plant Booth and Just Treasures will provide great deals for visitors who like to shop. The spacious air-conditioned hall will house one of the best and biggest silent auctions along with the Country Store featuring homemade and canned items. This year will mark the 27th year of the extremely popular St. Louis Downs “Horseracing Track,” where another lucky person will have his or her name added to the Futurity Champions Wall of Fame. If a lucky volunteer would like to cool off, the popular ice bucket challenge will provide that opportunity as well.
It’s a perfect time to make a weekend visit to historic Castroville and the St. Louis Day celebration August 23-24. For more information visit www.saintlouisday.com or like St. Louis Day on facebook.

Decision pending on future provider of Devine area fire services contract

Two proposals that could determine the future of Devine Volunteer Fire & Rescue were laid before the public Aug. 12 during an open hearing conducted by the Medina County Emergency Services District No. 2, governing the finances of fire protection locally.
One proposal, presented by Clint Cooke, Chief of Medina County ESD 1, calls for that agency to assume direct responsibility for DVF&R operations. ESD1 would replace the DVF&R Volunteer Fire Board which currently handles fire department management.
Cooke said the situation that Devine finds itself in regarding recent fire protection controversies is nothing new to Texas communities.
“This has happened over and over across the state,” Cooke said.
The second proposal regarding DVF&R’s future, presented by Eric Quintanilla, new president of the volunteer fire board, presented plans for organization restructuring in what he referred to as “a hard reset.”
“I’ve had two weeks to really try to unpack a lot of things,” he said. “There are a lot of things that I saw where things could very much be improved.”
Complete video coverage of the public hearing is posted on the Devine News YouTube channel.
Recent improprieties haunting DVF&R include more than $76,000 in missing department funds and management issues.
The ESD2 board authorized…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!

22 from The DLC graduating Class of 2025 of Devine ISD received diploma

By Kathleen Calame
Publisher
Twenty- two students earned their high school diplomas Monday night, August 18 from Devine ISD through the, Devine Learning Academy, designed to convenience students who need just a few more credits to graduate because “life happened” and they didn’t get the chance to finish until now.
When JodiAnn Dzierzanowski met new superintendent at the time, Todd Grandjean, back in 2019/2020 about establishing the program to help students who were just a few credits short of completing their education, she knew she had her work cut out for her and her staff. She designed the academy which now thrives and helps so many students find success and inspires them to go on to more education or jobs.
Without a high school diploma, it hinders the youth from many job opportunities and careers. It has been a win-win for all involved. Over 84 students have accomplished the goal of getting a high school diploma with the alternate program that requires only a few hours a week and has a staff to help them achieve it. The biggest class so far was 2024 at 22 graduates, and 21 this year.
The current semester (2025-2026), the DLC has 15 students in the morning and 15 different ones in the afternoon, totaling 30 students looking to complete their diplomas. And a waiting list.
“I stand here before you today with a group of inspiring young men and women who can bring to mind only one word…perseverance. I have known these students for many years. I have seen them grow from being young teenagers to young adults. Along the way, they have tried, fallen, pulled up their boot strings and tried again, more than once. All of these students had made it to the senior year in high school with a few lost credits along the way…when… what I like to say is “life happened” and again it got them off track. So close. With this opportunity given by both Dr. Grandjean and the Members of the Board, All these students picked themselves up once again and persevered! Mrs. Brenda Kilpatrick, Mr. Zachary Robles and I are so proud of them and all so honored to have been able to work with them. Welcome to the Graduation ceremonies of the Fall class of 2025,” said Jodi Dzierzanowski, Devine Learning Center, DAEP Principal and Truancy Prevention Coordinator.
CERTIFICATION OF THE CLASS – “On behalf of the staff of Devine Learning Center, we wish the Fall class of 2025 congratulations and continued success in your future.”
“Dr. Grandjean, President Pepper, members of the Devine I.S.D. school board I certify that the Fall of 2025 of Devine Learning Center has met the graduation requirements as mandated in board policy and the state of Texas to participate in this commencement ceremony,” said Dzierzanowski.
Presenting the Summer 2025 Graduates:
Manuel Ralph Aguilar, son of Bianca Rodriguez.
Javier Alejandro Baltazar Castellanos, son of Erica Baltazar Omaz and is a TRAP Music Artist.
Kenneth Lee Byers III, son of Kenneth Lee Byers Jr and Julia Anna Byers.
Xavier Eduardo Calvillo-Morales, grandson of Pedro and Amelia Morales and plans to attend UTSA.
Raymond Gerald Desalme, son of Pablo and Betty Salazar, will be attending Pima Medical Institute for Radiology.
Venancio Eufracio Zamora, son of Venancio and Dora Eufracio and is working for a welding company.
Alexa Sade Garrido, daughter of Carmen and Maykoll Garrido and will be attending Palo Alto for Criminal Justice Forensic Science.
Jathaniel Hidalgo Garza, son of Jesus Garza and plans on going to college for Criminal Justice/Forensic Science.
Jayden Marie George, daughter of Anthony and Robin George will be attending Southern Careers Institute for ART.
Aciel Gonzalez Reyes, son of Yonelis Reyes, plans to be an Aviation Mechanic Apprentice.
Jacob Edward Guajardo, son of Mario and Marisol Guajardo.
Joanni Marie Hyzer, daughter of Robert and Mary Reichel, will be attending college to be a Pre-K teacher/Special Ed.
Luis Daniel Jimenez, son of Rosalinda Jimenez and John Basaldua, joined the military.
Sumner Glenn Leggitt, son of Scott and Sara Leggitt, plans to be a Texas A&M Certified Safety and Health Official.
Jacob Cardenas Lomas, son of Ufemia and Evlio Lomas and stepson of Jacob Gutierrez.
Jessalin Rose Culver, adopted daughter of Chris and Melanie Culver, will be attending college to be a therapist.
Nickalous Joseph Macias, son of Yolanda Luna and Richard Macias.
Jocelyn Danielle Plemmons, daughter of David and Cindy Plemmons, will be studying to be a dental assistant.
Diamond Alexis Sanchez Cantu, daughter of Oscar and Violet Cantu.
Deisy Crystal Ramirez Cabrera, daughter of Lluvia Cabrera, plans to attend a Cosmetology trade school.
Jorge Alberto Silva Castillo, son of Noeyda Castillo and Leonardo Reteria, is working on a ranch.
Diego Adrian Valdez, son of Melaine and Bobby Valdez Sr., has a job waiting at Toyota once he turns 18.

BBQ benefit forIglesias family Aug. 30

Family, friends, and the community are invited to support one of our neighbors who is going through a hard time. Gilbert Iglesias, of Devine, has been hospitalized for several months and underwent heart surgery. There were many complications that eventually led to amputation of both of his legs.
The BBQ plate fundraiser will be August 30 at 3. See ad for more details.
Fundraiser organizers at Foxy’s Bar are looking for donations of silent auction items, raffle items, briskets, sausages, chips, sodas, brown