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Warhorse Dirty Dozen areArea Champs! 11 move on to Regional

Warhorse Mikey Rodriguez (right) and Ryan Weinkam (left) will both take their relay teams to the regional track meet in Kingsville after their stellar performances at the area meet in Jourdanton. Photo by Moose Lopez.

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
Twelve Warhorse athletes combined for 129 points to defeat runner-up Floresville (107) to capture the Area Track and Field Championship on April 16 in Cuero.
Devine narrowly defeated the Tigers just a couple of weeks ago by two points to win District 27-4A but left little doubt this time around who was the best overall team from combined districts 27-4A and 28-4A.
Rowdy Esparza, Mikey Rodriguez, Karter Brown, Zach Guerra, Ryan Weinkam, and Jonathan Cantu were all gold medalists in their respective events while silver medalists included Cantu, Weinkam, Lucas Hudson, Esai Sanchez, and Bo Wheeler.
Earning bronze were Hall, Esparza, Sanchez, Weinkam while Brody Lane, and Tanner Davis also added points to the area-champion 129-point total.
Regional Qualifiers
Individual event regional qualifiers were Rowdy Esparza in 400m, Long Jump, and Triple Jump, Mikey Rodriguez in 110m and 300m hurdles, Karter Brown in Shot Put, Bo Wheeler in High Jump, Enoch Hall in 100m, and Brody Lane in 300m Hurdles.
All three relay teams qualified led by the mile relay champion foursome of Zach Guerra, Ryan Weinkam, Jonathan Cantu, and Esparza, the runner-up 800m squad of Cantu, Lucas Hudson, Esai Sanchez, and Weinkam, and the third place 400m tandem of Hall, Esparza, Sanchez, and Weinkam.
Alternates include…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!

Devine FCCLA will send 3 teams to Nationals!

Above is 2nd place team, Catherine Brown and Kayla Dzierzanowski, who will compete at Nationals in the Public Policy Advocate, Level 2 event.

Devine FCCLA attended the State Conference in Dallas, Texas, April 9 – 11, 2026. Four hundred chapters from Texas registered to attend, with 3,300 participants. Devine FCCLA took 10 teams to compete in the STAR (Students Taking Action for Recognition) events. Seven of those teams placed in the Top 5, and three of those teams will advance to the National FCCLA Conference in Washington, D.C., in July to compete.
Results are as follows:
National Qualifiers (1st and 2nd place)
1st place: Kelvey Cortez and Isabella Gonzales, Interpersonal Communications, Level 1
2nd place: Kamden Paige, Leadership, Level 2
2nd place: Catherine Brown and Kayla Dzierzanowski, Public Policy Advocate, Level 2
Other Top 5 teams:
4th place: Paige Barron and McKailee Sorrell, Focus on Children, Level 3
5th place: Melenie Cardenas, Esteban Mendoza, and Margarita Vizcarra, Interpersonal Communications, Level 3
5th place: Amy Outlaw and Myla Sorrell, National Programs in Action, Level 2
5th place: Briana Balderrama and Angeliana Rendon-Zapata, Professional Presentation, Level 3
Others competing at the State conference:
Prezley Freeburn and Olivia Taylor, Focus on Children, Level 2
Nayelii Munoz and Collier Paige, Interpersonal Communications, Level 2
Jillian Brumage and Rubie Weyel, Professional Presentation, Level 2
Michael Gomez, the current Devine High School principal and a former Devine FCCLA officer, supported our students by volunteering as an evaluator to ensure the state conference’s success. Former Devine FCCLA advisers Korrey Paige and Madeline Steubing also volunteered many hours to help teams with their projects. The team members and Mrs. Outlaw thank all of them for their help!

In the center is Kamden Paige, took 2nd place in Leadership, Level 2, and will also represent Devine FCCLA at Nationals.

Devine FCCLA 1st place team Kelvey Cortez (right) and Isabella Gonzales (left) will compete at Nationals in Interpersonal Communications, Level 1.

Amy Outlaw and Myla Sorrell

Brianna Balderrama and Angeliana Rendon-Zapata

Collier Paige and Nayeli Munoz

Jillian Brumage and Rubie Weyel

McKailee Sorrell and Paige Barron

Melenie Cardenas, Esteban Mendoza and Margarita Vizcarra

Audrey’s Country Music Fest Saturday @ Devine Acres

Join us for Audrey Jane’s Light Country Music Fest at the Devine Acres Farm on April 18, 2026 for a day of family fun and music! There will be lots of farm attractions, dinner, a silent auction, gun drawings, dancing, drinks, music and more! This event is a fundraiser to help find a cure for 8-year-old Audrey Capps, of Devine, and other children with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T).
This day of family fun will begin at 4 p.m. with a meet and greet with Paw Patrol, the Power Rangers, AND all your favorite Princesses!
Children are encouraged to wear their costumes if they’d like. There will also be jumping pads, playgrounds, games, fishing, mazes, farm attractions, a silent auction and chicken fajita plates for sale from 5-8 p.m.
Live music will start at 6 p.m. featuring Chesney Friesenhahn, followed by Weston Ripps at 7 p.m. and close with Jeremy Richards Band at 8 p.m. until midnight.
A-T is a rare neurodegenerative condition that weakens movement and coordination, targets the immune system and increases risk of cancer.
If you’d like to donate a Silent Auction item, it can be taken to Morales Realty to Cindy Morales and to Nancy Saathoff. The huge silent auction always covers the entire inside of the pavilion area each year and is always a big hit. Tickets are sold for the silent auction items, and bid sheets for some of the larger items.
The gun drawings will take place at the event, contact Sherman Calame of Calame Custom Firearms @ Calame Store to purchase chances, or buy at the event.
Come on out and support a great cause! Tickets are $10 which include admission to the entire Country Music Fest. All ticket sales will benefit the A-T Children’s Project. For more information, or to buy tickets to the event please visit https://atcp.org/event/audreyjaneslight/
Monetary donations to Audrey’s family can be dropped off at The Devine News or mailed to Devine News PO Box 508 Devine, TX 78016. Please make checks payable to: Audrey Jane Capps SNT. Families and businesses may also sponsor at https://atcp.org/audrey-sponsor/

Rowan makes single largest donation in company history to Lytle VFD

By Kayleen Holder
Editor
Local leaders, firefighters, city crews, and community members gathered to accept a $300,000 donation to Lytle VFD, presented by representatives of Rowan Industries, the company constructing a 400-acre data center campus located just south of Lytle along Hwy 132, known as “Project Cinco”.
Rowan’s Director of Government and Community Affairs, Tim Alborg, was on hand for the presentation along with Communications Director Nathaniel Brown, and Genevive Flores, and Senior Project Manager for Rowan George A. Gomez P. E.
“This is the largest single community donation that Rowan has ever made as a company–and I am really excited about that… I could not imagine a more deserving recipient,” Alborg said.
“Before shovels hit dirt–we reached out to Chief Garcia and his team to learn more about how they operate and how we might work together if we were fortunate enough to build a world-class data center here in Medina County,” Alborg said. “Those conversations led us to this moment. The investment will make sure that these firefighters have the training, equipment, and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. It’s one way we can show that we see their effort, that we value it immensely, and we stand behind them.”
Lytle VFD Chief Roger Garcia thanked…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!

Suspects jailed for Murder of two people

The sheriff was on his way to Corpus this week to pick up one of the victim’s vehicles as they continue their investigation of the horrific double homicide that occured this past week in a remote area of Medina County.
“Autopsies are ongoing,” said Sheriff Brown in a short interview Tuesday, who noted there have only been a handful of double homicides in his almost 30 years with the department.
Remarkably, the suspects were captured within hours of deputies discovering foul play.
“It was truly a team effort to go from nothing to be able to gather the information, find the vehicle, and then getting them caught that same night was remarkable. A lot of pieces came together to make it happen.”
Sheriff added, “It’s just a really sad situation, and it involved two small children as well. Thankfully we were able to get them into the care of DFPS and family members as well.”
None of the suspects or victims are…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!

ESD4 to negotiate purchase of ambulance substation site from city of Natalia

Natalia Mayor Tommy F. Ortiz, left, and council member Darin Frazier were on hand for the ESD4 ambulance board meeting April 8 in Devine. (Photo by Anton Riecher)

By Anton Riecher
A long-delayed plan to build an ambulance substation in Natalia moved forward April 8 with action by the Medina County Emergency Services District No. 4 board of commissioners to negotiate the purchase of a city-owned site located between the police station and fire department.
Board president Steve Smith made his feelings on the issue clear going into the vote.
“We’ve been too damn long and it needs to be executed,” he said. “I understand we wanted to make sure and do a lot of due diligence to find a location.”
On a motion by board vice president Patrick Bourcier, a Natalia resident, seconded by board treasurer Patrick DuBose, the motion authorizing Smith to negotiate with Natalia city council member Darin Frazier on the purchase was approved by a 4-0 vote. Board secretary Brenda Butler was absent.
Natalia…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!

MM Myers is an Award-winning writer transforming challenges into inspiring stories for children and families

Living with legal blindness and dyslexia, she creates stories that inspire resilience, hope, and confidence in young readers. Check out her works: “If I Were a Butterfly?” and “Pocket Watch Portal Adventure”.

PRESS RELEASE–MM Myers, a rising voice in children’s literature, is inspiring readers across the nation with not only her award-winning books, but also her powerful story of perseverance, faith, and determination.
Living with legal blindness and dyslexia, Myers has faced significant obstacles throughout her life, yet she has turned those challenges into a purpose-driven writing career that continues to uplift and encourage others.
Myers began her journey as a storyteller in a deeply personal way: creating stories with her grandchildren. What started as a simple bonding activity became something far greater.
Myers first gained national attention when her magical children’s tale Pocket Watch Portal Adventure was named a finalist for a prestigious storytelling award, earning her an invitation to a Hollywood gala in 2025. Through every hurdle, Myers credits her faith as the foundation that has guided her forward and given her the strength to pursue her dreams.
“God has carried me through every challenge,” Myers shares. “I’m legally blind, dyslexic, disabled, and not exactly young, yet this all is happening. I don’t say that for sympathy. I say it because God is still in the business of moving mountains.”
Myers dedication has led to remarkable success: four of her children’s books have received national awards, earning recognition for their heartfelt messages and engaging storytelling.
About MM Myers
MM Myers lives in Moore, Texas, south of San Antonio.  Myers is an award-winning children’s book author whose storytelling journey began with her grandchildren and grew into a nationally recognized body of work. Living with legal blindness and dyslexia, she draws on her life experiences and strong faith in God to create stories that inspire resilience, hope, and confidence in young readers. Her works, including If I Were a Butterfly? and Pocket Watch Portal Adventure, celebrate hope, legacy, and the power of storytelling to heal and unite. To learn more, visit mmmyersauthor.com

Upcoming local events

April
15 – Natalia ISD Food Distribution at Natalia ISD Portable DAEP Building from 2 p.m. until supplies last
15 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
16 – Foxy’s Bar Chicken or Sausage on a Stick Fundraiser from 7:30 p.m. to TBD
16 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Planner Club from 5-6:30 p.m. | Registration required
16 – Lytle Public Library Craft with Us from 5:30-7 p.m
16 – Live music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Nick Lawrence at 7 p.m.
17 – Lytle VFW Friday Karaoke Night Out | A Moondog Presentation 7 – 11 p.m.
18 – City of Lytle Easter Eggs-travaganza at John Lott Lytle Park at 9 – 10 a.m.
18 – Country Music Festival @ Devine Acres for Audrey Jane’s Light fundraiser
18 – Lisa’s Sugar Fix Pop-Up Market from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tommy Joe’s BBQ
18 – Show & Shine Car Show at Auto Zone in Lytle from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
18 – El Gallo Fiesta at Roosters Ice House | Sip & Play Loteria 12-3 p.m. | Royalty Contest 7:30-9 p.m.
19 – El Gallo Fiesta at Roosters Ice House from | Coloring Zone | Pin Swap Party 12-6 p.m. | Fire & Flavor Salsa Contest 3-6 p.m.
19 – Natalia Athletic Booster Golf Tournament at Devine Golf Course at 12 p.m. tee time
19 – Lytle St. Andrew Chicken & Sausage Plate Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
19 – Lytle VFW Bingo | Card Sales 2 p.m. | Early Bird 2:30 p.m. | Game Starts 3 p.m.
19 – Boots N Heels Saloon Fiesta Kickoff from 2 – 6 p.m. | Acoustic performance by Cheyenne Saenz
21 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Preschool Story Time at 10:30 a.m. | Limit 15 | Registration required
22 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
22 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Collage Club from 5:30-7 p.m. | Registration required
22 – Worship in Motion at Kickstart Nutrition Devine, TX at 7 p.m.
23 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Crafting After Hours 2.0 from 6-8 p.m. | Registration required
23 – Lytle Public Library Craft with Us from 5:30-7 p.m
23 – Live music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Bo Brumble at 7 p.m.
24 – Tri-County 29th Annual Chapter Banquet at 6 p.m. at the Atascosa Show Barn
25 – Youth on Fire Service at Iglesia La Verdad es Cristo at 7:30 p.m.
25 – Devine Masonic Lodge Golf Tournament at Devine Golf Course 1 p.m. tee time
27 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Art Club from 4:30-5:30 p.m. | Registration required
28 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Preschool Story Time at 10:30 a.m. | Limit 15 | Registration required
29 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
30 – Lytle Public Library Craft with Us from 5:30-7 p.m
30 – Live music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Hannah Swann at 7 p.m.
May
1 – 4 Way Tournament at Devine Golf Course all weekend
1 – Lytle VFW Ranch Trash Smoke Showdown BBQ Cook-Off | DJ 12-3 p.m. | Alejandro Escamilla Band 3-7 p.m.
2 – Lytle VFW Ranch Trash Smoke Showdown BBQ Cook-Off | DJ 12-3 p.m. | Alejandro Escamilla Band 3-7 p.m.
2 – 1 – 4 Way Tournament at Devine Golf Course all weekend
2 – Inmaculada Concepcion Church Community Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3 – Schottzy’s Grand Opening Sip & Shop Market at 902 N Teel, Devine, Texas from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
7 – Special Presentation: A Journey with the Shroud of Turin from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. John Bosco Mission Church Natalia, TX
9 – Mother’s Day Market at My Time at The Garden from 5 – 10 p.m.
13 – Storytime with Jamie Lin Wilson at the Castroville Rainbow Theater with special guest Wade Bowen at 7 p.m.
16 – Moon & Makers Market at Dahlgreen Somerset TX from 5 – 11 p.m.
17 – Blackie Boehme Tournament at Devine Golf Course at 12 p.m. tee time
30 – Lytle VFW Comedy Night featuring Patrick Christopher, Danny Ingle, Dallas Vann & Brad Sea from 7 – 10 p.m.
June
13 – City of Devine Flag Day Celebration at Briscoe City Park
If you want to add an event to this calendar, please email devinereporter@devinenews.com or call (830) 665 – 2211 and leave a message for Brianna.

Lawless and Herrera chosen as Student of the Month

Lily Lawless and Robert Herrera were chosen as Students of the Month and honored during the April meeting of the Devine Lions Club. Pictured with the students are DHS Assistant Principal Evan Eads and Lions Club President Lewis Stroud .

Devine High School students Lily Lawless and Robert Herrera were honored as Students of the Month at a recent Devine Lions Club meeting. Both are seniors at DHS.
Lily Lawless
Lawless played varsity Tennis and Golf for four years. She was a Student Council member/officer for three years. She has been a member of the National Honor Society for three years and Yearbook Staff/Editor in Chief for three years. She has helped with Vacation Bible School for seven years and been a Bust N Burn volunteer for three years. She has helped at the Driscoll Public Library. She has volunteered with Angels in the Fairway for two years, Wreaths Across America for seven years, San Antonio Food Bank, Rock N Roll San Antonio Marathon, BBQ Fundraisers, GOD’s Country BBQ Cook-off in Hondo as a Judge, Devine Fire Department Casino Night and Devine Fire Department Auxiliary.
“I plan to continue my education at the University of Texas at San Antonio starting in the Fall of 2026. I want to major in interior design and architecture and receive a Bachelor’s Degree. During my senior year of college I plan to get an internship in the interior design career path,” said Lawless
She is the daughter of Karolina and Danny Lawless.
Robert Herrera
Herrera played JV Tennis his freshman year. His sophomore year he moved up to 1st chair saxophone and was nominated to Assistant Drum Major. His senior year he moved up to Head Drum Major. He has been in the band for four years and is also in National Honor Society.
“I was accepted into UTSA and am majoring in biology. I hope to go to UT Austin after my first year at UTSA. I plant To go into the research field, possibly a geneticist,” said Herrera
He is the son of Robert Herrera and Cynthia Herrera.